Diversity

17 pages, 5044 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Complete Mitogenome of Two Trachinotus Species and a Phylogenetic Analysis of the Pompano Subfamily Trachinotinae

by Oscar David Albito Balcázar, Luan Rabelo, Emile Jeane Silva Menezes, Tibério Cesar Tortola Burlamaqui, Alexandre Aleixo, José Augusto Pires Bitencourt, Grazielle Gomes, Nils Edvin Asp Neto, Iracilda Sampaio and Marcelo Vallinoto

Diversity 2026, 18(2), 88; https://doi.org/10.3390/d18020088 (registering DOI) - 31 Jan 2026

Abstract

The marine fish genus Trachinotus (Carangidae: Trachinotinae) comprises species of considerable economic and ecological importance; however, a significant gap in genomic data has limited the understanding of its evolutionary history and systematics. To address this gap, we determined the complete mitochondrial genomes of [...] Read more.

The marine fish genus Trachinotus (Carangidae: Trachinotinae) comprises species of considerable economic and ecological importance; however, a significant gap in genomic data has limited the understanding of its evolutionary history and systematics. To address this gap, we determined the complete mitochondrial genomes of two key species, Trachinotus goodei (Palometa) and Trachinotus mookalee (Indian Pompano). The mitogenome of T. goodei was sequenced from genomic DNA and assembled de novo, whereas the T. mookalee mitogenome was assembled by mining publicly available RNA-Seq data, demonstrating a cost-effective approach for expanding genomic resources. The resulting mitogenomes were 16,547 bp and 16,545 bp long, respectively, and both presented conserved gene content (13 protein-coding genes, 22 tRNAs, 2 rRNAs) and organization typical of teleost fishes. Phylogenetic analysis incorporating these new genomes with those of four other Trachinotus species was performed via a concatenated dataset of 13 protein-coding genes. Maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference recovered Trachinotus as a strongly supported monophyletic group. The phylogeny revealed a fundamental and deeply divergent split between two major clades, one comprising species from the Atlantic Ocean and the other containing species from the Indo-Pacific. This robust biogeographic partition provides compelling evidence that allopatric speciation is a primary driver of diversification within the genus. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Diversity)

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16 pages, 4255 KB

Open AccessArticle

Enduring Gene Flow, Despite an Extremely Low Effective Population Size, Supports Hope for the Recovery of the Globally Endangered Lear’s Macaw

by Erica C. Pacífico, Gregorio Sánchez-Montes, Fernanda R. Paschotto, Thiago Filadelfo, Fernando Hiraldo, José A. Godoy, Cristina Y. Miyaki and José L. Tella

Diversity 2026, 18(2), 87; https://doi.org/10.3390/d18020087 (registering DOI) - 31 Jan 2026

Abstract

When analyzing the long-term viability of small, declining populations, it is essential to recognize that inbreeding and the erosion of genetic diversity are primarily driven by the effective population size, which is often a fraction of the total census count. The globally endangered [...] Read more.

When analyzing the long-term viability of small, declining populations, it is essential to recognize that inbreeding and the erosion of genetic diversity are primarily driven by the effective population size, which is often a fraction of the total census count. The globally endangered Lear’s macaw (Anodorhynchus leari) is a restricted-range species endemic to the Caatinga ecoregion in NE Brazil. This species was only known in captivity due to wildlife illegal trade, until 1978, when a small population close to extinction was discovered in the wild, estimated at ca. 60 individuals in 1983. Conservation efforts have allowed for population recovery in recent decades, reaching a population of ca. 2273 individuals in 2022. Given these drastic population changes, a genetic assessment is important to empower conservation strategies with knowledge about the level of genetic variability, population genetic structure, inbreeding levels, and demographic history. We used a set of eight species-specific microsatellites to provide the first genetic assessment of the wild population of this species by genotyping non-invasive samples (molted feathers) collected in the known breeding and roosting sites of the species. Our results revealed a low effective population size (N_e = 49–80), which represents the main conservation concern. We also observed evidence of past bottlenecks. However, moderate levels of genetic diversity, no evidence of inbreeding, and a wide connectivity across the study area confirm a single population and set the ground for the potential natural recovery of this species and the recolonization of breeding sites across its former range. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genetic Diversity, Ecology and Conservation of Endangered Species—2nd Edition)

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10 pages, 3654 KB

Open AccessCommunication

Mass Bird Deaths Following New Year’s Eve Fireworks

by Rusko Petrov, Svetoslav Asenov and Adriana Dzhamalova

Diversity 2026, 18(2), 86; https://doi.org/10.3390/d18020086 - 30 Jan 2026

Abstract

Fireworks are an important element of celebrations globally, and while there are multiple reports of their negative impact on both domestic and wild animals, there is limited data directly linking them to casualties. In this article, we present a case of mass bird [...] Read more.

Fireworks are an important element of celebrations globally, and while there are multiple reports of their negative impact on both domestic and wild animals, there is limited data directly linking them to casualties. In this article, we present a case of mass bird deaths (over 1000) in a forest near a town following New Year’s Eve fireworks. The necropsies showed multiple fractures, organ lacerations, and internal hemorrhages. Rapid tests for avian influenza were negative, and there were no suspicious substances in the gastrointestinal tracts or on the X-ray images. This suggests the most likely reason for the deaths was severe traumatic collision injury induced by unexpected nocturnal disturbance from the fireworks nearby. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Diversity)

12 pages, 1555 KB

Open AccessArticle

Molecular Identification Reveals Hidden Distribution Patterns in Cognettia (Enchytraeidae)

by Dmitriy A. Medvedev, Elena Yu. Zvychaynaya, Polina A. Guseva, Margarita A. Danilova, Andrey S. Zaitsev, Daniil I. Korobushkin, Ruslan A. Saifutdinov, Konstantin B. Gongalsky and Maxim I. Degtyarev

Diversity 2026, 18(2), 85; https://doi.org/10.3390/d18020085 - 30 Jan 2026

Abstract

The study of Palaearctic enchytraeid taxonomic richness revealed the limitations of applying morphological identification methods to certain species of the genus Cognettia. The use of molecular approaches enabled the identification of individuals belonging to C. chlorophila among immature and fragmented enchytraeids that [...] Read more.

The study of Palaearctic enchytraeid taxonomic richness revealed the limitations of applying morphological identification methods to certain species of the genus Cognettia. The use of molecular approaches enabled the identification of individuals belonging to C. chlorophila among immature and fragmented enchytraeids that had initially been identified morphologically as C. sphagnetorum s.l. These findings substantially extend the known distribution range of C. chlorophila eastward. Reliable distribution data for C. chlorophila and C. sphagnetorum s.s., obtained through genetic analysis, complement existing evidence of their coexistence in shared habitats and highlight questions concerning their biotopic preferences. It is hypothesized that the relatively low level of genetic diversity in these species is associated with potential postglacial dispersal routes of C. sphagnetorum s.l. from Scandinavian refugia and with species-specific biological characteristics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Diversity)

24 pages, 154941 KB

Open AccessArticle

Tychonema litorale sp. nov. (Microcoleaceae, Oscillatoriales): A New Species of Cyanobacteria Associated with Ecological Crisis in Lake Baikal Coastal Zone

by Ekaterina Sorokovikova, Irina Tikhonova, Peter Evseev, Igor Khanaev, Andrey Krasnopeev, Darya Gutnik, Galina Fedorova, Sergey Potapov, Anna Gladkikh, Ivan Nebesnykh, Oleg Timoshkin and Olga Belykh

Diversity 2026, 18(2), 84; https://doi.org/10.3390/d18020084 - 30 Jan 2026

Abstract

Cyanobacteria of the genus Tychonema are common inhabitants of freshwater bodies in a temperate zones. In Lake Baikal, Tychonema sp. was first reported in 2014. It grows excessively on the bottom on almost all substrates types, forming epiphytic and epizoic biofilms, and its [...] Read more.

Cyanobacteria of the genus Tychonema are common inhabitants of freshwater bodies in a temperate zones. In Lake Baikal, Tychonema sp. was first reported in 2014. It grows excessively on the bottom on almost all substrates types, forming epiphytic and epizoic biofilms, and its role in the mass mortality events affecting of endemic Baikal sponges is discussed. The cyanobacterial strain BBK16 (=IPPAS B-2063^T), isolated from a biofilm on a log pier in the Bolshiye Koty settlement in 2016, was used for further taxonomic characterization. Key morphological features of strain BBK16 include its growth as a creeping mat, highly motile trichomes that are sometimes narrowed and hooked at the ends, and the presence of rounded-conical apical cells with a calyptra. Strain ultrastructure (fascicular parietal thylakoids and type D cell division) differs from Tychonema species with radial thylakoids but aligns with other genera in the Microcoleaceae family. A comprehensive analysis, including 16S rRNA gene phylogeny, conserved protein phylogeny, and whole-genome comparisons, confirmed its placement within the genus Tychonema. The average nucleotide identity, average amino acid identity and digital DNA–DNA hybridization values between strain BBK16 and T. bourrellyi FEM GT703 were 90.7%, 91.1% and 43.3%, respectively, indicating values below the standard thresholds for species delineation. Based on combined morphological, genomic, and ecological evidence, we propose the name Tychonema litorale sp. nov. for strain BBK16, a novel species described in accordance with the International Code of Nomenclature for Algae, Fungi, and Plants. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Freshwater Biodiversity Hotspots in 2025)

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17 pages, 2298 KB

Open AccessArticle

Morphological Disparity and Evolutionary Radiation of Early Actinopterygians Through the Devonian–Carboniferous Crisis

by Olivia Vanhaesebroucke and Richard Cloutier

Diversity 2026, 18(2), 83; https://doi.org/10.3390/d18020083 - 30 Jan 2026

Abstract

“Placoderm” and sarcopterygian fishes dominated Devonian waters. Following the end-Devonian crisis, actinopterygians rapidly became major contributors to vertebrate diversity. This transition constitutes the first major diversification event of actinopterygians. Here, we investigate the morphological diversification of Devonian and Carboniferous actinopterygians by quantifying disparity [...] Read more.

“Placoderm” and sarcopterygian fishes dominated Devonian waters. Following the end-Devonian crisis, actinopterygians rapidly became major contributors to vertebrate diversity. This transition constitutes the first major diversification event of actinopterygians. Here, we investigate the morphological diversification of Devonian and Carboniferous actinopterygians by quantifying disparity using two-dimensional (2D) geometric morphometrics, which estimates disparity from continuous data and brings geometric information related to the shape changes in several morphological features. In total, 13 landmarks and 203 semi-landmarks were digitized on the body shape reconstructions of 84 species, and 18 landmarks and 50 semi-landmarks were digitized on the reconstructions of the lateral view of the skulls of 86 species. When compared to variations in taxonomic diversity over time, the pattern of body shape variations is congruent, reaching a maximum during the Viséan, but the pattern of skull disparity is not entirely congruent, presenting a first increase during the Late Devonian. Changes in body shape are associated with locomotory properties, while changes in skull shape are associated with functional properties of the feeding apparatus. This pattern strongly suggests the diversification of actinopterygians to be driven by divergence in trophic strategies. This evolutionary radiation seems to be the result of an adaptive response to new ecological opportunities, triggered by big environmental changes in mid-Paleozoic oceans. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Evolutionary History of Fishes)

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33 pages, 11328 KB

Open AccessArticle

New Species of Vegavis (Neornithes) from Antarctica Highlights Unexpected Cretaceous Antarctic Diversity

by Facundo Irazoqui, Carolina Acosta Hospitaleche, Ariana Paulina-Carabajal, Paula Bona and Nahuel Vega

Diversity 2026, 18(2), 82; https://doi.org/10.3390/d18020082 - 30 Jan 2026

Abstract

A fossil bird (MLP-PV 15-I-7-52) from Marambio (Seymour) Island, Antarctica, is described, representing the best-preserved skull reported for a Cretaceous neornithine and associated postcranial elements. Morphological analysis of the articular portion of the mandible, the pterygoid, and the femur supports the assignment of [...] Read more.

A fossil bird (MLP-PV 15-I-7-52) from Marambio (Seymour) Island, Antarctica, is described, representing the best-preserved skull reported for a Cretaceous neornithine and associated postcranial elements. Morphological analysis of the articular portion of the mandible, the pterygoid, and the femur supports the assignment of this specimen to the genus Vegavis. The palatine morphology exhibits a combination of plesiomorphic and autapomorphic characters within Neognathae. Substantial differences in the size relationship between the ala preacetabularis and the femur, as well as differences between the femora of V. iaai and MLP-PV 15-I-7-52, indicate that the latter represents a new species of Vegavis. In addition, a third species of Vegavis is proposed based on the AMNH FARB 30899 specimen, previously assigned to V. iaai, which exhibits substantial differences with the above-mentioned specimens, particularly in the mandibular morphology. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Papers in Animal Diversity)

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20 pages, 19206 KB

Open AccessArticle

Diversity Patterns of Decapod Crustaceans in Small Coastal Rivers of the Atlantic Forest in Southern Bahia, Brazil, During the El Niño Drought of 2015

by Fabrício Lopes Carvalho, Thaís Arrais Mota, Jadine da Silva Nascimento, Shayanna Oliveira and Rodrigo Espinosa

Diversity 2026, 18(2), 81; https://doi.org/10.3390/d18020081 - 30 Jan 2026

Abstract

This study investigated the structure of the decapod crustacean community in first- and second-order coastal rivers of the Atlantic Forest in southern Bahia, focusing on taxonomic composition, abundance, richness, and distribution of species. The main objective was to assess the possible effects of [...] Read more.

This study investigated the structure of the decapod crustacean community in first- and second-order coastal rivers of the Atlantic Forest in southern Bahia, focusing on taxonomic composition, abundance, richness, and distribution of species. The main objective was to assess the possible effects of the severe drought of 2015, intensified by the El Niño event, on decapod species, also integrating analyses of land use and land cover by remote sensing. Collections were made in eight rivers between 2015 and 2017. In total, 7075 individuals of eight species were recorded, with Macrobrachium olfersii and M. jelskii being the most abundant in all seasons and locations sampled. Total abundance was higher in the rainy season, although the composition of the communities did not show significant differences between seasons. The Pancadinha and Represa rivers, which were most impacted, showed lower richness and absence of sensitive species such as Atya scabra, M. carcinus, M. heterochirus, and Trichodactylus sp. There were clear differences between impacted and unimpacted rivers. Land use classifications revealed marked changes between 2015 and 2016, with an increase in forest cover, especially in the northern zone. The results show that the combination of seasonality, environmental integrity, and land use shapes the dynamics of these communities. Full article

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

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13 pages, 1045 KB

Open AccessArticle

Escape Tactics Used by Blanched Lesser Earless Lizards (Holbrookia maculata)

by Kaera L. Utsumi, Daanya Siddiqui, Janey B. Haddock, Makenna M. Orton, Telma G. Laurentino, Maria A. Eifler and Douglas A. Eifler

Diversity 2026, 18(2), 80; https://doi.org/10.3390/d18020080 - 30 Jan 2026

Abstract

Successful escapes depend on many factors, including predator type and habitat characteristics. Examining escape usually entails directly pursuing an individual and then measuring flight initiation distance (FID), but the effect of prolonged pursuit has not been well studied. We examined escape sequences by [...] Read more.

Successful escapes depend on many factors, including predator type and habitat characteristics. Examining escape usually entails directly pursuing an individual and then measuring flight initiation distance (FID), but the effect of prolonged pursuit has not been well studied. We examined escape sequences by blanched adult lesser earless lizards (Holbrookia maculata) in the Salt Basin Dunes (SBDs), testing the hypothesis that escape success and sequences would vary with sex and vegetation use. Their coloration is an adaptation to their sparsely vegetated white sand habitat. To evaluate escape behavior, we followed an individual directly until it disappeared (=successful escape), stopped moving, or 2 min elapsed. We recorded trial habitat (at the start and throughout), time to trial end, FID, length of moves, and total distance moved. FID varied with starting habitat—lizards beginning trials on exposed wood had the longest FID. The sexes differed in their move lengths: females made more short moves, while males made more long moves. The most important plant was sage (Artemisia filifolia), which was occupied at the start of 39% of trials, while 71% of trials ended in sage, and larger sage bushes supported longer escape sequences. Our study highlights the importance of vegetation for refuge and emphasizes the crucial role of the dune-plant landscape to lesser earless lizards. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biogeography, Ecology and Conservation of Reptiles—Second Edition)

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14 pages, 2425 KB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of Rhizosphere Bacteriomes from Different Dominant Plants in the Water-Level Fluctuation Zone of the Three Gorges Reservoir

by Lanfang Zhou, Yutao Gao, Shengjun Wu and Maohua Ma

Diversity 2026, 18(2), 79; https://doi.org/10.3390/d18020079 - 29 Jan 2026

Abstract

This study aims to reveal the rhizosphere bacteriome patterns, biomarkers, and metabolic functions of dominant plants in the water-level fluctuation zone (WLFZ) of the Three Gorges Reservoir through comparative analyses with the non-rhizosphere bacteriome. The present study showed that a total of 4546–5011 [...] Read more.

This study aims to reveal the rhizosphere bacteriome patterns, biomarkers, and metabolic functions of dominant plants in the water-level fluctuation zone (WLFZ) of the Three Gorges Reservoir through comparative analyses with the non-rhizosphere bacteriome. The present study showed that a total of 4546–5011 amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) were identified in both rhizosphere and non-rhizosphere soils of Artemisia annua L. and Persicaria lapathifolia (L.) Delarbre. Pseudomonadota and Acidobacteriota were the most abundant bacterial phyla in both rhizosphere and non-rhizosphere bacteriomes. The α-diversity indices of microbial communities in the non-rhizosphere soils were lower than those in the rhizosphere soils associated with the two dominant plant species. Distinctive key biomarkers were successfully identified for both rhizosphere and non-rhizosphere bacterial assemblages, and these biomarkers exhibited a strong plant-specific pattern. Functional annotation revealed that metabolic processes, genetic information processing, and two core functional traits (chemoheterotrophy and aerobic chemoheterotrophy) accounted for the highest relative abundance within the bacteriomes. However, notable discrepancies were observed in the subdominant functional traits between the rhizosphere and non-rhizosphere bacteriomes. Overall, the present study brings novel insight into the plant-microbe interactions in the WLFZ of large reservoirs under the extreme environmental conditions. Full article

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11 pages, 1124 KB

Open AccessArticle

Helminthofauna of the Sea Trout Salmo trutta Linnaeus, 1758 from the Southern Baltic Sea Region, Including Molecular Characteristics of the Dominant Tapeworm Species Eubothrium crassum (Bloch, 1779)

by Leszek Rolbiecki, Joanna Dzido, Joanna N. Izdebska, Klaudia Woźniak, Mateusz Olszewski and Michał E. Skóra

Diversity 2026, 18(2), 78; https://doi.org/10.3390/d18020078 - 29 Jan 2026

Abstract

The sea trout Salmo trutta has considerable ecological and economic importance in the Baltic Sea basin. In recent years, the landings of this species from the Main Basin have decreased significantly. Consequently, it is necessary to consider whether this decline has been associated [...] Read more.

The sea trout Salmo trutta has considerable ecological and economic importance in the Baltic Sea basin. In recent years, the landings of this species from the Main Basin have decreased significantly. Consequently, it is necessary to consider whether this decline has been associated with any changes in the diversity and domination of its parasitofauna. We examined 101 sea trout specimens originating from the southern Baltic Sea basin and its tributary (the Gulf of Gdańsk and the River Reda) collected between 2003 and 2020. The fish were infected with five parasite species: one tapeworm (Eubothrium crassum), one digenean (Brachyphallus crenatus), and three nematodes (Anisakis simplex, Hysterothylacium aduncum, and Raphidascaris acus). Overall parasite prevalence was high (parasites were found in 94.7% of sea trout), with a mean intensity of 37.4 and a range of 1–125 parasites per fish. Eubothrium crassum, a species widely distributed in Europe and North America, clearly dominated the parasite community: a total of 3345 specimens were recorded in 92.6% of fish, with a mean intensity of 38.0 and an intensity range of 1–125 individuals. Correct morpho-anatomical identification was confirmed by molecular methods. The tapeworms were located primarily (96%) in the pyloric caeca. Other parasite species occurred only sporadically. Infection levels increased with both the length and mass of the fish; however, despite the high parasite infection, no deterioration in the host was indicated by Fulton’s condition factor. Comparison of fish originating from the different time periods revealed no changes in their parasitological characteristics, suggesting that parasite–host interactions are unlikely to have contributed to the decline in fish catches. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Diversity)

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18 pages, 12833 KB

Open AccessArticle

Changing Climate–Productivity Relationships: Nonlinear Trends and State-Dependent Sensitivities in Eurasian Grasslands

by Cuicui Jiao, Shenqi Zou, Dongbao Xu, Xiaobo Yi and Qingxiang Li

Diversity 2026, 18(2), 77; https://doi.org/10.3390/d18020077 - 29 Jan 2026

Abstract

Grassland productivity faces heightened uncertainty under nonlinear climatic forcing. This study characterizes the spatial heterogeneity of nonlinear variations and nonstationary climate sensitivities across the Eurasian Steppe Region (EASR) to provide a scientific basis for its adaptive management. Using the aboveground net primary productivity [...] Read more.

Grassland productivity faces heightened uncertainty under nonlinear climatic forcing. This study characterizes the spatial heterogeneity of nonlinear variations and nonstationary climate sensitivities across the Eurasian Steppe Region (EASR) to provide a scientific basis for its adaptive management. Using the aboveground net primary productivity (ANPP) and climate datasets (1982–2015), we employed piecewise linear regression, LOWESS, and sliding window partial correlation analysis to identify temporal turning points and dynamic climate–productivity relationships. We identified distinct turning points in 1994 and 2008, revealing a phased “Increasing–Decreasing–Increasing” trajectory. A key novelty is the mapping of eight phased trajectory patterns, illustrating significant spatial heterogeneity in productivity trends. Furthermore, we demonstrate temporally reversed climate sensitivities. Notably, the sensitivity of ANPP to temperature shifted from positive to negative as warming-induced water stress intensified. While precipitation remains the dominant driver (68% of the region), its influence is nonstationary and state-dependent. In the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau, the limiting factor transitioned from thermal to water availability. Overall, productivity in the EASR appears to undergo phased reorganization under shifting climatic baselines. Our findings suggest that future ecosystem models should incorporate time-varying sensitivity parameters to account for nonlinear dynamics and potential trend reversals in grassland ecosystems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity, Community Structure and Ecology of Terrestrial Ecosystems Under Global Change)

15 pages, 1261 KB

Open AccessArticle

Fish Host Suitability for the Threatened Freshwater Pearl Mussel (Margaritifera margaritifera) and Implications for Reintroductions

by Stina Gustafsson, Olle Calles and Martin Österling

Diversity 2026, 18(2), 76; https://doi.org/10.3390/d18020076 - 29 Jan 2026

Abstract

Habitat restoration followed by species reintroduction is a key strategy for biodiversity recovery. For species with parasitic life stages, such as the freshwater pearl mussel (Margaritifera margaritifera), host suitability is crucial. Before a planned reintroduction of mussels into a newly constructed [...] Read more.

Habitat restoration followed by species reintroduction is a key strategy for biodiversity recovery. For species with parasitic life stages, such as the freshwater pearl mussel (Margaritifera margaritifera), host suitability is crucial. Before a planned reintroduction of mussels into a newly constructed nature-like fishway, we tested the compatibility of four brown trout (Salmo trutta) strains from local and foreign drainages as hosts for mussels from a nearby river. The strains included (a) a local sympatric wild strain, (b) a local allopatric wild strain from near the fishway, (c) a local allopatric hatchery strain used for stocking, and (d) a foreign allopatric hatchery strain. After forty days, infestation rates of the parasitic mussel glochidia did not differ significantly among strains, indicating that all could serve as hosts. Glochidia that developed on the local allopatric hatchery strain had the highest growth rate, suggesting the highest suitability for production under laboratory conditions. While stocking hatchery strains can have negative ecological impacts, local wild fish provide a sustainable option without continued introductions of hatchery strains. If wild fish are scarce, carefully chosen hatchery strains may support juvenile mussel production and reintroduction under controlled conditions. Our findings highlight the importance of evaluating host compatibility before mussel reintroduction and fish stocking. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Freshwater Mollusk Research)

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23 pages, 5605 KB

Open AccessArticle

Flora and Phytochorology of Lahij Governorate of Yemen: Systematic Revision of the Family Boraginaceae s.l.

by Mohamed O. Badry, Ahmed K. Osman, Nagwa R. A. Hussein, Lamiaa F. Shalabi, Ahmed M. Abbas, Samah A. Alharbi and Othman S. S. Al-Hawshabi

Diversity 2026, 18(2), 75; https://doi.org/10.3390/d18020075 - 29 Jan 2026

Abstract

Knowledge of plant diversity within the family Boraginaceae s.l. in southern Yemen flora remains limited. This study aims to address that gap by providing a taxonomic revision of Boraginaceae s.l. in the flora of Lahij Governorate, South Yemen. The surveyed species include a [...] Read more.

Knowledge of plant diversity within the family Boraginaceae s.l. in southern Yemen flora remains limited. This study aims to address that gap by providing a taxonomic revision of Boraginaceae s.l. in the flora of Lahij Governorate, South Yemen. The surveyed species include a morphological review and analyses of life span, growth forms, life forms, and phytogeographical affinities. Twenty-one species are identified and grouped into eight genera. For each species, its current classification, accepted names, synonyms, photographs, and distribution information are presented to aid in identification. Of the borage species found, there were 71.43% perennials and 28.57% annuals. Chamaephytes (38.10%) and therophytes (28.57%) were the most common types, with a strong Sudano–Zambezian chorological affinity, both biregional and pluri-regional. Phytogeographical analysis revealed that pluri-regional elements constitute the most significant proportion of the recorded species (42.86%), indicating that widespread species dominate the borage taxa. Heliotropium, Cordia, and Euploca were the most species-rich genera. One species (Cynoglossum yemenense) is endemic to Yemen. The study also provides six dichotomous keys for borage species in the Lahij Governorate: one for the family and five for the genera. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Herbaria: A Key Resource for Plant Diversity Exploration—2nd Edition)

29 pages, 7419 KB

Open AccessArticle

New Records of Wild Bees from Calabria and Basilicata Highlight the Hidden Diversity of Anthophila in Italy

by Federica Mendicino, Francesco Carlomagno, Christophe J. Praz, Thomas J. Wood, Achik Dorchin, Simone Flaminio, Matthieu Aubert, Romain Le Divelec, Domenico Bonelli, Erica Di Biase, Federica Fumo, Marco Pezzi, Giuseppe Luzzi, Antonino Siclari, Giuseppe Pellegrino and Teresa Bonacci

Diversity 2026, 18(2), 74; https://doi.org/10.3390/d18020074 - 29 Jan 2026

Abstract

The biodiversity of wild bees (Hymenoptera: Anthophila) in southern Italy—particularly in Calabria and Basilicata—remains poorly documented despite the region’s high species richness. This study addresses this gap by assessing bee fauna through field surveys conducted across diverse habitats, including national parks, reserves, and [...] Read more.

The biodiversity of wild bees (Hymenoptera: Anthophila) in southern Italy—particularly in Calabria and Basilicata—remains poorly documented despite the region’s high species richness. This study addresses this gap by assessing bee fauna through field surveys conducted across diverse habitats, including national parks, reserves, and agroecosystems, between 2016 and 2023. Bees were collected using hand nets or traps, and DNA barcoding was applied to 63 specimens to support species identification. A total of 223 species were recorded, including 10 new records for Basilicata, 57 for Calabria, 20 for southern Italy, 3 for the Italian mainland, and 1 for Italy, Eucera (Eucera) colaris Dours, 1873 (Apidae). The results reveal the unexpected presence of several central European species in mountainous areas of southern Italy, co-occurring with Mediterranean taxa. These findings indicate that these regions act as important refugia for species from both Mediterranean and Central European biogeographic zones, contributing to high regional diversity. DNA barcoding also revealed notable genetic divergence in several species compared to other European populations, highlighting the uniqueness of southern Italian bee fauna. Continuous monitoring and habitat protection are urgently needed in light of agricultural intensification and climate change. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity, Biodiversity, Threats and Conservation of Arthropods)

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21 pages, 526 KB

Open AccessPerspective

Management Pathways for Fragmented Populations: From Habitat Restoration to Genetic Intervention

by Magdalene N. Ngeve, Kyle E. Rufo and Zachery D. Zbinden

Diversity 2026, 18(2), 73; https://doi.org/10.3390/d18020073 - 29 Jan 2026

Abstract

Habitat fragmentation is reshaping ecosystems worldwide, reducing connectivity, eroding genetic diversity, and limiting species’ capacity to adapt to rapid environmental change. Conservation management responses to fragmentation generally follow three pathways: restoring habitats to rebuild connectivity, translocating individuals to bolster declining populations, and, more [...] Read more.

Habitat fragmentation is reshaping ecosystems worldwide, reducing connectivity, eroding genetic diversity, and limiting species’ capacity to adapt to rapid environmental change. Conservation management responses to fragmentation generally follow three pathways: restoring habitats to rebuild connectivity, translocating individuals to bolster declining populations, and, more recently, directly managing adaptive genetic variation. We synthesize the ecological and genetic consequences of fragmentation and evaluate these management pathways along a continuum from landscape-scale interventions to genome-level strategies. Habitat restoration can reconnect patches and improve demo-graphic stability, but its genetic outcomes remain uncertain without baseline and post-restoration monitoring. Translocation offers a more immediate means of restoring gene flow but introduces demographic risks, potential impacts on source populations, and uncertainties in establishment and long-term fitness. Emerging genomic technologies now support a third approach: Targeted Genetic Intervention (TGI), which aims to accelerate the spread of beneficial genetic variants or enhance adaptive potential directly. Although promising, TGI faces significant challenges, including polygenic trait architecture, risks to genome-wide diversity, and the need for robust ethical and governance frameworks. Across all pathways, genetic data are essential for prioritizing actions, diagnosing vulnerable species and populations, and restoring the evolutionary potential necessary for long-term persistence in increasingly fragmented landscapes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genetic Diversity and Evolutionary Potential: Impacts of Habitat Fragmentation)

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23 pages, 6279 KB

Open AccessReview

Ecology, Distribution, and Conservation Considerations of the Oak-Associated Moth Dioszeghyana schmidtii (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)

by Angelos Tsikas

Diversity 2026, 18(2), 72; https://doi.org/10.3390/d18020072 - 29 Jan 2026

Abstract

The noctuid moth Dioszeghyana schmidtii (Dioszeghy, 1935) is a geographically restricted and poorly known species associated with xerothermic oak ecosystems of Central, Eastern, and Southeastern Europe and Asia Minor. Despite its inclusion in European conservation frameworks, information on its distribution, biology, and ecological [...] Read more.

The noctuid moth Dioszeghyana schmidtii (Dioszeghy, 1935) is a geographically restricted and poorly known species associated with xerothermic oak ecosystems of Central, Eastern, and Southeastern Europe and Asia Minor. Despite its inclusion in European conservation frameworks, information on its distribution, biology, and ecological requirements remains fragmented, regionally uneven, and scattered across the faunistic literature in multiple languages. This review synthesizes published records, taxonomic sources, ecological observations, and curated occurrence data to provide an updated and critically assessed overview of the species’ biology, habitat associations, and biogeographic pattern. Distributional information was compiled exclusively from the literature and vetted public databases, with mapped occurrences representing confirmed regional presence rather than fine-scale occupancy. The species exhibits a patchy but ecologically coherent distribution closely linked to open, thermophilous Quercus woodlands, particularly those dominated by Q. cerris and related oak species. Major threats include habitat loss, forest densification, fragmentation, and phenological mismatches associated with climate change. By identifying persistent knowledge gaps and sources of uncertainty, this review highlights priorities for future research, monitoring, and habitat-based conservation of D. schmidtii and similar early-spring, oak-associated Lepidoptera. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity, Ecology and Conservation of Lepidoptera)

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24 pages, 6977 KB

Open AccessReview

Global Evolution and Methodological Trends in River and Lake Health Research (1991–2024): A Bibliometric and Systematic Review

by Zhenhai Liu, Yun Li and Xiaogang Wang

Diversity 2026, 18(2), 71; https://doi.org/10.3390/d18020071 - 28 Jan 2026

Abstract

River and lake health assessment has evolved from a purely ecological concept to a multidimensional framework integrating ecosystem integrity and social service functions. Based on a comprehensive dataset of 1412 papers (1991–2024), this study combines bibliometric mapping with a systematic review to track [...] Read more.

River and lake health assessment has evolved from a purely ecological concept to a multidimensional framework integrating ecosystem integrity and social service functions. Based on a comprehensive dataset of 1412 papers (1991–2024), this study combines bibliometric mapping with a systematic review to track the evolution of biological monitoring and assessment methodologies. Quantitative analysis of keywords reveals that while traditional focuses on heavy metals, fish, and sediments remain dominant, there is a significant shift towards integrated frameworks where biological indicators (e.g., benthic macroinvertebrate integrity and fish retention) are increasingly coupled with social services. We critically review three assessment paradigms: single-factor bio-indicators, biological predictive models such as RIVPACS and AUSRIVAS, and multi-factor comprehensive models. The study identifies critical gaps in ecological connectivity and the management of transboundary lakes under climate change. Consequently, we propose a strategic roadmap leveraging the National Ecological Connectivity Optimization Platform and mandatory “health audits” for transboundary waters to ensure the long-term sustainability of aquatic biodiversity. This review provides a scientific basis for balancing biodiversity conservation with sustainable water resource utilization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Freshwater Biodiversity Conservation and Ecological Restoration in Human-Dominated Landscapes)

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13 pages, 2237 KB

Open AccessArticle

BioClimPolar_2300 V1.0: A Mesoscale Bioclimatic Dataset for Future Climates in Arctic Regions

by Yuanbo Su, Shaomei Li, Bingyu Yang, Yan Zhang and Xiaojun Kou

Diversity 2026, 18(2), 70; https://doi.org/10.3390/d18020070 - 28 Jan 2026

Abstract

Arctic regions are warming rapidly, elevating extinction risks and accelerating ecosystem change, yet widely used bioclimatic datasets rarely represent polar-specific ecological constraints. Here we present BioClimPolar_2300 v1.0, a raster bioclimatic dataset designed for terrestrial Arctic biodiversity research under climate change. The dataset includes [...] Read more.

Arctic regions are warming rapidly, elevating extinction risks and accelerating ecosystem change, yet widely used bioclimatic datasets rarely represent polar-specific ecological constraints. Here we present BioClimPolar_2300 v1.0, a raster bioclimatic dataset designed for terrestrial Arctic biodiversity research under climate change. The dataset includes 33 gridded bioclimatic layers at a 10 km spatial resolution, covering seven discrete temporal intervals from 2010 to 2300 AD. In addition to conventional variables used globally, BioClimPolar_2300 incorporates three polar-relevant constraint domains: (1) polar day–night phenomena (PDNs), including degree-day metrics during polar night and polar day; (2) temperature-defined seasonal cycles (TSCs), including seasonal temperature, precipitation, aridity, and season length; (3) hot/cold stresses (HCSs), capturing indices of extreme summer heat and winter cold. Precipitation during snow-melting days (P_melting) is also included due to its relevance for species depending on subnivean habitats. Climate fields were extracted from CMIP6 models and statistically downscaled to 10 km using a change-factor approach under a polar projection. Monthly fields were linearly interpolated to derive daily grids, enabling the computation of variables that require daily inputs. Validation against observations from 30 Arctic weather stations indicates performance suitable for biodiversity applications, and two exemplar range shift case studies (one animal and one plant) illustrate biological relevance and provide practical guidance for data extraction and use. BioClimPolar_2300 fills a key gap in Arctic bioclimatic resources and supports more realistic biodiversity assessments and conservation planning through 2300. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biodiversity Conservation)

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