Scientists have found that carefully planned patches of diverse vegetation can increase biodiversity and boost yields for farmers. By engaging local communities and co-designing restoration strategies with them, researchers demonstrate the potential to minimize fragmentation and enhance connectivity in Amazon landscapes.
SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalDiversity·DateDec 21, 2022
Researchers found that biology textbooks published between 1970 and 2019 provided insufficient climate change information, with median sentence counts decreasing over time. Climate coverage has varied substantially, but actionable solutions decreased significantly since the 1990s.
SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 21, 2022
Researchers added 146 new animal, plant, and fungi species to the tree of life, including 44 lizards, 30 ants, and 14 sea slugs. This discovery highlights the importance of protecting island ecosystems and advancing biodiversity science for conservation action.
SourceCalifornia Academy of Sciences·JournalZooKeys·DateDec 20, 2022
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.
A new study found that wandering albatrosses with older partners take shorter feeding trips and return to the nest sooner, benefiting both parents. This behavior helps them assess how much pressure their partner can handle, ensuring they don't overwork each other.
SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalEcology and Evolution·DateDec 20, 2022
Researchers found that simultaneously acting global change factors decrease grassland plant community diversity, regardless of individual factor quality. This effect is linked to increased biomass production due to the influence of highly influential factors like eutrophication.
SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 19, 2022
Researchers propose alternative fertilizer production methods to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but emphasize the need for careful environmental assessment. The global food supply depends on synthetic nitrogen fertilizers, which require significant energy and lead to carbon pollution.
SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 19, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
A team of ecologists is calling for the designation of World Heritage Environmental Datasets to secure funding and ensure their long-term accessibility. These datasets, which include vital information on climate change adaptation, resource management, and environmental policy, are essential to understanding global change.
SourceCary Institute of Ecosystem Studies·JournalScience·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateDec 15, 2022
A study by University of Basel researchers found that global warming is causing alpine plants to age faster, leading to earlier senescence and longer periods of brownness in the grassland. The majority of plants stopped growing after 5-7 weeks, regardless of when they were roused from winter.
SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 15, 2022
Researchers discovered that a group of wood-boring clams has evolved to build chimneys made of poop to get pure water in and expel waste, dominating their habitat. These clams have adapted to low oxygen conditions with unique traits like mucosal linings and hemoglobin-rich blood.
SourceField Museum·JournalMarine Biodiversity·DateDec 15, 2022
A global registry for gene-drive modified organisms could facilitate transparent communication, monitor ecological impacts, and inform local decision-making. Experts agree that a registry is necessary for the fair development, testing, and use of gene-drive technologies.
SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Biotechnology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateDec 15, 2022
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.
Researchers found that genetic diversity is key to successful coral transplantation, and using clones of just 10 staghorn individuals led to better results. The team's findings suggest that diversifying coral outplants is safer than betting on one standout 'super coral' to succeed.
SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 12, 2022
A meta-analysis of transcriptome data from aphids and locusts reveals that DNA replication, metabolic processes, and the mitotic cell cycle are enriched in response to crowded conditions. The study also identifies discrepancies with previous research findings, suggesting alternative explanations for gene expression patterns.
Researchers found that Kellet's whelk larvae are susceptible to developmental abnormalities and mortality at high temperatures, with half of hatchlings dying off at 27.6°C and veligers more resistant to defects at 24.9°C
SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalJournal of Shellfish Research·DateDec 8, 2022
Researchers found the emerald ash borer completes its life cycle in one year in North Carolina, contrasting with a two-year cycle in northern US. This knowledge will aid in releasing parasitoid wasps to manage the insect.
SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalEnvironmental Entomology·DateDec 8, 2022
Research found that North American wildflower timing is more sensitive to warmer temperatures than surrounding tree growth, threatening the flower's ability to grow. In contrast, European and Asian forests show a synchronized shift in tree and wildflower phenology, potentially leading to increased light for wildflowers.
SourceHolden Forests & Gardens·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateDec 6, 2022
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.
A new review paper aims to educate medical professionals on diagnosing and treating rat lungworm disease, which is expected to spread globally due to climate change. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical in reducing the risk of complications such as long-term disability.
SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalAmerican Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 6, 2022
Researchers analyzed over 4,500 documents to understand fungal dispersal across spatial scales. They identified four scales of movement, from microscopic to landscape, and found that climate change affects where fungi reside. More data is needed to understand the biodiversity of fungi and their movement in ecosystems.
SourceDartmouth College·JournalAnnual Review of Ecology Evolution and Systematics·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 5, 2022
Nelson is studying outmigrant survival of endangered California salmonids, which are low due to poor water quality and predation. The study aims to quantify component mortality rates from these sources to elucidate the main causes of outmigrant loss.
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.
A new analysis of Michigan bees reveals that both high-quality habitats and diverse species communities can positively impact bee health by reducing common viral pathogens. However, the researchers also found that improving habitat quality features like floral density may not necessarily benefit pollinator health.
SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalEcology·DateDec 5, 2022
Researchers from the University of Göttingen found that European beech trees are experiencing increased drought stress in northern Germany due to climate change. The study reveals that dry locations show the strongest long-term decline in growth, highlighting the need for more resilient tree species.
SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalGlobal Change Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 5, 2022
Research from Aarhus University found that melting glaciers release around 10,000 microorganisms per millilitre of meltwater, leading to estimated annual releases of over 100,000 tonnes of carbon-dense microorganisms to surrounding ecosystems.
SourceAarhus University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 1, 2022
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.
Researchers analyzed over 20,000 trees on five continents and found that old-growth trees are more resistant to drought, while younger trees in the upper canopy show greater resilience. This study highlights the importance of preserving old-growth forests for carbon storage and ecosystem functioning.
SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature Climate Change·DateDec 1, 2022
Root exudates, organic compounds released from plant roots, regulate soil carbon formation and loss. Contrary to expected results, high rates of root exudation lead to increased loss of soil carbon.
SourceHarvard University, Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology·JournalNature Geoscience·DateNov 28, 2022
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
SourceCalifornia Academy of Sciences·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·DateNov 28, 2022
A new study compiled data on over 3,000 species to show how climate and geologic changes across Asia influenced the evolution of mammals. The research found clear links between changes in Earth's climate and the distribution of mammals in different regions.
SourceField Museum·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 28, 2022
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.
A new study warns that oil palm expansion could harm a third of threatened species, including the blue-throated macaw and giant pangolin, due to habitat loss and disruption. Sustainability commitments may not protect tropical grassy and dry forest habitats.
SourceUniversity of York·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateNov 28, 2022
A Collaborative Research Centre investigates animal navigation using the Earth's magnetic field. The study focuses on vertebrates, including birds and fish, aiming to protect endangered migratory species.
Researchers found that less intensively managed grasslands had greater diversity of plant species and correlated with better soil health, including increased nitrogen and carbon levels. In contrast, intensively farmed plots showed fewer plant species, but some saw improvements in soil health over time.
SourceUK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology·TypeObservational study·DateNov 25, 2022
A new study by Imperial College London found that the most unique birds on the planet are also the most threatened. The researchers analyzed the extinction risk and physical attributes of 99% of all living bird species, revealing a significant link between uniqueness and threat status.
SourceBritish Ecological Society·JournalFunctional Ecology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 24, 2022
GoPro HERO13 Black
GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.
A global survey found that grazing has positive effects on ecosystem services in cold sites with high plant species diversity but negative effects in warmer sites. Promoting diverse grazing systems could limit some of these negative effects and increase soil carbon storage.
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateNov 24, 2022
Researchers at UC Santa Barbara discovered that the ecology of small mammals upon which ticks feed can explain rates of human Lyme disease in California. The study found a clear link between infected ticks and their frequent hosts, such as dusky-footed woodrats, with diverse species playing a role in transmission.
SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateNov 21, 2022
A new study suggests that ships may be spreading a deadly coral disease across Florida and the Caribbean. Researchers found that transport through ship ballast water could contribute to disease spread.
SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 16, 2022
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.
Researchers have discovered a new critical period for sex determination in sea turtle embryos, influenced by temperature fluctuations. The study reveals two peaks in temperature's impact on sex ratio during the thermosensitive period of development.
SourceFlorida Atlantic University·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 15, 2022
A distinct population of oceanic manta rays was identified off the coast of Ecuador, with an estimated total population of over 22,000 individuals, making it more than 10 times larger than any other known subpopulation. The population is large and potentially healthy due to favorable conditions in the region.
SourceOregon State University·JournalMarine Ecology Progress Series·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 14, 2022
Eastern red bats, now the most commonly detected bat in Midwestern forests, have a significant impact on tree regeneration due to their appetite for insect-damaging bugs. Forest managers can benefit from considering these bats' landscape preferences, particularly ponds and smaller forest openings.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalForest Ecology and Management·DateNov 14, 2022
A three-year experiment found that mixotrophs evolved to be less photosynthetic at higher temperatures, potentially increasing CO2 production and contributing to climate change. The study also suggests natural selection has a stronger effect on organisms with less flexible characteristics.
SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateNov 4, 2022
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.
Researchers at the Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research found an upward trend in skate populations in the North Sea, with a significant increase off Scotland's north coast. The study also revealed that skates mainly eat shrimp, providing ecological potential for more fish to thrive.
SourceRoyal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research·JournalMarine Biology·TypeLiterature review·DateNov 3, 2022
The invasive spotted wing drosophila competes strongly with other fruit-eating species, causing massive ecological impacts on forests. The fly's presence alters fruit composition and visual cues, reducing consumption by birds and potentially disrupting seed-dispersal mutualisms.
SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalNeoBiota·DateNov 3, 2022
A new review highlights the lack of understanding about non-game native transplant (NGNT) fish in the US, which can have significant impacts on ecosystems. Researchers urge anglers and aquarium hobbyists to take steps to prevent NGNT invasions, such as not releasing bait fish into different watersheds.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalFisheries·DateNov 3, 2022
Researchers found that current methods for estimating plastic pollution in rivers are flawed, underestimating plastic waste by up to 90 percent. The study suggests new approaches be developed to better model the transport of plastic particles in rivers, taking into account both surface and sub-surface conditions.
SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalWater Research·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 3, 2022
A new study found that Arctic wildfires burned nearly 4.7 million hectares in 2019 and 2020, accounting for 44% of total burned area in the region over almost 40 years. The study suggests an exponential relationship between fire and temperature, with potential consequences for global warming and climate feedback loops.
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateNov 3, 2022
Meta Quest 3 512GB
Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.
A new study found that large river dams are significant barriers to platypus movements, leading to increased genetic differentiation and vulnerability to threats. This restriction of movement limits gene flow between groups, making separate populations more susceptible to inbreeding depression and loss of adaptive genetic variation.
SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 3, 2022
A researcher swam 1,600 miles along the Danube River to raise awareness about water pollution and its effects on wildlife and human health. He highlighted microplastics, toxic algal blooms, and changes in river chemistry due to climate change.
SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateNov 2, 2022
A study analyzing historic habitat mapping data in Hamburg found a decline of species-rich habitats due to urbanization, while also revealing the colonization efforts of certain plant species. The research highlights the potential of these datasets for biodiversity research, with trends observed across Germany and Europe.
SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalEcosphere·DateNov 1, 2022
A recent study predicts that over half of lesser-known species are in danger of disappearing. The researchers used machine learning to calculate the risk of extinction for thousands of data-deficient species, finding that as many as 85% of amphibians and around half of mammals and reptiles face an uphill battle.
SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateNov 1, 2022
Scientists have discovered a new species of scops-owl on Príncipe Island, characterized by its unique 'tuu' call. The population is estimated at around 1000-1500 individuals and is considered Critically Endangered due to habitat loss and the construction of a hydro-electric dam.
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.
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.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalEcology Letters·DateOct 31, 2022
A long-term study in Southeast Asian seasonally dry tropical forests found that El Niño-induced drought increased seedling mortality. Despite being more drought-tolerant than rainforests, SDTFs experienced higher mortality rates under severe and prolonged drought conditions.
SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalGlobal Change Biology·TypeSurvey·DateOct 28, 2022
A team of researchers at CU Boulder used X-ray CT scans to study the internal structure of bee swarms, revealing a sophisticated mathematical rule governing their arrangement. The discovery could lead to insights into how bees maintain stability despite having tiny brains and could inspire the design of more resilient buildings or robots.
SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 26, 2022
Two closely related Drosophila species, biauraria and triauraria, coexist due to differences in seasonal occurrence and habitat use. Hybridization between the species is possible, despite reproductive interference mechanisms.
SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalApplied Entomology and Zoology·DateOct 26, 2022
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.
The study reveals that cumulative pressures of food production are more concentrated than previously believed, with 92% of pressures from land-based food production concentrated on just 10% of the Earth's surface. The top five offenders are pig farming, cow farming, rice, wheat, and oil crops.
SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature Sustainability·DateOct 24, 2022
Researchers found that closely-related rhododendron species in China's Hengduan Mountains coexist by bursting into bloom at different times of the season. This diversification allows them to reduce competition for resources and pollinators, enabling their survival.
SourceField Museum·JournalJournal of Ecology·DateOct 24, 2022
A study by the University of Turku found that red foxes can be deceived into not eating bird eggs with chemical camouflage, while raccoon dogs showed less effectiveness. The methods could provide an alternative to hunting and help protect vulnerable prey species.
SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalBiological Conservation·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 20, 2022
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
The world's largest fully protected marine protected area, Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument, provides spillover benefits for migratory species like bigeye and yellowfin tuna. Research reveals the protections of these regions also affect populations outside their borders.
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateOct 20, 2022
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.
A study by Martin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg and the German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research found that 41% more plant species in Germany have decreased in abundance over the past 100 years, while only 19% have increased. This uneven distribution of gains and losses indicates a significant loss of biodiversity.
SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalNature·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 19, 2022
The Black in Marine Science organization, founded by Tiara Moore, aims to increase diversity in the field. Despite its efforts, it still faces significant challenges, including a lack of representation among minority groups.
SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateOct 17, 2022
A new study reveals that losing endangered fruit-eating animals in the Atlantic Forest could severely disrupt seed-dispersal networks, leaving plants without an effective means to regenerate. Nearly 55% of specialist plant species rely solely on these frugivores for seed dispersal.
SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 12, 2022
Soil ecological values are often overlooked in nature conservation management; the new study identifies global hotspots where they need to be prioritized. Temperate ecosystems show high local species richness, while biodiversity uniqueness peaks in arid and tropical ecosystems.
SourceGerman Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig·JournalNature·DateOct 12, 2022
A comprehensive classification of world's ecosystems across land, rivers, and wetlands enables effective biodiversity conservation and informed policy decisions. The typology helps policymakers and industry plan initiatives in full context, informing decisions on ecosystem protection and restoration efforts.
SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalNature·TypeSystematic review·DateOct 12, 2022
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.