Articles tagged with Animals
Researchers at UCLA found the fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis proliferates in Yosemite toads' winter burrows, infecting previously healthy toads. The discovery challenges current thinking on the infection season, suggesting the fungus grows and spreads during harsh winter hibernation.
A review paper highlights the importance of insect biodiversity in supporting vertebrate life, from food sources to shelter and medicine. The study emphasizes the need for insect conservation to address the decline of insect populations, which can have significant impacts on ecosystems.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have discovered that bullfrogs can generate ketone bodies in their brains, allowing them to continue critical neural functions even when glucose levels are low. This finding could have implications for understanding human brain health and potentially treating neurological disorders.
Researchers describe Jeanerpeton mazonensis, a 309-million-year-old proto-amphibian discovered in Illinois, providing insights into ancient amphibian evolution. The fossil specimen features preserved scales, eye impressions, and gastralia, supporting its classification as a distinct species.
A new study by Australian veterinarians has exposed the challenge of identifying pain in horses with gastric ulcers. The researchers tested a potential new blood-based method but found it to be unreliable. The study highlights the need for better diagnostic methods to improve horse welfare and treatment.
A recent study published in PLOS One reveals that North Atlantic right whales spend an average of 11.4 hours per day feeding, with a significant portion of that time spent feeding at night near the surface. This behavior was previously unknown and may reduce the effectiveness of conservation protection measures.
Research from Eötvös Loránd University and the HUN-REN Research Centre suggests dogs exhibit brain activity similar to human self-control, potentially shedding light on ADHD and obesity. This study uses non-invasive EEG measurement to investigate canine brain activity during restraint commands.
Research found that hungry scent detection dogs are more likely to falsely identify the wrong scent, with accuracy dropping significantly when hungry. This highlights the importance of feeding strategies in scent detection work and suggests that hunger can affect dogs' ability to distinguish between target and non-target scents.
Researchers developed an AI-based system to detect temperature stress in fish, revealing diverse temperature tolerance among Medaka fish and closely related species. The system accurately predicts the effects of climate change on fish, with implications for conservation and large-scale comparisons among strains and species.
Tadpoles of the Japanese common toad exhibit lower kin recognition and social preference for siblings, contrary to previous studies. Social isolation, not kinship, influences association behavior in these amphibians.
A recent study found that coyote density in Seattle is 9 times higher than in wild areas, with urban coyotes benefiting from abundant food and reduced predation. Coyotes' diets are also more diverse in cities, with a wider variety of food options available, including berries and rabbits.
The Surinam toad uses its fingertips to detect prey in low-visibility environments, with a sensory system that processes signals from unusual lobes on the frog's front fingers. This unique system, found in only a few animals, allows the frog to accurately detect prey without relying on vision.
A viper's tail looks like a spider to lure birds, but scientists found its inner workings are normal. Researchers used X-ray scans to study the snake's tail, revealing that its vertebrae are typical of most vipers.
Preliminary analysis suggests dolphin milk microRNAs are substantially similar to those of terrestrial mammals, sharing dominant microRNA families. This finding indicates potentially similar lactation mechanisms in dolphins, despite their adaptation to an aquatic lifestyle
A study published in PLOS One found that Asian elephants can resist impulsive behavior and choose a more effective route to problem-solving, even when it requires adjusting a previously effective approach. This ability may be important for elephants' social interactions and cognition.
A new study found that horse personality is linked to daily management, riding, and care practices, with stable relationships and social housing considered crucial for welfare and behavioral development. Intrinsic factors like age, sex, and breed also play a role.
Research shows that a moderate presence of pikas improves the composition of vegetation for grazing yaks, increasing the abundance and nutritional quality of palatable grasses and sedges. This moderate presence helps suppress tall poisonous plants, thereby facilitating weight gains in yaks.
A study found that feeding and watching birds positively impacts people's well-being, reducing stress and increasing feelings of joy, gratitude, and calm. The activity also fosters engagement and a sense of meaning, as participants feel they are connecting with nature and contributing to science.
Researchers found altered gene expression in wharf roach guts after consuming expanded polystyrene, but no significant impact on lifespan. The gut microbiome showed little change, but rare microbes were detected in EPS-fed specimens. This highlights the need to manage EPS waste carefully and prioritize coastal cleanup efforts.
A new study analyzing a large dataset reveals that cattle were initially more abundant than sheep, but sheep increased in the 7th century, driven by monastic farms and wool production. The economy shifted towards draught cattle in the 10th to 12th centuries, but then declined as demand for meat and milk grew
Researchers have developed a genetic toolkit to isolate individual neuron types in a fruit fly brain, revealing distinct neuronal subgroups that produce different effects, including suppressing aggression. The study identifies a universal control of aggression across sexes and highlights the complex roles of neurons within the same neu...
Capuchin monkeys turn to vertebrate prey during times of plant food scarcity, a pattern similar to human carnivory. Males hunt more often and prefer fat-dense tissues, suggesting a preference for brains and guts.
A new study from Virginia Tech scientists reveals the complex relationship between temperature, photoperiod, and bear hibernation behavior. The research found that temperature and day length interact to shape hibernation behavior, potentially disrupting climate-driven changes in hibernation timing.
Northern spotted owl populations are approaching functional extinction across the Pacific Northwest, with AI-powered monitoring identifying critical habitats and ecological threats. The study highlights the need for targeted conservation strategies, including barred owl removal and habitat conservation, to prevent further decline.
A new Cochrane map has identified significant gaps in dengue prevention research, with most studies lacking synthesis into reliable reviews that policymakers can use. The map highlights areas such as vaccine implementation, adult mosquito control, and environmental interventions, which require more evidence to inform effective dengue c...
Research shows that young Bewick's swans that lose their parents during winter migration have a significantly lower survival rate, dropping from 86% to 40%. The study highlights the importance of family ties for migration and survival in these long-lived social birds.
A new species of groundsnake, Lielaphis slashi, has been discovered in New Guinea and named after Slash from Guns N' Roses. The snake's unique characteristics and genetic makeup set it apart from other similar species.
UK zoos have a bias towards globally non-threatened species, but still contribute to preserving native and priority species, according to a study. The research found that only 9% of captive species are native to Britain and 2% appear on conservation priority lists.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.