Ig Nobel Prize goes to scientists who discovered butt breathing mammals

This year’s Ig Nobel Prizes, awarded for the most bizarre yet thought-provoking scientific achievements, have once again captured the public’s imagination.

The 34th annual ceremony, organized by the Annals of Improbable Research, took place at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, just weeks ahead of the Nobel Prizes. While the event highlights comedic aspects of science, it also challenges audiences to reflect on the unexpected insights research can reveal.

The ceremony, renowned for its light-hearted atmosphere, saw attendees launching paper airplanes as the awards were presented. Ten winners were recognized, showcasing research that was not only unusual but often profoundly insightful.

Guided Missiles by Pigeons and Dead Fish Swimming

Among the most eccentric winners was a study exploring the feasibility of using pigeons to guide missiles—a nod to the fascinating intersections of animal behavior and military innovation. Another eyebrow-raising study demonstrated that dead fish, under specific conditions, can still swim, highlighting quirky aspects of physics and fluid dynamics.

Breathing Through the Anus

One of the most unconventional winners involved a study showing that some mammals can breathe through their anus. Japanese researchers discovered that, in emergency situations, oxygen can be absorbed through the rectum. The team conducted experiments on mice, pigs, and rats, depriving them of oxygen and successfully administering oxygen enemas. The study suggests that in critical conditions, this method could offer alternative ways to supply oxygen to the body.

Nature’s Mimicry and Hair Whirls

Other Ig Nobel winners included a team of researchers who found that a vine from Chile can mimic the shapes of artificial plants nearby, suggesting a sophisticated level of environmental adaptation. Meanwhile, a separate study examined whether human hair whirls are influenced by hemisphere, investigating whether Northern Hemisphere hair swirls differently from Southern Hemisphere hair.

The Power of Fake Medicine

Another intriguing study revealed that fake medicine with side effects can sometimes be more effective than placebos without side effects. This highlights the complex relationship between psychology, expectation, and the placebo effect—an area of research that could have significant implications for medicine and patient care.

The Ig Nobels once again highlight the wild and wonderful world of science, where the line between absurdity and brilliance is often blurred.