Habitat Loss
Articles tagged with Habitat Loss
Are mercury levels elevated across US conservation lands?
A study analyzing dragonfly larvae found moderate to high-risk mercury sites across 30 US National Wildlife Refuges, posing threats to fish, wildlife, and human health. The research provides baseline measurements for tracking change and informs future management actions to reduce mercury bioaccumulation.
Otters as ocean doctors: How a 40-Year watch on Brazil’s coasts reveals hidden threats to estuaries
Neotropical otter study reveals 40 years of field data showing that otters aggregate environmental signals across time and space. The study highlights the critical Tropical Knowledge Gap in otter research, with 70% focusing on temperate species.
Treasure trove of data on worms in Europe's seas
A collaborative effort by researchers from the University of Göttingen and other institutions is creating a genomic inventory of European marine annelids. The goal is to accelerate biodiversity research worldwide and counteract the 'silent extinction' of marine species.
Strawberry guava prevents natural forest generation in Madagascar
Rice University researchers found that strawberry guava can prevent natural forest generation in areas of Ranomafana National Park, even decades after deforestation has ended. The invasive plant changes the forest by reducing soil nutrients and altering insect populations, preventing native species recovery.
The North American wild mountain sheep could face extinction unless we act to protect their habitat
The North American wild mountain sheep is losing its habitat to industrial mining, human activity, and climate change. The book highlights the risks faced by this species, which nearly collapsed in previous decades but now faces grave risks from disease and habitat loss.
Insects are victims too: Global study shows impacts of invasive alien species on populations
A global study reveals invasive alien species reduce terrestrial insect abundance by 31% and species richness by 21%. Insects are often overlooked victims of invasion, exacerbating population declines and ecosystem disruption.
Overlooked decline in grazing livestock brings risks and opportunities
A new global study finds that nearly half of livestock production occurs in areas with destocking, a process that poses new ecological and land management challenges. Destocking can increase wildfire risk and biodiversity decline, but also enables ecosystems to capture more atmospheric carbon dioxide.
Extinction rates have slowed across many plant and animal groups, study shows
A recent study found that extinction rates in plants and animals peaked around 100 years ago and have declined since then. The researchers argue that past extinctions are not reliable predictors of current and future threats due to changing drivers such as habitat loss and climate change.
China’s hunger for meat “sustains” the consumption of natural resources in Brazil
A study by Politecnico di Milano reveals China's increasing demand for animal proteins sustains the consumption of natural resources in Brazil. The research shows that soybean imports to China have a significant impact on Brazilian land use, water resources, and deforestation.
Q&A: Insect pollinators need more higher-quality habitats to help farmers, new research says
Insect pollinators like bees and butterflies require more natural habitat with diverse flora to thrive, according to a new study analyzing over 178,000 individual pollinators from 19 countries. The research found minimum habitat requirements vary between species, ranging from 6% for hoverflies to 37% for butterflies.
Koala stress linked to disease threat
Researchers have found a clear relationship between koala stress and increased risk of disease, including Chlamydia. The study suggests that high KoRV loads may be weakening the immune system, making koalas more susceptible to diseases such as blindness and infertility.
Chinese scientists reveal hidden extinction crisis in native flora
A new study reveals a hidden extinction crisis in China's native flora, showing that habitat decline over the past four decades has sharply increased extinction risks nationwide. The findings suggest that current conservation efforts are failing to keep pace with biodiversity threats.
Industry managed forests more likely to fuel megafires
Research led by the University of Utah found that industrial private land has nearly one-and-a-half times higher odds of high-severity wildfire compared to publicly owned forests. Reducing tree density can mitigate megafire risk even in extreme weather conditions.
Genetic isolation despite geographic proximity highlights the threat to island fish species
A recent genetic study found that populations of the amphidromous goby Luciogobius ryukyuensis are genetically distinguishable, suggesting minimal larval exchange between islands. This highlights the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect vulnerable habitats in island ecosystems.
Study finds early signs of widespread coastal marsh decline
Researchers developed a model to detect early signs of marsh decline using satellite observations, identifying vulnerable areas along Georgia's coast. The study found belowground biomass has declined across 72% of Georgia's coastal marsh since 2014.
Kelp forest collapse alters food web and energy dynamics in the Gulf of Maine
Researchers found that dominant predatory fish species acquired most of their energy from kelp, but on turf-dominated reefs, they turned to phytoplankton for energy. Kelp forest collapse removed a key source and pathway for energy flow in the food web.
New study reveals how competition between algae is transforming the gulf of Maine
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.
‘Some insects are declining but what’s happening to the other 99%?’
A new approach is needed to monitor species and protect them from climate change, land use, pollution, and invasive non-native species. The study proposes a framework that integrates all available methods for studying insects, including comparing diversity and abundance over time and across different habitats.
Scientists call for efforts to protect habitats of critically endangered shark species
A new study suggests that up to 70% of suitable habitats for the critically endangered whitefin swellshark will be lost over the next 75 years due to predicted ocean changes. The researchers believe that Australia's proactive conservation measures, such as marine protected areas, offer hope for the species' survival.
Global biodiversity loss tied to outsourced deforestation: Princeton study reveals the hidden costs of consumption
A Princeton study reveals how consumption-driven deforestation by high-income nations drives biodiversity loss in other countries, responsible for 13.3% of global range loss. The study finds that these countries cause international biodiversity losses 15 times greater than their domestic impacts.
Thriving between the lines: How protected areas are helping a threatened owl
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.
Socioeconomic and political stability bolstered wild tiger recovery in India
A new study reveals that India's successful tiger recovery is driven by factors such as protection, prey availability, peace, and prosperity. The country has managed to double its tiger population since 2010, thanks in part to the establishment of protected areas and conservation efforts.
Conserving high-elevation grasslands in Peru is key to protect Andean bears
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.
New study finds overfishing has halved shark and ray populations since 1970
A new study reveals that overfishing has caused chondrichthyan fish populations to decline by more than 50% since 1970. The risk of extinction for these species has increased by 19%, with the largest species facing elimination of up to 22% of ecological functions.
Urgent need to enable more farmers and contractors to revive England’s network of hedgerows
A new survey highlights the need to revive England's hedgerows to meet national restoration targets. While agri-environment schemes have improved hedge condition, overall length remains unchanged. Experts call for increased participation and better incentives among farmers and landowners to rejuvenate the network.
50 years of survey data confirm African elephant decline
Large-scale declines in African elephant populations have been confirmed over 53 years of survey data. Forest elephant populations decreased by 90%, while savanna elephant populations fell by 70%. The study, published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, provides a comprehensive assessment of African elephants and highli...
Princeton study adds clarity to cropland abandonment discourse in biodiversity conservation
A new Princeton study provides detailed insights into the impact of cropland abandonment on biodiversity. The research reveals that most bird and mammal species gain habitat due to crop abandonment, but even more would have benefited if recultivation occurred.
Scientists explore privilege and consequences of recreation for people and wildlife
The study found that uneven distribution of resources gives some individuals more access to play than others. Wildlife is a major draw for nature-based tourism, but human recreation has unintended consequences for biodiversity. To coexist with wildlife, it's essential to follow common-sense rules and minimize disturbance.
Artificial nests boost penguin breeding success, but there’s no one-size-fits-all design
A new study found that artificial nests outperform natural nests in boosting African penguin breeding success by 16.5%, but each type of nest has strengths and weaknesses. Colony-specific conservation strategies are needed to address the unique threats faced by each colony.
At-risk butterflies more likely to survive with human help
A recent study found that actively managed habitats can slow or reverse population declines in at-risk butterflies. Habitat management, such as prescribed burns and planting nectar plants, appeared to dampen the effect of climate change on butterfly timing.
Elephants on the move: Mapping connections across African landscapes
A recent study maps landscape connections to optimize elephant movement corridors and reduce genetic isolation, addressing a major conservation priority in southern Africa. The research provides insights into how elephants navigate their vast home ranges and identifies key routes to maintain gene flow across protected areas.
Thousands of birds and fish threatened by mining for clean energy transition
A new study reveals that mining activities pose a significant threat to vertebrate species worldwide, with over 4,642 species at risk. The main drivers of this threat are mining for materials essential to clean energy technologies like lithium, cobalt, and limestone.
To save bees, scientists say focus on habitat first, then pesticides
A recent study finds semi-natural habitats play a crucial role in conserving pollinator diversity, outpacing the impact of pesticide use. The research suggests that prioritizing habitat conservation can be more effective than reducing pesticide application in rice fields.
Scientists identify safe havens we must preserve to prevent ‘the sixth great extinction of life on Earth’
Researchers identified 16,825 Conservation Imperatives covering 164 Mha, which could prevent all predicted extinctions if adequately protected. Protecting these sites would cost approximately $34 billion per year and represent less than 0.2% of the US GDP.
Scientists document complex changes to Maine’s kelp forests
Kelp forests in southern Maine have collapsed due to warming, while northern regions continue to provide key ecosystem services. The study highlights regional differences in forest health and the importance of targeted management to preserve these ecosystems.
Designing a better nest to help endangered turtles
Researchers have created a more stable environment for incubating eggs, increasing the probability of successful hatching from 10% to 41%. The innovative design uses moss and lichen in rocky barren landscapes, helping to combat habitat loss and degradation.
Bees and butterflies on the decline in western and southern North America
Research detects declines in bees and butterflies in western and southern North America due to environmental change and habitat loss. The study identifies regions of concern and highlights the need for conservation efforts and improved monitoring methods.
Unveiling nature's custodians: groundbreaking study highlights crucial role of scavengers in wetlands
A comprehensive analysis of over 200 scientific articles reveals the fundamental importance of scavengers and carrion in wetlands, benefiting soil, plants, birds, and mammals. The study highlights five different functions performed by scavengers during carrion consumption, including nutrient recycling and pathogen control.
Protecting endangered monkeys from poachers, habitat loss
Researchers emphasize that field stations studying primates contribute to biodiversity conservation by deterring poaching, deforestation, and natural resource extraction. The authors call for increased funding and support for red colobus conservation efforts.
Older African elephants will be most severely affected by the changing climate
Climate change threatens the survival of African elephants due to habitat loss and water resource depletion. Policies protecting vital habitats can mitigate these impacts, with increased forest and savanna areas benefiting all age groups.
Diving deeper into our oceans: Underwater drones open new doors for global coral reef research
Researchers used underwater drones to collect eDNA from mesophotic corals, identifying genera and habitats. The study suggests faster and easier monitoring of coral reefs using eDNA metabarcoding methods.
Critical Habitats at Risk: Three-quarters of vegetation types in the Americas are under-protected
A study published in Global Ecology and Conservation found that three-quarters of vegetation types in North, Central, and South America fall below the Global Biodiversity Convention's target of 30% protection. The research highlights that over 40% of threatened bird and mammal species are mostly found in a single vegetation type.
Spanish butterflies better at regulating their body temperature than their British cousins
A study found that Spanish butterflies are better at regulating their body temperature by basking in the sunshine compared to British counterparts. However, rising global temperatures due to climate change may put Spanish butterflies at greater risk of extinction if they cannot adapt quickly enough.
Study uncovers major hidden human-driven bird extinctions
A new study reveals that humans have driven the extinction of 1,430 bird species, with many becoming extinct before written records. The research suggests that major human-driven extinctions occurred in the 14th century and ninth century BC, with ongoing threats including climate change and invasive species.
Ecuador's newest tarantulas: just discovered, two new species face imminent threats
Two new tarantula species have been discovered in Ecuador's wilderness, but they are already threatened due to habitat destruction and human activities. The implementation of protected areas is essential to conserve these endangered species and prevent further extinction.
New beetle species has bottle-opener shaped genitalia: Now that calls for a Carlsberg!
Researchers discovered six new species of rove beetles with unique genital shapes, including a bottle-opener like structure in one species. Climate change threatens the survival of these species due to habitat changes.
Unique marimo threatened by rising lake temperatures
Marimo, special growth forms of filamentous algae, are threatened by rising lake temperatures due to global warming. The warmer water temperature outpaces the inward decomposition, making them increasingly fragile and decreasing their shell thickness.
Large swings in past ocean oxygen revealed
Scientists have found evidence of past oxygen loss in the world's oceans during glacial periods, indicating that current climate change may not be permanent. The discovery was made by analyzing seafloor sediments from the past 145,000 years, which showed a build-up of cobalt during the last ice age.
Study reveals the most important considerations for grizzly bear conservation
Researchers found that huckleberry patches and forestry road density significantly affect grizzly bears' mortality risk. Securing critical food resources through reduced human access near roads is crucial for bear conservation.
Hydroelectric power plants in Brazil threaten turtles that depend on rapids, study warns
A study warns that Brazil's hydroelectric power plants are threatening the Williams' side-necked turtle, which depends on rapids for survival. The study estimates that 30% of its habitat could be lost, heightening the risk of extinction due to highly suitable areas becoming increasingly rare and less interconnected.
Psychedelic rock gecko among dozens of species in need of further conservation protection in Vietnam
A new report highlights Vietnam's high reptile diversity, with 484 known species, including 74 threatened with extinction. The study recommends increasing breeding populations to maintain suitable numbers for restocking, and modern zoos can play a crucial role in conservation efforts.
Will the world’s mangroves, marshes and coral survive warm, rising seas this time?
A global research team warns that rapid sea level rise and coastal habitat retreat will happen again if warming levels rise above Paris Agreement targets. Coastal ecosystems such as mangroves, marshes, and coral reefs are essential to protect coastlines, trap carbon, and sustain millions of coastal residents.
Coral reefs, marshes, and mangroves might be destroyed within 30 years from rising sea levels, finds international group of scientists
A team of international scientists found that coral reefs, marshes, and mangroves could be destroyed within the next 30 years from rising sea levels. Coastal habitats are essential for protecting coastlines, trapping carbon, and supporting millions of coastal residents.
A global observatory to monitor Earth's biodiversity
A new global biodiversity observing system (GBIOS) is proposed to combine technology, data, and knowledge from around the world to monitor biodiversity change and target conservation action. The system can provide the information needed at the pace required to support countries in achieving their biodiversity goals.
Deforestation limits nesting habitat for cavity-nesting birds
A study found that deforestation in tropical regions destroys nesting habitats for certain bird species, limiting their reproduction. Nest boxes can provide a successful conservation strategy for these birds, particularly in agricultural lands where they are more abundant.
New study reveals that tree species diversity increases spider density
A University of Maryland study found that tree species diversity increases spider populations, providing a natural pest regulation service. Spider populations in diverse plots increased by 23-50% compared to single-species plots during late summer months.
Protection of biodiversity and ecosystems: we are still far from the European targets
A recent study by the University of Bologna reveals that the EU is far from meeting its goal of protecting 10% of its land area for biodiversity. The study found that many countries have inadequate protection in place, with some having very few protected areas and others failing to implement integral protection in national parks. To ac...
Overfishing and degradation, causes of the decline of marine ecosystems in the South Atlantic Ocean in recent decades
The study reveals significant declines in fish species, particularly sharks and rays, linked to human impacts. Archaeological analysis provides insight into lost environments and informs conservation baselines.
Identifying the bee’s knees of bumble bee diets
A new study has identified the preferred flower species of Midwest bumble bees, revealing that these social bees have more discerning dietary preferences than expected. The research found that common flower species like milkweed and thistles are favored by bumble bees, while others, such as alsike clover and black-eyed Susan, are ignored.