Absence makes the songbird sing
Researchers find female absence is a sufficient general explanation for the longstanding mystery of why male birds chorus at dawn and dusk. Continue reading Absence makes the songbird sing
Tag: Ecology
Sea otters protect coastlines from erosion
Once hunted to near extinction, sea otters have returned to California. A new study reveals the key role these critters play in maintaining coastal ecosystems. Continue reading Sea otters protect coastlines from erosion
Lupin breakthrough could make this plant a popular source of protein
Lupins are high in protein, but bitter. However, scientists have discovered a mutation that makes lupins sweet, opening the door for their consumption as a plant-based protein source. Continue reading Lupin breakthrough could make this plant a popular source of protein
Can Science Boost the Rights of Nature Movement?
Rivers, skies, and mountains become legal persons under Rights of Nature laws, but their implementation has been difficult. To help interpret and enforce these laws, scientific knowledge must be integrated. Continue reading Can Science Boost the Rights of Nature Movement?
Turtles barely age compared to humans and other animals
No one can escape aging. But scientists have found that turtles and tortoises live much longer and barely age compared to humans and other animals. Continue reading Turtles barely age compared to humans and other animals
Itching for a change? Some lice have evolved alongside their hosts for millions of years.
A new look at the louse family tree has revealed that many lice hosted by mammals, including the human head louse, have coevolved with mammals over tens of millions of years. Continue reading Itching for a change? Some lice have evolved alongside their hosts for millions of years.
Huge Icefish Nesting Site Shapes the Local Ecosystem
Scientists discover the largest fish breeding colony to date in the Antarctic and explore how the nests affect the surrounding ecosystem. Continue reading Huge Icefish Nesting Site Shapes the Local Ecosystem
Frightening Interactions with Predators Have Long-Term Impacts on Animal Brain and Behavior
Animals frightened by a close call with a predator eat less and produce fewer offspring in the future. Continue reading Frightening Interactions with Predators Have Long-Term Impacts on Animal Brain and Behavior
Understanding Life on the Prairie through Ecological Networks
by Jaclyn Long figures by Wei Wu Grasslands are a type of ecosystem that make up over a quarter of the earth’s land. These habitats are often found in between deserts and forests, and are characterized by low levels of rainfall and regular fires. In North America, grasslands are usually called prairies. The rich soil held in place by grass roots makes them particularly useful for … Continue reading Understanding Life on the Prairie through Ecological Networks
Rainfall in Africa Drives Butterfly Populations in Europe
Rainfall in Africa drives the growth of plants that allow painted lady butterflies to make their flight to Europe and back each year. Continue reading Rainfall in Africa Drives Butterfly Populations in Europe