Articles tagged with Ethology
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
African starlings form reciprocal helping relationships that last over many years, similar to human friendships. The birds preferentially aid relatives but also help specific non-relatives, suggesting a complex social structure.
A new study of gorillas found that friendly relationships have varying costs and benefits, depending on group size and sex. For example, female gorillas with strong social bonds tend to get ill less often, but have fewer offspring.
Scientists used virtual reality to mimic schooling behavior in zebrafish, discovering a simple and robust control law that enables coordinated motion. This natural algorithm was then applied to swarms of robotic cars, drones, and boats, achieving performance comparable to state-of-the-art autonomous systems.
A study by scientists at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute found that juvenile fringe-lipped bats do not initially differentiate between palatable and unpalatable frogs and toads, but learn to identify toxic species through experience. As they mature, adult bats respond more strongly to palatable prey.
A new study published in Scientific Reports reveals that audio quality severely affects dogs' ability to recognize and respond to recorded words. Dogs excelled at responding to direct human speech, but struggled with AIC buttons, which lost frequencies necessary for conveying human speech.
Researchers found that female cavity-nesting birds are more aggressive than their non-cavity-nesting counterparts, with beaks and claws being key defense mechanisms. The team also discovered that aggression is not linked to family or testosterone levels, but rather to specific genes that may be expressed in subtle ways.
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.
Researchers have found that mice can instinctively exhibit rescue-like behavior toward anesthetized conspecifics without prior training or external rewards. Oxytocin neurons in the paraventricular nucleus are activated when detecting distress signals, releasing OXT and coordinating emotional and motor responses.
A study found that dog owners rate their bond as the most satisfying, with dogs scoring high in nurturing and relationship security. However, there is a power imbalance towards the owner, with full control over the dog's decisions.
Researchers found that oxytocin receptors were more abundant in egalitarian lemur species, contributing to reduced aggression and increased harmony. The findings could shed light on the role of hormones in shaping behavior in humans and other animals.
A study by the University of Konstanz found that individual bees within a colony exhibit different stinging behaviors, with some defending and others remaining calm. Social factors play a role, but personality is a key factor in determining group dynamics.
A comprehensive dataset captures individual and group behaviors across genetically diverse strains of fruit flies, shedding light on how genes shape animal behavior. The study's findings have potential implications for mental health conditions with known or suspected genetic components.
Researchers at UC Santa Barbara found that fruit fly larvae can detect electric fields and move towards the negative potential. The team localized the sensory neurons responsible for this ability, which could lead to new techniques in bioengineering and research into animal senses.
A new study in PLOS One reveals over 130 dinosaur footprints on the Isle of Skye, providing insight into their distribution and behavior. The trackways suggest large theropods like Megalosaurus and sauropods like Cetiosaurus strolled through ancient subtropical lagoons.
Newborn warty birch caterpillars, just 1-2 mm long, establish tiny territories by producing warning vibrations through their leaves. By beating the leaf tip with their thorax and dragging oar-shaped hairs on their rear end, these teeny creatures outmaneuver intruders and secure their narrow escapes.
A team of biologists has discovered an ancient neurohormone called bombesin that controls appetite in humans and other vertebrates. The study also found that bombesin-like neurohormones are present in starfish, revealing a common ancestor of appetite regulation dating back over half a billion years.
Researchers highlight the underuse of Japanese bird banding data in avian movement research, revealing gaps in our understanding of East Asian migratory birds. The study proposes improving data accessibility and integrating traditional methods with modern tracking technologies to advance conservation efforts.
Researchers discovered that Chinese blackbirds can imitate electric moped alarms with lower frequencies and fewer notes. The team found that the males (50%) could imitate the alarms, but the mimicry sounded vivid yet possessed obvious differences from the real sounds.
Researchers discovered that exposure to similar behaviors within a person's social network is the most significant factor predicting individual prevention behaviors. Household-level interventions targeting entire families could result in more effective prevention strategies.
Female Guinea baboons court males with special foraging skills more intensively due to the short-term benefits they provide. This suggests that females prioritize immediate rewards over long-term evaluations of male competence.
Studies found that plant-derived miRNA can enter giant pandas' bloodstream and regulate gene expression, aiding adaptation to a bamboo-based diet. These tiny molecules may also influence taste and smell, enabling pandas to pick out nutritious bamboo.
Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University have successfully generated feline embryonic stem cells, a major breakthrough for veterinary regenerative medicine. The high-quality stem cells can differentiate into various cell types and be transplanted to restore internal damage.
Anemonefish provide food to bubble-tip anemones through active provisioning, which increases the host's growth rate. This symbiotic behavior is crucial for the anemonefish as it benefits them by making their hosts larger.
Researchers found that less than half of estimates for species studied agreed with diel classifications, and 74% switched phenotypes. The study's results will help conservation initiatives better conserve species by understanding when they are active.
Researchers studied wild female Japanese macaques to understand their internal states. The study found that the absence of close proximity with group members during resting periods increases stress levels, while co-feeding with a related female during foraging leads to increased stress due to competition.
Developed by Doshisha University researchers, vmTracking assigns virtual markers to track multiple animals without physical markers. It outperforms traditional methods in crowded environments and demonstrates high accuracy in tracking various species, including fish schools and human dancers.
Researcher Anne Pisor discusses how group living and perception play a role in triggering the 'us versus them' mindset, which can lead to conflict. She also provides insights on how cultural background, past experiences, and resource availability contribute to this phenomenon.
A study published in Scientific Reports found that cows with certain personalities tend to graze more widely or stick close to the herd. Researchers used sweet molasses feed to induce grazing behaviors, revealing insights into optimal cattle distribution and nutrition.
A study by Nagoya University researchers found that excessive neuronal activation over time leads to brain function decline, contradicting previous theories. Interventions targeting reduced neuronal hyperactivation, such as dietary changes, may mitigate age-related cognitive decline in humans.
Researchers tracked 131 juvenile sea turtles and found they may be active swimmers during their early life stage, challenging existing hypotheses. The study provides important data for assessing risks from human activity and informing conservation efforts.
A study by Eötvös Loránd University found that Border Collies excelled in a simple olfactory task, beating breeds like Golden Retrievers and Hungarian Vizslas. The research revealed that genetic and environmental factors influence dogs' success in scent detection, contrary to expectations.
Researchers in Montana used drones to haze grizzly bears away from towns, homes, and livestock. The results showed that the technology was effective at moving bears away from desirable areas, but not necessarily teaching them to avoid humans long-term.
Juvenile dolphins possess specialized receptors for detecting fatty acids in their mother's milk, which plays a crucial role in energy and brain development. This 'fat taste' system may provide an evolutionary advantage in selecting high-quality milk from mothers.
Dog owners cite emotional, physical, and social benefits of dog ownership, but also costly responsibilities. While daily life benefits include improved exercise and stability, the biggest cost is often cited as veterinary expenses.
Researchers at Nagoya University discovered how parasitic crickets, such as Myrmecophilus tetramorii, navigate life among potentially lethal hosts through precise evasion tactics. By employing two behavioral strategies, 'distancing' and 'dodging', crickets reduce the risk of being attacked by ants.
Cricket frogs use a combination of underwater push and leg movement to propel themselves out of the water, resulting in a 'belly flop' motion. This discovery could lead to advancements in bio-inspired robotics and water testing systems.
Renowned researcher Iain Couzin has received the 2024 Fyssen International Prize for his groundbreaking work on collective behaviour across species. His research, which explores how coordinated patterns emerge from individual behaviours in diverse animal systems, significantly advances our understanding of group dynamics.
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.
Researchers observed 34 male African savannah elephants in Etosha National Park, identifying five types of behavior that were consistently different between individuals. Younger males were more similar in temperament than older males, suggesting that their unique personalities develop as they age.
A study published in Journal of Dairy Science introduces a new 3D pose estimation system to monitor dairy cow comfort and well-being. The model detects posture transitions with 88% sensitivity, providing valuable insights into animal welfare.
Iain Couzin, a pioneer in collective behaviour research, has been honoured on the prestigious Global Highly Cited Researchers list by Clarivate Analytics. His work seeks to uncover core principles behind collective behaviour in nature, using cutting-edge technologies such as virtual reality and imaging hangars.
Researchers found that stress responses can spread to unexposed group members, altering their activity levels and social behaviors. This impact on social cohesion could have profound effects on the fitness of individual members and the dynamics of groups.
Research found that dog owners attribute various roles to their pets, including friend, family member, child, colleague, or security guard. The study identified three distinct owner profiles with different dog roles and characteristics, which may impact daily life and canine welfare.
Researchers have found that Burmese pythons can swallow deer and other large prey whole, with a gape circumference of over 81 centimeters. This increased capacity could lead to a significant impact on native wildlife populations in Florida and potentially beyond.
A new study reveals that Oriental hornets are the only animals capable of consuming high concentrations of alcohol chronically without ill effects. The research found that the hornets metabolize alcohol rapidly and show no signs of intoxication or illness, even after consuming high amounts.
Researchers used 16 years of radar weather data to monitor bird migration patterns from Tasmania to northern Queensland, finding millions of birds migrate each year. The study revealed unique patterns, including variation in migration direction, timing, and intensity compared to Northern Hemisphere birds.
The study found that uneven distribution of resources gives some individuals more access to play than others. Wildlife is a major draw for nature-based tourism, but human recreation has unintended consequences for biodiversity. To coexist with wildlife, it's essential to follow common-sense rules and minimize disturbance.
A genetic variant causing shorter eyestalks in male stalk-eyed flies leads to increased aggression, allowing them to compete for mating opportunities despite being less attractive.
A study published in Scientific Reports found that rats' social structures are more complex than previously thought, with varying patterns of dominance and coexistence. The researchers' findings suggest that psychiatric medications may need to be re-evaluated due to the complexity of rat social dynamics.
Researchers at UC Santa Barbara used drones to count white sharks near Carpinteria Beach, finding that ocean temperature, season, and time of day correlate with shark density. The study provides insights into shark behavior and may help inform conservation efforts and beachgoer safety.
Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University found that bluestreak cleaner wrasse use mirrors to evaluate their body size against other fish before attacking. This study suggests that these animals possess mental states similar to private self-awareness, shedding light on the evolution of self-awareness in non-human species.
A study found that island-dwelling animals have slower metabolisms and produce offspring later, making them more susceptible to extinction. This adaptation helps them thrive in pristine environments but also makes them vulnerable to human activities.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that 4 in 10 cat owners report their feline companions playing fetch, while 78% of dog owners say their canine friends engage in the behavior. The research also highlights differences in fetching behavior between breeds and demographic factors.
Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University have successfully generated high-quality feline induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) without a genetic footprint. These cells exhibit properties similar to human iPSCs and can differentiate into various cell types, making them a promising tool for veterinary regenerative medicine research.
Researchers engineered miniature linear and split-belt treadmills to study insect locomotion, gaining insights into proprioception's role in natural activities like walking. The study showed that flies can modify their steps to continue walking straight despite rotational perturbations.
Vultures, like young humans, explore new sites and socialize frequently when they're young. However, as they age from around 10 years old, they scale back on socializing and prefer to stay at the same roosting site, similar to humans who tend to stay home.
A team of experts discovered a dugongine sea cow attacked by an ancient crocodile and tiger shark, shedding light on prehistoric food chains. The fossils showed signs of both active predation and scavenging, providing new insights into the region's food chain networks during the Miocene epoch.
Researchers from Eötvös Loránd University found temperature and humidity have no impact on dogs' ability to detect scents. However, indoor testing outperformed outdoor environments due to distracting stimuli. Age also plays a role, with 2-3 year old dogs exhibiting superior olfactory performance.
Researchers have discovered a non-memory-based mechanism for animals to cache and retrieve food, challenging long-held beliefs about animal cognition. The proposed mechanism uses neural networks similar to hash functions, allowing for efficient storage and retrieval of cache locations.
A new study by Charles Sturt University in Australia found that exposure to pro-anorexia content on TikTok leads to decreased body image satisfaction and increased internalization of beauty standards. Women who spend more time on the app are also more likely to experience disordered eating behaviors.