Species Interaction
Articles tagged with Species Interaction
Carnivorous plants and wasps blur the line between friend and food
A new study reveals that carnivorous plants like pitcher plants provide a vital source of nutrient-rich nectar to wasps, benefiting both parties. This interaction may be more than just predator-prey, as the plants and wasps work together for mutual benefit.
How can honeybees and wild bees coexist in cities?
The Urban Bee Concept aims to enable coexistence of honeybees and wild bees in urban areas by reducing competition for resources. This is achieved through measures such as heat stress management and floral resource increase initiatives.
Biomonitoring the Anthropocene: NY's East River becomes a living biosensor
A year-long study of NYC's East River used environmental DNA to reveal insights into urban wildlife activity, human food consumption and ecosystem health. The findings suggest that urban waterways can become continuous biosensors tracking biodiversity and habitat restoration outcomes.
Urban birds fear women more than men, and scientists don’t know why
Researchers found that urban birds flee sooner when approached by women compared to men in a European study. The study involved over 2,700 observations across five countries and 37 bird species, revealing that birds can recognize the sex of approaching humans.
A mother’s gift
Researchers discovered that sea urchin eggs can integrate chromoplast-derived carotenoid crystals, which enhance larval development and increase their survival rate by 50%. This integration enables the larvae to adapt to different environments.
How tiny cave shrimps power the underworld of the Yucatan
A recent study reveals that tiny cave shrimps, specifically the Typhlatya genus, play a crucial role in maintaining the unique food web of anchialine caves in the Yucatan Peninsula. The shrimps convert microbial growth into animal biomass, introducing essential nutrients into the ecosystem.
Rice researchers use network analysis to understand mammal food web drivers across Africa
A study published in Ecology Letters found that similarity in environmental conditions predicts local food web similarity across a continent. The researchers used satellite images and network analysis to identify habitat fragmentation and vegetation amount as major factors in shaping food webs.
Study in search of a tropical spring is the first to show some birds flip their breeding season in response to climate
A team of researchers, led by Felicity Newell, tracked over 8,000 birds in Peru's cloud forests and found that breeding times vary significantly due to changing environmental conditions. The results suggest a more complex response to climate change than previously thought.
Honey bee waggle dance depends on its audience, study finds
A new study reveals that the honey bee waggle dance is a dynamic, two-way interaction shaped by its audience, contradicting the traditional view of unidirectional information flow. Researchers manipulated the number of potential observers to test how dancers adjust their behavior based on the availability of appropriately aged bees.
Instead of tracking wolves to prey, ravens remember — and revisit — common kill sites
Researchers tracked 69 ravens and 20 wolves across Yellowstone National Park for two and a half years, finding that ravens knew where to go without cues from wolves. Ravens were spotted at nearly half of observed wolf kills within seven days and made beelines to common kill sites.
Study shows marine plastic pollution alters octopus predator-prey encounters
A study published in the Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology found that exposure to oleamide, a chemical additive in plastics, caused immediate changes in octopus prey choice and interactions with predators. The effects persisted for at least three days, suggesting a lasting impact on marine behavior and ecosystem dynamics.
Tokyo Bay’s night lights reveal hidden boundaries between species
A new study explores how artificial lighting at night shapes ecological and genetic patterns of two closely related isopod species, Ligia laticarpa and L. furcata, in Tokyo Bay. The research reveals a clear ecological boundary between the two species, consistent with patterns of urban illumination.
As tropical fish move north, UT San Antonio researcher tracks climate threats to Texas waterways
A UT San Antonio assistant professor is studying how climate change and urbanization affect freshwater ecosystems by tracking the expansion of exotic tropical fish species into northern regions. The project aims to provide practical tools for natural resource managers to protect Texas waterways.
Oysters play unexpected role in protecting blue crabs from disease
New research reveals oyster filter feeding significantly reduces transmission of deadly Hematodinium perezi parasite in Chesapeake Bay's juvenile blue crabs. Oysters eliminated over 60% of parasites within an hour, reducing infection risk by one-third.
Using AI to uncover the secret lives of fungi
A new study using AI-powered BioBERT model accurately identifies fungal lifestyles, switching between helpful partner for plants to aggressive decomposers. The tool has nearly 90% accuracy and can scan thousands of papers in minutes, flagging species that may switch roles.
Changes to cougar diets and behaviors reduce their competition with wolves in Yellowstone, study finds
A new study reveals that cougars' dietary changes to smaller prey help them avoid wolf encounters and reduce competition. Researchers found that cougars tend to avoid areas where wolves have made kills and stay close to escape terrain.
Whales may divide resources to co-exist under pressures from climate change
Researchers studied diet changes among three whale species, fin, humpback, and minke whales, over 28 years. The study found that whales are adapting their feeding habits in response to limited resource availability and increased competition.
A two-week leap in breeding: Antarctic penguins’ striking climate adaptation
A decade-long study found that Antarctic penguin species are adapting to a changing environment by advancing their breeding seasons. Gentoo penguins showed the greatest change, with an average advance of 13 days per decade, making them vulnerable to declining food availability and ecosystem collapse.
Plant diversity shapes chemical communication in ecosystems
Researchers found that diverse plant communities emit more complex chemical signals, which can affect individual plants and the entire ecosystem. The study highlights the importance of biodiversity in maintaining natural signaling systems and supports sustainable agriculture practices to promote plant diversity.
Locust swarms destroy crops. Scientists found a way to stop that
Researchers found that adding nitrogen fertilizer to the soil increases plant protein and reduces carb content, making them unpalatable to locusts. The study showed a doubled crop yield in treated plots with fewer locusts and less damage to crops.
‘Free-range’ dinosaur parenting may have created surprisingly diverse ancient ecosystems
Dinosaurs operated with a 'latchkey kid' approach, with young offspring independent and foraging alone after just a few months. This led to an increased number of functional species in dinosaur fossil communities compared to modern mammals.
Beavers provide a boost for declining pollinators new Stirling study reveals
Research by the University of Stirling found that beaver-created wetlands have a significant impact on pollinator populations, with a 29% increase in hoverfly species and 119% more individuals. This study suggests that beavers can play a crucial role in boosting biodiversity and reversing declining pollinator numbers.
Drug toxicity predicted by differences between preclinical models and humans
A new AI model uses machine learning to predict drug toxicity in humans by identifying biological differences between cells, mice, and humans. The model improved predictive power over existing state-of-the-art models and demonstrated practicality in predicting market withdrawal due to toxicity.
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.
Mystery solved: How Europe’s largest bat catches and eats passerines mid-air
A team of researchers has shed light on how Europe's largest bat hunts and consumes small birds. The bats use loud and low-frequency ultrasound echolocation calls to detect prey at great distances, then pursue it in steep dives towards the ground, catching and eating birds in mid-air.
Birds thrive despite pollution from ‘forever’ chemicals
Researchers investigated tree swallow bird groups in the US and found no association between chemical exposure and reproductive health outcomes. Despite high concentrations of forever chemicals in their environment, birds were unaffected by exposure levels, indicating resilience to these pollutants.
How different bird species forage together in the Antarctic
Researchers found that seabirds use different strategies to find food, with scent-tracking birds benefiting visually hunting birds. This study provides insights into complex systems and crowd behavior, informing conservation strategies for procellariiform seabirds.
The smallest herbivores create the biggest impact for grassland forage
Researchers found that prairie dogs and grasshoppers greatly increase soil nutrient availability, with prairie dog towns showing the highest levels of carbon and nitrogen. Grasshoppers also contribute to phosphorus cycling, while larger herbivores consume relatively constant plant biomass.
Beavers return to the forest landscape, reviving its natural environment
The return of beavers in southern Finland has increased habitat biodiversity and created diverse habitats for species like moose and voles. Over a 54-year period, the habitat suitability index grew almost tenfold, thanks to beaver activity that improves habitat connectivity.
Fern leaf pockets hide secrets of plant-microbe symbiosis
Researchers at OIST found that only cyanobacteria Trichormus azollae are true symbionts of Azolla ferns, with their genomes showing extreme decay and loss of genes. The study sheds light on the genomic impacts of symbiosis and its potential applications in food security.
"Scrumping" windfallen fruits and the origin of feasting
Amino acid mutation allows humans to efficiently burn calories from alcohol, enabling scrumping of overripe fruits. This adaptation is linked to contemporary human habits of feasting and sacred rituals, fostering community identity and cohesion.
Neighborhood watch: why closely related tropical animals live together
A study published in the Royal Society's Proceedings B found that closely related bat and bird species share the same habitat due to their shared evolutionary history. This challenges previous ideas about competition driving species apart, suggesting that animals with similar needs tend to group together in suitable habitats.
New paper suggests a well-armed ally in kelp-forest recovery
A new scientific study published in the Proceedings of the Royal Society B found that voracious sunflower sea stars create a 'landscape of fear' among red sea urchins, reducing grazing on kelp. This study suggests using sunflower sea stars as a potential tool for restoring degraded kelp forests.
A century of data reveals declining forest diversity
Researchers analyzed 96 years of forest census data, revealing homogenization trends and loss of tree species. The study suggests that reduced forest diversity makes the ecosystem less resilient to future disturbances.
How tickling builds trust: Scientists identify oxytocin’s role in human-rat bonding
Researchers found that repeated tickling increases oxytocin receptor expression in a rat brain region, mediating social bond formation across species. Pleasant tactile stimulation drives affinity-like behavior, indicating the formation of social bonds.
New tool maps hidden roles and risks in ecosystems
A new analytical method reveals overlooked species at risk of extinction, providing a valuable layer of insight for conservationists. The dual-role approach captures both predator and prey interactions, identifying keystone species and vulnerabilities.
Human fishing reshaped Caribbean reef food webs, 7000-year old exposed fossilized reefs reveal
A groundbreaking study of 7000-year-old fossilized coral reefs reveals that human fishing has transformed Caribbean reef food webs. Shark populations have declined by 75%, while prey fish species have doubled in abundance and grown 17% larger on modern reefs.
A threesome that hatches potato parasites
A Kobe University team has identified a new molecule, solanoeclepin C, that plants secrete to attract soil microbes. This newly found compound is converted into hatching factors that cause potato cyst nematodes to hatch prematurely, potentially offering a novel approach to parasite control.
Sharks rarely seen together may be up for sharing a meal too good to miss
Researchers documented an unusual feeding aggregation of oceanic whitetip and tiger sharks scavenging concurrently on a carcass off the coast of Hawaii's Big Island. The study reveals that despite their different habitats, these shark species can peacefully coexist and establish a social hierarchy.
Scientists’ study of white-tailed deer could help control chronic wasting disease
A study of nearly 600 white-tailed deer in southwest Wisconsin reveals how habitat selection and social interactions affect chronic wasting disease transmission. The research found that certain habitats, like agricultural fields, facilitate easy transmission between deer groups.
Foraging on the wing: How can ecologically similar birds live together?
Researchers found that foraging behaviors, physical characteristics, and diet are more nuanced than previously thought. The birds partition their habitat by foraging in different areas of the tree, but diet differences are minor.
“Internet of nature” helps researchers explore the web of life
A new paper reveals that information exchange between species influences behavior, interactions, and ecosystem dynamics. The authors identify three types of information links within ecosystems: trophic, pure, and environmental information links.
Bees actively adjust flower choice based on color and distance: Updating "flower constancy" beyond Darwin's theory
Researchers found that flower constancy is an optimal strategy balancing cognitive and travel costs, not just a memory constraint. Bees decrease constancy when flowers have similar colors or are clustered, but maintain high constancy in mixed environments.
First scientific documentation of California coyotes eating harbor seal pups
Researchers captured three instances of coyotes dragging and devouring baby harbor seal pups on MacKerricher State Beach. The study found that the coyotes' brain was often the first part eaten, with other predators like vultures and ravens also feeding on the carcasses.
Red squirrels adjust their diurnal activities very flexibly to humans, pets and wildlife in cities
Red squirrels adapt their diurnal activities to minimize predation risk from domestic cats, while avoiding humans and wildlife. During COVID-19 lockdowns, they increased activity in gardens with food sources.
Scientists create new overwintering sites for monarch butterflies on a warming planet
Researchers have successfully established new sacred fir forests on a nearby volcano to serve as overwintering sites for monarch butterflies, which are projected to disappear from their current habitats due to global warming.
Dead coral skeletons hinder reef regeneration by sheltering seaweed
Researchers found that dead coral skeletons left after bleaching events protect seaweed from herbivores, enabling its quick colonization and outgrowth over young coral. This complex landscape prevents new corals from settling and surviving on the reef.
How plant communities change when conquering uninhabited ground
Pioneer plants facilitate other plant species through resource sharing, while also benefiting from the interaction. Over time, as more species grow, competition increases, and pioneers become disadvantaged.
Colorful traits in primates ease tensions between groups
A new study reveals that primate ornamentation plays a crucial role in communication between groups, reducing intergroup aggression. The research found that species with overlapping home ranges display more vibrant colors, which enable quick assessments of potential rivals.
Big sharks have a big impact — and a big problem
A new study reveals that large apex species like tiger sharks and great whites are critical to healthy oceans, but their populations have plummeted by 71% in the past 50 years. Conservation efforts must prioritize protecting these ecological roles to maintain ocean balance.
Coral reefs: battlegrounds for survival in a changing climate
A new study reveals the crucial roles of fish and invertebrates in coral reef health, including nutrient boosting and predator protection. However, parasitic snails and destructive crab species also pose a threat to these vital ecosystems.
Forgotten predators: Ecological understanding is often marred by the exclusion of extirpated species
A recent study reveals that nearly 60% of ecological studies in national parks where gray wolves were extirpated overlooked the historical presence of these apex predators. This exclusion can lead to inaccurate assessments of ecosystem changes, which can have serious implications for conservation and wildlife management.
A rise in sea urchins and related damage to kelp forests impacts Oregon’s gray whales and their food
A recent study by Oregon State University reveals that a surge in purple sea urchins is devastating kelp forests, reducing zooplankton populations and impacting the primary prey of gray whales. This cascading effect affects the top predator, causing them to spend less time foraging in the affected area.
Scientists want to know how the smells of nature benefit our health
Researchers propose expanding research on nature's scents and olfactory cues to better understand their impacts on human health. The study aims to investigate the complex links between smell, nature, and human well-being, including the potential for unconscious biochemical processes.
Loss of large herbivores affects interactions between plants and their natural enemies, study shows
Researchers found that the loss of large herbivores like tapirs and deer reduces leaf damage caused by pathogens, leading to increased plant species richness. In contrast, insect damage remains unaffected, suggesting a more complex relationship between plants and their natural enemies.
Rice paddy snake diversification was driven by geological and environmental factors in Thailand, molecular data suggests
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.
Do apes have humor?
Great apes engage in playful teasing behaviors, including provocative actions and one-sided provocation, similar to human infant teasing. This study suggests that the cognitive prerequisites for humor evolved in the human lineage at least 13 million years ago.
Grunt or whistle: successful honey-hunters know how to communicate with wild honey-seeking birds
Researchers found that honeyguides in Tanzania and Mozambique discriminate among human calls, responding more readily to local than foreign calls. This complex communication system benefits both species by increasing their chances of accessing calorie-dense honey and beeswax.
Shuqing Xu receives ERC Consolidator Grant for his research on the evolution in ecological communities in response to climate change
Professor Shuqing Xu's research aims to investigate the connections between species interactions and evolutionary responses to climate change. He will create aquatic pond systems with hundreds of species to study how organisms respond to temperature increases, with potential findings on coevolution and ecosystem functions.