“Bite me here!” multidisciplinary research unlocks resonance secret of buzz pollination interactions
Researchers analyzed video clips of bumblebee visits to lousewort flowers, revealing a unique
Animals
Articles tagged with Animals
’Round midnight: Late-night romance among medaka in near natural setting
Medaka fish engage in courtship and spawning at midnight to 4 a.m., with peak activity between 2 a.m. and 4 a.m. Researchers conducted continuous observations in an outdoor setting to gain insights into their natural behavior.
SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeObservational study·DateJun 5, 2025
Groundbreaking study maps the movements of marine megafauna
A global research team tracked over 100 species of marine animals, revealing key migration patterns and hotspots critical for conservation. The study, MegaMove, uses satellite data to inform a new blueprint for ocean conservation, highlighting the need for targeted mitigation efforts.
Study finds dehorning of rhinos drastically reduces poaching
An international study found that dehorning rhinos resulted in a drastic reduction of poaching, with a 78% decrease in poaching rates. The study analyzed data from 11 Greater Kruger reserves and found that dehorning reduced incentives for poaching, making it an effective conservation strategy.
Six decades of data on North Atlantic phytoplankton reveal that their biomass has decreased up to 2% annually across most of the Atlantic Ocean, with potentially widespread implications for the wider food web under climate change
Phytoplankton biomass in the North Atlantic has declined by up to 2% per year over six decades, potentially affecting the entire ocean's ecosystem. This decrease may have significant consequences under climate change.
The purrfect gene
A study published in PLOS One reveals that cats' purring behavior is linked to genetic variation, specifically the short-type androgen receptor gene. Cats with this gene exhibit higher owner-assessed purring scores than those with the long-type gene.
Nearly five million seized seahorses just ‘tip of the iceberg’ in global wildlife smuggling
A study analyzing online seizure records found over 300 seizures of dried seahorses in 62 countries, with most occurring in transit or destination countries. The illicit trade is estimated to be worth CAD$29 million over 10 years, and emerging routes involve Europe and Latin America.
Cats recognize their owner’s scent
A study published in PLOS One found that domestic cats can discriminate between familiar and unfamiliar humans based on their odor. Cats spend longer sniffing the odor of a stranger than that of their owner, suggesting they can identify human scent patterns.
Exploring the reasons behind human-lion conflict
A study from the University of Georgia found that a combination of environmental, climatic, and cultural factors drive human-lion conflict in Namibia. The study suggests that areas with less vegetation are more prone to fatalities due to lions being able to hide better from humans.
Iain Couzin elected Fellow of the Royal Society
Iain Couzin's research on animal collectives and collective intelligence has made significant breakthroughs, earning him a prestigious Fellowship. His work combines cutting-edge technologies with behavioural research to decipher the rules governing coordinated behaviour in animals.
Fitness fight: Native bees struggle against invasive honey bee
A study by Curtin University reveals that high densities of European honey bees harm Australian native bees' 'fitness' through reduced reproductive success and altered key traits. In areas with higher honey bee densities, native bees produce fewer female offspring and have higher mortality rates.
Planting a mosaic of shrub fringes
A comprehensive study examines the effects of shrub fringe management on biodiversity, revealing that open and semi-open edges with high habitat quality support the highest species richness. Landowners are advised to provide sufficient space for these habitats to protect rare and endangered species.
SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·TypeObservational study·DateMay 14, 2025
Gelada monkeys understand complex "conversations" involving distress calls and prosocial comforting responses, exhibiting surprise when such vocal exchanges are manipulated to violate their expectations
In a study published in PLOS, gelada monkeys demonstrated an understanding of complex vocal exchanges involving distress calls and prosocial comforting responses. The monkeys exhibited surprise when such vocal exchanges were manipulated to violate their expectations.
New poison dart frog discovered in the Amazon's Juruá River basin is blue with copper-colored legs, and represents one of just two novel Ranitomeya species in a decade
A new blue Ranitomeya species has been discovered in the Amazon's Juruá River basin, featuring copper-colored legs. This finding represents one of only two novel Ranitomeya species identified in a decade.
Invasive salmon, clams and seaweed are next threats to biodiversity in Britain
The latest watchlist identifies 145 non-native animals and plants that could impact biodiversity, ecosystems, human health, and economies in Britain. The top 20 threats include invasive salmon, clams, seaweed, and species like the yellow-legged hornet, raccoon, and Emerald ash borer.
India has one of the world’s highest densities of snow leopards
A camera trapping study reveals India's Ladakh territory is home to the world's highest densities of snow leopards. The research estimated that 68% of India's total population lives in this region, with Hemis National Park having the highest recorded density.
New method provides fresh insights into insect decline
A new method using DNA metabarcoding has provided fresh insights into the impact of agriculture on insect biodiversity. The study found a 44% decline in total insect species diversity and a nearly 30% loss of evolutionary diversity in agricultural landscapes.
SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society of London B Biological Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateMay 7, 2025
Saving the Asian unicorn – if it still exists
Researchers have mapped the saola's genome, revealing two distinct populations with significant genetic differences, and estimate that fewer than 100 individuals remain, raising hopes for conservation efforts through captive breeding and genetic de-extinction. The study provides new insights into the species' history and future prospects.
Some shark bites may be ‘survival instinct’ rather than planned attacks, contrary to media portrayal
Researchers found that some shark bites are motivated by self-defense when sharks feel threatened or provoked. This discovery challenges the common perception of sharks as mindless predators and highlights the importance of respecting their space.
BioOne presents 2025 Ambassador Award to five early-career researchers
The 2025 BioOne Ambassador Award recognizes exceptional early-career researchers who are advancing public understanding of science through effective communication. The award highlights their outstanding research and commitment to sharing their work with a broader audience.
Insects are disappearing due to agriculture – and many other drivers, new research reveals
A new study analyzing over 175 scientific reviews found that agricultural intensification is a major driver of insect decline, but climate change has multiple individual drivers such as extreme precipitation and temperature. The research highlights the need for a multi-pronged approach to conserve insect biodiversity.
Primate mothers display different bereavement response to humans
A study by University College London anthropologists found that macaque mothers experience a short period of physical restlessness after the death of an infant, but do not exhibit typical human signs of grief. In contrast to human bereavement, macaque mothers spent less time resting in the first two weeks after their infants' deaths.
New UNCG research shows southern shrews shrink in winter
A new study by UNC Greensboro researchers found that masked shrews reduce their body mass and braincase height by up to 13% during the colder months. The phenomenon, known as Dehnel's phenomenon, is a survival strategy used by some mammals to conserve energy in response to changing temperatures.
SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Greensboro·JournalThe American Naturalist·TypeObservational study·DateApr 15, 2025
Suspected fibrocartilaginous embolus in Asian small-clawed otter (Aonyx cinereus)
An 11-year-old Asian small-clawed otter developed left-sided paralysis after a fall, but improved with treatment for a suspected fibrocartilaginous embolus. Follow-up MRI showed a diminished lesion one year later.
Microplastics detected in cat placentas and fetuses during early pregnancy
A small study found 19 types of microplastic particles in cat placentas and fetuses during early pregnancy. The researchers suggest that microplastics may accumulate in cat placentas and potentially impact fetal health, highlighting the need for limits on plastic use and mitigation strategies.
MIT scientists engineer starfish cells to shape-shift in response to light
Researchers at MIT successfully triggered a key enzyme in starfish egg cells using different patterns of light, prompting predictable movements and contractions. The study provides a new optical tool for controlling cell shape in its earliest developmental stages.
Galapagos birds exhibit ‘road rage’ due to noise
A new study reveals that Galapagos yellow warblers are changing their behavior in response to traffic noise, with those living near roads showing increased aggression. The birds adapt by adjusting the frequency of their songs to help them be heard above the noise.
Temperature during development influences connectivity between neurons and behavior in fruit flies
Researchers found that lower environmental temperature during pupal development correlates to more synapses and postsynaptic partners in the brain, which affects odor-driven behavior. The study suggests a metabolic theory for brain wiring at different temperatures.
A longer, sleeker super predator: Megalodon’s true form
Researchers used a novel approach to estimate megalodon's body length and shape, finding it closer in shape to a lemon shark or large whale. The study suggests the prehistoric predator may have reached about 80 feet in length and weighed an estimated 94 tons.
The changing chorus: How movements and memories influence birdsong evolution
Researchers found that birds of similar age tend to have more similar repertoires, while mixed-age neighbourhoods exhibit higher cultural diversity. The pace of song turnover is driven by individuals coming and going, with older birds serving as 'cultural repositories' of older song types.
20% of butterflies in the U.S. have disappeared since 2000
A comprehensive analysis of butterfly data in the US found that butterfly abundance fell by 22% between 2000 and 2020. The study, led by Eliza Grames at Binghamton University, examined data from over 12.6 million butterflies across the continental US.
Meet the Libroscope: A new vision for ‘liberating’ data from biodiversity publications
The Libroscope initiative seeks to unlock and link data from scientific literature to support understanding of biodiversity. By 2035, the power of biodiversity knowledge will be fully leveraged within an open science framework.
Caribou case study offers a new model to manage species at risk
Researchers at UCalgary suggest a holistic approach to conservation by analyzing individual movement patterns of caribou. The study identifies six distinct behavioural groups that deserve separate conservation actions, providing a framework for habitat protection and restoration strategies.
SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalBiological Conservation·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 3, 2025
When birds lose the ability to fly, their bodies change faster than their feathers
Researchers compared feathers and bodies of flightless birds and their flying relatives, finding that some features change relatively quickly. The study sheds light on evolution of complex traits that lose original function, and could help reveal which fossil birds were flightless.
In Denmark, rural cat owners are neutering their cats and allowing them indoor access
A Danish study found that rural cat owners are increasingly managing their cats similarly to urban owners, leading to fewer unwanted kittens. The change reflects a growing human attachment to owned cats and a diminishing divide between rural and urban life.
Near-complete skull discovery reveals ‘top apex’, leopard-sized “fearsome” carnivore
A nearly complete skull of the ancient apex carnivore Bastetodon has been discovered in the Egyptian desert, revealing a new species of hyaenodonta. The discovery sheds light on the evolution of hyaenodonts and their global distribution, with findings suggesting they spread from Africa to Asia, Europe, India, and North America.
Comprehensive global study shows pesticides are major contributor to biodiversity crisis
A comprehensive global study reveals pesticides are a major contributor to the biodiversity crisis, affecting over 800 species of plants, animals, fungi, and microbes. The research highlights the need for policies and practices to reduce pesticide use, including regenerative agriculture and Integrated Pest Management.
SourceUK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology·JournalNature Communications·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 13, 2025
Macaque monkeys can learn to associate pictures with sounds and words, even when the words are then spoken by new individuals, showing impressive abilities to learn cross-modal associations
In a groundbreaking study, macaque monkeys demonstrated the ability to form connections between visual images and auditory signals, as well as verbal cues. This remarkable capacity for cross-modal learning was observed even when the spoken words were presented by new individuals.
Pandemic puppy owners reported a greater burden of dog ownership
Researchers found that pandemic puppies, bought during the COVID-19 pandemic, had a greater burden of dog ownership, with higher costs and emotional challenges. Owners who reported problem behaviors, such as separation anxiety or aggression, also experienced a greater burden.
Michael Sars Centre partners with Paris Aquarium to introduce comb jellies to the public
The Michael Sars Centre and Paris Aquarium have partnered to cultivate and display comb jellies, a challenging species to maintain in captivity. The collaboration benefits both institutions, offering new resources for researchers.
Pairing old and new technologies could unlock advances in plankton science
The study highlights the potential of novel techniques to collect and analyse plankton data more efficiently, filling knowledge gaps and generating complete pictures of plankton dynamics. However, integrating old and new methods is crucial to ensure accurate assessments of marine biodiversity.
SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalOcean & Coastal Management·TypeLiterature review·DateJan 29, 2025
Some coral "walk" towards blue or white light, using rolling, sliding or pulsing movements to migrate, per experiments with free-living mushroom coral Cycloseris cyclolites
Free-living mushroom coral Cycloseris cyclolites exhibits complex phototactic mobility in response to light direction. The coral migrates using rolling, sliding, or pulsing movements to navigate towards blue or white light sources.
Dung data: manure can help to improve global maps of herbivore distribution
A global assessment of dung production has revealed hotspots in central Africa, Australia, and Eurasia, indicating the presence of herbivores. The study also highlights the importance of accurate livestock density assessments for agriculture and food security.
SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalNature Food·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 15, 2025
Fossil predator is the oldest known animal with “saber teeth”
A fossil therapsid was found in Mallorca with a skull hole for the jaw muscle and structures that evolved into mammals' middle ear bones. The discovery changes scientists' understanding of when therapsids evolved and tells us about where we come from.
Using drones, UH researchers assess the health of humpback whale mother-calf pairs across the Pacific Ocean
Researchers used drone imagery to measure calf growth and maternal body condition in Hawaiʻi and Alaska, finding larger females produced larger calves. Humpback whales lose significant weight during lactation, with mothers losing nearly 214 pounds per day.
SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·TypeObservational study·DateDec 17, 2024
Unique motor control system of frogfish's specialized 'fishing rod' discovered
Researchers at Nagoya University have discovered a unique motor control system in frogfish's first dorsal fin, enabling their 'fishing' behavior. The study reveals how motor neurons changed location as their function shifted from swimming to hunting.
Tiny poops in the ocean may help solve the carbon problem
A Dartmouth-led study suggests using clay to convert CO2 into food for zooplankton, which expel it as carbon-filled feces in the deep sea. This method accelerates the ocean's natural cycle for removing carbon from the atmosphere.
Desert ants use the polarity of the geomagnetic field for navigation
Researchers found that desert ants rely on the polarity of the geomagnetic field to navigate during learning walks, contradicting previous findings in other insects. The team manipulated magnetic fields and observed the ants' behavior, concluding that a compass-like navigation system is useful for short-distance navigation.
Warming temperatures impact immune performance of wild monkeys, U-M study shows
A University of Michigan study found that warmer temperatures decline the immune performance of wild capuchin monkeys, with younger monkeys most vulnerable. The researchers used a 'clean catch' method to collect urine samples from the monkeys, which revealed a significant decline in immune performance during periods of high temperatures.
Curiosity, images, and scientific exploration
Lightman's book delves into the emotional and intellectual connections we make with natural wonders, using examples like aurora borealis and fall foliage. He grounds his grasp of nature in scientific explanation while still finding awe and wonder.
Sweet tooth- Ethiopian wolves seen feeding on nectar
Researchers observe Ethiopian wolves foraging on nectar-rich flowers, exploiting a novel plant-pollinator interaction. This behavior is significant as it highlights the complexity of interactions between species in the highlands ecosystem, threatening these rare canines.
Bio-based fibers could pose greater threat to the environment than conventional plastics
New research found that bio-based fibres have a range of adverse effects on earthworms, animals critical to environmental health. The study highlights the importance of testing new materials before they are released on the market.
SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 5, 2024
Deep-sea corals are home to previously unknown bacteria with extremely small genomes
Researchers have discovered two previously unknown bacterial species in deep-sea corals from the Gulf of Mexico. These bacteria have extremely reduced genomes and lack the ability to break down carbohydrates, surviving on amino acids instead. The discovery provides insights into the unique adaptations of deep-sea organisms.
UTA researchers begin quest for rare lizard
Researchers from The University of Texas at Arlington are conducting a DNA analysis project to determine the genetic differences between the rare Dixon's whiptail and the common checkered whiptail. If the two species are found to be distinct, Dixon's whiptail may become eligible for endangered species protection.
Algae research provides insight on immune health
A new study by University of Texas at Arlington researchers found that living with symbiotic algae weakens the immune system of jellyfish, making them more vulnerable to infections. This finding has important implications for coral reef conservation and human disease prevention.
SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 2024
Antarctic penguin colonies can be identified and tracked from tourists' photos, using a computer model to reconstruct the 3D scene
A computer model uses camera pose estimation and phototourism data to reconstruct the 3D scene of Antarctic penguin colonies, allowing for their identification and tracking. This innovative approach enables researchers to study and monitor penguin populations more effectively.
Giant rats could soon fight illegal wildlife trade by sniffing out elephant tusk and rhino horn
Researchers have trained African giant pouched rats to detect illegally trafficked wildlife species, including pangolin scales, elephant ivory, rhino horn, and African blackwood. The rats showed perfect retention scores after months of non-exposure, suggesting their cognitive performance resembles that of dogs.
Gold bugs: Spectacular new fossil arthropod preserved in fool’s gold
A team of researchers has unveiled a spectacular new fossil arthropod named Lomankus edgecombei, preserved entirely in fool's gold. The specimen belongs to a group called megacheirans, which were thought to be extinct during the Ordovician Period.
Oceanographers record the largest predation event ever observed in the ocean
Scientists used acoustic mapping technique to track vulnerable capelin species and observe massive predation event involving Atlantic cod. The study revealed that as climate change causes Arctic ice sheet to retreat, capelin will be more stressed and vulnerable to natural predation events.
Tube sock-like skunk covers more ground than deer, impacted by winter weather, study finds
A study found that western spotted skunks have a home range of up to 12 square miles, exceeding similar size mammals and even deer. The skunks' extensive range is likely due to limited food resources. Their sensitivity to winter weather also raises concerns about climate change impacts.