South America
Articles tagged with South America
URI master’s student Emilio Pedroza Lopez earns prestigious NSF Graduate Research Fellowship
Chilean wasp named in honor of Sir David Attenborough’s 100th birthday
Scientists describe new genus and species of parasitic wasp, Attenboroughnculus tau, found in Natural History Museum collections. The discovery highlights the scientific value of museum collections and showcases the unique characteristics of this rare subfamily.
The bacterium responsible for scarlet fever was not introduced to the Americas by Europeans.
A pre-Columbian Bolivian mummy has been found to harbor the ancient Streptococcus pyogenes bacterium, a pathogen responsible for scarlet fever. The genome of this centuries-old bacterium was reconstructed from its DNA, revealing genetic variants that may no longer exist today.
New glassfrog species named for first Ecuadorian woman to win a gold medal
Researchers have discovered a new species of glassfrog in Ecuador named after Neisi Dajomes, the first Ecuadorian woman to win an Olympic gold medal. The Dajomes glassfrog has uniformly green skin with a pebbly texture and a white membrane covered in light-reflecting cells on its underside.
Pesticides and cancer: A study reveals the biological mechanisms behind an environmental health risk
A study published in Nature Health reveals a strong link between pesticide exposure and the risk of developing certain cancers. The research shows that pesticide exposure increases the risk of cancer by 150% in areas with high levels of pollution, and highlights early biological effects before cancer develops.
Malaria-transmitting mosquitoes in South America evolving to evade insecticides
A new study by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that Anopheles darlingi mosquitoes are evolving to evade insecticides, threatening malaria control efforts in South America. The study sequenced complete genomes of over 1,000 mosquitoes across six countries and identified resistance-related genes.
Bird poop powered the rise of the Chincha Kingdom, archaeologists find
A new study reveals that seabird guano was a driving force behind the Chincha Kingdom's sociopolitical expansion on Peru's coast. The nutrient-rich bird droppings boosted corn yields and supercharged agriculture, fueling the kingdom's economy, trade, population growth, and regional influence.
Shorter treatment regimens are safe options for preventing active tuberculosis
A one- and three-month antibiotic treatment regimens both had few adverse reactions and high rates of completion in preventing active tuberculosis, says a new study published in PLOS Medicine. The regimens were deemed successful and neither proved superior to the other.
Are returning Pumas putting Patagonian Penguins at risk? New study reveals the likelihood
A new study reveals that more than 7,000 adult Magellanic penguins were killed by pumas in just four years, posing a significant threat to the penguin population. The research suggests that high puma predation rates could exacerbate reproductive decline and juvenile mortality, ultimately putting the colony at risk of extinction.
Pinochet’s prisoners were tormented with music but still found solace in it, a new book reveals
A new book, 'Music and Political Imprisonment in Pinochet’s Chile', exposes the brutal realities of torture during the dictatorship through the power of music. Survivors like Ana María Jiménez recount how they used songs to comfort each other and resist their captors.
Urban sprawl could deny 220 million people access to clean water by 2050
A study analyzing over 100 cities in Asia, Africa, and Latin America found that compact urban planning is crucial for delivering water and sanitation to growing populations. The research suggests that if cities spread outward rather than building more densely, access to clean water and basic sanitation could be significantly impacted.
Newly discovered predatory “warrior” was a precursor of the crocodile – and although it lived before the early dinosaurs, it looked just like one
A newly discovered carnivorous lizard, Tainrakuasuchus bellator, lived 240 million years ago and resembled a dinosaur due to its armour-plated body. The species was among the top predators of its time in Brazil during the Triassic Period.
Lessons from a historic quest to heal spider bites are helping to fight neglected tropical diseases today
A historic campaign in Argentina developed antivenom for black widow spider bites, leading to a model for pharmaceutical autonomy. This approach is crucial for fighting neglected tropical diseases globally.
DNA evidence closes gaps in global conservation databases for Amazon wildlife
Recent studies using portable nanopore sequencing technologies document and sequence Amazonian wildlife, increasing representation of Peruvian species in global genetic libraries. This initiative empowers conservationists to generate their own data, making informed decisions to combat species extinction.
Europlanet Prize for Public Engagement 2025 Awarded to RECA Educación
RECA Educación, a Colombian non-profit network, has been awarded the Europlanet Prize for Public Engagement 2025. The organization brings science education to schools and communities in Colombia, reaching hundreds of schools across the country.
Palaeontology: South American amber deposit ‘abuzz’ with ancient insects
Researchers have identified 21 bio-inclusions of ancient insect orders and plant fossils in Ecuador's Genoveva quarry, shedding light on a previously unknown ecosystem. The discovery provides a unique snapshot of the Cretaceous era and its biodiversity in the Southern Hemisphere.
Hotspots of mosquito-borne disease risk predicted in Brazil in coming decades
A new study predicts significant increase in mosquito-borne disease risk in Brazil by 2080, with higher temperatures and changing rainfall patterns contributing to the issue. Climate action could help mitigate this risk, reducing future disease outbreaks.
Cardiovascular disease risk rises in Mexico, despite improved cholesterol control
A recent study analyzing data from the Mexican National Health and Nutrition Surveys (2016-2023) found that cardiovascular disease risk increased in Mexico between 2016 and 2023. The average 10-year CVD risk was estimated at 9.5% using region-specific tools, highlighting the need for accurate models to predict local disease burden.
New research: Deforestation rates on recognized Afro-descendant lands in Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador and Suriname are as much as 55% lower than the norm
Afro-descendant peoples in four Amazon countries show remarkable achievements in environmental stewardship, according to new research. Their lands significantly exceeded the norm for conservation value, with 56% being top 5% globally for biodiversity.
Ancient DNA reveals new clues about the incredible journey of dogs in the Americas
A new study on ancient dog DNA shows that dogs slowly spread southward alongside early farming societies in the Americas. The research found that all pre-contact dogs in Central and South America descended from a single maternal lineage.
Cotton virus circulated undetected for nearly 20 years, study finds
Researchers found cotton leafroll dwarf virus (CLRDV) infecting plants in southern US states as early as 2006, contradicting the assumption that it emerged more recently. The study used modern data-mining tools to uncover hidden threats and highlights the importance of maintaining accessible databases for disease surveillance.
Prestigious research award goes to 23 UTA scholars
The University of Texas at Arlington's McNair Scholars Program has selected 23 students to pursue academic research careers. The program provides opportunities for students to work with internationally recognized researchers and gain essential skills for graduate studies.
Ancient Andes society used hallucinogens to strengthen social order
The study found direct evidence of psychoactive plant use in ancient Chavín de Huántar, Peru, revealing exclusive rituals that reinforced the social hierarchy. The use of hallucinogens created an air of mystique and control, convincing leaders of their mystical power.
Giant croclike carnivore fossils found in the Caribbean
A research team discovered fossilized teeth and vertebrae in the Dominican Republic, confirming that large, terrestrial predators like sebecids once inhabited the Caribbean. This finding supports the GAARlandia hypothesis, suggesting temporary land bridges allowed animals to travel between South America and the Caribbean.
Soil conditions significantly increase rainfall in world’s megastorm hotspots
A new study by the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology reveals that soil moisture levels can increase rainfall area and amount in megastorm hotspots globally by up to 30%. This contrast results from atmospheric changes, enabling communities to better adapt to climate change.
UTA helps deliver major science library to Ecuador
The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) has donated thousands of natural history books and journals to Ecuador's National Biodiversity Institute, expanding its research and education programs. The donation, valued at over 8,570 books, 2,000 journals, and 500 articles, will support the work of biodiversity specialists, students, and ...
Hidden ‘highways’ connect Brazil’s rainforests
Scientists have found a consistent pattern of dispersal events where Inga trees migrated from the Amazon to the Atlantic rainforest, highlighting the importance of conserving riverside forests. The study's findings suggest that these 'highways' played a crucial role in shaping the history of biodiversity in the region.
New twist in mystery of dinosaurs' origin
Researchers suggest earliest dinosaurs emerged in hot, arid environments of low-latitude Gondwana, filling gaps in fossil record. This finding provides a potential origin for the iconic creatures, contradicting previous assumptions.
Partially domesticated maize is found in caves in Minas Gerais state, Brazil
Brazilian scientists have discovered ancient maize specimens in caves that exhibit primitive traits similar to those of the ancestral plant from Mexico, where domestication began. The findings support the theory that domestication may also occurred in South America.
Recycled pacemakers function as well as new devices, international study suggests
A University of Michigan-led study suggests that recycled pacemakers can be used safely and effectively in patients with life-threatening cardiac conditions. The international clinical trial involved nearly 300 people across seven countries and found no significant differences in pacemaker function up to 90 days after the procedure.
Study raises concerns about the climate change and global conflict crises
A recent study has found that climate change is closely linked to global conflict crises, particularly in understudied regions such as South America, Oceania, and Southeast Asia. The research highlights the need for integrated peacebuilding and climate adaptation efforts to address these compounding issues.
UT Arlington biologist discovers new species of gecko
A team of biologists at UT Arlington has discovered a new species of gecko, Pseudogonatodes fuscofortunatus, with distinct skeletal features and genetic data. The discovery highlights the unique characteristics of this tiny lizard, found in the Paria Peninsula of Venezuela.
Fossil of huge terror bird offers new information about wildlife in South America 12 million years ago
A fossilized leg bone of a massive terror bird, found in Colombia, provides new information about the region's wildlife during the Miocene epoch. The discovery suggests that this bird species was relatively uncommon among other animals in the area.
Tardigrades, microscopic animals, are less cosmopolitan and more diverse than has been thought
Researchers at UNICAMP suggest that many species thought to be cosmopolitan may actually be misidentified, leading to a greater diversity of tardigrade species in Central and South America. The study proposes ignoring historical records and focusing on recent descriptions to better understand the species' distribution patterns.
Study finds mutualistic relationships changing with climate
Climate change could be disrupting symbiotic relationships between insects and plants, with urban areas showing less herbivory despite lacking protective ants. The study found that urban plants were not decimated without their normal protector ants, suggesting alternative defense mechanisms.
Political parties in South America relied on will of the people to implement major economic reforms, analysis shows
A study by University of Exeter researcher Dr Pedro Perfeito da Silva explores the impact of popular resistance and union support on economic policies in Ecuador and El Salvador. The findings suggest that administrations reliant on strong public backing implemented stricter capital controls, while those with less support adopted more n...
Climate change: Heat, drought, and fire risk increasing in South America
The study found that South America is experiencing a significant increase in the co-occurrence of multiple climate extremes, including heat, drought, and flammable conditions. This has amplified impacts on ecosystems, economies, and human health, particularly affecting vulnerable rural and indigenous populations.
Central America could play troubling new role in cocaine trade
A new study finds nearly half of northern Central America is suitable for growing coca, a lucrative cash crop. The region's favorable climate and soil conditions make it an attractive location for criminal groups seeking to expand their operations.
New study unveils 16,000 years of climate history in the tropical Andes
Researchers at Brown University have created the first high-resolution temperature record covering 16,000 years in the tropical Andes. The study highlights the roles of carbon dioxide levels and ocean currents as key drivers of temperature fluctuations.
Oropouche virus: More questions than answers
Recent viral spread northward highlights unanswered questions about Oropouche virus's ecologic and pathologic characteristics. Research on the molecular virology and pathology of this arthropod-borne virus is reviewed, but crucial knowledge gaps remain.
Evidence for butchery of giant armadillo-like mammals in Argentina 21,000 years ago
A study published in PLOS ONE found cut marks on fossils of a glyptodont, a giant relative of armadillos, that are consistent with known marks made by stone tools. The placement of these marks indicates a butchering sequence targeting areas of dense flesh.
Texas A&M research collaboration uncovers how domestic rabbits become feral in the wild
Researchers at Texas A&M University uncovered how domestic rabbits become feral in the wild through natural selection. They found that all European, South American, and Oceania rabbits had a mix of feral and domestic DNA, explaining why they quickly adapted to living in the wild.
We can’t distinguish wild coca plants from those grown to make cocaine
A new study reveals that coca plants grown for cocaine production are difficult to distinguish from wild-growing varieties based on leaf shape and size. The researchers used genetic analysis to estimate when different coca species and varieties originated, suggesting a longer evolutionary history than previously thought.
100 years later: a new velvet worm species from Ecuador
A new species of Ecuadorian velvet worm, Oroperipatus tiputini, has been described after over 100 years, expanding knowledge of these rare animals. The discovery highlights the importance of biodiversity conservation efforts in the Yasuní Biosphere Reserve.
Unraveling the origin and global spread of the potato blight pathogen
A new study reconstructs the global migration history of Phytophthora infestans, challenging the common theory of its Mexican origin. The research found that P. infestans likely originated in the South American Andes and then spread globally.
Blast from the past
Researchers have discovered a new source of resistance to the devastating wheat blast disease, leveraging a gene that also protects against powdery mildew. The Pm4 gene, found in European wheat varieties, confers dual protection against the pathogen and its effector molecule AVR-Rmg8.
Study proposes novel hypothesis to explain occupation of Brazil’s southern coast 2,000 years ago
Archaeologists have re-analyzed material from the Galheta IV site in Laguna, Santa Catarina state, and found that the sambaqui builders were not replaced by ancestors of the Southern Jê. The study suggests that the sambaqui builders lived there from birth and had different funerary practices and pottery styles.
Computer scientists of Mainz University and the University of Chile cooperate to establish a reliable detection of programming errors
Researchers from Mainz University and the University of Chile are developing a new technique called Gradual Abstract Interpretation to improve program analysis methods and detect security vulnerabilities in WebAssembly. They aim to identify and address security vulnerabilities while eliminating redundant protective measures.
Florida fossil porcupine solves a prickly dilemma 10-million years in the making
A rare Florida fossil has helped scientists reconcile the long-standing debate over North America's sole porcupine species. The porcupine's unique adaptations, such as its insulating fur and modified jaw structure, demonstrate the evolutionary pressures it faced in transitioning from tropical forests to colder environments.
Political elites take advantage of anti-partisan protests to disrupt politics
New research from the University of Notre Dame reveals that protest movements against political parties can inadvertently empower politicians who use them to disrupt the status quo. The study analyzed 12 case studies across Europe, Asia, and North and South America between 2008 and 2016, finding varying outcomes including factional cha...
Ancient people hunted extinct elephants at Tagua Tagua Lake in Chile 12,000 years ago
Early hunter-gatherers in central Chile regularly visited Tagua Tagua Lake between 12,440-12,550 years old to hunt ancient elephants and process other local resources. The discovery of the fossil remains of a gomphothere at the site provides insights into the subsistence strategies of early humans during the Late Pleistocene.
Rock solid evidence: Angola geology reveals prehistoric split between South America and Africa
A research team from Southern Methodist University has found evidence of the splitting of South America and Africa in ancient rocks and fossils in Angola. The study provides a clear visual representation of the continents moving apart and the formation of the South Atlantic Ocean, offering insights into Earth's past.
International group runs simulations capable of describing South America's climate with unprecedented accuracy
A team of over 100 scientists from Brazil and the US ran high-resolution simulations of South America's past and future climate using a weather research and forecasting model. The goal is to better understand hydroclimatic processes and inform adaptation measures for millions affected by climate change.
Amphibians use scream inaudible to humans for self-defense against predators, study suggests
Researchers recorded the first documented case of an amphibian using ultrasound for self-defense against predators. The frog's distress call has a frequency range of 7 kHz to 44 kHz, inaudible to humans. This behavior is likely used to scare away potential predators, such as bats and rodents.
AMS Science Preview: “Outdoor days,” lightning, air pollution
A new study finds that extreme tropical cyclone rainfall is increasing across the continental US, while climate warming restricts 'outdoor days' for people living in developing countries. Additionally, air pollution increases mortality risks from heat, especially when combined with other factors like wildfires and reduced aerosols.
Avian influenza virus is adapting to spread to marine mammals
A study found that the avian influenza virus H5N1 has adapted to spread between birds and marine mammals, with nearly identical genome sequences detected in four sea lions, one fur seal, and a tern. The virus's ability to infect birds remains unchanged, while its transmission among marine mammals is concerning.
Panama Canal expansion rewrites history of world’s most ecologically diverse bats
A new discovery in Panama has uncovered the oldest known leaf-nosed bat fossils, preserved 20-million years ago. The findings suggest that these mammals may have originated in North America, contradicting previous theories that they came from South America.
Giant new snake species identified in the Amazon
A new species of giant anaconda, Eunectes akayima, has been discovered in the Amazon by a team of scientists led by Professor Bryan Fry. The anaconda measures up to 6.3 meters long and weighs around 500 kilograms, making it one of the largest known species of anacondas.
UW anthropologists’ research unveils early stone plaza in the Andes
Researchers discovered a 4,750-year-old circular plaza with monumental megalithic stones in northern Peru's Callacpuma archaeological site. The structure dates back to the Late Preceramic Period and is one of the earliest examples of such architecture in the Americas.