Articles tagged with Ecological Processes
Researchers found sharks maintained high levels of functional diversity for most of the Cenozoic era before declining over the last 10 million years. The decline is attributed to the loss of ecologically unique species, including the megalodon, a key apex predator.
Researchers found that adding nitrogen to concrete could significantly reduce global levels of potentially harmful nitrogen oxides (NOx) created by the construction industry. This process could contribute to a reduction in NOx emissions by 3.4-6.9 megatonnes, representing 6-13% of industry-related emissions in 2021.
Researchers compared human hearts with those of great apes, discovering a more compact muscle structure in humans, related to greater cardiac function. This finding supports the hypothesis that human heart evolved to meet higher demands of human physiology, such as larger brain size and physical activity.
Researchers argue that plants can solve problems and adapt to their environment based on information received from neighboring plants. This suggests a form of intelligence in plants, challenging traditional notions of central nervous systems.
Researchers have discovered ancient termite mounds in Namaqualand, South Africa that date back a staggering 34,000 years. The mounds, which are still inhabited by termites, provide valuable insights into prehistoric climate conditions and natural carbon sequestration processes.
Researchers will study polyploidy's effects on plants and animals, from ecosystems to cells, with potential applications in agriculture, medicine and conservation. The project aims to identify consistent rules governing polyploidy and its role in shaping biodiversity.
A new study highlights the benefits of intermittent fasting and protein-pacing on gut health, weight loss, and metabolic responses. Participants showed improved diversity of the gut microbiota, decreased symptoms of gastrointestinal problems, and increased beneficial microbes linked to a lean body type.
International research team finds that increasing key nutrients like potassium and phosphorus can sustain tropical forest productivity under drought conditions. This study, published in Nature Geoscience, aims to address the potential impact of climate change on these critical ecosystems.
A new tool and framework allow companies to assess the circularity of their products in early design stages, enabling them to create sustainable new products. The circular design framework consists of 10 categories and includes interactive questions, helping entrepreneurs and designers think systematically and collaborate better.
A study led by Spanish researchers reveals Bonelli's eagles colonized the Mediterranean 50,000 years ago due to early human settlement, displacing golden eagles as the dominant species. Human activities now threaten the eagle's survival.
A UMaine graduate student's research found that small mammal personalities determine the effectiveness of pilferage in mice and voles. Deer mice were the most accomplished thieves, while individuals with lower body condition and female voles were more likely to pilfer.
A team of Georgia Tech biologists discovered that chemoautotrophic sulfur-oxidizing bacteria play a crucial role in providing nitrogen to plants while detoxifying the root zone, enhancing plant health and resilience. This finding highlights the importance of microbes in coastal ecosystems.
Researchers have found that phytoplankton biomass in Narragansett Bay declined by 49% from 1968 to 2019, with the winter-spring bloom occurring earlier each year. The decrease in phytoplankton levels may indicate resilience in the face of climate change.
A new study by Kobe University has discovered that woodlice and earwigs can disperse seeds they eat, setting a new record for the smallest animals to do so. This finding challenges traditional views on seed dispersal and highlights the crucial role of small invertebrates in ecosystems.
A new study led by ORNL provides valuable insights into vegetation resilience in response to extreme heat events, informing pathways for climate mitigation. The analysis found that impervious surfaces, moisture conditions, and type of land cover affect vegetation resilience, with preservation and enhancement of vegetation contributing ...
Researchers found that the loss of large herbivores like tapirs and deer reduces leaf damage caused by pathogens, leading to increased plant species richness. In contrast, insect damage remains unaffected, suggesting a more complex relationship between plants and their natural enemies.
Desert isopods rigorously regulate their intake of macronutrients and calcium, preferring biological soil crust over plant litter. The research highlights the crucial role of ingested microorganisms in facilitating digestion and growth.
A new AI model, DyLEMa, reduces ET prediction uncertainty by up to 30% and captures land use dynamics accurately. The model improves daily continuous ET data generation and estimation of soil erosion.
A comprehensive analysis of over 200 scientific articles reveals the fundamental importance of scavengers and carrion in wetlands, benefiting soil, plants, birds, and mammals. The study highlights five different functions performed by scavengers during carrion consumption, including nutrient recycling and pathogen control.
A recent study by an international group found that forests with higher trait diversity adapt better to climate change and thrive. Higher productivity levels were maintained in diverse trees compared to monoculture forests.
A study found that agastric fish lack specific genes required for gastric functions, such as slc26a9, kcne2, cldn18a, and vsig1. These findings suggest a genotypic convergence where gene losses correlate with stomach loss in various fish lineages.
A new computer simulation model highlights the importance of cultural burning in maintaining forest ecosystem health. Researchers found that Indigenous fire stewardship was extensive across a landscape in northern California before European colonization, with an estimated 6,972 cultural ignitions occurring annually.
Researchers observed a rare instance of lemur predation by a fosa in the Betampona Strict Nature Reserve. The impact of this predation, combined with low reproductive rates and genetic isolation, poses significant threats to the survival of critically endangered lemurs.
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.
Fruit eating birds play a vital role in forest ecosystems by consuming, excreting, and spreading seeds to allow trees to grow and function. The study found that highly fragmented landscapes restrict bird movement, reducing carbon recovery potential by up to 38 percent.
Researchers have discovered the first known nitrogen-fixing organelle within a eukaryotic cell, which challenges current understanding of biological nitrogen fixation. The discovery provides insight into ocean ecosystems and has potential implications for agriculture.
Kiruba Krishnaswamy's project aims to tackle hidden hunger by developing a circular, culturally appropriate food system model. The research focuses on micronutrients and community-based solutions to address malnutrition and obesity, with the ultimate goal of reducing chronic hunger.
A new dataset has been released that combines molecular information about the poplar tree microbiome with ecosystem-level processes. The dataset provides detailed information on 27 genetically distinct variants of Populus trichocarpa, a bioenergy crop, and includes data on gene expression, soil chemistry, and microbial diversity.
The study revealed three genetically distinct populations of rusty-patched bumblebees, highlighting the need for tailored conservation efforts. The analysis showed low colony abundance and high rates of inbreeding, threatening the long-term viability of the species.
Recent research connects biological domestication to early food globalization, proposing a new conceptual framework that challenges traditional narratives. Archaeological investigations have shown that plant and animal domestication entailed a more gradual transition spanning thousands of years across extensive geographies.
A new study reveals how deep-seated geographic isolation drove divergent evolutionary paths among mammals, resulting in unique biodiversity patterns. The research highlights the crucial role of isolation in shaping modern ecosystems, with implications for conservation efforts and understanding the delicate balance of ecosystems.
Researchers found that social status is reflected in epigenetic signatures, including DNA methylation patterns, in juvenile and adult free-ranging spotted hyenas. These patterns are linked to important physiological processes such as energy conversion and immune response.
A study by Florida Atlantic University researchers found that severe hurricanes can increase the recovery of coral reef sponges by boosting the influx of juveniles and promoting gene flow. Genetic analyses revealed that populations of clonal marine species may benefit from increased frequency and magnitude of hurricanes to maintain gen...
Researchers from Tokyo University of Science found that rose essential oil increases the transcript levels of PIR1 and PIN2, key plant defense genes, in tomato plants. The study also showed that REO reduces leaf damage caused by pests and attracts beneficial predators to protect against herbivores.
Scientists have found that climate change is altering the timing of plant and soil processes in the Alps, leading to disruptions in nutrient cycling and potentially threatening biodiversity. The high mountains are warming at a faster rate than surrounding areas, resulting in reduced snow cover and changes in vegetation patterns.
Virginia Tech researchers have received a five-year National Science Foundation grant to develop an open-source automated forecasting system for lakes. The system will enable real-time data collection and publishing, allowing researchers to predict water quality in lakes around the globe.
A new study by the University of Liverpool and international partners found that the summer solstice acts as a celestial cue to synchronize beech tree reproduction across vast distances in Europe. This synchronization has significant consequences for ecosystems, including disruptions in food webs and wildlife populations.
A new study identifies ten key components to promote sustainable, equitable, and climate-smart ocean planning initiatives worldwide. The proposed components include foundational principles and operational pathways that aim to support marine managers and planners in developing climate-smart ocean plans.
Suprina Shrestha, a UT Arlington graduate student, has been awarded the Marie Sklodowska-Curie Fellowship from the International Atomic Energy Agency. The fellowship aims to support women in studying nuclear-related subjects and will provide financial assistance for her research in isotope hydrology.
International research led by CSU suggests studying root function in tropical forests can improve climate change predictions. Tropical forests contain 30% of global soil carbon, with roots acting as 'carbon banks' that can help mitigate climate change.
Researchers found that restored coral reefs can grow at the same speed as healthy reefs within four years, bringing back important ecosystem functions and habitat for marine life. The study's results show promise for reef restoration projects worldwide, but longer-term studies are needed to understand resilience under stress.
A recent study suggests that nature experiences positively impact human time perception, particularly in temporal duration and perspective. This can lead to a sense of 'gaining time' and balance feelings of time scarcity. By reconnecting with nature, people may develop a more positive and balanced time perspective.
A collaborative research project, 'Ecosystem on the Edge,' aims to understand how coastal marsh plants and microbes interact in a constantly pulsating environment. The four-year study at Plum Island Ecosystems Long Term Ecological Research site will investigate controls and impacts of iron and sulfur cycling.
A recent study found that semi-aquatic anole lizards can experience a 6°C drop in body temperature while diving, with males conserving heat to minimize muscle recovery time. Females prioritize safety over physiological costs, taking longer dives to avoid predators.
Scientists explored desiccation tolerance in mosses, tracing 450 million years of plant evolution. They found closely related species use similar pathways to coordinate dehydration but differ in rehydration management.
Researchers at Hokkaido University developed new computer-based models of masting to understand its effects on ecosystems and food webs. The models predict that masting can affect tree mortality, population dynamics, and animal-forest interactions, with implications for mitigating negative impacts of climate change.
A recent study reveals that converting rainforests to plantations erodes and restructures food webs, fundamentally changing their functioning. The researchers found that energy flows differently in plantation ecosystems compared to rainforests, with a greater emphasis on invasive species and reduced predation.
A new study by the University of Liverpool warns that reforestation initiatives can harm wildlife and ecosystems if not done properly. The research highlights issues with tree-planting in non-forest systems, such as savannas and grasslands, which are under threat from increased tree cover.
The tawny owl's pale grey plumage is linked to crucial functions aiding survival in cold environments, including energy homeostasis and fat deposition. Genetic analysis reveals a 70-100% accuracy in predicting grey coloration through specific genetic variants.
A global meta-analysis of six continents reveals that large wild herbivores have a significant impact on ecosystems, promoting biodiversity and ecosystem variability. The study found that megafauna communities with larger herbivores tend to have positive effects on local plant diversity, while smaller species communities decrease it.
A new study sheds light on the complex relationship between forests and the climate system, highlighting the impact of forest emissions on cloud formation and global temperatures. Researchers emphasize the need for improved climate models to accurately represent these interactions.
A recent study reveals a shift in global warming dynamics, with greater daytime warming since the 1990s. This has led to an increasing temperature difference between day and night, which could affect crop yields, animal well-being, and human health.
Researchers at the University of São Paulo found evidence of a tropical island with rich mineral deposits, including cobalt and nickel, in the South Atlantic Ocean. The team's analysis of seafloor sediment samples suggests the area was once home to vegetation and had volcanic activity between 30-40 million years ago.
A new camera system records natural animal-view videos with high accuracy, enabling scientists to study animal behavior and navigation. The system uses four color channels, including UV light, to produce accurate video of how animals perceive colors.
The Shiyu discovery in Shanxi Province reveals an advanced material culture dating back 45,000 years, with evidence of blade technology and long-distance obsidian transfer. This finds sheds light on the ancient migration of Homo sapiens into East Asia around 45,000 years ago.
Researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute have developed a material to selectively oxidize urea in water, producing hydrogen gas. The material, made of nickel and cobalt atoms with tailored electronic structures, enables the efficient conversion of urea into hydrogen through an electrochemical reaction.
A new study finds that cities with higher per-capita GDP generate more waste, while economies of scale reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The research uses scaling theory to analyze waste products from over 1,000 cities worldwide.
A University of Oklahoma study explores how environmental stresses influence microbial community assembly and structure in groundwater. The research found that stochastic processes are critical at low stress levels, but deterministic processes dominate at higher stress levels.
A new database of marine microbes has been created, revealing insights into the ocean's diversity and its impact on climate change. The catalog provides unprecedented information on which microbes live where and what they do.
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...