Search Results (92)

Sub-Andean forests of the Colombian Central Cordillera are among the most biodiverse and threatened Neotropical ecosystems, yet their floristic composition, vegetation structure, and aboveground carbon storage remain poorly documented. We characterized the floristic diversity, vegetation structure, and aboveground carbon storage of the El Mangón sub-Andean forest remnant (24 ha; 1600–1700 m a.s.l., Cauca, Colombia) using general (non-systematic) collections across the total area and a structural inventory in five 50 × 4 m transects (498 individuals, 35 species). A total of 281 species, 209 genera, and 99 families were recorded; epiphytes represented 44.13% of species, exceeding typical values (25–35%) for this forest type. Diversity indices were intermediate (H′ = 2.55; DMg = 5.47; 1-D = 0.89). Palicourea crocea dominated structurally (IVI = 45.12), whereas aboveground carbon—re-estimated with the pantropical model (total = 72.85 Mg C ha⁻¹)—was concentrated in a few large canopy trees (Alchornea latifolia, 32%; Myrsine guianensis, 16%), with P. crocea contributing only 3.6%. Three novel carbon indices (CVI, CCEI, CSI) integrate storage magnitude with capture efficiency and spatial stability; the CSI differed significantly among spatial-distribution groups (Kruskal–Wallis, p = 0.003), being higher in aggregated, large-stemmed species than in low-aggregation species. El Mangón ranks among the most diverse sub-Andean remnants documented to date in southwestern Colombia, underscoring its conservation priority in an increasingly fragmented landscape. Full article

Biodiversity loss in aquatic ecosystems is accelerating, yet whether the effects of different biodiversity facets on biogeochemical processes are consistent or environmentally contingent remains poorly understood. Benthic invertebrate bioturbators drive nutrient exchange at the sediment–water interface of shallow aquatic ecosystems, but how sediment trophic status modulates the effects of their richness, identity, and composition on benthic–pelagic nutrient cycling is unclear. We conducted a factorial microcosm experiment using three functionally and phylogenetically distinct species—Campsurus melanocephalus (Ephemeroptera), Heteromastus similis (Polychaeta), and Heleobia australis (Gastropoda)—assembled as monocultures, bicultures, and tricultures across a gradient of sediment organic matter concentration ([OM]) representative of natural variability in a neotropical coastal lagoon. Species richness produced a consistent, saturating enhancement of NH₃ fluxes that was independent of sediment trophic status, while species identity strongly differentiated monoculture effects in a pattern that was likewise stable across the [OM] gradient. In contrast, although biculture compositions did not differ from one another across the [OM] gradient, the overall magnitude of biculture-mediated NH₃ fluxes increased with sediment trophic status, suggesting that multispecies assemblage effects are more responsive to environmental context than those of single species. These findings reveal that biodiversity facets diverge not only in how strongly they affect ecosystem functioning, but also in how sensitive their effects are to environmental variation. We therefore conclude that predicting benthic–pelagic nutrient exchange in shallow coastal ecosystems requires considering both the biological structure of bioturbator assemblages and the organic matter context of the sediment. Full article

Colombia hosts 28 species of freshwater and terrestrial turtles, yet anthropogenic pressures such as illegal trafficking and urban expansion have intensified risks. In Cali, non-native turtles are frequently introduced into wetlands through pet abandonment and confiscations, creating novel assemblages in urban ecosystems. To examine this issue, ecological surveys were conducted in three urban wetlands during December 2024, complemented by enforcement records from the Wildlife Rescue Center (WRC) spanning 2015–2023 and reports from environmental authorities. Turtles were captured manually using natural baits placed in floating containers or along shoreline areas to attract individuals, then identified morphologically, measured for standard morphometric parameters, and released at the site of capture. WRC records were reviewed to assess species composition and causes of admission. Field sampling yielded 109 individuals representing four species (Trachemys callirostris, Podocnemis unifilis, Kinosternon leucostomum, Rhinoclemmys melanosterna). WRC records documented 2751 individuals across 11 species, with five taxa accounting for over 96% of admissions. Both datasets revealed a predominance of Trachemys callirostris. Morphometric data indicated multiple size classes, suggesting demographic heterogeneity within the turtle populations inhabiting the sampled wetlands. The overlap between confiscation records and wetland observations suggests potential links between illegal trade and species presence in urban wetlands, while the predominance of voluntary surrenders reflect the influence of enforcement activity and pet abandonment. Collectively, these findings demonstrate how urban wetlands facilitate the persistence of non-native turtles, reshaping species composition and underscoring the urgency of integrated strategies that combine enforcement, habitat management, veterinary protocols, and citizen education to safeguard native biodiversity. Full article

Urban parks in rapidly expanding tropical cities function as novel ecosystems where habitat filtering, human-mediated dispersal, and management practices can shape arthropod assemblages. Spiders are useful indicators of these processes because they combine high taxonomic diversity, functional heterogeneity, and sensitivity to microhabitat structure. Here, we evaluated whether public urban parks in Chetumal, Mexico, sustain diverse spider assemblages while also showing signals of urban biotic mixing, functional filtering, and detectability biases in citizen-science records. We sampled 20 parks using two daytime techniques, look-up and look-down searching, and compared the results with citizen science observations. In total, we collected 4870 spiders belonging to 27 families, 100 genera, and 167 species. The richest families were Salticidae, Araneidae, and Theridiidae, whereas abundance was mainly driven by Tetragnathidae, Lycosidae, and Oecobiidae, indicating a highly uneven community structure. Inventory completeness was high according to rarefaction and coverage analyses. Nine introduced species were detected, representing about 18% of all individuals, which suggests urban mixing. Only one medically important species, Loxosceles yucatana, was recorded, and it was rare. Spider communities included all major hunting guild strategies, especially orb-web weavers and ground hunters, highlighting the ecological value of urban parks as biodiversity reservoirs in a rapidly urbanizing Neotropical region. Full article

While the main diversification centers of Orchidaceae Juss. are located in neotropical-like climates, Europe, and particularly the Mediterranean basin, has remarkable orchid biodiversity. The present study aims to model the habitat suitability of Mediterranean orchid species listed under the Directive 92/43/EEC: Cypripedium calceolus L., Dactylorhiza kalopissii E.Nelson, Himantoglossum adriaticum H.Baumann, Himantoglossum jankae Somlyay, Kreutz & Óvári, Liparis loeselii (L.) Rich., Ophrys argolica H.Fleischm., Ophrys kotschyi H.Fleischm. & Soó, Ophrys lunulata Parl. and Spiranthes aestivalis (Poir.) Reich. The Bayesian Additive Regression Trees algorithm is employed to conduct automated variable selection and, subsequently, to model the current potential distribution. Solar radiation and the continentality index stand out as the most important distribution predictors. The Miller calibration slope is found to be inadequate (>2.0) for taxa with limited occurrences. Finally, the medium- (2051–2075) and long-term (2076–2100) viability under climate change scenarios SSP2-4.5 and SSP5-8.5 is assessed for high-prevalence orchids (Cypripedium calceolus, Himantoglossum adriaticum, Liparis loeselii and Spiranthes aestivalis). Our results reveal a marked contraction of suitable areas for Cypripedium calceolus (21–55%), Spiranthes aestivalis (29–60%), and, especially, Liparis loeselii (57–87%), which would reach the critically endangered status under the SSP5-8.5 scenario. Our findings underscore the urgent need to incorporate refined ecological modeling into conservation strategies, thereby informing management decisions and policy frameworks aimed at safeguarding one of Europe’s most emblematic and vulnerable plant lineages. Full article

The genus Morpheis Hübner, [1820] (Lepidoptera: Cossidae) represents a taxonomically challenging group within Zeuzerinae, characterised by uniform, simply structured genitalia and significant intraspecific variability in external morphology, specifically in wing pattern, body colouration, and size. The taxonomic status and phylogenetic placement of many Morpheis taxa remain uncertain. Our study provides the first comprehensive taxonomic revision of Morpheis, based on detailed morphological analysis, examination of type specimens, assessment of distribution records, and molecular data. As a result, here we provide the first complete taxonomic list with updated diagnoses and distribution maps, based on 1247 specimen records and 191 publicly available observations. We describe the female genitalia of Morpheis for the first time and provide illustrations of imagoes for all currently recognised species, as well as of available type specimens. Additionally, we describe the immature stages and summarise the trophic associations of known Morpheis species. Based on morphological and molecular data, we recognise 11 valid Morpheis species. We applied molecular-based species delimitation methods, which uncovered far more candidate species within the genus than are recognised by traditional taxonomy, suggesting overlooked cryptic diversity that morphology alone cannot detect. We conclude that the integrative approach used here provides a powerful tool, especially valuable for understudied Zeuzerinae groups with high intraspecific variability in traditional characters. Full article

The Sierra Madre Occidental (SMO) is a vital biological corridor in Mexico, yet its floristic knowledge remains fragmented. This study inventories and analyzes the vascular flora of Cerro Mohinora, the highest peak in Chihuahua and a protected area critical for mountain biodiversity. Through the collection of 1200 specimens, we identified 350 taxa across 205 genera and 76 families. Asteraceae (57 taxa) and Poaceae (32) are the most species-rich, with hemicryptophytes dominating the life forms (55.7%). The native flora exhibits a predominantly Nearctic affinity (56.6%), followed by Neotropical (37.2%). Notably, 33.7% of species are endemic to Mexico, including 11.4% to the SMO and 2.9% related to microendemics. Cerro Mohinora serves as the type locality for 18 species, including Salvia reginae, which was discovered during the fieldwork of this study and formally described in 2019. It should be noted that not all of these taxa were recorded in the present survey. Regarding conservation, eight species are listed nationally and 54 internationally. Low exotic species representation (2.6%) contrasts with the vulnerability of the endemic flora. Our findings characterize Cerro Mohinora as a critical boreal refuge and an active evolutionary center, underscoring the need to strengthen conservation frameworks and management strategies to mitigate climate change impacts. Full article

The genus Xylaria comprises numerous species, particularly prevalent in tropical ecosystems such as those of Ecuador. Despite its ecological importance, the taxonomy of the genus remains challenging, and much of its diversity in the Neotropics remains under-documented. This study provides a preliminary characterization of the Xylaria diversity at the Estación Científica San Francisco, an Andean biodiversity hotspot in Southern Ecuador. Through an integrated approach including detailed macro- and micro-morphological descriptions and nuclear ribosomal DNA (nrDNA ITS and LSU) phylogenetic analyses, 20 Xylaria specimens were examined. As a result, ten species were recognized: Xylaria adscendens, X. cf. anisopleura, X. apiculata, X. curta, X. enterogena, X. fissilis, X. globosa, X. aff. telfairii, X. tuberoides, and X. aenea, the latter representing a new record for Ecuador. The phylogenetic analysis presented here serves as a preliminary systematic positioning of these specimens within the genus rather than a comprehensive global reconstruction. While these ribosomal markers provided preliminary insights into species relationships, partial incongruence with morphospecies highlights the evolutionary complexity of certain lineages and underscores the need for future multilocus studies. Furthermore, four additional phylotypes found in their anamorphic state are documented, suggesting that local diversity exceeds current records. By providing detailed morphological documentation supported by preliminary barcode data from a poorly sampled region, this study contributes vital information to the global understanding of Xylaria and underscores the importance of Southern Ecuador as a reservoir of fungal diversity. Full article

Phytotelmata are small, plant-held water pools that support unique assemblages of fauna and flora. Aquatic Diptera are a significant component of these microecosystems. Based on an exhaustive review of over 100 years of published literature, a global database of phytotelmata-associated aquatic Diptera with Bromeliaceae and Zingiberales (7 families) was compiled to explore diversity and ecology and identify gaps in the research. This database is designed to provide a valuable baseline and to serve as an objective, informed tool for future monitoring and research. A total of 4979 unique associations between aquatic Diptera larvae and 117 species in 26 genera of Bromeliaceae and 27 species in 10 genera across 6 families of Zingiberales were assembled in the database. These reported aquatic Diptera span 369 species, 80 genera, and 14 families, and include taxa with diverse ecological roles as detritivores, filter feeders, predators, and prey. Mosquitoes (Culicidae) had the greatest number of documented species (227), and non-biting midges (Chironomidae) had the greatest number of documented genera (26) in the dataset. Several mosquito vectors (e.g., Anopheles, Aedes, and Culex) also complete their life cycles in these habitats, although records of vector mosquitoes compose only 6% of the assembled data. Because phytotelmata provide year-round aquatic refugia, they sustain regional aquatic Diptera diversity yet are threatened by habitat loss and other anthropogenic pressures. Furthermore, despite the important role of phytotelmata in freshwater ecology, diversity in these ephemeral freshwater habitats remains under-documented. This comprehensive analysis of existing literature establishes the first global baseline for aquatic Diptera in phytotelmata and offers a foundation for biodiversity assessments, conservation strategies, and future ecological research. Full article

Soil salinity affects large areas of the world and results in horticultural and biodiversity losses in tropical regions. Garcinia humilis (Vahl) C.D. Adams, fam. Clusiaceae, commonly known as achachairu, is a neotropical evergreen fruit tree native to the Amazonian forests in Bolivia. Its tolerance and responses to soil salinity exclusive of other stressors and within a range of salinity levels have not been reported. This study assessed the physiological, biochemical, and morphological responses of G. humilis to different levels of elevated soil salinity induced by saline irrigation. Physiological variables measured included net CO₂ assimilation (A_n), stomatal conductance of H₂O (g_s), intercellular CO₂ concentration, leaf chlorophyll index (LCI), and the ratio of variable to maximum chlorophyll fluorescence (F_v/F_m). Leaf and root nutrient analyses were performed to assess nutrient imbalances and the accumulation of toxic ions. Antioxidant responses, including superoxide dismutase, catalase, peroxidase, guaiacol peroxidase, ascorbate peroxidase, ascorbic acid, monodehydroascorbate reductase, dehydroascorbate reductase, glutathione, and glutathione reductase; reactive oxygen species (ROS) such as hydrogen peroxide and superoxide radical; and lipid peroxidation as indicated by malondialdehyde were also measured. The results indicate that G. humilis tolerates elevated soil salinity induced by saline irrigation with an electrical conductivity of at least 6 dS m⁻¹, which results in stress responses without fatal consequences. Soil salinity induced by saline irrigation of 6 dS m⁻¹ reduced A_n and g_s by approximately 50% during a 30-day period, but there was no evidence of physiological damage based on the LCI or F_v/F_m. The levels of Na⁺ and Cl⁻ did not reach toxic levels, and the plants were able to prevent damaging imbalances of plant nutrients, indicating an ion-avoidance strategy. Increased antioxidant response to soil salinity induced by saline irrigation possibly prevented ROS and lipid peroxidation damage. G. humilis appears to be moderately tolerant of soil salinity induced by saline irrigation of at least 30 days at 6 dS m⁻¹. Full article

The Plinia genus comprises an underestimated group of fruit trees native to the neotropics of South and Central America. One such species is Plinia peruviana (Poir.) Govaerts, commonly known as ‘Yvapurú’, which belongs to the Myrtaceae family. Its fruits have high nutraceutical potential and are used in the food and medicinal industries. However, scientific information on its composition and bioactive properties remains limited at the regional level. This study aimed to determine the nutritional composition and antioxidant potential of wild P. peruviana fruits collected in a native forest in Emboscada, Paraguay. Official AOAC methods were employed to analyse the centesimal composition, and the vitamin C content, Total Phenolics Compounds (TPC), and total monomeric anthocyanin (TMA) content were determined in freeze-dried pulp and peel. The main components of whole fruits were total carbohydrates and dietary fibre (12.2 ± 0.7 g/100 g and 9.9 ± 0.8 g/100 g, respectively). The main minerals present were potassium (252 ± 9 mg/100 g), sodium (49 ± 3 mg/100 g), magnesium (46 ± 5 mg/100 g), calcium (21.5 ± 1 mg/100 g) and phosphorus (4.1 ± 0.9 mg/100 g). In terms of antioxidant potential, the peel exhibited higher concentrations of total phenolic compounds (730 ± 5 mg EAG/100 g) and anthocyanins (191 ± 15 mg C3G/100 g) than the pulp (611 ± 13 mg EAG/100 g). These results confirm that P. peruviana fruits have a valuable nutritional profile, providing significant amounts of dietary fibre and essential minerals, as well as high levels of bioactive compounds associated with antioxidant capacity. Using them as a functional food could help prevent chronic diseases and strengthen food security. The study also expands knowledge of Paraguay’s fruit biodiversity and supports the sustainable utilisation of underutilised native species. Full article

Lichens, complex symbiotic associations between fungi and photosynthetic partners, are widespread in terrestrial ecosystems but remain poorly studied in tropical dry forests (TDFs). This review synthesizes current knowledge on the diversity, ecological roles, adaptive traits, and ethnobotanical uses of lichens in TDFs, with a focus on the Neotropics. As most lichens discussed here are crustose species that inhabit tree bark, this paper also provides a thoughtful review of the origin, distribution, and highly heterogeneous floristic composition of TDFs, which directly shape lichen habitats. It discusses how lichens have evolved to cope with seasonal water stress, emphasizing desiccation tolerance as a key feature of the symbiosis. This review also explores lichen community composition, interactions with host trees, microclimatic conditions, herbivory, and soil crust formation. Despite evidence of high species richness, functional diversity, and ecological importance, lichens in TDFs are largely overlooked in conservation strategies. Moreover, several regions remain vastly understudied, and many species likely remain undescribed. Ethnolichenological practices, though scarce, underscore the cultural and medicinal value of these organisms. Given the high rates of habitat loss and endemism in TDFs, there is a pressing need to expand research on lichen diversity and to investigate the evolutionary origins of their survival strategies. The conservation of these lichens is inseparable from the conservation of TDFs themselves. Understanding how lichens adapt to the harsh and variable conditions of TDFs is essential for integrating them into biodiversity conservation and ecosystem restoration frameworks. Full article

Hydrometridae (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Gerromorpha) is represented in Brazil by 17 species, belonging to six genera and three subfamilies: Veliometra Andersen, 1977 (Heterocleptinae); Bacillometra Esaki, 1927, Cephalometra Polhemus & Ferreira, 2018, Hydrometra Latreille, 1797, Spelaeometra Polhemus & Ferreira, 2018 (Hydrometrinae); and Limnobatodes Hussey, 1925 (Limnobatodinae). Hydrometra is the richest genus in the country, with 11 recorded species. Here, we describe H. perobas Cordeiro, Floriano & Moreira, sp. nov., collected in the buffer zone of Reserva Biológica das Perobas, a protected area within the Atlantic Forest biome, state of Paraná, southern Brazil. We also provide a revised key to the species of Hydrometra recorded from Brazil. Full article

Influenza A virus (IAV) poses a significant threat to animal and public health due to its wide host range and potential for interspecies transmission. This study aimed to conduct a comprehensive survey of IAV in a wide range of wildlife in the Orinoco flooded savannas of Colombia, a region of high biodiversity and a strategic location for monitoring viral transmission. Sampling was conducted during both dry and rainy seasons in two localities. ELISA and qPCR targeted 2028 individuals from 173 bird, mammal, and reptile species, 124 of them without previously published reports. There were positive results for 54 species, with 34 representing first-time world reports. Of the qPCR, 13.4% were positive from birds, and 2.9% were from mammals. Seropositivity was identified in 5.7% of birds, 2.7% of mammals, and 1.3% of reptiles. These findings underscore the potential role of these diverse species as reservoirs or incidental hosts in the transmission cycle of IAV, emphasizing the need for expanded research on less-studied taxa and their ecological interactions. The results also contribute to our understanding of the epidemiology of IAV in the Neotropics and can inform future surveillance and mitigation strategies. Full article

Two new miniature tetra species of the genus Priocharax Weitzman and Vari 1987 are described, raising the known species diversity to twelve. Priocharax is characterized by several paedomorphic features such as reductions in the laterosensory system, number of fin rays, ossification of parts of the skull and the presence of a larval rayless pectoral fin in adults. The species described are found in the Rio Purus and Solimões drainages, in the state of Amazonas, Brazil and are diagnosed among themselves and from other species of the genus by the combination of meristic and osteological characters. Furthermore, the two species differ in overall body shape, with one having a deeper body and the other a more streamlined form. Sexual dimorphism was observed in both species. Molecular species delimitation analyses support the distinctiveness of these species. Similarly to Priocharax britzi and to P. conwayi, the specimens analyzed here were collected within and around protected areas, highlighting the importance of these areas for conservation and biodiversity knowledge. Full article