Latest science news in Biology & Nature
Fungus genome boosts fight to save North American forests
DNA sequence could advance efforts to control pine beetle infestations.
Salmon migration mystery explored on Idaho's Clearwater River
Temperature differences and slow-moving water at the confluence of the Clearwater and Snake rivers in Idaho might delay the migration of threatened juvenile salmon and allow them to grow larger...
DNA 'barcodes' tackle African bush meat trade
Researchers have developed a new way of tracking the origins of bush meat and other animal products, using DNA "barcodes".
Creating 'Schrödinger's virus' in the lab
Experiment would hold living creature in a quantum superposition
Genetic Secrets Of Date Palm Unlocked
Researchers have mapped a draft version of the date palm genome, unlocking many of its genetic secrets.
Insecticide-free Method Studied For Control Of Soybean Aphids
Researchers are looking at a way to genetically modify soybeans to prevent damage from aphids. If successful, soybeans will carry in-plant protection from aphids, similar to the way genetically modified...
Gene may be linked with male infertility
RICHMOND, Va., Sept. 16 (UPI) -- U.S. scientists say they've identified a gene linked to sperm production that may contribute to male infertility and lead to new male contraception...
Study looks at sheep personality variants
MONTREAL, Sept. 16 (UPI) -- Canadian scientists say they have completed a study that links personality, survival and reproductive success in male bighorn sheep.
Dartmouth researchers get personal with genetics
Two recent studies by Dartmouth researchers use individual genetic data to reveal the powers and limits of our current understanding of how the genome influences human health and what genes...
Crazy ants invade San Antonio
SAN ANTONIO, Sept. 16 (UPI) -- San Antonio is trying to deal with a tiny invader that can cause big problems, the "crazy ant."
How clean is your showerhead?
Showerheads can harbour harmful germs, scientists have discovered. TV cleaning expert Aggie Mackenzie offers her top tips on cleaning them
Peru to investigate the entry of illegal GM crops
Authorities are to investigate whether genetically modified corn has been grown in Peru and will announce new biosafety legislation in 30 days.
Video: Seal of Approval
A playful Hawaiian seal is loved by many, but he eventually could turn dangerous as he continues to grow. As John Blackstone reports, a wildlife rescue team is hoping this...
As Ash Borer Claims More Trees, Researcher Works For Species Survival
Estimates say more than 70 million ash trees have been destroyed nationally by the emerald ash borer insect. An Iowa researcher is racing the clock to collect seeds from different...
Finding Of Genetic Region Controlling Cardiovascular Sensitivity To Anesthetic Propofol
Researchers have identified the genetic region in rats responsible for cardiovascular collapse during anesthesia. While it is well known that people have different cardiovascular sensitivity to anesthesia causing some to...
Beans' Defenses Mean Bacteria Get Evolutionary Helping Hand
Bean plants' natural defenses against bacterial infections could be unwittingly driving the evolution of more highly pathogenic bacteria, according to new research. The study sheds new light on how bacterial...
Genome Sequencing Reveals Genetic Diversity Of Bacteria That Cause Buruli Ulcer
A new study lays the groundwork for development of a cost-effective tool for studying the population structure and spread of Mycobacterium ulcerans, the causative agent of Buruli ulcer. Researchers have...
What's the Best Single Food to Eat?
There's no good answer to this one, because we humans need a range of nutrients from a variety of foods to be healthy.
Ants in the pants drive away birds
Supercolonies of invasive insects spoil avian picnics on Christmas Island
100-Plus Elephants Killed by Drought
More than a hundred elephants in Kenya have died in the past year, say conservationists, who blame the worst drought in 12 years as well as continued poaching. Video.
Feature: Plastic plants: assessing the threat of weeds with phenotypic plasticity
A plant biology researcher is examining a unique property of invasive plants, one that enables them to adapt to novel environments.
Self-Awareness in Animals
In a recent LiveScience article the following statement was made: "And while metacognition can involve self-awareness, the "I" part of the equation isn't a necessary ingredient, Smith said. Scientists are not...
Gut Ecology In Transplant Patients
A new genomic analysis shows that small-bowel transplant patients with an ileostomy have a very different population of bacteria living in their gut than patients whose ileostomy has been closed.
Researcher Trips Amputees In Effort To Develop Improved Prosthetic Legs
An engineer has been tripping amputees in a laboratory study that seeks to improve the safety of prosthetic legs by developing a reliable and responsive stumble detection system.
One in six Mediterranean mammals face extinction
One in six Mediterranean mammals is threatened with extinction at the regional level, mainly due to the destruction of their habitat from urbanization, agriculture and climate change, nature body IUCN...
Scale of gorilla poaching exposed
An undercover investigation by a conservation organisation reveals the extent of gorilla poaching in the Republic of Congo.
Gene affects hepatitis cure
The usual treatment for hepatitis C only works for some people, but recent genetic research has found out why – and who.
Humpback whale found dead in Thames
28ft carcass of juvenile off Gravesend was first ever found in river