Diversity

26 pages, 10154 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Study on Bird-Migration Patterns Based on Weather Radar and the Effect of Weather Factors on Migration Altitude: A Case Study of Qingdao, China

by Hongtao Qin, Hongxuan Fu, Yicheng Yang, Yancheng Jiang, Leyang Wang, Kaichen Zhang, Chunyi Wang, Xunqiang Mo, Dongli Wu, Fuxiang Huang and Guozhu Mao

Diversity 2026, 18(5), 299; https://doi.org/10.3390/d18050299 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2026

Abstract

Bird migration is the regular, long-distance movement of birds between breeding and wintering grounds, influenced by climate change and human activities. The East Asia–Australasia Flyway (EAAF) is one of the largest migratory routes in the world, covering various species such as waders and [...] Read more.

Bird migration is the regular, long-distance movement of birds between breeding and wintering grounds, influenced by climate change and human activities. The East Asia–Australasia Flyway (EAAF) is one of the largest migratory routes in the world, covering various species such as waders and waterfowl, with the eastern coastal areas of China serving as important stopover and wintering grounds. This paper selects the Qingdao area as the research object, and based on weather radar and meteorological data, explores the spatiotemporal characteristics of bird migration patterns in this region, discusses changes in regional bird activity and their causes, and investigates the influence of weather factors on migration altitude. By analyzing weather radar data from spring 2023, the peak migration period was found to occur mainly from mid-April to mid-May, with multiple large-scale migrations in late April exhibiting alternating peaks and troughs. Migration activity peaked between 8 p.m. and midnight, with altitudes below 600 m serving as the primary migration height range. Using correlation analysis, linear regression, and generalized additive models, the study further analyzed the contribution of various weather factors to birds’ altitude selection. Results showed that wind conditions, temperature, and humidity had significant effects on migration altitude. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Diversity)

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16 pages, 9912 KB

Open AccessArticle

Molecular Taxonomy of Elasmobranchs in the Southern Arabian Gulf: From Species Confirmation to Cryptic Diversity

by Shamsa Al Hameli, Stephan Bruns, Biduth Kundu and Aaron C. Henderson

Diversity 2026, 18(5), 298; https://doi.org/10.3390/d18050298 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2026

Abstract

Reliable species-level information on elasmobranchs (sharks, rays, and skates) in the Arabian Gulf remains limited, despite these fish being among the most threatened marine vertebrates. Taxonomic uncertainty, driven by morphological similarities and incomplete reference datasets, continues to hinder accurate biodiversity assessments in the [...] Read more.

Reliable species-level information on elasmobranchs (sharks, rays, and skates) in the Arabian Gulf remains limited, despite these fish being among the most threatened marine vertebrates. Taxonomic uncertainty, driven by morphological similarities and incomplete reference datasets, continues to hinder accurate biodiversity assessments in the region. In this study, NADH dehydrogenase subunit 2 (NADH2) gene sequences were analyzed to assess the taxonomic status of elasmobranchs in United Arab Emirates waters, based on 182 specimens representing 31 species (15 sharks and 16 batoids) across 12 families. Shark lineages were consistently recovered and matched closely with published references, indicating a stable taxonomy. Batoids (rays), however, showed greater complexity, including misidentification among morphologically similar taxa, gaps in available reference sequences, and signs of possible cryptic diversity, reflecting persistent challenges in species identification and the need for more comprehensive molecular resources. Our findings highlight the value of genetic approaches in improving taxonomic resolution and establishing robust biodiversity baselines. Expanding reference databases, applying multi-locus genomic approaches, and broadening regional sampling will be essential to refining taxonomic frameworks and informing conservation management for elasmobranchs in the Arabian Gulf. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Marine Diversity)

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20 pages, 1474 KB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing the Photosynthetic Activity of Phytoplankton in Kalmius River Under the Conditions of an Urban Environment

by Sergey Chufitskiy, Besarion Meskhi, Victoria Shevchenko, Mary Odabashyan, Lusine Gukasyan, Arkady Mirzoyan and Denis Kozyrev

Diversity 2026, 18(5), 297; https://doi.org/10.3390/d18050297 - 15 May 2026

Abstract

Pollution of rivers and large water bodies, including reservoirs, by wastewater from various sources is one of the most critical issues in the Donetsk region, requiring continuous monitoring and assessment of surface water quality. The research aims to assess the state of the [...] Read more.

Pollution of rivers and large water bodies, including reservoirs, by wastewater from various sources is one of the most critical issues in the Donetsk region, requiring continuous monitoring and assessment of surface water quality. The research aims to assess the state of the Kalmius River under anthropogenic pressure, as well as to find correlations between the species composition, photosynthetic activity of phytoplankton, and the degree of water pollution. This study presents the results of biomonitoring of the Kalmius River and its tributaries within Donetsk City, which are under intense anthropogenic pressure. Pollution of the river channel by phenol, anionic surfactants, Ferrum ions, chlorides, and sulfates was identified. Based on the combinatorial pollution index, the water in the Kalmius River and its tributaries can be classified as polluted. The pigment composition of water samples was analyzed, and the species composition of river phytoplankton was determined. Dominant species include Chlorella vulgaris Beij., Dictyosphaerium pulchellum H.C.Wood, Scenedesmus quadricauda Brébisson, and Oscillatoria agardhii M.A.Gomont. Photosynthetic activity of the river’s algal flora was assessed based on chlorophyll fluorescence induction curves of natural phytoplankton. A correlation was established between surface water pollution levels and changes in the photosynthetic apparatus of microalgae cells. A strong negative correlation was found between the content of nitrate nitrogen in the aquatic environment and the photosynthetic activity, pigment composition, and abundance of the main dominant forms of phytoplankton, particularly the microalgae of the genus Cyclotella. The data obtained shows that the Kalmius River’s pollution has a significant impact on phytoplankton biodiversity, leading to the growth of cyanobacteria species. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Freshwater Biodiversity)

14 pages, 2964 KB

Open AccessArticle

Resource–Disturbance Trade-Offs Regulate Grassland Plant Diversity Across Experimental and Model Systems

by Faming Ye, Qingsong Jia, Xiaobao Li, Hanghang Tuo, Qing Yang, Xiaoshan Zhang, Xiaorui Ma, Ziming Yin, Yibo Wang, Huihui Tian and Wei Li

Diversity 2026, 18(5), 296; https://doi.org/10.3390/d18050296 - 15 May 2026

Abstract

Disentangling the joint effects of resource availability and disturbance on plant diversity is fundamental to understanding community assembly. We developed a stochastic extension of the Lotka–Volterra model that explicitly incorporates resource facilitation and disturbance-induced mortality, both mediated by species-specific trait responses. Combining simulations [...] Read more.

Disentangling the joint effects of resource availability and disturbance on plant diversity is fundamental to understanding community assembly. We developed a stochastic extension of the Lotka–Volterra model that explicitly incorporates resource facilitation and disturbance-induced mortality, both mediated by species-specific trait responses. Combining simulations with a long-term field experiment manipulating nitrogen addition and mowing, we show that mowing consistently increased species diversity, whereas nitrogen addition reduced it, with no significant interaction between the two factors. Notably, mowing increased evenness, suggesting that higher diversity can coincide with more even abundance distributions. Simulations reproduced these patterns and revealed a non-linear resource–disturbance relationship: diversity declined under high-resource, low-disturbance conditions but was maintained at intermediate disturbance and moderate-to-low resource levels. This pattern was further supported by shifts in evenness and dominance across environmental gradients. Our results demonstrate that plant diversity emerges from a balance between resource-driven competitive exclusion and disturbance-mediated coexistence, modulated by species-specific traits. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biogeography and Macroecology)

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17 pages, 11678 KB

Open AccessArticle

Remote Sensing Estimation of Plant Diversity in Sandy Ecosystem Based on Sentinel-2 Data

by Kairu Xiang, Zhiqiang Liu, Xinyan Chen and Yu Peng

Diversity 2026, 18(5), 295; https://doi.org/10.3390/d18050295 - 15 May 2026

Abstract

Plant diversity is a key indicator of ecosystem structure, function, and restoration status, yet its rapid assessment remains challenging in sandy ecosystems where vegetation is sparse, spatially heterogeneous, and strongly affected by exposed soil backgrounds. In such environments, conventional greenness-based spectral indices may [...] Read more.

Plant diversity is a key indicator of ecosystem structure, function, and restoration status, yet its rapid assessment remains challenging in sandy ecosystems where vegetation is sparse, spatially heterogeneous, and strongly affected by exposed soil backgrounds. In such environments, conventional greenness-based spectral indices may not adequately capture species-level variation because plant communities are controlled not only by photosynthetic biomass but also by soil moisture, micro-topography, and dune-related habitat heterogeneity. This study evaluated the potential of Sentinel-2-derived spectral indices for estimating plant α-diversity in the Hunshandak Sandland, northern China. Based on field observations from 888 plots collected during 2017–2024, four α-diversity metrics—species richness, Shannon–Wiener index, Simpson index, and Pielou evenness index—were calculated and compared with 21 spectral indices using correlation analysis, partial least squares regression (PLSR), and random forest (RF) models. The results showed that model performance varied substantially among diversity metrics. Species richness was estimated with the highest accuracy, whereas Shannon–Wiener, Simpson, and Pielou indices showed weaker predictability, indicating that remotely sensed spectral indices were more sensitive to species number than to abundance distribution and evenness. Moisture- and soil-background-sensitive indices, including the Normalized Difference Water Index (NDWI), Modified Normalized Difference Water Index (MNDWI), Bare Soil Index (BSI/BRI), and Chlorophyll Absorption Ratio Index (CARI), showed relatively stable relationships with plant diversity across different vegetation gradients. Although the overall explanatory power was moderate rather than high, the results demonstrate the practical value of Sentinel-2 spectral indices for regional screening of plant diversity patterns in sandy ecosystems. This study provides empirical evidence for biodiversity monitoring and ecological restoration assessment in semi-arid sandy landscapes and highlights the need to integrate environmental covariates, multi-source remote sensing, and phenological information in future studies. Full article

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

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26 pages, 5152 KB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of the Geographic Distribution and Molecular Variation of Mammillaria candida: Perspectives for Its Conservation

by Sofía Solórzano, Néstor E. López-Ruiz, Jacinto Treviño-Carreón and Sharon A. Rosas-Aguilar

Diversity 2026, 18(5), 294; https://doi.org/10.3390/d18050294 - 14 May 2026

Abstract

Intraspecific genetic structure and niche modeling are auxiliary data for species conservation. The Mexican endemic cactus Mammillaria candida is listed as an at-risk species at both global and national levels; however, formal ecological and genetic assessments are lacking. We integrated fieldwork surveys, ecological [...] Read more.

Intraspecific genetic structure and niche modeling are auxiliary data for species conservation. The Mexican endemic cactus Mammillaria candida is listed as an at-risk species at both global and national levels; however, formal ecological and genetic assessments are lacking. We integrated fieldwork surveys, ecological niche modeling, and molecular variation levels (DNA sequences and microsatellites) to identify conservation issues in this study. The results verified that M. candida is distributed in Coahuila, Nuevo León, San Luis Potosí, and Tamaulipas. The climatic + soil model had the best predictive power (pROC = 1.93, AICc = 2639.12), and the highest contributions were from isothermality (23.44%), cation exchange capacity (19.7%), and precipitation seasonality (17.5%). The DNA sequences showed weak variation; however, the populations were divided into two groups: San Luis Potosí and Nuevo León-Tamaulipas. In contrast, microsatellites segregated Nuevo León from Tamaulipas. Genetic diversity was high, and significant inbreeding was estimated for the species, which may be caused by the small number of adults and pollination patterns. Only 1.45% of the projected habitats are included in Natural Protected Areas. This taxon should be maintained in the list of at-risk species, and formal taxonomic treatment is necessary to elucidate taxonomic circumscription. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Ecological, Evolutionary and Biogeographical Histories That Genetic and Phylogenetic Studies of Cacti Reveal)

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13 pages, 3045 KB

Open AccessReview

Evolution of Bony Fish: Without a Cryptic Sarcopterygian, It May Have Evolved Actinopterygians into Terrestrial Animals

by Bernd Fritzsch and Ebenezer N. Yamoah

Diversity 2026, 18(5), 293; https://doi.org/10.3390/d18050293 - 14 May 2026

Abstract

The evolution of Osteichthyes began with a split into two major lineages: Sarcopterygii (lobe-finned fishes) and Actinopterygii (ray-finned fishes). In one lineage—sarcopterygians—some groups evolved robust internal bones and limb-like fins and ultimately gave rise to semi- and fully terrestrial tetrapods; the other lineage—actinopterygians—remained [...] Read more.

The evolution of Osteichthyes began with a split into two major lineages: Sarcopterygii (lobe-finned fishes) and Actinopterygii (ray-finned fishes). In one lineage—sarcopterygians—some groups evolved robust internal bones and limb-like fins and ultimately gave rise to semi- and fully terrestrial tetrapods; the other lineage—actinopterygians—remained primarily aquatic and later radiated into the diverse teleosts. Repeated mass extinction events and ongoing genetic divergence allowed novel functions and new niches to be exploited, a pattern especially evident in recent analyses of teleost diversification. Lobe-finned fishes characteristically possess an endoskeleton fin architecture, whereas ray-finned fishes bear dermal fin rays built on a different structural plan. Primitive Osteichthyes also show an early origin of paired air-spaces (lungs), but many derived actinopterygians modified this ancestral condition into a dorsal swim bladder. Imagining a world without sarcopterygians or tetrapods highlights how teleosts might have convergently colonized many terrestrial-associated niches; although significant developmental and structural hurdles would have made such a transition challenging, this thought experiment underscores the cascading ecological consequences that the loss of a major clade can produce. Ecosystems thrive on diversity and adaptability, and episodes of environmental upheaval—such as the Silurian and Devonian extinctions—often catalyze rapid evolutionary change. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cryptic Diversity in Animals at Genetical, Morphological, and Ecological Levels)

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24 pages, 3559 KB

Open AccessArticle

Study on Changes in Biodiversity of the Lhalu Wetland National Nature Reserve in Tibet, China

by Peng Zeng, Dekui He, Xiaofang Guo, Wenjin Zhu, Ning Zhao and Jifeng Zhang

Diversity 2026, 18(5), 292; https://doi.org/10.3390/d18050292 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2026

Abstract

The Lhalu Wetland National Nature Reserve, the largest natural urban wetland on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau, plays a critical role in maintaining regional ecological balance and biodiversity. However, the baseline biodiversity of this reserve remains unclear because of the extensive temporal span of historical [...] Read more.

The Lhalu Wetland National Nature Reserve, the largest natural urban wetland on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau, plays a critical role in maintaining regional ecological balance and biodiversity. However, the baseline biodiversity of this reserve remains unclear because of the extensive temporal span of historical records, shifts in taxonomic systems, and inconsistent survey methodologies, which impedes a robust scientific understanding of its ecological dynamics. This study systematically compiled and taxonomically verified species records from over 50 sources spanning the 1950s to the present. The records cover plants, fish, birds, and amphibians/reptiles, thereby resolving issues of synonyms, homonyms, and misidentifications. Each species record is annotated with its original survey time, allowing users to distinguish historically reported occurrences from those recorded in recent surveys. Species accumulation curves were constructed for major taxa and compared with 45-year climatic trends (1979–2023) and socioeconomic indicators for Lhasa City. A total of 438 vascular plant species (82 families, 251 genera) and 311 animal species (39 orders, 98 families), including 30 fishes, 174 birds, and 11 amphibians/reptiles, were documented. Invasive species comprised 55 alien plants and 13 alien fishes, while 4 plant and 46 animal species are under national protection. Temporal synchrony between increases in alien taxa and anthropogenic pressures (gross domestic product (GDP) and population growth, infrastructure development) suggests that human activities may be a potential driver of biodiversity change, but formal causal inference is precluded by heterogeneity in survey methods and sampling effort. This work provides a structured dataset of the biodiversity baseline of the Lhalu Wetland and offers a descriptive assessment of its temporal patterns in relation to climate and human disturbance, while explicitly acknowledging data limitations. It provides essential data and theoretical support for the scientific management and targeted conservation of plateau urban wetlands. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biodiversity Conservation)

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17 pages, 2260 KB

Open AccessArticle

Valuing Kelp as Nursery Grounds for Sharks: Influence of Kelp Attributes and Forest Configuration on the Oviposition Site of a Shark Species in Chile

by Ítalo T. Fernández-Cisternas, Ricardo Beldade, Tomás Walker-Figueroa, Gabriela Winkler and Alejandro Pérez-Matus

Diversity 2026, 18(5), 291; https://doi.org/10.3390/d18050291 - 13 May 2026

Abstract

In terrestrial environments, nest site selection by birds and mammals is often related to the physical attributes of surrounding vegetation. Similarly, some elasmobranchs use different habitats, including kelps, as oviposition sites. However, habitat features that drive oviposition site selection remain poorly understood. We [...] Read more.

In terrestrial environments, nest site selection by birds and mammals is often related to the physical attributes of surrounding vegetation. Similarly, some elasmobranchs use different habitats, including kelps, as oviposition sites. However, habitat features that drive oviposition site selection remain poorly understood. We examined the relationship between kelp morphology (holdfast diameter, number of stripes, and total length) and kelp forest configuration (density, size structure, predator density) with egg presence to identify the factors influencing oviposition choice in the redspotted catshark (Schroederichthys chilensis). We conducted surveys over a latitudinal gradient (19° S to 39° S), encompassing much of the overlap between the kelp, Lessonia trabeculata and S. chilensis in Chile. Eggs were exclusively attached between the upper stipe and basal fronds of Lessonia trabeculata in all sites. At the individual scale, S. chilensis selected larger kelps within a patch, independent of the general population size structure. The number of eggs and clutches was positively associated with stipe length and holdfast diameter. Across all sites, egg-bearing kelps were consistently clustered at a similar depth in the kelp forest rather than being randomly distributed. At the site scale, egg number had a negative correlation with their main predator abundance, Taliepus dentatus, and juvenile kelp density. These results suggest that S. chilensis shows low plasticity in substrate use, as evidenced by non-random, consistent oviposition in kelp morphology along a latitudinal gradient. Our results underscore the need to incorporate kelp size thresholds and the protection of egg-bearing aggregations into harvesting regulations, as overexploitation of L. trabeculata directly threatens the reproductive viability of S. chilensis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrating Biodiversity, Ecology, and Management in Shark Research)

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15 pages, 1841 KB

Open AccessArticle

Climate-Driven Range Dynamics and Spatial Reorganization of the Oriental Hornet (Vespa orientalis) in the Western Palearctic Under Current and Future Scenarios

by Hossam F. Abou-Shaara and Areej A. Al-Khalaf

Diversity 2026, 18(5), 290; https://doi.org/10.3390/d18050290 - 12 May 2026

Abstract

Understanding the climate-driven range dynamics of the oriental hornet (Vespa orientalis) is essential for ecological risk assessment and biodiversity management. This study utilized Maximum Entropy (MaxEnt) modeling to estimate current and future (2050) habitat suitability across the Western Palearctic. The model [...] Read more.

Understanding the climate-driven range dynamics of the oriental hornet (Vespa orientalis) is essential for ecological risk assessment and biodiversity management. This study utilized Maximum Entropy (MaxEnt) modeling to estimate current and future (2050) habitat suitability across the Western Palearctic. The model demonstrated strong predictive performance, yielding a mean cross-validation AUC of 0.95 ± 0.01 and a TSS of 0.78 ± 0.02, indicating high stability and discriminatory capacity. Jackknife analysis and response curves identified temperature annual range (bio7) and annual precipitation (bio12) as the primary environmental drivers. The species exhibits a distinct preference for moderate thermal variability and balanced moisture regimes, while extreme summer heat (bio5) and warm winter conditions (bio11) impose significant constraints. Current projections identify a high-suitability core concentrated within the Mediterranean basin. By mid-century, projections indicate a spatial reorganization marked by localized gains mainly in the eastern part of the study region alongside suitability losses across North Africa and parts of southern Europe. Multivariate Environmental Similarity Surface (MESS) analysis confirmed high model transferability across most expansion zones, despite increased uncertainty in hyper-arid and high-altitude regions. These findings underscore the dynamic nature of the V. orientalis climatic niche and provide a critical baseline for proactive biosecurity and monitoring in emerging high-risk regions. Given the global decline in Hymenoptera diversity, this study provides timely insights into species-specific responses to climate change, supporting broader efforts in biodiversity conservation and ecological risk assessment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Hymenoptera Diversity and Biology)

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13 pages, 3336 KB

Open AccessArticle

Diversity of Macrofungi in Jiulingshan National Nature Reserve, Jiangxi Province, China

by Jieyu Huang, Lei Tu, Shan Yang, Bing Gu and Kuan Zhao

Diversity 2026, 18(5), 289; https://doi.org/10.3390/d18050289 - 11 May 2026

Abstract

A systematic survey of macrofungal diversity was conducted at the Jiulingshan National Nature Reserve, located in a subtropical monsoon climatic zone dominated by well-preserved evergreen broad-leaved forests, Jiangxi Province, China. From May 2020 to September 2025, fruiting bodies were collected along transects established [...] Read more.

A systematic survey of macrofungal diversity was conducted at the Jiulingshan National Nature Reserve, located in a subtropical monsoon climatic zone dominated by well-preserved evergreen broad-leaved forests, Jiangxi Province, China. From May 2020 to September 2025, fruiting bodies were collected along transects established in the experimental zone, covering major vegetation types across an elevation gradient of 50–850 m. Macrofungal specimens were initially identified using traditional morphological taxonomy. For taxonomically challenging species, identification was further supported by ITS sequence analysis. A total of 295 macrofungal species were identified, belonging to two phyla, six classes, 20 orders, 63 families, and 150 genera, along with one species of myxomycete. Boletaceae, Agaricaceae, Amanitaceae, and Polyporaceae were the most species-rich families, while Amanita, Russula, and Entoloma were the dominant genera. Floristic analysis revealed that cosmopolitan and North Temperate elements predominated in the macrofungal flora. Among the recorded species, 105 (35.6%) possess edible or medicinal value, whereas 26 (8.8%) are poisonous. This study provides the first comprehensive inventory of macrofungi in the Jiulingshan reserve, offering essential baseline data to support biodiversity conservation, sustainable resource utilization, and the understanding of fungal diversity in northwestern Jiangxi. Full article

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13 pages, 3613 KB

Open AccessArticle

Aquatic Macroinvertebrate Diversity in a Travertine-Fed Saline Stream of the Tropical Andes

by Shaira Cabrera, Wilson Zúñiga-Sarango and Carlos Iñiguez-Armijos

Diversity 2026, 18(5), 288; https://doi.org/10.3390/d18050288 - 11 May 2026

Abstract

Aquatic macroinvertebrates inhabit virtually all freshwater ecosystems, yet communities in extreme saline environments remain largely undescribed, particularly in the Tropical Andes. This study characterizes the taxonomic diversity of aquatic macroinvertebrates in a travertine-fed saline stream (salinity: 12.5 ± 0.2 g/L; 2520 m a.s.l., [...] Read more.

Aquatic macroinvertebrates inhabit virtually all freshwater ecosystems, yet communities in extreme saline environments remain largely undescribed, particularly in the Tropical Andes. This study characterizes the taxonomic diversity of aquatic macroinvertebrates in a travertine-fed saline stream (salinity: 12.5 ± 0.2 g/L; 2520 m a.s.l., southern Ecuador) and compares it with an adjacent freshwater stream. Macroinvertebrates were sampled on four occasions (n = 4 events per stream) using a multi-habitat D-net technique; physicochemical variables were compared with Mann–Whitney U exact tests, and diversity metrics with exact permutation tests (C(8,4) = 70 permutations) supplemented with Cliff’s delta as effect-size estimator. Community composition was assessed with ANOSIM and non-metric multidimensional scaling (NMDS). A total of 919 individuals were collected. The freshwater stream harbored significantly greater richness (49 genera, 28 families), abundance, and Shannon diversity than the saline stream (14 genera, 8 families; all p = 0.029, Cliff’s δ = 1.00), while Pielou’s evenness did not differ between stream types. Community composition was fully separated (ANOSIM R = 1.00, p = 0.028), with salinity (R² = 0.95, p < 0.01) and water temperature (R² = 0.79, p = 0.03) as the primary environmental drivers. The saline stream was dominated by halotolerant Diptera (Ceratopogonidae, Stratiomyidae) and water mites (Hydrachnidae), with virtually no EPT (Ephemeroptera–Plecoptera–Trichoptera) representation. These findings establish the first macroinvertebrate diversity baseline for a travertine-associated saline stream in the Tropical Andes, highlighting salinity and temperature as key environmental filters of aquatic biodiversity in extreme Andean lotic ecosystems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Freshwater Biodiversity)

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27 pages, 39743 KB

Open AccessArticle

Forecasting Habitat Shifts in Euro-Mediterranean Orchids Protected Under Directive 92/43/EEC

by Giovanni-Breogán Ferreiro-Lera, Ángel Penas and Sara del Río

Diversity 2026, 18(5), 287; https://doi.org/10.3390/d18050287 - 11 May 2026

Abstract

While the main diversification centers of Orchidaceae Juss. are located in neotropical-like climates, Europe, and particularly the Mediterranean basin, has remarkable orchid biodiversity. The present study aims to model the habitat suitability of Mediterranean orchid species listed under the Directive 92/43/EEC: Cypripedium calceolus [...] Read more.

While the main diversification centers of Orchidaceae Juss. are located in neotropical-like climates, Europe, and particularly the Mediterranean basin, has remarkable orchid biodiversity. The present study aims to model the habitat suitability of Mediterranean orchid species listed under the Directive 92/43/EEC: Cypripedium calceolus L., Dactylorhiza kalopissii E.Nelson, Himantoglossum adriaticum H.Baumann, Himantoglossum jankae Somlyay, Kreutz & Óvári, Liparis loeselii (L.) Rich., Ophrys argolica H.Fleischm., Ophrys kotschyi H.Fleischm. & Soó, Ophrys lunulata Parl. and Spiranthes aestivalis (Poir.) Reich. The Bayesian Additive Regression Trees algorithm is employed to conduct automated variable selection and, subsequently, to model the current potential distribution. Solar radiation and the continentality index stand out as the most important distribution predictors. The Miller calibration slope is found to be inadequate (>2.0) for taxa with limited occurrences. Finally, the medium- (2051–2075) and long-term (2076–2100) viability under climate change scenarios SSP2-4.5 and SSP5-8.5 is assessed for high-prevalence orchids (Cypripedium calceolus, Himantoglossum adriaticum, Liparis loeselii and Spiranthes aestivalis). Our results reveal a marked contraction of suitable areas for Cypripedium calceolus (21–55%), Spiranthes aestivalis (29–60%), and, especially, Liparis loeselii (57–87%), which would reach the critically endangered status under the SSP5-8.5 scenario. Our findings underscore the urgent need to incorporate refined ecological modeling into conservation strategies, thereby informing management decisions and policy frameworks aimed at safeguarding one of Europe’s most emblematic and vulnerable plant lineages. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Orchids in a Changing World: Diversity, Ecological Adaptations, and Conservation Strategies)

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16 pages, 2391 KB

Open AccessArticle

Structure of Golden Root Populations on Rybachy and Sredny Peninsulas (Murmansk Region, Russia)

by Marija Yu. Menshakova, Ramzia I. Gainanova, Marina A. Postevaya and Inna V. Ryzhik

Diversity 2026, 18(5), 286; https://doi.org/10.3390/d18050286 - 10 May 2026

Abstract

This article explores the state of golden root (Rhodiola rosea L.) coenopopulations (CPs) on the Rybachy and Sredny peninsulas (Murmansk Region, Russia). The authors describe 10 coenopopulations of this domestically and internationally protected rare species, which is found in different locations on [...] Read more.

This article explores the state of golden root (Rhodiola rosea L.) coenopopulations (CPs) on the Rybachy and Sredny peninsulas (Murmansk Region, Russia). The authors describe 10 coenopopulations of this domestically and internationally protected rare species, which is found in different locations on the Barents Sea coast. They are characterized by significant differences in the density of individual species (ramets): the maximum values are indicated for the coastal rocky territories in CP 6, with a high proportion of juvenile individuals, and the minimum in CP 8, which is associated with the presence of a strong phytocenosis competitor, Lathyrus aleuticus. The recovery index in most coenopopulations is below one, allowing the authors to classify the species as threatened in the studied area. The authors also assess the vitality index based on studying the morphometric parameters of individual species—it varies significantly depending on the growing conditions and the composition of the accompanying phytocenoses. Analysis of the age structure shows the predominance of young coenopopulations, with two distinct peaks of juvenile and young generative individuals. R. rosea exhibits high ecological plasticity in various biotopes on the Barents Sea coast, and therefore, the coenopopulations of its coastal communities form the basis for this species’ stability in the studied area and need to be protected. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biodiversity Conservation)

15 pages, 8572 KB

Open AccessArticle

Physiological Responses of Cystoseira compressa in Relation to the Presence of the Invasive Macroalga Batophora occidentalis Under Differing Habitat Conditions in a Mediterranean Coastal Lagoon

by Antoni Sureda, Jessica Lombardo, Maria del Mar Ribas-Taberner, Maria Magdalena Quetglas-Llabrés, Llorenç Gil, Silvia Tejada, Samuel Pinya and Montserrat Compa

Diversity 2026, 18(5), 285; https://doi.org/10.3390/d18050285 - 10 May 2026

Abstract

The spread of the green macroalga Batophora occidentalis into shallow, sheltered Mediterranean systems may alter habitat structure and impose sublethal stress on resident habitat-forming species. We assessed whether the presence of B. occidentalis in the s’Estany des Peix lagoon (Formentera, Balearic Islands) is [...] Read more.

The spread of the green macroalga Batophora occidentalis into shallow, sheltered Mediterranean systems may alter habitat structure and impose sublethal stress on resident habitat-forming species. We assessed whether the presence of B. occidentalis in the s’Estany des Peix lagoon (Formentera, Balearic Islands) is associated with physiological alterations in the perennial brown alga Cystoseira compressa. Samples of C. compressa were collected from areas with high (n = 8) and low (n = 8) abundance of B. occidentalis, and benthic cover was surveyed using 40 × 40 cm quadrats (n = 8 per area). Thermal monitoring indicated greater short-term variability inside the lagoon compared to the outer mouth. Biochemical assays showed that individuals from invaded patches exhibited significantly elevated antioxidant enzyme activities (superoxide dismutase and catalase), higher glutathione S-transferase activity and increased total polyphenol content, together with greater reactive oxygen species production. In contrast, malondialdehyde levels did not differ between areas, suggesting that enhanced antioxidant and detoxification responses may prevent detectable lipid peroxidation under the conditions studied. Habitat characteristics, notably higher availability of rocky substrate in invaded sectors, likely facilitate B. occidentalis establishment and modulate the interaction outcome. In conclusion, the coexistence with B. occidentalis was associated with a moderate oxidative challenge in C. compressa, within the environmental context of the invaded areas, and we recommend long-term studies to determine whether these sublethal responses translate into demographic effects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Responses and Adaptations of Marine Species to Global Change)

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22 pages, 7497 KB

Open AccessArticle

Integrative Taxonomy, Seasonal Phenology, and Sex Pheromone Profiling of the Durian Seed Borer (Mudaria stahlgretschae) for Enhanced Pest Monitoring

by Porntap Chamsuk, Kanittha Wannachart, Woranad Khokyen, Karit Pudchimnun, Pakorn Klangpahol, Attaporn Klinpet, Benjakhun Sangtongpraow and Pisit Poolprasert

Diversity 2026, 18(5), 284; https://doi.org/10.3390/d18050284 - 9 May 2026

Abstract

The durian seed borer, Mudaria stahlgretschae, is a major economic pest that has significantly impacted durian cultivation in Southeast Asia; however, comprehensive biological and ecological data for this species remain limited. This study employs an integrative taxonomic approach, combining morphological examination with [...] Read more.

The durian seed borer, Mudaria stahlgretschae, is a major economic pest that has significantly impacted durian cultivation in Southeast Asia; however, comprehensive biological and ecological data for this species remain limited. This study employs an integrative taxonomic approach, combining morphological examination with molecular validation of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene. Phylogenetic analysis (Neighbor-Joining) confirmed that all collected specimens (n = 11) formed a distinct monophyletic clade within the genus Mudaria, showing a genetic identity of 95.75–96.85% with existing GenBank accessions, thereby confirming their identity as M. stahlgretschae. Systematic monitoring using light traps in Uttaradit Province revealed a clear seasonal phenology, with adult flight activity restricted to a five-month period from April to July 2025. Population density peaked in May (55.56%), synchronized with the mid-stages of durian fruit development. Furthermore, chemical profiling of female gland volatiles via GC-MS identified 40 compounds; among these, four putative sex pheromone candidates—1-Hexacosene, (Z)-7-Hexadecenal, 11-Octadecenal, and 2-Hexadecanol—were identified as key constituents based on their consistent detection across all replicates (n = 3), high relative abundance, and absence in male extracts or blank controls. These findings establish a critical foundation for developing synthetic pheromone lures and synchronized monitoring programs, offering a robust framework for the sustainable management of M. stahlgretschae in durian agroecosystems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Diversity)

19 pages, 17409 KB

Open AccessArticle

Silvopastoral Systems Enhance Herbaceous Plant Richness and Abundance in the Low Hilly Area of Western Henan Province, China

by Lixuan Kou, Fan Cheng, Xueping Luo, Shirong You, Mengke Liu, Hao Wang, Di Zhang, Jinghang Lian, Zhiwei Liang, Liping Cheng and Peisong Liu

Diversity 2026, 18(5), 283; https://doi.org/10.3390/d18050283 - 9 May 2026

Abstract

Although silvopastoral systems are widely recognized to improve ecosystem services, empirical evidence regarding their long-term effects on herbaceous diversity during succession remains scarce. In 2011, we established a silvopastoral experiment in the low hilly area of western Henan Province, China. Four pure forest [...] Read more.

Although silvopastoral systems are widely recognized to improve ecosystem services, empirical evidence regarding their long-term effects on herbaceous diversity during succession remains scarce. In 2011, we established a silvopastoral experiment in the low hilly area of western Henan Province, China. Four pure forest plots—poplar (Populus simonii, PS), oriental thuja (Platycladus orientalis, PO), Chinese cork oak (Quercus variabilis, QV) and black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia, RP)—were planted on natural wasteland, with perennial alfalfa (Medicago sativa, MS) intercropped to form silvopastoral systems (PS-MS, PO-MS, QV-MS, RP-MS), with a natural wasteland plot serving as the control (CK). In July 2024, we investigated the species density, richness, and aboveground biomass of herbaceous communities across all plots. Species composition differed significantly between MS and CK, PS-MS and PS, and PO-MS and PO. Silvopastoral systems and MS generally exhibited higher density, richness, and biomass than pure forests and CK. Furthermore, MS and silvopastoral systems showed uniform density and biomass across slope positions, whereas CK and pure forests had higher values downslope, along with shifts in relative biomass. Except for MS and PS-MS, all plots had higher species richness downslope. Soil nutrient properties were closely correlated with the biomass, richness, density, and functional groups. These findings indicate that silvopastoral systems can significantly increase herbaceous density, richness, and biomass and alter species composition, with the effects varying by the dominant tree species. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Diversity)

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19 pages, 3034 KB

Open AccessArticle

Machine Learning-Based Prediction and Interpretability Analysis of Chlorophyll-a and Algal Density Using High-Frequency Water Quality Data

by Wei Wang, Xinglu Hu, Hongzhi Meng, Chuankun Liu, Yang Wang, Tong Jiao, Qixin Chang and Bo Lai

Diversity 2026, 18(5), 282; https://doi.org/10.3390/d18050282 - 9 May 2026

Abstract

Rapid algal proliferation in human-impacted freshwater ecosystems necessitates advanced predictive tools for effective management. This study aims to capture the stochastic dynamics of algal blooms in the Fuxi River, China, using high-frequency monitoring and interpretable machine learning. A 2 h interval dataset was [...] Read more.

Rapid algal proliferation in human-impacted freshwater ecosystems necessitates advanced predictive tools for effective management. This study aims to capture the stochastic dynamics of algal blooms in the Fuxi River, China, using high-frequency monitoring and interpretable machine learning. A 2 h interval dataset was utilized to construct Random Forest models in Python for predicting Chlorophyll-a (Chl-a) and algal density, both measured via in situ multi-wavelength fluorescence. Model interpretability was achieved through SHAP (SHapley Additive exPlanations) analysis to identify non-linear environmental drivers and ecological thresholds. The models demonstrated high predictive accuracy. SHAP analysis revealed that dissolved oxygen (>10 mg/L) is the primary diagnostic indicator for peak Chl-a, with an optimal thermal window of 15–20 °C identified for proliferation. For algal density, chemical oxygen demand (COD_Cr > 25 mg/L) and conductivity (>1000 μS/cm) were identified as critical tipping points, showing pronounced synergistic effects between organic enrichment and nutrient levels. This study underscores that managing organic loading and monitoring specific thermal–hydrochemical windows are vital for mitigating extreme algal events, providing a robust, interpretable framework for real-time water quality early warning. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Freshwater Biodiversity Conservation and Ecological Restoration in Human-Dominated Landscapes)

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12 pages, 1563 KB

Open AccessArticle

Dose-Dependent Effects of a Gut-Derived Bacillus on Survival and Feeding in a Neotropical Termite

by Maria Lacerda, Derick Lira, Alberto Arab, Mário Herculano de Oliveira, Liziane Maria de Lima, Érica Lambais and Maria Avany Bezerra-Gusmão

Diversity 2026, 18(5), 281; https://doi.org/10.3390/d18050281 - 9 May 2026

Abstract

The ecological success of termites is closely linked to their associations with gut microbial communities, yet these interactions may also entail potential fitness costs. The effects of gut-associated bacteria on host performance remain poorly understood. Here, we experimentally assessed the effects of a [...] Read more.

The ecological success of termites is closely linked to their associations with gut microbial communities, yet these interactions may also entail potential fitness costs. The effects of gut-associated bacteria on host performance remain poorly understood. Here, we experimentally assessed the effects of a gut-derived Bacillus sp. isolate on the survival and feeding behavior of workers of the termite Constrictotermes cyphergaster (Silvestri, 1901) (Termitidae: Nasutitermitinae), using the opportunistic pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa as a reference treatment. Workers were exposed to increasing bacterial doses, and survival analyses revealed that both bacteria induced a significant dose-dependent decline in survival. However, the Bacillus isolate caused a stronger reduction in overall survival compared to controls, whereas P. aeruginosa also reduced survival but with a comparatively weaker effect. Feeding activity was independent of dose, but exposure to Bacillus sp. significantly reduced food consumption, a pattern not observed for P. aeruginosa. These results demonstrate that a gut-derived bacterium can negatively affect host survival and feeding under experimental conditions, highlighting the importance of considering both beneficial and potentially harmful effects of host-associated microorganisms on termite fitness. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity and Ecology of Termites—Second Edition)

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