Read more about the article How a parasite can show us the movement of its frog host
A photo of The African Clawed Frog, Xenopus laevis (Photo credit: Louis du Preez)

How a parasite can show us the movement of its frog host

A study by former C∙I∙B student, Anneke Lincoln Schoeman, showed that genetic data from parasites can act as tags, revealing the translocation of their hosts.

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Unmitigated economic impact of polyphagous shot hole borer estimated at R275 billion

The potential economic impact of the polyphagous shot hole borer in South Africa amounts to R275 billion over the next ten years if nothing is done to stem the tide. This estimate is the result of a study conducted by economists and ecologists at the Stellenbosch University (SU) and the University of Pretoria (UP).

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Read more about the article Non-native small mammal species for sale in South Africa
Examples of non-native small mammal species sold as pets in South Africa. Pictures were taken from different advertising websites in the present study (photograph Gumtree, PublicAds)

Non-native small mammal species for sale in South Africa

Small mammals are amongst the most charismatic animals widely sold as pets around the world. Increasing trade for these pets has resulted in several species releases and escapees from captivity. Consequently, several small mammal pets have become invasive...

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Read more about the article Guava invasion facilitates changes in some soil properties
Guava (Psidium guajava L.) an invasive alien tree species that is widely distributed in South Africa, where it negatively impacts soil physico-chemical properties. (Photo credit: Sheunesu Ruwanza)

Guava invasion facilitates changes in some soil properties

Guava (Psidium guajava L.) is a commercially grown small tree, which also invades pastures and abandoned fields in South Africa. The tree acts as a pioneer species in recovering degraded landscapes thus making ecological restoration a challenge.

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Read more about the article The worldwide invasion of the Asian long-horned beetle
The Asian long-horned beetle, Anoplophora glabripennis. (Photo credit: Dr Marion Javal)

The worldwide invasion of the Asian long-horned beetle

Repeated introductions from both the native and the invaded ranges of a major tree pest, the Asian long-horned beetle (Anoplophora glabripennis), has enhanced its establishment and spread. These were some of the findings of a paper recently published in the journal Molecular Ecology.

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