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Tip sheet for the Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment May 2018 Issue

The article explores four key strategies to prevent environmental generational amnesia, which can accelerate environmental degradation. Coral reef restoration is also discussed, highlighting the importance of herbivory, reducing coral predation, and promoting algae-farming fishes. Additionally, passive acoustic monitoring in freshwater...

SourceEcological Society of America·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateMay 2, 2018

Facilitating coral restoration

Researchers advocate for harnessing dynamic ecological forces to facilitate coral reef ecosystem recovery. By controlling factors like coral density and site selection, restoration practitioners can maximize growth rates and minimize mortality, promoting positive feedback processes.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateApr 4, 2018

Microbes measure ecological restoration success

Researchers at the University of Adelaide have developed a new method to monitor soil microbes, which could boost the success of ecological restoration projects. By analyzing the DNA of bacteria in soil samples, scientists found that native plant revegetation can restore a natural state to cleared land just eight years after implementa...

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateMar 14, 2017

A mammoth undertaking

A new paper by UC Santa Barbara researchers recommends several ways to make ecological de-extinction more successful. They suggest resurrecting recently extinct species that fit seamlessly into their ecosystems, choosing animals with irreplaceable ecological jobs, and restoring species to functional abundance levels.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalFunctional Ecology·DateAug 25, 2016

Large sponges may be reattached to coral reefs

A new study describes a method for reattaching large sponges to coral reefs, with 62.5% of sponges surviving at least 2.3-3 years. The technique uses sponge holders and can be applied to other large sponge species removed by human activities or storm events.

SourceWiley·JournalRestoration Ecology·DateApr 27, 2009

Bison can thrive again, study says

A recent assessment by the Wildlife Conservation Society and other groups suggests that bison can thrive again in large areas from Alaska to Mexico within the next 100 years. The study identified prime locations across Canada and the US, as well as parts of Mexico, where ecological restoration could take place.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalConservation Biology·DateApr 29, 2008

Study finds that damaged land can restore itself

A new study published in Restoration Ecology reveals that damaged environments can be restored within a matter of years at virtually no cost. Spontaneous revegetation allows plants from surrounding areas to move in and take root, naturally restoring the site.

SourceWiley·JournalRestoration Ecology·DateApr 1, 2008

Oysters: The natural way to protect our shores

Researchers found that small oyster shell reefs are effective in slowing erosion on low wave energy shorelines, but less effective in higher wave energy environments. This study suggests that oyster reefs could be a useful tool for coastal managers to stabilize shorelines under low energy conditions.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalRestoration Ecology·DateAug 30, 2005

Guns, bats, and cash

Research suggests that consuming flying foxes, foraged on cycad seeds with high neurotoxin levels, may be a source of ALS-PDC. Economic changes in Guam led to increased hunting and trade of bats, contributing to the disease's rapid spread and decline.

Roads affect 20% of U.S. land

A study by Harvard University's Richard Forman estimates that US roads directly affect the ecology of nearly 20% of U.S. land, blocking animal migrations and spreading non-native species. Traffic noise also reduces bird populations, making it harder for them to communicate with their young.

SourceSociety for Conservation Biology·JournalConservation Biology·DateFeb 1, 2000