Articles tagged with Ecology
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.
Fallow deer were first introduced to Britain by the Romans, not the Normans, and have been repeatedly moved by humans as a symbol of colonial power. Their strong association with Greco-Roman goddesses has driven much of their movements around the Mediterranean.
The study reveals that non-native earthworms have colonized 97% of soils across North America, with alien occupation higher in the northern part of the continent. This poses a threat to native ecosystems, including forests and grasslands, and highlights the need for better understanding and management of these invaders.
Researchers at the University of Sydney have developed a method to shield plants from herbivorous mammals by fooling them with artificial odors, mimicking plants they naturally avoid. This approach is more humane and low-cost than current methods, and shows promise for protecting valuable plants globally.
The Cary Institute's new program provides nine teachers with six weeks of collaborative research experience in ecosystem science. They will develop innovative curricula based on their research, increasing their capacity to educate students about ecology and global change.
A meta-analysis of 221 studies finds that megafauna size and dietary selectivity have stronger effects on plant diversity than species origin. This challenges the assumption that introduced megafauna have greater negative impacts on ecosystems.
A new study found that relocated songbird chicks can successfully learn the diversity of songs they need to communicate and survive. Despite an initial lack of song diversity, the population recovered as it increased in size, suggesting that translocating nestlings may not lead to long-term problems.
Research finds invasive trout compete with native white-spotted charr for aquatic prey. Brown trout also influence ecosystems by preying on terrestrial organisms, further harming native populations.
Researchers found that tidal wetlands are not always less hospitable to methane-producing microbes as sea levels rise, with some sites emitting high levels of methane despite moderate saltwater influx. The study's results suggest complex factors governing methane emissions in natural landscapes, complicating predictions and models.
Researchers propose new statistical index to detect river ecosystem changes, potentially preventing tragedies like the Oder River crisis. The developed index is more versatile and responsive to variations in individual parameter values.
A new study reveals how sika deer foraging is causing soil erosion, reducing the growth of Japanese beech trees. The research found that exposed roots are more vulnerable to water loss, affecting tree health and increasing vulnerability to climate change and pests.
A study in Kenya's Ol Pejeta Conservancy found that invasive big-headed ants disrupt a mutualism between native ants and acacia trees, leading to overgrazing by elephants and reduced lion zebra kills. As a result, lions shift their prey to African buffalo, reducing zebra kills from 67% to 42% between 2003 and 2020.
Chinese researchers investigated the causes and consequences of biological invasions, tackling questions on genetics, nutrient pollution, and online trade. The 24 articles highlight valuable insights into future biological invasion research coming out of China.
Research reveals humpback whales shift their daily singing patterns away from shore, returning to nearshore in the evening to minimize interference. This dynamic behavior may help increase the efficiency of their acoustic display.
Researchers in Argentina have found that cyanobacteria blooms are becoming more intense in five reservoirs, particularly in the warmest areas. The team also detected positive records of cyanotoxins only in the last four years of the study period, highlighting a significant underestimation of the problem.
A study experimentally caused a predator die-off to understand its impact on freshwater ecosystems, finding that rapid predator deaths lead to an increase in zooplankton biomass and phytoplankton proliferation. However, this effect can sometimes introduce decaying biomass that causes harmful algal blooms.
The study observed that invasive Bluegill in Lake Nojiri, Japan, displayed unique colony spawning behaviors, with males constructing nests in close proximity to each other. Removal of guarding males revealed four brood predator species, with conspecific Bluegill constituting over 90% of all predators.
Researchers have documented cannibalism in the mainland dusky antechinus during its breeding period. The behavior is linked to stress-induced death and provides an opportunity for energy gain via eating dead males or females of other species.
A 2500-year-old urban center in the Upper Amazon has been discovered, featuring constructed platforms, plazas, and a complex road network. The site, dating back to around 500 BCE, is significant for its early evidence of large-scale low-density agrarian urbanism in the region.
A comprehensive assessment reveals that roughly two-thirds of Atlantic Forest tree species are threatened with extinction, including 82% of endemic species. The study suggests that conservation efforts may need to be revised due to the high extinction risks for tropical forests worldwide.
Global shark fishing mortality has increased over the last 17 years, defying widespread regulation. Local and regional bans have shown promise in reducing mortality, but global legislation aimed at curbing finning has had little impact.
A major international collaboration of scientists found that just 2.2% of tree species make up 50% of the total number of trees in tropical forests across Africa, Amazon, and Southeast Asia. The study estimated that 1,053 species account for half of the planet's 800 billion tropical forest trees.
A global study led by Colorado State University scientists shows that extreme drought has been greatly underestimated for grasslands and shrublands. The study found that the loss of aboveground plant growth was 60% greater when short-term drought was extreme, exceeding previously reported losses.
Research reveals that European insects outnumbers non-native species in North America, Australia, and New Zealand despite reduced international trade patterns. Introduced plants may have promoted the spread of European insects by providing food and habitat for subsequent arrivals.
Researchers found that mycorrhizal fungi form mutually beneficial relationships with plant roots, improving juvenile survival and promoting species diversity. The study suggests that these symbiotic relationships between plants and fungi may play a role in driving global patterns of forest tree diversity associated with latitude.
A recent study suggests that the Arctic cold snap significantly contributes to the heightened uptake of carbon dioxide by the East Sea. The research found that the internal circulation along the East Coast strengthened due to the Arctic cold wave, leading to a surge in carbon dioxide absorption. This phenomenon presents a promising sol...
Global biodiversity data reflects social and political inequities, influencing conservation policies. Human histories and processes are embedded in the data, highlighting the need for corrected policies to mitigate inequities.
An international study classifies groundwater as a keystone ecosystem, emphasizing its critical role in sustaining both humanity and biodiversity. The researchers propose eight key themes for improved groundwater conservation to reduce biodiversity loss and counterbalance climate change.
A new study by University of Michigan researchers found that genetic variants underlying male bisexual behavior are reproductively advantageous, leading to more children and increased risk-taking. The analysis of over 450,000 participants revealed a correlation between these alleles and higher fertility rates in heterosexual men.
Research using a high-resolution climate model found that global warming amplifies the strength of typhoons in East Asia, leading to increased intense rainfall and powerful storms. The study suggests that continued escalation of global warming will result in stronger typhoons and more extensive occurrences of extreme precipitation events.
A team of international scientists found that Southeast Asian forests resisted 'savannisation' during the Last Glacial Maximum, maintaining a mosaic of diverse closed and open forest types. Maintaining forest diversity is key to preventing future 'savannisation' and protecting tropical rainforests in regions like South East Asia.
A new study led by the Smithsonian identifies five new species of soft-furred hedgehogs from Southeast Asia, using DNA analysis and physical characteristics. The two new species, Hylomys vorax and H. macarong, are endemic to the endangered Leuser ecosystem in North Sumatra and Southern Vietnam.
Researchers found a new species of fanged frog on Sulawesi Island, with males guarding eggs on leaves to keep them moist. The tiny frogs weigh about the same as a dime and have barely visible fangs, challenging previous assumptions about their reproductive behavior.
Scientists have discovered the protein that enables poison dart frogs to accumulate and store potent toxins in their skin for self-defence against predators. The findings may suggest potential therapeutic strategies for treating humans poisoned with similar molecules.
Researchers discovered that reindeer's vision evolved to spot Cladonia rangiferina, a type of lichen, during winter. This adaptation allows them to conserve energy by finding food from a distance, making it easier to survive in cold environments. The study provides new insights into the extraordinary visual system of reindeer.
A new statistical method developed by the DFG research group BETA-FOR can analyze the contributions of biodiversity between local ecosystems to the multifunctionality of entire landscapes. The study breaks down multifunctionality into two components, relating them to local biodiversity and habitat diversity.
A study found that migratory bats are sensitive to the angle of magnetic inclination and use it for navigation. The soprano pipistrelle bat species calibrated its internal compass at sunset, taking into account both the horizontal component and inclination of the Earth's magnetic field.
A University of Michigan-led study found genetic mutations promoting reproduction are linked to shorter lifespans. Individuals with higher reproductive rates have lower probabilities of living beyond age 76.
African honeyguide birds understand and respond to culturally distinct signals made by local human honey hunters, indicating a rare interspecific mutualism. The study found that birds are more likely to respond to signals of their local culture than another culture or arbitrary sounds.
A recent study analyzing tree ring measurements from 122 species found that trees in wetter forests are more vulnerable to drought than those in drier regions. This suggests that land management policies focused solely on drier regions overestimate the resilience of forests in wetter areas.
Researchers find complex microbial communities forming giant mounds of rock in a harsh desert environment, resembling ancient stromatolites. The discovery provides an unprecedented look at the earliest stages of life on Earth and may hold clues about life on Mars.
Professor Shuqing Xu's research aims to investigate the connections between species interactions and evolutionary responses to climate change. He will create aquatic pond systems with hundreds of species to study how organisms respond to temperature increases, with potential findings on coevolution and ecosystem functions.
Researchers used AI to analyze tree databases and found that temperature and precipitation are strong predictors of non-native species invasion. The study also reveals that global forest carbon potential is considerably below natural levels, with most potential located in existing forests.
A new study compiled over 600,000 records from US and Canadian wildlife rehabilitation centers to investigate the threats facing more than a thousand species by region, highlighting human activities such as climate change and extreme weather events
Researchers develop a mathematical model that analyzes the future survival of plants in a changing climate by studying how far wind can carry seeds. The model provides fast and reliable predictions of seed movement, considering factors like seed type, plant height, and wind speed.
A study on chinstrap penguins found that they accumulate over 11 hours of sleep per day through thousands of 4-second microsleeps. This breaks traditional notions of prolonged sleep bouts and suggests an incremental approach to sleep accumulation.
Researchers found that monk parakeets in Europe have unique vocal patterns in each city, varying in frequency modulation structure. However, within parks in the same city, there were no significant differences in calls, suggesting dialects developed early and remained stable over time.
Plants capture more carbon on weekends when industrial production decreases and fewer people commute, finding similar patterns during COVID-19 lockdowns. This improvement in air quality could enhance natural carbon sequestration and mitigate climate change.
A research team employed deep learning techniques to scrutinize dam operation patterns, achieving remarkable accuracy in forecasting dam water levels. The study demonstrates the potential of an artificial intelligence model trained on extensive big data to surpass conventional physical models.
A new study has found that non-native species tend to mirror Earth's biodiversity patterns, with around 37,000 invasive species described worldwide. The researchers discovered that certain groups of species, such as mammals and plants, are disproportionately prone to establishing in new areas.
Researchers found a tradeoff between fast growth and heat tolerance in corals, with thermally sensitive algae dominating faster growth but only in cooler water. This study helps predict reef futures and inform conservation strategies, highlighting the complexity of coral growth on a reef.
Researchers found Cladophora blooms increase Bacillariophytes and alter physicochemical properties, leading to shifts in phytoplankton communities and biomass. The study suggests FABs as ecological engineers influencing alpine lake ecosystems.
Researchers discovered six new species of rove beetles with unique genital shapes, including a bottle-opener like structure in one species. Climate change threatens the survival of these species due to habitat changes.
Research suggests that diverse forests can capture approximately 226 Gigatonnes of carbon, but this potential can be achieved by incentivizing community-driven efforts to promote biodiversity. Restoration efforts should include natural diversity of species and sustainable practices.
A new five-year research project combines AI, virology, and ecology to anticipate future SARS-CoV-2 strains that could pass between animals and people. The team will use artificial intelligence to predict variants and assess risk of spillover from people to wildlife.
Researchers have made a breakthrough in studying species evolution by using robotic video microscopes and computer vision to measure embryo characteristics. The study found huge changes in an embryo's observable traits before and after developmental events, suggesting that measuring timings of development is just the tip of the iceberg.
A new meta-analysis of over 600 global studies found that herbivores reduce vegetation abundance by 89% and suppress plant diversity at restoration sites. Excluding or reintroducing predators may aid restoration efforts, increasing vegetation abundance by 93-372%.
Scientists have observed wolves directly hunting and consuming sea otters and harbor seals in Alaska's Katmai National Park. This new evidence challenges previous assumptions about wolf behavior and diet. The study highlights the unique role of wolves in nearshore ecosystems in Alaska.
Ant communities in Okinawa Island show reduced seasonal behavior in areas with more human development. Researchers found that ant populations in developed sites are less predictable and have diminished seasonality compared to forested areas. The study highlights the impact of human activities on insect populations and ecosystem services.
Researchers at the University of Houston have discovered that microalgae can be used to sequester carbon dioxide and convert it into mass-produced proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates. This process has the potential to transform food production, treat wastewater, and produce sustainable biofuels.
Researchers found 13 mummified leaf-eared mouse cadavers atop 4-mile-high volcanoes, with DNA analysis revealing a distinct population from lower-altitude mice. The discovery suggests the rodents ascended without human assistance and have adapted to extreme conditions.