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Why do so many species live in tropical forests and coral reefs?

A recent study published in Nature finds good agreement between species richness of tropical forests and coral reefs and a simple mathematical model based on the neutral theory of biodiversity. The researchers argue that interactions between species can be largely ignored, contradicting previous claims from other scientific teams.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature·DateOct 31, 2007

Plant viruses from past provide ecological clues

Historical viral RNA sequences found in native and invasive grasses provide insights into the complex picture of species interactions and implications for modern agriculture. The study suggests that ancient viruses may have contributed to the takeover of California's native grasslands by invasive annual plants.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Ecology·DateOct 8, 2007

UT researcher sheds new light on hybrid animals

A recent study by a UT researcher found that hybrid salamanders are thriving in California water bodies, contradicting the general understanding of hybridization in animals. The hybrids, created by mating between two different species, show surprising vigor and may even enhance the chances for survival of the native species.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee at Knoxville·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 17, 2007

The floral network -- what determines who pollinates whom

A new study proposes that two key mechanisms, trait complementarity and barriers to exploitation, explain the structure of actual networks of plants and their pollinators. The models incorporating these mechanisms better mimic real networks, suggesting a balance between specialist and generalist interactions.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJan 22, 2007

Traditional models underestimate extinction rates

A new study reveals that traditional models of extinction underestimate species extinction risk by ignoring a critical parameter. The researchers used water fleas as a model organism and found that incorporating density-dependent demographic stochasticity into the models accurately predicted extinction rates.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJun 6, 2005

Examination of internal 'wiring' of yeast, worm, and fly reveals conserved circuits

Researchers compared yeast, worm, and fly proteins and found conserved communication pathways and protein clusters involved in essential cellular functions. The study supports the concept of a basic wiring diagram for all eukaryotic cells and may lead to more effective treatments with fewer side effects.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 8, 2005

NYU researchers simulate molecular biological clock

Researchers at NYU developed a mathematical model that replicates the complex network of molecular interactions within a cell's circadian clock. The study found that rapid binding and unbinding of regulatory molecules is crucial for accurate timekeeping, contradicting the notion that more molecules lead to better accuracy.

SourceNew York University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 14, 2005

Diversity of species triumphs

Researcher David Tilman's study found that mixing multiple plant species leads to higher productivity, as each species brings unique traits for resource utilization. This principle can benefit various ecosystems, including forests and fisheries, by promoting a more diverse range of organisms.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalScience·DateOct 25, 2001