A study by Imperial College London found that captive breeding of a rare species of toad introduced the deadly chytrid fungus to wild populations in Mallorca, highlighting the risks of reintroduction programs and the need for biosecure facilities. Despite the infection, some infected populations appear to be thriving.
Researchers at Uppsala University used medical x-rays to find rudimentary fingers in the fins of Panderichthys, a transitional animal between fish and tetrapods. This discovery indicates that fingers evolved earlier than previously thought, contradicting the long-held theory that they emerged in tetrapods.
Paleontologists have found a previously unknown amphibious predator species named Kryostega collinsoni, which had large teeth on the roof of its mouth, similar to those at the edge. The discovery sheds new light on Antarctica's climate during the Triassic period and suggests that it was warmer than today.
Researchers from UC Berkeley argue that devastating declines of amphibians worldwide signal a biodiversity disaster. The study highlights the impact of chytridiomycosis, habitat constriction, and pollution on frog populations, contributing to a sixth mass extinction event.
The western Amazon, home to the most biodiverse rainforest left on Earth, is at risk from oil and gas projects. Over 180 blocks cover nearly 688,000 km2, overlapping with protected areas and indigenous territories. The study highlights the need for regional Strategic Environmental Assessments and indigenous rights protection.
A new report details the historic mass extinction of amphibians, with extinction rates reaching unprecedented levels. The authors attribute the decline to human activities exacerbating climate change and a deadly infectious disease, chytridiomycosis.
Researchers mapped the developing brain cells in midshipman fish larvae and compared them to other species to find that the neural network behind sound production is conserved across vertebrates. This finding puts human speech and social communications in evolutionary context, providing a framework for studying social behavior.
Researchers identified certain genes that enable frogs to develop resistance to harmful bacteria and disease. The discovery may provide new strategies for protecting frog populations in the wild by selectively breeding individuals with known disease-resistance genes.
Researchers found that toads in suburban areas are less likely to suffer from reproductive system abnormalities than those near farms. The study highlights the difference between the impact of agriculture versus development on amphibians.
A newly discovered life history among tetrapods reveals a Malagasy chameleon spends most of its life in an egg, hatching after just 4-5 months. This rapid growth rate is unlike any other known four-legged animal.
The Conservation Leadership Programme awarded 28 research teams in 14 countries with $475,000 support. Winners focus on protecting endangered species and habitats worldwide, including tigers, hooded cranes, and threatened amphibians.
Fossils of Ventastega, a primitive tetrapod, provide insights into the transition from fish to land animals. The new discoveries show that different parts of the body evolved at different speeds during this process.
Scientists have discovered that genetic variation in Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) genes plays a vital role in the immune system of tailed amphibians. This finding highlights the importance of understanding species-specific adaptations for conservation strategies, particularly for globally declining amphibian populations.
A recent study published in Conservation Letters found that many animal species need broad landscape-level conservation to survive due to ecological processes. The research identified 20% of threatened amphibians and 40% of threatened freshwater turtles relying on conservation action at a large scale.
Research from the American Museum of Natural History shows that global warming is causing species in Madagascar's mountainous north to move up tropical mountains as their habitats shift upward. The study found an average shift of 19-51 meters over a decade, linked to temperature increases of 0.1°C to 0.37°C.
Researchers found that honeybees use their right and left antennae to store different types of memories. Short-term memory is linked to the right antenna, while long-term learning relies on the left antenna. This lateralization may aid bees in learning new odours without interference from existing memories.
The Gerobatrachus fossil provides key evidence for the evolution of modern amphibians from one ancient group, resolving a long-standing controversy. It suggests that frogs and salamanders separated around 240-275 million years ago, contrary to previous estimates.
A PLOS study highlights key conservation areas for threatened frogs and toads in Latin America, emphasizing the importance of considering life-history traits. The research reveals that regions with aquatic larval stages are crucial for species like Phyllomedusa ayeaye, while those without tadpoles require targeted conservation efforts.
Atrazine, a widely used weedkiller, disrupts hormonal signaling in human cells, increasing the risk of abnormal birth weight and infertility. Exposure to atrazine has also been shown to 'feminize' zebrafish, with female fish outnumbering males at concentrations comparable to those found in agricultural runoff.
Tropical species will experience reduced health and population growth rates due to global warming, while high-latitude species may benefit slightly from warmer temperatures. The impacts of global warming on species in the tropics will be more detrimental than those in high latitudes.
Researchers have found evidence of mesenchymal stem cells in the periosteum of deer pedicles, which are responsible for antler regeneration. The study suggests that understanding this unique process could have significant implications for regenerative medicine.
Researchers found that mice can sense oxygen levels in the environment and stimulate kidney production of erythropoietin when oxygen concentrations drop. The study suggests that the skin plays a major role in sensing oxygen and could lead to new treatments for anemia and diseases affecting red blood cell counts.
Biologists at UC San Diego have found that mouse skin responds to low oxygen levels by regulating EPO production, a hormone that stimulates red blood cell creation. This discovery could revolutionize treatment for anemia and improve endurance athlete performance.
Researchers found over 10,500 dead animals along 11 miles of roads in Indiana, with nearly 95% being frogs and other amphibians. The study suggests that road-related death contributes to their decline, highlighting the need for mitigation structures like underpasses and fences.
Research by Tufts University biologists reveals that early exposure to atrazine leads to deformed hearts, impaired kidneys, and digestive systems in tadpoles. The study found a significant increase in abnormalities in organs after 48 hours of exposure, with 57% of tadpoles having smaller-than-normal hearts.
A new study found that young fire ant workers are four times more likely to survive aggressive attacks by pretending to be dead. Sustained movement is necessary to trigger a physical attack. Feigning death allows these young workers to contribute to brood care and colony growth.
A MU study found that salamanders and frogs evacuated clearcut areas more often than entered, suggesting a behavioral response to habitat changes. This response could improve the chances of amphibian survival in forestry practices.
Researchers found that snakes in some areas have developed extreme resistance to tetrodotoxin, a toxin produced by poisonous newts. This means that the newts' toxicity levels are no longer effective against these snakes, allowing them to thrive and even dominate the populations.
Researchers at Stanford University have identified synthetic peptoids as a potential new class of antibiotics, which could overcome the limitations of natural peptides. These manmade molecules show promise in treating bacterial infections, including diabetic foot ulcers, with minimal harm to human cells.
A University of Alberta study found that beaver presence increases open water availability by up to nine times, providing habitat and resources for land animals, amphibians, and livestock. The study suggests climate models predict increased drought frequency and length, where beavers can play a crucial role in maintaining wetlands.
A new study challenges current projections by finding that historic climate variability is a better predictor of reptilian and amphibian diversity in Europe than contemporary climate. This contradicts previous studies and has profound implications for predicting biodiversity impacts of climate change.
A new biodiversity survey reveals that primary rainforests are home to over half of all terrestrial species, with many species found nowhere else. The study emphasizes the need for conservation and sustainable land-use practices, highlighting the importance of protecting large areas of intact forest habitat.
A study reveals an astonishing level of cryptic diversity among frog species in the Guiana Shield region, potentially doubling previously thought numbers. The underestimation of amphibian diversity has broad implications for conservation efforts and management of biodiversity.
Fossilized body imprints of three previously unknown, foot-long salamander-like critters have been found in 330 million-year-old rocks. The imprints provide rare information about the animals' webbed feet, skin proportions and outer skin characteristics.
Researchers have discovered a key difference in the way gastrulation occurs between higher vertebrate species and less evolutionarily advanced animals. The study reveals that higher vertebrates acquire a new mechanism of 'cell intercalation' to position their axis at the midline, distinguishing them from fish and other lower vertebrates.
A recent study suggests genetically engineered corn could have unintended consequences on aquatic ecosystems. Researchers found toxins from Bt corn were washing into streams near cornfields, causing increased mortality and reduced growth in caddisflies.
Researchers found that molecule Sdf plays a crucial role in dictating the pattern of at least one stripe in zebrafish. By studying the effects of Sdf on melanophores, they discovered how this molecule influences their migration and positioning.
A new method has been developed to grow inner ear hair cells in the laboratory, providing a reliable source of cells for research. This breakthrough is expected to accelerate therapeutic advancements for millions of people worldwide affected by hearing and balance impairments.
A rare albino ratfish with a crystalline layer on its skin was caught off Whidbey Island, marking the first time such a specimen has been seen by both experts and scientists. The fish's unusual appearance is due to a gene mutation that prevents it from producing melanin.
Scientists have developed a breakthrough laboratory technique to isolate and grow hair cells, essential sound detectors in the inner ear. This new method provides a reliable source for researchers studying inner-ear disorders, including hearing loss and balance problems.
A study on Gambel's white-crowned sparrows reveals that the brain regions controlling singing behavior shrink rapidly after testosterone withdrawal, leading to neuron loss and apoptosis. This natural phenomenon may hold potential medical implications for understanding age-related degenerative diseases such as Parkinson's and dementia.
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
A new genetic analysis suggests that the frog-killing fungus, Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis, may be a greater threat to mountain yellow-legged frogs due to its ability to spread over long distances and persist in the environment through sexual reproduction. This could make it harder to save the frogs from extinction.
Researchers suggest golf course habitats can be improved by creating diverse pond types that mimic natural wetlands, reducing chemical runoff and insect predators. Drying ponds in the fall also benefits amphibians by eliminating bullfrog tadpoles that outcompete other species.
Researchers at NIAID discovered a survival mechanism in gram-positive bacteria that protects it from antimicrobial peptides, which are defense molecules sent by the body to kill bacteria. The discovery may help chart a path to designing new drugs to bolster our antimicrobial treatment options.
A study by Penn State researchers found that nearly all Caribbean land-breeding frog species, including coqui frogs, originated from a single ancient species that rafted on a sea voyage from South America. The discovery challenges previous theories of their arrival and reveals the surprising common ancestry of these species.
Researchers have identified a bacterium that repels a deadly fungus causing worldwide amphibian deaths and extinctions. The discovery could lead to procedures for 'vaccinating' endangered populations.
The gray, short-tailed opossum's genome reveals insights into connections between humans and other species, as well as the evolution of mobile elements. Mobile elements make up about 52% of the opossum genome, with distinct compositional differences compared to primate genomes.
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.
Researchers from Harvard University found that ancient aquatic amphibians developed the ability to feed on land before transitioning to terrestrial life. Analysis of skull bones reveals that these extinct animals captured prey by biting or sucking it into their mouth, with one key species showing signs of biting behavior.
A long-term study found that salamander exposure to atrazine had persistent effects on mortality rates, even after recovery. Survivors of the exposure suffered lower survival rates compared to those not exposed to atrazine.
Researchers found evidence of leech-borne transmission of a fungus-like organism infecting newts' muscles, which may affect their ability to reproduce. The infection is not fatal but can impact newt populations. Human activities, such as fertilizer use in wetlands, could lead to increased leech abundance and disease spread.
Researchers have identified genes and signaling pathways that enable zebrafish to regrow their tail fins. The study suggests that humans may also have untapped regenerative powers hidden in their genes, potentially leading to new treatments for human injuries.
Researchers found that zebrafish have progenitor cells and an epicardium that can restore wounded heart muscle. The study's findings suggest that these mechanisms could be utilized for therapies, potentially improving the regenerative capacity of mammalian hearts.
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 worldwide map of mammals, birds, and amphibians shows that endangered species from different groups don't inhabit the same areas, contradicting conservationists' assumptions. This discovery has significant implications for conservation planning and decision-making.
A new study by Oregon State University researchers found that cougar predation has a significant impact on the environment, leading to severe ecological damage and loss of biodiversity in Zion National Park. The 'trophic cascade' effect, where the decline of a major predator leads to changes in herbivore populations and behavior, is ev...
A team of scientists led by University of Washington paleontologist Peter Ward has found a similar gap during the same period among non-marine arthropods, largely insects and spiders. They believe a precipitous drop in the oxygen content of Earth's atmosphere is responsible for this phenomenon.
Researchers found that spotted salamanders, wood frogs, and American toads employ various defense strategies to avoid water mold infections, including protective jelly layers and early hatching. These mechanisms help reduce mortality rates and increase survival chances for the amphibian species.
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.