Biodiversity Threats

Protected area managers across Europe are adapting to climate change

Relaxing rules on carbon markets would undermine climate action, scientists warn

Researchers caution that weakening core safeguards in carbon markets risk worsening climate impacts and increasing net carbon emissions. Indigenous land stewardship is vital for maintaining intact ecosystems and vital carbon sinks, but alternative support mechanisms are needed to preserve the integrity of climate action.

Biomonitoring the Anthropocene: NY's East River becomes a living biosensor

A year-long study of NYC's East River used environmental DNA to reveal insights into urban wildlife activity, human food consumption and ecosystem health. The findings suggest that urban waterways can become continuous biosensors tracking biodiversity and habitat restoration outcomes.

One in five assessed soil species at risk of extinction, data needed for thousands more - study

A new report warns that over 40% of soil-dependent species are at risk of extinction. The study highlights the importance of conserving these species for food security and mitigating global warming.

Halting and reversing biodiversity loss by 2030 critical to avoid disastrous effects on human well-being

A new paper warns that halting and reversing biodiversity loss by 2030 is urgent to avoid destabilizing the Earth's vital systems. The authors call for a unified 'Nature Positive' approach to global environmental goals and governance.

Researchers warn against securitized response to global biodiversity loss

Researchers warn that a securitized response to global biodiversity loss could lead to poorly targeted actions and policy. They highlight concerns over migration claims and call for evidence-based, non-securitised policy.

Wildfires an increasing threat for species during climate change

A study by researchers at the University of Gothenburg finds that wildfires pose an ever-increasing threat to biodiversity, with nearly 84% of vulnerable species facing a higher risk by the end of this century. Climate action can reduce the occurrence of wildfires and mitigate the risks to species worldwide.

‘Nothing is changing,’ SFU researcher warns B.C.’s endangered species lacking protection

A new Simon Fraser University research reveals that thousands of British Columbia's endangered species are not receiving the necessary help to survive. The study found that only a few species have shown signs of recovery since 2008, while many more are declining due to lack of legislative protection.

We have just 20 years to stop spiraling decline in British biodiversity

A new study warns of a 20-year window to act on climate and land use policies to prevent further biodiversity loss in Britain. Sustainable practices like strong emissions action and reduced meat consumption could save up to 69 fewer species from extinction.

Wildlife-friendly landscapes dramatically boost biodiversity in fragmented forests

A new study reveals that improving surrounding landscape quality can increase bird species survival in forest remnants, with modest increases in nearby tree cover substantially boosting numbers. This contradicts traditional views on habitat fragmentation and highlights the importance of a more hospitable matrix for conservation.

40 migratory animal species receive new or upgraded protection at close of UN meeting in Brazil

Parties to the Convention on Migratory Species agree to list 40 additional species on Appendices I and II, including iconic species like cheetahs, hyenas, and great hammerhead sharks. The agreement also includes multi-species conservation plans for key regions like the Amazon.

New UN-backed atlas maps migratory lifelines of highly vulnerable bird species across the americas

The Americas Flyways Atlas charts critical habitats spanning 56 countries, revealing key breeding, stopover, and wintering sites for 89 highly vulnerable migratory bird species. The atlas provides governments with a blueprint to protect these birds from habitat loss, infrastructure, and climate change.

Global initiative to address mounting pressures from illegal and unsustainable taking of migratory species announced at UN wildlife conference

The Global Initiative on the Taking of Migratory Species (GTI) aims to tackle the root causes of illegal and unsustainable taking, safeguarding wildlife and livelihoods. The initiative focuses on improving data, strengthening laws, engaging communities, and raising awareness.

Amid new findings that more migratory species of animals are facing extinction nations gather in Brazil to agree on actions

Nations are coming together at the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) to address declining population trends and extinction threats among migratory species. The meeting aims to establish conservation policies and protections for over 2,000 species under threat.

Share of migratory wild animal species with declining populations despite UN treaty protections worsens from 44% to 49% in two years; 24% face extinction, up 2%

The interim update to the State of the World's Migratory Species report warns that 49% of migratory species populations are declining, with 24% facing extinction, due to habitat loss and overexploitation. The report highlights the need for coordinated international action to address these threats and protect migratory species.

Study finds Earth may have twice as many vertebrate species as previously thought

A new study led by University of Arizona researchers suggests that global vertebrate biodiversity has been significantly underestimated, with on average two unrecognized species for every recognized one. This finding could have consequences for conservation efforts if these hidden species are not properly identified.

UMaine researcher develops model to protect freshwater fish worldwide from extinction

A computer model identifies potential threats to over 10,000 freshwater species worldwide, offering a cost-effective way to safeguard species before they become endangered. The tool analyzes 52 variables, including damming, pollution, and habitat degradation, to recognize ecological patterns that benefit multiple species at once.

Roadmap for Europe’s biodiversity monitoring system

A new study proposes a comprehensive roadmap for Europe's biodiversity monitoring system, which could become a global model. The system would track changes in species and ecosystems using 84 Essential Biodiversity Variables and integrate data from various sources, including DNA, digital technologies, and human expertise.

Hidden insect diversity in grass shoots threatened by mowing

Researchers identified 255 insect species in perennial grasses, but few in annual grasses, highlighting the importance of unmown refuges for biodiversity

Satellite images indicate that the Doñana Marshland will disappear within 60 years

Microscopic plankton reveal tropicalization of the Mediterranean Sea

A recent study identifies plankton tropicalization in the western Mediterranean, indicating ocean warming impacts on marine ecosystems. Rising sea surface temperatures alter the base of marine food webs, affecting planktonic primary producers and consumers.

7,000 years of change: How humans reshaped Caribbean coral reef food chains

Researchers used a novel nitrogen isotope method to reconstruct ancient reef food webs, revealing that modern reefs have shorter and less diverse food chains. This loss of functional diversity makes modern coral reefs more prone to collapse, highlighting the need for conservation efforts.

From practice to policy: why farmer collaboration matters for biodiversity

A new study highlights the importance of farmer-led collaboration in addressing biodiversity loss in agricultural landscapes. Farmer clusters, groups of farmers working together to support biodiversity-sensitive farming, show varying levels of maturity and collaboration, influenced by factors such as leadership quality and institutiona...

Businesses can either lead transformative change or risk extinction: IPBES

A new report by the Intergovernmental Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) emphasizes the critical role of businesses in halting and reversing biodiversity loss. Businesses can either drive transformative change or risk extinction, as they rely on and impact nature. The report provides methods and 100+ actions for bu...

Experts show how major UK food crisis might occur

A new report by Anglia Ruskin University and the University of York identifies key weaknesses in the UK's food system and recommends interventions to prevent disruptions from escalating into a crisis. The study suggests increasing energy security, diversifying food value chains, and promoting varied diets to reduce risks.

Citizen science activities for biodiversity monitoring continue to deliver outstanding results across Portugal

The BioMARatona Portugal citizen science initiative has achieved an unprecedented milestone with a notable increase in observations gathered and recorded species. Over 5,000 observations and 450 documented species have been accumulated since 2024, mapping diverse types of coastal species.

Chicago Botanic Garden, The Morton Arboretum pledge to safeguard threatened species for Reverse the Red Day

The Chicago Botanic Garden and The Morton Arboretum have pledged to protect endangered species such as Cucharillo and Stone's Paphiopedilum through collaborative conservation strategies. These institutions will co-host the 9th Global Botanic Gardens Congress in 2027 to accelerate crucial conservation work.

Living walls boost biodiversity by providing safe spaces for urban wildlife

A new study has found that living walls can significantly enhance urban biodiversity by attracting pollinators and other wildlife. The research revealed that soil-based living walls with plants in soil attracted more wildlife than those with artificial substrates, and specific plant species like ivy and honeysuckle were most effective.

Socio-environmental movements: key global guardians of biodiversity amid rising violence

A new study reveals that socio-environmental mobilizations play a critical role in global biodiversity conservation by resisting environmental degradation. These local struggles often overlap with global conservation priorities, highlighting the need for policy shifts to recognize and support these movements.

More than 55% of Cerrado native vegetation already lost, new review reveals

A comprehensive review highlights the Cerrado's ecological crisis, with over 55% of native vegetation lost primarily for agricultural expansion. The region faces a silent water crisis, threatening biodiversity, economy, and climate resilience.

New species are now being discovered faster than ever before, study suggests

According to a University of Arizona-led study, scientists are discovering new species at a rate that far exceeds extinction. The team analyzed taxonomic histories of 2 million species and found an average of more than 16,000 new species each year, including insects, plants, fungi, and vertebrates.

New research highlights the need for region-responsive conservation planning over universal frameworks

A new study reveals regional vulnerability of plant-pollinator networks to climate change, emphasizing the need for tailored conservation approaches. Tailored strategies can enhance biodiversity protection in tropical regions, but may offer minimal benefit in temperate zones.

Human impact on Amazon forests is transforming its ecological functions and evolutionary history

A new study reveals that human disturbances, such as logging and wildfires, are profoundly impacting the Amazon rainforest's ecological functions and evolutionary history. The researchers found that even sustainable management practices, like selective logging, have significant negative impacts on tree diversity.

How the arts and science can jointly protect nature

A new study reveals that collaborations between conservationists and artists can generate new knowledge, attract funding, and catalyze behavioral change. By working together, artists and conservationists can co-create ideas, develop more effective solutions, and shape public attitudes towards nature.

Landscapes for biodiversity, food, climate and more

Researchers evaluate ways to redesign land use and nature conservation using integrated approaches to meet ecological, social, and economic goals. Multifunctional landscapes can promote biodiversity, food production, climate regulation, and human well-being.

Tool reveals how your dinner affects the risk of 30,875 species of land-dwelling animal going extinct

Researchers developed a tool to measure food production's impact on species survival, finding that eating beef and lamb has the biggest effect on extinctions. Switching to vegetarian diets could halve biodiversity impact in the UK.

Africa’s wildlife has lost a third of its natural ‘power’, Oxford-led study warns

A new Oxford-led study reveals Africa's wildlife ecosystems are running on less than two-thirds of their natural energy, posing risks to biodiversity and the livelihoods that depend on it. The research uses an ecosystem energetics approach to quantify how energy flows through food webs, finding that smaller species now dominate Africa'...

The Crown Princess of Sweden honoured with a professorship in biodiversity

The Crown Princess of Sweden has been honoured with a professorship in biodiversity at the University of Gothenburg. The professorship, valued at 20 million Swedish kronor, will enable researchers to pursue interdisciplinary research and promote sustainability.

Diversity in forest management promotes biodiversity

Researchers found that species diversity is highest in landscapes with 60% unmanaged forests and 40% intensively managed forests. Extensively managed forests contribute little to support species richness, but improving their ecological performance can help maintain forest biodiversity.

Biodiversity needs more than just flower strips

Researchers at the University of Göttingen argue that creating diverse landscapes with various habitats is necessary for biodiversity preservation. Habitat diversity can include arable land, natural areas, and structures like nesting sites, promoting species movement and reduced extinction risk.

Plants, islands and climate change: Biologist Julian Schrader receives an ERC Starting Grant

Dr. Julian Schrader will investigate the interaction between climate change and plant species spread on islands using a 1.5 million euro grant. He aims to close the knowledge gap on migration processes and their consequences for species communities.

Even untouched ecosystems are losing insects at alarming rates, new study finds

A new study reveals that insect abundance is declining by an average annual rate of 6.6% in relatively undisturbed landscapes, leading to significant losses even in pristine areas. Climate change is identified as a key driver of these declines, highlighting the urgent need for biodiversity conservation.

Chinese scientists reveal hidden extinction crisis in native flora

A new study reveals a hidden extinction crisis in China's native flora, showing that habitat decline over the past four decades has sharply increased extinction risks nationwide. The findings suggest that current conservation efforts are failing to keep pace with biodiversity threats.

Oxford study outlines new blueprint to help tackle the biodiversity impacts of farming

A new framework developed by Oxford researchers helps agricultural sectors track and address biodiversity impacts, identifying areas where progress in one area may harm others. The study's safeguards act as checks and balances, ensuring that improvements in one area do not mask problems in another.

Major discovery of Ice Age bones in a Norwegian cave opens a window into the past

Scientists have uncovered the remains of a vast animal community that lived in the European Arctic 75,000 years ago. The bones represent the oldest example of an animal community in the region during this warmer period of the ice age, providing valuable insights into how wildlife responded to dramatic climate shifts.

Media–public disconnect on wild meat narratives in central Africa during COVID-19

A new study reveals a disconnect between media and public perceptions on the risks of consuming wild meat in Central Africa during COVID-19. Researchers found that people's perceptions were more influenced by their personal experience, with domesticated red meat viewed as the riskiest protein source for disease.

Clearing rainforest for cattle farming is far worse for nature than previously thought, finds landmark bird survey

Researchers conducted the world's biggest bird survey in Colombia, recording 971 species and finding that clearing rainforest for cattle pasture causes a 60% greater biodiversity loss than previously thought. The study highlights the need for policymakers to consider the larger-scale impact of deforestation on biodiversity.

Here are the flowers that both bees and humans like best

Researchers from the University of Copenhagen and UK identified a set of flower mixtures that attract both pollinators and delight the human eye. The study found that seed mixes containing species like yarrow, cornflower, and purple viper's bugloss establish themselves better in soil and bloom for longer.

Same ecosystem, different fix

A new study by the University of Göttingen and Freie Universität Berlin found that Mediterranean-type regions require tailored restoration methods due to varying soil and climate conditions. The research suggests that compromises are often needed, and what works best depends on local goals and conditions.

Top scientists call for permanent ban on high seas exploitation

A group of top scientists, including Professor Callum Roberts and Professor Johan Rockström, are calling for a permanent ban on extractive activities in international waters. The authors argue that stopping all extractive activity would prevent irreversible damage to the climate, marine biodiversity, and ocean equity.

Could conserving tigers in forests be an integral part of climate change solutions?

Research published in Global Change Biology found that tiger presence is associated with higher forest vegetation carbon stocks, lower carbon dioxide emissions, and higher carbon dioxide removal. Tiger density also seems to have a guardian effect to protect forests from deforestation and associated carbon emissions.

Intensifying farmland can sometimes degrade biodiversity more than expansion

A new study by University College London researchers suggests that intensifying existing farmland can degrade local biodiversity more than expanding agricultural land, depending on factors like region and crop type. The study highlights the need for sustainable intensification techniques to mitigate the impact of farming on the environ...

New pests and diseases will cut UK tree growth

A new study predicts that new plant pests and diseases will severely damage UK trees and woodlands by 2050, potentially losing over half of their growth. The research highlights the need for increased tree diversity and resilience to biocontrol measures.

Paying fishers to release endangered catches can aid conservation, but only if done right

A new study found that a pay-to-release programme increased live releases of endangered species caught as bycatch, but also encouraged some vessels to increase their catches at the expense of conservation goals. Adjustments have been made to improve the programme's effectiveness.

Invasive weed threatens Southern California’s deserts

Saharan mustard is overwhelming native plants' seed bank, reducing biodiversity and weakening ecosystems. The invasive species can crowd out native species, altering ecosystem function.

Nature positive: lots of rhetoric, little reality

A new study by Griffith University reveals that the term 'nature positive' is being used more for political rhetoric than actual conservation efforts, posing a threat to biodiversity. The research found that only 0.01% of the global tourism sector makes net positive contributions to conservation.

Insects are disappearing due to agriculture – and many other drivers, new research reveals

A new study analyzing over 175 scientific reviews found that agricultural intensification is a major driver of insect decline, but climate change has multiple individual drivers such as extreme precipitation and temperature. The research highlights the need for a multi-pronged approach to conserve insect biodiversity.

Amazon research tackles £50 million parasite devastating fish farmers around the world

A mysterious parasite is devastating fish farms globally, causing £50 million in losses annually. Researchers have discovered a new gene regulation process that could lead to the development of gene-based vaccines.

How proactive salmon conservation in the North Pacific can deliver global benefits

A new study reveals how proactive salmon conservation in the North Pacific can protect biodiversity and advance global conservation goals. The stronghold strategy aims to proactively protect iconic salmon systems that sustain healthy watersheds, safeguarding food security and mitigating climate change.

Colourful city birds

A recent study found that urban bird species exhibit more elaborate colours and less brown plumage compared to those that fail to thrive in cities. This suggests that urbanization plays a role in shaping the colouration of birds in these environments.