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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

Invasive plant species can enhance coastal ecosystems

A new study by Duke University scientists found that invasive plant species can provide essential ecosystem functions in degraded coastal habitats. Non-native seaweed, such as Gracilaria vermiculophylla, helped offset the loss of foundation species and offered vital services like food production and storm protection.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 17, 2017

Dune ecosystem modelling

Researchers developed a concept to model the physical surroundings' influence on Acacia longifolia's interaction with other plants, considering factors like soil type, nutrients, light intensity, wind, and soil moisture. Isoscapes reveal the distribution of nitrogen introduced by the invasive species across the landscape.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 23, 2017

How have European freshwater fish species changed over time?

Since 1840, European freshwater fish species have undergone significant changes, with non-native species outnumbering native ones. Human activities, such as habitat destruction and intentional introductions, have led to an increase in taxonomic homogenization across Europe.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Biogeography·DateMay 17, 2017

Bioinvasion on the rise

A recent study found that 37% of all recorded alien species have been introduced globally over the past few decades, with new introductions increasing at an alarming rate. Climate change is expected to lead to further invasions as non-native plants adapt to new environments.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 15, 2017

Mapping movements of alien bird species

A global map of alien bird species shows that human activities are the main determinants of their presence, but also highlights areas with rich native bird species as hotspots for alien species. The study found a significant increase in bird introductions since World War II and suggests that economic factors contribute to the spread of...

SourceUniversity College London·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJan 12, 2017

HKU biologist reveals important role cities play in conservation of threatened species

A recent study finds that urban centers like Hong Kong can play a crucial role in conserving globally threatened species. Introduced populations of these species have been thriving outside their native habitats, providing an opportunity to augment declining populations in their native ranges and mitigate threats to local ecosystems.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateJan 4, 2017

Fast evolution affects everyone, everywhere

Research highlights how humans impact the evolution of other species, leading to rapid changes in a few years to decades. Examples include commercial fishing, invasive species, and urbanization, which drive evolutionary adaptations.

SourceMcGill University·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (B )·DateDec 5, 2016

Human transport has unpredictable genetic and evolutionary consequences for marine species

New research reveals that human transport has a significant impact on the genetics of marine species, disrupting natural patterns and leading to unexpected consequences. The study found a mosaic of genetic patterns in a native invertebrate species, suggesting that anthropogenic activities are altering genetic composition in native ranges.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalBiology Letters·DateOct 14, 2016

Deadly duo

Researchers found that killer shrimps drove native amphipods out of hiding places, making them easy prey for round gobies. The invasive crustaceans played an indirect role in the decline of native species.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalBMC Ecology·DateSep 1, 2016

New species of pterosaur discovered in Patagonia

Scientists have discovered a new species of pterosaur from the Early Jurassic period in Patagonia, Argentina. The 'Allkauren koi' species boasts an intermediate state in brain evolution, shedding light on the origin and adaptation of flying reptiles.

SourcePeerJ·JournalPeerJ·DateAug 30, 2016

The 6 steps to extinction

Scientists propose a new framework to understand plant extinctions, identifying six thresholds that species cross before becoming extinct. The study highlights the slow pace of plant extinction and the need for urgent action to protect declining native species.

SourceOxford University Press UK·JournalAoB Plants·DateAug 9, 2016

Where did Australian cats come from?

Researchers found that feral cats in Australia originated from European settlers' pets, introducing a damaging invasive species. The study's findings have implications for managing invasive species, as they determined a specific time frame for cat introduction linked to native species decline.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Evolutionary Biology·DateDec 3, 2015

Boosting nutrients gives a leg up to invasive species

A global study by University of Minnesota researchers found that adding nutrients to grasslands gives invasive species a leg up on native species. The study, published in Nature Communications, used data from 64 sites across 13 countries to pinpoint the role of nutrient availability and herbivore density in plant invasion.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 15, 2015

Galapagos invasion is global warning

A new study reveals nearly half of Galapagos Island's canopy is comprised of non-native trees, shrubs, and grasses, competing with native species for resources. The research provides a map and database to help managers prioritize invasive species control efforts.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalNeoBiota·DateSep 3, 2014

Spanish slug -- Busting an invasion myth

Research reveals that Spanish slugs (Arion lusitanicus) are not native to Spain but originated in Central Europe, contradicting long-held assumptions. The findings highlight the need for reevaluation of EU regulations on invasive species and encourage a more nuanced approach to labeling non-native species.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalEvolutionary Applications·DateJun 18, 2014

Bird invaders 'moving in' to UK's nature reserves

Researchers found that European birds are expanding their ranges into UK nature reserves, but non-native wetland birds such as the Black Swan and Egyptian Goose are also invading protected areas. The study highlights the importance of conservation efforts to tackle these invasions and protect native species.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalDiversity and Distributions·DateMay 13, 2014