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Hellbender salamander study seeks answers for global amphibian decline

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — A new study co-authored by University of Florida researchers on the endangered Ozark Hellbender giant salamander is the first to detail its skin microbes, the bacteria and fungi that defend against pathogens.

Filed under Environment, Research, Sciences on Monday, December 19, 2011.

New breakthrough shows promise for affordable plastic solar energy cells

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — University of Florida researchers report they have achieved a new record in efficiency with a prototype solar cell that could be manufactured using a roll-to-roll process.

Filed under Engineering, Environment, Research on Monday, December 19, 2011.

UF researchers document caterpillars that mimic one another for survival

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — In the world of insects, high risk of attack has led to the development of camouflage as a means for survival, especially in the larval stage. One caterpillar may look like a stick, while another disguises itself as bird droppings. Though crypsis may have its advantages, University of Florida researchers uncovered some of the most extensive evidence of caterpillars using another strategy previously best-known in adult butterflies: mimicry.

Filed under Environment, Research, Sciences on Wednesday, December 14, 2011.