Evolution, Ecology, and Behavior

The spines of Cylindropuntia fulgida, also known as jumping cholla, have a reproductive role. They latch on to passersby and carry small chunks of cactus flesh to new locations.

Professor Mark Hauber receives a $270,000 grant to collaborate with Tel Aviv University researchers on how invasive birds succeed in new habitats.

Postdoctoral researcher Mikus Abolins-Abols peers into the nest of an American robin.

Pointiness pays off for the eggs of cliff-dwelling birds, a new study reveals.

A new study of orangethroat darters reveals that the males’ ability to recognize their own and other species drives the evolution of their bright display colors.

A new animal biology study of stickleback fish by Illinois animal biologist Alison Bell (left) and former Illinois doctoral student Laura Stein (right) shows that individuals show the same molecular and developmental responses to their own versus their parent’s exposure to predators

Animal biology professor Carla Caceres is a new Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science

Animal biologist develops app to see fishing lures through the eyes of a bass

Like a Hydra, some plants grow bigger and boost their chemical defenses after being clipped.

U. of I. animal biology professor Andrew Suarez and his colleagues describe the unusual mechanics that enable Myrmoteras ant jaws to snap closed in half a millisecond.