Alex Morrison

2 weeks ago | phys.org | Alex Morrison

Climate change and globalization are driving a surge in threats to crops from insects and mites, researchers say. Rising temperatures are enabling pests to move further from the equator and to higher ground, while increased trade is accelerating the spread of invasive species.

3 weeks ago | phys.org | Alex Morrison

Buzzing insects may be seen as pests—but globally, hundreds of fly species migrate over long distances, with major benefits for people and nature, new research shows.

3 weeks ago | news.exeter.ac.uk | Alex Morrison

Scientists should experiment with creative ways of communicating their work to inspire action to protect the natural world, researchers say.  Scientists primarily publish their work in academic journals, where writing is expected to be technical, objective and dispassionate – making it unlikely to appeal to, or be easily understood by non-experts. The researchers – from the University of Exeter – argue for science “translated into stories”, with benefits both for science and wider society.

3 weeks ago | phys.org | Alex Morrison

Recent "unprecedented" floods are not exceptional if we look further into the past, new research shows. A team of scientists—led by the University of Exeter—used geological paleo-flood records to examine extreme floods in western Europe over several thousand years.

1 month ago | phys.org | Alex Morrison

Social media can help scientists track animal species as they relocate in response to climate change, new research shows. The "range" inhabited by many species is shifting, and this is mostly tracked by formal monitoring schemes and surveys—but these methods may struggle to spot rapid changes, and sometimes overlook urban areas.