A study by Max Planck Institute researchers found that multicellular clusters can promote cooperative interactions between organisms, leading to a previously unknown mechanism driving the evolution of mutual aid. This discovery challenges the traditional view of evolution as a competition for resources.
A University of Michigan study found that Michigan coyotes in the Upper Peninsula have a less meat-based diet due to coexistence with gray wolves. The researchers analyzed scat samples and gut microbiomes to determine the animal's position in the local food web.
A team of international researchers found that evolution tends to dampen or smooth out variations in ecological patterns across landscapes. The study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, analyzed over 500 studies and identified 14 mechanisms affecting the direction of evolution's impact.
Researchers studied patterns in phylogenetic trees to understand how evolution and ecology interact. They found that ecological processes create a fractal structure in tree topology, leading to unbalanced branching.
A University of Kansas undergraduate majoring in ecology & evolutionary biology, Rachel Smith, has published a description of 18 new species of aquatic water beetles from the genus Chasmogenus. The research involved fieldwork and lab work to identify key differences in DNA evidence and internal anatomy.
Researchers discovered that the white mold fungus Sclerotinia sclerotiorum uses two detoxification mechanisms to overcome the mustard oil bomb in plants of the cabbage family. The fungus can grow on these plants by rendering the toxic isothiocyanates harmless.
The UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology has developed the free Environmental Planner tool (E-Planner) to help farmers make informed decisions on agri-environment options. The tool assesses suitability of unproductive land for four interventions, including pollinator habitats and woodland creation.
The first issue of Restoration Ecology - Arid Lands (RE-AL) shares diverse voices from around the world focused on restoration in arid environments. Key findings include innovative technologies and best practices for practitioners in these ecosystems, addressing climate change and social importance.
A special issue of Austral Ecology celebrates the work of Professor Mike Bull, a leading expert in lizard behavior and ecology. The issue features 12 new studies on species like pygmy bluetongues and sleepy lizards, exploring topics such as parasites, environmental change, and sociality.
Changes in land use, such as deforestation and urbanization, alter animal behavior, leading to increased disease emergence in humans. Research highlights the need for further studies on disease spread and its link to animal ecology, pathogen ecology, and land-use change.
Researchers found high gene flow among herds with shared translocation sources, and distinct population clusters aligning with current management units. Despite historical losses and translocations, bighorn sheep maintained a unique genetic structure in Wyoming.
A study found that great gray owl populations in California and Oregon have lower genetic diversity due to range discontinuity, leaving them susceptible to diseases and environmental stressors. The researchers propose that conservation efforts may be necessary to protect these vulnerable populations.
Researchers found Oriental tit birds give distinct alarm calls to snakes and chipmunks, warning nestlings of snake threat but not chipmunk danger. The study suggests a specific call signals 'be aware of a snake' rather than general predator alert.
Researchers found that marine species are moving up to six times faster than their terrestrial counterparts in response to global warming. The study analyzed over 12,000 species and found that certain conditions enable marine species to adapt quickly to temperature shifts towards the poles.
Scientists measured a significant reduction in CO2 emissions in London during the pandemic, with daily reductions mirroring decreases in traffic flow. The lockdown's impact on air quality and potential changes in behaviors post-lockdown are also being studied.
A new study by UC Santa Cruz reveals that field courses help build self-confidence among students, particularly those from underrepresented groups. The research shows that students who participate in field courses are more likely to graduate, have higher GPAs, and stay in the ecology and evolutionary biology major.
A study led by University of California, Berkeley researchers suggests that effectively reducing encounters between domestic prey and wild predators requires knowing the principles governing ecological interactions among these players and their surrounding landscape. By considering the ecology of how predators hunt, how their prey beha...
A new mathematical model predicts prostate cancer tumor growth and invasiveness based on stromal ecology, revealing that highly reactive stroma drives aggressive tumors. The model was validated in animal models and patients, suggesting improved prognosis with ecological metrics.
Researchers found that female flies were attracted to yeasts in foreign habitats, even if it meant reducing their offspring's survival chances. This openness could be a key factor in the emergence of new Drosophila species as they adapt to new environments.
Researchers found that gypsy moth larvae feeding on fungal-infected poplar leaves grew faster and pupated earlier than those fed only on leaf tissue. Fungal spores contain important nutrients like amino acids, nitrogen, and vitamins, which enhance the caterpillars' performance.
A fossil trove from Southern Gondwana has shed light on the ecology of ancient Australia and New Zealand, preserving the oldest known animals and plants. The findings include rare 'frozen behaviour' of long-legged flies, oldest known fossil ants, and first Australian fossils of a tiny insect species.
A new study published in Nature Ecology and Evolution found that plants and animals share similar patterns of niche evolution in response to climate change. The research analyzed climatic data from 952 plant species and 1,135 vertebrate species, revealing that both groups have a narrow breadth of tolerated environmental conditions.
Researchers at Uppsala University found that males facing competition for females have offspring with more harmful mutations. This is because increased sperm production comes at the expense of cellular surveillance, which prevents genetic damage.
A new framework understanding how light and noise pollution impacts wildlife has been developed by worldwide experts in ecology and physiology. Sensory danger zones have been identified as areas where sensory pollutants influence animal activity, posing a threat to imperiled species and urban wildlife.
A new study reveals that analyzing large-scale ecological patterns can help predict changes in ecosystems. Ecologists are using decades of weather data to forecast bird migrations and wildlife population fluctuations, which can inform conservation measures. The research aims to improve understanding of the climate-ecology link, enablin...
Larvae of horseradish flea beetles use glucosinolates to fend off predators, but pupae lack this chemical protection. The beetle's mustard oil bomb is crucial for defense, particularly in larvae that store glucosinolates.
A Montana State University research team, led by Lindsey Albertson and Geoffrey Poole, is exploring the impact of caddisfly larvae on stream ecosystems. The study aims to understand how caddisflies influence nutrient processing and microbial communities in streams.
New research challenges traditional models of community ecology, suggesting that mutualism is compatible with stable communities. The balance of mutualism with other types of interactions plays a determinative role in community dynamics and stability.
Researchers develop new functional metrics to detect anthropic impacts in temporary rivers, surpassing traditional biological indicators. These metrics can be applied regardless of flow intermittence, providing precise environmental degradation detection.
A recent study published in Forest Ecology and Management found that forest arthropods thrive in areas closer to river courses, with social wasps being the most affected by distance. Traditional forest management practices are essential for preserving biodiversity, including the richness of understories and chestnut tree dominance.
A comprehensive analysis of UK biodiversity over 45 years reveals concerning declines in terrestrial non-insect invertebrates, but strong recoveries in freshwater insects. Overall occupancy of invertebrates increased by 11%, with freshwater insects surpassing 1970 levels after a 47% decline.
A study reveals that 70% of East African reefs have depleted fish stocks, affecting food production and reef ecology. Rebuilding fish biomass is key to long-term sustainability.
Exequiel Ezcurra, a professor of ecology, has been recognized for his leadership in bringing together research, education, outreach, and policy to protect the environment. He has made significant contributions to conservation science, ecosystem management, and policy outcomes.
The journal will publish short-form 'From Practice' articles and data articles, bridging the gap between natural resource managers and applied scientists. The new online repository Applied Ecology Resources will facilitate information exchange among practitioners and academics.
A study reveals that microbial communities in reproductive tracts of males and females can impact fertility, behavior, and evolution. These microbiomes may also influence mate choice, sexual health, and the origin of new species.
Researchers from over 70 countries develop a comprehensive road map to address the pressing issue of declining insect populations, driven by human-induced stress factors such as habitat loss and climate change. The plan outlines immediate, mid-term, and long-term actions to prioritize conservation efforts and restore ecosystems.
A study by University of Michigan researchers reveals that Azteca ant colonies in Mexican coffee farms exhibit a Turing pattern, similar to leopard spots and zebras' stripes. This finding highlights the complexity of agroecological systems and challenges simplistic pest management approaches.
Researchers at UConn's Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Department shed new light on the evolution of the treehopper's distinctive helmet. By analyzing RNA sequences, they found that the gene expression lines up with wings rather than the dorsal body wall, suggesting a unique developmental pathway.
The University of Oklahoma is leading a $2.5 million research project to investigate avian influenza virus diversity and transmission. The project aims to improve surveillance and pandemic preparedness by training researchers and engaging the public in disease ecology and evolution.
Researchers at Samara Polytech have created mathematical models to calculate noise propagation in power plants and gas-water systems. Their software products can detect source and cause of vibration, simplifying calculations and improving equipment functioning and service life.
The Bulwer's petrel can fly up to 1,800 kilometers from the Canary archipelago to the Azores in search of food. The new study provides the most comprehensive scientific data on the species' space ecology, diet and daily/annual movement patterns.
An interdisciplinary team developed a simple method to identify the most accurate experts in groups by analyzing decision similarity. The research tested it successfully in various fields, including radiology and geopolitics, and found that the method accurately predicted accuracy.
Conservationists have rediscovered the silver-backed chevrotain, a small deer-like mammal with a silver sheen, in southern Vietnam. Camera trap surveys revealed 275 photos and 1,881 photographs of the species over five months.
Biologists at UC Davis propose that species pay attention to each other, especially if they share predators, leading to new insights into population dynamics and cooperation. Advances in technology have made it easier to study short-lived interactions between species in the wild.
Researchers find over 100 insect larvae in amber, providing new evidence on the ecology of Eocene-era forests. The discovery supports a warm-to-temperate seasonal humid forest ecosystem interpretation, and offers insights into the evolution of dipteran larvae.
A comprehensive review of plant reproductive systems provides new perspectives on heterostyly, highlighting recent advances and unresolved questions. The study explores the ecology, evolution, genetics, and genomics of plant reproductive strategies, shedding light on their role in ecological interactions and evolutionary change.
A new report by the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology reveals that Edinburgh is losing around 15 football pitches of green land each year. Urban creep and expansion are major contributors to this loss, with homeowners adding features like conservatories and driveways that harm vegetation.
Biologists have discovered that coral reef fish take advantage of parental care to raise their own young. Genetic tests revealed that many parents were caring for mixed broods of young from different species. The study found evidence of both adoption and brood parasitism, with unrelated young fish benefiting from parental protection.
A new study using big data reveals that many fundamental features of life, such as metabolism and growth, follow consistent relationships with body size across all creatures. This challenges the Metabolic Theory of Ecology and suggests a deep understanding of universal laws governing life's diversity.
A new study from Northwestern University suggests that human ecology has played a more significant role in shaping the human gut microbiome than genetic relationships. The research found that the human gut microbiome is more similar to that of Old World monkeys like baboons than apes like chimpanzees.
A new software package, litsearchr, has been developed to streamline systematic reviews in ecology and conservation biology. By reducing the time required to develop a search strategy by 90%, researchers can focus on analyzing relevant information rather than wasting time searching for it.
A new study modelled the effects of antibiotic prescriptions on developing antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the River Thames. Reducing antibiotic use by 80% is necessary to avoid a surge in superbugs, which could pose a more immediate risk to humanity than climate change.
Researchers found that memory plays a crucial role in guiding mule deer migrations, with past migration routes and seasonal ranges having a significant influence on their choice of path. This cognitive map helps animals navigate tens to hundreds of miles between seasonal ranges.
A study of long-term data from the River Ray in Wiltshire found a steady increase in freshwater invertebrate diversity and abundance since 1991, attributed to improved sewage treatment. This improvement is linked to reduced ammonia levels and increased oxygen, creating a cleaner water environment.
Researchers discovered that caterpillar larvae can perceive background color independently of their eyes and change their body color accordingly. This adaptation helps them match their surroundings, potentially reducing the risk of predation by birds. The study sheds light on how lepidopteran larvae protect themselves from predators.
A Pokémon-like card game about ecology and biodiversity can result in broader knowledge of species and a better understanding of ecosystems than traditional teaching methods. Participants who played the Phylo game retained information about species and ecosystems and were more motivated to donate money to prevent environmental events.
Researchers found that ancient plants coevolved with megafaunal grazers to disperse their seeds, making them easy to harvest. The discovery sheds light on the early domestication of small-seeded grain crops like quinoa and amaranth.
A recent study published in Trends in Ecology and Evolution reveals the alarming impact of bark beetles on timberlands across Central Europe and North America. The beetles' population growth is linked to climate change, which exacerbates the problem by weakening German timberlands.
A study found that plant volatile organic compounds like linalool influence insect behavior in complex environments, with varying effects depending on the genetic background of the plants. The research suggests that context plays a crucial role in understanding chemical signals in nature.
Significant reductions in pollution and mortality rates have been achieved in the UK over the past 40 years due to effective policies. Emissions of PM2.5, nitrogen oxides, sulphur dioxide, and non-methane volatile organic compounds all reduced substantially between 1970 and 2010.