Articles tagged with Invasive Species
Researchers discovered a single bacterium transferred genetic material to mussels, enabling their ability to make durable fibers. These fibers, similar to spider silk, could inspire the development of tough polymer fibers for more sustainable materials.
A research paper reveals a suburban backyard is home to 1,150 unique species of animals, plants, and fungi. The study's authors discovered unexpected diversity, including 436 moth and butterfly species, 56 spiders, and eight reptiles.
Anopheles stephensi, a malaria-carrying mosquito, has been found to exploit construction sites and brick-making facilities in Jigjiga, Ethiopia, during the dry season. Targeted control measures, such as stocking construction pits with larvae-eating fish, may help mitigate malarial outbreaks in the city.
A long-term study found that increased phosphorus availability and salinity are key drivers of change in the lagoon, favoring invasive green macroalga Caulerpa over native seagrass. Reducing wastewater infrastructure and stormwater runoff can help promote seagrass recovery.
Researchers used AI to analyze tree databases and found that temperature and precipitation are strong predictors of non-native species invasion. The study also reveals that global forest carbon potential is considerably below natural levels, with most potential located in existing forests.
Researchers urge concerted action to mitigate global warming's impact on polar ecosystems, which are both the most-threatened and least-understood areas. The study aims to map all biodiversity in these regions to sustainably manage unique habitats and their ecosystem services.
Researchers observed Canada goose flocks before and after a population-management cull, finding that the birds strengthened existing relationships rather than forming new connections. This social conservatism helps reduce the potential for increased disease transmission.
A study of European river systems from 1969-2020 found that freshwater biodiversity improved until the 2000s but stagnated since then. The researchers attribute this decline to diminishing effectiveness of existing measures and emergence of new pollutants, climate change, and invasive species.
Frogs from the genus Eleutherodactylus are geologically the oldest Caribbean vertebrates to be found in Florida. They arrived in North America much earlier than previously thought, with evidence suggesting they reached the peninsula through overwater dispersal on flotsam or other buoyant debris.
Asian longhorned ticks, originating from East Asia, have been detected in Ohio, with over 1 million estimated in a single pasture. Researchers stress the need for early detection and targeted control measures to manage these persistent pests.
Research reveals that most types of sea freight carry soil with live bacteria, fungi, worms, seeds, and insects, including regulated biosecurity organisms. The study highlights the need for efficient measures to prevent exotic species establishment through contaminated cargo.
A new study reveals that bumblebees can effectively fend off Asian hornets by dropping to the ground, a strategy that has not been observed in other pollinators. However, despite this successful defense mechanism, bumblebee colonies still experience reduced growth rates in areas with high numbers of Asian hornets.
A new study found that creating physical gaps in the forest canopy improves the health and growth of eastern hemlocks infested with the woolly adelgid, a highly invasive insect. By giving the trees better access to resources like water and nutrients, canopy gaps may help them 'outgrow' the insect's impact, at least temporarily.
Researchers detected genetic diversity and population structure of invasive round goby fish using environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling. This technique helps trace the source of new invasive populations and prevent further invasion, enabling natural resource managers to take targeted action.
Research finds that water movement between lakes can transport environmental DNA, making eDNA a promising tool for tracking aquatic species and monitoring biodiversity. The study highlights the importance of considering landscape connectivity when designing eDNA surveys to ensure accurate biodiversity assessments.
A study has confirmed the establishment of red fire ant in Europe, with a high risk of spread due to climate change. The invasive species could impact urban areas, causing significant economic losses and posing a threat to human health.
Researchers confirm invasive red fire ant species Solenopsis invicta has established itself in Sicily, with potential to spread across Europe due to climate change. Urban areas are particularly at risk, and the team plans a multi-year treatment plan to eradicate nests and monitor the ants' spread.
Researchers found a 5% sodium hydroxide solution successfully turns live Lebbeck mealybug specimens green, identical to the 10% potassium hydroxide solution. The new alternative is less corrosive, more water soluble and less expensive.
A new R package, lydemapr, has been developed to track the spread of the invasive Spotted Lanternfly in the US. The dataset contains detailed information on the pest's presence, establishment status, and population density across over 650,000 observations.
A study led by University College London researchers analyzed 393 wasp samples collected from citizen scientists and found a single population of the Common Wasp (Vespula vulgaris) across Britain. The findings demonstrate the wasp's ability to disperse itself widely, contributing to its success in human-modified environments.
Scientists successfully removed invasive spectacled caimans from specific areas of the Everglades, reducing competition with native alligators and crocodiles. The efforts demonstrate early detection, rapid response, and persistent removal can effectively control invasive species, with implications for other invasive species management.
A new study by Flinders University researchers suggests that only 1% of dormant pathogens could cause major ecological harm, leading to the loss of host organisms worldwide. The simulations showed that these ancient microbes can survive, evolve, and become dominant in modern ecosystems, posing a substantial danger.
A recent study by Dr. Monica Mowery at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev found that urban habitats provide a safe haven for invasive brown widow spiders, protecting them from parasitism and predation. This allows the species to thrive in high densities, contrary to what is observed in natural desert habitats.
A study found that Japanese beetles are likely to thrive in southeastern Washington and could spread throughout the region from Yakima to the Tri-Cities and north past Moses Lake. The beetles' potential dispersion is influenced by factors such as human activity and suitable habitat.
A new study published in Pest Management Science reveals that an apple snail invasion could be disastrous for rice production and food security in Kenya. The invasive species reduces rice yields by up to 14% and net rice income by up to 60% for farmers experiencing moderate levels of infestation.
A recent study led by McGill University estimates that the European Union will face significant economic losses due to biological invasions, with costs projected to reach over €142.73 billion by 2040. The study highlights the need for effective management and collaboration to address this threat.
A new study conducted by CABI scientists reveals that cut stump and basal bark herbicide application, as well as manual uprooting, were highly effective in killing the invasive tree, with success rates of 85-100%. Restoration interventions also showed promise, particularly those involving divots, mulching, and grass seed sowing.
A new study uses marine fossils to infer the health and stability of coastal ecosystems, revealing consistent patterns in population declines and species extinctions. The findings provide a reliable benchmark for conservation efforts and offer insights into the impacts of human activities on marine biodiversity.
Researchers at Flinders University use machine learning to identify species interactions and predict which species are most likely to go extinct. By analyzing species traits and interactions, the algorithm can help plan interventions before extinctions occur.
The study found Asian clams in various habitats along the lower Columbia River, with high concentrations near warmer waters and sandy substrates. The invasive species can disrupt food webs and cause economic damage, raising concerns about potential future invasions by quagga and zebra mussels.
A new study by CABI reveals that invasive non-native species (INNS) in the UK cause an estimated £4bn in economic losses each year. The study found that fungi are the costliest group, accounting for 52.9% of total costs.
A new study quantified the economic costs of biological invasions in the European Union, revealing substantial knowledge gaps and alarming underestimations. The research projected unreported costs to be potentially 501% higher than currently recorded, reaching a staggering €26.64 billion.
A new study by CABI confirms the Samurai wasp has minimal impact on native stink bugs, with most non-target species being less parasitized. However, some species with unusual life cycles may face increased risk of parasitism. The study assessed the realized host range of the Samurai wasp and found it to be broader than initially thought.
A new biodiversity study shows that even seemingly healthy ecosystems with increasing species numbers may already be on the path to decline and loss of species. The study's findings suggest that species richness is not a reliable metric for monitoring ecosystems, as it can mask negative trends in species extinction.
Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have discovered twenty species of sea lettuce in the Baltic Sea region, including three invasive species. The survey highlights the importance of knowing which species grow in specific areas to maintain and protect valuable ecosystems.
A citizen science project in Italy involved 500 Italian students in trapping and identifying ambrosia beetles, resulting in new geographical records for two quarantine pest species. The students gained a greater understanding of the negative effects of invasive alien species and increased awareness of biological invasions.
Research reveals that prescribed burns create favorable conditions for stinknet to spread, outcompeting native plants and reducing soil health. Targeted treatments after burns can help mitigate this issue.
Researchers used deep learning to analyze drone images of pine trees, detecting pine processionary moth larvae nests with high accuracy. The method can be applied in various settings to inform tree health managers about potential threats.
A new study from the University of Georgia found that Joro spiders, despite their intimidating appearance, are gentle giants, mean no harm to people or pets. They remain immobile for over an hour after a disturbance, unlike other spider species that resume normal activities within a minute and a half.
A recent study on buffelgrass control in Arizona's Saguaro National Park highlights the importance of long-term monitoring and surveillance. Low levels of buffelgrass can quickly expand by multiple orders of magnitude, emphasizing the need for sustained efforts to manage its spread.
A new study reveals a progressive spread of invasive American mink across most European countries over the past decade. The species is now widespread in Northern and Western Europe, but data are lacking for Eastern and South-Eastern Europe.
Researchers have sequenced the genomes of two hornet species, revealing clues to their invasive success. The study found rapid genome evolution and genes related to communication and smell, which may help explain why hornets are successful as invasive species across the globe.
The global economic impact of biological invasions exceeds that of natural catastrophes, with $1208 billion in losses between 1980 and 2019. Biological invasions have a long-lasting effect, causing significant damage to infrastructure, crops, and ecosystems.
Researchers discovered that ambrosia beetles Xylosandrus germanus use the volatile compounds of their fungal symbionts to aggregate and potentially kill trees. This finding suggests a new method for biological control by targeting specific beetle species with trapping lures based on these compounds.
A recent study published in Journal of Animal Ecology has identified disease avoidance strategies in various animal species, including humans. The research provides insights into how emotions like disgust help protect against diseases and has implications for human health and conservation efforts.
Researchers at UToledo developed a new model to estimate the abundance of rare species like invasive grass carp in freshwater ecosystems. The model helps guide management strategies and provides insight into the effectiveness of control efforts.
New research suggests brown widow spiders actively seek and kill nearby black widows, displacing them in parts of the southern US. Brown widow females are also larger and more fertile than black widows, with a higher reproductive success rate.
Virginia Tech researchers Traci DuBose and Meryl Mims studied 90 species of frogs and toads using publicly available data from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility. They found that approximately 11% of anuran species are sensitive to climate change but not currently listed as at-risk.
Scientists at University of Galway have discovered that the noble false widow spider feeds on the endangered pygmy shrew. The study highlights the invasive spider's potent venom and complex hunting behavior, raising concerns about its impact on native species in Ireland and Britain.
Researchers are using pythons captured by SFWMD's Python Elimination Program and FWC's Python Action Team to study python biology further. The tracking devices will lead researchers to the snakes, allowing them to record behavior and document reproductive data such as nesting sites and hatchlings.
Researchers from Japan highlight the decline of native squirrel species due to introduced non-native sciurine species. The study emphasizes the importance of early action in addressing ecological concerns and conserving rare endemic species, with successful eradication efforts reported in four locations.
A new study suggests that the invasive rusty crayfish may be dying off naturally, allowing native water plants and snails to flourish. In some Northern Wisconsin lakes, crayfish populations have declined by nearly zero, leading to a resurgence of plant life and potential ecosystem recovery.
Decades of wars and conflict in Iraq have led to a catastrophic rise in antibiotic resistance due to destroyed healthcare infrastructure, medicine shortages, and high levels of heavy metal contamination. Research is urgently needed to understand the link between armed conflict and AMR to prevent millions of needless deaths.
A new Stanford-led study highlights the importance of coordinated policies governing biodiversity in Colombia, one of the world's most biodiverse countries. The research found that biodiversity is governed by nearly 200 distinct policies covering various ecosystems and conservation approaches.
Researchers from DePaul University studied small mammals in eastern Paraguay's Atlantic Forest remnants to understand biodiversity and its relation to forest edges. They found that species richness and abundance increase closer to the edge, while phylogenetic diversity is higher in interior sites.
Scientists found that invasive black rats transform reef fish behavior, causing changes in territorial patterns and nutrient cycles. The presence of rats disrupts the nutrient cycle by reducing seabird populations and nutrients deposited onto islands.
Researchers tracked tweets about two invasive insects, spotted lanternfly and Tuta absoluta, on Twitter and in news stories. They found that activity patterns on these platforms aligned with official surveys, providing insights into pest spread timing and location.
Researchers from SPUN mapped the diversity of mycorrhizal fungi across Palmyra Atoll, finding unique nutrient feedback loops that support rainforests, plankton communities, and coral reefs. The study highlights the importance of these underground networks in maintaining ecosystem resilience to climate change.
In a surprising twist, researchers found that starving Argentine ants exercise caution when foraging in high-risk environments, unlike expectations. This counterintuitive strategy may contribute to their success as an invasive species and agricultural pest.
Genetic analysis confirms Asian hornet's origins, linking it to a single mated queen that arrived in France in 2004. The finding raises concerns about future invasions despite the species' limited suitability for Ireland's climate.