Biodiversity

Two important concepts in evolutionary biology, mutualism and altruism, were first made famous by the colorful anarchist prince Peter Kropotkin. He argued that cooperation could be an equally powerful driver of evolution as competition.

In the forbidding expanse of East Antarctica, where frigid winds and nutrient-poor soils dominate the landscape, a groundbreaking study overturns long-held assumptions about microbial life’s resilience and diversity. Recent research conducted in the Larsemann Hills, a particularly austere region in continental Antarctica, unveils a surprisingly complex and abundant microbial ecosystem thriving on weathered glacial debris. […]

In the shadowy depths of Bermuda’s intricate limestone cave network, scientists have unveiled a remarkable discovery that enriches our understanding of subterranean marine biodiversity. An international team of researchers from the University of Cambridge, the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences, and the Senckenberg am Meer German Centre for Marine Biodiversity Research have identified a previously […]

Bermuda's Walsingham cave system harbors a wide diversity of cave-dwelling animals not found anywhere else in the world. Now, one more joins their ranks as researchers at the University of Cambridge, the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences and Senckenberg am Meer German Center for Marine Biodiversity Research report the discovery of a new copepod species.

Located about 600 kilometers off the coast of West Africa, the Cape Verde Archipelago is a biodiversity hotspot in the middle of the open Atlantic. Despite the generally oligotrophic environment, the waters around the islands are teeming with whales, dolphins, and large schools of fish.

As the planet continues to warm at an unprecedented rate, the urgent need to accurately predict ecological changes and patterns in biodiversity becomes increasingly critical. A groundbreaking study led by researchers at Rice University emphasizes a largely overlooked factor in ecological forecasting: the sex-specific responses of dioecious plants to climate change. Published recently in the […]

As global warming alters ecosystems, the need to predict the reorganization of Earth's biodiversity has become urgent. New research, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, suggests that neglecting the ecological differences between male and female plants can lead to inaccurate biodiversity forecasts.

Worldwide, coastal areas are squeezed between a rising sea level on one end and human structures on the other. The distance between a sandy coastline and the first human structures averages less than 400 meters around the world. And the narrower a coastline is, the lower its biodiversity as well. That is shown by the thesis that coastal ecologist Eva Lansu will defend at the University of Groningen on May 20.

ROME — At the age of 57, Eventir Cal owes his continued livelihood to the unlikeliest of allies: bees. For many years, Eventir has cultivated a mix of crops to feed his family of nine. Whether maize, beans, squash or vegetables, he spent most of his life using the practice of intercropping as part of […] The post Bees for Biodiversity in Belize appeared first on Morning Ag Clips.

The key to understanding how climate change affects local biodiversity might lie with the young, scientists have recently discovered.

A study has shown scientific knowledge on the conservation of endangered species is often overlooked when not presented in English.

A University of Queensland study has shown scientific knowledge on the conservation of endangered species is often overlooked when not presented in English. The research is published in Conservation Biology.

The Horizon 2020-funded SHOWCASE project has recently unveiled a significant advancement in promoting biodiversity integration within European agriculture through the publication of four in-depth practice abstracts on the EU CAP Network platform. This development marks an important stride in disseminating actionable knowledge designed to support farmers in incorporating biodiversity-friendly measures within their farming systems while […]

Shrub fringes on the edges of forests and fields protect animal species and have a positive effect on biodiversity, reports a research team from the University of Würzburg.

The retreat of the planet's glaciers is one of the most visible and dramatic indicators of the far-reaching impact of climate change on the world's ecosystems.

Pink salmon, Purple Asian clams, marine invertebrates that form spaghetti-like colonies and a nematode worm that causes extensive deaths of trees are among the new entries in experts' watchlist of invasive non-native species that could threaten Great Britain in the next 10 years. The latest version of the watchlist again includes known problem species such as the yellow-legged (Asian) hornet, raccoon and twoleaf watermilfoil.

Pink salmon, purple Asian clams, marine invertebrates that form spaghetti-like colonies and a nematode worm that causes extensive deaths of trees are among the new entries in an experts' watchlist of invasive non-native species that could threaten Great Britain in the next 10 years.

In a remarkable study that brings new insights into the interplay between floral traits and pollinator behavior, researchers at the John Innes Centre have revisited a puzzling case of biodiversity involving red Mimulus species, commonly known as monkeyflowers. Nestled in a western region of the United States, populations of Mimulus cardinalis and Mimulus verbenaceus exhibit […]

Two recent studies published in Biological Conservation and Nature Reviews Earth & Environment, led by researchers from the Leibniz Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries (IGB) and the Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, highlight the profound impacts of hydropower on biodiversity in river channels and at the land-water surface.

A new study suggests the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to rapidly analyze vast amounts of biodiversity data could revolutionize conservation efforts by enabling scientists and policymakers to make better-informed decisions.

Passive acoustic monitoring of biodiversity involves capturing the sounds of animals emitted intentionally or unintentionally in a wide variety of ecosystems, using acoustic recorders. It is used to monitor cetaceans, numerous insects and crustaceans, bats and birds, frogs, as well as a large number of fish and other mammals, in order to understand their behavior, distribution and activities.

Some years ago, scientists examining wild plants in a western corner of the United States encountered a curiously colorful example of biodiversity.

Could farmers get money for protecting birds or plants? That's the hope of the European Union, which is seeking to monetize biodiversity by creating a market for "nature credits".

The intensification of existing farmland can sometimes be more harmful to local biodiversity than expanding the area covered by agricultural land, finds a new study.

The number of species does not increase evenly when going from local ecosystems to continental scales -- a phenomenon ecologists have recognized for decades. Now, an international team of scientists has developed a new theory to explain the three distinct phases typical of species distributions across scales. The theory may be crucial for estimating how many species are lost when habitats are destroyed.

The intensification of existing farmland can sometimes be more harmful to local biodiversity than expanding the area covered by agricultural land, finds a new study led by University College London (UCL) researchers.

Nature is the foremost international weekly scientific journal in the world and is the flagship journal for Nature Portfolio. It publishes the finest peer-reviewed research in all fields of science and technology on the basis of its originality, importance, interdisciplinary interest, timeliness, accessibility, elegance and surprising conclusions. Nature publishes landmark papers, award winning news, leading comment and expert opinion on important, topical scientific news and events that enable readers to share the latest discoveries in science and evolve the discussion amongst the global scientific community.

A groundbreaking new study led by researchers at University College London (UCL) dissects the long-standing debate surrounding agricultural expansion and intensification, revealing that the ecological impact on biodiversity is far more intricate than previously believed. Contrary to the prevailing assumption that intensifying production on existing farmland is uniformly less harmful than converting natural habitats into […]

The number of species does not increase evenly when going from local ecosystems to continental scales—a phenomenon ecologists have recognized for decades. Now, an international team of scientists, including researchers from the German Center for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) and the Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg (MLU), has developed a new theory to explain the three distinct phases typical of species distributions across scales.

Rapid climate change is upending plant life in the Arctic. A new study in Nature shows how one of the most fragile ecosystems on Earth is changing as warming is up to four times faster in the Arctic than on Earth on average. Scientists around the world have been studying the biological changes in more than 2,000 experimental plots in the northern polar region for 40 years.

Although many conservationists believe biodiversity is intrinsically valuable, the protection of biodiversity has also been argued for on the basis that diversity makes ecosystems healthier and more stable. But are highly diverse ecosystems more stable and productive than ecosystems with low diversity?

The latest update on the state of New Zealand's environment paints a concerning outlook for marine environments, especially amid the increasing push to use the marine estate for economic gain.

Canada's biodiversity is in decline. Globally, climate change, urbanization, overexploitation of resources and habitat loss are combining to drive biodiversity loss across all ecosystems.

As Europe grapples with the accelerating impacts of climate change on its native forests, a seemingly promising solution has emerged in the form of the North American Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii). Renowned for its rapid growth and adaptability, the Douglas-fir is increasingly being considered as a climate-resilient alternative to the continent’s traditional tree species. However, the […]

Diverse, natural landscapes cost less to maintain and provide a wide array of unexpected financial, social and cultural benefits.

Ecologists are investigating the decline of insect populations in the world's tropical forests. Insects, the most abundant and diverse group of animals on Earth, are experiencing alarming declines, prompting this research effort.

The European Union's Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 aims to halt biodiversity loss and restore ecosystems, but what does this mean for Europe's wood supply? In a new study, researchers examine how different modes of implementing the strategy's conservation targets could influence forestry and the wood-based bioeconomy in the EU.

Drastic declines in biodiversity due to human activities present risks to understanding animal behaviors such as tool use, according to new research. Shrinking animal populations make the study of these behaviors increasingly difficult, underscoring the urgency of targeted conservation efforts and inclusive conservation strategies. Action is needed not only for research, but also to respect our shared cultural heritage with animal species.

In a world increasingly shaped by human activities, the rapid deterioration of our natural environment poses a significant challenge to biodiversity. Research conducted by scientists from the University of Victoria and the prestigious Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology reveals that this decline transcends mere numbers; it undermines our understanding of animal behavior, particularly in […]

Insects dominate animal species diversity yet face many threats from anthropogenic drivers of change. Many features of insect ecology make them a challenging group, and the fragmented state of knowledge compromises our ability to make general statements ...

Our environment is changing rapidly, largely as a result of human activities, leading to a significant decline in biodiversity. According to researchers from the University of Victoria and the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, this decline does not only affect animal life, but also our understanding of their behavior, including tool use.

A predictive model suggests that seabirds and marine mammals forage in the same areas where wind potential is most significant and that their populations may be at risk if wind farms are built there.

Diving beetles (Dytiscidae) maintain the balance of pond ecosystems. They feed on other aquatic organisms, such as mosquito larvae, and form part of the diet of larger animals, including fish, amphibians, and birds. Having such a crucial role in the food chain of ponds, they are a good indicator of biodiversity.

IRVING, TX – Agroforestry involves growing trees alongside crops or livestock to create a more diverse and resilient farm. It’s a practical, proven way to boost your land’s productivity while solving challenges like poor soil, water runoff and extreme weather. Mixing trees into your operation brings in more plant and animal life, which naturally improves […] The post What Role Does Agroforestry Play in Enhancing Biodiversity on Farms? appeared first on Morning Ag Clips.

A recent study published in the journal Nature has brought to light the alarming extent of the negative effects that human activities have on the biodiversity of ecosystems situated hundreds of kilometers away from human development. Led by a research collaboration from the University of Tartu, this extensive research quantified the health of ecosystems across […]

Scientists should experiment with creative ways of communicating their work to inspire action to protect the natural world, researchers say.

The Burren region of County Clare, Ireland, is famous for its distinctive limestone habitat, coastal landscape, rich wildlife and unusual archaeology. Several hundred farmers also manage livestock on this land.

In a review published in the journal Oxford Open Climate Change, top scientists issued an urgent warning that fossil fuels and the fossil fuel industry are driving interlinked crises that threaten people, wildlife, and a livable future.

Subalpine and boreal moorlands are ecosystems that contribute to climate stability by reducing excess carbon as well as acting to help regulate the climate—both invaluable properties in a time of advancing climate change. Therefore, understanding how to maintain these communities in their natural state is imperative. However, the underlying mechanisms of community stability and how factors such as biodiversity within these communities affect their long-term stability is still not well understood.

Stanford scientists found that dramatic climate changes after the Great Dying enabled a few marine species to spread globally, leading to worldwide biological sameness. Scientists don’t call it the “Great Dying” for nothing. Around 252 million years ago, more than 80% of all marine species disappeared during the end-Permian mass extinction—the most extreme event of [...]

The Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) has enabled a simple, easy-to-use service for creating and downloading species occurrence cubes based on GBIF-mediated data. The service enables users to select their geographic, temporal and taxonomic dimensions of interest to generate customized reports summarizing occurrences in a format suitable for use in biodiversity models and indicators. Its implementation is part of the work of the Horizon Europe project B-Cubed (Biodiversity Building Blocks for Policy).

Humans are having a highly detrimental impact on biodiversity worldwide. Not only is the number of species declining, but the composition of species communities is also changing. This is one of the largest studies ever conducted on this topic.

Biodiversity is in dire peril as human activities exert unprecedented pressures on ecosystems around the globe. A recent study conducted by the Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology (Eawag) and the University of Zurich highlights the catastrophic consequences of human intervention on species diversity. This expansive research, which has been published in the […]

Humans are having a highly detrimental impact on biodiversity worldwide. Not only is the number of species declining, but the composition of species communities is also changing. These are the findings of a study by Eawag and the University of Zurich published in Nature. It is one of the largest studies ever conducted on this topic.

A new study co-authored by researchers at Indiana University sheds light on how the forces that shape mountain ranges also influence the evolution of species. In the study, "Direct effects of mountain uplift and topography on biodiversity," published in Science, researchers found that biodiversity increases as mountains rise, suggesting that geological processes play a direct role in the shaping of life on Earth.

The study—led by Brad Martin, a Flinders University Ph.D. candidate, with colleagues from Flinders' College of Science and Engineering—assessed the effects of introduced, reef-forming Pacific oysters (Magallana gigas), within a temperate Australian mangrove-dominated estuary (the Port River-Barker Inlet Estuary) and how they influenced both intertidal fish and invertebrate communities, and fish foraging behavior.

While both species richness and ecosystem stability increase with area, how these scaling patterns are linked remains unclear. Our theoretical and empirical analyses of plant and fish communities show that the spatial scaling of ecosystem stability is ...

A major review of over 67,000 animal species has found that while the natural world continues to face a biodiversity crisis, targeted conservation efforts are helping bring many species back from the brink of extinction.

Conservation Efforts Yield Hope Amid Global Biodiversity Crisis The world is facing an unprecedented biodiversity crisis, with alarming statistics highlighting the plight of numerous species. A staggering 28% of over 160,000 assessed species are at risk of extinction, primarily due to human activities that disrupt ecosystems and habitats. However, a monumental study of over 67,000 […]

A major review of over 67,000 animal species has found that while the natural world continues to face a biodiversity crisis, targeted conservation efforts are helping bring many species back from the brink of extinction.

Scientists have long known Fiordland's marine habitats are home to a diverse range of species, from bright orange cup corals to huge black corals. A project to survey and catalogue these habitats is now underway to help support evidence-based management of this unique environment.

ANYONE WHO has heard of, or even better visited, Chanticleer Garden in Pennsylvania knows that it’s home to some of the country’s most exceptional examples of horticultural creativity and innovation. A multi-year biodiversity survey of the Chanticleer property has revealed that it’s also home to more than 1,000 species of insects, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and even fish, who apparently all agree that it’s quite the attractive and compelling space, a garden’s biodiversity and how it can inform us to fine-tune our plant choices and horticultural practices is our subject today. I spoke with Bill Thomas (below), Chanticleer’s executive director and head gardener, and Matthew Sarver, founder of Sarver Ecological, which conducted the just-published diversity survey at the renowned public garden in Wayne, Pa., from 2020 through 2024, to learn about what they’ve learned and what those insights are inspiring next in the gardens at Chanticleer. (Above, a

Recovered grasslands need more than 75 years of continuous management to regain their biodiversity because specialized pollinators are slow to return. Kobe University's finding underscores the importance of preserving old grasslands as reservoirs of biodiversity, even if it is just as ski slopes.

New research shows that farms are yet to realise the full potential of the opportunity presented by the biodiversity net gain (BNG) obligati...

Large, undisturbed forests are better for harboring biodiversity than fragmented landscapes, according to recent research. Ecologists agree that habitat loss and the fragmentation of forests reduces biodiversity in the remaining fragments. But ecologists don't agree whether it's better to focus on preserving many smaller, fragmented tracts of land or larger, continuous landscapes. The study comes to a clear conclusion.

A new study from McGill University researchers suggests the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to rapidly analyze vast amounts of biodiversity data could revolutionize conservation efforts by enabling scientists and policymakers to make better-informed decisions.

Large, undisturbed forests have emerged as superior habitats for supporting biodiversity when compared to fragmented landscapes, according to recent research conducted by scientists at the University of Michigan. This study brings clarity to a long-standing debate regarding the most effective strategies for conserving biodiversity in increasingly fragmented habitats. Though ecologists widely agree on the detrimental […]

Large, undisturbed forests are better for harboring biodiversity than fragmented landscapes, according to University of Michigan research. Ecologists agree that habitat loss and the fragmentation of forests reduces biodiversity in the remaining fragments. But ecologists don't agree whether it's better to focus on preserving many smaller, fragmented tracts of land or larger, continuous landscapes.

The Biodiversity Data Journal (BDJ), renowned for its open-access academic contributions, has recently launched a new portal through the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF). This significant advancement marks BDJ as the second scholarly title to leverage the hosted portals service provided by GBIF, an international initiative working to ensure that biodiversity data is openly accessible […]

A University of Oxford study has determined that the widely used tools available to businesses for assessing their biodiversity impacts depend on broad assumptions and can have large uncertainties that are poorly understood or communicated. If used appropriately, they can be powerful tools to help guide effective action to address biodiversity loss—but if not, they can lead to misguided effort and can be insufficient for robust biodiversity strategy design.

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Oxford highlights significant concerns regarding the tools that businesses utilize to assess their biodiversity impacts. This research, originating from the University’s Nature Positive Hub in collaboration with The Biodiversity Consultancy, uncovers that prevailing methodologies, while instrumental in driving awareness and action towards biodiversity conservation, often […]

Nature is the foremost international weekly scientific journal in the world and is the flagship journal for Nature Portfolio. It publishes the finest peer-reviewed research in all fields of science and technology on the basis of its originality, importance, interdisciplinary interest, timeliness, accessibility, elegance and surprising conclusions. Nature publishes landmark papers, award winning news, leading comment and expert opinion on important, topical scientific news and events that enable readers to share the latest discoveries in science and evolve the discussion amongst the global scientific community.

Researchers at the Mubadala Arabian Center for Climate and Environmental Sciences (Mubadala ACCESS) at NYU Abu Dhabi have found that reef fish from the Arabian Gulf, the world's hottest sea, exhibit a higher tolerance to temperature fluctuations compared to those from more thermally stable coral reefs. However, the Arabian Gulf hosts fewer fish species overall, indicating that only certain fishes can withstand rising global temperatures.

The extensive loss of biodiversity represents one of the major crises of our time, threatening not only entire ecosystems but also our current and future livelihoods. As scientists realize the magnitude and scale of ongoing extinctions, it is vital to ascertain the resources available for conservation and whether funds are being effectively distributed to protect species most in need.

The pressing crisis of biodiversity loss threatens not just the existence of various species, but profoundly endangers entire ecosystems and the livelihoods of those who depend on them. As extinction rates accelerate, researchers have begun to grapple with the critical question of whether the available conservation funding is sufficient and effectively allocated to preserve the […]

Delegates at global biodiversity talks in Rome agreed on a framework for monitoring environmental commitments and other measures.

Delegates at global biodiversity talks in Rome agreed on a framework for monitoring environmental commitments and other measures.

As I wander around Cambridge University Botanic Garden, a tree called the Wollemi pine often catches my eye. It's one of our rarest trees, and a distinctive looking pine, with broad needles and bark that reminds you of Coco Pops.

Researchers led by Prof. WANG Xugao from the Institute of Applied Ecology of the Chinese Academy of Sciences have recently made groundbreaking advancements in understanding forest biodiversity. This new biological hypothesis intertwines tree dispersal mechanisms with mycorrhizal types, providing an explanation for the significant latitudinal variation observed in forest ecosystems worldwide. Drawing upon an extensive […]

The reason why so many tree species can coexist in species-rich forests has long been a subject of debate in ecology. This question is key to understanding the mechanisms governing the dynamics and stability of forests. An international team of scientists led by the Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research (UFZ) has now discovered unexpected patterns in the spatial distribution of tree species, as reported in the journal Nature.

CLEMSON, S.C. — The Clemson University Board of Trustees designated 3,265 acres of the 18,000-acre Clemson Experimental Forest as an “ecologically sensitive zone” during its fall quarterly meeting. The decision follows nearly a century of systematic exploration and documentation of its biodiversity. A checklist of the flora of the Clemson Forest assembled using plant specimens […] The post Researchers Learn More About Extraordinary Biodiversity of Clemson Experimental Forest appeared first on Morning Ag Clips.

LUWEERO DISTRICT, Uganda — Whether it’s using indigenous seeds that are more resilient, combining coffee crops with banana plants or restoring pollinator populations, biodiversity is not an abstract concept tossed around by scientists and activists. It is a whole range of concrete practices that farmers put into action in their daily work in a way […] The post The Biodiversity Connection appeared first on Morning Ag Clips.

The extensive loss of biodiversity represents one of the major crises of our time, threatening not only entire ecosystems but also our current and future livelihoods. As scientists realize the magnitude and scale of ongoing extinctions, it is vital to ascertain the resources available for conservation and whether funds are being effectively distributed to protect species most in need.

An annual United Nations conference on biodiversity that ran out of time last year will resume its work Tuesday in Rome with money at the top of the agenda.

What if saving one animal species from extinction at a time isn't the most effective approach? Michael Belitz, a Michigan State University postdoctoral researcher in the Zipkin Quantitative Ecology Lab, asked himself that question during his graduate work protecting a single butterfly species.

From Biodiversity to Bioeconomy: The Role of Biotechnology in Transforming North East India  Unlocking the Potential of North East India Nestled within the majestic Himalayas and enriched with a wealth of biodiversity, India’s NER (North East Region) is a land of immense promise. Its diverse landscapes, abundant natural resources, and rich cultural heritage present unique […] The post From Biodiversity to Bioeconomy: The Role of Biotechnology in Transforming North East India  appeared first on BioTecNika.

An improvement in freshwater biodiversity in England's rivers was linked to reductions in pollution of zinc and copper, largely due to the decline of coal burning and heavy industry, say researchers. Invertebrates are used as an important measure of a river's biodiversity and health, and Environment Agency data show there was a widespread, significant increase in species richness across England in the 1990s and early 2000s. However, there has been little significant further improvement since then. Therefore, a team of scientists looked for the possible reasons for this, using statistical modelling to investigate a wide range of different chemical and physical factors, such as temperature, river flow and landscape.

Humanity can farm more food from the seas to help feed the planet while shrinking mariculture's negative impacts on biodiversity, according to new research.

Humanity can farm more food from the seas to help feed the planet while shrinking mariculture's negative impacts on biodiversity, according to new research led by the University of Michigan.

An improvement in freshwater biodiversity in England's rivers was linked to reductions in pollution of zinc and copper, largely due to the decline of coal burning and heavy industry, say researchers.

Improvements in freshwater biodiversity across England’s rivers have corresponded to reductions in pollution levels of key metals like zinc and copper. A comprehensive research initiative led by the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology has provided crucial insights into this relationship, suggesting that decreases in coal burning and heavy industry have played a significant role […]

Almost 200 nations have signed an ambitious agreement to halt and reverse biodiversity loss but none is on track to meet the crucial goal, our new research reveals.

A pond with flowering water lilies and shady trees alongside can offer a restful break from everyday stress for anyone sitting down on a park bench next to it. In addition to promoting well-being, ponds are important for collecting rainwater. Moreover, they are home to many of the city's smallest residents. Whole ecosystems are hidden beneath the surface.

Agriculture plays a crucial role in shaping our environment, but intensive farming practices often…

STARKVILLE, Miss. — A Mississippi State University scientist has discovered a hopping treasure trove—16 new species of grasshoppers living in the thorny scrubs of U.S. and Mexican deserts. Prior to JoVonn Hill’s finding, only three species of Agroecotettix were known. Hill, director of MSU’s Mississippi Entomological Museum, said the careful examination of our environment remains critical. […] The post Scientist Discovers 16 New Grasshopper Species, Champions Desert Biodiversity appeared first on Morning Ag Clips.