Articles tagged with Plant 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.
A group of ecologists has issued a call to reevaluate the impact of non-native species on ecosystems, challenging traditional assumptions about their effects. Research highlights that some native species also have negative consequences, such as decimating pine forests.
A new study projects that climate change will likely eliminate Joshua trees from 90 percent of their current range within 60 to 90 years. The species' ability to migrate via seed dispersal may be severely limited due to its reliance on seed-caching rodents.
A study in Indianapolis found that increasing urbanization has led to the loss of native plant species and the introduction of non-native invasive species. Over 70 years, Indianapolis's native plants have declined at a rate of 2.4 species per year, while non-natives arrive at a rate of 1.4 species per year.
Researchers found that 150-year-old pressed plants tell the same story about warmer springs and earlier flowering as field-based observations. The study provides first direct proof that pressed plants in herbarium collections can be used to study relationships between phenology and climate change.
Early flowering plants gained a competitive advantage through efficient leaf hydraulic systems, increasing photosynthetic capacity. This evolutionary step was triggered by low atmospheric CO2 levels and led to their dominance of land ecosystems.
Smaller plant species thrive under the canopies of large host plants, utilizing resources and establishing quickly. This challenges traditional views on the role of plant size in competitive ability and community assembly.
A study published in Ecology Letters reveals that plants' circadian clocks can improve climate change scenarios by accurately predicting CO2 levels and photosynthesis. The internal clock enables plants to adapt to their environment, surviving and reproducing more efficiently.
Researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology have discovered a new electrical signal transmission system in plants called 'system potential', which is induced by wounding and can carry different information. This novel system allows plants to rapidly respond to insect herbivory and activate their defense mechanisms.
A recent study by the American Society of Agronomy found that low levels of herbicides can harm potato plant reproduction. The research revealed that tuber yield and quality can be affected even at rates below those causing vegetative growth reduction or injury.
Researchers found that flowers with nicotine and benzyl acetone attract pollinators, increasing seed production. Plants with these chemicals had higher cross-pollination rates than those without, optimizing outcrossing.
The Ecological Society of America presented awards to eight ecologists, including Michael Rosenzweig for the Eminent Ecologist Award and Monica Turner for the MacArthur Award. The awards recognize outstanding contributions to ecological research and education.
A study published in Functional Ecology reveals that plants producing high-quality pollen have closer relationships with pollinators, which is crucial for the survival of certain bumblebee species. The research found that plants relying on insects for pollination produce pollen with 65% more protein than those not reliant on insects.
The study found that plants without the linamarase enzyme lack the Li gene, while those with it produce cyanogenic glucosides. Researchers are testing hypotheses on why acyanogenic plants occur in cold climates, including the possibility of plant suicide due to frequent frosts.
The Ecological Society of America recognizes Daniel Laughlin, Carolyn Kurle, Paul Fine, Jordi Bascompte, and Carol Brewer for their outstanding contributions to ecology. The awards honor excellence in research, education, and corporate sustainability.
Research led by University of Leeds finds significant declines in wild bee and flower diversity in Britain and Netherlands over 25 years. A small number of common generalist pollinators are replacing rarer specialist species, threatening the future of plant reproduction.
Park Grass study demonstrates the value of long-term experiments in ecological studies, revealing new insights into plant biodiversity, competition between plants, and climate change effects. The experiment has inspired new ecological theory and has helped ecologists recognize its importance.
Eight environmental stewards have won $900,000 in biodiversity awards for their conservation efforts. The winners include Maria Marta Chavarria, Graham Harris, and Mengistu Wondafrash, who were recognized for their work protecting endangered species and habitats in Costa Rica, Argentina, and Ethiopia.
Researchers found that when plants supply ants with nectar, it boosts the ants' desire for meat, making them better bodyguards. The most convenient protein packets for ants on plants are often insects that are there to munch on the plant.
A University of Wisconsin-Madison researcher used historic aerial photographs to track road density and found that invasive species can colonize roads within up to 60 years. Forest managers can employ proactive monitoring and quick action to mitigate the impact of roads on native plant life.
A new study reveals that genetic traits within plant species play a crucial role in shaping ecosystem responses to global climate change. The research suggests that these variations should be considered when developing habitat conservation plans.
A field study found that spiders ambushing pollinating insects decrease seed production in flowers. Ecologist Kenwyn Suttle suggests these interactions are common and overlooked by biologists. The research supports the idea that predation on pollinators can impact plant reproduction.
Deer facilitate seed dispersal to native plants in recovering habitats, but also spread invasive species like multiflora rose. White-tailed deer transport seeds up to two miles through their pellets, contributing to plant migration.
Mooney recognized for his work in plant physiological ecology and conservation efforts, including creating new methods to quantify environmental impact on plants. He also established the Global Invasive Species Program to raise awareness of human activities' effects on ecosystems through species introductions.
Research reveals that US nature reserves are unevenly distributed across ecological zones, leaving many plant and animal species unprotected. The study suggests that involving the private sector in conservation strategies can help preserve America's biodiversity.
Scientists found that even in desolate areas, protected plants like seeds, spores, and root balls could sprout new life. The standing dead trees and debris acted as 'lifeboats' for plants and animals, adding complexity to the recovering ecosystem.
The boom in global trade poses a significant threat to the US ecosystem, resulting in $136 billion in annual losses from invasive species. Invasive insects, plant pathogens, and weeds are entering the country through nursery stock, cargo containers, and imports, causing widespread damage to crops, forests, and native wildlife.
A team of botanists used DNA analysis to study the underground travels of plant roots, discovering that some species can extend their roots up to 75 feet into the ground. This research contributes to a better understanding of how plants interact with their environment and climate change.
A team of 200 scientists has reconstructed the evolutionary relationships among all green plants, revealing a single common ancestor that spawned every plant species on Earth. The research also clarifies the relationships between plants and animals, overturning traditional categories.
Research reveals that nectar robbing by bumble bees reduces pollen transfer and pollination success in the scarlet gilia plant. The study found that high robbing rates attract fewer pollinators, leading to decreased reproductive success.
USGS scientists will present research on rare plants, including soft-leaved Indian paintbrush and island jepsonia, and the effects of invasive species like feral pigs. The symposium aims to inform conservation strategies for California Channel Islands National Park.
Researcher Joy Bergelson finds that genetically engineered plants can outcross with wild relatives at a higher rate than previously thought, potentially leading to the creation of super-weeds. This could lead to increased pesticide use and crop competition for water and nutrients.
Research on Nicotiana attenuata reveals that induced defenses can have both ecological benefits and costs, including resource-based costs and potential negative impacts on seed production. The discovery of endogenous wound signals, such as jasmonic acid, has provided tools to activate defenses independently of herbivore attack.
Researchers at Purdue University are conducting a project to count and identify desert plants in Egypt's New Valley region before irrigation begins. The goal is to preserve native plant species and understand the ecological impact of water reclamation on vegetation.
Researchers confirm that plants have an adaptive immune-like response to insect damage, increasing seed production by 60% and resisting pests. The study used wild radish as a model plant and found that triggering this response enhanced plant fitness, providing a potential alternative to chemical pesticides.
Scientists find that excessive nitrogen deposition in grasslands leads to loss of diversity, extinction of native species, and decreased carbon storage. The study, funded by the National Science Foundation, suggests that nitrogen pollution is a major threat to ecosystem functioning.
University of Wisconsin-Madison biologists document a staggering decline in native prairie plant diversity over the last 30 to 50 years. The research reveals that short, small-seeded plants like legumes experienced the heaviest losses due to fire suppression and dense growth.
A Duke University study suggests that plants may shunt excess atmospheric carbon dioxide into groundwater to remain stored away for thousands of years. This could help solve the mystery of missing CO2 in the atmosphere and potentially lower predicted impacts of global warming.