Biology
Read the latest science news from Phys.org on biology, evolution, microbiology, biotechnology
New research shows unintended harms of organic farming
Organic farming is often touted as a more sustainable solution for food production, leveraging natural forms of pest control to promote eco-friendly cultivation.
New rice variety adapted to suit conditions in Madagascar--improved phosphorus absorption and increased zinc content
A new variety of rice that is adapted to life in low-phosphorus soils, that contains an exceptionally large amount of zinc and that was developed specifically for the conditions in Madagascar where it is grown, has recently been certified in the country.
In a first, evolutionary biologists have identified a gene that influences visual preferences in tropical butterflies
Tropical Heliconius butterflies are well known for the bright color patterns on their wings. These striking color patterns not only scare off predators--the butterflies are poisonous and are distasteful to birds--but are also important signals during mate selection.
Parrots love playing tablet games, and it's helping researchers understand them
Touchscreens have long been integral to our everyday life--humans use them to work, play, talk with loved ones and snag Lightning Deals on Prime Day. In recent years, they've shown potential for the animal kingdom as well, leading to a growing body of academic research and a proliferation of consumer products promising to leverage technology to enhance our relationships with our pets.
How do halibut migrate? Clues are in their ear bones
Rising temperatures, changes in major currents, oxygen depletion at great depths: the Gulf of St. Lawrence has undergone major changes in its environmental conditions in recent decades. That has put many species in danger and, as a consequence, made them more sensitive to the effects of fishing.
'Courtship' gene shows different effects in two fruit fly species
A gene associated with courtship behavior in fruit flies does not operate the same way in two different fruit fly species, a new study finds. The work demonstrates that conserved genes--the same genes found across species--do not necessarily have the same function across species.
Examining the evolutionary history of the formation of forceps and maternal care in earwigs
Researchers from the University of Tsukuba examined the developmental processes and reproduction-related behavior of 8 of the 11 families of Dermaptera (earwigs) in detail and compared with those reported in previous studies. The results confirmed that Dermaptera is a polyneopteran order, and features such as caudal forceps and elaborate maternal care for eggs and young larvae emerged in parallel within the order during evolution.
Scientists collaborate to study the cause and development of liver abscesses in cattle
To effectively prevent liver abscesses in cattle, it is crucial to gain a complete understanding of the development of this condition and the bacteria responsible for causing the infection.
Bridging the lexical divide: Unified approach to combat plant invasions in Australia
In a leap toward managing the ecological challenge posed by alien plant species, a recent study outlines a methodology for integrating and harmonizing data on plant invasions across Australia.
Chance sighting reveals new species of fluffy beetle
A researcher from The University of Queensland has discovered a remarkable new genus of fluffy longhorn beetle while camping within a rainforest in the Gold Coast hinterland.
10 million animals die on our roads each year--here's what works (and what doesn't) to cut the toll
There's almost no warning. A dark shape appears on the side of the road, then you feel a jolt as something goes under the car. Or worse, the shape rears up, hits the front of your vehicle, then slams into the windscreen. You have just experienced a wildlife-vehicle collision.
The outpouring of grief in New York over Flaco the owl's death
There has been an outpouring of grief in New York City ever since the beloved Eurasian eagle-owl Flaco died on Feb. 23, 2024, after striking a building. In 2023, after escaping from Central Park Zoo, Flaco survived for over a year on his own, captivating New Yorkers.