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Curtin research finds introduced honeybee may pose threat to native bees

A Curtin University study found that European honeybees can outcompete native bees for nectar and pollen resources in urban gardens dominated by non-native flowers. Planting more flowering plants preferred by vulnerable species and controlling honeybee density may help prevent native bee decline.

SourceCurtin University·JournalBiological Journal of the Linnean Society·DateApr 8, 2021

'Island of Rats' recovers

A coordinated conservation strategy removed invasive rodents from Hawadax Island, leading to the return of native species and a restoration of the island's ecosystem. The study found that removing the rats allowed the seabirds to replenish the seashore invertebrate population, driving down kelp abundance.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 8, 2021
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.

Newly discovered millipede, Nannaria hokie, lives at Virginia Tech

Researchers at Virginia Tech have discovered a new species of millipede, Nannaria hokie, living on campus and in nearby woods. The discovery highlights the importance of preserving native habitats and showcases the diversity of these often-overlooked creatures.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalInsect Systematics and Diversity·DateMar 4, 2021

Kangaroo overgrazing could be jeopardising land conservation, study finds

A study by University of New South Wales found that kangaroo overgrazing is having a detrimental impact on soil health and vegetation biodiversity, even more so than rabbits. The research suggests that conservation reserves need to rethink their management strategies to address the issue.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalGlobal Ecology and Conservation·DateFeb 3, 2021

Rediscovery of the 'extinct' Pinatubo volcano mouse

A team of researchers rediscovered a species of mouse thought to be extinct after Mount Pinatubo's devastating eruption 30 years ago. The survey revealed that native rodents were abundant and thriving in the disturbed landscape, contradicting expectations.

SourceField Museum·JournalThe Philippine journal of science·DateJan 22, 2021

A fly's eye view of evolution

Researchers found that changes in a central gene node lead to the formation of larger eyes in some species, while different mechanisms explain smaller eyes in others. The study contributes to understanding of evolution of complex traits and could inform animal and plant breeding.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateJan 13, 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.

Trees bring benefits to society, regardless of their origin

A study by Université de Genève analyzed 911 tree species in Geneva's urban spaces and found that most native and non-native species provide similar ecosystem services. Despite some drawbacks, the research concludes that introduced species can have a beneficial role in certain contexts.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalUrban Forestry & Urban Greening·DateOct 19, 2020

Crayfish 'trapping' fails to control invasive species

Research reveals that trapping is ineffective in controlling invasive American signal crayfish in Europe, and may even exacerbate the problem. A novel 'triple drawdown technique' proved significantly more accurate in determining population size.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateOct 13, 2020
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.

Invasional meltdown in multi-species plant communities

A new experiment reveals that fungal endophytes, which live inside plants, play a key role in invasion success and invasional meltdown in multi-species communities. The study found that alien species share fewer soil microbes with each other than with native species, making them less negatively affected by each other.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateOct 5, 2020

Globalization is reweaving the web of life

Researchers found that introduced species have increased mutualistic relationships seven-fold over the past 75 years, reducing ecosystem stability. As geographic isolation breaks down, regions with distinct species combinations are linked, leading to the loss of unique co-evolutionary trajectories.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalNature·DateSep 2, 2020

Native Hawaiian tiger cowries eat alien invasive species

Researchers found that Hawaiian tiger cowries are voracious predators of alien sponges, eating half their body weight weekly. The study suggests that cowries could help control invasive species, saving the state time and money.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalMarine Ecology Progress Series·DateAug 18, 2020

Native trees thrive in teak plantations and may protect the Panama Canal

Interplanting native tree species like rosewood and amarillo with teak in Central America's nutrient-poor soils improves soil health, increases water management, and boosts biodiversity. These findings suggest a more sustainable approach to reforestation and may protect the Panama Canal from flooding and drought.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalNew Forests·DateAug 13, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New native Hawaiian land snail species discovered, first in 60 years

A new native Hawaiian land snail species has been discovered after a decade-long survey of the islands. The discovery brings a glimmer of hope for conservation efforts, with scientists describing a small candy-striped snail that shows pronounced variation in coloring and is less than two-tenths of an inch long.

SourceFlorida Museum of Natural History·JournalZooKeys·DateJul 23, 2020

Plastics found in sea-bed sharks

Researchers discovered 67% of examined sharks contained microplastics and man-made fibers, emphasizing the widespread nature of plastic pollution. The study highlights potential sources of microplastic contamination, including fishing lines and textile waste.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 22, 2020

Invasive species with charisma have it easier

Charismatic invasive species are more likely to be introduced and establish themselves due to social acceptance. This can lead to one-sided gaps in knowledge and wrongly prioritized protective measures, affecting both ecosystems and invasive species welfare.

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateApr 6, 2020

Fish switch: Identity of mystery invader in Florida waters corrected after 20 years

After 20 years of misidentification, researchers have confirmed the presence of the chanchita in Florida waters, a South American freshwater fish that could outcompete native species for habitat and food resources. The correct identification is crucial for proper management and conservation efforts in the state's aquatic ecosystems.

SourceFlorida Museum of Natural History·JournalBioInvasions Records·DateJan 8, 2020
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

When good plants go bad

Some native plant species can grow aggressively, outcompeting other native species and forming dense monocultures, resulting in ecosystem disruptions. Excessive growth of aquatic plants can inhibit water movement and negatively impact flood control operations.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateDec 19, 2019

Breakthrough in battle against invasive plants

Researchers developed a global database to predict invasive plant populations, finding that species from disturbed environments are more likely to become invasive. The study suggests avoiding the export of these species, which can cause harm to people, industry, and wildlife worldwide.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 6, 2019
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.

Woody plants with undesirable tendencies

A literature review found five woody species native to Oklahoma that have become invasive in other regions, causing harm to biodiversity. The study suggests prioritizing conservation efforts based on a species' benefits or harm to the environment.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateNov 26, 2019

Ant expert discovers newly emergent species in his backyard

A global ant expert has discovered a new, native species in his Utah backyard, which is likely adapted to the region's warm and moist habitats. The species, Strumigenys ananeotes, was found in areas with over 150 years of irrigation and introduced forest.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalWestern North American Naturalist·DateNov 12, 2019

Native birds in South-eastern Australia worst affected by habitat loss

A new study has found that habitat loss is a major concern for hundreds of Australian bird species, particularly those in south-eastern Australia. The research, led by the University of Queensland, used the Loss Index to quantify the impact of habitat destruction on native bird populations.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalConservation Biology·DateSep 2, 2019

Picky pathogens help non-native tree species invade

A new study reveals that non-native tree species thrive in areas where their close relatives do not, thanks to the lack of soil pathogens. This 'enemy-release' effect gives invasive species a competitive advantage over native species, leading to their rapid spread and dominance.

SourceEcological Society of America·JournalEcosphere·DateJul 24, 2019
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Nonnative pear trees are showing up in US forests

Callery pear trees, originally introduced as urban favorites, now outcompete native species in US forests, threatening ecological balance. The invasive trees' deep roots and long growing season make them difficult to remove, posing an existential threat to native biodiversity.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateJun 28, 2019

Successful 'alien' bird invasions are location dependent

Researchers found that birds are more likely to thrive in environments with similar native habitats and climates, as well as in areas where other alien species are already established. This study analyzed 4,346 global invasion events spanning 708 species to understand the factors enabling bird success in new habitats.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature·DateJun 19, 2019
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.

Intensive silviculture accelerates Atlantic rainforest biodiversity regeneration

A study conducted in Brazil found that intensive silviculture using herbicide spraying and substantial fertilizer application promotes tropical forest regeneration and biomass gain, exceeding traditional manual weeding methods. Researchers aimed to maximize woody biomass accumulation for carbon sequestration and financial viability.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalEcological Applications·DateMay 17, 2019
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

For certain invasive species, catching infestation early pays off

A global meta-analysis reveals that invasive species can cause significant declines in native populations, especially when they reach higher trophic levels. Early detection becomes critical to prevent long-term damage. Strong policies are needed to prevent novel introductions and manage early stages of invasion.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 29, 2019
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.

Lionfish genes studied for clues to invasive prowess

A new North Carolina State University study found that lionfish in the Atlantic and Pacific regions share genetic similarities, suggesting a population near Taiwan as the source of the invading species. The research also revealed that lionfish in the Atlantic exhibit rapid reproductive rates and voracious predation, devastating native ...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalBiological Invasions·DateApr 26, 2019

Science-based guidelines for building a bee-friendly landscape

The article presents science-based guidelines for creating a bee-friendly landscape, highlighting the importance of native plants and diverse flower forms. Key findings include non-native plants extending the flowering season and pest-free plants attracting beneficial bees.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·DateApr 5, 2019

Alien species are primary cause of recent global extinctions

A new study by UCL researchers finds that alien species are the primary cause of recent global extinctions, responsible for 126 extinctions. Many plant and animal species, including mammals and birds, have been affected, with some species, such as rats and cats, being major contributors.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateMar 3, 2019
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.

ESA tipsheet for March 4,5, 2019

The Ecological Society of America's Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment journal publishes research on parasites hidden in museum specimens that can teach us about past and present diseases. A review reveals non-native species contribute to more plant and animal extinctions than native species.

SourceEcological Society of America·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateFeb 28, 2019

Missing the forest for the trees: An unexpected picture of New York City forests

A study by Yale scientists reveals that native species dominate New York City's natural areas, containing over 5 million trees, rather than just street trees. This finding highlights the need for conservation policies and management strategies focused on these spaces to manage biodiversity and ecosystem services.

SourceYale School of the Environment·JournalEcological Applications·DateDec 6, 2018

New tool to predict which plants will become invasive

A new research from the University of Vermont provides insight to help predict which plants are likely to become invasive in a particular community. Plant height can be a competitive advantage for non-native plants, enabling them to outcompete native plants and spread more aggressively.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 8, 2018

Biodiversity for the birds

A recent study by University of Delaware researchers found that residential yards dominated by non-native plants have fewer arthropods, leading to a decline in bird populations. The research suggests that prioritizing native plant species can support biodiversity and sustain wildlife.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 23, 2018
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.

Invasive species in an ecosystem harm native organisms but aid other invasive species

New research from Binghamton University found that invasive plant leaf litter and sodium chloride accelerate developmental time and reduce mass of native leopard frogs, while aiding invasive African clawed frogs. The study highlights the importance of considering interactions between multiple stressors in preserving native biodiversity.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalBiological Invasions·DateOct 23, 2018

Scientists crack genetic code of cane toad

A team of researchers has successfully sequenced and assembled the cane toad genome, providing a reference for understanding its interplay with ecosystems. The findings also identify three new viruses that could potentially be used as biocontrol agents, offering new hope in controlling the invasive species' population.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalGigaScience·DateSep 19, 2018
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.

Remote islands harbor higher numbers of non-native species

Research by an international team from the University of Vienna reveals that remote islands have higher numbers of non-native species, which can lead to extinction events and threaten unique island species. The study found that isolation from the mainland increases the number of non-native species, while native species decline.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 28, 2018

Migrating monarchs facing increased parasite risks

Research found that migrating monarchs encounter high levels of disease when interacting with resident monarchs at tropical milkweed sites, which can lead to reproductive issues and reduced migration rates. Monarch populations are vulnerable to parasitic protozoan OE due to the loss of natural migration patterns.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalEcology Letters·DateAug 28, 2018

Severe declines of mountain hares on Scottish grouse moors

A new study reveals severe declines in mountain hare populations on Scottish grouse moors, with numbers decreasing by nearly 5% every year from 1954 to 1999. The decline accelerated dramatically between 1999 and 2017, with counts in 2017 showing less than one percent of original levels.

SourceBritish Ecological Society·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateAug 14, 2018
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.

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.

Predator control can have unintended consequences

Research found that dingo removal decreased abundance of small mammals, while fox removal increased ground-dwelling and arboreal mammal populations. The study also revealed interactions between predators and their effects on cat populations.

SourceWiley·JournalMammal Review·DateJan 24, 2018
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.