Morphology
Articles tagged with Morphology
A timeline of destruction and discovery: 180 years of “plant destroyer” research
Researchers tracing the journey of Phytophthora infestans, a plant destroyer behind Ireland's Irish Potato Famine, explore its taxonomy and identification from early microscopy to genomic technologies. Advances in science strengthen efforts to monitor and manage destructive plant diseases.
Fish evolution accelerated after adapting to eat off hard surfaces
Researchers found that fish lineages adapted to scrape algae and shellfish from hard surfaces evolved in more diverse ways than those living in open water. Coral reef fish are thought to have benefited from this adaptation, driving the acceleration of diversification.
From teeth to thorns: Coincidences shape the universal form of nature’s pointed tips
Research finds that the rounded shape of natural tips is due to random mechanical wear, not just evolutionary optimization. The experiment with pencils demonstrates how collisions can lead to a universal parabolic shape across different structures.
Mutant clownfish reveals how nature draws boundaries
Researchers have uncovered a gene responsible for the unusual patterning in Snowflake clownfish, which has provided key clues toward solving the mystery of biological organization. The study suggests that a universal framework for studying pattern formation across species exists.
UMD entomologist helps bring the world’s ant diversity to life in 3D imagery
Researchers at UMD used AI and 3D imaging to accelerate the scanning and creation of 2,000 interactive ant models, reducing scanning time from 10 hours to a single week. The project, dubbed Antscan, aims to create a living library of interactive models corresponding to Earth's biodiversity.
Reconstructing the world’s ant diversity in 3D
A new database of 3D ant models, Antscan, provides high-resolution micro-CT scans of 800 different ant species, revolutionizing the study of organismal shape and form. The database facilitates large-scale digitization of small organisms, enabling scientists to better model ant movement and study locomotion.
Climbing behaviors of tree-dwelling critters unlock insights on early primate evolution
Researchers analyzed downward climbing behaviors in 21 small-to-medium-sized arboreal mammal species to understand early primate evolution. They found primates used tail-first and side postures more often than non-primates, suggesting upright postures evolved to adapt to tree environments.
Elephant trunk whiskers exhibit material intelligence
Researchers discovered functional gradients in elephant and cat whiskers, allowing for precise touch sensing. The stiff-to-soft transition enables elephants to navigate their environment with ease, including picking up delicate objects.
Ant societies rose by trading individual protection for collective power
Research shows that ants with less protective armor, such as cuticle investment, tend to have larger colony sizes and are more successful in terms of diversification rates. This suggests that complex societies like humans may evolve by sacrificing individual quality for collective power.
Backyard insect inspires large-scale invisibility particles production
Researchers at Penn State develop high-speed platform to produce synthetic brochosomes, complex nanostructures that make insects invisible to predators. The breakthrough enables next-gen camouflage, sensors and other advancements for humans.
New annealing method unlocks stable, high-efficiency organic solar cells
The VTA method creates an optimal internal architecture within photovoltaic material, resulting in devices with high performance and extended stability. Champion cells reached 20.5% power conversion efficiency and demonstrated improved structural organization and reduced degradation.
Sharper, straighter, stiffer, stronger: Male green hermit hummingbirds have bills evolved for fighting
Researchers found that male green hermit hummingbirds' bills are straighter (3%) and sharper (69%) than females', allowing for more efficient energy expenditure and stress resistance during fights. These differences were driven by the birds' tendency to fight for mates, rather than solely by ecological factors.
How fishes of the deep sea have evolved into different shapes
Research found that deep-sea pelagic fish exhibit a wider range of body types, while benthic species tend towards elongated, tapered shapes. The study suggests that ocean depth and environmental conditions drive evolutionary changes in fish body shape.
A ubiquitous architectural pattern in nature
Researchers have identified and classified 100 biological tilings across various taxonomic groups, providing insights into their functions and dominance. These findings could lead to novel manufacturing design challenges and bio-inspired innovations.
Researchers ‘zoom’ in for an ultra-magnified peek at shark skin
A recent study published in Integrative and Comparative Biology found that bonnethead sharks' skin undergoes significant changes as they mature, with younger sharks having fewer ridges on their denticles. These changes likely improve swimming performance and protect the skin from predators or injuries.
Ditch ‘shrink it and pink it’ approach to women’s running shoes, manufacturers urged
A study finds that women runners prioritize comfort, injury prevention, and performance when choosing running shoes, highlighting a need for sex- and gender-specific designs that accommodate female foot morphology across the lifespan. The researchers recommend moving beyond scaling down men's shoes to fit women's feet.
Study first to show if nesting heat affects sea turtle hatchling ‘IQ’
A new study by Florida Atlantic University researchers found that heat does not significantly affect the cognitive ability of sea turtle hatchlings. However, higher incubation temperatures negatively impact their physical traits, including shorter incubation durations, lower hatching success, and more frequent scute anomalies. The stud...
Changes in wing shape help small hoverflies stay aloft
Researchers found that smaller insect wing design, rather than flapping speed, enables them to generate lift and fly. The study showed proportionally longer wings and more force-efficient shape help the smallest species stay airborne.
Longer body size means more female calves for baleen whale moms
Researchers tested a popular evolutionary theory by comparing maternal length and fetal sex in over 100,000 whales. They found that the fetal sex ratio skews female for longer body size, suggesting that female calves benefit more from heritable fitness than males do. The findings contradict the Trivers-Willard hypothesis.
Prussian Blue breaks out of its cubic mold after 300 years
Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology have successfully synthesized Prussian Blue with an octahedral morphology by using a specialized solvent. The new crystal shape enhances electrochemical reactivity and stable performance in sodium-ion hybrid capacitors.
Most rodents have thumbnails instead of claws. It might help explain how they took over the world.
A study found that most rodents have thumbnails instead of claws, which helps explain how they thrived in various environments. This discovery suggests that thumbnails provide more manual dexterity than long, sharp claws, enabling rodents to exploit high-energy resources like nuts.
This common fish has an uncommon feature: Forehead teeth, used for mating
Researchers have discovered forehead teeth on spotted ratfish, which are used for mating and challenge traditional conceptions of dental history. The findings provide evidence that these unusual structures are indeed teeth, not denticles, and shed light on the evolution of oral teeth.
‘Built for cutting flesh, not resisting acidity’: sharks may be losing deadly teeth to ocean acidification
Researchers found that sharks' teeth become structurally weaker and more prone to break in acidic oceans. The study suggests that even small damage can have significant effects on these apex predators.
Ancient arthropods on the move: Unraveling the secret steps of the burgess shale trilobites
A study of Olenoides serratus trilobite limbs reveals a simpler, functional design than horseshoe crabs, with specialized appendages for walking, burrowing, and mating. The research provides new insights into the behavior and movement of ancient arthropods, offering a rare window into life over half a billion years ago.
Ancient arthropods on the move: Unraveling the secret steps of the burgess shale trilobites
Researchers mapped the range of movement in Olenoides serratus trilobite limbs, shedding light on their behavior and function. The study revealed a simpler, functional limb design with limited extension range, allowing them to walk, burrow, and forage.
New tarantula species so feisty, males evolved the longest genitalia to survive mating
Four new tarantula species have been discovered in the Arabian Peninsula and Horn of Africa, featuring extraordinary long palps on males to aid in mating. The genus Satyrex boasts a range of distinct characteristics, including bright coloration and fossorial habits.
Behavior drives morphological change during primate evolution
Early primates transitioned to grass-based diets without typical adaptations, with changes in dental morphology lagging behavioral shifts by 700,000 years. This supports the concept of behavioral drive in primate evolution, suggesting that behavior can precede and initiate morphological specialization.
GLP-1 drugs fail to provide key long-term health benefit
Research warns that GLP-1 drugs may not provide the long-term health benefit of improved heart and lung function. While they help with weight loss, patients may experience significant muscle loss, which can increase cardiovascular disease risk. Doctors are urging additional research to better understand the effects of these drugs.
Safely navigating treetops thanks to a scaly tail
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.
New 3D modeling method quantifies light-shading impact of freshwater microalgae
A novel 3D modeling method accurately quantifies the shading potential of over 800 microalgal species, affecting underwater light conditions and ecosystem balance. The study provides a comprehensive Projected Area Database for freshwater microalgae, enabling researchers to estimate the ecological impact of algal blooms.
Europe’s most complete stegosaurian skull unearthed in Teruel, Spain
A team of palaeontologists from Fundación Dinópolis has discovered a partial stegosaurian skull in Spain, revealing previously unknown aspects of the species' anatomy. The find has led to the proposal of a new evolutionary hypothesis and the definition of a new group called Neostegosauria.
A high-fat diet sets off metabolic dysfunction in cells, leading to weight gain
A high-fat diet leads to metabolic enzyme dysregulation, insulin resistance, and accumulation of reactive oxygen species in cells. Reversing these effects with antioxidants can mitigate damage.
Discovery of a novel mode of contact between somatic and germ cells in the ovaries
Researchers discovered a novel mode of contact between somatic and germ cells in the ovaries of two arthropod species, challenging the general understanding of epithelial layer function. The basement membrane, typically a barrier, is penetrated by follicle cells to establish direct contact with oocytes.
A head and a hundred tails: how a branching worm manages reproductive complexity
Researchers created first complete genetic activity map of a branching worm, revealing how it controls reproduction across its multiple body branches. The study highlights the unique genetic toolkit and challenges understanding of animal bodies' organization.
Long working hours may alter brain structure, preliminary findings suggest
Preliminary research suggests that long working hours can induce neuroadaptive changes in the brain, particularly in areas associated with emotional regulation and executive function. The study found increased brain volumes in regions such as the middle frontal gyrus, which is involved in attention and problem-solving.
Tiny new species of snail named after Picasso
A team of scientists has discovered a new species of snail, Anauchen picasso, named after artist Pablo Picasso. The unique shell shape and features make it stand out from other snails.
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.
Fossil study reveals oldest larval eyes with high-resolution vision
Researchers found highly efficient imaging systems in ancient insect larvae, comparable to modern antlions. The discovery supports earlier findings on the diversity of Cretaceous lacewings and provides the oldest fossil evidence of such eyes.
New study reveals Neanderthals experienced population crash 110,000 years ago
A new study found that Neanderthals experienced a drastic loss of genetic variation approximately 110,000 years ago, leading to their eventual extinction. The research measured the morphological diversity in semicircular canals, which revealed lower diversity in classic Neanderthals compared to pre-Neanderthals and early Neanderthals.
Are dogs really bred for function? New Chapman study challenges the assumptions about certain breeds
A new study by Nicholas Hebdon and Lindsay Waldrop found substantial overlap in skull shapes across dog breeds and functional categories, challenging the prevailing belief that certain breeds are inherently superior at specific tasks. The researchers discovered no clear evidence of morphological specialization for bite work or scent work.
Fatty muscles raise the risk of serious heart disease regardless of overall body weight
Research published in the European Heart Journal found that people with high amounts of intermuscular fat are more likely to develop coronary microvascular dysfunction and future serious heart disease. The study's lead author suggests that existing measures of obesity may not be accurate for all individuals, particularly women.
Herbivore or carnivore? – A new toolbox for the study of extinct reptiles
Researchers compiled a reference framework of isotope compositions indicating the type of diet for extant reptiles, providing a useful dataset to reconstruct the diet of fossil reptiles. The analysis showed that calcium isotope ratios are higher in insectivorous reptiles and lower in herbivores and carnivores.
Fish-friendly dentistry: New method makes oral research non-lethal
Researchers at OIST have developed a customizable method for studying detailed dental characteristics of living fish and vertebrates without harming them. This approach allows for non-destructive examination of tooth replacement and development over time, revealing valuable information on feeding habits and comparative anatomy.
Material design to enhance bioactivity of porous tantalum implants - new generation of orthopedic implants
Researchers develop novel Ta-based implants with improved biocompatibility and osseointegration properties, enabling better bone growth and stability. The designs optimize mechanical and biological requirements for optimal clinical results.
Less than 7 mm in length, this Atlantic Rainforest flea toad is the second-smallest vertebrate described in the world
Brachycephalus dacnis is the seventh species of flea toad identified in the genus Brachycephalus. The study published by a group at the State University of Campinas provides detailed information about its anatomy, skeleton, and internal organs.
Study identifies possible novel species in fish genus endemic to Neotropics
Researchers confirm 15 new species in Characidium genus, including genetic distance smaller than 2% between species with significant morphological differences. The study highlights the need for reevaluation of species classification and evolutionary history.
The dictionary of termites has been rewritten
A new robust classification system for termites has been developed through expert consensus and extensive data analyses. The updated 'dictionary' of termites resolves ambiguity in the previous system, providing a solid platform for studying termite diversification and ecosystem roles.
Two closely related species of haplodiploid spider mites interact on mountains
Researchers investigated the interaction and genetic introgression between two closely related spider mite species in Japan's mountains. The study found extensive overlapping distribution, hybrids, and genetic introgression, shedding light on speciation in haplodiploid organisms.
Discovery of structural specialization in myriapod ovaries: Challenging to a conventional view
Researchers have challenged the conventional view of myriapod ovarian morphology by discovering structural specialization in pill-millipede Hyleoglomeris japonica. The follicle epithelium, previously considered a homogenous structure, exhibits two distinct regions with enhanced and reduced metabolic activities.
New Japanese lily species identified, 1st addition to sukashiyuri group in 110 years
A new Japanese lily species, Lilium pacificum, has been identified after 110 years, revising the conventional classification into eight taxons. The plant has unique characteristics and is adapted to specific environments in Japan, offering clues for speciation studies.
Exceptionally rapid tooth development and ontogenetic changes in the feeding apparatus of the Komodo dragon
The Komodo Dragon's teeth develop and replace rapidly, with up to five replacement teeth per position in its jaws. This allows it to quickly respond to prey capture or injury, making it an ideal model for studying theropod dinosaur life history and feeding strategies.
A spinal muscle’s size and shape is linked to body fat, according to new Concordia research
A new study by Concordia researchers found a strong positive relationship between percentage body fat and echo intensity, indicating more fat within the muscle. The study also revealed differences in lumbar multifidus characteristics between male and female athletes, with females having larger LMs than males.
Unknown animals were leaving bird-like footprints in Late Triassic Southern Africa
Researchers discovered ancient bird-like footprints in Southern Africa that date back over 210 million years, 60 million years before the earliest known bird fossil. The tracks were found at multiple sites and show a mix of dinosaur and bird-like characteristics.
Morphology-based gross classification system for HCC stratification
A new study has found that different gross subtypes of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) have significantly different prognoses and molecular characteristics. The study suggests that gross classification may be valuable for developing individualized diagnosis and treatment strategies for HCC, with potential implications for patient outcomes.
New beetle species has bottle-opener shaped genitalia: Now that calls for a Carlsberg!
Researchers discovered six new species of rove beetles with unique genital shapes, including a bottle-opener like structure in one species. Climate change threatens the survival of these species due to habitat changes.
Something in the eyes: Java Sparrows in love show enhanced eye rings
Research by Hokkaido University's Masayo Soma found that Java sparrows show increased swelling in their eye rings when paired with a preferred mate. This change serves as a rapid indicator of mating readiness and plays a crucial role in communication between pair-bonded birds.
Insights into early snake evolution through brain analysis
A recent study analyzes snake brain morphology to shed light on their early evolution and adaptability. The research reveals that early snakes were fully adapted for underground living but displayed versatile behaviors, reflecting differences in diet and environment.
Garumbatitian: A new giant dinosaur in the Lower Cretacic of the Iberian Peninsula
A new sauropod dinosaur species, Garumbatitan morellensis, was discovered in the Iberian Peninsula. The fossil remains found in Sant Antoni de la Vespa exhibit unique characteristics, including a morphology similar to modern sauropods from the Late Cretaceous.
Did sabertooth tigers purr or roar?
A new study from North Carolina State University found that the shape of small bones in the throat, called hyoid bones, may be key to determining whether sabertooth tigers purred or roared. The researchers compared the anatomy of modern roaring cats and purring cats to find that the missing bones in saber-toothed tigers' hyoid structur...