Articles tagged with Animals
Research from the University of California - Riverside shows that pesticides like thiamethoxam and boric acid change ant behavior, with some ants becoming more active outside the nest before dying. This altered behavior may be due to neurological effects caused by the chemicals.
Researchers found microplastics in Gulf of Mexico oysters, leading to biochemical stress and physiological damage. The study identified histochemical alteration, protein nitration, and antioxidant expression as early warning indicators for microplastic contamination.
A recent study with 100 pairs of mice found that elite athleticism does not shorten lifespan or limit reproductive success. The researchers observed that high runner mice bred for extraordinary distance running had no reduced reproductive success or lifespan compared to regular mice.
The University of California San Diego and San Diego County have developed a tool to track the New World screwworm, a parasitic fly whose larvae feed on living tissue. The dashboard combines reports of confirmed detections, environmental suitability, and media coverage to estimate risk nationwide.
The discovery of Acanthosaura syrax, a new species of mountain horned dragon from western Thailand, highlights its unique characteristics and genetic distinctiveness. The lizard's distinctive yellowish-green coloration, small body size, and lack of black eye patches set it apart from other known species.
New research highlights the importance of preserving traditional cattle breeds' unique genetic profiles for resilience against disease and environmental challenges. These populations carry irreplaceable traits that could help future generations of farmers respond to global challenges such as climate change.
Research reveals how dogs developed specialized forms in response to human needs, such as compact sled dogs for Arctic regions and lean hunting dogs for tropical forests. Genetic adaptations also emerged to cope with oxygen-poor air at high altitudes, mirroring human populations' genetic traits.
Researchers developed a new environmentally friendly insecticide using nanoemulsions of diallyl disulfide and carvone, which showed enhanced toxicity against the adzuki bean beetle while having relatively low impact on parasitic wasps. The nanoemulsions were also safe on seeds and enhanced root growth.
Researchers discovered a strong link between environmental variation and thyroid hormone signaling in reef fish, enabling them to adapt to changing habitats. The study found that habitat impacts development by altering gene expression and metabolic profiles, giving animals more flexibility when their environments change.
Scientists are helping to safeguard UK's rarest orchard wildlife through a three-year conservation initiative focusing on four threatened species. Innovative techniques like pheromones and DNA will be used to improve monitoring of noble chafer and red-horned cardinal click beetle populations.
A recent study published in PLOS One found that American black bears sleep twice as much during hibernation periods compared to summer months, with only 1/3 of the time spent awake. The researchers used machine-learning analysis of data from captive bears recorded over a period of five years.
A new study by Oregon State University found that a cat-training program for children with developmental disabilities fosters healthy child behaviors and strengthens relationships between children and their family cats. The program also improves cats' social behavior, making them more confident and socially active.
A study found that most cats adapt to indoor living with minimal issues, while owners experience improved peace of mind, closer bonds, and reduced veterinary costs. Practical strategies like environmental enrichment can support successful transitions.
A recent study on orphaned grizzly bears found a high mortality rate of 83%, largely due to human-bear conflicts, illegal killings, and intraspecific killing. The study also highlights the risk of habituation to humans, which can lead to serious conflicts, particularly when combined with oversized size from excessive growth during reha...
The study proposes a new hypothesis on the evolutionary history of dinosaur digestive systems by analyzing gastrolith shapes and dietary proxies. Herbivorous dinosaurs likely possessed rounded gastroliths with severe abrasion, suggesting mechanical grinding of plant material within their stomachs.
A new study found that road traffic kills almost a third of hedgehogs in some British populations each year, with smaller populations at risk of collapse and local extinction. The research reveals that even small amounts of roadkill can have devastating effects on already small populations.
A new study by UCLA ornithologists found that female birds have a 12.4% lower adult survival rate than males in 35 species. Females lived an average of 1.36 years after reaching adulthood, while males lived 1.61 years.
A new study published in The Journal of Archaeological Science: Reports sheds light on longstanding relationships between humans and sea turtles in the Southern Caribbean. The research reveals details of interactions between humans and turtles dating back 1,000-years and provides information needed to protect populations going forward.
Researchers at Tulane University discovered that vesper bats have two distinct copies of genes producing antibodies, which helps them recognize and fight infections. This finding opens up new areas of study on the evolution of immunity and how animals respond to diseases.
Elephants released from human care successfully reintegrate into the wild, exhibiting behaviors comparable to those of their wild neighbors. While some individuals show age- and sex-related differences, overall, rewilded elephants adapt well, with most stress levels within normal ranges.
Intensive feeding by tourists is altering the island's ecosystem, leading to unusual interactions among animal species. The study highlights the need for careful management of wildlife tourism practices to avoid unintended consequences for the environment.
A Swiss study finds that the quality of relationships between humans and animals is more important than pet ownership in determining wellbeing. The research suggests that women, people who spend more time with animals, and those who feel close to them report stronger emotional support from their pets.
Researchers found that populations of small invertebrates thrive near rat-infested islands, where seabirds are scarce. In contrast, fish biomass is higher on reefs without rats, benefiting from nutrient-rich guano deposits.
Researchers at Kyoto University successfully eliminated hepatitis C virus in six chimpanzees using direct-acting antiviral therapy, improving their liver function and health. However, two chimpanzees died of liver cancer, highlighting the need for further study and potential drug resistance.
Researchers are studying foul-smelling substances to understand what attracts the New World screwworm, a flesh-eating parasite, to its favorite meal - open wounds. The goal is to develop better lures for trapping this serious threat to the livestock industry.
Researchers documented a previously undescribed orca behavior in the Gulf of California, where orcas hold and then ram sunfish to cause tissue fragmentation. The observed behavior may be a form of parental investment or simply entertainment, with potential benefits for the calf's nutrition.
A global analysis of zoo records shows a 21-44% increase in life expectancy for African and Asian elephants since 1960, mirroring improvements in their wild counterparts. These gains are attributed to advancements in management standards, veterinary care, and socialisation strategies.
Social animals exhibit a range of pre-war preparations, including environmental cues and memories of past events. These behaviors can impact socio-cognitive evolution, population dynamics, and community structures. Preemptive behavior is widespread in social species, depending on the current threat level.
Researchers argue that EU and UK wildlife protection frameworks are fragmented, selective, and exception-based, threatening biodiversity. The authors propose strengthening laws to recognize animal sentience and introducing 'ethical continuity' into the legal framework.
A study in PLOS One identified T. rex as the likely cause of some tooth marks on fossils from Cretaceous-era Wyoming, providing insights into animal behavior and ecosystem dynamics. The researchers developed a guide to interpret tooth traces on fossils, distinguishing between natural and bite-related marks.
A new species of colobus monkey, 'Likweli', has been identified by its distinctive facial markings and unique call. The rare species is found in the dense forests of Lomami National Park and is considered Endangered due to its small geographic range and population size.
Researchers found that elephants' bone-conduction hearing is significantly improved due to their larger middle ear structures and ability to voluntarily close their ear canals. This allows them to transmit lower frequency sounds to the cochlea, enhancing low-frequency hearing by up to 30 times
Researchers found that providing honeybees with prebiotics and probiotics helped them survive thermal stress. The study suggests these nutritional supplements can buffer the survival of bees and improve antioxidant enzyme activity.
The study found that dolphins visit two coastal communities along the Sea of Japan, with detection rates occurring once every ten days. The researchers recorded unique whistle characteristics in each bay, suggesting differences in sound environments or animal behavior.
A recent study found that protecting primates in China's Yunnan province can also protect other animals and plants, highlighting the importance of umbrella species conservation. The research showed that large-bodied vertebrates need vast areas to support populations, which are habitats for many other species.
Researchers found that beavers are widespread in tidal wetlands and create deep pools of water at low tide, providing habitat for threatened species like Chinook salmon. The study expands the known habitat distribution of beavers and highlights their potential role as ecosystem engineers in estuaries.
A recent study found that over half of NYC's free-roaming cats are infected with zoonotic parasites. Young male cats, in particular, act as 'super-shedders' of roundworm (Toxocara) eggs, posing public health risks.
In California's human-dominated landscape, gray wolves predominantly feed on cattle, followed by mule deer and small mammals. This dietary composition suggests that coexisting with humans may be complex for wolf populations.
Researchers analyzed DNA samples from foraging honeybees, hive workers, and their honey to understand plant-microbe interactions in honeybee ecology. The study found that these complementary sources provide distinct insights into the complex relationships between plants, microbes, and honeybees.
Researchers found that wood frogs' adaptation to salty water increases their vulnerability to ranavirus, a common and fatal disease. The study highlights the hidden costs of survival in wildlife under environmental stress.
A study on coyote attacks in Stanley Park revealed that habituation and food conditioning contribute to aggressive behavior. To coexist with coyotes, people should not feed them, avoid approaching them, and be aware of their presence during certain times and locations.
The study highlights the significant demand for brachyuran land crabs, with species being sold on e-commerce platforms like eBay, and often without welfare advice. The research aims to inform conservation and policymaking efforts by understanding the extent of the trade.
Researchers analyzed over 3,500 incidents to find that low-impact activities and species like elk, grizzly bears, and mule deer are more likely to lead to aggressive encounters. Visitors can take simple precautions such as announcing themselves, keeping leashes short, and checking park information to minimize risks.
Research reveals that worker ants transitioning between tasks are more likely to care for injured companions due to prior social interactions. This spatial and social affinity drives wound care in ant colonies, resulting in improved survival rates.
A study by researchers from the University of Ottawa found that Calling and Non-calling western toads are genetically distinct, behaviourally different, and have ecological variations. This discovery has important implications for conservation and wildlife management in Canada.
New analysis supports the brain lag hypothesis, suggesting that some primate lineages' brain sizes overshot expectations after catching up with body size. This finding implies that large-brained primates may have evolved to form complex social groups for protection.
A new study confirms the existence of Manis aurita, a previously unrecognized Asian pangolin species, expanding biologists' understanding of pangolin diversity. The discovery provides crucial scientific basis for combating illegal poaching and protecting critically endangered animals.
A Thai study found that shelter dogs in more crowded conditions tend to have disrupted gut microbiomes compared to those with more space. The research analyzed stress, metabolism, and fecal microbiota in dogs, providing insights into the impact of shelter conditions on animal health.
A new estimate of insect species globally suggests that there may be 8-14 million more species than previously thought, with many yet to be discovered. The study, using genetic information and statistical strategies, conservatively estimates the total number of insect species at around 14-20 million.
Researchers at the University of Tokyo discovered that two tree snail species can alter their shell colors and patterns in response to humidity, using a process called refractive index matching. This unique mechanism has potential applications for smart sensors and materials.
Declining plankton abundance across the North East Atlantic poses a significant threat to ocean health, impacting marine food webs and carbon cycling. The study found six pelagic habitat-region combinations rated as 'Not Good' and three as 'Uncertain', highlighting the need for climate change mitigation and reduced nutrient pollution.
A new Cornell University study examines the relationship between cranial shape and body weight in dogs, identifying a link to syringomyelia, a painful spinal condition. Breeds prone to syringomyelia exhibit distinct skull shapes, highlighting the need for breed-specific treatment strategies.
A study reveals that the rhythmic structure of laughter has remained constant in all living great apes, including humans, for at least 15 million years. This finding offers unexpected clues to the evolution of human speech, suggesting that sophisticated vocal control is a fundamental building block.
Researchers analyzed 44 years of killer whale data in Washington state, finding a decline in the presence of endangered fish-eating killer whales. In contrast, populations of Bigg's killer whales, which prey on seals and other whales, are becoming more abundant.
Researchers tracked Arabian Sea humpback whales' movements, revealing the first direct evidence of a whale crossing the Arabian Sea. The study found that these whales have adapted to their habitat in a unique way, deviating from traditional migration patterns.
Researchers at the University of Zurich have developed epigenetic drugs that can reprogram perivascular fat cells to reduce inflammation and improve blood vessel health. By targeting specific gene-expression regulators, these drugs aim to prevent vascular damage in people with obesity and metabolic disease.
A global study of over 5,100 species reveals that climate change is transforming ecosystems and threatening species across the globe. Temperate species are experiencing more local extinctions than tropical species due to faster warming rates, with temperate regions losing up to 49% of their species.
A pair of grants aims to simplify wildlife management by integrating multiple species into a single plan, reducing redundancies and expanding effectiveness. The research focuses on managing entire ecosystems rather than individual species, using technologies like monitoring tools and multi-objective optimization.
Researchers discovered that insect-eating bats can help control pest populations affecting crops like grapevines and orchard fruits. By studying six horseshoe bat colonies in northern Spain, the study found these bats to be a valuable natural consumer of pests.
Wild female chickadees prefer males with strong spatial cognition to increase the likelihood of successful reproduction and good parental care. Males with better spatial learning and memory abilities sired more extra-pair young and raised heavier chicks, which are more likely to survive.