Macro photo of step moss in a forest.

New research on ecotypes clarifies how they can illuminate our understanding of adaptation and evolution

This article systematically reviews the literature on ecotype designations and reflects on recent advances in genetic science to show that genetic analyses can provide concrete evidence for the designation of ecotypes, which has implications for conservation decision making.

Methods in Ecology and Evolution, British Ecological Society logo sitting overtop of a cougar walking up the beach.

On ensuring animal welfare in research using live capture

A recent journal article, published in Methods in Ecology and Evolution, draws attention to the need for consistent and high standards for animal welfare in research, and the important role that journals have in maintaining ethical standards in published research. The authors, joined by Raincoast scientists Kate Field, Paul Paquet and Chris Darimont, stress that…

A wolf prances across the ice with all four feet frozen in time floating above the ice, a chart floating in the distance.

Recommendations towards greater transparency in the science, science communication, and values-driven processes of natural resource management

A new paper, published by a team of researchers including Raincoast scientists, dives into the tangle of cognitive bias, institutional agendas, human interests, and pays special attention to the role of undisclosed value judgments.