Scientists now know how many bonobos live in one of the largest pristine tropical forests, a place believed to be the world’s stronghold for the endangered species. The research, conducted over two decades by a team of 48 scientists, estimates that between 8,000 to 18,000 adult bonobos inhabit Salonga National Park in the DRC. Although the population has remained stable since 2000, there are signs of potential decline. The study led by researchers at the Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior (MPI-AB) also identifies specific factors that have a positive effect on bonobo numbers, offering concrete measures for conserving bonobos across their range.

Despite their tiny size, viruses have a significant and rippling impact throughout all facets of life, including that of the deep sea. Deep-sea viruses are no doubt understudied, but some facts known about their existence might give future researchers some insight into climate-related changes on a global level, such as the relationship between deep-sea viruses and the global ocean environment. Uncovering the significance of their community structure, host interactions and ecological functions and impacts are pivotal to the understanding of how these deep-sea dwellers can affect life both above and below the surface.

 

 

Climbing a giant tree with a harness and a helmet is one way to check on an eagle nest, but there are other ways. Drones offer an efficient, safe, and hands-off option for surveying raptor nests, according to a Conservation Letter recently published in the Journal of Raptor Research titled “The Use of Drones in Raptor Research.” Following an extensive literature survey, authors of the letter make a compelling case for drone usage in nest studies for various raptor species.

When wild capuchin monkeys experience experience higher temperatures, the performance of their generalized immune system declines. This study illustrates how climate change many impact animals.

Some animals, such as the starlet sea anemone, can regenerate large parts of their body, even after major injuries. EMBL researchers have shown this regeneration response involves cells and molecules in body parts far from the injury site and is directed towards restoring the animal’s original shape. The study sheds new light on the fundamental importance of maintaining body shape in animals and enhances our understanding of the molecular pathways involved in regeneration.

University of Groningen scientists shows that key principles of Darwinian evolution, such as survival of the fittest, already manifest themselves in simple non-living systems.