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.
On a landmark 20-day Atlantic cruise, scientists cataloged 500 species of tiny zooplankton, including new discoveries. The expedition, part of the Census of Marine Life initiative, aimed to illuminate these essential life forms in the ocean's lower layers.
A study provides empirical support for natural selection's role in species formation by analyzing the relationship between adaptation and reproductive isolation in hundreds of organisms. The researchers found a positive link between these two processes, suggesting that adaptation drives species diversification.
Researchers have discovered new biodiversity hotspots in underground environments, home to unique and diverse species of terrestrial cave fauna. These discoveries shed light on the vast and largely unexplored world of subterranean ecosystems.
A global study of over 1,000 pollination experiments found that high plant diversity can lead to reduced pollination and reproductive success. This reduction in fruit and seed production may push vulnerable species towards extinction.
A new study suggests that declining biodiversity in pollination networks may threaten plant community persistence. The experimentally manipulated plant and pollinator interactions show increased pollination efficiency with complementary insect and flower pairings.
Research suggests that pigment spots on bird eggs strengthen the shell by compensating for reduced thickness caused by calcium deficiency. Females nesting on low-calcium soils lay thinner-shelled, more-spotted eggs than those on high-calcium soils.
Estimates for the number of living species on earth range from 3.5 million to over 30 million, but only 1.9 million have been classified and described. A new study uses the species-area effect to estimate historical biodiversity in the fossil record, finding a strong relationship between species richness and geographic area.
Researchers found that sponges produce bioactive substances in response to competition, which is crucial for developing new drugs. However, the growth rates of cultivated species are slow and unpredictable, resulting in lower substance production compared to natural counterparts.
A nationwide study by UCI researcher found that nitrogen fertilization can have a devastating impact on rare plant species, causing a decline in diversity and even local extinction. The study analyzed 967 plant species across various ecosystems and identified simple plant traits as predictors of species risk.
Researchers tested genetic diversity on Italian agile frog tadpoles exposed to a North American virus, finding that disease susceptibility paralleled population genetic variability. The study highlights the risks of population bottlenecks and inbreeding and suggests a method for predicting responses to new infectious diseases.
A team of Wisconsin scientists discovered molecular switches that govern the development and evolution of form in animals. The study found that genetic changes to these switches can produce diverse patterns and features, such as spots on fruit fly wings or stripes on zebras, which confer advantages for survival and reproductive success.
A five-year grassland study found that both species abundance and loss order significantly impact ecosystem diversity, with diverse communities resisting invasive weeds. Researchers replicated natural patterns and processes to demonstrate the importance of considering realistic species loss scenarios.
Researchers found that an ancient marine invasion led to a significant increase in regional diversity, with gamma diversity rising by 26% due to changes in beta diversity. The study suggests that habitat distribution or increased habitat diversity may have contributed to this increase.
Researchers found that species diversity in local areas is directly proportional to species diversity in the region, highlighting the importance of regional forces in shaping biodiversity. Latitude also plays a significant role in local species richness, with diverse regions supporting more species.
Experts are conducting a comprehensive census of marine life in the Arctic Ocean, which is experiencing rapid changes due to melting ice caps. The project aims to record and inventory biodiversity in the three main layers of the water column and study the effects of climate change on aquatic life.
A recent study by URI graduate student found that off-road vehicles significantly impact beach ecosystems, with a 30-50% decrease in invertebrate populations on beaches where driving is allowed. The research highlights the importance of protecting the wrack line, which serves as a crucial habitat for many species.
Researchers at the Wildlife Conservation Society discovered a large population of jaguars in Bolivia's Kaa-Iya Park, estimated to be one of the largest in any protected area. The park, which covers over 34,000 square kilometers, is also home to a diverse range of other wildlife, including endangered species such as the Chacoan guanaco.
Researchers used quantitative data to analyze the evolution of acritarchs, a group of ancient microfossils. They found that complexity increased over time but leveled off, with post-Ediacaran acritarchs reaching high levels of morphological complexity but not large sizes.
A new study by University of California, Berkeley biologist Rosemary Gillespie found that Hawaiian spiders diversified to fill a wide range of habitats on the Hawaiian Islands. The research suggests that evolution plays a key role in shaping communities on these islands, similar to mainland processes.
In a four-year study, scientists found that gray wolves consumed a diverse range of species, promoting ecosystem diversity and health. In contrast, hunter kills were dominated by less mobile scavengers, indicating that hunters have a smaller impact on the Yellowstone ecosystem.
Research by Schurbon and Fauth found that prescribed burning negatively impacts pine savannah amphibian diversity and abundance, with species declining in areas burned more recently. The study suggests a 5-year prescribed burn cycle and summer burns can balance the needs of amphibians and longleaf pines.
Scientists discover that community assembly history influences productivity-biodiversity relationships in natural ecosystems. Experimental study with microorganisms reveals that the sequence of species arrival affects these relationships, which is a key factor in understanding diversity patterns.
A study by Kenneth Schmidt found that Illinois raccoon populations coincide with declines in low-nesting songbirds, with over 70% of these species dropping from the state's bird list. Raccoon habitat expansion and loss of top carnivores contribute to this decline.
Researchers have discovered that the history of community assembly is a key predictor of future biodiversity and ecosystem productivity. The study used microorganisms to manipulate productivity and found that the sequence of species arrival from a regional pool of colonists had a large effect on the productivity-diversity relationship.
Researchers found that introduced plants from different guilds struggled to establish themselves in plots with high species richness. The presence of warm-season grasses had a strong inhibitory effect on invaders from all four guilds, suggesting they offer stiff competition for resources.
High grazer diversity enhances biomass production, a key determinant of fish yield in aquatic ecosystems. Complex interactions between consumer diversity and plant diversity lead to emergent consequences, cautioning against extrapolating conclusions from plant diversity experiments.
A new study by Stanford University researchers found that doubling carbon dioxide levels significantly reduces plant species in the wild. Exposure to high CO2 gas for three years caused a nearly 20% decline in wildflowers and an overall eight percent drop in plant diversity.
Researchers used ancient pollen data to test hypotheses on species diversity and coexistence in forests. They found that stabilizing forces, not neutral dynamics, were maintaining forest diversity, contradicting long-held views.
The Succulent Karoo, a biodiversity hotspot with high plant diversity and unique species, is receiving $8 million in grants to combat declining biodiversity. The initiative aims to empower local communities and organizations to take action in conservation efforts.
Caterpillars' shelter-building habits impact insect communities by reducing diversity, whereas artificial habitats have similar effects as natural ones. The study suggests regional patterns of insect herbivore diversity may be influenced by these ecosystem engineers.
A study by researchers at the University of Guelph and the University of Wisconsin found that rock climbing significantly reduces snail diversity and abundance on the Niagara Escarpment. The team analyzed soil samples from climbed and unclimbed sections of the cliffs, discovering a stark difference in species numbers and populations.
Gerald R. Smith pinpointed three North American regions at greatest risk for freshwater fish diversity: southern Appalachian, Klamath River Basin, and Caribbean coastal drainages of eastern Mexico. Habitat destruction due to water diversion, agriculture, and mining threatens these areas' unique species.
Study reveals floodplains have significantly higher diversity of native and exotic plants due to flooding, which washes away existing plants and transports seeds. This creates opportunities for invasive species to establish themselves, posing a threat to native plant populations.
Research found significant species diversity in riparian areas, with up to 40 times more exotic species per plot compared to uplands. Flood frequency also impacts species richness, with decreased numbers of exotic species as flood frequency decreases.
Research shows that population stability and size tend to increase with community diversity, likely due to variation in local productivity. This finding challenges ecological theory, which predicts a decline in population stability as community diversity increases.
A comparative study of plants and birds on oceanic islands found that invasive species outnumber native species, causing extinctions but increasing overall diversity. The total number of land bird species has remained relatively unchanged despite the loss of native species.
A report highlights that protecting threatened and endemic species does not automatically ensure compliance with biodiversity conservation laws. The study found that this approach falls short in preserving other bird species, especially in their habitats of distribution.
The western chimpanzee is critically endangered with only 4% of its original population remaining. Conservation efforts are underway to address threats such as agricultural development, logging, and the bush meat trade. The action plan provides a roadmap for halting or reversing the decline in chimpanzee numbers in West Africa.
Scientists have discovered two new monkey species, Callicebus bernhardi and Callicebus stephennashi, which are named after Prince Bernhard and Stephen Nash. These discoveries highlight the vast biodiversity of the Amazon rain forest, with over 95 species of primates found in Brazil alone.
Six scientists are recognized for their groundbreaking work on biodiversity conservation in China, Ecuador, Madagascar, Peru, and the US. The winners' efforts focus on tracking animal evolution, establishing national parks, studying lemur populations, and promoting indigenous cooperation.
Researchers at Duke University found that density-dependent mortality plays a role in promoting tree species diversity, just like in tropical forests. Their study suggests that preserving natural enemies is crucial for maintaining tropical diversity.
A study by researchers at the University of Michigan found that lakeshore housing development affects breeding bird communities in ways that conventional methods may miss. The study suggests that property owners can take steps to lessen the effects, such as keeping lawns small and encouraging native vegetation.
A long-term study found that habitat fragmentation has a far-reaching impact on rainforests, increasing local extinction rates and altering species richness. To maintain diversity and dynamics, Amazonian nature reserves will need to be very large to withstand human disturbances.
A study suggests that the global extinction crisis is more severe than previously thought, with over 50% of declining mammal species losing historic ranges. Population extinctions are concentrated in densely populated areas, such as Southeast Asia and Eastern states.
Researchers from Wageningen University predict the species diversity of large herbivores in nature reserves by analyzing soil fertility and rainfall data. The study finds that areas with fertile soil and average rainfall are ideal for high species diversity, contrary to expectations.
A new study maps prime regions for plant-eating mammals, revealing areas with high conservation value. The researchers predict that less than 1.2% of the earth's surface will support uniquely diverse grazing ecosystems by 2025.
Biodiversity hotspots, home to 55% of world's primates and 22% of carnivores, are facing extinction, threatening 343 million years of evolutionary history. Preserving these ecosystems is crucial to maintaining genetic diversity and the survival of species.
Researchers have discovered an experiment conducted by George Sinclair, head gardener to the Duke of Bedford, in a garden at Woburn Abbey in South East England. The study investigated the relationship between biodiversity and ecosystem functioning, which is currently a hot topic in ecology. The findings push back the link between commu...
The discovery of the Jaragua Sphaero, a lizard measuring about three quarters of an inch from snout to tail, highlights the Caribbean's unique species diversity. Rapid population growth, agricultural practices, and lack of access to data contribute to the region's biodiversity loss.
Preliminary findings from a deep-sea expedition have uncovered a vast array of new species in the Atlantic Ocean's abyssal plains. The discovery, part of the DIVA project, confirms the diversity of deep-sea life and reveals significant differences in sediment structure and fauna composition across different sites.
The Global Litter Invertebrate Decomposition Experiment (GLIDE) aims to advance understanding of soil and litter fauna's distribution, diversity, and importance in ecosystem processes. The study will provide unprecedented data on the animals involved in litter decomposition across different biomes and latitudes.
Researcher David Tilman's study found that mixing multiple plant species leads to higher productivity, as each species brings unique traits for resource utilization. This principle can benefit various ecosystems, including forests and fisheries, by promoting a more diverse range of organisms.
A new UC Berkeley study reveals that diverse ecosystems are not immune to invasion by alien species. In a series of experiments, researchers found that high diversity actually increases the likelihood of invader establishment in larger ecosystems.
Research reveals highest species diversity of planktonic foraminifera in middle latitudes, contrary to traditional model. Sea-surface temperature can accurately estimate zooplankton diversity.
A Colorado State University project, funded by a $1.8 million grant, aims to catalogue and analyze below-ground organisms and their interactions with surface ecosystems. The study seeks to understand how human activities above ground influence biodiversity below ground and its consequences.
Research reveals that bison grazing can increase plant species diversity in stressed grasslands, countering the effects of fire and fertilizer. By reestablishing grazing, scientists find that biodiversity can be retained in ecosystems impacted by human activities.
Paleontologist Dr. Roger Cuffey compares the diversity of dinosaurs and proboscideans, finding a similar pattern of decline over 5 million years. The study suggests that both groups were affected by complex factors, including food supply and habitats, leading to their extinction.