Early mammals' eyes have only one version of the photoreceptor gene that detects light, unlike birds, fish, and amphibians with two versions. This suggests they may have been nocturnal creatures.
Researchers find that fish and amphibian B cells exhibit strong phagocytosis in both in vivo and vitro experiments. This discovery suggests an evolutionary relationship between macrophages and B cells, with implications for understanding human immune systems.
Scientists investigate how volcanic ash affects ecosystems, find evidence of ancient desert landscapes and discover fossilized bone marrow in 10 million-year-old amphibians. Researchers also analyze the erosion rates of the Alps and explore the origins of zircon crystals.
Scientists call for a new initiative to address the growing proportion of threatened and extinct amphibian species, with 32% at risk. The alliance aims to combat diseases, habitat loss, invasive species, and other causes through research, training, and conservation efforts.
Increases in aridity could lead to contractions in the distribution of nearly all species in southwest Europe, including 62% of European amphibians and reptiles. The Iberian Peninsula's role as a refugia against extinctions during past glacial periods may be at risk with projected climate changes.
Scientists have rediscovered two Critically Endangered frog species in the El Dorado Nature Reserve in Colombia, providing a glimmer of hope for saving these endangered species from extinction. The reserve's protection is timely, as the region has recently been affected by a fungal disease that has wiped out many amphibian populations.
A team of researchers has discovered a population of the painted frog, considered extinct since 1995, in Colombia's deserts. The finding offers hope that other species can survive the chytridiomycosis fungus and highlights the need for urgent conservation measures.
Researchers have discovered that frog proteins can rescue mouse embryonic stem cells from dividing without limit, highlighting an ancient mechanism that may hold the key to understanding human disease. The study also shows that mammals have adopted this function from amphibians, suggesting a long history of stem cell regulation.
Scientists have found that the same DNA sequence is present in both humans and an ancient fish thought to be extinct for millions of years, indicating that mobile DNA elements can be adapted to regulate genes. This discovery suggests that mobile DNA may play a role in evolution's toolbox.
A recent study documents six new frog species found in Laos over a two-year period, showcasing the country's remarkable biodiversity. Conservationists are concerned about the combined loss of forest cover and over-exploitation of species threatening much of Laos' wildlife.
Researchers discovered that African legless amphibian B. taitanus females provide nutrition to their hatchlings via their skin for up to four weeks. This post-hatching parental care is unprecedented in amphibians and may represent an evolutionary intermediate between reproductive modes.
A coalition of conservation groups protected a vital 1,600-acre site in Colombia's Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta massif, safeguarding the last breeding ground of the Globally Endangered Santa Marta Parakeet. The site also provides habitat for 18 bird species and five threatened amphibians.
Scientists discovered that rare Chinese frogs can communicate using high-pitch ultrasonic sounds, a trait previously thought to be exclusive to mammals. The frogs' ability to hear and respond to these sounds allows them to facilitate communication in noisy environments.
Researchers find that a unique ear canal in the concave-eared torrent frog allows it to detect and produce ultrasounds, a skill also seen in dolphins and bats. This discovery may lead to new strategies for humans to hear in noisy environments.
John Wieczorek receives Ebbe Nielsen Prize for his work on integrating biosystematics and biodiversity informatics research. He will use the prize to expand projects in North America and beyond.
Researchers found that lampreys, long thought to be evolutionary outliers, use the same essential protein to build cartilage as all other vertebrates, including humans. The discovery sheds light on the early origins of vertebrate skeletal development and challenges traditional views on vertebrate evolution.
Researchers found high levels of selenium in contaminated toads and their offspring, leading to developmental abnormalities such as structural malformations and abnormal swimming. The study highlights the importance of maternal transfer in contaminant exposure for amphibians.
Scientists report a rapid spread of the deadly fungus chytridiomycosis across Central America, leading to widespread amphibian extinctions. The fungus has been linked to declines of over 40 species in Central America and 93 worldwide, with a recent outbreak causing local extinctions in Panama.
Dr. David Wake will receive the prestigious Joseph Leidy Award for his groundbreaking work in conservation biology and systematics on worldwide amphibian decline. The award recognizes his contributions to understanding the complex causes of this alarming phenomenon.
A recent study published in Nature reveals that climate-driven fungal disease is a major contributor to the decline of amphibian populations worldwide. The research found that warmer temperatures favor the growth and reproduction of a deadly skin fungus, which kills frogs mostly in cool highlands or during winter.
A new study has pinpointed epicenters of Earth's imminent extinctions, identifying 794 species in need of urgent conservation action at specific sites worldwide. The research highlights the critical need for global cooperation to protect these imperiled species and ecosystems.
Researchers discovered that photolyase uses energy from visible light to repair UV damage in plants and animals, with water playing a key role in the process. This enzyme is missing in humans and other mammals, making them more vulnerable to skin cancer.
Researchers found that Roundup(r) killed up to 71% of tadpoles and 86% of terrestrial frogs after exposure. The surfactant in the herbicide, not the active ingredient, is lethal to amphibians. The study highlights concerns about accidental spraying during lawn care.
Researchers have identified new amphibian species through genetic analysis and bioacoustic tools, contrary to the assumption that taxonomic inflation is driving species discoveries. This finding underscores the importance of continued exploration and conservation efforts in this endangered vertebrate group.
A newly discovered lungless salamander in Korea has significant implications for the understanding of amphibian evolution and biogeography. The species, named Karsenia koreana, is distinct from other lungless salamanders and sheds light on their historical distribution across Asia and Europe.
Researchers have discovered two new species of giant amphibians in Africa, which are similar to crocodiles in shape. The findings suggest that climate change over 250 million years ago had a dramatic effect on species survival and evolution.
A study by University of Pittsburgh researcher Rick Relyea found that Roundup is extremely lethal to amphibians, causing a 70 percent decline in biodiversity and an 86 percent decline in tadpole mass. The herbicide's surfactant was responsible for its toxic effects on amphibian populations.
A new study predicts that up to 14% of all bird species will be extinct by 2100, leading to a decline in forest ecosystems and agriculture worldwide. This dramatic loss may also encourage the spread of human diseases and negatively impact ecosystem processes such as decomposition, pollination, and seed dispersal.
New studies using gap analysis and high-quality global databases reveal significant gaps in coverage of protected areas, affecting up to 43% of terrestrial species. The research suggests that expanding protected areas in tropical environments could improve conservation efforts for over 11,000 vertebrate species.
A team of researchers from Bristol University and Saratov University in Russia analyzed 675 specimens of amphibians and reptiles from 289 areas spanning 13 geological time zones. The study found a profound loss of animal groups and ecosystems, with many species still absent after 15 million years of recovery.
A global assessment of amphibian populations reveals that nearly one-third of species are threatened with extinction, with many more considered vulnerable. Key drivers of decline include habitat destruction, air and water pollution, and climate change.
A new Chinese fossil discovery sheds light on the evolution of protorosaurs and their long-necked marine reptiles. The Dinocephalosaurus species' 25 cervical vertebrae neck may have enabled a unique suction-based feeding method, allowing it to capture prey more effectively in water.
The European common frog has a complex breeding strategy where males engage in clutch piracy, fertilizing eggs left unfertilized after the initial encounter. This behavior leads to a greater percentage of fertilized eggs and clutches with multiple fathers.
A recent genetic analysis found a viral strain linked to the decline of amphibian populations in the US, which may have been introduced through live bait and infected salamanders. The study suggests that emerging diseases are having a major effect on ecosystems globally.
The Ecological Society of America symposium explores ecological recovery after the 1980 Mount St. Helens eruption, revealing remarkable resilience in some species and dramatic transformation of Spirit Lake. Researchers discuss the importance of chance events, life history characteristics, and timing in ecological recovery.
A new study suggests a dynamic business plan approach to conservation, prioritizing opportune land acquisitions and leveraging market dynamics to safeguard habitats. The authors aim to improve the effectiveness of protected area networks in addressing the rapid decline of highly threatened vertebrates.
Researchers identified NRH1 as essential for regulating convergent extension in frogs, a process also influenced by Wnt/PCP signaling. Overexpression of NRH1 resulted in shortening of the body axis and failure of mesodermal marker gene expression, while loss-of-function led to inhibition of convergent extension.
The study's findings suggest that current conservation planning approaches may be hindering species protection. Instead, scientists recommend a more dynamic business plan approach, leveraging market uncertainty and landowner motivation to safeguard habitat for highly threatened species.
Researchers say broad body of research shows UV-B radiation can cause severe damage to amphibian species from eggs to adults, including retinal damage and blindness. Amphibian declines are linked to multiple causes, but UV-B remains a significant concern.
Researchers found that birds' photoreceptors can detect the Earth's magnetic field by sensing changes in light energy. This process involves specialized visual systems that allow animals to navigate using the magnetic compass. The discovery sheds new light on the mechanisms behind animal magnetism and its potential applications.
Scientists studying stickleback fish discovered that small changes in gene regulation can lead to rapid skeletal changes without disrupting essential genes. The researchers identified a single region on the chromosome responsible for most of the changes in spine and pelvic morphology, pointing to the key role of the Pitx1 gene.
A 365-million-year-old fossil discovery in Pennsylvania provides insight into the evolution of limbs from fins. The humerus specimen shares features with both primitive fish fins and true limb bones.
Researchers at UGA's SREL will conduct experiments to identify major factors affecting amphibian population persistence and responses to upland habitat alteration. The study aims to model species responses to forest management at larger scales.
Out-of-balance ecosystems play a significant role in the demise of amphibian populations. Human activities, parasites, and environmental changes are contributing factors. The research highlights the importance of managing landscapes and water bodies to prevent further declines.
Research reveals a significant rise in frog deformities over the past three decades, with a notable correlation to trematode parasites. Historically documented cases suggest an ongoing issue, while recent findings indicate increased occurrences and severity across more than 50 hotspots in North America.
Research by Schurbon and Fauth found that prescribed burning negatively impacts pine savannah amphibian diversity and abundance, with species declining in areas burned more recently. The study suggests a 5-year prescribed burn cycle and summer burns can balance the needs of amphibians and longleaf pines.
Research reveals that human activity has reduced natural habitats, making it difficult for species to adapt to climate change. Mobile species like birds and butterflies are more likely to survive, while sessile species like reptiles and amphibians are at high risk of extinction.
Researchers found that juvenile and adult amphibians retain contaminants like selenium and strontium through metamorphosis, transferring them into terrestrial food webs. The study highlights the importance of understanding contaminant transfer in aquatic-terrestrial ecosystems.
A comprehensive volume addresses key hypotheses for amphibian declines, including non-native species, UV radiation, and climate change. The study highlights the urgent need for conservation research to address this biodiversity crisis.
Research finds that invasive animals typically have fewer parasites in new habitats, allowing them to dominate native populations. This advantage is attributed to the lack of matched parasites, enabling introduced species to outcompete less fit native species.
Researchers found that dissolved organic matter protects most amphibian embryos from harmful levels of UV-B radiation in natural habitats. The studies suggest that the causes of amphibian population declines may be specific to each region and require a more nuanced approach.
A recent study suggests that dissolved organic matter in water absorbs UV-B, protecting 85% of amphibian habitats. The timing of breeding also plays a crucial role, with early breeding reducing UV-B exposure in certain regions.
Researchers found habitat destruction and pesticide exposure linked to declines of four frog species and two toad species in California. The study suggests that wind-borne agrochemicals may be a contributing factor to amphibian population declines.
Research by UC Berkeley scientists shows that atrazine can feminize male leopard frog tadpoles and turn them into female frogs at levels as low as 0.1 parts per billion, a 30 times lower threshold than the current allowable limit for drinking water. The herbicide has been linked to declining amphibian populations in the US and worldwide.
A study by Rothermel and Semlitsch found that juvenile amphibians preferentially use corridors of natural vegetation to move through fragmented forests. The researchers also discovered that these animals lose more water in open fields, making forest habitats a safer choice for survival.
Researchers recreated a 240-million-year-old protein to study the vision of dinosaur ancestors, finding evidence that they may have had dim-light vision. The discovery offers insights into how biologically important molecules evolved over time and paves the way for further studies on ancient species.
The partnership aims to advance biomedical research through collaboration between biologists and mathematicians/scientists. The new awards will support projects in areas such as disease modeling, HIV dynamics, and bioinformatics.
Researchers found that the snake uses a novel 'loop and pull' behavior to consume large crabs, overcoming limitations imposed by limb loss and body form changes. The behavior was recorded in a dark room with infrared video cameras and verified through observations of wild snakes consuming oversized prey.
Researchers found salamanders with unusual, asymmetrical spots in a pond on an Ithaca golf course, suggesting environmental stress. The study compared 60-year-old samples with contemporary ones, showing a significant change in spot symmetry.
Researchers found a strong link between amphibian deformities and parasites, particularly those carried by snails, which thrive in human-altered habitats. The study surveyed over 60% of sites in Oregon, where deformities were linked to the presence of Ribeiroia parasite.