A new analysis found that the critically endangered vaquita remains genetically healthy despite its low population numbers. The study suggests that the species' ability to survive at low numbers is not doomed to extinction and gives hope for conservation efforts.
A new study found that early-arriving endangered Chinook salmon experience an additional 20% mortality due to sea lion predation. The study also showed that the numbers of California sea lions are highest at the mouth of the Columbia River, increasing exposure to predation.
Researchers found 26 mammals that could be susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection due to variations in the ACE2 protein. These include domestic cats, dogs, mink, and great apes, which could potentially act as reservoirs for the virus.
Researchers found 92 endangered and 11 critically endangered species of seafood were caught globally. The seafood industry lacks effective conservation policies due to international supply chains.
A recent study reveals significant genetic diversity among Four-eyed turtles, highlighting the importance of genetic screenings to prevent extinction. The research emphasizes the need for stricter laws and regulation in releasing confiscated animals back into the wild.
Scientists have created pigs, goats, and cattle with the ability to produce sperm carrying only donor animal traits, enabling selective breeding and improving food production. This technology has great potential for genetic conservation of endangered species and addressing global food insecurity.
A new tracking technology using Footprint Identification Technique (FIT) helps monitor endangered black rhinos in Namibia. The software analyzes footprint images to identify individual animals and track their movements without disturbing them.
A study of over 2,000 species reveals that common animal populations are rising and falling at a rate similar to rare species due to global change. Amphibians, however, experienced declines, while birds, mammals, and reptiles showed increases.
Researchers successfully estimated the size of bottlenose dolphin populations using unique signature whistles, with results matching traditional photographic mark-recapture methods. The technique has potential applications in tracking other species, including endangered humpback dolphins.
Three ancient Egyptian animals, a snake, bird, and cat, have been digitally unwrapped using high-resolution 3D scans. The scans revealed the animals' ages, possible causes of death, and conditions they were kept in, providing new insights into animal mummification, religion, and human-animal relationships in ancient Egypt.
Researchers have assembled a comprehensive checklist of Panama's tree species, including their estimated geographic ranges, providing a quantitative basis for assessing extinction risk and guiding conservation efforts. The study found that 16.2% of Panama's tree species had ranges less than 20,000 km2, signaling endangered status.
The study revealed the Mediterranean sperm whale's widespread presence in the north-western Mediterranean Sea and identified a possible hotspot for habitat in the Gulf of Lion. Continuous day and night monitoring during winter months suggests different foraging strategies between areas.
Research shows a correlation between epidemics in humans and local biodiversity loss, with the number of epidemics increasing as endangered species disappear. Livestock expansion worldwide exacerbates this risk, facilitating the transmission of pathogens.
Thanks to a decade-long collaboration, the global population of the critically endangered Chinese crested tern has more than doubled, from fewer than 50 adults to over 100. The project used social attraction techniques to lure adult seabirds to restoration sites with suitable nesting habitat.
A US study reveals that only 21 of 159 endangered species are adequately protected by existing areas, highlighting the need to increase conservation efforts. Private landowners can play a vital role in achieving conservation goals through conservation easements.
Researchers found that addressing habitat loss, snowpack variation, and other factors are crucial to saving the endangered species. The study suggests that a renewed emphasis on securing habitat is necessary to protect mountain caribou from extinction.
A new study reveals that the last remaining agro-steppe habitats for endangered bird species in Europe may decline by up to 50% in the next century. The Natura 2000 network, a biodiversity conservation strategy, has failed to prevent habitat loss despite protecting approximately 36,000 hectares of agro-steppe area in Iberia.
A study found that animals who try to sound 'bigger' are often skilled sound learners. Researchers analyzed the sounds and body size of 164 mammals and discovered that those who fake their size are frequently good at learning new sounds. This discovery may provide insight into human speech evolution.
Researchers found that animals exhibited unusual behavior up to 20 hours before earthquakes, with stronger reactions closer to the epicenter. The movement data were evaluated using statistical models, suggesting a potential for an animal-based earthquake early warning system.
Researchers warn that SARS-CoV-2 can infect various animals, posing a risk of transmission to humans. Implementing surveillance programmes is crucial to detect infected animals and prevent outbreaks.
Researchers found that animals' movement across their territories can lower the number of infected but increase disease persistence within populations. This finding challenges traditional views on disease transmission and highlights the importance of considering individual animals' movement in studies.
Researchers from the University of Nottingham found a rare bone in the hearts of wild chimpanzees, measuring only a few millimeters in size. This discovery could help advance the understanding and management of cardiovascular disease in these endangered animals.
A new study provides valuable insights into the importance of reducing genetic load in conservation breeding programs, particularly for endangered species like the Pacific pocket mouse. The research suggests that introducing genes from healthier populations can increase fitness and prevent inbreeding.
Researchers found that migratory shorebirds rely on the upper tidal flats closest to dry land for food and energy, which are often lost to development. This study suggests a new approach to conserving endangered species by focusing on preserving these high-value habitats.
A new study suggests that operating with fewer traps and a shorter season in the US lobster fishery may be more profitable for fishermen while also protecting endangered North Atlantic right whales. The research found that Massachusetts fishers have caught more lobster since implementing a three-month fishing closure, while Maine's lob...
A new species of miniaturized stump-toed frog, Stumpffia froschaueri, has been discovered in Madagascar and classified as Critically Endangered due to habitat loss and fragmentation. The species is found only in areas with relatively undisturbed forest, where it has been observed during the day.
A new study finds that certain stream pools act as drought refuges for salmon, providing conditions necessary to support survival during extreme conditions. The research provides insight into the role of habitat fragmentation in threatening salmon survival and informs strategies for conservation efforts.
Researchers at the University of Guelph used advanced cloning techniques to produce 1,000 plants from just two seeds, offering a new method for conserving endangered plant species. The CPR method preserves genetic material and can produce large quantities of plants in a controlled environment.
A recent study by University of Guelph researchers found that logging in Ontario's boreal stands is threatening the population of endangered woodland caribou. The team analyzed video collars attached to 30 caribou, as well as GPS-tracking radio collars on wolves and caribou, to monitor their movements and find evidence of predation.
A recent study found that 42% of zoo animals were infected with the Toxoplasma gondii parasite, posing a conservation risk to certain endangered species. The study suggests that zoos take preventative measures to limit the spread of the parasite.
Scientists at Leibniz-IZW developed a method to isolate and cryopreserve testicular cells of threatened or endangered felines. The method allows for the safekeeping of gametes, enabling conservation efforts through biobanking and future applications in species preservation.
Numerical competence in animals affects various aspects of their lives, including hunting, finding food, and attracting mates. Researchers believe that this ability plays a crucial role in an animal's chance of survival.
Research has discovered that a unique type of algae on turtle shells influences the surrounding microbial communities. This finding may contribute to supporting turtle conservation by understanding how diverse microbiomes protect animals against infections.
A study published in Science Advances found nearly 50% of retail eel products in Hong Kong supermarkets contained endangered European eel. The investigation exposed a surprising prevalence of illegally traded glass eels from Europe, posing a significant threat to the species' survival.
A recent study by Tufts University found that federally protected lands in the US significantly reduced habitat loss and protected endangered species. Compared to private lands, protected federal lands lost only 3.6% of their habitat over a 30-year period.
A recent camera trap study in Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park in southern Sumatra has captured images of dozens of species, including critically endangered Sumatran tigers and Sunda pangolins. The study provides valuable insights into the habits and habitats of these rare beasts.
The MEMEX project aims to develop new technologies that encourage the visibility of vulnerable social groups, using smartphones. By telling their stories, communities can gain visibility and connect with their territory, discovering historical and artistic insights.
A new study provides alternative method for monitoring endangered lions, estimating an overall density of 8.53 lions per 100 square kilometers. The researchers found that prey density does not influence variations in lion density within the study site, and baiting lions for tourism perturbs their natural density patterns.
A University of Saskatchewan study found that endangered Colombian poison frog hybrids originated from natural breeding between two known species, rather than human activity. The research confirms the genetic diversity of the frogs benefits the ecosystem.
A new study from NIH scientists found that remdesivir successfully prevented MERS-CoV disease in rhesus macaques and improved their condition when given after infection. The results support additional clinical trials of remdesivir for MERS-CoV and COVID-19.
A recent study by Ohio University researchers found that nearly 70% of tourist-gorilla spacing observations took place within 7 meters, posing a risk of disease transmission. The study urges tourists to maintain safe distances and encourages park officials to implement measures to protect gorilla health.
A pilot study by the University of South Australia has successfully recorded heart and breathing signals from nine species of Adelaide Zoo's animals using high-resolution digital cameras. The technique allows for remote monitoring of wild animals, potentially leading to earlier detection of illness and reduced vet visits.
A survey of Americans reveals a disconnect between expert and public opinions on what constitutes an endangered species, with experts citing higher risk thresholds than the general public. The findings highlight the importance of synthesizing facts and values in decision-making, particularly when it comes to biodiversity protection.
A study in Nature Climate Change predicts Madagascar's entire eastern rainforest habitat will be eliminated by 2070 unless strict protections are implemented. The research identifies priority areas for protection, highlighting the critical role of ruffed lemurs as seed dispersers and their sensitivity to habitat degradation.
Researchers from Forschungsverbund Berlin isolated and cultured different cell types from domestic cat corpus lutea tissue, enabling detailed characterization of their function. This breakthrough can aid in understanding the causes and mechanisms behind the longevity of corpus luteum in lynxes.
Researchers discovered a single female pangolin has higher levels of chitinase, an enzyme breaking down insect protein, than other animals. This suggests pangolins have specialized dietary needs and require specific foods when raised in captivity.
A new study suggests that California could more than triple its southern sea otter population by repopulating the largest estuary on the coast, the San Francisco Bay. This would be a huge boost to conservation efforts, potentially lifting the species out of endangered status.
Researchers discovered fossils of Caveasphaera, 609 million-year-old single-celled relatives of animals, revealing evidence that animal-like embryonic development evolved before complex animals appeared in the fossil record.
A study reveals that endangered monkey species in national parks make calculated decisions to balance risks and rewards of sharing space with humans. The research highlights the negative impact of human food consumption on their physical health and the need for sustainable conservation programmes to save declining species.
The study identifies the proteins that make up the venom of the Hispaniolan solenodon, a rare and endangered species. The research reveals that these toxins are likely used to cause drops in blood pressure in vertebrate prey, and have evolved independently on at least four occasions in eulipotyphlan mammals.
Research by Colorado State University found the endangered Hawaiian duck, koloa, has high genetic diversity, which enabled conservation efforts on Kauai to be successful. The study's results offer hope for recovering this species and other endangered birds.
Australian scientists have developed a genetic probe to detect eDNA of the endangered Gouldian finch, revealing its habitat and distribution. The test uses a PCR primer to amplify mitochondrial DNA and a species-specific probe to identify Gouldian finch DNA, increasing knowledge on population trends.
Scientists from the University of Helsinki have created a computer algorithm that measures online discussions about endangered species, such as rhinos. The method successfully identified major events, including the death of the last northern white rhino, and highlights the importance of public sentiment in conservation.
A genetic study on the critically endangered regent honeyeater found that while genetic diversity remains intact, habitat protection is key to saving the species from extinction. The researchers used DNA samples from museums and wild birds to compare genetic makeup before and after severe population decline.
A new method uses detection dogs and genetic species identification to survey lizard populations without direct contact. The technique was successfully used to identify 78% of 327 samples collected over four years, with most being from blunt-nosed leopard lizards.
Researchers at the University of Delaware found that 3D-printed coral models do not harm fish behavior or coral survival. Fish showed no preference between native coral and artificial habitats, making biodegradable materials like cornstarch a promising alternative to plastic.
Researchers mapped global trends in antimicrobial resistance rates among food animals in low- and middle-income countries between 2000 and 2018. The study found that antibiotic-resistant bacteria are on the rise, with high rates of resistance identified in antibiotics commonly used in food production.
The Pan-Borneo Highway will severely degrade Borneo's last expanses of intact forest, increasing pressures on loggers, poachers, and farmers. The network of highways would isolate Sabah's forests from the rest of Borneo, cutting off endangered species' habitats.
A collaborative study between University of Montana and Universidad de Concepcion in Chile found substantial gaps in scientific information relevant to conservation planning for threatened and endangered terrestrial mammals. The research highlights the importance of developing strategic research agendas for at-risk species worldwide.
Researchers from the GLOBE Institute found that massive fluctuations in ocean oxygen levels during the Cambrian explosion were influenced by animal behavior. The discovery suggests that animals may have controlled their own development through adjustments to oxygen levels, shedding light on Earth's 'heartbeat' and its impact on life.