Diversity

19 pages, 3028 KiB

Open AccessReview

Pore Characteristics of Deep-Sea Benthic Foraminifera

by Bruce H. Corliss and Anthony E. Rathburn

Diversity 2025, 17(5), 343; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17050343 - 13 May 2025

A review of the pore patterns of deep-sea benthic foraminifera is presented with a discussion of their characteristics, function and relationship with dissolved oxygen levels. Pore characteristics of deep-sea benthic foraminifera are of timely interest due to their potential for reconstructing dissolved oxygen [...] Read more.

A review of the pore patterns of deep-sea benthic foraminifera is presented with a discussion of their characteristics, function and relationship with dissolved oxygen levels. Pore characteristics of deep-sea benthic foraminifera are of timely interest due to their potential for reconstructing dissolved oxygen conditions from the sedimentary record. Scanning electron micrographs of 20 epifaunal and infaunal deep-sea taxa from the Sulu Sea, Monterey Bay, California Bight and northwest Atlantic Ocean are presented to illustrate the wide range of pore patterns found in deep-sea taxa. New SEM observations of three taxa with biconvex test shapes, Oridorsalis umbonatus, Hoeglundina elegans, and Epistominella umbonifera, suggest that these taxa have an infaunal habitat for at least part of their life span. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Foraminiferal Research: Modern Approaches and Emerging Trends)

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13 pages, 808 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Overview of Cave Biodiversity Research Activities in Southern Africa: Insights from Botswana, Namibia and South Africa

by Richard Mazebedi, Kefeletswe Majoka and Thomas Hesselberg

Diversity 2025, 17(5), 342; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17050342 - 12 May 2025

Abstract

Caves and subterranean habitats in general support a unique set of organisms that are adapted to the dark and nutrient-limited environment. The high selection pressure and limited gene flow between semi-isolated caves have generally resulted in a high level of endemicity among the [...] Read more.

Caves and subterranean habitats in general support a unique set of organisms that are adapted to the dark and nutrient-limited environment. The high selection pressure and limited gene flow between semi-isolated caves have generally resulted in a high level of endemicity among the depauperate cave fauna. The cave fauna is vulnerable to a range of anthropogenic factors, including mining and excessive usage as show caves. The awareness of the need for conservation of these unique habitats has been growing in recent years, but not uniformly. In this paper, we use Web of Science to look at how the subterranean research output in the ecology and conservation area in southern Africa compares to the rest of the world. We find that while Africa as a whole has a disproportionately low publication rate, southern Africa is relatively well represented, though driven exclusively by South Africa. However, unlike the development in the rest of the world, the number of publications has not risen much in recent years and is mainly focused on vertebrates. In this paper, we discuss the reasons for this discrepancy and use well-known show caves in the region as case studies to identify research priorities and promote more awareness of the conservation needs of caves in southern Africa. Full article

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14 pages, 3284 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Changes in Biomass Production, Plant Diversity, and Their Relationship During the Early Establishment of Artificial Alpine Grasslands with Different Species Combinations

by Shu Wang, Runfang Feng, Jikui Ma, Nannan Wang, Linfeng Ji, Xiufen Zhao, Xiaoli Wang, Fei Ren, Honglin Li, Defei Liang, Jing Hu, Xilai Li and Lanping Li

Diversity 2025, 17(5), 341; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17050341 - 12 May 2025

Abstract

The establishment of artificial grasslands is a highly effective strategy for the rapid restoration of degraded grasslands. To investigate the dynamics of biomass production and plant diversity—two critical objectives of grassland restoration—and their relationship during the early stages of artificial grassland establishment, we [...] Read more.

The establishment of artificial grasslands is a highly effective strategy for the rapid restoration of degraded grasslands. To investigate the dynamics of biomass production and plant diversity—two critical objectives of grassland restoration—and their relationship during the early stages of artificial grassland establishment, we conducted an experiment in Menyuan County, located in the northeastern region of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. The experiment involved sowing different combinations of species (one, three, six, and nine species). Using data collected over three years (2021–2023), we found that biomass production generally increased over time. Specifically, in the second year, biomass production exhibited a unimodal relationship with the number of sown species, while in the third year, it increased linearly with the number of sown species. Plant diversity, which includes both sown and naturally occurring species, initially increased with the number of sown species in the first year but decreased in mixed sown plots in the third year. In the first year, biomass production was not correlated with plant diversity, whereas in the second and third years, biomass production decreased as plant diversity increased. This pattern was primarily driven by the accelerated growth of Gramineae. These results highlight the complex dynamics between biomass production and plant diversity during the early stages of artificial alpine grassland establishment. Our findings suggest that a trade-off between biomass and biodiversity should be carefully considered when designing restoration strategies, as achieving both high productivity and biodiversity may require a more nuanced approach. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Effective Strategies for Rangeland Conservation and Sustainable Management)

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14 pages, 35427 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Grewia tembensis Fresen and Grewia trichocarpa Hochst. ex A.Rich. (Grewioideae Hochr; Malvaceae Juss.) Micromorphological Study and Comparison via Electron Microscopy

by Widad S. Aljuhani

Diversity 2025, 17(5), 340; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17050340 - 9 May 2025

Abstract

Grewia tembensis and Grewia trichocarpa inhabit dry tropical zones and arid environments, adapting to extreme climatic conditions and limited moisture supplies. Overall, Grewia L. possesses a significant variety of bioactive chemical constituents of great therapeutic importance. Indeed, for these species, precise morphological analyses [...] Read more.

Grewia tembensis and Grewia trichocarpa inhabit dry tropical zones and arid environments, adapting to extreme climatic conditions and limited moisture supplies. Overall, Grewia L. possesses a significant variety of bioactive chemical constituents of great therapeutic importance. Indeed, for these species, precise morphological analyses are poor, and their detailed characterization is almost non-existent. This research attempts to investigate and compare the micromorphological traits of G. tembensis and G. trichocarpa species through scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Micromorphological characteristics of the leaf and fructiferous structures turned out to be highly effective in separating the two species, G. tembensis and G. trichocarpa, especially regarding the type, density, and distribution of trichomes on the lower and upper surfaces of the leaves, along with the stomatal and trichome types on the surfaces of the fruits. Statistical analyses using principal component analysis, t-tests, and hierarchical clustering conducted on micromorphological data of the leaves, flowers, and fruits showed considerable variation within samples of G. tembensis and samples of G. trichocarpa. On the basis of their morphological assessment characteristics, the samples of both species were distinct and clustered into separate groups. This study emphasizes the necessity of performing detailed morphological studies of species by means of an electron microscope and proves that the leaf features are important for separating species. Such morphological traits of trichomes would offer an efficient tool to distinguish the species. Within the findings, this suggests that such diagnostics are likely to be highly useful for species identification in Grewia, especially in cases where there are no fruits available. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Diversity)

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18 pages, 3257 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Borderless Lizards: Unveiling Overlooked Records and the Expanding Invasion of Anolis sagrei in Ecuador

by Víctor Romero, Edison Maxi, Karen Cando, Marlon Vega, Johe Sozoranga and Luis Rodrigo Saa

Diversity 2025, 17(5), 339; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17050339 - 8 May 2025

Abstract

We evaluated the global distribution of Anolis sagrei based on bibliographic records, GBIF, and iNaturalist data. Native to Cuba and the Bahamas, this lizard has spread across mainland America, particularly in the Caribbean, Central America, and parts of the U.S. It has also [...] Read more.

We evaluated the global distribution of Anolis sagrei based on bibliographic records, GBIF, and iNaturalist data. Native to Cuba and the Bahamas, this lizard has spread across mainland America, particularly in the Caribbean, Central America, and parts of the U.S. It has also been introduced in Asia, and according to iNaturalist observations, it has been recorded in Israel, Canada, and northern South America. This species is especially abundant in the Caribbean and southeastern U.S., with high concentrations of records indicating a significant range expansion. In Ecuador, A. sagrei has been recorded along the coast and in the Amazon, with occurrences in Esmeraldas, Manabí, Guayas, Francisco de Orellana, and for the first time in Zamora Chinchipe (southern Amazon), specifically in El Pangui. The capture of 10 individuals confirmed their morphology, showing similarities with populations from Honduras and Cuba but differences in scalation and body size. In Ecuador, the fourth toe lamellae range from 29 to 33, consistent with those populations, while dorsal and ventral scales show variation (dorsal: 11–22, ventral: 10–25). Climate change favors its spread by enabling the colonization of new habitats. As an invasive species, it threatens local biodiversity, highlighting the need for monitoring and control in Amazonian Ecuador. An expanded abstract in Spanish is available, intended for local decision-makers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Diversity)

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14 pages, 1971 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Noise Pollution and Urban Birds Breeding in the Center of the Iberian Peninsula: Effects on Diversity and Abundance

by Paula Almarza-Batuecas and Moisés Pescador

Diversity 2025, 17(5), 338; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17050338 - 8 May 2025

Abstract

In an increasingly urbanized world, biodiversity, and more specifically, birdlife located in urbanized ecosystems, faces several threats. Among these, noise pollution has proven to be one of the most significant, as it affects the effectiveness and efficiency of acoustic communication. We studied the [...] Read more.

In an increasingly urbanized world, biodiversity, and more specifically, birdlife located in urbanized ecosystems, faces several threats. Among these, noise pollution has proven to be one of the most significant, as it affects the effectiveness and efficiency of acoustic communication. We studied the relationship between noise and the diversity and abundance of birds breeding in urban areas in the central region of the Iberian Peninsula (Spain). We analyzed how species diversity and density varied across three levels of noise pollution (high, medium, and low). Species diversity decreased in areas with high noise pollution as compared to sites with medium and low levels of noise. We analyzed the density of the most frequent species found within each category. We identified eight additional noise-tolerant species whose density had significantly increased in environments with high levels of noise (e.g., Blackbird, Eurasian Tree Sparrow, and the Coal Tit). The ten most sensitive species, such as the Common Linnet, House Sparrow, and the European Greenfinch, had significantly decreased densities when the level of noise increased. Identifying the sensitivity (the effect) of urban bird species to acoustic pollution is vital for effective conservation management measures and for the sustainable planning and management of cities. Full article

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22 pages, 4335 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring the Orchid Flora of Montenegro: Ten Newly Identified Taxa

by Boris Đoka Radak, Jovan Milan Peškanov, Bojana Slavenko Bokić and Goran Timča Anačkov

Diversity 2025, 17(5), 337; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17050337 - 6 May 2025

Abstract

Montenegro, with approximately 3600 vascular plant taxa, represents one of the floristic diversity centers of the Balkan Peninsula and the Mediterranean region. According to our current knowledge, about 80 to 100 orchids, including species, subspecies, and hybrids, occur in this country. To refine [...] Read more.

Montenegro, with approximately 3600 vascular plant taxa, represents one of the floristic diversity centers of the Balkan Peninsula and the Mediterranean region. According to our current knowledge, about 80 to 100 orchids, including species, subspecies, and hybrids, occur in this country. To refine the understanding of orchid diversity in Montenegro, extensive fieldwork and herbarium revisions were conducted. As a result, ten new orchid taxa were recorded in Montenegro for the first time. These include Epipactis helleborine subsp. distans, E. leptochila subsp. neglecta, Gymnadenia densiflora, Neotinea ustulata var. aestivalis, Ophrys archipelagi, O. grammica, and Pseudorchis albida subsp. tricuspis. In addition, one intergeneric hybrid, ×Serapicamptis rousii, and two intrageneric, Anacamptis ×nicodemi and A. ×olida, were found. Distribution data, ecological preferences, and population sizes for newly registered taxa in Montenegro have been given. This study underscores the great potential of the flora of Montenegro for discoveries in the orchid world. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Diversity)

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17 pages, 634 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Strategies for Coordinated Development Between Local Communities and the Northeast China Tiger and Leopard National Park: Case Study of the Hunchun Area

by Ruiyuan Zhou, Yuchen Du, Yang Gao and Yi Xie

Diversity 2025, 17(5), 336; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17050336 - 6 May 2025

Abstract

As an important component of China’s conservation strategy, the Northeast China Tiger and Leopard National Park faces conflicts between environmental protection and community development. Taking the Hunchun area as a case study, here a choice experiment is employed to construct a policy-scenario model [...] Read more.

As an important component of China’s conservation strategy, the Northeast China Tiger and Leopard National Park faces conflicts between environmental protection and community development. Taking the Hunchun area as a case study, here a choice experiment is employed to construct a policy-scenario model encompassing participation mechanisms, benefit-sharing models, and industrial development. Our analysis of farmers’ heterogeneous policy preferences reveals the following. (1) Farmers significantly prefer cooperative organization participation, ecological industry, and ecological compensation while showing less acceptance of agricultural deep processing. (2) Heterogeneity analysis indicates that middle-aged, educated, and low-income male farmers have stronger preferences for policy optimization. (3) Existing homogeneous policies do not satisfy diversified stakeholder demands. We propose a governance framework integrating ecology, industry, and institutions, suggesting practical pathways such as optimizing interest distribution mechanisms, innovating green industry models, and establishing cross-regional ecological compensation mechanisms. This study provides theoretical and practical support for reconciling conservation and development in protected areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Conflict and Coexistence Between Humans and Wildlife)

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15 pages, 16002 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Spatial Distribution and Intraspecific and Interspecific Associations of Dominant Tree Species in a Deciduous Broad-Leaved Forest in Shennongjia, China

by Jiaxin Wei, Linsen Yang, Zhiguo Jiang, Hui Yao, Huiliang Yu, Fanglin Luo, Xiujuan Qiao, Yaozhan Xu and Mingxi Jiang

Diversity 2025, 17(5), 335; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17050335 - 5 May 2025

Abstract

Studying spatial distribution patterns and intraspecific and interspecific associations of tree species is crucial for understanding the maintenance of biodiversity and offering insights into community dynamics and stability. The Shennongjia National Park, located in the transition zone between the (sub)tropics and the temperate [...] Read more.

Studying spatial distribution patterns and intraspecific and interspecific associations of tree species is crucial for understanding the maintenance of biodiversity and offering insights into community dynamics and stability. The Shennongjia National Park, located in the transition zone between the (sub)tropics and the temperate climate, holds great significance for understanding how species interact with each other and coexist within forest communities. We used data from a fully mapped 25 ha montane deciduous broad-leaved forest dynamic plot at Shennongjia (SNJ) National Park, central China, to conduct a community-level evaluation of spatial distribution patterns and intraspecific and interspecific associations. We analyzed the spatial distribution patterns of 20 dominant species with univariate and bivariate g(r) functions, as well as intraspecific and interspecific associations across different life-history stages. We assessed the relative contributions of underlying processes in community assembly with three models: complete spatial randomness (CSR), heterogeneous Poisson (HP), and antecedent condition (AC). The results showed that all 20 tree species exhibited aggregated distribution patterns within a 100 m scale. After excluding the influence of environmental heterogeneity, the degree of aggregation decreased, and with the increasing spatial scale from 0 to 100 m, the distribution gradually shifted from aggregated to random or uniform appearance. Positive associations were common in different life-history stages. Negative associations were common across different species, while most of the intraspecific and interspecific associations turned out to be irrelevant when environmental heterogeneity was excluded. We concluded that habitat heterogeneity and dispersal limitation may primarily determine the spatial distribution of species in subtropical montane deciduous broad-leaved forests. This indicates that species distribution may align with environmental patterns, and interspecific correlations may exist. However, the exact responses of these species to environmental changes remain uncertain. Upcoming management approaches ought to concentrate on ongoing observation, which is crucial for mitigating how climate change might affect species distribution and community interactions, thus guaranteeing enduring stability and the conservation of biodiversity. Full article

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16 pages, 7598 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Combined Soil Inoculation with Mycorrhizae and Trichoderma Alleviates Nematode-Induced Decline in Mycorrhizal Diversity

by Fernanda Covacevich, Gabriela Fernandez-Gnecco, Verónica F. Consolo, Pablo L. Burges, Gonzalo F. Calo and Eduardo A. Mondino

Diversity 2025, 17(5), 334; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17050334 - 5 May 2025

Abstract

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and Trichoderma spp. (T) are known as plant-beneficial fungi effective against root-knot nematodes, but their interactions in the rhizosphere are not well understood. This study examined how Meloidogyne javanica influences AMF colonization and community diversity at the root-soil interface [...] Read more.

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and Trichoderma spp. (T) are known as plant-beneficial fungi effective against root-knot nematodes, but their interactions in the rhizosphere are not well understood. This study examined how Meloidogyne javanica influences AMF colonization and community diversity at the root-soil interface of tomato plants. A 60-day growth chamber experiment was conducted with tomato plants grown in non-sterile agricultural soil, either infected or not with M. javanica, that received a single inoculation with AMF or Trichoderma (strains T363 or TJ15), combined AMF + T inoculations, or no inoculation (Control). Both single and combined inoculations significantly reduced root galls, eggs, and soil nematode larvae. An AMF community analysis via single-strand conformation polymorphism of the D1 region of 28S rDNA gene (Glomeraceae family) revealed that M. javanica decreased AMF diversity and altered community structure, in plants single-inoculated with AMF. However, a combined inoculation with Trichoderma appears to prevent this reduction and maintain AMF diversity. While M. javanica reduced root mycorrhizal colonization, it did not affect Trichoderma abundance. These results suggest that Trichoderma may be more resilient to nematode infection, helping stabilize AMF communities and enhance biocontrol. Thus, combining AMF and Trichoderma inoculations could better preserve root health and improve biological control effectiveness against M. javanica. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ecology and Diversity of Soil Microbial Communities in an Era of Global Change)

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6 pages, 876 KiB

Open AccessInteresting Images

An Exceptionally Rare Predation on a Chameleon Species (Squamata: Chamaeleonidae) by a Eurasian Eagle-Owl (Aves: Strigidae)

by Apostolos Christopoulos, Luca Cornacchia, Christos Kotselis and Yiannis G. Zevgolis

Diversity 2025, 17(5), 333; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17050333 - 4 May 2025

Abstract

The Eurasian eagle-owl (Bubo bubo) is a large, generalist predator widely distributed across Eurasia, including mainland Greece, where it occupies a broad range of habitats. Its diet is known to consist primarily of mammals and birds, with reptiles occasionally included. However, [...] Read more.

The Eurasian eagle-owl (Bubo bubo) is a large, generalist predator widely distributed across Eurasia, including mainland Greece, where it occupies a broad range of habitats. Its diet is known to consist primarily of mammals and birds, with reptiles occasionally included. However, to date, chameleons have not been documented among its prey. Here, we report the first confirmed case of B. bubo preying on an African chameleon (Chamaeleo africanus) in the western Peloponnese of southern Greece—a region where the two species occur in limited sympatry. C. africanus, native to North Africa and introduced to Greece since antiquity, is a diurnal, slow-moving, arboreal lizard with highly cryptic behavior and specialized anti-predator strategies. Despite these traits, our observation highlights its potential vulnerability to nocturnal avian predators. This rare predation event offers novel insights into the trophic ecology of B. bubo and raises important considerations for the conservation of C. africanus, a species listed as Critically Endangered in Greece and increasingly threatened by habitat loss, illegal collection, and road traffic collisions. Full article

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19 pages, 5923 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Spatial Distribution and Diversity of Benthic Macrofauna in Coastal Waters of the Jabal Ali Marine Sanctuary (JAMS), Dubai

by Jeruel Aguhob, Waleed Hamza, Andreas Reul, Muna Musabih, Jhonnel P. Villegas and Maria Muñoz

Diversity 2025, 17(5), 332; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17050332 - 4 May 2025

Abstract

The present study aimed to characterize the benthic macroinvertebrate community of the Jabal Ali Marine Sanctuary (JAMS), the sole marine protected area in the Emirate of Dubai, during the summer and winter seasons of 2017. Limited research on the biological quality of the [...] Read more.

The present study aimed to characterize the benthic macroinvertebrate community of the Jabal Ali Marine Sanctuary (JAMS), the sole marine protected area in the Emirate of Dubai, during the summer and winter seasons of 2017. Limited research on the biological quality of the JAMS prompted this investigation, which involved 10 sampling stations to assess macroinvertebrate diversity and community composition in relation to abiotic factors such as sediment granulometry, trace metals, salinity, and temperature. Collected sediment samples were analyzed for macroinfauna, and their abundance was measured, revealing an average abundance of 2150 ind/m² in summer and 2132 ind/m² in winter without a significant difference between both seasons. Univariate indices, including the Margalef diversity index and Pielou evenness index, indicate a range of diversity values across sampling sites. Community composition was assessed through SIMPROF and Bray–Curtis similarity clustering, further elucidating the relationship between community structures and environmental gradients. The dominant macroinvertebrate species varied across seasons and stations, providing insights into seasonal variations in community dynamics. These findings contribute to the understanding of benthic community structures and biodiversity in the JAMS and serve as a baseline for future monitoring and management efforts aimed at preserving the ecological integrity of this important marine sanctuary. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Restoring and Conserving Biodiversity: A Global Perspective)

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21 pages, 11936 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Intra-Annual Course of Canopy Parameters and Phenological Patterns for a Mixed and Diverse Deciduous Forest Ecosystem Along the Altitudinal Gradients Within a Dam Reservoir Landscape

by Melih Öztürk, Turgay Biricik and Ali Vasfi Ağlarcı

Diversity 2025, 17(5), 331; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17050331 - 4 May 2025

Abstract

Within a dam reservoir landscape in the Western Black Sea Region of Türkiye, a dense young-mature stand composed diversely of oriental beeches, European hornbeams, sessile oaks, and silver lindens was chosen as a study field to analyze canopy parameters and to determine phenological [...] Read more.

Within a dam reservoir landscape in the Western Black Sea Region of Türkiye, a dense young-mature stand composed diversely of oriental beeches, European hornbeams, sessile oaks, and silver lindens was chosen as a study field to analyze canopy parameters and to determine phenological patterns along the altitudinal gradients. Referring to the air-soil temperature and precipitation data, intra-annual eco-physiological characteristics of that stand tree canopies, were aimed to be determined regarding those altitudinal gradients. For each of the 10 altitudinal gradients, the mixed deciduous stand canopy physiological characteristics were analyzed by hemispherical photographing. Canopy parameters were acquired from those digital hemispherical photographs, which were confirmed with secondary LAI data from the LAI-2200C. Leaf Area Index, Light Transmission, Canopy Openness, and Gap Fraction were obtained during a total of 21 study field visits throughout the monitoring year. Beginning from a theoretical leafless stage with 0.51 m² m⁻², average LAI increased to 0.89 m² m⁻² during budburst stage, and then gradually up to 3.60 m² m⁻² during climax leaf period, and then to 1.38 m² m⁻² during senescence period, and gradually down to 0.50 m² m⁻² during the next theoretical leafless stage. However, average LT (64%, 61%, 9%, 36%, 74%), CO (65%, 62%, 9%, 37%, 75%), and GF (18%, 14%, 1%, 8%, 14%) followed opposite patterns. Though no apparent trend was valid for those canopy parameters from the lowest to the highest altitudinal gradient, their obvious intra-annual patterns emerged as compatible with the annual air-soil temperature data course. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Diversity)

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76 pages, 32162 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Heterobranch Sea Slugs s.l. (Mollusca, Gastropoda) from the Southern Ocean: Biodiversity and Taxonomy

by Manuel Ballesteros, Alex Hopkins, Miquel Salicrú and Matt J. Nimbs

Diversity 2025, 17(5), 330; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17050330 - 3 May 2025

Abstract

The Southern Ocean, located between Antarctica and the southern tips of South America, Africa and Australia, encompasses an immense area across the southern Atlantic, Pacific and Indian oceans with no clearly defined limits. For the purposes of studying marine heterobranch sea slugs, we [...] Read more.

The Southern Ocean, located between Antarctica and the southern tips of South America, Africa and Australia, encompasses an immense area across the southern Atlantic, Pacific and Indian oceans with no clearly defined limits. For the purposes of studying marine heterobranch sea slugs, we consider the Southern Ocean to include all ocean areas located south of latitude 41° S. South of this latitude, we consider different areas and zones: the area of South America (the Patagonia/Magellanic area), the island of Tasmania, the southern island of New Zealand, the Subantarctic area (the Falkland Islands, South Georgia Island, the South Orkney Islands, South Sandwich Island, Bouvet Island, the islands of Crozet and Prince Edward, the Kerguelen Islands, and Macquarie Island) and the area of Antarctica, in which we consider four zones (Weddell Sea, West Antarctica, Ross Sea and East Antarctica). Reviewing all available references and unpublished data from the authors, in total, 394 species of heterobranch sea slugs have been recorded to date in the Southern Ocean > 41° S, with Nudibranchia standing out with 209 species and Cephalaspidea with 90 species. The marine heterobranchs of Tasmania (154 species) and southern New Zealand (120 species) have been well studied. Sea slug fauna of the Antarctic and Subantarctic regions have been the subject of several partial studies; however, there are still many gaps in knowledge across both areas. Eighty-nine different species of sea slug have been recorded so far in strictly Antarctic waters (West Antarctica, 45 species; Weddell Sea, 48 species; Ross Sea, 51 species; East Antarctica, 42 species), while in the various Subantarctic regions, there are 93 species (36 species from South Georgia, 17 species from the South Orkneys, 12 species from south Sandwich, 6 species from Bouvet, 10 species from Prince Edward and Crozet Islands, 15 species from Kerguelen, 3 species from Macquarie Island, 29 species from the Falkland Islands and 71 species from the coast of South America). In the taxonomic section, for each of the species, the location and the authors of the records are indicated, and for many of the species, interesting biological, taxonomic or biogeographic observations are also provided. The importance of sampling in underexplored areas is discussed, as well as greater-depth sampling for a better understanding of the sea slugs of the Southern Ocean. Full article

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22 pages, 4531 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Genetic Variation and Differentiation of Himantoglossum s.s. in Greece

by Spyros Tsiftsis, Martha Charitonidou, Panagiotis Madesis and Andreas D. Drouzas

Diversity 2025, 17(5), 329; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17050329 - 3 May 2025

Abstract

The taxonomic identification of plant species is traditionally based on morphological traits, the use of which may create difficulties in cases of close-related species showing great morphological variability. In such cases, the use of DNA markers for species identification and delimitation can be [...] Read more.

The taxonomic identification of plant species is traditionally based on morphological traits, the use of which may create difficulties in cases of close-related species showing great morphological variability. In such cases, the use of DNA markers for species identification and delimitation can be of great help. Himantoglossum W.D.J.Koch (Orchidaceae) is a genus with notable morphological variability, comprising the clade hircinum-caprinum (Himantoglossum s.s.) with nine taxa, from which H. jankae, H. hircinum, H. montis-tauri, H. caprinum and H. samariense have being reported in Greece. However, a previous morphological study of Himantoglossum s.s. from all over Greece could not verify the presence of these reported species, but of only one highly diverse taxon throughout the country. Here, we studied the genetic variation and differentiation of Himantoglossum s.s. populations from the entire distribution of the genus in Greece employing ISSR markers, to further elucidate the taxonomic status of Himantoglossum s.s. in Greece. High genetic variation was revealed, both in the populations of the “core” distribution and in the peripheral/marginal ones, pointing to their evolutionary potential. This variation is mainly attributed to differences within the populations and, to a lesser extent, among them. No differentiation of the populations proposed to belong to a different taxon was found and no species-specific markers were identified that may discriminate the above populations from the rest. In addition, two cpDNA and one nDNA fragments (accD, psbA-trnH and ITS2, respectively) were sequenced in a number of individuals representative of the whole dataset. All three fragments were conserved, showing restricted polymorphism and having no correlation to the populations or to the taxa of Himantoglossum s.s. in Greece. Overall, the high genetic variation of the populations of Himantoglossum s.s. in Greece, especially of the peripheral/marginal ones, is a valuable asset towards their conservation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Diversity)

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21 pages, 16334 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Annual Dynamics of Phytoplankton Communities in Relation to Environmental Factors in Saline–Alkaline Lakes of Northwest China

by Yuying Ma, Linghui Hu, Ruomei Ma, Liting Yang, Qiang Huo, Yong Song, Xuyuan Lin, Zhen Sun, Sheng’ao Chen and Daoquan Ren

Diversity 2025, 17(5), 328; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17050328 - 2 May 2025

Abstract

To evaluate the change trends of plankton in inland saline–alkaline water bodies, this study investigated the ecological restoration and rational development of saline–alkaline lakes in northwest China. From June to October 2023, phytoplankton communities in a high-salinity lake in Alar City, Xinjiang, were [...] Read more.

To evaluate the change trends of plankton in inland saline–alkaline water bodies, this study investigated the ecological restoration and rational development of saline–alkaline lakes in northwest China. From June to October 2023, phytoplankton communities in a high-salinity lake in Alar City, Xinjiang, were analyzed using standard survey methods for inland natural waters. Biodiversity indices were calculated, and redundancy analysis (RDA), Spearman’s correlation analysis, and Mantel test were carried out to assess the functional community structure of phytoplankton and its environmental drivers. In total, 115 phytoplankton taxa belonging to seven phyla were identified. The densities ranged from 23.76 × 10⁵ to 53.54 × 10⁷ cells/L. Bacillariophyta and Cyanophyta were the dominant phyla, accounting for 41.7% and 27.8% of the total taxa, respectively. The dominant species included Microcystis spp., Merismopedia sp., Cyclotella meneghiniana, and other algae. Spearman correlation analysis revealed that salinity, water temperature (WT), Na⁺, TDS, HCO₃⁻, Cl⁻, and K⁺ were key environmental factors significantly influencing phytoplankton community structure. Mantel tests confirmed that salinity (SAL), TDS, DO, and major ions (K⁺, Na⁺, CO₃²⁻) served as key determinants of spatiotemporal phytoplankton community distribution (p < 0.05). RDA results indicated that WT, TDS, alkalinity (ALK), pH, salinity, and Na⁺ were the key factors driving seasonal variations in phytoplankton communities. Notably, decreasing salinity and ion concentrations stabilized the phytoplankton community structure, maintaining high-diversity indices. This highlights the positive impact of ecological restoration measures, such as fisheries-based alkalinity control and systematic environmental management, on the health of saline–alkaline lake ecosystems. These findings provide important insights for the sustainable development of saline–alkaline fisheries and the conservation of aquatic biodiversity in arid regions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity and Ecology of Freshwater Plankton)

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11 pages, 1837 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Massilia paldalensis sp. nov., Isolated from Stream Bank Soil

by Nhi Thi Ai Nguyen and Jaisoo Kim

Diversity 2025, 17(5), 327; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17050327 - 1 May 2025

Abstract

A novel rod-shaped, Gram-negative, motile, aerobic and heavy metal-resistant bacterial strain, designated TN1-12^T, was isolated from stream bank soil in Paldal district, Suwon City, Republic of Korea. Growth occurred at 10–40 °C (opt 30 °C), NaCl concentrations up to 2% ( [...] Read more.

A novel rod-shaped, Gram-negative, motile, aerobic and heavy metal-resistant bacterial strain, designated TN1-12^T, was isolated from stream bank soil in Paldal district, Suwon City, Republic of Korea. Growth occurred at 10–40 °C (opt 30 °C), NaCl concentrations up to 2% (w/v) and pH 5.0–8.0 (opt pH 7.0). Based on the 16S rRNA gene sequence, the closest relatives of strain, TN1-12^T, are Massilia putida 6NM-7^T (98.21% similarity), Massilia forsythiae GN2-R2^T (98.00%), Massilia rhizosphaerae NEAU-GH312^T (97.79%), Massilia aurea AP13^T (97.78%) and Massilia niabensis 5420S-26^T (97.71%). The predominant ubiquinone is Q-8. The G+C content of the DNA is 66.7 mol%. The major polar lipids are diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine. The major fatty acids are C16:0, summed feature 3 (C16:1ω7c and/or iso-C15:0 2-OH), 17:0 cyclo and summed feature 8 (C18:1 ω7c and/or C18:1 ω6c). DNA–DNA hybridization and Average Nucleotide Identity data showed values below 26% and 85%, respectively, confirming that TN1-12^T represents a novel species. Based on the genotypic, chemotaxonomic and physiological data presented in this study, we propose that strain TN1-12^T represents a novel species within the genus Massilia with the name Massilia paldalensis sp. nov. (=KACC 23946^T = CGMCC 1.65296^T). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microbial Diversity and Culture Collections Hotspots in 2024)

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5 pages, 2431 KiB

Open AccessInteresting Images

A Documented Case of Ichthyophagy in the Malayan Krait (Bungarus candidus) and Its Implications for Toxinology

by Tim Lüddecke

Diversity 2025, 17(5), 326; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17050326 - 30 Apr 2025

Abstract

Snakebite is a neglected tropical disease, and the high potency of snake venoms has been evolutionary refined for trophic interactions. Hence, understanding the feeding ecology of snakes is a major element needed to meaningfully interpret toxinological data gathered for snake toxins. However, the [...] Read more.

Snakebite is a neglected tropical disease, and the high potency of snake venoms has been evolutionary refined for trophic interactions. Hence, understanding the feeding ecology of snakes is a major element needed to meaningfully interpret toxinological data gathered for snake toxins. However, the diet of several medically important snakes is vastly understudied. Here, the first case of in situ observed ichthyophagy in the Malayan Krait (Bungarus candidus), a highly venomous Asian elapid, which is supposedly an ophiophagous specialist, is reported. This report has important repercussions for Krait toxinology as it shows that fish as prey need to be considered when analyzing their venoms in light of eco-evolutionary and functional studies. It also suggests that this snake may be more trophically opportunistic than previously thought, which must be taken into account when calculating distribution ranges in the context of snakebite analyses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Amphibian and Reptile Adaptation: Biodiversity and Monitoring)

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13 pages, 1431 KiB

Open AccessBrief Report

Insight into the Yeast Diversity of Hungarian Honeys

by Mónika Molnár, Lajos Ács-Szabó, László Attila Papp, Zoltán Cziáky and Ida Miklós

Diversity 2025, 17(5), 325; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17050325 - 30 Apr 2025

Abstract

To learn about the yeast biodiversity of Hungarian honeys and to isolate osmotolerant yeasts, fifteen different honey varieties, beeswax, and bee bread were purchased, and samples of another, but highly osmotic material, tree sap (cherry, sour cherry, and plum), were collected from the [...] Read more.

To learn about the yeast biodiversity of Hungarian honeys and to isolate osmotolerant yeasts, fifteen different honey varieties, beeswax, and bee bread were purchased, and samples of another, but highly osmotic material, tree sap (cherry, sour cherry, and plum), were collected from the northeastern region of the country. In total, 60 yeast strains were isolated and their taxonomic positions were determined by barcode sequences using ITS1-NL4 primers. The honey products contained mostly Zygosaccharomyces and Starmerella species. In addition, Hanseniaspora uvarum, Rhodotorula mucilaginosa and diobovata, Sporobolomyces roseus, Filobasidium magnum, Naganishia sp., and Aureobasidium pullulans were also present in smaller numbers. In contrast, tree saps contained Metschnikowia and Pichia fermentas cells. Further results suggest that some of the yeasts in honey can only “survive”, while others can propagate at high sugar levels, generally between 600 and 700 mg/g, with a predominance of fructose. Properties important for pathogenicity, such as invasive hyphae production, gelatin melting ability, and growth at 37 °C, were also examined. Hanseniaspora uvarum and Pichia fermentans representatives seemed to be negative for gelatin hydrolysis, while the other strains were able to melt gelatin. Although some of the strains could produce hyphae-like structures at 25 °C, none of them could grow at 37 °C. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fungal Diversity)

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