Articles tagged with Applied Ecology
A UNSW-led study demonstrates long-term control of cane toads by erecting fences around dams, effectively converting their invasion refuges into ecological traps. The approach could work on a large scale to halt the spread of these toxic amphibians across Australia.
Researchers developed a non-intrusive load monitoring system to track electricity consumption in single-family homes, providing households with a more accurate picture of their energy usage. The system uses machine-learning algorithms to identify appliances and reduce energy waste, potentially leading to cheaper bills and greener homes.
A 25-year study on Welsh streams found that climate change hampers long-term recovery from acid rain effects. Despite improvements in acid levels, only four new insect species colonized the improving rivers, falling short of expected numbers.
Caterpillars' shelter-building habits impact insect communities by reducing diversity, whereas artificial habitats have similar effects as natural ones. The study suggests regional patterns of insect herbivore diversity may be influenced by these ecosystem engineers.