Research on the habitats animals depend on. Covers forest protection, megaherbivore decline, orchard conservation, and plastic pollution.
A new study reveals that landscape corridors can promote plant diversity by connecting isolated patches of habitat. The research found that patches with corridors retained high numbers of species, while those without lost species. Corridors provide the largest benefit to native species.
A six-year study at a massive experimental landscape found that wildlife corridors support more plant species, particularly native ones, than isolated areas. The results suggest that corridors are crucial for preserving both wildlife and plant biodiversity.
University of Michigan researchers found that invasive cattails alter the environment in ways that hinder native species but benefit the invaders. The cattails' litter accumulation creates a different environment with higher nutrient levels and lower light, which favors the invaders' growth.
Scientists from NASA and the University of Maryland used a new tool to track possible habitats of the ivory-billed woodpecker in delta regions along the lower Mississippi River. The study aims to determine if the species is extinct or still living.
Species unique to tidal marshes are vulnerable to habitat loss due to coastal development and sea level rise. Toxic wastes and invasive species also pose a significant threat to these endemic species. The American Institute of Biological Sciences argues for an expanded research program to better understand the impacts of these threats.
Researchers found that elephants in northern Kenya's Samburu/Isiolo/Laikipia districts prefer flat terrain to reduce energy expenditure. The study suggests that large animals like elephants have different views of their surroundings than smaller ones, considering energy replenishment needs.
A comprehensive study finds tiger habitats have declined by 40% since last decade, with only 7% of historic range remaining. The report identifies 76 tiger conservation landscapes that can support viable populations, calling for increased protection and international cooperation.
Researchers analyzed 22 multispecies plans and found that 41% of covered species were unconfirmed. This lack of data can lead to nonuniform land use, posing a threat to protected species.
The study found that 40% of marine protected areas are smaller than 1-2km2, an insufficient size to protect large fish and other animals. To effectively conserve coral reefs, each Marine Protected Area should be at least 10-20 km in diameter.
A global assessment of coral reef protection reveals that marine protected areas (MPAs) are often poorly managed and fail to effectively safeguard these critical ecosystems. The study found that many MPAs lack enforcement mechanisms, leading to threats such as resource extraction, poaching, pollution, coastal development, and overfishing.
Scientists analyzed hundreds of local populations of the Glanville fritillary butterfly, finding that a single molecular variation affects population growth. The study showed that genetic factors and habitat structure influence population dynamics, contradicting previous views on the role of environmental factors.
Researchers studying cod movements find that temperature changes may not limit adult cod migration patterns. The CODYSSEY project has tagged over 2500 cod, with 17% returning, shedding light on environmental factors affecting cod populations.
Recent protected habitats are recovering after six years of closure, showing signs of stability. Complex bottom habitat is crucial for small fish populations, and gear like rock hopper reduces habitat complexity.
The new book provides comprehensive information on lemurs, including detailed photos and illustrations, to help identify the 71 species found in Madagascar. Conservation International's updated guide highlights the critical need to protect lemurs due to deforestation and habitat destruction.
The Manomet Conservation Center has been awarded a major grant by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation to support conservation efforts for shorebirds in North, Central, and South America. The grant will fund conservation initiatives in eight nations, including Mexico, Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay.
A new model developed by Hyun Jung Cho predicts the key factors and provides quantitative results to protect wetlands, addressing global concerns in ecological restoration. The model can be used for other coastal SAV habitats with local light requirements substituted.
Researchers found serious flaws in the Florida panther's research and habitat requirements, leading to the development of new guidelines. The study suggests that reanalyzing existing data could help continue the positive trend in population growth.
Researchers will explore the Oculina Bank's deepwater coral reefs, which support dense and diverse populations of fish species and are critical breeding grounds for commercially important populations. The team aims to verify a newly produced high-resolution sonar map and assess the extent of the reefs to inform protection efforts.
Airborne LiDAR technology has been successfully used to monitor and protect rare species such as California spotted owls and Delmarva fox squirrels. The system provides detailed measurements of forest canopy, tree height and biomass, enabling researchers to identify suitable habitats for endangered species.
A recent study published in Conservation Biology found that global warming is a major threat to the extinction of the Sinai baton blue butterfly. The research showed that the butterfly's population is vulnerable to habitat destruction caused by livestock grazing, regardless of the level of future habitat loss.
Researchers have discovered a new catfish species in the Lacantún river of southern Chiapas state in Mexico, representing the 37th family of catfishes. The discovery highlights the vast knowledge gap in Mesoamerica's biotic legacy and conservation value.
Researchers propose that reservoir construction creates ideal conditions for exotic aquatic species to thrive and spread. Studies suggest that reservoirs can facilitate the invasion of invasive species such as Daphnia lumholtzi and zebra mussels.
North Pacific right whales have been observed in the Southeastern Bering Sea slope and shelf, eastern Aleutian Islands, and Gulf of Alaska. The study refutes previous claims of a habitat shift and suggests these areas are crucial to their distribution.
Researchers have developed a new map of life on Earth, which could be used to identify the potential for life on Mars. The map was created by tracing the evolutionary history of microorganisms using genetic sequencing data and shows that ancient microbes inhabited specific habitats, including hydrothermal systems.
Fungus-farming termites cultivated fungi as a food source inside their nests, with the relationship representing an impressive example of mutualistic symbiosis. Researchers suggest that termite agriculture originated in the African rainforest and gave rise to various fungus-cultivating termite species.
A research team has rediscovered the ivory-billed woodpecker in the Big Woods of eastern Arkansas, with multiple sightings and frame-by-frame analyses of brief video footage. The evidence gathered during an intensive year-long search confirms that at least one male ivory-bill still survives in vast areas of bottomland swamp forest.
The river restoration field has matured into a science, with the nation's first comprehensive database of projects documenting trends and progress. Key findings include exponential growth in restoration efforts, with $14-15 billion invested since 1990, and a need for consistent monitoring to improve future efforts.
A recent study challenges traditional theory that El Niño-La Niña cycles affect sardine and anchovy populations differently. Researchers found that sardines can thrive in warm waters during El Niño events, while anchovies adapt to cold conditions by extending their reproduction periods.
The study found that species listed under the Endangered Species Act for a longer period were more likely to improve in status and less likely to decline. Additionally, species with critical habitat designation and dedicated recovery plans tended to fare better in terms of conservation status.
Scientists at British Antarctic Survey tracked albatross migration patterns using tiny logging devices, revealing that over half of birds made round-the-world journeys in just 46 days. The study provides crucial information for governments and fisheries commissions to implement measures reducing bird deaths by up to 95%.
The loss of 6% of mountain gorilla habitat in the Virunga National Park is a significant step backward for the endangered species. Scientists are using NASA satellite imagery to monitor land changes and develop a monitoring system with conservation groups to protect the remaining habitats.
A new tiger subspecies has been identified through a genetic analysis of over 130 tigers, suggesting six living subspecies rather than the traditional five. The study provides valuable data for conservation strategies and captive breeding programs to combat the decline of wild tiger populations.
A study led by Duke University researchers found that species tolerating secondary habitats are not more resilient to deforestation than those dependent on primary forests. The study suggests that all bird species in the region face equal threats from habitat loss, regardless of their adaptability.
The study found that eelgrass significantly increased survival of silversides, tautog, and cunner even at low shoot densities. Macroalgae did not provide a similar benefit.
A massive infestation of invasive sea squirt Didemnum has been found on Georges Bank, covering 50% or more of the seabed. The species is threatening commercial fish species and altering seabed communities.
Researchers found that bird abundance and reproductive success are often disconnected, with some species adapting to human disturbances and others facing declines. The study suggests that using bird counts alone may not accurately reflect habitat quality.
Researchers used DNA barcoding to discover that the Astraptes fulgerator butterfly is comprised of at least 10 separate species, each with distinct caterpillars and food plant preferences. This finding highlights the complexity of biodiversity and raises questions about wildlife conservation.
A team of scuba diving scientists discovered a new type of marine habitat in Alaska's Prince William Sound, specifically rhodolith beds. These colorful algae structures have been found worldwide but never in Alaskan waters, sparking debate over their protection and potential impact on the ecosystem.
A new study suggests a dynamic business plan approach to conservation, prioritizing opportune land acquisitions and leveraging market dynamics to safeguard habitats. The authors aim to improve the effectiveness of protected area networks in addressing the rapid decline of highly threatened vertebrates.
The West Nile virus has a devastating impact on small populations of sage-grouse, with a 25% decrease in late summer survival rates. The bird species lacks resistance to the virus, making it essential to improve habitats and implement effective mosquito control measures.
The study's findings suggest that current conservation planning approaches may be hindering species protection. Instead, scientists recommend a more dynamic business plan approach, leveraging market uncertainty and landowner motivation to safeguard habitat for highly threatened species.
A single individual of the Cozumel Thrasher, a bird species believed to be extinct for over 35 years, has been confirmed by field biologists. The rediscovery opens possibilities for establishing protected areas and conserving this unique species and its habitat.
Scientists at Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology gained new insights into chemical signaling within plants after herbivore attack, highlighting the value of genetically modifying plants to study complex ecological interactions. Transgenic Nicotiana attenuata plants were found to attract novel herbivore species despite being defe...
The BP Conservation Programme is awarding $600,000 to 29 student-led teams for critical conservation projects worldwide. Winners will attend practical workshops and learn from global experts to carry out their projects.
A new multi-million dollar grant from Conservation International aims to save the eastern lowland gorilla by strengthening conservation efforts in the region. The investment will increase protection of over 3 million hectares, preserving a high degree of biological richness and species endemism.
A team of six leading ecologists warn that hatchery fish cannot save wild salmon populations, and urges NMFS to exclude them from population counts. The panel recommends protecting habitats to ensure robust wild populations, as hatcheries can dilute gene pools and alter behavior.
A recent study found that invasive North American populations of garlic mustard were outcompeted by those from native European populations. This suggests the species has evolved to be less competitive due to a lack of strong competitors in invaded habitats.
The Eastern Tropical Pacific Seascape initiative protects 211 million hectares of marine habitat, including nesting grounds for the critically endangered leatherback turtle. The project addresses mounting evidence that the ocean is under duress, with 90% of large predatory fish populations and 75% of commercial fish populations at risk.
New acoustic tracking technology provides detailed knowledge of fish movement and habitat use, enabling the design of effective conservation measures. Small reserves can effectively protect adult fish populations, while larger reserves may be more beneficial for overall marine biodiversity.
The Wildlife Conservation Society will use the grant to establish a conservation network throughout the region, providing support for various activities and funding a student grants program. WCS plans to expand its programs in these regions over the next 15 years, covering approximately five percent of the Amazon Basin.
A new study by University of California, Berkeley biologist Rosemary Gillespie found that Hawaiian spiders diversified to fill a wide range of habitats on the Hawaiian Islands. The research suggests that evolution plays a key role in shaping communities on these islands, similar to mainland processes.
A new study finds that declining winter habitats of migratory songbirds significantly affect their ability to reproduce. Researchers measured stable carbon isotopes in the birds' blood, revealing a 'food chain signature' tied to habitat quality.
A team of scientists discovered a microbe that can survive at -20°C, which could provide clues about how life might thrive beneath the Martian polar ice caps. Researchers propose that similar habitats may exist on Mars and should be explored.
A new study found that listing endangered species may not effectively protect their habitats on private property. Landowners were more likely to improve or destroy habitats based on their values and perception of conservation responsibility.
The BioScience special section examines the ecology and sustainability of tropical island streams, which face numerous threats including human alteration and natural fluctuations. The articles highlight conservation strategies to mitigate the effects of dams, deforestation, and invasive species on these ecosystems.
Research reveals that mass flowering crops, such as oilseed rape, play a crucial role in enhancing bumblebee densities in agricultural landscapes. Contrary to previous assumptions, the availability of these crops at a landscape scale is essential for supporting pollinator populations.
A new study by OHSU scientists explores the impact of hydrologic alteration on salmon populations, revealing a 52% reduction in shallow water habitat due to diking. The research also shows that flow-cycle alteration would have reduced spring-freshet shallow water habitat by 29%.
Research reveals that human activity has reduced natural habitats, making it difficult for species to adapt to climate change. Mobile species like birds and butterflies are more likely to survive, while sessile species like reptiles and amphibians are at high risk of extinction.
Researchers tracked Miss Pearl's epic journey and welcomed her back to her nesting beach in Nicaragua after three years, gaining crucial insights into hawksbill sea turtle behavior and habitat protection. The satellite transmitter on Miss Pearl's back provided vital information on her location and diving patterns.
Researchers found that quarries serve as refuges for two groups of butterflies that depend on steppe-like habitats. The first group comprises 20 species, nine of which are threatened in the Czech Republic, that thrive in active quarries due to their preference for rocky habitats.