A study by Christopher Golden found that lost access to bushmeat led to a 30% relative increase in malnutrition among children under 12, with iron deficiency anemia being the most prevalent form of malnutrition globally. The research suggests a balance between conservation and human health is needed.
Researchers used satellite imagery to assess the conservation status of endangered species in the Comoro archipelago, finding that only 9% of the island area is still covered by natural forest. This approach allows for precise estimation of remaining habitat extent and prioritization of future protected areas.
Researchers tracked Dusky Large Blue butterfly movements to discover that long-distance travel is crucial for landscape-level effects, informing more efficient conservation methods. The study, published in Journal of Animal Ecology, sheds light on butterfly mobility in fragmented landscapes and has implications for habitat design.
A new study by Dr. Murray Rudd reveals a high level of consensus among conservation scientists about the impending loss of biological diversity. The survey found that 99.5% of responders believed a serious loss was likely or very likely, with tropical coral ecosystems perceived as the most seriously affected.
Researchers found that social relationships, both formal and informal, significantly influenced the effectiveness of conservation easements. The Malpai Borderlands project demonstrated the importance of tight personal relationships in achieving conservation goals.
A study by University of Leeds ecologists reveals that over 80% of ant species found in pristine forests were also present in logged areas. This finding has implications for forest conservation, suggesting that areas previously thought to have little value can still support diverse communities.
Researchers found that exposure to chimpanzees in human settings in ads makes people less concerned about the risks they face and less likely to donate to conservation charities. The study suggests reevaluating media practices and conservation priorities.
The Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund has awarded a $2 million grant to the R.J. Dunlap Marine Conservation Program at the University of Miami to support its project on conserving critically endangered oceanic sharks. The program will employ satellite tags to track shark behavior in real-time, helping to determine the species' vulnera...
Researchers have developed a new method to evaluate spatially and biologically distinct groups of marine turtles, identifying 11 out of 58 worldwide turtle regions as most at risk. The study highlights the need for targeted conservation efforts for these threatened populations.
A study by the Wildlife Conservation Society identified 8 changes that occur on coral reefs before they collapse due to overfishing. Researchers found a 'window' of maximum sustainable yield between 300-600 kilograms per hectare, but when fish stocks drop below this threshold, reef degradation accelerates.
A new decision-support model developed by scientists can guide allocation of conservation funding to save more species from extinction. The model incorporates both ecological and economic information, prioritizing conservation activities based on a yearly budget.
A University of Maryland study found that young women with early-stage breast cancer who undergo lumpectomy and radiation have similar survival rates as those who undergo mastectomy. The analysis of nearly 15,000 patients showed no difference in overall or breast cancer-specific survival between the two groups.
The US government will evaluate a petition to list chimpanzees as endangered, which could improve their welfare and conservation. If classified, they would receive protections similar to other endangered species, reducing exploitation by the entertainment industry.
A Wildlife Conservation Society program, COMACO, has improved rural livelihoods while restoring local wildlife populations. The study found that COMACO farmers had higher crop yields and improved soil quality, contributing to the stabilization of wildlife populations.
Researchers discussed using Doppler weather radar to track bat behavior and effectiveness of acoustic deterrents in reducing bat fatalities at wind farms. Aeroecology also explored the role of atmospheric conditions in flight behavior, with studies on golf courses as potential habitats for roosting bats and the importance of insectivor...
The Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation has awarded a research grant to Dr. Neil Hammerschlag's RJ Dunlap Marine Conservation Program at the University of Miami to investigate the impact of declining marine apex predator populations on the ocean ecosystem.
A 73-percent decline in fisher density has been documented on the Hoopa Valley Indian Reservation in northwestern California between 1998 and 2005. The study suggests that changes in prey habitat, disease, and increased predation by bobcats may be responsible for the population decline.
A new study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reveals that most of the world's undiscovered species reside in regions already identified as conservation priorities. This suggests recent conservation efforts have been effective and should reduce uncertainty over global conservation priorities.
The Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation awarded a $30,000 grant to the University of Miami's RJD Marine Conservation Program to investigate shark conservation in Florida waters. The research aims to understand the impact of top predators on the ecosystem and develop strategies for sustainable fisheries management.
A recent study found that modern fish communities in coastal Kenya have significantly different life histories compared to ancient Swahili refuse heaps. This shift is attributed to overfishing, which has reduced larger species and increased smaller species with shorter life spans.
A University of Exeter team monitored loggerhead turtles in the US Atlantic Ocean, finding they rarely leave the USA or continental shelf. The study highlights the value of satellite tracking for predicting migrations and directing conservation efforts.
The Wildlife Conservation Society has received a $150,000 grant to support efforts by eco-guards to protect Grauer's gorillas in Kahuzi-Biega National Park. The grant will help equip park rangers with field equipment to monitor and limit poaching within the park.
Researchers developed a predictive model to identify areas at high risk of wetland habitat loss in the southern United States. The study highlights the importance of conservation efforts in these regions, where urbanization and development have led to significant wetland losses.
A new study by the Wildlife Conservation Society recommends a disease screening program for farm-raised caiman in Argentina's caiman ranches. The researchers found Salmonella bacteria in 77% of samples, posing health risks to humans and wild animal populations.
A new study by the Wildlife Conservation Society found that rotational grazing techniques can benefit both cattle and wildlife in native pasturelands. The results show a greater forage base, producing larger, more valuable cattle while reducing incentives for deforestation and habitat loss.
A study by the Institute for Ocean Conservation Science uses DNA testing to identify separate populations of dusky and copper sharks in different coastal regions, allowing for tracking of their origins and informing management of the shark fin trade. The research demonstrates that genetic differences among regional groups can be used t...
Researchers have observed a rise in 'naked' penguin chicks with feather-loss disorder in both Argentina and South Africa, causing concern among scientists. The disorder is thought to be related to increased energy spent on thermoregulation, potentially linked to pathogens, thyroid disorders, or nutrient imbalances.
Researchers from Wildlife Conservation Society and AMNH discover genetic distinct populations of Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin formed by currents, surface temperature differences, and environmental barriers. The study sheds light on how environmental factors influence population structure in marine species.
Researchers found that males and females use different foraging grounds, with females relying heavily on lake shores and males using a broader range of resources. The study suggests that conservation efforts should prioritize female needs and account for sex-specific habitat use in monitoring efforts.
Researchers from the Wildlife Conservation Society have developed a 'stress test' for coral reefs to prioritize areas most likely to survive climate change factors. The model considers environmental stressors like rising sea temperatures and their impact on coral and fish diversity.
Peter Mumby is recognized for his work on coral reef conservation strategies, influencing conservation policy and contributing to the implementation of marine park protections. His research has provided insight into the consequences of conserving herbivorous fishes, reducing nutrient runoff, and restoring urchin populations.
San Diego Zoo Global takes management responsibility for Cocha Cashu Biological Station in Peru's Manu Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The station is home to over 1,000 bird species, rare mammals, and indigenous communities.
The Wildlife Conservation Society has released a report listing 25 most endangered turtle species, many of which are found in Asia and are threatened by illegal hunting for food and the pet trade. The report calls for better enforcement of trade laws, habitat protection, and captive breeding to prevent extinction.
A new conservation index helps policy-makers deal with the effects of climate change on birds in Africa, suggesting that international cooperation is essential to protect species. The study predicts that one-third of protected areas will undergo significant changes due to climate change.
A new study by WWF scientists finds that tiger reserves in Asia can support over 10,000 wild tigers if managed as large-scale landscapes. The researchers believe that protecting core breeding sites and developing forest corridors can ensure tiger population growth.
A new study suggests that Asian tiger reserves can support over 10,000 wild tigers if managed as large-scale landscapes with connected core breeding sites. This strategy is crucial to doubling the tiger population by 2022, but it requires a global effort and proper design of infrastructure projects.
A new review highlights the importance of geohistorical data in conservation biology, providing insights into species responses to climate change. Fossil records show that some species persisted in suitable habitats despite range contractions, while others went extinct due to human activities.
A study by Wildlife Conservation Society and University of California at Santa Cruz found that overfished reef systems have fewer sea urchins, leading to higher coral growth rates and more structure. Reefs with complete fish communities outperform those without predators, which allows coralline algae to thrive.
Scientists have identified three distinct migration routes taken by female leatherback turtles from Gabon to feeding grounds across the South Atlantic, with one route spanning over 7,500km. This research is crucial for informing conservation efforts and protecting these endangered creatures.
A study by Lisette Cantú-Salazar and Kevin J. Gaston found that large protected areas are crucial for preserving natural species assemblages, while also being vulnerable to inadequate management and human activities such as logging and mining. The researchers suggest that these areas should be prioritized for conservation efforts
A major new study on the impact of conservation efforts reveals that many vertebrate species are threatened, but seagrasses, which provide habitat for these animals, are experiencing significant loss. Researchers say pollution and coastal development are main drivers of biodiversity loss.
Texas A&M University is part of a global conservation study that reviews the status of thousands of species and finds worldwide efforts have fallen short of biodiversity targets. Ongoing global-conservation efforts prevent extinction rates from worsening, with 50 species moving closer to extinction each year.
The study confirms an extinction crisis with one-fifth of species threatened, but highlights the positive impact of global conservation efforts. Conservation actions have prevented a decline in biodiversity by nearly 20%, with 64 species improving in status and three species being re-introduced back to nature.
A global study by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) reveals that 33% of shark, skate, and ray species are threatened with extinction. Conservation actions have benefited a few vertebrate species worldwide, but insufficient efforts to slow the overall increase in threatened species.
A study published in Science reports that one-fifth of vertebrate species are threatened, with declines accelerating over the past few decades. Conservation measures have mitigated this trend, with certain approaches proving more effective than others, such as controlling invasive species.
Conservation programs in China's Wenchuan County preserved forest cover after the 2008 earthquake, protecting endangered species like the giant panda. The research found that expansive national conservation efforts reduced natural disaster damage and human impacts.
A new peer-reviewed paper reveals most of the world's remaining tigers are clustered in just six percent of their available habitat. Effective conservation efforts focused on these 42 'source sites' can prevent extinction and seed a recovery of the wild tiger, requiring an additional $35 million annually.
The Wildlife Picture Index, a new monitoring tool, shows a 36% net decline of biodiversity in Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park. Camera traps collected thousands of images, revealing that large mammals declined faster than small primates and deer.
A team of researchers used advanced imaging technology to colorize a black-and-white photograph of Matisse's 'Bathers by a River', revealing the artist's innovative methods and palette changes. The resulting image shows how Matisse transformed his work from vibrant colors to somber grays, offering insights into his artistic evolution.
Researchers documented a wild cat species imitating the call of its intended victim, a small monkey known as a pied tamarin, to draw it within striking range. The behavior was confirmed through observations in the Amazonian forests of Brazil, providing insights into the psychological cunning of wild felids.
New research from the University of New Hampshire found that rural areas with high unemployment rates are less likely to support environmental regulations. In contrast, areas with population growth and amenity-driven changes are more likely to favor conservation efforts. The study also reveals classic patterns in views on conservation,...
A new teaching model using real data and relevant videos engages high school students in conservation biology research, improving understanding of ecological concepts. Students develop a better grasp of normal ecological processes and how human actions affect the natural world.
A nationwide study confirms the benefit of estrogen-lowering drugs before surgery for breast cancer patients. The treatment increased the likelihood that women could undergo breast-conservation surgery instead of mastectomy. After 16-week aromatase inhibitor therapy, 82% of women had successful breast-conservation surgery.
A 12-year study by Wildlife Conservation Society found that fishery closures and gear restrictions in Kenya's coast increased revenue and net profits for local fishermen. The study revealed that closures attracted more preferred species and larger fish, commanding higher prices per pound, which boosted fishers' incomes.
A new study found that protected areas with strong anti-poaching efforts are critical for maintaining populations of forest elephants, western lowland gorillas, and chimpanzees in the Ndoki-Likouala Conservation Landscape. The region is considered one of the most important sites in Central Africa for all three species.
Researchers used genetic data and oceanographic information from satellites to find two distinct populations of franciscanas in Argentina's coastal waters. The findings suggest that environmental factors, such as water temperature and turbidity, play a significant role in shaping population structure in marine animals.
Researchers found that cowpea produced comparable onion yields to bare ground, while foxtail millet was less effective as a mulch due to its thickness. Soybean meal showed potential as an effective source of nitrogen for organic onion production.
Sahotra Sarkar, a philosopher at the University of Texas at Austin, is working with Conservation International and energy companies to develop environmentally conscious development plans. His approach prioritizes local values and biodiversity protection, rejecting the 'fortress model' of preservation.
The IUCN has reclassified beluga sturgeon as 'critically endangered', with the Institute for Ocean Conservation Science applauding the move. This classification underscores the need for swift, international protection to help conserve this species from extinction.
Researchers are using conservation agriculture techniques to increase food production, improve soil quality, and reduce climate change risks. The projects focus on implementing technologies such as cover crops, no-till production, and residue management to improve food security and sustainability in Haiti and other countries.