The eight-metre fossil of the species Wattieza has enabled scientists to reconstruct the ancient tree in its entirety for the first time, and solves a century-old palaeobotanical mystery. The species also lends new insights into the evolution of terrestrial trees and forest ecosystems.

"My daugher Severn is 27 years old, and she's been an environmental activist ever since she was seven years old. A few months ago she said to me, 'Dad, I think this is the most exciting time to be alive in all of human history.' She said this is the moment, in the following months and a few years, we are going to have to make some big decisions. Because if we make the right decisions, or if we fail to make the decisions, it's going to determine the fate, not only of all human kind, but of countless species of plants and animals. This is the defining moment, she said, when we will decide whether or not we're going to be a spectacular Flash in the Pan failure, or whether we can step up to the plate and show that we are capable of finding humility, compassion, patience and wisdom to truly find a sustainable path. As I reflected on her comment, I've come to the conclusion she's absolutely right."

David Suzuki

The Queen of the Scorpion is our guide this fortnight, taking us through the light and dark shades of sorcery via sonic transmissions. She might be an evil vampire witch but she is also an alchemical moodmaker, lighting a pathway through the darkness with tracks by Macromantics, Flying Lotus, Cex and Toby1. She couldn't help but conjure up a track from Björk's new album 'Volta'. New tracks also from Matthew Herbert's new album "Score" and "The Last Resort" by Trentemøller.