This research grant will support researchers from University of Nottingham, Malaysia to evaluate the presence and impact of microplastics in our river ecosystems. The lead researcher is Dr Christopher Gibbins, a Professor of Hydro-ecology and sustainable river management at the School of Environmental and Geographical Sciences, University of Nottingham Malaysia. His work focusses on understanding the links between physical habitat conditions and biota in freshwater ecosystems. The study will be implemented with colleagues from Nottingham … [Read more...] about Microplastic Loads in Fish and Invertebrates in Malaysian Rivers
Research
Ecosystem Services Provided by Bats in Ricefields
The study to be undertaken Dr Nurul ‘Ain of the School of Biological Sciences, USM focusses on the insectivorous bats of the Gunung Keriang area of Kedah. It aims to ascertain whether the insectivorous bats which roost in the nearby limestones caves are consuming species that are known to be pests in rice fields. The research methodology involves documenting seasonal insect abundance and pest availability at different phases of paddy growth. Faecal samples of bats will be analysed to understand resource partitioning among the bats of … [Read more...] about Ecosystem Services Provided by Bats in Ricefields
Urban Biodiversity Initiative Launches a New Online Workshop Series
Feeling worried about the planet? Then plant something! The Habitat Foundation together with the UNDP GEF Small Grants Programme, are proud to support PJ-based Urban Biodiversity Initiative as they implement a project promoting the rewilding of urban areas through environmental education and citizen science. Nested under this project is the Biodiversity Gardens Capacity Building Online Workshop Series organized with the Kota Damansara Community Forest Society. This online workshop series is designed to develop knowledge and skills among … [Read more...] about Urban Biodiversity Initiative Launches a New Online Workshop Series
Macaca Nemestrina Project
THF Research Grant Macaca Nemestrina Project is a long-term behavioural and ecological study of Southern pig-tailed macaques which has been conducted near the Segari Melintang Forest Reserve (SMFR), Perak, Peninsular Malaysia since 2013. Here, two groups of habituated macaques, numbering approximately 80 individuals move between the forest reserve and the oil palm plantations bordering its South-Western edge. Researchers supervised by Dr Nadine Ruppert of the School of Biological Sciences at Universiti Sains Malaysia are … [Read more...] about Macaca Nemestrina Project
Ethnomycological study of local wild edible and medicinal fungi
THF Research Grant A research team from the School of Biological Sciences at USM, led by Dr Rosnida Tajuddin, has been awarded a THF Research Grant to document the historical uses and sociological value of local wild edible and medicinal fungi. They will also analyse the mycotoxin potentially present in wild fungi growing in association with the roots of dipterocarp trees, to help determine whether it is safe for human consumption. This study will enhance our understanding of the conservation status of mushrooms in Malaysia and … [Read more...] about Ethnomycological study of local wild edible and medicinal fungi
