Search Results (1,046)

Hippophae rhamnoides ssp. sinensis Rousi a species of significant ecological and economic value that is native to the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau and arid/semi-arid regions. Investigating the mitochondrial genome can elucidate stress adaptation mechanisms, population genetic structure, and hybrid evolutionary history, offering molecular insights for ecological restoration and species conservation. However, the genetic information and evolutionary mechanisms of its mitochondrial genome remain poorly understood. This study aimed to assemble the complete mitochondrial genome of H. rhamnoides L. ssp. sinensis using Illumina sequencing, uncovering its structural features, evolutionary pressures, and environmental adaptability and addressing the research gap regarding mitochondrial genomes within the Hippophae genus. The study assembled a 454,444 bp circular mitochondrial genome of H. rhamnoides ssp. sinensis, with a GC content of 44.86%. A total of 73 genes and 3 pseudogenes were annotated, with the notable absence of the rps2 gene, which is present in related species. The genome exhibits significant codon usage bias, particularly with high-frequency use of the alanine codon GCU and the isoleucine codon AUU. Additionally, 449 repetitive sequences, potentially driving genome recombination, were identified. Our evolutionary pressure analysis revealed that most genes are under purifying selection, while genes such as atp4 and nad4 exhibit positive selection. A nucleotide diversity analysis revealed that the sdh4 gene exhibits the highest variation, whereas rrn5 is the most conserved. Meanwhile, phylogenetic analysis showed that H. rhamnoides ssp. sinensis from China is most closely related to Hippophae tibetana, with extensive homologous sequences (49.72% of the chloroplast genome) being identified between the chloroplast and mitochondrial genomes, indicating active inter-organellar gene transfer. Furthermore, 539 RNA editing sites, primarily involving hydrophilic-to-hydrophobic amino acid conversions, were predicted, potentially regulating mitochondrial protein function. Our findings establish a foundation for genetic improvement and research on adaptive evolutionary mechanisms in the Hippophae genus, offering a novel case study for plant mitochondrial genome evolution theory. Full article

Green spaces are essential for urban environments, but urban expansion often results in fragmented patches and narrow pavements unsuitable for tree growth. Consequently, there is a pressing need for alternative vegetation in urban landscapes where tree planting is impractical. Urban spontaneous vegetation (USV)—plants that establish naturally without cultivation—shows promise for urban landscaping, and yet has been underexplored in urban ecology. This study was the first systematic survey to examine the composition of USV in Chiang Mai, Thailand, across seven urban locations. The survey was conducted along 13 sidewalk routes (totaling 33.24 km), documenting all non-tree vascular plant species. A total of 63 USV species from 24 families were recorded, predominantly colonizing pavement gaps, cracks, and curbside cracks. The most diverse family was Poaceae, with 15 species. Among the 61 identified species, 32 species (52%) were non-native. Seven species were found in all surveyed locations, highlighting their adaptability to challenging urban conditions. Fifty USV species are medicinal plants. Many species exhibit characteristics that are ideal for sustainable landscaping, such as drought tolerance, low maintenance requirements, and ornamental value. This study highlights USV as a key component of green infrastructure and provides new insights for urban sustainable landscaping. Full article

Myriophyllum heterophyllum is an aquatic macrophyte that is invasive to the northeastern United States and several western European countries. Spreading by vegetative clonal propagation, especially fragmentation, extensive resources are devoted to limiting its growth and spread; however, genetic assessments are not typically included in management strategies. Reduction in genetic (clonal) diversity should accompany biomass reduction, yet without genetic assessment, the efficacy of plant removal remains unclear. This paper is the first to describe a microsatellite marker library and its use in the characterization of Myriophyllum heterophyllum. Eighty-seven tissue samples were collected across the invasive distribution of Myriophyllum heterophyllum in Maine, USA. DNA was extracted, and PCR amplification was employed to screen 13 published microsatellites. Sequencing of the amplified loci was performed to characterize repeat motifs and confirm primer binding sites. Fragment sizing of PCR amplicons was employed to determine microsatellite lengths across the 87 samples. A total of 7 of the 13 tested markers were amplified, with six of those seven found to be variable. Polyploidy was evident from allelic diversity within individuals, although precise ploidy could not be determined. Observed heterozygosity ranged from 0.16 to 1.00 across variable markers. This seven-marker library was effective in characterizing the genetic diversity of both newly discovered (<5 years) and older (>50 years) infestations and is expected to be suitable for assessment of genetic diversity in populations within the native range of M. heterophyllum. The marker library also shows potential for use in several other Myriophyllum species. Full article

Roupala montana (Proteaceae) is a shrub native to subtropical and tropical regions of Central and South America. The EO extracted from R. montana was analyzed for its chemical composition and biological activities. GC analysis revealed that the essential oil has a chemically diverse composition, predominantly composed of oxygenated diterpenes (29.37%) and sesquiterpene hydrocarbons (7.81%). Phytol, with 21.17 ± 1.59%, was the major component. Enantioselective GC showed a high enantiomeric excess of (S)-(+)-γ-muurolene (95.07%) and enantiomeric purity of (1S,4aR,8aR)-(−)-γ-cadinene. Antimicrobial, antifungal, and antioxidant properties were assessed in the EO, comparing them with related species, highlighting its potential for targeted pharmaceutical and biotechnological applications. Full article

Understanding the dynamics of species invasions in aquatic ecosystems is crucial for conservation and management efforts. We investigated the influence of species interactions and habitat complexity on biotic resistance to invasion by small-bodied freshwater fishes in peninsular Florida. Specifically, we focused on the interactions between two native species, Florida bass (Micropterus salmoides) and eastern mosquitofish (Gambusia holbrooki), and a common invader, the green swordtail (Xiphophorus hellerii). Our experiments included tanks with varying levels of structural complexity to mimic different habitat types. The presence of both native species significantly reduced swordtail survival, but the effect varied depending on habitat complexity. In habitats with strong predation refuge, mosquitofish facilitated bass predation on swordtails, whereas in habitats with weak predation refuge, bass suppressed mosquitofish aggression, leading to interference. Mosquitofish predominantly occupied vegetated areas and aggressively interacted with swordtails, significantly reducing invader survival. Our findings highlight the importance of considering species interactions and habitat complexity in predicting biotic resistance to invasions. We conclude that diverse interactions among native species can either enhance or impede invasion resistance, with implications for conservation and management strategies. Further research is needed to understand the broader impacts of multiple predators and competitors on invader dynamics in aquatic ecosystems. Full article

Although marine caves are among the most species-diverse habitats in the Mediterranean Sea, most available studies have focused on their sessile fauna. This study provides the first quantitative assessment of motile fauna in 27 marine caves across four geographical subareas of the Aegean and Ionian Seas, using a rapid assessment visual census protocol, applied through 3 min time transects in each ecological cave zone. Multivariate analysis revealed that the motile community structure of the cave entrance was differentiated from that of the semidark and dark zones. Deeper caves were distinct from shallower ones while caves of the east Aegean differed from those around Crete Island. A total of 163 taxa were recorded, 27 of which are reported herein for the first time in marine caves of the eastern Mediterranean Sea, while three species (two native and one introduced) are recorded in Greek waters for the first time, enriching our knowledge on the permanent and occasional cave residents. Seventeen species were introduced, comprising more than half of the total fish abundance in the southeasternmost cave. Our limited knowledge of the motile fauna of Mediterranean marine caves coupled with the continued spread of introduced species highlights the urgent need for monitoring and conservation actions, especially within marine protected areas. Full article

Acacia mearnsii De Wild. has been introduced to over 150 countries for its economic value. However, it easily escapes from plantations and establishes monospecific stands across plains, hills, valleys, and riparian habitats, including protected areas such as national parks and forest reserves. Due to its negative ecological impact, A. mearnsii has been listed among the world’s 100 worst invasive alien species. This species exhibits rapid stem growth in its sapling stage and reaches reproductive maturity early. It produces a large quantity of long-lived seeds, establishing a substantial seed bank. A. mearnsii can grow in different environmental conditions and tolerates various adverse conditions, such as low temperatures and drought. Its invasive populations are unlikely to be seriously damaged by herbivores and pathogens. Additionally, A. mearnsii exhibits allelopathic activity, though its ecological significance remains unclear. These characteristics of A. mearnsii may contribute to its expansion in introduced ranges. The presence of A. mearnsii affects abiotic processes in ecosystems by reducing water availability, increasing the risk of soil erosion and flooding, altering soil chemical composition, and obstructing solar light irradiation. The invasion negatively affects biotic processes as well, reducing the diversity and abundance of native plants and arthropods, including protective species. Eradicating invasive populations of A. mearnsii requires an integrated, long-term management approach based on an understanding of its invasive mechanisms. Early detection of invasive populations and the promotion of public awareness about their impact are also important. More attention must be given to its invasive traits because it easily escapes from cultivation. Full article

Willow stands (Salix spp.) are an essential part of riparian ecosystems, as they sustain biodiversity and provide bioenergy solutions. The present review synthesizes the global scientific literature about the management of willow stands. In order to achieve this goal, we used a dual approach combining bibliometric analysis with traditional literature review. As such, we consulted 416 publications published between 1978 and 2024. This allowed us to identify key species, ecosystem services, conservation strategies, and management issues. The results we have obtained show a diversity of approaches, with an increase in short-rotation coppice (SRC) systems and the multiple roles covered by willow stands (carbon sequestration, biomass production, riparian restoration, and habitat provision). The key trends we have identified show a shift toward topics such as climate resilience, ecological restoration, and precision forestry. This trend has become especially pronounced over the past decade (2014–2024), as reflected in the increasing use of these keywords in the literature. However, as willow systems expand in scale and function—from biomass production to ecological restoration—they also raise complex challenges, including invasive tendencies in non-native regions and uncertainties surrounding biodiversity impacts and soil carbon dynamics over the long term. The present review is a guide for forest policies and, more specifically, for future research, linking the need to integrate and use adaptive strategies in order to maintain the willow stands. Full article

Numerous studies have demonstrated that in residential areas of Western cities, both luxury and legacy effects significantly shape tree species diversity dynamics. However, the specific mechanisms driving these diversity patterns in China, where urbanization has progressed at an unprecedented pace, remain poorly understood. In this study we selected 20 residential settlements and 7 key socio-economic properties to investigate the change trend of tree diversity (2006–2021) and its socio-economic driving factors in Beijing. Our results demonstrate significant increases in total, native, and exotic tree species richness between 2006 and 2021 (p < 0.05), with average increases of 36%, 26%, and 55%, respectively. Total and exotic tree Shannon-Wiener indices, as well as exotic tree Simpson’s index, were also significantly higher in 2021 (p < 0.05). Housing prices was the dominant driver shaping total and exotic tree diversity, showing significant positive correlations with both metrics. In contrast, native tree diversity exhibited a strong positive association with neighborhood age. Our findings highlight two dominant mechanisms: legacy effect, where older neighborhoods preserve native diversity through historical planting practices, and luxury effect, where affluent communities drive exotic species proliferation through ornamental landscaping initiatives. These findings elucidate the dual dynamics of legacy conservation and luxury-driven cultivation in urban forest development, revealing how historical contingencies and contemporary socioeconomic forces jointly shape tree diversity patterns in urban ecosystems. Full article

The ongoing decade of UN restoration matches with the European goal of bringing nature back into our lives, including in urban systems, and Nature Restoration Regulation. Within such a framework, this work is aimed at highlighting the ecological rationale and strategic value of an NRRP measure devoted to forest restoration in Italian Metropolitan Cities, and at assessing respective preliminary results. Therefore, the measure’s overarching goal (not to create urban parks or gardens, but activate forest recovery), geographic extent and scope (over 4000 ha and more than 4 million planted trees and shrubs across the country), plantation model (mandatory use of native species consistent with local potential vegetation, density of 1000 seedlings per ha, use of at least four tree and four shrub species in each project, with a minimum proportion of 70% for trees, certified provenance for reproductive material), and compulsory management activities (maintenance and replacement of any dead plants for at least five years), are herein shown and explained under an ecological perspective. Current implementation outcomes were thus assessed in terms of coherence and expected biodiversity benefits, especially with respect to ecological and biogeographic consistency of planted forests, representativity in relation to national and European plant diversity, biogeographic interest and conservation concern of adopted plants, and potential contribution to the EU Habitats Directive. Compliance with international strategic goals and normative rules, along with recognizable advantages of the measure and limitations to be solved, are finally discussed. In conclusion, the forestation model proposed for the Italian Metropolitan Cities proved to be fully applicable in its ecological rationale, with expected benefits in terms of biodiversity support plainly met, and even exceeded, at the current stage of implementation, especially in terms of the contribution to protected habitats. These promising preliminary results allow the model to be recognized at the international level as a good practice that may help achieve protection targets and sustainable development goals within and beyond urban systems. Full article

The genus Sonchus (Asteraceae) comprises 98 species, including 17 predominantly herbaceous taxa native to the Mediterranean region. These plants have long been utilized as traditional wild food sources due to their high nutritional value, as they are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, essential minerals, and bioactive compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This review aims to provide a comprehensive synthesis of the taxonomy, geographic distribution, phytochemical composition, traditional uses, historical significance, and pharmacological properties of Sonchus species. A systematic literature search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, focusing on studies from 1980 to 2024. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied, and methodological quality was assessed using standardized tools. A bibliometric analysis of 440 publications (from 1856 to 2025) reveals evolving research trends, with S. oleraceus, S. arvensis, and S. asper being the most extensively studied species. The review provides detailed taxonomic insights into 17 species and 14 subspecies, emphasizing their ecological adaptations and biogeographical patterns. Additionally, it highlights the cultural and medicinal relevance of Sonchus since antiquity while underscoring the threats posed by environmental degradation and changing dietary habits. Sonchus oleraceus and S. tenerrimus dominate the culinary applications of the genus, likely due to favorable taste, wide accessibility, and longstanding cultural importance. The comprehensive nutritional profile of Sonchus species positions these plants as valuable contributors to dietary diversity and food security. Finally, the study identifies current knowledge gaps and proposes future research directions to support the conservation and sustainable utilization of Sonchus species. Full article

Conspicuous declines in native grassland habitats have triggered sharp reductions in grassland birds, dragonflies, butterflies, and native plant populations and diversity. We compared these biotic groups among three crop type treatments: corn, alfalfa, and a perennial native grass, Virginia wild rye, (Elymus virginicus L.) or VWR. This crop type had 2-3X higher bird, dragonfly, butterfly and plant species richness, diversity, and faunal abundance relative to alfalfa and corn types. VWR crop fields also support more obligate grassland bird species and higher populations of dragonfly and butterfly species associated with grasslands and wet meadows. In contrast, the corn and alfalfa types support few or no obligatory grassland birds and mostly non-native insects such as the white cabbage looper (Artogeia rapae L.), the common yellow sulfur butterfly (Colias philodice Godart.), and the mobile and migratory common green darner dragonfly (Anax junius Drury.). In sum, the VWR perennial native grass crop type offers a special opportunity to improve the diversity and abundance of grassland bird species, beneficial insect species, and many native plant species within agricultural landscapes. Full article

Background/Objectives: Global warming and rising CO₂ concentrations pose significant challenges to plant systems. Amid these pressures, this study contributes to understanding how tropical species respond by simultaneously evaluating reproductive and genetic traits. It specifically investigates the effects of maternal exposure to warming and elevated CO₂ on progeny physiology, genetic diversity, and population structure in Stylosanthes capitata, a resilient forage legume native to Brazil. Methods: Maternal plants were cultivated under controlled treatments, including ambient conditions (control), elevated CO₂ at 600 ppm (eCO₂), elevated temperature at +2 °C (eTE), and their combined exposure (eTEeCO₂), within a Trop-T-FACE field facility (Temperature Free-Air Controlled Enhancement and Free-Air Carbon Dioxide Enrichment). Seed traits (seeds per inflorescence, hundred-seed mass, abortion, non-viable seeds, coat color, germination at 32, 40, 71 weeks) and abnormal seedling rates were quantified. Genetic diversity metrics included the average (A) and effective (Ae) number of alleles, observed (Ho) and expected (He) heterozygosity, and inbreeding coefficient (Fis). Population structure was assessed using Principal Coordinates Analysis (PCoA), Analysis of Molecular Variance (AMOVA), number of migrants per generation (Nm), and genetic differentiation index (Fst). Two- and three-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) were used to evaluate factor effects. Results: Compared to control conditions, warming increased seeds per inflorescence (+46%), reduced abortion (−42.9%), non-viable seeds (−57%), and altered coat color. The germination speed index (GSI +23.5%) and germination rate (Gr +11%) improved with warming; combined treatments decreased germination time (GT −9.6%). Storage preserved germination traits, with warming enhancing performance over time and reducing abnormal seedlings (−54.5%). Conversely, elevated CO₂ shortened GSI in late stages, impairing germination efficiency. Warming reduced Ae (−35%), He (−20%), and raised Fis (maternal 0.50, progeny 0.58), consistent with the species’ mixed mating system; A and Ho were unaffected. Allele frequency shifts suggested selective pressure under eTE. Warming induced slight structure in PCoA, and AMOVA detected 1% (maternal) and 9% (progeny) variation. Fst = 0.06 and Nm = 3.8 imply environmental influence without isolation. Conclusions: Warming significantly shapes seed quality, reproductive success, and genetic diversity in S. capitata. Improved reproduction and germination suggest adaptive advantages, but higher inbreeding and reduced diversity may constrain long-term resilience. The findings underscore the need for genetic monitoring and broader genetic bases in cultivars confronting environmental stressors. Full article

This study examines the impact of vegetation structure on bird species richness and diversity across four urban parks in Chaoyang District, Beijing. Throughout the year, using the Point Count Method (PCM), a total of 68 bird species and 4279 individual observations were recorded, with surveys conducted across all four seasons to capture seasonal variations. The parks with more complex vegetation, such as those with a higher tree canopy cover of species like poplars, ginkgo, and Chinese pines, exhibited higher bird species richness. For example, Olympic Forest Park, with its dense vegetation structure, hosted 42 species, whereas parks with less diverse vegetation supported fewer species. An analysis using PERMANOVA revealed that bird communities in the four parks were significantly different from each other (F = 2.76, p = 0.04075), and every comparison between parks showed significant differences as well (p < 0.001). Variations in the arrangement and level of disturbance within different plant communities likely cause such differences. Principal component analysis (PCA) identified tree canopy cover and shrub density as key drivers of bird diversity. These findings underscore the importance of preserving urban green spaces, particularly those with a diverse range of native tree species, to conserve biodiversity and mitigate the adverse effects of urbanisation. Effective vegetation management strategies can enhance avian habitats and provide ecological and cultural benefits in urban environments. Full article

Landslides are a common geological hazard in mountainous areas, causing significant damage to ecosystems and production activities. Near-natural ecological restoration is considered an effective strategy for post-landslide recovery. To investigate the impact of near-natural restoration strategies on the recovery of plant communities and soil in landslide-affected areas, we selected landslide plots in Lantian County at 1, 6, and 11 years post-landslide as study sites, surveyed plots undergoing near-natural restoration and adjacent undisturbed control plots (CK), and collected and analyzed data on plant communities and soil properties. The results indicate that vegetation succession followed a path from “human intervention to natural competition”: species richness peaked at 1 year post-landslide (D_m = 4.2). By 11 years, dominant species prevailed, with tree species decreasing to 4.1 ± 0.3, while herbaceous diversity increased by 200% (from 4 to 12 species). Soil recovery showed significant temporal effects: total nitrogen (TN) and dehydrogenase activity (DHA) exhibited the greatest increases after 1 year post-landslide (132% and 232%, respectively), and by 11 years, the available nitrogen (AN) in restored plots recovered to 98% of the CK levels. Correlations between plant and soil characteristics strengthened over time: at 1 year, only 6–9 pairs showed significant correlations (p < 0.05), increasing to 21–23 pairs at 11 years. Near-natural restoration drives system recovery through the “selection of native species via competition and activation of microbial functional groups”. The 6–11-year period post-landslide is a critical window for structural optimization, and we recommend phased dynamic regulation to balance biodiversity and ecological functions. Full article