Invasive alien species threaten EU biodiversity, causing harm to wildlife, crops, and human health. The new awareness campaign urges people to 'Beware of Aliens' and report sightings to prevent their spread.
Researchers found that soil microbiota facilitates the growth of invasive garden lupine and provides defense against herbivores. The plants grown with natural soil microbes produced compounds that deter snails, while those with reduced microbiota showed no such effect.
Researchers found parotoid gland sizes were significantly smaller in urban toads compared to rural populations, while body mass was not different. Urbanization also caused increased sexual dimorphism in leg length.
A review of ERAS programs in minimally invasive gynecologic surgery reveals improved patient recovery, reduced postoperative complications, and shorter hospital stays. Implementing ERAS protocols also reduces opioid consumption without increasing complications or healthcare costs.
A new study from the University of Sheffield suggests that giving antibiotics to those at high risk of developing a life-threatening heart infection significantly reduces their risk. Current UK guidelines against routine use of antibiotics for these patients may be putting them at unnecessary extra risk.
Researchers found that asexual freshwater snails, successful invaders worldwide, matured and reproduced more quickly than non-invasive counterparts. This combination of traits allows them to outcompete other snail lineages in new environments.
A new study by the University of Barcelona highlights the negative effects of translocated native species on native fish, finding that habitat quality is essential for conservation. The study suggests that these species can have similar impacts to exotic invasive species.
The study reveals that female Prussian carps use hijacked sperm to reproduce, producing only female clones. This unique reproductive method has allowed the species to colonize new habitats and outcompete native species.
A recent study analyzed volunteer motivations in invasive species projects and found that motivations fit three broad themes: environmental concerns, social motivations, and personal reasons. Volunteers are driven to protect native biodiversity in their valued areas, such as Scottish seabird islands and South African Fynbos.
Researchers from the University of Turku have described seven new species of tropical ferns, including six from the genus Danaea and one from Dennstaedtia. The newly discovered species range from 20cm to 2m tall and offer insights into the biodiversity of Amazonian rainforests.
The European Society of Gynaecological Oncology and four international medical societies have published consensus statements on the treatment of pre-invasive vulvar lesions. These guidelines highlight the need for specific attention to these lesions, which can cause symptoms such as burning and itching, and may progress to invasive can...
Researchers found that invasive therapy for non-ST segment elevation myocardial infarction in patients with CKD is associated with lower mortality and reduced risk of cardiac events. The study challenges the dominant practice of offering medical management instead of invasive therapy for this population.
A new survey found dozens of non-native invasive species thriving in southwest Ohio's woods, including Amur honeysuckle, which is crowding out native plants. The study highlights the dangers of introduced species, such as allelopathy and fungal diseases that can wipe out native trees.
The study identified 21 arthropods, 9 nematodes, and 20 pathogenetic species that pose a threat to Kenya's crops and biodiversity. The prioritized species include silverleaf whitefly, peace fruit fly, and yellow crazy ant, which require further monitoring and mitigating action.
A new genetic study published in Nature Genetics found that roughly one in five invasive breast cancers following ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) are genetically unrelated to the original DCIS. The findings provide a deeper understanding of DCIS biology and suggest that DCIS should be considered a risk factor for the development of inv...
A new review analyzes the efficacy of current non-invasive methods for assessing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and associated conditions. Blood-based biomarker tests and imaging methods are explored, with some showing promise in early diagnosis and staging liver disorders.
A new study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that the ecological impact of invasive species alone is comparable to its combined effect with warming temperatures, drought, or nitrogen deposition. This suggests that managing invasive species at a local level can make ecosystems more climate resilient.
A new virtual biopsy using cardiovascular magnetic resonance has been proven safe and effective in detecting signs of heart rejection in heart transplant patients. The non-invasive procedure reduces complications and hospital admissions compared to traditional invasive biopsies.
A new study suggests that goldfish pose a significant risk to native biodiversity in rivers and lakes. With insatiable appetites and bold behavior, goldfish can outcompete other species for resources, leading to catastrophic outcomes.
A new risk assessment method combines functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) with splenic diameter to predict complications in patients with chronic liver disease. The study found that patients with low FLIS scores and large spleens had a higher risk of liver-associated complications.
An international study identified 562 terrestrial vertebrate species as 'lost', meaning they haven't been seen in over 50 years. The majority of these lost species are found in megadiverse tropical countries and are considered potentially extinct.
A 10-year study reveals that mechanical thinning reduces fire behavior metrics without increasing invasive grasses, while prescribed fire leads to more invasive grasses. Researchers hope their findings can inform fuel break construction efforts in the sagebrush steppe ecosystem.
A recent study published in Ecology found that climate change and biological invasions are altering the predator-prey landscape in California's coastal estuaries. This interaction increases stress on native species, making them more vulnerable to invasive predators.
UK wildlife recorders generally welcome newly arrived bird and insect species due to climate change, but have reservations about invasive species that harm native animals. The survey suggests that public opinion plays a crucial role in managing these arrivals, with scientific evidence being a key factor.
A new study forecasts 1.4 million US street tree deaths from invasive insects by 2050, with the emerald ash borer responsible for most fatalities. Urban diversity can help mitigate this impact, and prioritizing management efforts like quarantining wood products may be necessary.
A research team identified the invasive Asian needle ant species (Brachyponera chinensis) in Europe, expanding its area of distribution. The discovery raises concerns about potential negative effects on native ant communities and ecosystems.
Researchers develop innovative non-contact agitation technology to assess motility and invasive capacity of cancer cells in tissue sections. The study reveals significant increases in Rac/Cdc42 activity in tumor areas, with stronger correlations found in advanced cancer stages.
A new study predicts that over the next 30 years, 1.4 million US street trees will be killed by invasive insects, mainly caused by the emerald ash borer. The estimated economic cost of replacing these trees is over $900M. Researchers warn that urban tree diversity is crucial to resilience against pest infestations.
A bi-national regulation targeting ships entering the Great Lakes since mid-2000s has reduced invasive species risk by 85%, with a significant impact on fisheries and biodiversity. The study suggests that saltwater flushing through ballast tanks is a crucial control strategy.
A new UF study found that climate change intensifies the negative effects of invasive plants on longleaf pine trees, making them more vulnerable to drought and wildfires. The experiment showed that trees under stress from both drought and invasive cogongrass were least likely to survive after fire.
A study analyzing Wikipedia searches found no significant increase in attention towards invasive alien mammals after the publication of a blacklist in Europe. However, temporary peaks in searches were observed following sensational news and viral videos about specific species. The research suggests that blacklists may not be an effecti...
Researchers have described two new species of hammerhead flatworms, Humbertium covidum and Diversibipalium mayottensis, found in France, Italy, and Mayotte. The species are small, iridescent, and potentially invasive, posing a threat to soil biodiversity.
A new study estimates that there are approximately 73,274 tree species on Earth, with 9,186 still to be discovered. This represents a 14% increase from previous estimates of 60,000 and 64,000 species. The majority of these undiscovered species are found in South America, highlighting the importance of forest conservation efforts.
The HOMED project offers policy briefs on improving forest resistance to invasive alien species through enhanced surveillance, increased tree diversity, and collaboration between pathologists and entomologists. The collection aims to promote the development of EU policies focused on forest protection from invasive alien species.
New research reveals that invasive species can arrive in Antarctic waters from almost anywhere across the globe via biofouling on ships' hulls. Fishing, tourism, research, and supply ships expose Antarctica to non-native species threatening its pristine environment.
A recent study published in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine found that COVID-19 patients in ICUs have a high risk of developing invasive fungal secondary infections. In fact, the MYCOVID study revealed that 22% of intubated and mechanically ventilated COVID-19 patients in ICUs had proven or probable invasive pulmonary aspergillosis and...
A team of biologists and engineers created a robotic fish that scares mosquitofish away, altering its behavior and physiology. The study found that the mosquitofish showed fearful behaviors, weight loss, and reduced fertility when confronted with the robot.
Researchers found that minimally invasive spinal fusion surgery (MIS) was associated with significantly greater odds of patient satisfaction 3 months post-operatively, but not at 12 months. MIS procedures were also linked to less disability and pain at both time points.
A new study reveals that widely distributed plant species are outcompeting rarer species for resources in European habitats. This shift is driven by increased nutrient levels in soils due to human activity, leading to competitive exclusion of smaller-ranged specialist species.
A new study from the University of Montana's Flathead Lake Biological Station reveals how invasive lake trout disrupt native food webs, forcing native fishes to feed on suboptimal sources and causing the loss of threatened species like bull trout. The research shows that lake trout can create divergent biological communities over time.
A CABI-led study developed a framework for assessing the performance and responsiveness of an invasive species system in Kenya. The approach enabled identifying opportunities and challenges from various actor perspectives, highlighting the need for better financing, leadership, and coordination to effectively manage invasive species.
Researchers found that most anglers weren't thinking about how invasive species could affect their own lives, highlighting the need for personalized messaging. Tailoring education campaigns to an angler's values and risk perceptions can motivate action, such as decontaminating boats or attending cleanup events.
The study found that non-native mangroves on Moloka'i Island support a diverse range of zooplankton communities, rivaling those found in open coastal areas. This suggests that non-native mangroves may provide suitable habitats for rare and important species, altering the way invasive species are managed.
Invasive fish and crustaceans significantly reduce lake organism abundance, degrading water quality. Researchers provide guidance on managing waterbodies to prevent ecosystem collapse.
A new fly species, Scenopinus jerei, has been officially described from Finland, belonging to the primitive and species-poor family of window flies. The species is found in boreal forest habitats and is widespread but rare in Finland, with its larvae preying on other insects.
Researchers found that invasive shrubs absorb more sunlight and lower air temperatures on the forest floor, giving them a competitive advantage. This phenomenon may explain why invasive plants negatively impact bees, butterflies, and amphibians in forest understories.
A new study reports that chemotherapy plus immunotherapy before surgical removal reduces tumor invasiveness in muscle-invasive bladder cancer. In the phase II clinical trial, nearly 25% of bladder cancers were found to be invasive, and surgery often had limited success due to microscopic cancer cell spread.
The loss of threatened vertebrates may lead to varying consequences across different regions, with some losing up to 30% functional diversity. Unique species traits can make their loss more impactful, necessitating tailored conservation strategies for each biome.
A new study reveals that 1,330 nurseries and retailers sell hundreds of invasive plant species, including 20 illegal ones. Regional regulation and outreach are needed to reduce their spread.
Research reveals that biological invasions are threatening the evolutionary history and ecological strategies of birds and mammals. The study found that 11% of their phylogenetic diversity is at risk, with a greater impact on bird species due to their vulnerability to invasive species.
Research from Wellesley College shows that asexual invasive weevils adapt to new food sources by passing down gene regulation changes to future generations. The findings reveal that these creatures can respond to different toxins in plants using shared genes, allowing them to thrive in various environments.
A new analysis reveals that deliberate or accidental introductions of invasive species have cost Australia AUD$389.59 billion over the last 60 years. The most costly individual species was feral cats, while the management of invasive plants proved to be the worst offender, costing US$151.68 billion.
Researchers have identified five new plant species in Bolivia's Bolivian Andes, expanding the genus Jacquemontia. The study highlights the importance of classifying and conserving these species, which are highly vulnerable to threats like invasive species and habitat destruction.
Native Mediterranean species have been found to prey on the invasive Pacific red lionfish and silver-cheeked toadfish, suggesting direct human management measures are needed to control their populations. The study documents native predators for both species, including loggerhead turtles and dolphinfish.
Removing invasive barred owls from western US coastlines had a significant positive effect on the survival of northern spotted owls, arresting population declines. The treatment also allowed spotted owls to disperse into previously occupied territories.
A newly detected alien aphid, Aphis lugentis, poses a significant threat to Kangaroo Island's threatened plant species, including the scented groundsel. The discovery highlights concerns over invasive species' spread across Australia, with potential economic losses estimated at A$13.6 billion.
Scientists used DNA data and predictive modelling to identify regions where an invasive sea squirt could thrive in South America. The study found that a slight change in currents and sea temperature may lead to the species' expansion across northern Chile, Peru, and Ecuador.
States have inconsistent regulations, making it difficult to control invasive plants. Prohibited plant lists can prevent intentional introductions, but states are not creating these lists proactively. Communication is key to success.
A nationwide analysis of dragonflies and damselflies in Germany between 1980 and 2016 found both losses and gains, with cold-adapted species declining due to habitat loss and degradation. Meanwhile, warm-adapted species increased, likely due to climate change.
Researchers at Moffitt Cancer Center have developed a non-invasive method to measure PD-L1 biomarker levels in lung cancer patients using PET/CT scan images. This approach uses deep learning to predict checkpoint inhibitor outcomes, which could help determine optimal treatment strategies for patients.