Question 1

Which geological event in the Andes Mountains, approximately 6 to 9 million years ago, is believed to have contributed to Earth's global cooling by boosting oceanic carbon dioxide absorption?

Accepted Answer

Intense volcanic activity releasing nutrient-rich ash

Question 2

A recent study revealed that nearly half of the endemic tree species in which Mesoamerican region are threatened with extinction, primarily due to agriculture and logging?

Accepted Answer

Mesoamerica (Mexico and Central America)

Question 3

Geologists recently discovered one of the world's largest mineral deposits, estimated to contain 13 million tons of copper, located beneath which mountain range?

Accepted Answer

The Andes Mountains

Question 4

In Costa Rica, within the Mesoamerican Biological Corridor, researchers have recently documented new species of mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and plants. Which of these specific examples was highlighted as a newly discovered glass frog species?

Accepted Answer

Hyalinobatrachium sp.

Question 5

A deep-sea expedition off the coast of Brazil in the South Atlantic Ocean discovered over two dozen new marine species. Which of the following was NOT mentioned as a type of species discovered?

Accepted Answer

Anglerfish

Question 6

For the first time in South America, researchers identified a field of tektites, also known as 'space glass,' formed by meteorite impacts. This discovery was made in which country?

Accepted Answer

Brazil

Question 7

A new protected area, the Medio Putumayo-Algodón Protected Area, was recently designated in Peru. It safeguards a significant portion of Amazonian rainforest and is home to numerous species, including jaguars, giant river otters, and harpy eagles. What is the approximate size of this newly protected area?

Accepted Answer

283,000 hectares

Question 8

Research supported by a GEO Mountains Small Grant is focusing on monitoring glaciers in Peru's Cordillera Blanca. Which of the following is NOT one of the four glaciers being studied?

Accepted Answer

Huascarán

Question 9

A recent study highlighted that nearly half of the endemic tree species in Mesoamerica are threatened with extinction. Which country in Mesoamerica has the highest percentage of threatened tree species, at 97%?

Accepted Answer

Guatemala

Question 10

Archaeologists discovered an ancient city, named Valeriana, hidden beneath the jungle in the Mexican state of Campeche. What technology was crucial in revealing this significant Maya urban center?

Accepted Answer

LiDAR

Question 11

The Vera C. Rubin Observatory, a new U.S.-government-designed observatory located in Chile, is set to map the universe. What astronomical phenomenon did researchers detect over 2,100 brand new discoveries of in just ten hours of test imaging?

Accepted Answer

Asteroids

Question 12

Researchers are experimenting with 'Flonduran' corals in Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida, to enhance reef resilience. What makes these corals unique?

Accepted Answer

They are offspring of Florida elkhorn corals bred with elkhorn corals from Honduras.

Question 13

A new IAEA-supported project is using nuclear technologies to identify the sources and pathways of microplastics in Antarctic ecosystems. Which region's researchers are collaborating with IAEA scientists on this study?

Accepted Answer

The Chilean Antarctic Institute

Question 14

A recent study on Caribbean reef sharks in the Bahamas found that they prefer to live where prey is most abundant. What specific type of reef areas do they seem to favor for easier hunting?

Accepted Answer

Small reef areas with densely populated prey

Question 15

A new species of sandfly, Trichophoromyia macrisae, was discovered at the Manu Biological Station in the Amazon. What is the public health significance of this discovery?

Accepted Answer

It carries the parasite Leishmania, which causes leishmaniasis.

Question 16

In Argentina, paleontologists have identified a new species of raptor-like dinosaur named Kank australis, which lived about 70 million years ago. What is unique about its presumed feeding habits?

Accepted Answer

It appears to have been a fish hunter, possibly resembling modern herons.

New Discoveries Emerge: From Ancient Civilizations to Deep-Sea Life in Latin America & Caribbean

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