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.
Researchers at Politecnico di Milano's LCCP have developed a process to transform CO₂ into methane using carefully engineered nickel nanoparticles. The study investigates how the size and shape of nickel nanoparticles influence the rate of carbon dioxide conversion into methane.
Medaka fish engage in courtship and spawning at midnight to 4 a.m., with peak activity between 2 a.m. and 4 a.m. Researchers conducted continuous observations in an outdoor setting to gain insights into their natural behavior.
Research led by University of Wyoming scientists identifies a potential new subspecies of sharp-tailed grouse in south-central Wyoming. The population found in southern Carbon County and northwest Colorado is not Columbian or plains sharp-tailed grouse, but rather potentially a distinct subspecies isolated for years.
The Ecological Society of America presents a compilation of five research articles exploring various ecological topics. Researchers found that historical nursery catalogues can predict plant invasion likelihood and identify invasive species. Urban ecosystems provide critical habitat for monarch butterflies in Northern California, while...
Researchers discovered microbial communities thriving in glacier habitats on the Tibetan Plateau, interacting with intra- and extra-glacial ecosystems. Human activities and pollution pose a threat to these microorganisms, highlighting the need for conservation efforts.
Researchers detected ethyl glucuronide in feathers of various bird species, suggesting that avian exposure to ethanol is widespread. Studies found higher levels of the molecule in nectarivores and frugivores compared to other dietary groups.
A new study suggests that reforestation efforts can lower global average temperatures by 0.34 degrees Celsius, roughly one-quarter of the warming already experienced. This is due to the chemical interactions between trees and the atmosphere, which amplify their cooling effect.
Researchers documented an unusual feeding aggregation of oceanic whitetip and tiger sharks scavenging concurrently on a carcass off the coast of Hawaii's Big Island. The study reveals that despite their different habitats, these shark species can peacefully coexist and establish a social hierarchy.
A new study by researchers at the University of California, Davis, suggests that non-native milkweeds in urban gardens are not harmful to migratory monarch butterflies. The study found that resident monarchs and non-native milkweeds are not connected to the larger population, allowing urban ecosystems to contribute to their conservation.
A new Yale study found that few bird species can escape the effects of climate change due to their limited migration capabilities. Despite some species being able to move northward or to higher elevations, they still experience significant temperature increases.
A study published in Ecology and Evolution found that the digestion process of birds of prey, such as owls and hawks, can significantly impact the ratios of isotopes in their pellets and droppings. This means that previous studies relying on these samples may have inaccurate results when trying to determine an animal's diet or environm...
The global ocean has experienced a significant reduction in the depth of its photic zones, home to 90% of all marine life, leading to widespread ocean darkening. This change could have profound implications for the planet's marine species and ecosystem services.
Researchers propose urban rewilding as a key strategy to combat biodiversity decline, focusing on reintroducing faunal species into urban areas. This approach aims to increase ecosystem function, optimize food webs, and foster more self-sustaining ecosystems.
The University of Oldenburg has secured funding for three research clusters: Hearing4all, Ocean Floor, and NaviSense. These clusters aim to improve hearing loss prediction, diagnosis, and treatment, as well as animal navigation research. The funding enables the continuation of high-quality research with social relevance.
A recent study has discovered that cold-adapted species began evolving 2.6 million years ago, with many modern species emerging around 700,000 years ago. The research provides insights into the evolution of Arctic ecosystems and highlights the importance of understanding past adaptations to inform conservation efforts.
A new international study shows that El Niño and La Niña climate patterns affect nearly half of the world's mangrove forests, threatening these vital coastal ecosystems. Mangroves are experiencing widespread degradation during El Niño events and increased growth during La Niña events.
A meta-analysis from the University of Copenhagen shows that flower strips with at least two sown species increase the number of natural enemies by an average of 70 percent. This is due to the diverse range of flowers attracting a broader range of beneficial insects, such as ladybirds and hoverflies.
Researchers at UCSF have successfully engineered a shapeshifting protein that can change shape in response to signals, potentially leading to breakthroughs in medicine, agriculture, and environmental applications. This achievement marks the first step towards creating stable yet dynamic proteins using AI-augmented protein engineering.
New research reveals that turf algae in warming Gulf of Maine waters are chemically inhibiting the recovery of kelp forests, threatening these crucial marine ecosystems. Laboratory experiments show that turf-derived compounds inhibit early growth stages of kelp, altering the chemical ecology and preventing re-establishment.
Roundworm C. elegans avoids deceased conspecifics due to olfactory cues from metabolites AMP and histidine, leading to reduced fitness and increased egg laying. The detection of these signals may be an evolutionarily maintained mechanism for detecting cellular death.
A new study has shown that turf algae release chemicals that can kill young kelp, creating a feedback loop that reinforces kelp forest collapse. The research reveals an indirect way climate change is reshaping ocean ecosystems, complicating kelp forest recovery along Maine's rapidly warming coast.
A University of Michigan study reveals that songbirds making arduous winter migrations to warmer climates exhibit higher genetic diversity than those staying closer to their breeding locations. This finding highlights the interplay between genetic diversity and climate change/human impact on bird habitats.
Under carbon limitation, trees shift from roots to mycorrhiza for nutrient acquisition. Mycorrhizal colonization and extramatrical hyphal length increase, while root physiological activity declines.
Researchers found a total of 2,829 genetically defined species, with bacteria richness being 10.3 times greater than eukaryotes. The study revealed previously unknown associations between bacteria and eukaryotes, suggesting novel mutualisms that may promote nutrient exchange.
A Kyoto University study reveals that seasonal timing of terrestrial invertebrate resource subsidies can mediate life-history variation in wild organisms. The researchers found that early subsidies led to the highest life-history variation, while later or no subsidies resulted in lower variation.
A novel analysis suggests more than 3,500 animal species are at risk from climate change, with significant threats to invertebrates and marine life. The study highlights the need for a global database on mass mortality events due to climate change and integration of biodiversity and climate change policy planning.
A new study reveals that climate change is rapidly becoming a third major threat to Earth's wild animals, alongside habitat alteration and overexploitation. The research found that 5.1% of assessed animal species are threatened by climate change, with six classes having at least 25% of species at risk.
A new international study published in Nature Ecology & Evolution found that fertilizer can help plants survive short-term periods of extreme drought. The researchers added nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium to 26 sites across 9 countries and found a 24% increase in plant growth with fertilizer addition.
A new study on mountain ecosystems under climate change found little empirical support for the widely recognized 'escalator to extinction.' Instead, biotic homogenization is identified as a more immediate concern, with species communities across different elevations becoming increasingly similar.
The Amazon rainforest could withstand prolonged droughts caused by climate change, but this would come with significant losses, including the death of largest trees. This would lead to a reduction in the forest's ability to act as a vital carbon sink.
A study by Bernauer et al. found that democratic countries offshore environmentally-damaging products more than others, leading to lower greenhouse gas emissions at home. This challenges the notion of democracies having a moral high ground in environmental protection.
The Ecological Society of America recognizes William H. Schlesinger with the Eminent Ecologist Award for his global element cycles work, and Carmen R. Cid receives the Distinguished Service Citation for her long volunteer service to ESA. These awards inspire new insights and collaborations.
A study at the University of Trento has observed the brain activity of honey bees during sleep and identified similarities with human sleep patterns. The researchers used a combination of optical brain imaging, machine learning analysis, and computational neural modelling to analyze how sleep influences sensory perception in bees.
A new study published in Nature reveals that maintaining a healthy diet is the most effective way to rebuild a depleted gut microbiome, outperforming fecal transplants. The research shows that a Western-style diet can severely impact the microbiome's ability to defend against pathogens.
Viruses that infect and kill toxic algal blooms can cause the release of high levels of toxin microcystin-LR into water, posing a significant risk to human health and ecosystems. The finding highlights the need for better understanding of these interactions to inform forecasting and mitigation strategies for harmful algal blooms.
Wild chimpanzees develop different attachment types to their mothers, with some showing secure and confident attachment, while others exhibit insecure-avoidant behavior. This study provides insights into the roots of human social behavior by bridging psychology, animal behavior, and anthropology.
Researchers highlight the need to study floating solar projects' impacts on birds and other wildlife, aiming to avoid negative effects while promoting ecological benefits. The study suggests examining bird behavior interactions with floating PV systems and identifying risks and solution pathways for coexistence.
Researchers found that wild chimpanzees use compositional and non-compositional call combinations to create new meanings, similar to human language. This suggests a highly generative vocal communication system in chimpanzees, challenging previous views on the evolution of language.
Bees are severely affected by heat and land use, with populations in forests coping better than urban relatives, which saw a 65% decline.
A study found that road networks have a significant effect on the distribution of plant specimens in China, with collection activities becoming increasingly reliant on roads. To improve representativeness and completeness of survey outcomes, future surveys should prioritize areas with limited road network coverage.
Diana Wall's posthumous major donation of $514,000 to the Ecological Society of America will support ESA's programs advancing ecological research and supporting ecologists. The gift reflects her dedication to ecology as a critical tool for addressing global environmental challenges.
A study found that bumblebees are twice as likely to visit yellow flowers compared to red ones, with increased scent emission being a key factor. However, the shape of the flowers presented problems for bees, hindering efficient pollen transfer.
African starlings form reciprocal helping relationships that last over many years, similar to human friendships. The birds preferentially aid relatives but also help specific non-relatives, suggesting a complex social structure.
New study models spatial patterns of grazing halos around coral reefs and finds that halo patterns can signal reef resilience. The research suggests that stable halos exist where herbivores are limited by predators, while oscillating halos may indicate a shift in system health.
Researchers used a synthetic model of intestinal bacteria to study how microbial communities respond to extreme stress conditions. They found that when mutualism breaks down, these bacteria become more vulnerable to stress but can survive if they fend for themselves.
Research shows that sea ice disappearance changes underwater light color, impacting photosynthetic organisms like algae and phytoplankton. This shift has far-reaching ecological consequences, including altered species composition and potentially changing the Arctic food web.
The University of Jena, Germany won the prestigious Dance your PhD competition in Biology with its engaging video Plant Vaccination, showcasing Priya Reddy's doctoral thesis on plant immune research. The video combines scientific accuracy with creative freedom, highlighting the potential of science to reach a wider audience.
A nine-year study of Drummond's rockcress plants found that climate change is outpacing natural gene flow, threatening population survival even within a broadly distributed plant species' native range. Assisted gene flow could help maintain genetic diversity and species persistence, but must be carefully managed.
Scott Solomon, a biologist and teaching professor at Rice University, has been awarded the prestigious Piper Professor honor for his exceptional teaching and service to students. He is known for igniting students' curiosity and helping them connect scientific knowledge to real-world applications through immersive field-based courses.
A comprehensive study analyzes over 1,346 migratory movements of 805 individuals from 34 breeding colonies. The research reveals that the three shearwater species mostly preserve their migratory identity while showing gene flow between populations.
A University of Michigan study identifies Dolichospermum as the cyanobacteria responsible for producing saxitoxin in Lake Erie. The researchers found that warmer water and specific environmental conditions promote saxitoxin production, highlighting the need for continued monitoring to assess potential changes with climate change.
Researchers developed a universal theory to explain species distribution patterns, estimating species numbers at key transition points between phases. The three-phase pattern of Species-Area Relationships shows rapid increase in local areas, slowing down in regional areas, and accelerating on continental scales.
The Ecological Society of America has elected 18 new Fellows for 2025, honoring their significant contributions to ecological research and its practical applications. The recipients include experts in fields such as theoretical ecology, restoration ecology, conservation biology, and microbial ecology.
Researchers from the University of Waterloo have developed a method to restore tens of thousands of oil and gas exploration sites in western Canada using native moss. The technique involves transplanting moss onto decommissioned well pads, effectively recreating peatlands and supporting ecosystem development.
A study by scientists at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute found that juvenile fringe-lipped bats do not initially differentiate between palatable and unpalatable frogs and toads, but learn to identify toxic species through experience. As they mature, adult bats respond more strongly to palatable prey.
Research by NIOO-KNAW reveals that less intense farming practices, such as reduced ploughing and increased grass-clover mixtures, can improve soil health and multifunctionality in both conventional and organic agriculture. This approach, known as 'productive de-intensification,' aims to retain crop yields while enhancing soil functions.
The newly discovered bone collector caterpillar is a rare, carnivorous species found only on the Hawaiian island of Oahu. It patrols spiderwebs while adorned in body parts of its prey, likely as a form of macabre camouflage to avoid detection by its hosts.
The 2025 BioOne Ambassador Award recognizes exceptional early-career researchers who are advancing public understanding of science through effective communication. The award highlights their outstanding research and commitment to sharing their work with a broader audience.
Scientists found that anaerobic microbes in wetlands can remove up to 70% of methane in oxygen-deprived soils, but their ability to do so is threatened by rising temperatures. When scientists simulated a hotter future, methane emissions spiked under hotter temperatures alone.
A new method for DNA detection uses heterogeneous probe particles and laser light to accelerate genetic analysis. This PCR-free technique offers greater sensitivity and speed than traditional methods, making it more accessible for medical, environmental, and personal health applications.