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Researchers find genetic stability in a long-term Panamanian hybrid zone of manakins

Hybrids between two manakin species in Panama have remained relatively stable over the past 30 years, with minimal changes in genomic markers. The phenotypic transition zone also shows stability, with only one trait having shifted location, suggesting a potential selection for green bellies.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalEvolution·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 26, 2024
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.

Restored rat-free islands could support hundreds of thousands more breeding seabirds

Researchers found that removing invasive rats and restoring native vegetation could help bring back hundreds of thousands of breeding pairs of seabirds lost to tropical islands. The restored populations would have enough fish in the sea for them to hunt, supporting nearly 280,000 breeding pairs on islands with full vegetation restoration.

SourceLancaster University·JournalConservation Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 18, 2024

Trout in mine-polluted rivers are genetically ‘isolated’

Researchers found metal-tolerant trout populations in British and Irish rivers are genetically distinct due to high levels of metal pollution. The lack of genetic diversity in these populations makes them more susceptible to environmental changes.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalDiversity and Distributions·DateMay 30, 2024

Continuing study: Tel Aviv University researchers identify the pathogen causing sea urchin mass mortalities in the Red Sea; The epidemic has spread to the Indian Ocean possess an eminent threat to coral reefs

A deadly epidemic discovered last year in the Red Sea has spread to the Indian Ocean, annihilating most sea urchin populations and threatening coral reef stability. The researchers identified a scuticociliate parasite as the cause of the mass mortality.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 23, 2024

Parasitic worm likely playing role in decline of moose populations

Researchers have found that a parasitic worm, Eleaophora schneideri, is likely contributing to the decline of moose populations in some regions. The study found microfilariae scattered throughout the brains of infected animals, leading to potential increased morbidity and mortality.

SourceWashington State University·JournalJournal of Wildlife Diseases·DateMay 15, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Island birds more adaptable than previously thought

A recent study published in Proceedings of the Royal Society found that birds on islands are more evolutionarily similar and diverse than expected, with more species thriving in agricultural areas. The research suggests that there may be fundamental principles of ecology at play, influencing bird evolution on islands.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateMay 13, 2024

Same species, different sizes: Rare evolution in action spotted in island bats

Two groups of leaf-nosed bats, one small and one large, are an example of parallel evolution where they evolved similar features independently despite living on the same islands. The larger bats have adapted to eat bigger prey, using lower sonar frequencies, while the smaller bats use higher frequencies.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalEvolution·TypeObservational study·DateApr 22, 2024

Lemur’s lament: When one vulnerable species stalks another

Researchers observed a rare instance of lemur predation by a fosa in the Betampona Strict Nature Reserve. The impact of this predation, combined with low reproductive rates and genetic isolation, poses significant threats to the survival of critically endangered lemurs.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalEcology and Evolution·TypeObservational study·DateApr 19, 2024

Reproductive success improves after a single generation in the wild for descendants of some hatchery-origin Chinook salmon

Researchers found that first-generation, wild-born descendants of hatchery-origin Chinook salmon produced more adult offspring than hatchery-origin salmon, improving reproductive success. This study offers hope for recovering endangered populations using hatchery-origin salmon.

SourceOregon State University·JournalEvolutionary Applications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 16, 2024
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.

Why European colonization drove the blue antelope to extinction

Researchers analyzed a 40-fold high-coverage genome from a historical museum specimen and found no inbreeding or detrimental mutations, indicating the species' ability to adapt to long-term low population size. The study suggests that European colonization was a key factor in the blue antelope's extinction.

SourceUniversity of Potsdam·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 15, 2024

Four in five bird species cannot tolerate intense human pressures

A recent study found that 78% of the world's bird species struggle to thrive in heavily modified environments, leading to declining populations and increased risk of extinction. Conservation efforts can be targeted towards species most sensitive to human activity, such as the Great Snipe and Nkulengu Rail.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalGlobal Ecology and Biogeography·DateApr 5, 2024

Rusty-patched bumblebee’s struggle for survival found in its genes

The study revealed three genetically distinct populations of rusty-patched bumblebees, highlighting the need for tailored conservation efforts. The analysis showed low colony abundance and high rates of inbreeding, threatening the long-term viability of the species.

SourceColorado State University·JournalJournal of Insect Science·TypeObservational study·DateApr 4, 2024

Demand for critical minerals puts African Great Apes at risk

A recent study reveals that the demand for critical minerals in Africa is putting African Great Apes at risk due to deforestation and habitat destruction. The study estimates that more than 180,000 gorillas, bonobos, and chimpanzees are at risk, with West African countries like Guinea being the most severely affected.

SourceGerman Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig·JournalScience Advances·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 3, 2024
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Improving women’s fertility choices: avoiding environmental catastrophe caused by population growth

A new study published in Frontiers in Public Health assesses the risks of global population growth on ecosystems and human societies. The experts argue that empowering women to make choices about their fertility is crucial but not enough, highlighting the need for policies addressing child health, food security, and climate change.

SourceFlinders University·JournalFrontiers in Public Health·TypeLiterature review·DateMar 6, 2024

Climate change threatens thousands of archaeological sites in coastal Georgia

A study published in PLOS ONE predicts that climate change will inundate over 4,200 archaeological sites along the US state's coast, with nearly 5,000 at risk by 2100. The authors used a predictive model to account for storm surge events, highlighting the need for cultural heritage managers to take action.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 28, 2024

Genetic insights and conservation challenges of Nara's sacred deer

A genetic study reveals two distinct clusters of deer populations in Nara, Japan, highlighting the need for reconciliation among stakeholders. The research emphasizes the importance of careful management to address conflicts between preserving sacred deer lineage and allowing admixture for conservation.

SourceFukushima University·JournalConservation Science and Practice·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 20, 2024

Increased access to water a threat to nomadic livestock farmers

A new study from Uppsala University found that increased access to water in arid areas can lead to a surge in demand for water and pasture, threatening the livelihoods of nomadic livestock farmers. The research highlights the need for effective management of water infrastructure to ensure climate resilience.

SourceUppsala University·JournalNature Climate Change·DateFeb 16, 2024
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.

Harnessing human evolution to advance precision medicine

A gene variant in Andean people is associated with reduced red blood cell count, enabling them to thrive at high altitude. The study aims to understand genetic differences underlying variation in oxygen saturation among COPD patients.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 9, 2024

Relocated songbirds can successfully learn the diversity of song they need to survive

A new study found that relocated songbird chicks can successfully learn the diversity of songs they need to communicate and survive. Despite an initial lack of song diversity, the population recovered as it increased in size, suggesting that translocating nestlings may not lead to long-term problems.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalConservation Science and Practice·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 1, 2024
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

The megalodon was less mega than previously believed

A new study published in Palaeontologia Electronica shows the Megalodon was more slender than earlier studies suggested, changing our understanding of its behavior and impact on ancient ocean life. The revised model suggests a longer digestive canal, potentially leading to less predation pressure on other marine creatures.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalPalaeontologia Electronica·DateJan 21, 2024

Climate change could be impacting babies’ birthweight for gestational age

A large-scale study found exposure to low and high biothermal stress during pregnancy linked to a higher risk of babies being born too small or large for their gestational ages. The study also identified specific subpopulations at higher risk, including non-Caucasian people and those aged 35 and above.

SourceCurtin University·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·TypeObservational study·DateJan 7, 2024
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.

Protected areas for elephants work best if they are connected

A new study published in Science Advances suggests that protected areas for elephants are most effective when connected to allow populations to stabilize naturally. This approach, known as 'connecting parks,' enables herds to move freely and absorb immigrants, reducing the need for human intervention.

SourceDuke University·JournalScience Advances·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 5, 2024

New method could help estimate wildlife disease spread

A new method can help estimate the prevalence of disease in free-ranging wildlife by accounting for animal clustering. This approach may reduce the number of samples needed to detect a disease. The researchers focused on Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) in deer, which tends to cluster in family groups, making this method particularly useful.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Agricultural Biological and Environmental Statistics·DateDec 18, 2023

Bats declined as Britain felled trees for colonial shipbuilding

A study by the University of Exeter and the Bat Conservation Trust found that Britain's tree felling for colonial shipbuilding led to a significant decline in Western barbastelle bat populations. The study used DNA analysis to discover a historical decline, which coincided with widespread tree-felling from about 500 years ago.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateDec 14, 2023
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.

Study overturns conventional wisdom about wild turkey nesting survival

A new study has overturned conventional wisdom on wild turkey nesting survival, revealing that precipitation levels during nesting season are not related to reproductive success. The researchers found that temperatures above historical averages were associated with higher rates of daily nest survival during incubation.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Wildlife Management·TypeObservational study·DateDec 13, 2023

Helping more people get to safety in a wildfire

Researchers have developed a new web-based software platform called Wildfire Safe Egress (WISE) that allows emergency planners to design custom-made evacuation plans. The tool uses data on demographics and road networks to simulate wildfire scenarios and calculate safe evacuation probabilities. By analyzing the Camp Fire disaster, rese...

SourceSociety for Risk Analysis·JournalRisk Analysis·DateDec 13, 2023

Orangutan male success: Not by dominance alone

A study of wild orangutan males reveals that simply beating rivals in competitions does not lead to siring success. Instead, successful fathers spend more time near the females with whom they mate, suggesting a strategy of concentrating on one neighborhood rather than roaming widely is key.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·TypeObservational study·DateDec 6, 2023
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.

Non-native diversity mirrors Earth’s biodiversity

A new study has found that non-native species tend to mirror Earth's biodiversity patterns, with around 37,000 invasive species described worldwide. The researchers discovered that certain groups of species, such as mammals and plants, are disproportionately prone to establishing in new areas.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalGlobal Ecology and Biogeography·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 16, 2023
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.

Study: Wild pig populations in U.S. can be managed

Researchers found a 70% reduction in wild pig populations and a corresponding decline in environmental rooting damage within 24 months of control efforts. The study suggests that management efforts exceeding 40-60% population removal per year can significantly reduce populations, but unknown is the rate of recovery if efforts cease.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalPest Management Science·DateOct 10, 2023

Why are killer whales harassing and killing porpoises without eating them?

Researchers analyzed 78 documented incidents of porpoise harassment by Southern Resident killer whales from 1962 to 2020. The study suggests three plausible explanations: mismothering behavior, limited opportunities to care for young due to malnutrition, and a specialized salmon diet that makes eating porpoises highly unlikely.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalMarine Mammal Science·TypeMeta-analysis·DateSep 28, 2023

Inbreeding can be beneficial in the long run

Despite high levels of inbreeding, the Svalbard reindeer population has developed adaptations to thrive in extreme Arctic conditions. Researchers found that inbreeding may help eliminate harmful mutations, leading to a viable and genetically resilient population.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournaliScience·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 26, 2023

Movement sensors can detect disease in wild boar

Accelerometer sensors can detect sickness behavior in wild boar, allowing for early detection of African Swine Fever. The study found that infected boars were 10-20% less active daily than healthy ones, making this technology a potential tool for disease control and prevention.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateSep 12, 2023
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Freshwater connectivity can transport environmental DNA through the landscape

Research finds that water movement between lakes can transport environmental DNA, making eDNA a promising tool for tracking aquatic species and monitoring biodiversity. The study highlights the importance of considering landscape connectivity when designing eDNA surveys to ensure accurate biodiversity assessments.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·DateSep 12, 2023

Early ancestral bottleneck could’ve spelled the end for modern humans

A recent study using a novel method called FitCoal revealed a severe bottleneck in the human population that occurred approximately 117,000 years ago. This event led to a significant loss of genetic diversity, with an estimated 65.85% of current genetic diversity lost, but it also contributed to the formation of modern human chromosome 2.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience·DateAug 31, 2023
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 global observatory to monitor Earth's biodiversity

A new global biodiversity observing system (GBIOS) is proposed to combine technology, data, and knowledge from around the world to monitor biodiversity change and target conservation action. The system can provide the information needed at the pace required to support countries in achieving their biodiversity goals.

SourceFlorida Museum of Natural History·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateAug 24, 2023

Mesoamerica a model for modern metropolises

A recent study suggests that ancient Mesoamerican cities, such as Caracol and Teotihuacan, withstood environmental challenges like drought and earthquakes due to their advanced infrastructure and socio-economic systems. These cities' resiliency is often overlooked in historical accounts of their collapse.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 24, 2023

Alien invasion: Study reveals alarming economic costs of biological invasions to the European Union

A recent study led by McGill University estimates that the European Union will face significant economic losses due to biological invasions, with costs projected to reach over €142.73 billion by 2040. The study highlights the need for effective management and collaboration to address this threat.

SourceMcGill University·JournalEnvironmental Sciences Europe·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 13, 2023
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.

Birds raise fewer young when spring arrives earlier in a warming world

A new study found that birds produce fewer young if they start breeding too early or late in the season, with climate change resulting in earlier springlike weather. The researchers report that birds have been unable to keep pace with the changes, leading to a mismatch between the start of spring and birds' readiness to reproduce.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateJul 3, 2023

Counting Africa's largest bat colony

A new method developed by the Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior has counted Africa's largest bat colony using GoPro cameras and artificial intelligence. The estimate puts the colony at between 750,000 and 1,000,000 bats, making it the largest for bats by biomass anywhere in the world.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalEcosphere·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 3, 2023
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 study reveals global reservoirs are becoming emptier

A new study using satellite data from over 7,000 global reservoirs found that total storage capacity has increased, but the filling rate is lower than anticipated. The analysis suggests that addressing future water demands cannot rely solely on constructing new reservoirs, highlighting the need for novel management strategies.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 23, 2023

Local loss of species may often be underestimated

A new biodiversity study shows that even seemingly healthy ecosystems with increasing species numbers may already be on the path to decline and loss of species. The study's findings suggest that species richness is not a reliable metric for monitoring ecosystems, as it can mask negative trends in species extinction.

SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 12, 2023
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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