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Asia has more threatened oak tree species than anywhere in the world. First-of-its-kind report led by The Morton Arboretum will help prioritize oak conservation efforts.

The Conservation Gap Analysis of Select Native Asian Oaks reveals over half of native ranges are under human pressure, with many species lacking backup in botanical collections. The report prioritizes oak conservation efforts in Southeast and East Asia, focusing on regions with high human impact and limited protected area coverage.

SourceThe Morton Arboretum·DateAug 3, 2026

Fine-flavour cacao: high yields and income for smallholder farmers

Research team identifies best strategies for managing native cacao trees in Peru, resulting in 59% higher yields after three years. Grafting native 'Blanco de Piura' cacao varieties onto fully grown trees increases productivity levels comparable to commercial clones.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalAgronomy for Sustainable Development·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 29, 2026
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Why are mountain forests in Mexico and Central America hotspots for oak trees? New study led by The Morton Arboretum shows most definitive answer yet

A new study by The Morton Arboretum reveals that oaks rapidly diversified in the Americas when they encountered high-elevation terrain, forming a unique biodiversity hotspot. This is supported by data from 322 of the world's approximately 450 oak species, with Mexico and Central America home to at least 160 different oaks.

SourceThe Morton Arboretum·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 4, 2026

Pollinator-friendly gardens don’t have to sacrifice style

A new study from Northwestern University and the Chicago Botanic Garden found that some cultivated plants, such as black-eyed Susan and foxglove beardtongue, can attract pollinators at similar rates to their wild counterparts. This research provides a middle ground for gardeners who want to support pollinators without going fully wild.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalEcosphere·TypeObservational study·DateApr 8, 2026

How do native and non-native plants affect endangered plant species in cities?

A study analyzing data from Berlin's Flora Protection Program found that biological threats, especially from highly competitive native species, pose a greater threat to urban biodiversity than non-native species. Threats related to agriculture, nutrient inputs, and urban development are also significant drivers of decline.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateJan 28, 2026
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Science solves South Australia’s koala dilemma

A study led by Dr. Frédérik Saltré suggests that sterilizing 22% of adult females annually could stabilize the population at an estimated cost of $34 million over 25 years. This approach prioritizes both animal welfare and ecosystem health, offering a humane solution to the unsustainable koala numbers.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalEcology and Evolution·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 19, 2026

Reintroducing native African catfish into Lake Victoria reduced snail hosts and lowered schistosomiasis infection intensity in primary-school-aged children

Reintroducing native African catfish into Lake Victoria significantly reduced the number of snail hosts and lowered the intensity of schistosomiasis infections among primary school-age children. This biocontrol method provides an effective way to combat this parasitic disease in the region.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 5, 2025

Illinois plant ecologists fight to restore Midwest biodiversity

Researchers at the University of Illinois are working to bring back biodiversity to the Midwest by analyzing commercially sold seeds and plants. They found that long-lived species were more available than sensitive ones, and certain plant groups were over- or underrepresented in commercial seed mixes.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalNatural Areas Journal·DateJul 17, 2025

Efforts to eradicate invasive mussels likely to kill off many Idaho animal species

A new study finds that the copper-based molluscicide used to treat invasive mussels in Idaho's Snake River has devastating effects on the local ecosystem. Nearly half of the original mass of copper is gone after just 10 days, but dissolved copper concentrations remain toxic for over two weeks.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalEnvironmental Toxicology and Chemistry·TypeSystematic review·DateJul 15, 2025
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.

This might be America's first campus tree inventory

Northern Arizona University is taking stock of its 5,000-6,000 trees to advance sustainability and carbon sequestration. The project will provide hands-on research opportunities for students and shed light on the trees' ability to mitigate climate change.

SourceNorthern Arizona University·DateJul 2, 2025

Tomatoes in the Galápagos are quietly de-evolving

New research reveals evolutionary reversal in island plants where wild-growing tomatoes on western islands produce alkaloids similar to those found in eggplants. The study suggests that environmental conditions may be driving the reversal, and this phenomenon could have implications for human evolution and nature's ability to adapt.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 24, 2025

Invasive rats and rainforest mammals are sharing gut microbes as urban areas grow

A study by Swansea University reveals that native and invasive small mammals are sharing their gut microbes as habitats change, highlighting the importance of microbiome similarity in adaptation to new environments. This finding has implications for understanding the impact of urbanization on wildlife health and disease spread.

SourceSwansea University·JournalMolecular Ecology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 1, 2025

Want to understand grasslands? Look at the bigger picture

A new study suggests that regional conditions alter the makeup of communities, influencing biodiversity. The researchers found that immigration from highly diverse seed mixes maintained species diversity over time, while local factors had a limited impact on biodiversity loss.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalEcology Letters·DateApr 28, 2025
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.

There must be some otter way

A study by Kyoto University researchers found that captive otters in Japan are coming from Thailand, highlighting the country's role in illegal trade. The discovery sheds light on the risks posed by otter demand and aims to protect vulnerable species.

SourceKyoto University·JournalConservation Science and Practice·TypeObservational study·DateApr 11, 2025

How this tiny snake could change our view of genetics

Researchers at UTA uncovered how the flowerpot snake repairs its DNA and prevents harmful mutations, shedding light on genetic repair mechanisms that could deepen our understanding of human gene evolution. The study also reveals surprising findings about reproductive strategies and immune-related genes in reptiles.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalScience Advances·TypeObservational study·DateApr 2, 2025
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

The long wait for bees to return to restored grasslands

Research by Kobe University reveals that restoring abandoned grasslands requires at least 75 years of continuous management to regain plant diversity. Pollinators also take time to adapt, with generalist insects like flies and hoverflies dominating recently restored sites.

SourceKobe University·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·TypeObservational study·DateMar 13, 2025
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Death by feral cat: DNA shows cats to be culprits in killing of native animals

Researchers used DNA technology to confirm feral cats as primary predators responsible for native animal deaths at two conservation sites in South Australia. DNA analysis revealed that feral cats were culprits in killing of native animals, with 96% of confirmed kills determined by DNA analysis.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalAustralian Mammalogy·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 10, 2025

New manzanita species discovered, already at risk

A new species of manzanita has been discovered on the central coast of California, but its survival is already at risk due to urban development. The species, Arctostaphylos nipumu, lacks a protective burl that allows some other manzanitas to resprout after wildfires.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalPhytoKeys·DateFeb 25, 2025
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.

Why is Japanese knotweed so highly invasive?

Research published in New Phytologist reveals that Japanese knotweed's ability to outcompete native plants lies in its rapid clonal propagation method. This study provides crucial insights into the invasive plant's success and offers valuable knowledge for developing effective control methods.

SourceWiley·JournalNew Phytologist·DateFeb 19, 2025

Rat bait proving lethal to endangered Australian species

New research from Edith Cowan University found that five native marsupial carnivores tested positive for anticoagulant rodenticides, with 21% having multiple compounds in their blood stream. The study highlights the potential risks of these poisons to endangered species.

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 17, 2025
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.

Burn grasslands to maintain them: What is good for biodiversity?

A Kobe University research team found that prescribed burning on young lava flows leads to higher total species richness and prevalence of endangered plant species. The study suggests that acidic soils and shallow depths favor slow-growing plants, allowing rare species to gain a foothold.

SourceKobe University·JournalPlants People Planet·TypeObservational study·DateJan 30, 2025
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Researcher studies the power of native plants to combat road salt pollution

A study published in Science of the Total Environment found that stormwater detention basins in Northern Virginia face significant salt stress due to road salts. Native plant species, such as cattails, showed promise in tolerating high salt concentrations, but their impact on overall salt removal was limited.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalScience of The Total Environment·DateJan 17, 2025

Nothin’ but pawpaws in the pawpaw patch

New research from Washington University in St. Louis found that pawpaw patches reduce herbaceous plant species diversity and total understory community size, creating a habitat where the rules of competition are more random. The presence of pawpaws also makes it challenging for land managers to encourage the growth of understory species.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalEcosphere·DateJan 9, 2025
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.

UTA becomes one of largest natural history libraries

The University of Texas at Arlington's Amphibian and Reptile Diversity Research Center (ARDRC) has expanded its library with a donation of over 10,000 rare items, including books, scientific journals, and reports. This addition will provide scientists worldwide with access to a wealth of literature on reptiles and amphibians.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateJan 8, 2025

An inexpensive fix for California’s struggling wildflowers

A recent UC Riverside study found that raking dead grass can boost California's native wildflower diversity, reducing fire danger and increasing plant community changes. The simple, low-cost method of removing invasive grass layers allows native seeds to germinate and grow.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalRestoration Ecology·DateDec 19, 2024

Well-meaning dogs led astray by rule-defying owners

Research found that most people follow dog-lead rules for safety reasons, but some don't understand the regulations or choose not to use leads. The study suggests that communicating positive messages can strengthen social norms around keeping dogs on lead.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalPeople and Nature·DateDec 10, 2024
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Study reveals how eDNA could bear fruit for farmers and the environment

A Curtin University study uses eDNA metabarcoding to track insect interactions with avocado flowers, detecting five times more unique pest species than digital video recordings. This method could help improve yields and make agricultural operations more efficient by identifying beneficial pollinators and pests.

SourceCurtin University·JournalEcological Indicators·TypeObservational study·DateNov 28, 2024

Tree islands restore nature in oil palm plantations

Research by Göttingen University and collaborators reveals that tree islands within oil palm monocultures can naturally regenerate native tree diversity through ecological restoration. Larger island areas are particularly essential for endemic tree species struggling to find habitats.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 18, 2024

Diverse and diverging demands on forests in Germany

Research led by the University of Göttingen found enriching beech forests with commercially valuable native and non-native conifer species can enhance biodiversity, ecosystem functioning, and economic performance. The study showed that mixing beech with Douglas fir resulted in positive gains, particularly for biodiversity and economic ...

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 14, 2024
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.

New species discovered with refined DNA technology

Scientists at the University of Gothenburg have discovered four new species of daisies in South Africa using advanced DNA sequencing techniques. The discovery highlights the importance of integrating traditional observations with modern genetic analysis to better understand plant relationships and biodiversity.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalSouth African Journal of Botany·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 13, 2024

UT Arlington biologist discovers new species of gecko

A team of biologists at UT Arlington has discovered a new species of gecko, Pseudogonatodes fuscofortunatus, with distinct skeletal features and genetic data. The discovery highlights the unique characteristics of this tiny lizard, found in the Paria Peninsula of Venezuela.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalZoological Journal of the Linnean Society·TypeObservational study·DateNov 11, 2024
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.

UTA researchers begin quest for rare lizard

Researchers from The University of Texas at Arlington are conducting a DNA analysis project to determine the genetic differences between the rare Dixon's whiptail and the common checkered whiptail. If the two species are found to be distinct, Dixon's whiptail may become eligible for endangered species protection.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateOct 31, 2024

Move along moose, SFU study reveals the ‘most Canadian’ animals

A Simon Fraser University study ranks Canadian terrestrial vertebrates by their level of evolutionary distinctness, finding that amphibians and reptiles are the most distinct species. The spiny softshell turtle is the most evolutionarily distinct terrestrial animal in Canada.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalThe Canadian Field-Naturalist·DateOct 25, 2024
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.

New parasite discovered amid decline of California’s unique Channel Island fox

A new parasite, Pachysentis canicola, has been discovered on the Channel Island fox, causing severe intestinal damage and inflammation in infected individuals. The study highlights the importance of biosecurity in the Channel Islands National Park and underscores the impact of human activity on isolated ecosystems.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalInternational Journal for Parasitology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 23, 2024

Nonnative plants are a major force behind global insect invasions, new study finds

A recent study by American Institute of Biological Sciences reveals that nonnative plant species are a major force behind the growing number of insect invasions worldwide. The research challenges traditional assumptions and highlights the importance of controlling the spread of nonnative plants in mitigating biological invasions.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·TypeLiterature review·DateOct 18, 2024

One in three plants call islands home

A new study reveals that islands are home to around one in three of the world's plant species, with 63,280 endemic species native to islands. The research provides a comprehensive assessment of vascular plants native and endemic to marine islands worldwide.

SourceMacquarie University·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 16, 2024