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24 pages, 7882 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Phylogeny of Serpulidae (Annelida, Polychaeta) Inferred from Morphology and DNA Sequences, with a New Classification

by Elena Kupriyanova, Harry A. ten Hove and Greg W. Rouse

Diversity 2023, 15(3), 398; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15030398 - 10 Mar 2023

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 4200

Abstract

Serpulidae Rafinesque, 1815 is a speciose group of polychaetes that all inhabit calcareous tubes. The family was traditionally subdivided into Serpulinae, Filograninae, and Spirorbinae. Recent phylogenetic analyses have suggested that both Filograninae and Serpulinae are paraphyletic, though with limited sampling. Here we report [...] Read more.

Serpulidae Rafinesque, 1815 is a speciose group of polychaetes that all inhabit calcareous tubes. The family was traditionally subdivided into Serpulinae, Filograninae, and Spirorbinae. Recent phylogenetic analyses have suggested that both Filograninae and Serpulinae are paraphyletic, though with limited sampling. Here we report the first phylogenetic analysis of Serpulidae based on comprehensive sampling of genera (though excluding most spirorbin genera). We include a much-needed revision of serpulid taxonomy based on a phylogenetic hypothesis derived from both morphological and molecular data. We analysed 18S, 28S, histone H3 ribosomal nuclear DNA and cytochrome b (cytb) mitochondrial sequences, combined with morphological data. The proposed new classification includes the re-formulated Serpulinae (with tribes Serpulini and Ficopomatini), Spirorbinae, and Filograninae, with apomorphies highlighted for major taxa. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2022)

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32 pages, 8665 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of the Diversity, Distinctiveness and Conservation of Australia’s Central Queensland Coastal Rainforests Using DNA Barcoding

by Marion Howard, Hilary Pearl, William J. F. McDonald, Yoko Shimizu, Sanjeev Kumar Srivastava and Alison Shapcott

Diversity 2023, 15(3), 378; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15030378 - 6 Mar 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2324

Abstract

Globally threatened dry rainforests are poorly studied and conserved when compared to mesic rainforests. Investigations of dry rainforest communities within Australia are no exception. We assessed the community diversity, distinctiveness and level of conservation in Central Queensland coastal dry rainforest communities. Our three-marker [...] Read more.

Globally threatened dry rainforests are poorly studied and conserved when compared to mesic rainforests. Investigations of dry rainforest communities within Australia are no exception. We assessed the community diversity, distinctiveness and level of conservation in Central Queensland coastal dry rainforest communities. Our three-marker DNA barcode-based phylogeny, based on rainforest species from the Central Queensland Coast, was combined with the phylogeny from Southeast Queensland. The phylogenetic tree and Central Queensland Coast (CQC) community species lists were used to evaluate phylogenetic diversity (PD) estimates and species composition to pinpoint regions of significant rainforest biodiversity. We evaluated the patterns and relationships between rainforest communities of the biogeographical areas of Central Queensland Coast and Southeast Queensland, and within and between Subregions. Subsequently, we identified areas of the highest distinctiveness and diversity in phylogenetically even rainforest communities, consistent with refugia, and areas significantly more related than random, consistent with expansion into disturbed or harsher areas. We found clear patterns of phylogenetic clustering that suggest that selection pressures for moisture and geology were strong drivers of rainforest distribution and species diversity. These results showed that smaller dry rainforests in Central Queensland Coast (CQC) represented areas of regional plant migration but were inadequately protected. To sustain species diversity and distribution under intense selection pressures of moisture availability and substrate type throughout this dry and geologically complex region, the future conservation of smaller patches is essential. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2022)

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18 pages, 6253 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Irregularities in Meiotic Prophase I as Prerequisites for Reproductive Isolation in Experimental Hybrids Carrying Robertsonian Translocations

by Oxana Kolomiets, Irina Bakloushinskaya, Mark Pankin, Valentina Tambovtseva and Sergey Matveevsky

Diversity 2023, 15(3), 364; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15030364 - 2 Mar 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1872

Abstract

The basic causes of postzygotic isolation can be elucidated if gametogenesis is studied, which is a drastically different process in males and females. As a step toward clarifying this problem, we obtained an experimental inbred lineage of the eastern mole vole Ellobius tancrei [...] Read more.

The basic causes of postzygotic isolation can be elucidated if gametogenesis is studied, which is a drastically different process in males and females. As a step toward clarifying this problem, we obtained an experimental inbred lineage of the eastern mole vole Ellobius tancrei, whose founder animals were animals with identical diploid numbers 2n = 50 but with different Robertsonian translocations (Rb), namely 2Rb4.12 and 2Rb9.13 in the female and 2Rb.2.18 and 2Rb5.9 in the male. Here, we analyzed strictly inbred hybrids (F1, fertile and F10, sterile) using immunocytochemical methods in order to study spermatocytes during the meiotic prophase I. Previously, the presence of trivalents was assumed to have no significant effect on spermatogenesis and fertility in hybrids, but we demonstrated that spermatogenesis might be disturbed due to the cumulative effects of the retarded synapses of Rb bivalents as well as trivalents and their associations with XX sex bivalents. Alterations in the number of gametes due to the described processes led to a decrease in reproductive capacity up to sterility and can be examined as a mechanism for reproductive isolation, thus starting speciation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2022)

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17 pages, 2429 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Chitons from Deep-Water Mollusk-Rich Deposits in the Southwestern Adriatic Sea (Mollusca, Polyplacophora)

by Marco Taviani, Maurizio Sosso and Bruno Dell’Angelo

Diversity 2023, 15(3), 359; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15030359 - 2 Mar 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2399

Abstract

Sea-bottom sampling at bathyal depths off the Apulian margin (southwestern Adriatic Sea) recovered shelly biogenic sediments rich in mollusk remains. Noteworthy is the occurrence in such taphocoenoses of loose chiton valves, rarely reported in these environments. We identified four species of Polyplacophora, Leptochiton [...] Read more.

Sea-bottom sampling at bathyal depths off the Apulian margin (southwestern Adriatic Sea) recovered shelly biogenic sediments rich in mollusk remains. Noteworthy is the occurrence in such taphocoenoses of loose chiton valves, rarely reported in these environments. We identified four species of Polyplacophora, Leptochiton asellus (Gmelin, 1791), Belknapchiton alveolus (M. Sars MS, Lovén, 1846), Hanleya hanleyi (Bean in Thorpe, 1844), and the new species Leptochiton antondohrni. L. asellus (Gmelin, 1791) and B. alveolus are primarily of North Atlantic (boreo-celtic) affinity and thus considered to belong to last Pleistocene glacial assemblages, whose presence in the study area has long been ascertained. The same could be true for the valves of H. hanleyi and, possibly, Leptochiton antondohrni n. sp. Finally, we updated the list of mollusks found thus far in the deep-sea taphocoenoses of this area, including new records of North Atlantic-type taxa considered at present extinct in the Mediterranean basin. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2022)

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17 pages, 1627 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

How Epiphytic Are Filmy Ferns? A Semi-Quantitative Approach

by Gerhard Zotz and Helena J. R. Einzmann

Diversity 2023, 15(2), 270; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15020270 - 13 Feb 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3917

Abstract

Similar to plants in many other families, members of the Hymenophyllaceae use numerous substrates for growth, e.g., soil, rocks or tree bark. However, substrate preference does not only differ among species but can also vary among members of the same species. There have [...] Read more.

Similar to plants in many other families, members of the Hymenophyllaceae use numerous substrates for growth, e.g., soil, rocks or tree bark. However, substrate preference does not only differ among species but can also vary among members of the same species. There have been several attempts in the past to appropriately capture this variation, but none proved feasible or was replicated in any subsequent work. In our approach, we use textual information from numerous sources like checklists, floras and species descriptions to come up with a quantitative index of the preference of 450 species of filmy ferns (=c. 75% of all species of the family) for epiphytic, lithophytic or terrestrial growth. We show that the majority of species have clear habitat preferences, while strict habitat specificity is rather uncommon. Our compilation will be an important input for future ecological and phylogenetic studies in this family, but the presented approach is of much more general interest: it is immediately applicable to other taxonomic groups and should eventually allow us to replace the current approach of assigning species to distinct categories (epiphyte, lithophyte or terrestrial) by one that finally reflects biological variability more appropriately. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2022)

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26 pages, 12402 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Study in Scarlet: Integrative Taxonomy of the Spider Genus Loureedia (Araneae: Eresidae)

by Tamás Szűts, Krisztián Szabó, Alireza Zamani, Martin Forman, Jeremy Miller, Pierre Oger, Magali Fabregat, Gábor Kovács and János Gál

Diversity 2023, 15(2), 238; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15020238 - 8 Feb 2023

Viewed by 4136

Abstract

The eresid spider genus Loureedia (Miller et al., 2012) was described a decade ago, despite its type species being described in the mid-19th century, which illuminates the difficulties in obtaining specimens. The genus was initially described as monotypic. Ever since, four other species [...] Read more.

The eresid spider genus Loureedia (Miller et al., 2012) was described a decade ago, despite its type species being described in the mid-19th century, which illuminates the difficulties in obtaining specimens. The genus was initially described as monotypic. Ever since, four other species have been assigned to Loureedia, including three newly discovered ones. Primarily due to the extravagant appearance of the males, stories about the discovery of species of Loureedia have been the subject of relatively wide media coverage over the years, leading to numerous new populations and putative undescribed species being documented by naturalists and citizen scientists. These species, although bearing distinct differences in their coloration patterns, typically vary only slightly in the structure of their copulatory organs, the primary traits used in spider systematics. This highlights an important taxonomic problem: while it is easy to diagnose the genus or recognize the species that belong to it, it is challenging to differentiate the species from one another, particularly when using only a single line of evidence. In this paper, we have tackled this issue using an integrative approach, i.e., a combination of molecular markers (the mitochondrial COI) and traditional morphological characters. The effects of different observational angles on the perceived shape of the conductor are discussed. Except for one species, we obtained DNA data of all members of the genus. Based on these data, the first phylogeny for Loureedia is presented, and two North African species, Loureedia maroccana (Gál et al., 2017) and Loureedia jerbae (El-Hennawy, 2005), are revalidated from synonymy. The distribution records of all described species are mapped. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2022)

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53 pages, 13639 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Basal Anseriformes from the Early Paleogene of North America and Europe

by Peter Houde, Meig Dickson and Dakota Camarena

Diversity 2023, 15(2), 233; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15020233 - 7 Feb 2023

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 7955

Abstract

We describe nearly complete skeletons of basal Anseriformes from the Latest Paleocene to the early Eocene of North America and Europe. Collectively, these birds appear to be representative of anseriforms near the divergence of Anhimae and Anseres, but their exact positions relative to [...] Read more.

We describe nearly complete skeletons of basal Anseriformes from the Latest Paleocene to the early Eocene of North America and Europe. Collectively, these birds appear to be representative of anseriforms near the divergence of Anhimae and Anseres, but their exact positions relative to these clades remains uncertain. A new family, Anachronornithidae nov. fam., is erected on the basis of one of these, Anachronornis anhimops nov. gen., nov. gen. et sp., to which the others cannot be confidently assigned. The new fossils augment a growing collection of early Pan-Anseriformes, which in their diversity do not paint an unambiguous picture of phylogeny or character state evolution on the path to or within crown-Anseriformes. Anachronornis nov. gen. is similar in some aspects of both cranial and postcranial anatomy to other well-represented early Paleogene Anseriformes and members of Anseres, such as Presbyornis Wetmore, 1926. However, it exhibits a more landfowl-like bill, like that of Anhimae and unlike the spatulate bill of Anseres. Additional specimens of similar basal Anseriformes of uncertain affinities from the early Eocene of North America and Europe further complicate interpretation of character state polarity due to the mosaicism of primitive and derived characters they exhibit. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2022)

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18 pages, 3365 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Taxonomic Revision of Tribe Aleurocanthini Takahashi 1954 stat. rev. Using Consortium Gene Analysis (Mito-Nuclear-Primary Endosymbiont) with the First Evidence for Mitochondrial Recombination in Whitefly (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae)

by Eko Andrianto and Atsushi Kasai

Diversity 2023, 15(1), 80; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15010080 - 6 Jan 2023

Viewed by 2442

Abstract

The discovery of the Aleurocanthus cf. Aleurocanthus spiniferus (Tea spiny whitefly spiniferus morphotype; previously found in Tokyo) for the first time in Shizuoka Prefecture raised the possibility that this species had invaded Honshu Island, Japan. Unlike the allied species, Aleurocanthus spiniferus and A. [...] Read more.

The discovery of the Aleurocanthus cf. Aleurocanthus spiniferus (Tea spiny whitefly spiniferus morphotype; previously found in Tokyo) for the first time in Shizuoka Prefecture raised the possibility that this species had invaded Honshu Island, Japan. Unlike the allied species, Aleurocanthus spiniferus and A. camelliae, which have been intercepted from China to Japan, the origin of the current species remains unclear. Despite the status of this species as a minor pest on the ornamental plant, Eurya japonica, the cryptic diversity among the black spiny whitefly is fascinating to be elucidated, specifically how the primary endosymbiont of whiteflies, Portiera aleyrodidarum, coevolved and contributed to the classification of whiteflies. The current study examines the taxonomic status of five species of whiteflies, i.e., A. spiniferus (Quaintance), Aleurocanthus aff. A. camelliae, Aleurocanthus cf. A. spiniferus, A. camelliae Kanmiya and Kasai, Aleurotrachelus camelliae Kuwana, and A. ishigakiensis Takahashi. Using consortium molecular typing targeting mitochondrial DNA (COI and 16S of mitoribosome), the nuclear gene (ITS1), and the ribosomal gene of Portiera, the phylogenetic clustering analysis has been conducted and revealed that the genus Aleurotrachelus sensu lato was clustered together with Aleurocanthini Takahashi, 1954 stat. rev. and reinstated Crenidorsum ishigakiensis comb. nov. due to crescent-shaped scallops being clearly defined. The current study also unveiled several putative species in the A. spiniferus species complex, molecularly. In addition, the recombination event was not detected in Portiera but has been detected in the mtCOI genes of the A. spiniferus cryptic species and the A. woglumi sequences deposited in the NCBI database. The mitochondrial recombination gives an insight into the speciation process among this species complex. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2022)

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11 pages, 994 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Itching for an Answer: Gall-Forming Biological Control Agent Contains an Itch Mite Species Found at Localities Known for Periodic ‘Bite Outbreaks’

by Ruan Veldtman, Eddie Ueckermann and Kayla Liebenberg

Diversity 2023, 15(1), 73; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15010073 - 6 Jan 2023

Viewed by 2267

Abstract

Biological control is an attractive option for controlling invasive plant species that are difficult to manage otherwise. However, the release of a non-native species as a biological control agent carries risks. The most obvious risk relates to impacts on plant species other than [...] Read more.

Biological control is an attractive option for controlling invasive plant species that are difficult to manage otherwise. However, the release of a non-native species as a biological control agent carries risks. The most obvious risk relates to impacts on plant species other than the plant species targeted for control. There are, however, also other risks. We report on a potential unintended impact of Dasineura dielsi, a gall-forming biological control agent that was released against Acacia cyclops in South Africa in 2003. We confirmed that the galls formed by D. dielsi on A. cyclops harbor mites in the genus Pyemotes (P. cf. ventricosus) within their gall structures, which are parasites of various insect species, but are also known to cause dermatitis in humans. Sporadic biting incidences have been reported in at least two locations in South Africa. The implications are that manual clearing of A. cyclops may expose humans to itch mites and to risks of bites. Gall-forming insects and fungi are known to create niches for herbivores and other gall-associated fauna. Although every possible food web interaction cannot be predicted, enough evidence exists to require that agent screening to include non-target risks other than those pertaining to non-host plants. Testing only whether agents are compromised by interactions with non-target plant species is not sufficient during agent evaluation. If such associations are known from the native range and therefore can form in the introduced range, then any known risk to health and socio-economic activities should be disclosed. We argue for the general development of objective assessment of such risks compared with the benefits potentially accruing from successful biological control of the target plant. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2022)

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9 pages, 900 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Museum-Based Research on the Lice (Insecta: Phthiraptera) Infestations of Hummingbirds (Aves: Trochilidae)—Prevalence, Genus Richness and Parasite Associations

by Yoshika Oniki-Willis, Edwin O. Willis, Leonardo E. Lopes and Lajos Rózsa

Diversity 2023, 15(1), 54; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15010054 - 3 Jan 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2217

Abstract

We documented the presence/absence of the eggs of Trochiloecetes, Trochiliphagus, and Leremenopon lice on over 50,000 hummingbird specimens (representing 348 species plus 247 additional subspecies) in four museums in the USA. (i) We provide sample estimates of infestation prevalence. (ii) Sample [...] Read more.

We documented the presence/absence of the eggs of Trochiloecetes, Trochiliphagus, and Leremenopon lice on over 50,000 hummingbird specimens (representing 348 species plus 247 additional subspecies) in four museums in the USA. (i) We provide sample estimates of infestation prevalence. (ii) Sample estimates of parasite genus richness increased with increasing host sample size. (iii) Host body mass did not correlate with parasite genus richness, even when controlled for sample size effects. (iv) The prevalence of Trochiliphagus and Trochiloecetes infestations did not correlate with host body mass, while the prevalence of Leremenopon exhibited a marginally significant positive correlation with host body mass. (v) The prevalence of Trochiliphagus and Leremenopon infestations correlated strongly and positively across host taxa (i.e., species or subspecies). (vi) The co-occurrence of Trochiliphagus and Trochiloecetes within the few largest host samples—i.e., within particular host taxa—was significantly more frequent than expected by chance. This latter association might indicate a true ecological relationship or, alternatively, might have emerged as an artifact of our sampling method. (vii) We found no relationship between host sexual size dimorphism and the prevalence of any of the three louse genera, contrary to the interspecific prediction of the Hamilton–Zuk hypothesis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2022)

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8 pages, 1186 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Unified Approach to Analysis of Body Condition in Green Toads

by Lukas Landler, Stephan Burgstaller, Magdalena Spießberger, Andras Horvath, Zhivko Zhelev, Ivelin Mollov, Ulrich Sinsch, Johannes Nepita, Florian Schwabel, Wolfgang Kuhn, Christian Köbele, Heinz Sedlmeier, Cornelia Amon, Joanna Mazgajska, Tomasz D. Mazgajski, Amir Sistani, Rieke Schluckebier, Eberhard Andrä, Moritz Ott and Günter Gollmann

Diversity 2023, 15(1), 43; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15010043 - 29 Dec 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2378

Abstract

Body condition is increasingly used to assess the status of populations and as a proxy for individual fitness. A common, quick and non-invasive approach is to estimate condition from the relation between body length and mass. Among the methods developed for this purpose, [...] Read more.

Body condition is increasingly used to assess the status of populations and as a proxy for individual fitness. A common, quick and non-invasive approach is to estimate condition from the relation between body length and mass. Among the methods developed for this purpose, the Scaled Mass Index (SMI) appears best suited for comparisons among populations. We assembled data from 17 populations of European green toads (Bufotes viridis) with the aim of devising a standard formula applicable for monitoring this species. The mean value of the exponents describing length–mass allometry in these samples was 3.0047. Hence, we propose using 3 as a scaling coefficient for calculating the SMI in green toads. From the contrast of SMI values for both sexes within populations, estimated with either the population-specific or the standard coefficient, we conclude that applying the standard formula not only facilitates comparisons among populations but may also help to avoid misinterpretation of variation within populations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2022)

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11 pages, 1129 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Community Structure in an Isolated Tropical Forest Biome: One Year of Fruit-Feeding Butterfly Trapping in Four Habitats in the Western Ghats, India

by Karumampoyil Sakthidas Anoop Das, Dhanya Radhamany and Freerk Molleman

Diversity 2023, 15(1), 36; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15010036 - 28 Dec 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2022

Abstract

Insect communities in tropical forests tend to be structured vertically and with respect to tree fall gaps and edges. Furthermore, insect communities vary over time. Insight into such habitat specificity and temporal variation is needed to design and interpret biodiversity surveys and to [...] Read more.

Insect communities in tropical forests tend to be structured vertically and with respect to tree fall gaps and edges. Furthermore, insect communities vary over time. Insight into such habitat specificity and temporal variation is needed to design and interpret biodiversity surveys and to compare conservation value among habitats. Some aspects of tropical insect community structure, such as the proportion of canopy specialists and temporal variation, vary among biogeographical regions and climatic zones. To date, few regions have been sampled systematically, so generalization remains difficult. We compared fruit-feeding butterfly communities among understory, canopy, natural treefalls, and forest edge, in a tropical forest of the Western Ghats, a strip of rainforest that is isolated from Sundaland, the large rainforest block of South-East Asia. During a yearlong study, we captured 3018 individuals belonging to 32 species and representing 14 genera. While some butterflies were captured in the canopy, no species was significantly more abundant in the canopy than in the understory. This observation was contrary to studies elsewhere in the tropics where 14–55% of the species could be classified as canopy specialists. Even though the largest number of species was captured at forest edges, species diversity was highest in the gaps. The communities at the forest edge differed importantly from those in treefall gaps: at the forest edge, we caught grassland species in addition to the forest species. Larger treefall gaps had higher butterfly abundance than smaller gaps. Both abundance and diversity peaked during the late monsoon season, and all common species in our sample also peaked during this period. The spatiotemporal community structure appears to depend on biogeography (less vertical stratification further from large forest blocks) and climate (more synchrony among species in seasonal abundance when there is a more severe dry season). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2022)

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13 pages, 2397 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Obligation to Enhance OBIS Data for Sea- and Shorebirds of the Americas

by Savannah Hartman, Pamela Hallock and Frank Muller-Karger

Diversity 2022, 14(12), 1099; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14121099 - 11 Dec 2022

Viewed by 1761

Abstract

The distributions of many sea- and shorebird species span large geographic areas, making them ideal candidates as biomonitors of ecosystem perturbations and long-term environmental trends. The basic question examined in this study was: Does a major open-access data archive contain sufficient temporal- and [...] Read more.

The distributions of many sea- and shorebird species span large geographic areas, making them ideal candidates as biomonitors of ecosystem perturbations and long-term environmental trends. The basic question examined in this study was: Does a major open-access data archive contain sufficient temporal- and spatial-scale data to support more detailed inquiry into multi-decadal-scale responses in geographic distributions of specific taxa? The global-scale open-access data platform, Ocean Biodiversity Information System (OBIS), was searched to compile data on bird distributions of the Americas, including the Caribbean Sea. More than 680,000 occurrence records of 210 species, collected between 1965 and 2018, were located and evaluated by marine ecoregion. The Puget Trough/Georgia Basin marine ecoregion, along the United States/Canadian border, and the Virginian marine ecoregion on the US east coast, dominated occurrences, each with more than 100,000 records, while the Gulf of Maine/Bay of Fundy had the most years of records (42). Most records from South America (~29,000) came from the Channels and Fjords of Southern Chile, collected across 16 different years. More than 90% of the recorded data were collected since 1983, and more than 95% of the records were from North American marine ecoregions. We urge additional observations to be shared via OBIS to allow comprehensive large-scale and detailed meta-analyses of spatial and temporal trends in marine and shore-bird communities and their biodiversity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2022)

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18 pages, 5399 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development and Phenotypic Plasticity of Tubes and Tubaria of the Living Graptolite Rhabdopleura recondita (Pterobranchia, Hemichordata)

by Elena Beli, Luana M. De Castro Mendonça, Stefano Piraino and Christopher B. Cameron

Diversity 2022, 14(12), 1080; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14121080 - 7 Dec 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2007

Abstract

The extant graptolite Rhabdopleura recondita has been so far recorded only as inhabiting a bryozoan skeleton. Its larval settlement and metamorphosis are possible in the absence of a bryozoan zoarium, whereas further colony development may require that the larva is hidden inside the [...] Read more.

The extant graptolite Rhabdopleura recondita has been so far recorded only as inhabiting a bryozoan skeleton. Its larval settlement and metamorphosis are possible in the absence of a bryozoan zoarium, whereas further colony development may require that the larva is hidden inside the bryozoan host. This dependence may constrain the development of R. recondita tube and tubaria compared to the other Rhabdopleura species that develop without a host. We report here on larval settlement and metamorphosis in the absence/presence of a bryozoan host skeleton. We also make the first attempt to test the phenotypical response of R. recondita tubes and tubaria under variable hydrodynamic regimes in laboratory conditions. After 40 days, no significant variation was detected in the number or length of the newly formed tubes. These findings suggest that R. recondita eventually resides in a narrow velocity range and that tube and tubarium development is largely invariable. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2022)

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14 pages, 3083 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Genome-Based Taxa Delimitation (GBTD): A New Approach

by Alexander Bolbat, Yurij Bukin and Irina Kaygorodova

Diversity 2022, 14(11), 948; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14110948 - 4 Nov 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2277

Abstract

Proper taxonomic identification is essential for biological research. Unfortunately, there are no clear guidelines for taxonomic assignment above the species level. Here, we present a novel approach—GBTD—to the use of genetic divergence to evaluate the taxonomic position of certain samples with simultaneous estimation [...] Read more.

Proper taxonomic identification is essential for biological research. Unfortunately, there are no clear guidelines for taxonomic assignment above the species level. Here, we present a novel approach—GBTD—to the use of genetic divergence to evaluate the taxonomic position of certain samples with simultaneous estimation of the current systematics correctness. This approach includes measuring the raw and model-adjusted distances between DNA sequences and attributing them to the lowest taxonomic levels that are common in sample pairs to reveal distance distributions matching different taxonomic levels (species, genus, family etc.). GBTD facilitated the reassessment of the taxonomic position of the samples, whose genetic distances relative to other samples in the dataset did not match their taxonomic divergence. A data set of complete mitochondrial genome sequences of segmented worms was chosen to test this approach. As a result, numerous inconsistencies in the systematics of samples from GenBank were pointed out. These inconsistencies included both the oversplitting and overlumping of individuals into taxa of different levels and clear cases of misidentification. Our approach sparks re-evaluation of the current systematics where traditional methods fail to provide sufficient resolution. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2022)

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16 pages, 11326 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Diversity of Avian Species in Peri-Urban Landscapes Surrounding Fez in Morocco: Species Richness, Breeding Populations, and Evaluation of Menacing Factors

by Wafae Squalli, Ismail Mansouri, Ikram Douini, Hamid Achiban, Fatima Fadil, Mohamed Dakki and Michael Wink

Diversity 2022, 14(11), 945; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14110945 - 4 Nov 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2556

Abstract

In this study, we investigated the avian diversity and threatening factors in five peri-urban sites around Fez city (Morocco) for 2 years (2018–2019). The study hosted 131 avian species, including 64.88% breeding species, 19.84% migrant winterers, and 11.45% migrant breeders. Five species of [...] Read more.

In this study, we investigated the avian diversity and threatening factors in five peri-urban sites around Fez city (Morocco) for 2 years (2018–2019). The study hosted 131 avian species, including 64.88% breeding species, 19.84% migrant winterers, and 11.45% migrant breeders. Five species of conservation concern such as the vulnerable European turtle dove and the European goldfinch, the near-threatened ferruginous duck and bar-tailed godwit, and the endangered white-headed duck were recorded. Most bird species were recorded at the Oued Fez River (26.89%) and the El Mehraz dam (25%), followed by the El Gaada dam (17.4%), the Ain Bida garbage dump (15.5%), and the Ain Chkef Forest (15.18%). About 44.44% of the breeding species were found at Oued Fez, along with 33.33% at the El Mehraz dam, while El Gâada, Ain Chkef, and Ain Bida hosted only 7.40% of species. An important breeding population of the endangered white-headed duck was recorded at El Mehraz and Oued Fez. The extension of farmlands, urbanization, touristic activities, and drought constitute the most menacing factors for the avian diversity and their habitats in Fez. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2022)

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14 pages, 4785 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Morphology of Three Sphyrion (Copepoda: Siphonostomatoida: Sphyriidae) Species Infecting Teleost Fishes off South Africa with the First Description of Males of Two Species

by Susan M. Dippenaar and Makwena M. Sebone

Diversity 2022, 14(11), 929; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14110929 - 29 Oct 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3143

Abstract

Sphyrion is a member of the family Sphyriidae and currently consists of three valid species, namely S. laevigatum, S. lumpi and S. quadricornis. Species of Sphyrion are mesoparasites of a variety of bony fishes and occur worldwide. The bodies of the [...] Read more.

Sphyrion is a member of the family Sphyriidae and currently consists of three valid species, namely S. laevigatum, S. lumpi and S. quadricornis. Species of Sphyrion are mesoparasites of a variety of bony fishes and occur worldwide. The bodies of the post-metamorphosis females are highly transformed with an elongated cephalothorax bearing conspicuous lateral processes. The structure of the cephalothorax is mostly used in the identification of the different species. The morphology of the adult males resembles those of the lernaeopodid males. Species of Sphyrion were collected from various fish hosts off the Indian and Atlantic Oceans off South Africa. Selected specimens were studied using dissection and compound light microscopy as well as scanning electron microscopy. Similar to previous reports, the morphology of specimens of the same species infecting the same host species is highly variable; thus, the structure of the cephalothorax should be considered together with the rest of the body features for identification. Additional information is provided regarding the morphology and armature of the appendages of the post-metamorphosis females of all three species, which resemble previous descriptions, although no detailed comparisons could be done. This is the first collection of descriptions and illustrations of the males of S. laevigatum and S. quadricornis. Male appendages of all three species are very similar with small differences in the armature. New geographical and host reports of the Sphyrion species are provided. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2022)

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23 pages, 3077 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Discovery of a New Species Provides a Deeper Insight into Taxonomic Grouping of the Deep-Sea Genus Acanthephyra (Crustacea: Decapoda)

by Alexander Vereshchaka, Dmitry Kulagin and Anastasiia Lunina

Diversity 2022, 14(11), 907; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14110907 - 26 Oct 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1706

Abstract

We describe and diagnose a new species of Acanthephyra (Acanthephyridae: Caridea: Decapoda) and provide an amended key to all species of the genus. In order to assess the taxonomic position of the new species, we examined and coded 55 characters in available specimens [...] Read more.

We describe and diagnose a new species of Acanthephyra (Acanthephyridae: Caridea: Decapoda) and provide an amended key to all species of the genus. In order to assess the taxonomic position of the new species, we examined and coded 55 characters in available specimens of Acanthephyra and ran morphological phylogenetic analyses. We also used a COI gene marker for molecular analyses of the new species and other available specimens of Acanthephyra. Both analyses retrieved an unexpected grouping of species that contradicted a recently accepted morphological grouping. We tested a new, quantitative, set of characters and found that three of them may explain the molecular grouping of the genus. These characters are linked to: (1) proportions of the 6th pleonic somite, (2) length of the same against carapace length, and (3) length of the same against length of two preceding somites. We suggest that these characters mirror evolutionary traits in Acanthephyra and discuss their possible adaptive sense. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2022)

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18 pages, 1119 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Long-Term Ringing Data on Migrating Passerines Reveal Overall Avian Decline in Europe

by Tina Petras and Al Vrezec

Diversity 2022, 14(11), 905; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14110905 - 26 Oct 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2934

Abstract

The loss of biodiversity is shaping today’s environment. Bird ringing is a citizen science research tool that can determine species population dynamics and trends over a large geographic area. We used a 17-year time series to assess population trends of 74 passerine species [...] Read more.

The loss of biodiversity is shaping today’s environment. Bird ringing is a citizen science research tool that can determine species population dynamics and trends over a large geographic area. We used a 17-year time series to assess population trends of 74 passerine species based on ringing data from autumn migration in Slovenia (south-central Europe). We defined seven guilds of species according to geographic location, ecological, migratory, breeding, and life-history traits. Almost all guilds showed declining trends, except for the group of species of northeastern European origin, which showed a stable trend. The greatest decline was in low-productivity wetland specialists. Forest birds, seed-eaters, and high-productivity species experienced the smallest declines. The general declines in avifauna across a range of life-history and behavioural traits, and across a range of spatial and ecological scales, suggest widespread environmental change in Europe. Our data indicates that recent trends are toward ecosystem homogeneity, with an impoverished avifauna, including a few species that are increasing in abundance. These are the species with higher productivity and flexible behaviour, such as short-distance migrants, that have the greatest chance of prevailing in the recently rapidly changing environment because of their ability to adapt to changes in a timely manner. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2022)

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8 pages, 1638 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Checklist, Red List, and Distribution Pattern of Charophytes (Charophyceae, Charales) in Slovakia Based on Critical Revision of Herbarium Specimens

by Alica Hindáková, Maciej Gąbka and Richard Hrivnák

Diversity 2022, 14(11), 897; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14110897 - 23 Oct 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1802

Abstract

A critical revision of charophytes collected in Slovakia from 1887 up to present, based on herbaria specimens, provided us with the opportunity to compile an updated checklist and to revaluate their threat status in order to obtain the current red list of charophytes [...] Read more.

A critical revision of charophytes collected in Slovakia from 1887 up to present, based on herbaria specimens, provided us with the opportunity to compile an updated checklist and to revaluate their threat status in order to obtain the current red list of charophytes of Slovakia. The data obtained will fill the gap in knowledge about these macroscopic algae in Central Europe. The revised list of charophytes includes 19 representatives of three genera: Chara (11), Nitella (7), and Nitellopsis (1). Following the latest IUCN red-list categories and criteria (version 3.1) and using the modified category regionally extinct (RE), derived from the category extinct (EX), 36.8% of charophytes are classified as RE (Chara connivens, C. subspinosa (=rudis), Nitella capillaris, N. confervacea, N. flexilis, N. gracilis, and N. opaca); 21% as EN (endangered; Chara braunii, Nitella mucronata, N. syncarpa, and Nitellopsis obtusa); 21% as VU (vulnerable; Chara contraria, C. gymnophylla, C. hispida, and C. virgata); 10.6% as NT (near-threatened; Chara globularis, C. vulgaris); and 5.3% as CR (critically endangered; Chara canescens) species; finally, 5.3% species could not be assessed (DD; Chara aspera). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2022)

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47 pages, 32280 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Floristics and Biogeographical Affinity of Diatoms Attached to Sargassum fluitans (Børgesen) Børgesen and Sargassum natans (Linnaeus) Gaillon Arriving on Mexico’s Caribbean Coasts

by Francisco Omar López-Fuerte, David Alfaro Siqueiros Beltrones, Yuriko Jocselin Martínez and María del Carmen Altamirano-Cerecedo

Diversity 2022, 14(9), 758; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14090758 - 14 Sep 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2546 | Correction

Abstract

The environmental contingency caused by the recent massive arrivals of pelagic sargasso (Sargassum natans and S. fluitans) on Mexico’s Caribbean coasts have given rise to several areas of scientific research. Our work proposed identifying the diatom flora adhered to the [...] Read more.

The environmental contingency caused by the recent massive arrivals of pelagic sargasso (Sargassum natans and S. fluitans) on Mexico’s Caribbean coasts have given rise to several areas of scientific research. Our work proposed identifying the diatom flora adhered to the thalli of these two sargasso species collected on the coasts of Cancun, Isla Mujeres, and Puerto Morelos. We recorded 184 diatom taxa (all illustrated) from 68 genera. Taxa from the genera Mastogloia (37), Cocconeis (11), Nitzschia (10), Diploneis (8), and Amphora (9) represented 41% of the total, while 44 of these genera were represented by a single species. In the total floristic count, 41 taxa occurred exclusively on S. fluitans, 53 exclusively on S. natans (22 and 29%, respectively) and 90 (49%) were found on both. Species of Navicula were scarce, and Navicula barbara var. densestriata was here transferred to the genus Lyrella (Lyrella barbara var. densestriata (Foged) López-Fuerte & Siqueiros Beltrones comb. nov.). Overall, 17 (9%) of the identified taxa were new recordings for Mexico’s coasts. Supporting the hypothesis proposed, the 37 Mastogloia taxa suggested a tropical affinity, while the high species richness denoted that the surfaces of both sargasso species constituted favorable substrata for the growth of diatom assemblages. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2022)

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15 pages, 2891 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Diversity and Functional Relevance of Canopy Arthropods in Central Europe

by Andreas Floren, Karl Eduard Linsenmair and Tobias Müller

Diversity 2022, 14(8), 660; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14080660 - 16 Aug 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2273

Abstract

Although much is known about the ecology and functional importance of canopy arthropods in temperate forests, few studies have tried to assess the overall diversity and investigate the composition and dynamics of tree-specific communities. This has impeded a deeper understanding of the functioning [...] Read more.

Although much is known about the ecology and functional importance of canopy arthropods in temperate forests, few studies have tried to assess the overall diversity and investigate the composition and dynamics of tree-specific communities. This has impeded a deeper understanding of the functioning of forests, and of how to maintain system services. Here, we present the first comprehensive data of whole arthropod communities, collected by insecticidal knockdown (fogging) from 1159 trees in 18 study areas in Central Europe during the last 25 years. The data includes 3,253,591 arthropods from 32 taxa (order, suborder, family) collected on 24 tree species from 18 genera. Fogging collects free-living, ectophytic arthropods in approximately the same number as they occur in the trees. To our knowledge, these are the most comprehensive data available today on the taxonomic composition of arboreal fauna. Assigning all arthropods to their feeding guild provided a proxy of their functional importance. The data showed that the canopy communities were regularly structured, with a clear dominance hierarchy comprised of eight ‘major taxa’ that represented 87% of all arthropods. Despite significant differences in the proportions of taxa on deciduous and coniferous trees, the composition of the guilds was very similar. The individual tree genera, on the other hand, showed significant differences in guild composition, especially when different study areas and years were compared, whereas tree-specific traits, such as tree height, girth in breast height or leaf cover, explained little of the overall variance. On the ordinal level, guild composition also differed significantly between managed and primary forests, with a simultaneous low within-group variability, indicating that management is a key factor determining the distribution of biodiversity and guild composition. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2022)

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15 pages, 2939 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Diversity, Ecological and Traditional Knowledge of Pteridophytes in the Western Himalayas

by Aadil Abdullah Khoja, Shiekh Marifatul Haq, Muhammad Majeed, Musheerul Hassan, Muhammad Waheed, Umer Yaqoob, Rainer W. Bussmann, Abed Alataway, Ahmed Z. Dewidar, Mohamed Al-Yafrsi, Hosam O. Elansary, Kowiyou Yessoufou and Wajid Zaman

Diversity 2022, 14(8), 628; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14080628 - 6 Aug 2022

Cited by 32 | Viewed by 7442

Abstract

Pteridophytes have been used by humans for millennia, but in comparison to flowering plants, the documentation of their traditional uses is still neglected; as a result, they must be highlighted and popularized. The present study was carried out from January 2019 to November [...] Read more.

Pteridophytes have been used by humans for millennia, but in comparison to flowering plants, the documentation of their traditional uses is still neglected; as a result, they must be highlighted and popularized. The present study was carried out from January 2019 to November 2021 to gather ecological and traditional use information on pteridophytes from local inhabitants of the Kashmir valley via semi-structured personal interviews and group discussions. We recorded 58 pteridophyte species belonging to 13 families. The distributions of the species among the families were unequal, with four families constituting more than half of the total species (Dryopteridaceae 26%, Woodsiaceae 17%, Aspleniaceae 14%, and Pteridaceae (14%). The highest numbers of species (45%) were found growing on the forest floor, followed by those growing in rock crevices (26%). This was supported further by a cluster analysis, which identified two primary clusters based on the species presence in different habitats. Half of the species (56%) were reported from altitudes below 2000m, followed by 19% from 2001–2500m, and 8% (e.g., Deparia allantodioides, Dryopteris xanthomelas, Asplenium viride) from 3001–3500m. Among the documented species (N = 58), only 28 species had a traditional usage (as medicine, vegetables, for oral hygiene, and for veterinary use). The aerial parts were most commonly used (64%) followed by the rachis (18%). The highest use value was observed for Diplazium maximum and the lowest for Asplenium fontanum. The findings of our study contribute baseline data to fill the existing knowledge gaps on ecological and traditional knowledge of pteridophytes in the Himalayas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2022)

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8 pages, 10967 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Environmental Preferences of an Invasive Plant Species, Bidens frondosa (Asteraceae), in European Russia and Western Siberia

by Anatoliy A. Khapugin, Igor V. Kuzmin, Leonid A. Ivanov, Dina A. Ronzhina and Larissa A. Ivanova

Diversity 2022, 14(8), 598; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14080598 - 27 Jul 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2268

Abstract

To identify habitat conditions, indirect ordination methods on the basis of environmental scales are used widely in Europe. However, many alien plants are absent from those scales. Bidens frondosa (Asteraceae) is an invasive alien species distributed widely in Europe. It is becoming a [...] Read more.

To identify habitat conditions, indirect ordination methods on the basis of environmental scales are used widely in Europe. However, many alien plants are absent from those scales. Bidens frondosa (Asteraceae) is an invasive alien species distributed widely in Europe. It is becoming a significant part of natural plant communities, sometimes forming monospecific stands. This study aimed to empirically determine environmental factor values using analysis of the flora accompanying B. frondosa in 22 regions of European Russia collected in a 34-year time span. In European Russia, Tsyganov environmental scales are widely used for such analyses. We determined intervals of values for each environmental factor according to Tsyganov environmental scales, namely thermoclimatic scale (TM: 7.3–9.4), climate continentality (KN: 6.0–9.4), climate aridity/humidity (OM: 6.1–8.6), cryoclimatic scale (CR: 5.3–8.8), soil moisture (HD: 9.9–17.6), scale of the soil salt regimen (TR: 5.1–10.7), soil nitrogen availability (NT: 4.4–8.5), soil pH (RC: 4.8–8.8), habitat shading (LC: 2.0–4.5), and soil-moisture variability (FH: 0.7–5.9). These data on environmental factor values can be further used in ordination analyses of plant communities where B. frondosa appears in the subzone of coniferous-deciduous forests of Eastern Europe. Results of this study demonstrate the ecological preferences of this species and can be used to determine conditions of habitats invaded by B. frondosa. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2022)

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15 pages, 1306 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Estimation of Blooming Start with the Adaptation of the Unified Model for Three Apricot Cultivars (Prunus armeniaca L.) Based on Long-Term Observations in Hungary (1994–2020)

by Ildikó Mesterházy, Péter Raffai, László Szalay, László Bozó and Márta Ladányi

Diversity 2022, 14(7), 560; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14070560 - 12 Jul 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1759

Abstract

The aim of our research was to adapt Chuine’s unified model to estimate the beginning of blooming of three apricot cultivars (‘Ceglédi bíborkajszi’, ‘Gönci magyar kajszi’, and ‘Rózsakajszi C.1406’) in Hungary in the time period 1994–2020. The unified model is based on the [...] Read more.

The aim of our research was to adapt Chuine’s unified model to estimate the beginning of blooming of three apricot cultivars (‘Ceglédi bíborkajszi’, ‘Gönci magyar kajszi’, and ‘Rózsakajszi C.1406’) in Hungary in the time period 1994–2020. The unified model is based on the collection of chilling and forcing units. The complexity of the model lies in the high number of parameters necessary to run it. Following the work of other researchers, we reduced the number of relevant model parameters (MP) to six. In order to estimate the six MPs, we used a simulated annealing optimization method (known for being effective in avoiding getting stuck in local minima). From the results, we determined the local optimum of six MPs, and the global optimum parameter vector for three apricot cultivars. With these global optimum parameter vectors, the beginning of blooming could be estimated with a root-mean-square error (RMSE) of less than 2.5 days, using the knowledge of the daily mean temperature in the time period 1994–2020. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2022)

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18 pages, 4371 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Microalgae Indicators of Charophyte Habitats of South and Southeast Kazakhstan

by Elmira Sametova, Gaukhar Jumakhanova, Satbay Nurashov, Sophia Barinova, Aibek Jiyenbekov and Thomas Smith

Diversity 2022, 14(7), 530; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14070530 - 30 Jun 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2253

Abstract

Charophyte algae is a very sensitive group of organisms occupying Kazakhstan waterbodies. They are distributed throughout the country; however, not enough studies have been conducted, especially in the southern region. Research carried out in 2019–2022 identified 33 habitats of charophyte algae in the [...] Read more.

Charophyte algae is a very sensitive group of organisms occupying Kazakhstan waterbodies. They are distributed throughout the country; however, not enough studies have been conducted, especially in the southern region. Research carried out in 2019–2022 identified 33 habitats of charophyte algae in the south and southeastern regions of Kazakhstan, including 15 new to Kazakhstan. Bioindicators and the statistical analysis of 223 species of nine phyla of microalgae associated with charophytes revealed that the main factors influencing the distribution of algal diversity may be habitat altitude and hydrology. The habitat altitude of about 700 m above sea level was shown to be the boundary between the different diversity distributions. The application of bioindicator methods can expand our knowledge on the ecology of the charophyte species in Kazakhstan. The study of algal diversity in charophyte habitats can serve as a tool for tracking climate change under potential future climate warming. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2022)

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28 pages, 6630 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Morphological and Genetic Variability in Radix auricularia (Mollusca: Gastropoda: Lymnaeidae) of Lake Baikal, Siberia: The Story of an Unfinished Invasion into the Ancient Deepest Lake

by Katrin Schniebs, Tatiana Ya. Sitnikova, Maxim V. Vinarski, Anke Müller, Igor V. Khanaev and Anna K. Hundsdoerfer

Diversity 2022, 14(7), 527; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14070527 - 29 Jun 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3124

Abstract

This article aims to reconstruct the invasion of the ear-shaped pond snail, Radix auricularia (Linnaeus, 1758), to Lake Baikal, East Siberia. This species is widely distributed in the Palaearctic and Northern America, and since the early 20th century has formed abundant and sustained [...] Read more.

This article aims to reconstruct the invasion of the ear-shaped pond snail, Radix auricularia (Linnaeus, 1758), to Lake Baikal, East Siberia. This species is widely distributed in the Palaearctic and Northern America, and since the early 20th century has formed abundant and sustained populations in Lake Baikal. The data provided on the morphological and genetic variability of R. auricularia help to better describe and delineate the species. With an integrative approach involving morphological and molecular data, we improved the knowledge of the intraspecific variability of R. auricularia in the most important characteristics used for its determination. Molecular sequences of nuclear spacer fragment ITS-2 and mitochondrial gene fragment cyt–b were obtained from 32 individuals of Radix (including seven outgroup Radix species) collected from various parts of Lake Baikal and adjacent waterbodies and compared with sequences of 32 individuals of R. auricularia from different regions of the Palaearctic as well as with individuals determinated as R. intercisa from Lake Baikal, R. iturupica from the Kurile Islands, R. ussuriensis from the Khabarovsk region, R. narzykulovi from Tajikistan, and R. schubinae from the Amur region. Molecular genetic analyses revealed that all specimens collected from Lake Baikal belong to R. auricularia. There are no genetically distinct groups of snails that would correspond to two morphospecies previously recorded in Lake Baikal (e.g., R. auricularia s. str. and R. intercisa). Variability of the characteristics that are commonly used for species identification (shell morphology, mantle pigmentation, shape and position of the bursa copulatrix, length and position of the bursa duct, length ratio of preputium to penial sheath) were found in individuals analysed with molecular genetics to be broader than recognised in the current literature. Some shells of R. auricularia collected from Lake Baikal resemble shells of another lymnaeid species, R. balthica, and without molecular assessment can be confused with the latter. Geometric morphometric analysis of more than 250 shells revealed no observed hiatus between Baikalian and non-Baikalian R. auricularia. The probable stages and pathways of R. auricularia invasion to Lake Baikal’s ecosystem are outlined and discussed. Factors such as global climate warming and human activity stimulated and facilitated the ongoing dispersal of ear pond snails within Lake Baikal. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2022)

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10 pages, 511 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dramatic Declines of Evening Grosbeak Numbers at a Spring Migration Stop-Over Site

by W. Douglas Robinson, Jessica Greer, Juliana Masseloux, Tyler A. Hallman and Jenna R. Curtis

Diversity 2022, 14(6), 496; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14060496 - 17 Jun 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2595

Abstract

Evening Grosbeak (Coccothraustes vespertinus) populations have been hypothesized to be in steep decline across North America. Data characterizing long-term changes are needed to quantify the magnitude of the declines. We surveyed grosbeaks at a spring migratory stop-over site in Corvallis, Oregon, [...] Read more.

Evening Grosbeak (Coccothraustes vespertinus) populations have been hypothesized to be in steep decline across North America. Data characterizing long-term changes are needed to quantify the magnitude of the declines. We surveyed grosbeaks at a spring migratory stop-over site in Corvallis, Oregon, USA, where birds gather annually during April and May to feast on elm (Ulmus spp.) seeds before departing to breeding sites. An estimate produced by a statistics professor in the 1970s indicated peak numbers were 150,000 to 250,000 birds. Our surveys in 2013–2015 found annually variable numbers, from a few hundred grosbeaks in the lowest year to less than five thousand birds in the highest year. If the original estimate is approximately true, Evening Grosbeak numbers have experienced dramatic declines, averaging −2.6%/year, over the last four decades. Our local observation of declines during spring aligns with declines documented in winter across North America by bird feeder studies and in summer by the Breeding Bird Survey. We explore potential explanations for the changes in population size, such as influences of spruce budworm outbreaks, disease, and decreased structural diversity of forests owing to harvest practices. We also consider the challenges of interpreting changes in abundance of species with exceptionally variable populations, especially if population fluctuations or cycles may have long periodicities. Finally, we call for additional planned surveys to track the numbers of this enigmatic and charismatic species. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2022)

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9 pages, 1629 KiB

Open AccessArticle

How Trophic Conditions Affect Development of Fire Salamander (Salamandra salamandra) Larvae: Two Extreme Cases

by Paola Cogliati, Benedetta Barzaghi, Andrea Melotto, Gentile Francesco Ficetola and Raoul Manenti

Diversity 2022, 14(6), 487; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14060487 - 15 Jun 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2572

Abstract

Reduced trophic resources can pose relevant constraints to the development of freshwater animals with complex life cycles. For amphibians, food deprived environments, such as high-altitude ponds and springs and groundwaters are frequently used for breeding. The aim of this study is to outline [...] Read more.

Reduced trophic resources can pose relevant constraints to the development of freshwater animals with complex life cycles. For amphibians, food deprived environments, such as high-altitude ponds and springs and groundwaters are frequently used for breeding. The aim of this study is to outline trophic conditions leading to extreme cases of delayed larval development and increased size at metamorphosis of a European widespread amphibian, the fire salamander (Salamandra salamandra). We collected 150 fire salamander larvae, split them in two groups, one with high and one with low trophic resource availability. We then observed the effects of nutritional conditions on larval development recording time to metamorphosis and average day growth. Moreover, in the field, we surveyed larvae growth and size at metamorphosis in two artificial subterranean sites with low prey availability. Trophic conditions strongly affected larval development and under low food treatment time to metamorphosis reached up to 416 days. In the subterranean environments we observed a similar pattern, with larvae requiring more than one year to attain metamorphosis but reaching unexpected large sizes. Environmental trophic conditions experienced during early stages can induce strong delay in metamorphosis of the fire salamander; this plasticity makes fire salamander larvae optimal models for comparative studies and cross-environment experiments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2022)

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14 pages, 2079 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Preliminary Checklist of Malaxidinae and Liparidinae Representatives (Orchidaceae, Malaxideae) from Bali and Lombok Islands (Indonesia) with New Records

by Hanna B. Margońska, Jeffrey Champion and Monika M. Lipińska

Diversity 2022, 14(5), 398; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14050398 - 17 May 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2471

Abstract

Bali and Lombok are well known as popular touristic destinations. Both islands are accessible for potential floristic research, but surprisingly, information on their orchid flora is rather scarce and random. During our visits, among other orchid groups, we had an opportunity to observe [...] Read more.

Bali and Lombok are well known as popular touristic destinations. Both islands are accessible for potential floristic research, but surprisingly, information on their orchid flora is rather scarce and random. During our visits, among other orchid groups, we had an opportunity to observe several representatives of the tribe Malaxideae, which is considered to be one of the biggest and most interesting orchid groups with over 1700 taxa (including synonyms). In this paper, we present the first attempt at organizing the knowledge about these unique, often underestimated, orchids in Bali and Lombok, and we report several new records for both islands. For Bali, there are six from the genus Crepidium and four from Liparis sensu lato, and for Lombok, one from Crepidium and three from Liparis sensu lato. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2022)

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15 pages, 46454 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Factors Associated with the Occurrence, Potential Distribution and Conservation of Anoxia orientalis (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae) at Different Spatial Scales

by Calogero Muscarella, Luca Luiselli, Massimiliano Di Vittorio, Ignazio Sparacio and Daniele Dendi

Diversity 2022, 14(5), 397; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14050397 - 17 May 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2538

Abstract

Anoxia (Protanoxia) orientalis is a beetle of the family Melolonthidae for which Italy represents the western limit of its distribution. The ecology of this species is little known from the quantitative point of view. The ecological correlates of A. orientalis presence in the [...] Read more.

Anoxia (Protanoxia) orientalis is a beetle of the family Melolonthidae for which Italy represents the western limit of its distribution. The ecology of this species is little known from the quantitative point of view. The ecological correlates of A. orientalis presence in the whole European range and, more specifically, at its western border in Sicily, are analyzed in this paper to develop a potential distribution map for Sicily and to define the habitat selection of this species. There was a clear non-random habitat selection by A. orientalis at both the European and the Sicilian scales and a clear difference in the factors affecting the presence of this species in the larger spatial scale compared to Sicily. At the European scale, the bioclimatic factors were more important than landscape factors, whereas the same was not true at the Sicilian scale. In Sicily, the populations were statistically influenced by a combination of predictors that make their potential optimal distribution very narrow and mostly limited to a few coastal areas, suggesting a region-specific ecological diversification. Since A. orientalis is in strong decline in Italy due to the degradation of coastal environments, it is necessary to minimize the degradation of the dune and back dune environments in Sicily to achieve better management for the populations of this beetle species. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2022)

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9 pages, 681 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of a Severe El Niño Event on Vascular Epiphytes in Lowland Panama

by Helena J. R. Einzmann, Letizia Weichgrebe and Gerhard Zotz

Diversity 2022, 14(5), 325; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14050325 - 22 Apr 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1902

Abstract

As climate change leads to increasing temperatures, tropical dry seasons are expected to become more severe. An overall intensification of drought events may strongly affect vascular epiphytes. Especially at the community level, the response of epiphytes to intense drought events is still poorly [...] Read more.

As climate change leads to increasing temperatures, tropical dry seasons are expected to become more severe. An overall intensification of drought events may strongly affect vascular epiphytes. Especially at the community level, the response of epiphytes to intense drought events is still poorly understood. Therefore, the severe El Niño event of 2015/16 was used to assess the impact of prolonged drought on an epiphyte community on Annona glabra host trees, around Barro Colorado Island. Prior census data from 2002 and 2015 served as a reference for background community dynamics. Net species changes and net population changes at the species level were determined for both periods. While the total abundance of the community almost doubled during the 13 years of the reference period, individual numbers decreased by c. 17% within the year of the El Niño event. Overall, the El Niño event strongly affected the epiphyte community and led to a strong decrease in epiphyte numbers and species. These findings contrast with most previous studies in tropical lowlands that found epiphyte populations to be rather resistant to similarly severe drought events. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2022)

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9 pages, 2846 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Using Culture-Dependent and Molecular Techniques to Identify Endophytic Fungi Associated with Tea Leaves (Camellia spp.) in Yunnan Province, China

by Saowaluck Tibpromma, Samantha C. Karunarathna, Jayarama D. Bhat, Nakarin Suwannarach, Steven L. Stephenson, Abdallah M. Elgorban, Salim Al-Rejaie, Jianchu Xu and Peter E. Mortimer

Diversity 2022, 14(4), 287; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14040287 - 11 Apr 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2917

Abstract

The association of endophytic fungi with the host plant is called a symbiotic relationship. Studies of the endophytic fungi from tea have been reported in numerous documents, but researchers still largely focus on tea endophytic fungi as they have ability to produce bioactive [...] Read more.

The association of endophytic fungi with the host plant is called a symbiotic relationship. Studies of the endophytic fungi from tea have been reported in numerous documents, but researchers still largely focus on tea endophytic fungi as they have ability to produce bioactive compounds which have numerous applications. The present work characterizes the fungal endophytic communities associated with healthy tea leaves in Yunnan Province, China. A total of 287 fungal strains were isolated from healthy leaf tissues of tea plants using a culture-dependent approach. Based on nuclear ribosomal DNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequence analyses taken from the fungal cultures, strains were classified into 28 fungal genera with high similarity matches to known sequences in GenBank. The majority of genera (98.25%) belong to the phylum Ascomycota and most of the dominating fungal endophytes are from the genera Colletotrichum and Clonostachys. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2022)

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18 pages, 462 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ecological Analysis and Biodiversity of the Helminth Community of the Pool Frog Pelophylax lessonae (Amphibia: Anura) from Floodplain and Forest Water Bodies

by Igor V. Chikhlyaev and Alexander B. Ruchin

Diversity 2022, 14(4), 247; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14040247 - 27 Mar 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2561

Abstract

This work presents an ecological analysis of the community and biodiversity of helminths of Pelophylax lessonae (Camerano, 1882) from floodplain and forest reservoirs of the European part of Russia. The material for the work was personal collections of helminths made from 2018–2021 in [...] Read more.

This work presents an ecological analysis of the community and biodiversity of helminths of Pelophylax lessonae (Camerano, 1882) from floodplain and forest reservoirs of the European part of Russia. The material for the work was personal collections of helminths made from 2018–2021 in the National Park “Smolny” (Republic of Mordovia). Two hundred and thirty-five amphibian specimens were examined from nine reservoirs and three types of hydrobiocoenoses: (1) floodplains of a medium-sized river (in terms of catchment area); (2) floodplains of a small river; (3) a number of isolated forest reservoirs. Twenty-four species of helminths have been registered: Trematoda (20) and Chromadorea (4). Similar features (common species of trematodes and nematodes) were determined as well as differences in the composition and structure of the helminth fauna, the level of infestation by individual species and groups of helminths, diversity, and community structure. Amphibians of the river floodplain have a richer helminth fauna, they are more infected with a large number of helminths, and their community is more complex. Amphibians of isolated forest ponds, on the contrary, have fewer helminths, they are generally less infected, and their community is simplified (reduced). Having intermediate indicators of composition, structure, and degree of infestation, frogs from the forest floodplain of the small river—differ in the most diverse and maximally evenness community of helminths. The results of the study demonstrate the influence of biotopic factors on the formation of an amphibian helminth community. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2022)

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15 pages, 2374 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Diversity and Distribution of the Inland Water Decapods of Sicily (Crustacea, Malacostraca)

by Luca Vecchioni, Francesco Paolo Faraone, Fabio Stoch, Marco Arculeo and Federico Marrone

Diversity 2022, 14(4), 246; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14040246 - 27 Mar 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2868

Abstract

The current knowledge of Sicilian inland water decapod malacostracans is scarce and an updated synopsis on species distribution is lacking. Therefore, we reviewed the checklist and recent distribution of Sicilian inland water decapods based on published and unpublished records and novel observations with [...] Read more.

The current knowledge of Sicilian inland water decapod malacostracans is scarce and an updated synopsis on species distribution is lacking. Therefore, we reviewed the checklist and recent distribution of Sicilian inland water decapods based on published and unpublished records and novel observations with the aim of providing an exhaustive repository, also to be used as a sound baseline for future surveys. Overall, five native decapod species occur in the study area, i.e., the atyid shrimp Atyaephyra desmarestii, the palaemonid shrimps Palaemon adspersus, P. antennarius, and P. elegans, and the freshwater crab Potamon fluviatile, and their current local distributions are described. In addition, three alien species were recorded: the common yabby Cherax destructor and the red swamp crayfish Procambarus clarkii, strictly linked to inland waters, and the Atlantic blue crab Callinectes sapidus, a mainly marine species that can also colonise the lower stretches of rivers and coastal brackish waters. The collected data suggest the existence of a partial segregation of native versus non-native species, with the latter currently confined to coastal water bodies and the lower stretches of rivers. Moreover, the exclusively freshwater caridean A. desmarestii and P. antennarius show a parapatric distribution in the study area, which may suggest the existence of mutual exclusion phenomena. The results obtained raise some concerns about the effects of alien species on the native biota, and dedicated monitoring and management strategies should be implemented in order to better understand and mitigate their impact. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2022)

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13 pages, 2585 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Red-Backed Shrike Lanius collurio Whole-Genome Sequencing Reveals Population Genetic Admixture

by Liviu G. Pârâu, Erjia Wang and Michael Wink

Diversity 2022, 14(3), 216; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14030216 - 16 Mar 2022

Viewed by 3175

Abstract

The Red-backed Shrike (Lanius collurio) is a medium-sized, carnivorous passerine, occurring throughout the western Palearctic. As with numerous other bird species, its numbers are declining, mainly due to anthropogenic factors. Therefore, revealing the population structure and genetic diversity is paramount in [...] Read more.

The Red-backed Shrike (Lanius collurio) is a medium-sized, carnivorous passerine, occurring throughout the western Palearctic. As with numerous other bird species, its numbers are declining, mainly due to anthropogenic factors. Therefore, revealing the population structure and genetic diversity is paramount in ensuring the survival of the species. However, until present, only mitochondrial DNA has been targeted to reveal the genetic structure of the species. These studies suggested a panmictic population structure. In this study, we employed next-generation sequencing of 88 Red-backed Shrikes from 11 countries and used single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs)) to investigate the population structure. Even with such high-resolution DNA data, we found considerable genetic variability, but our results indicate no genetic structure in the Red-backed Shrike, suggesting a panmictic population. Migrant birds from Israel and Kuwait could not be attributed to breeding populations. Panmixia is the genetic legacy of the widespread and continuous distribution of the species, high locomotion capacities, and, most importantly, the numerous ice ages from the past few million years, which forced various populations to retract to refugia and expand their ranges several times, and to interbreed both in the glacial refugia and during warm periods in Eurasia. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2022)

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11 pages, 3419 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Photobacterium halophilum sp. nov. and a Salt-Loving Bacterium Isolated from Marine Sediment

by Minji Kim, Ki-Eun Lee, In-Tae Cha and Soo-Je Park

Diversity 2022, 14(3), 188; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14030188 - 4 Mar 2022

Viewed by 2605

Abstract

A Gram-stain-negative, rod-shaped, and facultatively anaerobic bacterium named strain GJ3^T was isolated from coastal sediment of Jeju Island, South Korea. Catalase and oxidase activity were detected in the cell of strain GJ3^T, as well as white pigmented colony and motility [...] Read more.

A Gram-stain-negative, rod-shaped, and facultatively anaerobic bacterium named strain GJ3^T was isolated from coastal sediment of Jeju Island, South Korea. Catalase and oxidase activity were detected in the cell of strain GJ3^T, as well as white pigmented colony and motility with polar flagellum. The cell grew optimally at 30 °C, pH 7.0, in the presence of 4% (w/v) sodium chloride. Phylogenetic analysis using the 16S rRNA gene sequence indicated that strain GJ3^T was classified to the genus Photobacterium, with high sequence similarity to Photobacterium galatheae S2753^T (98.30%), Photobacterium halotolerans MACL01^T (97.90%), and Photobacterium panuliri LBS5^T (96.55%). Strain GJ3^T possessed only ubiquinone-8 (Q-8) as a respiratory quinone and summed feature 8 as the major fatty acid (38.18%). Additionally, the dominant polar lipids phosphatidylglycerol and phosphatidylethanolamine were identified. The complete genome size and G + C content of strain GJ3^T was estimated to be 3,603,274 bp in length and 50.70%, respectively. Polyphasic approach and genomic analyses (e.g., ANI and digital DDH) revealed that strain GJ3^T (=KCTC 72816^T = KMM 6822^T) represented a novel species within the genus Photobacterium, and the name Photobacterium halophilum sp. nov., is proposed for this novel bacterium. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2022)

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13 pages, 1659 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Mesocarnivore Distribution along Gradients of Anthropogenic Disturbance in Mediterranean Landscapes

by Ignasi Torre, Tomàs Pulido, Marc Vilella and Mario Díaz

Diversity 2022, 14(2), 133; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14020133 - 14 Feb 2022

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3587

Abstract

Wildfires are important sources of landscape change in Mediterranean environments, creating large patches of low-growth natural habitats (i.e., scrublands) inside protected areas, whereas woodland patches remain mostly near well protected human settlements. Landscape patterns resulting from these gradients influence habitat suitability for mesocarnivores [...] Read more.

Wildfires are important sources of landscape change in Mediterranean environments, creating large patches of low-growth natural habitats (i.e., scrublands) inside protected areas, whereas woodland patches remain mostly near well protected human settlements. Landscape patterns resulting from these gradients influence habitat suitability for mesocarnivores regarding food and shelter. In winter and summer 2019, we sampled 16 independent line-transects with four camera traps each (64 cameras overall), covering the main habitats of the study area (woodlands, scrublands, and crops). Cameras were baited to compensate for the low detectability of target species, and mesocarnivore contacts were analysed by means of GLMMs and occupancy models. Our results showed a positive and stronger association of wild species with woodland habitats, despite the low proportion of habitat available, higher presence of competitors (other mesocarnivores), and potential predators (human pets, i.e., dogs), and low natural prey availability than in scrubland (i.e., small mammals). However, mesocarnivores will find protection against predators and resting sites in forests as well as other food opportunities in crops and urban areas, despite the possible interference with humans and their pets. Potential cascading effects linked to ecological roles of Mediterranean mesocarnivores on the succession of Mediterranean landscapes would imply longer-term effects of human disturbance on landscape trends. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2022)

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20 pages, 1692 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Is It Function or Fashion? An Integrative Analysis of Morphology, Performance, and Metabolism in a Colour Polymorphic Lizard

by Verónica Gomes, Anamarija Žagar, Guillem Pérez i de Lanuza, Tatjana Simčič and Miguel A. Carretero

Diversity 2022, 14(2), 116; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14020116 - 7 Feb 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2296

Abstract

Colour polymorphism may be accompanied by alternative expressions of phenotypic traits that are directly or indirectly related to fitness, and selection forces may act on the traits separately or concurrently. In polymorphic species, natural selection may act through frequency- or density-dependent mechanisms and [...] Read more.

Colour polymorphism may be accompanied by alternative expressions of phenotypic traits that are directly or indirectly related to fitness, and selection forces may act on the traits separately or concurrently. In polymorphic species, natural selection may act through frequency- or density-dependent mechanisms and maintain polymorphism through interactions among morphs. We used an integrative approach to examine functionally relevant and interrelated life history traits in the context of colour polymorphism in the European wall lizard (Podarcis muralis). Body, head and limb morphology, bite and locomotor performance, and physiology, particularly metabolic and antioxidant capacity, were analysed in the three pure colour morphs (yellow, orange, white) and the two mosaic morphs (yellow-orange and white-orange). Morphological differences between morphs were present but subtle and consisted mainly of variations in head length. Head size and bite force were strongly associated between and within morphs. Limb and boot morphology and locomotor performance (sprinting and climbing) were variably associated among morphs. Finally, variation in biochemical indicators of cellular metabolism and antioxidant capacity appeared to be largely independent of morphology and performance. The results provide evidence for existing and non-existing relationships between colour and morphology, performance, and physiology that could have short- and long-term effects on selection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2022)

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11 pages, 1413 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Major Ion Toxicity to Glochidia of Common and Imperiled Freshwater Mussel Species

by Robert B. Bringolf, Brenna K. Raines, Robert E. Ratajczak and David Lee Haskins

Diversity 2022, 14(2), 95; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14020095 - 28 Jan 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2686 | Correction

Abstract

Freshwater mussel taxa are severely imperiled and among the most sensitive to several contaminants, including chloride. Relatively little is known of the toxicity of major ions to glochidia (larvae), particularly for rare species, or the effects of hardness on major ion toxicity to [...] Read more.

Freshwater mussel taxa are severely imperiled and among the most sensitive to several contaminants, including chloride. Relatively little is known of the toxicity of major ions to glochidia (larvae), particularly for rare species, or the effects of hardness on major ion toxicity to glochidia. Therefore, the primary objectives of this work were to: (1) determine the acute toxicity of major ion salts to glochidia, (2) compare chloride sensitivity of glochidia from common and rare species, and (3) evaluate the relationship between water hardness and chloride toxicity to glochidia. We assessed 24 h EC50s for fatmucket (Lampsilis siliquoidea) glochidia exposed to NaCl, KCl, MgCl₂, CaCl₂, Na₂SO₄, MgSO₄, CaSO₄, and NaHCO₃ in moderately hard water. We determined NaCl EC50s for four species and KCl EC50s for glochidia of three species. Toxicity of chloride was generally consistent among the various chloride salts except for KCl, which was more toxic than all others by 1–2 orders of magnitude. Our results suggest that commonly tested species may be generally representative of rare species. Water hardness ameliorated the toxicity of chloride for all species to varying degrees. Results of this work indicate that some existing water quality criteria that do not include mussel toxicity data may not be protective of freshwater mussels. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2022)

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18 pages, 5898 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Diversity Patterns of Late Jurassic Chondrichthyans: New Insights from a Historically Collected Hybodontiform Tooth Assemblage from Poland

by Sebastian Stumpf, Stefan Meng and Jürgen Kriwet

Diversity 2022, 14(2), 85; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14020085 - 26 Jan 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 5014

Abstract

Here, we provide a detailed taxonomic reassessment of a historically collected chondrichthyan dental assemblage from the lower Kimmeridgian of Czarnogłowy in north-western Poland and discuss its significance for better understanding hybodontiform diversity patterns prior to their post-Jurassic decline in fully marine environments. In [...] Read more.

Here, we provide a detailed taxonomic reassessment of a historically collected chondrichthyan dental assemblage from the lower Kimmeridgian of Czarnogłowy in north-western Poland and discuss its significance for better understanding hybodontiform diversity patterns prior to their post-Jurassic decline in fully marine environments. In spite of its low taxonomic diversity, consisting of four large-toothed taxa (viz., Strophodus udulfensis, Asteracanthus ornatissimus, Planohybodus sp. and cf. Meristodonoides sp.), this assemblage is remarkable in that there are only very few Mesozoic hybodontiform assemblages with more large-toothed genera or even species. Comparisons with other European Late Jurassic hybodontiform-bearing localities demonstrate fairly homogenous distribution patterns characterized by large-bodied epipelagic forms of high dispersal ability. This is in stark contrast to post-Jurassic hybodontiform associations, which are dominated by smaller species that were predominantly bound to marginal marine and continental waters, suggesting a major reorganization of chondrichthyan communities during the Early Cretaceous. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2022)

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Review

Jump to: Research, Other

25 pages, 2887 KiB

Open AccessReview

Climate Cycles, Habitat Stability, and Lineage Diversification in an African Biodiversity Hotspot

by Rauri C. K. Bowie, William B. Monahan and Jon Fjeldså

Diversity 2023, 15(3), 394; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15030394 - 9 Mar 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2289

Abstract

The Eastern Arc Mountains of Tanzania and Kenya, a montane archipelago of 13 uplifted fault blocks (sky islands) isolated by lowland arid savanna, are a center of exceptional biological endemism. Under the influence of humid winds from the Indian Ocean, forests and associated [...] Read more.

The Eastern Arc Mountains of Tanzania and Kenya, a montane archipelago of 13 uplifted fault blocks (sky islands) isolated by lowland arid savanna, are a center of exceptional biological endemism. Under the influence of humid winds from the Indian Ocean, forests and associated species may have persisted in this region since the final uplift of these blocks in the late Miocene. Today, these mountains are inhabited by a remarkable diversity of bird species. To better understand the evolutionary processes behind this diversity, we combined molecular phylogenetic studies of East African montane birds with paleoclimate modeling of its montane forests. Across its largest lowland barrier, the 125 km between the Usambara and Nguru/Nguu Mountains, 10 of the 14 bird lineages exhibited a phylogeographic break. Using Bayesian methods, we established that at least three periods of forest contraction and expansion affected the diversification of Eastern Arc birds. Habitat distribution models suggest that lower-elevation hills may have acted as stepping-stones connecting isolated highlands to allow for the dispersal of montane forest-dependent species across them. Periods of vicariance during paleoclimatic cycles extending back through the Last Glacial Maximum would have then isolated these populations within the highlands they had reached. The broad distribution of neoendemic species across the mountains of East Africa provides evidence of climate cycling as a driver of lineage diversification. The high incidence of narrow-range endemism of paleoendemic species on the Usambara, Uluguru, and Udzungwa Mountains of this region is harder to explain. Our paleoclimate models retrodicted the persistence of montane forest during climate cycles on several Eastern Arc sky islands but not on the Southern Tanzania Volcanic Highlands. Consistent with recent theoretical work, different rates of local extinction rather than increased rates of lineage diversification may explain the pattern of excessive narrow-range endemism on some sky islands over others. Thus, a regional filtering effect is generated, with paleoendemics maintaining populations through time only in areas where habitat persisted, providing a credible explanation for the dramatic variance in levels of endemism among different East African sky islands. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2022)

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16 pages, 937 KiB

Open AccessReview

Dormice (Gliridae) in the Diets of Predators in Europe: A Review Broadening Understanding of Dormouse Ecology

by Rimvydas Juškaitis

Diversity 2023, 15(1), 52; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15010052 - 2 Jan 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3005

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the significance of dormice in the diets of predators in Europe and, as a result, expand the knowledge about dormouse ecology. A total of 535 sources containing information on dormice in the diets of predators were analysed. Countries [...] Read more.

This study aimed to evaluate the significance of dormice in the diets of predators in Europe and, as a result, expand the knowledge about dormouse ecology. A total of 535 sources containing information on dormice in the diets of predators were analysed. Countries of Southern and Central Europe stand out with the largest numbers of target sources. Dormice were recorded in the diets of 54 predator species: 23 mammals, 11 owls, 16 diurnal birds and 4 reptiles. Owls hunting in forests, particularly the tawny owl Strix aluco, are the main dormouse predators. The role of dormice in the diets of predators depends on dormouse abundance, and the highest proportion was recorded in the Mediterranean region, where edible dormice Glis glis are abundant. In particular periods, dormice may be an alternative prey for owls and some other predators. Dormice were seldom recorded in the winter diets of predators, especially in mammals, contrary to what was previously thought. Records of dormice in the winter diets of owls confirm that dormice leave their hibernacula during arousals in the thaw periods. The presence of dormice in the diets of diurnal birds suggests that nocturnal dormice may also be active in the daytime. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2022)

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13 pages, 1895 KiB

Open AccessReview

Effect of Life-History Traits and Habitat Condition on Genetic Diversity between Invasive and Native Plant Populations

by Raquel Hernández-Espinosa, Jorge González-Astorga, Yessica Rico and Juan B. Gallego-Fernández

Diversity 2022, 14(12), 1025; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14121025 - 24 Nov 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2338

Abstract

Plant invasions have a huge impact on the health of ecosystems and human well-being. The invasion risk varies with the introduction pathway, the propagule pressure, and the genetic diversity of the founding population. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of 30 studies [...] Read more.

Plant invasions have a huge impact on the health of ecosystems and human well-being. The invasion risk varies with the introduction pathway, the propagule pressure, and the genetic diversity of the founding population. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of 30 studies reporting the genetic diversity of 31 plant species in their invasive and native ranges. We evaluated if patterns of genetic diversity differ between ranges and whether these responses are influenced by life-history traits, hybridization, polyploidization, and habitat condition. We found that invasive populations had significantly lower genetic diversity and higher inbreeding than native populations. In fragmented and degraded habitats, the genetic diversity of invaders was lower, but inbreeding was not affected. Polyploid invaders with hybrid capacity also showed lower genetic diversity. Invasive herbs with vegetative propagation were more sensitive to the loss of genetic diversity and had higher levels of inbreeding. Our synthesis showed that the genetic response in the invaded range could result from historical processes, such as founder and bottleneck events. Traits such as selfing are more likely to preserve the signatures of founder events and influence the genetic diversity in invasive populations. Additionally, clonality seems to be the predominant reproduction system in the invaded range. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2022)

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25 pages, 869 KiB

Open AccessReview

Helminths of Erinaceus roumanicus (Eulipotyphla, Erinaceidae) in Mordovia (Russia) with an Overview of Helminth Fauna of Erinaceus spp. Inhabiting the Palaearctic Region

by Alexander A. Kirillov, Nadezhda Yu. Kirillova and Alexander B. Ruchin

Diversity 2022, 14(3), 165; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14030165 - 25 Feb 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3080

Abstract

The helminth fauna of the Northern white-breasted hedgehog Erinaceus roumanicus was studied in the Republic of Mordovia (Russia) for the first time. In total, 9 species of helminths were found in 23 studied hedgehogs: Trematoda—Isthmiophora melis, Strigea strigis (metacercaria); Cestoda—Hymenolepis [...] Read more.

The helminth fauna of the Northern white-breasted hedgehog Erinaceus roumanicus was studied in the Republic of Mordovia (Russia) for the first time. In total, 9 species of helminths were found in 23 studied hedgehogs: Trematoda—Isthmiophora melis, Strigea strigis (metacercaria); Cestoda—Hymenolepis erinacei; Nematoda—Aonchotheca erinacei, Physaloptera clausa, Crenosoma striatum, Physocephalus sexalatus (juvenile), Agamospirura minuta (juvenile); and Acanthocephala—Nephridiorhynchus major. Four parasite species (the trematode I. melis, nematodes P. sexalatus, A. minuta, and the acanthocephalan N. major) were found in hedgehogs for the first time in Russia. An overview of the helminth fauna of four species of Erinaceus hedgehogs inhabiting the Palearctic region is given. A total of 54 parasite species were recorded across Erinaceus europaeus, E. roumanicus, E. concolor and E. amurensis: 14 trematodes, 6 cestodes, 27 nematodes, and 7 acanthocephalans. Among all the studied species of hedgehogs, E. europaeus (35 species) and E. roumanicus (36) have the richest helminth faunas. The diversity of the parasite communities of Erinaceus spp. is due to the wide distribution and varied diet of these mammals. Most of the helminths found in hedgehogs are transmitted along trophic chains. Hedgehogs are the final hosts for 39 species of parasites. For 15 helminth species, Erinaceus spp. are paratenic hosts. The majority of the hedgehog’s helminth fauna is formed by host-specific parasites, of which there are 13 species. Most of the hedgehog’s parasites in the Palaearctic are facultative (non-specific) species that parasitize in various vertebrate species. The helminth fauna of Erinaceus hedgehogs is most studied in Russia and Belarus, where 17 species of parasites are found in each country. The comparative analysis of the helminth faunas of Erinaceus spp. from various regions showed, on the one hand, the originality of the helminth fauna of each hedgehog species and, on the other, the similarity of the helminth fauna of these insectivores from various countries of the Palaearctic. These features are caused by similar lifestyles and diet peculiarities of every hedgehog species in various regions of the Palaearctic. A total of 12 of the 54 helminth species found in hedgehogs have medical and veterinary significance as causative agents of dangerous helminthiasis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2022)

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Other

Jump to: Research, Review

9 pages, 1339 KiB

Open AccessBrief Report

Is Shrub Encroachment Driving the Decline of Small Mammal Diversity in Pyrenean Grasslands? A Preliminary Study

by Ignasi Torre and Oriol Palau

Diversity 2023, 15(2), 232; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15020232 - 6 Feb 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1609

Abstract

The Pyrenean highlands hold the southernmost populations of some endemic and rare arvicoline species associated with grasslands. This area, as well as many other areas in the Mediterranean basin, has suffered from land abandonment due to socio-economic changes during the last decades. Those [...] Read more.

The Pyrenean highlands hold the southernmost populations of some endemic and rare arvicoline species associated with grasslands. This area, as well as many other areas in the Mediterranean basin, has suffered from land abandonment due to socio-economic changes during the last decades. Those changes represented a reduction of the traditional livestock grazing by goats and sheep which naturally controlled the process of shrub encroachment. Today, maintenance of open habitats such as pasture grasslands needs to be performed by mechanical actions aimed at removing shrubs and woody vegetation. We document a case study on a plot sampled for five consecutive years (2017–2021) in which clear-cutting increased the cover of herbaceous vegetation by removing shrubs, potentially improving pasture quality. Also, changes in the small mammal community were detected, such as an increase in the species density and diversity (Shannon index) after clear-cutting, with the occurrence of typical grassland species (Microtus arvalis, M. lavernedii). Nonetheless, the effects were short-term (lasting two years), and then the community returned to the pre-treatment situation. Prior to intervention, the community was dominated by two generalist and widespread species (A. sylvaticus and C. russula), and the situation was similar two years after the intervention. Small increases in shrub cover produced relevant community changes by decreasing diversity and increasing dominance of the two most common species. These results suggested that shrub encroachment produced the banalization of small mammal communities dominated by generalist species. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2022)

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5 pages, 1964 KiB

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First Predation Record of a Tarantula (Euathlus sp., Theraphosidae) on a Juvenile Austral Thrush (Turdus falcklandii, Turdidae) in Central Chile

by Rubén Montenegro and Darko D. Cotoras

Diversity 2022, 14(11), 946; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14110946 - 4 Nov 2022

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Abstract

We describe the first predation record of an undescribed adult male tarantula from the genus Euathlus in a juvenile austral thrush (Turdus falcklandii Quoy and Gaimard, 1824) (Aves: Turdidae) in central Chile. The precise moment of predation was not observed; it could [...] Read more.

We describe the first predation record of an undescribed adult male tarantula from the genus Euathlus in a juvenile austral thrush (Turdus falcklandii Quoy and Gaimard, 1824) (Aves: Turdidae) in central Chile. The precise moment of predation was not observed; it could have been an opportunistic event or active hunting. In support of the later alternative, this undescribed species of Euathlus has been relatively frequently seen walking on tree trunks. These incidental observations raise the question of how important Euathlus is as a predator of juvenile birds. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2022)

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10 pages, 2150 KiB

Open AccessBrief Report

Are Afrotropical Protected Areas Effective in Increasing Waterbird Richness and Diversity? A Case Study from South Sudan (East Africa)

by Gift Simon Demaya, Shazali Abdallah Gordon, Thomas Francis Lado, Luca Luiselli and Corrado Battisti

Diversity 2022, 14(7), 554; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14070554 - 9 Jul 2022

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Abstract

In many tropical areas of high conservation concern there is still no evidence on the effectiveness of protected areas in protecting specific components of biodiversity. Here, to assess the management effectiveness of protected areas, we carried out a field sampling design for collecting [...] Read more.

In many tropical areas of high conservation concern there is still no evidence on the effectiveness of protected areas in protecting specific components of biodiversity. Here, to assess the management effectiveness of protected areas, we carried out a field sampling design for collecting data on waterbird communities within the Nibule National Park (South Sudan), a poorly-known hot-spot of biodiversity, and in the surrounding buffer zone. All the metrics of richness (absolute species richness, Margalef index, Chao-1) and diversity were significantly higher for bird communities inhabiting the national park, when compared to the buffer zone. Evenness was predictably lower in the national park when compared to the buffer zone, probably due to the large numbers of rare species that were observed in the park’s richer communities, thus increasing the differences in relative frequencies between species. The diversity profiles highlighted this pattern, with more sloping curves in the park sites, evidencing a role of protected area management in positively affecting the bird community structure. Our data provide the first evidence for a poorly-known area of high conservation concern on the effective role played by a National Park in maintaining high values of richness and diversity, at least for wetland-related birds. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2022)

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