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New pig brain maps facilitate human neuroscience discoveries
Apr 8, 2021 | 21:34 pmFor nearly a decade, scientists have relied on an MRI-based map, or atlas, of the pig brain - developed using 4-week-old pigs - to understand where and how nutrients and other interventions affect the developing brain. Now, scientists have updated[…]
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Novel algorithm reveals birdsong features that may be key for courtship
Apr 8, 2021 | 20:23 pmResearchers have developed a new algorithm capable of identifying features of male zebra finch songs that may underlie the distinction between a short phrase sung during courtship, and the same phrase sung in a non-courtship context.
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Introduced honeybee may pose threat to native bees
Apr 8, 2021 | 18:14 pmA study has found the introduced European honeybee could lead to native bee population decline or extinction when colonies compete for the same nectar and pollen sources in urban gardens and areas of bush.
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'Bug brain soup' expands menu for scientists studying animal brains
Apr 8, 2021 | 18:14 pmBy mashing up brains from various insect species, neuroscientists introduce a practical technique for quantifying the neurons that make up the brains of invertebrate animals. In addition to revealing interesting insights into the evolution of insect brains, the work provides[…]
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Dogs act jealously even when they don't see their rival
Apr 8, 2021 | 18:14 pmDogs are one of humanity's most-beloved animal companions. They share our homes and seem to reciprocate our affections. But could this emotional bond extend into feelings of jealousy? To help answer that question, a team of researchers gauged the reactions[…]
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Gorillas do not bluff when they chest beat: Honest signalling indicates body size
Apr 8, 2021 | 16:23 pmThe gorilla chest beat is one of the most emblematic sounds in the animal kingdom. However, until recently it was unclear what information gorillas were conveying when they gave these impressive displays. A team of international researchers show that chest[…]
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Early dispersal of neolithic domesticated sheep into the heart of central Asia
Apr 8, 2021 | 16:23 pmAlong the Tian Shan and Alay mountain ranges of Central Asia, sheep and other domestic livestock form the core economy of contemporary life. Although it was here that the movements of their ancient predecessors helped to shape the great trade[…]
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Ant responses to social isolation resemble those of humans
Apr 7, 2021 | 18:57 pmAnts react to social isolation in a similar way as do humans and other social mammals. A study has revealed alterations to the social and hygienic behavior of ants that had been isolated from their group. The research team was[…]
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Scientists discover two new species of ancient, burrowing mammal ancestors
Apr 7, 2021 | 18:57 pmPaleontologists have discovered two new species of mammal-like, burrowing animals that lived about 120 million years ago in what is now northeastern China. The new species are distantly related but independently evolved traits to support their digging lifestyle. They represent[…]
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Red deer have personality and it is related to their dominance behavior
Apr 7, 2021 | 17:40 pmAn international team of researchers has studied individual differences in the behavior of red deer. They found that several observed behaviors form a personality component, which they labelled 'Confidence/Aggressiveness'.
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