Diversity

6 pages, 674 KB

Open AccessInteresting Images

Venturing out of Overwinter Refuge: A Case of Winter Predation on Podarcis tauricus (Georgi, 1801) (Squamata: Lacertidae) by Lanius excubitor Linnaeus, 1758 (Aves: Laniidae) in Greece

by Apostolos Christopoulos, Christos Kotselis and Yiannis G. Zevgolis

Diversity 2025, 17(12), 829; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17120829 (registering DOI) - 30 Nov 2025

Abstract

Shrikes (Lanius spp.) are predatory passerines with a diverse diet that often includes lizards, yet their feeding ecology in Greece remains poorly documented. Here, we report the first case of the great grey shrike Lanius excubitor Linnaeus, 1758 preying on the Balkan [...] Read more.

Shrikes (Lanius spp.) are predatory passerines with a diverse diet that often includes lizards, yet their feeding ecology in Greece remains poorly documented. Here, we report the first case of the great grey shrike Lanius excubitor Linnaeus, 1758 preying on the Balkan wall lizard Podarcis tauricus (Georgi, 1801) in Greece. The observation was made in January 2023 in Central Macedonia under unusually mild winter conditions (~20 °C). The shrike captured and impaled an adult female lizard on a thorn. This record extends the known prey spectrum of the species and underscores the influence of climatic anomalies on predator–prey interactions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Diversity)

17 pages, 2484 KB

Open AccessArticle

Elevation-Driven Variations in Species Composition and Biodiversity in a Protected Temperate Forest, Mount Gyebangsan, Korea

by Kwangil Cheon, Eun-Seo Lee and Byeong-Joo Park

Diversity 2025, 17(12), 828; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17120828 (registering DOI) - 28 Nov 2025

Abstract

This study analyzed the spatial patterns of species composition and biodiversity according to elevation on Mt. Gyebangsan, a representative protected ecosystem and the national park in Korea. Based on existing vegetation survey data, differences in species composition heterogeneity according to elevation were verified [...] Read more.

This study analyzed the spatial patterns of species composition and biodiversity according to elevation on Mt. Gyebangsan, a representative protected ecosystem and the national park in Korea. Based on existing vegetation survey data, differences in species composition heterogeneity according to elevation were verified using non-metric multidimensional scaling and multi-response permutation procedure analyses. Significant differences were identified using the Sørensen distance measure. Zeta (ζ)-diversity was analyzed based on the number of shared species among habitats to quantitatively interpret the structural characteristics of biodiversity along the altitudinal gradient. The analysis revealed that the understory species composition became increasingly distinct and alpha-diversity increased with elevation. High-elevation areas (A3, A4) experienced frequent physical disturbances, including wind damage and limited moisture, resulting in active canopy openings. Consequently, rhizomatous species, including Sasa borealis rapidly covered the ground, influencing the understory vegetation structure. ζ-Diversity analysis showed that the ζ-ratio in high-elevation regions sharply declined with increasing ζ-order, indicating limited species overlap among habitats and the dominance of deterministic processes. Thus, altitudinal gradients represent a key factor in shaping biodiversity, indicating that climatic variables directly affect understory distribution and species turnover. This study quantitatively assessed biodiversity and ecological heterogeneity within the national park, providing a scientific foundation for biodiversity conservation and management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Forest Management and Biodiversity Conservation—2nd Edition)

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19 pages, 3250 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Enigmatic Hadal Ophiuroid Has Found Its Place: A New Family Abyssuridae Links Ultra-Abyssal and Shallow-Water Fauna

by Alexander Martynov and Tatiana Korshunova

Diversity 2025, 17(12), 827; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17120827 (registering DOI) - 28 Nov 2025

Abstract

Severely understudied and poorly known ultra-abyssal (hadal) brittle-stars of the genus Abyssura were collected during a recent expedition to the Japan Trench at depths between 6183 and 6539 m and were examined for the first time for both their molecular and detailed morphological [...] Read more.

Severely understudied and poorly known ultra-abyssal (hadal) brittle-stars of the genus Abyssura were collected during a recent expedition to the Japan Trench at depths between 6183 and 6539 m and were examined for the first time for both their molecular and detailed morphological data. To date, family-level assignment of the genus Abyssura remains a complete enigma, despite a recent major reorganization of ophiuroid classification. In this study, we infer an all-family level phylogeny of the class Ophiuroidea and find phylogenetic placement for Abyssura, which turns out to be a sister taxon of another little-known ophiuroid genus, Ophiambix, found in hot-vent and cold-seep environments in association with sunken wood at depths between 146 and 5315 m. The sister relationship between the hadal genus Abyssura and the shallow-water-to-abyssal genus Ophiambix is robustly supported by our molecular data, and both external and micromorphological data for these genera are highly consistent. No similar taxa have been found in any of the currently recognized 34 ophiuroid families. Therefore, the genera Abyssura and Ophiambix are assigned to the new family, Abyssuridae fam. nov. This new family shows features of paedomorphic reduction and elucidates the linkage between fauna from both the shallower and the deepest parts of the world’s oceans and provides new insights into the global bathymetric, biogeographic, and diversity patterns of organisms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2025 Feature Papers by Diversity’s Editorial Board Members)

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13 pages, 1731 KB

Open AccessPerspective

Afrotropical Stingless Bees Illustrate a Persistent Cultural Blind Spot in Research, Policy and Conservation

by Nicolas J. Vereecken, Madeleine Héger, Marcelin Aganze Mweze, Aina Razakamiaramanana, Rebecca H. N. Karanja, Kiatoko Nkoba and Pierre Noiset

Diversity 2025, 17(12), 826; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17120826 - 28 Nov 2025

Abstract

This perspective paper examines the multifaceted cultural ecosystem services (CESs) provided by wild bees with particular attention to the spiritual, medicinal, and traditional knowledge-based dimensions associated with Afrotropical stingless bees. We integrate these insights within a biocultural framework, highlighting their relational values and [...] Read more.

This perspective paper examines the multifaceted cultural ecosystem services (CESs) provided by wild bees with particular attention to the spiritual, medicinal, and traditional knowledge-based dimensions associated with Afrotropical stingless bees. We integrate these insights within a biocultural framework, highlighting their relational values and arguing that the systematic omission of these cultural roles in pollinator research, policy and conservation constitutes a form of epistemic injustice. We also argue that the systematic recognition and documentation of these cultural roles are critical to advancing more inclusive and effective conservation frameworks. Based on a synthesis of field observations, photo-documentation, and literature review, we propose future research and policy directions aimed at embedding these cultural values more comprehensively within biocultural conservation strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Effects of Pollinator Loss on Biodiversity)

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15 pages, 9339 KB

Open AccessArticle

Regulatory Effects of Green Manure Combined with Nitrogen Reduction on Carbon-Cycling Functional Genes and Microbial Communities in Paddy Soils

by Zhongyi Li, Xiaohui Peng, Wenbin Dong, Caihui Wei, Yuning Wang, Yuefeng Yu, Hai Liang, Yongcheng Mo, Huiping Ou, Tieguang He, Hongqin Tang and Maoyan Tang

Diversity 2025, 17(12), 825; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17120825 - 28 Nov 2025

Abstract

Excessive nitrogen (N) fertilization in rice systems has caused soil degradation and reduced N use efficiency. Green manure, especially Astragalus sinicus (Chinese milk vetch), provides a sustainable alternative, but the microbial and functional gene mechanisms underlying its interaction with reduced N input remain [...] Read more.

Excessive nitrogen (N) fertilization in rice systems has caused soil degradation and reduced N use efficiency. Green manure, especially Astragalus sinicus (Chinese milk vetch), provides a sustainable alternative, but the microbial and functional gene mechanisms underlying its interaction with reduced N input remain unclear. In this study, a field experiment was conducted at Dingdian Village, Natong Town, Long’an County, Nanning City, Guangxi Province, China (107°51′21″ E, 23°00′41″ N) during the 2018–2019 rice growing seasons. Four treatments were established: conventional N fertilization (N100), 20% N reduction (N80), green manure plus full N (GMN100), and green manure plus 20% N reduction (GMN80). Soil physicochemical traits, microbial community composition, and carbon-cycling functional genes were analyzed using high-throughput sequencing and metagenomic profiling. Compared with N100, GMN80 significantly increased soil organic matter (by 21.3%), microbial biomass carbon (by 32.6%), and available phosphorus (by 17.8%). The Shannon index rose from 4.18 to 4.63, while Proteobacteria and Actinobacteria increased by 9.5% and 7.2%, respectively. Functional genes encoding glycoside hydrolases (GH5, GH9) and carbohydrate esterases (CE1, CE10) were enriched by 25–40%, with upregulation of carbon fixation (rbcL) and methane metabolism (mcrA) genes. Integrating A. sinicus with moderate N reduction improves soil fertility, stimulates microbial diversity, and enhances carbon turnover efficiency, offering a practical pathway toward sustainable low-carbon rice production. 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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9 pages, 1116 KB

Open AccessArticle

Insights into the Taxonomy of the Genus Chrysastrella (Chrysophyceae), with Establishment of Chrysastrellaceae fam. nov.

by Dmitry Kapustin, Nikita Martynenko, Irina Sterlyagova, Anton Iurmanov and Maxim Kulikovskiy

Diversity 2025, 17(12), 824; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17120824 - 28 Nov 2025

Abstract

Chrysastrella is a small genus of the Ochromonas-like chrysophytes, taxonomy and phylogenetic placement of which remained unclear. For a long time Chrysastrella was considered a cyst genus, i.e., a morphogenus based on the structure of stomatocysts, the resting stages of chrysophytes. We [...] Read more.

Chrysastrella is a small genus of the Ochromonas-like chrysophytes, taxonomy and phylogenetic placement of which remained unclear. For a long time Chrysastrella was considered a cyst genus, i.e., a morphogenus based on the structure of stomatocysts, the resting stages of chrysophytes. We isolated several new strains of C. paradoxa from the peat bogs in Murmansk Region and the Republic of Komi (Russia) and studied them using light and scanning electron microscopy as well as molecular techniques. We showed that morphological differences between C. paradoxa, C. minor and C. breviappendiculata are within the range of variability of stomatocysts during development. So, we synonymized C. minor and C. breviappendiculata with C. paradoxa. Molecular phylogenetic analysis based on SSU rDNA and rbcL sequences revealed that Chrysastrella belongs to the order Chrysosaccales. A new monotypic family, Chrysastrellaceae fam. nov., was formally described to accommodate this genus. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Freshwater Biodiversity)

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116 pages, 37139 KB

Open AccessReview

Review of Coral Taxonomy, Evolution and Diversity

by John E. N. Veron, Mary G. Stafford-Smith, Lyndon M. DeVantier and Emre Turak

Diversity 2025, 17(12), 823; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17120823 - 27 Nov 2025

Abstract

To recast Theodosius Dobzhansky’s famous 1973 quote: ‘nothing in coral taxonomy makes sense except in light of reticulate evolution’. Coral species evolve through the continual intermixing of ancestral lineages forming a network of changing genetic interconnections rather than stable hierarchical trees. Most species [...] Read more.

To recast Theodosius Dobzhansky’s famous 1973 quote: ‘nothing in coral taxonomy makes sense except in light of reticulate evolution’. Coral species evolve through the continual intermixing of ancestral lineages forming a network of changing genetic interconnections rather than stable hierarchical trees. Most species are not discrete units but rather are components of continua with variable genetic, morphological, and geographic boundaries. Hybridisation and introgression are key processes maintaining reticulated networks, making polyphyletic species (those with mixed evolutionary origins) potentially the norm. This creates grey zones of speciation where taxonomic divisions are uncertain and gene flow is ongoing. With this understanding, we critically review: (1) Sources of information for taxonomic decisions, including biology, population dynamics and the need for comprehensive field and foundational molecular studies capturing environment-correlated and geographic variations; (2) Nomenclature (a human construct) and taxonomy (which endeavours to reflect nature’s organisation): (3) Synonymy, including serial errors stemming from historical publications; (4) Type specimens, their use and misuse as a basis for taxonomic decisions; (5) Genus and species level agreements and disagreements between morphological and molecular taxonomies; (6) Use of the terms ‘cryptic species’, ‘cryptic variant’ and ‘cryptic lineage’; (7) Taxonomic decisions based on inferences beyond the scope of individual studies, creating nomenclatural instability and concern, not least among those working to address the impacts of climate change. This review also provides context for an extensive array of Factsheets and linked documentation about each of the species included in CoralsOfTheWorld.org (2026 in prep.). Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Marine Diversity)

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24 pages, 4509 KB

Open AccessArticle

Ornamental Plant Diversity and Traditional Uses in Home Gardens of Kham Toei Sub-District, Thai Charoen District, Yasothon Province, Northeastern Thailand

by Piyaporn Saensouk, Surapon Saensouk, Khamfa Chanthavongsa, Phiphat Sonthongphithak and Tammanoon Jitpromma

Diversity 2025, 17(12), 822; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17120822 - 27 Nov 2025

Abstract

Ornamental plants in rural household gardens provide esthetic, cultural, and practical value, yet their ethnobotanical and ethnopharmacological roles remain understudied. This study aimed to identify culturally significant ornamental species in Kham Toei Sub-district, Northeastern Thailand, document their multifunctional uses—including esthetic, ritual, edible, and [...] Read more.

Ornamental plants in rural household gardens provide esthetic, cultural, and practical value, yet their ethnobotanical and ethnopharmacological roles remain understudied. This study aimed to identify culturally significant ornamental species in Kham Toei Sub-district, Northeastern Thailand, document their multifunctional uses—including esthetic, ritual, edible, and medicinal roles—and examine how availability, perceived utility, and cultural context influence local valuations. Field surveys were conducted between June 2024 to May 2025 using purposive sampling to select 30 households, and semi-structured interviews were conducted with one primary informant per household. A total of 81 species from 36 families and 66 genera were recorded, dominated by herbaceous plants (53%), with introduced species (74%) exceeding natives (24%). Quantitative indices—Cultural Ornamental Significance Index (COSI), Fidelity Level (FL), and Informant Consensus Factor (FIC)—identified Aloe vera (L.) Burm.f., Cassia fistula L., Curcuma longa L., and Zingiber officinale Roscoe as culturally important species. High FL values, such as 80.00% for Jatropha podagrica Hook. (musculoskeletal use) and Tradescantia spathacea Sw. (gastrointestinal use), along with FIC of 0.83 for eye disorders, indicate strong community agreement on therapeutic applications. These findings demonstrate that ornamental plants support household healthcare, rituals, and ecological functions, reinforcing biocultural resilience and sustaining the integration of cultural, ecological, and medicinal values in community life. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Diversity)

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26 pages, 822 KB

Open AccessReview

Mycoforestry with the Saffron Milk Cap (Lactarius deliciosus L.:Fr. S.F. Gray) and Its Potential as a Large-Scale Food Production System

by André Dhungana, Paul W. Thomas, Clare Wilson, Roy Sanderson and Alistair Jump

Diversity 2025, 17(12), 821; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17120821 - 27 Nov 2025

Abstract

Mycoforestry, a farming system that produces edible fungi crops in forest plantations through controlled mycorrhizal symbiosis, has the potential to enhance biodiversity in forestry plantations and mitigate some of the negative impacts associated with modern agriculture, such as soil erosion, habitat degradation, and [...] Read more.

Mycoforestry, a farming system that produces edible fungi crops in forest plantations through controlled mycorrhizal symbiosis, has the potential to enhance biodiversity in forestry plantations and mitigate some of the negative impacts associated with modern agriculture, such as soil erosion, habitat degradation, and carbon emissions. Mycoforestry systems typically exploit a range of native fungi that can be inoculated into planting stock of commercial tree species, with biodiversity benefits delivered through expanded habitat provision for the fungi and a range of other organisms through alterations to stand structure. One mycoforestry system showing strong potential for commercial viability involves the cultivation of Lactarius deliciosus (L.:Fr.) S.F. Gray in Pinaceae plantations. This review aims to evaluate the benefits of mycoforestry systems with a focus on Lactarius deliciosus (L.:Fr.) as a case study. It will review the state of the art and discuss technical developments necessary for the successful large-scale application of mycoforestry systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mycorrhizal Fungi Biodiversity and Ecology)

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19 pages, 5898 KB

Open AccessArticle

First Records of Beetle Fauna (Insecta: Coleoptera) from Late Glacial Sediments of Lithuania: Novel Environmental Reconstructions

by Nick Schafstall, Miglė Stančikaitė, Romas Ferenca and Vaida Šeirienė

Diversity 2025, 17(12), 820; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17120820 - 27 Nov 2025

Abstract

This study presents the first subfossil beetle (Coleoptera) records from Lithuania, from Late Glacial organic deposits. Bulk sediment samples were collected from the Pamerkiai and Zervynos Outcrops in SE Lithuania, and from the Ventė Outcrop at the eastern coast of the Curonian Lagoon, [...] Read more.

This study presents the first subfossil beetle (Coleoptera) records from Lithuania, from Late Glacial organic deposits. Bulk sediment samples were collected from the Pamerkiai and Zervynos Outcrops in SE Lithuania, and from the Ventė Outcrop at the eastern coast of the Curonian Lagoon, W Lithuania. Radiocarbon dating determined that the studied sediments accumulated between ~15,000–11,300 cal BP. The beetle assemblages (29–177 individuals per sample) consist of many cold-adapted species that are common from Late Glacial deposits in the British Isles, Southern Sweden, and continental Europe. True arctic species are absent from the assemblages, and it is likely that the Lithuanian beetle fauna was most similar to nearby southern regions (e.g., Poland) during the Late Glacial. Besides a variety of aquatic species and typical wetland species, many beetle species living in open environments and on sandy soils were identified. In almost all the samples, taxa associated with pine trees, willows, and birches were found, confirming previous reconstructions of a sparsely forested landscape during the climatic periods GI-1e–GI-1a (Bølling-Allerød). The species assemblages from the youngest samples, associated with GS-1 (Younger Dryas), indicate the disappearance of large aquatic macrophytes and decreasing temperatures in Southern Lithuania, but a persistence of trees in the region. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biogeography and Macroecology)

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17 pages, 8736 KB

Open AccessArticle

New Information on the Morphology and Tooth Replacement of Xenodens calminechari (Squamata: Mosasauridae), a Unique Mosasaurid from the Maastrichtian Phosphates of Morocco

by Nicholas R. Longrich, Nathalie Bardet, Nour-Eddine Jalil, Xabier Pereda-Suberbiola, Anne Schulp and Mohamed Ghamizi

Diversity 2025, 17(12), 819; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17120819 - 27 Nov 2025

Abstract

Xenodens calminechari is a highly derived mosasaurid from the latest Maastrichtian Phosphates of the Oulad Abdoun Basin, Morocco. Originally described based on a single maxilla, Xenodens differs from all known squamates in its closely packed, bladelike marginal teeth and modified tooth implantation and [...] Read more.

Xenodens calminechari is a highly derived mosasaurid from the latest Maastrichtian Phosphates of the Oulad Abdoun Basin, Morocco. Originally described based on a single maxilla, Xenodens differs from all known squamates in its closely packed, bladelike marginal teeth and modified tooth implantation and replacement. Xenodens’ relationships and anatomy remain poorly understood, and a recent study suggested that the holotype represents a composite, and furthermore that the animal might represent a juvenile of Carinodens. Evidence from a new referred specimen of Xenodens and CT scans corroborate the original description of Xenodens. Scans of the holotype and referred specimen of Xenodens reveal highly derived tooth implantation; interdental ridges are reduced in the posterior part of the jaw and teeth implant in a groove, with adjacent roots contacting and fusing. Tooth roots bear large, deep replacement pits, as is typical of derived mosasaurids, but in posterior teeth the replacement pits merge lingually to create a single large pit for two teeth. We provide an updated diagnosis of Xenodens, detailing unusual features of its tooth anatomy, implantation and replacement. Differences between Xenodens and Carinodens are numerous and no intermediate morphologies exist; furthermore, the size overlap between Carinodens and Xenodens indicates that Xenodens cannot represent a juvenile Carinodens. Xenodens highlights the remarkable diversity of mosasaurids, as well as the exceptional range of ecological niches occupied by this highly successful group of marine reptiles before their extinction. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Diversity)

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26 pages, 2588 KB

Open AccessArticle

Epiphytic Habit and Spatial Distribution Patterns of Phalaenopsis deliciosa and Phalaenopsis hainanensis

by Haotian Zhong, Wenchang Li, Zhiheng Chen and Zhe Zhang

Diversity 2025, 17(12), 818; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17120818 - 27 Nov 2025

Abstract

Epiphytic orchids are the largest group of epiphytes and are important components of forest species diversity. Epiphytic orchids show host preferences. Their spatial distribution is shaped by microhabitat preferences, host tree characteristics, and mycorrhizal associations. In this study, the habitat community structure and [...] Read more.

Epiphytic orchids are the largest group of epiphytes and are important components of forest species diversity. Epiphytic orchids show host preferences. Their spatial distribution is shaped by microhabitat preferences, host tree characteristics, and mycorrhizal associations. In this study, the habitat community structure and epiphytic habits of epiphytic orchids, Phalaenopsis deliciosa and Phalaenopsis hainanensis, distributed on Hainan Island were investigated. The results show that the vascular plant genera in the communities of P. deliciosa and P. hainanensis are characterized by biogeographical affinities dominated by tropical Asian and pantropical elements, accounting for 30.60% and 21.64% in the P. deliciosa community and 26.42% and 24.53% in the P. hainanensis community, respectively. Within the surveyed plots of this study, 41 epiphytic host species were recorded for P. deliciosa and 17 for P. hainanensis. Both P. deliciosa and P. hainanensis showed a high epiphytic preference for Streblus ilicifolius, with selectivity index values of 21.89 and 26.00, respectively. Both P. deliciosa and P. hainanensis exhibited clear small-scale aggregated horizontal distributions, with the O-ring analysis indicating statistically significant clustering (p < 0.05). Specifically, P. hainanensis showed aggregation within the 0.25–0.75 m range, whereas P. deliciosa displayed aggregation at radii of 0.25–2.25 m. In the vertical distribution, individuals of P. deliciosa occurred below 5 m and were concentrated at heights of 1–1.9 m. Individuals of P. hainanensis were distributed below 4 m, with no significant differences among height classes, although the highest abundances occurred at heights of 0–0.9 m and 2–2.9 m. Heights of 0–0.9 m and 2–2.9 m were the most abundant. In summary, individuals of both Phalaenopsis species were predominantly distributed at lower height ranges. The protection of the habitat plant community, especially the preferred epiphytic tree species or companion plants, should be strengthened to conserve the Phalaenopsis species. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Diversity)

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13 pages, 622 KB

Open AccessArticle

Relationship Between Tree Species Diversity and Soil Ecological Biochemistry Characteristics in Urban Wetland: A Case Study of International Important Wetland in Hangzhou, China

by Kekan Yao, Chuanliang Li, Yuheng Luo and Weicheng Li

Diversity 2025, 17(12), 817; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17120817 - 27 Nov 2025

Abstract

Tree species diversity in forest ecosystems is crucial for maintaining ecosystem stability and functionality. However, its underlying mechanisms linking to subsurface ecological processes—such as soil nutrient cycling—remain unclear, particularly in urban wetland ecosystems. This study, conducted at Xixi Wetland, an internationally important wetland, [...] Read more.

Tree species diversity in forest ecosystems is crucial for maintaining ecosystem stability and functionality. However, its underlying mechanisms linking to subsurface ecological processes—such as soil nutrient cycling—remain unclear, particularly in urban wetland ecosystems. This study, conducted at Xixi Wetland, an internationally important wetland, also a typical subtropical urban wetland in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China, analyzed the relationship between tree species diversity and soil ecometabolic ratios based on species diversity surveys. Results indicate that mulberry and paper mulberry dominate Xixi Wetland, with diversity indices comparable to other subtropical forests in China. Tree species diversity and soil physicochemical properties showed significant positive correlations with total soil nitrogen and organic carbon, but no significant effect on total phosphorus. Together, tree species diversity and soil physicochemical properties explained 65.88% of the variance in soil ecological–chemical ratios. Tree species diversity significantly influenced soil nitrogen cycling in Xixi Wetland but had limited effects on phosphorus cycling. Enhanced tree species richness not only promotes organic carbon accumulation in coarse aggregates, providing a scientific basis for wetland carbon sink management, but also maintains nutrient cycling stability by strengthening soil resilience to biotic disturbances. This holds significant practical value for ecological design in urban wetland parks. This study provides scientific support for managing subtropical wetland ecosystems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Diversity)

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21 pages, 24614 KB

Open AccessArticle

Ecological Characteristics of Temperate Seagrass Beds in Qingdao Coastal Waters and Ecological Response Relationships with Benthic Macrofauna Communities and Environmental Factors

by Jingjing Sha, Xiaoli Song, Peiyan Sun, Zhibo Yang, Mengmeng Bao, Hui Wang, Ruobing Wen, Qingyun Yu and Miao Wei

Diversity 2025, 17(12), 816; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17120816 - 25 Nov 2025

Abstract

Seagrass beds are among the most productive and ecologically valuable coastal ecosystems. However, temperate nearshore seagrass beds exposed to urban stressors remain understudied. From 2020 to 2024, this study investigated seagrass communities, environmental factors, and benthic macrofauna in Qingdao’s coastal bays (Qingdao Bay, [...] Read more.

Seagrass beds are among the most productive and ecologically valuable coastal ecosystems. However, temperate nearshore seagrass beds exposed to urban stressors remain understudied. From 2020 to 2024, this study investigated seagrass communities, environmental factors, and benthic macrofauna in Qingdao’s coastal bays (Qingdao Bay, Huiquan Bay and Tangdao Bay) using field sampling and remote sensing. Redundancy analysis (RDA), Spearman correlation, and PERMANOVA were applied to clarify the ecological response relationships among these components. Results revealed significant spatiotemporal variations: Qingdao Bay experienced severe degradation with an 88% decline in belowground biomass. Huiquan Bay showed shoot height increases but ecological instability, while Tangdao Bay maintained relatively stable conditions. Mollusks dominated Qingdao Bay (67.4%), whereas annelids were prevalent in Huiquan Bay (51.8%) and Tangdao Bay (69.6%). Tangdao Bay supported the most complex and stable benthic communities. Water depth acted as a stressor to seagrass growth, while the role of dissolved oxygen and salinity was complex, exhibiting context-dependent relationships with seagrass parameters. Dissolved inorganic nitrogen and reactive phosphate were shared positive drivers for both seagrasses and macrofauna. This study conclusively links specific environmental drivers to seagrass ecosystem dynamics, delivering essential insights for effective ecological management and restoration strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity and Ecosystem Conservation of Coastal Wetlands)

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19 pages, 4314 KB

Open AccessArticle

Changes in the Occurrence of Uncommon Species of Small Terrestrial Mammals (Eulipotyphla, Rodentia) in the Czech Republic

by Ladislav Čepelka, Martina Dokulilová, Miroslav Dusík, Denisa Dvořáková, Marta Heroldová, Emanuel Kula, Luboš Purchart and Josef Suchomel

Diversity 2025, 17(12), 815; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17120815 - 25 Nov 2025

Abstract

The paper summarizes recent observations of uncommon small terrestrial mammals (Eulipotyphla, Rodentia) in the Czech Republic and compares them with known ranges. In total, 5038 records of 13 species (Apodemus agrarius, Apodemus uralensis, Arvicola amphibius, Crocidura leucodon, Crocidura [...] Read more.

The paper summarizes recent observations of uncommon small terrestrial mammals (Eulipotyphla, Rodentia) in the Czech Republic and compares them with known ranges. In total, 5038 records of 13 species (Apodemus agrarius, Apodemus uralensis, Arvicola amphibius, Crocidura leucodon, Crocidura suaveolens, Glis glis, Micromys minutus, Microtus subterraneus, Muscardinus avellanarius, Neomys fodiens, Neomys milleri, Sicista betulina, and Sorex alpinus) were included. A database was created, including at least date, location, species, and observer for each record. For each species, a list of quadrats (KFME) with confirmed occurrence, along with selected records of the species in a given quadrat (oldest and youngest record, lowest and highest elevation), is included. These data were then compared with existing knowledge. The results show range expansion of thermophilic, steppe, and agricultural landscape species such as Apodemus agrarius, Apodemus uralensis and Crocidura leucodon into areas previously uninhabited by them. On the contrary, Sorex alpinus, one of the most typical mountain species, has not been observed in the southernmost part of its former range for the last 15 years. This study highlights the importance of monitoring the changes in the abundance of all species. These findings are important not only for managing and protecting biodiversity, but also for understanding the impacts of environmental change. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Diversity)

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13 pages, 1084 KB

Open AccessArticle

Comparison of Gut Bacterial Communities in the Freshwater Mussel Sinanodonta woodiana at Different Life Stages

by Mengying Gu, Huan Wang, Meiyi Wang, Ibrahim Bah, Tao Jiang, Junren Xue, Xinyu Ding and Xiubao Chen

Diversity 2025, 17(12), 814; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17120814 - 25 Nov 2025

Abstract

Freshwater mussels hold significant ecological and economic value. Gut bacterial communities can regulate the growth and immunity of freshwater mussels. However, the dynamics of gut bacterial communities in freshwater mussels at different life stages are still limited. This study used the globally widespread [...] Read more.

Freshwater mussels hold significant ecological and economic value. Gut bacterial communities can regulate the growth and immunity of freshwater mussels. However, the dynamics of gut bacterial communities in freshwater mussels at different life stages are still limited. This study used the globally widespread mussel, Sinanodonta woodiana, as a model animal and employed 16S rRNA sequencing technology to comparatively analyze the gut bacterial communities of early juveniles, late juveniles, and adults. Alpha diversity indices indicated a trend of increasing richness and diversity of the gut bacterial communities with the mussel growth. Beta diversity analysis revealed distinct stage-specific taxonomic profiles. At the phylum level, four dominant phyla were identified in the early juveniles, namely Fusobacteriota, Verrucomicrobiota, Pseudomonadota, and Cyanobacteriota; and seven dominant phyla were identified in both late juveniles and adults, namely Fusobacteriota, Pseudomonadota, Verrucomicrobiota, Cyanobacteriota, Bacillota, Bacteroidota, and Chloroflexota. Among them, the relative abundance of Fusobacteriota decreased with the mussel growth (p < 0.05), while the relative abundances of Pseudomonadota and Cyanobacteriota increased with the mussel growth (p < 0.05). At the genus level, four dominant genera were identified in the early juveniles: Cetobacterium, LD29, Cyanobium_PCC-6307, and Cupriavidus; seven dominant genera were identified in the late juveniles: Cetobacterium, Roseomonas, LD29, Cyanobium_PCC-6307, Limnolyngbya_CHAB4449, Terrimicrobium, Limnothrix; and nine dominant genera were detected in the adults: Cetobacterium, LD29, Roseomonas, Cyanobium_PCC-6307, Limnothrix, Limnolyngbya_CHAB4449, Sediminibacterium, Terrimicrobium, Acidibacter. Among these, the relative abundance of Cetobacterium decreased with the mussel growth (p < 0.05), while the relative abundance of Acidibacter increased with the mussel growth (p < 0.05). Functional prediction revealed that the gut bacterial communities were primarily involved in metabolic pathways, including the biosynthesis of ansamycins, biosynthesis of vancomycin group antibiotics, D-glutamine and D-glutamate metabolism, biotin metabolism, valine, leucine and isoleucine biosynthesis, and fatty acid biosynthesis. The findings provide insights for enhancing the nutrition and health of freshwater mussels. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ecology and Conservation of Freshwater Bivalves)

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17 pages, 3637 KB

Open AccessArticle

Decoding the Mitogenome of Takydromus intermedius: Insights into the Comparative Mitogenomics and Phylogenetic Relationships of Takydromus Lizards

by Jiaojiao Yu, Minghua Chen, Buqie Shang, Dejiao Yi, Wei Wu and Jiabin Liu

Diversity 2025, 17(12), 813; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17120813 - 25 Nov 2025

Abstract

The genus Takydromus (grass lizards) represents a diverse and ecologically significant group of lacertid lizards widely distributed across East and Southeast Asia. However, phylogenetic relationships within the genus remain contentious, primarily due to limited molecular data and inconsistent results from previous studies based [...] Read more.

The genus Takydromus (grass lizards) represents a diverse and ecologically significant group of lacertid lizards widely distributed across East and Southeast Asia. However, phylogenetic relationships within the genus remain contentious, primarily due to limited molecular data and inconsistent results from previous studies based on single or few mitochondrial genes. This study aimed to (1) sequence and characterize the complete mitogenome of T. intermedius; (2) perform a comparative analysis of mitogenomic features across the genus; and (3) reconstruct a robust phylogeny to clarify intra-generic evolutionary relationships. The mitogenome of T. intermedius was 18,770 bp in size and contained the typical set of 37 genes. Comparative analyses revealed characteristic features including AT-richness, strand asymmetry, and considerable length variation in the control region attributable to tandem repeats. The ATP8 gene showed the highest nucleotide diversity, and all protein-coding genes were found to be under strong purifying selection. Phylogenetic trees were reconstructed from a concatenated dataset of 13 protein-coding genes and two rRNA genes using both maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference methods. The resulting phylogeny strongly supported the monophyly of Takydromus and resolved several species relationships; however, it did not support the recognition of Platyplacopus as a distinct subgenus. Moreover, our mitogenomic analysis strongly validates the forest-grassland ecological speciation hypothesis and the southern–northern lineage division in Takydromus. Our study provides valuable mitogenomic resources and underscores the utility of complete mitochondrial genomes in elucidating phylogenetic relationships within Takydromus. These findings lay a solid foundation for future taxonomic and evolutionary studies, although expanded species sampling is needed to fully understand the genus’s diversification history. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Papers in Phylogeny and Evolution)

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14 pages, 1865 KB

Open AccessArticle

Unveiling Zooplankton Diversity Patterns: The Differential Influence of Macrophyte Belts on Species and Functional Metrics

by Dmitry Gavrilko, Viktor Bubnov, Alexandr Sarapkin, Vyacheslav Zhikharev, Tatyana Zolotareva and Basil Yakimov

Diversity 2025, 17(12), 812; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17120812 - 24 Nov 2025

Abstract

Species and functional diversity are essential frameworks for analyzing changes in planktonic communities. In lakes and rivers, macrophytes within the coastal zone are a primary determinant of zooplankton community structure and function. This study investigated the influence of various macrophyte beds in the [...] Read more.

Species and functional diversity are essential frameworks for analyzing changes in planktonic communities. In lakes and rivers, macrophytes within the coastal zone are a primary determinant of zooplankton community structure and function. This study investigated the influence of various macrophyte beds in the littoral zones of lakes and river estuaries on the species and functional diversity of zooplankton communities. Our analysis revealed that among the species diversity metrics, only zooplankton species richness notably demonstrated a clear relationship with macrophyte type and their projective coverage. The highest richness was observed in mixed and submerged macrophytes due to the peculiarities of their morphological structure. Functional diversity indices—functional richness, functional evenness, and functional divergence—had a strong association with diverse macrophyte belts. The extent of these differences in zooplankton species and functional diversity is further amplified by a greater representation of diverse macrophyte belt types within the littoral zone. Macrophyte thickets consistently demonstrated increased species richness, functional richness, and functional divergence in zooplankton communities compared to open water zones, with mixed and submerged macrophytes exerting the most pronounced impact on diversity. These results underscore that the diverse structures of macrophytes contribute significantly to variation in zooplankton diversity in coastal areas. Consequently, functional diversity indices prove to be more effective tools than traditional species diversity indices for assessing changes in planktonic communities along spatial gradients. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 15th Anniversary of Diversity—Biodiversity, Conservation and Ecology of Animals, Plants and Microorganisms)

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4 pages, 893 KB

Open AccessInteresting Images

Shell Color Diversity and Sexual Dimorphism in Land Snail Cyclophorus ateribalteiformis (Caenogastropoda: Cyclophoroidea): A Preliminary Observation

by Guang-Long Xie, Qin Wang, Ying Cao, Jia-Yi Zhu and Feng-Yue Shu

Diversity 2025, 17(12), 811; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17120811 - 24 Nov 2025

Abstract

Cyclophorus ateribalteiformis is a dioecious land snail species endemic to China. In a recent field survey in Xishuangbanna, Yunnan Province, we observed shell color dimorphism in this species, with a pale-yellow shell morph found only in males. Measurements of 11 specimens showed that [...] Read more.

Cyclophorus ateribalteiformis is a dioecious land snail species endemic to China. In a recent field survey in Xishuangbanna, Yunnan Province, we observed shell color dimorphism in this species, with a pale-yellow shell morph found only in males. Measurements of 11 specimens showed that females have significantly greater shell height than males, indicating sexual dimorphism in shell size. DNA sequences of the cox1 and 16S rRNA genes confirmed that all individuals belong to the same species. Although sexual dimorphism in shell size and color has been reported in a few terrestrial caenogastropods, it is rare in Cyclophoroidea. Our study provides preliminary evidence of male-specific shell coloration and size dimorphism in C. ateribalteiformis. Further sampling and research are needed to confirm and better understand this phenomenon. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Diversity)

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