Diversity

12 pages, 3680 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Co-Evolution of Iolana Blues with Their Host Plants and the Higher Phylogeny of Subtribe Scolitantidina (Lepidoptera, Lycaenidae)

by Vazrick Nazari, Sergio Montagud Alario, Loukia Spilani, Vlad Dincă, Alireza Naderi, Wolfgang ten Hagen and Roger Vila

Diversity 2024, 16(2), 89; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16020089 - 30 Jan 2024

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3581

Abstract

We investigated the evolutionary relationships between the taxa in the butterfly genus Iolana Bethune-Baker, 1914 and others in the subtribe Scolitantidina using information from nine DNA markers (COI-COII, ND1, ITS2, 28S, CAD, EF-1α, wg, and H3). We show that the genus Iolana originated [...] Read more.

We investigated the evolutionary relationships between the taxa in the butterfly genus Iolana Bethune-Baker, 1914 and others in the subtribe Scolitantidina using information from nine DNA markers (COI-COII, ND1, ITS2, 28S, CAD, EF-1α, wg, and H3). We show that the genus Iolana originated about 10 mya in Central Asia and gradually expanded to the west to reach Europe about 5 mya. We then compared our inferred phylogeny with that of the Iolana larval host plants in the genus Colutea, reconstructed using three DNA markers (ITS, matK, and rpl32). Although the host plant phylogeny was weakly resolved, the close spatiotemporal correlation between Iolana butterflies and their larval hosts suggests that they may have co-evolved. Based on the molecular results and the morphology of male and female genitalia, we confirm nine species in the genus Iolana, which are distributed in allopatry from Europe and North Africa to Central Asia. We synonymize I. andreasi andreasi Sheljuzhko, 1919 (=I. andreasi khayyami Bernardi, 1964 syn. nov.) and I. iolas wullschlegeli Oberthür, 1914 (=I. iolas protogenes Fruhstorfer, 1917 syn. nov.). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Speciation, Phylogenetics and Taxonomy of Lepidoptera)

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22 pages, 7332 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Reintroduction of the Extinct-in-the-Wild Spix’s Macaw (Cyanopsitta spixii) in the Caatinga Forest Domain of Brazil

by Cromwell Purchase, Camile Lugarini, Candice Purchase, Ariane Ferreira, Ugo Eichler Vercillo, Mark L. Stafford and Thomas H. White, Jr.

Diversity 2024, 16(2), 80; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16020080 - 26 Jan 2024

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 24160

Abstract

We describe efforts to reintroduce the extinct-in-the-wild Spix’s Macaw (Cyanopsitta spixii) within its historical range in eastern Brazil. Twenty captive-reared Spix’s Macaws were released, along with 15 Blue-Winged Macaws (Primolius maracana), as heterospecific flocks in two events during the [...] Read more.

We describe efforts to reintroduce the extinct-in-the-wild Spix’s Macaw (Cyanopsitta spixii) within its historical range in eastern Brazil. Twenty captive-reared Spix’s Macaws were released, along with 15 Blue-Winged Macaws (Primolius maracana), as heterospecific flocks in two events during the dry and rainy seasons of 2022. We monitored the release groups through daily observation and telemetry tracking from early June 2022 to early June 2023. We documented an overall first-year survival of 58.3% (CI: 37.8–78.7%), with 65% of Spix’s Macaws establishing a stable area of activity within 5 km of the release site, excluding any temporary long-distance forays. Eighty-five percent of released Spix’s Macaws exhibited flock cohesion, including interactions with and integration into wild Blue-Winged Macaw groups at the release site. Several released Spix’s Macaws formed pair-bonds with conspecifics and engaged in nest cavity exploration, breeding behavior, and territorial defense of nest sites, with three females also laying and incubating eggs. One nesting pair successfully hatched and reared chicks in an artificial nest cavity. These releases employed a novel reintroduction strategy using a surrogate species model, the sympatric Blue-Winged Macaw, to “mentor” and facilitate post-release adaptation by the target species and increase the total number of individuals in the release cohort. Lastly, participatory monitoring by local citizens is considered a way to engage and involve local communities in species and habitat conservation and potentially create new employment opportunities in the region. Full article

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

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12 pages, 878 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Seasonal Variation in First Territory Settlement of Dispersing Golden Eagles: An Innate Behaviour?

by D. Philip Whitfield, Alan H. Fielding, David Anderson, Stuart Benn, Robin Reid, Ruth Tingay and Ewan D. Weston

Diversity 2024, 16(2), 82; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16020082 - 26 Jan 2024

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3369

Abstract

Despite advancements through satellite telemetry, knowledge of the behaviour and ecology of large raptors during natal dispersal is still poor, even though this transience phase is important in understanding the population dynamics and conservation of these keystone species. After this phase, which can [...] Read more.

Despite advancements through satellite telemetry, knowledge of the behaviour and ecology of large raptors during natal dispersal is still poor, even though this transience phase is important in understanding the population dynamics and conservation of these keystone species. After this phase, which can take several years, the subsequent rapid transitional event on first territory settlement is less studied. It apparently occurs earlier without competition from existing territory occupants. The time of year when young large raptors settle on a territory has rarely been addressed empirically. Our study of seasonal timing of first settlement used data from 46 golden eagles GPS-tagged as nestlings in Scotland which were tracked to their first territory settlement, as adjudged by a robust algorithmic method. We show that when young golden eagles occupied their first territory, their settlements were uncommon in summer and most common in late winter/spring, but also occurred in autumn into early winter. The significant seasonal pattern was consistent, regardless of the probable prior occupancy status (vacant/occupied) of the settled territory (respectively, the likely absence or presence of defending territorial birds). This showed that seasonal territory settlement was unlikely to be related to any response from territory occupants. It infers further that seasonality in first territory settlement was underpinned by innate behaviours in dispersing eagles. Seasonal distribution of settlement dates was significantly different between sexes, with males more likely to settle in autumn, predominantly in prior vacant territories. We speculate on potential causative drivers behind our results and conclude that more research is clearly needed in this field of study. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ecology and Conservation of the White-Tailed Eagle and Golden Eagle)

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15 pages, 5071 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Assessment of Sessile Benthic Communities in Jeju Island, Republic of Korea, Using Autonomous Reef Monitoring Structures (ARMS)

by Kyeong-Tae Lee, Taihun Kim, Gun-Hoo Park, Chulhong Oh, Heung-Sik Park, Do-Hyung Kang, Hyun-Sil Kang and Hyun-Sung Yang

Diversity 2024, 16(2), 83; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16020083 - 26 Jan 2024

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4989

Abstract

Assessing the effectiveness of artificial structures as a monitoring tool for benthic diversity in temperate reefs is crucial to determining their relevance in reef conservation and management. In this study, we utilized Autonomous Reef Monitoring Structures (ARMS) to evaluate sessile benthic communities that [...] Read more.

Assessing the effectiveness of artificial structures as a monitoring tool for benthic diversity in temperate reefs is crucial to determining their relevance in reef conservation and management. In this study, we utilized Autonomous Reef Monitoring Structures (ARMS) to evaluate sessile benthic communities that colonized ARMS units after 12 and 34 months of immersion within distinct habitats (coral-dominated and macroalgae-dominated habitats) in Jeju Island, Korea. We used two methods: image analysis of the ARMS plates and DNA metabarcoding of the ARMS units. We found significant differences in the sessile benthic community between the plate faces, installation periods, and habitats. DNA metabarcoding also revealed differences in sessile benthic diversity among habitats. Additionally, we identified the Lithophyllum genus within the crustose coralline algae community, whose dominance might trigger a transition to coral-dominated habitats in Jeju Island. We recommend integrating ARMS image analysis with DNA metabarcoding to enhance and complement studies focusing on benthic diversity. By utilizing ARMS, this study provides valuable information for understanding sessile benthic communities and biodiversity, contributing to an enhanced understanding of the responses of ecological communities to climate change. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dynamics of Marine Communities)

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15 pages, 33597 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Roadkill Patterns on Workdays, Weekends and Long Weekends: Anticipating the Implications of a Four-Day Work Week

by Linas Balčiauskas, Andrius Kučas and Laima Balčiauskienė

Diversity 2024, 16(2), 84; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16020084 - 26 Jan 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 4818

Abstract

Understanding the spatial and temporal patterns of animal road mortality is important for planning protective measures and raising driver awareness. In our study of Lithuania, spanning from 2002 to 2022, we examined these patterns based on road types and categorized them by working [...] Read more.

Understanding the spatial and temporal patterns of animal road mortality is important for planning protective measures and raising driver awareness. In our study of Lithuania, spanning from 2002 to 2022, we examined these patterns based on road types and categorized them by working days, weekends, and long weekends, predicting the potential impact of transitioning to a four-day working week. We found that road type explains 22–50% of the variability in roadkill numbers for moose, red deer, wild boar, and roe deer. The highest occurrences were on main roads, while regional roads had the fewest incidents. The overall number of roadkills, especially those involving ungulates, was highest on weekends, followed by workdays, with the least on long weekends. However, these variations lacked statistical significance, and their effect size was small. We also observed a trend of increased roadkill numbers on the day before, the first day, notably on All Saints Day, or the last day of long weekends. In this context, with the introduction of a four-day work week, we are only expecting the highest roadkill numbers to move from Friday to Thursday. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Human-Wildlife Conflicts)

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12 pages, 1646 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Diet Composition Explains Interannual Fluctuations in Reproductive Performance in a Lowland Golden Eagle Population

by Gunnar Sein and Ülo Väli

Diversity 2024, 16(1), 69; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16010069 - 20 Jan 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 4319

Abstract

Food supply stands out as one of the most critical drivers of population demographics by limiting reproductive rates. In this study, we assessed fluctuations in diet composition and monitored various reproductive parameters over a nine-year period in a Golden Eagle population in an [...] Read more.

Food supply stands out as one of the most critical drivers of population demographics by limiting reproductive rates. In this study, we assessed fluctuations in diet composition and monitored various reproductive parameters over a nine-year period in a Golden Eagle population in an Eastern European peatland. The identification of 2439 prey specimens from 84 species revealed that the studied eagles primarily preyed upon birds (constituting 78.3% of prey numbers and 67.2% of prey biomass) and less on mammals (21.6% and 32.8%, respectively). Grouse emerged as the most important prey group (31% and 27%), followed by waterfowl (17%) and hares (8% and 14%). The most significant prey species, both in terms of numbers and weight, were the Black Grouse, Mountain Hare, Common Crane, and Capercaillie. The share of the Black Grouse decreased, while those of the White-fronted Goose, Roe Deer, and hares increased. The food niche, as measured by the Levins’ index, was broad (6.6), and it expanded during the study. On average, 58.3% of Golden Eagle pairs initiated breeding annually, with 69.1% successfully completing it, and 0.41 young per occupied territory were produced annually; there was pronounced interannual variation in reproductive performance. These fluctuations were associated with the shares of White-fronted Goose, Capercaillie, Mountain Hare and Roe Deer in the diet, suggesting that these species may be gaining increasing importance for the Golden Eagle, particularly following the decline of the Black Grouse. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ecology and Conservation of the White-Tailed Eagle and Golden Eagle)

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22 pages, 5054 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Baget Karstic System and the Interstitial Environment of Lachein, a Hotspot of Subterranean Biodiversity in the Pyrenees (France)

by Franck Bréhier, Danielle Defaye, Arnaud Faille and Anne Bedos

Diversity 2024, 16(1), 62; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16010062 - 18 Jan 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 4356

Abstract

Located in Lestelas-Balaguères massif, central northern Pyrenees, France, the Baget catchment covers 13.25 km² and is highly karstified: so far, more than 80 caves have been recorded. The main outlet of the system, the exsurgence de Las Hountas, has an average flow [...] Read more.

Located in Lestelas-Balaguères massif, central northern Pyrenees, France, the Baget catchment covers 13.25 km² and is highly karstified: so far, more than 80 caves have been recorded. The main outlet of the system, the exsurgence de Las Hountas, has an average flow of 550 L/s. Downstream, it is connected with the hyporheic of the Lachein stream. The Baget system, formed by both the karstic system and the hyporheic, has been intensively investigated by cave biologists and is known to be a hotspot for subterranean biodiversity. The synthesis provided here lists no less than 17 troglobionts and 40 stygobionts, with 3 single site endemics, making the Baget system the richest subterranean hotspot in the Pyrenees. This is notably due to the diversity of subterranean habitats and to the comprehensive knowledge of the stygofauna, likely unmatched at the European scale. Considering the significant speleological findings of the last 15 years that have not been yet biologically investigated, we can expect new discoveries, especially for the troglofauna. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hotspots of Subterranean Biodiversity—2nd Volume)

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53 pages, 56535 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The First Attempt to Assess the Taxonomic Diversity of the Nepticulidae of Armenia Resulted in the Discovery of New Species and Cryptic Taxa in the Caucasus

by Jonas R. Stonis, Viktorija Dobrynina, Andrius Remeikis, Arūnas Diškus, Svetlana Orlovskytė and Mark Yu. Kalashian

Diversity 2024, 16(1), 60; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16010060 - 17 Jan 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 5721

Abstract

A taxonomic review of the Nepticulidae of Armenia is provided for the first time. Currently, the previously little-known fauna of the pygmy moths of Armenia consists of eight genera and 31 species, including seven new species described and illustrated in the current paper [...] Read more.

A taxonomic review of the Nepticulidae of Armenia is provided for the first time. Currently, the previously little-known fauna of the pygmy moths of Armenia consists of eight genera and 31 species, including seven new species described and illustrated in the current paper as follows: Stigmella armi Stonis, Dobrynina & Remeikis, sp. nov.; Stigmella garnica Stonis, Dobrynina & Remeikis, sp. nov.; Stigmella inopinoides Dobrynina, sp. nov.; Stigmella magicis Stonis & Dobrynina, sp. nov.; Stigmella ararati Stonis, Dobrynina & Remeikis, sp. nov.; Trifurcula vardenisi Stonis, Dobrynina & Remeikis, sp. nov.; and Etainia caucasi Remeikis, sp. nov. The most common Nepticulidae species in Armenia, Stigmella muricatella (Klimesch), still remains a taxonomic puzzle. However, the molecular sequences of the Armenian specimens and a specimen of S. muricatella from Greece were found to be similar, though clearly distinct from the widespread S. rolandi van Nieukerken due to numerous hypothetical mutational steps. Mitotype analysis revealed that the Ectoedemia specimens collected in Armenia do not belong to the expected widespread E. spinosella (Joannis) but are more similar to the less-known E. mahalebella (Klimesch). Moreover, some specimens from Armenia identified by us as Simplimorpha promissa (Staudinger) and Ectoedemia (Zimmermannia) longicaudella Klimesch may actually represent possible cryptic taxa, allopatric subspecies or species. However, from a practical point of view, the description of such difficult-to-diagnose taxa is inappropriate. Thus, we have refrained from describing such new taxa based solely on observed molecular differences. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Speciation, Phylogenetics and Taxonomy of Lepidoptera)

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12 pages, 10046 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

A Ten-Year Record Shows Warming Inside the Belize Barrier Reef Lagoon

by Phillip S. Lobel and Lisa Kerr Lobel

Diversity 2024, 16(1), 57; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16010057 - 16 Jan 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 6204

Abstract

The Belize Barrier Reef system (BBR) in the western Caribbean’s Gulf of Honduras contains a large region of lagoon coral reef, seagrass and mangrove habitat. As the largest lagoon habitat within the Caribbean, this region experiences differing oceanographic and temperature conditions as compared [...] Read more.

The Belize Barrier Reef system (BBR) in the western Caribbean’s Gulf of Honduras contains a large region of lagoon coral reef, seagrass and mangrove habitat. As the largest lagoon habitat within the Caribbean, this region experiences differing oceanographic and temperature conditions as compared to deeper offshore areas. The occurrence of several endemic species within the Gulf of Honduras area and inside the Belize lagoon supports the hypothesis that this area is a unique biogeographic region. Consequently, the ecological effects of temperature increase due to global climate change may have a long-term adverse impact on this region’s unique marine species. This study reports an in situ temperature record over a ten-year period (2004–2014) collected from a coral reef offshore of Wee Wee Cay within the South Water Cay Marine Reserve of Belize. There was a steady increase in temperature during the decade. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Coral Reef Biogeography, Ecology and Conservation under Climate Change and Human Disturbance)

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25 pages, 2520 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Seeking a Hideout: Caves as Refuges for Various Functional Groups of Bryophytes from Terceira Island (Azores, Portugal)

by Ruymán David Cedrés-Perdomo, Clara Polaíno-Martín, Laura Jennings and Rosalina Gabriel

Diversity 2024, 16(1), 58; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16010058 - 16 Jan 2024

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4486

Abstract

Caves represent sites of great geological and biological interest. For most taxonomic groups, caves represent one of the most challenging ecosystems due to their extreme conditions. However, these places are rich in biodiversity, and some groups, such as bryophytes, can take advantage of [...] Read more.

Caves represent sites of great geological and biological interest. For most taxonomic groups, caves represent one of the most challenging ecosystems due to their extreme conditions. However, these places are rich in biodiversity, and some groups, such as bryophytes, can take advantage of these conditions. Bryophytes from twelve caves on Terceira Island (Azores archipelago) were sampled and compared in terms of species richness, abundance, and composition. The results revealed a high species richness of bryophytes, with one-fifth of the species being threatened and one-third endemic. Moreover, the dominance of bryophyte species, as determined by different functional groups, varies depending on the sampled cave and, consequently, the environmental variables. This is evident from the high β-diversity values obtained, demonstrating significant dissimilarities in species composition among the surveyed caves. Both macro- and microclimatic variables significantly influenced the richness and abundance of bryophyte species in different ways, depending on the functional group studied. Highlighting bryophyte diversity in cave environments, this study points to the need for effective management strategies to preserve and protect these unique and ecologically significant communities. These places can serve as refuges for some species, even for bryophytes, a taxonomic group with a long-distance dispersal strategy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2023)

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14 pages, 2571 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Diversity of Quill Mites of the Family Syringophilidae (Acariformes: Prostigmata) Parasitizing Starlings of the Genus Lamprotornis (Passeriformes: Sturnidae)

by Maciej Skoracki, Milena Patan, Markus Unsoeld, Martin Hromada, Zbigniew Kwieciński and Iva Marcisova

Diversity 2024, 16(1), 51; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16010051 - 13 Jan 2024

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2972

Abstract

Quill mites of the family Syringophilidae (Acariformes: Prostigmata) parasitizing starlings of the genus Lamprotornis Temminck (Aves: Passeriformes: Sturnidae) from the sub-Saharan region are comprehensively studied for the first time. Among them, two new species are described: (1) Syringophiloidus soponai Skoracki, Patan and Unsoeld [...] Read more.

Quill mites of the family Syringophilidae (Acariformes: Prostigmata) parasitizing starlings of the genus Lamprotornis Temminck (Aves: Passeriformes: Sturnidae) from the sub-Saharan region are comprehensively studied for the first time. Among them, two new species are described: (1) Syringophiloidus soponai Skoracki, Patan and Unsoeld sp. n., collected from four host species—Lamprotornis chalybaeus (Hemprich et Ehrenberg) (type host) in Kenya, Tanzania, and Ethiopia; L. superbus (Rüppell) in Kenya and Tanzania; L. chloropterus (Swainson) and L. unicolor (Shelley) both in Tanzania; (2) Syringophilopsis parasturni Skoracki, Patan and Unsoeld sp. n. collected from L. pulcher (Müller) and L. chalcurus (Nordmann), both in Senegal. Additionally, two Lamprotornis species, L. chalybaeus in Tanzania and Kenya and L. chloropterus in Kenya, are recorded as the new hosts for Picobia lamprotornis Klimovicova et al., 2004. We also discussed the diversity of the syringophilid mites associated with starlings. Full article

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

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18 pages, 4824 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Morphological Strategies in Ant Communities along Elevational Gradients in Three Mountain Ranges

by Heloise Gibb, Peter Contos, Manoli Photakis, Iona Okey, Robert R. Dunn, Nathan J. Sanders and Mirkka M. Jones

Diversity 2024, 16(1), 48; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16010048 - 12 Jan 2024

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 4529

Abstract

Species traits often vary in a coordinated manner, making up an ecological strategy comprised of suites of interrelated traits. Environmental gradients, such as those along elevational gradients, provide an ideal venue in which to examine variation in ecological strategies with the environment. We [...] Read more.

Species traits often vary in a coordinated manner, making up an ecological strategy comprised of suites of interrelated traits. Environmental gradients, such as those along elevational gradients, provide an ideal venue in which to examine variation in ecological strategies with the environment. We examined variation in the morphological strategies of ants along elevational gradients on thirteen mountains across three mountain ranges in central and south-eastern Australia. We pitfall-trapped ants, counted and identified workers and measured morphological traits. Most species showed a hump-shaped relationship between occurrence and elevation, and several responded to microhabitat variables. Morphological traits varied along two key axes: “gracility”, where high values indicated longer-legged species with dorsally positioned eyes and smooth, bare cuticles; and “size and darkness”, where species with high values were larger and darker. Analysis of assemblage-weighted means revealed that gracility decreased with temperature and increased with precipitation, suggesting links with desiccation tolerance. Size and darkness increased with UV-B, declined with increasing canopy cover and peaked at mid-temperatures. We thus detected strong shifts in dominant morphological strategies along our elevational gradients. However, the multifunctionality and interrelatedness of traits and the covariance of climatic factors may make isolation of the function of individual traits difficult. Further, the predictive power of our models may be limited in the context of novel environments predicted under global change. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity, Biogeography and Community Ecology of Ants II)

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29 pages, 24829 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Cent Fonts Aquifer: An Overlooked Subterranean Biodiversity Hotspot in a Stygobiont-Rich Region

by Vincent Prié, Cédric Alonso, Claude Bou, Diana Maria Paola Galassi, Pierre Marmonier and Marie-José Dole-Olivier

Diversity 2024, 16(1), 50; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16010050 - 12 Jan 2024

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 5662

Abstract

The South of France is a biodiversity hotspot within Europe. Here, we present a comprehensive review of surveys conducted in the Cent Fonts aquifer, an overlooked subterranean biodiversity hotspot embedded in a region rich in stygobiotic species and threatened by climate change and [...] Read more.

The South of France is a biodiversity hotspot within Europe. Here, we present a comprehensive review of surveys conducted in the Cent Fonts aquifer, an overlooked subterranean biodiversity hotspot embedded in a region rich in stygobiotic species and threatened by climate change and water abstraction projects. Key studies, spanning from 1950 to 2006, show a progression in survey methods and results, although troglobiotic species remain poorly documented. With 43 stygobiotic species recorded, the Cent Fonts is the richest stygobiont hotspot in France. Most species are regional endemics, a quarter of which are considered vulnerable by the IUCN. The Cent Fonts also hosts several relict species and is the type locality of four species. Such a high biological value clearly deserves to be preserved. Our analysis warns of a possible decline in biodiversity, as eight of the species recorded in the 20th century were absent from the 2006 survey, suggesting potential threats of unknown origin. The capture of the Cent Font springs for water abstraction is discussed as a potential threat to this ecosystem and its unique biodiversity. Three new species of stygobiotic molluscs are described, one of which was collected in the Cent Fonts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hotspots of Subterranean Biodiversity—2nd Volume)

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20 pages, 3014 KB

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Biogeography and History of the Prehuman Native Mammal Fauna of the New Zealand Region

by Carolyn M. King

Diversity 2024, 16(1), 45; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16010045 - 11 Jan 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 11390

Abstract

The widespread perception of New Zealand is of a group of remote islands dominated by reptiles and birds, with no native mammals except a few bats. In fact, the islands themselves are only part of a wider New Zealand Region which includes a [...] Read more.

The widespread perception of New Zealand is of a group of remote islands dominated by reptiles and birds, with no native mammals except a few bats. In fact, the islands themselves are only part of a wider New Zealand Region which includes a large section of Antarctica. In total, the New Zealand Region has at least 63 recognised taxa (species, subspecies and distinguishable clades) of living native mammals, only six of which are bats. The rest comprise a large and vigorous assemblage of 57 native marine mammals (9 pinnipeds and 48 cetaceans), protected from human knowledge until only a few centuries ago by their extreme isolation in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. Even after humans first began to colonise the New Zealand archipelago in about 1280 AD, most of the native marine mammals remained unfamiliar because they are seldom seen from the shore. This paper describes the huge contrast between the history and biogeography of the tiny fauna of New Zealand’s native land mammals versus the richly diverse and little-known assemblage of marine mammals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biogeography and Archaeozoology of Island Mammals)

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17 pages, 2166 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Crossing Old Concepts: The Ecological Advantages of New Vineyard Types

by Lea Böhm, André Krahner, Matthias Porten, Michael Maixner, Juliane Schäffer and Thomas Schmitt

Diversity 2024, 16(1), 44; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16010044 - 10 Jan 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 4007

Abstract

In times of global insect decline, agricultural ecosystems need to be designed in an as insect-friendly manner as possible to halt the progressive loss of biodiversity. This is particularly important for steep-slope viticulture being established on sites with high biodiversity potential. Therefore, we [...] Read more.

In times of global insect decline, agricultural ecosystems need to be designed in an as insect-friendly manner as possible to halt the progressive loss of biodiversity. This is particularly important for steep-slope viticulture being established on sites with high biodiversity potential. Therefore, we compared different vineyard types (cross-slope with greened embankments vs. down-slope or other types without greened embankments), using wild bees and butterflies as indicators for biodiversity in the lower Moselle region (SW Germany). The numbers of species and individuals in both groups were significantly higher in cross-slope vineyards with greened embankments. This also held true for the number of specialised and endangered species. The communities of wild bees and butterflies differed remarkably between the vineyard types. Three wild bee and five butterfly species were identified as indicator species and hence can be used as such for further monitoring. Our results underline that the structure of steep-slope vineyards has tremendous importance for biodiversity conservation. Since the cultivation of cross-slope vineyards on steep slopes is easier than that of down-slope vineyards, we assume the great synergistic potential to reconcile agricultural use and biodiversity conservation and, in addition, to preserve steep-slope viticulture as a structural element in landscape planning. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biodiversity Conservation)

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20 pages, 11949 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Advances in the Study of Orchidinae Subtribe (Orchidaceae) Species with 40,42-Chromosomes in the Mediterranean Region

by Alessio Turco, Robert Philipp Wagensommer, Pietro Medagli, Antonella Albano and Saverio D’Emerico

Diversity 2024, 16(1), 41; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16010041 - 9 Jan 2024

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4097

Abstract

This study presents an updated analysis of cytogenetic data for several species within the 40,42-chromosome genera of the subtribe Orchidinae. The research includes insights into the distribution of heterochromatin obtained using C-banding and fluorochrome techniques. Our investigation confirmed variation in the distribution [...] Read more.

This study presents an updated analysis of cytogenetic data for several species within the 40,42-chromosome genera of the subtribe Orchidinae. The research includes insights into the distribution of heterochromatin obtained using C-banding and fluorochrome techniques. Our investigation confirmed variation in the distribution of heterochromatin and repetitive DNA sequences among species pertaining to Neotinea s.l. and Orchis s.str. These variations also potentially contribute to the diversification of these species. Cytogenetic analyses of the Neotinea group demonstrated that both H33258 and DAPI staining result in blocks of fluorescent regions on numerous chromosomes. Particular attention was paid to the cytological composition of the polyploid Neotinea commutata, focusing on its potential origin. Based on the karyological results acquired, a hypothesis concerning the origin of N. commutata is proposed. The most noteworthy revelations regard the O. mascula complex. In these species, the telomeric areas of all chromosome sets display extensive heterochromatin. Fluorochrome staining revealed telomeric blocks on many chromosomes that were not seen with Giemsa staining. This highlighted a distinct feature of O. mascula, where particularly large C-bands surrounding the centromeric regions of multiple chromosomes were found. However, in O. mascula, O. provincialis, O. pauciflora, and O. patens, C+ chromatin may not show a significant response to fluorochrome Hoechst or DAPI+ staining. The unique cytomorphological arrangement observed in the O. mascula species, unlike other members of the O. mascula complex, suggest epigenetic phenomena. Additional data are presented for the genera Dactylorhiza and Gymnadenia. A deeper understanding of the diversity of chromosomal structures among these orchids promises to shed light on the mechanisms underlying speciation, adaptation, and the remarkable diversity characteristic of the Orchidaceae family. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Distribution and Diversity of Orchids—2nd Edition)

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22 pages, 19447 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Strengths and Challenges of Using iNaturalist in Plant Research with Focus on Data Quality

by Eduard López-Guillén, Ileana Herrera, Badis Bensid, Carlos Gómez-Bellver, Neus Ibáñez, Pedro Jiménez-Mejías, Mario Mairal, Laura Mena-García, Neus Nualart, Mònica Utjés-Mascó and Jordi López-Pujol

Diversity 2024, 16(1), 42; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16010042 - 9 Jan 2024

Cited by 66 | Viewed by 19006

Abstract

iNaturalist defines itself as an “online social network of people sharing biodiversity information to help each other learn about nature” and it is likely one of the largest citizen science web portals in the world, as every year millions of observations across thousands [...] Read more.

iNaturalist defines itself as an “online social network of people sharing biodiversity information to help each other learn about nature” and it is likely one of the largest citizen science web portals in the world, as every year millions of observations across thousands of species are gathered and collectively compiled by an engaged community of nearly 3 million users (November 2023). The strengths and potentialities that explain the success of the platform are reviewed and include, among others, its usability and low technical requirements, immediacy, open-access, the possibility of interacting with other users, artificial-intelligence-aided identification, versatility and automatic incorporation of the validated records to GBIF. iNaturalist has, however, features that scientists need to carefully consider when using it for their research, making sure that the quality of observations does not limit or hinder its usefulness in plant research. While these are identified (e.g., the lack of representative photographs for many observations or the relatively frequent identification errors), we provide some suggestions to overcome them and, by doing so, improve the use and add value to iNaturalist for plant research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2023)

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24 pages, 2750 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Thermal Tolerance and Vulnerability to Climate Change of a Threatened Freshwater Mussel

by Annekatrin Wagner, Daniel Linke, Felix Grunicke and Thomas U. Berendonk

Diversity 2024, 16(1), 39; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16010039 - 6 Jan 2024

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 6022

Abstract

Freshwater pearl mussels (FPMs, Margaritifera margaritifera, Linnaeus, 1758) are endangered and particularly vulnerable to climate change. To create effective conservation strategies, we studied their thermal tolerance and the impact of elevated water temperatures on growth and survival. Our experiments included field mesocosm studies [...] Read more.

Freshwater pearl mussels (FPMs, Margaritifera margaritifera, Linnaeus, 1758) are endangered and particularly vulnerable to climate change. To create effective conservation strategies, we studied their thermal tolerance and the impact of elevated water temperatures on growth and survival. Our experiments included field mesocosm studies in five FPM-streams in the Vogtland region (Germany) (2016 to 2020), as well as laboratory experiments at temperatures ranging from 1 to 26 °C. Growth of juvenile FPMs increased significantly within a temperature gradient from 12 to 21 °C. In the streams, maximum growth was 8.9 µm/d in surface water and 6.5 µm/d in the interstitial. The upper thermal tolerance for the mussels ranged from 22.1 to 22.9 °C, resulting in low survival during hot summer periods in 2018 and 2019. Warming during winter (+5 °C) did not significantly affect growth and survival, but survival during winter increased with the pre-overwintering shell length. Exceeding a shell length of about 1100 µm in December indicating gill development corelated to 50% survival. Shell length in December is primarily controlled by growth depending on water temperatures during summer. These findings define the thermal niche of juvenile FPMs (average summer temperatures of 14.5–21 °C) and have implications for water management, conservation strategies, and site selection for releasing captive-breeding mussels. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Population Ecology and Protection of Freshwater Mussels)

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10 pages, 233 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Strengthening Partnerships to Safeguard the Future of Herbaria

by Barbara M. Thiers

Diversity 2024, 16(1), 36; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16010036 - 5 Jan 2024

Cited by 30 | Viewed by 7327

Abstract

Herbaria remain the primary means of documenting plant life on earth, and the number of herbaria worldwide and the number of specimens they hold continues to grow. Digitization of herbarium specimens, though far from complete, has increased the discoverability of herbarium holdings and [...] Read more.

Herbaria remain the primary means of documenting plant life on earth, and the number of herbaria worldwide and the number of specimens they hold continues to grow. Digitization of herbarium specimens, though far from complete, has increased the discoverability of herbarium holdings and has increased the range of studies from which data from herbarium specimens can be used. The rather large number of herbaria about which no current information is available is a source of concern, as is herbarium consolidation and removal of herbaria to offsite storage facilities. Partnerships are key to the future health of herbaria. Benefits could accrue from the reimagining of the world’s herbaria as a global resource rather than a collection of independent, often competing institutions. Herbaria can extend the reach of their specimens by joining the nascent effort to link the species occurrence data they manage to other biological and environmental data sources to deepen our ability to understand the interrelationships of earth’s biota. To assure that data held by herbaria contribute to the range of conservation-related projects for which they are relevant, herbaria should embrace the tenets of Team Science and play a more proactive role in promoting their holdings for relevant research and conservation projects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Herbaria: A Key Resource for Plant Diversity Exploration)

14 pages, 1924 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Variations in the Characters of Platorchestia pacifica and Demaorchestia joi (Amphipoda, Talitridae, Talitrinae) with Revised Diagnoses Based on Specimens from Japan

by Hiroshi Morino

Diversity 2024, 16(1), 31; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16010031 - 2 Jan 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3399

Abstract

Seventy-three male specimens of “Platorchestia platensis” from Japan were inspected on 13 morphological characters. Most characters revealed high variation. The coxa and propodus of gnathopod 2 and the carpus of pereopod 7 indicated that the specimens comprised two species: Platorchestia pacifica [...] Read more.

Seventy-three male specimens of “Platorchestia platensis” from Japan were inspected on 13 morphological characters. Most characters revealed high variation. The coxa and propodus of gnathopod 2 and the carpus of pereopod 7 indicated that the specimens comprised two species: Platorchestia pacifica Miyamoto and Morino, 2004 and Demaorchestia joi (Stock and Biernbaum, 1994) sensu lato. Both species were rediagnosed. Demaorchestia hatakejima Lowry and Myers, 2022 was synonymized to P. pacifica. A key to allied species in Platorchestia and Demaorchestia from Japan and the surrounding countries was given. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity and Evolution within the Amphipoda)

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17 pages, 2473 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Environmental Compatibility and Genome Flexibility of Klebsiella oxytoca Isolated from Eight Species of Aquatic Animals

by Shuo Sun, Tingting Gu, Yafei Ou, Yongjie Wang, Lu Xie and Lanming Chen

Diversity 2024, 16(1), 30; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16010030 - 2 Jan 2024

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4965

Abstract

Klebsiella oxytoca is an emerging pathogen that can cause life-threatening infectious diseases in humans. Recently, we firstly reported for the first time the presence of K. oxytoca in edible aquatic animals. In this study, we further investigated its bacterial environmental fitness and genome [...] Read more.

Klebsiella oxytoca is an emerging pathogen that can cause life-threatening infectious diseases in humans. Recently, we firstly reported for the first time the presence of K. oxytoca in edible aquatic animals. In this study, we further investigated its bacterial environmental fitness and genome evolution signatures. The results revealed that K. oxytoca isolates (n = 8), originating from eight species of aquatic animals, were capable of growing under a broad spectrum of environmental conditions (pH 4.5–8.5, 0.5–6.5% NaCl), with different biofilm formation and swimming mobility profiles. The genome sequences of the K. oxytoca isolates were determined (5.84–6.02 Mb, 55.07–56.06% GC content). Strikingly, numerous putative mobile genetic elements (MGEs), particularly genomic islands (GIs, n = 105) and prophages (n = 24), were found in the K. oxytoca genomes, which provided the bacterium with specific adaptation traits, such as resistance, virulence, and material metabolism. Interestingly, the identified prophage-related clusters were derived from Burkholderia spp., Enterobacter spp., Klebsiella spp., Pseudomonas spp., and Haemophilus spp., suggesting phage transmission across Klebsiella and the other four genera. Many strain-specific (n = 10–447) genes were present in the K. oxytoca genomes, whereas the CRISPR-Cas protein-encoding gene was absent, indicating likely active horizontal gene transfer (HGT) and considerable genome variation in K. oxytoca evolution. Overall, the results of this study are the first to demonstrate the environmental compatibility and genome flexibility of K. oxytoca of aquatic animal origins. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Occurrence and Molecular Biology of Water Bacteria and Protozoa)

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17 pages, 1850 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Orthoptera Community Dynamics and Conservation in a Natura 2000 Site (Greece): The Role of Beta Diversity

by Apostolis Stefanidis, Konstantina Zografou, Olga Tzortzakaki and Vassiliki Kati

Diversity 2024, 16(1), 11; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16010011 - 23 Dec 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 6547

Abstract

Greece is a European hotspot for Orthoptera (378 species), yet it has been scarcely explored. We investigated the diversity patterns of Orthoptera and the ecological mechanisms shaping them by sampling 15 sites (30 plots of 1ha) across five habitats in Mount Mitsikeli, a [...] Read more.

Greece is a European hotspot for Orthoptera (378 species), yet it has been scarcely explored. We investigated the diversity patterns of Orthoptera and the ecological mechanisms shaping them by sampling 15 sites (30 plots of 1ha) across five habitats in Mount Mitsikeli, a Natura 2000 site. The mountain is deemed rich (0.4 species/km²), hosting 34 species, including a species of European interest (Paracaloptenus caloptenoides). The grassy openings in the beech–fir forest and rural mosaics were found to be important habitats for Orthoptera, while the mountain grasslands were poorer but hosted a greater abundance of grasshoppers. The three main environmental factors shaping diversity patterns (with an explained variance of 51.34%) were grass height, the cover of woody vegetation and the cover of bare ground. Beta diversity was high (with a Bray–Curtis of index 0.45 among habitats). Species turnover prevailed among all sites and within agricultural land, beech–fir forest and Mediterranean scrub, while nested patterns prevailed within mountain grasslands and mixed thermophilous forest. Conservation actions should target sites in ecosystems driven by species turnover, but primarily the most species-rich sites are driven by nestedness. Such actions should include the implementation of biodiversity-inclusive grazing schemes to hamper forest encroachment and the restoration of mountain grassland quality from cattle overgrazing. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2024 Feature Papers by Diversity’s Editorial Board Members)

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25 pages, 19292 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Integrative Taxonomy of Turcinoemacheilus Bănărescu & Nalbant, 1964 in West Asia with the Description of Three New Species (Teleostei: Nemacheilidae)

by Arash Jouladeh-Roudbar, Saber Vatandoust, Ignacio Doadrio and Hamid Reza Ghanavi

Diversity 2023, 15(12), 1222; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15121222 - 17 Dec 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 5447

Abstract

Nemacheilid fishes in the genus Turcinoemacheilus are physically small members of the ichthyofauna communities of high-altitude and mountainous freshwater ecosystems. They are all distributed in Western Asia apart from a single species, described in the Himalayas. They are usually very similar in appearance, [...] Read more.

Nemacheilid fishes in the genus Turcinoemacheilus are physically small members of the ichthyofauna communities of high-altitude and mountainous freshwater ecosystems. They are all distributed in Western Asia apart from a single species, described in the Himalayas. They are usually very similar in appearance, which complicates their proper identification and/or description. This is why it is important to use multidisciplinary and integrative taxonomical approaches in order to study their true diversity. In this study, three new species of Turcinoemacheilus are described from Iran, raising the total number of valid species to nine. Turcinoemacheilus ansari new species, is distinguished by the anus being situated behind the midpoint of the pelvic-fin and anal-fin origins and the short anal-fin base length. Turcinoemacheilus christofferi new species, differs by the anus being situated behind the midpoint of the pelvic-fin and anal-fin origins, with a complete lateral line reaching to the anterior part of the caudal fin. Turcinoemacheilus moghbeli new species, is distinguished by the anus being situated at or in front of the midpoint of the pelvic-fin and anal-fin origins, with a great pre-pelvic distance and a caudal peduncle length 1.5–2.3 times its length. In Western Asia, all Turcinoemacheilus species are well separated by molecular characters, showing between 3.6 and 14.1% uncorrected p genetic distances in the COI barcode region. This work shows the importance of studying the hidden diversity of under-sampled and understudied groups of organisms to have a clear image of true biodiversity in order to effectively conserve and protect it. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ecology, Evolution and Conservation Biodiversity of Freshwater Fishes)

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48 pages, 18111 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Diversity of Larvae with Multi-Toothed Stylets from About 100 Million Years Ago Illuminates the Early Diversification of Antlion-like Lacewings

by Florian Braig, Timo Popp, Ana Zippel, Gideon T. Haug, Simon Linhart, Patrick Müller, Thomas Weiterschan, Joachim T. Haug and Carolin Haug

Diversity 2023, 15(12), 1219; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15121219 - 15 Dec 2023

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4609

Abstract

Neuroptera, the group of lacewings, is well known to have been more diverse in the past, offering to study patterns of biodiversity loss over time. This loss of diversity has been quantitatively established by the morphological diversity of lacewing larvae. Here, we explore [...] Read more.

Neuroptera, the group of lacewings, is well known to have been more diverse in the past, offering to study patterns of biodiversity loss over time. This loss of diversity has been quantitatively established by the morphological diversity of lacewing larvae. Here, we explore in more detail the diversity of lacewing larvae with tooth-bearing mouthparts. All these larvae are representatives of Myrmeleontiformia, the group of antlion-like lacewings. Today, larvae of several major ingroups bear teeth on their mouthparts: (1) owllions (formerly Ascalaphidae and Myrmeleontidae; taxonomic status is currently unclear); (2) Nymphidae; (3) Crocinae (mostly in younger larvae); and (4) Nemopterinae (only micro teeth). In addition, there are several now extinct larval types with teeth known from Cretaceous ambers (about 100 million years old). These larvae also possess several plesiomorphic characters, indicating that they were part of the early diversification of Myrmeleontiformia. We report numerous new specimens of these now extinct forms and provide a quantitative morphological comparison of head and mouthpart shapes, demonstrating that some of these Cretaceous larvae possessed morphologies not represented in the extant fauna. The resulting pattern is complex, indicating that at least some extinct morphologies have been later replaced by modern-day antlions due to convergent evolution. Full article

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21 pages, 15625 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Xyloplax princealberti (Asteroidea, Echinodermata): A New Species That Is Not Always Associated with Wood Falls

by Cheyenne Y. Payne, Ekin Tilic, Rachel E. Boschen-Rose, Amanda Gannon, Josefin Stiller, Avery S. Hiley, Benjamin M. Grupe, Christopher L. Mah and Greg W. Rouse

Diversity 2023, 15(12), 1212; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15121212 - 12 Dec 2023

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 7595

Abstract

Xyloplax is a genus of three species of sea stars previously found only on sunken wood in the deep ocean. Their circular and petaloid bodies, which lend them their common name “sea daisy”, and their presumed exclusive diet of wood make them an [...] Read more.

Xyloplax is a genus of three species of sea stars previously found only on sunken wood in the deep ocean. Their circular and petaloid bodies, which lend them their common name “sea daisy”, and their presumed exclusive diet of wood make them an unusual and rare element of deep-sea ecosystems. We describe here the fourth species of Xyloplax from the eastern Pacific Ocean, Xyloplax princealberti n. sp., which ranges from offshore Canada to the Gulf of California (Mexico) and Costa Rica. Though sampled geographically close to another described species of Xyloplax from the northeastern Pacific, X. janetae, this new species is unique morphologically and according to available DNA data. The short abactinal spines are the most obvious feature that distinguishes X. princealberti n. sp. from other Xyloplax. The minimum distance for mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I from Xyloplax princealberti n. sp. to the only other available Xyloplax, X. janetae, was 13.5%. We also describe Ridgeia vestimentiferan tubeworm bushes from active hydrothermal vents as a new Xyloplax habitat, the first record of a non-wood substrate, and a new reproductive strategy, simultaneous hermaphroditism, for this genus. We generated the first mitochondrial genome for a member of Xyloplax and analyzed it with other available asteroid data using nucleotide-coding or amino acid (for protein-coding genes) plus nucleotide coding (for rRNA genes). The nucleotide-coding results place Xylopax as part of the clade Velatida, consistent with a previous phylogenomic analysis that included Xyloplax princealberti n. sp. (as Xyloplax sp.), though the placement of Velatida within Asteroidea differed. The amino acid plus nucleotide coding recovered Velatida to be a grade with X. princealberti n. sp. as sister group to all other Asteroidea. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity and Biogeography of Sea Stars (Echinodermata, Asteroidea))

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75 pages, 27568 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Indo-Pacific Stingray Genus Brevitrygon (Myliobatiformes: Dasyatidae): Clarification of Historical Names and Description of a New Species, B. manjajiae sp. nov., from the Western Indian Ocean

by Peter R. Last, Simon Weigmann and Gavin J. P. Naylor

Diversity 2023, 15(12), 1213; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15121213 - 12 Dec 2023

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 14422

Abstract

Members of the genus Brevitrygon are small, locally abundant tropical stingrays (family Dasyatidae) occurring in soft sedimentary habitats of inner continental shelves of the Indo-West Pacific from the Red Sea to Indonesia. Formerly members of the genus Himantura, whose members lack dorsal [...] Read more.

Members of the genus Brevitrygon are small, locally abundant tropical stingrays (family Dasyatidae) occurring in soft sedimentary habitats of inner continental shelves of the Indo-West Pacific from the Red Sea to Indonesia. Formerly members of the genus Himantura, whose members lack dorsal and ventral skin folds on the tail (typical of most dasyatid genera), folds are present or rudimentary in some Brevitrygon. Important to artisanal fisheries and known to consist of at least five species, these fishes are possibly the most frequently misidentified of all stingrays. Most were inadequately described in the 19th century, and they are often taxonomically confused due to morphological similarity, ontogenetic variability, and sexual dimorphism. Their nomenclatural history is complex with four of the known species represented within the type series of one species, B. walga (Müller & Henle). Also, the type of the species with which B. walga is most often confused, B. imbricata (Bloch & Schneider) from off southern India and Sri Lanka, is in very poor condition. A lectotype has been designated for B. walga (confined to the Bay of Bengal). The genus also contains B. heterura (Bleeker) from the Indo-Malay Archipelago, B. javaensis (Last & White) from off southern Indonesia, and a new species, B. manjajiae sp. nov., from the western Indian Ocean. The former species are redescribed and redefined based largely on a combination of morphometrics, tail morphology, squamation, and molecular data. Molecular divergences were detected within lineages of B. heterura, B. walga and B. manjajiae sp. nov., requiring further investigation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Ecology, Evolution and Biodiversity of the Chondrichthyan Fauna)

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10 pages, 742 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Population Size, Non-Breeding Fraction, and Productivity in a Large Urban Population of Burrowing Parrots (Cyanoliseus patagonus)

by Daiana N. Lera, Natalia Cozzani, José L. Tella and Sergio Zalba

Diversity 2023, 15(12), 1207; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15121207 - 8 Dec 2023

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 4039

Abstract

Psittaciformes are one of the bird orders with the highest number of threatened species and the most marked declining population trends. At present, the lack of information on the population size, reproductive fraction, and productivity of most parrot populations makes it difficult to [...] Read more.

Psittaciformes are one of the bird orders with the highest number of threatened species and the most marked declining population trends. At present, the lack of information on the population size, reproductive fraction, and productivity of most parrot populations makes it difficult to design effective conservation actions. In this study, we monitored a population of Burrowing Parrots (Cyanoliseus patagonus) breeding in urbanized habitats in the southwest of Buenos Aires province, Argentina. Every December and February from 2018 to 2023, we counted the individuals arriving at a single communal roost, located in the main park of Bahía Blanca city, which gathers all the parrots breeding in 18–22 colonies within a radius of 20 km. Censuses were conducted before (December) and immediately after the incorporation of juveniles into the flocks (February). Breeding pairs were also counted annually in the colonies, and the average annual productivity and the proportion of juveniles were estimated from surveys in pre-roosting and feeding areas in February. The non-breeding fraction approached half of the population with no statistically significant differences among years (range: 37–53%), and the breeding population showed little annual variation, with a minimum of 1363 and a maximum of 1612 breeding pairs. The proportion of juveniles in the flocks and the estimated productivity showed larger variations among breeding seasons. Our results add insight to the scarce information available on the breeding-to-non-breeding-population ratios in parrots, and birds in general, and show key breeding parameters for a species that is thriving well in urban habitats. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2023)

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11 pages, 2837 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Use of R and R Packages in Biodiversity Conservation Research

by Jiangshan Lai, Dongfang Cui, Weijie Zhu and Lingfeng Mao

Diversity 2023, 15(12), 1202; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15121202 - 7 Dec 2023

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 7848

Abstract

R is one of the most powerful programming languages for conducting data analysis, modeling, and visualization. Although it is widely utilized in biodiversity conservation research, the comprehensive trends in R and R package usage and patterns in the field still remain unexplored. We [...] Read more.

R is one of the most powerful programming languages for conducting data analysis, modeling, and visualization. Although it is widely utilized in biodiversity conservation research, the comprehensive trends in R and R package usage and patterns in the field still remain unexplored. We conducted a comprehensive analysis of R and R package usage frequencies spanning fifteen years, from 2008 to 2022, encompassing over 24,100 research articles published in eight top biodiversity conservation journals. Within this extensive dataset, 10,220 articles (42.3% of the total) explicitly utilized R for data analysis. The use ratio of R demonstrated a consistent linear growth, escalating from 11.1% in 2008 to an impressive 70.6% in 2022. The ten top utilized R packages were vegan, lme4, MuMIn, nlme, mgcv, raster, MASS, ggplot2, car, and dismo. The frequency of R package utilization varied among journals, underscoring the distinct emphases each journal places on specific focuses of biodiversity conservation research. This analysis highlights the pivotal role of R, with its powerful statistical and data visualization capabilities, in empowering researchers to conduct in-depth analyses and gain comprehensive insights into various dimensions of biodiversity conservation science. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biodiversity Conservation)

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18 pages, 1946 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Phytoplankton Diversity and Blooms in Ephemeral Saline Lakes of Cyprus

by Polina Polykarpou, Matina Katsiapi, Savvas Genitsaris, Natassa Stefanidou, Gerald Dörflinger, Maria Moustaka-Gouni, Athena Economou-Amilli and Dionysios E. Raitsos

Diversity 2023, 15(12), 1204; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15121204 - 7 Dec 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3908

Abstract

The ephemeral saline lakes of Cyprus in the Mediterranean, situated in close proximity to each other, demonstrate pronounced seasonal and interannual fluctuations in their environmental conditions. Despite their extreme saline conditions, these lakes support phytoplankton diversity and bloom-forming species. Anthropogenic activities, particularly urban [...] Read more.

The ephemeral saline lakes of Cyprus in the Mediterranean, situated in close proximity to each other, demonstrate pronounced seasonal and interannual fluctuations in their environmental conditions. Despite their extreme saline conditions, these lakes support phytoplankton diversity and bloom-forming species. Anthropogenic activities, particularly urban and artificial land uses within their catchments, contribute to eutrophication, warranting conservation attention within the context of European legislation. Over two years (2018–2019), we examined phytoplankton abundance and diversity alongside salinity in six lakes, with samples collected every three weeks. Chlorophytes were the dominant and most diverse group, followed by cyanobacteria and diatoms. Increasing salinity correlated with reduced compositional diversity and species richness. The proximity of lakes to each other suggested airborne microbe colonization from one lake to another as a significant factor in shaping these communities, while similar land use within each lake’s catchment impacted bloom formation. The highly halotolerant chlorophyte Dunaliella frequently dominated phytoplankton blooms, occasionally coexisting with other taxa in less saline lakes. Our findings provide insight into the phytoplankton community dynamics in temporal saline lakes, essential for developing effective conservation strategies and sustainable management practices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Freshwater Biodiversity)

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14 pages, 2382 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Is the Existence of Two Lineages for Hamadryas glauconome (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae) True? Molecular and Ecological Evidence

by Blanca R. Prado-Cuellar, Luis A. Lara-Pérez, Marysol Trujano-Ortega, Salima Machkour-M’Rabet and Carmen Pozo

Diversity 2023, 15(12), 1196; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15121196 - 6 Dec 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3508

Abstract

The genus Hamadryas has a neotropical distribution. In 1983, the subspecies H. glauconome grisea from Mexico was recognized with subtle and subjective differences in color, size and distribution and limited to the northwest. Since then, there has been a debate about whether it [...] Read more.

The genus Hamadryas has a neotropical distribution. In 1983, the subspecies H. glauconome grisea from Mexico was recognized with subtle and subjective differences in color, size and distribution and limited to the northwest. Since then, there has been a debate about whether it is a different lineage from H. glauconome because adult-stage morphology studies have not found significant differences. This study aims to delimitate H. g. glauconome and H. g. grisea lineages with two sources of evidence: ecological and molecular—the former through ecological niche modeling using the accessible area for the species and estimating the minimum volume ellipsoid overlapping as a fundamental niche using occurrences databases. The molecular evidence is found through the methods of phylogenetic inference and the generalized mixed yule coalescent approach, using sequences of cytochrome oxidase I. Ecological and molecular evidence suggest that H. g. grisea is a different lineage from H. glauconome. Also, molecular evidence of a third lineage from the south of Texas needs further study. This study suggests that different evidence should be provided when morphology is not enough for delimiting species, especially in recently diverged species. Furthermore, the H. g. grisea cytochrome oxidase I sequence (658 bp) is published for the first time. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biogeography and Diversity of Butterflies and Moths)

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15 pages, 11998 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Coccolithophore Distribution in the Western Black Sea in the Summer of 2016

by Margarita D. Dimiza, Maria V. Triantaphyllou, Alexandra Ravani, Elisa Malinverno, Boris T. Karatsolis, Stella Psarra and Aristomenis P. Karageorgis

Diversity 2023, 15(12), 1194; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15121194 - 5 Dec 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 8761

Abstract

Coccolithophores are an important component of phytoplankton abundance and biomass in the brackish environments of the Black Sea. Here, the abundance, composition, and distribution of coccolithophores were investigated in water samples taken from the first 50 m at 18 stations in the western [...] Read more.

Coccolithophores are an important component of phytoplankton abundance and biomass in the brackish environments of the Black Sea. Here, the abundance, composition, and distribution of coccolithophores were investigated in water samples taken from the first 50 m at 18 stations in the western Black Sea during a coccolithophore bloom, in June 2016. The total cell abundances ranged from 2 to 763 × 10⁴ coccospheres L⁻¹; Emiliania huxleyi was the most dominant species, but also Syracosphaera spp. (S. dilatata and S. molischii), Acanthoica (A. acanthifera and A. quattrospina), and Algirosphaera robusta displayed remarkably high concentrations. The formation of the seasonal thermocline significantly affects the vertical distribution of coccolithophores. Emiliania huxleyi, Syracosphaera spp., and Acanthoica spp. were restricted to the upper part of the water column, whereas high abundances of Algirosphaera robusta occurred below the thermocline. Overall, our results show significant differences in the vertical (ANOSIM R = 0.50, p = 0.0001) and spatial (ANOSIM R = 0.18, p = 0.0006) distribution of coccolithophores. Higher abundances of E. huxleyi and Syracosphaera spp. were recorded in the northwestern inner shelf region when compared to the open-sea samples. The observed coccolithophore spatial distribution is suggested to be mostly associated with the influx of less saline river water with high nutrient concentrations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Marine Diversity)

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12 pages, 4919 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Assessing Genetic Diversity and Population Differentiation in Wild Hop (Humulus lupulus) from the Region of Central Greece via SNP-NGS Genotyping

by Konstantinos Tegopoulos, Dimitrios V. Fountas, Elisavet-Maria Andronidou, Pantelis G. Bagos, Petros Kolovos, George Skavdis, Panagiotis Pergantas, Georgia G. Braliou, Aristotelis C. Papageorgiou and Maria E. Grigoriou

Diversity 2023, 15(12), 1171; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15121171 - 24 Nov 2023

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 4275

Abstract

A growing need for the development of novel hop (Humulus lupulus) varieties has emerged as a result of the increasing demand for beers with distinct organoleptic characteristics and the expected impact of climate change on hop cultivars. As the genetic variation [...] Read more.

A growing need for the development of novel hop (Humulus lupulus) varieties has emerged as a result of the increasing demand for beers with distinct organoleptic characteristics and the expected impact of climate change on hop cultivars. As the genetic variation in the existing hop cultivars is low, wild hop germplasm can be used as a source for the development of novel cultivars. In this work, we analyzed, for the first time, the genetic diversity of H. lupulus var. lupulus wild germplasm in Greece. A SNP-NGS genotyping approach using a set of nine specific genetic markers, was employed in order to determine individual genotypes and to perform population structure analyses of wild hops from a region with complex topography, namely the Region of Central Greece. Our results revealed low differentiation among populations, with the spatial genetic patterns observed relating mainly to topographical elements rather than geographic distance. Interestingly, within wild hop populations, high genetic diversity was observed, showing that in the region of Central Greece, wild H. lupulus germplasm has significant potential that can be exploited in breeding programs towards the development of local, well adapted and potentially superior hop varieties. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Diversity)

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36 pages, 3251 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Diversity and Phylogeny of Gyrodactylus spp. (Monogenea: Gyrodactylidae) across the Strait of Gibraltar: Parasite Speciation and Historical Biogeography of West Mediterranean Cyprinid Hosts

by Chahrazed Rahmouni, Mária Seifertová, Michal Benovics and Andrea Šimková

Diversity 2023, 15(11), 1152; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15111152 - 20 Nov 2023

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 5015

Abstract

Knowledge on the diversity of parasitic flatworms of Western Mediterranean cyprinids is extremely scarce. In the present study, we parasitologically investigated 12 cyprinid species across the Strait of Gibraltar inhabiting watersheds in northwest Africa (Morocco) and Iberia (Portugal and Spain). Taxonomically relevant features [...] Read more.

Knowledge on the diversity of parasitic flatworms of Western Mediterranean cyprinids is extremely scarce. In the present study, we parasitologically investigated 12 cyprinid species across the Strait of Gibraltar inhabiting watersheds in northwest Africa (Morocco) and Iberia (Portugal and Spain). Taxonomically relevant features of the attachment organ and sequences of the 18S rDNA and ITS regions were used for species delineation and to investigate their phylogenetic relatedness. Among the Gyrodactylus collected from Morocco and Spain, we identified specimens with an unusual T-shaped dorsal bar observed herein for the first time. In contrast, the membranous patch-like structure surrounding the twisted inner roots of hamuli and the median ridge of the ventral bar have been generally observed in Eurasian relatives. Our analyses suggest vicariant speciation of Gyrodactylus across the Strait of Gibraltar. We describe herein G. gibraltarensis sp. nov. from Iberian Luciobarbus graellsii; G. moroccensis sp. nov. from northwest African cyprinids, i.e., L. maghrebensis, L. rabatensis, L. rifensis, L. yahyaouii, and L. zayanensis; and finally, G. pseudomoroccensis sp. nov. from Moroccan L. ksibi, all possessing a new haptoral configuration. The genetic divergence and conservative morphologies in populations of G. moroccensis sp. nov. from five cyprinid species support its ongoing speciation in Northwest Africa. The West Mediterranean lineage was revealed to be monophyletic, with Eurasian species forming a sister group. Morphologically, West Mediterranean Gyrodactylus also appeared to be of Middle Eastern origin. Gyrodactylus spp. possessing an unusual T-shaped dorsal bar have most likely speciated, allowing for the appearance of a haptoral morphology that is restricted to the region across the Strait of Gibraltar. To conclude, viviparous Gyrodactylus reflect parasite speciation across the Strait of Gibraltar and the historical biogeography of cyprinids in the West Mediterranean. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity and Phylogenetics of Parasites in Aquatic Animals)

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164 pages, 259734 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

New Skeletons of the Ancient Dolphin Xenorophus sloanii and Xenorophus simplicidens sp. nov. (Mammalia, Cetacea) from the Oligocene of South Carolina and the Ontogeny, Functional Anatomy, Asymmetry, Pathology, and Evolution of the Earliest Odontoceti

by Robert W. Boessenecker and Jonathan H. Geisler

Diversity 2023, 15(11), 1154; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15111154 - 20 Nov 2023

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 14098

Abstract

The early diverging, dolphin-sized, cetacean clade Xenorophidae are a short-lived radiation of toothed whales (Odontoceti) that independently evolved two features long thought to be odontocete synapomorphies: the craniofacial and cochlear morphology underlying echolocation and retrograde cranial telescoping (i.e., posterior migration of the viscerocranium). [...] Read more.

The early diverging, dolphin-sized, cetacean clade Xenorophidae are a short-lived radiation of toothed whales (Odontoceti) that independently evolved two features long thought to be odontocete synapomorphies: the craniofacial and cochlear morphology underlying echolocation and retrograde cranial telescoping (i.e., posterior migration of the viscerocranium). This family was based on Xenorophus sloanii, which, for the past century, has been known only by a partial skull lacking a braincase and tympanoperiotics, collected around 1900 from the Ashley Formation (28–29 Ma, Rupelian) near Ladson, South Carolina. A large collection of new skulls and skeletons (ChM PV 5022, 7677; CCNHM 104, 168, 1077, 5995) from the Ashley Formation considerably expands the hypodigm for this species, now the best known of any stem odontocete and permitting evaluation of intraspecific variation and ontogenetic changes. This collection reveals that the holotype (USNM 11049) is a juvenile. Xenorophus sloanii is a relatively large odontocete (70–74 cm CBL; BZW = 29–31 cm; estimated body length 2.6–3 m) with a moderately long rostrum (RPI = 2.5), marked heterodonty, limited polydonty (13–14 teeth), prominent sagittal crest and intertemporal constriction, and drastically larger brain size than basilosaurid archaeocetes (EQ = 2.9). Dental morphology, thickened cementum, a dorsoventrally robust rostrum, and thick rugose enamel suggest raptorial feeding; oral pathology indicates traumatic tooth loss associated with mechanically risky predation attempts. Ontogenetic changes include increased palatal vomer exposure; fusion of the nasofrontal, occipito-parietal, and median frontal sutures; anterior lengthening of the nasals; elaboration of the nuchal crests; and blunting and thickening of the antorbital process. The consistent deviation of the rostrum 2–5° to the left and asymmetry of the palate, dentition, neurocranium, mandibles, and vertebrae in multiple specimens of Xenorophus sloanii suggest novel adaptations for directional hearing driven by the asymmetrically oriented pan bones of the mandibles. A second collection consisting of a skeleton and several skulls from the overlying Chandler Bridge Formation (24–23 Ma, Chattian) represents a new species, Xenorophus simplicidens n. sp., differing from Xenorophus sloanii in possessing shorter nasals, anteroposteriorly shorter supraorbital processes of the frontal, and teeth with fewer accessory cusps and less rugose enamel. Phylogenetic analysis supports monophyly of Xenorophus, with specimens of Xenorophus simplicidens nested within paraphyletic X. sloanii; in concert with stratigraphic data, these results support the interpretation of these species as part of an anagenetic lineage. New clade names are provided for the sister taxon to Xenorophidae (Ambyloccipita), and the odontocete clade excluding Xenorophidae, Ashleycetus, Mirocetus, and Simocetidae (Stegoceti). Analyses of tooth size, body size, temporal fossa length, orbit morphology, and the rostral proportion index, prompted by well-preserved remains of Xenorophus, provide insight into the early evolution of Odontoceti. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Evolution of Crown Cetacea)

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14 pages, 1953 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Changes in Avian Top-Predator Diet in the 21st Century in Northeast (NE) Poland

by Dorota Zawadzka and Grzegorz Zawadzki

Diversity 2023, 15(11), 1144; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15111144 - 16 Nov 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3007

Abstract

The White-Tailed Eagle (WTE) Haliaeetus albicilla is a top avian predator that has rapidly increased in numbers and range in large parts of Europe in recent decades. In Poland, over the past 30 years, it has recolonized previously abandoned areas. In 1991, the [...] Read more.

The White-Tailed Eagle (WTE) Haliaeetus albicilla is a top avian predator that has rapidly increased in numbers and range in large parts of Europe in recent decades. In Poland, over the past 30 years, it has recolonized previously abandoned areas. In 1991, the first breeding pair in a large forest complex, the Augustów Forest (Northeast (NE) Poland), was recorded. In 2022, there were 13 breeding pairs. We analyzed changes in the diet composition of WTE in 2000–2023, divided into three periods: 2000–2005, 2009–2017, and 2018–2023. Throughout the 24 years of study, birds were the most frequently recorded food item, accounting for an average of 58% of food items, followed by fish (34%) and mammals (7%). During the study period, the most numerous food items were the Northern Pike Esox lucius, Coot Fulica atra, Common Bream Abramis brama, Mallard Anas platyrhynchos, and storks Ciconia sp. These species together accounted for 52% of food items. We recorded a long-term increasing share of Northern Pike, storks, and Great Crested Grebe Podiceps cristatus. Opposite changes, with declining frequency, were found for Coots and ducks. The share of the Coot, ducks, and Great Crested Grebe, as well as the total share of food connected with lakes in the WTE’s diet, increased along the growing area of lakes in the territory of the WTE. The proportion of fish in the food did not show a relationship with the increase in the area of lakes, while the most frequently eaten fish species changed. Observed changes in food composition appear related to the settlement of the habitat-diverse areas by individual breeding pairs and changes the availability of main food categories. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ecology and Conservation of the White-Tailed Eagle and Golden Eagle)

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30 pages, 10026 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Gamete Recognition Gene Divergence Yields a Robust Eutherian Phylogeny across Taxonomic Levels

by Emma K. Roberts, Emily A. Wright, Asha E. Worsham, Daniel M. Hardy and Robert D. Bradley

Diversity 2023, 15(11), 1145; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15111145 - 16 Nov 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 6275

Abstract

The extraordinary morphological diversity among extant mammals poses a challenge for studies of speciation, adaptation, molecular evolution, and reproductive isolation. Despite the recent wealth of molecular studies on mammalian phylogenetics, uncertainties remain surrounding both ancestral and more recent divergence events that have proven [...] Read more.

The extraordinary morphological diversity among extant mammals poses a challenge for studies of speciation, adaptation, molecular evolution, and reproductive isolation. Despite the recent wealth of molecular studies on mammalian phylogenetics, uncertainties remain surrounding both ancestral and more recent divergence events that have proven difficult to resolve. Multi-gene datasets, especially including genes that are highly divergent, often provide increased support for higher-level affinities within Mammalia; however, such analyses require vast amounts of genomic sequence data and at times, intensive, high-performance computational effort. Furthermore, despite the large-scale efforts dedicated to comprehensive, multi-gene phylogenetic analyses using a combination of mitochondrial, nuclear, and other sequences (e.g., tRNA, ultra-conserved elements, and transposable elements), many relationships across Mammalia remain highly controversial. To offer another approach and provide a phylogenetic solution to this longstanding issue, here we present a phylogenetic tool based on a single reproductive molecular marker, zonadhesin (gene: Zan), one of two known mammalian speciation genes, which encodes the rapidly evolving sperm protein zonadhesin that mediates species-specific adhesion to the egg and thereby promotes reproductive isolation among placental mammals (Eutheria). Topological comparison of Zan Maximum Likelihood phylogenies to a nearly complete mammalian supertree confirmed Zan’s striking phylogenetic utility and resolution at both deeper and more terminal nodes in the placental mammalian phylogeny. This single gene marker yielded an equivalent and/or superiorly supported topology in comparison to a supertree generated using DNA sequences from a supermatrix of 31 genes from 5911 species (extinct and extant). Resolution achieved with this new phylogenetic approach provides unique insights into the divergence of both early and recent mammalian radiations. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, the utility of zonadhesin as a singular molecular marker was especially useful in clades where sufficient taxon sampling is impossible to achieve, and where only a subset of members of the mammalian species tree is available. The eutherian relationships presented here provide a foundation for future studies in the reconstruction of mammalian classifications, including reproductive isolation, hybridization, and biodiversification of species. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Phylogeny and Evolution)

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13 pages, 5388 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Teeth Enamel Ultrastructural Analysis of Selected Equidae Taxa

by Vitalii Demeshkant, Michał Biegalski and Leonid Rekovets

Diversity 2023, 15(11), 1141; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15111141 - 14 Nov 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3525

Abstract

This paper presents historical and evolutionary insights into the “tarpan” group of small horses by examining molar tooth enamel ultrastructure. Mathematical methodologies were applied to enhance the analysis. Tooth enamel from species such as Equus gmelini (tarpan), E. latipes, and E. hydruntinus [...] Read more.

This paper presents historical and evolutionary insights into the “tarpan” group of small horses by examining molar tooth enamel ultrastructure. Mathematical methodologies were applied to enhance the analysis. Tooth enamel from species such as Equus gmelini (tarpan), E. latipes, and E. hydruntinus from Pleistocene Ukrainian localities, E. przewalskii from the Chornobyl Exclusion Zone in Ukraine, and E. caballus form sylvaticus (Polish konik) from Roztocze National Park, Poland, underwent scanning microscope examination. Measurements of enamel structures, including prisms (PE) and interprismatic matrix (IPM), were conducted, with the K-index used as their ratio, categorized by enamel type (I, II, III). The findings confirmed that the crystal structures of enamel in these horse groups vary based on genus evolution, diet, and environmental conditions, shaping the enamel’s morphological features. Through analysis, clusters were identified, allowing for potential reconstructions of relationships among study groups. The results revealed distinct differences between species, enabling their classification within an established phenogram. Two primary clusters emerged: one consisting of extinct small horse forms from diverse localities and another grouping modern forms. Notably, the Late Pleistocene European species E. latipes showed close affinities to the latter cluster. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ecology and Evolution of Mammals)

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24 pages, 12589 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Greater Midlands—A Mid-Elevation Centre of Floristic Endemism in Summer-Rainfall Eastern South Africa

by Clinton Carbutt

Diversity 2023, 15(11), 1137; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15111137 - 9 Nov 2023

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 5305

Abstract

The Midlands region of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Province in South Africa was hitherto a putative centre of floristic endemism (CFE) based on conjecture. The aim of this study was to empirically explore this concept by delineating unambiguous boundaries for this CFE and documenting the [...] Read more.

The Midlands region of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Province in South Africa was hitherto a putative centre of floristic endemism (CFE) based on conjecture. The aim of this study was to empirically explore this concept by delineating unambiguous boundaries for this CFE and documenting the endemic spermatophytes within a conservation framework. The Greater Midlands Centre of Floristic Endemism (GMCFE), a more expanded study area than the parochial Midlands region of KZN, is formally described as southern Africa’s 20th CFE. It is a mid-elevation region occupying the greater Midlands of KZN, with extensions of contiguous grasslands extending northwards into southern Mpumalanga and southwards into north-eastern Eastern Cape. This “foothills” CFE covers ca. 77,000 km² of predominantly mesic C₄ grassland, ranging in elevation from ca. 700–2200 m a.s.l. It is congruent with the “sub-escarpment ecoregion,” essentially a composite of the Sub-escarpment Grassland and Savanna Bioregions and the sub-escarpment grasslands of southern Mpumalanga and northern KZN. The GMCFE hosts at least 220 endemic spermatophytes, of which almost a fifth belong to the family Apocynaceae. Families Asteraceae, Asphodelaceae, Fabaceae, and Iridaceae also contribute significantly. Genera Ceropegia, Aloe, Dierama, Kniphofia, Helichrysum, and Streptocarpus contribute the most endemics. More than half are forbs, and almost three-quarters are confined to the Grassland Biome. Endemic radiations are attributed to geodiversity and geological complexity (especially the strong lithological influence of dolerite); physiographic heterogeneity (particularly elevation gradients and variable terrain units); strategic proximity to hyper-diverse temperate and subtropical “border floras”; and localized pollinator-driven adaptive radiations. Of alarming concern is the high number of threatened plant taxa, with ca. 60% of the endemic flora Red Listed in threat categories (CE, E, and VU) or considered “rare”. Extremely low levels of formal protection and poor ecological connectivity, coupled with high levels of land transformation and intensive utilization, render the GMCFE one of the most imperilled CFE in South Africa. Urgent conservation action is required to safeguard this unique and highly threatened “rangeland flora” and stem the biodiversity crisis gripping the region. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Herbaria: A Key Resource for Plant Diversity Exploration)

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17 pages, 2288 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Preliminary Assessment of Sea Star (Echinodermata, Asteroidea) Diversity in the Coastal Magellanic Region (South Chile) and Their Geographical Distribution

by Luka Vantomme, Quentin Jossart, Karin Gérard, Bruno Danis and Camille Moreau

Diversity 2023, 15(11), 1129; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15111129 - 2 Nov 2023

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 5645

Abstract

Sea stars are a diverse and important component of the Southern Ocean benthos. However, scarce information is available regarding their diversity, distribution, evolution, and taxonomic uncertainties persist for multiple taxa. The Magellanic Region (south of Chile) remains under-sampled despite its pivotal location for [...] Read more.

Sea stars are a diverse and important component of the Southern Ocean benthos. However, scarce information is available regarding their diversity, distribution, evolution, and taxonomic uncertainties persist for multiple taxa. The Magellanic Region (south of Chile) remains under-sampled despite its pivotal location for species distribution and diversity, being located at the crossroad of three ocean basins. In this study, we assessed the biodiversity of coastal Magellanic sea stars and their affinities with other oceanic bioregions. An integrative approach combining morphological identification with DNA barcoding was implemented to highlight taxonomic discrepancies such as suspected synonymy and unrecognised diversity. Firstly, we identified a total of 15 species from the coastal Magellanic Region and reported the occurrence of Cycethra frigida Koehler, 1917 for the first time in this region. The distribution of these 15 species ranged from only in South America to circumpolar, bipolar, or possibly cosmopolitan. Secondly, we highlighted possible synonymy in two species pairs within the genera Anasterias and Odontaster. This preliminary biodiversity assessment forms an important baseline for monitoring and conservation purposes, especially in the face of distribution shifts as a response to climate change and the increased presence of invasive species. Developmental mode has previously been suggested to be important in shaping biogeographical patterns. However, developmental mode was insufficient to explain the observed patterns, and other factors (e.g., physiological constraints, competition, bathymetrical range, and the possibility of passively rafting on kelp) are suggested to be at least equally important. Finally, an increase in barcoding effort is needed to better capture phylogeographic patterns for each species, both by increasing the number of specimens investigated and by covering a broader geographical range. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity and Biogeography of Sea Stars (Echinodermata, Asteroidea))

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13 pages, 1529 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Bats of the Tunisian Desert: Preliminary Data Using Acoustic Identification and First Record of Taphozous nudiventris in the Country

by Ridha Dalhoumi, Ridha El Mokni, Ridha Ouni, Hamouda Beyrem and Stéphane Aulagnier

Diversity 2023, 15(11), 1108; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15111108 - 25 Oct 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3941

Abstract

Increasing aridity usually results in decreasing bat abundance and species richness, and the Saharan desert is an example of such impoverishment. Moreover, the harsh climatic and field conditions in this area restrict the feasibility of surveys. Therefore, the bat fauna of the Tunisian [...] Read more.

Increasing aridity usually results in decreasing bat abundance and species richness, and the Saharan desert is an example of such impoverishment. Moreover, the harsh climatic and field conditions in this area restrict the feasibility of surveys. Therefore, the bat fauna of the Tunisian Sahara was unstudied until an expedition was conducted in May 2021. A total of seven species were recorded using passive bat detectors set mainly at water bodies, which concentrate bat activity. Echolocation calls of these species did not depart from published records for the Mediterranean area. Our data failed to identify the two ecomorphotypes of Pipistrellus kuhlii but confirmed the adaptability of this species to local conditions. For the first time in Tunisia, we recorded echolocation calls of Taphozous nudiventris, a species that has been rarely reported in North Africa. The highest species richness was identified at the largest wetlands of Oued Daghsen (Oued Dkouk Nature Reserve) and at Bordj el Khadra (only six and four species, respectively). Most Mediterranean species were recorded in the northern locality, while desert species were more active in the most southern one. The importance of water bodies for bats was confirmed once more. No sign of competition among species was detected, as the Mediterranean and desert-dwelling bat species were active at the same time. Additional surveys should be planned in order to enlarge the list of seven species recorded in only one week. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Key Aspects in the Ecology and Diversity of Desert-Dwelling Bats)

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27 pages, 950 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Limno-Terrestrial Tardigrada of Sub-Antarctic Islands—An Annotated Review

by Peter Degma and Nina Gábrišová

Diversity 2023, 15(11), 1109; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15111109 - 25 Oct 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 4219

Abstract

Research on the limno-terrestrial Tardigrada fauna of the Sub-Antarctic zone began almost 120 years ago. Here we present an overview of the literature data on the presence of tardigrades on sub-Antarctic islands, including the substrates on which they have been found. From 32 [...] Read more.

Research on the limno-terrestrial Tardigrada fauna of the Sub-Antarctic zone began almost 120 years ago. Here we present an overview of the literature data on the presence of tardigrades on sub-Antarctic islands, including the substrates on which they have been found. From 32 published sources, we found original data on the occurrence of 49 currently valid species on six sub-Antarctic islands/island groups. Of these, 9 species (18%) were originally described from this zone, another 13 species (26%) were described from Continental or Maritime Antarctica, almost half of these species (22 species—45%) were originally described from European localities, and the remaining 5 species (10%) were originally described from South America, Africa, or Australia. The validity of the records of individual species is discussed. We consider the presence of 29 species in the Sub-Antarctic to be doubtful. We ascertained a total of 90 combinations of species and islands or island groups. More than half (64%) of these will require confirmation in the future because we currently consider them doubtful. We can conclude that the tardigrade fauna of the sub-Antarctic islands is only very superficially known, and the occurrence of most species in this zone must be verified. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Investigating the Biodiversity of the Tardigrada)

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54 pages, 60377 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Denticle Multiverse: Morphological Diversity of Placoid Scales across Ontogeny in the Portuguese Dogfish, Centroscymnus coelolepis, and Its Systematic Implications

by Diego F. B. Vaz, Tess M. Avery, Molly K. Gabler-Smith and George V. Lauder

Diversity 2023, 15(11), 1105; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15111105 - 24 Oct 2023

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 6841

Abstract

Centroscymnus coelolepis is a deep-water sleeper shark and, like most sharks, it is covered in placoid scales, or dermal denticles. The morphological diversity of the dermal denticles in this species, however, has not been described in detail, and ontogenetic changes in denticle morphology [...] Read more.

Centroscymnus coelolepis is a deep-water sleeper shark and, like most sharks, it is covered in placoid scales, or dermal denticles. The morphological diversity of the dermal denticles in this species, however, has not been described in detail, and ontogenetic changes in denticle morphology are poorly understood in sharks. Combining scanning-electron microscopy and micro-CT imaging, we demonstrate the presence of eleven dermal-denticle morphotypes across the ontogeny and different regions of the body of Centroscymnus coelolepis. The snout, interspiracular, and trunk/tail regions have similar changes in denticle morphotype during development. For example, on the trunks and tails of juveniles (~350 mm TL), denticle crowns have two to three longitudinal ridges and three posterior cusps that are gradually replaced by ridgeless and cuspless crowns in adults (>800 mm TL). Sixteen measurements were obtained from the 3D models generated. A principal component analysis demonstrated that the eleven distinct dermal-denticle morphotypes observed were located in different regions of the morphospace. The denticle volume and surface area showed negative allometry with respect to body length throughout the ontogeny. The results reflect the considerable diversity within the denticle multiverse (ontogenetic and intraspecific variations), and much of this diversity remains to be explored to fully understand the role of dermal denticles in shark taxonomy, ecology, and biomechanics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Diversity)

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16 pages, 2138 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

A New Miniature Species of Arthroleptis (Anura: Arthroleptidae) from Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda

by J. Maximilian Dehling

Diversity 2023, 15(10), 1104; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15101104 - 23 Oct 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 4694

Abstract

A new, very small-sized species of Arthroleptis is described from western Rwanda. The new species occurs locally endemic in Nyungwe Forest and Cyamudongo Forest, where it inhabits the leaf litter of montane forests between 1800 and 2200 m a.s.l. It differs from all [...] Read more.

A new, very small-sized species of Arthroleptis is described from western Rwanda. The new species occurs locally endemic in Nyungwe Forest and Cyamudongo Forest, where it inhabits the leaf litter of montane forests between 1800 and 2200 m a.s.l. It differs from all other members of the genus by a unique combination of morphological characters, including size (SVL of adult males 16.0–16.5 mm), skin texture, length of hindlimbs, and ventral colour pattern; by characteristics of its advertisement call that consists of a single note lasting 17.4 ± 6.4 [11–32] ms and has a dominant frequency of 5861 ± 188 [5531–6029] Hz; and also in the sequence of the 16S rRNA gene that differs from available homologous sequences of other species of the genus by an uncorrected p-distance of at least 4.6%. Details of the natural history as well as two additional call types are described. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Diversity)

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14 pages, 1532 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Non-Native Marine Macroalgae of the Azores: An Updated Inventory

by Daniela Gabriel, Ana Isabel Ferreira, Joana Micael and Suzanne Fredericq

Diversity 2023, 15(10), 1089; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15101089 - 17 Oct 2023

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4604

Abstract

Non-native species (NNS) represent a threat to biodiversity, and their occurrence and distribution should be periodically updated and made easily available to researchers and policymakers. An updated inventory of macroalgal NNS currently present in the Azores was produced based on published reports. Data [...] Read more.

Non-native species (NNS) represent a threat to biodiversity, and their occurrence and distribution should be periodically updated and made easily available to researchers and policymakers. An updated inventory of macroalgal NNS currently present in the Azores was produced based on published reports. Data concerning the first report and the distribution in the archipelago are provided for each species, as well as their respective native ranges and possible vectors of introduction. The resulting list comprises 42 taxa, i.e., 8.05% of the marine flora presently reported in the Azores, with 16 new NNS recorded over the last decade. The most isolated islands of the Western Group presented lower numbers of NNS (4.25% and 6.25%). In contrast, the two islands with the most used marina for transatlantic recreational sailing presented higher numbers (12.90% and 16.87%). Shipping is the main introduction vector (68%), whereas most macroalgal NNS are originally from the Pacific Ocean (31%) and the Indo-Pacific (31%). The presence of 13 species is restricted to single islands, and no species is reported exclusively in the Western group. Asparagopsis armata is the only algal NNS reported from all islands of the Azores. Future work is proposed to support policymaking. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Biodiversity in the Azores: A Whole Biota Assessment)

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22 pages, 3099 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Fusarium and Sarocladium Species Associated with Rice Sheath Rot Disease in Sub-Saharan Africa

by Oluwatoyin Oluwakemi Afolabi, Vincent de Paul Bigirimana, Gia Khuong Hoang Hua, Feyisara Eyiwumi Oni, Lien Bertier, John Onwughalu, Olumoye Ezekiel Oyetunji, Ayoni Ogunbayo, Mario Van De Velde, Obedi I. Nyamangyoku, Sarah De Saeger and Monica Höfte

Diversity 2023, 15(10), 1090; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15101090 - 17 Oct 2023

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 6371

Abstract

Sarocladium and Fusarium species are commonly identified as causal agents of rice sheath rot disease worldwide. However, limited knowledge exists about their genetic, pathogenic, and toxigenic diversity in sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries, where an increasing incidence of this disease has been observed. In [...] Read more.

Sarocladium and Fusarium species are commonly identified as causal agents of rice sheath rot disease worldwide. However, limited knowledge exists about their genetic, pathogenic, and toxigenic diversity in sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries, where an increasing incidence of this disease has been observed. In this study, seventy fungal isolates were obtained from rice plants displaying disease symptoms in rice research programs and farmer fields in Mali, Nigeria, and Rwanda. Thus, an extensive comparative analysis was conducted to assess their genetic, pathogenic, and toxigenic diversity. The Fusarium spp. were characterized using the translation elongation factor (EF-1α) region, while a concatenation of Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) and Actin-encoding regions were used to resolve Sarocladium species. Phylogenetic analysis revealed four Fusarium species complexes. The dominant complex in Nigeria was the Fusarium incarnatum-equiseti species complex (FIESC), comprising F. hainanense, F. sulawesiense, F. pernambucatum, and F. tanahbumbuense, while F. incarnatum was found in Rwanda. The Fusarium fujikuroi species complex (FFSC) was predominant in Rwanda and Mali, with species such as F. andiyazi, F. madaense, and F. casha in Rwanda and F. annulatum and F. nygamai in Mali. F. marum was found in Nigeria. Furthermore, Fusarium oxysporum species complex (FOSC) members, F. callistephi and F. triseptatum, were found in Rwanda and Mali, respectively. Two isolates of F. acasiae-mearnsii, belonging to the Fusarium sambucinum species complex (FSAMSC), were obtained in Rwanda. Isolates of Sarocladium, which were previously classified into three phylogenetic groups, were resolved into three species, which are attenuatum, oryzae, and sparsum. S. attenuatum was dominant in Rwanda, while S. oryzae and S. sparsum were found in Nigeria. Also, the susceptibility of FARO44, a rice cultivar released by Africa Rice Centre (AfricaRice), was tested against isolates from the four Fusarium species complexes and the three Sarocladium species. All isolates evaluated could induce typical sheath rot symptoms, albeit with varying disease development levels. In addition, liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) was used to determine variation in the in vitro mycotoxins of the Fusarium species. Regional differences were observed in the in vitro mycotoxins profiling. Out of the forty-six isolates tested, nineteen were able to produce one to four mycotoxins. Notably, very high zearalenone (ZEN) production was specific to the two F. hainanense isolates from Ibadan, Nigeria, while Fusarium nygamai isolates from Mali produced high amounts of fumonisins. To the best of our knowledge, it seems that this study is the first to elucidate the genetic, pathogenic, and toxigenic diversity of Fusarium species associated with the rice sheath rot disease complex in selected countries in SSA. Full article

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

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21 pages, 1690 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Changing Trends in Cetacean Strandings in the East China Sea: Identifying Relevant Variables and Implications for Conservation and Management

by Shaobo Yang, Shengfa Li, Yan Jin and Zunlei Liu

Diversity 2023, 15(10), 1082; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15101082 - 13 Oct 2023

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4667

Abstract

The frequency of cetacean strandings is increasing, with multiple causes identified. We examined temporal and spatial trends in stranding numbers along the coastal areas of the East China Sea from 1990 to 2021. Using structural equation models, we analyzed the relationships between strandings [...] Read more.

The frequency of cetacean strandings is increasing, with multiple causes identified. We examined temporal and spatial trends in stranding numbers along the coastal areas of the East China Sea from 1990 to 2021. Using structural equation models, we analyzed the relationships between strandings and climate, oceanic properties, and human activities. Our findings revealed time-dependent interannual variability in strandings but no linear trend, indicating relative stability in cetacean strandings. Seasonal patterns were observed only in narrow-ridged finless porpoises (Neophocaena asiaeorientalis), with significant spring increases (March to May). Clustering of strandings occurred in central Fujian and northern/southern Taiwan, according to spatial analysis. The impact of variables on cetacean strandings varied across time periods. Storm surges, coastal fishing, and the Pacific decadal oscillation were associated with stranding events from 1990 to 2006. However, from 2006 to 2021, the influence of storm surges weakened, while the climate index only indirectly affected strandings through sea surface temperature and salinity, with an increased intensity in the effects of winter sea surface temperature and salinity. Structural equation models unveiled the cascading effects of environmental changes on strandings. This study reports changing trends in cetacean strandings and identifies relevant variables. Although not exhaustive, understanding the reasons behind strandings enhances our comprehension of cetacean responses to environmental changes, supporting targeted conservation and management efforts. Full article

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25 pages, 10520 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Combining Spatial–Temporal Remote Sensing and Human Footprint Indices to Identify Biodiversity Conservation Hotspots

by Yuting Lu, Hong Wang, Yao Zhang, Jiahao Liu, Tengfei Qu, Xili Zhao, Haozhe Tian, Jingru Su, Dingsheng Luo and Yalei Yang

Diversity 2023, 15(10), 1064; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15101064 - 7 Oct 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3820

Abstract

Considering Inner Mongolia as the study area, the ecological theory of climate change, and human activities affecting a wide range of biodiversity patterns, MODIS multi-timeseries remote sensing image data were used and the interannual variation index was obtained by the method of fitting [...] Read more.

Considering Inner Mongolia as the study area, the ecological theory of climate change, and human activities affecting a wide range of biodiversity patterns, MODIS multi-timeseries remote sensing image data were used and the interannual variation index was obtained by the method of fitting the curve to obtain the annual phenological and seasonal indicators. At the same time, the Landsat 8 standard deviation image was calculated to obtain the spatial variation index and generate spatial–temporal remote sensing indices to quantify the threat of climate change to biodiversity. In addition, the impact of human activities on biodiversity was quantified by generating a map of the human footprint in Inner Mongolia. The spatial–temporal remote sensing index and the human footprint index were integrated to identify areas protected from climate change and human activities, respectively. Eventually, the hotspot areas of biodiversity conservation in Inner Mongolia were obtained and priority protected area planning was based on the hotspot identification results. In this study, remote sensing technology was used to identify biodiversity conservation hotspots, which can overcome the limitations of insufficient species data from the past, improve the reliability of large-scale biodiversity conservation analyses, and be used for targeted management actions that have practical significance for biodiversity conservation planning. Full article

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9 pages, 2429 KB

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Aggregations of a Sessile Ctenophore, Coeloplana sp., on Indo-West Pacific Gorgonians

by Kaveh Samimi-Namin, Michel R. Claereboudt, Bert W. Hoeksema, Catherine S. McFadden, Nicholas Bezio and Gustav Paulay

Diversity 2023, 15(10), 1060; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15101060 - 3 Oct 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2940

Abstract

We document the benthic ctenophores Coeloplana sp. and Vallicula multiformis from Oman, extending their geographic range. A new Coeloplana species was found forming aggregations on gorgonians of two octocoral host genera, Melithaea and Euplexaura, representing associations previously unknown to occur in the [...] Read more.

We document the benthic ctenophores Coeloplana sp. and Vallicula multiformis from Oman, extending their geographic range. A new Coeloplana species was found forming aggregations on gorgonians of two octocoral host genera, Melithaea and Euplexaura, representing associations previously unknown to occur in the Indo-West Pacific region. Our findings also illustrate the concurrent presence of the ectocommensal ophiuroid Ophiothela mirabilis, which adversely affects other Coeloplana species in the tropical West Atlantic, where it is considered invasive. This exploration contributes to our understanding of the biogeography, species distribution, and ectosymbiotic associations of these genera, setting the stage for a comprehensive species description and in-depth analysis of host relationships in future studies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cnidaria: Diversity, Ecology, and Evolution)

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15 pages, 24412 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Molecular Cartography of a Hawaiian Coral Assemblage

by Joseph W. P. Nakoa III, John H. R. Burns, Kanoelani Steward, Lauren M. Kapono and Clifford A. Kapono

Diversity 2023, 15(10), 1061; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15101061 - 3 Oct 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2694

Abstract

Coral reefs are declining due to multiple factors including overfishing, anthropogenic pollution, and ocean acidification. Diseases affecting corals have increased in recent decades, yet the etiology of nearly all diseases remains poorly understood. Here, we investigated three-dimensionally mapped molecules and microbes from healthy [...] Read more.

Coral reefs are declining due to multiple factors including overfishing, anthropogenic pollution, and ocean acidification. Diseases affecting corals have increased in recent decades, yet the etiology of nearly all diseases remains poorly understood. Here, we investigated three-dimensionally mapped molecules and microbes from healthy and diseased coral tissue sampled across the landscape of a coral assemblage at the Wai‘ōpae tide pools, Southeast Hawai‘i Island. A 3D molecular cartographic platform was used in combination with molecular networking tools to characterize healthy coral tissue and tissue affected by the disease growth anomaly (GA). Tissues of healthy Montipora flabellata and Montipora capitata exhibited higher microbial diversity compared to Porites lobata and GA-affected M. capitata corals. Increases in relative abundance of Ulvophyceae and sterols were observed in GA lesions, while chlorophyll decreased. Conversely, healthy coral tissues were characterized by the presence of cyanobacteria in the order of Stramenopiles, in addition to higher relative chlorophyll levels. Leveraging innovative molecular cartography provides new insight into molecular characteristics of coral colonies, and helps to better understand how diseases affect the molecular landscape of corals. Full article

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35 pages, 6266 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

A Hotspot of Subterranean Biodiversity on the Brink: Mo So Cave and the Hon Chong Karst of Vietnam

by Louis Deharveng, Cong Kiet Le, Anne Bedos, Mark L. I. Judson, Cong Man Le, Marko Lukić, Hong Truong Luu, Ngoc Sam Ly, Tran Quoc Trung Nguyen, Quang Tam Truong and Jaap Vermeulen

Diversity 2023, 15(10), 1058; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15101058 - 2 Oct 2023

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 6843

Abstract

The southern part of the Mekong Delta Limestones of Vietnam (MDL-HC or Hon Chong karst) comprises numerous small limestone hills. It is a hotspot of biodiversity for soil and cave invertebrates. Here, we synthesize the results of biological surveys carried out in Hang [...] Read more.

The southern part of the Mekong Delta Limestones of Vietnam (MDL-HC or Hon Chong karst) comprises numerous small limestone hills. It is a hotspot of biodiversity for soil and cave invertebrates. Here, we synthesize the results of biological surveys carried out in Hang Mo So, the richest MDL-HC cave for troglobionts, and in surrounding karsts. Methodologies for the ecological characterization of species are discussed, with emphasis on parallel sampling (external soil plus cave). Hang Mo So has 27 troglobionts, including many still undescribed. An additional 40 cave-obligate species are known from other caves of MDL-HC. Among them, several are expected to be found in Hang Mo So. Most troglobionts of MDL-HC are endemic. Several relictual taxa without close relatives in Southeast Asia occur in Hang Mo So and in MDL-HC, reflecting an ancient origin of the fauna. The reasons for this richness are uncertain, but the cause of its current destruction—quarrying—is all too evident. Most of the original 4 km² of the MDL-HC karst has been destroyed or soon will be, ultimately leaving only 1.6 km² unquarried. Endemic species linked to karst habitats are, therefore, under clear threat of extinction. The Hon Chong karst (MDL-HC) was listed among the ten most endangered karsts on the planet 25 years ago. Today it would probably top the list. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hotspots of Subterranean Biodiversity—2nd Volume)

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