Species
Articles tagged with Species
Chilean wasp named in honor of Sir David Attenborough’s 100th birthday
Scientists describe new genus and species of parasitic wasp, Attenboroughnculus tau, found in Natural History Museum collections. The discovery highlights the scientific value of museum collections and showcases the unique characteristics of this rare subfamily.
New glassfrog species named for first Ecuadorian woman to win a gold medal
Researchers have discovered a new species of glassfrog in Ecuador named after Neisi Dajomes, the first Ecuadorian woman to win an Olympic gold medal. The Dajomes glassfrog has uniformly green skin with a pebbly texture and a white membrane covered in light-reflecting cells on its underside.
A fanged frog long thought to be one species is revealing itself to be several
A new study has found that a group of little brown frogs from Southeast Asia may be as many as 18 distinct species, rather than one. The research uses genetic sequencing to reveal complex evolutionary dynamics and challenges conservation efforts.
Study finds Earth may have twice as many vertebrate species as previously thought
A new study led by University of Arizona researchers suggests that global vertebrate biodiversity has been significantly underestimated, with on average two unrecognized species for every recognized one. This finding could have consequences for conservation efforts if these hidden species are not properly identified.
The North American wild mountain sheep could face extinction unless we act to protect their habitat
The North American wild mountain sheep is losing its habitat to industrial mining, human activity, and climate change. The book highlights the risks faced by this species, which nearly collapsed in previous decades but now faces grave risks from disease and habitat loss.
Chicago Botanic Garden, The Morton Arboretum pledge to safeguard threatened species for Reverse the Red Day
The Chicago Botanic Garden and The Morton Arboretum have pledged to protect endangered species such as Cucharillo and Stone's Paphiopedilum through collaborative conservation strategies. These institutions will co-host the 9th Global Botanic Gardens Congress in 2027 to accelerate crucial conservation work.
New species of ladybird beetle discovered on Kyushu University campus
A new species of ladybird beetle, Parastethorus pinicola, was discovered on a pine tree at Kyushu University's Hakozaki Satellite. The beetle measures just over one millimeter in length and is the first major update to Japanese ladybird classification in 50 years.
The Florida Museum of Natural History publishes “The Butterflies of California,” a book five decades in the making
The Florida Museum of Natural History has published 'The Butterflies of California' after five decades of work by brothers Thomas and John Emmel. The book, which clocks in at 854 pages, explores the diversity and life histories of butterflies in western North America.
Long-known long-nosed Pinocchio chameleon fooled researchers – two new species identified
Researchers have identified two new species of Pinocchio chameleons in Madagascar, reclassifying the long-known Calumma nasutum as part of a complex that includes the newly described Calumma pinocchio and Calumma hofreiteri. Genetic analysis revealed that the nose chameleons' snout shape can change quickly.
New frog-like insects leap into the science books
Seven new species of a distinctive frog-like insect belonging to the genus Batracomorphus have been discovered in Uganda's Kibale National Park. The findings are significant as they mark the first new species recorded in Africa since 1981 and add to the existing 375 known worldwide.
Newly discovered predatory “warrior” was a precursor of the crocodile – and although it lived before the early dinosaurs, it looked just like one
A newly discovered carnivorous lizard, Tainrakuasuchus bellator, lived 240 million years ago and resembled a dinosaur due to its armour-plated body. The species was among the top predators of its time in Brazil during the Triassic Period.
Three new toad species skip the tadpole phase and give birth to live toadlets
Researchers have identified three new species of tree-dwelling toads from Africa that skip the tadpole phase and give birth to live toadlets. This rare reproductive strategy is found in less than 1% of frog species, making these toads exceptionally interesting.
A new pink sea anemone that “builds a home” for hermit crabs discovered off Japan’s deep-sea coast
A new species of sea anemone has been discovered building shell-like homes for hermit crabs. The anemone secretes a carcinoecium that expands and reinforces the crab's shell, forming a mutualistic relationship between the two species.
A fascinating glimpse into Asian honeybee’s hidden genetic stories
A collaborative research team analyzed historical museum specimens of the Asian honeybee, revealing a significant decline in genetic diversity and a potential link to pesticide use. The study suggests that pesticide exposure may be driving rapid evolutionary changes in the species.
Wide variety of bats overwinter in Finnish rock habitats
Researchers from the University of Helsinki and Turku University of Applied Sciences found that bats can overwinter almost anywhere with rocky features. A wide range of bat species, including rare and endangered ones, use these sites for hibernation, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts.
The tale of the creature with the most chromosomes
The Atlas blue butterfly has been found to have the highest number of chromosomes among multicellular animals, with 229 pairs. Researchers at the Wellcome Sanger Institute and IBE studied its genome, revealing that the extra chromosomes were broken up over time instead of duplicated.
Frontiers Forum Deep Dive series: Biological ‘moonshot’ accelerates efforts to genetically map life on Earth
The Earth BioGenome Project aims to create a digital library of DNA sequences to preserve and protect life on Earth. The project has revealed a refined strategy to scale up the sequencing of 150,000 species, accelerating biodiversity research and global conservation.
Do red squirrels and dormice get along?
A study by University of Göttingen researchers found that mixed deciduous-conifer forests promote coexistence between red squirrels and dormice. The team observed both species living side by side in these forests, suggesting a potential role for mixed forest management in supporting biodiversity.
Tomatoes in the Galápagos are quietly de-evolving
New research reveals evolutionary reversal in island plants where wild-growing tomatoes on western islands produce alkaloids similar to those found in eggplants. The study suggests that environmental conditions may be driving the reversal, and this phenomenon could have implications for human evolution and nature's ability to adapt.
First named Pterosaur from Japan sheds light on ancient flying reptiles
A new species of pterosaur, Nipponopterus mifunensis, has been discovered in Japan, providing crucial insight into the diversity and evolution of pterosaurs in East Asia. The fossil, found in the Mifune Group geological formation, features striking characteristics not seen in any previously known species.
Two new crayfish species discovered — and they’re already at risk
Researchers have identified two new species of crayfish in the Pacific Northwest, but their discovery also highlights the risk of extinction due to invasive species. The Okanagan Crayfish and Misfortunate Crayfish have been named after their native habitat and unfortunate fate.
New ancient fish species earliest known salmon ancestor
Scientists have named a new species of fish from the Cretaceous Period, Sivulliusalmo alaskensis, which is the oldest salmonid in the fossil record. The discovery provides insight into the evolutionary history of the salmon family and suggests that they likely originated in the North.
From the front garden to the continent: Why biodiversity does not increase evenly from small to large
Researchers developed a universal theory to explain species distribution patterns, estimating species numbers at key transition points between phases. The three-phase pattern of Species-Area Relationships shows rapid increase in local areas, slowing down in regional areas, and accelerating on continental scales.
New fish species with ‘face paint’ named after Studio Ghibli character
A new species of deepwater tilefish has been discovered in the South China Sea with distinctive facial markings, leading to its naming after Princess Mononoke's protagonist San. The study, published in ZooKeys, used genetic analysis to confirm the new-species status and highlighted the importance of marine biodiversity.
Research contrasts drought sensitivity of Eurasian and North American grasslands
Research reveals that Eurasian Steppe grasslands are more susceptible to drought than North American Great Plains due to lower plant diversity. The study found a 43% reduction in annual productivity in Eurasia compared to a 25% reduction in North America under similar extreme drought conditions.
Virginia Tech study extends chart of life by nearly 1.5 billion years
The Virginia Tech analysis extends the chart of life by nearly 1.5 billion years, mapping the rise and fall of ancient life from the Proterozoic Eon. The study reveals that global ice ages accelerated the pace of evolution in species counts.
Island biodiversity rides on the wings of birds
Research from Washington University in St. Louis found that bird wing shape is a key factor shaping biodiversity patterns on islands worldwide. The study revealed how birds' dispersal abilities influence the number of species found on islands, with low-dispersal birds leading to steep species-area relationships.
New predatory flatworm discovered in southeastern United States
Scientists have discovered a new species of predatory flatworm in North Carolina and Florida, which has been detected in residential landscapes across the Southeast. The researchers found that the flatworm has brownish-black color and feeds on soft-bodied organisms like earthworms and slugs.
Braiding community values with science is key to ecosystem restoration
A research team finds that local community members are indispensable partners in enhancing community engagement in repairing damaged ecosystems. Local values and attitudes play a crucial role in promoting sustainable ecosystem management practices.
Spotted apex predator being pressured by spotted pack hunters – and it's our fault
Human disturbance disrupts leopard-hyena competition, favoring hyenas. The study shows that male leopards retain dominance over hyenas but female leopards change behavior due to size disadvantage. Human expansion poses threat to leopards' survival and ecosystem balance.
Biodiversity in the margins: Merging farmlands affects natural pest control
A new study found that removing hedgerows and field margins decreases the diversity and abundance of arthropods, which can lead to reduced natural pest control. The research suggests that using flowering plants in field margins and implementing agri-environmental measures can be effective ways to increase farmland biodiversity.
A new plant’s name that tells a story
Researchers from Kobe University have discovered a new plant genus and species of Thismiaceae family, found primarily in southern Japan. The plant, named Relictithismia kimotsukiensis, feeds on fungal mycelia and is extremely rare, with only four individuals found in the same area.
Surprise discovery of tiny insect-killing worm
Scientists at UC Riverside have discovered a tiny worm species that can control crop pests in warm, humid environments. The new Steinernema adamsi nematode is nearly invisible and can kill insects with a low dose, making it a potential alternative to pesticides.
Rare ant species rediscovered in North Carolina trees
Researchers have discovered a rare ant species in North Carolina's tree canopies, documenting an entire colony for the first time. The species, Aphaenogaster mariae, has a distinctive arboreal lifestyle, with queens being smaller than other ant queens and males previously unknown to science.
Landscape dynamics determine the evolution of biodiversity on Earth
A scientific model published in Nature shows a striking correlation between landscape dynamics and the evolution of life on Earth. The study proposes that sediment pulses controlled by past landscapes have played a key role in shaping biodiversity.
New beetle species has bottle-opener shaped genitalia: Now that calls for a Carlsberg!
Researchers discovered six new species of rove beetles with unique genital shapes, including a bottle-opener like structure in one species. Climate change threatens the survival of these species due to habitat changes.
16 strange new parasitoid wasp species discovered in Vietnam
Researchers have discovered 16 new species of Loboscelidia parasitoid wasps in Vietnam, increasing the global total by 30%. The new species exhibit unique egg-burying behavior similar to solitary hunting wasps.
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.
New leaf-tailed gecko from Madagascar is a master of disguise
Researchers have identified a new species of leaf-tailed gecko from northern Madagascar, showcasing its exceptional camouflage skills. The discovery has shed light on the unique characteristics of this species, including its skin flaps and flattened tail.
Researchers find that traded species have distinctive life histories with extended reproductive lifecycles
A new study reveals that vertebrate species involved in the live wildlife trade exhibit distinctive life history traits, including large numbers of offspring across long reproductive lifespans. This profile is likely financially advantageous for trades involving captive breeding, but also increases the risk of species becoming problema...
Speciesism, like racism, imperils humanity and the planet
A new book argues that the belief in human exceptionalism contributes to environmental degradation. The authors contend that this mindset is analogous to racism and has led to the extinction of many species. They propose a more inclusive approach, valuing all life forms equally and recognizing our place within the natural world.
Discovery, rediscovery, and reassignment: Redefining fungal biodiversity
Scientists have made significant progress in understanding fungal diversity by identifying a new species, rediscovering an existing one, and reclassifying another. The study's findings have implications for fields like cell biology, genetic engineering, medicine, and environmental science.
New insights on pest fruit fly species across oceanic islands
Researchers used phylogenomics to evaluate relationships among species in the B. frauenfeldi complex, concluding there are five distinct species and a continuum between B. frauenfeldi and B. albistrigata pests. The study's findings provide essential data for pest management and international agricultural trade.
New hawk moth species are among the smallest ever discovered
Three new hawk moth species have been discovered in The Bahamas, measuring only about the length of a vitamin pill. Their small size is thought to be an adaptation to survive harsh weather conditions such as hurricanes and drought.
Observing different mating tactics in the Japanese scorpionfly
Male scorpionflies from two locations in Japan use varying mating tactics, with those from Okayama employing 'sneaking' to successfully mate. The study suggests that environmental factors and genetic components influence alternative mating habits.
Scientists conceptualize a species ‘stock market’ to put a price tag on actions posing risks to biodiversity
A conceptual species 'stock market' aims to assign economic value to species and ecosystems, promoting sustainability and biodiversity conservation. The SSM would enable the valuation of ecosystem services and actions that harm or benefit biodiversity, fostering a unified approach to environmental decision-making.
Researchers discover new species of salamander from Gulf Coastal plains hotspot
A new species of dusky salamander has been discovered in the Gulf Coastal Plain of Mississippi and Alabama, increasing knowledge of the region's biodiversity. The species, Desmognathus pascagoula, is similar to another recently discovered species but has distinct morphological, genetic, and geographic characteristics.
Researchers discover new species in critically imperiled ecosystem
Researchers have discovered a new plant species, Castela senticosa, in the Martín García mountain range of the Dominican Republic. The species was found to be rare and endangered due to its limited geographic distribution.
How new bird species arise
A study reveals that new bird species arise in lowland habitats before moving higher into mountainous areas, where genetic differences accumulate. The research suggests that climate fluctuations, particularly during the Pleistocene era, contributed to the evolution of these high-altitude populations.
Biologists discover new insect species at Rice University
Researchers at Rice University have discovered a new insect species, Neuroterus valhalla, alongside its fully sequenced genome. The tiny wasp spends most of the year in a crypt and has unique life cycle habits.
Two new species of freshwater goby fish discovered in Palawan, Philippines
Two new species of goby fish, Rhinogobius estrellae and Rhinogobius tandikan, have been discovered in Palawan, Philippines. The discovery expands the genus Rhinogobius' known range further south than previously seen.
Research reveals ancient Maya lessons on surviving drought
A new study reveals the Maya had nearly 500 edible plants available to them, many of which are highly drought-resistant. This analysis debunks the assumption that drought led to the collapse of ancient Mayan civilization.
Decade-old photographs shared on social media give away a new species of pygmy grasshopper
A group of Croatian students used photographs from iNaturalist to describe a new species of pygmy grasshopper, challenging traditional methods. The study highlights the potential of citizen science and encourages people to engage with nature to raise awareness about conservation.
New phenomenon: Forest mammals eavesdrop on messy monkeys
Researchers discovered that forest mammals eavesdrop on monkey meals to access fruit dropped by messy eaters. This eavesdropping strategy is crucial for these animals' survival, particularly during periods when almond trees produce abundant food.
Researchers puncture explanation for largest increase of biodiversity in Earth's history
A new study by researchers at the University of Copenhagen found that the greatest increase in marine biodiversity on Earth occurred due to changes in climate cycles, rather than an asteroid explosion. Fossil analysis revealed a shift towards colder climates around 469 million years ago, leading to the blooming of marine life.
Linking the past and present: Reconstructing the dragonfly and damselfly family tree
A team of researchers has reconstructed the evolutionary history of dragonflies and damselflies, determining when they first emerged around 200 million years ago. The study provides the most comprehensive divergence time estimates for Odonata to date.
Three new species of freshwater goby fish found in Japan and the Philippines
Three new species of freshwater goby fish have been identified in Japan and the Philippines, with distinct color patterns indicating separate lineages. The researchers believe that different color patterns play a crucial role in maintaining these separate lineages during courtship and mate selection.
University of Montana studies how climate change could undermine biodiversity conservation goals
The University of Montana researchers found that climate change may shift ecosystems, making it challenging to conserve biodiversity in protected areas. The team used spatial climate analogs to examine the potential changes and recommend considering climate-driven shifts in patterns of biodiversity for effective conservation strategies.