Articles tagged with Animal Habitats
Scientists studied a species of roundnose grenadier fish, finding adaptation to depth at functional genes linked to body form and function. This 'disruptive' selection allows for the evolution of new species, even within the same geographic population.
A new study by Michigan State University reveals that conserving mussels is linked to protecting their host fish species. The research found that different mussel varieties are tied to specific fish hosts and prioritize conservation efforts must protect both. This understanding will inform the development of effective conservation stra...
A study mapped global movements of whales, sharks, sea birds, and polar bears to understand ocean travel patterns. Despite size differences, marine animals move similarly through the ocean.
A study by University of Lincoln researchers discovered that conflict between sexes within a species can lead to one sex adapting to different resources, effectively preventing other species from colonizing habitats. This challenges traditional theories on natural selection's role in driving biodiversity evolution.
Under projected rates of sea level rise, Pacific coast tidal wetlands face devastating loss, with high- and mid-marsh habitats projected to be lost by the end of the century. Only low marsh habitats are likely to survive, even in California and Oregon.
A new study found that age at sexual maturity and average rainfall significantly correlated with cranial shape in carnivores. Skulls of species living in regions with higher precipitation showed elongated features, while those with narrower diets exhibited stiffer lower elements.
A study published in Biological Conservation found that widespread insects are threatened with a decline in species diversity, genetic diversity, and ability to adapt to environmental changes. The research highlights the importance of maintaining genetic diversity through population exchange for common species.
The study provides a comprehensive dataset of mammalian traits in the Atlantic Forest, expanding possibilities for zoological and ecological research. The data aims to draw attention to the region's importance and encourage conservation efforts, highlighting the crucial role small mammals play in the ecosystem.
Researchers used novel techniques to analyze sea turtle bones and uncover previously unknown information about their habitats, including their age when they move into nearshore habitats and how they use offshore waters for feeding. The study provides strong applications to the conservation and management of this endangered population.
Researchers at the University of Helsinki propose a new evolutionary scenario for snake origins, shifting focus from lizards to ecological habitats. Their study suggests that early snakes evolved from burrowing to various habitats like water and forests.
A study found that human footprint reduces mammalian movement by two to three times, with no geographic or size-based exceptions. This affects ecosystem functions like nutrient transport and food web interactions, highlighting the need for further research on critical thresholds in human land use.
Researchers found that coyotes preferred natural areas with high proportions of open space, while red foxes selected moderately developed areas. This spatial partitioning may promote coexistence between the two species in urban landscapes. The study's findings have implications for wildlife management in human-dominated environments.
A study examining risk factors and mitigation techniques for golden eagle electrocution reveals eight key risk factors, with pole configuration being the most frequently identified. The authors propose targeting high-risk poles using region-specific strategies to substantially reduce mortalities.
A study by the University of Alberta found that reimbursing ranchers for livestock killed by predators supports conservation efforts. The compensation program helps maintain wildlife habitats on private lands, with a notable increase in claims due to rising wolf populations.
A recent study by Clayton Lamb and colleagues found that higher road density in British Columbia leads to lower grizzly bear density, compromising the species' recovery. Closing roads can reduce the negative impact of roads on habitats, allowing bears to recolonize and recover.
A study published in the Journal of Applied Ecology found that protecting bald eagle nests from human disturbance increased breeding activity and led to a 37% rise in breeding pairs. The research, conducted at Voyageurs National Park, used a modeling framework to analyze data on nest occupancy, success, and reproductive output.
A Michigan State University student examines the impact of grain size and niche breadth on species distribution modeling, finding that relying solely on expert opinions can lead to inaccurate predictions. The research aims to promote more extensive testing and data-driven approaches in conservation.
A comprehensive review of the European Court of Justice and German Federal Administrative Court's relevant case-law on Natura 2000 assessment and derogation procedure. The study examines key aspects of the procedure, including scope, procedural steps, and requirements for authorisation and implementation.
The article discusses ways to reconcile differing views on elephant conservation policy between two groups with conflicting opinions. Stakeholder trust and agreement can be achieved through structured discussions and the evaluation of policy consequences in a way that minimizes bias.
A study led by Leandro Castello explores the link between deforestation and fisheries yields in the Amazon, finding that lakes with intact floodplain forests provide greater fish yields. The research has implications for managing and conserving the Amazon's fisheries and food security of local populations.
Researchers found individual prey had a roughly 40% likelihood of being consumed regardless of habitat complexity, but predators preferred certain prey in open environments. Habitat complexity dampened selection and equalized predation risk among active and sedentary prey.
Researchers tracked Henst's goshawk population by analyzing strontium isotopes in leaves and animal remains, revealing the birds' hunting habits. The findings suggest that goshawks mainly inhabit lower elevations in forest areas vulnerable to human impacts, which could inform conservation efforts.
A comprehensive study published in PeerJ reveals the cheetah's precarious situation in southern Africa, with only 3,577 adult cheetahs estimated to exist. The research identifies two habitats that support a majority of individuals and highlights the need for conservation efforts to protect these majestic predators.
Research by University of Delaware scientist Danielle Dixson and her team found that decorator crabs primarily decorate their arms and legs first, which helps them hide from predators. The study also showed that habitat presence affects decorating patterns, with crabs decorating faster in the absence of a shelter.
New research shows that decades-old logging restrictions have failed to reverse population declines of spotted owls in US national forests due to a 'tree deficit', requiring longer-term restoration efforts. The study found stable owl populations in nearby national parks with intact habitats.
An international research team led by Mark van Kleunen found that plant species from European habitats altered by humans have a head start in spreading to other continents. The study investigated over 10,000 plant species and found that those from human-made environments were more successful in naturalizing on other continents.
During a two-week top-to-bottom survey of Penang Hill's rainforest, scientists discovered several previously unknown species, including a new scorpion and likely new fly, water bear, and bacterium. The expedition logged over 1,400 species observations, contributing valuable data for mapping the region's distribution of wildlife.
Research expedition tracked endangered tigers through Sumatran jungles, finding low density populations clinging to survival. Well-protected forests are disappearing and fragmenting, erasing tiger habitat gains, mainly due to oil palm plantations.
A recent study by Nanyang Technological University found that while anti-poaching efforts have increased tiger population densities, habitat destruction poses a significant threat to the species' survival. The researchers highlight the urgent need for protecting remaining forests like Gunung Leuser National Park.
A new study using remote sensing and satellite mapping has identified 40% of northern Malaysian Borneo's carbon stocks in unprotected forests. The Carnegie Airborne Observatory mapped carbon stocks, guiding conservation efforts and suggesting that doubling carbon stocks could be achieved by allowing previously logged forests to regener...
A study by University of Oxford researchers found that puffin colonies traveling great distances during winter often face difficulty breeding due to environmental factors like competition and habitat quality. The study provides new insights into seabird migration behaviors, highlighting the costs associated with long-distance travel.
A study published in Ecology Letters found that natural habitats play a vital role in helping species resist heat stresses caused by climate change. For example, mussels and seaweed form habitat for coastal species, providing 'ecological air conditioning' that keeps them cool.
Researchers observed bowhead whales rubbing against rocks in Cumberland Sound, Nunavut, to remove dead skin. The warmer coastal waters may facilitate molting during summer months.
Researchers found that seagrass meadows are globally extensive fishing habitats, with significant impact on daily food supply and livelihoods in developing countries. The study highlights the need for recognition of seagrass habitats' value in supporting fisheries.
Research found that large mammals are 146% more likely to use wildlife crossing structures than pass at random in surrounding habitat. White-tailed deer and mule deer were particularly frequent users of underpasses, while carnivorous species moved similarly through passages as they would naturally.
Grey seal pups from Welsh colonies were more likely to dive in shallower water than males, reaching the seabed more frequently and having greater feeding opportunities. The study provides insights into the initial foraging behaviour of grey seal pups around the UK, crucial for future protection of their habitat.
Researchers found that young, managed forests cause higher stress levels and lower survival rates in willow tits due to reduced food availability and increased predation risks. About 92% of the birds sheltering in older trees survived the winter, compared to nearly 73% in younger plantations.
A survey of urban homes in Raleigh, North Carolina found that high-traffic rooms with many windows and doors harbor more insect diversity. The study also revealed that neighborhood affluence plays a role in hosting a greater variety of species. Human behavior, including tidiness, had a minimal impact on bug communities.
Researchers have successfully cultivated the Périgord black truffle in the UK for the first time, providing a breakthrough in the fight against climate change's impact on this luxury ingredient. The truffle was grown in collaboration with local farmers in Monmouthshire, South Wales, using a Mediterranean oak tree as host.
Researchers used 'poo science' to analyze glucocorticoid hormones in Cape mountain zebra droppings, revealing chronic stress impacting their health and reproduction. The study identified seven populations with distinct profiles, enabling conservationists to identify at-risk populations and evaluate the effectiveness of conservation plans.
A global analysis of arboreal vertebrate species reveals that 85% are drawn to or shun the edges of forests, with positive effects on 46% and negative impacts on 39%. This study highlights the need for conservation programs to safeguard large forest areas from fragmentation.
New research reveals that 85% of forest vertebrates are impacted by fragmentation, with some species flourishing at the edge and others disappearing due to habitat loss. The study highlights the need for conservation efforts to protect species dependent on intact forest core areas.
Researchers found that migratory birds prefer fields with cover crops like cereal rye, providing a safe area to escape predators and increasing insect abundance. This leads to improved bird habitat and increased fueling time for migrants.
Research finds that restored, protected reefs have significantly higher oyster densities and larval output compared to harvested reefs. Additionally, restored harvested reefs show increased larval recruitment, implying a valuable spillover effect from reserves to surrounding areas.
Researchers confirm Sinosauropteryx had striped tail and 'bandit mask', suggesting it lived in open habitats. The dinosaur's countershaded body revealed its habitat was not dense forest but rather more open terrain.
The study found a significant increase in Sumatran tiger population density, from 1.6 tigers/100 km2 in 2002 to 2.8 tigers/100 km2. Conservation efforts have contributed to this trend, with successful ranger patrols and habitat protection helping to reduce threats such as poaching and human-tiger conflict.
A study by University of Illinois ornithologist Mike Ward found that 85% of Canada geese wintered in the Greater Chicago Metropolitan Area, with none making foraging flights to agricultural fields. The birds' ability to minimize risk by using urban areas suggests they are prioritizing survival over energy intake.
Scientists discovered that hardy corals, known as coralliths, can create stable habitats for other species to build upon. These mobile corals can survive harsh environments and may have played a key role in forming existing coral habitats.
A study in Belize found that herpetofaunal communities remained relatively unchanged after Hurricane Earl, despite significant changes in the environment. The research highlights the ability of these species to adapt to anthropogenic pressures.
A new study reveals that the Malagasy striped whirligig beetle is an ultra-rare survivor with a genetic pedigree dating back at least 206 million years to the late Triassic period. The beetle's isolated location in Madagascar may have allowed it to persist, and it now thrives in marginal environments.
A comprehensive study monitored microbial load, diversity and dynamics in a closed habitat for 520 days, finding human-associated bacteria to be the main source of microbial dispersal. The researchers also noted that confinement triggered significant changes in the bacterial community, with diversity decreasing over time.
Rivers need more space, diversity, and freedom to protect species and prevent devastating floods. Floodplain landscapes are crucial for sediment retention and natural flood protection.
A recent study suggests that large brain size is an adaptation for handling frequent environmental change, allowing birds to colonize seasonal habitats. Contrary to the cognitive buffer hypothesis, the study found no evidence that big brains evolved exclusively in variable environments.
Recent satellite imagery reveals a 5% decrease in panda habitat since 1976, with an average patch size decreasing by 23%. The main culprit behind this decline is the increase in road density, which has fragmented the habitat.
A new study finds climate change will reduce coffee-growing areas in Latin America by up to 88% by 2050, mainly due to declining bee populations. However, the research also identifies regions where bee diversity is likely to increase, potentially boosting coffee productivity.
A new study using old nautical charts and satellite data found that more than half of the coral reef habitat mapped in the 1770s was no longer there, with some areas experiencing up to 90% loss. The research has important conservation implications and highlights the need for a shifted spatial baseline.
A study using scat-sniffing research dogs helped scientists develop a plan to save reclusive jaguars, pumas, and other endangered carnivores by creating habitat corridors that connect protected areas. The model provides maximum habitat connectivity for all species while minimizing costs through privately owned lands and communities.
A study published in Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment found that inmates who viewed nature videos committed 26 percent fewer violent infractions than their peers. The study showed that exposure to nature, even through images, can have a positive impact on prisoners' behavior.
Ecologists have developed a new framework for understanding relationships among animals, plants, and their environments, enabling predictions about species' reactions to changing climates. The periodic table of ecological niches, built from decades of fieldwork data, reveals convergent evolution in lizards across continents.
A study documents the local extinction of the American pika from a 64-square-mile area in California's northern Sierra Nevada mountains due to climate change. The species is expected to decline drastically by 2050, with pikas disappearing from an area that stretches from near Tahoe City to Truckee.