Articles tagged with Ecological Processes
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 new study led by University of Maryland Professor Sujay Kaushal reveals that human activities are making the planet's air, soil, and freshwater increasingly salty. This acceleration of the natural salt cycle poses an 'existential threat' to ecosystems and human health if current trends continue.
Studies using controlled experimental-ecosystem chambers found that even low intensities of light pollution have profound effects on individual species' responses and ecological networks. Artificial light alters the timing of key behaviors in mosquito populations, which may carry wide-scale consequences for disease transmission.
Chinese researchers are exploring advanced porous nanomaterials and technologies to reduce radionuclide discharge into the environment. These materials possess high specific surface area, abundant pore structures, exceptional stability, and design flexibility, making them promising candidates for radionuclide removal.
Reduced water flows and rising atmospheric temperatures will warm rivers during droughts, posing challenges for aquatic life and ecosystems. Intense solar radiation and lower water flows accelerate warming, but certain management interventions can help offset high thermal extremes.
Researchers used paleoaltimetry technique to reveal early mountain range uplift in Southern Tibetan Plateau. The study found that the region had achieved an elevation of approximately 3.5 kilometers by 63 to 61 million years ago, challenging established notions of Tibetan Plateau formation.
A study by the University of the Basque Country found that even highly diluted wastewater from treatment plants can exert significant effects on stream communities, reducing invertebrate diversity and altering trophic networks. The researchers emphasize the need for more stringent treatments to conserve freshwater food webs.
A new intestinal microbe, Taurinivorans muris, has been discovered that feeds exclusively on taurine and produces hydrogen sulfide, a foul-smelling gas. This bacterium shows a protective function against important pathogens like Klebsiella and Salmonella.
A recent study published in Journal of Ecology reveals how natural regeneration develops in protected European forests. The researchers found that positive interactions between trees are rare and dependent on tree species and environmental factors.
A recent study published in Ocean and Coastal Management found that the public perception of plans to combat oligotrophication in the Seto Inland Sea is more positive than expected. The survey revealed that respondents were unfamiliar with nutrient supply measures from factories and sewage treatment plants, but presented information si...
A new study led by Holden Arboretum ecologists explores the impact of warmer temperatures on decomposition rates in natural ecosystems. The research reveals that interactions between microbes, plants, and warming temperatures can alter decomposition rates, providing valuable insights into how climate change affects ecosystem function.
Researchers have identified essential genes for the growth of Patescibacteria, a group of tiny microbes that live on larger bacteria. The study provides insights into their unique biology and potential biotechnology applications.
A new Danish study measured nitrous oxide emissions from fertilizer materials in spring barley, finding that commercial fertilizers emit less N2O than previously assumed. Organic fertilizers, including livestock manure and digestates, emitted more N2O on average.
A review of 82 studies found human activities influencing insect habitats, leading to declines in Central and Western Europe. Agricultural activities, urbanization, and climate change are identified as primary drivers of observed changes in insect populations.
Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed an isochoric vitrification technique that preserves and revives live coral fragments without forming ice. This breakthrough enables the collection of coral samples throughout the year, supporting conservation efforts to protect reefs and their diverse ecosystems.
A novel method to monitor range shifts of protected organisms and expanding noxious species has been developed. By marking the average position of the 'connectivity limit' over time, researchers offer a statistically reliable approach to tracking changes in species distributions.
A new study from Lund University found that secondary forests in Sweden were more affected by the 2018 drought than primary forests. The research team analyzed satellite images and vegetation indexes to compare the impact of drought on both forest types.
A University of Maryland study found that tree species diversity increases spider populations, providing a natural pest regulation service. Spider populations in diverse plots increased by 23-50% compared to single-species plots during late summer months.
A review of animal evolution in response to fire may help inform conservation strategies, as changing fire regimes impact species. By analyzing nearly 100 papers, the authors identified various adaptations, such as infrared sensory pits and behavioral changes, that enable animals to survive fires.
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.
Researchers clarify how microorganisms spread globally through atmospheric dispersal, highlighting mechanisms and key areas of concern. The study emphasizes the importance of addressing this phenomenon to minimize disease spread and preserve ecosystem health.
Researchers investigated the role of thyroid hormones in coordinating the metamorphosis of clownfish, discovering a strong interaction between metabolic processes and hormone regulation. Thyroid hormones play a critical role in timing the transformation and supporting energy demands during the journey.
Researchers found that migrant orangutan males use observational social learning to learn new ecological knowledge from local individuals after dispersing to a new area. They observed males peering at role models for at least five seconds, indicating attentive interest and learning how to process new foods.
Researchers at FAU are promoting a cradle-to-cradle approach for organic electronics, considering recycling and biodegradability from laboratory phase to product end-of-life. This strategy aims to reduce the environmental footprint of organic electronics by 30% less CO2 during manufacturing.
A new hedging strategy for coral restoration balances species diversity and ecosystem benefits by selecting key species that maintain critical functions. The approach considers a range of local species and ecological characteristics to ensure the most effective restoration outcomes.
Researchers analyzed scientific literature from 1990 to 2021 and found that environmental pollution through chemicals is less studied than other causes of global biodiversity loss. The team calls for a stronger interdisciplinary focus to better understand and mitigate chemical impacts on biodiversity.
New research from the University of Manchester reveals that areas rich in marine life are significantly impacting our ecosystems and climate. The study found that urea, a nitrogen-rich compound, is being transported over long distances through the atmosphere to benefit nutrient-deficient environments.
Flying squirrels in China's southern rainforests use a unique storage method, chewing grooves into nuts and wedging them between branches, to keep them safe from decomposition. This behavior demonstrates their cognitive and engineering skills, potentially contributing to the dispersal of nut-producing trees throughout the forest.
Professor Lapointe suggests treating certain types of wastewater with passive, modular, and decentralized solutions, reducing techno-economic barriers. These solutions include bioretention cells, aggregate-decant systems, and seepage areas through functionalized soils.
NERC has invested £25 million in a host of high-risk, high-reward research projects tackling key unanswered questions about our planet. The projects cover geology, atmospheric science, biodiversity and ecology, with research spanning 3-4 years and funding up to £1.3 million.
Research by North Carolina State University found that new species can alter ecosystem processes despite similarities to resident species, but changes occur when they are more dissimilar. This study has implications for predicting the consequences of climate change-induced species introductions.
Researchers developed an AI-powered tool to identify and measure coral reef halos globally, providing a new method for monitoring ecosystem health. The tool enables efficient tracking of reef ecosystems' function at large scales, improving understanding and management of coral reefs.
Soil archaea in a warming climate become less diverse and more predictable, according to a long-term experiment led by Jizhong Zhou. The study found that experimental warming altered the community structure of soil archaea, reducing their taxonomic and phylogenetic diversity.
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.
A team of scientists has discovered the oldest evidence of tylosis formation in a 360-million-year-old fossil from Ireland, providing insights into the evolution of plant defenses. The discovery sheds light on how early woody species protected their wood from pathogens and water loss.
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.
A global survey of 1000 forest areas reveals how past climate change has impacted tree species diversity and distribution. The study found that temperature changes since the last ice age have had a significant impact on today's biodiversity.
Researchers at Concordia University have developed a system of floating geotextile filters that efficiently remove suspended solids, algae, and nutrients from shallow lakes. The study shows promising results in lake water remediation, with the potential to scale up and benefit larger bodies of water.
Researchers discovered that coastal marine invertebrates can survive and reproduce on floating plastic debris in the open ocean. This finding suggests a rapid shift in biogeographical boundaries due to floating plastic pollution.
A new theory, dubbed the Pancosmorio theory, emphasizes the importance of maintaining an Earth-like ecosystem for human survival in deep space. The key factors include gravity, which induces a pressure gradient in the body, and oxygen, which is generated by plants on Earth.
The West Virginia University researchers will develop and advance a pioneering method to extract and separate rare earth elements from acid mine drainage and coal waste with the new funding. The project aims to create employment in regions of West Virginia impacted by the US transition away from fossil fuels.
A recent UBC study reveals that the planet's biomass is disproportionately distributed among tiny and massive organisms, with no clear explanation for this pattern. The findings have significant implications for understanding climate change impacts and ecosystems.
Researchers at Pusan National University have created a portable molecular sensor that detects biogenic amines released from spoiled food using polydiacetylene-based beads. The sensor, which changes color to red upon binding with BAs, can be used for rapid visual detection of spoiled food during storage and distribution.
A study published in Nature Communications found no evidence for two alternative stable states in shallow lakes, contradicting the accepted theory. The research team recommends reducing nutrient inputs to ensure ecological equilibrium.
Researchers found that mesophotic reefs differ from shallower counterparts, suggesting a strong ecological filter between depths. The study highlights the need to expand marine protections for coral reefs beyond shallow waters, emphasizing the unique biodiversity and vulnerability of deeper ecosystems.
A model predicting oxygen levels in freshwater streams, developed by WVU researcher Omar Abdul-Aziz, helps determine stream pollution and health. The tool allows citizen scientists to take action on stream pollution, with potential applications for implementing the Clean Water Act.
A new study by Göttingen University reveals that mechanical weeding and reduced fertilizer usage significantly increase ecosystem multifunctionality and profit in industrial oil palm production. The researchers found no reduction in greenhouse gas emissions with these practices.
A groundbreaking study found that creating shallow water zones enhances fish populations, while coarse wood bundles have positive effects in selected lakes. The approach has stronger long-term effects than narrow species-focused conservation actions.
Researchers used a high-performance computer simulation to study the impact of soil subsidence on permafrost thawing in the Arctic tundra. They found that uneven land subsidence leads to a drier landscape, which limits the process's acceleration through the end of the century.
A long-term study from Lund University in Sweden found that native trees are preferred by urban birds due to their availability of resources. Non-native trees lack an evolutionary history with the local ecosystem and have fewer insects, leading to a shortage of food for insectivorous birds.
Researchers found that snake species distribution in the Chaco region correlates with adaptations, such as fossorial habits for burrowing and arboreal traits. The study showed that southern species have small eyes and short tails, while northern species have long tails and are tree dwellers.
A new study proposes focusing on time-resolved analogs to analyze changes in dynamic environments over many years. The researchers used the extremely salty Tirez lagoon in central Spain, which had experienced alternating dry and wet periods before reaching total desiccation in 2015.
A University of Texas at Austin paleobiologist's new examination reveals the serious impact of reptile extinctions on island ecosystems. The study found that smaller islands lack a buffer when losing reptile species, leading to reduced ecosystem stability and increased vulnerability to collapse.
A Lund University study evaluates 'Operation: Save the Bees' campaign, finding that creating meadows with diverse flowering species and planting older flowers improves pollinator numbers. The researchers also highlight the importance of investing in effective measures to support urban biodiversity.
A new study analyzing a two-decade long grassland experiment found that plant species complement each other to produce stable biomass at the community level. This 'compensatory' effect is more pronounced in diverse communities, which also show increased stability and resilience over time.
A study by researchers at the University of Göttingen investigated the effect of mixing wheat and faba beans on pollinating insects. They found that areas with mixed crops were visited equally often by foraging bees as those with single crops. The findings suggest that this mixture may counteract pollinator decline.
Researchers at North Carolina State University found that ants do not adjust their behavior in response to rising temperatures, persisting in sub-optimal microhabitats. The study suggests that ants may not be able to adapt to warmer ecosystems, with potential implications for forest ecosystems.
Researchers found a novel gene-transfer mechanism in Prochlorococcus that enables the transmission of entire blocks of genes between organisms, even when widely separated. This mechanism, dubbed 'tycheposons,' involves sequences of DNA that can include several genes and are transported by membrane vesicles or hijacked virus particles.
Research reveals dramatic shifts in pollinators across the last century, with hoverflies and moths becoming less frequent visitors to flowers, replaced by flies of the genus Thricops. The findings suggest that plants may be able to compensate for these losses, but changes in insect communities could lead to reduced pollination services.
Research highlights the critical link between island and marine ecosystems, identifying six essential environmental characteristics to guide prioritization of conservation efforts. Restoring islands can maximize returns for conservation management investments in ocean health and biodiversity.
Researchers analyzed 2.3 million camera-trap photos of tropical mammals, revealing consistent daily activity patterns across continents. Body size and diet are key factors influencing activity, with larger animals active during the day and smaller ones at night.