The Illinois Natural History Survey and Illinois Department of Natural Resources have updated the state's threatened and endangered plant species rankings. A total of 331 plants were reassessed, showing some improvements in their status, while others remain imperiled.
A study found that the red-headed wood pigeon's unique genetic history, shaped by centuries of gradual inbreeding, enabled its population to survive and rebound dramatically. The team's analysis revealed lower levels of highly deleterious mutations in the endangered species compared to the more widespread Japanese wood pigeon.
The Barcelona CryoZoo has been awarded a competitive grant from Revive & Restore to derive and study stem cell lines from wild animal species. Researchers will use machine learning and artificial intelligence tools to identify critical gene networks needed for reprogramming cells from evolutionarily distant species.
A study by Tsinghua University Press discovered 480 macrofungal species in southeast Xizang, China, including 8 new species. The research identified 115 edible and 15 medicinal species, while 53 were found to be poisonous.
A new study suggests that genetic rescue of endangered species may not be as effective as previously thought, and could even introduce more harmful mutations. Analysis of Eastern massasauga rattlesnakes found more deleterious than adaptive mutations in donor animals selected for relocation.
A large census of dikes in the Netherlands revealed that more bee species live on dikes than previously thought, with 154 different species found. The researchers found that flower-rich dikes attract many more bees, especially endangered species, due to the variety of plants and nesting sites.
A large-scale study found that zoos are often breeding endangered animals in skewed sex ratios, which can limit genetic diversity and increase the risk of extinction. The research highlights the need for zoos to collaborate and share data on their animal populations to manage conservation efforts effectively.
Researchers found that translocations of red-cockaded woodpeckers into the Avon Park range led to substantial population growth and improved genetic health. The study suggests that this conservation strategy can be a promising approach for other threatened species.
A new study by Dr. Gila Kahila Bar-Gal presents an integrative approach to wildlife forensics, combining advanced genetic tools with local databases to solve complex environmental crimes involving multiple species. This method demonstrates the ability to identify species, trace their origins, and confirm criminal activity beyond reason...
A team of scientists proposes using gene editing to restore lost genetic diversity in endangered species, enabling them to adapt to future environmental changes. The approach could complement traditional conservation methods and attract new investors and expertise.
Research reveals that warming seas are changing mating routines of critically endangered female angelsharks, prioritizing staying cool over visiting breeding grounds. This mismatch in behavior could have severe consequences for the species' future.
A new study reveals smaller islands in Wallacea are critical refuges for endangered mammals, with lower genetic diversity but fewer harmful mutations. Habitat quality on these islands is higher than on larger ones, emphasizing the importance of protecting them for long-term survival.
A new study from the University of Alberta found that endangered mountain caribou possess a unique gut microbiome in late winter, when they feed on tree lichens. This specialized diet and associated microbes could guide caribou recovery efforts and highlight the importance of maintaining oldgrowth forests to support their food supply.
The Nature FIRST project, a £4.9m Horizon Europe-funded initiative, aims to protect endangered species and their habitats across Europe. The project's tools and training will help rangers detect and respond to wildlife crime and other threats using digital technologies and forensic investigation techniques.
A new genomic study offers a unique lens for understanding the extinction crisis in Hawai'i, revealing that there is still time to save the critically endangered honeycreeper 'akeke'e. With only 17 species of iconic honeycreepers remaining, efforts to control mosquito populations and conservation breeding programs are underway.
A Cornell study analyzed over 892,000 hours of bird sounds to test the effectiveness of monitoring and protecting select species as a 'conservation umbrella' for other species. The research found that 95% of forest birds showed positive associations with at least one surrogate species.
A new study found that half of the remaining habitat of Australia's most critically endangered species is unprotected, posing a significant risk to their survival. The research identifies 85,000sqm of habitat as crucial for protection and management to halt new extinctions.
Scientists have uncovered fossilized leaves of the Kapur Paya tree, a towering dipterocarp species, at least two million years old. This discovery provides new insights into the ecological importance and historical significance of these forests, emphasizing the need for conservation.
A new report highlights the drastic decline of endangered primate species worldwide, emphasizing the urgent need for global conservation efforts. Habitat destruction, hunting, climate change, and illegal wildlife trade are major threats to these animals.
Researchers developed a universal theory to explain species distribution patterns, estimating species numbers at key transition points between phases. The three-phase pattern of Species-Area Relationships shows rapid increase in local areas, slowing down in regional areas, and accelerating on continental scales.
A new study reveals climate change is the leading cause of biodiversity loss among endangered species in the US. Climate change affects 91% of ESA-listed species, with many facing multiple threats simultaneously.
A new study found that a pay-to-release programme increased live releases of endangered species caught as bycatch, but also encouraged some vessels to increase their catches at the expense of conservation goals. Adjustments have been made to improve the programme's effectiveness.
The Endangered Species Act has become a battleground for partisan ideology, with politicians, NGOs, and legal advocates influencing wildlife management decisions. Despite population recovery, grizzly bears remain listed, and delisting is threatened by competing interests.
The Caspian Sea is projected to decline by 5-21m in water level by 2100, posing significant threats to the region's biodiversity and human infrastructure. The research highlights the need for dynamic biodiversity protection approaches to safeguard ecosystems and human interests.
A new species of the elusive 'fairy lantern' genus Thismia has been discovered in eastern Peninsular Malaysia. The critically endangered species, Thismia aliasii, relies entirely on fungi for its nutrition and is threatened by habitat degradation due to increasing hiking activities.
Researchers have discovered five new species of fungi in the Piloderma genus, including one rare species found only in old-growth forests. The discoveries suggest that diversity in this genus is greater than previously thought and highlight the risk of species disappearance as forests are logged.
A study analyzed conservation actions for endangered species and found that targeted efforts have driven improvements in over 100 species. However, only half of assessed species have conservation actions in place, and roughly six times as many species have deteriorated in recent decades than have improved.
A study found that 70% of eel products in Singapore were mislabeled as European eels, while the endangered American eel was also widely consumed. The research calls for increased monitoring and regulations to prevent overexploitation.
Researchers used advanced molecular tools to survey health status of endangered Indiana bats, identifying microbiome changes resulting from parasitic infections. The analysis revealed that bats with high loads of a protozoan parasite had a corresponding proliferation of certain bacteria.
Researchers have discovered that giraffes maintain species-specific gut flora, even when eating different sets of plants. This finding has significant implications for the conservation of endangered giraffe species, highlighting the importance of understanding their diets and habitats to ensure their survival.
Researchers at Cornell University have developed a new method using underwater microphones and machine learning to estimate the population of North Atlantic right whales. The study demonstrates how this method can aid in the conservation of these critically endangered species by providing real-time monitoring capabilities. By analyzing...
A new study suggests that up to 70% of suitable habitats for the critically endangered whitefin swellshark will be lost over the next 75 years due to predicted ocean changes. The researchers believe that Australia's proactive conservation measures, such as marine protected areas, offer hope for the species' survival.
New research from Edith Cowan University found that five native marsupial carnivores tested positive for anticoagulant rodenticides, with 21% having multiple compounds in their blood stream. The study highlights the potential risks of these poisons to endangered species.
A new study reveals a specific genetic mutation in the Apennine brown bear population that impairs cellular energy production and increases harmful byproducts. This mutation is linked to reduced overall health and survival in these critically endangered bears.
Scientists have released new high-quality genome sequences for two critically endangered pangolin species, revealing genetic vulnerabilities and extinction risks. The research provides essential information for rescue operations and focusing on the best ways to conserve these unique animals.
A recent study published in PLOS Biology found that even within protected habitats, tropical species are still vulnerable to threats from beyond their borders. Human population density and habitat disturbance in surrounding areas can lead to a decline in species richness by up to 1% per 16 persons per square kilometer.
Researchers at Rutgers University have developed an AI tool that combines whale monitoring and environmental data to predict endangered whale habitat. The tool guides ships along the Atlantic coast to avoid critically endangered North Atlantic right whales, preventing deadly accidents and informing conservation strategies.
A new study estimates it would cost $15.6 billion per year for 30 years to prevent extinction for 99 of Australia's priority species, due to habitat destruction, invasive species, and climate change. The Australian Government has committed to reversing the decline of 110 priority species, but experts warn that urgent action is needed t...
A Kobe University research team found that prescribed burning on young lava flows leads to higher total species richness and prevalence of endangered plant species. The study suggests that acidic soils and shallow depths favor slow-growing plants, allowing rare species to gain a foothold.
A new study reveals that despite decades of overfishing, Atlantic shortfin mako sharks still exhibit a relatively high level of genetic diversity. This means they have the potential to adapt to environmental changes and survive as our climate shifts. The research provides urgency to halt overfishing and protect this species.
Two new European projects, GuardIAS and OneSTOP, aim to tackle the threat of invasive alien species on endangered species, natural sites, and human health. The projects will use advanced scientific research, cutting-edge technology, and artificial intelligence to develop new tools for detection, prevention, and eradication.
A team of researchers from Florida Atlantic University, San Diego Natural History Museum, and SeaWorld San Diego collaborate to digitize a rare vaquita skeleton, providing a valuable resource for conservation efforts. The scans resulted in three terabytes of data and will be used to create replicas for public display and education.
Researchers have made valuable discoveries that could transform the conservation of two iconic cockatoo species. The studies uncovered new genetic insights, reshaping our understanding of these species and offering fresh hope for their survival amid severe threats from habitat loss and illegal trapping.
Research found that 14% of Ecuadorian Amazon tree species are critically endangered, while 47% are endangered, primarily due to declines in animal species that disperse their fruits. The study highlights the importance of incorporating ecological traits into extinction risk estimates.
A new study suggests that the northern muriqui monkey population remains at risk despite being almost four times larger than it was in 1982. Habitat disturbances are thought to be a contributing factor to the population decline, with predation and environmental stressors such as climate change also playing a role.
A new study found that Kirtland's warblers have exceptionally long runs of homozygosity (ROH) indicating very recent inbreeding, while also having a high frequency of potentially damaging genetic variants. This suggests that continued management is necessary to ensure the species' survival.
A study reveals that 36 non-native mammal species are threatened in their original range, highlighting the need to weigh opportunities and risks of non-native populations for species survival
A study published in the Journal of Applied Ecology found that diverse landscapes with good connectivity between quarries and calcareous grasslands support wild bees. Large, old, and flower-rich quarries are particularly valuable habitats for endangered species.
Scientists conducted a 20-year study in Salonga National Park to estimate the bonobo population, finding 8,000-18,000 adult bonobos. The research highlights the effectiveness of park rangers and specific factors such as primary forest cover and cultural practices in conserving the endangered species.
Scientists aim to develop a novel genomic approach to taxonomically separate and describe new insect species, addressing the species identification crisis. The 'Genomic Blueprint for Description of Thousands of New Species' project uses rapidly developing DNA technologies to identify unknown species.
A team of researchers analyzed historical marking data from the Discovery Marking Program to investigate Antarctic blue whale population structure. They found frequent mixing among ocean basins, indicating a single circumpolar population. This study provides valuable insights into the conservation of this endangered species.
A recent assessment has classified almost 1 in 3 Atlantic reef-building coral species as Critically Endangered due to the combined effects of climate change and other environmental factors. This increased threat level highlights the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect these vital ecosystems.
Researchers from The University of Texas at Arlington are conducting a DNA analysis project to determine the genetic differences between the rare Dixon's whiptail and the common checkered whiptail. If the two species are found to be distinct, Dixon's whiptail may become eligible for endangered species protection.
A camera trap study recorded 108 species, including endangered species like the Sunda pangolin and Asian elephant, in the Central Cardamom Mountains Landscape. The region is a global stronghold for biodiversity and rare species, with over 95% of its forests intact.
A new genomic study reveals high genetic diversity and low inbreeding in the endangered Oriental Stork population, a common finding in many critically endangered species. The study provides hope for the species' long-term survival and suggests that protecting its habitats could rapidly rescue this species from extinction.
A new study by Duke University researchers reveals that smaller, specialized science publications have a disproportionate impact on conservation efforts. The team found that journals focused on specific regions or organisms were often cited more frequently by federal agencies than high-impact journals.
A new study applies modern portfolio theory to conserve the coquí llanero frog by diversifying investments and managing risk under future climate uncertainty. The analysis suggests that relying on existing protected areas may not be enough to mitigate climate risks, and investing in additional habitats could be worth the cost.
Research in north-eastern Bangladesh found Phayre's langurs and capped langurs interbreeding, with genetic confirmation of hybridization. The study highlights the urgent need for forest protection and research to develop suitable conservation strategies.
A new study reveals that many Vietnamese orchid collectors are unaware of the dire status of endangered species and the harm caused by over-harvesting. The researchers suggest targeted awareness campaigns and collaborations can transform these collectors into key conservation allies.
A new study found that large-scale removal of discarded fishing gear and plastic debris in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands significantly reduced entanglement rates of endangered Hawaiian monk seals. The findings suggest that marine debris cleanup programs are successful and that reducing plastic inputs can maximize conservation outco...