In 2024, Palau removed invasive rats from Ulong Island; one year later, fish biomass rose 183% and leaf nitrogen increased about 80% at one reef site
- Data from Ulong Island, Koror Republic of Palau shows that seabirds are returning (Representational AP photo)The return of seabirds to a small island in Palau has brought an unexpected benefit.
- Just one year after invasive rats were removed from Ulong Island, researchers have found that nearby coral reefs are also beginning to recover.
- The study is the first experimental research to show that when seabirds return after invasive rodents are removed, they help move nutrients from land into the sea.
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- Data from Ulong Island, Koror Republic of Palau shows that seabirds are returning (Representational AP photo)The return of seabirds to a small island in Palau has brought an unexpected benefit.
- Just one year after invasive rats were removed from Ulong Island, researchers have found that nearby coral reefs are also beginning to recover.
- The study is the first experimental research to show that when seabirds return after invasive rodents are removed, they help move nutrients from land into the sea.
Sources: Times of India