China covered 40% of sea cucumber ponds with solar panels; younger animals spent 12 fewer days in summer inactivity

• PC: AI GeneratedSolar panels are usually associated with electricity, but a study in China has found that they can also change the summer conditions inside sea cucumber ponds.
• Researchers examined ponds fitted with photovoltaic panels and found that the shade reduced the amount of light reaching the water and lowered its temperature.
• The cooler conditions were linked to a shorter period of aestivation, when sea cucumbers become less active and stop feeding during the hot summer months.