Articles for author: Jan Otte

Seagrass bed in an aquarium.

How Lab-Grown Habitats Mimic Nature for Research

Jan Otte

Lab-grown habitats are artificially created environments designed to mimic natural ecosystems. These controlled settings are pivotal in scientific research, allowing scientists to study ecosystems and animal behaviors in a stable, environment that is easily replicated. As concerns about biodiversity loss and environmental changes mount, these habitats are increasingly vital for research and conservation efforts. The ...

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How Wildlife Conservation Can Help Combat Climate Change

Jan Otte

Climate change poses a significant threat to ecosystems and species across the globe, but wildlife conservation can be a powerful ally in this fight. By preserving biodiversity, restoring habitats, and promoting sustainable practices, conservation efforts can mitigate some of the adverse effects of climate change. This article explores various ways in which wildlife conservation contributes ...

two people scuba diving underwater

The Connection Between Biodiversity and Human Disease Prevention

Jan Otte

Biodiversity refers to the variety and variability of life on Earth, encompassing all species of plants, animals, and microorganisms, as well as the ecosystems they form. This diversity is not only vital for the stability of ecosystems but also plays a crucial role in human health. The link between biodiversity and disease prevention is a ...

Four people of different skin colour

The Role of Genetic Diversity in Preventing Extinction

Jan Otte

Genetic diversity refers to the variety of genes within a species. This diversity arises from mutations, gene flow, and sexual reproduction, which combine to produce individuals with different genetic makeups within a population. Genetic diversity is crucial because it enables species to adapt to changing environments, resist diseases, and reduce the likelihood of extinction. This ...

Doctor examining a blood sample in a laboratory setting, showcasing medical research.

What’s in Your Blood? A Biomarker That Sees Alzheimer’s Coming

Jan Otte

Alzheimer’s has been an insidious thief, insinuating itself into the brain years sometimes decades prior to memory loss and confusion becoming apparent. But what if a straightforward blood test could detect it more than 10 years before symptoms arise? A groundbreaking study suggests that a little-known protein, beta-synuclein, could be the early warning signal we’ve ...

long-coated white dog

Can AI Talk Wolf? Inside Yellowstone’s High-Tech Wildlife Revolution

Jan Otte

The haunting cry of a wolf has rung out throughout Yellowstone for hundreds of years a cry that once disappeared from the park but now is a symbol of conservation achievement. Now, the same cry is opening up a new frontier in the study of wildlife, with the help of artificial intelligence. Through a first-of-its-kind ...

The Role of Forests in Mitigating Climate Change and Protecting Wildlife

Jan Otte

Forests are often referred to as the lungs of the Earth due to their critical role in absorbing carbon dioxide and producing oxygen. Yet, their contribution to mitigating climate change and protecting wildlife extends far beyond these functions. For those with an interest in animal science and environmental conservation, understanding the multifaceted importance of forests ...

long-coated brown dog staring on vehicle window

Can CBD Calm Canine Nerves in the Car? New Research Released

Jan Otte

For many dogs, a car ride is more than just a trip—it’s a source of stress. Whether it’s whining, lip licking, or increased heart rates, the signs are clear: travel can be overwhelming for our furry friends. A recent study published in Scientific Reports explores the potential of cannabidiol (CBD) to help dogs cope with ...

Mid-Atlantic Winter Storm Looms: Snow and Ice to Disrupt Holiday Travel

Jan Otte

Arctic Air Fuels the Incoming Threat (Image Credits: Wikimedia) Mid-Atlantic – Residents across the region prepare for a potent winter storm that promises to deliver snow, sleet, and ice from Friday afternoon through Saturday, complicating post-holiday journeys. Arctic Air Fuels the Incoming Threat A surge of frigid air from southeastern Canada has already begun influencing ...

The Unicorn Returns? Genome Breakthrough Offers Hope for Earth’s Rarest Mammal

Jan Otte

For decades, the saola, a mysterious, antelope-like creature dubbed the “Asian unicorn” has eluded scientists, existing more as a ghost of the Annamite Mountains than a living, breathing species. With fewer than 100 individuals believed to remain, and no confirmed sightings in over a decade, many feared it had already slipped into extinction. But now, ...