Research on how organisms interact with their environment. Covers predator dynamics, invasive-species origins, keystone species, and microplastics in food webs.
Research finds that feeding on non-native plants during larval stage influences adult wing coloration and reproductive behavior in Fischer's Blue butterflies. Native plant hosts appear more yellowish and have lower ultraviolet reflectance, attracting more mates.
A new study reveals that more than half of critical underground fungal species are less protected in conservation areas. These mycorrhizal fungi form networks that help plants absorb nutrients, making ecosystems more resilient to stress and climate change.
A new study suggests integrating indigenous and local management practices into scientific and political frameworks could improve biodiversity protection. The research identifies 343 reports of management practices targeting key cultural species, highlighting the importance of custodianship in biodiversity conservation.
Researchers propose a method to measure urban vibrancy by analyzing biodiversity and activity categories. The framework applies ecological concepts to urban planning, highlighting the importance of balancing activities in neighborhoods.
Researchers have published a new checklist of 924 diatom taxa alongside a curated dataset of 11,469 records in the open-access journal Biodiversity Data Journal, providing a long-needed foundation for environmental monitoring across the region. This dataset directly answers a key recommendation from the UN Plankton Manifesto and will s...
Researchers observed a whale skeleton over 15 years and found that it supported a sulphophilic community on the seafloor. This community persisted for more than 20 years, demonstrating the long-term importance of whalefalls in deep-sea ecosystems.
Researchers at VIB-VUB Center for Structural Biology identified a previously unknown fibrous network, 'sporesilk', a natural nanofiber net with remarkable properties. This molecular net clusters spores and toxin crystals into compact 'infection units', increasing insect-killing efficiency.
Osaka Metropolitan University researchers developed a light-driven method to rapidly collect microscopic targets, outperforming traditional techniques. The technique concentrates bacteria between 1000-10,000 times faster than existing approaches, paving the way for early disease detection and analysis of nanoparticles.
Researchers have discovered how diet influences the composition of intestinal tissue in cichlid fishes, a key aspect of evolutionary diversification. The study found that different diets lead to distinct cellular adaptations, including changes in the number and type of cells involved in nutrient absorption.
Researchers tracked black sea bream using ultrasonic biotelemetry to observe their reproductive behavior during spawning seasons. Males made frequent upward and downward movements, while females remained near specific oyster rafts, suggesting different strategies for reproduction and energy conservation. This study provides new insight...
The University of Cologne's researchers will continue to work on innovative treatments for lymph node cancer and study plant responses to environmental changes. The Collaborative Research Centres have received a total of approximately €39 million in funding, highlighting the university's strength in collaborative research.
A new approach using Michaelis-Menten enzyme kinetics offers a direct fix for estimating nutrient uptake length in streams. The zero-order method substantially outperforms the first-order approach under saturation, providing more accurate estimates of stream filtration capacity.
Leaffooted bug nymphs must play a 'game of roulette' to acquire bacterial symbionts needed for survival and growth within a limited time frame. The study found that delayed symbiont acquisition leads to reduced survivorship, adult weight, and increased development time.
Researchers observed a previously unknown strategy used by corioxenid parasites to overcome host-imposed barriers. By raising their host's wings, male parasites were able to emerge and mate. This finding expands our understanding of host range diversification within Strepsiptera.
Current biological indices are unsuitable for intermittent rivers due to fluctuating flow, reducing species diversity and affecting ecosystem connectivity. A new method simulates metacommunities under varying drought conditions and human impacts to evaluate index performance.
A study has mapped changes in the distributions of two phytoplankton groups, Pseudo-nitzschia and Dinophysis, which produce toxins that can harm human health and marine ecosystems. The research reveals significant shifts over six decades, with changes aligned more closely with climate-driven ocean physical shifts.
Research explores airplane-bird collisions, fungal pathogen's impact on leaf decomposition & plant diversity in sacred forests. A new model predicts bird-aircraft collisions & suggests using onboard signal lights to reduce risk.
Researchers from Colorado State University are investigating the effects of rain falling on snow in the Arctic, which can influence animal behavior and habitat quality. They aim to develop a snow modeling tool to better predict changes to the environment and support decision-making for communities that rely on wildlife.
Researchers have developed a new approach to reducing bird collisions with wind turbines by using warning signals found in nature, such as yellow, red, and black colors. The study found that these colors combined with rotating motion were more frightening to birds than existing patterns used on wind turbines.
Researchers found that bird predators adjust their attacks to avoid triggering strong collective waves from sulphur mollies, but also exploit weak points in the group's defense. The fish, in turn, seem to 'remember' previous predator attacks, leading to stronger responses when attacked again.
A new study reveals how sulfur compounds are metabolized under oxygen-deficient conditions, with microorganisms like Flavobacteria playing a key role. Taurine, an organic sulfur compound found in red meat and energy drinks, is assimilated only in low-oxygen waters.
A new study challenges the hypothesis that climate change will lead to massive ag pest populations, suggesting a more complex relationship between warming and pest dynamics. The research found that some species thrive in warmer climates while others decline or show no response.
A new study by Sage Madden reveals that barn swallow chicks' growth is stunted by cold spells within five days of hatching, smallest sibling status, and less food provided by parents. The research, published in PLOS One, provides insight into climate change's impact on chick development.
A new study reveals that even gradual environmental change can push populations past a tipping point, beyond which they may suddenly collapse. The ability of species to adapt depends on three measurable factors: rate of change, environmental variation, and genetic drift.
A new review highlights the importance of using the right amount of biochar in different ecosystems, with recommended application ranges varying from 5 to 40 tonnes per hectare. Biochar can enhance ecological functions by increasing water-holding capacity, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and supporting beneficial microbial activity.
New research from the University of Virginia suggests that rear-edge populations of plants may be more resilient to climate change than expected. These populations, which have endured thousands of years of warming, have evolved specific traits allowing them to thrive in warmer climates.
A new study from the University of California, Davis, projects that 7-16% of global plant species will lose more than 90% of their range by 2100 under current climate change projections. Habitat loss is expected to drive these extinctions, rather than a plant's ability to shift locations in response to climate change.
Two studies reveal substantial losses of plant diversity, identifying priority species and limits of conservation strategies. Using data from the EDGE2 index and computational modeling, researchers identified species that are both evolutionarily unique and at risk of extinction.
A 33-year study of wild capuchin monkeys in Costa Rica reveals how climate fluctuations impact social dynamics, changing the costs and benefits of living together. Larger groups can offset internal competition by expanding their range and claiming areas from smaller groups, but this strategy is sensitive to climate variability.
The Ecological Society of America recognizes Stephen W. Pacala and Kenneth M. Klemow with Eminent Ecologist Award and Distinguished Lifetime Service Award, respectively, for their significant contributions to ecological research and public service.
A new study reveals that carnivorous plants like pitcher plants provide a vital source of nutrient-rich nectar to wasps, benefiting both parties. This interaction may be more than just predator-prey, as the plants and wasps work together for mutual benefit.
A study reveals how a tropical tree genus evolved extraordinary photosynthetic strategies, including CAM, through genome duplication and genetic rearrangement. This diversity enables the trees to adapt to different ecological niches, making them ideal models for climate-resilient crops.
A large-scale field experiment revealed that wild sulphur-crested cockatoos learn what foods are safe to eat by watching each other, with males more likely to follow other males. The study found that social relationships play a crucial role in shaping animal behavior, and that knowledge can spread rapidly through flocks.
Researchers found that camels have a more flexible and coordinated response to heat stress, allowing them to maintain stability even at higher temperatures. In contrast, human cells tend to respond in a more rigid way, making them less adaptable under heat stress.
A KIT spin-off has developed a photoreactor panel that generates hydrogen directly from sunlight and water, avoiding expensive electrolyzers. The technology offers a simpler, more scalable approach to green hydrogen production, making it suitable for local on-site use or large-scale solar projects.
A study analyzing 2,668 angiosperm species found that evolutionary relationships explain the largest share of variation in fruit volume. Climate influences this pattern, with temperature modulating phylogenetic constraints on fruit volume in different plant groups.
The eDNA-bot revolutionizes biological monitoring by providing comprehensive results at lower cost than conventional surveying methods. It can detect elusive species and monitor wastewater for pathogens, streamlining environmental assessments in hydropower licensing.
Researchers identify nanofiltration as an efficient method for removing glyphosate and aminomethylphosphonic acid from water. The study reveals that molecular hydration, charge, and pH levels significantly affect the removal process.
A study found that prey scarcity is a key factor in jaguar presence in protected areas of the Atlantic Forest, with reduced abundance and biomass due to human hunting. The researchers warn that this situation could lead to the biome losing its top predator population.
Rivers are warming, losing oxygen, and accumulating greenhouse gases, with estimated annual emissions of 1.5 billion metric tons of CO2 equivalent. Climate change and land use drive these processes, but protecting rivers can help mitigate global warming.
Researchers found that integrating a mix of shade trees improves soil health and plant physiology, leading to stronger plant growth and consistent early fruit development. Proper management through spacing, pruning, and natural mulch can also make cacao farms more resilient to climate stress.
Researchers developed a fleet of cooperative robots that, like ants, can spontaneously organize to build and dismantle structures without central control. They identified key parameters needed for excavation and building performance using simple local rules.
Researchers found that urban birds flee sooner when approached by women compared to men in a European study. The study involved over 2,700 observations across five countries and 37 bird species, revealing that birds can recognize the sex of approaching humans.
The study reveals that rising temperatures are accelerating permafrost thaw and glacier retreat on the Tibetan Plateau, forming thermokarst lakes that release ancient, long-frozen carbon as potent greenhouse gases. The research highlights the urgent need for typology-based management strategies to mitigate these emissions.
Researchers found that small understory trees can initially buffer climate change more strongly, but their long-term carbon storage capacity could be restricted by phosphorus availability. The study suggests a critical trade-off between short-term growth and long-term sustainability.
A study found that policies reducing deforestation in Brazil have failed to stop forest degradation, a slower and more dangerous form of destruction. Forests are becoming increasingly fragile due to fires, logging, and other human activities.
A new framework proposes a continuum of urbanity, challenging traditional thinking about urban and rural spaces. The study explores how urban, rural, and wild features are interconnected, affecting livelihoods, ecosystems, and human well-being in the Mid-Hudson Valley region.
A new study uses a process-based model to predict biochar's effectiveness in various agricultural systems worldwide. The research highlights that biochar can improve soil health and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but its benefits vary depending on climate, soil conditions, and management practices.
A new study reveals that conspicuous markings, including 'eyespots', evolve under specific ecological conditions. Smaller skates and rays, lacking strong physical defences, are more likely to develop bold spots or eyespots in well-lit, shallow waters.
The study found that invasive reed facilitates the development of mosquito larvae, leading to increased adult populations. Removing invasive reed and restoring native vegetation can help mitigate this impact.
Researchers use tree rings and satellites to date changes beavers make to the tundra landscape as they spread northwards. The study provides evidence of beaver colonization in the region starting in 2008, with satellite analysis revealing a significant expansion of surface water between 2015 and 2019.
Researchers found that connected habitats enhance the ability of amphibian skin microbiome to defend against diseases by increasing beneficial bacteria presence. This study highlights a critical link between environmental disturbance, microbial defenses, and disease dynamics.
A global paradigm shift is needed to protect intact ecosystems and prioritize Nature Positive framework, integrating Indigenous knowledge and finance. The webinar series on May 28, 2026, will explore effective actions for people and nature, guided by the Three Conditions Framework.
A new atlas reveals significant overlaps between Arctic oil and gas development and Indigenous Peoples' Lands, ecologically sensitive areas, and key Arctic species. The study highlights potential ecological disruption and social tension in heavily-exploited regions.
A machine learning approach improves how roaring behaviour can be studied by detecting long-distance roaring based solely on acceleration data. The algorithm works reliably with both male and female lions, even with mixed signals when walking while roaring.
New research found that bird species with a skewed sex ratio are primarily caused by demographic factors, not the other way around. The study of 261 bird species revealed that one sex is more likely to die before reproducing due to differences in survival rates.
Researchers have created a novel sorbent made from chitosan/cellulose acetate and bentonite composites that show promise for cleaning up oil spills. The beads are floatable, biodegradable, and environmentally compatible, making them an efficient and cost-effective solution.
Researchers found that crabs' iconic sideways walk originated from a single, forward-walking ancestor around 200 million years ago. This rare innovation likely contributed to the ecological success of true crabs by making their escape direction unpredictable.
A study by the University of Vienna reveals that European colonialism has left a lasting impact on the threat to languages and species. Island regions, such as Oceania and East Asia, are disproportionately affected due to their small size and vulnerable ecosystems.
Researchers found that connected natural habitats help maintain beneficial skin microbes that inhibit deadly fungal pathogens in tropical amphibians. Habitat fragmentation weakens these microbial defenses, leading to increased pathogen infection levels.