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Species in polar regions hard hit by climate change

A mathematical model developed at Linköping University predicts that many species in polar regions will become extinct due to global warming, with ecosystems already showing signs of strain. The model simulates the impact of climate change on species interactions and diversity, highlighting the importance of considering ecological proc...

SourceLinköping University·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 14, 2021
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

The warming climate is causing animals to "shapeshift"

Researchers are studying how climate change is forcing animals to evolve and adapt, with changes in beak and ear sizes reported in birds and tail length increases in mice, experts warn that these changes may have unintended ecological consequences

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Ecology & Evolution·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 7, 2021

Study shows how aspen forests maintain the diversity needed to adapt to changing environments

A decade-long study by University of Wisconsin-Madison researchers shows how aspen stands change their genetic structure over time, adapting to environmental fluctuations. The findings suggest that exposure to various environmental changes can maintain diverse forests capable of responding to different stresses.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 6, 2021

Corals roll with the punches

A new study reveals corals have a high ability to pass on adaptive traits, helping them cope with climate change stress. However, reducing global warming is crucial for making the most of this adaptation capacity.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalGlobal Change Biology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateSep 5, 2021

Patterns of income and urbanization impact mammal biodiversity in the concrete jungle

A study of 20 US cities reveals that urban intensity, characterized by paved landscapes and high population density, is a stronger correlate with mammal biodiversity than income. While the 'luxury effect' shows some correlation between income and biodiversity, it's not strong enough to explain the observed patterns.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalGlobal Change Biology·TypeObservational study·DateSep 1, 2021
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Protect habitat ‘stepping stones’ to help species cope with climate change, scientists say

A new study by the University of Liverpool warns that safe passages for species adapting to climate change are often not being protected. The researchers found that important connecting patches were left out of existing networks of protected areas, resulting in a 13.6% shortfall in connectivity.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 25, 2021

Speedy Evolution

Researchers from Harvard University find that the earliest tetrapods acquired new adaptive traits at fast rates of anatomical evolution, but species diversification was slow initially. The study suggests a decoupling between evolutionary rates and species diversity, with a delay in colonization of land and diversification into new niches.

SourceHarvard University, Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateAug 23, 2021

New live analysis system for plant stomata, signals exciting progress in climate-change resistant crop development

Scientists have developed a new live analysis system for plant stomata, allowing for rapid and affordable identification of desirable traits. This innovation has the potential to accelerate crop development for climate-resistance, addressing future food shortages.

SourceInstitute of Transformative Bio-Molecules (ITbM), Nagoya University·JournalFrontiers in Plant Science·DateAug 22, 2021
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

White clover’s toxic tricks traced to its hybridization

Research at Washington University in St. Louis reveals that white clover's chemical defense against insect pests comes from both of its parental species, not just one as previously thought. The plant's ecological success can be attributed to this cyanogenesis process.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalNew Phytologist·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 19, 2021

From coral reef to goat ranch: Uncovering the botanical history of the Guadalupe Mountains

Researchers sequenced DNA from plant specimens collected nearly 50 years ago to analyze genetic diversity and its response to climate change. The study found that several species restricted to the Guadalupe Mountains had surprisingly high amounts of genetic diversity, which could help them adapt to changing conditions.

SourceBotanical Society of America·JournalApplications in Plant Sciences·DateAug 16, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

‘Sticky questions’ raised by study on coral reefs

A new study on coral reefs in Kiribati found that more polluted and high-traffic waters can handle extreme heat events better than remote reefs. The research raises questions about the effectiveness of marine protected areas in conserving coral reefs.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 11, 2021

Indigenous fire stewardship promotes global biodiversity

A new study by researchers at the University of Waterloo found that Indigenous fire stewardship increases biodiversity and ecosystem heterogeneity across all major terrestrial biomes. Cultural burning reduces risks of interface fires and has important cultural practices for resource management, community protection, and cultural purposes.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 3, 2021

New report: State of the science on western wildfires, forests and climate change

A synthesis of scientific literature provides a unified resource for managing western forests and addressing the impacts of climate change on wildfires. The report recommends approaches such as thinning dense forests, prescribed burning, and revitalizing Indigenous fire stewardship practices to make landscapes more resilient.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalEcological Applications·TypeLiterature review·DateAug 3, 2021

Climate adaptation at the department of defense and beyond

New research from the University of Arizona identifies climate-related threats to US Department of Defense facilities in the southwestern United States. The study recommends emphasizing risks to DOD missions, finding champions at individual bases, and integrating climate considerations into existing plans to mitigate these challenges.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalClimate Services·DateJul 27, 2021
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

When resistance is futile, new paper advises RAD range of conservation options

A new study suggests that resisting ecosystem changes may be futile, instead recommending a 'RAD' framework that involves accepting, directing, or resisting transformations. The authors argue that embracing change is a viable response to environmental shifts, rather than viewing it as a last resort.

SourceEcological Society of America·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateJul 8, 2021

Coral enhance its environmental adaptability by adjusting trophic status

A recent study found that coral reefs in the South China Sea adjust their trophic patterns in response to environmental conditions. By analyzing zooxanthellae density, nutrient levels, and light intensity, researchers discovered that corals can shift from autotrophic to heterotrophic modes of nutrition, enhancing their adaptability to ...

SourceScience China Press·DateJun 27, 2021

Discovery of ray sperms' unique swimming motion and demonstration with bio-inspired robot

Researchers at City University of Hong Kong have discovered that ray sperms rotate both their head and tail to move, creating a heterogeneous dual helix propulsion system. This unique motion provides high environmental adaptability and efficiency, enabling bidirectional swimming and maneuverability in various viscosities.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 10, 2021

Study on plant roots challenges nature of ecological trade-offs

A new study published in Nature Ecology & Evolution reveals that root traits can explain plant species distributions across the planet, challenging the nature of ecological trade-offs. The research found that thick and dense roots are more common in warm climates, while thin and low-density roots are more common in cold climates.

SourceUniversity of Wyoming·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJun 10, 2021
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Can evolution be predicted?

Researchers developed a statistical framework to test and quantify adaptation in complex biological systems, enabling prediction of evolutionary outcomes. The new framework allows for rigorous analysis of organism adaptation to their ecological niche, building bridges between mathematics and biology.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalNeuron·DateFeb 15, 2021
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Babbler bird falls into climate change trap

Researchers found that chestnut-crowned babbler birds adapt to rising temperatures by breeding earlier, but this reduces successful breeding due to cold temperatures. The study suggests these birds fall into an ecological trap, highlighting the need for further research on adaptable parenting.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of Evolutionary Biology·DateDec 16, 2020

How the shrew brain adapts to winter

Researchers found that shrews' brains reduce metabolic demands in winter by adapting neural structure and activity, including thinner layer 4 neurons and fewer parvalbumin-positive interneurons. These adaptations may help shrews conserve energy during winter.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 30, 2020

Increasing diversity and community participation in environmental engineering

A new study proposes exposing students to community-based participatory methods, establishing action research groups for faculty, and broadening the definition of research impact to improve tenure promotion experiences for minority faculty. The goal is to combat systemic racism and increase diversity in environmental engineering programs.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalEnvironmental Engineering Science·DateNov 19, 2020
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Removal of synthetic estrogen from water

Researchers found that a modified bentonite complex can remove 17α-ethinylestradiol and other pharmaceutical organic micropollutants from wastewater environments. The study demonstrates an effective and cost-efficient method for removing synthetic estrogen from bodies of water.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalEnvironmental Engineering Science·DateOct 20, 2020

Mastodons took frequent trips north when climate changed

A new study reveals that American mastodons took frequent trips north when the climate changed, with northern populations being less genetically diverse and more at risk of extinction. The research suggests that examining how different species responded to climate change can provide valuable insights for modern conservation efforts.

SourceAmerican Museum of Natural History·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 1, 2020
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

O Christmas Tree: DNA shows WA's largest parasitic plant adapts to climate

Researchers found that the WA Christmas Tree, a parasitic plant, adapts to its environment by adjusting to temperature changes rather than relying on precipitation. This discovery has implications for conservation and restoration efforts, as it could inform the collection of seed for these species.

SourceCurtin University·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateJul 21, 2020

There is no escaping from climate change, even in the deep sea

The study found that global mean climate velocities in the deepest ocean layers have been 2-4 times faster than at surface over the past 20th century. Climate velocities are projected to continue accelerating even under strong greenhouse gas emission mitigation scenarios, posing significant threats to deep sea biodiversity.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalNature Climate Change·DateMay 25, 2020

Past is prologue: Genetic 'memory' of ancestral environments helps organisms readapt

A study on chicken adaptation reveals that genetic changes play a more prominent role when organisms return to their ancestral homelands. Researchers found that plastic phenotypic changes are sufficient to help animals adapt when reintroduced to familiar environments, but mutation-induced changes are necessary for initial adaptation.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 22, 2020
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

A new explanation for the origins of human fatherhood

A new theory proposes that human fatherhood emerged as a response to changing ecological conditions, with males partnering up for mutual benefits. Paternal care became widespread in modern human societies, despite being rare among mammals.

SourceBoston College·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 27, 2020

Additions to resource industry underwater robots can boost ocean discoveries

Researchers from Australian Institute of Marine Science suggest adding cameras, audio recorders, and sample collectors to remotely operated vehicles to increase scientific data gathering. This could lead to better understanding of marine infrastructure impact on ecosystems and improve ecological management and regulatory compliance.

SourceAustralian Institute of Marine Science·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·DateApr 15, 2020

5,200-year-old grains in the eastern Altai Mountains redate trans-Eurasian crop exchange

New discoveries push back dates for early farming in the region by at least a millennium, providing evidence of adaptable ancient crop plants to new ecological constraints. The study also illustrates how humans cultivated crops at northern latitudes, challenging previous views on cultivation and labor practices in ancient Eurasia.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalNature Plants·DateFeb 14, 2020
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Clown fish survival depends on environment more than genetics

Researchers observed four generations of clown fish in Papua New Guinea's Kimbe Island lagoons to find no genetic variation for reproductive success. Environmental conditions, particularly sea anemones, play a vital role in clown fish survival and population replenishment.

SourceCNRS·JournalEcology Letters·DateNov 27, 2019

New imaging platform examines mechanisms behind coral bleaching

An interdisciplinary team from Northwestern University has developed a non-invasive imaging platform to study coral nanoscale structures and quantify pigment absorption in live corals. This tool could help researchers develop strategies to prevent coral reef death due to climate change.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 2, 2019

Brave new world: Simple changes in intensity of weather events 'could be lethal'

A recent study from Washington University in St. Louis challenges the idea that species previously exposed to variable conditions are better suited to cope with climate change. The model predicts that simple changes in weather event intensity could be lethal for populations that have experienced similar events in the past.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalEcology and Evolution·DateSep 30, 2019
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Sexual competition helps horned beetles survive deforestation

A study of dung beetles in Borneo found that species with more intense male competition for mating are less likely to go extinct. Species with horns were more likely to persist in disturbed environments than those without, and larger horns were associated with greater population sizes.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalEcology Letters·DateJul 30, 2019

How to restore a coral reef

A new paper outlines concrete guidelines for restoring coral populations by maximizing genetic diversity, allowing them to adapt to local conditions and thrive. The guidelines, developed by a consortium of experts, provide a definitive plan for collecting, raising, and replanting corals in locations similar to their original environment.

SourcePenn State·JournalEcological Applications·DateJul 23, 2019
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Study reveals new genomic roots of ecological adaptation in polar bear evolution

A recent study by UMass Amherst researchers found that polar bears possess fewer copies of genes related to olfactory receptors and salivary amylase, adaptations that enable them to thrive on a fully carnivorous diet. This discovery sheds light on the genomic foundation of ecological adaptation in polar bear evolution.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 17, 2019

Climate change and genetic adaptations of bats

Researchers found that bats with genotypes adapted to hot-dry climates are likely to retain their range and survive climate change, while those adapted to cold-wet climates will lose most of their range. Accounting for adaptive genetic variation is crucial to accurately predict extinction risk from climate change.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 6, 2019

Humans colonized diverse environments in Southeast Asia and Oceania during the Pleistocene

A new study reviews palaeoecological information associated with hominin dispersals into Southeast Asia and Oceania, highlighting human species' ability to specialize in 'extreme' settings. This specialization stands in contrast to other hominin taxa, reaffirming the importance of studying environmental adaptations of Homo sapiens.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalArchaeological Research in Asia·DateJan 28, 2019
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Ecologists ask: Should we be more transparent with data?

A new paper highlights the importance of open and usable data sets in ecology and other field research. By sharing data and code, scientists can save time and effort, as well as foster critical inquiry and new knowledge.

SourceEcological Society of America·JournalEcological Applications·DateOct 26, 2018
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

California's other gold

Sea urchin researchers found that understanding local dynamics can make fishing resource management more effective. The study quantified the relationship between uni quality and fishermen's behavior, revealing a predictable pattern that links seasonal reproductive cycles to fishing patterns.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 6, 2018

Are damselflies in distress?

Researchers found that damselfly genes strongly responded to environmental changes as they moved towards the northern edge of their range. The study suggests that the blue-tailed damselfly has a wealth of evolutionary strategies available to help it adapt to a changing climate.

SourceScience in Public·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateApr 30, 2018
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Predators learn to identify prey from other species

Researchers at STRI found that predatory bats can learn to recognize new foods from other bat species as quickly as they do from their own species. This ability helps explain how bats adapt to environmental changes and survive in their ecosystems.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·DateMar 21, 2018

Fish 'super power' may offer clues about biodiversity evolution

Researchers have found that a roundnose grenadier fish species can adapt to changing environmental conditions based on its genetic code. The study, published in Nature Ecology & Evolution, reveals that the fish's genotype varies with depth, allowing it to thrive in vast ocean habitats.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateMar 5, 2018