Articles tagged with Species Diversity
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
Computational biologists at the University of Pennsylvania found that species diversification rates have typically decayed over time, suggesting a limit to species diversity. The study used phylogenies from various groups and found relatively little extinction in the evolutionary trees, contrasting with the fossil record.
Scientists at the University of Calgary found that available area is the most important factor driving flower diversity, with family traits coming in second. The study suggests that geography and morphology play a significant role in shaping biodiversity patterns.
Researchers found hundreds of rhododendron species could be derived from hybrids, explaining rich biodiversity and ancient cross-breeding. Ancient pairings of wild plants led to development of new species over millions of years.
The Wildlife Picture Index, a new monitoring tool, shows a 36% net decline of biodiversity in Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park. Camera traps collected thousands of images, revealing that large mammals declined faster than small primates and deer.
The Census of Marine Life has published an inventory of species distribution and diversity in 25 biologically representative regions around the world. Crustaceans comprise about one-fifth of all species found, with only two percent being vertebrates.
A team of scientists mapped global diversity patterns for over 11,000 marine species, finding temperature strongly linked to biodiversity and high overlap between areas of human impact and diversity hotspots. The study suggests ocean warming may greatly affect the distribution of life in the sea.
A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reveals that a fungal disease has decimated amphibian abundance and species diversity in Central America's highlands. The researchers used DNA barcoding to estimate the impact of the epidemic, discovering five new species were also lost.
Researchers found that adult trees harbor pests and diseases that harm seedlings of their own species more than others, leading to stabilizing mechanisms that maintain diversity. The study suggests that plant interactions with soil biota are powerful enough to explain co-existence and abundance patterns in tropical forests.
A new study in Nature highlights the importance of population diversity within species for maintaining stable fisheries. Without sufficient diversity, fisheries would close more frequently, leading to economic instability. The study emphasizes the need to preserve habitat networks to maintain population diversity.
Nine new species of handfish have been described by CSIRO, bringing the total to 14 known species. The discovery deepens concerns about declining populations and environmental vulnerability.
Researchers from UBC have developed a mathematical model that unravels the generation of biological diversity within and between species. The model suggests that multiple traits acting in concert can generate diversity even with weak interactions, mirroring the complexity of reality.
Agricultural Research Service scientists found that plant species diversity and composition are crucial for potential energy yield per acre from biomass harvested from CRP land. The study suggests that CRP lands in the northeastern US with a high proportion of tall native prairie grasses have the potential to produce over 600 gallons o...
A study by Harvard University researchers reveals that changes in beak length and depth can explain the morphological diversity of Darwin's finches. The team used mathematical models and genetic analysis to show that scaling transformations, shear, and gene expression are key factors in shaping the birds' beaks.
Researchers at George Mason University and the University of Otago found a strong correlation between diatom diversity and whale species diversity over the last 30 million years. The study suggests that changes in ocean productivity may drive variations in whale fossil records, providing new insights into the evolution of modern whales.
Scientists have documented unprecedented biodiversity in Yasuní National Park, including 596 bird species, 150 amphibian species, and over 1,100 tree species. The park's extraordinary diversity is threatened by proposed oil development projects.
Butterfly populations in California are declining due to climate change and habitat loss. Researchers found that warmer temperatures are causing lower-elevation species to migrate to higher elevations, while high-elevation specialist butterflies are also facing threats as temperatures become too warm.
The study found that European plant communities are becoming more homogeneous, with rare species becoming extinct and phylogenetic diversity decreasing. This loss of uniqueness makes it harder for biological communities to adapt to environmental changes.
Ancient DNA analysis reveals new horse species in Eurasia and South America, with the Cape zebra found to be a large variant of the modern Plains zebra, while a small hippidion horse was discovered in South America. A new ass species also appears related to European fossils dating back 1.5 million years.
Assessing biological processes under global warming requires accurate estimates of temporal changes in species. Long-term studies show that neglecting increasing seasonal climate lag can lead to distorted results.
A comprehensive study on water vole genetics has been conducted by scientists from the University of Granada and Doñana Biological Station. The research reveals essential information for developing successful conservation plans, which will help preserve the genetic diversity of this endangered species.
A recent analysis of Central American frog surveys reveals the devastating impact of Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis, a microscopic fungus, on frog communities. The study shows that the fungus is causing a 'vast homogenization' of species, leading to significant losses in biodiversity and regional extinctions.
A team of biologists found that a rare species of algae proliferated in corals during a period of high sea surface temperatures in the Caribbean Ocean. The results suggest that this species may save some corals from bleaching, but its long-term impact on coral health is uncertain.
A new revision of the Dioptinae subfamily sheds light on the diversity of tropical moth species, revealing a unique story of parallel evolution. The study found that around 500 species evolved from a common ancestor into diverse butterfly mimics, with some feeding on toxic plants to gain protection.
Researchers develop computer model showing how diverse species can arise from arrangement of organisms across an area without physical barriers or natural selection. The study found that genetic distance increases over generations, leading to a rapid increase in species numbers until they reach a steady state.
UC Riverside researcher Kerry Knudsen discovered a new species of lichen on Santa Rosa Island, California, and named it Caloplaca obamae in honor of President Obama. The discovery highlights the importance of preserving public lands and studying biodiversity on the island.
A study in Evolution Canyon, Israel, shows that scorpion species exhibit different distributions on the south-facing and north-facing slopes, despite identical regional geology. The results suggest that environmental pressures, such as sunlight and drought, can lead to local changes in biodiversity.
A new analysis reveals that phyla with the greatest diversity of species also have the largest range of body sizes, including sponges and molluscs. The study suggests that physical limits to size constraints may prevent some body plans from having a full range of sizes.
The Global Crop Diversity Trust is rapidly reviving ailing seed samples from 46 countries to preserve genetic traits vital to maintaining global food security. The effort, which includes 100,000 different crop varieties, aims to prevent extinction of staple crops like rice, maize, and wheat.
The Census of Marine Life has made significant progress towards its goal, with new discoveries including Antarctic ancestry of many octopus species and behemoth bacteria. The report details major advances in technology, knowledge organization, and measurement of human impact on ocean life.
A study by biologists at Washington University in St. Louis shows that bird diversity is a buffer against the occurrence of West Nile Virus in humans. The more diverse a bird population, the lower the risk of exposure to WNV.
A new experiment simulates predicted rainfall patterns and assesses the effect of diverse plant species on ecosystem responses. The study focuses on how changes in plant diversity modify key functions such as water processing, nutrient cycling, and carbon storage under changing climate conditions.
A study found that shipwrecks on coral reefs harbor unwanted species like Rhodactis howesii, which can overtake healthy coral and decrease diversity. Removing man-made debris could prevent further losses in species and habitat.
A decade-long study published in Science reveals that most diversification occurred early on, with local ecological communities changing relatively little over time. The researchers used a fundamentally new analysis to conclude that the increase in species diversity was less dramatic than previously believed.
Researchers found that diversity among ancient marine creatures like clams and lobsters showed only a modest rise beginning 144 million years ago. The study contradicts previous work suggesting dramatic increases in diversity, providing insight into future diversity and the impact of global warming.
A recent PNAS study reveals that temperature drives biodiversity in tropical regions, contradicting previous assumptions that light was the key factor. The study found that bacterial samples from warm waters contained many species, suggesting that photosynthesis has little influence on diversity.
A recent study published in Science Cornell College biology professor Marty Condon and coauthors discovered multiple new species of fruit flies with overlapping niches, exceeding previous expectations. The research found a greater specialization in plant feeding among herbivorous insects than previously thought.
A recent study identifies seven regions where non-native freshwater fish species make up over a quarter of the recorded species, highlighting the need for surveillance and precautionary measures. The research suggests that human economic activities are the main driving factor behind exotic species invasions in these regions.
Researchers develop new method to measure biodiversity, finding that most species have limited impact on ecosystem diversity. The study reveals that 'attractor' species promote biodiversity in tropical rainforests, while 'repellent' species have a negative effect.
Researchers examined over 7,000 plant species in the human diet, finding that humans consume a remarkably high number of plant families. A study of a McDonald's Big Mac meal revealed approximately 20 different species and ingredients originating from around the world.
Scientists have discovered significant populations of new, rare, and threatened species in Ghana's Atewa Range Forest Reserve, underscoring the area's high biological diversity. The findings include Critically Endangered frog and butterfly species, as well as eight new species of katydids.
Researchers from the University of Bayreuth and Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research found that Alpine summit vegetation is becoming increasingly homogenized due to climate change. This has led to an increase in species diversity within individual areas, but a decline in regional biodiversity across ecosystems.
A new study challenges current projections by finding that historic climate variability is a better predictor of reptilian and amphibian diversity in Europe than contemporary climate. This contradicts previous studies and has profound implications for predicting biodiversity impacts of climate change.
Scientists confirm tropical regions as key to global biodiversity, with a group of shellfish defying conventional patterns. Contrary to expectations, the Anomalodesmata group shows peak diversity in mid-latitudes, contradicting standard patterns.
A new analysis shows that as plant species go extinct, natural habitats become less productive and contain fewer total plants. This situation could ultimately compromise the benefits that humans get from nature. The study found that ecosystems with fewer species produce up to 50 percent less plant biomass than those with more natural d...
A study reveals an astonishing level of cryptic diversity among frog species in the Guiana Shield region, potentially doubling previously thought numbers. The underestimation of amphibian diversity has broad implications for conservation efforts and management of biodiversity.
A recent study found that ponds' community diversity converges after a drought, with only hardy species able to withstand the conditions. This convergence has important implications for wetland restoration and creation, highlighting the need to consider stochasticity and beta diversity in ecological restorations.
A new UC Davis study explores how competition among genetically varied plants relates to species diversity, finding that diversity within a species is necessary for maintaining diversity among species. The research also highlights the importance of preserving biodiversity in plant communities.
A new analysis by Oregon State University and U.S. Geological Survey suggests that dense conifer forests may be harming dozens of animal species dependent on shrubs, herbs, and broad-leaf trees. At least 78 vertebrate species have been documented to require non-coniferous vegetation, which is often scarce in managed forests.
Two closely related species of East African cichlid fishes evolved divergent immune gene adaptations, explaining their reproductive isolation. These differences in MHC genes influenced mating behavior through olfactory communication.
New research findings suggest tropical insects can be consistently found across hundreds of miles, eating a broader menu of foliage. This challenges the notion that plant-eating insects are picky eaters that stay close to home.
A study of lowland rainforests in New Guinea found low beta diversity across the study area, indicating widespread distribution of insect species and limited specialization. The results have implications for biological conservation and may suggest that bigger is better when preserving these forests.
The study analyzed trilobite species, which emerged during the Cambrian explosion, and found high variability within species. Approximately 35% of the species showed evolving characteristics, while only 13% of later trilobites did so.
A UC Irvine scientist has discovered that excess nutrients in an ecosystem can lead to a decrease in plant species diversity while increasing the productivity of a few selected species. This finding provides a new explanation for why polluted ecosystems often contain limited numbers of plant species.
A new study by University of Minnesota researchers found that excess nutrients and water can reduce species diversity in ecosystems, allowing a few species to dominate. The findings support the idea that plant diversity is directly related to limiting factors such as soil moisture and nutrient availability.
New research from MBL reveals that some fish larvae can discriminate odors in ocean currents and use scent to return to their birthplace. This homing behavior could support population isolation and genetic divergence, leading to the formation of new species. The study suggests that smell plays a crucial role in guiding larvae back to t...
The tropics are revealed as the Earth's most fruitful biodiversity spawning ground, with fossil data indicating a consistent pattern of extinction, origination, and immigration. The study suggests that human-caused extinctions in the tropics will have long-term consequences on global biodiversity.
A new study reveals that tropical regions are both a cradle and a museum of biodiversity, with many species originating in the tropics and spreading to higher latitudes. The research suggests that preserving tropical ecosystems is crucial for maintaining global biodiversity.
University of Michigan researchers found that invasive cattails alter the environment in ways that hinder native species but benefit the invaders. The cattails' litter accumulation creates a different environment with higher nutrient levels and lower light, which favors the invaders' growth.
The study found that species with smaller range areas are at higher risk of extinction due to increased vulnerability to habitat changes. Larger range sizes, on the other hand, result in fewer but larger populations, making them less susceptible to population wipeouts.
Research highlights the threat of biological diversity loss to human health, citing Lyme disease and West Nile virus as examples. A rapid autopsy program for a rare lung disease called interstitial pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) also improves medical research outcomes.