The Lady in the Lab

Predation is when an organism kills and eats another organism (prey) to gain energy necessary for reproduction. In the perspective of the prey, predation reduces fitness. Predation is therefore a type of antagonistic interaction, a biotic factor limiting species distribution [1][2]. However, predation is also important to promote biodiversity through adaptation[3]. Types of predation 1. Carnivory - a type of predation where one animal consumes another. Carnivory is obviously displayed by large animals. Examples of these are wolves hunting moose, eagles hunting monkeys, cats hunting mouse, etc. Another form of carnivory is group predation. This is usually observed in ants and spiders as well as social carnivores such as lions and hyenas[1]  where a group of individuals of  the same species are feeding on one large organism . Plants can also become carnivorous predators. Although they are not mobile, they are still able to capture animals. Examples of this is the...

In the previous post, we have discussed the importance of conserving biodiversity. To be able to successfully do that, we have to understand and identify the threats to biodiversity. There are several major threats to biodiversity. These include habitat loss, introduction of invasive species, over harvesting, climate change and pollution. 1. Habitat loss This happens when an area is changed dramatically that it is no longer able to support species it once sustained[2]. Loss of habitat is usually caused by alterations by humans to meet their needs. This can be clearing forest areas to make way for agriculture or urban development. Mining and logging for use in constructions is also an example of habitat loss caused by humans. These activities can lead to species extinction as resources also needed by species living in that area is removed[1]. 2. Introduction of invasive species Invasive species are species not native to an area. Introduction of such species to new areas c...

The diversity of species both flora or fauna have very important roles in the survival of mankind. Biodiversity is a crucial natural resource for humans. Many species that are threatened could potentially provide economic values for human use [1]. Levels of Biodiversity[1] 1. Genetic diversity Genetic diversity comprises not only the individual genetic variation within a population, but also the genetic variation between populations that is often associated with adaptations to local conditions. If one population becomes extinct, then a species may have lost some of the genetic diversity which in turn reduces the adaptive potential of the species [1]. A good example of the importance of genetic diversity is production of rice. Having more varieties of rice contribute to its gene pool. This is very useful in improving the crop quality. One variety of rice may have genes for virus resistance, another with genes resistant to insects. These qualities can be combined t...

The word Ecology comes from the Greek words  oikos    meaning home, and logos    meaning study. It is the scientific study of the interactions between organisms and the environment. There are different levels of ecological studies according to the scope. Figure 1 shows the hierarchy of ecological research. Hierarchy of Ecological Research 1.) Organismal ecology - studies how the environment affects individual organism's structure, physiology, and behavior[1]. Research in organismal ecology mainly focuses on the adaptations that allows an individual to survive in a specific habitat [8]. Basically, an individuals reaction to the environment is being studied. Changes in the environment affects each individual species. They may adapt to the such changes, move to a different environment, or worse such individuals will die. 2.)   Population ecology -  studies the changes in population size as affected by environmental fa...

As my first time travelling abroad, I had no idea about the procedure in the airport for international flights. I also had no idea what to expect in connecting flights. Before even purchasing my tickets, I did some research on the horrors of connecting flights and airport procedures. I have read and heard about losing checked-in baggage, being held at customs, and all other misfortunes. As for my first flight to Europe, I am relieved that these things did not happen to me. My flight went smoothly, my baggage was not lost, and I went through customs checks without any problems. NAIA procedure In international flights, it is advised that you arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before your flight. As with any other airports, whether your flight is local or international, you and your baggage will go through scanners to make sure you do not carry any dangerous items. If you are wearing shoes with metallic parts, you will have to remove them and place them on a tr...

Most of the time, visa applications are done in embassies. For Schengen visa application, especially if you will be mainly staying in the Netherlands, Poland, or Latvia, your application will be processed by an application center. In the Philippines, Schengen visa application for these countries are outsourced to VFS Global (VFS stands for Visa Facilitation Services).  VFS Global application center is located in Makati city. Their full address is:  Ecoplaza Building, Mezzanine Floor Don Chino Roces Ave, Extension, Makati 1231 Kalakhang Maynila, Philippines ●  Schedule an appointment Before going to VFS Global, you need to schedule an appointment online. You can visit the following link to schedule your appointment: https://row1.vfsglobal.com/GlobalAppointment/Account/RegisteredLogin ●  Prepare for the appointment When your appointment has been set, make sure to print out your appointment letter. This is emailed to you right after you ...

I had the opportunity to travel to Europe to perform academic research. This was made possible through a collaboration between two universities and a government scholarship.      For most people (especially frequent travelers), applying for a visa may be easy and straightforward. I am no frequent traveler. In fact, this is my first travel outside of my country. This was my first time to apply for Schengen visa, and I am happy to say I was granted visa with no problems. Preparation and planning ensured my successful visa application. Making sure that I have submitted complete and correct documents is one factor that made the process faster. There is a set of documents required to apply for Schengen visa depending on the purpose of your travel. As for me, I was travelling for scientific research funded by a government agency. In this case,  other than the basic requirements, I presented additional documents. Below is the list of required documents and t...