Diversity

Research

13 pages, 10643 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Mitochondrial Features Across Characiformes (Teleostei: Ostariophysi) and Mitogenomic Architecture of Nematobrycon lacortei

by Hongjian Chen, Wei Xu, Bing Liu and Lingna Li

Diversity 2025, 17(6), 373; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17060373 - 23 May 2025

Abstract

Characiformes, a highly diverse group, are of great economic and ecological significance; however, their complex morphological convergence and adaptive radiation pose challenges to taxonomy, and phylogenetic controversies remain. In this study, the complete mitochondrial genome (mitogenome) of Nematobrycon lacortei was sequenced and a [...] Read more.

Characiformes, a highly diverse group, are of great economic and ecological significance; however, their complex morphological convergence and adaptive radiation pose challenges to taxonomy, and phylogenetic controversies remain. In this study, the complete mitochondrial genome (mitogenome) of Nematobrycon lacortei was sequenced and a comparative analysis within 51 Characiformes mitogenomes was conducted. The mitogenome of N. lacortei was a 17,585 bp circular DNA molecule, with standard organization, and showed an A/T bias with an A + T content of 62.29%. The nucleotide composition analysis of Characiformes mitogenomes revealed consistency, and the A + T content exceeded the G + C content throughout. Analyses of protein-coding genes (PCGs) revealed that purifying the selection dominates their evolution, with ND1 and ND6 having the lowest Ka/Ks values, while ND3 has the highest. Phylogenetic analyses were conducted on 51 mitogenomes from 15 families of Characiformes. The BI and ML trees supported the classification of most families but showed that Curimatopsis evelynae in Curimatidae did not cluster with its family members; in addition, relationships within Characidae were unstable. These findings contribute to the research on the evolution of Characiformes and highlight the need for more mitogenome data from diverse species in order to further clarify their phylogenetic relationships and evolutionary history. Full article

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

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14 pages, 2927 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Genetic Diversity and Population Structure of Alpacas (Vicugna pacos) in Peru: A Microsatellite Analysis

by Wilber Peralta, Agustin Nestares, Julyssa Gamarra, Miler Rojas, Juan Sullca and Richard Estrada

Diversity 2025, 17(5), 353; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17050353 - 16 May 2025

Viewed by 150

Abstract

This study evaluated the genetic diversity and population structure of Vicugna pacos (Huacaya alpacas) from two contrasting breeding contexts in Junín, Peru: the genetically managed herd of INIA’s Santa Ana Experimental Station (Suitucancha) and the community-based herd of Huayre, where natural, [...] Read more.

This study evaluated the genetic diversity and population structure of Vicugna pacos (Huacaya alpacas) from two contrasting breeding contexts in Junín, Peru: the genetically managed herd of INIA’s Santa Ana Experimental Station (Suitucancha) and the community-based herd of Huayre, where natural, unregulated mating practices are common. An external reference population from Quimsachata was also included. Genetic diversity parameters revealed high allelic richness and heterozygosity within all populations. Analyses of molecular variance (AMOVA), principal coordinate analysis (PCoA), Bayesian clustering, and phylogenetic reconstruction indicated moderate genetic differentiation between Suitucancha and Huayre, likely influenced by the use of selected males under controlled mating in Suitucancha versus natural, unregulated group mating in Huayre, which facilitates broader gene flow. The Quimsachata group displayed distinct genetic characteristics, likely reflecting limited gene flow due to its role as a germplasm conservation nucleus under closed reproductive management. These results reflect how differences in reproductive management may influence population structure in alpacas. Full article

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

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15 pages, 2796 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Soil Fauna-Indicators of Ungrazed Versus Grazed Grassland Ecosystems in Romania

by Minodora Manu, Raluca Ioana Băncilă and Marilena Onete

Diversity 2025, 17(5), 323; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17050323 - 29 Apr 2025

Viewed by 288

Abstract

In order to establish the influence of grazing regime on soil fauna communities, a complex study was conducted on eight mountain grasslands in Romania. The grassland sites were grouped by management regime: ungrazed or intensely grazed by sheep. Eight environmental factors were measured, [...] Read more.

In order to establish the influence of grazing regime on soil fauna communities, a complex study was conducted on eight mountain grasslands in Romania. The grassland sites were grouped by management regime: ungrazed or intensely grazed by sheep. Eight environmental factors were measured, both abiotic (soil acidity, soil resistance at penetration, soil and air humidity, soil and air temperature, and soil electrical conductivity) and biotic (vegetation coverage). There was significant variability in the average values of these factors at the microhabitat level (between all grasslands investigated). Analysis of eighty soil samples allowed for the identification of sixteen soil fauna taxa, which constituted the database for statistical processing. The community status of these soil invertebrate faunas was mainly evaluated using three parameters: numerical abundance, taxa richness, and Shannon–Wiener index of diversity. Collembola and Oribatida were the most dominant taxa. The numerical abundance and taxa diversity recorded high values in ungrazed grasslands. Soil resistance at penetration, vegetation coverage, and soil pH influenced the numerical abundance of soil fauna communities significantly. Grassland management influenced the composition of soil invertebrates in both regimes, with Chilopoda, Staphylinidae, Diplopoda, and Enchytraeidae clearly preferring ungrazed ecosystems, whilst Mesostigmata was much commoner in grazed sites. The study revealed that correlations between the species composition of soil communities and environmental parameters under differing management regimes (ungrazed vs. grazed), demonstrated that these invertebrates can be used as bioindicators in such terrestrial ecosystems. Full article

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

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18 pages, 5527 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Phylogeographic Analyses of the Viviparous Multiocellated Racerunner (Eremias multiocellata) in the Tarim Basin of China

by Junzhe Zhang, Haifan Yan, Tianying Chen, Wenhan Chen, Yulu Chen, Wen Zhong, Yue Qi, Wei Zhao and You Li

Diversity 2025, 17(5), 313; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17050313 - 25 Apr 2025

Viewed by 179

Abstract

The genealogical and geographical distribution of a species offers insights into its evolutionary narrative, encompassing its population dispersion, migration, adaptation, and speciation—key aspects for comprehending the genesis and sustenance of biodiversity. Using three mitochondrial genes on 115 samples, this study examined the phylogeographic [...] Read more.

The genealogical and geographical distribution of a species offers insights into its evolutionary narrative, encompassing its population dispersion, migration, adaptation, and speciation—key aspects for comprehending the genesis and sustenance of biodiversity. Using three mitochondrial genes on 115 samples, this study examined the phylogeographic structure, phylogenetic divergence, and environmental evolution of the viviparous multiocellated racerunner (Eremias multiocellata) in the Tarim Basin of China. Our analyses revealed a significant phylogenetic structure and suggested that the distributed populations began to diverge approximately 6.63 million years ago (Ma), influenced by the uplift of surrounding mountain ranges and glacial cycles, and further differentiated into distinct groups around 3.72 Ma–1.50 Ma, exhibiting genetic distinctions. These results supplement the foundational genetic data to the Tarim Basin and provide insights on how historical geological events affect the species distribution and genetic differentiation and species formation in this region. Full article

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

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12 pages, 1731 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mixed Mating System, Dispersal Limitation Shape, and Spatial Genetic Structure of Tamarix chinensis on Isolated Wudi Seashell Island

by Binghuang Zhang, Xiao Lan, Shengchang Yang and Ma Hui

Diversity 2025, 17(4), 285; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17040285 - 18 Apr 2025

Viewed by 249

Abstract

Tamarix chinensis Lour. is a halophytic shrub native to coastal China, commonly used in afforestation and ecological restoration due to its high tolerance to salinity and drought. To understand how this species maintains genetic variation and adapts to extreme environments, we examined the [...] Read more.

Tamarix chinensis Lour. is a halophytic shrub native to coastal China, commonly used in afforestation and ecological restoration due to its high tolerance to salinity and drought. To understand how this species maintains genetic variation and adapts to extreme environments, we examined the genetic diversity, mating system, and spatial genetic structure of a natural T. chinensis population on the geographically isolated and environmentally harsh Wudi Seashell Island. Using both SSR and ISSR markers, we observed high levels of genetic diversity despite the small population size and spatial fragmentation. SSR markers revealed an average of 11.75 alleles per locus, with an expected heterozygosity (He) of 0.754 and an observed heterozygosity (Ho) of 0.702. ISSR markers showed a polymorphic locus rate of 97.87%, with a mean He of 0.402. Parentage analysis revealed relatively long seed and pollen dispersal distances, with most dispersal occurring within 150 m and seeds and pollens occasionally reaching 948 m and 447 m, respectively. The species exhibited a mixed mating system, with a multilocus outcrossing rate of 0.554, contributing to gene flow and reducing inbreeding. A fine-scale spatial genetic structure was detected within 75 m, consistent across both SSR and ISSR markers, suggesting limited local gene dispersal. These findings provide new insights into the adaptive strategies of T. chinensis in marginal habitats and offer valuable guidance for conservation and restoration efforts in vulnerable coastal ecosystems. Full article

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

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22 pages, 4805 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Technical, Socio-Economic, and Environmental Changes on the Richness of Fruit Germplasm in Northern Sicily, Italy

by Dario Autovino and Tommaso La Mantia

Diversity 2025, 17(4), 273; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17040273 - 12 Apr 2025

Viewed by 418

Abstract

This study examines the changes that have occurred in the specific and varietal composition of fruit trees in one of the world’s most famous agricultural areas, the Conca d’Oro, a plain surrounding Palermo (Sicily, Italy). Changes in specific and varietal composition over the [...] Read more.

This study examines the changes that have occurred in the specific and varietal composition of fruit trees in one of the world’s most famous agricultural areas, the Conca d’Oro, a plain surrounding Palermo (Sicily, Italy). Changes in specific and varietal composition over the centuries are the result of endogenous changes to the orchards (e.g., the spread of cultivation techniques such as irrigation or the introduction of new species and varieties), social and economic changes (e.g., the development of citrus farming in response to the demand from citrus markets). The disappearance of traditional germplasm is a complex phenomenon due to the changes occurring since the middle of the last century in the agricultural system. The more recent changes occur, unfortunately, mainly due to the expansion of the city, which has erased many orchards and vegetable gardens, but also due to the loss of the emotional, economic, and social value of orchards. The protection of this germplasm becomes indispensable in a period of climate change that, among other things, reduces the effectiveness of agrochemicals. Some germplasm protection and product enhancement initiatives are currently in place in this area and can be applied in other fruit-growing areas as well. Full article

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

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21 pages, 5267 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Diversity and Composition of Soil Microbes Associated with Barringtonia racemosa Communities

by Yutong Lin, Xiaohui Tan, Ju Hu, Yanping Yu, Xiuling Yang, Lin Li, Yanfang Tan, Zeting Dong, Yilan Wei and Fang Liang

Diversity 2025, 17(4), 249; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17040249 - 30 Mar 2025

Viewed by 354

Abstract

Understanding soil microbial community assembly in endangered mangrove ecosystems is crucial for ecological conservation. This study investigated the diversity and drivers of soil microbiomes across Barringtonia racemosa communities (pure: T1; associated: T2, T3) in China’s Leizhou Peninsula, using SMRT sequencing and phospholipid fatty [...] Read more.

Understanding soil microbial community assembly in endangered mangrove ecosystems is crucial for ecological conservation. This study investigated the diversity and drivers of soil microbiomes across Barringtonia racemosa communities (pure: T1; associated: T2, T3) in China’s Leizhou Peninsula, using SMRT sequencing and phospholipid fatty acid analysis. The results reveal that pure B. racemosa communities (T1) harbored the highest microbial diversity (Chao1: 2980 bacteria, 14,378 fungal OTUs), with Pseudomonadota (37.6%) and Ascomycota (52.6%) as dominant phyla. Fungal communities exhibited 3.2-fold higher β-diversity variability than bacteria across communities (Bray–Curtis; p < 0.01). Redundancy analysis identified soil organic carbon (SOC), available nitrogen (SAN), and leaf manganese as primary drivers, collectively explaining 72.4% of microbial variation (p = 0.003). Notably, pure communities showed an elevated SOC (74.3 mg/kg) and fungal: bacterial ratio (0.19 vs. 0.13–0.14 in associated communities), indicating fungal dominance in carbon-rich sediments. Conversely, rice field controls displayed distinct SAP/SAK patterns reflecting agricultural impacts. These findings demonstrate that the B. racemosa community structure differentially regulates fungal assemblages more strongly than bacterial communities, providing critical insights for mangrove restoration through microbial-informed management. Full article

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

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20 pages, 2719 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Tracking Biosecurity Through the Diversity and Network Structure of International Trade

by Kong-Wah Sing, Rachel Peden and Damien Hicks

Diversity 2025, 17(3), 213; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17030213 - 14 Mar 2025

Viewed by 463

Abstract

Effective and evidence-based biosecurity measures are essential to prevent trade disruption, protect industries and contain the chains of biological invasions. There are increasing demands for analysts to use quantitative data to monitor this system, with the goals of early detection and forecasting. However, [...] Read more.

Effective and evidence-based biosecurity measures are essential to prevent trade disruption, protect industries and contain the chains of biological invasions. There are increasing demands for analysts to use quantitative data to monitor this system, with the goals of early detection and forecasting. However, standard approaches often struggle with the incomplete and complex nature of trade data, which tends to include non-normality, temporal and spatial autocorrelation, and limited observations. In this study, a time series of open access import data spanning three years was used to generate measures of diversity indices and network topology, alongside detailed analyses of import pathways and interception records of harmful organisms, revealing their dynamic patterns across different trade routes. Patterns of annual seasonality were evident across the board. A combination of Inverse Simpson’s diversity and network Linkage density optimised the monitoring power of import data for interceptions of harmful taxa. Traditional correlations to total number of interceptions remained intractable, but machine learning tools demonstrated predictive power to forecast these temporal patterns. Combined, these methods provide a novel approach for biosecurity monitoring in plant and animal trade across international borders. These indicators complement more conventional economic metrics, giving actionable insights into trade complexity and biosecurity status. Full article

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

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12 pages, 1738 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A New Species of Myxobolus (Cnidaria: Myxosporea: Myxobolidae) from the Mesenteries of Blackspotted Topminnow, Fundulus olivaceus (Cyprinodontiformes: Fundulidae), from the Upper Ouachita River Drainage, Arkansas, USA

by Chris T. McAllister, Eric M. Leis, Donald G. Cloutman, Alvin C. Camus, Thomas J. Fayton, Logan R. S. Robison, George Burrows, Michael R. Rodriguez and Henry W. Robison

Diversity 2025, 17(3), 192; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17030192 - 7 Mar 2025

Viewed by 496

Abstract

Between March and August 2024, three species of Fundulus topminnows, including two northern studfish, Fundulus catenatus, six blackspotted topminnows, Fundulus olivaceus, and eleven blackstriped topminnows, Fundulus notatus, were collected from various Ouachita River drainage watersheds in Arkansas, USA. They were [...] Read more.

Between March and August 2024, three species of Fundulus topminnows, including two northern studfish, Fundulus catenatus, six blackspotted topminnows, Fundulus olivaceus, and eleven blackstriped topminnows, Fundulus notatus, were collected from various Ouachita River drainage watersheds in Arkansas, USA. They were examined for myxozoans by having their gill, gallbladder, fins, integument, mesenteries, musculature, and other major organs examined. The mesenteries of two (33%) F. olivaceus from Town Creek (Fulton County, Arkansas, USA) were infected with a new myxozoan, Myxobolus storeri sp. n. Molecular data consisted of a 1726 base pair sequence of the partial small subunit ribosomal RNA gene for M. storeri sp. n. Histologically, plasmodia were limited to mesenteric adipose and hepatic parenchyma, causing slight compression of neighboring tissue but producing no associated inflammatory response in the examined histosections. This is the first time a myxozoan has been described from F. olivaceus and is the seventh species recorded from any member of the fish family Fundulidae. Full article

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

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20 pages, 3774 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Forest and Population Characteristics of Vulnerable Relict Tsuga forrestii Downie in China

by Peng-Bin Han, Shu-Gang Lu and Cindy Q. Tang

Diversity 2025, 17(3), 148; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17030148 - 22 Feb 2025

Viewed by 455

Abstract

Tsuga forrestii Downie, a vulnerable species endemic to China, is confined to small, fragmented habitats in the northwestern Yunnan and southwestern Sichuan Provinces, China. Understanding the current status of its communities and populations is crucial for protecting existing natural forest resources. We surveyed [...] Read more.

Tsuga forrestii Downie, a vulnerable species endemic to China, is confined to small, fragmented habitats in the northwestern Yunnan and southwestern Sichuan Provinces, China. Understanding the current status of its communities and populations is crucial for protecting existing natural forest resources. We surveyed 33 plots in Yunnan and Sichuan, where T. forrestii is the primary dominant species. We analyzed their community characteristics including vertical stratification, species diversity, and population structure, and classified them into four distinct forest types: (1) Tsuga forrestii evergreen coniferous forest; (2) Tsuga forrestii-Lithocarpus variolosus evergreen coniferous and broad-leaved mixed forest; (3) Tsuga forrestii-Quercus guyayifolia evergreen coniferous and broad-leaved mixed forest; (4) Tsuga forrestii-Abies forrestii evergreen coniferous forest. These forests exhibited a multilayered vertical structure, and T. forrestii as a dominant species appeared in the arborous and shrub layers, and the associated taxa were mainly species of Abies, Lithocarpus, Quercus, Castanopsis, and Rhododendron. No significant differences in species richness or diversity indices or phylogenetic relatedness metrics among the forest types were found. The maximum age of the remaining wild specimens was 344 years, with individuals under 20 years or over 170 years old being rare. The average growth rate of T. forrestii, based on ring width, fluctuated over time, and the range of mean values was 0.92 to 3.31 mm/year. Established seedlings/saplings were rare and mainly found in unstable microhabitats. These findings highlight the poor regeneration and a decline in its populations. Improving its regeneration status is crucial to maintaining its population status. Full article

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

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16 pages, 4065 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Genetic Diversity and Differentiation in Plathymenia reticulata Benth.: A Comparative Study of Forest and Cocoa Agroforest Systems in the Atlantic Forest Domain

by Zubaria Waqar, Ane Karoline Campos Fernandes, Taise Almeida Conceição and Fernanda Amato Gaiotto

Diversity 2025, 17(2), 129; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17020129 - 13 Feb 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 882

Abstract

Tropical forests, housing about two-thirds of Earth’s terrestrial biodiversity, face significant deforestation and fragmentation, leading to the loss of over half their area. Conservation and restoration efforts are crucial, especially for regions like the Brazilian Atlantic Forest, which suffers with a reduction in [...] Read more.

Tropical forests, housing about two-thirds of Earth’s terrestrial biodiversity, face significant deforestation and fragmentation, leading to the loss of over half their area. Conservation and restoration efforts are crucial, especially for regions like the Brazilian Atlantic Forest, which suffers with a reduction in biomass and species diversity. The Brazilian agroforest system, typical from the region of Southern Bahia called “cabruca”, are helping to mitigate these effects by combining cocoa cultivation with forest management, enhancing both socio-economic and environmental benefits. In a study focusing on Plathymenia reticulata, a tree species native to the Atlantic Forest, we evaluated the effectiveness of the cabruca agroforest system versus the natural forest for maintaining genetic diversity and landscape connectivity. Results showed that cabruca systems, while managed, exhibit a level of genetic diversity compared to natural forests. However, forest populations remain critical for their genetic reservoirs and adaptability. The cabrucas agroforest system also showed higher inbreeding levels, emphasizing the need for effective management to reduce inbreeding risks. Full article

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

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15 pages, 17059 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Halomonas kashgarensis sp. nov., a Novel Species Isolated from the Rhizosphere Soil of Phragmites australis (Cav.) Trin. ex Steud in Kashgar County, Xinjiang, China

by Zhen-Pu Liang, Yi Wang, Xiao-Yue Chen, Rui Wang, Yan Xu, Jin-Ping Dai, Deepali Singh and Xiao-Xia Zhang

Diversity 2025, 17(2), 98; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17020098 - 29 Jan 2025

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Abstract

A novel Gram-negative, orange-colored, rod-shaped, oxidase and catalase-positive, non-spore-forming bacterium, designated as zp-37^T, was isolated from the rhizosphere soil of Phragmites australis (Cav.) Trin. ex Steud in Kashgar County, Xinjiang, China. The phylogenetic analysis, based on the 16S rRNA genes, revealed [...] Read more.

A novel Gram-negative, orange-colored, rod-shaped, oxidase and catalase-positive, non-spore-forming bacterium, designated as zp-37^T, was isolated from the rhizosphere soil of Phragmites australis (Cav.) Trin. ex Steud in Kashgar County, Xinjiang, China. The phylogenetic analysis, based on the 16S rRNA genes, revealed that strain zp-37^T belongs to the genus Halomonas. Growth of strain zp-37^T was observed at 10–43 °C, pH 6.0–11.0, and 0–20% NaCl (w/v). The principal fatty acids of strain zp-37^T were summed feature 8 (C_18:1ω7c and/or C_18:1ω6c, 55.67%) and summed feature 3 (C_16:1ω7c and/or C_16:1ω6c, 20.16%). The polar lipid profile contained diphosphatidylglycerol (DPG), phosphatidylglycerol (PG), phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), unidentified phospholipids (UPL 1–3), unidentified aminophospholipids (UAPL 1–2), and unidentified lipid (UL). Its main respiratory quinone was ubiquinone Q-9 (100%). The genome of strain zp-37^T was 3,489,967 bp in size, containing two plasmids with lengths of 18,112 bp and 4364 bp, respectively. The genomic DNA G+C content of strain zp-37^T was 59.3%. By the genome annotation, various genes related to the function of saline-alkaline stress tolerance and plant growth promotion were predicted. The average nucleotide identity (ANI) and digital DNA–DNA hybridization (dDDH) values between strain zp-37^T and its five closely related strains were 72.64–75.59% and 19.70–20.40%, respectively, which were lower than the threshold for species delineation (ANI: 95–96%, dDDH: 70%). Based on the phylogenetic, phenotypic, and chemotaxonomic analyses and genomic comparisons, strain zp-37^T was suggested to represent a novel species within the genus Halomonas, for which the name Halomonas kashgarensis sp. nov. is proposed. The strain type was designated zp-37^T (=CGMCC 1.62213^T = JCM 37305^T). Full article

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

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15 pages, 2148 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Richness, Similarity, and Conservation Status of the Herpetofauna of the Balsas Basin Biogeographic Province of Mexico

by Julio A. Lemos-Espinal and Geoffrey R. Smith

Diversity 2025, 17(1), 44; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17010044 - 10 Jan 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 809

Abstract

The Balsas Basin (BB) is a biogeographic province in south-central Mexico that straddles the Mexican Transition Zone and the Neotropical region. We provide a list of the amphibian and reptile species of the BB based on a detailed review and update of recent [...] Read more.

The Balsas Basin (BB) is a biogeographic province in south-central Mexico that straddles the Mexican Transition Zone and the Neotropical region. We provide a list of the amphibian and reptile species of the BB based on a detailed review and update of recent species lists of its constituent states. The BB is home to 51 native amphibian and 155 native reptile species, which represent 14.7% of the herpetofauna of Mexico. No amphibian and six reptile species are endemic to the BB. Six species of amphibians and seven of reptiles are categorized as being of conservation concern status (vulnerable, endangered, or critically endangered) on the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) Red List. The main threat these species face is habitat loss due to urbanization, agriculture, and pollution. The herpetofauna of the BB shows significant overlap with neighboring provinces. The composition of amphibian species in the BB is closest to that of the Pacific Lowlands, whereas the composition of reptile species is closest to the Sierra Madre del Sur and the Transvolcanic Belt. These findings suggest that while the BB supports significant amphibian and reptile diversity, its conservation importance may be limited due to the low levels of endemism and the relatively small proportion of species at risk. Full article

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

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15 pages, 6327 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Biodiversity of Non-Apis Bees (Hymenoptera: Apoidea) in the Potohar Region of Pakistan

by Sumera Aslam, Muhammad Naeem, Sabir Hussain, Maryam Riasat, Muhammad Ather Rafi, Ahmed Zia, Muhammad Khalid Rafique, Nawaz Haider Bashir and Huanhuan Chen

Diversity 2025, 17(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17010004 - 24 Dec 2024

Viewed by 1053

Abstract

Bees are essential for providing ecosystem services such as pollination to many crops worldwide. However, there is growing concern over the decline of bee populations, which threatens agricultural productivity. Despite the known importance of bees, including non-Apis bees, in crop pollination, their diversity [...] Read more.

Bees are essential for providing ecosystem services such as pollination to many crops worldwide. However, there is growing concern over the decline of bee populations, which threatens agricultural productivity. Despite the known importance of bees, including non-Apis bees, in crop pollination, their diversity and distribution remain understudied in the Potohar region of Pakistan. The current study addresses this gap by assessing the biodiversity of non-Apis bees across five districts of the Potohar region, Pakistan: Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Rawalpindi, and Islamabad. The objective was to evaluate the species richness, diversity, and evenness using various richness and diversity indices. A total of 2005 specimens, representing 27 species from 13 genera and five families (Apidae, Halictidae, Colletidae, Megachilidae, and Andrenidae), were collected over 24 surveys conducted between 2012 and 2015. Two richness indices, Shannon’s Species Richness Index and Margalef’s Richness Index, showed moderate to high species richness across localities, with values ranging from 2.378 to 4.186 and 1.508 to 2.711, respectively. Simpson’s Index and Simpson’s Reciprocal Index exhibited dominance and high diversity across sites, with values ranging from 0.094 to 0.880 and 4.446 to 11.315, respectively. Additionally, the Shannon–Wiener and Shannon Equitability indices indicated fairly even species distributions across localities. A correlation analysis revealed strong positive relationships between most indices, except for Simpson’s Reciprocal Index, which showed negative correlations with the other indices. These findings provide crucial insights into the biodiversity of non-Apis bees in the Potohar region and underscore the importance of maintaining diverse pollinator communities to support sustainable agriculture in the area. Full article

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

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Review

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18 pages, 1136 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Impact of Vegetation Changes in Savanna Ecosystems on Tick Populations in Wildlife: Implications for Ecosystem Management

by Tsireledzo Goodwill Makwarela, Nimmi Seoraj-Pillai and Tshifhiwa Constance Nangammbi

Diversity 2025, 17(5), 314; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17050314 - 26 Apr 2025

Viewed by 367

Abstract

Vegetation changes in savanna ecosystems are playing an increasingly important role in shaping tick populations and the spread of tick-borne diseases, with consequences for both wildlife and livestock health. This study examines how factors such as climate variability, land use, vegetation structures, and [...] Read more.

Vegetation changes in savanna ecosystems are playing an increasingly important role in shaping tick populations and the spread of tick-borne diseases, with consequences for both wildlife and livestock health. This study examines how factors such as climate variability, land use, vegetation structures, and host availability influence tick survival, distribution, and behavior. As grasslands degrade and woody plants become more dominant, ticks are finding more suitable habitats, often supported by microclimatic conditions that favor their development. At the same time, increased contact between domestic and wild animals is facilitating the transmission of pathogens. This review highlights how seasonal patterns, fire regimes, grazing pressure, and climate change are driving shifts in tick activity and expanding their geographical range. These changes increase the risk of disease for animals and humans alike. Addressing these challenges calls for integrated management strategies that include vegetation control, host population monitoring, and sustainable vector control methods. A holistic approach that connects ecological, animal, and human health perspectives is essential for effective disease prevention and long-term ecosystem management. Full article

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

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Other

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23 pages, 5018 KiB

Open AccessData Descriptor

Biology of Blattodea and Dermaptera in the Continental Biogeographical Region and Adjacent Areas of European Russia

by Victor V. Aleksanov, Alexander B. Ruchin, Nikolai V. Shulaev, Inessa O. Karmazina, Sergey V. Lukiyanov, Evgeniy A. Lobachev, Anna M. Nikolaeva and Mikhail N. Esin

Diversity 2025, 17(1), 66; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17010066 - 18 Jan 2025

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Abstract

(1) Background: Blattodea and Dermaptera in the temperate forest zone include a limited number of species, some of which are widely distributed and common. However, digital data on their biology remains insufficient. (2) Methods: The surveyed area extends from Kaluga Oblast to Tatarstan [...] Read more.

(1) Background: Blattodea and Dermaptera in the temperate forest zone include a limited number of species, some of which are widely distributed and common. However, digital data on their biology remains insufficient. (2) Methods: The surveyed area extends from Kaluga Oblast to Tatarstan and from Vladimir Oblast to Voronezh Oblast. Insects were sampled from 736 plots using various methods, including pitfall traps, beer traps, window traps, pan traps, and sweep nets. (3) Results: The dataset contains 2149 occurrences comprising 18,362 specimens belonging to 5 species of Blattodea and 4 species of Dermaptera. For most occurrences, we recorded the developmental stage (nymph or adult) and the sex (male or female for adults) of the specimens. (4) Conclusions: Three non-synanthropic species are widely distributed and common: Ectobius lapponicus, E. sylvestris, and Forficula auricularia. Ectobius sylvestris is characterized as a true forest species, while E. lapponicus inhabits both forest and grassland habitats. In contrast, F. auricularia is associated with gardens, urban habitats, and some meadows. Ectobius sylvestris exhibits a more pronounced sexual dimorphism concerning the effectiveness of different sampling methods compared to E. lapponicus. Seasonal dynamics of cockroaches and earwigs are described and discussed. Full article

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

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