A team of researchers from the University of Adelaide has discovered the female snake clitoris, composed of nerves and red blood cells that may swell during mating. This finding counters the assumption that snakes' mating involves coercion rather than seduction.
Researchers developed a world-first proof of concept for t-CRISPR technology to control invasive mice. The technology induces female infertility in the target population, eradicating an island population of 200,000 mice in around 20 years.
A team of researchers has discovered a steady stream of neutrinos emitted by the active galaxy NGC 1068, using the IceCube Neutrino Observatory. This detection provides valuable information about the extreme particle acceleration and production processes occurring within the galaxy's central region.
Researchers have discovered over 50 cases of a rare genetic variant becoming prevalent in ancient human groups, revealing new insights into human adaptation. By comparing modern and ancient genomes, the study sheds light on the role of environmental pressures in shaping human evolution.
A study by University of Adelaide researchers found that more than three times the number of unregulated animal species are being imported into the US compared to regulated species. The trade in these species is putting them under increasing threat.
Research finds that biodiversity metrics may show no change despite reorganisation of ecological communities in oceans, and new species replace lost ones. The study suggests a need for alternative methods to detect species replacements and abundance changes rather than just habitat loss or biodiversity loss.
Researchers have identified a new gene, EGT1, that controls root growth angle, allowing for the development of cereal varieties with deeper roots. This innovation could help mitigate climate change by improving crop resilience to drought and nutrient stress.
Locations with high marine biodiversity are most vulnerable to oceanic warming, making them particularly susceptible to climate change. This is because species in these regions are ill-equipped to respond to large changes in temperature, requiring them to move at rates rarely seen for marine life.
Researchers have created new geological models that provide a better understanding of the Earth's history and natural hazards. The models include updated maps of tectonic plates and geological provinces, offering new insights into plate boundary zones and the formation of supercontinents.
A new micro-device has been developed to streamline the Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) procedure, allowing more IVF clinics to offer this treatment. The device, smaller than a pinhead in size, holds up to 10 eggs and simplifies the injection process.
A team of international researchers has identified a genetic driver that improves yield traits in wheat while increasing protein content by up to 25 per cent. This discovery has the potential to generate new wheat varieties with higher quality grain.
Researchers have found that the meningococcal B vaccine is 33% effective against gonorrhoea in adolescents and young adults. The study aims to reduce not only gonorrhoea infection but also its long-term effects, such as infertility and blindness in babies born to infected mothers.
A research team led by University of Adelaide found tangible evidence that Australian elapids arrived by sea rather than land. The study analyzed genomes of two Australian elapids and compared them to marine and semi-marine elapid sea snakes, finding similarities with marine life genes.
Researchers sequenced ancient DNA to understand lion and bear movement between continents. The study found that warm temperatures before the last Ice Age may have caused a change in plant abundance, affecting herbivores and predators.
A team of researchers found a connection between energy production and Alzheimer's disease in zebrafish with mutated genes. They discovered that Alzheimer's disease affects the use of oxygen within cells to produce energy, leading to severe deficiency in brain function.
Researchers found that ocean acidification and global warming alter fish behavior in groups, affecting their ability to acquire food and evade predators. This disruption could lead to species extinction as tropical fish struggle in new temperate areas.
The Marathon experiment has provided new insights into the distribution of quarks, particularly the down quark, as a function of momentum. The study suggests that nuclei may be built using quasi-particles with changed internal quark structures, a paradigm shift in atomic physics.
University of Adelaide scientists developed a new simple and inexpensive method to detect low concentrations of agricultural lime in soils. The Mid Infrared spectroscopy technique allows for accurate detection of very small amounts of lime, enabling farmers to manage their soils more effectively.
A team of scientists, including Dr Phill Cassey, are calling for greater recognition of the biosecurity risks ahead of the space industry. The research highlights the potential for 'alien organisms' to survive the journey and cause invasive species threats.
A University of Adelaide study reveals that over 35% of fish caught off southern Australia contain microplastics, with the problem being most acute in South Australia. Simple actions like replacing plastic fishing equipment and using biodegradable bags can quickly reduce plastic pollution in the ocean.
New research reveals humans played a significant role in the extinction of woolly mammoths, contributing to population declines and range collapses. The study shows that human hunting, combined with climate change, led to the species' demise in Eurasia thousands of years earlier than previously thought.
Scientists call for scientifically-informed reforms to manage overabundant kangaroo populations, addressing animal welfare, conservation and environmental concerns. The special edition of the journal features research papers on sustainable monitoring and management practices to reduce harm to wildlife species.
A team of scientists found that technology adoption as a water-saving method for improving irrigation efficiency is ineffective and can worsen water scarcity. The study suggests that modern irrigation technologies may only achieve a 10-20% saving under ideal conditions.
The global illegal wildlife trade has a substantial impact on biodiversity loss, human health, and ecosystems. The trade results in estimated costs of $162.7 billion annually and contributes to the extinction of native species.
A study by University of Adelaide researchers found that unregulated reptile trade in the US drives demand for illegal reptiles in Australia. Three reptile families had the highest probability of being smuggled, with species listed in CITES Appendices I having a higher smuggling probability
Researchers developed a simple and fast method to analyze sulfur isotopes, enabling the detection of seawater intrusion into freshwater systems. This method can help investigate chemical changes in environments affected by sea level rise.
Researchers found clear evidence of shingleback lizard poaching and smuggling for the exotic pet trade. The study highlights a major loophole in Australian legislation that is being exploited to export native live species internationally.
Researchers from the University of Adelaide have developed strategies to delay grape ripening and increase flavor potential in Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. By manipulating crop load and irrigation management, they were able to slow down sugar accumulation and improve aroma compounds, colour, and mouthfeel.
A team of researchers discovered a novel barley protein, HvMADS1, that regulates flower production in response to high temperatures. The study found that introducing a genetic modification to the protein can convert an unbranched spike into a branched structure with more flowers, potentially increasing grain production.
A study by researchers at the University of Adelaide found that veterinarians experience pleasure in their job when receiving simple thank yous, spending time with peers, and further developing their expertise. Positive relationships with clients, colleagues, and a sense of accomplishment are also key factors.
An international team analysed genomes of over 2,500 humans from 26 populations to understand human adaptation to historical coronavirus outbreaks. They found signs of adaptation in 42 different human genes encoding viral interacting proteins (VIPs), which primarily active in the lungs and interact with coronaviruses.
Researchers discovered larger touch receptors on male turtle-headed sea snakes, potentially sensing vibrations made by swimming mates, prey or predators. These receptors may help males orient towards the female's direction during mating.
Using satellite data, researchers identified suitable foraging habitats and found areas of low resource availability that were rarely used by Aboriginal peoples. The study provides new information on the complex socioeconomic strategies employed by the indigenous population to adapt to environmental challenges.
Researchers have formulated a facial soft tissue thickness dataset for adult chimpanzees, providing a foundation for reconstructing the faces of ancient hominids. The dataset and regression equations will help reduce variability in reconstructions, offering a more accurate representation of our human ancestors.
Researchers analyzed YouTube comments on exotic animal videos and found overwhelmingly positive reactions to human-animal interactions. The study highlights concerns about the normalization of exotic pets and the exotic pet trade due to platform portrayals.
Urban megaprojects have severe implications for environmental processes, disrupting urban water flows, biodiversity, and flood regimes. The study's findings emphasize the need for community involvement and funders' accountability to ensure sustainable development.
Researchers at the University of Adelaide found Cypriot grape varieties Maratheftiko and Xynisteri are well-suited for hot climates and deliver desirable flavor compounds. The study revealed comparable concentration of flavor compounds in Cypriot wines to popular Australian wines.
Sperm deliver signals that increase the chances of conception by persuading female reproductive tissues to accept the male partner's genetic material. Factors like age, diet, and environmental exposures can affect sperm quality, impacting pregnancy health.
A team of Australian and German researchers found that GABA, a molecule associated with relaxation in animals, can control the size of plant leaves' pores to minimize water loss. This helps plants conserve water and survive longer during droughts.
Researchers found no evidence of interbreeding between modern humans and Denisovans in Island Southeast Asia, but confirmed high levels of Denisovan ancestry in the region. The study suggests that significant genetic exchange occurred between Denisovans and modern humans who arrived in Asia 50,000-60,000 years ago.
New research suggests that genetic diversity is not a reliable predictor of species survival and highlights the importance of habitat protection in saving species. Scientists found that most genetic diversity within a genome is neutral and not correlated with overall genetic diversity.
A new study suggests that increasing CO2 levels in oceans may slow tropical fish's expansion into cooler, temperate waters. The research found that elevated CO2 reduced sea urchin numbers, leading to a decrease in urchin barrens and an increase in turf algal cover.
Research found that some fish species exhibit larger gonads and increased reproductive output under elevated CO2 levels, leading to more offspring. Males and females adjust their behavior to optimize reproduction, with males foraging more and investing energy in egg care.
Researchers have found that androgen receptor activation by natural androgens or a new drug has potent anti-tumour activity in all estrogen receptor positive breast cancers, even those resistant to current treatments. This study provides new evidence for an alternative treatment strategy.
Researchers have sequenced multiple wheat and barley genomes, revealing hidden genetic variation that can be used to breed more productive and resilient crop varieties. The project aims to increase global wheat production by over 50% by 2050 to meet future food demands.
A novel method of authenticating wine using fluorescence spectroscopy has been developed by University of Adelaide researchers, offering a potential solution to the estimated billions of dollars' worth of wine fraud globally. The technique provides a unique 'fingerprint' of wine samples and has been proven effective in detecting region...
A new study found that 40% of tenant households in Australia struggled to afford essentials like bills, clothing, and food after paying rent, due to reduced incomes during the pandemic. Many renters also reported negative effects on their mental health, with around half indicating they were affected.
A University of Adelaide-led research project will analyze clinical data from injured koalas to inform future bushfire response and treatment strategies.
A new review highlights the severe impacts of drought on global wetland soils, leading to irreversible changes and decreased water quality. The study emphasizes the need for better understanding and protection of these critical ecosystems, which support biodiversity and carbon storage.
A recent study published in Nature Genetics has confirmed the genetic link in cerebral palsy, revealing that rare gene mutations can cause this devastating movement disorder. The research, which analyzed DNA from 250 cerebral palsy families, found evidence of damaging genetic variants and inherited recessive gene variations.