Articles tagged with Population 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.
Research reveals that genetic divergence, rather than ecological adaptation, is responsible for the reproductive isolation of lungless salamander populations. The study found strong associations between genetic and ecological divergence, but only nuclear divergence was linked to hybridization.
A USGS-led study found that the population health of the red knot is directly tied to the number of egg-laying horseshoe crabs in Delaware Bay during the red knot's northward migration each spring. The research suggests that managing horseshoe crab populations and their harvest may help conserve red knots.
A new study disputes the use of a single minimum viable population number as a yardstick for conservation policies. Populations show rapid declines due to human activities, but removing negative effects, even small populations could be viable in the long term.
Scientists investigate how a virus affecting the Indian meal moth impacts its host populations in size, with potential to inform better pest management strategies. The research could lead to improved techniques for controlling invasive species and pests.
A new appreciation of the ecology-evolution dynamic reveals that environmental factors can influence evolutionary changes and shape ecological traits. This emerging field of study highlights the interconnectedness between ecology and evolution, suggesting a feedback loop where ecological changes affect evolution and vice versa.
A 13-year study reveals that natural reforestation in the Pyrenees is benefiting the endangered Cypripedium calceolus orchid by enabling its recovery and stabilization. The research highlights the positive impact of landscape changes on forest species at the edge of their range.
Scientists studied Scots Pine genes to discover they still harbor genetic variation from their continental ancestors, which could aid future populations' adaptation and survival under changing climate conditions. The research found Scottish pine tree populations are genetically diverse enough to cope with future change.
A new study by Queen's University Belfast found that Northern Ireland's lizard population is under threat from agricultural intensification, which may lead to their disappearance from the landscape. The researchers highlight the need for a new ecological network to preserve heath and boglands, essential habitats for the species.
A new study by North Carolina State University researchers suggests that the largest amphibian monitoring program in the US may have inaccuracies in its data, leading to overestimates of frog populations. The issue lies in observer error, as volunteers report hearing species they don't actually hear, which can skew population estimates.
Researchers have found that a tiny alien insect pest called cycad aulacaspis scale (CAS) can hide in hard-to-reach areas of native cycad plants, allowing it to evade natural enemies. The study's findings suggest the need for a new biological control organism that can target CAS in its secret hiding places.
Researchers found that each junco has a unique and recognizable odor profile stable over two weeks, distinguishable from other individuals. The study's findings suggest that smell could play a role in reproductive isolation and the origin of new bird species.
A new study by UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology and colleagues found that diverse landscapes with varying habitats help maintain stable butterfly populations. This can aid conservation efforts, as stable populations are better equipped to withstand extreme weather conditions.
Research found that Pacific dunlins have lost weight and spend more time flying to escape peregrine falcons, a response to the increased threat of predation. The dunlins' adaptations help them survive harsh winters with reduced risk of starvation.
A new study found that fluctuating water chemistry and temperature variations in freshwater lakes can actually increase biodiversity, while a stable but variable environment can also be detrimental. Zooplankton populations respond quickly to changes due to their fast reproduction rate.
A new study published in Molecular Ecology suggests that minke whale populations are not preventing the recovery of larger whales due to competition for food resources. The research found that genetic diversity within the minke whale population is similar to pre-whaling levels, allowing large whale species to recover.
Researchers have created a method using microphone arrays to estimate bird population density from recorded sounds, which may also be applied to tracking whales and dolphins. This innovative approach eliminates the need for observers to count birds, providing a more accurate index of abundance.
A team of ecologists highlights the importance of combining environmental conditions with climate models to predict species distribution. Paleoecological studies show that past climate variability has affected tree species distributions, and future changes in climate variability need to be considered when predicting species responses.
Researchers at Yale University found that predator-prey interactions play a crucial role in creating spatial synchronicity among living organisms. The study showed that changes in these interactions can have disastrous consequences for ecosystems.
A study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reveals that California's horned lizard diverged into at least three new species when it moved north from Baja California. The findings provide clarity for conservation actions to follow, highlighting the importance of integrating genetic, anatomical and ecological in...
A study finds that inner city rodents form distinct neighborhoods, with most spending majority of their lives within a city block. This understanding provides information on which populations may spread disease, highlighting the need to target entire families for eradication efforts.
Scientists have discovered that high CO2 levels are causing ocean acidification, leading to reduced shell growth and calcification in shellfish. Eastern oysters are particularly susceptible, with a 16% decrease in shell area and 42% reduction in calcium content.
A University of Michigan study found that snails' venoms evolved to target a broader array of prey when they experienced ecological release, allowing them to expand their diet and habitat. The research provides insight into the genetic basis of this phenomenon and its implications for our understanding of adaptation and evolution.
Researchers found that birds target salamanders with dominant traits more frequently, even when the ratio of these traits changes. This suggests that predators prioritize common prey forms, allowing unusual traits to persist.
The study reveals that African Pygmies and their farmer neighbors diverged approximately 60,000 years ago. Genetic analysis indicates a common origin for all Pygmy populations, with distinct physical traits possibly inherited from a shared ancestor.
Research suggests that ecological and evolutionary factors can buffer some species against climate change, with rapid adaptation playing a critical role. The study of the pea aphid shows that bacteria living symbiotically within the aphids can confer heat tolerance, influencing population responses to environmental changes.
The Flint Hills region is experiencing population declines in three grassland bird species: dickcissel, grasshopper sparrow, and eastern meadowlark, with estimated declines of up to 29% per year. Birds are not breeding successfully due to high nest destruction by predators.
Researchers found that African elephants in Tanzania's Mikumi National Park formed unusually small groups and chose to forge new bonds with unrelated females. The effects of poaching on group size, relatedness, and social bonding persist for up to 20 years after the killing has ended.
A recent study suggests that Neanderthals went extinct due to competition with Cro-Magnon populations. The researchers used a predictive method to analyze the distribution of archaeological sites and reconstructed climatic conditions during this period.
African cities are experiencing rapid growth, transforming natural resource use and affecting rural areas. The main driver of deforestation is not fuel wood demand but rather agricultural land clearing in peri-urban areas to feed growing urban populations.
A previously undescribed fungus has been linked to the deaths of over 100,000 hibernating bats in the northeastern United States. The fungus, commonly found on bat skin and wings, is believed to be a major contributor to the decline of North American bat populations.
Penguin populations are declining globally due to human influences such as climate change, commercial fishing, and oil spills. The threats to these species are likely to intensify in the coming years, highlighting the need for coordinated conservation efforts.
Scientists have discovered that genetic variation in Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) genes plays a vital role in the immune system of tailed amphibians. This finding highlights the importance of understanding species-specific adaptations for conservation strategies, particularly for globally declining amphibian populations.
An invasive population of the freshwater snail Melanoides tuberculata shows a tremendous amount of genetic variation for key life-history traits, allowing for large potential for evolutionary change. This diversity can arise from multiple invasions and amplification through sexual reproduction.
Cities face significant sustainability challenges, but urban ecologists can help by applying ecological principles to design and develop projects. By integrating biodiversity and ecosystem function into urban planning, researchers aim to create sustainable environments that support human well-being.
Researchers address questions about future city shape and population growth's effects on the environment, highlighting cities as substantive ecosystems with complex human-environmental interactions. Cities' growing footprints contribute to global biodiversity loss, climate change, and resource depletion.
A new study suggests whale shark populations are healthy and growing in Ningaloo Reef due to regulated ecotourism. The research used computer-assisted photographic identification to track individual sharks and found two-thirds of the sharks were repeat visitors.
The emerging field of neuroecology explores how neural mechanisms influence population dynamics and community interactions. Researchers discuss the ecological functions of chemical defenses, such as neurotoxins and inking, which have far-reaching consequences for ecosystems.
A new study reveals that long-term climate change can initiate conflict and lead to population decline. The researchers found a cyclic pattern of turbulent periods when temperatures were low, followed by tranquil ones when temperatures were higher, resulting in increased wars and population declines.
The Ecological Society of America (ESA) received the 2006 Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring. The award recognizes ESA's Strategies for Ecology Education, Development and Sustainability (SEEDS) program, which has increased diversity among its members and provided mentoring opportunities ...
Researchers found that wolves target areas with accessible refuge for elk during winter months when fat reserves are low. Landscape features like proximity to roads and snowy areas play a significant role in wolf-elk interactions.
A rare mutualistic relationship between a moth and cactus in the Sonoran Desert shows that one species can control the population of the other, challenging traditional ecological theory. The research has implications for understanding community ecology and the stability of mutualistic communities.
Researchers warn that global warming is forcing gannets to search further afield for food, leaving their chicks vulnerable to attack. The birds' breeding success is declining as they compensate by flying faster, but their speed limit has been reached.
Researchers study coupled oscillations in predator-prey systems to understand complex interactions in nature. Mathematical simulations reveal coordinated chaos, a phenomenon that helps some species coexist with others.
New mathematical studies suggest that oscillating biological populations can synchronize due to interactions like predation and competition. This phenomenon, known as synchronized chaos, can lead to unpredictable opportunities for invaders in ecosystems.
Research reveals the journeys of endangered adult females traveling thousands of miles across boundaries between countries, highlighting the need for a team effort in their conservation. The study's findings emphasize the importance of protecting these fragile populations from habitat destruction, bycatch, and other human impacts.
Conservation assessments of endangered Caribbean sea turtles are overly optimistic due to a lack of focus on declining turtle populations on historically important nesting beaches. The study highlights the critical importance of re-establishing lost nesting sites to prevent permanent population decline.
Ecologist and Princeton Professor Simon Levin emphasizes the importance of self-organization in ecosystems and the interface between ecology and economics. His lecture at SIAM Annual Meeting explores mathematical approaches to uniting ecology and socioeconomics for a sustainable future.
Researchers found that a 'dead zone' summer in Narragansett Bay led to the death of approximately 4.5 billion mussels, with filtering capacity dropping by 75 percent within weeks. The loss of such a foundation species has lasting effects on the ecosystem.
Researchers found that extinction-proof population sizes are impossible to predict based on species characteristics alone. The study highlights the complexity of extinction risks and challenges traditional assumptions about species survival.
Researchers found that badgers in areas with culling had larger home ranges and travelled more widely, increasing their contact rates with cattle. This suggests that culling is ineffective in controlling cattle TB and highlights the importance of ecological research in policy-making.
Researchers use geophones to estimate elephant numbers by detecting footfalls, providing a more accurate and time-efficient method than counting dung balls or aerial censuses. The new technique has the potential to improve conservation management and reserve planning in central Africa.
North Pacific right whales have been observed in the Southeastern Bering Sea slope and shelf, eastern Aleutian Islands, and Gulf of Alaska. The study refutes previous claims of a habitat shift and suggests these areas are crucial to their distribution.
The conference aimed to incorporate ecological methods into traditional epidemiological studies, exploring how environmental changes influence disease dynamics. Experts emphasized the need for building a bridge between ecology and epidemiology to address emerging pathogens effectively.
Researchers tested genetic diversity on Italian agile frog tadpoles exposed to a North American virus, finding that disease susceptibility paralleled population genetic variability. The study highlights the risks of population bottlenecks and inbreeding and suggests a method for predicting responses to new infectious diseases.
Scientists have discovered how climate change causes simultaneous increases or decreases in abundance of multiple species within a large geographical area. A study found that severe weather conditions directly affect the transmission of parasites, which drives populations into synchrony.
Researchers discover a novel mechanism of heterosis in naturally occurring plant populations. Human actions inadvertently favor heterozygous volunteers, leading to the persistence of high heterozygosity despite inbreeding.
Species diversity varies greatly across tropical and temperate regions due to differing ecological pressures. Higher rates of evolutionary diversification may contribute to observed gradients in richness.
Humans annually require 20% of land-based plant growth for food and fiber, with regional consumption varying greatly. Large urban areas consume significantly more than local production, while sparsely populated areas like the Amazon have low consumption rates.
Wetland restoration projects must consider the inevitable creation of mosquito habitats, which can increase exposure to diseases like West Nile virus. Elizabeth Willott suggests explicitly addressing mosquito control in proposals to strengthen project outcomes.
A facultative symbiont is identified in pea aphids associated with host plant specialization, increasing fecundity on clover and failure to survive on alfalfa. Genetic data suggests the aphid genome, not symbiont, causes specialization.