Wildlife overflow enriches biodiversity beyond park boundaries
A new study reveals that large national parks can enhance bird diversity inside their borders and boost mammal diversity in nearby unprotected areas by up to 194 per cent.
Ecological Modeling
Articles tagged with Ecological Modeling
Scientists find ‘concerning’ flaw in malaria diagnostics
A study by Cornell University researchers found that current methods for measuring malaria parasite multiplication rates vastly overestimate the actual rates, which has significant implications for vaccine efficacy and understanding of drug resistance.
Social distancing seals: an evolutionary response to pathogen transmission?
Researchers analyzed aerial images of seal colonies to study distribution patterns and found harbour seals stay at larger distances from conspecifics than grey seals, suggesting an evolutionary response to respiratory virus susceptibility. This finding provides opportunities to gather more information about pinnipeds in remote regions.
SourceRoyal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·TypeObservational study·DateAug 9, 2023
The trilobites’ guide to surviving environmental change
A new study reveals how Aulacopleura, an ancient sea-dwelling trilobite, developed variable mid-section segments to tolerate dips in local oxygen levels. This adaptation allowed the species to thrive despite being preyed upon by larger predators.
SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 7, 2023
DNA decodes the dining preferences of the shell-shucking whitespotted eagle ray
Researchers at Florida Atlantic University uncover the finer-scale feeding patterns of the whitespotted eagle ray, revealing a significantly broader diet than previously described, with high proportions of cockles and wedge shells. The study's findings suggest that these rays can play a facilitative role in reducing predation threats f...
Study proposes refinement of models to project ecosystem services in montane forests
Researchers highlight the importance of tropical montane ecosystems and their limited data availability. The study proposes refining models to include socio-ecological diversity, emphasizing the need for a transdisciplinary network to quantify ecosystem services.
Ancient pathogens emerging from melting ice and permafrost risk eroding ecosystems
A new study by Flinders University researchers suggests that only 1% of dormant pathogens could cause major ecological harm, leading to the loss of host organisms worldwide. The simulations showed that these ancient microbes can survive, evolve, and become dominant in modern ecosystems, posing a substantial danger.
SourceFlinders University·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 27, 2023
Research supports use of managed and prescribed fires to reduce fire severity
Scientists found that contemporary fires in dry conifer forests are burning hotter and killing more trees than in previous centuries, due to a lack of low-severity fires. Regular management and prescribed fires can help mitigate this trend and restore resilience to these ecosystems.
SourceUSDA Forest Service - Rocky Mountain Research Station·JournalForest Ecology and Management·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 25, 2023
Introducing GOBI: A breakthrough computational package for inferring causal interactions in complex systems
GOBI overcomes model-free and model-based inference method limitations by introducing an easily testable condition for a general monotonic ODE model to reproduce time-series data. It successfully infers positive and negative regulations in various networks, distinguishing between direct and indirect causation.
Cell-to-cell diversity is key to protecting brain from neurological diseases: University of Ottawa research
A University of Ottawa study reveals that a diverse brain's ecosystem is key to maintaining normal function while responding to changes. This concept is inspired by Charles Darwin's idea that biodiversity is crucial for survival, suggesting cell-to-cell diversity helps prevent failures in brain circuits.
SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 18, 2023
Alien invasion: Study reveals alarming economic costs of biological invasions to the European Union
A recent study led by McGill University estimates that the European Union will face significant economic losses due to biological invasions, with costs projected to reach over €142.73 billion by 2040. The study highlights the need for effective management and collaboration to address this threat.
SourceMcGill University·JournalEnvironmental Sciences Europe·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 13, 2023
Developer dollars not enough to save species
Research found that financial payments by developers to compensate for environmental consequences are insufficient to achieve intended outcomes. Only 0.7 of 13.4 hectares of impacts on koala habitat have been offset through financial payments since 2018, raising concerns about the future of this endangered species.
Age prediction from human blood plasma using proteomic and small RNA data: A comparative analysis
Researchers used proteomics and small RNA sequencing to analyze 103 human blood plasma samples, identifying 21 proteins and 315 small RNAs associated with aging. Combining protein and miRNA data improved age predictions (R2 = 0.70 ± 0.01), suggesting a broader range of age-related physiological changes.
How tidal range electricity generation could meet future demand and storage problems
Researchers at Lancaster University demonstrate the viability of tidal power as a predictable renewable energy source. The creation of a tidal barrage could operate for 120 years or more to meet future demand and storage problems, protecting coastal areas from flooding and sea level rise.
New study reveals alarmingly massive economic costs of biological invasions to the European Union
A new study quantified the economic costs of biological invasions in the European Union, revealing substantial knowledge gaps and alarming underestimations. The research projected unreported costs to be potentially 501% higher than currently recorded, reaching a staggering €26.64 billion.
SourceFlinders University·JournalEnvironmental Sciences Europe·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 13, 2023
Local loss of species may often be underestimated
A new biodiversity study shows that even seemingly healthy ecosystems with increasing species numbers may already be on the path to decline and loss of species. The study's findings suggest that species richness is not a reliable metric for monitoring ecosystems, as it can mask negative trends in species extinction.
SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 12, 2023
Birds and bats ensure yields for cacao farmers in northern Peru
Farmers' use of birds and bats as part-time collaborators has been found to increase productivity by 54% and boost annual yields by approximately $959 per hectare. This partnership helps mitigate the damage caused by pests such as aphids and mealybugs, ultimately benefiting cacao farmers in northern Peru.
SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalEcological Applications·DateJun 7, 2023
Knowledge coproduction: Working together to solve a complex conservation problem
A new study highlights the importance of knowledge coproduction in addressing complex conservation problems, specifically in California's Central Valley wetlands. The research team successfully integrated stakeholder input and climate scenarios to develop resilient wetland management strategies.
SourceConservation Biology Institute·JournalConservation Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 6, 2023
Significant citizen participation: Study examines the fate of plastic particles
A multidisciplinary team of scientists conducted a comprehensive study to understand the sources and sinks of plastic debris in the Southern North Sea. Local citizen scientists played a crucial role in tracking the distribution pathways of plastic particles, revealing that two-thirds were washed ashore within 25km of their release site.
SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2023
Cancer cells rev up synthesis, compared with neighbors
Cancer cells in brain tumors produce lipids at higher rates than surrounding healthy tissue, offering clues for treatment strategies. The study provides insights into the unique biochemical processes fueling cancer growth in the brain.
SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 1, 2023
Tree islands bring biodiversity to oil palm plantations
An international research team has found that tree islands in oil palm plantations can significantly increase biodiversity within five years. This method also does not affect the yield of the plants. The study was conducted on an industrial-scale plantation in Indonesia and showed promising results for ecological restoration.
Stop eradication of small mammals to protect vital ecosystems, say scientists
Current measures to protect grasslands in the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau are damaging the ecosystem and should be stopped. Small burrowing mammals, like the plateau pika and zokor, play crucial ecological roles in maintaining ecosystem health and biodiversity.
SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMay 22, 2023
Interactions between gut bacteria may limit antibiotics’ efficacy against C. difficile
Interactions between gut bacteria may limit antibiotics' effectiveness in treating C. difficile infections, a study suggests. Researchers found that certain bacterial species make the bacterium tolerant to metronidazole and increase its abundance.
Bridging the gap between lab and field studies in soil microbiology research
Soil microbiology research increasingly relies on big data, with experiments moving from labs to fields. Discrepancies between lab and field studies impact policies due to inconsistent results. Bridging the gap requires interdisciplinary collaboration to improve upscaling of soil microbiology research.
Cover crop management: trade-off between carbon benefits, crop yield
Researchers used an advanced ecosystem model to assess the impacts of winter cover cropping on soil organic carbon accumulation. They found that growing cover crops can increase SOC by 0.33 megagrams per hectare per year and that SOC benefits can be improved through increasing cover crop biomass.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment·JournalGlobal Change Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 8, 2023
Elephant ecosystems in decline
More than 3 million sq km of Asian elephant habitat has been lost in 300 years, with suitable habitats cut by nearly two-thirds. The study suggests that the remaining elephant populations may not have adequate habitat areas, setting up a high potential for conflicts with people living in those areas.
SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScientific Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 27, 2023
Ecology: Over 64% of suitable elephant habitat lost across Asia since 1700
Since 1700, habitats suitable for Asian elephants have decreased by over 64%, resulting in a loss of 3.3 million square kilometers of land. The study suggests that historical land-use patterns and agricultural intensification in South Asia have contributed to this decline.
New tools capture economic benefit of restoring urban streams
Researchers developed a suite of tools to assess economic benefits of improving urban stream water quality. The 'ecological production function framework' estimates use and non-use benefits, including increased property values and protected natural resources.
SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 24, 2023
Eco-computing
A study at Kyoto University has demonstrated the computational power of ecological networks, providing a new direction for rapidly developing AI technologies. The researchers developed two types of ecological reservoir computing that efficiently process information and can be utilized as a computational resource.
Researchers turn to the power of native aquatic plants to clean coastal waters
A UH-led research team has developed a cost-effective method for removing harmful chemicals and heavy metals from coastal waters by utilizing native aquatic plants. The system, which includes floating aquatic plants and synthetic mats, can help restore ecological balance and keep communities healthy.
Is this the future of farming?
Researchers propose a 'state space' approach to reframe farming planning questions, enabling analytics and machine learning to explore optimal crop combinations and simulate different scenarios. This framework allows farmers to design diverse agricultural landscapes based on natural ecosystems, increasing crop yield and sustainability.
Survival is a disgusting matter
A recent study published in Journal of Animal Ecology has identified disease avoidance strategies in various animal species, including humans. The research provides insights into how emotions like disgust help protect against diseases and has implications for human health and conservation efforts.
New tool shows progress in fighting spread of invasive grass carp in Great Lakes
Researchers at UToledo developed a new model to estimate the abundance of rare species like invasive grass carp in freshwater ecosystems. The model helps guide management strategies and provides insight into the effectiveness of control efforts.
SourceUniversity of Toledo·JournalBiological Invasions·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 5, 2023
Plant roots fuel tropical soil animal communities
A study reveals that plant roots are crucial for belowground life in the tropics, supporting decomposition and soil health. Removing living roots decreases animal abundance by 42% in rainforest plots and 30% in plantations.
Rising river temperatures hold important clues about climate and other human impacts
River temperature is a critical measure of water quality, regulating physical, chemical, and biological processes in flowing waters. Rising temperatures are linked to climate change and human activities, impacting ecosystems, human health, and industries.
MU researcher discovers threshold that triggers drought response in forests
A recent study at Baskett Forest found that forests reach an ecosystem wilting point between 2-4 weeks of extreme drought, requiring soaking rainfall to rejuvenate. This concept explains how whole forests respond to drought and is essential for understanding their dynamics under climate change.
Mapping out a path to protecting Iran’s endangered species
Researchers have identified critical areas in northern, northwestern, and western Iran for urgent conservation action. The study used maps of threatened species to pinpoint regions necessary to protect critically endangered species like the Asiatic cheetah and Persian leopard.
To know where the birds are going, researchers turn to citizen science and machine learning
Researchers developed BirdFlow, a predictive model that utilizes eBird data and machine learning to forecast migratory patterns. The model was tested on 11 species of North American birds and found to outperform other models in tracking migration flows.
New paper presents multifaceted view of land change through the lens of remote sensing
A new paper by UConn researchers introduces a multifaceted perspective on land change, considering location, time, target, metric, and agent aspects. The framework emphasizes the need for consistent language and multi-source data fusion to accurately describe observations.
Environment law fails to protect threatened species
Research by University of Queensland finds that the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act is not effectively protecting threatened habitats. Projects deemed 'significant' or 'not significant' have resulted in similar habitat destruction, highlighting inconsistencies in referral decision-making processes.
Forests face fierce threats from multiple industries, not just agricultural expansion
The article highlights that forests are not just threatened by agricultural expansion, but also by the consumption of non-agricultural products and international trade. Intact forests play a crucial role in regulating climate and biodiversity, and their loss can have significant indirect impacts on carbon emissions and biodiversity loss.
Researchers propose a more effective method to predict floods
A team of researchers from Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University and other institutions has identified a flexible and user-friendly model for predicting flood frequency in a changing environment. The fractional polynomial-based regression method is more effective than existing models, which often fail to account for factors like climate ...
SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalJournal of Hydrology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 9, 2023
URI researcher-led study opens oceans of possibilities
A University of Rhode Island professor's study has developed a macromolecular model of phytoplankton, which could have significant implications for climate research. The model predicts the variation in C:N:P ratios throughout the ocean, providing new insights into how phytoplankton respond to changing environmental conditions.
SourceUniversity of Rhode Island·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 5, 2023
Research could simplify process for calculating soil carbon credits
A study by the University of Illinois Agroecosystem Sustainability Center provides new insights for quantifying cropland carbon budgets and soil carbon credits. Researchers found that high-accuracy SOC concentration measurements are needed to quantify a cropland carbon budget, but current publicly available soil datasets are sufficient...
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment·JournalGeoderma·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 5, 2023
A mathematical model shows a global trend towards mutualism between species
A new mathematical model has found a clear trend towards mutualism in ecological interactions, with most relationships eventually leading to a mutually beneficial partnership. The researchers used adaptive dynamics and classical models of population dynamics to study the transitions between different ecological relationships.
SourceUniversidad Carlos III de Madrid·JournalPhysical Review·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 21, 2022
Mapping the middle ground: Balancing mining activities with survival of Utah's rare plants
Researchers mapped strategies to minimize impact of mining on rare plants, finding that protecting 30% of threatened species can ensure long-term survival. The model optimizes energy project placement to balance space use and minimize harm.
SourceS.J. & Jessie E. Quinney College of Natural Resources, Utah State University·JournalLand·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 16, 2022
Microphytobenthos in the Dutch Wadden Sea feeds on ‘left-overs’ in the bottom
Research reveals that microphytobenthos, a key component of the Dutch Wadden Sea food web, obtains its nutrients primarily from detrital nitrogen in pore water. This finding provides new insights into the ecosystem's dynamics and highlights the importance of considering all nutrient pools in models predicting future changes.
SourceRoyal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·DateNov 29, 2022
Rutgers researcher creates algorithms to predict arsenic contamination in private wells in New Jersey
A Rutgers researcher has created a machine learning model that can estimate arsenic contamination in private wells without sampling the water. The model identifies geological bedrock type and soil type as primary contributors to higher arsenic concentrations, highlighting the need for targeted well testing programs.
California Academy of Sciences researchers reveal how extinct Steller’s sea cow shaped kelp forests
Researchers from the California Academy of Sciences developed a new modeling approach to understand how extinct species like the Steller's sea cow impact ecosystems. The study found that including the
A better way to tell which species are vulnerable
A new study developed two approaches to assess species vulnerability, considering natural fluctuations and predictability in ecosystems. These methods outperform traditional ranking systems, which often focus on population size or body size.
Secrets of Namibia’s fairy circles demystified: plants self-organize
Researchers from University of Göttingen found that plant water stress, not termites, causes Namibia's fairy circles. The grasses within the circles died immediately after rainfall due to strong depletion of water, while surrounding grasses thrived.
SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalPerspectives in Plant Ecology Evolution and Systematics·TypeObservational study·DateOct 20, 2022
Ecosystem-based fisheries management restores western Baltic fish stocks
Researchers developed the first model for the western Baltic Sea, which includes top predators, fish species, and their interactions. Ecosystem-based management increases catches of cod and herring while improving food web resilience to climate change, and potential carbon sequestration is more than three times greater.
SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 14, 2022
An AI message decoder based on bacterial growth patterns
Researchers at Duke University developed a new AI message decoder based on simulated bacterial growth patterns, forming corresponding letters. The method uses specific initial conditions to create unique patterns for each letter, offering a novel encryption approach.
Researchers map streamflow alterations to gauge human impact on ecosystems
A study has mapped streamflow alterations across the continental US, using measurements from over 7,000 stream gauges. The dataset provides valuable data for determining societal impacts on ecosystems and setting environmental flow standards.
SourceColorado State University·JournalScientific Data·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 22, 2022
It may already be too late to meet UN genetic diversity target, but new findings could guide conservation efforts
A study published in Science found that more than one-tenth of the world's terrestrial genetic diversity may already be lost due to climate change and habitat destruction. This could have serious implications for species' ability to adapt to climate change, highlighting the need for urgent conservation efforts.
SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalScience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 22, 2022
Despite frequent sightings: Red squirrel habitats in Berlin are small and fragmented
Researchers used computer models to link red squirrel sightings to environmental parameters, identifying areas with missing ecological corridors. The study aims to improve urban planning by understanding the challenges faced by urban squirrels due to habitat fragmentation and climate change.
SourceLeibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW)·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 20, 2022
Fix up Earth to exit COVID-19: Critical link between environment, pandemics
A new study by Flinders University researchers highlights the critical link between environmental degradation and pandemics, emphasizing the need for urgent ecosystem restoration efforts to aid in COVID-19 recovery. The study suggests that up to 95% of land on Earth will be degraded by 2050 if effective measures are not taken.
SourceFlinders University·JournalThe Lancet Planetary Health·TypeObservational study·DateSep 8, 2022
Nitrous oxide emissions from Corn Belt soils spike when soils freeze, thaw
Researchers found that non-growing season nitrous oxide emissions in the Midwest can account for up to 60% of annual emissions. Environmental factors such as precipitation and temperature drive these emissions, with more intensive freezing causing increased emissions in the southeastern Midwest.
Wildfire experts provide guidance for new research directions
A new study highlights five critical challenges in wildfire research, including promoting coordinated research and drawing on diverse sources of knowledge. The authors emphasize the need for a more proactive fire research agenda to create safe communities and ecosystems.
SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateAug 18, 2022
Safe havens for cooperation
A research team used game theory to analyze cooperation in networks and found that networks with a high level of cooperation can emerge if individuals take a clear-cut position against free riders. The study also showed that if contributors leave an environment too quickly, it leads to a lower level of cooperation.
SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 11, 2022