Articles tagged with Reptiles
A recent study has identified 24 new species of skinks, a type of lizard, on Caribbean islands. The newly discovered species are threatened with extinction due to the introduction of invasive mongooses that have been responsible for their decline.
Four new species of miniaturized lizards have been identified in Madagascar, with some species as small as match heads. The discovery highlights the importance of conservation efforts for microendemic species threatened by deforestation.
A new study led by a University of Florida researcher verifies that the pet trade is the No. 1 cause of invasive amphibian and reptile introductions in Florida. The study documents 137 non-native species, with about 25% traced to one animal importer.
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.
A DNA-based test can identify whether a cryptosporidium is of mammalian or snake origin, with prevalence figures revealing widespread infection in popular pets like corn snakes and leopard geckos. Reptile owners must be aware of the risk of cross-species infection and the importance of regular testing to prevent the spread of disease.
Scientists and volunteers are working together to track the spread of a deadly amphibian fungus across the UK. The survey aims to identify the most at-risk species and develop strategies for conservation.
Research reveals a pattern of reptile extinctions on Greek islands, with habitat specialists and northern species most affected. The study suggests that preserving habitat corridors will enable plants and animals to migrate in response to climate change.
Researchers found that humidity helps geckos grip tighter by softening the surface of their feet, not through microscopic water bridges. The setae's increased softness strengthens contact with surfaces and makes it easier for geckos to peel their feet off.
Researchers found that lizards change their diet from ants to other prey when threatened by predators, as they move less and catch less mobile prey. The species' diet data showed a significant reduction in seed consumption and an increase in diverse food sources.
Researchers in Spain found that artificial refuges significantly improved reptile populations and diversity in Doñana National Park. The study suggests that landscape rehabilitation programs should prioritize the availability of refuges for wildlife.
Female reptiles lay eggs in communal nests, defying their solitary nature. The behavior is common among 255 lizard species and many snake and alligator species, with potential advantages including reduced nesting costs.
A decade of research in the Eastern Himalayas has uncovered over 350 new species, including a prehistoric 100-million-year-old gecko and the world's smallest deer. Climate change threatens this biological treasure trove, putting cultural and biological diversity at risk.
A new species of stinkhorn mushroom, Phallus drewesii, has been discovered on the African island of Sao Tome. The mushroom is notable for its small size, white net-like stem, and brown spore-covered head.
Researchers found that tree-dwelling lizards have a unique escape mechanism: dropping their tails to distract predators. Without their tails, the lizards tumble backwards uncontrollably, suggesting a significant ecological cost for this life-saving adaptation.
New research on Galapagos land iguanas reveals reduced genetic diversity in some populations, putting them at risk from future environmental changes. The study's findings highlight the need for effective management and conservation strategies to ensure the long-term survival of these unique reptiles.
Research from the American Museum of Natural History shows that global warming is causing species in Madagascar's mountainous north to move up tropical mountains as their habitats shift upward. The study found an average shift of 19-51 meters over a decade, linked to temperature increases of 0.1°C to 0.37°C.
The platypus genome provides a comprehensive understanding of the animal's mix of features, including duck-billed snout, venomous spur, and electroreceptors. The analysis compares the platypus genome with other mammals and birds, revealing conserved genes and traits, as well as unique characteristics such as odor receptor expansion.
A study by Dan Warner from Iowa State University found that the jacky dragon lizard thrives when born at temperatures suitable for its gender, affecting sex ratio and population viability. The research has significant implications for the species' adaptation to changing climate conditions.
A new species of long-necked, gliding reptile has been identified from CT scans of fossilized bones. The Mecistrotrachelos apeoros had curved feet, suggesting it lived in trees and exhibited gliding behavior.
Increases in aridity could lead to contractions in the distribution of nearly all species in southwest Europe, including 62% of European amphibians and reptiles. The Iberian Peninsula's role as a refugia against extinctions during past glacial periods may be at risk with projected climate changes.
A new Chinese fossil discovery sheds light on the evolution of protorosaurs and their long-necked marine reptiles. The Dinocephalosaurus species' 25 cervical vertebrae neck may have enabled a unique suction-based feeding method, allowing it to capture prey more effectively in water.
Scientists have discovered a new species of sea reptile, Dinocephalosaurus orientalis, from the Guanling Formation in southeast China. The creature had a long-necked body, measuring over five feet, with relatively stiff neck and short limbs, suggesting it was adapted for life in the water.
A study found nearly 12% of salmonellosis cases in children under 5 were reptile-associated. Experts recommend keeping reptiles out of households with young children to prevent infection.
Research reveals that human activity has reduced natural habitats, making it difficult for species to adapt to climate change. Mobile species like birds and butterflies are more likely to survive, while sessile species like reptiles and amphibians are at high risk of extinction.
The discovery of the Jaragua Sphaero, a lizard measuring about three quarters of an inch from snout to tail, highlights the Caribbean's unique species diversity. Rapid population growth, agricultural practices, and lack of access to data contribute to the region's biodiversity loss.
The newly discovered species, Sphaerodactylus ariasae, is the smallest of all 23,000 species of reptiles, birds, and mammals. The tiny lizard can curl up on a dime or stretch out on a quarter, measuring only 16mm long.
Partners in Amphibians and Reptile Conservation (PARC) received an Environmental Merit Award from the US Environmental Protection Agency Region 4. The organization, formed in 1999, has made significant contributions to long-term conservation of amphibians, reptiles, and their habitats through public/private partnerships.
The article highlights the growing crisis of reptile extinction, citing habitat loss, invasive species, and human activities as major threats. Dr. Whit Gibbons' research suggests that reptiles are in greater danger of extinction than amphibians due to similar but more severe impacts from environmental factors.
Yale researchers have found that Lonesome George, the last remaining male Galapagos tortoise, has close genetic affinities to subspecies on islands farthest from his home. The study suggests that these distant island tortoises may be a suitable mate for George, increasing the chances of successful breeding.