Search Results (163)

Mixed stands enhance climate resilience and ecosystem service provision through functional diversity, but their productivity depends on intra- and interspecific competition, forest structure, stand density, and site conditions. In this study, we analyzed the effects of competition and aridity on the growth of European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) in mixed and pure stands, using data from 38 plots of the Italian National Forest Inventory (NFI, 2015). To understand the variables influencing European beech growth, tree-level basal area increment models were applied, incorporating different competition structures (intraspecific, interspecific, size-symmetric, and size-asymmetric) and aridity index (De Martonne). Results showed that size-asymmetric intraspecific competition negatively affected European beech growth, highlighting low self-tolerance, especially in pure stands where growth was lower than in mixed stands. In mixed stands, European beech growth was shaped by size-dependent competition and the relative dominance of coexisting species, benefiting from size-asymmetric and hindered by size-symmetric interactions. Additionally, European beech growth was shaped by aridity and stand structure (Gini coefficient and density), with drought sensitivity mitigated in mixed stands and enhanced growth in structurally diverse, low-density stands. This study highlights how species interactions, aridity, and stand structure jointly shape tree growth, underscoring their importance for climate-adaptive forest management. Full article

In an era of global warming, sustainable agriculture, which emphasises the conservation of biodiversity and the rational use of natural resources, is growing in importance. One of the key elements is to increase the genetic diversity of crops through the use of crop wild relatives (CWRs) and local varieties, which provide a source of genes for resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses. Modern agricultural systems are characterised by low biodiversity, which increases the susceptibility of plants to diseases and pests. Growing mixtures of varieties, both intra- and interspecific, is a practical strategy to increase plant resistance, stabilise yields and reduce pathogen pressure. This manuscript has a review character and synthesises the current literature on the use of CWRs, local varieties, and variety mixtures in sustainable agriculture. The main research question of the study is to what extent plant genetic resources, including CWRs and local varieties, as well as the cultivation of variety mixtures, can promote plant resistance, stabilise yields and contribute to sustainable agriculture under climate change. The objectives of the study are to assess the role of genetic resources and variety mixtures in maintaining biodiversity and yield stability, and to analyse the potential of CWRs and local varieties in enhancing plant resistance. Additionally, the study investigates the impact of variety mixtures in reducing disease and pest development, and identifies barriers to the use of genetic resources in breeding along with strategies to overcome them. The study takes an interdisciplinary approach including literature and gene bank data analysis (in situ and ex situ), field trials of cultivar mixtures under different environmental conditions, genetic and molecular analysis of CWRs, the use of modern genome editing techniques (CRISPR/Cas9) and assessment of ecological mechanisms of mixed crops such as barrier effect, and induced resistance and complementarity. In addition, the study considers collaboration with participatory and evolutionary breeding programmes (EPBs/PPBs) to adapt local varieties to specific environmental conditions. The results of the study indicate that the integration of plant genetic resources with the practice of cultivating variety mixtures creates a synergistic model that enhances plant resilience and stabilises yields. This approach also promotes agroecosystem conservation, contributing to sustainable agriculture under climate change. Full article

Distant hybridization is key to trait innovation and speciation, with Cyprinidae hybrid phylogeny helping to clarify diversification mechanisms. Yet, a major gap persists in Cyprinidae studies: the stabilization mechanisms of interspecific distant hybrid lineages. To address this, we systematically analyzed the molecular phylogeny of seven Cyprinidae distant hybrid lineages and their parental species, using an integrative genetic framework encompassing four mitochondrial genes (Cytb, COI, 16S rRNA, D-loop) and five nuclear genes (EGR2b, IRBP2, RAG1, RAG2, RH2). Homologous sequences of 41 representative Cyprinidae species (85 samples) were retrieved from GenBank to supplement the dataset. Phylogenies were reconstructed from concatenated sequences, complemented by haplotype networks. Intra-/interspecific divergence was quantified using two mitochondrial genes (COI, Cytb) and two nuclear (RAG1, RH2). The results showed that these hybrid lineages exhibited variation patterns analogous to other Cyprinidae species. Both ML and BI trees reconstructed exhibited congruent topologies with high support (bootstrap/BPP > 80%), resolving genus/species-level relationships. While most hybrids clustered intermediately between their parental species, they typically displayed maternal affinity. A notable exception was the 2nNCRC (a homodiploid hybrid from Cyprinus carpio ♀ × Megalobrama amblycephala ♂), which displayed convergent evolution toward Carassius auratus. COI-based K2P genetic distance analysis revealed 2nNCRC had a much closer relationship with C. auratus (0.0119) than with its parents (0.1249 to C. carpio, 0.1552 to M. amblycephala). These nine genes elucidate the genetic relationships between Cyprinid hybrid lineages and progenitors, serving as pivotal molecular markers for parentage tracing and genetic dissection of distant hybridization mechanisms. The integrated mitochondrial–nuclear marker system in this study advances understanding of cytonuclear coadaptation and the stabilization of interspecific distant hybrid lineages in Cyprinidae. Specifically, it provides a precise tool for parentage tracing, Cyprinid germplasm conservation, and targeted regulation of hybrid breeding—laying a foundation for exploring hybrid speciation and developing elite aquaculture germplasms. Full article

Background: PAL genes are crucial for plant growth and stress response, yet studies on the PAL gene family in Camellia nitidissima are sparse. Methods: The PAL gene family was screened from the entire genome of C. nitidissima, and their physicochemical properties, chromosomal locations, intraspecific and interspecific collinearity, conserved motifs, phylogenetic trees, cis-acting elements, and gene structures were analyzed. The expression patterns of the CnPAL genes were compared across different tissues, and the highly expressed CnPAL1 gene was expressed in prokaryotes, and its enzyme activity was validated using UPLC-MS technology. Results: The results revealed that six CnPALs were identified in the C. nitidissima genome, distributed unevenly across six chromosomes. The CnPAL proteins shared similar physicochemical properties, with highly conserved motifs and gene structures. Promoter analysis showed multiple cis-acting elements in the CnPALs genes. Intra-species collinearity analysis revealed that all CnPALs were collinear with multiple PAL genes in C. nitidissima, while inter-species collinearity analysis indicated that CnPALs were collinear with the PAL genes in Camellia oleifera and Camellia sinensis. Furthermore, the transcriptomic data of C. nitidissima demonstrated tissue-specific expression of the CnPALs, although qRT-PCR validation showed some discrepancies with the sequencing result. The qRT-PCR revealed varied expression patterns among the six CnPALs, with the CnPAL1 gene showing relatively higher expression levels. Subsequently, cloning, prokaryotic expression, and enzyme activity analysis confirmed the effective catalytic activity of the CnPAL1 protein. Conclusions: This study lays the foundation for understanding the functions of CnPAL genes and offers insights for genetic improvement of C. nitidissima. Full article

In the long-term evolutionary process, species maintain a natural balance within certain limits through communication. As plants grow and function as producers, root enrichment fosters a dynamic rhizosphere microbiome, which serves not only as a disintegrator within the ecological niche but also as a medium for interaction between the host and the soil environment. The life cycle of fungi within the microbiome alternates between single-cell resting spores and multicellular trophic mycelia. This cycle not only establishes a stable rhizosphere environment but also plays a crucial role in regulating both intra- and interspecific information transmission, significantly impacting the environment and plant health. The rhizosphere microbiome, particularly the fungi it contains, can be harnessed to repair environmental damage and either promote the growth of the plant host or inhibit pathogens. However, the mechanisms underlying these actions remain inadequately understood, hindering the advancement of artificial regulation. Additionally, the variability of influencing factors, along with unstable genes and traits, poses challenges to industrial development. In conclusion, this paper focuses on the fungal components of the rhizosphere microbiome, introduces the mechanisms of communication and current applications, and further analyzes existing bottlenecks and potential solutions. The aim is to provide theoretical support for achieving green, sustainable agriculture through biological means. Full article

Fish reproductive biology influences their life history and can impact their vulnerability to fisheries; therefore, for sustainable management and development, a proper understanding is crucial. Reproductive biology, including maturation, spawning season, fecundity, and sex ratio, was examined throughout the year in the Java Rabbitfish, Siganus javus, in the southern South China Sea. This study is the first to examine reproductive traits by collecting a total of 339 S. javus specimens monthly from September 2017 to August 2018 through detailed gonad histology. The spawning season of female S. javus was mainly restricted to July, August, October, and December, whereas male fish were found to spawn throughout the year. Inter-species variations in the spawning season were observed within the genus, which is influenced by interspecific spawning strategies and regional environmental factors. The sex ratio close to 1:1 suggests that the fish population is in equilibrium in the region. The fecundity of S. javus ranged from 1.8 × 10⁵ to 12 × 10⁵, which was similar to that of other species in Siganus, suggesting less inter- and intra-species variation in fecundity within the family. The middle maturation stage was absent throughout the year, probably due to the different habitat uses during their life history. Reproductive biology might influence other biological aspects, such as migration and behaviour in the fish. Full article

We investigated how water restriction affects plant–plant interactions in two Mediterranean shrubs, Thymus carnosus Boiss and Retama monosperma (L.) Boiss, to test whether intra- and interspecific interactions between these species respond differently to drought. A greenhouse experiment was conducted with 5-month-old seedlings under three interaction types (interspecific, isolation, and intraspecific). After a 7-month growth phase, a water restriction treatment was imposed, and shoot water potential and photochemical efficiency of chlorophyll were monitored weekly. Biomass allocation and stable isotope composition were analysed at the end of the experiment. Retama plants growing alone exhibited the highest relative elongation rate (9.6 cm day⁻¹ per plant), whereas for the combinations involving Thymus, the highest relative elongation rate occurred under intraspecific competition (3.63 cm day⁻¹ per plant). Results showed a negative effect of Retama on Thymus regarding drought response, while Thymus exhibited an intraspecific facilitation effect, improving growth and reducing water stress. Although Thymus produced less biomass than Retama—with Retama producing over 2 g root biomass per plant compared to 0.25 g in Thymus and >7 g aboveground biomass versus 2.7 g in Thymus—it maintained better physiological response to drought than Retama, where all combinations involving Retama showed water potential below −2.3 MPa in both species. These findings reveal contrasting strategies: Retama prioritises rapid growth but is drought-sensitive, whereas Thymus benefits from intraspecific facilitation that enhances drought tolerance. Our results highlight how drought can alter the balance between competition and facilitation in plant interactions, with implications for Mediterranean plant communities’ dynamics under climate change. Full article

The primary challenge facing modern agriculture, including viticulture, is the impact of climate change. The scientific community recommends exploring and utilizing both inter-varietal and intra-varietal variability of local grapevines within each region. The goal is to prioritize planting local varieties over international and imported ones to mitigate the effects of climate change. Within this context, La Palma Island has undertaken a comprehensive assessment evaluating its viticultural heritage. A total of 96 individuals were collected and subjected to genotyping utilizing 20 simple sequence repeats (SSRs). This analysis yielded 44 unique molecular profiles, of which 3 represent new varieties reported for the first time (Aromatica Eufrosina, Cagarruta de oveja, and Viñarda rosada). Additionally, fourteen previously unreported mutations were identified, of which two contain triallelic SSRs. Consequently, the present population of local grapevines on La Palma Island comprises seven varieties (Albillo criollo, Aromatica Eufrosina, Bienmesabe tinto, Cagarruta de oveja, Gual Mazo, Sabro, and Viñarda rosada). The Bienmesabe tinto variety is possibly an interspecific cross. The varieties Aromatica Eufrosina and Viñarda rosada also presented somewhat particular behavior. The distinctiveness of this grapevine population from La Palma Island reinforces the notion that the Canary Archipelago represents a significant center of grapevine biodiversity. The volcanic activity of Tajogaite (2021) did not have a significant impact on grapevine biodiversity on the island. Full article

Breeding performance encompasses offspring production, their survival rate, fertility, overall reproductive outcome, timing of reproduction, and breeding frequency. It varies in raptor species, being affected by different biotic, abiotic, and anthropogenic factors. The Lesser Spotted Eagle is a monogamous, long-lived, slowly reproducing raptor, characterized by site-fidelity and strongly territorial behavior. In this study, we examined data collected over a 10-year period, highlighting the eagles’ main breeding parameters, analyzing whether any of them demonstrated significant trends or spatial or temporal differences over the study period. We also searched for a strict correlation between species breeding density and breeding performance. We found out that the mean occupancy rate of the territories marginally decreased β² = −0.64 ± 0.27, p = 0.047, as this process was clearly visible in Sakar Mnt. (β² = −0.66 ± 0.27, p = 0.038), where in 2022, only 67% of the monitored territories were occupied. The overall mean productivity, breeding success, and breeding frequency did not indicate any trend over the years (p > 0.05). Of all tested breeding parameters, occupancy rate (β² = 0.29 ± 0.14, p = 0.04) and breeding success (β² = −0.12 ± 0.06, p = 0.04) varied yearly, while productivity (β² = 0.25 ± 0.12, p = 0.03) and breeding frequency (β² = 0.27 ± 0.12, p = 0.03) were influenced by density. None of the tested indicators demonstrated significant regional differences, which indicated a temporally determinate, but spatially consistent pattern of breeding performance of the species in this part of its distribution. Recently, the landscape pattern in the south-eastern part of the country was marked by spectacular habitat loss, driven by human activities and natural phenomena, with entire biodiversity facing an uncertain future. Prompt action and urgent decisions are needed to prevent the negative consequences of these imminent threats to the species. Conservation efforts should be focused on the restoration of breeding and foraging habitats. Further research on the response of eagles to the effect of natural (fires) and anthropogenic (habitat transformation) factors, as well as the relationship between breeding performance and different drivers of reproduction, such as diet, weather, habitat features, and presence of intra- and interspecific competitors, would be of crucial significance. Full article

The Triatoma rubrovaria subcomplex, comprising several triatomine species, plays a significant role in the transmission of Chagas disease in southern Brazil. Despite morphological distinctions among these species, their genetic differentiation remains poorly understood, particularly in sympatric regions. This study investigates the genetic diversity and phylogenetic relationships through DNA sequencing analysis of five sympatric species within the T. rubrovaria subcomplex (T. rubrovaria, T. carcavalloi, T. klugi, T. circummaculata, and T. pintodiasi), using a 542-bp fragment of the mitochondrial cytochrome b (mtCytb) gene. A total of 84 specimens were collected from six municipalities in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, and analyzed alongside laboratory-reared specimens and sequences from the GenBank. Bayesian phylogenetic reconstructions, haplotype networks, and population structure analyses revealed a lack of clear genetic differentiation among the five species, with overlapping intra- and interspecific divergences and shared haplotypes. These findings suggest either a single species exhibiting phenotypic plasticity or a group of incipient species with ongoing gene flow. This study highlights the need for a taxonomic revision and suggests that this group could serve as a valuable model for further genomic research to elucidate potential aspects of phenotypic plasticity and/or sympatric speciation in triatomines. Full article

A remarkably well-preserved skeleton of a male Mammuthus meridionalis, approximately 60 years old, from the Early Pleistocene that is housed at the Castle of L’Aquila (Italy) exhibits a fractured left tusk with severe bone erosion of the alveolus and premaxillary bone, as well as marked spinal deformities. The cranial region underwent ultrasonographic, radiological, and histological examinations, while morphological and biomechanical analyses were conducted on the vertebral column. Microscopic analysis revealed intra vitam lesions, including woven bone fibers indicative of early bone remodeling and lamellar bone with expanded and remodeled Haversian systems. These findings are consistent with osteomyelitis and bone sequestration, likely resulting from chronic pulpitis following the tusk fracture, possibly due to an accident or interspecific combat. The vertebral column shows cervical scoliosis, compensatory curves, fusion between the first cervical vertebrae, and asymmetric articular facets, suggesting postural adaptations. Evidence of altered molar wear and masticatory function also support long-term survival post-trauma. Additionally, lesions compatible with spondyloarthropathy, an inflammatory spinal condition not previously documented in Mammuthus meridionalis, were identified. These findings provide new insights into the pathology and adaptive responses of extinct proboscideans, demonstrating the critical role of (paleo)histological methods in reconstructing trauma, disease, and aspects of life history in fossil vertebrates. Full article

The genus Salvia L. (Lamiaceae) is characterized by complex taxonomy and controversial phylogeny. This genus includes about a thousand species with worldwide distribution and high ecological, structural, functional and morphological diversity. Because of their high content of essential oils, various Salvia plants are widely used in medicine, as well as in the food, perfume, cosmetic, and paint industries; they also are valuable melliferous resources. The present study reviews the taxonomic history of the genus Salvia and the phylogenetic relationships between the taxa within the subgenera Salvia, Sclarea, and Glutinaria. Among the Salvia species, three basic chromosome numbers, x = 7, x = 8, and x = 11, were most common, although other basic chromosome numbers (x = 6–19) were determined, which was probably due to events of dysploidy, aneupoidy, and/or polyploidy occurring during speciation. Recent molecular cytogenetic studies based on Next Generation Sequencing technologies have clarified the chromosomal organization of several Salvia species. The patterns of chromosome distribution of 45S rDNA, 5S rDNA, and satellite DNAs made it possible to assess their intra- and interspecific chromosome diversity. However, further cytogenetic studies are needed to characterize the chromosomes in the genomes of other Salvia species and specify the genomic relationships among them. Full article

The number of Fritillaria species native to the Alps has long been debated, and observational biases due to the short flowering periods and the scattered distributions of endemic Fritillaria populations along the mountain range have probably made the task of botanists more complicated. Moreover, previous phylogenetic studies in Fritillaria have considered alpine taxa only marginally. To test species boundaries within the F. tubaeformis species complex and to study their phylogenetic relationships, intra- and inter-specific genetic variability of sixteen samples belonging to four Fritillaria species was carried out in different localities of the Maritime and Ligurian Alps, with extensions to the rest of the Alpine arc. The combined use of five plastid DNA markers (matK, ndhF, rpl16, rpoC1, and petA-psbJ) and nrITS showed that F. tubaeformis and F. burnatii are phylogenetically independent taxa, fully confirming morphological and morphometric divergences and, that F. burnatii is not related phylogenetically to the central European F. meleagris. Our phylogenetic study also supports the separation of F. tubaeformis from F. moggridgei, pointing to environment/ecological constraints or reproductive barriers as possible causes of their distinct evolutionary status. Our analysis also showed that the mountain endemic F. involucrata is not closely related to F. tubaeformis, contrasting with previous studies. The phylogenetic analysis of the nrITS region supports a close relationship between F. burnatii and F. moggridgei, but with low statistical support. Full article

The wolf fish Hoplias malabaricus is a Neotropical species characterized by remarkable karyotypic diversity, including seven karyomorphs (KarA-G) with distinct sex chromosome systems. This study investigated the homologous XY (KarF) and XY₁Y₂ (KarG) sex chromosome systems present in this species by integrating cytogenetics and genomics to examine sex chromosomes’ composition through characterization of repeatome (satellite DNA and transposable elements) and sex-linked markers. Our analysis indicated that both karyomorphs are little differentiated in their sex chromosomes content revealed by satDNA mapping and putative sex-linked markers. Both repeatomes were mostly composed of transposable elements, but neither intra- (male versus female) nor interspecific (KarF x KarG) variations were found. In both systems, we demonstrated the occurrence of sex-specific sequences probably located on the non-recombining region of the Y chromosome supported by the accumulation of sex-specific haplotypes of HmfSat10-28/HmgSat31-28. This investigation offered valuable insights by highlighting the composition of homologous XY and XY₁Y₂ multiple sex chromosomes. Although homologous, the large Y chromosome in KarF corresponds to two separate linkage groups (Y₁ and Y₂) in KarG implying a specific meiotic arrangement involving the X chromosome in a meiotic trivalent chain. This scenario likely influenced recombination rates and, as a result, the genomic composition of these chromosomes. Full article

The objectives were to evaluate the energy potential of biomass and pellets produced from five underutilized herbaceous and woody plant species in México and Colombia; characterize pellet quality parameters; and calculate the preliminary production costs and energy requirement during the densification process. Harvest and sawmill residues were obtained for five non-timber and woody plant species. The volatile compounds, ash, and fixed carbon were evaluated, as well as the higher heating value (HHV) and pellet impact resistance (PIR); in addition, lignin, hemicellulose, and cellulose were quantified. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including mean and standard deviation. The volatile compounds ranged from 65.9–77.5%, ash 2.5–17.2%, fixed carbon 5.4–19.9%, HHV 16.4–21.9 MJ kg⁻¹, and PIR (0.6–99.1%). Considerable intra- and inter-specific differences were observed for all the variables, which expanded the options for the selection of biomass sources used in bioenergy production. Biomass processing costs ranged from 675.9 to 679.3 EUR t⁻¹. Optimization of these processes is required to implement more efficient technologies that significantly reduce operating costs in biomass use in biofuel industry. The systematic study of different plant species, both introduced and native, will provide new sources of biomass to produce bioenergy, fertilizers, and other organic inputs. Full article