https://www.slu.se/en/news/ What can a gill lid from a perch caught nearly 50 years ago tell us? More than we think, according to a new study from SLU. Thanks to modern DNA methods, old samples in biological archives can help researchers answer new questions. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/09/future-discoveries-hide-in-old-fish-bones/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/09/future-discoveries-hide-in-old-fish-bones/ Wed, 16 Sep 2026 09:43:26 +0200 New techniques have enabled researchers in Sweden to begin decoding how one of Northern Europe's most important coniferous tree species switches from growing branches to producing cones – their seed-bearing reproductive organs. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/09/why-do-spruce-take-decades-to-reproduce-a-genetic-study-offers-new-clues/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/09/why-do-spruce-take-decades-to-reproduce-a-genetic-study-offers-new-clues/ Tue, 15 Sep 2026 16:12:56 +0200 Pharmaceuticals do not just end up in the water; they also partition to mud, silt, and sand at the bottom. This is one of several factors behind the effects of pharmaceutical residues in aquatic environments, according to a doctoral thesis at SLU.  https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/09/pharmaceuticals-accumulate-in-sediments--new-insights-into-impacts-below-the-surface/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/09/pharmaceuticals-accumulate-in-sediments--new-insights-into-impacts-below-the-surface/ Wed, 09 Sep 2026 10:46:04 +0200 What if a quayside could do more than separate the city from the water? In Malmö’s Nyhamnen, a new research project is exploring how nature-based solutions can create waterfront environments that are more resilient, inclusive and biodiverse. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/09/can-malmos-waterfront-make-room-for-people-and-nature/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/09/can-malmos-waterfront-make-room-for-people-and-nature/ Tue, 08 Sep 2026 10:48:22 +0200 SLU scientist Chuxian Li has been awarded one of the most prestigious research grants in Europe, a Starting Grant from the European Research Council (ERC). She will use the grant to uncover the long-term consequences of the ongoing seabird population decline on ocean ecosystems. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/09/novel-research-on-seabirds-receives-erc-starting-grant/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/09/novel-research-on-seabirds-receives-erc-starting-grant/ Thu, 03 Sep 2026 13:35:08 +0200 Exotic conifers can defy ecological expectations by simultaneously growing faster and showing greater resistance to drought. A new study published in Nature, with contributions from Swedish forest growth data shows how unique advantages in non-native pines can help build climate resilient forests. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/09/exotic-pines-do-the-impossible-by-both-growing-faster-and-resisting-drought/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/09/exotic-pines-do-the-impossible-by-both-growing-faster-and-resisting-drought/ Thu, 03 Sep 2026 08:26:12 +0200 “The Beaver – Engineer and Vandal” offers a unique insight into the life of our largest rodent and dives into the latest research on it. The film, produced by SLU and the Swedish Forest Agency, has reached the final of the communications competition Publishing Prize. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/09/slu-film-about-beavers-nominated-for-the-publishing-prize/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/09/slu-film-about-beavers-nominated-for-the-publishing-prize/ Wed, 02 Sep 2026 10:23:16 +0200 Growing winter oilseed rape together with legumes can reduce some of the crop’s most important insect pests. This is shown by a new study from SLU, in which researchers investigated how different legumes affect insect pests and yield under Swedish growing conditions. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/09/legumes-can-reduce-insect-pests-in-winter-oilseed-rape/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/09/legumes-can-reduce-insect-pests-in-winter-oilseed-rape/ Wed, 02 Sep 2026 09:10:16 +0200 Below ground, plant roots grow alongside those of neighbouring plants, but little is known about how they respond when a neighbouring root is damaged. In her doctoral thesis, Julie Ducla shows that healthy plants can detect this damage and redirect their root growth away from it. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/09/plants-sense-damage-to-neighbouring-roots---and-grow-away/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/09/plants-sense-damage-to-neighbouring-roots---and-grow-away/ Tue, 01 Sep 2026 14:39:48 +0200 How do fungi deal with proteins that do not function properly? SLU researchers have identified an enzyme that plays a key role in fungal protein quality control. The findings provide new insights into how filamentous fungi respond to stress and maintain cellular balance. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/08/key-enzyme-helps-fungi-deal-with-misfolded-proteins/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/08/key-enzyme-helps-fungi-deal-with-misfolded-proteins/ Mon, 31 Aug 2026 09:15:49 +0200 What role do mosses and grasses play in regulating peatlands’ ability to absorb carbon dioxide? They are more important than previously thought – and may offer a glimpse of how peatlands could be affected by a changing climate. This is shown by new research in a doctoral thesis from SLU. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/08/plants-play-a-bigger-role-in-shaping-the-peatland-climate-balance-than-you-might-think/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/08/plants-play-a-bigger-role-in-shaping-the-peatland-climate-balance-than-you-might-think/ Thu, 27 Aug 2026 08:40:20 +0200 Perhaps a moose will appear – or at least a bird. What viewers appreciate most about The Great Moose Migration is not knowing what is going to happen. Just like in nature itself. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/08/the-unpredictability-is-what-viewers-love-most-about-the-great-moose-migration/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/08/the-unpredictability-is-what-viewers-love-most-about-the-great-moose-migration/ Thu, 27 Aug 2026 08:34:49 +0200 Drones are a highly effective tool for counting moose, weather permitting. This is one of the conclusions of a report by researchers at SLU on behalf of the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency. The limitations of the method must be addressed before it can be fully utilised in management. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/08/drones-have-potential-for-moose-surveys--but-weather-can-be-a-limiting-factor/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/08/drones-have-potential-for-moose-surveys--but-weather-can-be-a-limiting-factor/ Mon, 24 Aug 2026 08:39:00 +0200 SLU Movium and SLU Urban Futures are launching the new report series Cities and Landscapes. The aim is to make knowledge about cities, landscapes, and the relationships between urban and rural areas more accessible and widely disseminated. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/08/movium-and-urban-futures-launch-new-report-series/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/08/movium-and-urban-futures-launch-new-report-series/ Thu, 20 Aug 2026 14:17:24 +0200 Quinoa is well adapted to the harsh climate of the Andean region, but longer periods of drought threaten yields. In her new doctoral thesis, Virginia Gonzales investigates how native microorganisms can help quinoa withstand drought and support the development of sustainable bioinoculants. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/08/beneficial-bacteria-can-help-quinoa-withstand-drought/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/08/beneficial-bacteria-can-help-quinoa-withstand-drought/ Thu, 20 Aug 2026 09:55:06 +0200 Signal crayfish are becoming increasingly abundant in several of Sweden’s large lakes – but small individuals account for most of the increase. SLU researchers are now marking and tracking thousands of crayfish in Lake Hjälmaren to find out why. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/08/tusentals-kraftor-marks-i-jakt-pa-svaret-om-smakraftorna/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/08/tusentals-kraftor-marks-i-jakt-pa-svaret-om-smakraftorna/ Mon, 17 Aug 2026 07:30:21 +0200 Cats are said to have nine lives, but that is not always the case. Two out of ten kittens die in the first weeks of life – often without an explanation. Researchers are looking for answers to why life ends so early for some kittens, and how more of them can get the chance to live a full feline life. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/08/a-matter-of-life-and-death-for-kittens--research-for-a-full-feline-life/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/08/a-matter-of-life-and-death-for-kittens--research-for-a-full-feline-life/ Sun, 16 Aug 2026 18:19:26 +0200 Cameras and audio recordings are important tools for monitoring conservation efforts in Madagascar. A study from the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) shows how they can identify birds and mammals that disperse seeds in the rainforest, a process that is crucial for the ecosystem. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/08/photos-show-how-species-are-returning-to-reforestation-areas-in-madagascar/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/08/photos-show-how-species-are-returning-to-reforestation-areas-in-madagascar/ Tue, 11 Aug 2026 09:11:28 +0200 Researchers at SLU are planting tree seedlings across Sweden to answer a question that could shape the future of forestry: can helping trees move north make forests more resilient to climate change? https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/08/can-assisted-migration-help-swedish-forests/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/08/can-assisted-migration-help-swedish-forests/ Mon, 10 Aug 2026 14:04:56 +0200 A team from SLU Umeå recently travelled to West Africa. The purpose was to spread knowledge based on the university's research. The trip featured a workshop with local cocoa farmers, several radio interviews, and more.  https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/ivory-coast-research-trip/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/ivory-coast-research-trip/ Fri, 07 Aug 2026 15:33:17 +0200 A strong catalyst for African women regardless of their economic circumstances, VSLA helps thousands of rural women gain greater financial safety and freedom. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/vsla---financial-liberation-for-rural-areas/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/vsla---financial-liberation-for-rural-areas/ Fri, 07 Aug 2026 11:57:19 +0200 Carbon in streams affect our drinking water, environment and climate. But how its contents and its forms changes through the varying landscape have thus far lacked a full explanation. Now, a new model from SLU is presented in Nature Water, providing the most complete picture yet. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/08/this-is-how-carbon-flows-new-theory-combines-decades-of-swedish-field-research/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/08/this-is-how-carbon-flows-new-theory-combines-decades-of-swedish-field-research/ Mon, 03 Aug 2026 13:46:46 +0200 Experts working in a SLU-led project have discovered a previously unknown species of fungi. So far, it has been found at a single location in Hälsingland County. The unique find was made through an extensive nature survey, leading to the discovery of many species new to Swedish forests. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/07/new-species-found-in-swedish-forest/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/07/new-species-found-in-swedish-forest/ Thu, 23 Jul 2026 20:00:21 +0200 Humans have lived alongside cattle for thousands of years, yet we still know relatively little about how they perceive their sensory world. Researchers at SLU have now published the most comprehensive review to date of existing knowledge on the sensory world of cattle. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/07/sa-uppfattar-notkreatur-sin-omgivning/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/07/sa-uppfattar-notkreatur-sin-omgivning/ Fri, 10 Jul 2026 13:23:26 +0200 Rural communities play a key role before, during and after wildfire. SLU research in Spain, Chile and Sweden shows how rural communities help prevent wildfires, respond when they occur and recover in their aftermath. Learning from them is crucial in a future of more frequent and intense wildfires. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/07/what-rural-communities-can-teach-us-about-wildfire-prevention-and-recovery/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/07/what-rural-communities-can-teach-us-about-wildfire-prevention-and-recovery/ Wed, 08 Jul 2026 08:42:33 +0200 Researchers from Sweden, Norway and Denmark are currently on an expedition aboard SLU's research vessel Svea. Together, they are investigating the species-rich and sensitive habitats found in the deep parts of Skagerrak. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/07/scandinavian-research-team-explores-Skagerrak/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/07/scandinavian-research-team-explores-Skagerrak/ Tue, 07 Jul 2026 13:27:55 +0200 Ananta Aacharya is investigating how agrivoltaics can pay off in Sweden. He and seven other doctoral students contribute to knowledge development in the field of food through the LTV faculty's investment in the SLU and Sparbanken Skåne Centre for Sustainable Primary Production. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/ananta-takes-a-holistic-approach-to-solar-panels-on-farmland/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/ananta-takes-a-holistic-approach-to-solar-panels-on-farmland/ Tue, 30 Jun 2026 15:53:18 +0200 The rate at which species recover after clear-cutting varies considerably. Some groups, such as lichens and mosses, are unable to re-establish before the next harvesting cycle, according to a major international study involving researchers from the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU). https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/species-recover-slowly-after-forest-harvesting--some-may-disappear/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/species-recover-slowly-after-forest-harvesting--some-may-disappear/ Mon, 29 Jun 2026 13:39:02 +0200 Permanent grasslands are widely recognised as key habitats for biodiversity in agricultural landscapes. However, a new study shows that arable land can also support surprisingly rich communities of plants and insects. But these habitats are threatened by agricultural intensification. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/inte-bara-angar-och-hagar---akrarna-kan-ocksa-vara-rika-pa-blommor-och-insekter/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/inte-bara-angar-och-hagar---akrarna-kan-ocksa-vara-rika-pa-blommor-och-insekter/ Fri, 26 Jun 2026 08:24:02 +0200 Adrien Vial studies cultivar mixtures as eco-friendly protection against tan spot disease. He and seven other doctoral students contribute to knowledge development in the field of food through the LTV faculty's investment in the SLU and Sparbanken Skåne Centre for Sustainable Primary Production. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/adrien-studies-wheat-cultivar-mixtures-as-an-eco-friendly-crop-protection-method/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/adrien-studies-wheat-cultivar-mixtures-as-an-eco-friendly-crop-protection-method/ Thu, 25 Jun 2026 11:54:09 +0200 Many conservation measures fail to achieve their intended outcomes because they create conflicts or lack support. Thanks to a major research grant, SLU researcher Guillaume Chapron will now develop a method for stress-testing conservation policies before they are implemented in the real world. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/27-miljoner/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/27-miljoner/ Tue, 23 Jun 2026 20:37:44 +0200 It can be harvested for several years, benefits the environment and requires less inputs than annual crops. The perennial wheatgrass Kernza represents a potential revolution in agriculture, according to SLU-researcher Valentin Picasso, who is developing the crop for a future commercial market. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/researcher-on-perennial-wheatgrass-part-of-a-new-revolution/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/researcher-on-perennial-wheatgrass-part-of-a-new-revolution/ Mon, 22 Jun 2026 10:28:51 +0200 The SLU Forest Damage Centre Research School opens a call for financial support for PhD student projects within the area of forest damage. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/call-for-phd-student-projects-in-forest-damage/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/call-for-phd-student-projects-in-forest-damage/ Tue, 16 Jun 2026 14:32:49 +0200 When forests burn, large amounts of carbon are released into the atmosphere. But not all of that carbon disappears into the air. Some is transformed into a stable material known as pyrogenic carbon, which can remain stored in sediments for hundreds or even thousands of years. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/could-lake-sediments-reveal-hidden-carbon-sink/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/could-lake-sediments-reveal-hidden-carbon-sink/ Tue, 16 Jun 2026 13:19:53 +0200 In a new study researchers have identified five periods of increase and decline in Swedish forest growth over the past 30 years. They now present hypotheses about the factors driving these changes and call for a better understanding of the processes that regulate forest growth in a changing climate. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/swedish-forest-growth-is-becoming-increasingly-variable--researchers-seek-to-understand-why/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/swedish-forest-growth-is-becoming-increasingly-variable--researchers-seek-to-understand-why/ Tue, 16 Jun 2026 10:37:58 +0200 The volume of deadwood can be used to predict the presence of red-listed species in forests, according to a new study from the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU). However, more deadwood is needed than previously assumed. This pattern applied to fungi and mosses, but not to lichens. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/mer-dod-ved-kravs-for-rodlistade-arter-i-skogen/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/mer-dod-ved-kravs-for-rodlistade-arter-i-skogen/ Tue, 16 Jun 2026 09:32:39 +0200 Previous research has shown that drones can detect spruce bark beetle infestations before the trees show visible symptoms. Now, an SLU-led study involving several European countries confirms that the method works in different types of forest and under various conditions. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/early-detection-of-infestations--confirmed-by-tests-across-europe/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/early-detection-of-infestations--confirmed-by-tests-across-europe/ Mon, 15 Jun 2026 16:15:28 +0200 RNA-based sprays could offer a more sustainable way to protect crops from disease. In her doctoral thesis, Poorva Sundararajan shows that spray-induced gene silencing can reduce fungal infections with only minor effects on beneficial microorganisms. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/rna-spray-technology-shows-promise-for-sustainable-crop-protection/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/rna-spray-technology-shows-promise-for-sustainable-crop-protection/ Mon, 15 Jun 2026 06:40:01 +0200 In a highly competitive call, only 22 out of 109 applicants were awarded funding through the Swedish Research Council’s initiative for future research leaders. Two of the successful candidates are SLU researchers Chuxian Li and Leonie Schönbeck https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/vr-assistant-professors/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/vr-assistant-professors/ Fri, 12 Jun 2026 15:22:00 +0200 The psychological profile of horse owners affects their interactions with horses – from how often they ride and train to what equipment they choose. This suggests that better self-awareness can lead to more conscious and horse-centred care, according to a study from SLU and the University of Turku. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/the-personality-and-attachment-style-of-a-horse-owner-shape-the-interaction-with-horses/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/the-personality-and-attachment-style-of-a-horse-owner-shape-the-interaction-with-horses/ Fri, 12 Jun 2026 08:47:27 +0200 In her doctoral thesis, Su Myat Noe explores disease resistance in spring barley through plant genetics. Her research aims to contribute to the development of more resilient crops. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/her-passion-for-plant-breeding-leads-to-new-insights-into-crops-disease-resistance/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/her-passion-for-plant-breeding-leads-to-new-insights-into-crops-disease-resistance/ Thu, 11 Jun 2026 11:27:33 +0200 Climate change, biodiversity, urban densification and social inequality place demands on the way we plan and use our landscapes. What should be prioritised when all values can't be met at the same time? This is the focus of Mari Kågström, Associate Professor of Landscape Governance and Planning. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/when-sustainability-goals-clash/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/when-sustainability-goals-clash/ Wed, 10 Jun 2026 08:29:30 +0200 Why do some stations feel safe and welcoming, while others create stress or discomfort? Researchers from the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Malmö University, and the Swedish Transport Administration are set to investigate this question in a new research project. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/new-research-project-to-explore-the-station-environments-of-the-future/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/new-research-project-to-explore-the-station-environments-of-the-future/ Tue, 09 Jun 2026 10:58:49 +0200 The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) is launching Stenbeck One Health Lab, a new initiative to strengthen the link between clinical practice, research and education in comparative medicine. Funded by three Stenbeck family foundations, the lab is part of SLU’s work within One Health. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/slu-launches-stenbeck-one-health-lab-to-connect-clinical-expertise-with-research/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/slu-launches-stenbeck-one-health-lab-to-connect-clinical-expertise-with-research/ Tue, 09 Jun 2026 10:15:01 +0200 An RNA-based spray targeting potato late blight has been included on the Royal Swedish Academy of Engineering Sciences’ (IVA) list of projects with high potential to contribute to innovation and a more sustainable agriculture sector. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/rna-spray-against-potato-late-blight-recognized-by-iva/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/rna-spray-against-potato-late-blight-recognized-by-iva/ Fri, 05 Jun 2026 09:50:39 +0200 At SLU, Professor Johan Stenberg is developing biopesticides for cultivated strawberries. The project is one example of how integrated plant protection can contribute to increased Swedish food production – at a time when access to chemical pesticides may become more limited. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/strawberries-integrated-plant-protection/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/strawberries-integrated-plant-protection/ Thu, 04 Jun 2026 12:56:01 +0200 A new survey study within the B-THENET project shows that the correct placement of hives and the correct control of varroa mites are European beekeepers' primary methods for sustainable and profitable beekeeping. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/hive-placement-and-control-of-varroa-best-practise-for-sustainable-beekeeping-in-europe/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/hive-placement-and-control-of-varroa-best-practise-for-sustainable-beekeeping-in-europe/ Wed, 03 Jun 2026 17:50:30 +0200 Climate change, AI and vast amounts of geographic data are transforming the way we understand our cities and environments. Through geographic information science, new tools are being developed to identify areas at risk, analyse inequality and support the urban planning of the future. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/05/kartor-klimat-och-ai-formar-framtidens-stader/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/05/kartor-klimat-och-ai-formar-framtidens-stader/ Wed, 03 Jun 2026 15:18:51 +0200 A study recently published in the Journal Apicultural Research by researchers organised within the COLOSS core project “B-RAP” (Bridging research and practice) addresses the challenges of providing beekeepers with science-based information to improve honey bee colony health. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/bridging-beekeepers-and-science-navigating-information-in-a-digital-age/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/bridging-beekeepers-and-science-navigating-information-in-a-digital-age/ Wed, 03 Jun 2026 14:31:43 +0200 How can agriculture feed a growing global population without exceeding planetary boundaries? Raj Chongtham researches agroecology and how diversified cropping systems can strengthen soil health, resilience, and sustainable food production. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/fler-grodor-kan-gora-jordbruket-mer-motstandskraftigt/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/fler-grodor-kan-gora-jordbruket-mer-motstandskraftigt/ Wed, 03 Jun 2026 13:55:55 +0200 Pharmaceutical pollution is absorbed by rats and can affect the pathogens they carry. This is shown in a study from the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), in which researchers highlight pharmaceutical residues as a previously unknown mechanism behind animal-borne diseases. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/pharmaceutical-pollutants-in-rats-linked-to-animal-borne-diseases-alter-infection-patterns/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/pharmaceutical-pollutants-in-rats-linked-to-animal-borne-diseases-alter-infection-patterns/ Wed, 03 Jun 2026 07:25:31 +0200 When Oscar Liljeströms successfully defended his thesis on May 29th, 2026, the Department of Aquatic Sciences and Assessment got its 75th Ph.D. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/the-75th-phd-from-aquatic-sciences-and-assessment/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/the-75th-phd-from-aquatic-sciences-and-assessment/ Mon, 01 Jun 2026 15:54:22 +0200 Sweden’s internationally acclaimed compensation scheme for coexistence between reindeer herders and wolverines helped the species recover. A new study now shows that the success has not lasted. Trust in the system has eroded as compensation levels have remained largely unchanged since 2002. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/crisis-for-swedens-celebrated-model-for-coexistence-between-carnivores-and-reindeer-herders/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/crisis-for-swedens-celebrated-model-for-coexistence-between-carnivores-and-reindeer-herders/ Mon, 01 Jun 2026 09:18:21 +0200 During two field visits in May at SLU’s field station in Lönnstorp near Alnarp, researcher Chloë Raderschall and colleagues hosted both crop advisors and members of nature conservation organisations to discuss biological control, biodiversity and sustainable cropping systems. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/field-visits-highlighted-research-on-biological-control-and-strip-cropping-at-lonnstorp/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/field-visits-highlighted-research-on-biological-control-and-strip-cropping-at-lonnstorp/ Mon, 01 Jun 2026 09:13:17 +0200 North American contorta pine or native Scots pine – it makes no difference to moose. At least not when it comes to the type of young forest moose choose to inhabit, according to a study conducted in Junsele by researchers at Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/junsele-moose-do-not-avoid-forests-with-the-non-native-contorta-pine/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/06/junsele-moose-do-not-avoid-forests-with-the-non-native-contorta-pine/ Mon, 01 Jun 2026 08:26:25 +0200 The SLU Forest Damage Centre announces a call with focus on monitoring of forest damage. The call is for short-term monitoring projects that focus on method development and will be carried out in 2027 or until early 2028. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/05/call-for-short-term-monitoring-projects/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/05/call-for-short-term-monitoring-projects/ Fri, 29 May 2026 14:35:59 +0200 Despite large annual catches, reliable knowledge about the scale and impact of recreational fishing remains limited. A new thesis from SLU shows how improved data and collaboration can contribute to more sustainable management of recreational fisheries – and why fishers can be part of the solution. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/05/sa-kan-fritidsfisket-matas-och-forstas-battre--ny-avhandling-visar-vagen-framat/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/05/sa-kan-fritidsfisket-matas-och-forstas-battre--ny-avhandling-visar-vagen-framat/ Thu, 28 May 2026 13:40:07 +0200 Rebeka Zsoldos researches how information from measuring animal movement can be used to support health, productivity and performance. With sensors and muscle activity measurements she explores what movement patterns can tell us – from early functional changes in sport horses to how cows use pasture. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/05/from-pasture-to-performance-tracking-animal-movement-for-better-welfare/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/05/from-pasture-to-performance-tracking-animal-movement-for-better-welfare/ Thu, 28 May 2026 12:54:30 +0200 The standing volume of wood in living trees in Sweden continues to grow. This is a result from the annual official statistics, Forest Data 2026, from the SLU Swedish National Forest Inventory. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/05/increased-standing-volume-in-swedish-forests/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/05/increased-standing-volume-in-swedish-forests/ Wed, 27 May 2026 15:11:54 +0200 From June 8–12, a global research community turns its attention to SLU in Umeå. With more than 500 registered participants, this year’s edition of BIOGEOMON is the biggest one yet; A conference where ecosystem researchers exchange knowledge about the vital and changing processes in our environment. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/05/SLU-hosts-record-breaking-environmental-science-conference/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/05/SLU-hosts-record-breaking-environmental-science-conference/ Wed, 27 May 2026 14:20:25 +0200 Researchers at SLU have tested a method that allows them to track how earthworms burrow in the soil. This could provide answers to how the worms' valuable work is affected by factors such as moisture, temperature, and soil tillage. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/05/3d-skanning-avslojar-daggmaskars-gravande/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/05/3d-skanning-avslojar-daggmaskars-gravande/ Wed, 27 May 2026 08:50:07 +0200 The highlights from The Great Moose Migration offer a fascinating glimpse into wildlife – but small, nocturnal or hard-to-detect species remain unseen. While the programme is an excellent way to learn more about nature, it can also present a distorted picture of biodiversity. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/05/the-biodiversity-hidden-behind-the-moose/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/05/the-biodiversity-hidden-behind-the-moose/ Mon, 25 May 2026 08:51:42 +0200 During the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of Twitter posts about private gardens in London increased sharply, and more people linked their gardens to aspects of mental well-being such as reduced restlessness, joy and hope. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/05/gardens-took-on-a-new-role-during-the-pandemic/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/05/gardens-took-on-a-new-role-during-the-pandemic/ Thu, 21 May 2026 08:25:33 +0200 When ungulates browse, they create new habitats that allow more species of both beetles and vascular plants to thrive in forests. But in some cases, browsing can have the opposite effect on biodiversity. This is shown in a doctoral thesis at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU). https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/05/browsing-moose-and-deer-affect-biodiversity-can-increase-species-richness-in-forests/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/05/browsing-moose-and-deer-affect-biodiversity-can-increase-species-richness-in-forests/ Thu, 21 May 2026 07:48:25 +0200 How can we guarantee reliable food safety controls in everyday life and during crises? SLU is hosting “Nordic Network - Food Control Research” on June 4–5, where researchers from the Nordic and Baltic countries will meet with government agencies and the food industry. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/05/slu-event-for-safe-food-inspection-today-and-tomorrow/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/05/slu-event-for-safe-food-inspection-today-and-tomorrow/ Tue, 19 May 2026 12:02:26 +0200 That people vary in how attractive they are to mosquitoes is well known, but the chemical reasons have remained unclear. An SLU-led study now shows that menstrual cycle and pregnancy affect attractiveness, and that highly attractive people emit more “mushroom alcohol”. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/04/mushroom-alcohol-makes-some-women-more-attractive-to-mosquitoes-than-others/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/04/mushroom-alcohol-makes-some-women-more-attractive-to-mosquitoes-than-others/ Mon, 18 May 2026 16:43:55 +0200 The structure of landscapes surrounding forests and grasslands influences the occurrence of pathogenic fungi in soils worldwide. A new study shows that landscape structure is a key factor in understanding soil biodiversity. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/05/landscape-structure-influences-soil-borne-pathogenic-fungi-worldwide/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/05/landscape-structure-influences-soil-borne-pathogenic-fungi-worldwide/ Mon, 18 May 2026 15:47:32 +0200 In farming, biochar is used to improve soil, increase its water-holding capacity and supply nutrients – but it is no universal solution for higher yields. So says researcher Helene Larsson Jönsson, who wants to develop guidelines for the use of biochar in agriculture. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/05/biochar-in-agriculture-more-complex-than-many-think/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/05/biochar-in-agriculture-more-complex-than-many-think/ Wed, 13 May 2026 09:12:48 +0200 New research from SLU shows that today’s forest management plans often struggle to capture forest owners’ diverse goals — and that current planning systems are not designed to support a broader landscape perspective. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/05/forest-owners-want-different-things-but-their-plans-look-the-same/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/05/forest-owners-want-different-things-but-their-plans-look-the-same/ Tue, 12 May 2026 09:56:57 +0200 Certain ectomycorrhizal fungi are vital due to their ability to unlock nutrients in forest soils. In her doctoral thesis, Erica Packard reveals how these fungi use potent enzymes to decompose hard-to-breakdown organic matter. She also observe that these fungi occur in a variety of different forests. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/05/uncovering-the-decomposer-capacity-of-ectomycorrhizal-fungi/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/05/uncovering-the-decomposer-capacity-of-ectomycorrhizal-fungi/ Tue, 12 May 2026 08:10:01 +0200 Research is currently being conducted into the possibility of bringing extinct animal species back to life. How? Well, by first successfully reintroducing already domesticated animals into the wild. Could this be a way to correct human mistakes and help our planet? That remains to be seen. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/05/mission-reviving-extinct-species-and-improving-the-welfare-of-swedish-chickens/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/05/mission-reviving-extinct-species-and-improving-the-welfare-of-swedish-chickens/ Sun, 10 May 2026 20:06:32 +0200 Three people have died and several others have fallen ill in a suspected hantavirus outbreak onboard a cruise ship in the Atlantic. Hantaviruses are primarily transmitted to humans through close contact with rodents. Researchers at SLU studies this type of animal-spread diseases, known as zoonoses. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/05/slu-researchers-answer-four-questions-about-hantaviruses/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/05/slu-researchers-answer-four-questions-about-hantaviruses/ Thu, 07 May 2026 11:32:49 +0200 Mixing tree species can lead to better growth in the forest – at least above ground. A new study published in Nature shows that mixed forests had lower activity in the complex belowground ecosystems than previously thought. Researchers suspect this could affect the long-term growth of forests. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/05/Tree-communities-shape-hidden-energy-flows-beneath-European-forests/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/05/Tree-communities-shape-hidden-energy-flows-beneath-European-forests/ Thu, 07 May 2026 08:54:43 +0200 How does forestry influence how moose and reindeer use forests – and how do these animals in turn affect the forest? In a research project in northern Sweden, researchers compare managed and unmanaged forests of different ages to understand interactions between animals, forestry, and biodiversity. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/05/new-study-how-does-forestry-affect-moose--and-moose-the-forest/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/05/new-study-how-does-forestry-affect-moose--and-moose-the-forest/ Tue, 05 May 2026 09:07:00 +0200 Can fast-growing production-oriented forests also contribute to biodiversity? A new study from SLU, led by PhD student Jaime Luna, suggests that stands of fast-growing broadleaved trees (FGB) may be more relevant than previously recognized. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/05/lichens-reveal-biodiversity-potential/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/05/lichens-reveal-biodiversity-potential/ Mon, 04 May 2026 11:11:02 +0200 Wildebeest, antelopes and Mongolian gazelles are already included. Now the swimming moose of Junsele are being added to the UN map of ungulate migrations. The aim is to conserve migration worldwide, and researchers at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) are contributing moose data. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/05/swedens-great-moose-migrations-featured-on-global-un-map/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/05/swedens-great-moose-migrations-featured-on-global-un-map/ Mon, 04 May 2026 08:00:21 +0200 Boreal forests store about one third of the world's forest carbon. But how they should be managed to store more carbon and help mitigate climate change is debated. In his PhD thesis, Marcus Larsson shows that focusing only on trees is not enough, carbon in the soil should also be taken into account. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/04/understanding-carbon-storage-in-forests-means-looking-at-the-whole-ecosystem/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/04/understanding-carbon-storage-in-forests-means-looking-at-the-whole-ecosystem/ Tue, 28 Apr 2026 14:48:35 +0200 DDT remains in Swedish soils – and is difficult to remove. A new thesis from the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences shows that several innovative remediation methods yield limited results. At the same time, the thesis highlights techniques that could work significantly better. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/04/new-findings-on-ddt-remediation-in-soil/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/04/new-findings-on-ddt-remediation-in-soil/ Tue, 28 Apr 2026 09:49:39 +0200 It is nutritious, reliable for food preparedness, and sought after by chefs at luxury restaurants. The hazelnut has many advantages, but is barely cultivated commercially in Sweden. Now researchers at SLU are investigating how production of the nut can become economically viable. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/04/hazelnuts-are-imported-despite-growing-in-the-wild--now-slu-is-researching-swedish-production/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/04/hazelnuts-are-imported-despite-growing-in-the-wild--now-slu-is-researching-swedish-production/ Mon, 27 Apr 2026 14:50:27 +0200 Science and tourism in Svalbard are often seen as two separate worlds. However, they have developed together and continue to be closely interconnected. This is shown by researchers at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU). https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/04/tata-band-mellan-turism-och-forskning-pa-svalbard/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/04/tata-band-mellan-turism-och-forskning-pa-svalbard/ Fri, 24 Apr 2026 07:26:23 +0200 Forests managed under current Swedish forestry practices experience a shift in the species composition of mycorrhizal fungi, yet they maintain the same number of species as forests that have never been clear-cut. This concludes a major new study from the SLU. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/04/forestry-and-mycorrhizal-fungi-species-richness-returns-but-composition-changes/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/04/forestry-and-mycorrhizal-fungi-species-richness-returns-but-composition-changes/ Tue, 21 Apr 2026 09:55:03 +0200 How far do moose migrate? When are calves born, and what challenges do they face? For years, researchers have studied moose in Junsele, where the slow TV program The Great Moose Migration is filmed. Now, new and exciting facts about the “TV moose” will be presented. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/04/the-great-moose-migration-slu-research-offers-unique-insight-into-the-tv-mooses-lives/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/04/the-great-moose-migration-slu-research-offers-unique-insight-into-the-tv-mooses-lives/ Mon, 20 Apr 2026 08:39:20 +0200 What impact does human activity, such as forest management, have on the natural control of insect pests? Fredrika Wrethling, a PhD student at the SLU Forest Damage Centre’s research school, has been looking into this in the first part of her project. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/04/she-wants-to-find-out-how-forest-management-affects-natures-own-defences/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/04/she-wants-to-find-out-how-forest-management-affects-natures-own-defences/ Thu, 16 Apr 2026 11:04:59 +0200 This thesis investigated how early social environments and genetic line influence behavioural development, social responses and welfarerelated outcomes in group-housed gilts and sows. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/04/new-doctoral-thesis-on-behavior-and-welfare-indicators-in-sows-in-group-housing/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/04/new-doctoral-thesis-on-behavior-and-welfare-indicators-in-sows-in-group-housing/ Wed, 15 Apr 2026 12:16:42 +0200 By analysing peat cores, researchers have shown how populations of nesting seabirds have fluctuated on a sub-Antarctic island over 8,000 years. They found that bird numbers rose and fell alongside shifts in climate, offering new clues about how future climate change could impact seabird populations. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/04/ancient-seabird-guano-reveals-how-climate-change-may-shape-future-populations/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/04/ancient-seabird-guano-reveals-how-climate-change-may-shape-future-populations/ Tue, 14 Apr 2026 20:33:04 +0200 It is easy to think that tree species, age, and lushness determine how we experience a forest. But more important than the forest’s composition is its accessibility. This is shown in a new study from SLU. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/04/new-study-shows-what-swedes-consider-most-important-about-their-forests/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/04/new-study-shows-what-swedes-consider-most-important-about-their-forests/ Tue, 14 Apr 2026 09:20:30 +0200 Forests in Sweden are facing new challenges. They are often dominated by a few conifer species, making them vulnerable. A new research project at SLU Alnarp explores how aspen and silver birch can contribute to more robust and sustainable forest systems. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/04/genetic-variation-in-aspen-and-birch-may-support-more-sustainable-forestry/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/04/genetic-variation-in-aspen-and-birch-may-support-more-sustainable-forestry/ Mon, 13 Apr 2026 10:32:20 +0200 Adam Felton studies how species respond to different forest management approaches, and the societal trade-offs involved. As newly appointed professor of conservation ecology at SLU, he aims to further develop this research. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/04/adam_felton_new_professor_in_forest_ecology/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/04/adam_felton_new_professor_in_forest_ecology/ Thu, 09 Apr 2026 10:40:13 +0200 In the Sargasso Sea, an expedition by the German Thünen Institute of Fisheries Ecology is underway to provide new insights into the early life of the European eel. By collecting larvae directly in the eel’s spawning area, researchers hope to better understand changes in the population. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/04/pa-jakt-efter-alens-hemligheter-mitt-ute-i-sargassohavet/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/04/pa-jakt-efter-alens-hemligheter-mitt-ute-i-sargassohavet/ Thu, 09 Apr 2026 08:00:21 +0200 The increasing regulatory burden in agriculture creates stress, frustration and costs for many businesses. A new study from SLU highlights how advisers can contribute to simplifying regulations – by serving as a link between farmers and regulatory authorities. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/04/ny-studie-sa-kan-radgivare-bidra-till-att-forenkla-lantbrukets-krangliga-regler/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/04/ny-studie-sa-kan-radgivare-bidra-till-att-forenkla-lantbrukets-krangliga-regler/ Wed, 08 Apr 2026 17:37:05 +0200 Do wild honey bee colonies still exist in Sweden and Europe? And if so, how do they manage to survive alongside the dreaded Varroa mite? These are questions that researchers at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) aim to answer – with the help of citizen scientists and beekeepers. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/03/help-SLU-find-wild-honey-bee-colonies-this-summer/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/03/help-SLU-find-wild-honey-bee-colonies-this-summer/ Wed, 08 Apr 2026 08:53:12 +0200 When crisis strikes, large-scale food supply systems do not always hold. Experiences from Ukraine demonstrate how quickly distribution can break down. A new research project is now being launched to examine how local solutions can strengthen preparedness. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/04/the-war-in-ukraine-shows-that-short-food-supply-chains-secure-food-in-times-of-crisis/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/04/the-war-in-ukraine-shows-that-short-food-supply-chains-secure-food-in-times-of-crisis/ Tue, 07 Apr 2026 08:30:33 +0200 Beavers can be a troublesome neighbour, but they play a vital role in nature. A film from SLU and the Swedish Forest Agency now offers us unique insights into the life of the beaver. The film presents a smorgasbord from the latest research to the role a royal hat played in the beavers' extinction. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/04/new-film-will-raise-awareness-about-beavers-our-key-nature-conservationist/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/04/new-film-will-raise-awareness-about-beavers-our-key-nature-conservationist/ Tue, 07 Apr 2026 07:00:24 +0200 CRISPR/Cas9 is the most widely used gene-editing tool and enables highly precise modifications of DNA. In plant breeding, it is used to improve important traits such as disease resistance, drought tolerance, and nutritional value. Researcher Matías González works with new genomic techniques. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/03/Gene-editing-in-plant-breeding/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/03/Gene-editing-in-plant-breeding/ Fri, 27 Mar 2026 19:42:05 +0200 An era comes to an end as more bacteria develop resistance to antibiotics and the certainty that we can cure diseases slowly fades. The “silent pandemic” is sweeping the globe, and the solution now depends on us rethinking our approach together—for the sake of people, animals, and nature as one. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/03/circle-of-life---all-together-through-the-silent-pandemic/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/03/circle-of-life---all-together-through-the-silent-pandemic/ Fri, 20 Mar 2026 15:23:54 +0200 On February 6, Melania Angellotti successfully defended her doctoral thesis, “Inclusion of Asparagopsis spp. in Dairy Cow Diets to Mitigate Enteric Methane Emissions – Animal and Microbial Responses” . https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/03/new-doctoral-thesis-about-methane-from-dairy-cows/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/03/new-doctoral-thesis-about-methane-from-dairy-cows/ Fri, 20 Mar 2026 13:33:46 +0200 Managed boreal forests support far less diverse fungal communities compared to successional forests sprung from forest fires. A new study from the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences shows stark differences in the abundance of rare species between environments of different forest regimes. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/03/rare-boreal-deadwood-fungi-do-not-recover-in-clear-cut-forests/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/03/rare-boreal-deadwood-fungi-do-not-recover-in-clear-cut-forests/ Fri, 20 Mar 2026 08:17:14 +0200 Methods for assessing forest biomass using spaceborne data are improving, but they are still far from truly reliable. That is the conclusion of a new study from the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU). https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/03/stor-felmarginal-i-globala-skogsanalyser/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/03/stor-felmarginal-i-globala-skogsanalyser/ Thu, 19 Mar 2026 14:02:31 +0200 For several years, researchers at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) have been collecting data on moose movements in the Junsele area. The aim has been to understand how moose and their migration are affected by changes in the forest landscape. The project is now coming to an end. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/03/migrating-junsele-moose-tracked-with-gps--research-project-now-reaching-its-end/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/03/migrating-junsele-moose-tracked-with-gps--research-project-now-reaching-its-end/ Mon, 16 Mar 2026 08:02:00 +0200 The ecologist with a focus on silviculture and forest production, Anneli Adler, has joined the Southern Swedish Forest Research Centre at SLU, where she will continue to be a part of the Trees For Me network through her focus on fast-growing broadleaf trees in a changing climate. https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/03/she-sees-the-potential-in-fast-growing-broadleaves/ https://www.slu.se/en/news/2026/03/she-sees-the-potential-in-fast-growing-broadleaves/ Fri, 13 Mar 2026 14:50:43 +0200