Researchers at UniSC captured dolphins using shells to hunt fish off Queensland's coast, with evidence suggesting calves may learn from mothers. The behavior, called shelling, is rare and has only been documented in Western Australia before.
A team of researchers discovered a new shark species, Hemiscyllium dudgeonae, off the coast of Papua New Guinea. The nocturnal species is the 10th in the PNG epaulette genus and has been found to have distinct color patterns and geographic distributions.
Researchers found that reef manta rays stay within 10km of their tagging site during monsoons, expanding their vertical use of the water column rather than traveling long distances. This suggests they can change behaviors to adapt to ocean conditions and protect themselves from threats like overfishing.
A University of the Sunshine Coast study identifies two psychological patterns that predict men's intention to engage in 'stealthing', a form of sexual violence. Men with a strong sense of entitlement and those who exhibit punitiveness are more likely to commit the crime, while those with greater confidence in condom use are less likely.
A University of the Sunshine Coast study found that teens who avoid socializing due to fear of judgment report greater loneliness and lower trust in friendships. Parents and teachers are advised to help teens find low-pressure ways to connect with peers, as empathy is a valuable skill decreasing among this age group.
A new study published in Maturitas found that high-intensity interval training (HIIT) is the most effective exercise type for reducing body fat and maintaining muscle mass in seniors. HIIT involved short bursts of intense exercise followed by easier recovery periods, which helped retain lean muscle mass.
A study led by Dr Varghese Peter found that infant-directed speech ( IDS ) helps babies distinguish between vowel sounds, supporting early language learning. The research suggests that 'baby talk' may be more than just cute – it plays a vital role in infants' language development.
A new study led by UniSC has pinpointed areas and times when large seabirds like the Antipodean albatross are most at risk of injury or death from fishing longlines. The researchers identified winter hotspots in a latitudinal band near the Tropic of Capricorn, where juvenile and female birds face the highest risk.
A University of the Sunshine Coast researcher has documented the world's first recorded and scientifically observed three-way mating between two male and one female leopard sharks. The video provides valuable insights into the species' natural mating behavior and informs conservation strategies.
Researchers at the University of the Sunshine Coast have developed a world-first vaccine to protect koalas from infection and death caused by chlamydia. The vaccine has been shown to reduce mortality from the disease in wild populations by at least 65 percent, offering protection through multiple generations.
Researchers found specific patterns in individuals' brain chemistry relating to modifiable-dementia risk scores. Lower GABA concentrations and neurochemical markers were associated with higher risk scores. Lifestyle choices such as exercise, diet, and social connection can be modified to improve brain health.
International researchers highlight 15 essential advances for effective forest restoration, including careful planning to boost biodiversity and economic development. The UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration aims to inspire action around the world, particularly in developing tropics where much of this research has been undertaken.
A new global dataset reveals approximately 73,000 tree species, highlighting the vulnerability of global forest biodiversity to climate change and land use. The research, led by Professor Andy Marshall, also identifies a 'hot spot' of likely undiscovered species in northeast Australia and the Pacific Islands.