Ecology
How Bleached Coral Reefs Permanently Change Local Fish Communities
A new study found that bleached reefs had fewer predators such as snappers and groupers and more plant-eating fish such as parrotfish and rabbitfish.
A New Study Finds That Cutting Down One Forest Can Make Neighboring Forests Hotter
These temperature rises can also lead to local extinction of the native species living in those regions.
We Need Long-Term Ecological Research More Than Ever. Who's Going to Pay for It?
The information gathered in long-term studies helps scientists see how climate change is affecting our planet, yet money often goes to shorter-term projects.
White Americans' Food Choices Are Contributing Disproportionately to Climate Change
A new study finds that more greenhouse gases are emitted producing the typical diet of a white American than that of a Hispanic or African American.
How Termites Help Tropical Forests Withstand Droughts
A new study found that, during drought conditions, increased termite activity led to considerably higher leaf litter decomposition, increased soil moisture, and greater diversity in soil nutrient distribution.
An Illegal Mining 'Epidemic' Is Spreading Across the Amazon Rainforest
While illegal mining in the Amazon has been a problem for decades, new data shows levels that are not comparable to any other period of its history.
The Essential Role of Mountain Lions in Engineering Ecosystems
In a new study, a team of biologists highlight the assortment of animals that profit from the free meals provided by the kills of big cats.
Researchers Find 'Startling' Amounts of Plastic in the Bodies of Sea Turtle Hatchlings
Plastic pollution in the ocean is a growing threat to the survival of sea turtles.
A Study Finds That the Costs of Hydroelectric Dams Have Been 'Grossly Underestimated'
Dams have been linked to habitat degradation, worsened biodiversity, and negative changes in river ecology.
Climate Change Is Making It Harder for Forests to Recover From Wildfires
A growing body of research suggests that, thanks to various environmental symptoms of climate change, America's forests are increasingly at a disadvantage when it comes to recovering from devastating wildfires.
The California Indigenous Peoples Using Fire for Agroforestry
Prescribed burning is the main tool in the Karuk and Yoruk tribes' agroforestry systems, which encourages proliferation of traditional foods, herbs, and medicines.
Measuring the Ecological Impact of Losing Forest Elephants
A new study looks at the damage that would occur to flora and fauna if forest elephant populations continue to decline.
In Thailand, Ecology Monks Add a Moral Dimension to the Environmental Movement
Through rituals like tree ordinations some monks in Thailand are integrating Buddhist principles into sustainable ecological practices.
Anatomy of a Fact: When Facts Have Expiration Dates
Anatomy of a Fact is a recurring series exposing how the Pacific Standard research and fact-checking process works.
Uncovering the Literal Roots of Your Ideology
New research suggests our ancestors' agricultural practices may have shaped our beliefs and assumptions.
How Coral Bleaching Events Affect Ecological Diversity
As a result of rising ocean temperatures coral bleaching is becoming more common, and it's causing a biotic homogenization of local fish populations.
Can Walden Pond Be Saved?
After Thoreau made the pond famous in 1854, an influx of tourists and fishermen have come to imperil the ecological outlook of the area.
Inside the Ecologically Damaging Practice of Illegal Sand Mining
As real estate building increases across the world, so too does the illegal extract of sand, which results in serious environmental impacts.
The Many Places and Faces of the Salton Sea
The Salton Sea was once known as California's Desert Riviera. Today it's struggling to stay alive, despite residents' best efforts at revitalization.
Could the Future of Air Conditioning Be Found Inside Termite Mounds?
The fusion of architecture and ecology allows termites to control the climate of their structures without burning a single fossil fuel.
Should We Fight Invasive Species With Genetic Engineering?
Why one scientist changed his mind on using gene drives for conservation.
These Mysterious Mushrooms Are Key to Our Planet's Ecosystems
Interaction of forests and fungi plays a huge role in the Earth's global carbon cycle.
The Benefits of Statistical Models
An applied mathematician wonders whether his environmental management models are doing anyone any good. Turns out, they probably are.
The Part We Play in—Not Just on—Our Environment
A study of ancient inhabitants of Sanak Island, Alaska, points to a new understanding of our impact on the natural world.