Researchers have developed a method to measure the reproductive value of female side-blotched lizards, revealing that large clutches are associated with increased survival rates. Male lizards also exhibit improved survival with small clutch sizes due to hormonal changes, highlighting an 'ontogenetic conflict' between the sexes.
Researchers find that small losses of mangroves can be offset by gains from shrimp farming, allowing for a balance between environmental protection and economic development. The study suggests using ecosystem-based management to conserve entire ecosystems and mitigate the impact of human activities on natural habitats.
The marsupial lion's 'bolt-cutter' type teeth allowed for rapid killing of prey, while African lions used a 'clamp and hold' technique that could take up to 15 minutes. Research suggests the marsupial lion was an efficient predator that could inflict mortal wounds on large prey.
A study reveals that elephants, giraffes, and other large plant-eaters spur Acacia trees to hire ants as bodyguards, but without them, the trees suffer. The research highlights how people's impacts on ecosystems can cascade down unexpected paths.
A type of beetle that lives in stored grain has been found to lack full colour vision. The red flour beetle's compound eye retina lacks the blue-opsin encoding photoreceptors, violating the 'one receptor rule' of sensory cells. This adaptation may have provided an evolutionary advantage.
A University of Calgary biologist has made a groundbreaking discovery about geckos' ability to stick to surfaces using their unique toe pads. By studying the microscopic level of setae structures on gecko feet, researchers found that friction plays a crucial role in geckos' adhesion system.
A US-French research team is creating a comprehensive inventory of all non-microbial life on Moorea, including plants, animals, and fungi. The project aims to catalog and barcode every species on the island, shedding light on ecosystem responses to climate change, invasive species, and human impact.
Researchers found that males' simpler genetic architecture enables them to evolve faster and more efficiently in response to sexual selection. This is because males have only one X chromosome, making their inheritance pathway less complicated compared to females, who have two X chromosomes with interacting genes.
Researchers at UBC discover a process called chromatin remodeling that allows certain cancer cells to hide from the immune system by altering the structure of chromosomes. This 'instruction manual' enables cancer cells to evade detection and grow unchecked, but the discovery may lead to new therapies within five to 10 years.
Scientists at NC State University have identified genes that contribute to fruit fly alcohol sensitivity, with 72% of these genes having human counterparts. The study could lead to the development of a drug for people with higher genetic risk factors for alcoholism.
A recent study published in PLoS ONE confirms that many early hominoid apes were upright bipedal walkers sharing the basic body form of modern humans. This groundbreaking research reveals a specific genetic change that generated the upright human body form and identifies four upright bipedal species that precede Australopithecus Lucy.
Researchers at UF discover a powerful link between protein evolution and metabolic rate across various species, including fish and mammals. The study reveals that rates of protein evolution are strongly influenced by individual metabolic rates.
A new study by Oregon State University reveals that rearing steelhead trout in hatcheries causes a dramatic drop in their ability to reproduce in the wild, with reproductive success dropping by up to 40% per generation.
A study by Oregon State University researchers identified a soldier beetle preserved in amber, showcasing an ancient chemical defense response. The discovery indicates that this type of protective mechanism has been around for over 100 million years.
Biologists have identified the first orchid fossil, dating back 76-84 million years, which suggests that showy blooms may have existed alongside dinosaurs. The discovery resolves a longstanding debate over orchid origins and provides direct evidence of pollination in the fossil record.
A study by Cardiff University scientists suggests that human activities such as deforestation and poaching are driving the decline of the giant panda population. The research finds that conservation efforts should focus on habitat restoration and protection to ensure the species' survival.
In a study on the superb fairy-wren, researchers found that mothers who receive child-care assistance from helpers produce smaller eggs with less nutritious yolks, allowing them to live longer and breed more often. This unique adaptation suggests that helper birds may play a crucial role in the survival of some bird species.
Researchers found that over one-third of African starlings engage in cooperative breeding, a behavior typically seen in birds and other animals, due to the unpredictability of their savanna habitats. In contrast, non-cooperative species live in forests with more stable environments.
Researchers identified a genetic activity required for digit development in limbed animals, found in sharks' genomes, and believe it existed more than 500 million years ago
The study confirms that modern humans originated from a single area in Sub-saharan Africa, with genetic diversity decreasing as populations migrated further away. The researchers found no evidence to support alternative non-African origins.
A recent study by the University of Alberta reveals that some Arctic foxes engage in polyandry, where females have multiple male mates, and multiple paternity, leading to increased genetic variation. This finding challenges previous notions of monogamous mating habits in canid species.
The sea anemone genome shows similarities with the human genome, providing a new view of our common ancestors. The study found that many genes are conserved across species, allowing scientists to infer features of the ancestral genetic blueprint for animals.
Researchers have created a genetic model of obesity in zebrafish, which could lead to the development of new drugs to help people lose weight and keep it off. The study uses a receptor blockage mechanism that is similar to what causes severe obesity in humans.
Five new species of nudibranchs, a group of mollusks lacking outer shells, have been discovered in the Tropical Eastern Pacific. The discovery may provide cures for diseases currently untreatable due to the sophisticated chemical defense mechanisms developed by these organisms.
Researchers found that E. coli groups exposed to fluctuating pH levels exhibited generalist fitness patterns, with no significant cost in any environment. The bacteria adapted to specific environments, but the varied pH conditions didn't hinder adaptation.
Research reveals that parasites can significantly alter the abundance of edible algae, which is a crucial resource for various organisms. This finding suggests that non-lethal impacts of parasites can have far-reaching effects on entire ecosystems.
A study at Harvard University found that sexual dimorphism in Caribbean lizards increases their ecological niche, allowing species to thrive by avoiding resource competition. The research suggests sex differences may have fueled the evolution of diverse fauna, highlighting the importance of considering both sexes.
A new study suggests that amphibians are losing the battle against environmental change due to their inability to adapt quickly enough. With 43% of species in decline and 168 extinct, the impacts on amphibians are far more pervasive than other vertebrates.
A new study found that hibernating black bears lose about half as much skeletal muscle strength as humans confined to bed rest for similar periods. The researchers tested the bears' muscle strength and fatigue resistance after a 110-day period of anorexia and confinement.
Researchers at the University of New Hampshire are setting the winter flounder fishery on the fast track to recovery through stock enhancement. The study found that hatchery-raised fish must be as fit as wild fish to ensure success, and acclimatization cages can help reduce vulnerability to predators.
Researchers analyzed DNA data from mammal and bird species in the Americas to find speciation occurs faster in temperate zones than tropics. This is due to a higher turnover of species in temperate areas, resulting in more new species emerging.
A new study reveals that a plant pathogen played a key role in allowing non-native grasses to invade California, dramatically changing the state's vast grassland ecosystem. The research suggests that diseases can facilitate the invasion of exotic species, which threatens biodiversity and ecological function.
Researchers propose a holistic approach to fisheries management, emphasizing the need to consider entire ecosystems and monitor catch characteristics. The 'Ten Commandments' outline specific action items to improve sustainability and efficiency in marine management.
Robert Reisz's lifelong passion for fossils led to groundbreaking discoveries, including the oldest known dinosaur embryos and two-legged reptile. He is being recognized by AAAS for his significant contributions to the field.
Female Antarctic fur seals travel long distances to mate with genetically diverse males, rather than local dominant males. This behavior enables species to maintain genetic diversity, crucial for resisting disease and parasites.
A team of researchers from Yale University and other institutions have discovered two 56-million-year-old fossils, including the most primitive primate skeleton ever described. The study reconstructs the base of the primate family tree, providing evidence that plesiadapiforms are the most primitive primates.
Carnivores can only sustain body mass up to one ton due to energy intake and expenditure limitations. This explains why large predators like lions and modern-day polar bears are relatively small compared to extinct herbivorous mammals.
Scientists discovered that the neural processes in sea creatures are far more complex than previously thought, with thousands of genes active at any given time within a single brain cell. This study sheds light on how genes control the generation of specific brain circuitry and enables learning and memory.
A new study reveals that grouped skunks do not enter a torpor-like state to conserve energy like solitary individuals do. Instead, they benefit from huddling, which minimizes water loss and allows them to maintain higher body fat reserves.
The study found that naked carp respond to increased lake salinity by taking a 'metabolic holiday', drastically reducing oxygen consumption and kidney function. They also adjust their feeding behavior and store more fat, but if the lake continues to dehydrate, these benefits may change to pathology.
A comprehensive genetic analysis of an invasive marine host and its parasites reveals the accidental introduction of Japanese seed oysters carrying parasitic flatworms, leading to widespread disease in the region. The study highlights the importance of identifying and mitigating disease outbreaks in a globalized economy.
Male crickets sing less and for longer in autumn due to parasitic fly presence, while females are reluctant to approach singing males. This finding sheds light on the interplay between sexual selection and natural selection.
Researchers discovered a new gene in the gulf pipefish that codes for an astacin protein, previously associated with kidney and liver function. This protein may have evolved to support male pregnancy in this species, a mystery in evolutionary biology.
Researchers found that island lizards' hind legs shifted from longer to shorter limbs in just six months, favoring survival in a new predatory environment. This rapid evolution highlights the importance of behavioral flexibility in driving evolutionary changes.
Genetic analysis of Xenoturbella, a worm-like creature, reveals its unique characteristics and confirms the common ancestry between humans and other chordates. The discovery provides insight into the evolution of brains in animals.
A global study has found that pinpointing rare bird species isn't a reliable way to assume where other endangered animals occur. The research gathered data on 9,626 bird species, 4,104 mammal species, and 5,619 amphibian species to show that closer examination is needed for conservation efforts.
A comprehensive analysis of over 100 studies reveals that biodiversity loss will have severe consequences on ecosystem function, including pest control, organic waste management, food production, and water purification. The study suggests that protecting biodiversity is crucial to maintaining these essential services.
Researchers at Oregon State University have discovered the oldest bee ever known, a 100 million year old specimen preserved in almost lifelike form in amber. The discovery supports the theory that pollen-dependent bees evolved from meat-eating wasps and sheds light on the rapid expansion of flowering plants during the Cretaceous Period.
Researchers found that waxed and inactive tree frogs have similar metabolic rates as unwaxed, dehydrating frogs, challenging the idea of a hibernation-like dormant state. Tree frogs use wiping behaviors to conserve energy by reducing surface evaporation by up to 4%, but this does not lead to significant changes in metabolic rate.
Research by S. Kankova and colleagues found that Toxoplasma positive mothers give birth to more boys than negative women, with a probability of up to 72 boys in every 100 children born. The increased survival of male embryos may be attributed to the parasite's modulating effects on the immune system.
A groundbreaking study by Field Museum scientists reveals that wild lion manes develop according to local climate regimes and are influenced by age. Contrary to popular assumptions, most lions in regions like Tsavo do acquire respectable manes, and the best-maned lions are typically older.
Researchers found that female house finches deposit significantly more antioxidants into eggs sired by unattractive males, which protects the embryo during development. This strategic allocation allows females to maximize reproductive output despite potential limitations from suboptimal pairings.
A Northwestern University study finds that the kouprey, Southeast Asia's 'forest ox,' is unlikely to be a wild species due to its genetic similarity to a domesticated breed. The researchers believe it may have originated from a domestic hybrid between banteng and zebu cattle.
Researchers at the University of Cambridge discovered that African pied babbler adults continue to care for their young after they stop feeding directly. The parents call the inexperienced fledglings to areas with readily available food, improving their foraging success rate.
A new study reveals that landscape corridors can promote plant diversity by connecting isolated patches of habitat. The research found that patches with corridors retained high numbers of species, while those without lost species. Corridors provide the largest benefit to native species.
A six-year study at a massive experimental landscape found that wildlife corridors support more plant species, particularly native ones, than isolated areas. The results suggest that corridors are crucial for preserving both wildlife and plant biodiversity.
Researchers at the University of New Hampshire found that blue mussels can recognize and respond to two invasive crab species within 15 years. In southern New England, mussels thickened their shells in response to Hemigrapsus sanguineus, while northern populations showed a delayed response.
Researchers urge governments to implement stricter controls on the live reef fish trade, a growing threat to coral reefs. The trade has devastating effects on the ecosystem, including the depletion of coral reef stocks and the spread of destructive harvesting methods.
Researchers at University of Wisconsin-Madison suggest a double whammy of intensive trapping and predator fish manipulation may rid lakes of the invasive species, restoring ecosystem balance. The two-pronged attack has shown promising results in reducing rusty crayfish populations on Sparkling Lake.
Researchers found that genetic instructions for constructing and positioning human limbs originated from ancient fish ancestors around 100 million years ago. They isolated genes from the spotted catshark and discovered a shared developmental mechanism between median fin development and limb formation.