Articles tagged with Biodiversity Conservation
Researchers found that extensive, unfertilized grasslands promote biodiversity and soil protection, while pastures and meadows provide cultural services. The study suggests a combination of different grassland types is necessary to sustain all ecosystem services.
The BiCIKL project has shared lessons learned on improving data findability, accessibility, interoperability, and reusability (FAIR-ness) of various biodiversity data types. The project's policy briefs provide recommendations for policymakers and research funders to adopt best practices and guidelines.
Researchers discovered very high genetic diversity in South African leopards, which increases the need for conservation efforts. The leopards' two maternal lineages overlap, leading to this high genetic diversity.
Researchers found that natural shorelines support a higher number of fish species and abundance compared to armored shores. The study suggests de-arming and restoring shorelines can aid aquatic biodiversity.
The introduction of the Silver croaker fish to a Brazilian reservoir has led to a sharp decline in native species diversity. The study, published in Biological Invasions, analyzed data from 2001-2016 and found that the invader had become the most abundant fish species, negatively affecting local biodiversity.
Research suggests mainstreaming biodiversity targets into policies and plans across sectors has been ineffective due to non-binding commitments and insufficient resources. The study highlights the need for top-down regulation and incentives to encourage greater commitment to nature recovery.
A new study found that low-intensity grazing systems offer benefits for local biodiversity protection, but struggle due to inflexible regulations and a lack of workforce. Land users face economic constraints and restrictive policies, leading to declining participation in sustainable practices.
Researchers emphasize that field stations studying primates contribute to biodiversity conservation by deterring poaching, deforestation, and natural resource extraction. The authors call for increased funding and support for red colobus conservation efforts.
A comprehensive meta-analysis of 186 studies found that conservation actions improved biodiversity in 66% of cases, slowing decline or increasing species populations. While some interventions were ineffective, they still provided valuable knowledge for refining methods and addressing systemic drivers of biodiversity loss.
A large multi-model study published in Science found global biodiversity declined 2-11% due to land-use change. Climate change could become main driver of biodiversity loss by mid-century, with combined effects leading to decline in all world regions.
The lionfish species has significantly expanded its territory in the Mediterranean since its invasion began around ten years ago. Lionfish are generalist predators that impact ecosystems by preying extensively on local fishes, including endemics of high conservation value.
A large multi-model study found global biodiversity declined between 2% and 11% due to land-use change alone. Climate change could overtake land-use change as primary driver of biodiversity loss by mid-century.
The Hong Kong Biodiversity Genomics Consortium has launched a project to sequence the genomes of its eukaryotic biodiversity, which is rich in species but threatened by climate change. The first five genomes have been published in GigaByte Journal to coincide with International DNA Day.
A 14-year study in the Brazilian savanna-like biome found that tree basal area increased while density decreased, and community diversity increased slightly. The researchers discovered that 54% of initial trees had died, replaced by new growth, highlighting the rapid degeneration of cerradão into a biodiversity-poor forest formation.
Researchers assess the effectiveness of population-based recovery actions for southern mountain caribou, finding that interventions have stabilized herd numbers but require decades of habitat restoration. The study highlights the importance of evidence-based solutions to support caribou conservation.
A new study from King's College London found that environments with a diverse range of natural features are associated with stronger improvements in mental wellbeing. The research, published in Scientific Reports, used citizen science data from nearly 2000 participants and found that the benefits can last for up to eight hours.
A new species of aquatic insect, Potamophylax kosovaensis, has been discovered in the Ibër River Basin in Kosovo. The species is already considered endangered due to habitat destruction and pollution, highlighting the need for urgent conservation efforts.
A research team at TUM and University of Hohenheim developed a promising approach to reconciling biodiversity conservation with agricultural productivity. Hybrid intelligence leverages collective human judgment and artificial intelligence to simulate biodiversity measures and support joint decision-making.
The event standardised and improved accessibility of biodiversity data, enabling informed policy-making and conservation efforts. Ten teams showcased their solutions to a jury of experts, with winning projects illustrating the versatility of data cubes in facilitating biodiversity conservation.
A landmark study by Macquarie University researchers shows that juvenile 'taster toads' can teach goannas to avoid eating poisonous cane toads, preventing population collapse. Goanna populations increased by up to 140% in areas where the 'taster toad' method was trialled.
A recent study found that 78% of the world's bird species struggle to thrive in heavily modified environments, leading to declining populations and increased risk of extinction. Conservation efforts can be targeted towards species most sensitive to human activity, such as the Great Snipe and Nkulengu Rail.
Despite being in place to rebuild fish populations, marine protected areas have flatlined or declined adult fish populations. Strong enforcement and climate-friendly design are crucial for their success.
A new global study by the University of Copenhagen and University of Hohenheim finds that diversified agriculture improves food security, biodiversity, and well-being while having no negative effect on yields. Strategies such as livestock diversification and soil conservation yield positive outcomes.
A recent study reveals that the demand for critical minerals in Africa is putting African Great Apes at risk due to deforestation and habitat destruction. The study estimates that more than 180,000 gorillas, bonobos, and chimpanzees are at risk, with West African countries like Guinea being the most severely affected.
Researchers from the Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo, demonstrated a new method for visualizing vegetation gradients in hilly terrain. This analysis showed that 'hillslope-impacted vegetation' is a common global phenomenon, widely distributed across various climates and regions.
Researchers have discovered a virus that infects the fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis, which causes heart failure in frogs and toads. The virus could be engineered to control the fungal disease and potentially save amphibian species.
A study from Technical University Berlin suggests 'sufficiency' as a key strategy for protecting biodiversity by reducing consumption and resource use. The research proposes a detailed sufficiency typology to integrate the term in biodiversity conservation efforts.
A recent study reveals that old-growth forest canopy soils support rich and unique invertebrate diversity, which is slow to recover from human disturbance. The research found a higher diversity of invertebrates in canopy soils compared to surface soil animals.
A study by Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research and Macquarie University highlights the ecological value of orchard meadows in Central Europe. The research team advocates for moderate management intensity, connectivity to neighboring habitats, and preservation of structural diversity to maintain biodiversity.
A new study reveals how deep-seated geographic isolation drove divergent evolutionary paths among mammals, resulting in unique biodiversity patterns. The research highlights the crucial role of isolation in shaping modern ecosystems, with implications for conservation efforts and understanding the delicate balance of ecosystems.
A new study finds that Europe's forgotten forests have the potential to support high species diversity and resilience to climate change. The Eurasian aspen, a keystone species, is well-suited to thrive in these environments due to its ability to regenerate quickly and colonize new areas.
A study predicts that climate change will lead to a major species turnover in North American cities by the end of the century. Cities with cooler and wetter climates are expected to gain new species, while warmer cities may lose many species.
A new plan published in Nature Communications advocates for conserving natural areas and promoting biodiversity to prevent pandemic outbreaks. The roadmap aims to prevent pathogens from spilling over into humans by preserving habitats and ensuring animals have adequate food sources and safe havens.
A new study predicts that Australia's soil will become a net emitter of carbon dioxide, releasing more CO2 into the air than it absorbs. This could account for 8.3% of current emissions and worsen climate change unless farming methods are improved.
The study emphasizes the need for international cooperation to implement ecological interventions, such as protecting food sources and natural habitats, to prevent pathogen spillover. By conserving biodiversity, bats can be less stressed, reducing their shedding of viruses that can infect humans.
A new study shows that species richness is strongly correlated with forest productivity, while phylogenetic and functional diversity are negatively correlated. This finding suggests that focusing on planting more tree species can be an effective way to restore degraded ecosystems.
Bee colonies face a critical 'hungry gap' when recommended pollinator plants start blooming too late in the spring, resulting in low colony survival and queen production. Adding early-blooming species like ground ivy and red dead-nettle to existing hedgerows can improve colony success rates significantly.
Scientists have found that climate change is altering the timing of plant and soil processes in the Alps, leading to disruptions in nutrient cycling and potentially threatening biodiversity. The high mountains are warming at a faster rate than surrounding areas, resulting in reduced snow cover and changes in vegetation patterns.
The Integrating Finance & Biodiversity for a Nature Positive programme aims to build knowledge, tools, and collaboration to support sustainable investments. By incorporating biodiversity impact into financial decision-making, the programme seeks to reduce the global economy's damage and improve sustainability.
A new study published in Trends and Ecology & Evolution recommends using absolute abundance to monitor biodiversity, providing a more precise estimate of species population sizes. This method is harder to collect but offers a more accurate picture of biodiversity, enabling effective conservation actions and policy decisions.
A new approach to species identification has been developed, combining DNA testing with other factors like behavior and geography to confirm discoveries. This method addresses the limitations of DNA testing alone in identifying new species, particularly when forces like natural selection affect genetic code.
The rapid assessment of the Kakhovka Dam breach has estimated that half a million hectares of protected habitats have been exposed to hazards, including nutrients and pollutants. The study will support international action to restore a biodiversity hotspot in southern Ukraine.
A recent study found that urban hawks are vulnerable to a range of threats, including collisions with windows and direct killing by humans. The researchers used GPS transmitters to track the movements of 158 female Cooper's hawks in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and found that 88 died over the course of 11 years.
A study by IB-UNICAMP researchers showed that restoring biodiverse ecosystems can prevent exotic grass invasion, which is hard to eradicate. The study found that higher plant diversity reduces invasion, likely due to competition for resources in the nutrient-poor soil.
A team of scientists has discovered over 1,000 new plant and lichen species in Agguttinni Territorial Park, including rare species found nowhere else in Canada. The comprehensive checklist provides valuable information for park managers and botanists, aiding in the conservation and management of the protected area.
A study found over 40% of loggerhead sea turtles in the Mediterranean contained macroplastics, including a Halloween toy. Researchers say these turtles could be used as 'bioindicator' species to understand the impact of plastic pollution.
A new study identifies conservation priority areas for vascular plants in Madagascar, highlighting uneven distribution of taxon richness and phylogenetic diversity. The researchers found that arid and semi-arid regions lack protected areas, presenting additional conservation challenges.
A new study maps the potential impact of renewable energy on biodiversity in the southwestern US. Joshua trees and kit foxes are expected to lose significant habitats by 2070 due to climate change. The study suggests advanced computer modeling can help site renewable energy resources without overlapping with biodiversity hotspots.
Researchers propose a new method for calculating biodiversity conservation costs, which considers the increase in monetary value of nature over time. This approach aims to make biodiversity loss and nature conservation more visible in political decision-making, potentially increasing the likelihood of projects passing a cost-benefit test.
Researchers at Uppsala University have discovered eight new deep-sea species of marine sponges in the Balearic Islands, increasing the ecological importance of the region. The study reveals a strong case for the inclusion of underwater mountains and caves within the Natura 2000 Network, emphasizing the need for conservation efforts.
A new study by 173 conservation scientists found that field research stations have a substantial impact on habitat quality, reducing deforestation and hunting rates. The stations also support local economies and generate significant scientific output, informing conservation policies.
Researchers at McGill University found that biodiversity change measurements are uncertain in many places, making it difficult to evaluate the effectiveness of conservation efforts. To address this issue, they suggest proposing a risk framework and investing in national and international biodiversity monitoring systems.
Genetic research revealed many new fern species in tropical America, with 18 newly named and described species. The study found that similar-looking species were previously thought to be a single widespread species.
Researchers from Kobe University have discovered a new plant genus and species of Thismiaceae family, found primarily in southern Japan. The plant, named Relictithismia kimotsukiensis, feeds on fungal mycelia and is extremely rare, with only four individuals found in the same area.
A major research programme found that climate change risks to human and natural systems greatly increase with global warming, leading to droughts, flooding, crop yields decline, and loss of biodiversity. Limiting global warming to 1.5 ºC could reduce these risks by up to 61% in some countries.
A new study reveals that even small incremental increases in tree cover on agricultural land in mountain regions can provide significant climate change mitigation benefits within a decade. Agroforestry practices can help conserve irrecoverable carbon, improve biodiversity, and enhance ecosystem services in mountain systems.
A new study finds that biodiversity is becoming more similar through time, but an almost equal number of communities are becoming more distinct. The analysis of 527 datasets shows a balanced trend between homogenisation and differentiation across landscapes.
Researchers analyzed over 200 butterfly and moth genomes to understand their evolutionary history. They found that chromosomes have remained largely unchanged since the last common ancestor over 250 million years ago, despite the diversity seen today in wing patterns and caterpillar forms.
A study of 151 popular dishes found that those made with beef, chicken, legumes, and rice have a significant impact on biodiversity. Dishes from Brazil and India were found to have large biodiversity footprints due to the conversion of natural habitats to agricultural land.
A recent study reveals that converting rainforests to plantations erodes and restructures food webs, fundamentally changing their functioning. The researchers found that energy flows differently in plantation ecosystems compared to rainforests, with a greater emphasis on invasive species and reduced predation.