Ecologists have developed a Europe-wide online tool, iBatsID, that can accurately identify 34 different bat species across the continent. The tool uses echolocation calls to distinguish between species, with most accurate identifications reaching over 80% accuracy.
Scientists have discovered a new plant species in Scotland that has overcome infertility and formed a new hybrid. This rare example reveals the process of polyploidization, allowing the plant to restore fertility and thrive in the wild.
Research suggests that top predators play a crucial role in extinction risk, as they can amplify the effects of climate change on other species. Studying these biotic multipliers and their interactions with other species is essential to improve predictions of climate change impacts.
Researchers found that terrestrial species are less responsive to warm temperatures than marine species, which allows them to expand their ranges towards the poles. Climate change is also causing rare heat waves to set boundaries on where species can live.
Marine scientists discovered that deep-sea limpets can survive extreme pressure changes when transported by submersibles. This finding highlights the potential risk of human-driven change to hydrothermal vent ecosystems.
Research on lemur extinctions over 2,000 years reveals that remaining species go into 'ecological retreat,' increasing extinction risk. Surviving lemurs rely on denser habitats due to vacant environmental niches, which may be a result of human disturbance.
Researchers from the Heliconius Genome Consortium sequenced the Postman butterfly's genome and found promiscuous sharing of large DNA regions among closely-related species. This study reveals how hybrids can introduce new genes that help populations adapt, changing our understanding of adaptation in evolution.
Research shows bacteria adapt by sharing waste and resources with each other to improve community functioning, contrary to competing for individual benefits. This cooperative behavior leads to better collective resource breakdown and improved ecosystem performance.
A recent study has identified 24 new species of skinks, a type of lizard, on Caribbean islands. The newly discovered species are threatened with extinction due to the introduction of invasive mongooses that have been responsible for their decline.
Researchers found that vascular plant species have migrated an average of 2.7 meters upwards in European mountains over 7 years, posing a threat to unique endemic species. The study also reveals an increase in species diversity at low elevation sites in the Mediterranean region.
Researchers at Aarhus University have discovered that climate change over millions of years shapes the composition of species assemblages in the tropics. The study reveals distinct differences in palm species diversity between South America and Africa, with South America boasting higher biodiversity due to its relatively stable climate.
Studies of 32 ecological communities reveal that a species' role depends on its evolutionary history, not geographic location. This knowledge allows conservationists to focus efforts on vital parts of an ecosystem and predict species' responses to changes.
Mathematical modelling and simulation reveal that extreme species-rich ecosystems are most vulnerable to cascading extinctions in an increasingly variable world. This finding contradicts previous studies suggesting that species-rich ecosystems are more robust.
A new look-alike species of hammerhead shark has been discovered in Brazilian waters, raising concerns about its impact on the endangered scalloped hammerhead. The discovery confirms that the original finding was not a local oddity and highlights the need for further research to understand its population status.
Researchers have discovered a new species of scorpion in Death Valley National Park, California. The species, Wernerius inyoensis, is small and closely related to other species found in Joshua Tree National Park and along the lower Colorado River.
Researchers uncover a previously unknown species of leopard frog in NYC, using DNA analysis to distinguish it from other similar-looking frogs. The species is believed to have had a wider range but went extinct in the city's larger territory.
A team of ecologists found that Central European meadows and long-grazed grasslands are the most species-rich areas on Earth, with some regions boasting over 942 plant species per hectare. The study's findings predict a total of 219,204 species globally, remarkably close to current estimates of 275,000 species.
Scientists discover new leopard frog species in New York City's Staten Island ponds and marshes, identified through DNA analysis. The unusual species has a distinct genetic lineage, separate from other leopard frog species in the region.
A new study identifies nearly 130 bird species at risk due to climate change, with 72% of threatened and endangered species projected to be further impacted. The research provides a comprehensive list of vulnerable species for conservation action, prioritizing wetland birds and those dependent on sea or near-shore habitats.
The newly discovered Antispila oinophylla species, originating from eastern North America, is found to infest Italian vineyards, particularly on Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Muscat grapes. The leafminer's life cycle and distribution have been studied in detail, highlighting the potential economic impact of this invasive species.
New research shows bumblebees can learn where to find best food resources from both fellow bees and rival honeybees, challenging the idea that social learning is unique to same-species interactions.
A new study maps ecosystems in Bolivia and Peru, revealing a concentration of endemic species along the Andes mountains. The research highlights areas with high levels of 'irreplaceability' and finds that many unique species lack national-level protection.
A Kansas State University researcher is studying the genetic basis of natural variation in sunflowers, a process known as ecological or evolutionary genetics. The study has found that massive proliferation events of LTR retrotransposons contribute to the increase in genome size of hybrid species.
Conservation researchers at San Diego Zoo Global's Institute of Conservation Research have developed a low-cost, molecular tool for identifying two-toed sloth species. The technique uses a mitochondrial marker and restriction enzyme assay to distinguish between closely related species.
A new study proposes four proactive management options for conservation of island bird species, including captive propagation and vaccination against diseases enhanced by climate change. The San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance highlights the importance of acting now to prevent long-term survival challenges faced by the island scrub-jay.
A recent study has found that many US species at risk of extinction are not on the country's official Endangered Species Act (ESA) list. The IUCN Red List, a leading global threatened species list, reveals that up to 95% of certain species groups are missing from the ESA.
Researchers discovered 16 new species of Caenorhabditis, found in rotting fruit and vegetation, using molecular barcoding. The newly identified species will aid future research on genome evolution, reproductive modes, and development.
A team of ecologists challenges the idea of a universal species-area relationship, finding that geometric constraints and biological effects shape the connection between species richness and plot size. They discovered specific geometric limits that restrict how quickly the number of species can increase with area.
Researchers from North Eastern Hill University investigate the karyomorphological data of Citrus species, revealing that C. indica has an intermediate asymmetry index value, making it a true progenitor of cultivated Citrus. This study supports the classification of three true species of Citrus: C. grandis, C. reticulata, and C. medica.
A massive shift in tree species is underway across the Western United States due to climate change, with many native species declining or disappearing and opportunistic newcomers replacing them. The research identifies areas where forests will change composition, with some regions shifting into grasslands or deserts.
A living species of aquatic beetle, Helophorus sibiricus, was discovered in 20-million-year-old sediments in southern Siberia. The fossil provides new data on the average duration of an insect species and suggests that some species may survive for millions of years.
Scientists have discovered a key to predicting emerging diseases like HIV, SARS, and flu by studying how viruses infect different species. By analyzing the relationships between species and viruses, researchers found that closely related flies are more susceptible to certain viruses.
A new study suggests that separating natural habitats from high-yielding farmland could be an effective way to conserve wild species. The researchers found that farmlands with some retained natural vegetation had more bird and tree species than high-yielding monocultures, but produced less food energy.
A recent study by Stanford University researchers found that preserving just 9 key sites could protect habitat for 84% of all marine mammal species on Earth. The study identified critical conservation locations off the coasts of Mexico, Canada, Peru, and other countries as areas with high species richness.
The most precise estimate of Earth's species total is based on a novel analytical technique that narrows previous estimates. The study predicts approximately 8.7 million species, with 91% of marine and 86% of land species remaining undiscovered. This new understanding is crucial for conservation efforts and ecosystems services.
A recent study by McGill University researchers found that biodiversity is essential for maintaining multiple ecosystem services across different years, places, and environmental conditions. The study suggests that many species are needed to maintain ecosystem services, rather than just a few, and highlights the importance of conservin...
At least 351 species thought to have disappeared over the past 122 years have been rediscovered, but most remain highly threatened and on the brink of extinction due to habitat loss. Researchers stress the need for rapid conservation efforts to prevent further decline.
A new analysis of plants in grassland ecosystems worldwide reveals that most species are crucial for ecosystem functioning. Researchers found that 84% of grassland species promote ecosystem functioning at some point, contradicting previous assumptions about the importance of diversity.
A new study found that marine microbes form communities based on shared genes, rather than species identity, leading to high diversity within each community despite similarities in core functions.
Recent botanical exploration efforts in the Marquesas Islands have yielded 62 new species, including 18 newly described ferns and flowering plants. The discoveries bring the total native species to 360 and provide critical information for conservation.
A Czech University of Life Sciences team identified four new species of jewel beetles from local people in Southeast Asia. The discovery expands the genus Philanthaxia to 65 known species, emphasizing the need for biodiversity inventory and conservation efforts.
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.
A new study provides experimental evidence supporting Darwin's phylogenetic limiting similarity hypothesis, where closely related species are more prone to extinction. The research found that competitive exclusion occurred more frequently and rapidly between closely related microorganism species.
A group of ecologists has issued a call to reevaluate the impact of non-native species on ecosystems, challenging traditional assumptions about their effects. Research highlights that some native species also have negative consequences, such as decimating pine forests.
Two new beetle species have been identified in streams of Pyrenees and Pre-Pyrenees mountains in Spain and France. The insects have a restricted range and are similar to other European species.
A recent study by McGill biologist Jonathan Davies and colleagues suggests that the criteria for assessing risk of extinction in plants should be revised. The researchers found that species with small population sizes, even if not limited to a specific geographical range, can also be at high risk of extinction due to their youth.
A new study has assessed the extinction risk of individual seagrass species worldwide, revealing that 10 out of 72 species are at elevated risk of extinction. The research highlights the critical role seagrasses play in maintaining marine ecosystems and human livelihoods.
A recent study by an international team of researchers found that the processes of extinction and speciation are linked in plants, with young species often appearing at high risk of extinction. This challenges the application of the same threat criteria across living organisms and regions.
A new mathematical model shows that species pairs can reemerge after collapse if the disturbance is removed. Hybridization between closely-related species can lead to population decline and biodiversity loss. The study suggests that ecosystem managers may be able to refill ecological niches, but not resurrect lost species.
A new study claims that species extinction rates have been overreported by as much as 160%, using widely used methods. However, the global extinction crisis is still very real, according to researchers. The study's findings suggest that habitat loss is not as dire as previously thought, but conservation efforts are still necessary.
A new study reveals that 39 additional marine species beyond those under federal protection are at risk of extinction due to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. The researchers advocate for priority protection and restoration efforts for these globally threatened species.
A new study reveals that the duration of open water periods has no relationship with the geographic coverage of marine species, contradicting previous assumptions. Ocean currents allow fish larvae to quickly spread their distribution worldwide.
A new model of island ecology suggests that most unique island species should be common on their island, contradicting the common perception of rarity. The researchers used data from 35 islands and archipelagos to develop the model, which predicts how many individuals of each species can be expected to see in their natural habitat.
Researchers studied three species of shootingstars to understand their response to global warming. They found that some species migrated while others adapted in place, with rare species exhibiting distinct genetic histories. This study provides valuable clues for predicting how plants will respond to climate change.
A new index called SAFE (Species Ability to Forestall Extinction) measures how close a species is to extinction. The index provides a formula for calculating the minimum viable population size, allowing conservationists to prioritize resources on species most likely to be brought back from the brink of extinction.
A new review suggests that conservation efforts should focus on protecting vulnerable species and habitats rather than those with lower extinction risk. The proposed 'vulnerability assessment' would use a wider range of data to provide a more accurate picture of which species are most at risk.
A University of Florida study shows that when two flowering plants are crossed, the new species' genes are reset, allowing for greater genetic variation. This process could lead to better growing conditions for more stable and high-yielding agricultural crops.
Scientists at the Max Planck Institute for Demographic Research propose targeted captive breeding programmes to supplement wild animal protection. The study reveals that up to 25% of endangered mammal species and 20-25% of bird species are kept in zoos, with specialist zoos showing greater breeding success.
A global collaboration found that invasive plant species have similar or lower abundance at introduced versus native sites, challenging the 'abundance assumption'. This study used standardized protocols across over 60 sites worldwide to collect population and community data, providing a new approach to address critical ecological issues.
Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have used DNA technology to describe and register a new species of ribbon worm. The development of this method could lead to faster and more efficient species registration, with potential benefits for understanding biological diversity.