New species of spiny mouse discovered in rainforest
A new species of spiny mouse, Neacomys marci, has been identified in northwestern Ecuador. The discovery sheds light on the previously underestimated diversity of the Spiny Mouse genus.
Species Diversity
Articles tagged with Species Diversity
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The venom spider: New genus named after Tom Hardy’s Marvel character
A new species of orb-weaving spider, Venomius tomhardyi, has been described from Tasmania. The genus belongs to the Araneidae family and is distinct from related genera due to its unique behavior and genitalia.
Paving the way for better recommendations for how biodiversity may be leveraged to promote delivery of ecosystem services
The authors scrutinize the 23 quantitative syntheses published over three decades on how plant diversity impacts both natural enemies and herbivores in arthropod communities. They find that plant diversity consistently attracts more abundant and diverse communities of predators, while herbivore diversity tends to increase in response t...
Three out of four populations of rare butterflies have been lost
A comprehensive study reveals a 72% reduction in rare butterfly populations across Eastern Denmark, with only 158 sites remaining from 565 in 1993. The research highlights the need for improved habitat protection and management to safeguard these species.
Algae provide clues about 600 million years of plant evolution
A research team from the University of Göttingen investigated the molecular networks of a single-celled alga to understand plant terrestrialization. They identified 'hub genes' that play a central role in coordinating gene expression, revealing insights into long-term evolutionary patterns.
Curious and cryptic: new leaf insects discovered
A team of researchers from Göttingen University has identified seven new species of leaf insects, showcasing their unique camouflage abilities. The discovery highlights the importance of protecting these distinct species from extinction.
Newly discovered “primitive cousins of T rex” shed light on the end of the age of dinosaurs in Africa
Two new species of primitive carnivorous dinosaurs, belonging to the Abelisauridae family, have been discovered in Morocco. The findings suggest that dinosaurs thrived in North Africa until their mass extinction by an asteroid 66 million years ago, providing a diverse picture of African dinosaurs from the end of the age of dinosaurs.
Fungus gnats as pollinators not pests
A new study reveals that fungus gnats are crucial pollinators of certain Euonymus plant species with red-petaled flowers. The unique traits of these flowers, such as their yogurt-like scent and short stamens, have evolved to attract the fungus gnats, highlighting the importance of Diptera in plant diversity and evolution.
Human activities appear to drive insect declines in Europe
A review of 82 studies found human activities influencing insect habitats, leading to declines in Central and Western Europe. Agricultural activities, urbanization, and climate change are identified as primary drivers of observed changes in insect populations.
Small urban greening projects can dramatically increase number of insect species in cities
Researchers found that increasing plant diversity in urban areas leads to a large increase in insect biodiversity and interactions. The study confirmed the ecological benefits of urban greening projects by transforming a small greenspace into a habitat for indigenous insect species.
Hidden moles in hidden holes
Scientists have identified two new mole species in eastern Turkey, belonging to the Talpa genus, which has been living undiscovered for up to 3 million years. The study, using cutting-edge DNA technology, confirms their biological distinctness from other moles in the group.
Even treated wastewater affects our rivers
A new study by Goethe University Frankfurt found that effluents from treated wastewater treatment plants alter invertebrate communities in Hesse's waters. Pollution-tolerant taxa like worms and crustaceans increase, while sensitive species like stonefly and caddisfly larvae decline.
Grassland fragmentation and plant invasion support generalist arthropods and might harm the specialist of forest steppes
Research found that grassland fragmentation and plant invasion support generalist arthropod species, but may harm specialist species adapted to forest steppes. Plant invasions, such as milkweed, alter microclimates and vegetation structure, affecting arthropod diversity.
Meet the Persian Gold Tarantula: a new species discovery just on time for Tarantula Appreciation Day 2023
A new species of the Persian Gold Tarantula has been discovered in northwestern Iran, belonging to the genus Chaetopelma. The newly described species, Chaetopelma persianum, is an obligate burrower and inhabits high elevations in well-vegetated mountainous regions of the northern Zagros Mountains.
Interest in bird feeding surged in over 100 countries worldwide during the COVID-19 lockdowns
A study published in PLOS ONE found a significant surge in bird feeding interest worldwide during the pandemic, with countries having higher bird diversity exhibiting more Google search activity. The researchers analyzed data from 115 countries and found an average increase of 511 bird species in countries with higher search interest.
Researchers are using monkey poop to learn how an endangered species chooses its mates
Scientists analyzed DNA from fecal samples to study the reproductive behavior of northern muriquis, an endangered primate species. They found that females tend to mate with males having diverse MHC genes, which may provide offspring protection against pathogens.
Plans to plant billions of trees threatened by massive undersupply of seedlings
A new study reveals a severe bottleneck in US tree nurseries, with only 56% meeting the volume needed for conservation and reforestation. The lack of diverse species and locally adapted trees hinders efforts to plant billions of trees to combat climate change.
New study reveals that tree species diversity increases spider density
A University of Maryland study found that tree species diversity increases spider populations, providing a natural pest regulation service. Spider populations in diverse plots increased by 23-50% compared to single-species plots during late summer months.
Remote plant worlds
A research team led by the University of Göttingen investigated the flora of Tenerife and found that island plant-life exhibits a remarkable diversity of forms. However, the plants differ little from mainland plants in functional terms, with slow-growing, woody shrubs dominating the island's flora.
FSU Research: Colonization influences worldwide distribution of plant specimens
A study by FSU researchers found that colonialism has contributed to the unequal distribution of plant specimens globally. The distribution of plant diversity in herbaria collections is more comprehensive and diverse in Europe and North America compared to tropical regions.
Marine fossils are a reliable benchmark for degrading and collapsing ecosystems
A new study uses marine fossils to infer the health and stability of coastal ecosystems, revealing consistent patterns in population declines and species extinctions. The findings provide a reliable benchmark for conservation efforts and offer insights into the impacts of human activities on marine biodiversity.
New fish species discovered after decades of popularity in the aquarium trade
A new fish species, Garra panitvongi, has been discovered in Myanmar's Ataran River basin, shedding light on its unique biology and habitat. The species, previously unknown to science, was identified by researchers who encountered it during fieldwork in the region.
Global cooling caused diversity of species in orchids, confirms study
A recent study published in PNAS found that global cooling is the major driving factor behind the diversification of terrestrial orchid species. The research analyzed over 1,500 species and discovered that most new species emerged within the last 10 million years, coinciding with global cooling trends.
Uncovering the mysteries of the clitoris with advanced imaging techniques
New research uses MRI and CT scans to study the anatomy of primate clitoris, revealing stark differences in morphology across species. The findings suggest that female genitalia have been chronically understudied, with significant diversity in clitoral structure and function.
Southernmost crocodile newt record is a threatened new species
The Ngoc Linh Crocodile Newt is a newly discovered species of crocodile newt found in the Central Highlands of Vietnam. The species is considered Endangered due to its small population size and limited geographic range.
Hedging strategy for coral restoration balances diversity, ecosystem benefits
A new hedging strategy for coral restoration balances species diversity and ecosystem benefits by selecting key species that maintain critical functions. The approach considers a range of local species and ecological characteristics to ensure the most effective restoration outcomes.
DNA barcoding identifies the plants a person has eaten
A new technique using DNA barcoding can identify the plant matter in human feces, improving clinical trials, nutrition studies and historical research. The method detected specific plant species and their relative amounts consumed, varying according to diet, age, and household income.
New dinosaur named for Natural History Museum Professor
A new armoured dinosaur, Vectipelta barretti, has been described from the Isle of Wight, revealing differences in neck and back vertebrae and a unique spiky armour. The discovery provides new insights into ankylosaur diversity in the Wessex formation during the Early Cretaceous period.
Protecting existing parks is as crucial for biodiversity conservation as creating new protected areas
A study by Princeton University finds that strengthening protection for existing parks is vital for safeguarding biodiversity. Enhancing existing park networks can protect essential habitats of 1191 animal species, highlighting the importance of preserving already protected areas.
Biologists to create ‘toolbox’ for understanding complex genetic traits
Researchers, led by Elizabeth King, aim to develop a knowledge base on complex genetic traits using fruit fly models. The project seeks to address the scientific knowledge gap in this field by focusing on interconnectedness among multiple factors.
Reconstructing brain connectivity using 3D images
A team of scientists has developed an automated algorithm to reconstruct the shape of each neuron inside a light microscopy image using deep learning. This breakthrough addresses the challenge of generalizing algorithms across diverse species, brain locations, developmental stages, and microscopy image sets.
Deep sea surveys detect over five thousand new species in future mining hotspot
The Clarion-Clipperton Zone is home to an estimated 5,578 different species, with 88-92% of them entirely new to science. Researchers have discovered a variety of unique species, including sea cucumbers, nematodes, and sponges.
River erosion can shape fish evolution, study suggests
A study suggests that river erosion can drive biodiversity in geologically quiet environments, such as the Appalachian Mountains. The research found that changing landscapes pushed a species of fish into different tributaries, leading to distinct genetic lineages.
Establishing a wildflower meadow at King’s College, Cambridge bolstered biodiversity and reduced greenhouse gas emissions, study finds.
A new study found that establishing a wildflower meadow in the historic grounds of King's College, Cambridge increased species richness and abundance by three times compared to adjacent lawn. The meadow also reduced greenhouse gas emissions by an estimated 1.36 tonnes CO2-e per hectare per year.
Tree species diversity increases likelihood of planting success
A new study published by the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center and The Nature Conservancy found that forests with diverse species are more likely to thrive, reducing the risk of planting failure. This diversity brings benefits such as pest and disease resistance, climate change resilience, and increased wildlife habitat.
Stop eradication of small mammals to protect vital ecosystems, say scientists
Current measures to protect grasslands in the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau are damaging the ecosystem and should be stopped. Small burrowing mammals, like the plateau pika and zokor, play crucial ecological roles in maintaining ecosystem health and biodiversity.
Human ancestors preferred mosaic landscapes and high ecosystem diversity
A new study found that early human ancestors adapted to diverse food resources and mosaic landscapes, which increased their resilience to climate changes. The researchers analyzed over 3,000 fossil specimens and archeological sites, revealing a preference for biomes with high plant and animal diversity.
Beetles and their biodiversity in dead wood
Researchers found that beetles in dead wood diversity is influenced by energy types depending on their position in the food chain, with bottom-dwelling species benefiting from stored energy and top-dwellers responding to solar radiation.
Texas A&M research redefines mammalian tree of life
The study reveals that mammals diversified before the K-Pg extinction, driven by continental drifting and stability following the mass extinction. This led to the rich diversity of mammal lineages, including carnivores, primates, and hoofed animals.
Fallow land promotes bird diversity
A study found that establishing fallow land can increase the populations of farmland birds and improve biodiversity. The benefits depend on landscape complexity, particularly in regions with a moderate density of boundary lines between fields and woody structures.
Arthropods in high-diversity forests contribute to improved productivity
Research shows that arthropods in high-diversity forests contribute to improved productivity by suppressing herbivores, leading to increased tree species richness and multitrophic diversity. The study highlights the importance of conserving plant diversity to maintain arthropod diversity.
The diversity of present tree species is shaped by climate change in the last 21,000 years
A global survey of 1000 forest areas reveals how past climate change has impacted tree species diversity and distribution. The study found that temperature changes since the last ice age have had a significant impact on today's biodiversity.
Family tree of ‘boring’ butterflies reveals they’re anything but
Researchers uncover 70 Euptychiina genera and over 500 species of butterflies, previously considered monotonous, revealing surprising color patterns and mysterious mimicry. The study's classification provides a framework for further investigation into euptychiine biology.
Scientists discover hidden crab diversity among coral reefs
A new study reveals a surprising exception to the rule of uniformity across the Indo-West Pacific coral reef ecosystem. Chlorodielline crabs with overlapping ranges have uniquely shaped gonopods, but otherwise appear identical, suggesting genetic divergence in different geographic areas.
Three newly discovered sea worms that glow in the dark named after creatures from Japanese folklore and marine biologist
Researchers at Nagoya University discovered three new species of bioluminescent polycirrus worms emitting blue-violet light, with names inspired by yokai from Japanese folklore. The findings aim to deepen understanding of bioluminescence mechanisms and potentially lead to new life sciences technologies.
Turtles and crocodiles with unique characteristics are more likely to go extinct
A new study reveals that the most endangered turtles and crocodiles are those with unique life strategies, which carry out critical processes in their ecosystems. The researchers highlight the urgent need for effective conservation management plans to protect these species and their habitats.
Two striking new species of carnivorous plants discovered in the Andes of Ecuador
Researchers have described two new species of butterworts (Pinguicula) with striking appearances, found in the high Andes of southern Ecuador. The discovery has tripled the number of Pinguicula species recorded in Ecuador and highlights the region's exceptional biodiversity.
A persistent influence of supernovae on biodiversity
A new study finds that supernovae have a persistent influence on marine life's biodiversity, with variations in nearby exploding stars closely following changes in marine genera. Supernovae may regulate climate through cosmic rays, influencing nutrient transport and primary bioproductivity.
Dry forests and savannas vital for Brazil’s climate goals
Restoration of Brazil's dry forests and savannas can sequester up to 1.5 billion tonnes of carbon in the long term, while conservation is essential to meet its 2030 climate goal. The new study suggests a focus on these biomes could be more cost-effective than restoration.
Northern and southern resident orcas hunt differently, which may help explain the decline of southern orcas
A new study reveals that northern and southern resident orcas differ in their hunting behaviors, with males catching more salmon per hour than females. Southern resident males outperform females by 152%, highlighting a distinct pattern of foraging that may contribute to the population decline.
U.S. birds’ Eastern, Western behavior patterns are polar opposites
A study from Ohio State University reveals stark differences in avian functional diversity between the US East and West. Functional diversity patterns are highest in the West during breeding season, while in the East they are lowest despite high species richness.
Better metric for prioritizing conservation of “evolutionarily distinctive” species
Researchers developed an updated conservation metric, EDGE2, incorporating scientific uncertainty and status of related species. This approach identifies top-priority species for protection, preserving over 700 million years of evolutionary history, and allocates limited funds effectively.
Flower power: Research highlights the role of ants in forest regeneration
Research from Binghamton University highlights the importance of ants in forest regeneration, with over 95% of New York state forests relying on them to disperse seeds. Ants take seeds with fatty rewards back to their nests, protecting them from consumption by rodents and other organisms, promoting a mutually beneficial arrangement.
Effort to help pollinators shows successes, limitations
A three-year effort to conserve bee populations showed positive effects, with increased bee abundance and diversity in studied areas. However, quality of the habitat played a key role in these positive effects, and its impact on maintenance over time was also significant.
Snakes are distributed in the Chaco in accordance with adaptations to environment, study shows
Researchers found that snake species distribution in the Chaco region correlates with adaptations, such as fossorial habits for burrowing and arboreal traits. The study showed that southern species have small eyes and short tails, while northern species have long tails and are tree dwellers.
Sowing the seeds of fruitful labor
A team of researchers at Kyoto University found that the brown lemur is responsible for regenerating large fruit trees in Madagascar's Ankarafantsika National Park. The study shows that lemur seed dispersal can lead to a 1.5% survival rate of seeds, contributing significantly to forest diversity.
Size of insects are shaped by temperature and predators
A Lund University study finds that temperate regions have larger insects due to bird predation pressure and temperature, reversing a 200-million-year-old trend. This shift helps explain the global variation in body size among dragonflies and damselflies.
UCalgary study finds link between fungal microbes in infant gut and body weight
A UCalgary study has found a significant link between the diversity of fungal species in an infant's gut and their body mass index (BMI) in early childhood. The research also identified other contributing factors, including maternal diet and exposure to antibiotics, as influencing BMI.
First nursery of multiple shark species in the Eastern Atlantic described in Cape Verde
Researchers from Portugal and Cape Verde discover a unique shark nursery in the Sal Rey bay on Boa Vista island, home to juveniles of several endangered species. The area is crucial for shark conservation and also protects marine mammals and turtles, highlighting the importance of its protection.
Hidden in plain sight: snake named 46 years after first discovery
A new species of snake, Dipsas aparatiritos, has been described from western Panama, having gone unnoticed for over 40 years. The species is relatively common and has a characteristic bulbous head and brown-and-black patterning.