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Oil and gas infrastructure hurting nesting birds in globally important breeding area in arctic Alaska

A WCS-led study found that nest survival decreased significantly near high-use oil and gas infrastructure, impacting millions of migratory bird species. Factors associated with industrial development, including habitat degradation, noise, air pollution, and increased predator populations, contributed to the negative effects.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalJournal of Avian Biology·TypeObservational study·DateMay 2, 2023

3D radar scan provides clues about threats to iconic Alaskan glacier

Researchers used a 3D radar scan to reveal that Malaspina Glacier is undercut by channels, making it more vulnerable to melting and potentially contributing significantly to global sea level rise. The glacier's bulk sits below sea level, and its coastal barrier erodes, allowing ocean water to access the glacier and accelerate its retreat.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalJournal of Geophysical Research Earth Surface·TypeImaging analysis·DateMar 17, 2023

Finding the tipping point for coastal wetlands

A recent study by Duke University researchers identified a critical salinity threshold of 265 parts per million sodium for understory plants in coastal wetlands. Above this level, the marsh floor undergoes significant changes, with rushes and reeds dominating over salt-tolerant plants.

SourceDuke University·JournalPlant Ecology·TypeObservational study·DateJan 25, 2022

Florida harvester ants regularly relocate

Florida harvester ants exhibit annual nest relocation behavior, constructing similar subterranean nests about once a year. The frequency and size of relocations vary among colonies, with smaller ones relocating more often than larger ones.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 19, 2014

Caltech geobiologists discover unique 'magnetic death star' fossil

Researchers found giant magnetic crystals, unlike anything previously seen, in fossil layers deposited during the Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum, an ancient global-warming event. The unique 'Magnetic Death Star' fossils provide insights into radical environmental transformation and may hold clues for understanding future climate change.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 22, 2008