Diversity

16 pages, 5957 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Genetic Diversity, Connectivity and Demographic History of the Small Red Scorpionfish Scorpaena notata at a Small Scale in the Balearic Islands (Western Mediterranean)

by Joan Riera, Adriana Tudurí, Beatriz Guijarro, Francesc Ordines, Antònia Picornell and Sergio Ramírez-Amaro

Diversity 2025, 17(6), 405; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17060405 (registering DOI) - 7 Jun 2025

Abstract

This study analyses for the first time the genetic diversity, connectivity, and evolutionary dynamics of the small red scorpionfish (Scorpaena notata) in the Balearic Islands, using two mitochondrial DNA markers: Cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) and the Control Region (CR). [...] Read more.

This study analyses for the first time the genetic diversity, connectivity, and evolutionary dynamics of the small red scorpionfish (Scorpaena notata) in the Balearic Islands, using two mitochondrial DNA markers: Cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) and the Control Region (CR). Nucleotide diversity of the COI gene was found to be low compared to other commercial fish species, suggesting that fishing may be impacting the population despite being a by-catch species. In contrast, the CR showed higher genetic variability. Demographic history analyses suggest that S. notata underwent a population expansion during the Pleistocene, possibly driven by sea-level changes. Genetic structure analyses (F_st and AMOVA) indicated genetic homogeneity and high connectivity among the Balearic Islands’ population, likely facilitated by its passive dispersion via pelagic eggs and larvae and the oceanographic conditions of the region. Our results suggest that the entire Balearic Islands could be considered as a unique Management Unit, although its potential relation to other nearby areas, such as the Iberian Peninsula, along with the analysis of additional genetic markers, should be addressed in future studies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Marine Diversity)

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12 pages, 938 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Developmental Dynamics of Bacterial Microbiota in Aphis gossypii Revealed Using Full-Length 16S rRNA Sequencing

by Yunchao Wang, Xingmei Xie, Qiuli Hou, Chuying Wei, Zhan Chen, Leilei Fan, E Liang, Zhuo Li and Kun Yang

Diversity 2025, 17(6), 404; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17060404 - 6 Jun 2025

Abstract

The cotton aphid, Aphis gossypii, is a globally significant agricultural pest whose microbiota plays vital roles in its physiology and adaptation. However, the dynamics of bacterial communities across its developmental stages remain poorly understood. This study employed full-length 16S rRNA gene sequencing [...] Read more.

The cotton aphid, Aphis gossypii, is a globally significant agricultural pest whose microbiota plays vital roles in its physiology and adaptation. However, the dynamics of bacterial communities across its developmental stages remain poorly understood. This study employed full-length 16S rRNA gene sequencing to characterize the microbiota structure, diversity, and functional potential in nine developmental stages of A. gossypii, including egg, nymph (1-, 3-, 5-, 7-day-old), and adult (1-, 3-, 5-, 7-day-old). Results revealed Proteobacteria (72.75–95.51%) as the dominant phylum across all stages, with Buchnera aphidicola (primary obligate symbiont) constituting over 23.83% of bacterial abundance and peaking in eggs (≈80%). Alpha diversity indices (Shannon, Simpson) indicated significantly higher microbial diversity in nymphs compared to adults, suggesting stage-specific ecological interactions. While beta diversity analysis showed no structural clustering by developmental stage, functional predictions highlighted enrichment in metabolic pathways (>73% of genes), though limitations in 16S-based functional inference were noted. Notably, facultative symbionts like Hamiltonella or Serratia were absent, contrasting with other aphid systems. Dynamic shifts in Buchnera titer and the prominence of Delftia tsuruhatensis and Enterobacter hormaechei implied potential roles in host adaptation. These findings highlight the persistent dominance of the obligate symbiont Buchnera aphidicola across all developmental stages, despite quantitative fluctuations in its abundance, alongside stage-specific shifts in facultative bacterial communities, offering insights into novel targets for microbiome-driven pest management strategies. Further multi-omics approaches are warranted to validate functional contributions of these microbial communities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Microbial Diversity and Culture Collections)

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22 pages, 17218 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Gliding on the Edge: The Impact of Climate Change on the Habitat Dynamics of Two Sympatric Giant Flying Squirrels, Petaurista elegans and Hylopetes phayrei, in South and Southeast Asia

by Imon Abedin, Manokaran Kamalakannan, Dhriti Banerjee, Hyun-Woo Kim, Hilloljyoti Singha and Shantanu Kundu

Diversity 2025, 17(6), 403; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17060403 - 6 Jun 2025

Abstract

South and Southeast Asia are considered biodiversity hotspots, yet they face escalating threats from deforestation and climate change. This study evaluates the suitable habitat extent of two sympatric flying squirrels, Petaurista elegans and Hylopetes phayrei, using ensemble distribution models based on the [...] Read more.

South and Southeast Asia are considered biodiversity hotspots, yet they face escalating threats from deforestation and climate change. This study evaluates the suitable habitat extent of two sympatric flying squirrels, Petaurista elegans and Hylopetes phayrei, using ensemble distribution models based on the climate-only model (COM) and habitat–climate model (HCM) approaches. The results indicated severe habitat loss, with suitable areas comprising only 1.56–1.66% (P. elegans) and 0.22–2.47% (H. phayrei) of their estimated extent of occurrence. Within IUCN-defined ranges, the suitability for P. elegans was 28.25% and 30.04%, while H. phayrei showed 2.86% and 32.39% in terms of the HCM and COM, respectively. The analysis further revealed habitat fragmentation, reduced patch size, and edge complexity, with future scenarios predicting increased isolation. These results highlight the urgent necessity for region-specific conservation strategies focusing on habitat recovery, connectivity, and transboundary cooperation. The recommended actions include genetic studies, corridor analysis, and field validation. This research provides critical baseline data to inform integrated, multi-stakeholder conservation planning across South and Southeast Asia for the long-term persistence of these vulnerable flying squirrel species. 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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20 pages, 1518 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Research Trends and Hotspots in eDNA-Based Surveys of Macroinvertebrates: A Bibliometric Analysis

by Xinyu Ge, Junyu Zhang, Ziming Shao, Lu Chai, Jiaxin Nie, Dan Yin, Haoran Zhang, Wenbin Liu and Chuncai Yan

Diversity 2025, 17(6), 402; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17060402 - 6 Jun 2025

Abstract

Environmental DNA metabarcoding offers an efficient and non-invasive solution for aquatic biomonitoring surveys, particularly demonstrating remarkable potential in macroinvertebrate research. In this study, we systematically analyzed 322 articles in the Web of Science Core Collection from 2010 to 2024 using bibliometric methods to [...] Read more.

Environmental DNA metabarcoding offers an efficient and non-invasive solution for aquatic biomonitoring surveys, particularly demonstrating remarkable potential in macroinvertebrate research. In this study, we systematically analyzed 322 articles in the Web of Science Core Collection from 2010 to 2024 using bibliometric methods to reveal the research trends and technological advances in the field of macroinvertebrate surveys based on eDNA metabarcoding technology. The results showed that the number of annual publications has increased rapidly since 2012, with the United States (n = 58), France (n = 43), and Canada (n = 39) as the main contributing countries, and the most intensive collaboration network was observed among Europe countries. A keyword analysis shows that, in the past five years, the research direction has shifted to novel methodologies including multi-marker approaches, quantitative PCR, digital PCR, and other molecular detection platforms and high-throughput sequencing technology, with the integration of machine-learning and deep-learning architecture significantly improving the taxonomic resolution of data analysis. Despite the advantages of eDNA metabarcoding technology in terms of sensitivity and efficiency, persistent challenges including false positives/negatives in detection and incomplete reference databases are still the main challenges. This study provides methodological evidence for standardizing eDNA protocols in benthic assessments while identifying critical knowledge gaps. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Diversity)

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20 pages, 3005 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Pathways to 30 × 30: Evidence-Based Lessons from Global Case Studies in Biodiversity Conservation

by Susmita Dasgupta, David Wheeler and Brian Blankespoor

Diversity 2025, 17(6), 401; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17060401 - 6 Jun 2025

Abstract

The global 30 × 30 initiative, endorsed by 188 countries, aims to expand terrestrial and marine protected areas to cover 30% of the planet by 2030. This study utilizes newly available species-occurrence maps from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) to identify conservation [...] Read more.

The global 30 × 30 initiative, endorsed by 188 countries, aims to expand terrestrial and marine protected areas to cover 30% of the planet by 2030. This study utilizes newly available species-occurrence maps from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) to identify conservation priorities in 10 countries across Latin America (Brazil, Costa Rica, and Ecuador), Africa (Cameroon, South Africa, and Madagascar), and the Asia–Pacific region (Papua New Guinea, Philippines, India, and China). By incorporating diverse taxa—including vertebrates, invertebrates, and plants—the analysis ensures equitable species representation in conservation planning. A spatial prioritization algorithm is employed to pinpoint areas where new protected regions can address biodiversity gaps, with a particular focus on endemic and unprotected species. The results highlight significant variation in initial conservation conditions, including existing protection levels and spatial distribution of unprotected species. Countries with high spatial clustering of unprotected species achieve substantial protection gains with modest protected-area expansions, while others may require exceeding the 30% target to ensure comprehensive biodiversity coverage. The study underscores the importance of localized conservation strategies within the broader global framework, demonstrating how targeted spatial planning can enhance biodiversity outcomes and support the equitable implementation of the 30 × 30 commitment. Full article

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

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15 pages, 1597 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Different Ribotypes of Akashiwo sanguinea Harbor Distinct Bacterial Communities in Their Phycospheres

by Hanying Zou, Fengting Li, Jiaqi Lu, Zhangxi Hu, Lixia Shang, Ying Zhong Tang and Yunyan Deng

Diversity 2025, 17(6), 400; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17060400 - 5 Jun 2025

Abstract

The unarmored dinoflagellate Akashiwo sanguinea is a cosmopolitan harmful algal species known for forming intense blooms leading to mass mortality of fish, shellfish, and seabirds. Globally distributed populations of A. sanguinea have been classified into four ribotypes based on their characteristic sequences in [...] Read more.

The unarmored dinoflagellate Akashiwo sanguinea is a cosmopolitan harmful algal species known for forming intense blooms leading to mass mortality of fish, shellfish, and seabirds. Globally distributed populations of A. sanguinea have been classified into four ribotypes based on their characteristic sequences in LSU rRNA gene and primary geographic distributions. In this study, we compared the bacterial communities co-existing with the six strains of A. sanguinea from China and the USA (belonging to two ribotypes) using high-throughput sequencing of 16S rRNA gene amplicons. Generally, a bacterial microbiome with high diversity was found to be associated with laboratory-cultured A. sanguinea strains from different geographic origins. Based on ribotype classification, the six samples were divided into two groups (ribotype A: AsCHINA; ribotype C: AsUSA) for subsequent comparative analyses of their bacterial communities. Beta diversity analysis revealed a clear separation between the two groups, reflecting significant differences in bacterial community composition between the two ribotypes. Significantly higher abundance of nitrogen-fixing bacteria was found in the AsUSA group, suggesting that ribotype C may benefit from external nitrogen sources provided by their bacterial associates. If this also holds true in natural environments, this nitrogen-fixing partnership likely confers a competitive advantage to ribotype C in oligotrophic offshore waters, and potentially extends bloom duration when environmental nitrogen is depleted. Our study raised the possibility that different ribotypes of A. sanguinea may harbor distinct prokaryotic microbiomes in their phycospheres under stable cultivation conditions. Further comprehensive comparison among more isolates across all four ribotypes is highly necessary to validate this hypothesis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Phytoplankton Communities and Their Microbial Associates Under Climate Change and Anthropogenic Pressures)

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16 pages, 1312 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Utilizing Remote Sensing Data for Species Distribution Modeling of Birds in Croatia

by Andreja Radović, Sven Kapelj and Louie Thomas Taylor

Diversity 2025, 17(6), 399; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17060399 - 5 Jun 2025

Abstract

Accurate information on species distributions and population sizes is essential for effective biodiversity conservation, yet such data are often lacking at national scales. This study addresses this gap by assessing the distribution and abundance of 111 bird species across Croatia, including breeding, wintering, [...] Read more.

Accurate information on species distributions and population sizes is essential for effective biodiversity conservation, yet such data are often lacking at national scales. This study addresses this gap by assessing the distribution and abundance of 111 bird species across Croatia, including breeding, wintering, and migratory flyway populations. We combined Species Distribution Models (SDMs) with expert-based population estimates to generate spatially explicit predictions. The modeling framework incorporated high-resolution Earth observation (EO) data and advanced spatial analysis techniques. Environmental variables, such as land cover, were derived from satellite datasets, while climate variables were interpolated from ground measurements and refined using EO-based co-variates. Model calibration and validation were based on species occurrence records and EO-derived predictors. This integrative approach enabled both national-scale population estimates and fine-scale habitat assessments. The results identified critical habitats, population hotspots, and areas likely to experience distribution shifts under changing environmental conditions. By integrating EO data with expert knowledge, this study enhances the robustness of population estimates, particularly where species monitoring data are incomplete. The findings support conservation prioritization, inform land use and resource management, and contribute to long-term biodiversity monitoring. The methodology is scalable and transferable, offering a practical framework for ecological assessments in diverse regions. We integrated expert-based population estimates with species distribution models (SDMs) by applying expert-derived density values to areas of suitable habitat predicted by SDMs. This approach enables spatially explicit population estimates by combining ecological modeling with expert knowledge, which is particularly useful in systems with limited data. Experts provided species-specific density estimates stratified by habitat type, seasonality, behavior, and detectability, aligned with habitat suitability classes derived from SDM outputs. Full article

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6 pages, 3550 KiB

Open AccessInteresting Images

Peculiar Morphology of Montipora millepora Reveals Interspecific Competition for Space Among Two Other Major Foundation Species in Jeju Waters, South Korea

by Anna B. Jöst, Garance Perrois, Leonard Pons, Sun Kyeong Choi, Seonggil Go and Taihun Kim

Diversity 2025, 17(6), 398; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17060398 - 5 Jun 2025

Abstract

An atypical surface shape was observed in encrusting coral colonies of Montipora millepora. Initial assumptions on their origin focused on the presence of epibiotic intermediate habitat formers, such as coral-dwelling and -boring organisms. However, further investigations revealed their origin to also be [...] Read more.

An atypical surface shape was observed in encrusting coral colonies of Montipora millepora. Initial assumptions on their origin focused on the presence of epibiotic intermediate habitat formers, such as coral-dwelling and -boring organisms. However, further investigations revealed their origin to also be substrate shape-related, prompted by overgrowing other foundation species. The unusual bumps stemmed from encrusting over specimens of the coral Alveopora japonica, and the forked, tube-like structures over holdfasts of the brown alga Ecklonia cava. Spatial distribution patterns and interspecific competition are briefly reviewed. Potential effects of morphological changes for Montipora species identification, as well as implications of altered topography in general, are mentioned. Full article

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16 pages, 4506 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Where Endemism Meets Urgency: Native Cactaceae and the Conservation Crisis in the Subtropical South America Pampa

by Alessandra Almeida de Menezes, Eugenia Jacira Bolacel Braga and João Iganci

Diversity 2025, 17(6), 397; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17060397 - 4 Jun 2025

Abstract

The subtropical grasslands of South America are known as Pampa, span parts of Brazil, Uruguay, and Argentina, and are undergoing rapid and alarming transformations due to agricultural expansion, habitat fragmentation, and climate change. Despite this, these areas harbor a remarkable diversity of Cactaceae, [...] Read more.

The subtropical grasslands of South America are known as Pampa, span parts of Brazil, Uruguay, and Argentina, and are undergoing rapid and alarming transformations due to agricultural expansion, habitat fragmentation, and climate change. Despite this, these areas harbor a remarkable diversity of Cactaceae, including a high proportion of endemic and threatened species. This study offers the first comprehensive inventory of native and endemic cactus taxa in the Pampean province of the Chacoan domain, integrating data from georeferenced herbarium records, biodiversity databases, and fieldwork. A total of 111 native taxa were identified, of which 62% are endemic to the region. Spatial analyses reveal that many species occur outside protected areas, with hotspots of richness and endemism located near international borders and in poorly studied regions. These findings underscore the urgent need to reassess conservation priorities in Pampa, where biodiversity is being lost at an accelerating pace. By identifying critical areas for conservation and highlighting gaps in species assessments, the present study contributes essential data to support public policy, conservation planning, and the establishment of cross-border strategies for the protection of this unique and vulnerable flora. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biodiversity Conservation)

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1 pages, 127 KiB

Open AccessCorrection

Correction: Eimanifar et al. Using ISSR Genomic Fingerprinting to Study the Genetic Differentiation of Artemia Leach, 1819 (Crustacea: Anostraca) from Iran and Neighbor Regions with the Focus on the Invasive American Artemia franciscana. Diversity 2020, 12, 132

by Amin Eimanifar, Alireza Asem, Pei-Zheng Wang, Weidong Li and Michael Wink

Diversity 2025, 17(6), 396; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17060396 - 4 Jun 2025

Abstract

In the published publication [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Diversity)

16 pages, 703 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Genetic Testing of a High-End ‘Angel Skin’ Precious Coral Necklace Identifies a Species New to the Precious Coral Trade and Potentially New to Science

by Bertalan Lendvay, Laurent E. Cartier, Akitsugu Sato, Michael S. Krzemnicki, Masanori Nonaka, Nina Yasuda, Kenji Takata, Takeshi Hayashibara, Nadja V. Morf and Nozomu Iwasaki

Diversity 2025, 17(6), 395; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17060395 - 3 Jun 2025

Abstract

Precious corals from the Corallidae family (Corallium, Hemicorallium, and Pleurocorallium genera) are well known in the high-end jewelry industry due to their colorful and durable axial skeleton. They exist in various colors from white to pink to dark red. One [...] Read more.

Precious corals from the Corallidae family (Corallium, Hemicorallium, and Pleurocorallium genera) are well known in the high-end jewelry industry due to their colorful and durable axial skeleton. They exist in various colors from white to pink to dark red. One highly appreciated shade is the light pink color, the so-called ‘angel skin’. This color is most often associated with Pleurocorallium elatius and Pleurocorallium secundum, species listed in CITES Appendix III. However, this has been based on an assumption of their visual similarity and has never been underpinned by detailed morphologic or genetic data. In this study, we present the analysis of an ‘angel skin’ coral necklace of exceptional size and homogeneous color and quality. Visual observation and Raman spectroscopy confirmed that the necklace consists of genuine, untreated precious coral material. Following minimally destructive sampling, respectively, drilling 2.2, 2.4, and 2.4 milligrams of material from the existing drill-holes, three randomly selected beads from the necklace were subject to a routine genetic identification assay, which is based on sequencing a short, taxonomically informative mitochondrial region. This genetic analysis identified the coral material as not from P. elatius or P. secundum but from another Pleurocorallium species. We subsequently sequenced additional mitochondrial DNA fragments from one ‘angel skin’ coral bead and compared them against a well-represented, curated reference data set of Pleurocorallium, including the first-ever sequencing of Pleurocorallium gotoense, Pleurocorallium johnsoni, Pleurocorallium cf. pusillum, and Pleurocorallium uchidai. We concluded that the analyzed material of the ‘angel skin’ coral necklace belongs to the Pleurocorallium norfolkicum species complex but is not identical to any hitherto analyzed and published Pleurocorallium specimens. A comparison with further taxonomically unidentified precious coral colony fragments identified a single sample fished in Vietnam to be completely identical to the ‘angel skin’ coral bead in the studied DNA regions. Thus, by the analysis of a high-end jewel, we discovered a species new to the jewelry trade and potentially also unknown to science. This implies that the currently considered list of species present in the precious coral trade is incomplete. Full article

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15 pages, 3610 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Diversity of Color in Pleasing Fungus Beetles (Coleoptera: Erotylidae: Erotylinae)

by Rachel J. Sutherland, Eva J. Driggs, Laura N. Sutherland, Paul E. Skelley, Seth M. Bybee and Gareth S. Powell

Diversity 2025, 17(6), 394; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17060394 - 3 Jun 2025

Abstract

Erotylidae, or pleasing fungus beetles, are a morphologically diverse lineage of Coleoptera notable for the variety of colors and patterns present on their dorsal surface. This study begins the characterization of this diversity and discusses patterns around coloration within Erotylinae. Using spectrophotometer data, [...] Read more.

Erotylidae, or pleasing fungus beetles, are a morphologically diverse lineage of Coleoptera notable for the variety of colors and patterns present on their dorsal surface. This study begins the characterization of this diversity and discusses patterns around coloration within Erotylinae. Using spectrophotometer data, we investigated the frequency of certain color motifs across erotyline tribes and discuss geographic patterns in these color motifs. The most frequently observed colors within Erotylinae are brown/black with orange/red maculations in the case of bicolored taxa. In terms of type of maculations, stripes were the most common pattern observed. When summarizing the diversity across major geographic areas, the Neotropical and Indomalay regions displayed the most color variation, followed by the Australasian region. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity, Distribution and Zoogeography of Coleoptera)

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15 pages, 21880 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Systematic Revision of the Oligocene Billfishes (Istiophoriformes: Palaeorhynchidae) from Romania

by Ionuț Grădianu, Kenneth A. Monsch and Dorin Sorin Baciu

Diversity 2025, 17(6), 393; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17060393 - 31 May 2025

Abstract

This study revises †Palaeorhynchidae (Istiophoriformes), a rare and taxonomically disputed group within Romania’s Oligocene ichthyofauna. Historically placed within Scombroidei, Istiophoriformes is now supported by molecular phylogenetics as a distinct lineage. However, prior Romanian fossil descriptions, often fragmentary, require critical revision to resolve their [...] Read more.

This study revises †Palaeorhynchidae (Istiophoriformes), a rare and taxonomically disputed group within Romania’s Oligocene ichthyofauna. Historically placed within Scombroidei, Istiophoriformes is now supported by molecular phylogenetics as a distinct lineage. However, prior Romanian fossil descriptions, often fragmentary, require critical revision to resolve their phylogeny, ecology, and biogeography. Outdated classifications must align with modern systematics. Our analysis confirms only two valid istiophoriform taxa in Romania’s Oligocene: †Homorhynchus colei, previously misassigned to †Palaeorhynchus longirostris or †P. glarisianus, and †Palaeorhynchus humorensis. This clarifies long-standing taxonomic uncertainties and underscores the need for integrative approaches in paleoichthyology. The findings refine regional Oligocene biodiversity records and highlight the Eastern Carpathians’ significance in understanding marine ecosystems of the epoch. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity, Biogeography and Evolution of Actinopterygians)

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25 pages, 6375 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Collections for the Public Good: A Case Study from Ohio

by Loren E. Babcock, Daniel F. Kelley, John B. Krygier, William I. Ausich, David L. Dyer, Dale M. Gnidovec, Anne M. Grunow, D. Mark Jones, Erica Maletic, Camilla Querin, H. Gregory McDonald and D. Joseph Wood

Diversity 2025, 17(6), 392; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17060392 - 31 May 2025

Abstract

Natural history collections serve science and society in a variety of ways. Collections of geological, including paleontological, materials are of special importance in the 21st century, as they serve not only as repositories for scientific research specimens, but are also used in teaching, [...] Read more.

Natural history collections serve science and society in a variety of ways. Collections of geological, including paleontological, materials are of special importance in the 21st century, as they serve not only as repositories for scientific research specimens, but are also used in teaching, outreach, and engaging the public in science. These collections link us to our scientific, technological, and cultural history, and help to inspire the next generations of scientists and technologists. In addition, they provide inspiration for creative works. They also have an important role in informing public policy and national security, as geological materials are fundamental to the global economy. Examples from universities, museums, and government agencies in central Ohio, USA, help to illustrate the myriad ways that geological collections are relevant to modern society, and provide continuing, critical benefits. These examples reinforce the need to ensure the long-term support of collections. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Do We Still Need Natural History Collections?)

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16 pages, 2857 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Plastomics of Tropidia (Orchidaceae): Unraveling Structural Evolution and Phylogenetic Implications in Epidendroideae

by Deng-Li Yu, Zi-Qing Wei, Rong-Rong Yan, Shi-Peng Fei, Wei Wu and Guo-Xiong Hu

Diversity 2025, 17(6), 391; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17060391 - 31 May 2025

Abstract

Tropidia, a type genus of Tropidieae (Orchidaceae, Epidendroideae), represents an important lineage for investigating plastome evolution and phylogenetic relationships within Epidendroideae. Despite its importance, the lack of available plastid genomic data has hindered comprehensive analyses of its genome structure and phylogenetic relationships. [...] Read more.

Tropidia, a type genus of Tropidieae (Orchidaceae, Epidendroideae), represents an important lineage for investigating plastome evolution and phylogenetic relationships within Epidendroideae. Despite its importance, the lack of available plastid genomic data has hindered comprehensive analyses of its genome structure and phylogenetic relationships. In this study, we assembled and characterized the complete plastid genomes of Tropidia angulosa and T. nipponica, providing valuable insights into plastome evolution and phylogenetic placement of Tropidieae. The plastomes of T. angulosa and T. nipponica exhibited a highly conserved quadripartite structure, sharing similar genomic size (161,395 bp and 160,801 bp) and GC content (36.87% and 36.90%). Both plastomes contained identical gene content and gene order, with 79 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 30 tRNA genes, and four rRNA genes. A total of 169 simple-sequence repeats (SSRs) and 92 long-sequence repeats (LSRs) were identified, most of which were distributed in large single-copy (63.91% and 66.30%) and non-coding regions (83.43% and 65.22%). Comparative plastomes analyses revealed the overall structural stability among photosynthetic lineages, whereas structural variation was primarily detected in mycoheterotrophic lineages. Phylogenomic reconstruction based on plastid-coding sequences revealed that Tropidieae occupies a relatively isolated phylogenetic position within Epidendroideae. These findings contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of plastome evolution and the phylogenetic framework of Epidendroideae. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Phylogeny and Evolution)

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13 pages, 1153 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Phylogeography and Past Distribution of Peripheral Individuals of Large Hairy Armadillo Chaetophractus villosus

by Aldo Arriagada, Cristian B. Canales-Aguirre, Norka Fuentes, Cristián Saucedo and Nelson Colihueque

Diversity 2025, 17(6), 390; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17060390 - 30 May 2025

Abstract

The fossil and molecular evidence suggests that the area of origin of the Hairy Armadillo Chaetophractus villosus was the central Pampas region of Argentina, with a current distribution that includes Bolivia, Paraguay and Chile. We studied the evolutionary history of peripheral individuals of [...] Read more.

The fossil and molecular evidence suggests that the area of origin of the Hairy Armadillo Chaetophractus villosus was the central Pampas region of Argentina, with a current distribution that includes Bolivia, Paraguay and Chile. We studied the evolutionary history of peripheral individuals of C. villosus using phylogeographic approaches and potential distribution models for the Holocene. We sequenced a segment of the mitochondrial DNA control region in 22 individuals with a peripheral distribution that inhabit the western limit of its current distribution in Chile, which was compared with Argentine sequences of the central distribution. The results show that the peripheral individuals studied have less genetic polymorphism than populations in the central distribution. All Chilean sequences were grouped in the haplotype C, which is dominant in Patagonian populations of Argentina. The potential distribution model predicts that during the Holocene the areas in which the peripheral populations of Chilean C. villosus are currently distributed presented medium–high habitability conditions for the species. Our results are consistent with the center–periphery model, showing a decrease in genetic diversity in peripheral areas of the distribution of C. villosus. It is probable that the low genetic diversity of the peripheral population is related to recent population establishment by dispersion from adjacent Argentine Patagonian populations. Peripheral populations such as those studied can have small population sizes; however, they can remain stable and have high survival rates during climatic oscillations, acting as important relics for the conservation and evolutionary potential of the species. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ecology, Behavior, and Conservation of Armadillos)

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65 pages, 5560 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mobility Confers Resilience in Red Kangaroos (Osphranter rufus) to a Variable Climate and Coexisting Herbivores (Sheep, Goats, Rabbits and Three Sympatric Kangaroo Species) in an Arid Australian Rangeland

by David B. Croft and Ingrid Witte

Diversity 2025, 17(6), 389; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17060389 - 30 May 2025

Abstract

In a 1975 review, red kangaroos in the arid rangelands of Australia were said to be favoured with an anomalous prosperity following the introduction of ruminant livestock. In the western and central locations reviewed, this was not sustained, but in the sheep rangelands [...] Read more.

In a 1975 review, red kangaroos in the arid rangelands of Australia were said to be favoured with an anomalous prosperity following the introduction of ruminant livestock. In the western and central locations reviewed, this was not sustained, but in the sheep rangelands of Southern Australia, it is often claimed that such prosperity continues. Here, as elsewhere, the marsupial herbivore guild (kangaroos, wallabies, bettongs and bandicoots) has been simplified by the extinction of the smaller species (the anomaly), while large kangaroos remain abundant. However, the mammalian herbivore guild has gained complexity with not only the introduction of managed ruminant livestock, some of which run wild, but also game like rabbits. We studied the population dynamics, habitat selection and individual mobility of red, western and eastern grey kangaroos, common wallaroos, Merino sheep, feral goats and European rabbits at Fowlers Gap Station in far northwestern New South Wales, Australia. This site is representative of the arid chenopod (Family: Chenopodiaceae) shrublands stocked with sheep, where sheep and red kangaroos dominate the mammalian herbivores by biomass. The study site comprised two contiguous pairs of stocked and unstocked paddocks: a sloping run-off zone and a flat run-on zone, covering a total area of 2158 ha. This three-year study included initial rain-deficient (drought) months followed by more regular rainfall. Red kangaroos showed avoidance of sheep when given the opportunity and heightened mobility in response to localized drought-breaking storms and dispersion of the sheep flock at lambing. Western grey kangaroos were sedentary and did not dissociate from sheep. These effects were demonstrated at the population level and the individual level through radio-tracking a small cohort of females. The other kangaroo species and goats were transient and preferred other habitats. Rabbits were persistent and localized without strong interactions with other species. The results are discussed with a focus on the red kangaroo and some causes for its resilience in the sheep rangelands. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ecology, Evolution and Conservation of Marsupials)

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43 pages, 2483 KiB

Open AccessArticle

IT Challenges in Designing and Implementing Online Natural History Collection Systems

by Marcin Lawenda and Paweł Wolniewicz

Diversity 2025, 17(6), 388; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17060388 - 30 May 2025

Abstract

Numerous institutions engaged in the management of Natural History Collections (NHC) are embracing the opportunity to digitise their holdings. The primary objective is to enhance the accessibility of specimens for interested individuals and to integrate them into the global community by contributing to [...] Read more.

Numerous institutions engaged in the management of Natural History Collections (NHC) are embracing the opportunity to digitise their holdings. The primary objective is to enhance the accessibility of specimens for interested individuals and to integrate them into the global community by contributing to an international specimen database. This initiative demands a comprehensive digitisation process and the development of an IT infrastructure that adheres to stringent functionality, reliability, and security standards. This endeavour focuses on the procedural and operational dimensions associated with accurately storing and managing taxonomic, biogeographic, and ecological data about biological specimens digitised within a conventional NHC framework. The authors suggest categorising the IT challenges into four distinct areas: requirements, digitisation, design, and technology. Each category discusses several selected topics, highlighting often underestimated essentials for implementing the NHC system. The presented analysis is supported by numerous examples of specific implementations, enabling a better understanding of the given topic. This document serves as a resource for teams developing their systems for online collections, offering post factum insights derived from implementation experiences. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Digitization of Natural History Collections for Biodiversity Science and Conservation)

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Graphical abstract

9 pages, 195 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Lead Exposure in Wild Birds as Causes for Incidents and Fatal Injuries

by Ivanka Lazarova and Gergana Balieva

Diversity 2025, 17(6), 387; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17060387 - 30 May 2025

Abstract

Lead is among the most toxic heavy metals, posing significant risks to all living organisms. It is a pervasive and persistent contaminant in the environment. Ingested lead in birds and wildlife induces a range of sublethal effects that disrupt physiological functions and behavior, [...] Read more.

Lead is among the most toxic heavy metals, posing significant risks to all living organisms. It is a pervasive and persistent contaminant in the environment. Ingested lead in birds and wildlife induces a range of sublethal effects that disrupt physiological functions and behavior, ultimately resulting in mortality at higher doses or with prolonged exposure. To investigate the relation of lead to accidents and injuries in wild birds, we analyzed lead concentration in 43 wild birds that were admitted as patients to the Wildlife Rehabilitation and Breeding Center (WRBC). The findings reveal a significant dependency between the detected levels of lead in the birds’ bone samples and the reported etiology of their injuries, with variances in the age groups of the patients received at the WRBC in Bulgaria. Full article

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