Research shows that federal regulations to reduce human-caused sulfur in the atmosphere have aided in the recovery of algal ecosystems for two lakes in Acadia National Park. However, the study also shows that the warming climate negatively impact certain types of lakes more than others, which could affect future ecosystem...
Whole-genome sequencing reveals new secrets about killer fungus
New research reports the largest ever whole-genome sequencing project for the potentially fatal yeast infection Candida glabrata from hospitals across Scotland.
Effects of noise on marine life
New research shows turtles can experience temporary hearing loss from an excess of underwater noise. This phenomenon, previously noted in other marine animals such as dolphins and fish, was not widely understood for reptiles and underscores another potential risk for aquatic turtles. This high volume of sound, referred to as...
From ‘boops’ to ‘unks,’ how scientists are using fish sounds to conserve underwater ecosystems
FishSounds.net is the first online, interactive library for the sounds fish make when communicating or interacting with their environment. Fish sounds provide scientists valuable data for studying and conserving underwater ecosystems. An accompanying review study found that just under a 1,000 fish make sounds for communication, though this is likely...
Study reveals trade-offs between ecosystem resistance and resilience to tropical cyclones
An international study of the impacts of 26 landfalling tropical cyclones reveals trade-offs between ecosystem resistance and resilience. The findings can help guide managers as they plan for climate change and its impacts to coastal ecosystems and economies.
Native American shell ring villages may have been occupied then abandoned because of climate change
Mollusk shells at 4,000-year-old Native American shell ring villages indicate that environmental change may have driven the formation and abandonment of these coastal communities, according to a new study.
Engineers reveal how to optimize processes for transforming sulfur in wastewater to valuable materials
Promising technologies for converting wastewater into drinkable water produce a chemical compound that can be toxic, corrosive and malodorous. An analysis of one possible solution reveals ways to optimize it for maximum energy efficiency, pollutant removal and resource recovery.
New study reveals small-scale renewable energy sources could cause power failures
Renewable energy that feeds into the main power grid could destabilize the system and potentially cause power failures according to a new study.
Capturing the many facets of evolvability
All life evolves: microorganisms can become resistant to drugs, viruses evade our vaccines, and species may adapt to climate change. Even the ability to evolve can evolve. If we were to understand how this happens and which mechanisms play a role, it may be possible to predict evolution to some...
A ‘greener’ way to clean wastewater treatment filters
Membrane filters don't require much energy to purify water, making them popular for wastewater treatment. To keep these materials in tip-top condition, they're commonly cleaned with large amounts of strong chemicals, but some of these agents destroy the membranes in the process. Now, researchers have developed reusable nanoparticle catalysts that...