Articles tagged with Ecosystem Management
A new study found that designated protected areas are benefiting Mexican Spotted Owl subspecies, maintaining their foothold in the region. The use of Protected Activity Centers, which protect core habitat, has been key to this success.
A team of researchers recommends incorporating principles like collective benefit and ethical governance into ecological data practices to align with existing data infrastructures. They suggest establishing collaborative relationships with Indigenous rights holders and exploring how data can be aligned with Indigenous expertise and wor...
Researchers at Colorado State University have identified priority areas for prairie dog conservation, which benefits not only the prairie dog but also other grassland species. The study provides a blueprint for conserving habitats that could help revitalize North America's Central Grasslands.
A high-resolution map and hierarchical classification system of Antarctica's ice-free lands reveal nine Major Environment Units, 33 Habitat Complexes, and 269 Bioregional Ecosystem Types. This unprecedented level of detail provides a critical foundation for protecting biodiversity in the continent's fragile ecosystems.
Researchers have created custom-made adsorbent materials that can pull harmful phosphorus out of water by transforming cyanobacterial biomass into chemically modified activated carbon. The lanthanum-modified materials showed promise in removing excess phosphorus, even at high concentrations.
Researchers identified an unknown family of microbes uniquely adapted to tropical peatlands, with a dual role in the carbon cycle. These microbes can either stabilize or intensify climate change by releasing greenhouse gases like CO2 and methane.
A three-year project aims to proactively ensure circularity of solar panels by providing solutions to barriers throughout the supply chain. The team will develop reverse logistics models and next-generation data-driven supply chains for recycling solar panels and reusing critical materials like silicon and silver.
A study published in Science of the Total Environment found that stormwater detention basins in Northern Virginia face significant salt stress due to road salts. Native plant species, such as cattails, showed promise in tolerating high salt concentrations, but their impact on overall salt removal was limited.
The new CABI book synthesises information on the invasion of natural ecosystems in Africa by alien Prosopis trees. It addresses how the problem came about, what we know about how it works, and how it can be managed at different scales to mitigate its negative impacts on biodiversity.
A 40-year study reveals increasingly common and devastating megadroughts worldwide, with significant impacts on ecosystems and agriculture. The research used global meteorological data to track changes in drought patterns and their effects on vegetation, providing insights into the paradoxical responses of different forest types.
A new study reveals the Arctic is experiencing extreme climate changes, with Siberia and Alaska facing significant warming and drying. Permafrost is a common factor in vulnerable regions, and local data can support more effective management and adaptation approaches.
Temperate savannas in eastern China have been mapped for the first time, revealing their geographical distribution and extent. The research provides precise information on the spatial characteristics of these ecosystems, supporting conservation and utilization efforts.
A comprehensive assessment of logging and conversion to oil palm plantations reveals that these activities have significantly different and cumulative environmental impacts. Logging mostly affects forest structure, while converting logged forests to plantations has greater impacts on biodiversity.
Long-term collaborations between governments and NGOs have reduced deforestation in Sub-Saharan Africa's protected areas. CMPs (Collaborative Management Partnerships) cover nearly 1 million square kilometers, with a 66% reduction in high-pressure areas.
A recent UC Riverside study found that raking dead grass can boost California's native wildflower diversity, reducing fire danger and increasing plant community changes. The simple, low-cost method of removing invasive grass layers allows native seeds to germinate and grow.
Researchers found Andean bears prefer to forage in dry season for young, tender bromeliad plants on east-facing slopes of puna grassland. They actively select specific food resources within the grasslands, indicating their nutritional importance, while avoiding areas with livestock.
Finland's approach to Public-Private Collaboration enables effective addressing of complex issues like the energy transition through coordinated efforts among stakeholders. The Vaasa region, with its unique ecosystem orchestrations agency, drives innovation towards sustainable innovations.
The National TRAP Program has awarded $1.4 million to fund 11 projects in nine US states and Palau to remove derelict fishing gear from coastal waters. This initiative aims to standardize data collection practices and establish a national database to evaluate the environmental and economic impacts of these efforts.
A new UN report highlights the economic benefits of investing in sustainable land and water management to reduce drought costs. The study estimates that nature-based solutions can generate up to $10.1 trillion in business value by 2030, while creating millions of jobs.
Recent research published in Nature Climate Change highlights the importance of coral reef restoration in responding to smaller-scale disturbances. Leading experts emphasize the need for tailored approaches, incorporating resilience-oriented frameworks to ensure long-term success.
A new seven-point strategy devised by international experts outlines steps for safe, equitable, and sustainable global water management. The plan emphasizes local collaboration, community engagement, and inclusive policies to foster peace and security.
A global research team has discovered 'natural data loggers' in aquatic species, providing a historical record of the environment. The unique chemical fingerprints left by these organisms can help scientists track water temperatures, pollution levels, and ecosystem health.
A new UBC-led study reveals that preserving key natural ecosystems across Canada can significantly reduce rainwater runoff and protect homes and livelihoods. The research identifies 201,000 square kilometres of watersheds as critical for flood prevention, supporting wildlife while reducing reliance on costly infrastructure.
The Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft is establishing seven new Collaborative Research Centres (CRC) with a total funding of €92 million. The CRCs focus on innovative research projects in sustainable construction, electronic systems, and ecosystem services. Seven new Transregios are also being funded to tackle long-term challenges.
A large-scale pre-Columbian fish-trapping facility was discovered in the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary in Belize, dating back to the Late Archaic period around 2000-1900 BCE. The facility, which included a network of linear channels and ponds, would have yielded enough fish to feed up to 15,000 people year-round.
A study published by researchers from Göttingen University sheds light on the critical role of leaf phenology in trees providing shade and improving climate resilience in cocoa agroforestry systems. The research found that certain shade tree species can significantly influence productivity and environmental stability.
A new study led by the University of Washington found that only about 7% of areas at highest risk for whale-ship collisions have any measures in place. The team identified high-risk regions, including coastal areas along the Mediterranean, Americas, southern Africa, and parts of Asia, where whales and ships are most likely to meet.
Researchers at Uppsala University developed a mathematical model to understand how seabird species coexist on isolated islands. The model shows that different species use distinct fishing zones, maximizing energy intake based on traits like wing length and diving depth.
Research by Göttingen University and collaborators reveals that tree islands within oil palm monocultures can naturally regenerate native tree diversity through ecological restoration. Larger island areas are particularly essential for endemic tree species struggling to find habitats.
Researchers from Stanford University's Natural Capital Project analyzed thousands of scenarios to find that investments in upstream reforestation and protected areas can increase water availability for downstream hydropower. This approach helps mitigate tensions between energy, agriculture, and ecosystems.
A team of researchers analyzed historical marking data from the Discovery Marking Program to investigate Antarctic blue whale population structure. They found frequent mixing among ocean basins, indicating a single circumpolar population. This study provides valuable insights into the conservation of this endangered species.
Research led by the University of Göttingen found enriching beech forests with commercially valuable native and non-native conifer species can enhance biodiversity, ecosystem functioning, and economic performance. The study showed that mixing beech with Douglas fir resulted in positive gains, particularly for biodiversity and economic ...
Researchers developed a robot that identifies plants by measuring leaf properties with an electrode, achieving an average accuracy of 97.7% for ten different species. The device may revolutionize crop management and early disease detection, but its limitations need to be addressed.
A new study reveals that European forests before modern humans arrived were dominated by light woodland and open vegetation. Hazel, oak, and yew thrived in these dynamic ecosystems, providing a diverse mix of habitats.
Research by an international team found that birds, bees, and bats working together increased macadamia nut production by up to four times, while reducing insect infestation by 40%. The effectiveness of these ecosystem services depends on altitude and natural habitats.
Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed a method to break down condensation polymers in plastics using solvents and liquid organic hydrogen carriers, producing aromatic compounds that can be used as fuels. This breakthrough has potential implications for the sustainability of the chemical industry and reducing global warming.
Researchers developed an innovative automated wildlife camera network to monitor species in a Dutch coastal dunes nature reserve. The system, which combines autonomous cameras, wireless data transmission and AI-driven species identification, has been shown to be cost-efficient and efficient, providing new insights into the habitat use ...
A study by Aliza Fleischer, Yadin Gindin, and Yacov Tsur from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem introduces a new model that integrates recreational freshwater ecosystem services into water allocation decisions. The researchers found that increasing demand for these services leads to significant changes in water diversion, with a 24% r...
The Macrosystems EDDIE modules have been effective in building student and instructor quantitative literacy and data science skills in ecological forecasting, reaching over 35,000 students globally. The modules aim to introduce students to core concepts of forecasting and complement educators' work teaching ecological concepts.
Researchers are using deep learning to help protect chimpanzees in the Greater Mahale Ecosystem, Tanzania. A new acoustic detector has been developed to identify chimpanzee sounds and monitor population density more efficiently, allowing for better conservation strategies.
Researchers analyzed 17 cases of land degradation reversal across 13 African countries, finding that strong social arrangements and aligned incentives are key to success. Successful interventions often involve local coalitions, external support, and long-term resilience.
Researchers analyzed steroids from animal dung in lake sediments to determine the dominant large herbivores that lived in northern Yellowstone National Park. The study found bison and elk as primary species for the last 2,300 years, with impacts on local ecosystems.
A new study by Rice University researchers found that invasive plants reshape soil microbial communities across the US, making them more uniform and disrupting ecological balance. The study highlights the critical belowground effects of invasive plants on soil health and biodiversity.
A study by Chapman University scientists assesses how much land can be restored, carbon captured, and water required to support ecosystems. The findings provide a nuanced understanding of trade-offs between carbon sequestration and water security.
A recent study found that reducing moose populations to historical levels through hunting can help reduce wolf numbers and protect caribou populations. In regions where moose populations were reduced, 3.2 times fewer wolves were killed to protect caribou populations.
A KAUST-led global study found that livestock management and climate explain woody species coverage in arid environments. Managing grazing pressure and type of herbivore can allow for more sustainable production in these ecosystems.
A new study by researchers from The Hebrew University of Jerusalem challenges conventional beliefs about decomposition processes in arid environments. Larger insects such as termites and beetles play a crucial role in decomposition, with peak rates during the summer in arid sites.
Researchers will map carbon distribution, identify high-risk areas, and inform fire suppression strategies to maximize carbon storage in the Yukon Flats National Wildlife Refuge. The project aims to address the growing threat of permafrost thaw, which could release 1,700 billion metric tons of carbon.
Scientists estimate a 31% increase in global photosynthesis due to rising CO2 levels, with pan-tropical rainforests accounting for the largest difference. This improvement can enhance climate predictions and highlight the importance of natural carbon sequestration.
A recent study led by University of Wyoming scientists found that managing free-roaming horses within the Bureau of Land Management's maximum appropriate management levels would benefit sage grouse populations. Grazing by wild horses can reduce shrub density, vegetation cover, and abundance of key forbs used by sage grouse.
A new study reveals that decades of human activities have reduced Chinook salmon size and disrupted their ability to spawn successfully. Effective management strategies can involve adjusting hatchery or harvest practices, restoring spawning sites with smaller river gravel, and protecting ecosystems.
New research reveals nitrogen pollution as primary driver of westward shifts in European forest plant distribution. High levels of atmospheric nitrogen deposition allow rapid spread of nitrogen-tolerant species, often at expense of specialized plant species.
A new study reveals that the southern boreal forests' ability to recover from climate shocks has significantly decreased over time, threatening Arctic carbon storage. The resilience of many plant communities in these regions is thought to have increased in most of the Arctic tundra, but this may not be sustainable in the long term.
Research in San Diego reveals a decrease in bat species richness attributed to increasing artificial lights, urbanization, and unmanaged land use. Specifically, Townsend's big-eared bat is found to be particularly vulnerable to these threats.
Researchers found that enhancing soundscapes with diverse bird sounds in vineyards improved tourists' experiences, making them feel freer from work and more relaxed. By conserving biodiversity, outdoor businesses can create a positive impact on customers' mental and physical health.
A new study published in Nature Ecology & Evolution found that warmer temperatures and nitrogen fertilization can stabilize soil carbon levels, contradicting earlier predictions. Plant roots and growth add new carbon to the soil, counteracting the loss of carbon due to climate change.
A recent FAU study reveals that mesophotic corals can replenish declining shallow reef populations with strong genetic connectivity between shallow and deep zones. The research suggests that deeper corals could be a key source of genetic diversity for shallow reefs, providing valuable opportunities for recovery and restoration efforts.
A new set of 11 golden rules aims to minimize ocean destruction and preserve fish populations. The rules prioritize minimizing impacts on marine species, habitats, and human communities, while supporting sustainable fishing practices.
A recent study published in PLOSONE reveals that young, bred corals from the Coral Seeding approach are more resistant to bleaching under extreme heat stress. This finding provides evidence that assisted coral recruits can play a crucial role in securing the future of coral reefs.
A new study by Imperial College London identifies key trade-offs between effectiveness and scalability in conservation programs. The lessons highlight the importance of balancing program expansion with effective implementation, considering scale-dependent effects on conservation outcomes.