Articles tagged with Behavioral Ecology
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
A study found that male Rock Hyraxes with stable isochronous rhythms in their courtship songs have higher reproductive success and more surviving offspring. Genetic analysis revealed that song rhythms are related to individual quality and potentially indicate health and suitability as mates.
A new study finds that neon goby parents help their offspring develop by pushing them out the door at the right time. Offspring hatched by parents are larger and more developed than those that hatch on their own, suggesting a complex parenting behavior. This discovery highlights the surprising complexities of fish parenting behavior.
In southern Sydney, cockatoos have developed a unique behavior of opening garbage bins to eat food waste. Humans have responded by using various inventive methods to secure the bins, sparking an 'arms race' between the two species.
Scientists found that few components of an ant's waxy layer are enough to recognize nestmates from their own colony. The study also showed that adapting the wax layer to outside temperatures does not completely change the information used for recognition, but rather balances both functions.
Researchers assembled a large biologging dataset to understand how sharks, rays, and skates use the ocean depths. They found that many species migrate vertically in response to food resources, with some diving to extreme depths.
The winning image depicts a parasitic fungus infecting a fly, while other images showcase the relationships between species, biodiversity under threat, and research in action. The competition highlights the intersection of art and science, celebrating ecologists' creativity to protect the natural world.
Researchers found that Gursky's spectral tarsier duets exhibit acoustic trade-offs in note rate and bandwidth, suggesting a relationship between physical fitness and vocal complexity. The study suggests that only physically fit individuals can easily produce broadband notes fast.
A new study by researchers at the University of Oxford found that ageing female wild red deer on the Isle of Rum in Scotland tend to adopt a life of solitude as they grow older. They interact with fewer other individuals within their home ranges and shift to less populated areas of their habitat.
Researchers examine the relationship between thermal biology and sexual selection, finding that animals often tolerate perilous temperatures during mating to increase reproductive success. The study highlights the importance of considering scale in understanding the impact of global warming on reproductive processes.
A new study investigates how birds experience neophobia, which could play a vital role in helping to save Critically Endangered species. The research gathered data on the behavior of captive Bali myna birds, revealing that juvenile birds may be more suitable for reintroduction than adults.
A new study reveals that bottom burrowing animals were among the first to recover after the end-Permian mass extinction. The research, led by Dr. Xueqian Feng, used ancient sea bed burrows and trails to reconstruct the recovery stages of various animal groups.
Rainforest chimpanzees are digging wells to access and filter cleaner drinking water due to the limited availability of clean water during the dry season. The behaviour has been observed spreading among young chimps and adult females, with some males using the wells dug by others.
Scientists have discovered a way to harness animals' olfactory ability to protect endangered plants and animals by masking their scent, disguising it, or spreading similar scents. This method is more effective, sustainable, and animal-friendly than traditional deterrents like fences and lethal control methods.
Researchers tracked medium ground finches' movements day and night, finding they cover areas equivalent to 30 soccer fields and gather nightly in a lush grove. This behavior helps birds fight cold and reduces predation risk.
Researchers found that neurons in the fly's lateral horn play a crucial role in evaluating individual odors and mediating odor-guided behavior. The study identified glutamatergic neurons as key players in this process, which enables flies to recognize good or bad odors.
Researchers find that cooperative breeding in animal societies increases survival chances of carers, leading to higher reproductive success. The study also reveals the relative importance of kin selection and individual selection varies depending on environmental conditions.
A study of nomadic pine siskins found that pairing with settled male birds triggered signs of ending migration, including reduced restless flying and body mass loss. This suggests that social cues play a role in migratory decisions for unpredictable animals like pine siskins.
Researchers develop system to measure power distribution between sexes in animals, finding females rule in some species, with reproductive control as common thread. The study proposes a new framework to quantify intersexual power relationships across mammalian societies.
A new study reveals that wild chimpanzees produce hundreds of diverse vocal sequences, combining up to ten call types, and exhibit structured communication patterns. This discovery challenges the long-held assumption that non-human primates lack complex vocal communication systems.
A new framework for understanding animal societies emerges from a review of wealth inequality research in humans and animals. Wealth is found to be distributed equally or unequally across species, with material goods, individual attributes, and social connections being critical sources.
The Ecological Society of America will hold its 107th Annual Meeting in Montreal from August 14-19, 2022. This year's meeting combines resources and interests of the ESA and Canadian Society for Ecology and Evolution, focusing on theme "A Change Is Gonna Come" exploring global environmental and evolutionary change.
A study by the Norwegian University of Life Sciences tracked almost every cat in a neighborhood, revealing that most outdoor pet cats stay within a short distance from their homes. The results showed that cats spend an average of 79% of their time outdoors within 50 meters of their home.
Urban mammals adjust their daily activities to evade human encounters, altering predator-prey dynamics and increasing human overlap. This multi-species study reveals the timing of mammalian behavior changes in response to urbanization.
Human activity on Hainan Island is causing changes in the body shapes and diets of tropical birds, resulting in biotic homogenisation. Despite efforts to protect biodiversity, the island's unique ecosystem is being affected by large-scale economic and land-use changes.
Researchers at Flinders University found that sharks can learn to avoid wasting time and energy on inaccessible food sources. The study, published in Animal Behaviour, reveals the decline of shark's natural response to prey when reward frequency is decreased or non-existent.
Research by the University of Bath found that weaver birds eating seeds live in colonies and have polygamous breeding, while those eating insects are solitary and monogamous. The study statistically supports an ecological hypothesis on social behavior first proposed 58 years ago.
A new study reveals that leafcutter ants employ complex strategies to maximize the growth of their fungal
A new study measures the happiness benefits of US city parks in the 25 largest cities, finding a powerful effect from urban nature on users. Park size and accessibility emerged as key predictors of happiness.
A study by researchers at the University of Plymouth reveals that energy-efficient broad spectrum lighting is reducing the efficacy of coastal species' camouflage. This can have significant impacts on visually guided ecological processes, with certain color variations being more vulnerable to detection.
A recent study found that COVID-19-derived plastic debris is contaminating marine ecosystems, with sea turtles being particularly affected. The research analyzed fecal samples from 76 sea turtles and detected the presence of face masks, which can leach endocrine-disrupting chemicals into the environment.
Researchers from Doshisha University discovered bats perceive spaces through echolocation as a distinct 'echo space', which changes as they become familiar with their environment. The study found that the direction of echoes correlates with bat flight paths and can be used to develop advanced sensors for navigation.
Research found that adult howler monkey play increases when faced with competition over fruit, a valuable resource. This playful behavior helps regulate relationships within the social group and avoid conflict, unlike collective grooming used by some other primates.
A surge in travel activity beyond pre-pandemic levels, known as 'anthropulse', is imminent, posing risks to the environment. Researchers are eager to study and document these impacts to inform sustainable future planning.
A comprehensive analysis of 1,800 bird species found that adult sex ratios are the main driving force behind differences in sex roles. Climate, life histories, and social environment were not significant factors. The study provides new insights into the evolution of sex roles in birds.
Scientists have discovered a Noble False Widow spider capturing and entangling two protected Pipistrelle bats in the UK. The discovery demonstrates the species' invasive impact on native species, with the spiders' venom capable of causing neuromuscular paralysis.
Seed dispersal rates by Central American agoutis are lower in ocelot habitats with high scent presence. This change allows bruchid beetles to attack seeds for longer periods, promoting forest diversification. The study's findings have implications for understanding the ecology of fear and its effects on ecosystems.
Researchers provide additional evidence that cleaner fish Labroides dimidiatus have Mirror Self-Recognition (MSR), passing the mark test with 94% positive result. The study addresses criticisms by using ecologically relevant marks and testing visual recognition of mirror images.
Scientists are creating a global audio collection of aquatic life to monitor changing marine life and identify new species. The GLUBS platform uses ocean hydrophones, AI, and citizen science to analyze soundscapes and track biodiversity on reefs and other ocean habitats.
Researchers found that genetic relatedness correlates with hormonal responses and behavioural reactions in fish, allowing for selective breeding of less-stressed fish. This approach could simplify breeding methods for aquaculture and aquariums.
Grackles' ability to inhibit previous behavior is linked to their flexibility, according to researchers. The study used various tests, including a touchscreen computer test, to assess inhibition and flexibility in grackles.
The study found that parent birds cut earthworms into smaller pieces and feed them to their nestlings, suggesting a specialized prey preparation behavior. The researchers believe this helps younger nestlings swallow food better.
Researchers found that males keep track of the order of their songs and how often each one is sung for up to 30 minutes. This complex behavior allows them to curate both their current playlist and the next one, with variations in song order and repeats.
A recent study highlights the need for inclusive forest conservation policies that learn from past mistakes. The researchers argue that top-down approaches can be harmful and accelerate deforestation, instead recommending local social impact assessments and indigenous involvement in policy-making.
A new study found that Tasmanian devils have picky diets and only consume their favorite foods, unlike most other scavengers. The researchers tracked the eating habits of 71 devils using whisker samples and found that most devils choose to dine on specific foods.
A new study reveals that children globally will confront peers when rules are broken, but their approach differs across cultures. Children from rural areas tend to use verbal protests more than urban kids, who may rely on indirect methods like reputation to enforce compliance.
In meerkat societies, testosterone-driven aggression enables cooperative breeding by creating a hierarchy where subordinates help raise the matriarch's pups. Researchers found that matriarchs' high testosterone levels drive their aggressive behavior, which maintains group structure.
Researchers find that male golden orb-weaving spiders use animal magnetism and physical forces to approach females without being detected. By sensing vibrations on the web, males can balance risk and reward to survive, demonstrating complex decision-making capabilities.
Researchers found that both male and female Guinea baboons initiate group departures and are equally successful in leading the group. The study's findings challenge the common assumption that only males lead groups, suggesting that social organization alone does not determine leadership roles.
Researchers found that honeybee colonies modify their social interactions and movement patterns in response to parasite infestations, increasing social distance between young and old bees. This adaptation helps reduce the spread of diseases while maintaining beneficial social behaviors.
A team of scientists tracked individual endangered Indiana bats and northern long-eared bats to understand their foraging behaviors and habitat preferences. The results show that most timber harvest strategies are neutral or even positive for the bats, with smaller patch cuts and thinning being compatible with conservation.
Researchers found that African greys waited up to 29.4 seconds for preferred food, while blue-throated macaws only waited 8.3 seconds. Pacing was the most effective waiting behaviour among parrots.
A new study shows that gorillas can distinguish between human voices, reacting with distress when hearing unfamiliar or negative voices. The apes' ability to gauge threats by familiarity of human voices has implications for their wild cousins.
Researchers found that rusty crayfish exhibit increased diet specialization and boldness in mid-abundance lakes, where individual behaviors become more diverse. This specialization can lead to impacts on spawning fish populations and ecosystem dynamics.
A new study reveals that male giraffes have higher social connectedness than females, with males forming more acquaintances and older males having shorter social paths. This complexity could impact conservation efforts for endangered giraffes.
Researchers found that tobacco hawkmoths learn to prefer certain plants for egg-laying after experiencing successful oviposition, leading to improved efficiency. The moths also remember flower odors guiding them to nectar sources, but not through their proboscis' olfactory neurons.
Researchers used a 'role-play' approach to study how Neanderthals caught choughs in caves. They found that the birds were vulnerable to artificial light and could be caught using nets or by hand. The findings suggest that catching birds was another skill of Neanderthals, which is surprising given their intelligence and adaptability.
Researchers found that boldness, aggressiveness, activity level, and sociability are key personality traits in golden-mantled ground squirrels. These traits impact their access to food, territory, and predators, highlighting the importance of understanding animal personalities in wildlife conservation.
Researchers discovered that male milkweed butterflies feed on live, dead, and dying caterpillars of other milkweed butterflies to supplement their diet with toxic chemicals. These chemicals help produce nuptial pheromones for courtship, raising questions about the ecology of these well-known butterflies.
A systematic review of 169 conservation projects worldwide reveals that Indigenous and local communities are crucial for successful nature conservation. The study found that equitable conservation approaches, empowering local communities, yield positive outcomes for both humans and the environment. However, complex factors such as comm...
A new study from the University of California, Santa Cruz, develops a comprehensive framework to determine when short-term changes in behavior caused by human activities have biological significance. The framework highlights the importance of life history traits and specific characteristics of disturbances in assessing vulnerability.