A University of Texas at Austin paleobiologist's new examination reveals the serious impact of reptile extinctions on island ecosystems. The study found that smaller islands lack a buffer when losing reptile species, leading to reduced ecosystem stability and increased vulnerability to collapse.
SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 6, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
Expanding seaweed farming could reduce demand for terrestrial crops and greenhouse gas emissions by up to 2.6 billion tonnes per year. The study identified millions of available hectares of ocean suitable for farming, with the Indonesian EEZ showing great potential.
SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature Sustainability·DateJan 26, 2023
The Australian black swan's genetic makeup makes it highly susceptible to viral illnesses like avian flu. Without common immune genes found in other waterfowl, the species is at risk of decimation if HPAI enters its native habitat.
SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalGenome Biology·DateJan 22, 2023
A study by the University of Tsukuba found that Siebold's beech populations on Okushiri Island have high genetic diversity, suggesting they may have persisted there since before the last glacial maximum. This challenges the assumption that island populations are less genetically diverse due to geographical isolation.
SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalFrontiers in Plant Science·DateJan 20, 2023
Researchers identified 92 proteins in the spider's venom, including cysteine-rich peptides with potential therapeutic applications. The toxins were found to be effective in paralyzing crickets and may become active ingredients for pharmaceuticals and biological insecticides.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·DateJan 16, 2023
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.
Researchers mapped strategies to minimize impact of mining on rare plants, finding that protecting 30% of threatened species can ensure long-term survival. The model optimizes energy project placement to balance space use and minimize harm.
SourceS.J. & Jessie E. Quinney College of Natural Resources, Utah State University·JournalLand·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 16, 2022
Researchers developed AI-powered software to measure and classify pacu fish, enabling breeders to select animals with higher fillet yield and faster weight gain. The system uses deep learning and can recognize different parts of the fish even in challenging environments.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalAquaculture·DateDec 15, 2022
Researchers from SPUN mapped the diversity of mycorrhizal fungi across Palmyra Atoll, finding unique nutrient feedback loops that support rainforests, plankton communities, and coral reefs. The study highlights the importance of these underground networks in maintaining ecosystem resilience to climate change.
SourceSPUN (Society for the Protection of Underground Networks)·TypeObservational study·DateDec 12, 2022
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.
In a surprising twist, researchers found that starving Argentine ants exercise caution when foraging in high-risk environments, unlike expectations. This counterintuitive strategy may contribute to their success as an invasive species and agricultural pest.
SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalCurrent Zoology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 8, 2022
Researchers from the University of Göttingen found that European beech trees are experiencing increased drought stress in northern Germany due to climate change. The study reveals that dry locations show the strongest long-term decline in growth, highlighting the need for more resilient tree species.
SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalGlobal Change Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 5, 2022
A study found that Antarctic ice-free areas will create new habitats for some species, but also increase competition and risk of invasion by non-native species. The research highlights the need to address key questions about the impacts of these changes on biodiversity.
SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalGlobal Change Biology·TypeObservational study·DateNov 30, 2022
The River Thames ecosystem has suffered a drastic decline in mussel numbers since the 1960s, with native species dwindling to nearly nothing. The invasive zebra mussel and Asian clam have also taken hold, further threatening biodiversity.
SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateNov 28, 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.
The Devils Hole pupfish has the lowest genetic diversity among known vertebrates, with 58% of its genomes identical. This lack of diversity may doom the species to extinction as climate change and human impacts increase.
SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 4, 2022
A new review highlights the lack of understanding about non-game native transplant (NGNT) fish in the US, which can have significant impacts on ecosystems. Researchers urge anglers and aquarium hobbyists to take steps to prevent NGNT invasions, such as not releasing bait fish into different watersheds.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalFisheries·DateNov 3, 2022
Research found that native predatory fish like jacks and barracuda feed on Australian mullet, an invasive species introduced to Oahu waters. This shift in diet helps control the invasive mullet population, which competes with native fish for resources.
SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalAquaculture Fish and Fisheries·TypeObservational study·DateOct 17, 2022
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.
A research team at Kumamoto University has identified the separation of Japanese cockroaches in ancient pottery, dating back over 5,000 years. The study found that the smokybrown cockroach was native to western Japan and the Yamato cockroach was native to eastern Japan.
SourceKumamoto University·JournalJournal of Archaeological Science Reports·TypeObservational study·DateOct 12, 2022
A new review article by Brown University biologist Dov Sax and colleagues aims to shift the focus from non-native species' negative consequences to their benefits. The authors argue that most research focuses on threats and harm, clouding public understanding and hindering scientific progress.
SourceBrown University·JournalTrends in Ecology & Evolution·TypeLiterature review·DateOct 6, 2022
A new study has identified 195 previously unknown nectar plants for the painted lady butterfly, providing a source of food in Southern California. The research suggests that droughts may impact the butterflies' ability to reproduce, but the discovery of these nectar plants offers hope for their survival.
SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalEnvironmental Entomology·DateOct 5, 2022
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 large wingless wood-eating cockroach unique to Australia's Lord Howe Island has been rediscovered at the foot of a single Banyan tree. The species was thought extinct since the 1930s, but its genetic difference from offshore relatives suggests it may have survived due to co-evolution with ground-dwelling insects.
SourceUniversity of Sydney·TypeNews article·DateSep 30, 2022
Invasive house mice on Southeast Farallon Island consume and compete with native species for food, leading to significant impacts on the island ecosystem. The study found that mice are highly opportunistic eaters whose diets vary throughout the year in response to changes in food availability.
SourceLouisiana State University·JournalPeerJ·DateSep 22, 2022
The six interdisciplinary studies will explore effective ways to expand UK trees, hedgerows, woodlands, and forests in rural and urban settings. Researchers aim to improve understanding of treescapes' value to people and the planet, supporting the Government's ambition to increase tree cover.
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.
Researchers found two distinct populations of the invasive American bullfrog in Brazil, one descended from 1935 introductions and another from the 1970s. The study highlights the need for law enforcement to prevent escape from frog farms.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 8, 2022
A new study by Rice University biologist Tom Miller explores the role of fungi in determining the range limits of plants in Texas. The research reveals that fungal partnerships improve drought tolerance and could potentially extend the range of grasses in response to climate change.
Native Australian rodents have been mapped using DNA analysis, providing a clearer picture of their evolutionary history and spread across the Pacific. The study reveals that mountain formation in New Guinea five million years ago triggered the spread of native rodents across the region.
SourceAustralian National University·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 2, 2022
New research from the University of Ottawa finds that climate change is waking bumblebees earlier from winter hibernation, putting the species at risk. The study found that this early emergence timing puts bees out of sync with their food sources, leading to smaller colonies and lower survival rates.
SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalBiological Conservation·TypeObservational study·DateAug 29, 2022
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Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.
A study reveals that over 50% of mammal food web links have disappeared due to animal declines, leading to a collapse of global ecosystems. Restoring extinct species to their historic ranges holds great potential to reverse these declines and restore food web complexity.
SourceRice University·JournalScience·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 25, 2022
A new standardized framework allows conservationists to evaluate positive impacts of non-native species on native biodiversity. EICAT+ provides a comprehensive understanding of non-native species' effects on native ecosystems, enabling informed conservation decisions.
SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeObservational study·DateAug 16, 2022
Pairing prescribed burning with the residual herbicide indaziflam provides better control of downy brome than either method used alone. Burning stimulates native species and impedes emergence of new seedlings, while indaziflam helps maintain plant community diversity.
SourceCambridge University Press·JournalInvasive Plant Science and Management·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 15, 2022
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.
A new study by the University of Barcelona highlights the negative effects of translocated native species on native fish, finding that habitat quality is essential for conservation. The study suggests that these species can have similar impacts to exotic invasive species.
SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeObservational study·DateJul 25, 2022
Exotic snakebites in the UK are increasing, with 321 reported cases over 11 years, mostly affecting children under 5. Most bites result in mild symptoms, but severe cases have occurred, prompting concerns about illegal snake ownership and access to expert advice.
SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalClinical Toxicology·DateJul 19, 2022
A recent study by Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University provides a method to help farmers and policymakers decide whether organic farming is beneficial for the environment. The researchers analyzed international studies to find a threshold where organic farming's biodiversity gain outweighs its land requirements.
SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalEcology Letters·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 12, 2022
The IPBES assessment report reveals that billions of people rely on wild species for food, energy, and income, with 10,000 species harvested for human consumption. However, the report warns that unsustainable use is threatening the survival of these species, driven by drivers such as land changes, climate change, and pollution.
SourceIntergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES)·TypeLiterature review·DateJul 8, 2022
A study found that imidacloprid, a widely used pesticide in Brazil, is toxic to native bees and can cause alarming levels of poisoning. Researchers are calling for specific protocols and more effective regulation to protect these vital pollinators.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalEnvironmental Research·DateJun 20, 2022
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Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.
Research on the invasive Sirex woodwasp estimates it can reproduce up to 2-3 times higher in North America than in its native range, posing a significant threat to local ecosystems. The wasp's ability to tolerate climate extremes and spread rapidly makes it a challenging insect to control.
Researchers recommend using native plant gardening to reverse horticultural trends and conserve declining plant species. The approach involves promoting certified native seed production, marketing, and use of region-specific lists of endangered plants.
SourceGerman Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig·JournalNature Sustainability·DateMay 18, 2022
Researchers found that extinct species had smaller brains than surviving ones, suggesting a link between brain size and adaptability. The study suggests that larger brains helped extant species cope with human activities and climate change.
SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 9, 2022
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.
A recent study published in Ecology found that climate change and biological invasions are altering the predator-prey landscape in California's coastal estuaries. This interaction increases stress on native species, making them more vulnerable to invasive predators.
SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalEcology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 5, 2022
UK wildlife recorders generally welcome newly arrived bird and insect species due to climate change, but have reservations about invasive species that harm native animals. The survey suggests that public opinion plays a crucial role in managing these arrivals, with scientific evidence being a key factor.
SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalPeople and Nature·TypeSurvey·DateApr 27, 2022
A new study found that native species in southwestern Washington floodplains adapt to bullfrogs and sunfish by changing their feeding strategies. The researchers analyzed carbon and nitrogen stable isotopes in predators and prey to understand food webs, finding that some species shifted towards more abundant food sources.
SourceCornell University·JournalFreshwater Science·DateApr 21, 2022
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.
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.
SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalConservation Biology·TypeObservational study·DateApr 14, 2022
A team of researchers from Nanyang Technological University and National Parks Board in Singapore has discovered that certain tropical plant species can absorb and remove toxic heavy metals and metalloids from contaminated soil. The study identified 12 plant species effective for phytoremediation, including Cow Grass, Brake Fern, and I...
SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 12, 2022
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 new study found that restoring diverse native forests delivers greater climate and environmental benefits than simple tree plantations, but plantations outperform native forests in wood production. The research synthesized data from over 26,000 records to assess the relative performance of different forest restoration approaches.
SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalScience·DateMar 17, 2022
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.
SourceS.J. & Jessie E. Quinney College of Natural Resources, Utah State University·JournalCanadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateMar 7, 2022
Meta Quest 3 512GB
Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.
Scientists have discovered a Noble False Widow spider capturing and entangling two protected Pipistrelle bats in the UK. The discovery demonstrates the species' invasive impact on native species, with the spiders' venom capable of causing neuromuscular paralysis.
SourceUniversity of Galway·JournalEcosphere·TypeObservational study·DateMar 1, 2022
A study analyzing Wikipedia searches found no significant increase in attention towards invasive alien mammals after the publication of a blacklist in Europe. However, temporary peaks in searches were observed following sensational news and viral videos about specific species. The research suggests that blacklists may not be an effecti...
SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalNeoBiota·DateFeb 4, 2022
Native marine macroalgae thrive in environments created by natural groundwater seeps, benefiting from enhanced nutrients despite lowered salinity levels. In contrast, tainted groundwater seeps support invasive species, threatening native algal dominance.
SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalLimnology and Oceanography Letters·TypeObservational study·DateJan 20, 2022
A global dataset of over 200,000 plant species shows that human activity is the biggest driver of homogenization of plant communities. Non-native invasive plants naturalized by humans are the strongest contributor to biotic homogenization.
SourceHarvard University, Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 6, 2021
Restoring 47.5 million hectares by 2030 demands high-quality seeds and seedlings. The study highlights the need for effective seed control and local community participation to ensure successful restoration projects.
SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalDiversity·TypeSystematic review·DateNov 12, 2021
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.
Scientists have investigated the sporulation potential of Phytophthora ramorum on common California plant species. Most species produced spores, with bay laurel and tanoak producing significantly more than others. This study helps predict disease trajectories and informs forest treatment plans.
SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPlant Disease·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 8, 2021
Plant pathologists have developed a set of Nursery Phytophthora Best Management Practices to eradicate the harmful organisms from nursery stock. Through testing and accreditation programs, nurseries that comply with the guidelines have shown no detectable Phytophthora infection in their stock, enabling habitat restoration plantings.
SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPlant Health Progress·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 4, 2021
A unique form of English rewilding is emerging as domesticated and scaled-down compared to global efforts. This approach requires human intervention to restore ecological function and increase biodiversity.
SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalEnvironmental Values·TypeObservational study·DateOct 11, 2021
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.
A researcher is collecting and genetically analyzing species found in the region's watersheds to understand their historical genetic connections. The project aims to rewrite the book on Guam's native diadromous organisms and potentially discover new species.
SourceUniversity of Guam·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 5, 2021
Researchers found that non-native warmwater fish species like walleye and bass consume more baby salmon than native fish in Oregon's reservoirs. The study used stable isotopes and stomach contents to identify which predators eat the salmon fry, revealing that walleye are the main consumers.
SourceOregon State University·JournalEcosphere·DateSep 22, 2021
A study by the University of Helsinki found raccoon dogs to be a significant threat to ground-nesting bird populations in Northern Europe. The invasive species was found to destroy nests and prey on farmed mallard eggs, contributing to the decline of waterbird populations.
SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalBiological Invasions·DateAug 13, 2021
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.
A long-running survey of ants at Stanford's Jasper Ridge Biological Preserve found that the distribution of Argentine ants has receded by 30% since 1994. Climate change was identified as a significant factor in this decrease, particularly during an extreme drought from 2012 to 2015.
SourceStanford University·JournalEcology·DateAug 5, 2021
Native Mediterranean species have been found to prey on the invasive Pacific red lionfish and silver-cheeked toadfish, suggesting direct human management measures are needed to control their populations. The study documents native predators for both species, including loggerhead turtles and dolphinfish.
SourceUniversity of Malta·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·DateJul 21, 2021
A 17-year study found that removing invasive barred owls arrested the population decline of northern spotted owls. Spotted owl populations stabilized in areas where barred owls were removed, while declining sharply without removals.
SourceOregon State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 20, 2021
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.
A newly detected alien aphid, Aphis lugentis, poses a significant threat to Kangaroo Island's threatened plant species, including the scented groundsel. The discovery highlights concerns over invasive species' spread across Australia, with potential economic losses estimated at A$13.6 billion.
SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalAustral Ecology·DateJul 1, 2021
A new study using near-infrared (NIR) spectrum cameras has shown that these small, mobile cameras can help detect more snakes and could lead to an automated python tracker. By utilizing NIR cameras, pythons can be detected 20% farther away than with visible cameras.
SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalApplied Optics·DateJun 10, 2021