Articles tagged with Mammals
A new estimate suggests that more than 600,000 bats likely died from wind turbine collisions in the contiguous US in 2012. Bat populations are already under stress due to climate change and disease, making this figure particularly worrisome for their already slow growth rates.
Researchers found a brain-to-body signaling circuit in roundworms that enables weight loss independently of food intake, involving serotonin and octopamine neurotransmitters. The discovery hints at a similar circuit in humans and other mammals, potentially leading to more potent weight-loss therapies combining serotonin and adrenaline.
A new study by UC Davis reveals a strong correlation between human life expectancy and the loss of endangered species, with countries experiencing high GDP growth showing higher percentages of invasive birds and mammals. The research highlights the need for better scientific understanding of human-environment interactions.
A study spanning two decades reveals that species in forest fragments are more likely to disappear than previously thought. Habitat fragmentation and invasive species like the Malayan field rat contribute to the rapid decline of native wildlife populations.
Scientists estimate a minimum of 320,000 viruses in mammals, which could provide critical information for early detection and mitigation of disease outbreaks. This undertaking would cost approximately $6.3 billion, but limiting discovery to 85% of total viral diversity could bring the cost down to $1.4 billion.
New research suggests that terror birds were likely herbivores, based on the analysis of calcium isotope composition in their fossilized bones. The study found that the terror bird's diet was similar to that of herbivorous mammals and dinosaurs, indicating a non-carnivorous diet.
A new study by the Wildlife Conservation Society found that 13 species of crocodilians consume fruit, including berries and legumes. The researchers suggest that these animals may function as significant seed dispersal agents in freshwater ecosystems, contributing to forest regeneration.
Researchers have identified a type of white blood cell in lampreys that resembles gamma delta T cells found in mammals and birds. The discovery suggests that distinct cells with similar functions may have existed in the last common vertebrate ancestor, providing insights into the evolutionary past.
Research by the University of Maryland found that timber rattlesnakes remove 2,500-4,500 ticks from Eastern forest sites annually, potentially reducing Lyme disease incidence. The study highlights the importance of conserving all species, including those often disliked.
Researchers found that social monogamy in male mammals arose from ancestral species with solitary females, where males formed pairs to guard their mates. This approach explains the spatial distribution of females and provides insight into the evolution of paternal care.
Scientists describe a new species of Hero Shrew with an interlocking spine that may represent intermediate character states between other shrews. The new species possesses features that enable it to position itself between palm trunks and access beetle larvae, providing a unique adaptation for survival.
Researchers at the University of Adelaide have discovered that dinosaurs required more muscular power to prey on other animals and dominate over mammals than previously thought. The study challenges the long-held notion that dinosaurs were cold-blooded, like reptiles.
Researchers discovered that fruitbats can store energy in their triceps tendons, enabling a power boost during take-off and flight. This unique ability allows bats to control joint movement with precision.
A new species of white toothed shrew was discovered in Vietnam through molecular analysis, revealing the misinterpretations of previous morphological studies. The study also confirmed the existence of previously overlooked separate species within the genus Crocidura.
UC Berkeley researchers found that a decrease in new species origins is crucial to extinction, alongside increased extinction rates. This study applies to slow changes over millions of years and provides insights into the pressures on modern flora and fauna.
Researchers found that the southeastern US region could experience heavier animal movements in response to a warming climate, with estimates up to 2.5 times higher than average species movement across North and South America. The study identified natural corridors and human-made barriers that will affect animal migration patterns.
The study found that human population density is a significant threat to extinction, with a 3.3% increase in threatened mammals and birds over the next decade. Conservation efforts should consider human population density to mitigate biodiversity loss.
Researchers found that bats react strongly to all contact calls, regardless of familiarity. However, when presented with a call from a known bat multiple times, they showed a stronger response to other partners from their social group. This suggests individual evaluation of the voice, indicating recognition of conspecifics by sound.
A new study reveals significant differences between rats' and bats' brain rhythms in navigation, questioning the use of rodent research as a basis for understanding spatial navigation in all mammals. The findings highlight the need to study a broader range of animals to gain a clearer picture of brain processes.
Researchers have decoded the platyfish genome, revealing insights into cancer development and complex behaviors. The study found altered genes involved in live-bearing birth and unique molecular changes, shedding light on the evolution of these traits.
A study found that sexually naïve male mice respond to pup pheromones with aggression, whereas fatherly males do not. Removing the vomeronasal organ in males suppressed aggressive behavior and induced parental instincts.
Researchers from the University of Adelaide's Australian Centre for Ancient DNA extracted ancient DNA from two specimens and compared it to extinct relatives. They found that the Falkland Islands wolf diverged from its closest living relative around 16,000 years ago, revealing a 16,000-year-old island colonization process.
A new study led by the University of Washington found that certain South American mammals evolved long, strong teeth in response to the gritty dust and volcanic ash they encountered while feeding in an ancient tropical forest. The discovery contradicts the 140-year-old assumption about the evolution of specialized teeth.
Researchers from Carnegie Museum of Natural History joined an international collaboration to create the most complete picture yet of placental mammals' evolution. The study combined molecular and morphological data on over 83 species, revealing new insights into their ancestry and shedding light on extinct species.
The star-nosed mole's star-shaped snout contains a high proportion of nerve endings sensitive to light touch, with fewer receptors that detect pain. This study highlights the importance of examining diverse species to reveal common biological mechanisms.
Lowland tapirs, the largest terrestrial mammal in South America, have been found thriving in a protected area spanning five national parks. Camera trap data reveals higher abundance under protection than outside, and estimates at least 14,500 individuals exist, making it one of the continent's most important strongholds for conservation.
Future climate changes are predicted to benefit most mammals in the Arctic and sub-Arctic regions today, except for some specialists like the Arctic fox and lemming. Human activities will hinder these species from adapting, reducing their distribution instead.
Researchers found that infant gerbils nursed by females given separate vaccines developed antibodies for both illnesses, demonstrating the potential purpose of allosuckling. The study provides a framework for further studying allosuckling in the wild using traceable antibodies.
Scientists have identified a rare form of active 'jumping genes' in mammals, specifically in bats. This discovery opens up new avenues for studying evolution and developing tools for gene therapy.
Scientists re-examined a specimen stored in the Natural History Museum in London, which showed evidence of wild collection in northwestern Australia in 1901. The discovery challenges previous thinking about the species' recent distribution and offers insight into its possible ongoing presence in Australia.
High-altitude mice utilize carbohydrates for energy due to low oxygen levels, a strategy that could be relevant to humans and other high-altitude mammals. This evolutionary adaptation allows them to efficiently use energy in oxygen-poor environments.
A study found that protected areas in Catalonia have a high number of animal deaths on the roads, with amphibians being most susceptible. Researchers suggest building tunnels for amphibians to reduce mortality rates.
A University of Florida study reveals an African spiny mouse's ability to regrow damaged tissues, including ear tissue, through a biological process similar to that used by salamanders. This discovery could lead to new models for skin wound healing and tissue regeneration in humans.
Scientists have identified the genetic building blocks behind the human heart's subtle control system, which shares similarities with birds and reptiles. The study reveals that a spongy inner tissue in fetal hearts stretches out to form a fine network of conductive tissue in adult animals.
A new study shows that crows react to threats in a human-like way, with brain regions activated similarly to those in mammals. The research used a novel approach to study bird behavior, involving awake crows wearing masks, and has implications for reducing stress in captive animals.
A second specimen of Ernanodon antelios sheds new light on the mysterious ancient mammal, revealing it was highly specialized for digging. The fossil skeleton provides key information about its habits, lifestyle, and affinities, resolving long-standing controversies in the scientific community.
Researchers from University of Zurich detect presence of os interparietale in over 300 species using micro-CT imaging, resolving previous assumptions about its existence and evolutionary history. The discovery sheds new light on human anatomy and refutes earlier theories.
New research reveals that tropical forest fragments are nearly emptied of wildlife, with many species like jaguars and lowland tapirs virtually extinct. The study emphasizes the importance of strictly protected areas to conserve biodiversity in these ecosystems.
Researchers from the University of Cambridge found that avian H5N1 influenza viruses could potentially acquire mutations necessary for airborne transmission in nature. The study suggests that with as few as five mutations, or four mutations plus reassortment, these viruses can become airborne transmissible between mammals and humans.
Research in southeastern Mongolia reveals evidence of ocean basin collapse, while placer mining in British Columbia affects river geometry. New fossil discoveries in Algeria shed light on early mammal evolution.
Researchers at the University of Vienna found that ravens can distinguish between familiar and unfamiliar individuals, altering their calls to reflect relationship quality. For three years or more, ravens can recall positive interactions with friends and exhibit distinct vocal patterns.
Dinosaurs laid eggs, which limited their size and competitiveness compared to viviparous mammals. This led to a gap in body sizes, allowing smaller species to occupy niches, ultimately contributing to the dinosaurs' extinction.
Geologists uncover distinct mantle sources for Sierra Nevada volcanism, shedding light on the region's youth and seismic activity. A warmer, wetter climate characterized large mammals in Western Nevada, contrary to today's Sierran orographic rain shadow.
Researchers have discovered that different species of dinosaurs had distinct egg shapes, with some being more elongate and symmetrical than bird eggs. This new research has significant implications for understanding the origins of modern Easter eggs.
The earliest known horse, Sifrhippus sandae, evolved to become smaller over time as the planet warmed. Scientists have now found that rising temperatures directly drove this 'dwarfing' phenomenon, with a one-to-one shift in body size. This study has implications for how animals may respond to future climate change.
Scientists have developed a new procedure to rapidly induce nerve regeneration, restoring partial function within days and full function within two to four weeks. The approach mimics the cellular mechanism used by invertebrates to repair damaged nerve axons.
A new study maps ecosystems in Bolivia and Peru, revealing a concentration of endemic species along the Andes mountains. The research highlights areas with high levels of 'irreplaceability' and finds that many unique species lack national-level protection.
Researchers have discovered a gene called distal-less critical to the fruit fly's ability to receive and process smells. In humans, this gene has also been linked to autism and epilepsy. The study found that the gene plays a key role in generating and maintaining stem cells responsible for processing odors.
Researchers identified six consecutive waves of mammal species diversity in North America, linked to climate change and temperature fluctuations. The study found correlations between species diversity and global paleotemperatures, shedding light on the impact of climate change on mammal evolution over millions of years.
Researchers discovered the African naked mole-rat's ion channel is altered, making it insensitive to acid-induced pain. The mutation allows for profound impairment of signal transduction, providing a survival advantage in high CO2 habitats.
A species of ancient predator, varanopid 'pelycosaur', survived a major extinction event in the Permian Period. Varanopids had sleek bodies, saw-like teeth, and a diet consisting of over 70% meat, contributing to their long survival.
Human relationships rely on endorphin rewards for motivation, unlike rodents which focus on oxytocin and vasopressin. The study suggests that endorphins enable complex relationship networks to endure and persist.
A massive set of mammal data from GBIF helped quantify the influence of environmental factors on species presence. The study found that climate is the biggest factor influencing mammal species communities at larger scales, while land use and land cover become more important at smaller scales.
A new study using genetic, archeological, and climatic data found that humans and climate fluctuations contributed to the extinction of six large Ice-Age mammals. The research suggests that as the Earth warmed after the last ice age, these species were unable to find alternative habitats, leading to their demise.
A new study published in Nature reveals that neither climate change nor humans alone can account for the Ice Age mass extinctions. The research team found that different species responded differently to climate change and human impact, with some being extinct due to a combination of factors.
Scientists found Asian elephants store thermal reserve by lowering body temperature at night, allowing them to regulate body temperature in hot environments. This mechanism, known as heterothermy, may be more common in mammals than previously thought.
A novel software system developed by SDSC researchers was used in the first global camera trap study of mammals, documenting 105 species across seven protected areas. The study confirms that habitat loss and smaller reserves have a direct impact on mammal diversity and survival.
The green anole lizard's genome has been fully sequenced, offering clues about vertebrate evolution and the origins of human genes. The study also provides insights into how lizards adapted to different islands and evolved diverse communities.
At least 351 species thought to have disappeared over the past 122 years have been rediscovered, but most remain highly threatened and on the brink of extinction due to habitat loss. Researchers stress the need for rapid conservation efforts to prevent further decline.
Researchers at Duke University found that tropical anoles can solve novel problems and remember solutions, demonstrating advanced cognitive abilities. The study's results challenge the notion that reptiles have limited cognitive capabilities and highlight the complexity of animal cognition.