Articles tagged with Wild Populations
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 University of Washington study found that Pacific salmon in larger groups have lower predation risk, but may trade safety for food. The researchers analyzed historical data on fish catches and predator wounds to estimate group size and predation risk, revealing the benefits and costs of schooling in marine fish.
Great White Sharks have been avoiding a South African coastal region due to the presence of Orcas. Long-term sightings and tagging data show that Great Whites flee areas with high Orca activity, adopting a 'flight' strategy reminiscent of wild dogs in response to increased lion presence.
Rainforest chimpanzees are digging wells to access and filter cleaner drinking water due to the limited availability of clean water during the dry season. The behaviour has been observed spreading among young chimps and adult females, with some males using the wells dug by others.
A new UBC study finds that southern resident killer whales have been in an energy deficit for six of the last 40 years, with three recent years (2018-2020) being particularly dire. The researchers attribute this decline to lower Chinook salmon abundance and size, which are the primary food source for these whales.
Researchers sequenced the whole genomes of three species of carpenter bees, gaining insights into their gut microbiome, diet, and viral load. They found beneficial bacteria, including Lactobacillus, which protect against fungal pathogens and boost the immune system.
A recent statewide census of California bumble bees found significant declines due to climate change, urbanization, and pesticide use. Despite finding most common species, researchers failed to locate several iconic species, including the Western bumble bee, highlighting urgent need for conservation efforts.
Scientists have analyzed whole genome sequences of 98 wild house mice from across Europe and Asia, revealing a greater genetic diversity than previously thought. The study confirms three primary subspecies and infers the population history, with strong evidence for interbreeding between subspecies in East, Southeast, and South Asia.
A giant tortoise from the Fernandina Island species, believed extinct for over a century, has been confirmed alive through genetic sequencing. The discovery opens up new questions about its evolutionary relationship to other Galápagos tortoises and provides hope for conservation efforts.
Old World vultures are vulnerable to chronic chemical exposure through the food chain, posing a threat to ecosystem health. Environmental chemicals such as legacy and emerging pollutants contribute to their decline, highlighting the need for conservation efforts.
A 2000-year record reveals that climate change and human activities significantly impacted Atlantic salmon populations in the River Spey. The study uses a novel method to analyze nutrient levels, providing insights into historical population dynamics.
Researchers found that otters learn to extract food from unfamiliar natural prey with their own wits, not just by observing others. Eleven of the 20 otters in the study successfully extracted meat from rainbow trout, shore crabs, and blue mussels.
A study of over 12,000 fish across 17 species found that cannibalism is extremely rare in the wild, occurring in less than 0.30% of cases. The researchers identified population density and resource availability as key drivers of cannibalistic behavior, contradicting previous assumptions.
A new study suggests that wild animal populations can adapt more rapidly than scientists previously thought, thanks to a higher genetic contribution to differences in individual survival and reproduction. This rapid adaptation could aid species' odds of survival, but may be hindered by habitat loss and climate change.
Vertebrate scavengers prefer to dine on the carcasses of herbivores like mallard ducks and chickens, rather than higher-trophic-level vulture remains. This study found that avian and mammal scavengers only consumed a small portion of the vulture carcasses, highlighting the complexity of nutrient cycling through food webs.
The snake trade in Indonesia is plagued by unsustainable practices, including underreported and illegal international trade in blood pythons. Research suggests that the current quota system may not be effective in ensuring sustainable harvesting, highlighting the need for urgent action to address these concerns.
A new analysis found that citizen science data from apps like eBird can be a valuable resource for researchers and managers, offering insights into wild bird populations. By comparing publicly-produced data with officially tracked numbers, researchers have identified patterns and potential areas for improvement.
A recent study found that boosting the pink pigeon's numbers is not sufficient to prevent its extinction in the future. The species has a high genetic load of bad mutations, which puts it at risk of collapse if conservation efforts do not continue.
A new study documents multiple small regions of DNA from domestic cattle in North American bison genomes, revealing a shared genetic ancestry. The research reveals that even historically isolated herds contain low levels of cattle genomic introgression, with implications for bison conservation efforts.
A study led by Washington University in St. Louis found that nonlethal parasitic infections reduce herbivory rates and trigger trophic cascades impacting plant communities. The research used a mathematical model and global meta-analysis to highlight the ecological consequences of common parasitic infections in wild animals.
The study found that cultivated kumquat species have an independent phylogeny among citrus taxa, rejecting the hybridization origin hypothesis. The populations underwent directional selection during their evolutionary trajectory, and the asynchronous population dynamics were earlier than human activity in southern China.
Human activity on Hainan Island is causing changes in the body shapes and diets of tropical birds, resulting in biotic homogenisation. Despite efforts to protect biodiversity, the island's unique ecosystem is being affected by large-scale economic and land-use changes.
New research from The University of Manchester found that poaching combined with individual rhino's reproductive variance significantly increases the risk to black rhino survival. Reproductive skew, or variation in breeding success between females, can exacerbate extinction risk by up to 70% in small populations.
Researchers recommend organizing targeted culls and creating a supply chain to make lionfish a component of the region's fishing industry. They also call for legal changes to permit lionfish removals across the Mediterranean and inclusion on the EU list of invasive species of concern.
Researchers found varied diversity of gut microbiomes among brown bears at three national parks in Alaska, with Katmai showing the most diversity due to its diverse food sources. The study advances understanding of wildlife habitat, diet, and gut microbiome diversity.
A 15-year study by University of Virginia researchers shows that restored oyster reefs can match natural reef populations in about six years and continue to thrive thereafter. The study's findings suggest that restoration can catalyze rapid recovery of imperiled coastal habitats and help reverse decades of degradation.
A new study sheds light on the destructive power of organized crime in international trade, using Mexico's sea cucumber population as a case study. The research reveals that over 100 metric tonnes of sea cucumbers were seized between 2011 and 2021, with an estimated value of $29.55 million.
A team of researchers identified a stem rust resistance gene from wild goat grass species Aegilops sharonensis, which can be cross-bred into wheat for immunity against deadly crop pathogens. The genetic potential of this hardy relative has been largely unexplored and holds promise for reducing the threat of the stem rust disease.
A study by University of California, Davis reveals that volunteer divers with Reef Environmental Education Foundation (REEF) helped monitor more than half of the total fish species in the Salish Sea. REEF scientists expanded the known range of multiple species and documented a new species, the striped kelpfish.
Researchers found no evidence that gelada monkeys' hemoglobin provides increased oxygen-carrying capacity, but discovered other physiological adaptations that enable them to thrive at high altitudes. The study sheds light on the mechanisms behind human adaptation and potential treatments for diseases associated with high altitude.
A comprehensive study analyzing international literature on wildlife rehabilitation found that human activity is a significant factor influencing outcomes. The study identified five key categories of factors impacting survival outcomes for rescued wildlife, highlighting the need for rehabilitators to mitigate threats and address these ...
A new study found that preserving tree cover is essential for gray fox survival with coyotes in rural areas. Gray foxes can coexist with coyotes in suburban forest fragments but avoid areas without adequate tree cover in rural zones.
A study has decoded the DNA of the Arabian Oryx, a vulnerable species that was on the brink of extinction. The researchers analyzed the genetic data to inform breeding programs and found moderate diversity in the population's gene pool.
A study has found that lead poisoning from gun ammunition has suppressed the populations of birds of prey across Europe, resulting in a loss of around 55,000 adult birds. The impact is particularly significant for species like eagles and Red Kites, which are long-lived and breed later in life.
Researchers studied Indriidae lemurs to understand the impact of climate, body size, and color vision on hair evolution, providing a unique window into human hair evolution. The study fills gaps in our understanding of human evolutionary story by comparing non-human primate hair patterns.
A mange outbreak in Argentina's San Guillermo National Park has caused a domino effect, impacting pumas, condors, and grasslands. Vicuña populations plummeted from 17 individuals per square kilometer to just 1 by 2020, while condors disappeared due to the loss of their primary food source.
Researchers found that pelicans primarily eat native fish species like Utah sucker and chub, with only a small percentage of cutthroat trout consumed. This discovery provides managers with more insight into the ecological dynamics of the reservoir, allowing them to focus on other factors impacting trout populations.
A study by University of California, Davis, and NOAA Fisheries confirms a sharp decline in basking shark sightings off California's coast since the 1970s. The researchers found a significant link between shark presence and environmental factors, such as sea surface temperature and El Niño oscillations.
Regulated hunting can reduce population density, allowing fewer animals to compete for resources during harsh winter conditions. This approach can stabilize population fluctuations and buffer the impacts of extreme climatic events on species with limited food resources.
A team of scientists has developed a pioneering approach to combine advances in computer vision with ecological expertise to analyze wildlife populations. By leveraging AI and machine learning algorithms, researchers can extract key features from images and videos to quickly classify species, count individuals, and track behavior.
A new study by University of Western Ontario researchers finds that fear of predators can reduce prey population growth rates over generations. The study, led by Professor Liana Zanette, demonstrates for the first time in any free-living wild animal that fear itself can halve populations in a short period.
Killer whales have been observed hunting and killing blue whales, with three documented events in Australian waters. The attacks were coordinated and resulted in the whale's flesh being stripped off, highlighting the apex predator's influence on marine environments.
Researchers discovered adaptations allowing desert fish to thrive in harsh conditions by maintaining genetic diversity and adapting genes for aridity. This finding challenges the idea that small populations are evolutionary dead ends.
A massive new dataset highlights the effects of human disturbances and pollution on contemporary evolution, with pollution driving the most rapid rate of phenotypic change. The study confirms that harvesting and invasive species also have significant impacts, while climate change alters traditional notions of a natural habitat.
Researchers found that hatchery-raised steelhead trout grow faster in hatchery conditions but have lower survival rates in streams, a tradeoff linked to genes favored in hatchery environments. Modifying hatchery conditions may help alleviate this issue by favoring traits needed for survival in the wild.
A recent study reveals that lead poisoning from eating contaminated carcasses has reduced bald eagle population growth by 4-6% annually in the Northeast. The researchers emphasize the need for hunters to choose copper-based ammunition to mitigate this issue, which could impact other species as well.
A recent study by North Carolina State University and Northern Michigan University found that eating human food reduces microbial diversity in black bears' guts. The researchers analyzed gut samples from 35 bears and found lower biodiversity in those with a diet rich in processed foods.
A study by the University of Exeter found that older male elephants help keep younger, more aggressive males calm by policing their behavior. Without these older bulls, adolescent elephants become more fearful and aggressive towards non-elephant targets, posing a threat to humans.
Limpets played a significant role in global culture, medicine, and innovation, with uses dating back tens of thousands of years. They have contributed to the evolution of human brain development and feature in many place names and traditions.
A study predicts that 6,150 km of new Pacific salmon habitat will emerge in the Pacific mountains by 2100, with most occurring in Alaska and the transboundary region. This newly formed habitat can support rapid colonization by salmon populations, offering local opportunities for some species but posing challenges under climate change.
A recent study published in Methods in Ecology and Evolution found that local environmental knowledge is a valuable tool for conservation in the Amazon, comparable to other scientific methods. Local ecological knowledge proved to be more accurate than 10 years of conventional scientific monitoring for animal abundance in the Amazon.
Wild pigs establish home ranges along preferred habitats of bottomland hardwood swamps and are influenced by air temperature and weather conditions. Researchers at UGA's Savannah River Ecology Lab tracked 49 wild pigs with radio collars to shed light on pig movements, which can inform management decisions.
A study by University of Copenhagen researchers reveals that thousands of tigers are bred on farms and used to produce illegal traditional medicines. Buyers in Vietnam prefer wild tigers' bones over farmed ones due to perceived potency, while also seeking high tiger bone content.
A blind taste test by University of Copenhagen researchers shows Danes prefer conventional and organic farmed smoked salmon over wild-caught. The study reveals that people's expectations about a product affect their overall taste experience.
Researchers found that illegal human settlements have surged to over 50,000 in the Babile Elephant Sanctuary, posing a significant threat to the remaining 250 elephants. The team believes that addressing environmental, poverty, and security challenges jointly is crucial to restoring the sanctuary's integrity.
Researchers highlight the need for disease transmission assessments and mitigation measures to prevent pathogen spread from humans to wild animal populations. The study's recommendations include disease risk analysis to identify gaps in data and minimize the risk of disease transmission.
A study by Anglia Ruskin University has identified potentially dangerous Pseudomonas bacteria in 21% of wild bird faeces collected from locations near the River Cam. The bacteria, which can be passed on to humans through cross-contamination, were resistant to multiple antibiotics.
A new study suggests that larger conservation areas are ineffective in protecting threatened species in central Africa, citing a lack of funding and resource management issues. The research found that broader conservation efforts often led to decreased populations due to the lands being too large to manage effectively.
A University of Utah team analyzed woodrat gut bacteria and found that evolutionary history plays the greatest role in shaping microbiome structure. Diet and geography also influenced microbiome composition, but host relatedness was the strongest predictor in both wild and captive populations.
Researchers used seabird prey data to inform fisheries management and assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the marine ecosystem. The study revealed a surge in anchovy populations and changes in rockfish recruitment, informing ecologists and fisheries managers.
Aspen recovery in Yellowstone National Park has been found to be less robust than previously believed due to biased sampling methods. Random sampling of all young aspen within a stand revealed a slower rate of recovery compared to the five tallest young aspen, which were used in previous studies.