Articles tagged with Ecosystem Management
A recent study by Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University provides a method to help farmers and policymakers decide whether organic farming is beneficial for the environment. The researchers analyzed international studies to find a threshold where organic farming's biodiversity gain outweighs its land requirements.
A report by experts predicts 15 issues that will impact marine and coastal biodiversity in the next decade, including lithium extraction, wildfires, and overfishing. The study aims to raise awareness and encourage investment to protect these ecosystems.
Researchers highlight need for stronger integration of international negotiations to protect the ocean. They emphasize the importance of the ecosystem approach and regional environmental management plans in achieving a more cohesive global governance solution.
A recent study by UNC-Chapel Hill biologists reveals the crucial link between benthic cyanobacterial mats and coral Black Band Disease, a pressing conservation concern. The researchers suggest mitigating strategies to reduce its spread and highlight the importance of monitoring reef cover of cyanobacterial mats for effective management.
The EU's Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) has three key measures to support biodiversity: Cross Compliance, Agri-Environment-Climate Measures, and Greening. Despite these measures, farmland biodiversity is still declining. A study by over 300 scientists recommends six guiding principles to improve the CAP for better biodiversity outcomes.
Researchers have discovered that chanchita, a cichlid fish native to South America, has the highest cold tolerance of all non-native species in Florida, allowing it to survive central and possibly northern Florida's winters. Chanchitas exhibit parental care behavior, with both parents guarding eggs and young.
A major Amazon study reveals ecological threats, including deforestation, but also opportunities for sustainability through actions like halting deforestation and protecting secondary forests. Researchers found biodiversity and carbon storage gains from allowing mature secondary forests to regrow.
A new study reconstructs the natural pace and pattern of carbon storage in forests over centuries, revealing that woody biomass nearly doubled during the last 8,000 years. This finding highlights the importance of preserving large trees to maintain carbon sequestration processes and buffer climate change.
Climate change is transforming ecosystems, leading to loss of species and addition of others. Proactive approaches, such as restoring connectivity and conserving habitats, can help ecosystems adapt and maintain resilience.
Researchers at FAU Harbor Branch develop an ocean model to study connectivity between the Everglades and Florida Keys via Florida Bay. The tool aims to predict changes in responses to water management, ecological restoration and climate change.
A new study found that the 2021 heat wave caused widespread death among shellfish due to a combination of low tides, high air temperatures, and location. The research team analyzed hundreds of field observations and found that some species fared better than others in terms of survival.
Scientists have discovered a way to harness animals' olfactory ability to protect endangered plants and animals by masking their scent, disguising it, or spreading similar scents. This method is more effective, sustainable, and animal-friendly than traditional deterrents like fences and lethal control methods.
A team of Chinese and U.S. scientists created the first global map of chronic oil slicks in oceans and found that more than 90 percent come from human sources. Most slicks occur near coastlines, with significant reductions in pollution around regulated offshore areas.
Researchers have created a new classification system for coexisting mangrove-coral habitats, identifying four distinct types: lagoons, creeks, fringe areas, and under the mangrove canopy. These habitats are diverse, with about 130 species of corals living in them, and are crucial for coral survival.
Researchers from the University of Tsukuba found that local community perceptions of ecosystem services provided by wild cherry trees can be used for community-based management and conservation. The study revealed notable differences among groups, highlighting the importance of understanding how people perceive the value of symbolic sp...
A University of Otago-led study used genomic analysis to track the origins of kelp found on southeastern New Zealand beaches, revealing connections to South Georgia and Marion Island. Kelp rafts carry a variety of organisms across vast distances, influencing ecosystem dynamics.
A new study using sophisticated modelling and data from the Republic of Congo's marine national park found a steady increase in olive ridley turtle nests, while leatherback turtles' nesting numbers follow a cyclical pattern. The research highlights the region's importance for sea turtle conservation.
New research from the University of British Columbia creates the world's first global map of mammal movement between protected areas. The study reveals that Canada has critical areas for connectivity, which are essential for maintaining biodiversity and animal populations.
A new study reveals that tidal flats in the southeastern US are under pressure from urbanization, leading to erosion and loss of these critical ecosystem guardians. The research highlights the need for sustainable management plans to mitigate the impacts of urban expansion on coastal environments.
Wealthy individuals are more likely to purchase unsustainable products with higher price tags, feeling entitled to the benefits despite environmental costs. However, when encouraged to think about equality, this effect is diminished.
A 10-year study reveals that mechanical thinning reduces fire behavior metrics without increasing invasive grasses, while prescribed fire leads to more invasive grasses. Researchers hope their findings can inform fuel break construction efforts in the sagebrush steppe ecosystem.
A major new study is investigating the effects of beavers on the Arctic landscape, other animals, and local Indigenous communities. The project aims to understand the complex interlinkages between ecological and sociological changes as beaver numbers increase.
Researchers found that maintaining hard water reduces zinc accumulation and oxidative stress in goldfish, mitigating toxic effects. This study provides an eco-friendly approach to address aquatic ecosystem pollution caused by heavy metal contamination.
A team of researchers found that wetlands, including salt marshes and mangrove forests, are global 'hotspots' of CO2 storage. Plants in these ecosystems build landscapes that capture and store carbon dioxide, making them a crucial tool in the fight against climate change.
The new protocol, published in PLoS ONE, uses a multidisciplinary approach to select representative bioindicators of an area, including species, habitats, and ecological processes. The methodology optimizes resources for biodiversity monitoring and is analysable in most Mediterranean ecosystems.
Researchers at Gauhati University studied roadkill on a 64-kilometer stretch of National Highway 715 in India's Kaziranga-Karbi Anglong Landscape. They found dramatic mortality rates among frogs, toads, snakes, and lizards, with over 6000 animals killed annually.
A new paper by UBC researchers suggests reviving cultural burning and promoting Indigenous-led fire stewardship to achieve multiple objectives, including reducing wildfire risk and enhancing biodiversity. However, barriers such as lack of understanding and funding limitations hinder the implementation of these practices.
Human activity on Hainan Island is causing changes in the body shapes and diets of tropical birds, resulting in biotic homogenisation. Despite efforts to protect biodiversity, the island's unique ecosystem is being affected by large-scale economic and land-use changes.
A team of researchers from Nanyang Technological University and National Parks Board in Singapore has discovered that certain tropical plant species can absorb and remove toxic heavy metals and metalloids from contaminated soil. The study identified 12 plant species effective for phytoremediation, including Cow Grass, Brake Fern, and I...
New research reveals that private protected areas (PPAs) are twice as likely to be in areas with human disturbance and three times more likely to protect key biodiversity areas. PPAs account for 1.2% of these areas, increasing connectivity by over 7%. This study highlights the importance of recognizing their role in conservation efforts.
Researchers highlight the need for a holistic approach to managing whale mortality in California's waters. The study identifies five main causes of death, but also emphasizes the importance of addressing nutritional stress, disease and predation to provide a comprehensive conservation strategy.
Researchers quantified five critical ecological processes on over 500 coral reefs worldwide, finding no reef can maximize each process simultaneously. They also identified local super heroes among species that contribute to ecosystem functioning.
Researchers analyzed two peat cores to discover that higher concentrations of charcoal occurred between 9,000 to 4,000 years ago due to larger forest fires. Mangrove pollen found in the earlier period indicates rising sea levels and increased salt, contributing to dry conditions suitable for massive forest fires.
A recent study found that bison reintroduction to mixed-grass prairies increases bird diversity and cervid occupancy in riparian areas. Vegetation changes associated with bison grazing promote biodiversity, benefiting multiple species.
The study found that superlinear scaling occurs in aquatic ecosystems of larger watersheds, releasing carbon back into the atmosphere. Smaller watersheds are less effective at filtering pollutants and mitigating nonpoint source pollution.
The European Union is projected to experience increased fire-prone areas, threatening biodiversity and carbon sinks. The IPCC report highlights the need for adaptation in addressing wildfires, focusing on fire and forest management to increase ecosystem resilience.
New research suggests that slow degradation of recreational fisheries is common due to changes in technology, infrastructure, and angler attitudes. Anglers and managers can stabilize and improve fisheries by embracing challenges, reducing fishing mortality, supporting monitoring funding, and managing high catch rates.
Researchers used soil microbial communities to track progress and predict post-mining recovery timeframes, offering a new approach for measuring rehabilitation success. The study found that effective rehabilitation can set up a predictable trajectory of recovery, taking 40-60 years to reach the target ecosystem.
Researchers found that forest trees with a mix of both ectomycorrhiza and arbuscular mycorrhiza had the greatest tree diversity, contradicting previous beliefs. This discovery highlights the importance of considering the coexistence of different mycorrhizal strategies in promoting plant biodiversity.
The report projects a global increase in extreme fires by up to 50% by the end of the century, with a call for governments to shift their investments from reaction to prevention and preparedness. The authors recommend a 'Fire Ready Formula' with two-thirds of spending devoted to planning, prevention, and recovery.
Researchers developed a simple and efficient method for surveying amphibians using environmental DNA analysis, which can be conducted by anyone without specialist knowledge. This technique resolves issues with conventional methods such as capture and observational surveys, allowing for more accurate monitoring of amphibian habitats.
A study by Brazilian researchers found that regular fires enhance functional diversity and carbon fixation in savannas. They measured species numbers, attributes, and carbon dynamics in two areas, one with frequent fires and the other without fires for 16 years.
A new computational tool, 'Amazon EcoVistas,' analyzes proposed dam projects collectively for their energy generation and environmental impacts. The tool identifies hydroelectric dam portfolios that meet energy production goals with the least environmental harm, taking into account five environmental criteria and social values.
A new study from the University of Waterloo provides a roadmap for faster improvements in water quality by tackling nitrogen legacies. The research recommends six steps to address this critical issue, which has persisted for decades due to excess nitrogen fertilizers.
A study published in AGU Advances found that water depletion from rivers and lakes accelerates near urban centers due to factors like increased evaporation and groundwater exploitation. Researchers analyzed satellite imagery of the US from 1984 to 2018 and developed a model predicting surface water loss proximity to cities.
A study by the University of Queensland found that strong demand for tropical sea cucumbers as a delicacy is putting these species at risk of extinction. The research highlights the need for regulatory changes to protect the remaining populations and maintain healthy ocean ecosystems.
A new study by University of Western Ontario researchers finds that fear of predators can reduce prey population growth rates over generations. The study, led by Professor Liana Zanette, demonstrates for the first time in any free-living wild animal that fear itself can halve populations in a short period.
A University of Queensland-led study reveals that only 15.5% of global coastal areas remain undamaged, exposing the need for concerted efforts to conserve these ecosystems and mitigate climate change impacts.
Scientists have characterized thousands of small molecules in coral reef ecosystems, providing insights into food web dynamics and chemical ecology. The study found that corals and seaweeds release diverse compounds that influence nutrient concentrations and availability in the ecosystem.
Southern Ontario's wetlands filter out phosphorus and sediments from water, providing $4.2 billion worth of sediment filtration services each year. This is the first economic valuation study to separate the values of major wetland types, with marshes being the most valuable for sediment filtration.
A diverse pollen diet and varied landscape contribute to better colony growth and more offspring for young queens. This diversity also reduces the negative effects of infestation with parasitic wax moth larvae.
A study of 118 conservation units in Brazil found that 60% use unsuitable methods to detect deer presence. Visual analysis of droppings, fur, and footprints is a reliable method for most species, but others require DNA testing or camera traps.
Mathematical modeling can assess toxicants' impact on river populations without endangering the environment. A new model developed by Peng Zhou and Qihua Huang describes the interactions between a population and a toxicant in an advective environment.
The DNAqua-Net team developed a practical guide for implementing DNA-based biomonitoring tools, considering four sample types and two primary analysis types. The guide sets out scientific consensus and trade-offs, addressing logistics, time, and budget constraints.
The Resist-Accept-Direct (RAD) framework is a new approach to guide decision-making in managing ecosystems under global change. It offers three pathways: resisting, accepting, or directing change to produce desirable outcomes.
A new study finds that controlled burning can stabilize or increase soil carbon, offering a method to maximize carbon storage. By manipulating fires, ecosystems can store huge amounts of carbon when the frequency and intensity are just right. This approach may help maintain natural ecosystem processes.
The 2020 wildfires in Brazil's Pantanal wetland resulted in the deaths of an estimated 16.9 million vertebrates, including lizards, birds, and primates. The study estimates that between 13.2 million and 18.8 million small vertebrates and 691,000 to 1.2 million medium-to-large vertebrates were killed.
A new study found that Galápagos Islands Darwin's finch females who spend longer inside the nest can ward off deadly larvae of the introduced avian vampire fly, improving offspring survival. The maternal buffer is a life-saver, especially during the first days after hatching.
The QUENCH network aims to discover how the quality of urban ecosystems affects nature-connectedness and health. Funded by £312,000 from NERC, UKRI, the project brings together experts in environmental science, health, psychology, social sciences, and more.
Researchers found that tides play a crucial role in modulating groundwater discharge and coastal salinity, especially during low rainfall periods. Heavy rains and tropical cyclones also impact submarine groundwater discharge, with significant effects on coastal ecosystems and aquaculture.