Ecological Modeling

New scenarios needed to address climate crisis

In productive ecosystems, larger animals capture more energy per species - but human pressure is reshaping the balance

Scientists seek to understand effects of rain falling on snow in the Arctic

Agricultural and Environmental Modelling (AEM): A new chapter for modelling science publishing

AEM expands its scope to cover the full breadth of modelling in agricultural and environmental sciences, introducing a structured range of article types for formal recognition. The journal applies FAIR principles to data, code, and models, requiring open access and reproducibility.

Seabirds reveal global mercury distribution in oceans

A recent study analyzed blood samples from over 11,000 seabirds worldwide to estimate oceanic mercury distribution. The analysis found that mercury levels vary according to prey trophic level, bird body weight, and foraging depth, with distinct regional patterns of contamination.

Could your housemates be changing your gut bacteria?

A new study from the University of East Anglia found that living with friends may alter your gut bacteria, with social closeness driving the exchange of anaerobic microbes. The research suggests that daily interactions at home, such as hugging and sharing food prep spaces, may encourage the transfer of beneficial gut bacteria.

New research shows habitat restoration projects have paid off for Forest Park in St. Louis

A recent study published in Ecological Applications found that habitat restoration efforts in Forest Park have increased native bird diversity, with increases mostly seen in native species. The research also highlights the importance of access to water and varied habitats for boosting biodiversity.

ForestTalks webinar explores integrating Earth observation and national forest inventories across Europe

The webinar highlighted the potential of combining NFI field data, EO disturbance products, and national statistics for robust forest carbon monitoring. Continental-scale carbon balance analysis showed a trend towards neutral over the past decade, with large interannual variability.

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.

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance and Scripps Institution of Oceanography partner for innovative conservation efforts

The partnership aims to boost conservation impact by harnessing advanced digital technology and biobanking techniques, focusing on three core areas: knowledge transfer, innovation, and student engagement. This collaboration seeks to address pressing environmental challenges such as biodiversity threats and emerging pathogens.

Vegetation patterns and ecosystem resilience: relationship status “complicated”

Researchers challenge long-held assumptions about vegetation patterns in dryland ecosystems, finding that such patterns can actually indicate reduced ecosystem resilience. The new theoretical framework takes into account spatial constraints and environmental heterogeneities, revealing that ecosystem stability depends on specific enviro...

New model shows how behavioral flexibility affects animal evolution

A new model by Carlos Botero suggests that animals with moderate behavioral flexibility can quickly adapt to environmental changes and evolve new forms, challenging the assumption that slow-evolving species are at higher risk from climate change. The model predicts that flexible lineages may fare better than previously thought.

Past intensive whaling threatens the future of bowhead whales

Researchers analyzed 11,000-year-old bowhead whale fossils to reveal the devastating impact of commercial whaling on the species' genetics. The study found that genetic diversity will continue to decline, severely impacting the species' resilience to climate change.

The REST-COAST project launches “My REST-COAST” Mobile App to engage citizens in coastal ecosystem restoration across Europe

The REST-COAST project has developed a mobile app, My REST-COAST, to raise public awareness and engagement in coastal ecosystem restoration across Europe and Israel. The app provides interactive maps, site-specific biodiversity information, and gamified learning paths to encourage users to explore restoration strategies.

Model connects animal movement and population dynamics

Researchers developed a new theoretical framework that links individual animal movements to population dynamics across space and time. The range-resident logistic model incorporates interactions between multiple animals, providing a more accurate prediction of population sizes and helping inform real-world conservation recommendations.

Tropical peatlands are a major source of greenhouse gas emissions

Researchers from Hokkaido University used a new method to track groundwater levels and greenhouse gas emissions in Southeast Asia's peatlands, finding they release more gases than previously thought. Human activities like drainage and agriculture increase emissions by tripling or sixfolding, contributing 30% of Japan's annual emissions.

University of Oklahoma researcher awarded funding to uncover secrets of cloud formation

Salesky's research team will address uncertainty in how turbulent processes contribute to cloud formation by using simulations to replicate turbulence and test environmental conditions. The study aims to improve civilian and military weather forecasting models, with significant implications for precipitation and severe weather.

NYU launches Simons Center for Computational Geophysical Flows

The center will develop cutting-edge computational methods, including AI algorithms, to tackle fundamental geophysical problems. By studying weather and climate on Earth and other planets, the hub aims to shed light on many events that have historically been difficult to forecast.

Arctic cloud and ice formation affected by Russian river runoff as region studied for first time

A recent study found that organic matter carried from rivers into the Arctic Ocean creates more clouds and keeps the region cooler. Aerosol particles formed by this biological matter act as 'seeds' for cloud formation, increasing their ability to form bright, long-lasting clouds.

Science solves South Australia’s koala dilemma

A study led by Dr. Frédérik Saltré suggests that sterilizing 22% of adult females annually could stabilize the population at an estimated cost of $34 million over 25 years. This approach prioritizes both animal welfare and ecosystem health, offering a humane solution to the unsustainable koala numbers.

Integrating genetics into species distribution models reveals the migration history of wild black pepper

Researchers developed a genetically informed dynamic species distribution model to reconstruct the distributional history of wild Piper nigrum from 21,000 years ago. The model identified glacial refugia and patterns of range contraction, expansion, and fragmentation following the Last Glacial Maximum.

The Alps to lose a record number of glaciers in the next decade

The Alps are expected to reach a peak loss rate of 2,000-4,000 glaciers per year by 2033-2041, with only 110 glaciers remaining in Central Europe by 2100. Regions like the Rocky Mountains and Andes will also experience significant glacier losses.

Ateneo, Manila Observatory track down elusive rain-triggering ‘shear lines’

Scientists developed an objective index for monitoring and detecting shear lines over the Philippines, accounting for up to 20% of extreme rainfall days. The detection method is useful for weather forecasting, early warning systems, and understanding how this weather system evolves.

Environmental variability and migration promote the evolution of cooperation among humans: A simulation-based analysis

This study investigates how environmental variability and human migration influence the evolution of cooperation among humans. Simulation results reveal that cooperation is more likely to evolve when these factors are sufficiently high, hindering non-cooperative groups and encouraging cooperative groups.

Connection and protection boost health in coral reefs

A new study by the University of Oxford and WCS reveals that connections between coral reefs can stabilize reef health, reducing the risk of collapse. By simulating future reef conditions under different management scenarios, researchers found that a dual approach improving land and sea conditions provides the best outcomes for reefs.

Golden Eagles in the West appear stable, but Nevada tells a different story

A new study finds Golden Eagles in Nevada at risk due to high mortality rates and habitat loss, potentially drawing in birds from other areas. Conservation efforts, such as maintaining natural habitat structure, are crucial to mitigating these impacts.

Coral reefs have stabilized Earth’s carbon cycle for the past 250 million years

Researchers found that coral reefs governed the pace of climate recovery by tuning the planet's carbon and climate cycles. The study suggests that reefs played a crucial role in stabilizing climate, but modern reef systems are declining due to warming and ocean acidification.

Soil carbon decomposition varies vastly, holding implications for climate models

A new study found that the rate of organic carbon decomposition in soil samples collected across the US differed by up to tenfold, with factors like fungi and iron levels strongly associated with variation. This could improve the accuracy of soil carbon feedback estimates in climate models, leading to more refined projections.

The simulated Milky Way: 100 billion stars using 7 million CPU cores

Researchers at RIKEN successfully simulated the Milky Way Galaxy with over 100 billion individual stars, far surpassing previous state-of-the-art models. This achievement demonstrates the power of AI-accelerated simulations in tackling complex multi-scale problems in astrophysics and beyond.

Climate intervention techniques could reduce the nutritional value of crops

A new study suggests that stratospheric aerosol intervention (SAI) could decrease the protein content of major crops like maize, rice, wheat, and soybeans. SAI would involve releasing sulfur dioxide into the stratosphere to cool the planet, but this could have unintended consequences on global food security.

New modelling shows difficult future for the GBR under climate change

A new study models the impact of climate change on the GBR, forecasting a rapid coral decline before the middle of this century. However, curbing emissions and strategic management can help improve coral resilience, especially in well-mixed waters with good larval replenishment.

130 species in Southern Ontario at risk of local extinction by 2050 if no new actions taken

A new study found that investing $7 per Ontarian in eight conservation strategies could help 75% of at-risk species recover. The strategies include habitat protection, wildlife management, and invasive species control, with a potential cost of less than one-tenth of Ontario's provincial budget.

Climate whiplash effects due to rapidly intensifying El Niño cycles

A new study reveals that ENSO could intensify rapidly over the coming decades and synchronize with other major climate phenomena, leading to stronger rainfall fluctuations in regions such as Southern California and the Iberian Peninsula. The amplified impacts will necessitate enhanced planning and adaptation strategies.

How different bird species forage together in the Antarctic

Researchers found that seabirds use different strategies to find food, with scent-tracking birds benefiting visually hunting birds. This study provides insights into complex systems and crowd behavior, informing conservation strategies for procellariiform seabirds.

Running dry – a new study warns of extreme water scarcity in the coming decades

A new study reveals that global warming is accelerating the risk of multi-year droughts leading to extreme water scarcity. The frequency of Day Zero Droughts will increase sharply over the coming decades, affecting 750 million people globally by the end of this century.

Community management effectively protects millions of hectares of Amazonian forest

Research reveals community management effectively protects vast areas of Amazonian forest, safeguarding biodiversity and supporting local communities. Community-led conservation efforts are crucial for long-term sustainability, but require recognition and financial support.

New approach improves right whale distribution models

Researchers at Bigelow Laboratory have developed a new modeling approach that incorporates detailed prey information to improve the prediction of right whale distribution. This approach accounts for the preferences and needs of hungry whales, highlighting the importance of smaller species in their diet.

AI satellite survey challenges long-standing estimates of Serengeti wildebeest numbers

A new AI-powered satellite survey reveals a significant shortfall in estimated Serengeti wildebeest numbers, challenging traditional aerial surveys. The study's findings suggest at least 700,000 fewer wildebeest than previously estimated, highlighting the need for accurate data to inform conservation efforts.

Reproductive flexibility in sharks and rays complicates conservation predictions

A new study reveals that sharks and rays adjust their growth and reproduction in response to changing food availability, affecting population growth and recovery. This flexibility makes it challenging to predict species' responses to pressures like overfishing and environmental change.

Biological ‘moonshot’ accelerates efforts to genetically map life on Earth

The Earth BioGenome Project aims to create a digital library of DNA sequences to preserve and protect life on Earth. With over 2,200 scientists in 88 countries, the project is making discoveries that could help assure food security and advance medicine.

Human impact on the ocean will double by 2050, UCSB scientists warn

UCSB researchers warn that the ocean's cumulative impact will double by 2050 due to climate change and human activities. The tropics and poles are expected to experience the fastest changes in impacts, with coastal areas bearing the brunt of the increased pressures.

Red squirrels facing bright future on Isle of Wight, study finds

Researchers found that the island has enough trees, hedgerows, and seeds for the estimated 3500 red squirrels to thrive and grow. The study also discovered signs of genetic mixing between the east and west populations, suggesting a bright future for the island's squirrel population.

Global map shows where ocean plastics pose greatest threats

A global assessment reveals that ocean plastics pose ecological risks in areas with dense marine life and pollutants, even in waters with modest plastic levels. The study identifies high-risk zones, including the North Pacific and North Atlantic oceans, where coordinated efforts can substantially lessen threats.

New study confirms red squirrels are resilient to climate change in Europe but underlines need to conserve their habitat

A new study by Bournemouth University confirms that red squirrel populations across Europe are resilient to the effects of climate change, but highlights the need for conservation efforts to protect their habitat. The study found that temperature changes and low rainfall do not directly affect the survivability of red squirrels.

Study: Fossils reveal reliable record of marine ecosystem functioning

Fossilized marine invertebrates accurately reflect past ecosystems' functional diversity, offering a powerful tool for understanding long-term ecological change and informing modern conservation efforts. The study supports the growing field of conservation paleobiology by validating the use of functional diversity metrics in fossil data.

Hunting wolves reduces livestock deaths measurably, but minimally, according to new study

A recent study found that wolf hunting has a limited effect on reducing livestock losses, with an average reduction of 2% in predation rates. However, the impact of hunting on lethal removals, which are expensive operations targeting specific wolves, is negligible.

Simple design changes can make bat boxes safer

Researchers found that bat boxes can reach lethal temperatures if not designed properly. Simulations showed that adding insulation, light colors, and thoughtful orientations can make the boxes safer. The study's code is publicly available, allowing conservationists to tailor their solutions to specific climates.

Micro refugia could be key to survival of insect populations

A review paper suggests microclimates could offset negative impacts of extreme weather on insects. The authors argue that current macroclimate models are not viable for predicting impacts on insect populations.

UNH faculty members secure a record six NSF CAREER awards

Six UNH faculty members receive prestigious CAREER grants to develop innovative technologies addressing pressing global issues. The recipients' projects focus on climate resilience, artificial intelligence, software reliability, and healthcare technologies, aiming to improve public safety and well-being.

Identifying landslide threats using hydrological predictors

A new framework developed by Northwestern University and UCLA scientists integrates various water-related processes with a machine-learning model to predict landslide threats. The framework identifies three main pathways leading to landslides: intense rainfall, rain on already saturated soils, and melting snow or ice.

SPUN launches Underground Atlas: First global map of fungal biodiversity reveals 90% conservation gap

The SPUN Underground Atlas reveals that over 90% of mycorrhizal biodiversity hotspots lie outside protected areas, emphasizing the need for conservation efforts. The digital map provides insights into fungal diversity and environmental factors, enabling predictions for previously unmapped regions.

Philippine scientists warn vs. ‘indirect’ effect of tropical cyclones during monsoon season

Researchers found that indirect effects of tropical cyclones contribute more than twice the direct effect to rainfall during the Habagat season, with 51.5% coming from the monsoon itself. This new understanding can improve extreme weather anticipation and disaster response.

New Reichman University study introduces innovative index for assessing the condition of streams in Israel: A tool to support decision-making about stream rehabilitation and restoration

A new study introduces the SESBI index to measure stream health based on ecosystem services provided to humans. The tool evaluates six indicators directly tied to stream benefits, enabling decision-makers to quickly understand a stream's condition and prioritize investments.

A Journal of Environmental Sciences study investigates trees best suited for cities

Researchers used a data-driven approach to filter out ideal tree species for urban forests, mapping carbon stock and biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs) emissions of six dominant urban tree species in Beijing. The study identified two optimal species: Betula platyphylla for high-altitude areas and Robinia pseudoacacia for urban...

USC technology may reduce shipping emissions by half

A USC-developed shipboard system using limestone and seawater can remove up to half of carbon dioxide emitted from shipping vessels, cutting maritime CO2 emissions by 50%. The process mimics a natural chemical reaction in the ocean, where CO2 is absorbed into water pumped onboard and then neutralized through a bed of limestone.

SEB Conference 2025

The SEB Conference 2025 will feature over 500 talks on latest advances in experimental research across animal, plant and cell biology. The event highlights groundbreaking research in biomechanics, wildlife conservation, human disease and bio-inspired robotics.

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.

One single rule helps explain life from ocean depths to open savannas

A new study found a universal organizing pattern governing species distribution across biogeographical regions. The research reveals that core areas provide optimal conditions for species survival and diversification, driving biodiversity radiance outward.

Risking planetary stability

Nico Wunderling joins the Center for Critical Computational Studies (C3S) to investigate global warming's impact on planetary stability. He focuses on the Amazon rainforest and its biodiversity under climate change pressures.

‘Scratching’ more than the ocean’s surface to map global microplastic movement

Researchers have mapped global microplastic distribution patterns by size and polymer type, revealing that microplastics are deeply embedded in the ocean's structure. The study found that smaller microplastics spread more evenly and penetrate deeper, while larger ones concentrate near the surface, affecting key biogeochemical processes.