Articles tagged with Endangered Species
A new study has found that American alligator hatchlings are more active and exploratory than spectacled caiman hatchlings, reflecting the strength of maternal protection. This research has important conservation implications for increasing population sizes of endangered crocodilian species.
A comprehensive analysis of land mammal composition across mapped Indigenous lands reveals that 2,175 mammal species have at least 10% of their ranges within these lands. The study highlights the importance of Indigenous peoples' lands for biodiversity and ecosystem services, with 413 threatened species occurring in these areas.
Researchers successfully counted African elephants using satellite images and deep learning algorithms, achieving accuracy comparable to human observers. This new surveying technique offers an efficient alternative to manual counting from low-flying airplanes, enabling vast areas of land to be scanned rapidly.
A novel method identifies areas most suitable for the conservation of the endangered black lion tamarin, considering both climate and landscape factors. The study used modeling to pinpoint areas with suitable forest cover and climate, indicating a need for targeted strategies in forest restoration to connect fragmented habitats.
Despite panda conservation efforts, some species suffer from habitat loss and degradation under 'umbrella' policies. Research found that Asiatic black bears, forest musk deer, and Chinese serows are negatively impacted by panda-centric management.
A new study has documented a significant increase in sightings of critically endangered smalltooth sawfish in coastal waters off Miami. The research highlights the need to better understand the effects of coastal urbanization on these endangered species and inform conservation efforts.
A University of Washington study found that aircraft noise impacts the Olympic Peninsula at least 20% of weekday hours, affecting wildlife and residents. The researchers also found most military aircraft noise is intermittent and comparable to Seattle's air traffic.
Scientists have discovered that a critically endangered tree species on Guam modifies its leaf function to best exploit prevailing light conditions. The findings provide new insights into the adaptations of trees in response to changing environmental factors.
Researchers from the University of Queensland are exploring traditional Chinese medicine to develop more effective strategies for conservation. The study aims to make this ancient practice more accessible and culturally nuanced for conservationists.
A new study published in Science reveals that more than 4,400 species are at risk due to excessive or insufficient fire activity. The research highlights the impact of climate change, land-use changes, and invasive species on fire regimes, threatening biodiversity hotspots worldwide.
A large international consortium has sequenced the genome of 130 mammals and analyzed existing data to identify important DNA positions. This information can help researchers understand disease mutations in humans and preserve endangered species.
A team of conservation scientists and ESA policy experts recommend deeper improvements to the rules governing the US Fish & Wildlife Service and National Marine Fisheries Service. The goal is to make the Act more effective in protecting species, particularly in a warmer future.
The Trump administration's recent ESA changes have sparked controversy due to their potential impact on economic activity. To address the issue, researchers propose improving consensus and transparency in the ESA language to reduce inconsistencies and promote conservation legitimacy.
Researchers found 26 mammals that could be susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection due to variations in the ACE2 protein. These include domestic cats, dogs, mink, and great apes, which could potentially act as reservoirs for the virus.
A study revealed that over 4,000 reptile species are in global trade, with 3/4 not covered by international regulations. Most traded species are endangered or range-restricted, especially from Asia.
An automated assessment approach using machine learning algorithms identifies over 4,300 potentially threatened orchid species, highlighting conservation priority areas such as Madagascar, East Africa, and South-east Asia.
Researchers found 92 endangered and 11 critically endangered species of seafood were caught globally. The seafood industry lacks effective conservation policies due to international supply chains.
A recent study reveals significant genetic diversity among Four-eyed turtles, highlighting the importance of genetic screenings to prevent extinction. The research emphasizes the need for stricter laws and regulation in releasing confiscated animals back into the wild.
A new tracking technology using Footprint Identification Technique (FIT) helps monitor endangered black rhinos in Namibia. The software analyzes footprint images to identify individual animals and track their movements without disturbing them.
Research by a University of Queensland-led team shows that protected areas have doubled the populations of 80% of monitored mammal species over the last 50 years. Protected land is home to 10% of analysed species, highlighting their importance in conserving biodiversity.
A study of over 2,000 species reveals that common animal populations are rising and falling at a rate similar to rare species due to global change. Amphibians, however, experienced declines, while birds, mammals, and reptiles showed increases.
A study found that red foxes are outcompeting Arctic foxes for food in the high mountains, thanks to human littering. In contrast, Arctic foxes avoid areas with more litter and prefer cleaner habitats. This shift is altering alpine ecosystems.
A recent study found that only 80 primate studies investigated the effectiveness of conservation interventions, highlighting a severe lack of evidence for effective conservation. The authors propose several actions to improve the evidence base, including increasing resources for intervention-effectiveness testing and publication.
A study found that pallid sturgeon stocked in the lower basin of Nebraska, Iowa, and Missouri live an average of just 19.8 years, nearly three times shorter than in the upper basin. The researchers also discovered that females in the lower basin weighed an average of seven times less and spawned fewer eggs over their lifetimes.
A US study reveals that only 21 of 159 endangered species are adequately protected by existing areas, highlighting the need to increase conservation efforts. Private landowners can play a vital role in achieving conservation goals through conservation easements.
SlothBot, a slow-moving and energy-efficient robot, is being tested at the Atlanta Botanical Garden to monitor endangered species and the environment. The robot's unique design allows it to linger in the trees for months or years, providing new insights into critical ecosystems.
Researchers found that migratory shorebirds rely on the upper tidal flats closest to dry land for food and energy, which are often lost to development. This study suggests a new approach to conserving endangered species by focusing on preserving these high-value habitats.
Researchers used photographs of frogs in their natural habitats to identify individual species without capturing them. This method was successful in identifying 94.3% of the 'Beautiful stream frog' population, providing a promising approach for estimating endangered frog populations.
The global wildlife trade encompasses all major branches of life, from fungi to plants and animals, but more attention is given to charismatic species. Research found that even small organisms like sea cucumbers and anemones are traded, with extensive data needed on the trade's consequences.
A new species of miniaturized stump-toed frog, Stumpffia froschaueri, has been discovered in Madagascar and classified as Critically Endangered due to habitat loss and fragmentation. The species is found only in areas with relatively undisturbed forest, where it has been observed during the day.
Researchers from Germany and Vietnam discover two new species and one subspecies of crocodile newts in northern Vietnam, bringing the total of crocodile newt taxa known from the country to seven. The discovery highlights the urgent need for conservation efforts due to habitat loss and overcollection.
A study using CRISPR technology has developed a rapid detection platform to genetically distinguish threatened fish species from non-native species in near real-time. This tool shortens the process from hours to minutes, enabling researchers to identify species quickly and accurately.
A recent study by the University of Córdoba has pinpointed the origin of a group of trees growing in Africa to 50 million years ago. The research, which used molecular clock and phylogenetic methods, found that these legume plants diversified in response to climate changes and can be found in various parts of Africa and Madagascar.
A recent study by University of Guelph researchers found that logging in Ontario's boreal stands is threatening the population of endangered woodland caribou. The team analyzed video collars attached to 30 caribou, as well as GPS-tracking radio collars on wolves and caribou, to monitor their movements and find evidence of predation.
A massive monitoring study found Canada lynx on only 20% of its potential habitat in Washington state, highlighting the impact of climate change and wildfire on their survival. The research suggests that lynx are a key indicator species for climate change, with warming temperatures and reduced snowpack threatening their ability to thrive.
Restoring drained peatland involves re-wetting, which brings water table closer to surface, reducing fire risk. Local community involvement is key to successful restoration, with alternative income sources needed for farmers.
Researchers developed guidelines for giraffe translocations to ensure long-term population viability, including ideal group composition and decision-making processes. A founding population of 30 females and 3 males is recommended for initial translocations, while larger groups can be used to maintain genetic diversity.
A new conservation tool has identified top priorities and projections of what species would benefit from increased conservation dollars. The algorithm considers diverse data, including land acquisition costs, development patterns, budget allocations, and threatened species, to find optimal protection opportunities.
A recent study by Tufts University found that federally protected lands in the US significantly reduced habitat loss and protected endangered species. Compared to private lands, protected federal lands lost only 3.6% of their habitat over a 30-year period.
A recent camera trap study in Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park in southern Sumatra has captured images of dozens of species, including critically endangered Sumatran tigers and Sunda pangolins. The study provides valuable insights into the habits and habitats of these rare beasts.
A new study highlights the need for systematic surveys and novel data collection methods to assess poaching's impact on biodiversity in forested areas. The research provides critical information for protecting rare species in landscapes with severe defaunation.
A new study finds that zoos with large, iconic animals like rhinos and tigers tend to have higher attendance and contribute more to conservation funding. However, the research also suggests that zoos can increase conservation impact by diversifying their species collections.
A survey of Americans reveals a disconnect between expert and public opinions on what constitutes an endangered species, with experts citing higher risk thresholds than the general public. The findings highlight the importance of synthesizing facts and values in decision-making, particularly when it comes to biodiversity protection.
Scientists have identified wildlife corridors that should be protected to help the jaguar's survival. The study found that conservation efforts can focus on the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary and Maya Forest Corridor.
A unique breeding project at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium is designed to save the native White's Seahorse species in Australia. The project, led by Robbie McCracken, has successfully bred and raised six babies, with plans to release them into the wild next year.
Australian scientists have developed a genetic probe to detect eDNA of the endangered Gouldian finch, revealing its habitat and distribution. The test uses a PCR primer to amplify mitochondrial DNA and a species-specific probe to identify Gouldian finch DNA, increasing knowledge on population trends.
Scientists from the University of Helsinki have created a computer algorithm that measures online discussions about endangered species, such as rhinos. The method successfully identified major events, including the death of the last northern white rhino, and highlights the importance of public sentiment in conservation.
A new study reveals that Madagascar's few remaining patches of lowland rainforest host the highest levels of lemur abundance. Human encroachment in coastal areas disproportionately threatens these primates, emphasizing the need for research and conservation management to protect them.
The study found that at least 5,579 animals are currently being traded globally, with impacts tend to be higher among certain groups and in threatened species. The researchers predict that up to 8,775 species could soon be at risk of extinction due to future commodification.
Research reveals that dung beetles are sensitive to livestock management chemicals, affecting their growth and development. This can lead to reduced ecosystem services, including nutrient redistribution and pest control, ultimately impacting agriculture and the environment.
Since 1970, North America has experienced a significant decline in bird populations, with nearly one in four species losing abundance. The study attributes this loss primarily to 12 bird families, including songbirds, and highlights the need for conservation efforts to prevent further declines.
Over 1,600 scientists endorse letter calling on Congress to fully fund conservation programs to stem biodiversity decline. Funding would accelerate species recovery and ensure a stable Earth.
A study by La Trobe University researchers has found that hog deer introduced to Victoria in the 1860s are comprised entirely of hog deer and chital hybrids. The discovery could affect conservation efforts, as the hybrid species is fertile and plays a crucial role in conserving the native range.
A University of Queensland-led study reveals critical failures in Australia's environmental protection laws, with over 7.7 million hectares of threatened species habitat destroyed between 2000 and 2017.
A research team has successfully identified an unknown population of the endangered Yamato salamander in Gifu Prefecture, Japan. Using a combined methodology of GIS and eDNA analysis, they discovered five new potential habitats for the species.
Researchers used eDNA to survey Japanese and signal crayfish habitats around Lake Akan, finding signal crayfish are widely distributed, potentially threatening native species. eDNA analysis identified presence or absence of aquatic organisms more reliably than conventional methods.
A new study published in PLOS ONE found that a two-thirds increase in returning coho salmon to the Oregon coast would generate up to $518 million in annual non-market economic benefits. The study also found that people value conservation goals sooner rather than later, with up to $277 million in annual benefits.
A recent study found that more than half of the 504 primate species were left out of the research literature, with only 13% focused on chimpanzees. The study highlights the need for conservation efforts to protect endangered primate species and their habitats.
Researchers found that female Tasmanian devils can be polyandrous, having multiple male partners, which could increase genetic diversity but also pose challenges for captive breeding programs. The study's findings offer a glimmer of hope in the fight against devil facial tumor disease, which has devastated wild populations.
Camera trap surveys reveal 28 mammal species in protected forest and 21 in fragmented habitats, including critically endangered species like Sunda pangolin and Sumatran tiger. These findings suggest conservation value for small patches of remnant forest and the importance of further research.