Articles tagged with Conservation Biology
A mid-term assessment of China's 10-year Yangtze fishing ban reveals broad ecological signals, including increased fish body length and species richness. However, recovery is uneven and challenges such as habitat fragmentation and climate extremes remain unresolved.
Researchers found five deep-sea species to exhibit genetic warning signs associated with elevated extinction risk, with one species losing 8% of its genetic diversity over 12 years. Genetic diversity is essential for species survival, and the study highlights the importance of long-term monitoring to detect changes in marine populations.
Researchers at the University of Tartu have developed a method to create detailed 3D models of plants using consumer-grade cameras, allowing for the preservation of living collections. The technique, combining photogrammetry and 3D Gaussian Splatting, enables the capture of plant growth over time and creates interactive virtual walkthr...
New research reveals a dramatic decline in suitable habitat for nearly 1,000 cactus species, with over a quarter at risk of losing 80% of their habitat by the end of the century. Climate change makes extreme events more frequent, and conventional distribution models fail to capture these impacts.
Two coral atolls in the Pacific Ocean, Bikar and Bokak, are found to be some of the most intact ecosystems remaining in the region, teeming with life. The study assesses sea- and shorebird populations, vegetation, turtle nesting, coral reefs, and fish assemblages, providing a comprehensive ecological baseline for conservation efforts.
A new study published in Nature confirms that higher microplastic exposure in more human-disturbed areas results in higher microplastic burdens in terrestrial animals. The study found that concentrations in the blood were significantly higher among free-ranging animals whose home ranges included more intensive human disturbance.
A Mississippi State doctoral student has earned national recognition for using near-infrared spectroscopy to screen the health of Eastern hellbenders, a 160-million-year-old amphibian species. The research technique provides a minimally invasive way to assess animal health and support population growth.
The new tool ZonationR simplifies conservation planning by automating the workflow and allowing users to systematically explore and compare alternative scenarios. It helps researchers understand the impact of methodological choices on conservation priorities.
The Siberian crane's population has grown, but its health is threatened by antibiotic residues and microplastic particles in its habitat. The study proposes a new approach to conservation by prioritizing population health over headcount.
A University of Oxford-led study found that demand for saiga antelope horn in Singapore is driven by misconceptions and cultural traditions, despite conservation efforts. The study involved focus groups with Chinese Singaporeans, who cited habit and perceived government approval as reasons for continuing to buy the horn.
The CT scans of Jeremy Bentham's head have provided valuable insights into his life and after-life, showing that he suffered from chronic toothache and a jaw riddled with arthritis. The scans also reveal further physiological factors, such as tissue structure and preservation choices, which were previously unknown.
After decades of absence, the Eurasian otter has re-emerged in Kashmir Valley, with researchers detecting viral social-media video records, field surveys, and diagnostic otter spraints. The species' reappearance signals improved ecosystem resilience, but modern landscapes create novel risks, including habitat loss and pollution.
The total population of Antarctic blue whales is estimated at 4,018, representing 1.9% of the pre-whaling population. The species is still critically endangered, but the study suggests a cautious optimistic picture for their recovery, with a growth rate of 4.5% per year.
A 22-year nationwide study found China's mangrove area grew 166% since 1998, with bird species increasing from 148 to 397 and IUCN Red List threatened species rising 91%. Restoration efforts have delivered real ecological gains, with average vegetation cover climbing from 31% to 38%.
The study identifies Europe and Northwest Africa as the hardest-hit regions, with amphibians and insects primarily threatened by agricultural activities. The research provides a new, freshwater-specific baseline for conservation, highlighting areas that require urgent action.
The report highlights the importance of integrating long-term ecological evidence, locally grounded practices, and diverse knowledge systems into biodiversity monitoring and restoration planning. It demonstrates how ecosystems have been shaped by human interactions and knowledge systems over thousands of years.
A UBC-led global review found that relocating amphibians and reptiles to make way for development rarely leads to long-term conservation success. Conservation-focused relocations showed population growth or potential for survival over the long term, with only 6% of development-related relocations achieving population growth.
A new study led by Dr. John Stewart from Bournemouth University solved the 150-year-old mystery of the extinct giant crane's identity. The researchers found that the bones were from larger versions of the current common crane, not a separate extinct species.
A University of Cambridge-led study reveals how Brazil's presidents have affected environmental destruction, with Lula's term showing a significant decline in Amazon deforestation, while the Cerrado saw a 50% increase in habitat losses under Bolsonaro's presidency.
The Applied Microbiology International Horizon Awards 2026 recognize outstanding achievements in applied microbiology, with three winners announced: Professor Chris Greening for global impact, Professor Marciane Magnani for food safety and security, and Professor James Ebdon for public health innovation.
Conservation experts highlight the importance of recognizing places that sustain biodiversity beyond national parks, including Indigenous communities and private landowners. Effective governance and management are crucial for lasting benefits. The review aims to support widening conservation efforts and strengthening relationships betw...
A cross-border analysis of Alpine peatlands reveals widespread signs of disturbance, with many bogs smaller than previously mapped. The findings highlight the need for targeted conservation and restoration interventions to protect these critical ecosystems.
A new special issue in Nature Conservation brings together contributions from the international conference
Researchers have developed an affordable, open-source air quality monitoring device for wildlife, tracking particulate matter and providing insights into smoke exposure and behavior. The device can be attached to animal collars, filling gaps in data and delivering health insights for people exposed to smoke.
Researchers analyzed ancient, modern, and contemporary bat samples to understand population dynamics and identify genetic differences between northern and southern populations. The study highlights the importance of preserving genetically diverse populations and informs conservation actions for the species.
Researchers from SDSU's Native Plant Initiative conducted 60 detailed interviews to understand the complex native seed systems operating in the Northern Great Plains region. They found distinct seed networks, including commercial and Tribal systems, with different people, relationships, and goals.
A University of Sydney study has identified three common factors tied to conservation success in fragile ecosystems, including local knowledge, community involvement, and adaptive management. These factors were found to be crucial in supporting ecosystems despite climate change and habitat loss, providing a framework for conservation e...
A comprehensive assessment of jaguar connectivity across the Americas has identified key habitats and movement corridors that could guide conservation efforts. The study found a vast connected landscape spanning across 11 countries, with major connectivity gaps in parts of Mexico, Central America, and the Atlantic Forest.
A review paper highlights the importance of insect biodiversity in supporting vertebrate life, from food sources to shelter and medicine. The study emphasizes the need for insect conservation to address the decline of insect populations, which can have significant impacts on ecosystems.
A study led by UCalgary researchers found that both recreation and roads impact wolverine populations in western Alberta and eastern British Columbia. The study shows that recreation is linked to lower population density in a carnivore, and road density affects females the most.
A seven-year study of Barred Owls in California shows a significant decline in exposure to the most lethal class of rodenticides, attributed to the state's policy restrictions. The study also detects a new contaminant, cholecalciferol, in nearly one in five owls, suggesting product substitution as older compounds become harder to access.
Research finds that controlled Crown-of-thorns starfish populations can support coral diversity by preventing dominant species from monopolizing reef space. This helps increase coral diversity. COTS feeding on fast-growing corals like Acropora creates space for slower-growing species like Montipora and Porites to persist.
A UCF researcher is using genomics, ecology, and long-term field monitoring to better understand how genetic rescue can help recover imperiled species. The project involves translocating Florida scrub-jays to a new site to increase genetic diversity and improve population health.
Researchers found that AI-generated images can improve species identification and biodiversity monitoring when real images are limited. However, the synthetic images were less effective than real images overall, highlighting the importance of community science and real-world observations.
A global review found that rising sea levels will negatively impact shorebird habitats and populations, while human infrastructure exacerbates the issue. Researchers urge planners to protect space inland of existing wetlands, remove artificial barriers, and enhance sediment supplies to mitigate the effects of sea-level rise.
Research shows that a moderate presence of pikas improves the composition of vegetation for grazing yaks, increasing the abundance and nutritional quality of palatable grasses and sedges. This moderate presence helps suppress tall poisonous plants, thereby facilitating weight gains in yaks.
A study found that feeding and watching birds positively impacts people's well-being, reducing stress and increasing feelings of joy, gratitude, and calm. The activity also fosters engagement and a sense of meaning, as participants feel they are connecting with nature and contributing to science.
A new species of leafless flowering plant, Thismia daemona, has been discovered in Thong Pha Phum National Park in western Thailand. The species, which belongs to the genus Thismia, is critically endangered due to its limited population size and fragile habitat.
Motion-triggered cameras revealed the frequency of 'nectar robbing' in Hawaiian flowers, which damages flowers and reduces nectar availability. In contrast, plants were able to produce fruit and viable seeds despite damage, indicating adaptations to the stress.
A study from the University of California, Davis, and Argentina's National Research Council found that 71% of southern giant petrel chicks sampled had plastic in their bodies. Even small amounts of plastic ingestion were associated with changes in nutrition, metabolism, and immune response in young chicks.
New research explores monarch butterfly conservation in rangelands and the effectiveness of state regulations for controlling invasive species. Studies reveal that ungrazed pastures support more milkweed and monarch eggs than grazed sites, highlighting the need for selective approaches to conservation.
The Galápagos snapdragon has shown encouraging signs of recovery thanks to a long-term partnership between the Charles Darwin Foundation and the Galápagos National Park Directorate. The project successfully outplanted 94 nursery-grown shrubs into harsh volcanic landscapes, with 28 adult plants established across two restoration sites.
A new study successfully uses audio deterrents to alert golden eagles to wind turbines, reducing collisions and deaths by over 50% at two wind farms in the Western USA. The system, called DTBird, emits warning sounds to attract the birds' attention and discourages closer approaches.
Northern spotted owl populations are approaching functional extinction across the Pacific Northwest, with AI-powered monitoring identifying critical habitats and ecological threats. The study highlights the need for targeted conservation strategies, including barred owl removal and habitat conservation, to prevent further decline.
UK zoos have a bias towards globally non-threatened species, but still contribute to preserving native and priority species, according to a study. The research found that only 9% of captive species are native to Britain and 2% appear on conservation priority lists.
A new study analyzed extinction patterns among tropical forest mammals worldwide, revealing that past extinctions can provide valuable insights into species vulnerability. The research showed that traits like large body size, small brains, and slow reproduction were linked to extinction risk in the past, but these patterns are not cons...
A new study by Bournemouth University found that 'pioneering pairs' of ospreys, which nest away from others, are key to driving population recovery. These birds create separate subpopulations and increase the speed of recovery for the species through long-distance dispersal.
Researchers investigated adding iron to the ocean to boost CO2 removal, finding varying effects on marine ecosystems. The Southern Ocean offers a favorable balance of climate impact and ecological consequences, while other regions face more severe consequences.
A new study uses genomics to identify endangered southern pygmy perch populations most at risk from climate change. The research reveals that conservation breeding can preserve a species' adaptability to future warming.
A new study identifies butterfly species most sensitive to environmental change, offering a practical framework for monitoring biodiversity and assessing forest restoration. The research highlights the conservation importance of specialist butterflies and their declining populations due to habitat loss.
A new study documents how an Indonesian Indigenous community adapted their sacred Cidaku initiation ceremony to protect the endangered salmon-crested cockatoo. The ceremony now uses naturally moulted feathers collected from wildlife rescue centres, preserving spiritual integrity and ensuring species survival.
The Conservation Gap Analysis of Select Native Asian Oaks reveals over half of native ranges are under human pressure, with many species lacking backup in botanical collections. The report prioritizes oak conservation efforts in Southeast and East Asia, focusing on regions with high human impact and limited protected area coverage.
The study demonstrates that biosphere reserves in the Western Amazon effectively prevent deforestation compared to similar areas. Transition areas and buffer zones are particularly effective in conserving biodiversity.
A new study published in The Journal of Archaeological Science: Reports sheds light on longstanding relationships between humans and sea turtles in the Southern Caribbean. The research reveals details of interactions between humans and turtles dating back 1,000-years and provides information needed to protect populations going forward.
Research team identifies best strategies for managing native cacao trees in Peru, resulting in 59% higher yields after three years. Grafting native 'Blanco de Piura' cacao varieties onto fully grown trees increases productivity levels comparable to commercial clones.
A recent study found that most injuries linked to deaths in released coho salmon can be avoided by not using landing nets. Researchers recommend keeping the fish in the water whenever possible and avoiding tandem or treble hooks.
Researchers at Oregon State University developed a low-cost, semi-automated camera system using AI to monitor bumblebee populations and other insects. The system recorded six species of bumblebees, closely matching those documented through traditional methods, and identified them automatically using custom-built deep learning models.
The discovery of two new snail species in Montenegro highlights the need to protect the country's biodiversity. The snails, found in Durmitor National Park and Komarnica Canyon, were described as having unique features such as conical shells and a circular disk on their tails.
A global review of migratory bird population status reveals that over half of the world's migratory bird species are declining globally. The study emphasizes the need for a new approach to biodiversity conservation, addressing complex threats throughout the birds' lifecycles and international flyways.
Researchers argue that EU and UK wildlife protection frameworks are fragmented, selective, and exception-based, threatening biodiversity. The authors propose strengthening laws to recognize animal sentience and introducing 'ethical continuity' into the legal framework.