Invasive insects cause staggering impact on native tree
Research reveals invasive scale insect Aulacaspis yasumatsui causes near-total mortality in Cycas micronesica, highlighting critical importance of empirical studies for conservation efforts.
Animal Habitats
Articles tagged with Animal Habitats
Life Sciences
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
447,757
articles
2542
topics
Health and Medicine
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
431,843
articles
751
topics
Social Sciences
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
260,756
articles
745
topics
Physical Sciences
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
257,913
articles
1552
topics
Applied Sciences and Engineering
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
225,386
articles
998
topics
Scientific Community
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
193,043
articles
157
topics
Space Sciences
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
29,662
articles
175
topics
Research Methods
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
21,889
articles
139
topics
Mathematics
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
3,023
articles
113
topics
Climate change and deforestation: When the past influences the present
A recent study by an international research group challenges the conventional wisdom that deforestation is solely caused by human activity. The research suggests that pre-human climatic changes may have led to the current open habitats of Daraina region in northern Madagascar, affecting the population of golden-crowned sifaka.
Down on the cacao farm: Sloths thrive at chocolate's source
Researchers studying sloths on a shade-grown cacao farm in Costa Rica are gaining insights into their mating habits, behavior, and ecological parameters. The study reveals that sloths tend to disperse from home range and have multiple partners, and the cacao farm provides an ideal habitat for these animals.
The Iberian wolf lives close to humans more for refuge than for prey
The Iberian wolf's distribution in Galicia is primarily driven by landscape characteristics offering refuge from humans. Landscape attributes account for 48% of animal safety, while human presence and food availability contribute to a lesser extent.
Are brown widows displacing black widow spiders around southern California homes?
Researchers found 20 times more brown widows than black widows outside homes, especially in hidden spaces. The authors suggest that homeowners take precautions when handling brown widow webs, but note that their bites are less toxic than black widow bites.
First paternity study of southern right whales finds local fathers most successful
A new study published in Molecular Ecology found that most southern right whales born near New Zealand's sub-Antarctic islands were fathered by local males, indicating strong local fidelity to breeding habitat. This finding suggests that the New Zealand population is relatively isolated from other populations, which could have implicat...
SFU scientists engage Science in fisheries debate
Three SFU scientists, engaged in collaborative research on conservation and ecology, critique the federal government's proposal to reduce fish habitat protection. They argue that current policies suffice for protecting fish habitat, contrary to assertions from the federal fisheries minister.
Restoring streamside forests helps songbirds survive the winter in California's Central Valley
A new study reveals that restoring floodplain forests helps migratory songbirds survive the winter, providing vital habitat for birds from Alaska and Canada. The research also found that restored forests are equally preferred to existing older forests by some species, including Lincoln's and White-crowned Sparrows.
Factors behind past lemur species extinctions put surviving species in 'ecological retreat'
Research on lemur extinctions over 2,000 years reveals that remaining species go into 'ecological retreat,' increasing extinction risk. Surviving lemurs rely on denser habitats due to vacant environmental niches, which may be a result of human disturbance.
Track Atlantic bluefin tuna to learn migration, habitat secrets
Researchers at the University of Massachusetts Amherst used miniaturized satellite tags to track young Atlantic bluefin tuna, revealing their dispersal patterns and habitat use. The study provides the first fishery-independent data on bluefin tuna migration and behavior, shedding light on the ecology and management of wild stocks.
York researchers evaluate impact of climate change on biodiversity and habitats in East Africa
Researchers will assess climate change impacts on biodiversity, habitats, and ecosystem services in Tanzania, Kenya, and Ethiopia. They aim to identify sustainable options for communities coping with climate change.
Research: 'Modern Portfolio Theory' optimizes conservation practices
A study from the University of Illinois demonstrates that adapting Modern Portfolio Theory for conservation purposes can help reduce outcome variation under climate change. By diversifying strategically across space, conservationists can achieve a 15% higher value of the conservation-objective-per-dollar-spent while reducing uncertainty.
Long-lived rodents have high levels of brain-protecting factor
Researchers found that long-lived species maintain higher levels of NRG-1 in their brains, with the naked mole rat having the highest levels. This discovery highlights the importance of protective mechanisms in determining species life span and has implications for aging research.
First-of-its-kind study reveals surprising ecological effects of 2010 Chile earthquake
Researchers found that the earthquake's aftermath saw the resurgence of species on sandy beaches, while coastal armoring led to beach loss and decline in intertidal diversity. The study highlights the potential effects of natural disasters on sandy beach ecosystems worldwide.
Different recipes for success in the world of plants
Researchers found that non-native plant species use different strategies, such as blooming later in the year and occupying specific habitats, to increase their frequency of occurrence. This differentiation is important for understanding modern ecosystems and recognizing potential dangers from introduced species.
Fish larvae find the reef by orienting: The earlier the better
A team of female scientists from the University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science have developed a sophisticated numerical model to study fish larvae's navigation skills. The model uses reliable larval swimming speeds and vertical migration to create realistic scenarios that can be studied in detail.
New technology tracks sparrow migration for first time from California to Alaska
For the first time, researchers have mapped the exact migration route of Golden-crowned Sparrows from California to their breeding grounds in coastal Alaska. The study, published in PLoS ONE, reveals that these small songbirds travel up to 2400 miles one-way and spend only 29 days on their northbound migration.
Some corals like it hot: Heat stress may help coral reefs survive climate change
Researchers discovered that corals surviving past heat stress are more likely to adapt in the future. The study suggests coral reefs may be able to withstand rising temperatures in locations with naturally variable water temperatures, benefiting millions of people reliant on coral reefs for sustenance and livelihoods.
How to save Europe's most threatened butterflies
European butterflies are under threat, with 10% facing extinction, due to habitat loss and poor management. A new publication provides practical guidelines for managing habitats in a sustainable way, supporting biodiversity and human survival.
How to save Europe's most threatened butterflies
A new report provides crucial information on how to conserve European butterfly species listed on the EU Habitats Directive. The guidelines include detailed accounts of each species' habitat requirements and food-plants, as well as dos and don'ts in managing their habitats.
NOAA science supports New York's offshore energy planning
A new NOAA study helps New York state officials identify favorable wind energy development sites while protecting critical bird and fish habitats. The report provides a valuable tool for coastal managers to better understand the interactions between renewable energy development and natural resources.
A new pipewort species from a unique, but fragile habitat in India
A new species of pipewort has been discovered in the foot hills of the Western Ghats, a unique and fragile habitat. The discovery highlights the importance of conserving this area, which is under threat from population growth, infrastructure development, and uncontrolled tourism.
Marine Protected Areas are keeping turtles safe
A recent study published in Global Ecology and Biogeography reveals that 35% of the world's green turtles inhabit Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), significantly higher than expected. The research also shows that older MPAs are more likely to contain turtles, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts.
Building the European Union's Natura 2000 -- the largest ever network of protected areas
The EU's Habitats Directive has created the world's largest network of protected areas, Natura 2000, which covers 18% of land and sea surfaces. The review outlines the development process of this complex conservation project over two decades.
New research highlights: 'Conservation and Management of Eastern Big-Eared Bats'
The publication brings together the latest knowledge on eastern big-eared bats, a group of species at risk due to habitat loss and environmental contaminants. The research provides guidance on securing or improving habitat for these bats, including discussions of conservation and management strategies.
A test of the senses in the search for a shoal mate
Research from the University of Bristol and Radboud University Nijmegen found that young French grunts are attracted to coral reef noises and muddy soft-sediment smells, but only visual cues of familiar fish guide them to their shoal mates. This hierarchical approach allows the fish to navigate safely in complex habitats.
The future of plant science – a technology perspective
The development of new technologies is crucial for transforming plant biology to meet human needs, according to Carnegie researchers David Ehrhardt and Wolf Frommer. Advanced imaging technologies and existing methods like DNA sequencing and mass spectroscopy will aid in understanding plant function and informing sustainable solutions.
Nowhere to hide: Study finds future of Sumatran tigers threatened by human disturbances
A new study found that Sumatran tigers are nearing extinction due to human activities such as forestry and agriculture. The study highlights the importance of preserving large contiguous forest blocks for tiger conservation.
Research offers way to save endangered Florida bird, and a lesson for conservationists
A team of researchers found a crucial connection between genetic variation and geographic distances in Florida Scrub-Jays. Maintaining or restoring networked scrub-oak habitats within 2-3 miles is essential for sustaining genetic diversity and promoting the species' long-term survival.
Chronic stress in elephants can affect long-term behavior
Research on elephants in South Africa reveals chronic stress leads to 'refuge behavior,' changing space use and preferences. Higher physiological stress levels result in 20-43% lower land usage, highlighting the need for wildlife management projects to consider these effects.
Caught in the act: Team discovers microbes speciating
Researchers have discovered two distinct groups of Sulfolobus islandicus bacteria speciating in a hot spring habitat, despite shared genetic material and gene exchange. The study reveals that these groups are already separate species, with differences spanning only 0.35% across the entire chromosome.
Climate change threatens tropical birds
A recent review of 200 scientific studies warns that climate change and habitat loss will drive tropical bird extinctions, with 87% of bird species spending time in the tropics. The study predicts 600-900 land bird species may go extinct by 2100, highlighting birds as 'canaries in the coal mine' for ecosystem changes.
Fighting crimes against biodiversity
A team led by Dr Steven Le Comber used computer simulations and historical data to compare geographic profiling with existing methods for monitoring invasive species. The technique outperformed others, particularly when multiple sources were involved, suggesting its potential for controlling the spread of invasive species.
Hatchery fish mask the decline of wild salmon populations
A study found that only 10% of Chinook salmon spawning in the Mokelumne River are naturally produced wild salmon, while hatchery-raised fish dominate the population. The research highlights the need for more accurate monitoring and management of wild populations.
Satellite study reveals critical habitat and corridors for world's rarest gorilla
A satellite study has identified suitable habitat and corridors for the Cross River gorilla, a subspecies of gorilla numbering fewer than 300 individuals. The study found that the area known to be occupied by gorillas is more than 50% larger than previously documented.
Preserved habitat near national parks helps species conservation
A recent study published in PLoS One suggests that preserving habitat near national parks is crucial for the conservation of large mammals in the Cerrado region. By leaving a significant portion of land adjacent to the park as natural habitat, animals can roam and find suitable habitats outside the protected area.
Trial by fire: A landscape-scale experiment in restoring Ozark glades
Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis are conducting a landmark study to restore degraded glade habitats and ecosystems using fire manipulation techniques. The goal is to establish best practices for restorative ecology and mitigate biodiversity loss from small habitats, particularly rare species found nowhere else.
High-tech models help guide restoration efforts to save threatened plants
Researchers developed topographic models using LiDAR data to predict habitat suitability for endangered plants in dry environments. The team plans to use satellite observations to create digital elevation models, guiding effective restoration efforts and identifying suitable areas for plant growth.
Largest bird alters its foraging due to climate change
Wandering albatrosses have adapted to changing wind conditions, resulting in improved breeding success and increased body mass. However, future climate scenarios predict that these changes may not last, threatening the species' survival.
Cockroach hookup signal could benefit endangered woodpecker
A unique chemical composition of a cockroach signal, emitting a sex pheromone, could help determine habitat suitability for an endangered woodpecker. The synthetic pheromone attracts large numbers of adult male cockroaches, suggesting that the area could be a suitable home for the red-cockaded woodpecker.
Blue marlin blues: Loss of dissolved oxygen in oceans squeezes billfish habitat
A new study shows that expanding 'ocean dead zones' driven by climate change is shrinking the useable habitat for blue marlin and other pelagic fish in the tropical northeast Atlantic Ocean. This compression of habitat due to low oxygen levels threatens the sustainability of these fisheries.
Expanding dead zones shrinking tropical blue marlin habitat
Expanding ocean dead zones driven by climate change reduce oxygen levels, forcing blue marlins and other billfish to surface waters where they are more vulnerable to fishing. This shift affects the long-term health of these species and their ecosystems.
Climate change driving tropical birds to higher elevations
A new study by Duke University researchers has found that tropical birds are moving to higher elevations in response to climate change, but at a slower rate than predicted. The animals appear to be tracking changes in vegetation rather than migrating rapidly, suggesting a delay in their response to warming temperatures.
Satellite data shows that Kirtland's warblers prefer forests after fire
A new study using Landsat satellite data shows that Kirtland's warblers prefer young forests and forests that have been on fire. The researchers found that the age of the forest correlates strongly with its height, and that old forests with grazed underbrush provide suitable habitat for the warblers.
Study finds climate changes faster than species can adapt
A new study by Indiana University researchers finds that climate change will outpace species' ability to adapt, with ranges shifting dramatically between now and 2100. The rate of future change in suitable habitat will be two to three orders of magnitude greater than the average change over the past 300 millennia.
British butterfly is evolving to respond to climate change
New research reveals that climate change is causing certain species to adapt to new habitats, helping them track ongoing warming. The Brown Argus butterfly has successfully expanded its distribution northwards in the UK, using a range of distinct habitats.
Marine biodiversity loss due to warming and predation: UBC researcher
A UBC study reveals that climate-driven warming and predation are causing significant losses in marine biodiversity, with mussels losing 51% of their habitat due to rising temperatures. Removing predators through exclusion cages allowed prey species to occupy hotter sites, resulting in a doubling of species richness.
Seals show different levels of parenting skills
Researchers found that seal mothers adopt a wide range of mothering styles, with some being very attentive while others are not. The study also revealed large differences in response to potential dangers among both female and male seals, with no correlation to age or size.
Satellite data can help protect bluefin tuna
A new model developed by European Commission scientists allows for the first time an overall view of bluefin tuna habitats in the Mediterranean Sea. The model uses satellite remote sensing data to identify preferred habitats and track changes over time, providing valuable insights for sustainable fisheries management.
Great Plains river basins threatened by pumping of aquifers
Scientists warn that Great Plains river basins are under threat due to aquifer pumping, which has reduced suitable habitat for native fishes. The study found that only 57% of refuge pools would remain after 35 years under current circumstances.
Satellite images help species conservation
Researchers used satellite imagery to assess the conservation status of endangered species in the Comoro archipelago, finding that only 9% of the island area is still covered by natural forest. This approach allows for precise estimation of remaining habitat extent and prioritization of future protected areas.
New model more accurately describes migratory animals' extinction risk
Researchers developed a new model that considers colonization and extinction rates at both breeding and non-breeding sites for migratory species. This approach can help conservators better understand the population dynamics of species like piping plovers.
How far can they go? Traveling is key for survival and conservation
Researchers tracked Dusky Large Blue butterfly movements to discover that long-distance travel is crucial for landscape-level effects, informing more efficient conservation methods. The study, published in Journal of Animal Ecology, sheds light on butterfly mobility in fragmented landscapes and has implications for habitat design.
From polar bear denning, bats and wind energy, climate change and wildlife and more:
Researchers investigate bighorn sheep's seasonal habitat selection behaviors to cope with migration loss due to human development. The study also explores ecosystem services in the American Southwest using biodiversity metrics, while developing an agent-based model to assess disease transmission in fragmented landscapes.
Zoning boundaries can make good neighbors in conservation
A recent study from Michigan State University reveals that zoning can be an effective tool for balancing human activities with wildlife habitat. The analysis of a nature reserve in southwestern China shows that zoning ordinances are helping protect endangered giant pandas, but also highlights critical weaknesses such as ambiguous rules...
New genetic evidence confirms coyote migration route to Virginia and hybridization with wolves
Researchers confirm that coyotes migrated eastward via two main routes, one through the northern US and another through the south, before interbreeding with Great Lakes wolves. This hybridization supports the presence of wolf-like coyotes in Virginia, which may help control deer populations.
Fewer marten detections in California forest linked to decline in habitat
A decline of 60% in marten detection rates in California's Sierra Nevada mountains may be attributed to habitat fragmentation and loss due to logging. The study suggests preserving marten habitat, which benefits other species thriving in old forests at high elevations.
Fewer marten detections in California forest linked to decline in habitat
Researchers found a 60% decrease in marten detections since the 1980s due to habitat degradation. Suitable habitat for martens has decreased by 25% since the 1980s.
Deep-reef coral hates the light, prefers the shade
A new study published in BMC Evolutionary Biology reveals that deep-reef coral species have adapted to low-light conditions by increasing their nutrient and plankton exploitation capacity. This physiological strategy allows them to outperform shallow corals in growth rate and abundance.
Over the hump: Ecologists use power of network science to challenge long-held theory
A global sampling of 48 sites on five continents yields unprecedented data set, finding no clear relationship between productivity and plant species in small study plots. This challenges the 'hump-shaped' model developed by British ecologist J. Philip Grime, which has remained a textbook standard for nearly four decades.