A new on-site detection method for PFAS, developed by Curtin University researchers, allows for immediate and accurate measurement of levels. This method could aid in the removal of persistent environmental pollutants from contaminated lands and waters around the world.
African carder bees have been spotted in Western Australia for the first time, according to Curtin University research. The invasive species was previously recorded in Queensland and has since spread throughout eastern Australia, raising concerns about its potential impact on native ecosystems.
Curtin University researchers have discovered a new method for creating crystalline graphite using an Atomic Absorption Spectrometer, without the need for metal catalysts or special raw materials. The technique was developed by Master-level student Jason Fogg, who used short fast pulses to heat samples to extreme temperatures.
Researchers found that the WA Christmas Tree, a parasitic plant, adapts to its environment by adjusting to temperature changes rather than relying on precipitation. This discovery has implications for conservation and restoration efforts, as it could inform the collection of seed for these species.
Researchers have developed a new method to analyze microscopic samples without using external light, reducing interference and damage to living specimens. The 'glow in the dark' approach uses chemical stimuli to activate chemicals, enabling precise control over localized oxidative hotspots.
Researchers from Curtin University have found evidence that the Earth's first continents were not formed by subduction in a modern-like plate tectonics environment. The team measured iron and zinc isotopes in rocks sourced from central Siberia and South Africa, suggesting an alternative formation process.
A new review of lizard data reveals that up to 2.75% of all lizards may have two or more tails, with potential ecological impacts on individual fitness and population dynamics.
Researchers found two chemically distinct hemispheric faces, with the Pacific ring of fire being the surface expression of the boundary between them. The African domain contains continental materials brought down by subduction systems, while the Pacific domain has been protected from such infiltration.
Researchers have found evidence of a major 'stirring up' in the mantle layer around 3.2 billion years ago, indicating the start of global plate tectonic activity. This discovery has implications for our understanding of the evolution of life on Earth and the formation of mineral and energy resources.
Research from Curtin University analyzed ancient DNA to understand the causes of animal extinctions during the Ice Age. The study found that while plant diversity recovered as climate warmed, large animal diversity did not recover, suggesting human hunting was a major factor in megafauna extinction.
A study by Curtin University found that tiger snakes living in Perth's urban wetlands are accumulating toxic heavy metals in their livers, suggesting habitat contamination. The snakes' bioaccumulation of heavy metals through eating frogs indicates the wetlands' pollution levels are a concern for local biodiversity.
Researchers used eDNA metabarcoding to detect biodiversity in two regions of Western Australia, finding that bulk arthropods and animal droppings detected the most species. The study suggests that eDNA can be a fast and accurate tool for biomonitoring, but careful surveys are needed to avoid contamination from outside organisms.
Research links ENSO climate pattern to detrimental impacts on Southeast Asian coral reefs, revealing long-term environmental changes. Coral cores provide a critical record of local changes in river runoff and rainfall, highlighting the need for resilience to future environmental changes.
Researchers from Curtin University analyzed volcanic meteorites from Antarctica to understand Asteroid Vesta's geological history. The study found that Vesta was volcanically active for at least 30 million years after its formation, contradicting previous models and suggesting pockets of magma survived on the asteroid.
A Curtin University-led study found that Ross Sea killer whales, also known as Type C, have a unique call repertoire comprising burst-pulse sounds and whistles to convey information about their environment. The research analyzed data from over 392 encounters with the species.
Scientists at Curtin University have discovered the Yarrabubba crater, dated to 2.229 billion years ago, coinciding with the end of a global deep freeze known as Snowball Earth. The research suggests that the asteroid impact may have influenced global climate by vaporizing ice and releasing greenhouse gases.
Curtin University research monitors Nile River water volume to help 200 million North-East Africans plan for sustainable use of resources. The study uses GRACE satellite data to isolate total water storage, providing independent insights for countries to inform decision-making and reduce reliance on the river's precious water supply.
A Curtin University study of a WA meteorite has shed light on the solar system's bombardment history, revealing that asteroid collisions ceased after 3.4 billion years ago due to asteroids being too small or protected by regolith. The research suggests that impacts stopped occurring after this period and remain unchanged until now.
Research shows eastern grey squirrels modify their behaviour when approached by humans, reducing unnecessary responses and improving urban survival. The study highlights the importance of understanding animal adaptations to urbanization, enabling conservation efforts and habitat management.
A Curtin University researcher has discovered that volcanic eruptions in Australia 510 million years ago led to the first known mass extinction of complex life. The study found a correlation between large volcanic province eruptions and climate shifts, resulting in mass extinctions over the last 550 million years.
A study analyzing ancient DNA from over 250 radiocarbon-dated moa samples reveals that the iconic New Zealand bird was thriving when humans arrived, contradicting previous theories of population collapse before human arrival. The research suggests human activities contributed to the moa's extinction.
Researchers at Curtin University have found a way to breed disease-resistant wheat, reducing yield loss due to Yellow Spot and other diseases. This new technology allows for improved disease resistance without affecting yields or increasing costs.
Researchers found wallabies have dichromatic colour vision like dogs, but lack a third colour-sensitive receptor. The 'Neutral Point' colour stimulates confusion in wallabies, unlike other marsupials.
Researchers will characterize and compare shark behavior when human noises are detectable versus masked, aiming to disrupt detection of humans. They plan to use speakers or personal maskers to broadcast artificial signals that mimic or mask the detected sound cue.
A team of researchers from Curtin University has developed an approach to identify potential refugia in declining rainfall environments, essential for conservation efforts. They found that areas with great water run-off below granite outcrops and deeper soil may provide safe havens for biodiversity.
Researchers from Curtin University found natural radioactivity in DNA can alter molecular structures, creating new molecules that do not belong to the four-letter alphabet of DNA. This could lead to genetic mutations by confusing DNA replication mechanisms.
A joint Australian-German research team has created the highest-resolution maps of Earth's gravity field, showing variations up to 40 percent larger than previously assumed. The new maps were calculated at three billion points and will improve civil engineering projects such as building canals, bridges, and tunnels.