Articles tagged with Mammals
Researchers have developed a 'tap-and-go' approach using specially adapted drones to apply monitoring tags to whales. This innovative method significantly speeds up the process while minimizing human interaction with the animals.
Emerging evidence highlights the involvement of extracellular RNAs in the antiviral defense process, with microRNAs binding viral genomes via base-pairing interactions to inhibit expression. RNA immunity represents a complementary arm of the mammalian immune system, functionally independent of traditional protein-based defenses.
A new study has coined the term 'scrumping' to describe great apes' fondness for eating ripe, fermented fruit from the forest floor. The researchers suggest that this behavior may have played a significant role in the evolution of human alcohol tolerance.
Research found that dog TV viewing habits differ by personality, with excitable dogs more likely to follow on-screen objects and fearful dogs reacting to car horns or doorbells. The study, published in Scientific Reports, suggests that engaging with TV could provide dogs with an enriching experience.
A new study found that mammals independently evolved specialized adaptations for exclusively feeding on ants and termites at least 12 times since the Cenozoic era began. This dietary strategy, called myrmecophagy, emerged following the K-Pg extinction and set the stage for ant and termite colonies to rapidly expand worldwide.
Researchers analyzed over 1,400 gut microbiome samples from 292 mammalian species to find distinct gut microbiomes corresponding to different gut morphology types. These microbiomes were grouped into three enterotypes: Fusobacterium in simple-gut species, UCG-005 in foregut fermenters, and Prevotella in hindgut fermenters.
A 26-year study found that removing feral animals like cats and foxes from a reserve sparked an ecological transformation, favoring the growth of smaller rodents like Bolam's mouse and spinifex hopping mouse. Larger species like plains mouse and stripe-faced dunnart also surged in population after five to nine years.
A new study reveals that koalas only spend around 10 minutes per day on the ground, which is linked to two-thirds of recorded koala deaths. The research used GPS loggers and accelerometers to analyze fine-scale movement patterns, finding that koalas move with little urgency and spend most of their time in trees.
Researchers have discovered adult stem cells from a non-human primate that closely resemble human biology, offering new potential treatment targets for diseases. The discovery uses a novel computational method to identify the optimal animal model, reducing animal usage and paving the way for more effective stem cell therapies.
A study by University of Göttingen researchers found that mixed deciduous-conifer forests promote coexistence between red squirrels and dormice. The team observed both species living side by side in these forests, suggesting a potential role for mixed forest management in supporting biodiversity.
Researchers from Empa's Soft Kinetic group studied the rare scaly-tailed squirrels' unique bodily structure, discovering that their thorn-covered scales help them maintain position and grip onto tree bark. The study aims to inform robotics by adopting morphological structures and behaviors honed through millions of years of evolution.
Researchers found that chipmunks' skulls became larger but teeth shorter due to increased human food availability. Voles' auditory bullae decreased in size possibly to dampen environmental noise. These changes demonstrate the profound impact of humans on wildlife and their environment.
Researchers analyzed fossil and living animal bones to reconstruct the path to upright posture, finding bursts of innovation and adaptive radiations. The study suggests that fully parasagittal postures evolved relatively late in mammalian history, contradicting previous theories.
Researchers have uncovered a new species of Swaindelphys, a large metatherian that lived around 60 million years ago in Texas' Big Bend National Park. The species, dubbed Swaindelphys solastella, is significantly larger than similar species known from the same period.
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.
Scientists analyzed ancient DNA, fossil shape, and habitat data to determine the factors influencing the size of extinct giant ground sloths. The result shows that size differences among sloths have been primarily influenced by the types of habitats they lived in and climate change.
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.
A new microscopy method, LICONN, developed by ISTA scientists and Google Research, can reconstruct mammalian brain tissue with all synaptic connections between neurons. This technique uses standard light microscopes and hydrogel to achieve high resolution and opens up possibilities for visualizing complex molecular machinery.
Studies suggest that straight-tusked elephants ( Palaeoloxodon antiquus ) could still inhabit Europe today due to the continent's suitable climate. The species helped shape Europe's landscape, maintaining open spaces and light woodlands that still support native plant species.
A team of researchers has comprehensively predicted the location of non-B DNA structures in great apes using newly available telomere-to-telomere genomes. The study suggests that non-B DNA is enriched in these segments and may play a role in genetic diseases and cancer, with potential new functions discovered.
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.
A global study using camera trap data from over 8.9 million images across 445 species in 38 countries found that many species do not stick to a single daily rhythm. Mammals' diel activity patterns are influenced by factors such as body size, location, and human presence, particularly in areas with higher human development.
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.
Researchers analyzed teeth of Amami rabbit and Ryukyu long-furred rat to determine seasonal dietary variations. The study found consistent diets for rabbits and seasonal changes in the rats' diet, with implications for ecosystem management.
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.
Researchers discovered how monkeys produce 'voice breaks' and 'ultra-yodels' using their vocal membranes, which allow for a wider range of calls. These unique vocalizations enable monkeys to communicate in different ways, particularly in complex social lives.
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.
A new study found that birds have lower cancer rates despite high blood sugar levels, challenging existing assumptions. The research suggests that some species have evolved natural biological defenses against cancer, which could inspire new approaches to prevention and treatment in humans.
A new study reveals significant differences in appearance and behavior between the Indian and Sundaic one-horned Asiatic rhinoceros species, challenging long-standing classifications. The research highlights millions of years of evolutionary pressures shaping their distinct adaptations.
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.
Dr. Yonatan Stelzer has made significant contributions to understanding epigenetic mechanisms and embryonic development, challenging conventional knowledge with innovative approaches. His research aims to establish fully data-driven quantitative models of spatiotemporal processes in mammals.
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.
Two studies led by Dr. García-Moreno reveal birds' unique brain evolution, showing convergent evolution of neural circuits without homologous ancestors. Birds retained inhibitory neurons for hundreds of millions of years, while excitatory neurons evolved in new ways, highlighting the evolutionary flexibility of brain development.
A recent study published in PLOS Biology found that even within protected habitats, tropical species are still vulnerable to threats from beyond their borders. Human population density and habitat disturbance in surrounding areas can lead to a decline in species richness by up to 1% per 16 persons per square kilometer.
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.
A rare underwater fossil bed discovered by collectors in Florida's Big Bend region has preserved a unique window into the past. The site, dating back to the middle Irvingtonian North American land mammal age, offers insights into evolutionary transitions and speciation.
A Tel Aviv University study found urban bats have shorter pregnancies and start reproducing earlier due to favorable temperatures and food abundance in cities. This is the first study linking urban living to mammalian reproductive patterns.
The study highlights the importance of semi-dry forests in Nui Chua NP, which have the highest diversity and occupancy of the silver-backed chevrotain. Conservation efforts should prioritize these transitional habitats to protect this flagship species.
Researchers have reconstructed the evolutionary origin of the complex configuration of multiple sex chromosomes in echidnas using their nearly gapless genome sequence. The high-quality data helped trace genetic events that led to this remarkable chromosomal arrangement, including chromosome fusion and fission events.
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.
A study by Tulane University researchers found that tumors in female fruit flies grew 2.5 times larger than those in male fruit flies due to sex-based differences in immune response. The stronger innate immune response in females accelerated tumor growth.
Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University found that suppression of Pcdh8 is essential for proper notochord elongation in zebrafish embryos. This study may lead to novel tumor therapies in humans due to the gene's role in controlling cell proliferation.
Researchers at Tel Aviv University demonstrated that bats can navigate great distances in open areas with their eyes closed, using only echolocation. The study found that bats create an acoustic map of their environment, relying on distinct echoes to guide their flight paths.
The Yixian Formation fossils in China are preserved due to rapid sedimentation and oxygen-free pockets, rather than volcanic events. The study's findings suggest that multiple periods of intense rainfall led to the burial of deceased creatures, preserving soft tissues.
The exhibit featured a live laboratory where paleontologists and volunteers cleaned and prepared specimens from the Montbrook site. Participants were excited to interact with scientists and answer questions about fossils.
A genetics study suggests that bonobos have three distinct populations, each with unique genetic patterns. The research highlights the need for conservation efforts to protect these groups and ensure the species' survival.
A team of scientists studied the Kashmir skull and found it to be a distinct species from other known Eurasian Palaeoloxodon. The research suggests that Palaeoloxodon turkmenicus represents a poorly-known missing link in the evolution of these prehistoric megaherbivores.
Researchers have found that variability in when and how cells divide during embryo development leads to more optimal arrangements of cells, promoting robust tissue formation. This study challenges traditional views on the role of cell division variability in embryonic development.
Researchers at Hokkaido University have identified a key gene, glutathione peroxidase 4 (Gpx4), that enables Syrian hamsters to survive extreme cold by limiting cellular damage. The discovery could lead to new treatments for human health, such as improving organ preservation and using hypothermia as a therapeutic tool.
Researchers found that low Wnt signaling levels regulate NPC self-renewal, while higher levels initiate differentiation into mature kidney cell types. The studies also reveal the role of beta-catenin in aggregating NPCs to form early kidney structures.
A new study using a mammal model suggests that fitness loss through spontaneous mutations will not significantly affect human populations. The research indicates that even without natural selection, the rate of fitness decline is not a cause for concern, providing reassurance about human viability in the near future.
Researchers analyzed DNA in fecal samples to determine the diet of Alaska and southern resident killer whales. They found that both populations prefer salmon, but differ in when they switch to hunting other fish species. The study provides key insights into the delicate balance between regional abundance of different fish species.
Researchers have found evidence for place cells in zebrafish brains, allowing them to create internal maps of their environment. The brain region, telencephalon, is also thought to be analogous to the mammalian hippocampus and plays a key role in spatial orientation, social networks, and memory.
A new study from the Cusack group sheds light on how avian influenza virus can mutate to replicate in mammalian cells. The key enzyme polymerase must adapt to overcome two main barriers: entering and replicating within host cells, as well as acquiring human transmission capabilities.
A University of Arizona study has found a consistent pattern: Animals with higher body temperatures are more likely to evolve into herbivores. This relationship holds true across major land vertebrate groups, and is linked to the unique digestive challenges posed by plant-based diets.
Researchers have discovered a new type of brain cell in the medial entorhinal cortex that accurately predicts future locations as an animal travels. This discovery helps explain how planned spatial navigation is possible and has important implications for understanding mechanisms of spatial navigation and episodic memory formation.
Guan's lab will apply accumulated experience and methods to study SLC6A14, a sodium-coupled epithelial amino acid co-transporter involved in cancer and several chronic diseases. CryoEM will be used to determine the structure of SLC6A14, providing insight into its substrate specificity and inhibitory mechanisms.
A Dartmouth study suggests that social rank determines whether animals prioritize short-term energy consumption over long-term health, with dominant monkeys consuming food quickly to maintain dominance, while lower-ranked monkeys invest time in washing their food to prevent tooth damage. The findings shed light on the disposable soma h...
Researchers found that adults prioritize cognitive cues over vocal signals when evaluating a child's intelligence or negative emotions, while vocal cues dominate for assessing happiness or helplessness. This study provides insights into the complex dynamics of caregiver-child interactions and their evolutionary roots.
Researchers found 16 native species of mammals using timber plantations as corridors and refuges in Central Panama. However, teak monocultures showed the lowest records of species, highlighting the importance of restoring natural habitats for comprehensive wildlife conservation.