Search for Articles:
Title / Keyword
Author / Affiliation / Email
Journal
Article Type
 
 
Advanced Search
 
Section
Special Issue
Volume
Issue
Number
Page
 
4.0
2.1
Journals
Diversity
Editor’s Choice
share announcement

Editor’s Choice Articles

Editor’s Choice articles are based on recommendations by the scientific editors of MDPI journals from around the world. Editors select a small number of articles recently published in the journal that they believe will be particularly interesting to readers, or important in the respective research area. The aim is to provide a snapshot of some of the most exciting work published in the various research areas of the journal.

Order results
Result details
Results per page
Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
22 pages, 6248 KiB  
Article
DNA Metabarcoding Analysis of Arthropod Diversity in Dust from the Natural History Museum, Vienna
by Pascal Querner, Nikola Szucsich, Bill Landsberger and Peter Brimblecombe
Diversity 2024, 16(8), 476; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16080476 - 6 Aug 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2399
Abstract
This paper introduces a new method for identifying museum pests through the analysis of DNA present in settled dust. Traditionally, the identification of pests in cultural institutions such as museums and depositories has relied on insect trapping (monitoring). They give good results but [...] Read more.
This paper introduces a new method for identifying museum pests through the analysis of DNA present in settled dust. Traditionally, the identification of pests in cultural institutions such as museums and depositories has relied on insect trapping (monitoring). They give good results but need time (minimum spring until summer of one year for a complete survey) and face challenges related to the identification of small, rare, or damaged species. Our study presents a non-invasive approach that utilizes metabarcoding analysis of dust samples to identify pests and other arthropods at the species level. We collected dust samples with a handheld vacuum cleaner in summer 2023 from the six different floors of the Natural History Museum in Vienna and compared the results with the insect monitoring. We found over 359 different species of arthropods in the museum and could show how the diversity increases with the elevation of the building floor. This method could be used for rapid and cost-effective screening of pests before monitoring. But the interpretation of results is sometimes difficult (for Lepismatidae, for example), and it cannot replace a continuous monitoring of pests with traps. This investigation might present the highest indoor animal biodiversity ever found in a single building. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue DNA Barcodes for Evolution and Biodiversity—2nd Edition)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 2058 KiB  
Article
Exploring Biodiversity and Food Webs in Sulfur Cave in the Vromoner Canyon on the Greek–Albanian Border
by Serban M. Sarbu, Traian Brad, Raluca I. Băncilă and Andrei Ştefan
Diversity 2024, 16(8), 477; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16080477 - 6 Aug 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2771
Abstract
Sulfidic caves support diverse and abundant subterranean communities, including numerous endemic species and complex food webs, though the full extent of species diversity and resource utilization in these ecosystems remains largely unexplored. This paper presents the results of biological surveys conducted from 2023 [...] Read more.
Sulfidic caves support diverse and abundant subterranean communities, including numerous endemic species and complex food webs, though the full extent of species diversity and resource utilization in these ecosystems remains largely unexplored. This paper presents the results of biological surveys conducted from 2023 to 2024 in Sulfur Cave, located in the Vromoner Canyon on the Greek–Albanian border, focusing on microbial, vertebrate, and invertebrate communities and investigating the structure of the subterranean food web. The microbial communities from the different biofilms are dominated by chemosynthetic sulfur-oxidizing microorganisms, specifically filamentous bacteria such as Thiotrix and Beggiatoa. Two species of fish, an eel (Anguilla sp.) and a Cyprinid (Alburnoides sp.), and six bat species from three families (Rhinolophidae, Miniopteridae, and Vespertilionidae) were documented. The invertebrate fauna includes five aquatic species, 25 terrestrial species, and four amphibiotic species. Among these, eight species are endemic, and seven species exhibit troglomorphic traits. Stable isotope analysis showed light carbon and nitrogen values for the terrestrial and aquatic invertebrates, suggesting that subterranean communities rely on food produced in situ by chemoautotrophic microorganisms. Our results identified cave areas of significant biological relevance and provided reference data to inform conservation actions aimed at preserving the biodiversity of this sulfidic cave. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in the Diversity and Taxonomy of Subterranean Arthropods)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

28 pages, 5938 KiB  
Article
Prioritising Ex Situ Conservation for Malagasy Mammal Species in Line with IUCN’s ‘One Plan Approach to Conservation’
by Anna Rose, Marie Tuchtfeldt, Robin Lammers, Johanna Rode-White, Matthias Markolf, Theo Pagel, Dennis Rödder and Thomas Ziegler
Diversity 2024, 16(8), 456; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16080456 - 1 Aug 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2619
Abstract
Madagascar, as one of the global biodiversity hotspots, hosts numerous unique terrestrial mammal species that need urgent protection. To identify priority species for conservation, an updated list of terrestrial Malagasy mammal species was compiled, including their threat status, distribution, endemism level, Convention on [...] Read more.
Madagascar, as one of the global biodiversity hotspots, hosts numerous unique terrestrial mammal species that need urgent protection. To identify priority species for conservation, an updated list of terrestrial Malagasy mammal species was compiled, including their threat status, distribution, endemism level, Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) listing, and Evolutionarily Distinct and Globally Endangered (EDGE) score. An overview of these species kept in zoos worldwide was created using the Zoological Information Management System and Zootierliste to assess ex situ conservation efforts. Nearly 60% of the 212 native terrestrial mammal species are threatened with extinction, with 18% being regional endemics, 39% microendemics, and 42% endemics. The majority of these species (92%) occur within protected areas. About half of Madagascar’s mammals are listed under CITES, and less than half have an EDGE score. Only 34 species are kept in zoos globally, with 26 Red-Listed as threatened. Nine out of seventeen families are not represented in zoos. A total of 1545 institutions, primarily in Europe and North America, keep Malagasy mammal species, with successful reproduction reported for 28 species in the last 12 months, 23 of them listed as threatened on the IUCN Red List. To maximize conservation, we recommend reallocating resources towards priority species and implementing concerted ex situ and in situ actions as proposed by the IUCN’s One Plan Approach. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Conflict and Coexistence Between Humans and Wildlife)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 6977 KiB  
Article
Population Biology of the Non-Indigenous Rayed Pearl Oyster (Pinctada radiata) in the South Evoikos Gulf, Greece
by Dimitris Pafras, Alexandros Theocharis, Gerasimos Kondylatos, Alexis Conides and Dimitris Klaoudatos
Diversity 2024, 16(8), 460; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16080460 - 1 Aug 2024
Viewed by 1725
Abstract
The Atlantic pearl oyster Pinctada radiata (Leach, 1814), the first documented Lessepsian bivalve species to enter the Mediterranean basin, is present in various coastal areas in Greece, and constitutes, almost exclusively, a domestic commercial bivalve resource. The present study aimed to contribute to [...] Read more.
The Atlantic pearl oyster Pinctada radiata (Leach, 1814), the first documented Lessepsian bivalve species to enter the Mediterranean basin, is present in various coastal areas in Greece, and constitutes, almost exclusively, a domestic commercial bivalve resource. The present study aimed to contribute to the limited information available on P. radiata population structure and dynamics in Hellenic waters, especially following the recent enforcement of legislation for regulation of its fishery. A total of 703 individuals were collected using scuba diving from the South Evoikos Gulf. The male-to-female ratio (1:1.70) significantly departed from 1:1. A higher probability for female prevalence was exhibited for shell heights over 50.77 mm. Significant differences were exhibited in the shell height–total weight relationship between the sexes. The fourth-year class was the dominant cohort, comprising 50.09% of the population, out of the seven age classes identified. Asymptotic length was estimated at 109.1 mm and growth index at 3.35, respectively. Longevity was estimated at 15.7 years, with natural mortality (M) at 0.39 and total mortality (Z) at 0.76. The probability of capture (LC50) was estimated at 50.72 mm at 2.8 years. Biological reference points FMSY and EMSY were higher than the fishing mortality and current exploitation rate, respectively, indicating the potential for further population exploitation. Full article
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

21 pages, 4238 KiB  
Article
Lake Champlain Zooplankton Community Dynamics Following an Extreme Flood Event
by Timothy Mihuc, Erin Hayes-Pontius, Marshall Arnwine, Zachary Cutter and Luke Myers
Diversity 2024, 16(8), 451; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16080451 - 31 Jul 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1536
Abstract
Lake Champlain, the sixth largest freshwater lake in the U.S., is a deep thermally stratified temperate zone lake system. Recently, flood events have impacted the Northeastern U.S. more frequently than in past decades, resulting in increased turbidity and other impacts in northern temperate [...] Read more.
Lake Champlain, the sixth largest freshwater lake in the U.S., is a deep thermally stratified temperate zone lake system. Recently, flood events have impacted the Northeastern U.S. more frequently than in past decades, resulting in increased turbidity and other impacts in northern temperate lakes. This study represents an unprecedented analysis of the impacts of major spring and summer flooding in 2011 on Lake Champlain zooplankton communities. Few studies exist on flood impacts on lake systems, especially in natural un-impounded lakes. Our results illustrate the impacts of large-scale flooding on planktonic communities in deep stratified temperate lakes and the differential responses among species based on autecological traits. Community responses include flood-adapted increase during the flood event (Ceriodaphnia reticulata and Eubosmina coregoni), a flood-intolerant decline (Asplanchna spp. and Keratella cochlearis) or a delayed flood intolerance (Daphnia retrocurva, Mesocyclops edax, and Polyarthra spp.). Our results suggest that large, temperate lakes such as Lake Champlain will experience community shifts in zooplankton composition during future extreme flood events associated with climate change-related weather patterns in the Northeastern U.S. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity and Ecology of Zooplankton in Freshwater Subhabitats: Second Edition)
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

9 pages, 4297 KiB  
Article
Lack of Data or Lack of Weasels? The Likely Silent Extinction of Weasel Mustela nivalis (Carnivora: Mustelidae) in Spain
by Ana B. Llorca, Francisco S. Tortosa and José Guerrero-Casado
Diversity 2024, 16(8), 446; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16080446 - 29 Jul 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2159
Abstract
Records from online biodiversity databases (including citizen science data) can play a crucial role in enhancing scientific knowledge about the abundance, distribution, and population trends of poorly studied species which are usually not properly monitored. This study aims to demonstrate the utility of [...] Read more.
Records from online biodiversity databases (including citizen science data) can play a crucial role in enhancing scientific knowledge about the abundance, distribution, and population trends of poorly studied species which are usually not properly monitored. This study aims to demonstrate the utility of data hosted in GBIF in detecting the likely decline of species common and widely distributed in the past, but whose conservation status is now uncertain, such as the weasel (Mustela nivalis) in Spain. To address this, we analyzed data on its presence in Spain from 2008 to 2022 available on GBIF.org, and compared it with the distribution data from the Atlas of Mammals of Spain published in 2007. The results indicate that: (i) data from GBIF.org reveal a moderate decline (negative trend) in the weasel population in Spain during the study period; (ii) the species has been recorded in a limited number of 10 × 10 km UTM-squares (Universal Transverse Mercator) within its distribution range as defined by the 2007 atlas; and (iii) there are large areas of Spain in which the species has not been detected in recent years. These findings highlight the concerning conservation status of this carnivorous species and underscore the value of data from open access platforms such as GBIF in identifying potential silent extinctions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Papers in Animal Diversity)
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

16 pages, 2679 KiB  
Article
Selecting Monitoring Methods for Endangered Trout Populations
by Paolo Casula, Francesco Palmas, Francesco Curreli and Andrea Sabatini
Diversity 2024, 16(8), 442; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16080442 - 25 Jul 2024
Viewed by 1417
Abstract
Endangered trout populations can be monitored with a variety of methods, the selection of which should consider social constraints and environmental variables known to affect method effectiveness. Here, we confront the effectiveness of four monitoring methods (removal with electrofishing, ELE; underwater camera survey, [...] Read more.
Endangered trout populations can be monitored with a variety of methods, the selection of which should consider social constraints and environmental variables known to affect method effectiveness. Here, we confront the effectiveness of four monitoring methods (removal with electrofishing, ELE; underwater camera survey, UCS; streamside visual survey, SVS; visual surveys with angling, VSA) to estimate the relative abundance of three populations of the endangered Mediterranean brown trout. The trout counts obtained via different methods were well correlated (r = 0.65–0.72), providing a coherent description of the relative pool abundance across the methods. However, the methods were differently affected by environmental variables, depending on the age classes of trout. Specifically, the adult and subadult counts provided by ELE and VSA were negatively and positively affected by the maximum pool depth, respectively; adult and subadult counts of VSA and the SVS were positively affected by pool area; the juvenile counts provided by the UCS were positively affected by pool shade and negatively affected by water turbidity; juvenile counts provided by VSA were positively affected by shade. Variables such as pool depth, area, shading, water turbidity and proportion of age classes can be hardly controlled in monitoring programs, and their bias could be modelled. Different sampling methods provided similar information about relative abundance and appeared equivalent. While ELE could be selected to collect samples and biometric data, monitoring relative abundance with the UCS, VSA, and SVS appears more suited and can also involve citizen scientists. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biodiversity Conservation)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 2709 KiB  
Article
Decoding Anotylus (Thomson 1859) Beetle Diversity: DNA and External Morphology Match in Área de Conservaciόn Guanacaste, Costa Rica
by K. Dante Underwood, Robert Puschendorf, David T. Bilton, Winnie Hallwachs, Daniel H. Janzen and M. Alex Smith
Diversity 2024, 16(8), 441; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16080441 - 25 Jul 2024
Viewed by 1467
Abstract
Taxonomy underpins biological research because names are needed for comparative analysis, conservation status, and public communication. Despite this, many species remain undescribed and are therefore vulnerable and unprotected, particularly in the tropics. Neotropical Staphylinidae beetles (Coleoptera) are among the insect groups most likely [...] Read more.
Taxonomy underpins biological research because names are needed for comparative analysis, conservation status, and public communication. Despite this, many species remain undescribed and are therefore vulnerable and unprotected, particularly in the tropics. Neotropical Staphylinidae beetles (Coleoptera) are among the insect groups most likely to contain significant unknown and/or cryptic diversity. Here we used an integrative taxonomic framework to conduct a preliminary review of one particularly diverse genus of Staphylinidae (Anotylus) in Área de Conservaciόn Guanacaste, northwestern Costa Rica. We began by DNA barcoding novel collections and using Barcode Index Numbers (BINs) as an estimate of taxonomic diversity; we found 18 provisional new species. We augmented this genetic analysis with a morphometric analysis of adult morphological characters and found that we could differentiate most provisional species by external morphology as well as by elevation of collection. All the most abundant species could be differentiated from each other by differences in body size. One BIN included slight (~1%) genetic variation that corresponded with some morphological differentiation suggesting the existence of two species within a DNA BIN. Our results support the efficacy of DNA barcoding collections of tropical insects as an effective biodiversity estimator, one that can be used as a primer for integrative taxonomic studies using BINs as species hypotheses. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity, Distribution and Zoogeography of Coleoptera)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 1232 KiB  
Article
Diversity and Distribution of Monocot Understory Herbs during Tropical Forest Succession in Northeastern Costa Rica
by Jennifer W. C. Sun, Robin L. Chazdon and Philip W. Rundel
Diversity 2024, 16(8), 439; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16080439 - 24 Jul 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2312
Abstract
Broad-leaved monocot herbs form one of the most common and diverse growth forms of Neotropical plants. Their significance and frequency of occurrence is particularly notable in the understories of tropical rainforests, where they form a dominant element. We assessed and quantified changes in [...] Read more.
Broad-leaved monocot herbs form one of the most common and diverse growth forms of Neotropical plants. Their significance and frequency of occurrence is particularly notable in the understories of tropical rainforests, where they form a dominant element. We assessed and quantified changes in the cover and diversity of understory herb communities in a chronosequence of 1 ha permanent plots established as part of a multidisciplinary study on tropical forest regeneration in the Atlantic lowlands of northeastern Costa Rica. Sampled were two young stands cleared 12 years ago, two secondary forests with 21 and 39 of years of recovery since clearance, and two stands in old-growth primary forest. Changes in species composition during succession were assessed using Chao’s Jaccard similarity index. Observed species richness ranged from 15 to 26 species in individual plots, with the greatest number of species in the 21-year intermediate-age and fewest in the young 12-year plots. Herb species sampled represented 6 families, 15 genera, and 39 species, with the Araceae contributing the largest number of species. Ten species were sampled in all six stands, while fourteen species were found exclusively in one plot. Herb density (ramets m−2) showed a hump-shade trend, with peak density in the intermediate stands and a lower level in mature and young secondary forests. Mean herb cover in 25 m2 quadrats ranged from 2.0% (young stand) to 22.7% (intermediate-age stand) and differed significantly both among stand types and among sites. Both observed and estimated species richness increased along the chronosequence as a whole, with the highest number of species in primary forest, although only slightly higher than in intermediate-age stands. Over half of the species exhibited some degree of clonal growth, with the extent of clonal spread varying among species and forest stands. Although we did not find a clear pattern between clonality and forest age, we observed a greater number of clonal patches in secondary over primary forest stands. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Diversity Hotspots in the 2020s)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 1738 KiB  
Review
A Fossil Record of Spores before Sporophytes
by Paul K. Strother and Wilson A. Taylor
Diversity 2024, 16(7), 428; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16070428 - 22 Jul 2024
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2194
Abstract
Because their resistant, sporopolleninous walls preserve a record of morphogenetic change during spore formation, fossil cryptospores provide a direct physical record of the evolution of sporogenesis during the algal–plant transition. That transition itself is a story of the evolution of development—it is not [...] Read more.
Because their resistant, sporopolleninous walls preserve a record of morphogenetic change during spore formation, fossil cryptospores provide a direct physical record of the evolution of sporogenesis during the algal–plant transition. That transition itself is a story of the evolution of development—it is not about phylogeny. Here, we review the fossil record of terrestrially derived spore/cryptospore assemblages and attempt to place these microfossils in their evolutionary context with respect to the origin of complex multicellularity in plants. Cambrian cryptospores show features related to karyokinesis seen in extant charophytes, but they also possess ultrastructure similar to that seen in liverworts today. Dyadospora, a cryptospore dyad recovered from sporangia of Devonian embryophytes, first occurs in the earliest Ordovician. Tetrahedraletes, a likely precursor to the trilete spore, first occurs in the Middle Ordovician. These fossils correspond to evolutionary novelties that were acquired during a period of genome assembly prior to the existence of upright, axial sporophytes. The cryptospore/spore fossil record provides a temporal scaffold for the acquisition of novel characters relating to the evolution of plant sporogenesis during the Cambrian–Silurian interval. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Phylogeny, Ages, Molecules and Fossils of Land Plants)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

26 pages, 13417 KiB  
Article
Agricultural Landscapes: A Pattern-Process-Design Approach to Enhance Their Ecological Quality and Ecosystem Services through Agroforestry
by Ilda Vagge, Nicolò Sgalippa and Gemma Chiaffarelli
Diversity 2024, 16(7), 431; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16070431 - 22 Jul 2024
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2529
Abstract
Agricultural landscapes are currently suffering and generating severe ecological issues. This is especially true in intensively managed alluvial contexts, where biodiversity is declining and ecosystem services (ES) delivery capacity is being depleted. The aim of our study is to set up and test [...] Read more.
Agricultural landscapes are currently suffering and generating severe ecological issues. This is especially true in intensively managed alluvial contexts, where biodiversity is declining and ecosystem services (ES) delivery capacity is being depleted. The aim of our study is to set up and test a synthetic analytical methodology that allows us to: understand current agricultural landscape ecological quality drivers (structural and functional traits); identify context-specific strategies to correct current negative trends (landscape ecology design approach); and assess the changes in the landscape ecological behavior provided by design scenarios. The applied methodology is low-cost and low-time-demanding and is based on multi-scale landscape ecology and land-use-based ES assessment; it implements a pattern-process-design approach. Analyses are applied to four northern Italian alluvial agricultural landscape systems. We specifically address landscape biodiversity support functions (landscape ecology indicators) and landscape multifunctionality (ES spatial assessment). We test the agroforestry approach (landscape feature insertions and crop diversification) as a key strategy to enhance ecological quality and ES, and we account for its contributions to context-specific design scenarios. This analytical toolkit might serve for future applications on similar case studies. Full article
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

27 pages, 1184 KiB  
Review
Relationships Among the Bryophytes and Vascular Plants: A Case Study in Deep-Time Reconstruction
by Yin-Long Qiu and Brent D. Mishler
Diversity 2024, 16(7), 426; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16070426 - 21 Jul 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3944
Abstract
Relationships of the three bryophyte lineages (liverworts, mosses, and hornworts) to vascular plants is a pivotal question in the study of the origin and evolution of land plants. In recent decades, this question has been subjected to intense phylogenetic analyses using morphological characters, [...] Read more.
Relationships of the three bryophyte lineages (liverworts, mosses, and hornworts) to vascular plants is a pivotal question in the study of the origin and evolution of land plants. In recent decades, this question has been subjected to intense phylogenetic analyses using morphological characters, multigene DNA sequences, and genome structural characters. A tentative consensus, reached ten years ago, suggested that bryophytes are a paraphyletic group, with liverworts being sister to all other land plants and hornworts being sister to vascular plants. However, several more recent nuclear phylogenomic studies have concluded that bryophytes represent a monophyletic group that is sister to vascular plants. A discussion is presented here on strengths and weaknesses of different types of characters (morphological traits, nucleotide sequences, and genome structural arrangements) and their suitability for resolving deep phylogenetic relationships. Moreover, several criteria for credible phylogenetic reconstruction are proposed. Strong statistical support for reconstructed relationships should be derived from high-quality, independent characters selected for suitability to the particular question being addressed. The relationships inferred in a study should be congruent with those from as many other lines of phylogenetic evidence as possible. Any incongruities should be explicable by well-understood biological mechanisms. It is concluded that the relationships of the three bryophyte lineages to vascular plants should currently be viewed as unresolved. This is a difficult phylogenetic problem; the land plants underwent a rapid radiation a long time ago. Yet, further exploration of analytical methods and careful choice of characters should lead to the eventual elucidation of diversification patterns among early land plants. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Phylogeny, Ages, Molecules and Fossils of Land Plants)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

23 pages, 4554 KiB  
Article
Rare Earth Elements Distribution and Bacteriome to Assess and Characterize the Soil Landscapes of Old Olive Orchards
by Angela Roccotelli, Simone Tommasini, Maria Teresa Ceccherini, Luca Calamai, Mattia Ferrari, Matthias Ghiotto, Roberto Riccio, Lisa Bonciani, Giacomo Pietramellara, Sandro Moretti and Samuel Pelacani
Diversity 2024, 16(7), 427; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16070427 - 21 Jul 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2296
Abstract
The presence of the olive tree in Tuscany, Italy, in its forms that have survived to the present day as an essential component of the landscape dates back many centuries. Global change is now threatening it. Therefore, it is important to find markers [...] Read more.
The presence of the olive tree in Tuscany, Italy, in its forms that have survived to the present day as an essential component of the landscape dates back many centuries. Global change is now threatening it. Therefore, it is important to find markers to enhance the olive tree environment in terms of its resilience. The aim of the research was to investigate the composition of soil bacteriomes in contrasting geochemical environments using a geochemistry approach based on the behavior of the REEs, inherited from parent rock material. Bacteriome assemblages and REE content were analyzed in 48 topsoils developed in six geochemical Tuscan environments. Combined geochemical, geoinformatic, and bioinformatic techniques highlighted the existence of four bacteriome assemblages depending on Light-REEs. Further results showed that the soil bioavailable fraction of REEs was related to parent rock materials, pH, and bacteriome composition. The most abundant bacteria were Microlunatus in graded fluvio-lacustrine soils, Gaiella in graded arenaceous soils, Bradyrizhobium in pyroclastic soils, and Rubrobacter in soils on gentle slopes of calcareous and carbonatic lithologies. This research represents a starting point to define new indicators able to assess the resilience of the olive trees in the Mediterranean landscape and characterize the territory of extra virgin olive oils. Full article
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

9 pages, 3859 KiB  
Article
First Record of the Invasive Alien Species Rugulopteryx okamurae (Phaeophyceae, Dictyotales) along the Eastern Coast of Sicily (Italy, Mediterranean Sea): Is It Ready to Expand into the Ionian Sea?
by Giuliana Marletta, Andrea Lombardo and Donatella Serio
Diversity 2024, 16(7), 424; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16070424 - 19 Jul 2024
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2214
Abstract
The Mediterranean Sea is a hotspot for the introduction of non-indigenous species. Among them, invasive alien species can seriously affect the areas they colonize, not only by altering the marine food webs and community structure, but also by harming certain economic activities, such [...] Read more.
The Mediterranean Sea is a hotspot for the introduction of non-indigenous species. Among them, invasive alien species can seriously affect the areas they colonize, not only by altering the marine food webs and community structure, but also by harming certain economic activities, such as fishing, tourism, aquaculture and marine infrastructure. Rugulopteryx okamurae is a brown macroalga considered the fourth most harmful species among the 10 most invasive species reported in the Mediterranean; in fact, it has recently been included in the list of invasive alien species of Union concern due to its serious impact on biodiversity and socioeconomic implications. This species was reported for the first time in the Mediterranean in 2002 in Thau Lagoon (France), introduced by the aquaculture of the Japanese oyster Magallana gigas. Since then, this species has spread in both the Mediterranean and Atlantic Ocean with a strong invasive behavior, particularly along the Strait of Gibraltar. Rugulopteryx okamurae was also recently reported for the first time in Italian waters, in the Gulf of Palermo (Sicily). In this study, we report a record of this species further to the east, in the Ionian Sea, where it has not previously been recorded, and provide possible explanations of the spreading and arrival routes in this area. The rapid expansion of R. okamurae is raising concerns; thus, in order to safeguard native communities, it is crucial to keep monitoring this invasive species so that it is possible to regularly update its distribution and follow up on its spread dynamics in the Mediterranean basin. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity in Italy: Past and Future Perspectives)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 1956 KiB  
Article
The Genetic Characterization of the Canarian Endemic Palm (Phoenix canariensis) by Simple Sequence Repeats and Chloroplast Markers: A Tool for the Molecular Traceability of Phoenix Hybridization
by Isabel Saro, Priscila Rodríguez-Rodríguez, Diego Rivera, Concepción Obón, Fredérique Aberlenc, Antonio Díaz-Pérez, Salwa Zehdi-Azouzi, Leticia Curbelo and Pedro A. Sosa
Diversity 2024, 16(7), 411; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16070411 - 16 Jul 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1331
Abstract
The endemic palm from the Canary Islands, Phoenix canariensis, is one of the most distinctive elements of the Canarian vegetation landscape, contributing to cultural, economic and environmental aspects. One of the main conservation problems facing this iconic palm is anthropogenic hybridization with [...] Read more.
The endemic palm from the Canary Islands, Phoenix canariensis, is one of the most distinctive elements of the Canarian vegetation landscape, contributing to cultural, economic and environmental aspects. One of the main conservation problems facing this iconic palm is anthropogenic hybridization with other Phoenix species, particularly Phoenix dactylifera, which has been introduced extensively throughout its geographical range. Therefore, it is important to obtain a genetic tool that addresses different issues that may have an impact on the protection of P. canariensis, including ornamental applications and wild population conservation purposes. Our main goals were to detect a molecular tracer that could reliably distinguish between Phoenix canariensis and P. dactylifera in the Canary archipelago and to characterize the presence and extent of genetic hybridization events between the two species. We used 19 nuclear microsatellites and 1 chloroplast minisatellite set and analysed a large sample size (N = 433) of plants using both Bayesian methods and ordination techniques. Our data showed that a set of 13 nuclear markers revealed diagnostic alleles for P. canariensis, which were defined as the Canarian nuclear genotype (CNG). Moreover, P. canariensis exhibited an exclusive chlorotype of 266 bp that together with the GNC serve as an indicator of genetic purity in the Canarian palm. These markers are sufficient to detect any hybrid, even if it is not related to morphological differences. The occurrence of a considerable number of specimens with different degrees of hybridization is discussed in terms of the existence of different generations of hybrids and different types of crosses. Thus, the genetic tracers represent an invaluable tool to address any proposal for the genetic conservation of Phoenix canariensis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Diversity Hotspots in the 2020s)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 1660 KiB  
Article
Phylogeographic Relationships Reveal the Origin of an Introduced Population of the Dalmatian Algyroides (Reptilia: Lacertidae) into Southern Italy
by Elisavet-Aspasia Toli, Dimitra Sergiadou, Piero Carlino, Anastasios Bounas, Miguel A. Carretero, Riccardo Castiglia, D. James Harris, Chrysoula Papadaki, Olivier S. G. Pauwels, Lidija Leković and Konstantinos Sotiropoulos
Diversity 2024, 16(7), 406; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16070406 - 14 Jul 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1234
Abstract
The genetic structure and dispersal dynamics of reptile populations are profoundly influenced by natural processes and human activities. While natural dispersal is shaped by species’ characteristics and paleogeographical features, human-mediated translocations have become increasingly prevalent, posing ecological challenges. Mitochondrial genetic markers have been [...] Read more.
The genetic structure and dispersal dynamics of reptile populations are profoundly influenced by natural processes and human activities. While natural dispersal is shaped by species’ characteristics and paleogeographical features, human-mediated translocations have become increasingly prevalent, posing ecological challenges. Mitochondrial genetic markers have been pivotal in untangling invasion pathways for various species. Our study focuses on the Dalmatian Algyroides, Algyroides nigropunctatus (Duméril & Bibron, 1839), a lizard species endemic to the Balkan Peninsula, where recent observations in the Apulian region of Italy suggest an introduced population. Genetic analyses employing two mtDNA markers (16S and ND4 genes) elucidate the phylogenetic relationships of the Dalmatian Algyroides and trace the geographic origin of the introduced population. Our findings reveal areas in western Greece and southwestern Albania as the most probable areas of the source population, while we identify two previously undetected geographical lineages in the native range, highlighting the complex evolutionary history of the species in the region. Additionally, indications of potential glacial refugia and post-glacial dispersal patterns shed more light on the species’ demographic dynamics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Papers in Phylogeny and Evolution)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 3288 KiB  
Article
Relic Vergilius Oak (Quercus virgiliana Ten.) Trees Could Preserve Microhabitats of Pannonian Forest–Steppe Vegetation
by Sándor Bordács, Beáta Pintér, Csaba Horváth, Lajos Benedek and Márta Ladányi
Diversity 2024, 16(7), 401; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16070401 - 12 Jul 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1601
Abstract
In the framework of an ongoing gene conservation programme in the Tolna Hills Region, Hungary, a total of 41 site plots were selected on agricultural land that had recently been used as grassland, meadow or vineyard. Aims of our study were (i) to [...] Read more.
In the framework of an ongoing gene conservation programme in the Tolna Hills Region, Hungary, a total of 41 site plots were selected on agricultural land that had recently been used as grassland, meadow or vineyard. Aims of our study were (i) to test the taxonomic status of relic oak trees growing out of forested lands; (ii) to verify the origin of relic trees whether they regenerated by sprouts and suckers or by seeds in order to estimate their age and origin (nativeness); (iii) to test their microhabitats to see if forest-specific plant and fungal species were presented; (iv) and to test species to see if their presence linked to any forest vegetation in the past. Furthermore, the land-use type did not show a significant effect on the abundance of woody, dicot herbaceous, or monocot herbaceous plants recorded on sites based on maps from 1941 or earlier. The follow-up univariate ANOVA revealed a significant direct effect of recent land-use type (of 2022) on monocot herbaceous plants (F(3,33) = 5.21, p < 0.01). Additionally, a significant but weaker effect was observed on woody plants (F(3,33) = 3.22, p < 0.05). The overall past effect of land-use type showed a significantly high positive correlation between the abundance of woody plants and the number of times the maps showed forest or forest boundary land-use types (R = 0.46, p < 0.01). The plots have likely preserved and sustained the microhabitats of the native forest vegetation that was once distributed in the region. The site plots of relic oak trees, considered as flagstone habitats, create opportunities for gene flow, not only for the species with dispersal or discontinuous distribution, but also for the Vergilius oak populations. Therefore, relic trees and their microhabitats might have an important role in the mating system of various species and might also be valuable resources for genetic conservation programmes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Papers in Phylogeny and Evolution)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 2607 KiB  
Article
Archaeological Areas as Habitat Islands: Plant Diversity of Epidaurus UNESCO World Heritage Site (Greece)
by Maria Panitsa, Maria Tsakiri, Dimitra Kampiti and Maria Skotadi
Diversity 2024, 16(7), 403; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16070403 - 12 Jul 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2318
Abstract
The Epidaurus UNESCO World Heritage site (EPD) is a famous archaeological area that is located in a small valley in the Peloponnese and receives more than 250,000 visitors annually. The study of the plant diversity of the site is in the framework of [...] Read more.
The Epidaurus UNESCO World Heritage site (EPD) is a famous archaeological area that is located in a small valley in the Peloponnese and receives more than 250,000 visitors annually. The study of the plant diversity of the site is in the framework of a continuous research project concerning archaeological areas of the Peloponnese and in the context of a project by the Ministry of Culture, Education and Religious Affairs of Greece that started during 2023 to study the biodiversity of the archaeological areas of Greece. The main aim of this study is the exploration and analysis of the plant species composition and diversity of the Epidaurus archaeological area, with an emphasis on endemic plants, on ruderal and alien taxa as well as on environmental and disturbance indicators and the cultural ecosystem services they provide. This study revealed a high species richness consisting of 446 plant taxa. Most of them are Mediterranean and widespread, ruderals and medium disturbance indicators, but there are also 12 Greek endemic taxa. The richest in the taxa families are Asteraceae, Fabaceae and Poaceae. Therophytes predominate in the total flora registered and hemicryptophytes predominate in the endemics. Comparisons of the EPD’s plant diversity with other archaeological areas of Greece and the Mediterranean revealed its richness and unique character. Management and protection in archaeological areas such as the Epidaurus must focus on the sustainable conservation of their relationship with their natural environment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2024 Feature Papers by Diversity’s Editorial Board Members)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 1336 KiB  
Article
Invasiveness of Impatiens parviflora in Carpathian Beech Forests: Insights from Soil Nematode Communities
by Marek Renčo, Jana Jurová and Andrea Čerevková
Diversity 2024, 16(7), 393; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16070393 - 10 Jul 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1651
Abstract
Invasive plants are capable of homogenizing both aboveground and belowground biota and, along with climate change, are recognized as one of the biggest threats to global biodiversity. Soil nematode communities reflect the surroundings they inhabit and are therefore frequently employed as biological indicators [...] Read more.
Invasive plants are capable of homogenizing both aboveground and belowground biota and, along with climate change, are recognized as one of the biggest threats to global biodiversity. Soil nematode communities reflect the surroundings they inhabit and are therefore frequently employed as biological indicators of soil condition. In this study, soil properties and nematode communities in Carpathian beech forest floor covered by dense vegetation of invasive Impatiens parviflora (small balsam) were investigated over two vegetation seasons. We assumed that the spread of invasive I. parviflora could influence soil fauna through litter accumulation when established and could also change several soil properties, consequently altering soil nematode communities. A total of 52 nematode species were found in the soil samples. The mean number of species varied from 18 to 31, but did not significantly differ between invaded and uninvaded plots across all sampling dates. However, redundancy analysis indicated that the nematode community in plots with small balsam differed significantly from that in uninvaded plots, reflecting different proportions of genera in the two communities. Invasion by small balsam significantly enhanced the relative abundance of bacterivores, whereas it decreased the abundance of plant parasites and root-fungal feeders, mainly in the spring and summer season. Ordination of nematode species along the structure index and enrichment index trajectories revealed a maturing food web, low to moderately disturbed in the I. parviflora invaded soils as well as in uninvaded forest plots. Decomposition channels of soil food webs in both plots were balanced and fungal–bacterial mediated, although low values of the channel index suggested prevailing bacterial decomposition. Our study reveals that the expansion of I. parviflora moderately influenced the composition of nematode communities and the soil food web, increased soil nitrogen, carbon and C/N ratio, but did not modify soil acidity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ecology and Evolution of Invasive Plant Species)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 12266 KiB  
Article
Szulczewski’s Fungarium—A Collection of Fungi on Their Host Plants in the POZ Herbarium, Poznań, Poland
by Elżbieta Zenkteler, Zbigniew Celka, Piotr Szkudlarz and Joanna Nita
Diversity 2024, 16(7), 387; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16070387 - 6 Jul 2024
Viewed by 1390
Abstract
The fungarium was collected by Jerzy Wojciech Szulczewski in the Wielkopolska region in Western Poland in 1909–1911, 1928, and 1960–1966 (nine volumes). It includes dried plant specimens with disease symptoms of fungal origin and is currently located in the POZ Herbarium (Adam Mickiewicz [...] Read more.
The fungarium was collected by Jerzy Wojciech Szulczewski in the Wielkopolska region in Western Poland in 1909–1911, 1928, and 1960–1966 (nine volumes). It includes dried plant specimens with disease symptoms of fungal origin and is currently located in the POZ Herbarium (Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznań, Poland). It is one of the oldest and richest Polish collections of this category although some parts were destroyed or lost after the Second World War. Many of the sheets have original annotations by the author and hand-written labels with both plant and fungus names. A checklist of all species is presented in the appendix. The whole collection was digitized in 2023 and is available on the website of the AMUNATCOLL project. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Digitization of Natural History Collections for Biodiversity Science and Conservation)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

27 pages, 5406 KiB  
Article
Rock Surface Colonization by Groundwater Microorganisms in an Aquifer System in Quebec, Canada
by Divya Patel, Vincent Blouin, Jamie Kirkpatrick and Cassandre Sara Lazar
Diversity 2024, 16(7), 374; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16070374 - 28 Jun 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 5728
Abstract
Aquifers are rich in microbial diversity. However, there is a lack of information about sessile communities in these environments because of the difficulty in sampling fresh in situ rock surfaces. Thus, this study’s objective was to better understand the sessile community in a [...] Read more.
Aquifers are rich in microbial diversity. However, there is a lack of information about sessile communities in these environments because of the difficulty in sampling fresh in situ rock surfaces. Thus, this study’s objective was to better understand the sessile community in a fractured aquifer. Additionally, the impact of the rock mineral composition on microbial community composition during colonization was explored. Using a system of bioreactors, we recreated the environmental conditions of a 1.5 m deep aquifer in Covey Hill (QC, Canada) using groundwater samples collected from the site. We carried out 16S/18S rRNA amplicon sequencing of the water and sessile communities after 24 days of incubation. Our data showed that many microbial taxa overlapped between the sessile and planktonic communities, indicating colonization of the solid surfaces. Quartz and feldspar had a significant impact on bacterial community structure. Sessile communities were dominated by Gaillonella, Alkanindiges, unclassified Acetobacteraceae, Apoikiales, Glissomonadida, and Synurales. We could not detect any Archaea in the sessile community. The sessile communities contained bacterial genera involved in iron cycling and adapted to acidic and low-carbon-concentration environments. Eukaryotic predators dominated the sessile community. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2024)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 11779 KiB  
Article
Benthic Diatoms on Macrophytes of the Israeli Mediterranean Coast
by Sophia Barinova, Larisa Ryabushko, Daria Balycheva, Anastasiia Blaginina, Elena Chiernyavsky and Armine Shiroyan
Diversity 2024, 16(6), 338; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16060338 - 11 Jun 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2785
Abstract
Benthic diatoms have been studied in different areas of the Mediterranean Sea, but no data have been available for Israeli coastal waters until the present time. In this work, the composition, ecology, and phytogeography of diatoms of the macrophytes epiphyton are presented for [...] Read more.
Benthic diatoms have been studied in different areas of the Mediterranean Sea, but no data have been available for Israeli coastal waters until the present time. In this work, the composition, ecology, and phytogeography of diatoms of the macrophytes epiphyton are presented for the first time. Altogether, 85 diatom taxa were found among the epiphyton of 25 species of green, brown, and red macroalgae from the Israeli coast between March and May of 2021. These diatoms represent three classes, 17 orders, 26 families, and 41 genera. The taxonomic composition, ecology, and phytogeography of species are discussed. The distribution of diatoms are compared to that of other macrophytes and anthropogenic loads across the shoreline. The dominant species are given. Ecological characteristics and abundance in communities of revealed species are represented and statistically analyzed. The index of saprobity S varies between 1.69–2.71. Sites that stressed aquatic communities are indicated. The influence of the anthropogenic loads on the coastal territories is defined as a major factor that stimulated diatom species richness. Sites with anthropogenic stress for aquatic communities are indicated. Based on the composition of bioindicators, it is concluded that the section of the Israeli coast studied is oligo-mesotrophic compared to the eutrophic Gulf of Tartus. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity and Ecology in the Mediterranean Sea)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

41 pages, 1934 KiB  
Article
Changes in Population Densities and Species Richness of Pollinators in the Carpathian Basin during the Last 50 Years (Hymenoptera, Diptera, Lepidoptera)
by Attila Haris, Zsolt Józan, Ladislav Roller, Peter Šima and Sándor Tóth
Diversity 2024, 16(6), 328; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16060328 - 3 Jun 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 5960
Abstract
Temporal changes in population densities and species richness of three main pollinator groups—moths and butterflies (Lepidoptera); bees, wasps and sawflies (Hymenoptera); and hoverflies, horseflies, tachinids and bee flies (Diptera)—were investigated in the Carpathian Basin. Maintaining pollinator diversity is a crucial factor for preserving [...] Read more.
Temporal changes in population densities and species richness of three main pollinator groups—moths and butterflies (Lepidoptera); bees, wasps and sawflies (Hymenoptera); and hoverflies, horseflies, tachinids and bee flies (Diptera)—were investigated in the Carpathian Basin. Maintaining pollinator diversity is a crucial factor for preserving our biodiversity and ecosystems; furthermore, several pollinator species have a strong economic role in maintaining crop and fruit cultures. Our conclusions are based on our three and four decades of faunistic surveys in various regions of the Carpathian Basin. Analyzing and comparing our data with the historical data of the last 50 years, we concluded that densities of some pollinators declined during the past decade and a half (Symphyta, hoverflies), although populations of several species of Mediterranean origin grew (Aculeata) and new species even migrated from the warmer regions. In numerous cases, this decrease was dramatic: more than 90% decline of certain butterfly species were detected. On the other hand, the composition of pollinator fauna significantly changed due to the disappearance of some mountainous or mesophile species. The main reason for the decrease in pollinator communities is due partly to climatic change and partly to anthropogenic factors. Different groups of pollinators react differently: some groups like Syrphidae, Tachinidae, most of the butterfly families and bumblebees suffered a strong decline in the last two decades; other warm-loving groups like most of Aculeata and horseflies and bee flies showed a significant increase in population densities. Our conclusion: in our region, the pollinator crisis is present but moderate; however, there is a clear sign of the gradual transition of our pollinator fauna towards the Mediterranean type. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Effects of Pollinator Loss on Biodiversity)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

39 pages, 15772 KiB  
Review
The Elasmobranch Fossil Record of the Indo-Australian Archipelago since the Miocene: A Literature Review and New Discoveries from Northern Borneo
by László Kocsis
Diversity 2024, 16(6), 323; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16060323 - 29 May 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2185
Abstract
The Indo-Australian Archipelago (IAA) today exhibits the highest marine biodiversity, which has been evolving since the early Miocene. The existence of this high palaeobiodiversity is attested to by the presence of many fossil invertebrates; however, the region’s fossil fish record is sparse and [...] Read more.
The Indo-Australian Archipelago (IAA) today exhibits the highest marine biodiversity, which has been evolving since the early Miocene. The existence of this high palaeobiodiversity is attested to by the presence of many fossil invertebrates; however, the region’s fossil fish record is sparse and understudied, which is also the case for cartilaginous fishes. Elasmobranch fossils are dominantly represented by shark and ray teeth in the geological record and can give a quick overview of the composition of the fauna. The first IAA elasmo fossils, shark teeth were described from Java (Indonesia) at the end of the 19th century, and until today, most of the publications are known from this island. In the early and middle of the 20th century, remarkable fossils were also reported from the islands of Madura (NE Java) and Sulawesi, some with detailed taxonomical descriptions. In addition, only sporadic reports on fossil occurrences exist elsewhere from the IAA, but these lack any detailed taxonomic accounts. In 2019 our research group reported a late Miocene elasmobranch fauna from Brunei (Borneo), which is now the most diverse known shallow water fossil assemblage from the entire IAA. This fauna was described from a single fossiliferous outcrop, called Ambug Hill. However, several new localities have been discovered and studied over the years, as a result the number of fossils increased, and their age range extended. Here we provide an overview of these new sites and their elasmobranch fossils, and describe remains from ten taxa among, of which eight are new to the IAA fossil record (Chiloscyllium sp., cf. Hemitriakis sp., Paragaleus sp., Carcharhinus borneensis, C. limbatus, Lamiopsis sp., Scoliodon sp., Rhinobatos sp.). The overall north Bornean elasmo assemblage is then compared with other IAA occurrences. An extended fauna list is given based on literature review and preliminary investigation of the Naturalis Biodiversity Centre collection in Leiden (The Netherlands) where most of the fossil fishes of the early explorations are stored. These assemblages are also briefly summarized, and attention is drawn to some of the unique and thus far unreported taxa (e.g., Dalatias licha). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Ecology, Evolution and Biodiversity of the Chondrichthyan Fauna)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 2742 KiB  
Article
Improving Aquatic Biodiversity Estimates in Africa: Rotifers of Angola and Ghana
by Radoslav Smolak, Patrick D. Brown, Robert N. Walsmith, Judith V. Ríos-Arana, Peter Sanful, Lukáš Kalous and Elizabeth J. Walsh
Diversity 2024, 16(5), 269; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16050269 - 30 Apr 2024
Viewed by 3225
Abstract
Afrotropical inland waters are highly diverse ecosystems; however, they remain poorly studied, especially for rotifers. Here, we contributed to the knowledge of the rotifer species richness in the largely understudied African countries of Angola and Ghana. We assessed the roles of habitat type [...] Read more.
Afrotropical inland waters are highly diverse ecosystems; however, they remain poorly studied, especially for rotifers. Here, we contributed to the knowledge of the rotifer species richness in the largely understudied African countries of Angola and Ghana. We assessed the roles of habitat type and a suite of abiotic environmental factors in determining rotifer species richness of Ghana. A total of 37 sites (Ghana 32, Angola 5) in 19 water bodies from a variety of aquatic habitat types were sampled. In Ghana, we identified 118 taxa (105 species or subspecies level, 13 identified to genus). We identified 15 taxa (13 species) in the Angola samples. For Ghana, 100 of 118 (~85%) taxa were new records for the country, of which 13 species (~11%) were also new records for Africa. Nearly all the species (~93%) were new records for Angola. Species richness was positively correlated with conductivity and reservoir habitat type and negatively with pH. Redundancy analysis (RDA), conducted at the species level for the Ghana dataset, indicated suites of species associated with latitude, longitude, temperature, TDS, or pH. We also evaluated the effect of climate on species distribution in 27 African countries by conducting a review of all reports from Africa to determine factors associated with species richness. A Spearman’s correlation confirmed a significant positive correlation between the number of rotifer species and the number of climatic regions (R = 0.53, p < 0.001) for certain countries, based on species distributions in relation to Köppen–Geiger climate regions. This fact validates the environmental heterogeneity hypothesis for African rotifers. Lastly, we predicted that rotifer species richness in Ghana, as a country with a tropical climate, could approach ~190 taxa, while in climatically heterogeneous Angola we predict ~200 taxa. This study contributes to our knowledge of rotifer biogeography and species richness patterns in Africa. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity of Rotifers-2nd Edition)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 3001 KiB  
Article
Exploring the Influence of Soil Salinity on Microbiota Dynamics in Vitis vinifera cv. “Glera”: Insights into the Rhizosphere, Carposphere, and Yield Outcomes
by Andrea Colautti, Giovanni Mian, Diego Tomasi, Luke Bell and Patrick Marcuzzo
Diversity 2024, 16(4), 247; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16040247 - 20 Apr 2024
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2402
Abstract
In a world grappling with the severe effects induced by climate change, one of the most significant concerns affecting agriculture is the gradual decline in water quality for irrigation associated with reduced rainfalls and the consequent increase in soil salinity. This issue is [...] Read more.
In a world grappling with the severe effects induced by climate change, one of the most significant concerns affecting agriculture is the gradual decline in water quality for irrigation associated with reduced rainfalls and the consequent increase in soil salinity. This issue is particularly crucial for grapevine cultivation (Vitis vinifera L.) and the associated winemaking industry. The aroma of the resulting wines and the yield parameters can be influenced both directly by water quality and indirectly due to the effects exerted by salinity on the microbiota, which directly impacts plant health. To gain insights into this topic, our study aimed to analyse the changes induced in the microbiota of both the rhizosphere and the carposphere due to salt stress using a metabarcoding approach, focusing on Vitis vinifera cv. Glera. The control plants were irrigated with rainwater, while the treated plants were irrigated with water containing salt (NaCl). Our findings revealed significant differences in the microbiota (both fungi and bacteria) of the rhizosphere and carposphere between the two treatments. For instance, the Shannon diversity index (i.e., alpha diversity) was lower in the treated plants compared to the control not-treated ones, whilst the beta diversity did not show any differences. Several microbial phyla exhibited better resilience to this abiotic stress (e.g., Ascomycota, Saccharomycetes, Acidobacteria, Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes), shedding light on their impact on crucial bacterial and fungal groups essential for the subsequent winemaking stages. Additionally, the salt stress negatively affected the yield parameters. This study contributes valuable insights to the viticultural community, providing a deeper understanding of the complex interplay between soil characteristics, microbial communities, and their influence on productivity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Microbial Diversity and Culture Collections)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 7639 KiB  
Article
Ecological Impacts of Introduced European Rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) on Island Ecosystems in the Mediterranean
by Angelina Kossoff, Sheila Schueller, Hannah Nossan, Ian Slack, Pavlos Avramidis and Johannes Foufopoulos
Diversity 2024, 16(4), 244; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16040244 - 19 Apr 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3155
Abstract
The Cyclades Islands (Aegean Sea, Greece) are part of the Mediterranean Basin biodiversity hotspot and harbor a plethora of endemic species. Plant communities on the smaller islands in this region have largely evolved in the absence of herbivory and frequently lack antiherbivore defenses. [...] Read more.
The Cyclades Islands (Aegean Sea, Greece) are part of the Mediterranean Basin biodiversity hotspot and harbor a plethora of endemic species. Plant communities on the smaller islands in this region have largely evolved in the absence of herbivory and frequently lack antiherbivore defenses. This study evaluates the short- and long-term effects of the European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus), an herbivore that has been released on numerous islands in the region, by comparing islands that 1. have historically been rabbit-free (ungrazed); 2. are currently grazed by rabbits, and 3. have previously been grazed, but are now rabbit-free. Ecological impacts of rabbits on the Aegean Islands were investigated by assessing the abundance, composition, and diversity of plant and arthropod communities as well as soil characteristics. Our results indicate that ungrazed islands have more arthropod species, more specialized or endemic plant species, and less exposed soil than currently grazed islands. While ungrazed islands did not necessarily possess higher total plant species richness, they did harbor significantly more small-island endemic taxa relative to presently grazed islands. This study indicates that native plant communities on Mediterranean islets are not adapted to the presence of this introduced species and that the practice of intentionally releasing rabbits on islands has significant and lasting negative ecological impacts, especially on small islands. While a complete recovery of post-rabbit was not evident over the time span of our research, both arthropod and plant data indicate that partial recovery is possible once rabbits have been removed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in the Impacts of Biological Invasions on European Biodiversity)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 2210 KiB  
Article
Molecular and Morphological Phylogenies of Spirorbinae (Serpulidae, Polychaeta, Annelida) and the Evolution of Brooding Modes
by Greg W. Rouse, Tara A. Macdonald and Elena K. Kupriyanova
Diversity 2024, 16(4), 237; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16040237 - 17 Apr 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2305
Abstract
Spirorbinae, a ubiquitous group of marine calcareous tubeworms with a small body size as adults, have a fascinating diversity of brooding modes that form the basis for their taxonomic division into six tribes (traditionally subfamilies): in-tube incubation, with varying degrees of attachment to [...] Read more.
Spirorbinae, a ubiquitous group of marine calcareous tubeworms with a small body size as adults, have a fascinating diversity of brooding modes that form the basis for their taxonomic division into six tribes (traditionally subfamilies): in-tube incubation, with varying degrees of attachment to adult structures (four tribes), and external incubation in a modified radiole (opercular brood chambers; two tribes). We investigated the evolutionary transitions among these brooding modes. Phylogenetic reconstruction with molecular (28s and 18s rDNA) and morphological data (83 characters) among 36 taxa (32 ingroup spirorbins; 4 filogranin outgroups) of the combined data set, using maximum parsimony, maximum likelihood, and Bayesian analyses, inferred Spirorbinae to be monophyletic, with strong support for the monophyly for five tribes (Circeini, Januini, Romanchellini, Paralaeospirini and Spirorbini), but non-monophyly for Pileolariini. However, deeper relationships among some tribes remain unresolved. Neomicrorbis was found to be the sistergroup to all other Spirorbinae. Alternative coding strategies for assessing the ancestral state reconstruction for the reproductive mode allowed for a range of conclusions as to the evolution of tube and opercular brooding in Spirorbinae. Two of the transformations suggest that opercular brooding may be ancestral for Spirorbinae, and the tube-incubating tribes may have been derived independently from opercular-brooding ancestors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2023)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 11154 KiB  
Article
The Diversity of Subterranean Terrestrial Arthropods in Resava Cave (Eastern Serbia)
by Nikola Vesović, Christo Deltshev, Plamen Mitov, Dragan Antić, Dalibor Z. Stojanović, Dejan V. Stojanović, Katarina Stojanović, Milenka Božanić, Aleksandra Ignjatović-Ćupina and Srećko Ćurčić
Diversity 2024, 16(4), 234; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16040234 - 16 Apr 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 4583
Abstract
The Balkan region is rich in limestone deposits, which have created one of the largest hotspots of subterranean biodiversity. This paper gives an overview of the diversity of subterranean terrestrial arthropods in Resava Cave in eastern Serbia. This cave is protected and has [...] Read more.
The Balkan region is rich in limestone deposits, which have created one of the largest hotspots of subterranean biodiversity. This paper gives an overview of the diversity of subterranean terrestrial arthropods in Resava Cave in eastern Serbia. This cave is protected and has the status of a natural monument. At the same time, it is one of the most visited caves in Serbia and its surroundings. Our study comprises the results of three years of biospeleological investigations of the famous Serbian cave in combination with data from the few available literature sources on the arthropod fauna of the cave. The arthropod samples were collected both manually and with pitfall traps. A total of 107 arthropod species from the four major subphyla were registered in the cave: 66 species of Hexapoda, 27 species of Chelicerata, 11 species of Myriapoda and three species of Crustacea. For four troglobitic, 16 troglophilic and 87 trogloxenic species recorded in the cave, descriptions of their microhabitats and information on their distribution in the cave are given. Considering the medium size of Resava Cave and the lack of permanent water flow in the two main levels on the one hand, and the large number of arthropod species recorded on the other, the cave is relatively rich in hypogean terrestrial arthropod fauna compared to other caves in Serbia that have been biospeleologically studied so far. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in the Diversity and Taxonomy of Subterranean Arthropods)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

38 pages, 4089 KiB  
Review
The Fossil Record and Diversity of Pycnodontiform Fishes in Non-Marine Environments
by John J. Cawley and Jürgen Kriwet
Diversity 2024, 16(4), 225; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16040225 - 9 Apr 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 5233
Abstract
Pycnodont fishes were a successful clade of neopterygian fishes that are predominantly found in shallow marine deposits. However, throughout their long 180 million year reign (Late Triassic–end Eocene), they made multiple incursions into both brackish and freshwater environments. This fossil record mostly consists [...] Read more.
Pycnodont fishes were a successful clade of neopterygian fishes that are predominantly found in shallow marine deposits. However, throughout their long 180 million year reign (Late Triassic–end Eocene), they made multiple incursions into both brackish and freshwater environments. This fossil record mostly consists of fragmentary dental material, but articulated specimens are known from Early Cretaceous lacustrine localities in Spain. This review article aims to document all non-marine occurrences of Pycnodontiformes throughout most of the Mesozoic and early Paleogene. This review highlights two interesting trends in the history of non-marine habitat colonization by pycnodonts: (1) a huge spike in non-marine occurrences during the Cretaceous; and (2) that most occurrences in non-marine localities occurred at the latest Cretaceous period, the Maastrichtian. The high number of colonization events within the Cretaceous lines up with extreme climatic events, such as high temperatures resulting in high sea levels which regularly flooded continental masses, allowing pycnodonts easier access to non-marine habitats. The increased presence of pycnodonts in brackish and freshwater habitats during the Maastrichtian might have played a role in their survival through the K/Pg extinction event. Freshwater habitats are not as vulnerable as marine ecosystems to environmental disturbance as the base of their food chain relies on detritus. Pycnodonts might have used such environments as a refuge and began to occupy marine waters after the K/Pg extinction event. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity, Biogeography and Evolution of Actinopterygians)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 1913 KiB  
Article
Mycorrhizal Fungi of Phalaenopsis japonica (Orchidaceae) and Their Role in Seed Germination and Seedling Development
by R. M. S. Ruwan Chamara, Kento Rammitsu, Mutsumi Minobe, Akihiko Kinoshita, Nobuhiko Kotaka, Tomohisa Yukawa and Yuki Ogura-Tsujita
Diversity 2024, 16(4), 218; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16040218 - 3 Apr 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2483
Abstract
Epiphytic orchids comprise 68% of vascular epiphytes globally; nevertheless, many are endangered. One such epiphytic orchid is Phalaenopsis japonica, which is widely used in the floricultural industry. This study aimed to identify the mycorrhizal fungi of adult P. japonica and their [...] Read more.
Epiphytic orchids comprise 68% of vascular epiphytes globally; nevertheless, many are endangered. One such epiphytic orchid is Phalaenopsis japonica, which is widely used in the floricultural industry. This study aimed to identify the mycorrhizal fungi of adult P. japonica and their roles in seed germination and seedling development. Root samples were collected from 32 adults across 4 sites in southern Japan, and mycorrhizal fungi were identified using Sanger and high-throughput sequencing (HTS). The results show phylogenetically diverse mycobionts, mainly Ceratobasidiaceae (CE) and Tulasnellaceae (TU), with dominant OTUs designated CE6 and CE22. Sanger sequencing found 9 OTUs, 4 CE, and 5 TU; HTS detected 22 OTUs, 4 CE, 16 TU, and 2 Serendipitaceae. Seeds inoculated with CE6 improved germination and protocorm development compared with other strains. In addition, asymbiotic seedlings inoculated with CE6, CE22, and TU18 displayed varying effects in growth, with CE6 being the most notable. While TU18 did not promote seed germination, it effectively promoted leaf development in seedlings. Overall, Ceratobasidiaceae was predominantly associated with seed germination, seedling growth, and the adult stages, with CE6 and CE22 becoming the primary partners throughout the life history of P. japonica. Our findings illuminate mycorrhizal symbiosis in epiphytic habitats, offering conservation and commercial production insights. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biodiversity Conservation)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

10 pages, 254 KiB  
Article
Effectively Incorporating Small Reserves into National Systems of Protected and Conserved Areas
by Nigel Dudley, Hannah L. Timmins, Sue Stolton and James E. M. Watson
Diversity 2024, 16(4), 216; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16040216 - 31 Mar 2024
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3954
Abstract
Received wisdom has argued that large protected areas are superior to small reserves, based on island biogeography theory, economies of scale, and the need to sustain viable populations of top predators and other large ranging or dispersive species. But this position overlooks evidence [...] Read more.
Received wisdom has argued that large protected areas are superior to small reserves, based on island biogeography theory, economies of scale, and the need to sustain viable populations of top predators and other large ranging or dispersive species. But this position overlooks evidence that, for many species, strategically placed smaller reserves are extremely important, especially in areas highly altered by humans. Many countries are reluctant or unable to designate additional large protected areas. We provide evidence that carefully designed support networks of smaller protected areas can be an important complement to activities to reach the Global Biodiversity Framework’s target of 30% of the planet in protected and conserved areas by 2030. We identify seven benefits from small reserves, when correctly located and well-managed: (1) conserving critical habitat of range-limited or relic species; (2) conserving remaining areas of sensitive or threatened habitat in altered ecosystems; (3) conserving habitat for sensitive, time-limited lifecycle stages, such as raptor nesting sites and fish spawning grounds; (4) maintaining and enabling connectivity by providing stepping stones of suitable habitat through inhospitable ecosystems; (5) providing increased protection for critical habitat within Category V protected landscapes and seascapes to boost their overall conservation potential; (6) taking advantage of conservation opportunities at cultural sites, sacred natural sites, and other faith-based sites in transformed landscapes; (7) integrating different management approaches and governance types in a range of connected small reserves to multiply conservation impacts. We propose a typology based on these benefits that can guide steps for policy makers to help plan and monitor small reserves in area-based conservation efforts. Using these principles, the role of small reserves in area-based conservation efforts can be further enhanced. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Methods to Strengthen Protected Area Conservation and Management on the National Level)
15 pages, 3909 KiB  
Article
Trechus (Coleoptera: Carabidae) of Appalachia: A Phylogenetic Insight into the History of High Elevation Leaf Litter Communities
by Patricia L. S. Wooden and Michael S. Caterino
Diversity 2024, 16(4), 212; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16040212 - 30 Mar 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2076
Abstract
Elevation gradients provide a wealth of habitats for a wide variety of organisms. The southern Appalachian Mountains in eastern United States are known for their high biodiversity and rates of endemism in arthropods, including in high-elevation leaf-litter taxa that are often found nowhere [...] Read more.
Elevation gradients provide a wealth of habitats for a wide variety of organisms. The southern Appalachian Mountains in eastern United States are known for their high biodiversity and rates of endemism in arthropods, including in high-elevation leaf-litter taxa that are often found nowhere else on earth. Trechus Clairville (Coleoptera: Carabidae) is a genus of litter inhabitants with a near-global distribution and over 50 Appalachian species. These span two subgenera, Trechus s. str. and Microtrechus Jeannel, largely restricted to north and south of the Asheville basin, respectively. Understanding the diversification of these 3–5 mm flightless beetles through geological time can provide insights into how the litter-arthropod community has responded to historical environments, and how they may react to current and future climate change. We identified beetles morphologically and sequenced six genes to reconstruct a phylogeny of the Appalachian Trechus. We confirmed the Asheville Basin as a biogeographical barrier with a split between the north and south occurring towards the end of the Pliocene. Finer scale biogeography, including mountain-range occupancy, was not a reliable indication of relatedness, with group ranges overlapping and many instances of species-, species group-, and subgeneric sympatry. This may be because of the recent divergence between modern species and species groups. Extensive taxonomic revision of the group is required for Trechus to be useful as a bioindicator, but their high population density and speciose nature make them worth additional time and resources. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biodiversity Conservation)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

69 pages, 81603 KiB  
Review
The Axes of Divergence for the Evolutionary Radiation of Notothenioid Fishes in Antarctica
by Joseph T. Eastman
Diversity 2024, 16(4), 214; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16040214 - 30 Mar 2024
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2969
Abstract
Notothenioid fishes, a perciform group, radiated in the cold shelf waters around the Antarctic continent and the 110 species dominate fish diversity, abundance, and biomass at levels of ≈77%, 92%, and 91%, respectively. This occurred in a locality with frequent glaciomarine cycles that [...] Read more.
Notothenioid fishes, a perciform group, radiated in the cold shelf waters around the Antarctic continent and the 110 species dominate fish diversity, abundance, and biomass at levels of ≈77%, 92%, and 91%, respectively. This occurred in a locality with frequent glaciomarine cycles that fragmented and obliterated habitats, disrupted ecosystems, and made parts of the high latitude shelves periodically uninhabitable. The notothenioid radiation encompasses three stages and 10 axes: for the habitat stage, divergence in (1) depth and (2) biotope, meaning subdivisions within the pelagic and benthic realms; for the morphology stage, divergence in (3) body size, (4) body density based on proportions of skeletal and adipose tissues, (5) body shape, (6) trophic morphology, specifically head morphology related to feeding (jaws, teeth, head size, and pharyngeal gape), and (7) neuromorphology (brain and sensory systems); and for the communication stage, divergence in (8) fecundity and egg size, (9) sexual dichromatism and dimorphism in body and fins, and (10) parental care behavior associated with nesting. There was an antecedent Eocene fossil fauna that did not include notothenioids and that has minimal taxonomic representation in the modern fauna. Liparids (snailfishes) and zoarcids (eelpouts) also diversified in Antarctic waters but with minimal divergence. Hypotheses are offered as to why these radiations played out the way they did and why notothenioids are dominant. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2024)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 3111 KiB  
Article
Joint Identification and Application of Microsatellite Markers in Genetic Diversity Study of Closely Related Species Teucrium montanum, T. capitatum and Their Natural Hybrid
by Filip Varga, Zlatko Liber, Ante Turudić, Jernej Jakše, Lea Juzbašić, Nina Jeran, Martina Grdiša, Miloš Zbiljić and Zlatko Šatović
Diversity 2024, 16(4), 206; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16040206 - 28 Mar 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1983
Abstract
Teucrium montanum L. and T. capitatum L. are two plant species with overlapping distribution in the Balkan Peninsula, especially in Croatia, where several occurrences of their putative hybrid species T. × rohlenae have been recorded. Next-generation sequencing of both species and de novo [...] Read more.
Teucrium montanum L. and T. capitatum L. are two plant species with overlapping distribution in the Balkan Peninsula, especially in Croatia, where several occurrences of their putative hybrid species T. × rohlenae have been recorded. Next-generation sequencing of both species and de novo assembly was carried out resulting in 120 contigs for T. montanum and 1685 contigs for T. capitatum assembled. The Dig-up primers pipeline was used for SSR mining of both assemblies, applying different criteria that resulted in 112 SSR candidates for testing. A subset of 41 SSRs was selected and after two rounds of testing, twelve SSRs were developed and characterized. A total of 232 alleles were detected with 5 to 29 alleles per locus, based on the test sample. The genetic diversity analysis of three Teucrium taxa from a single location revealed a higher level of diversity in T. montanum than in T. capitatum with intermediate values for the hybrid species. The NeighborNet diagram and genetic structure analysis grouped the taxa into two separate clusters, the first of which consisted exclusively of T. montanum, while the other was composed of intermixed T. capitatum and T. × rohlenae individuals. The availability of SSR markers for two Teucrium taxa will allow in-depth analysis of genetic diversity and structure, as well as molecular identification of their putative hybrids in the future. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Population Genetics of Animals and Plants)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 8645 KiB  
Article
Golden Eagle Populations, Movements, and Landscape Barriers: Insights from Scotland
by Alan H. Fielding, David Anderson, Catherine Barlow, Stuart Benn, Robin Reid, Ruth Tingay, Ewan D. Weston and D. Philip Whitfield
Diversity 2024, 16(4), 195; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16040195 - 25 Mar 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3264
Abstract
GPS satellite tracking allows novel investigations of how golden eagles Aquila chrysaetos use the landscape at several scales and at different life history stages, including research on geographical barriers which may prevent or limit range expansion or create population/sub-population isolation. If there are [...] Read more.
GPS satellite tracking allows novel investigations of how golden eagles Aquila chrysaetos use the landscape at several scales and at different life history stages, including research on geographical barriers which may prevent or limit range expansion or create population/sub-population isolation. If there are significant barriers to golden eagle movements, there could be demographic and genetic consequences. Genetic studies have led investigations on the identification of sub-species, populations, and sub-populations but should be conjoined with demographic studies and dispersal movements to understand fully such designations and their geographic delimitation. Scottish eagles are genetically differentiated from continental European birds, with thousands of years of separation creating a distinct population, though without sub-species assignation. They present unique research opportunities to examine barriers to movements illustrated by satellite tracking under Scotland’s highly variable geography. We primarily examined two features, using more than seven million dispersal records from satellite tags fitted to 152 nestlings. The first was the presence of unsuitable terrestrial habitat. We found few movements across a region of largely unsuitable lowland habitat between upland regions substantially generated by geological features over 70 km apart (Highland Boundary Fault and Southern Uplands Fault). This was expected from the Golden Eagle Topography model, and presumed isolation was the premise for an ongoing reinforcement project in the south of Scotland, translocating eagles from the north (South Scotland Golden Eagle Project: SSGEP). Second was that larger expanses of water can be a barrier. We found that, for a northwestern archipelago (Outer Hebrides), isolated by ≥24 km of sea (and with prior assignation of genetical and historical separation), there were no tagged bird movements with the Inner Hebrides and/or the Highlands mainland (the main sub-population), confirming their characterisation as a second sub-population. Results on the willingness of eagles to cross open sea or sea lochs (fjords) elsewhere in Scotland were consistent on distance. While apparently weaker than the Outer Hebrides in terms of separation, the designation of a third sub-population in the south of Scotland seems appropriate. Our results validate the SSGEP, as we also observed no movement of birds across closer sea crossings from abundant Highland sources to the Southern Uplands. Based on telemetric results, we also identified where any re-colonisation of England, due to the SSGEP, is most likely to occur. We emphasise, nevertheless, that our study’s records during dispersal will be greater than the natal dispersal distances (NDDs), when birds settle to breed after dispersal, and NDDs are the better shorter arbiter for connectivity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ecology and Conservation of the White-Tailed Eagle and Golden Eagle)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 669 KiB  
Article
Population Reinforcement of the Endangered Freshwater Pearl Mussel (Margaritifera margaritifera): Lessons Learned
by Louise Lavictoire and Christopher West
Diversity 2024, 16(3), 187; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16030187 - 20 Mar 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3471
Abstract
Freshwater mussel populations are in sharp decline and are considered to be one of the most imperilled groups globally. Consequently, the number of captive breeding programmes has increased rapidly in recent years, coupled with subsequent reintroductions/population reinforcements to reverse these declines. The outcomes [...] Read more.
Freshwater mussel populations are in sharp decline and are considered to be one of the most imperilled groups globally. Consequently, the number of captive breeding programmes has increased rapidly in recent years, coupled with subsequent reintroductions/population reinforcements to reverse these declines. The outcomes of mussel conservation translocations are seldom reported in the primary literature, hindering opportunities for learning and for population recovery at pace. Here, we describe the methods employed to carry out a successful conservation translocation of the freshwater pearl mussel (Margaritifera margaritifera) in a declining population in northwest England. Following a small-scale pilot release in 2017, four release sites were identified for a population reinforcement of over 1300 tagged mussels in 2021. Monitoring during 2022 showed high levels of retention of juveniles at three out of the four release sites, despite the occurrence of a significant flood event during October 2021. Subsequent releases of 1100 juveniles were carried out across the three successful sites in 2023. Ongoing and regular monitoring is essential in order to provide data on the longer-term fate of propagated juveniles in the wild. This will allow for adaptive management of release activities in this river. These data will be useful to design conservation translocation strategies for other imperilled pearl mussel populations in the UK and throughout Europe. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Population Ecology and Protection of Freshwater Mussels)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 1181 KiB  
Systematic Review
A Systematic Review of Population Monitoring Studies of Sea Turtles and Its Application to Conservation
by Haley Hendrix and Sílvia Pérez-Espona
Diversity 2024, 16(3), 177; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16030177 - 12 Mar 2024
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 7133
Abstract
Sea turtles are keystone species in marine environments due to their essential role as seagrass grazers and population regulation of jellyfish and sponges in coral reefs. However, due to their predominant presence in coastal areas, sea turtle populations face significant threats due to [...] Read more.
Sea turtles are keystone species in marine environments due to their essential role as seagrass grazers and population regulation of jellyfish and sponges in coral reefs. However, due to their predominant presence in coastal areas, sea turtle populations face significant threats due to the impact of human activities. In this systematic review, 655 peer-reviewed publications were analyzed to assess the extent of population monitoring for all seven sea turtle species. The analyses revealed that, although population monitoring studies have increased for sea turtles in the past four decades, these have been biased towards certain species and oceanic regions. Furthermore, sea turtle population monitoring has been undertaken primarily using field-based methods, with satellite tracking and nest surveys being the most commonly used methods; however, the implementation of genetic methods for population monitoring has increased since the 2000s. Direct conservation recommendations from this study include the urgent need to establish population monitoring studies in the Critically Endangered Kemp’s ridley and hawksbill and the Data Deficient flatback. Furthermore, population monitoring programs should be implemented in Southeast Asia and Northern and Central Africa, where knowledge on sea turtle populations is still limited. Finally, due to the long-distance movements of sea turtles, we also advocate for international cooperation and collaboration of local communities to protect these ecologically important and iconic marine species. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genetic Diversity, Ecology and Conservation of Endangered Species)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

52 pages, 3850 KiB  
Article
Checklist of Basidiomycota and New Records from the Azores Archipelago
by Martin Souto, Pedro Miguel Raposeiro, Ana Balibrea and Vítor Gonçalves
Diversity 2024, 16(3), 170; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16030170 - 7 Mar 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3492
Abstract
This paper presents an annotated checklist of the Basidiomycota taxa (including lichenicolous fungi and the subdivision Pucciniomycotina) from the Azores archipelago and reviews the published records to account for their taxonomic status. The number of Basidiomycota species recorded in the Azores has increased [...] Read more.
This paper presents an annotated checklist of the Basidiomycota taxa (including lichenicolous fungi and the subdivision Pucciniomycotina) from the Azores archipelago and reviews the published records to account for their taxonomic status. The number of Basidiomycota species recorded in the Azores has increased considerably during the 20th century and now stands at 544 species. This study provides distribution data and includes changes in the nomenclature of the listed taxa. Sampling campaigns contributed to 116 new records of Basidiomycota for the Azores archipelago. In addition, there were new records for eight islands: 162 species found for the first time on São Miguel Island, 55 species new to Santa Maria Island, 33 species new to Flores Island, 15 species new to Terceira Island, 9 species new to Pico Island, 17 species new to São Jorge Island, 4 species new to Graciosa Island, and 2 species new to Corvo Island. The transformation of vegetation cover in the archipelago has been very drastic, and this is reflected in the presence of many foreign fungal species on the islands. From these data, we conclude that within Macaronesia, the diversity of Basidiomycota in the Azores is more similar to that in Madeira than in the Canary Islands. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Microbial Diversity and Culture Collections)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 1614 KiB  
Review
A Comprehensive Review of Disease-Causing Agents in Freshwater Turtles: Implications for Conservation and Public Health
by João Rato, Raquel Xavier, D. James Harris, Filipe Banha and Pedro Anastácio
Diversity 2024, 16(3), 171; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16030171 - 7 Mar 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3617
Abstract
Freshwater turtles comprise 81% of all chelonian species despite freshwater systems only occupying 1% of the earth’s surface, and they are commonly exploited as pets and food resources. This contact between humans and turtles may put both sides at risk of disease transmission. [...] Read more.
Freshwater turtles comprise 81% of all chelonian species despite freshwater systems only occupying 1% of the earth’s surface, and they are commonly exploited as pets and food resources. This contact between humans and turtles may put both sides at risk of disease transmission. Additionally, human impact on ecosystems can cause disease outbreaks in turtle populations. In this review, we focused on disease agents affecting freshwater turtles, intending to contribute to conservation and public health efforts. We analysed 423 articles and noted a post-SARS-COVID-19 peak, with most research originating from Asia, North America, and Europe. Emydidae was the most frequently studied family, and there was also a bias towards adults, live specimens, and native species. Since most of the studied turtles were wild-caught, we recommend that captive turtles should also be thoroughly studied since they can transmit diseases to other turtles and humans. We registered 2104 potential disease-causing agents, with Platyhelminthes dominating within Animalia, while Proteobacteria dominated bacterial agents. Viruses’ representation was low, highlighting gaps in reptile virology. Fungi, Chromista, and Protozoa were also underrepresented, but this is changing with the development of molecular tools. This synthesis serves as a foundation for targeted health assessments, conservation strategies, and future research, essential to mitigate ecosystem and public health threats. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2024 Feature Papers by Diversity’s Editorial Board Members)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 4320 KiB  
Review
Nanopore Sequencing Technology as an Emerging Tool for Diversity Studies of Plant Organellar Genomes
by Jakub Sawicki, Katarzyna Krawczyk, Łukasz Paukszto, Mateusz Maździarz, Mateusz Kurzyński, Joanna Szablińska-Piernik and Monika Szczecińska
Diversity 2024, 16(3), 173; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16030173 - 7 Mar 2024
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3773
Abstract
In this comprehensive review, we explore the significant role that nanopore sequencing technology plays in the study of plant organellar genomes, particularly mitochondrial and chloroplast DNA. To date, the application of nanopore sequencing has led to the successful sequencing of over 100 plant [...] Read more.
In this comprehensive review, we explore the significant role that nanopore sequencing technology plays in the study of plant organellar genomes, particularly mitochondrial and chloroplast DNA. To date, the application of nanopore sequencing has led to the successful sequencing of over 100 plant mitochondrial genomes and around 80 chloroplast genomes. These figures not only demonstrate the technology’s robustness but also mark a substantial advancement in the field, highlighting its efficacy in decoding the complex and dynamic nature of these genomes. Nanopore sequencing, known for its long-read capabilities, significantly surpasses traditional sequencing techniques, especially in addressing challenges like structural complexity and sequence repetitiveness in organellar DNA. This review delves into the nuances of nanopore sequencing, elaborating on its benefits compared to conventional methods and the groundbreaking applications it has fostered in plant organellar genomics. While its transformative impact is clear, the technology’s limitations, including error rates and computational requirements, are discussed, alongside potential solutions and prospects for technological refinement. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2024 Feature Papers by Diversity’s Editorial Board Members)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 4515 KiB  
Article
Diversity of Fish and Decapod Fry in the Coastal Zone of Amvrakikos Gulf
by George Katselis, Nikolaos Vlahos, Constandin Koutsikopoulos and Dimitrios K. Moutopoulos
Diversity 2024, 16(3), 164; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16030164 - 6 Mar 2024
Viewed by 2160
Abstract
Amvrakikos Gulf and its surrounding coastal lagoons are of primary importance for the local biodiversity and fishing activities. Fish species inhabited the coastal lagoons based on the seasonal ongoing migration movements of fry and adult fish individuals from the sea towards the lagoons. [...] Read more.
Amvrakikos Gulf and its surrounding coastal lagoons are of primary importance for the local biodiversity and fishing activities. Fish species inhabited the coastal lagoons based on the seasonal ongoing migration movements of fry and adult fish individuals from the sea towards the lagoons. Information on the early stages of fish and decapod species in the Amvrakikos Gulf is limited only to the planktonic ontogenetic stages and reproduction biology, respectively. The aim of this study was to describe the spatial distribution of fry from commercially important fish and decapod species in the coastal zone of Amvrakikos Gulf. The seasonal appearance of the early stage of the most commercially important fish species caught in the coastal zone of the gulf ranged from one to four seasons, depending on the species. Individuals of all ontogenetic stages (fry, juveniles, and adults) were reported for several species (A. boyeri, A. fasciatus, S. abaster, S. tyfle, and B. ocellaris), indicating that these species may be regarded as residents in the coastal zone, providing habitats for their entire life cycle. The average relative abundance of the species/genera exhibited no differences compared to other Greek brackish waters. The species composition in the Amvrakikos Gulf at 10 cm and above was in agreement with the transitional nature of the area, with permanent and occasional species present. The present study emphasizes the importance of the coastal zone as a nursery habitat for commercially important species. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2024)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 1536 KiB  
Review
Sturgeon Parasites: A Review of Their Diversity and Distribution
by György Deák, Elena Holban, Isabela Sadîca and Abdulhusein Jawdhari
Diversity 2024, 16(3), 163; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16030163 - 5 Mar 2024
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3293
Abstract
Sturgeon species have inhabited the world’s seas and rivers for more than 200 million years and hold significant taxonomic significance, representing a strong conservation interest in aquatic biodiversity as well as in the economic sector, as their meat and eggs (caviar) are highly [...] Read more.
Sturgeon species have inhabited the world’s seas and rivers for more than 200 million years and hold significant taxonomic significance, representing a strong conservation interest in aquatic biodiversity as well as in the economic sector, as their meat and eggs (caviar) are highly valuable goods. Currently, sturgeon products and byproducts can be legally obtained from aquaculture as a sustainable source. Intensive farming practices are accompanied by parasitic infestations, while several groups of parasites have a significant impact on both wild and farmed sturgeons. The present article is a review of common sturgeon parasites from the genus: Protozoa, Trematoda, Crustacea, Nematodes, Monogenea, Hirudinea, Copepoda, Acanthocephala, Cestoda, Polypodiozoa, and Hyperoartia, while also addressing their pathology and statistical distribution. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Taxonomy, Biodiversity and Ecology of Parasites of Aquatic Organisms—2nd Edition)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 6854 KiB  
Review
The Changing Biogeography of the Ligurian Sea: Seawater Warming and Further Records of Southern Species
by Annalisa Azzola, Carlo Nike Bianchi, Lorenzo Merotto, Alessandro Nota, Francesco Tiralongo, Carla Morri and Alice Oprandi
Diversity 2024, 16(3), 159; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16030159 - 4 Mar 2024
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3380
Abstract
Global warming is causing poleward expansion of species ranges. Temperate seas, in particular, are undergoing a process known as ‘tropicalisation’, i.e., the combination of sea-water warming and establishment of southern species. The Ligurian Sea is one of the coldest sectors of the Mediterranean [...] Read more.
Global warming is causing poleward expansion of species ranges. Temperate seas, in particular, are undergoing a process known as ‘tropicalisation’, i.e., the combination of sea-water warming and establishment of southern species. The Ligurian Sea is one of the coldest sectors of the Mediterranean and has thus been characterized by a dearth of warm-temperate species and a comparative abundance of cold-temperate species. This paper uses a time series of sea surface temperature (SST) and new records of thermophilic fish species to reconsider the biogeography of the Ligurian Sea. SST has risen by about 0.7 °C on average between 1948 and 2023, but two phases may be distinguished: a cool one (ended in the mid-1980s) and a warm one (still ongoing); the latter phase shows alternating periods of rapid warming and comparatively stationary temperature. The arrival of thermophilic species coincided with the periods of rapid warming; some of these species were established in the subsequent stationary periods. Heatwaves and climate-related diseases associated with the periods of rapid warming have caused mass mortalities of autochthonous species. Our knowledge on the biogeography of the Ligurian Sea was established during the cool phase; the present situation, however, calls for re-defining the chorological spectrum of the Ligurian Sea biota. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Ligurian Sea and the National Biodiversity Future Centre (NBFC): Biodiversity Conservation in a Temperate Marine Environment under Threat)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

28 pages, 11826 KiB  
Article
Molecular Diversity of the Genus Plagiorchis Lühe, 1899 in Snail Hosts of Central Europe with Evidence of New Lineages
by Petra Kundid, Camila Pantoja, Kristýna Janovcová and Miroslava Soldánová
Diversity 2024, 16(3), 158; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16030158 - 1 Mar 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2572
Abstract
Cercariae of Plagiorchis spp. are frequently reported in European freshwater snails, but their true diversity is difficult to estimate due to subtle differences in morphology. We molecularly characterized 67 isolates of Plagiorchis cercariae collected from four lymnaeid snail hosts, Ampullaceana balthica, Ampullaceana [...] Read more.
Cercariae of Plagiorchis spp. are frequently reported in European freshwater snails, but their true diversity is difficult to estimate due to subtle differences in morphology. We molecularly characterized 67 isolates of Plagiorchis cercariae collected from four lymnaeid snail hosts, Ampullaceana balthica, Ampullaceana lagotis, Radix auricularia and Lymnaea stagnalis in freshwater ecosystems in the Czech Republic and Poland. Based on mitochondrial cox1 and nuclear 28S sequences, ten species or species-level lineages were identified, including the first molecular evidence of P. vespertilionis from snail hosts and two species-level lineages reported for the first time. Previously undescribed species and species-level lineages are characterized morphometrically. We confirm the overlapping spatial distribution of Plagiorchis spp. in their snail hosts from Central Europe with those from Western and sub-Arctic Europe. Our results increase the known diversity of Plagiorchis spp. in Europe to 25 species/lineages in snails, but further research is needed to establish links between life cycle stages and to assess the host specificity of these parasites. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity and Phylogenetics of Parasites in Aquatic Animals)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 6603 KiB  
Article
Aspects of Breeding Performance of Scopoli’s Shearwater (Calonectris diomedea): The Case of the Largest Colony in Greece
by Georgios Karris, Stavros Xirouchakis, Konstantinos Poirazidis, Marios-Dimitrios Voulgaris, Anastasia Tsouroupi, Spyros Sfenthourakis and Sinos Giokas
Diversity 2024, 16(3), 150; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16030150 - 27 Feb 2024
Viewed by 2549
Abstract
Here we report, for the first time, aspects of the breeding performance of Scopoli’s Shearwater (Calonectris diomedea) in one of its largest colonies in Europe, i.e., in the Strofades island group. We describe the chronology of the main events in the [...] Read more.
Here we report, for the first time, aspects of the breeding performance of Scopoli’s Shearwater (Calonectris diomedea) in one of its largest colonies in Europe, i.e., in the Strofades island group. We describe the chronology of the main events in the breeding cycle of this species on Stamfani Island, the largest island of this island group, including the evaluation of breeding performance and the influence of ecological factors (nesting habitat, nest type, nest-entrance orientation, and occupation rate per nest) on breeding success. The Scopoli’s Shearwater colony of Stamfani Island exhibited a high degree of breeding synchrony and nest site tenacity. The data obtained by monitoring 472 nests during five consecutive years (2008–2012), showed a breeding success (fledging per occupied nest per year) of up to 66.6%. In addition, hatching success (chick hatched successfully per egg laid) was 76.9%, and fledging success (fledging young per chick hatched successfully) was 86.8%. We also observed annual variations in breeding performance during that period. These results seemed to be influenced positively by the breeding experience of the pair. Furthermore, the type of nest site and the nest-entrance orientation were found to have an effect on breeding success rates, whereas the nesting habitat did not, indicating low predation risk by rats. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ecology, Diversity and Conservation of Seabirds)
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

30 pages, 9713 KiB  
Review
A Review of the Paleobiology of Some Neogene Sharks and the Fossil Records of Extant Shark Species
by Olaf Höltke, Erin E. Maxwell and Michael W. Rasser
Diversity 2024, 16(3), 147; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16030147 - 26 Feb 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 6303
Abstract
In recent years, new findings and new methods (stable isotopes of oxygen, zinc, and nitrogen; 2D and 3D modeling; and geometric morphometric analyses of the teeth) have enhanced our knowledge of the Neogene shark fauna and its paleobiology. Several papers deal with the [...] Read more.
In recent years, new findings and new methods (stable isotopes of oxygen, zinc, and nitrogen; 2D and 3D modeling; and geometric morphometric analyses of the teeth) have enhanced our knowledge of the Neogene shark fauna and its paleobiology. Several papers deal with the large Otodus (Megaselachus) species, including the construction of a 3D model, as well as insights into its lifestyle and diet. In addition, the skeletal remains of Carcharias gustrowensis, Carcharodon hastalis, and Keasius parvus and a natural tooth set of Carcharodon hubbelli have been described in the last 13 years, and the dentition of the Neogene species Carcharoides catticus, Megachasma applegatei, and Parotodus benedenii has been reconstructed. Stable isotope analyses of the teeth from the Neogene species of Araloselachus, Carcharias, Carcharodon, Galeocerdo, Hemipristris, and Mitsukurina have given insights into the trophic positions of these genera during the Neogene, and shark teeth preserved near the skeletal remains of prey animals (mammals) and shark bite traces on these remains provide direct evidence of trophic interactions. The tooth shape, fossil locality, and paleoenvironment have been used to better understand the taxa Carcharhinus dicelmai, Megalolamna paradoxodon, Pachyscyllium dachiardii, and P. distans. Among extant species, Galeorhinus galeus can be traced back to the Eocene. Alopias superciliosus, Rhincodon typus, and possibly A. vulpinus can be traced back to the Oligocene. Species present by the Miocene include Alopias vulpinus, Carcharhinus amblyrhynchoides, C. amblyrhynchos, C. albimarginatus, C. amboinensis, C. brachyurus, C. brevipinna, C. falciformis, C. glaucus, C. leucas, C. limbatus, C. longimanus, C. macloti, C. obscurus, C. perezi, C. sealei, Centrophorus granulosus, Cetorhinus maximus, Dalatias licha, Deania calcea, Galeocerdo cuvier, Glyphis glyphis, Heptranchias perlo, Isurus paucus, Lamna nasus, Negaprion brevirostris, Odontaspis ferox, Pseudocarcharias kamoharai, Sphyrna media, S. mokarran, and possibly Carcharodon carcharias. First appearing in the Pliocene are Scymnodon ringens, Somniosus rostratus, and Zameus squamulosus. For some extant species (Carcharias taurus, Hexanchus griseus, Isurus oxyrinchus, Notorynchus cepedianus, and Sphyrna zygaena), it is not clear whether the assigned Neogene teeth represent the same species. The application of new methods to more fossil shark taxa, a detailed search for shark fossils, and better knowledge of the dentition of extant species (especially those with minute-sized teeth) will further enhance our knowledge of the evolution and paleobiology of sharks. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Shark Ecology)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 10842 KiB  
Article
GPS Tracking Reveals the White-Tailed Eagle Haliaeetus albicilla as an Ambassador for the Natura 2000 Network
by Remo Probst, Matthias Schmidt, Michael McGrady and Christian Pichler
Diversity 2024, 16(3), 145; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16030145 - 25 Feb 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2915
Abstract
The Natura 2000 network of protected areas is the backbone of species conservation in the European Union. We investigated whether Austrian-hatched white-tailed eagles (Haliaeetus albicilla) make particular use of this multinational network during their natal dispersal, and what habitats were of [...] Read more.
The Natura 2000 network of protected areas is the backbone of species conservation in the European Union. We investigated whether Austrian-hatched white-tailed eagles (Haliaeetus albicilla) make particular use of this multinational network during their natal dispersal, and what habitats were of importance to the eagles. We analyzed the utilization distribution of 907,466 GPS locations from 38 dispersing white-tailed eagles using a dynamic Brownian Bridge Movement Model. Eagles ranged over a huge area of central-eastern Europe. Natura 2000 sites overlapped with 67% of the resulting 50% isopleth; i.e., a high probability of utilization of Natura 2000 areas by white-tailed eagles was found. White-tailed eagles used wetlands, waterbodies, and deciduous forests adjacent to wet habitats disproportionately often. Coniferous forests and settlements were avoided. Anthropogenically caused mortalities hardly occurred within Natura 2000 sites. Our study suggests that the Natura 2000 network is a crucial tool for conserving the white-tailed eagle. This top predator is an ambassador for the Natura 2000 idea during all life stages, and should continue to be a conservation priority of the network. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ecology and Conservation of the White-Tailed Eagle and Golden Eagle)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

24 pages, 13089 KiB  
Article
And Yet They Differ: Reconsiderations of Diversity within Dactylochelifer latreillii (Arachnida: Pseudoscorpiones)
by Christoph Muster, Jan Korba, Petr Bogusch, Petr Heneberg and František Šťáhlavský
Diversity 2024, 16(3), 137; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16030137 - 23 Feb 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2151
Abstract
Morphological stasis is a widespread characteristic of pseudoscorpions, suggesting that much cryptic diversity remains unexplored. Here, we revise the polytypic species Dactylochelifer latreillii in the framework of an integrative taxonomic approach, using DNA barcoding, multivariate ratio analysis, geometric morphometry of the male foretarsus, [...] Read more.
Morphological stasis is a widespread characteristic of pseudoscorpions, suggesting that much cryptic diversity remains unexplored. Here, we revise the polytypic species Dactylochelifer latreillii in the framework of an integrative taxonomic approach, using DNA barcoding, multivariate ratio analysis, geometric morphometry of the male foretarsus, and genitalic morphology. The pattern of mitochondrial variation suggests three species-level entities in central Europe, which widely overlap in morphospace, but differentiate in the structure of the female genitalia, and by their ecology. Dactylochelifer latreillii (Leach) is a halobiont species, occurring exclusively in coastal habitats and in Pannonian salt steppes, and D. l. septentrionalis Beier syn. nov. is a junior synonym of the nominate species. Dactylochelifer degeerii (C. L. Koch) stat. rev. is the oldest available name for an inland species that has long been mistaken for the nominotypical subspecies of D. latreillii. New habitat information suggests a preference for higher shrub vegetation. Dactylochelifer ninnii (Canestrinii) stat. rev. is a halophilic Mediterranean species that extends to the northern limits of the Pannonian basin. The distinctiveness of the Mediterranean “form” was recognized by early naturalists in the 19th century, but was ignored by later authorities in the field. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Evolutionary Patterns and Diversity of Arachnida)
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

9 pages, 4624 KiB  
Communication
Millepora spp. as Substrates of Their Hydrozoan Counterparts Stylaster sp. in the Pacific Ocean
by Chloé Julie Loïs Fourreau, Daniela Pica, Emmeline A. Jamodiong, Guillermo Mironenko Castelló, Iori Mizukami and James Davis Reimer
Diversity 2024, 16(3), 142; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16030142 - 23 Feb 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2475
Abstract
The association between two hydrozoans, Stylaster sp. and Millepora spp., has been described as a case of pseudo-auto-epizoism, and has only been reported from the Caribbean region of the Atlantic Ocean. Here, we report on the occurrence of this association in the Pacific [...] Read more.
The association between two hydrozoans, Stylaster sp. and Millepora spp., has been described as a case of pseudo-auto-epizoism, and has only been reported from the Caribbean region of the Atlantic Ocean. Here, we report on the occurrence of this association in the Pacific Ocean on coral reefs around Iriomote-jima Island, Japan, suggesting the association to be more widespread than had previously been thought. Moreover, Stylaster sp. colonies were observed living healthily on bleached and dead branches of Millepora spp., indicating that this interaction is facultative. The interaction reported here differs from the relationship between the Caribbean Stylaster roseus and Millepora alcicornis by the connection points between the two partners, which is made evident by the whitening of the Millepora counterpart in Iriomote-jima Island, while being seamless in the Caribbean association. Further research is necessary to fully understand the nature of these relationships, comprehending under what conditions it occurs, and establishing which species are involved in the interactions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2024 Feature Papers by Diversity’s Editorial Board Members)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
 
Displaying article 51-100 on page 2 of 10.
Go to page     chevron_left 1 2 3 4 5 chevron_right last_page
Back to TopTop