The levels of selenium in the soil in some parts of the world is declining - a possible consequence of intensive farming. Recent research has demonstrated the mineral plays a vital role in human ...

Minerals are geologic time capsules of the environments in which they form. With the right approach, their mysteries can be cracked open to reveal key features of the ancient Earth or other planets.

Stanleya pinnata, or "prince's plume," takes up large amounts of selenium from the soil. Danita Delimont/Getty Images At first glance, the long, thin leaves and pale green shoots of Stanleya pinnata, ...