A new critically endangered tree species, Melicope stonei, has been discovered on Kaua'i, with unique habitat features and limited distribution. Threats to its survival include habitat degradation, predation by invasive species, and environmental events.
Animals use color in diverse ways, including for reproduction and predator-prey interactions, with species-specific purposes in mind. Mantis shrimp have four times as many colour receptors as humans, allowing them to perceive ultraviolet light.
Researchers used a deep-diving robot to study deep scattering layers, finding that they contain discrete groups or 'schools' of squids, fishes, and crustaceans. These groups have distinct boundaries and are formed by similar-sized animals, with smaller animals staying closer together.
Researchers reconstructed green turtle skin in a lab to study tumor diseases and grow a virus called ChHV5. This breakthrough helps understand fibropapillomatosis, a deadly tumor disease affecting endangered turtles worldwide.
A 10-year, $2.7 million project in Ontario reduced turtle deaths on a causeway by 89%, offering global lessons for protecting endangered species. The initiative included fencing, culverts, and public awareness campaigns to reduce roadkill, with significant success.
The publication of rare species' location data can inadvertently contribute to poaching and further species declines. Biologists must reevaluate their publishing culture to protect endangered species.
A new study by Vetmeduni Vienna found that shearing alpacas in a standing position produces the least amount of stress for the animals. The research team used clinical parameters and saliva/faeces cortisol levels to measure stress, finding that restraint without shearing had no significant impact on these values.
Scientists at MU used whole genome sequencing to identify genetic variants causing rare diseases like progressive retinal atrophy and Niemann-Pick type 1 in domestic cats. This helps feline preservationists implement breeding strategies for endangered species.
Researchers can now count individual birds on remote islands using high-resolution satellite images, allowing for more accurate monitoring of endangered albatross populations. This innovative method is a significant step forward in tracking these iconic birds, which breed in some of the world's most inaccessible locations.
The Digital Life project has released 15 three-dimensional models of live frogs, including several endangered species, to raise awareness about their vulnerability to ecological threats. The project aims to promote conservation, education, and science by showcasing the extraordinary beauty and diversity of these animals.
A new study by MBARI researchers Séverine Martini and Steve Haddock found that three quarters of deep-sea animals in Monterey Bay waters can produce bioluminescence. The study revealed a surprising similarity in the proportion of glowing to non-glowing animals at different depths, with various groups of animals responsible for light pr...
A coalition led by the Mexican government has developed a bold emergency plan to rescue and protect the critically endangered vaquita porpoise. The plan includes construction of a sea pen sanctuary with up to $3 million in funding, aiming to recover a population that once numbered 600 animals.
Researchers found bacteria and fungi in killer whales that cause disease in humans and land-based animals, including Salmonella and antibiotic-resistant strains. The study provides insights into whale health and reveals potential pathogens in their environment.
Researchers at UC Santa Barbara found that as certain species decline in number, their geographic areas of occupation also shrink. This makes them easier targets for hunters and fishermen, increasing the risk of extinction. The study highlights the importance of well-managed harvests to prevent overharvesting.
Scientists have identified a highly contagious disease threatening the endangered San Joaquin kit fox population. Researchers confirmed diagnosis of sarcoptic mange in 15 kit foxes and found no evidence of recovery from untreated infections.
A new study reveals that stuffed animal sleepovers at libraries significantly increase children's interest in picture books and encourage them to read with their stuffed animals. The program's effectiveness in developing prosocial behavior is also demonstrated.
A new facial recognition system, LemurFaceID, identifies over 100 individual lemurs with 98.7% accuracy, providing a rapid and cost-effective method for long-term research of endangered species. This technology also offers a humane alternative to capture and collar methods.
African penguins are getting stuck in the wrong part of the sea due to fishing and climate change, leading to reduced food supply and higher mortality rates. Researchers suggest that translocating chicks to safe areas or implementing spatial fishing closures could help protect the endangered species.
A new project from Liverpool John Moores University is using drones equipped with thermal cameras to help identify endangered species, such as rhinos and orang-utans. The technique involves analyzing thermal heat profiles to create a unique 'fingerprint' for each animal, allowing for more efficient conservation efforts.
Scat detection dogs helped biology PhD student Alex Filazzola discover the importance of shrubs in preserving lizard populations in the face of climate change. Shrubs proved instrumental in providing critical micro-environments, such as shady places to regulate body temperature and refuge from predators.
The San Diego Zoo's Frozen Zoo cell cultures contain genetic variation missing in surviving individuals of the critically endangered northern white rhinoceros. Genome-wide levels of genetic diversity and inbreeding in both southern and northern white rhinos were examined to aid future efforts toward genetic rescue and assisted reproduc...
A study published in PLOS ONE found that current Australian nature reserves are unsuitable for the critically endangered Leadbeater's Possum but may compromise on habitat for other forest-dependent species. Expanded reserve systems could provide higher habitat suitability values, but at a cost to other species.
Researchers found that loggerhead turtles spend an average of seven years and 16 years in the waters off Baja California before migrating to Japan. The study provides crucial information for developing conservation plans and reducing bycatch rates, which can be as high as 1,000 turtles per year.
The Robust Rattan Palm has been assessed as Endangered due to habitat loss and over-harvesting. Its limited range of 40 km² in Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire makes it highly vulnerable to extinction.
A recent study finds that urban centers like Hong Kong can play a crucial role in conserving globally threatened species. Introduced populations of these species have been thriving outside their native habitats, providing an opportunity to augment declining populations in their native ranges and mitigate threats to local ecosystems.
A new study maps species threat hotspots across the globe, connecting consumer purchases to environmental impacts. The research found that US consumption caused hotspot zones in Southeast Asia, Madagascar, and southern Europe, among other regions.
Researchers sequenced the Iberian lynx genome, finding extreme erosion of its DNA and low genetic diversity. This limits its ability to adapt to environmental changes, with multiple potentially harmful genetic variants identified.
Researchers at UTHealth found that industrialization led to a rapid decline in vertebrate populations, with an average decline of 25% every 10 years for endangered species. Preserving ecosystems and habitats is crucial to preventing this decline.
Researchers have identified flavonoids in Gymnema sylvestre R.Br. plant parts and callus culture, which exhibit antidiabetic properties. The study aimed to develop a sustainable method for metabolite production using tissue culture, helping conserve the endangered species.
A new study using acoustic networks has documented a 34% per year decline in Mexico's critically endangered vaquita porpoise. The decline is attributed to resumption of illegal gillnet fishing for totoaba, despite conservation efforts.
Researchers developed a system using acoustic beamforming to detect and locate Mojave Ground Squirrels on Edwards Air Force Base. The technology, inspired by WWI-era sound detection, is unobtrusive and can pinpoint animal locations over a large area. This innovation aims to support conservation efforts in harsh environments.
Researchers have developed an associative learning model that explains how animals create effective behaviors, such as self-control and tool use. The model suggests that genetic regulation of learning influences species-specific behavior and intelligence.
Research reveals broad public preference for habitat protection, rejecting lethal control and no government action. The study surveyed over 1,000 participants on the most effective approach to conserve endangered species.
A Nagoya University research team used a new image processing tool to confirm that humans have evolved specifically to detect snakes. Humans were able to identify snakes in much blurrier images than other harmless animals, suggesting heightened visual awareness of snakes.
Researchers found that statistics on endangered species, such as population decline and territory size, can elicit varying levels of fear among the public. Those with rational thinking styles perceived all five criteria as similar in terms of risk, while those with low rationality scores viewed differences between them.
A study published in PLOS ONE suggests Grauer's gorillas are Critically Endangered due to a 77% population decline over one generation. The research identifies three key areas critical for the remaining population and calls for greater conservation efforts, including halting mining and protecting wildlife.
Researchers studied a single-celled amoeba called Capsaspora owczarzaki and found it uses the same protein-regulating tools as multicellular animals to control cell differentiation over time. This suggests that the single-celled ancestor of all animals likely possessed these systems and was more complex than previously thought.
The study highlights the risks of human presence on endangered ape populations, including disease transmission and habitat destruction. To mitigate these threats, Schultz proposes improving protocols and regulations for ecotourism and promoting understanding of interspecies disease transmission as a conservation threat.
A scientist at SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry has discovered that a dip in beer can sedate and immobilize tiny snails before a terminal dunk in ethyl alcohol, reducing physical distress. This humane method is similar to those used with domestic animals.
A new report highlights the need for better data recording on seized live wild animals, as only one in three CITES countries provide data. The study found that two out of three countries did not report any live wildlife seizures, despite poaching and the estimated $8-10 billion global wildlife trafficking industry.
A recent study reports a surge in jaguar killings in Panama, primarily due to retaliatory attacks by cattle ranchers on the big cats' prey species. The research highlights the urgent need for conservation measures, including education and economic incentives, to protect the endangered jaguar population.
Scientists have reclassified giraffes into four distinct species based on genetic analysis, revealing new insights into their biology and conservation needs. The study highlights the urgent need for protection efforts to safeguard these endangered animals in Africa.
Four out of six great apes are listed as Critically Endangered due to illegal hunting and habitat loss. The Eastern Gorilla population has declined by over 70% in 20 years, while the Plains Zebra is threatened by hunting for bushmeat and skins. Invasive species are also destroying native Hawaiian plants, with 87% of endemic species thr...
The IUCN-led independent panel of scientists has been advising Sakhalin Energy to mitigate its impact on whales and the environment. The western gray whale population has grown 3-4% annually, from an estimated 115 animals in 2004 to 174 in 2015.
The endangered North Atlantic right whale population is facing a dual threat, with lethal and debilitating entanglements on the rise and a dramatic decline in birth rates. The species' recovery success is now in jeopardy due to a lack of management intervention.
The species Turinyphia cavernicola is a cave-dwelling spider endemic to the Azores, considered Critically Endangered due to population decline. The study identifies increasing anthropogenic impact on its habitat, leading to a decline in sustainable populations.
Researchers sequenced and analyzed the genomes of 38 wild snub-nosed monkeys from four endangered species, revealing reduced genetic diversity and a similar number of harmful mutations. The study identified hypoxia-related genes that enable these primates to thrive in high-altitude environments.
A new study found that many species face significantly longer wait times than initially thought, ranging from 6 months to 38 years. This delay can lead to extinction and reduced global biodiversity, contradicting the policies of the US Endangered Species Act.
A Duke University-led study finds that 42% of Southeast Asia's endemic species face a higher risk of extinction from habitat loss than previously thought. Over 200 newly identified species are not currently listed as threatened or endangered by the IUCN.
Researchers found that head partitions reduced agonistic interactions and increased the use of feeding places among high-ranking animals. This led to a more relaxed feeding environment, improved sense of well-being, and increased nutritional status among goats.
A study published in PLOS ONE reveals that the Southern tidewater goby, found only in three small lagoons in San Diego County, is a critically endangered new species. The goby has distinct morphological differences from its northern population, including fewer pectoral fin rays and more neuromasts.
Genomic research by UCLA scientists finds that the gray wolf is not a separate species from coyote but rather a hybrid of the two. The study suggests that the gray wolf should retain its endangered species status due to incorrect justification for removal.
The European pet trade is putting rare reptile species at risk of extinction due to high demand and lack of effective regulation. Conservation efforts are being undermined by the lucrative black market for exotic animals, with smugglers using creative tactics to evade laws.
Scientists discover that chewed plants by mountain gorillas can be used to test for viruses, providing a simple way to monitor the health of endangered apes. The new non-invasive method is effective for detecting both RNA and DNA viruses and has implications for conservation management.
The Boreal felt lichen, a critically endangered species, is expected to decline by 49% within 25 years if conservation efforts are not increased. Human impacts such as air pollution and habitat destruction are major contributors to the decline.
A recent study at the University of Guam found that traditional hard plastic containers reduce root quality in endangered tree species. This limits plant growth and stability in tropical cyclone-prone areas.
Researchers at the University of Leicester aim to develop a test using portable nanopore DNA sequencers to identify species at crime scenes in under an hour. This technology has the potential to combat wildlife trafficking by detecting traces of endangered species, such as elephant and rhino blood.
The critically endangered Himalayan wolf is distinct from its European cousin and has a separate lineage that diverged thousands of years ago. Local herders view the wolves as a threat to their livelihoods, leading to persecution and killing.
Tropical forests depend on animals for seed dispersal to store carbon, but this role differs across regions. Large animal losses lead to fewer large trees and increased carbon loss in some forests.
The Channel Island fox population has been found to have a surprising absence of genetic variation, with one population on San Nicolas Island showing an order of magnitude lower variation than any other known species. This near-absence of genetic variation poses a puzzle as to how the foxes have managed to thrive despite it.