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Nomads and snow leopards coexist successfully on the Tibetan Plateau

Researchers found that livestock grazing had no negative impact on snow leopard distribution or density, and the species can coexist due to their separate ecological niches. The study suggests a more nuanced approach to conservation and land use, prioritizing the preservation of rocky mosaics.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalAnimal Conservation·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2022

A single gene controls species diversity in an ecosystem

A team of researchers discovered that a single gene, AOP2, plays a critical role in maintaining species diversity in an ecosystem. The study found that mutations at this gene can dramatically alter the structure and function of an ecosystem.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2022

The mystery of an unusual Panamanian plant’s dispersal

Researchers used camera traps to monitor interactions between Panama's epiphytic Zamia pseudoparasitica and animals, revealing that a nocturnal tree-dwelling mammal called northern olingos may be responsible for seed dispersal. The study sheds light on the plant's persistence in the forest canopy.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalEcology and Evolution·DateMar 25, 2022

Effectiveness of antibiotics significantly reduced when multiple bugs present

A study found that higher doses of antibiotics are needed to eliminate bacterial infections with other microbes present. Researchers developed a model of the human airways to replicate poly-microbial infections, which often persist despite treatment in people with cystic fibrosis and other lung diseases.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalThe ISME Journal·DateMar 18, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Heartland virus identified in lone star ticks in Georgia

Scientists at Emory University have identified Heartland virus in lone star ticks in central Georgia, confirming its active transmission within the state. The study reveals that the virus is evolving rapidly and may be confined to isolated areas, highlighting the need for further research on this emerging infectious disease.

SourceEmory University·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 16, 2022

The surprising structural reason your kitchen sponge is disgusting

Researchers found that kitchen sponges provide an optimal environment for microbial diversity by mimicking the separation and communal spaces found in healthy soil. This complex structure supports both solitary and diverse bacterial communities, leading to higher biodiversity levels.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Chemical Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 17, 2022

Emily Cohen awarded NSF CAREER Award to study migrating birds as communities

Assistant Professor Emily Cohen at the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science received a $750,000 NSF CAREER Award to study migrating birds as communities. This research aims to fill critical gaps in understanding animal migration by considering migratory animals as networks of ecological interactions.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Center for Environmental Science·DateFeb 14, 2022

Shifting ocean closures best way to protect animals from accidental catch

Researchers found that dynamic ocean management is more effective in reducing accidental catch than permanent marine protected areas. Dynamic closures track real-time data and close smaller areas as species hotspots shift, resulting in up to 57% reduction in bycatch.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 17, 2022
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Lost birds and mammals spell doom for some plants

Researchers found animal-dispersed plant species' ability to adapt to climate change reduced by 60% due to bird and mammal losses. Global seed dispersal mapping revealed severe declines in temperate regions, with tropical areas at high risk if endangered species go extinct.

SourceRice University·JournalScience·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 13, 2022

California mice eat monarch butterflies

Researchers discovered that California mice consume monarch butterflies, which could disrupt ecosystems due to declining western monarch populations. The study highlights the interconnectedness of species and the importance of conservation efforts to protect native animals.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalEcology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 5, 2022
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Widespread plants displace rarer species across habitats

A new study reveals that widely distributed plant species are outcompeting rarer species for resources in European habitats. This shift is driven by increased nutrient levels in soils due to human activity, leading to competitive exclusion of smaller-ranged specialist species.

SourceGerman Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig·JournalEcology Letters·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 10, 2021
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

If endangered primates disappear, so will their parasites. That's actually a problem

A Duke University-led study finds that if endangered primates disappear, up to 250 parasites could go extinct, including those with no other suitable hosts. This potential extinction cascade could have significant consequences for biodiversity and human health.

SourceDuke University·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 23, 2021

Predicting bear intrusions on settlements: A 15 year Beech tree flower study

A 15-year study found that the availability of beech nuts can predict bear intrusions into human habitats. The research used numerical modeling and observed beech flowering patterns to forecast bear activity, reducing direct conflicts between humans and bears.

SourceShinshu University·JournalLandscape and Ecological Engineering·TypeObservational study·DateSep 21, 2021

A brief history of the cabbage butterfly’s evolving tastes

Researchers used statistical models to study the co-evolutionary history of pierid butterflies and their host plants. They found that butterfly-plant relationships are resilient to changes in species composition but can destabilize over larger structural changes.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalEcology Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 11, 2021
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Birds that disperse more types of seed have better evolutionary chances

A study at the University of São Paulo found that bird species interacting with more plant species have higher evolutionary stability. This is because they occupy central positions in seed dispersal networks, leading to longer lifespans and increased species accumulation.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScience·DateAug 11, 2021

New fossil discovery from Israel points to complicated evolutionary process

The Nesher Ramla fossils, dating back to 120,000-140,000 years ago, represent late survivors of a population of humans in the Middle East. The discovery suggests that interactions between different human species were more complex than previously believed, with genetic contributions from the Middle East into Europe during their evolution.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalScience·DateJun 24, 2021

The emergence of cooperation

Researchers create unified model of direct and indirect reciprocity, demonstrating how cooperation can be a successful strategy. The study reveals that reputation and experience significantly influence willingness to cooperate, paving the way for new insights into human social norms.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateMay 13, 2021
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

New view of species interactions offers clues to preserve threatened ecosystems

A new analysis by researchers from around the world offers a deeper understanding of species interactions and their impact on ecosystem diversity. The study found that closely-related tree species interact weakly with each other, while distantly-related pairs can interact with surprising strength.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateApr 29, 2021

Where's my horse-sized rabbit?

A research team at Kyoto University investigated the fossil record and evolutionary history of lagomorphs to answer why they don't rival horse sizes. They found that larger herbivore competitors and energetic disadvantage hindered their growth, with body sizes of ungulates being a key predictor.

SourceKyoto University·JournalEvolution·DateApr 19, 2021

Decline in black cherry regeneration may herald wider forest change

A decline in black cherry regeneration is reported, suggesting that environmental changes might impact other tree species in mixed forests. An increase in pathogens and reduced nitrogen deposition in soil are identified as key factors contributing to this decline.

SourceUSDA Forest Service - Northern Research Station·JournalBioScience·DateMar 24, 2021
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Artificial light affects plant pollination even during the daytime

Researchers found that artificial light at night reduces diurnal insect visits to plants that were illuminated during the nighttime. Beetles increased their visits instead. The study's findings highlight the indirect ecological effects of light pollution and call for further research to mitigate its impact.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 17, 2021

Modulation of photocarrier relaxation dynamics in two-dimensional semiconductors

The review article discusses modulation strategies for 2D semiconductors, including Coulomb interaction modification and influencing factors like initial photocarrier distribution and phonon-assisted relaxation. Researchers aim to provide guidance for developing robust methods tuning photocarrier relaxation behaviors.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateMar 11, 2021

Common dolphin populations at risk

A genomic study of over 500 common dolphins across 1,500 sq km reveals complex population structure and connectivity across state and international jurisdictions. The research emphasizes the importance of inter-jurisdictional collaboration to mitigate fisheries interactions and protect dolphin populations.

SourceFlinders University·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·DateMar 3, 2021

Parasites' dispersal capacity and rates of genetic introgression--a study

A recent study published in Communications Biology analysed the relationship between parasite dispersal capacity and genetic introgression rates. The research found that species with higher dispersal abilities present increased genomic signatures of introgression, which could have implications for understanding parasite-host dynamics.

SourceUniversity of Granada·JournalCommunications Biology·DateFeb 19, 2021
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Cost of human-wildlife interactions

A study in India found that human fatalities from wildlife conflict result in much higher damages than crop and livestock losses, highlighting the need to focus on reducing negative interactions with high-risk species. The researchers estimated that farmers in conflict with elephants suffer up to 900 times higher damages.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 15, 2021

Understanding catalytic couplings: not all synergies are simple

Researchers have discovered three undesired off-cycle pathways in nickel-catalysed Negishi cross-coupling reactions, including ligand scavenging, reduction-oxidation pathways and the formation of unorthodox Ni/Zn clusters. The study provides a new understanding of the inner workings of these reactions.

SourceInstitute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ)·JournalNature Catalysis·DateFeb 8, 2021

Ecosystem dynamics: Topological phases in biological systems

Physicists at LMU Munich identified topological phases in a biological model system, showing a strong degree of polarization in evolutionary dynamics. The study applies solid-state physics concepts to understand the emergence of such effects in biology.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 21, 2020
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Like humans, some bees are more social than others

A study on honey bees found that individual differences in social interactions lead to universal patterns of behavior across species. Genetically related bees show fewer individual differences than humans, but still exhibit some variation in interaction frequency and food sharing.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 30, 2020

Managing the microbiome raises new hope for autism

A study published in mSphere found that gut microbiota from healthy donors can improve symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) through microbial transfer therapy (MTT). The research showed significant metabolic changes in plasma samples and modest alterations in fecal samples after the procedure.

SourceArizona State University·JournalmBio·DateNov 13, 2020
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

A new mathematical front to understand species coexistence

Researchers propose a new framework to study coexistence in multi-species systems, showing that global dynamics can be predicted from pairwise interactions. The model uses time-scale separation and replicator equations to capture the essence of competition between multiple strategies.

SourceInstituto Gulbenkian de Ciencia·JournalBulletin of Mathematical Biology·DateNov 3, 2020

Mountain gorillas are good neighbours - up to a point

New research by the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund and University of Exeter reveals that mountain gorilla groups are more likely to be friendly with each other when they meet again, even if they had split over a decade earlier. This behavior is similar to human friendships and may help the group share limited space and resources.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateOct 28, 2020

Feline friendly? How to build rap-paw with your cat - new psychology study

Researchers found that cats are more likely to slow blink at their owners if they have received a slow blink stimulus, and approach the experimenter after slow blinking. This technique can provide positive communication between cats and humans, enhancing the bond and potentially improving feline welfare.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 7, 2020
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Wildcats threatened by their domestic cousins

European wildcats are at risk of genetic replacement by domestic cats due to hybridization, which can lead to the loss of distinct gene pools and ultimately extinction. A new study predicts that this process could occur within 200-300 years, even with conservation efforts.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalEvolutionary Applications·DateSep 30, 2020

Chronically understudied, fences hold grave ecological threats

Research on fences, a ubiquitous human landscape alteration, highlights profound ecosystem consequences of movement restriction. Fences have been found to isolate specialist species, alter community composition, and disrupt turtle migration patterns.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·DateSep 30, 2020

Inducing plasma in biomass could make biogas easier to produce

Researchers have developed a method to break down thick biomass material using microwave pulses, reducing viscosity and breaking polymer chains. The plasma-liquid interaction forms reactive species that help degrade biomass, making it easier to produce biogas.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAIP Advances·DateSep 22, 2020
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Gulls pay attention to human eyes

Researchers found that herring gulls pay attention to human gaze direction, reacting faster and more aggressively when watched than when ignored. The study also confirms the bolder nature of urban gulls compared to rural ones.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalAnimal Behaviour·DateSep 7, 2020

Updating Turing's model of pattern formation

A team of researchers offers new explanations for how living systems form ordered patterns through instabilities in un-patterned systems. The study revisits Turing's theory to prove mathematically how instabilities can occur through simple reactions and widely varied environmental conditions.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateAug 7, 2020

Insights on the gut microbiome could shape more powerful, precise treatment

Researchers from Brigham and Women's Hospital have identified key factors influencing the success of fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) in treating C. difficile infection. They developed an algorithm to design personalized probiotic cocktails, which contain species effective inhibitors of C. difficile and can be administered to pat...

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 31, 2020
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Cornell research traces how farmlands affect bee disease spread

A new Cornell University study found that 65% of bee species and 75% of flower species carried pathogens, with diseases transmitted between bees and flowers. In simplified landscapes with more farmland, the dominant bumblebee species spread pathogens across many more flowers, reducing individual bee exposure to new pathogens.

SourceCornell University·JournalEcology Letters·DateMay 14, 2020

Effect of warming on tree leafing

A study of 10 tree species found significant year-to-year variation in the effect of warming on tree leafing. Warming in early spring advanced leafing more than in late spring, and climate change may lead to increased risk of mistimed leafing and altered interactions between species.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 27, 2020

As the ocean warms, marine species relocate toward the poles

A recent study reveals that marine species are shifting their populations towards the poles in response to ocean warming, with significant implications for global biodiversity and coastal ecosystems. The research found a consistent pattern of species abundance increases at poleward edges and declines at equatorward edges.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 26, 2020
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Human activity affects interactions between plants and seed-dispersing birds

Researchers found that smaller forest fragments result in fewer species and interactions between plants and seed-dispersing birds. This leads to a loss of ecological functions, including constant forest regeneration, with larger bird species playing a crucial role in dispersing large seeds.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalBiotropica·DateMar 13, 2020

Amazon rainforest could be gone within a lifetime

The Amazon rainforest could disappear within a lifetime if a tipping point is reached, according to new research. Ecosystems dominated by single species are more stable and take longer to shift, while the loss of key species like elephants can trigger rapid changes.

SourceBangor University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 10, 2020

What can you learn by peering into a fruit fly's gut? It turns out a lot!

A new research tool allows biologists to watch in real time the cell renewal process that keeps gut tissue healthy, as well as the interactions between bacterial species that make up the microbiome. Researchers discovered regional differences in microbiome stability that mimic the regionality of stem cell activity.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMar 2, 2020

Researchers study elephants' unique interactions with their dead

Researchers found that elephants display a generalized interest in their dead, with common behaviors including touching, approaching, and investigating carcasses. This suggests that elephants may be experiencing some form of emotional response to death, potentially related to grief or memory.

SourceSan Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance·JournalPrimates·DateFeb 6, 2020

Warmer and acidified oceans can lead to 'hidden' changes in species behavior

A new study shows that warmer seawater with lower pH can alter the feeding habits of the peppery furrow shell, a common clam, leading to greater tolerance among surface-dwelling invertebrates. This change affects the interaction network between porewater nutrients, primary producers, and burrowing invertebrates.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJan 20, 2020
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Longline fishing hampering shark migration

An international study found that longline fisheries globally impact migrating shark populations, with approximately a quarter of their migratory paths affected. The research used satellite tracking and big data analysis to examine shark movements at a global scale.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature·DateAug 20, 2019

Helping bacteria be better friends

Scientists at the Wyss Institute successfully manipulated four bacterial strains to exhibit beneficial interactions and balance in complex environments. By modifying their genomes, they encouraged the bacteria to adopt a live-and-let-live approach, promoting resilience and diversity within the consortia.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalmSystems·DateAug 14, 2019
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.