African large mammals' size and abundance have declined over the past 10 million years, with earlier communities having more large individuals. The decline is linked to environmental factors such as decreasing global temperatures and tropical grasslands expansion.
A recent study reveals that 20 insect families globally account for 50% of flying insect diversity, with a large fraction of terrestrial animal biodiversity remaining unknown to science. The study used DNA barcodes to assign specimens to species and found that only a few dominant families dominate flying insect communities worldwide.
Researchers found that bat pups mimic human infant babbling patterns, including reduplication and rhythmic sequences, and engage in daily vocal practice behaviour for up to 7 weeks. The study provides insights into the evolutionary origins of human language, highlighting parallels between mammalian vocal learning.
A recent study reveals that the rise and fall of elephants was influenced by ecological diversity, global temperatures, and changes in ecosystems. The research team found that proboscideans were once more diverse with over 30 species coexisting in the same ecosystem.
Researchers used deep-time approach to compare communities defined by species vs ecological roles, finding that ecosystems are more resistant to change than species compositions. They also found that preserving ecosystem functioning can help stabilize ecosystems in the face of disturbances.