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4 pages, 196 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Aquatic Biodiversity: Evolution, Taxonomy and Conservation

by Boris A. Levin and Yulia V. Bespalaya

Diversity 2023, 15(6), 751; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15060751 - 7 Jun 2023

Viewed by 1553

Abstract

Twenty-one studies on the diversity of aquatic organisms inhabiting water ecosystems in Europe, Asia, Africa, North America, and Oceania were collected for the current Special Issue [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aquatic Biodiversity: Evolution, Taxonomy and Conservation)

Research

Jump to: Editorial

14 pages, 2487 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Karyotypes and COI Gene Sequences of Chironomus agilis2, Ch. balatonicus, and Camptochironomus tentans (Diptera, Chironomidae) from Kurchatskoe Lake, Tyumen Region, Russia

by Viktor Bolshakov, Ekaterina Movergoz and Vitaly Stolbov

Diversity 2022, 14(12), 1044; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14121044 - 28 Nov 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1602

Abstract

Chironomids can inhabit a large variety of water bodies. They contribute to the process of biological purification of water bodies, and they are a high-quality food for commercial fish. Any comprehensive study of biodiversity in water bodies begins with the investigation of chironomids, [...] Read more.

Chironomids can inhabit a large variety of water bodies. They contribute to the process of biological purification of water bodies, and they are a high-quality food for commercial fish. Any comprehensive study of biodiversity in water bodies begins with the investigation of chironomids, which are typically variable and difficult to identify through morphology. Similar species are called sibling-species. For precise identification, we used a comprehensive approach, including morphology, cytogenetics, and molecular genetics. In one sample from Kurchatskoe Lake (Tyumen reg.), with mineralized water of 7‰, we found three Chironomus species. Karyological analysis revealed seven banding sequences in Chironomus agilis2, eight in Ch. balatonicus, and seven in Camptochironomus tentans. The combination of balD1.2 was found in all Ch. balatonicus larvae. All the found banding sequences are typical for the studied region, and have previously been recorded in European and Altai populations. All the estimated genetic distances of COI gene sequences in the studied larvae of each species are much lower than the commonly accepted threshold of 3% in species of the genus Chironomus. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aquatic Biodiversity: Evolution, Taxonomy and Conservation)

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23 pages, 4163 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A New Species of the Genus Niphargus Schiödte, 1849 (Crustacea: Amphipoda: Niphargidae) from Groundwater Habitats of the Tarkhankut Upland, Crimean Peninsula

by Ivan N. Marin, Ilya S. Turbanov, Gregoryi A. Prokopov and Dmitry M. Palatov

Diversity 2022, 14(12), 1010; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14121010 - 22 Nov 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2161

Abstract

A new species of the genus Niphargus Schiödte, 1849 (Crustacea: Amphipoda), co-occurring with water louse Asellus cf. aquaticus (Linnaeus, 1758) (Crustacea: Isopoda) in deep wells, is described from the Tarkhankut Upland, located in the northwestern part of the Crimean Peninsula. Niphargus tarkhankuticus sp. [...] Read more.

A new species of the genus Niphargus Schiödte, 1849 (Crustacea: Amphipoda), co-occurring with water louse Asellus cf. aquaticus (Linnaeus, 1758) (Crustacea: Isopoda) in deep wells, is described from the Tarkhankut Upland, located in the northwestern part of the Crimean Peninsula. Niphargus tarkhankuticus sp. nov. corresponds to a separate phylogenetic lineage (the “tarkhankuticus” ingroup), also including several undescribed species from the coastal habitats of the Black Sea (the Crimean Peninsula, the southern Caucasus and the northern coast of Turkey), which is related to the paraphyletic European “stygius-longicaudatus” group. The divergence of the “tarkhankuticus” ingroup from the related European species probably appeared in the Late Miocene age, about 11–10 Mya, related to the separation of the Eastern Paratethys for different basins (Euxinian, Alpine and Pannopian). At the same time, the speciation within the ingroup started in Pliocene, about 5.76–3.6 Mya, and correlated with the Black Sea leveling and the drainage of coastal marine carbonate accumulations, including the Tarkhankut Upland. Intraspecific values of COI mtDNA gene markers (p-distances) for N. tarkhankuticus sp. nov. are about 2%, showing that the division into a number of isolated subpopulations, probably associated with local tectonic movements, the active formation of the river network, and further karst processes in the Tarkhankut Upland occurred during the Pleistocene (since 2.58 Mya). Analysis of stable isotopes (δ¹³C/δ¹⁵N) revealed that only discovered macrocrustaceans in the studied wells of the Tarkhankut Upland have non-overlapping trophic niches, with A. cf. aquaticus possibly feeding on algae/periphyton, while the trophic position of N. tarkhankuticus sp. nov. is close to predators. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aquatic Biodiversity: Evolution, Taxonomy and Conservation)

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17 pages, 10796 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Taxonomic Reassessment of Freshwater Mussels from the Western Balkans Reveals an Overlooked but Critical Refugium and Defines Conservation Priorities

by Artem A. Lyubas, Alexander V. Kondakov, Alena A. Tomilova, Mikhail Yu. Gofarov, Tatyana A. Eliseeva, Ekaterina S. Konopleva, Ilya V. Vikhrev, Olesya A. Yunitsyna, Vladimir Pešić and Ivan N. Bolotov

Diversity 2022, 14(11), 935; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14110935 - 31 Oct 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2128

Abstract

Freshwater mussels are an endangered group of animals, especially in the water bodies of Central and Western Europe. Conservation priorities were established for many endangered freshwater mussel species in the last decade. Here, we present new data on a cryptic refugium of freshwater [...] Read more.

Freshwater mussels are an endangered group of animals, especially in the water bodies of Central and Western Europe. Conservation priorities were established for many endangered freshwater mussel species in the last decade. Here, we present new data on a cryptic refugium of freshwater mussels in the Western Balkans. Two species, Anodonta exulcerata Porro, 1838 and Unio elongatulus Pfeiffer, 1825, were discovered in Montenegro for the first time. The phylogenetic position and taxonomic status of freshwater mussel species from Montenegro were studied by means of an integrative approach, combining morphological data and COI gene sequences. Unio carneus Küster, 1854 stat. rev. represents a species with a restricted range, which is endemic to the Western Balkans. A viable population of Microcondylaea bonellii (Férussac, 1827) was discovered in the Zeta River. This species was not mentioned in Montenegro since the 1900s. A significant level of genetic diversity was revealed for the studied species. In the Skadar Lake basin, freshwater mussels from diverse ecological groups were discovered. Rheophilic species of freshwater mussels may represent ancient lineages, which need special conservation planning. Conservation priorities should be aimed at the protection of freshwater mussel habitats on the Balkan Peninsula. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aquatic Biodiversity: Evolution, Taxonomy and Conservation)

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20 pages, 2678 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Key Environmental Factors Shaping Coastal Fish Community in the Eastern Gulf of Finland, Baltic Sea

by Anton Uspenskiy, Zakhar Zhidkov and Boris Levin

Diversity 2022, 14(11), 930; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14110930 - 29 Oct 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2356

Abstract

A highly productive coastal zone plays an important role in various stages of fish life cycles, e.g., spawning migrations, fish reproduction, larval development, juveniles growing, etc. Therefore, coastal biotopes significantly contribute to commercial fish species recruitment. Although the eastern Gulf of Finland is [...] Read more.

A highly productive coastal zone plays an important role in various stages of fish life cycles, e.g., spawning migrations, fish reproduction, larval development, juveniles growing, etc. Therefore, coastal biotopes significantly contribute to commercial fish species recruitment. Although the eastern Gulf of Finland is rich in shallow coastal water, its coastal fish communities and the influencing environmental variables are still significantly understudied. We investigated the composition and distribution of coastal fish species and the impact of abiotic and biotic environmental factors in the eastern Gulf of Finland during field surveys in 2011–2017. In total, 34 fish species were recorded at shallows. The coastal fish community demonstrates a low degree of heterogeneity despite a highly heterogeneous environment. Five freshwater species are widely distributed and the most frequent in the area. Three key environmental variables influencing the coastal fish community of the eastern Gulf of Finland were: (i) salinity, (ii) filamentous algae presence, and (iii) macrophytes presence. Fish community structure was also influenced by the sampling season. Discriminating and typifying taxa were performed for each environmental variable. We suggest that obtained results might be useful for future environmental studies in the region and fish community modeling. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aquatic Biodiversity: Evolution, Taxonomy and Conservation)

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16 pages, 1634 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Distribution and Diversity of Diaptomid Copepods in Freshwater Habitats of Cambodia (Crustacea: Copepoda: Calanoida: Diaptomidae)

by Rachada Chaicharoen and Laorsri Sanoamuang

Diversity 2022, 14(11), 903; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14110903 - 26 Oct 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2170

Abstract

Freshwater diaptomid copepods in Cambodia are poorly studied, and only seven taxa were known previously. From February to October 2007, 255 samples were collected from 237 freshwater sites in nine provinces representing four regions (northwest, Cardamom and Elephant Mountains, Mekong Lowlands, and east) [...] Read more.

Freshwater diaptomid copepods in Cambodia are poorly studied, and only seven taxa were known previously. From February to October 2007, 255 samples were collected from 237 freshwater sites in nine provinces representing four regions (northwest, Cardamom and Elephant Mountains, Mekong Lowlands, and east) of Cambodia. Diversity, seasonal occurrence, geographical distribution of each species, and a checklist of diaptomid copepods are documented. In this case, 24 species were recorded, including two undescribed species belonging to the genera Phyllodiaptomus and Tropodiaptomus. In this case, 14 species are recorded for the first time in Cambodia, and Mongolodiaptomus formosanus has been recorded for the first time in Southeast Asia. One species appears to be endemic to Cambodia and nine to the lower Mekong River Basin. Mongolodiaptomus malaindosinensis was the most common, frequently recorded throughout the four regions (40.5% of the sampled sites), followed by Vietodiaptomus blachei (39.2%), Eodiaptomus phuvongi (38.8%), Mongolodiaptomus formosanus (31.2%), and Eodiaptomus draconisignivomi (27.4%). Very rare species such as Eodiaptomus sanoamuangae, Tropodiaptomus vicinus, Mongolodiaptomus calcarus, and Tropodiaptomus sp. were only recorded at 0.4% to 0.8% of the sampled sites. The species diversity of Cambodia is most similar to that of Thailand, where 22 species (91.6%) occur both in Cambodia and Thailand, and 12 (50%) of the species have been recorded in both Cambodia and Vietnam. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aquatic Biodiversity: Evolution, Taxonomy and Conservation)

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27 pages, 5255 KiB

Open AccessArticle

New Molecular-Based Phylogeny of Mussel-Associated Mites Reveals a New Subgenus and Three New Species Representing an Example of a Host-Driven Radiation in Indochina and Confirms the Concept of Division of the Genus Unionicola Haldeman, 1842 (Acari: Unionicolidae) into Numerous Subgenera

by Yulia E. Chapurina, Ekaterina S. Konopleva, Malcolm F. Vidrine, Ilya V. Vikhrev, Zau Lunn, Nyein Chan, Than Win, Alexander V. Kondakov, Natalia A. Zubrii, Yulia V. Bespalaya, Olga V. Aksenova, Mikhail Y. Gofarov and Ivan N. Bolotov

Diversity 2022, 14(10), 848; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14100848 - 8 Oct 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2424

Abstract

Here we describe a new subgenus and three new species of parasitic water mites in the genus Unionicola (Acari: Hydrachnidia) from Myanmar: Myanmaratax subgen. nov., Unionicola (Myanmaratax) savadiensis subgen. and sp. nov. (hosts: Lamellidens savadiensis and L. generosus [...] Read more.

Here we describe a new subgenus and three new species of parasitic water mites in the genus Unionicola (Acari: Hydrachnidia) from Myanmar: Myanmaratax subgen. nov., Unionicola (Myanmaratax) savadiensis subgen. and sp. nov. (hosts: Lamellidens savadiensis and L. generosus), U. (My.) generosa sp. nov. (the same hosts), and U. (My.) trapezidenssp. nov. (hosts: Trapezidens dolichorhynchus and T. angustior). These taxa were identified based on a two-gene phylogenetic analysis (COI + 28S), which also confirms the division of the genus Unionicola into numerous subgenera. The new species are cryptic species, which are morphologically indistinguishable but strongly resemble U. (Prasadatax) brandti Vidrine, 1985 described from Thailand (hosts: Lens spp. and Ensidens spp.). We also transfer the latter taxon from Prasadatax to Myanmaratax based on a set of morphological evidence and propose U. (My.) brandti comb. nov. The new subgenus contains a total of five species, one of which needs future sampling efforts and will be described elsewhere. Additionally, 56 valid subgenera, which were placed in the synonymy of the genus and in one case raised to the genus level, are restored here until robust phylogenetic evidence on their taxonomic status is available. Our results also confirm that Unionicola mites are narrow host specialists that are associated with either one or a few closely related freshwater mussel species belonging to one or two sister genera. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aquatic Biodiversity: Evolution, Taxonomy and Conservation)

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6 pages, 1797 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Reproductive Mode of Corbicula tobae (Martens, 1900): Brooding and Larval Morphology in Lake Toba (Indonesia)

by Alexander V. Kropotin, Yulia V. Bespalaya, Olga V. Aksenova and Ivan N. Bolotov

Diversity 2022, 14(9), 700; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14090700 - 24 Aug 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1798

Abstract

Currently, the reproductive mode of the Indonesian endemic species Corbicula tobae from Lake Toba is yet to be investigated. In this study, we describe, for the first time, the reproductive mode of this endemic species based on a series of topotype specimens, combining [...] Read more.

Currently, the reproductive mode of the Indonesian endemic species Corbicula tobae from Lake Toba is yet to be investigated. In this study, we describe, for the first time, the reproductive mode of this endemic species based on a series of topotype specimens, combining anatomical and histological data. According to our data, C. tobae is a dioecious species, incubating D-shaped larvae in the inner demibranchs and having monoflagellate sperm. The head of the C. tobae spermatozoon differs from those of other Indonesian species of Corbicula by having the smallest length. A histological investigation of C. tobae gills revealed that the inner demibranch has larger interlamellar spaces compared with the outer demibranches. Our study highlights several specific reproductive traits may have evolved in narrowly endemic Corbicula clams within their native ranges. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aquatic Biodiversity: Evolution, Taxonomy and Conservation)

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18 pages, 6474 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Trophic Diversification Out of Ancestral Specialization: An Example from a Radiating African Cyprinid Fish (Genus Garra)

by Aleksandra S. Komarova, Alexander S. Golubtsov and Boris A. Levin

Diversity 2022, 14(8), 629; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14080629 - 6 Aug 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2794

Abstract

Trophic resource partitioning is one of the main ecological mechanisms of adaptive radiation. The Garra is a highly specialized periphyton feeder that has widened jaws equipped with a horny cutting scraper. In a river located in the Ethiopian Highlands in East Africa, a [...] Read more.

Trophic resource partitioning is one of the main ecological mechanisms of adaptive radiation. The Garra is a highly specialized periphyton feeder that has widened jaws equipped with a horny cutting scraper. In a river located in the Ethiopian Highlands in East Africa, a diversification of Garra composed of six sympatric ecomorphs which were strikingly diverse in trophic morphology was revealed. A hypothesis on trophic resource partitioning was tested using data on diet composition, gut length, and stable isotopes. The obtained results confirmed the trophic diversification of Garra ecomorphs. Three feeding modes were revealed: (i) periphytonophagy, (ii) mixed periphytonophagy and zoophagy, and (iii) zoophagy. The periphyton feeders had a long gut and were enriched in δ¹³C values compared to the shorter gut and lowered δ¹³C values in the zoophagous ecomorphs. Therefore, Garra could respecialize out of its ancestral specialization. This finding does not support the generalists-to-specialists hypothesis on the origin of specializations, and suggests that Liem’s paradox is a more common phenomenon. In the case of specialists, we assume that new ecological opportunities can be ‘visible’ to specialists if they are preceded by relaxed selection constrains that lead to the widening of the ecological/morphological plasticity to jump out of a canalized mode of ancestral specialization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aquatic Biodiversity: Evolution, Taxonomy and Conservation)

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21 pages, 4171 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Phylogeography of Phoxinus, Delminichthys, Phoxinellus and Telestes in Dinaric Karst: Which Factors Have Influenced Their Current Distributions?

by Susanne Reier, Nina Bogutskaya and Anja Palandačić

Diversity 2022, 14(7), 526; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14070526 - 29 Jun 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2614

Abstract

The waters of the Dinaric Karst drain into both the Adriatic and the Black Sea basins. Precipitation is high, yet surface waters are scarce, with the exception of sinking streams. Dinaric Karst is a biodiversity hotspot, with diverse speleo- and epigean freshwater fauna. [...] Read more.

The waters of the Dinaric Karst drain into both the Adriatic and the Black Sea basins. Precipitation is high, yet surface waters are scarce, with the exception of sinking streams. Dinaric Karst is a biodiversity hotspot, with diverse speleo- and epigean freshwater fauna. The distribution patterns of taxa in Dinaric Karst have arisen from a combination of vicariance and dispersal and their alteration over time. Within fishes, there are genera that include both species that are widespread and species with restricted ranges (e.g., Phoxinus, Telestes), and genera with only restricted distributions (e.g., Delminichthys, Phoxinellus). Some (Delminichthys, Phoxinellus and Dinaric Telestes) have a similar lifestyle, specialized for dwelling in sinking streams in karst poljes. The present study compares the distribution ranges of Phoxinus, Delminichthys, Phoxinellus and Telestes in Dinaric Karst based upon their mitochondrial genetic lineages, including dating of divergence times and reconstruction of ancestral geographic ranges. The biology of Phoxinus has played a major role in its wider distribution than the other three genera, which exhibit some limited ability to migrate underground, but which cannot disperse along main river courses due to their specific adaptation for dwelling in the sinking streams of karst poljes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aquatic Biodiversity: Evolution, Taxonomy and Conservation)

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16 pages, 2503 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Diversity of Freshwater Calanoid Copepods (Crustacea: Copepoda: Calanoida) in Southern Vietnam with an Updated Checklist for the Country

by Phuttaphannee Boonmak and Laorsri Sanoamuang

Diversity 2022, 14(7), 523; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14070523 - 28 Jun 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3274

Abstract

The diversity of freshwater calanoid copepods from different habitats in Vietnam is investigated based on our findings from a field expedition in 2012–2013 and literature reviews. We collected 160 samples from 87 sites, including lakes, ponds, roadside canals, rivers, and rice fields in [...] Read more.

The diversity of freshwater calanoid copepods from different habitats in Vietnam is investigated based on our findings from a field expedition in 2012–2013 and literature reviews. We collected 160 samples from 87 sites, including lakes, ponds, roadside canals, rivers, and rice fields in eight provinces of southern Vietnam. A total of 13 species belonging to eight genera and three families were recorded. Among these, four were recorded for the first time in Vietnam (Mongolodiaptomus malaindosinensis, Mongolodiaptomus mekongensis, Vietodiaptomus blachei, and Pseudodiaptomus siamensis). One unidentified taxon (Tropodiaptomus sp.) probably belongs to an undescribed species. Both Eodiaptomusdraconisignivomi and M. malaindosinensis were the most frequently encountered species (28.74% of the sampled sites), followed by Mongolodiaptomus botulifer (24.14%), while Neodiaptomus yangtsekiangensis, Tropodiaptomusoryzanus, and Tropodiaptomus sp. are rare species found in a single locality. To date, 40 calanoid species (33 in the family Diaptomidae) have been recorded from Vietnam, and an updated list is presented. Seven species are potentially endemic to Vietnam. At the same sampling dates, the species richness of the calanoids was a range of 1–5 species per locality. The results of the Canonical Correspondence Analysis showed that pH and conductivity tended to be positively related to the calanoid distribution. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aquatic Biodiversity: Evolution, Taxonomy and Conservation)

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18 pages, 1406 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Postglacial Expansion Routes and Mitochondrial Genetic Diversification of the Freshwater Pearl Mussel in Europe and North America

by Ilya V. Vikhrev, Evgenii P. Ieshko, Alexander V. Kondakov, Nikolai S. Mugue, Galina V. Bovykina, Denis A. Efremov, Andrei G. Bulakhov, Alena A. Tomilova, Olesya A. Yunitsyna and Ivan N. Bolotov

Diversity 2022, 14(6), 477; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14060477 - 13 Jun 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3211

Abstract

The freshwater pearl mussel Margaritifera margaritifera is a unionid species distributed across Northwestern Russia, Fennoscandia, Western and Southwestern Europe, and the Atlantic Coast of North America. In this study, we reconstructed the post-glacial expansion routes of this species based on FST genetic distances [...] Read more.

The freshwater pearl mussel Margaritifera margaritifera is a unionid species distributed across Northwestern Russia, Fennoscandia, Western and Southwestern Europe, and the Atlantic Coast of North America. In this study, we reconstructed the post-glacial expansion routes of this species based on FST genetic distances and the fact that M. margaritifera distribution is directly connected with salmonid expansion. The freshwater-pearl-mussel populations from North America and Northeastern Europe were the closest groups, judging by FST distances, supporting the concept of the North Atlantic Salmo salar colonization of the Barents and White Sea basins. We also documented that unique haplotypes in the populations of the Baltic and White Sea basins may have originated in isolated glacial refugia in Eastern and Northeastern Europe. The Iberian clade was the most distant group of populations, which is consistent with the previously observed role of the Iberian Peninsula as a glacial refugium. The high genetic diversity in the populations of Northern and Eastern Karelia was facilitated by migrants utilizing complex periglacial hydrological networks and by admixture in the contact zone where the migration flows met. We confirm that this region should be considered as a major center of genetic diversity within the European part of the species’ range. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aquatic Biodiversity: Evolution, Taxonomy and Conservation)

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12 pages, 1113 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Nearctic Species in the Palearctic: Trans-Beringian Range, Phylogeny and Phylogeography of Pterostichus (Cryobius) mandibularoides (Coleoptera, Carabidae)

by Natalia Andreevna Zubrii, Boris Yurevich Filippov, Olga Arturovna Khruleva, Alexander Vasilevich Kondakov and Leonid Borisovich Rybalov

Diversity 2022, 14(6), 415; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14060415 - 24 May 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2113

Abstract

Subgenus Cryobius is one of the most numerous among the megafauna of tundra soils, but studies on its species distribution, taxonomy, and ecology are lacking. Phylogeny and phylogeography reconstructions of insects with taxonomic complexity have become possible using an integrative approach. Here, we [...] Read more.

Subgenus Cryobius is one of the most numerous among the megafauna of tundra soils, but studies on its species distribution, taxonomy, and ecology are lacking. Phylogeny and phylogeography reconstructions of insects with taxonomic complexity have become possible using an integrative approach. Here, we report that specimens of Pterostichus (Cryobius) mandibularoides, described from North America, were detected in Eurasia. Thus, this species has a trans-Beringian range with high distributions in North America, as well as a disjunctive part of the range on the northeastern edge of Asia within Chukotka and Wrangel Island. Eight COI haplotypes with closed relationships (1–2 mutation steps) were detected within the whole range, and one 28S rRNA haplotype was detected for Eurasia. Bayesian phylogeny revealed that P. mandibularoides had the most recent common ancestor with sister species P. brevicornis and P. nivalis. Mean genetic distances of both markers were similar and higher between P. mandibularoides and both P. brevicornis and P. nivalis (>5% ± 1.0%) than between the latter species (<4% ± 1.0%). The obtained results change the previous view about brevicornis group stock differentiation within Cryobius in the Arctic and require a revision of the phylogeny and phylogeography of brevicornis group species and Cryobius altogether. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aquatic Biodiversity: Evolution, Taxonomy and Conservation)

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15 pages, 2495 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Past, Current and Future of Fish Diversity in the Alakol Lakes (Central Asia: Kazakhstan)

by Nadir Mamilov, Sayat Sharakhmetov, Fariza Amirbekova, Dinara Bekkozhayeva, Nazym Sapargaliyeva, Gulnar Kegenova, Ainur Tanybayeva and Kanatbek Abilkasimov

Diversity 2022, 14(1), 11; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14010011 - 26 Dec 2021

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4185

Abstract

The aboriginal ichthyofauna of the Balkhash basin consists mainly of endemic fish species. By the end of the last century, indigenous fish species were driven out of Lake Balkhash and the Alakol Lakes remain the largest refuges of aboriginal fish fauna. Knowledge of [...] Read more.

The aboriginal ichthyofauna of the Balkhash basin consists mainly of endemic fish species. By the end of the last century, indigenous fish species were driven out of Lake Balkhash and the Alakol Lakes remain the largest refuges of aboriginal fish fauna. Knowledge of regularities of the modern distribution of the indigenous fishes is crucial for biodiversity conservation as well as restoring aquatic ecosystems. The modern diversity of fish species was investigated there in this study. Significant changes for the indigenous and some alien fish distributions were revealed in contrast with earlier known data. Canonical correspondence analysis (CCA) was used to study the relationships between habitat characteristics and species abundance. Water mineralization and maximal observed water temperatures were estimated as the main environmental variables in fish distribution at the local scale. Habitat change leads to fish fauna homogenization as a result of rare species extinction and alien penetration. Growing human population and poor water management make the future of the indigenous fishes unpredictable. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aquatic Biodiversity: Evolution, Taxonomy and Conservation)

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13 pages, 8755 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Triangulopteris lacunata gen. et sp. nov. (Centroplasthelida), a New Centrohelid Heliozoan from Soil

by Dmitry G. Zagumyonnyi, Liudmila V. Radaykina and Denis V. Tikhonenkov

Diversity 2021, 13(12), 658; https://doi.org/10.3390/d13120658 - 11 Dec 2021

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3409

Abstract

A new genus and species of centrohelid heliozoans, Triangulopteris lacunata gen. et sp. nov. (Pterocystidae Cavalier-Smith and Heyden, 2007), from four geographically remote locations (the Crimean Peninsula, the Dnieper Lowland (the East European Plain), Franz Josef Land, and the Kolyma Lowland (North–Eastern Siberia) [...] Read more.

A new genus and species of centrohelid heliozoans, Triangulopteris lacunata gen. et sp. nov. (Pterocystidae Cavalier-Smith and Heyden, 2007), from four geographically remote locations (the Crimean Peninsula, the Dnieper Lowland (the East European Plain), Franz Josef Land, and the Kolyma Lowland (North–Eastern Siberia) was examined using light and electron microscopy. The novel centrohelid is characterized by round shape, 4.3–16.3 μm in diameter, covered with two types of scales: 1.06–4.54 μm long triangular spine scales and 1.22–2.05 μm oval plate scales. Studied centrohelid heliozoan possesses a unique spine scale morphology. The base of scales is represented by a horse hoof-shaped basal plate. The inner surface and lateral wings of spine scales have numerous radial ribs with two ‘pockets’ that are located on both sides of the spine shaft. These pockets are formed by the lateral wings and ends of the basal plate. The cyst formation and transition to a spicules-bearing stage were noted. Additionally, phylogenetic tree was constructed based on SSU rRNA sequences including the strain HF-25 from the permafrost of Kolyma Lowland. The resulting phylogeny recovered it within the clade Pterista, while forming a separate sister lineage to H2 clade, which only had included freshwater environmental sequences. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aquatic Biodiversity: Evolution, Taxonomy and Conservation)

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19 pages, 3757 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Emerging Ecotone and Microbial Community of a Sulfidic Spring in the Reka River near Škocjanske Jame, Slovenia

by Janez Mulec, Andreea Oarga-Mulec, Sara Skok, Stanka Šebela, Rosana Cerkvenik, Tomaž Zorman, Ladislav Holko, Tina Eleršek and Lejla Pašić

Diversity 2021, 13(12), 655; https://doi.org/10.3390/d13120655 - 9 Dec 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3303

Abstract

During long periods with no precipitation, a sulfidic spring (Smrdljivec) appears in the dry bed of the Reka River before sinking into the karst underground. The study characterizes the area’s geological setting, development of microbial communities and an ecotone, and impact on the [...] Read more.

During long periods with no precipitation, a sulfidic spring (Smrdljivec) appears in the dry bed of the Reka River before sinking into the karst underground. The study characterizes the area’s geological setting, development of microbial communities and an ecotone, and impact on the vulnerable karst ecosystem. Geological mapping of the area, stable isotopic analyses, field measurements, and physico-chemical and toxicity analyses were applied to elucidate the environmental conditions. The spring’s microbial diversity was assessed using cultivation methods, microscopy, and metagenomics. Sulfur compounds in the spring probably originate from coal layers in the vicinity. Metagenomic analyses revealed 175 distinct operational taxonomic units in spring water and biofilms. Proteobacteria predominated in developed biofilms, and a “core” microbiome was represented by methylotrophs, including Methylobacter, Methylomonas, and Methylotenera. Diatoms represented an important component of biofilm biomass. A combination of environmental factors and climatic conditions allows the formation and accessibility of emerging biodiversity hotspots and ecotones. Details of their dynamic nature, global impact, and distribution should be highlighted further and given more protection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aquatic Biodiversity: Evolution, Taxonomy and Conservation)

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14 pages, 8736 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Studies on Algae from the Order Synurales (Chrysophyceae) in Northern Vietnam

by Evgeniy Gusev, Nikita Martynenko and Hoan Tran

Diversity 2021, 13(11), 602; https://doi.org/10.3390/d13110602 - 21 Nov 2021

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 2776

Abstract

The present paper focuses on the flora of synuralean algae from four northern provinces in Vietnam: Bac Kan, Hanoi, Ninh Binh, and Thanh Hoa. Fifty-five water bodies were studied, including territories within national parks Ba Be, Ba Vi, Cuc Phuong, Ben En, and [...] Read more.

The present paper focuses on the flora of synuralean algae from four northern provinces in Vietnam: Bac Kan, Hanoi, Ninh Binh, and Thanh Hoa. Fifty-five water bodies were studied, including territories within national parks Ba Be, Ba Vi, Cuc Phuong, Ben En, and Trang An Wetland—The World Cultural and Natural Heritage and Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve. Samples were obtained from natural lakes and wetlands, artificial reservoirs and ponds, and small temporary water bodies. Electron microscopy allowed for the discovery of 39 taxa, 37 of which belonged to the genus Mallomonas and two to the genus Synura. Six taxa of the genus Mallomonas and two taxa from the genus Synura were not identified to the lower rank. Five taxa are reported for the first time in Vietnam. The most diverse flora was observed in natural protected water bodies. Eutrophic and hypereutrophic water bodies, which were prevalent in the study area, had a reduced number of selected species. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aquatic Biodiversity: Evolution, Taxonomy and Conservation)

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13 pages, 19602 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Morphology, Ultrastructure and Molecular Phylogeny of a New Freshwater Heterolobose Amoeba Parafumarolamoeba stagnalis n. sp. (Vahlkampfiidae; Heterolobosea)

by Anastasia S. Borodina, Alexander P. Mylnikov, Jan Janouškovec, Patrick J. Keeling and Denis V. Tikhonenkov

Diversity 2021, 13(9), 433; https://doi.org/10.3390/d13090433 - 8 Sep 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3545

Abstract

Heterolobose amoebae are important members of marine, freshwater, and soil microbial communities, but their diversity remains under-explored. We studied the diversity of Vahlkampfiidae to improve our understanding of heterolobosean relationships and their representation in aquatic benthos. Using light and electron microscopy, and molecular [...] Read more.

Heterolobose amoebae are important members of marine, freshwater, and soil microbial communities, but their diversity remains under-explored. We studied the diversity of Vahlkampfiidae to improve our understanding of heterolobosean relationships and their representation in aquatic benthos. Using light and electron microscopy, and molecular phylogenies based on the SSU rRNA and ITS loci, we describe the fine morphology and evolutionary relationships of a new heterolobosean Parafumarolamoeba stagnalis n. sp. from a small pond in European Russia. Cells of P. stagnalis possess a clearly distinguishable anterior hyaline pseudopodium, eruptive movement, several thin and sometimes branched uroidal filaments, spherical cysts without pores and plugs, and mitochondria that have discoid cristae and are surrounded by cisternae of the endoplasmic reticulum. The genus Parafumarolamoeba has so far included a single species, Parafumarolamoeba alta from high-altitude soil in Tibet, which is morphologically distinct from P. stagnalis. Taxonomic description for a new Parafumarolamoeba species is therefore provided. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aquatic Biodiversity: Evolution, Taxonomy and Conservation)

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27 pages, 3709 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Bacterial Number and Genetic Diversity in a Permafrost Peatland (Western Siberia): Testing a Link with Organic Matter Quality and Elementary Composition of a Peat Soil Profile

by Andrey S. Aksenov, Liudmila S. Shirokova, Oksana Ya. Kisil, Sofiia N. Kolesova, Artem G. Lim, Darya Kuzmina, Sophie Pouillé, Marie A. Alexis, Maryse Castrec-Rouelle, Sergey V. Loiko and Oleg S. Pokrovsky

Diversity 2021, 13(7), 328; https://doi.org/10.3390/d13070328 - 17 Jul 2021

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 4279

Abstract

Permafrost peatlands, containing a sizable amount of soil organic carbon (OC), play a pivotal role in soil (peat) OC transformation into soluble and volatile forms and greatly contribute to overall natural CO₂ and CH₄ emissions to the atmosphere under ongoing permafrost [...] Read more.

Permafrost peatlands, containing a sizable amount of soil organic carbon (OC), play a pivotal role in soil (peat) OC transformation into soluble and volatile forms and greatly contribute to overall natural CO₂ and CH₄ emissions to the atmosphere under ongoing permafrost thaw and soil OC degradation. Peat microorganisms are largely responsible for the processing of this OC, yet coupled studies of chemical and bacterial parameters in permafrost peatlands are rather limited and geographically biased. Towards testing the possible impact of peat and peat pore water chemical composition on microbial population and diversity, here we present results of a preliminary study of the western Siberia permafrost peatland discontinuous permafrost zone. The quantitative evaluation of microorganisms and determination of microbial diversity along a 100 cm thick peat soil column, which included thawed and frozen peat and bottom mineral horizon, was performed by RT-PCR and 16S rRNA gene-based metagenomic analysis, respectively. Bacteria (mainly Proteobacteria, Acidobacteria, Actinobacteria) strongly dominated the microbial diversity (99% sequences), with a negligible proportion of archaea (0.3–0.5%). There was a systematic evolution of main taxa according to depth, with a maximum of 65% (Acidobacteria) encountered in the active layer, or permafrost boundary (50–60 cm). We also measured C, N, nutrients and ~50 major and trace elements in peat (19 samples) as well as its pore water and dispersed ice (10 samples), sampled over the same core, and we analyzed organic matter quality in six organic and one mineral horizon of this core. Using multiparametric statistics (PCA), we tested the links between the total microbial number and 16S rRNA diversity and chemical composition of both the solid and fluid phase harboring the microorganisms. Under climate warming and permafrost thaw, one can expect a downward movement of the layer of maximal genetic diversity following the active layer thickening. Given a one to two orders of magnitude higher microbial number in the upper (thawed) layers compared to bottom (frozen) layers, an additional 50 cm of peat thawing in western Siberia may sizably increase the total microbial population and biodiversity of active cells. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aquatic Biodiversity: Evolution, Taxonomy and Conservation)

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11 pages, 2592 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Reproduction of the Androgenetic Population of the Asian Corbicula Clam (Bivalvia: Cyrenidae) in the Northern Dvina River Basin, Russia

by Yulia V. Bespalaya, Olga V. Aksenova, Alexander V. Kropotin, Alexander R. Shevchenko and Oksana V. Travina

Diversity 2021, 13(7), 316; https://doi.org/10.3390/d13070316 - 10 Jul 2021

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3769

Abstract

The Corbicula clam is one of the most successful invaders of aquatic ecosystems and has invaded all continents except Antarctica. The natural dispersion of Corbicula seems to be limited by low winter temperatures that fall below the lower lethal temperatures (0 to +2 [...] Read more.

The Corbicula clam is one of the most successful invaders of aquatic ecosystems and has invaded all continents except Antarctica. The natural dispersion of Corbicula seems to be limited by low winter temperatures that fall below the lower lethal temperatures (0 to +2 °C). However, Corbicula can be found in colder regions, taking refuge in waters heated by thermal power plants. The purpose of this investigation was to study the gonadal histology, reproductive cycle, and the seasonal changes of shell size structure of the Corbicula clam populations in the warm water discharge of the Arkhangelsk thermal power plant (Northwest Russia). Samples were collected monthly from January 2017 to December 2018 and processed using traditional histological and morphological techniques. The number of reproductive periods varied from year to year. It was established that the Corbicula clam has a continuous reproduction period which may be adaptive in unstable environmental conditions. This reproductive strategy is probably aimed at increasing the reproductive success of the population. Our data expand the understanding of reproductive features of the Corbicula clam in harsh environmental conditions. These results could be applied to control, monitoring, and management measures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aquatic Biodiversity: Evolution, Taxonomy and Conservation)

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8 pages, 1023 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Genetic Investigation of Aral Wild Common Carp Populations (Cyprinus carpio) Using ddRAD Sequencing

by Gulmira Shalgimbayeva, Alexander Volkov, Natalia Slobodova, Fedor Sharko, Svetlana Tsygankova, Eugenia Boulygina, Van Q. Nguyen, The T. Pham, Duc T. Nguyen, Saule Zh. Assylbekova, Yakov Alekseev, Artem Nedoluzhko, Jorge M. O. Fernandes and Sergey Rastorguev

Diversity 2021, 13(7), 295; https://doi.org/10.3390/d13070295 - 28 Jun 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3382

Abstract

Common carp (Cyprinus carpio) is a widespread freshwater fish species of the Cyprinidae family, one of the largest and most diverse fish families. The natural habitats of C. carpio extend from Western Europe to South-East Asia. Common carp has remained an [...] Read more.

Common carp (Cyprinus carpio) is a widespread freshwater fish species of the Cyprinidae family, one of the largest and most diverse fish families. The natural habitats of C. carpio extend from Western Europe to South-East Asia. Common carp has remained an economically important fish species in aquaculture for many centuries and its production nowadays exceeds 4 million tons worldwide and continues to grow. The taxonomy of C. carpio is complicated, since this species is usually distinguished in two, three, and even four distinct subspecies. In the present study, we used ddRAD-sequencing to genotype 30 specimens from five wild common carp populations from the Ponto-Caspian, Balkhash-Ile, and Aral Sea geographical regions. It is demonstrated that they differ at the population level according to F-statistics analysis. At the same time, the subspecies status of C. carpio aralensis has not yet been confirmed. We found several loci that can be used as a discriminant for Aral and Ponto-Caspian wild common carp populations. It is suggested that Aral carp (C. carpio aralensis), which inhabits Balkhash-Ile and Aral Sea basins, is related to Ponto-Caspian or European carp (C. carpio carpio). Moreover, Aral carp might be the ancestor for European carp subspecies. Our results can be used to develop population-specific, high-density SNP marker panels, allowing the trade control of common carp production in the Eurasian Economic Union. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aquatic Biodiversity: Evolution, Taxonomy and Conservation)

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23 pages, 2416 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of Water Quality, Eutrophication, and Zooplankton Community in Lake Burullus, Egypt

by Ahmed E. Alprol, Ahmed M. M. Heneash, Asgad M. Soliman, Mohamed Ashour, Walaa F. Alsanie, Ahmed Gaber and Abdallah Tageldein Mansour

Diversity 2021, 13(6), 268; https://doi.org/10.3390/d13060268 - 15 Jun 2021

Cited by 63 | Viewed by 5904

Abstract

Burullus Lake is Egypt’s second most important coastal lagoon. The present study aimed to shed light on the different types of polluted waters entering the lake from various drains, as well as to evaluate the zooplankton community, determine the physical and chemical characteristics [...] Read more.

Burullus Lake is Egypt’s second most important coastal lagoon. The present study aimed to shed light on the different types of polluted waters entering the lake from various drains, as well as to evaluate the zooplankton community, determine the physical and chemical characteristics of the waters, and study the eutrophication state based on three years of seasonal monitoring from 2017 to 2019 at 12 stations. The results revealed that Rotifera, Copepoda, Protozoa, and Cladocera dominated the zooplankton population across the three-year study period, with a total of 98 taxa from 59 genera and 10 groups detected in the whole-body lake in 2018 and 2019, compared to 93 species from 52 genera in 2017. Twelve representative surface water samples were collected from the lake to determine physicochemical parameters, i.e., temperature, pH, salinity, dissolved oxygen, biological oxygen demand, chemical oxygen demand, ammonia-N, nitrate–N, nitrate-N, total nitrogen, total phosphorus, dissolved reactive phosphorus, and chlorophyll-a, as well as Fe, Cu, Zn, Cr, Ni, Cd, and Pb ions. Based on the calculations of the water quality index (WQI), the lake was classified as having good water quality. However, the trophic state is ranked as hyper-eutrophic and high trophic conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aquatic Biodiversity: Evolution, Taxonomy and Conservation)

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