Articles tagged with Ecological Methods
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 recent study utilizing plant DNA metabarcoding identifies 186 terrestrial plant taxa on the Tibetan Plateau, surpassing traditional pollen analysis by 25%. The method provides a more detailed and localized perspective on vegetation monitoring and reconstruction.
Drones offer a hands-off option for surveying raptor nests, providing an efficient and safer alternative to traditional methods. Researchers found minimal impact on raptors and higher safety for both humans and birds compared to approaching nests by foot.
Researchers at the University of Florida have developed a groundbreaking method for detecting the DNA of invasive snakes in Florida. The tetraplex digital PCR assay can identify four species simultaneously and has been shown to be highly accurate, even weeks after the snakes have left an area.
A study in Warsaw, Poland found no difference in insect-pollinated plant composition or species richness between sown and natural meadows. However, natural meadows had twice the number of butterflies compared to sown meadows.
A new crowdsourcing system, FireLoc, uses a network of low-cost mobile phones to detect wildfires minutes—even seconds—after they ignite. The system prioritizes privacy and accurately maps wilderness fires to within 180 feet of their origin.
Researchers are using deep learning to help protect chimpanzees in the Greater Mahale Ecosystem, Tanzania. A new acoustic detector has been developed to identify chimpanzee sounds and monitor population density more efficiently, allowing for better conservation strategies.
A targeted outreach initiative in Palm Beach County led to an increase in reported sightings of invasive reptiles, including Nile monitors and Argentine black-and-white tegus. The effort engaged over 112,000 people and resulted in 55 reported sightings, highlighting the effectiveness of community involvement in detecting invasive species.
Researchers used 16 years of radar weather data to monitor bird migration patterns from Tasmania to northern Queensland, finding millions of birds migrate each year. The study revealed unique patterns, including variation in migration direction, timing, and intensity compared to Northern Hemisphere birds.
A new tracking method using mobile phone networks and Bluetooth technology provides reliable high-frequency tracking data for urban living animals. Field testing with birds demonstrated the feasibility of this approach to study movements and social networks.
A new process developed by Lehigh University researchers uses evaporative ion exchange (EIX) to concentrate hypersaline brine at room temperature, avoiding scaling and fouling. The process has shown promising results in concentrating salts from hypersaline water, with the potential for widespread use.
A new policy brief argues that citizen scientists are crucial for meeting global water quality targets, providing valuable data and community involvement. Successful case studies show how collaboration with locals can improve water quality monitoring, education, and rapid response.
Researchers used accelerometers to observe the movement and behavior of green turtle hatchlings as they emerge from their nests. The findings show that hatchlings maintain a head-up orientation and move vertically through the sand by rocking forwards and backwards.
A new study from European universities has developed a method to analyze wastewater data from seven major cities, identifying thousands of disease-causing bacteria, viruses, and antimicrobial resistance. This approach can detect potential health threats simultaneously, potentially preventing epidemics from escalating into outbreaks.
Scientists have successfully sequenced the genome of the spur-thighed tortoise, a threatened land turtle species, using a reference assembly method. The genome sequencing will enable conservation efforts and provide tools for protecting the species' populations.
Researchers call for a rethink of environmental decision-making to consider foreseeable harm and integrate key scientific and ecological evidence, including local community knowledge. The update aims to address biodiversity loss as a human rights issue and align with advances in international human rights law.
Scientists developed an advanced method integrating high-frequency camera data with satellite imagery to monitor dryland ecosystems. The approach distinguished between different dryland vegetation responses to rainfall, revealing rapid spikes in greenness and productivity during wet seasons.
Researchers found that even tiny city gardens with native milkweed species attracted monarchs and caterpillars. Older, established milkweed plants were more likely to support eggs, while a variety of blooming plants provided nectar for adult monarchs.
A study proposes changes to simplify licensing for landowners in the Atlantic Rainforest biome, making conservation policy more effective. The current legislation allows for the destruction of valuable forests due to its subjective and imprecise criteria.
Researchers used Flora Incognita data to identify plant rhythms and ecological patterns year-round. The algorithm accounts for user observational tendencies, revealing synchronized responses among plants and ecological shifts with the seasons.
Researchers re-analyzed historical data from a classic displacement experiment and found that young starlings migrated independently, using their own direction. Adult starlings adjusted their migratory orientation to reach their normal wintering areas, while local conspecifics influenced the route of relocated young starlings.
Researchers developed a method to collect and plant genetically diverse red spruce seeds, resulting in higher establishment success and increased forest resilience. The approach pools multiple seed sources, increasing evolvability and minimizing deleterious mutations.
A study by Dartmouth College finds that regenerative agriculture's impact on farmers extends beyond financial gain, influencing their relationships and quality of life. By adopting practices like reduced tillage and cover cropping, farmers experience reduced dependence on agrochemicals and improved soil fertility.
A new study by York University finds that community science programs, such as Bumble Bee Watch, play a crucial role in monitoring bumble bee distributions and detecting endangered species. The program provides valuable data on bee populations, habitats, and distribution patterns, complementing traditional scientific methods.
The Zipkin Quantitative Ecology lab examines 36 highly cited papers on statistical ecology published in the journal Ecology since its inception in 1920. The team found a persistent evolution of models and concepts in the field, driven by refinements in techniques and exponential increases in computational power.
A new review introduces innovative biotic and abiotic methods for recycling and upcycling polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic. These methods utilize microbial and chemical catalysis to depolymerize PET into basic monomers, which can be repurposed or converted into high-value products.
Recent technological breakthroughs enable global insect surveys using sound recordings, images, radar, laser beams, and DNA analysis. This allows for new insights into insect trends and species identification without relying on experts or killing insects.
A new study reveals that ocean acidification changes the mix of microbes in coral reef systems, which can be used as an early indicator of ecosystem stress. The research suggests a novel measurement approach by analyzing microbial communities alongside larger organisms.
Researchers developed a framework to measure plastic pollution emissions, estimating Toronto emitted nearly 4,000 tonnes in one year. The approach will help identify major contributors and inform strategies to reduce emissions worldwide.
A team of Australian scientists has developed a step-by-step guide to ageing octopus, using growth rings on beaks and stylets to validate age. This tool helps estimate growth rates, reproduction, and maturity, ensuring sustainable fisheries and conservation.
Researchers from the University of Houston used spaceborne-monitoring to detect movements and deformations in the Kakhovka Dam years before its collapse. The study highlights the importance of proactive monitoring and remote sensing in ensuring infrastructure safety and integrity.
A recent study published in Phytobiomes Journal found that non-native crop viruses are infecting and harming wild desert plants. Infection rates with the virus CABYV reached as high as 88% in some populations, causing visible impacts on plant growth and root health.
Researchers simultaneously tagged many humpback whales from the same pod to analyze their vocalization and compare individual calls. This study provides new information about whale behavior and communication, crucial for informing future conservation efforts.
A recent study outlines a methodology for integrating and harmonising data on plant invasions across Australia. The researchers created a standardised and unified database, the Alien Flora of Australia, to help monitoring and early-warning of alien flora.
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 study by Hokkaido University and Aarhus University reveals a 'nocturnal' surge in vocalization activity among little auks in Arctic summer, contrary to expectations. The findings provide valuable insights into avian behavior under continuous daylight environments.
Biologist Elizabeth Carlen's investigation into iNaturalist data revealed biased species distribution in St. Louis, with northern parts of the city underrepresented. The framework developed by Carlen and her co-authors identifies four filters contributing to this bias: participation, detectability, sampling, and preference.
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.
A study of 8,859 samples from Danish meadows and pastures reveals a decline in plants with large seeds and thin leaves, contradicting theoretical expectations. The data suggests that nature is changing and acting unexpectedly, with fewer weeds and less grazing, despite the expected increase in heavy-seeded species.
A team of researchers led by Prof. Yong Sik Ok proposes an innovative eight-phase methodology for analyzing microplastics in soils, addressing the lack of standardized procedures. The methodology emphasizes careful planning, processing, and analysis to ensure accuracy and precision.
A new study published in Science found that eradicating non-native animals to protect plant species can be a flawed practice, costing millions and slaughtering healthy wild animals. The research compared the effects of native and introduced large herbivores on plant communities, finding no significant differences.
A Dartmouth-led research team created an experimental green roof to test the effect of native prairie microbes on soil microbial community development. Their findings demonstrate that active management accelerates soil development faster than passive reestablishment, fostering a more diverse and sustainable soil community.
Researchers propose new statistical index to detect river ecosystem changes, potentially preventing tragedies like the Oder River crisis. The developed index is more versatile and responsive to variations in individual parameter values.
A new study reveals a surprising trend in global fishing industries: the decline of catch per fisher since the 1990s, despite increasing numbers of fishermen. This decrease has significant implications for food production efficiency, marine ecosystems, and fishing communities.
A team of scientists used functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) to measure brain activity in two key visual regions, the lateral occipital complex (LOC) and fusiform face area (FFA). The study found that fNIRS successfully measured LOC activity but had limitations in detecting FFA activity due to its depth. This research has th...
Researchers have discovered a new method called piezoelectric activation of PS, which uses special materials to create piezoelectricity when squeezed or pressed, thereby cleaning the water. This technique is energy-efficient and eco-friendly, making it a promising way to combat water pollution.
The 15th annual horizon scan highlights 15 key conservation issues, including declining invertebrate populations and altering marine ecosystems. The study emphasizes the need for continued innovation in sustainable energy technologies to address climate change.
A study by the University of Exeter and the Bat Conservation Trust found that Britain's tree felling for colonial shipbuilding led to a significant decline in Western barbastelle bat populations. The study used DNA analysis to discover a historical decline, which coincided with widespread tree-felling from about 500 years ago.
The UMass Amherst team created a multiscale ecological framework to assess and respond to ecological threats in the Lake Yojoa watershed. The framework focuses on local perception of threats, consequences, and solutions, providing a valuable baseline for conservation and governmental organizations.
The São Paulo School of Advanced Science on Transdisciplinarity for Transformative Change is a training opportunity for graduate students and researchers to co-produce knowledge for global sustainability. The school will focus on transdisciplinarity in social-environmental sciences, offering state-of-the-art science and research results.
Researchers develop a mathematical model that analyzes the future survival of plants in a changing climate by studying how far wind can carry seeds. The model provides fast and reliable predictions of seed movement, considering factors like seed type, plant height, and wind speed.
Research suggests that diverse forests can capture approximately 226 Gigatonnes of carbon, but this potential can be achieved by incentivizing community-driven efforts to promote biodiversity. Restoration efforts should include natural diversity of species and sustainable practices.
A method for assessing sustainability of wild-harvested plants is demonstrated on Nardostachys jatamansi, a critically endangered Himalayan perennial herb. The proposed process integrates ecological and trade data to estimate sustainability levels, suggesting cultivating-while-harvesting as an effective approach.
A study by the University of Washington and NOAA found that upgrading a culvert in Washington improved fish traffic for four species of interest: cutthroat trout, coho salmon, rainbow trout, and sockeye salmon. Meanwhile, a smaller culvert replacement had less impact on fish populations.
A study of five case studies reveals the benefits of incorporating ecological connectivity into environmental assessments. The research emphasizes the need for guidance on conducting connectivity analyses and monitoring project impacts.
A recent UTSA study reveals that 51% of Texas owls have high levels of anticoagulant rodenticides in their systems. The research team recommends using natural methods to control rodents and increasing awareness of the effects on non-target wildlife.
A new study found that a deadly frog disease, Perkinsea, is more widespread in Central Florida than expected, infecting over a third of sampled frogs. The disease is linked to cooler temperatures and higher precipitation, posing a concern for threatened species like the gopher frog.
A recent study has developed an app providing lists of native, declining species suitable for gardening, increasing public engagement. The research found that over half of threatened species are commercially available and prefer dry soils, offering a promising approach to reversing biodiversity decline.
Researchers developed a water-based conductive ink for flexible electronic circuits, sidestepping toxic organic solvents. The ink enables sustainable applications in healthcare and food industries, including biomonitoring sensors and smart packaging.
A team of scientists used a new method to estimate mutation rates in wild whale populations, revealing higher rates similar to smaller mammals. This led to a significant revision of previous estimates, suggesting that only 20,000 humpback whales remained in the North Atlantic before commercial whaling.
Researchers have developed a new way to sort cells by type using light-based stimulated Raman spectroscopy, offering a label-free and nondestructive approach for various biomedical applications. The technique enables the separation of cells based on their intracellular chemical composition in high-throughput manner.