Articles tagged with Evolutionary 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 Stowers Institute for Medical Research have identified the dengue virus genome's use of less efficient codons in its host's machinery to replicate and spread. This discovery has implications for developing novel antiviral treatments and vaccines, as well as understanding the relationship between viruses and their hosts.
Researchers discovered that multiple ant species have evolved specialized relationships with understory trees in Central America, mirroring similar mutualisms found elsewhere. The study suggests that these interactions can evolve independently, with two distinct clusters emerging around 3 million years ago.
The ELTE Eötvös Loránd University has digitised over 431 animal skulls, including those of 152 dog breeds and 12 wild relatives. This unique collection is now available online, enabling researchers to conduct comparative anatomical and evolutionary studies.
The introduction of Nile perch to Lake Victoria led to severe population loss and genetic bottlenecks in local cichlid species. The study reveals that four species experienced a 'bottleneck event' resulting in reduced genetic diversity, highlighting the devastating impact of exotic species invasion.
A team of researchers has developed a novel genetic clock to determine the age of a large marine plant clone for the first time. The oldest identified seagrass clone is 1402 years old and was found in the Baltic Sea, making it older than other long-lived species.
Researchers confirmed that elephant calls contained a name-like component identifying the intended recipient through machine learning analysis. Elephants responded affirmatively to calls addressed to them and less so to those meant for others, suggesting an ability to learn and use arbitrary vocal labels like humans.
A Penn State-led study found that female giraffes have proportionally longer necks than males, suggesting high nutritional needs drove the evolution of this trait. Giraffes adapt to reach leaves in trees by using their long necks, allowing females to access food with increasing demands as they mature.
The Ecological Society of America honors its 2024 award recipients, including Juan Carlos Castilla for his pioneering research on marine ecology and Alan R. Berkowitz for his long-standing service to ESA and education in ecology. These awards recognize outstanding achievements across various domains.
Researchers found that snails from tidal areas developed stronger circatidal rhythms compared to those in nontidal regions. The study suggests that environmental adaptations can influence the expression of genes controlled by biological clocks, leading to potential changes in physiological processes.
Climate change threatens freshwater habitats, disrupting microbial communities essential for nutrient cycling and water quality maintenance. Many abundant freshwater bacteria with small genomes experience extended periods of adaptive standstill, limiting their ability to adapt to changing environmental conditions.
A study of leaf-nosed bats in the Solomon Islands revealed surprising genetic diversity among nearly indistinguishable species on different islands. The research team found that the large and extra-large bat species were not closely related, but rather evolved from smaller species multiple times across different islands.
A University of California - Riverside study finds that medium-sized dogs have a higher risk of developing cancer than larger or smaller breeds. The multistage model of cancer acquisition supports this finding, suggesting that size is a major risk factor for cancer.
A team of researchers has identified coral as the oldest bioluminescent organism, with a history spanning over 540 million years. This discovery sheds new light on the evolution of organisms and their interactions with other species during the Cambrian era.
A 14-year study in the Brazilian savanna-like biome found that tree basal area increased while density decreased, and community diversity increased slightly. The researchers discovered that 54% of initial trees had died, replaced by new growth, highlighting the rapid degeneration of cerradão into a biodiversity-poor forest formation.
Researchers found that attaching red flags to crickets made them less appealing to predatory birds, suggesting a warning signal. The experiment supported the chemical defense explanation, as matador bugs were actively avoided with or without flags.
A new analysis of grackle feeding behaviour suggests that male grackles are more efficient foragers in uncertain environments, relying on risk-sensitive learning to navigate chaotic settings. This strategy allows them to dominate urban environments and lead their species' invasion.
A study by the University of Seville researchers confirms Darwin's hypothesis of precise pollination across all angiosperms, with a focus on heterostylous species. The findings show that floral traits and pollinators fit together like a jigsaw puzzle to promote accurate pollen transfer.
A new study reveals how deep-seated geographic isolation drove divergent evolutionary paths among mammals, resulting in unique biodiversity patterns. The research highlights the crucial role of isolation in shaping modern ecosystems, with implications for conservation efforts and understanding the delicate balance of ecosystems.
A University of Kansas study reveals that rice paddy snakes in Southeast Asia diversified after the Khorat Plateau rose, driven by environmental factors. The research uses molecular data and ecological niche modeling to shed light on the snakes' evolution and habitat suitability.
Researchers found that camouflaged moths have more variation in wing patterns than aposematic ones, but similar variations in colour and contrast. This suggests that pattern variability is crucial for disrupting predators' search images while maintaining essential colours for camouflage or signalling.
The tawny owl's pale grey plumage is linked to crucial functions aiding survival in cold environments, including energy homeostasis and fat deposition. Genetic analysis reveals a 70-100% accuracy in predicting grey coloration through specific genetic variants.
A long-term study on wild orangutan males found that habitats with plentiful food increased the likelihood of social learning and cultural innovation. The researchers discovered that individuals from areas with high food availability spent more time peering at others, suggesting an animal's environment modulates social learning.
A new study published in Science found that eradicating non-native animals to protect plant species can be a flawed practice, costing millions and slaughtering healthy wild animals. The research compared the effects of native and introduced large herbivores on plant communities, finding no significant differences.
Researchers have sequenced the first genome of myxini, a large group of vertebrates without a reference genome, revealing insights into evolutionary history and genomic duplications. The study provides new perspectives on the origins of complex vertebrate structures.
Researchers have sequenced 52 Psilocybe specimens, including 39 species previously unsequenced, to understand the evolution of psychoactive psilocybin production. The study reveals two distinct gene orders within the psilocybin-producing gene cluster, suggesting an ancient split in the genus.
A new study by University of Maine researchers reveals that human evolution's core processes might prevent humans from resolving global environmental problems like climate change. The study found that cultural adaptation to the environment, which has driven human evolution, accelerates due to a positive feedback process, making it chal...
Researchers mapped crocodile family trees to shed light on their evolution and conservation. Climate change and competition played key roles in shaping modern-day crocodile diversity, with ecology being an unexpected factor in survival.
A recent study found that flocks of birds in North America, Europe, and Asia responded equally strongly to the alarm call of an unfamiliar dusky-throated antshrike. This suggests that sentinel calls may contain a universal signal that allows birds to recognize them across different species and continents.
Archaeologists recommend using state-of-the-art techniques, such as micromorphology, to analyze evidence and increase confidence in claims about human evolution. This approach aims to rewrite our understanding of human ancestors by uncovering hidden clues in ancient sediments.
A new study from McGill University and international collaborators investigates the role of temperature in determining animal species' current and potential habitats. The research reveals that temperature is less directly limiting for land animals like reptiles, amphibians, and insects than previously thought.
A study by Colorado State University found that redlined communities experience higher maximum noise levels, detrimental effects on urban ecosystems, and increased human health risks like hearing loss and stress. The research highlights the need for equitable planning and noise mitigation to benefit both people and wildlife.
A study of house finches found that sick birds are more social than healthy ones, preferring to eat with their flock. This behavior may be driven by the benefits of group living for sick birds, but also poses a risk to healthy birds due to increased disease transmission.
Researchers recreated ancient seawater to study nutrient availability, finding a preference for metals like manganese and molybdenum. Greenalite formation removed zinc, copper, and vanadium from seawater, matching the metal choices of early lifeforms.
Research by the University of Bern reveals that poison dart frog personality traits impact mating success, clutch numbers, and offspring survival. These traits are present in tadpoles and remain stable after metamorphosis.
Researchers at Nagoya University found that field mice store and transport seeds from once-in-a-century flowering sasa bamboo plants, spreading them throughout the forest. The study reveals that mouse body size affects seed caching behavior, with larger mice carrying seeds to safer locations.
Researchers have made a breakthrough in studying species evolution by using robotic video microscopes and computer vision to measure embryo characteristics. The study found huge changes in an embryo's observable traits before and after developmental events, suggesting that measuring timings of development is just the tip of the iceberg.
Researchers observed a satellite bacteriophage consistently attaching to a helper bacteriophage at its neck, revealing a new viral relationship. The discovery suggests that this system may be more common than previously thought and could have significant implications for understanding the evolution of viruses.
A recent study led by ecologists from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem investigated how desert isopods select burrow sites amidst looming predators. Larger female isopods displayed a preference for safer burrows, emphasizing the importance of size and safety in their breeding site choices.
Researchers studied over 100 noctilionoid bat species, finding that different dietary types drove modifications in tooth number, size, shape, and position. For instance, fruit-eating bats have shorter jaws with reduced middle premolars, while nectar-feeders have longer jaws with room for more teeth.
Researchers found that the orchid Goodyera henryi on Kozu Island is pollinated by an island wasp, leading to hybridization with another orchid species. The study highlights how plants adapt to changing ecological conditions and has implications for understanding plant evolution in response to declining pollinator populations.
A team of scientists and philosophers identifies a new law of nature that governs the evolution of complex systems, including plants, animals, stars, and minerals. The law states that complex systems evolve to states of greater patterning, diversity, and complexity, regardless of whether they are living or nonliving.
A long-term study by Georgia Tech's James Stroud found that natural selection varies massively through time, canceling out any stabilizing effect. Species remained remarkably similar across the entire three-year period, contradicting the idea of constant evolution.
A new study by James Stroud at Georgia Tech and Jonathan Losos at Washington University in St. Louis found that natural selection varies massively through time among four different species of anoles living together on a small island. Despite this variation, the species remained remarkably similar across the entire time period.
Research reveals that female fruit flies pre-select for males with superior genes before influencing sperm storage to ensure compatible fertilization. The study provides new insights into the mechanisms and consequences of mate choice, shedding light on genetic variation and species evolution.
Researchers found that climate-related extinction occurred in just seven years, tripling the average extinction rate over the past 42 years. The study used genomic data from Yarrow's spiny lizards to understand how genetic variation affects adaptation to climate change.
Researchers found that pollination by both honey bees and mason bees increases sweet cherry production, with a synergy effect observed in orchards using both species. Growers can attract mason bees to their orchards by providing nest material, such as bamboo sticks, to enhance cross-pollination.
A study by Dartmouth researchers reveals that human shoulders and elbows evolved to facilitate 'downclimbing' - the process of descending from trees without dying. This adaptation allowed early humans to navigate their environment safely, gathering food and deploying tools for hunting and defense.
Researchers analyzed data from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility and found a universal pattern of species abundance distributions, with most species being rare but not extremely rare. The study's findings may help answer Darwin's question about why some species are common while others are rare.
Research confirms the EIH hypothesis on a global scale using extensive data, showing that plants from vast, species-rich regions are most successful at naturalizing. Additionally, economic plants from these regions also show similar patterns of invasion and cultivation, suggesting interactions between biological and cultural systems.
Researchers found that mothers' social environment predicts their sons' reproductive tactics, such as sneaking or guarding females. A biased female sex ratio in the maternal generation leads to increased male-male competition, resulting in more males and intense mating behaviors.
Scientists have identified two new mole species in eastern Turkey, belonging to the Talpa genus, which has been living undiscovered for up to 3 million years. The study, using cutting-edge DNA technology, confirms their biological distinctness from other moles in the group.
A team of scientists led by Colleen Smith found that specialist bees focus on the most abundant plant species in an ecosystem. The study suggests that plant abundance could be a mechanism promoting specialization and speciation among bee species.
The Pacific Northwest and Cascadia Bioregion are home to diverse ecosystems, including temperate rainforests and marine environments. Research presented at the ESA Annual Meeting explores topics such as restoration efforts, plant community recovery, and climate change impacts on salmon populations.
A study by the Netherlands Institute of Ecology found that great tits are struggling to adapt their breeding timing to cope with climate change, leading to a decline in population numbers. The researchers used innovative methods to speed up evolution and predict the impact of climate change on natural selection.
Researchers analyzed scientific literature from 1990 to 2021 and found that environmental pollution through chemicals is less studied than other causes of global biodiversity loss. The team calls for a stronger interdisciplinary focus to better understand and mitigate chemical impacts on biodiversity.
Two closely related butterfly species have evolved distinct adaptations to cope with changing seasons. The small white butterfly is a 'summer specialist,' reproducing well but struggling in winter, while the green-veined white butterfly is a 'winter specialist,' thriving in cold conditions.
Research suggests climate change will impact insect biodiversity by throwing off the delicate balance between species that rely on each other for survival. As temperatures rise, insect life cycles may become out of sync with their host plants, leading to potential extinction.
Researchers found evidence for a modifier gene in sand cress that can lead to loss of self-incompatibility and acquisition of self-pollination. The study challenges current understanding of this process and opens up new avenues for research on plant breeding systems.
A study by Shinji Sugiura and Masakazu Hayashi found that bombardier beetles are better defended against pond frogs than assassin bugs. The researchers also showed that both insects benefit from mimetic interactions with the shared predator.
Researchers found that shorter-legged lizards on tiny Bahamian islands reduced web spider populations by 41% and promoted plant growth, while longer-legged lizards had the opposite effect. This study demonstrates a two-way street in which evolutionary changes shape ecological interactions.