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10 pages, 1663 KiB  
Article
First Detection and Molecular Identification of Rhabditis (Rhabditella) axei from the Chinese Red Panda (Ailurus styani)
by Chanjuan Yue, Wanjing Yang, Dunwu Qi, Mei Yang, James Edward Ayala, Yanshan Zhou, Chao Chen, Xiaoyan Su, Rong Hou and Songrui Liu
Pathogens 2025, 14(8), 783; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens14080783 - 6 Aug 2025
Abstract
Rhabditis (Rhabditella) axei is a predominantly free-living nematode commonly found in sewage systems and decomposing organic matter. While primarily saprophytic, it has been documented as an opportunistic pathogen in human urinary and gastrointestinal tracts. The Chinese red panda (Ailurus styani [...] Read more.
Rhabditis (Rhabditella) axei is a predominantly free-living nematode commonly found in sewage systems and decomposing organic matter. While primarily saprophytic, it has been documented as an opportunistic pathogen in human urinary and gastrointestinal tracts. The Chinese red panda (Ailurus styani), a rare and protected species in China, has not previously been reported as a host for Rhabditis (Rhabditella) spp. infections. This study reports the first documented occurrence of R. axei in red panda feces, unambiguously confirmed through integrative taxonomic approaches combining morphological and molecular analyses. The nematodes exhibited key morphological features consistent with R. axei, including a cylindrical rhabditiform esophagus, sexually dimorphic tail structures, and diagnostic spicule morphology. Molecular analysis based on 18S-ITS-28S rDNA sequencing confirmed their identity, showing >99% sequence similarity to R. axei reference strains (GenBank: PP135624.1, PP135622.1). Phylogenetic reconstruction using 18S rDNA and ITS rDNA sequences placed the isolate within a well-supported R. axei clade, clearly distinguishing it from related species such as R. blumi and R. brassicae. The findings demonstrate the ecological plasticity of R. axei as a facultative parasite capable of infecting non-traditional hosts and further highlight potential zoonotic risks associated with environmental exposure in captive wildlife populations. Our results emphasize the indispensable role of molecular diagnostics in accurately distinguishing morphologically similar nematodes within the Rhabditidae family, while providing essential baseline data for health monitoring in both in situ and ex situ conservation programs for this endangered species. Full article
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17 pages, 1802 KiB  
Article
Longitudinal Profiling of the Human Milk Microbiome from Birth to 12 Months Reveals Overall Stability and Selective Taxa-Level Variation
by Ruomei Xu, Zoya Gridneva, Matthew S. Payne, Mark P. Nicol, Ali S. Cheema, Donna T. Geddes and Lisa F. Stinson
Microorganisms 2025, 13(8), 1830; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms13081830 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Human milk bacteria contribute to gut microbiome establishment in breastfed infants. Although breastfeeding is recommended throughout infancy, temporal variation in the milk microbiome—particularly beyond solid food introduction—remains understudied. We analyzed 539 milk samples from 83 mother–infant dyads between 1 week and 12 months [...] Read more.
Human milk bacteria contribute to gut microbiome establishment in breastfed infants. Although breastfeeding is recommended throughout infancy, temporal variation in the milk microbiome—particularly beyond solid food introduction—remains understudied. We analyzed 539 milk samples from 83 mother–infant dyads between 1 week and 12 months postpartum using full-length 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The microbiota was dominated by Streptococcus (34%), Cutibacterium (12%), and Staphylococcus (9%), with marked inter-individual variation. Microbiome profiles remained largely stable across lactation, with only six taxa showing temporal fluctuations, including increases in typical oral bacteria such as Streptococcus salivarius, Streptococcus lactarius, Rothia mucilaginosa, and Granulicatella adiacens. Richness and evenness were higher at 1 week compared to 1 month postpartum (p = 0.00003 and p = 0.007, respectively), then stabilized. Beta diversity also remained stable over time. Maternal pre-pregnancy BMI was positively associated with Gemella haemolysans (p = 0.016), while Haemophilus parainfluenzae was more abundant in milk from mothers with allergies (p = 0.003) and those who gave birth in autumn or winter (p = 0.006). The introduction of solid food was linked to minor taxonomic shifts. Overall, the milk microbiome remained robustly stable over the first year of lactation, with limited but notable fluctuations in specific taxa. This study supports the role of human milk as a consistent microbial source for infants and identifies maternal BMI, allergy status, and birth season as key variables warranting further investigation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Microbiomes)
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18 pages, 2376 KiB  
Article
Selection and Characterisation of Elite Mesorhizobium spp. Strains That Mitigate the Impact of Drought Stress on Chickpea
by María Camacho, Francesca Vaccaro, Pilar Brun, Francisco Javier Ollero, Francisco Pérez-Montaño, Miriam Negussu, Federico Martinelli, Alessio Mengoni, Dulce Nombre Rodriguez-Navarro and Camilla Fagorzi
Agriculture 2025, 15(15), 1694; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15151694 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
The chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is a key legume crop in Mediterranean agriculture, valued for its nutritional profile and adaptability. However, its productivity is severely impacted by drought stress. To identify microbial solutions that enhance drought resilience, we isolated seven Mesorhizobium strains [...] Read more.
The chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is a key legume crop in Mediterranean agriculture, valued for its nutritional profile and adaptability. However, its productivity is severely impacted by drought stress. To identify microbial solutions that enhance drought resilience, we isolated seven Mesorhizobium strains from chickpea nodules collected in southern Spain and evaluated their cultivar-specific symbiotic performance. Two commercial cultivars (Pedrosillano and Blanco Lechoso) and twenty chickpea germplasms were tested under growth chamber and greenhouse conditions, both with and without drought stress. Initial screening in a sterile substrate using nodulation assays, shoot/root dry weight measurements, and acetylene reduction assays identified three elite strains (ISC11, ISC15, and ISC25) with superior symbiotic performance and nitrogenase activity. Greenhouse trials under reduced irrigation demonstrated that several strain–cultivar combinations significantly mitigated drought effects on plant biomass, with specific interactions (e.g., ISC25 with RR-98 or BT6-19) preserving over 70% of shoot biomass relative to controls. Whole-genome sequencing of the elite strains revealed diverse taxonomic affiliations—ISC11 as Mesorhizobium ciceri, ISC15 as Mesorhizobium mediterraneum, and ISC25 likely representing a novel species. Genome mining identified plant growth-promoting traits including ACC deaminase genes (in ISC11 and ISC25) and genes coding for auxin biosynthesis-related enzymes. Our findings highlight the potential of targeted rhizobial inoculants tailored to chickpea cultivars to improve crop performance under water-limiting conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Beneficial Microbes for Sustainable Crop Production)
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20 pages, 1773 KiB  
Article
Make Acetylcholine Great Again! Australian Skinks Evolved Multiple Neurotoxin-Proof Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors in Defiance of Snake Venom
by Uthpala Chandrasekara, Marco Mancuso, Glenn Shea, Lee Jones, Jacek Kwiatkowski, Dane Trembath, Abhinandan Chowdhury, Terry Bertozzi, Michael G. Gardner, Conrad J. Hoskin, Christina N. Zdenek and Bryan G. Fry
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(15), 7510; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26157510 - 4 Aug 2025
Viewed by 200
Abstract
Many vertebrates have evolved resistance to snake venom as a result of coevolutionary chemical arms races. In Australian skinks (family Scincidae), who often encounter venomous elapid snakes, the frequency, diversity, and molecular basis of venom resistance have been unexplored. This study investigated the [...] Read more.
Many vertebrates have evolved resistance to snake venom as a result of coevolutionary chemical arms races. In Australian skinks (family Scincidae), who often encounter venomous elapid snakes, the frequency, diversity, and molecular basis of venom resistance have been unexplored. This study investigated the evolution of neurotoxin resistance in Australian skinks, focusing on mutations in the muscle nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) α1 subunit’s orthosteric site that prevent pathophysiological binding by α-neurotoxins. We sampled a broad taxonomic range of Australian skinks and sequenced the nAChR α1 subunit gene. Key resistance-conferring mutations at the toxin-binding site (N-glycosylation motifs, proline substitutions, arginine insertions, changes in the electrochemical state of the receptor, and novel cysteines) were identified and mapped onto the skink organismal phylogeny. Comparisons with other venom-resistant taxa (amphibians, mammals, and reptiles) were performed, and structural modelling and binding assays were used to evaluate the impact of these mutations. Multiple independent origins of α-neurotoxin resistance were found across diverse skink lineages. Thirteen lineages evolved at least one resistance motif and twelve additional motifs evolved within these lineages, for a total of twenty-five times of α-neurotoxic venoms resistance. These changes sterically or electrostatically inhibit neurotoxin binding. Convergent mutations at the orthosteric site include the introduction of N-linked glycosylation sites previously known from animals as diverse as cobras and mongooses. However, an arginine (R) substitution at position 187 was also shown to have evolved on multiple occasions in Australian skinks, a modification previously shown to be responsible for the Honey Badger’s iconic resistance to cobra venom. Functional testing confirmed this mode of resistance in skinks. Our findings reveal that venom resistance has evolved extensively and convergently in Australian skinks through repeated molecular adaptations of the nAChR in response to the enormous selection pressure exerted by elapid snakes subsequent to their arrival and continent-wide dispersal in Australia. These toxicological findings highlight a remarkable example of convergent evolution across vertebrates and provide insight into the adaptive significance of toxin resistance in snake–lizard ecological interactions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biochemistry)
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22 pages, 3491 KiB  
Article
Phylogenetic Insights from a Novel Rehubryum Species Challenge Generic Boundaries in Orthotrichaceae
by Nikolay Matanov, Francisco Lara, Juan Antonio Calleja, Isabel Draper, Pablo Aguado-Ramsay and Ricardo Garilleti
Plants 2025, 14(15), 2373; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14152373 - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 215
Abstract
In recent years, phylogenomic approaches have significantly deepened our understanding of moss diversity. These techniques have uncovered numerous previously overlooked species and provided greater clarity in resolving complex taxonomic relationships. In this context, the genus Rehubryum is particularly outstanding, because of its close [...] Read more.
In recent years, phylogenomic approaches have significantly deepened our understanding of moss diversity. These techniques have uncovered numerous previously overlooked species and provided greater clarity in resolving complex taxonomic relationships. In this context, the genus Rehubryum is particularly outstanding, because of its close morphological similarity to both Ulota and Atlantichella. The challenges posed by its segregation are addressed in this study, which integrates morphological and molecular data to reassess the circumscription of Rehubryum and its phylogenetic placement within the subtribe Lewinskyinae. Our results support the recognition of a new species, R. kiwi, and show that its inclusion within the genus further complicates the morphological delimitation of Rehubryum from Ulota, as both genera are distinguishable by only two consistent gametophytic characteristics: a submarginal leaf band of elongated cells, and the presence of geminate denticulations in the margins of the basal half of the leaf. Moreover, R. kiwi challenges the current morphological circumscription of Rehubryum itself, as it overlaps in key characteristics with its sister genus Atlantichella, rendering their morphological separation untenable. The striking interhemispheric disjunction between Rehubryum and Atlantichella raises new questions about long-distance dispersal and historical biogeography in mosses, despite these complexities at the generic level. Nevertheless, species-level distinctions remain well defined, especially in sporophytic traits and geographic distribution. These findings highlight the pervasive cryptic diversity within Orthotrichaceae, underscoring the need for integrative taxonomic frameworks that synthesize morphology, molecular phylogenetics, and biogeography to resolve evolutionary histories. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant Systematics, Taxonomy, Nomenclature and Classification)
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36 pages, 3621 KiB  
Review
Harnessing Molecular Phylogeny and Chemometrics for Taxonomic Validation of Korean Aromatic Plants: Integrating Genomics with Practical Applications
by Adnan Amin and Seonjoo Park
Plants 2025, 14(15), 2364; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14152364 - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 338
Abstract
Plant genetics and chemotaxonomic analysis are considered key parameters in understanding evolution, plant diversity and adaptation. Korean Peninsula has a unique biogeographical landscape that supports various aromatic plant species, each with considerable ecological, ethnobotanical, and pharmacological significance. This review aims to provide a [...] Read more.
Plant genetics and chemotaxonomic analysis are considered key parameters in understanding evolution, plant diversity and adaptation. Korean Peninsula has a unique biogeographical landscape that supports various aromatic plant species, each with considerable ecological, ethnobotanical, and pharmacological significance. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the chemotaxonomic traits, biological activities, phylogenetic relationships and potential applications of Korean aromatic plants, highlighting their significance in more accurate identification. Chemotaxonomic investigations employing techniques such as gas chromatography mass spectrometry, high-performance liquid chromatography, and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy have enabled the identification of essential oils and specialized metabolites that serve as valuable taxonomic and diagnostic markers. These chemical traits play essential roles in species delimitation and in clarifying interspecific variation. The biological activities of selected taxa are reviewed, with emphasis on antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cytotoxic effects, supported by bioassay-guided fractionation and compound isolation. In parallel, recent advances in phylogenetic reconstruction employing DNA barcoding, internal transcribed spacer regions, and chloroplast genes such as rbcL and matK are examined for their role in clarifying taxonomic uncertainties and inferring evolutionary lineages. Overall, the search period was from year 2001 to 2025 and total of 268 records were included in the study. By integrating phytochemical profiling, pharmacological evidence, and molecular systematics, this review highlights the multifaceted significance of Korean endemic aromatic plants. The conclusion highlights the importance of multidisciplinary approaches including metabolomics and phylogenomics in advancing our understanding of species diversity, evolutionary adaptation, and potential applications. Future research directions are proposed to support conservation efforts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applications of Bioinformatics in Plant Science)
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27 pages, 4228 KiB  
Article
Whole-Genome Analysis of Halomonas sp. H5 Revealed Multiple Functional Genes Relevant to Tomato Growth Promotion, Plant Salt Tolerance, and Rhizosphere Soil Microecology Regulation
by Yan Li, Meiying Gu, Wanli Xu, Jing Zhu, Min Chu, Qiyong Tang, Yuanyang Yi, Lijuan Zhang, Pan Li, Yunshu Zhang, Osman Ghenijan, Zhidong Zhang and Ning Li
Microorganisms 2025, 13(8), 1781; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms13081781 - 30 Jul 2025
Viewed by 248
Abstract
Soil salinity adversely affects crop growth and development, leading to reduced soil fertility and agricultural productivity. The indigenous salt-tolerant plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR), as a sustainable microbial resource, do not only promote growth and alleviate salt stress, but also improve the soil microecology [...] Read more.
Soil salinity adversely affects crop growth and development, leading to reduced soil fertility and agricultural productivity. The indigenous salt-tolerant plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR), as a sustainable microbial resource, do not only promote growth and alleviate salt stress, but also improve the soil microecology of crops. The strain H5 isolated from saline-alkali soil in Bachu of Xinjiang was studied through whole-genome analysis, functional annotation, and plant growth-promoting, salt-tolerant trait gene analysis. Phylogenetic tree analysis and 16S rDNA sequencing confirmed its classification within the genus Halomonas. Functional annotation revealed that the H5 genome harbored multiple functional gene clusters associated with plant growth promotion and salt tolerance, which were critically involved in key biological processes such as bacterial survival, nutrient acquisition, environmental adaptation, and plant growth promotion. The pot experiment under moderate salt stress demonstrated that seed inoculation with Halomonas sp. H5 not only significantly improved the agronomic traits of tomato seedlings, but also increased plant antioxidant enzyme activities under salt stress. Additionally, soil analysis revealed H5 treatment significantly decreased the total salt (9.33%) and electrical conductivity (8.09%), while significantly improving organic matter content (11.19%) and total nitrogen content (10.81%), respectively (p < 0.05). Inoculation of strain H5 induced taxonomic and functional shifts in the rhizosphere microbial community, increasing the relative abundance of microorganisms associated with plant growth-promoting and carbon and nitrogen cycles, and reduced the relative abundance of the genera Alternaria (15.14%) and Fusarium (9.76%), which are closely related to tomato diseases (p < 0.05). Overall, this strain exhibits significant potential in alleviating abiotic stress, enhancing growth, improving disease resistance, and optimizing soil microecological conditions in tomato plants. These results provide a valuable microbial resource for saline soil remediation and utilization. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant Microbe Interactions)
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37 pages, 3945 KiB  
Article
Taxonomy of Dissomphalus Ashmead (Hymenoptera, Bethylidae) from Fiji and Solomon Islands, with Description of Twenty-Seven New Species
by João Lorenzo M. Nunes, Celso O. Azevedo and Wesley D. Colombo
Taxonomy 2025, 5(3), 39; https://doi.org/10.3390/taxonomy5030039 - 30 Jul 2025
Viewed by 219
Abstract
This study presents a comprehensive taxonomic revision of the genus Dissomphalus Ashmead (Hymenoptera, Bethylidae) in the southwestern Pacific, focusing on specimens from Fiji and the Solomon Islands. Dissomphalus is the most species-rich genus within Bethylidae, with a global distribution, yet it remains poorly [...] Read more.
This study presents a comprehensive taxonomic revision of the genus Dissomphalus Ashmead (Hymenoptera, Bethylidae) in the southwestern Pacific, focusing on specimens from Fiji and the Solomon Islands. Dissomphalus is the most species-rich genus within Bethylidae, with a global distribution, yet it remains poorly documented in the Oceanian region. We examined 151 male specimens collected in these islands. As a result, we describe 27 new species, 25 from Fiji and 2 from the Solomon Islands. Diagnostic morphological features, detailed illustrations, and an identification key for all species are provided. These findings substantially expand the known diversity of Dissomphalus in Oceania. Our results underscore the importance of taxonomic research in underexplored regions and highlight the potential for high levels of species endemism in island ecosystems. This revision contributes to a better understanding of the genus’ biogeographical distribution and provides essential tools for future biodiversity assessments and conservation efforts in the southwestern Pacific. Full article
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17 pages, 7377 KiB  
Article
Comparative Untargeted Metabolomic Analysis of Fruiting Bodies from Three Sanghuangporus Species
by Zixuan Jiang, Shimao Chen, Jia Song, Tao Xie, Yu Xue and Qingshan Yang
J. Fungi 2025, 11(8), 558; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11080558 - 28 Jul 2025
Viewed by 391
Abstract
Sanghuangporus spp. are medicinal fungi with significant therapeutic value, but their taxonomic ambiguity and frequent market adulteration have hindered their standardized utilization. In this study, untargeted metabolomics based on UPLC-Q-TOF-MS was employed to systematically analyze the metabolic profiles of three Sanghuangporus species: Sanghuangporus [...] Read more.
Sanghuangporus spp. are medicinal fungi with significant therapeutic value, but their taxonomic ambiguity and frequent market adulteration have hindered their standardized utilization. In this study, untargeted metabolomics based on UPLC-Q-TOF-MS was employed to systematically analyze the metabolic profiles of three Sanghuangporus species: Sanghuangporus. sanghuang (SS), Sanghuangporus. vaninii (SV), and Sanghuangporus. baumii (SB). A total of 788 metabolites were identified and classified into 16 categories, among which 97 were common differential metabolites, including bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, polysaccharides, and terpenoids. Multivariate statistical analyses (PCA and OPLS-DA) revealed distinct metabolic patterns among the species. KEGG pathway enrichment analysis showed that the differential metabolites were mainly involved in flavonoid and isoflavonoid biosynthesis. Notably, SV and SB exhibited significantly higher levels of several key bioactive compounds, including Apigenin and D-glucuronolactone, compared to SS. These findings highlight substantial interspecies differences in metabolic composition and pharmacological potential, providing a scientific basis for species authentication, quality control, and medicinal development of Sanghuangporus. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Secondary Metabolites from Fungi)
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19 pages, 1606 KiB  
Review
Isotopic Studies in South American Mammals: Thirty Years of Paleoecological Discoveries
by Dánae Sanz-Pérez, Rodrigo L. Tomassini and Manuel Hernández Fernández
Geosciences 2025, 15(8), 284; https://doi.org/10.3390/geosciences15080284 - 27 Jul 2025
Viewed by 448
Abstract
Stable isotope analysis has become a key tool in paleontology, providing insights into ancient diets, ecosystems, climates, and environmental shifts. Despite the growing importance of isotopic studies in South America, no comprehensive bibliometric review has been conducted until now. This study addresses that [...] Read more.
Stable isotope analysis has become a key tool in paleontology, providing insights into ancient diets, ecosystems, climates, and environmental shifts. Despite the growing importance of isotopic studies in South America, no comprehensive bibliometric review has been conducted until now. This study addresses that gap, analyzing the development of the field over the past thirty years. Our results show a rapidly expanding discipline, especially in the last five years, with increasing publication rates and participation from South American researchers, particularly in Brazil and Argentina. However, the analysis also reveals persistent biases: notably, a strong focus on the Quaternary period, which limits broader evolutionary interpretations. Keyword co-occurrence points to dominant themes such as paleodiet, paleoecology, and megafaunal extinction, while highlighting new trends like ecological niche modeling and nitrogen isotope applications. The co-authorship network reflects high levels of collaboration, particularly with Spain and the United States. A marked gender imbalance in authorship is also evident, calling attention to the need for greater inclusivity. This review emphasizes the importance of addressing taxonomic and temporal gaps, strengthening interdisciplinary and international networks, and promoting equity in order to ensure the continued growth and global relevance of isotopic paleontology in South America. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sedimentology, Stratigraphy and Palaeontology)
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22 pages, 2461 KiB  
Article
Environmental Drivers of Phytoplankton Structure in a Semi-Arid Reservoir
by Fangze Zi, Tianjian Song, Wenxia Cai, Jiaxuan Liu, Yanwu Ma, Xuyuan Lin, Xinhong Zhao, Bolin Hu, Daoquan Ren, Yong Song and Shengao Chen
Biology 2025, 14(8), 914; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14080914 - 22 Jul 2025
Viewed by 310
Abstract
Artificial reservoirs in arid regions provide unique ecological environments for studying the spatial and functional dynamics of plankton communities under the combined stressors of climate change and anthropogenic activities. This study conducted a systematic investigation of the phytoplankton community structure and its environmental [...] Read more.
Artificial reservoirs in arid regions provide unique ecological environments for studying the spatial and functional dynamics of plankton communities under the combined stressors of climate change and anthropogenic activities. This study conducted a systematic investigation of the phytoplankton community structure and its environmental drivers in 17 artificial reservoirs in the Ili region of Xinjiang in August and October 2024. The Ili region is located in the temperate continental arid zone of northwestern China. A total of 209 phytoplankton species were identified, with Bacillariophyta, Chlorophyta, and Cyanobacteria comprising over 92% of the community, indicating an oligarchic dominance pattern. The decoupling between numerical dominance (diatoms) and biomass dominance (cyanobacteria) revealed functional differentiation and ecological complementarity among major taxa. Through multivariate analyses, including Mantel tests, principal component analysis (PCA), and redundancy analysis (RDA), we found that phytoplankton community structures at different ecological levels responded distinctly to environmental gradients. Oxidation-reduction potential (ORP), dissolved oxygen (DO), and mineralization parameters (EC, TDS) were key drivers of morphological operational taxonomic unit (MOTU). In contrast, dominant species (SP) were more responsive to salinity and pH. A seasonal analysis demonstrated significant shifts in correlation structures between summer and autumn, reflecting the regulatory influence of the climate on redox conditions and nutrient solubility. Machine learning using the random forest model effectively identified core taxa (e.g., MOTU1 and SP1) with strong discriminatory power, confirming their potential as bioindicators for water quality assessments and the early warning of ecological shifts. These core taxa exhibited wide spatial distribution and stable dominance, while localized dominant species showed high sensitivity to site-specific environmental conditions. Our findings underscore the need to integrate taxonomic resolution with functional and spatial analyses to reveal ecological response mechanisms in arid-zone reservoirs. This study provides a scientific foundation for environmental monitoring, water resource management, and resilience assessments in climate-sensitive freshwater ecosystems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wetland Ecosystems (2nd Edition))
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9 pages, 915 KiB  
Article
Synopsis of the Genus Trichorondonia Breuning, 1965 with Description of a New Species from China (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae)
by Ruigang Yang, Jianhua Huang and Guanglin Xie
Insects 2025, 16(7), 743; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16070743 - 21 Jul 2025
Viewed by 311
Abstract
This paper provides a brief review of the genus Trichorondonia Breuning, 1965. A new species, Trichorondonia wenkaii sp. nov. (文凯毛郎氏天牛), is described and illustrated. Trichorondonia kabateki Viktora, 2024 is newly recorded in Hubei province, with the first description of the male. Additionally, photographs [...] Read more.
This paper provides a brief review of the genus Trichorondonia Breuning, 1965. A new species, Trichorondonia wenkaii sp. nov. (文凯毛郎氏天牛), is described and illustrated. Trichorondonia kabateki Viktora, 2024 is newly recorded in Hubei province, with the first description of the male. Additionally, photographs of the holotypes of three previously described species are presented. A key to the four species is given. The new species differs from T. pilosipes and T. hybolasioides in having elytra with rounded lateral apical angles and a vertex with blackish-brown pubescence medially behind the eyes. The new species can also be easily distinguished from T. kabateki by the antennae being ventrally fringed with sparse hairs only on segments 1–8, the greyish-yellow pubescence on the pronotum being unevenly distributed and particularly sparse in the posterior half, the elytra having rather thin greyish-yellow pubescence and hardly visible greyish-white pubescence, elongated blackish-brown spots on the elytral longitudinal carinae, and a small tuft of black setae at the centre of the elytral base where there is no obvious tubercle. The type specimen of the new species was collected in Dianping village, Xinhua town, Leye county, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region of China, and deposited at Insect Collection, College of Agriculture, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei, China (ICYZU). Full article
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13 pages, 725 KiB  
Systematic Review
Impact of Perioperative Antibiotic Prophylaxis in Caesarean Section on the Maternal Gut Microbiome: A Systematic Review
by Elisabeth AL Feles, Claudio Neidhöfer, Christina Wessels, Rosalie Gruber and Frauke Mattner
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(14), 5104; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14145104 - 18 Jul 2025
Viewed by 299
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Caesarean section (CS) accounts for over 20% of global births and routinely involves perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis (PAP) to reduce surgical site infections. While the impact of such prophylaxis on neonatal microbiome development is well described, effects on the maternal gut microbiome remain [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Caesarean section (CS) accounts for over 20% of global births and routinely involves perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis (PAP) to reduce surgical site infections. While the impact of such prophylaxis on neonatal microbiome development is well described, effects on the maternal gut microbiome remain underexplored. This systematic review synthesizes current evidence on how antibiotic prophylaxis during CS affects maternal gut microbiome composition and diversity—an underrepresented, but clinically relevant aspect of maternal–fetal medicine. Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted in Medline (PubMed), the Cochrane Library, and the WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP) through November 2024. Inclusion criteria were defined according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Eligible studies used molecular techniques to report maternal gut microbiome outcomes (alpha- and beta-diversity). The search concentrated on beta-lactam antibiotics. Reference lists were screened, but no additional grey literature was searched. Synthesis followed the Synthesis Without meta-analysis (SWiM) approach. No review protocol was registered. The review received no external funding. Results: Out of 1011 records, three studies (total 286 mothers) met the inclusion criteria. All reported maternal microbiome outcomes secondarily to infant-focused research. Only one study provided pre- and post-birth stool samples. Applied antibiotic regimens, sequencing methods, and reported microbiome metrics for alpha- and beta-diversity varied considerably, thus limiting comparability of results. Due to high heterogeneity, no formal risk of bias was assessed. While taxonomic diversity changes were inconsistent, significant shifts in functional diversity metrics were observed postpartum. Conclusions: Evidence on maternal microbiome disruption following perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis in CS is methodologically fragmented and limited by small sample sizes and inconsistent antibiotic protocols. Nonetheless, functional diversity appears sensitive to antibiotic exposure. To improve clinical understanding and safety, maternal-focused studies using standardized protocols are urgently needed. The maternal microbiome may play a key role in both recovery and shaping the newborn’s early microbial environment. Full article
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22 pages, 2239 KiB  
Article
Relationship Between Aquatic Fungal Diversity in Surface Water and Environmental Factors in Yunnan Dashanbao Black-Necked Crane National Nature Reserve, China
by Kaize Shen, Yufeng Tang, Jiaoxu Shi, Zhongxiang Hu, Meng He, Jinzhen Li, Yuanjian Wang, Mingcui Shao and Honggao Liu
J. Fungi 2025, 11(7), 526; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11070526 - 16 Jul 2025
Viewed by 380
Abstract
Aquatic fungi serve as core ecological engines in freshwater ecosystems, driving organic matter decomposition and energy flow to sustain environmental balance. Wetlands, with their distinct hydrological dynamics and nutrient-rich matrices, serve as critical habitats for these microorganisms. As an internationally designated Ramsar Site, [...] Read more.
Aquatic fungi serve as core ecological engines in freshwater ecosystems, driving organic matter decomposition and energy flow to sustain environmental balance. Wetlands, with their distinct hydrological dynamics and nutrient-rich matrices, serve as critical habitats for these microorganisms. As an internationally designated Ramsar Site, Yunnan Dashanbao Black-Necked Crane National Nature Reserve in China not only sustains endangered black-necked cranes but also harbors a cryptic reservoir of aquatic fungi within its peat marshes and alpine lakes. This study employed high-throughput sequencing to characterize fungal diversity and community structure across 12 understudied wetland sites in the reserve, while analyzing key environmental parameters (dissolved oxygen, pH, total nitrogen, and total phosphorus). A total of 5829 fungal operational taxonomic units (OTUs) spanning 649 genera and 15 phyla were identified, with Tausonia (4.17%) and Cladosporium (1.89%) as dominant genera. Environmental correlations revealed 19 genera significantly linked to abiotic factors. FUNGuild functional profiling highlighted saprotrophs (organic decomposers) and pathogens as predominant trophic guilds. Saprotrophs exhibited strong associations with pH, total nitrogen, and phosphorus, whereas pathogens correlated primarily with pH. These findings unveil the hidden diversity and ecological roles of aquatic fungi in alpine wetlands, emphasizing their sensitivity to environmental gradients. By establishing baseline data on fungal community dynamics, this work advances the understanding of wetland microbial ecology and informs conservation strategies for Ramsar sites. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Environmental and Ecological Interactions of Fungi)
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16 pages, 2162 KiB  
Article
Exploring Protist Communities in the Rhizosphere of Cultivated and Wild Date Palms
by Dana A. Abumaali, Sara H. Al-Hadidi, Talaat Ahmed, Ameni Ben Zineb, Abdul Rashid P. Rasheela, Amer Fayad Al-khis, Sowaid Ali Al-Malki, Mahmoud W. Yaish, Hassan Hassan, Roda Al-Thani and Juha M. Alatalo
Soil Syst. 2025, 9(3), 79; https://doi.org/10.3390/soilsystems9030079 - 15 Jul 2025
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Abstract
Protists represent a major component of eukaryotic diversity within the soil microbiome, playing critical roles in mediating carbon and nitrogen cycling and influencing nutrient availability and soil health. Their diversity is shaped by multiple factors, including temperature, pH, organic matter content, and land [...] Read more.
Protists represent a major component of eukaryotic diversity within the soil microbiome, playing critical roles in mediating carbon and nitrogen cycling and influencing nutrient availability and soil health. Their diversity is shaped by multiple factors, including temperature, pH, organic matter content, and land use. In this study, we investigated the protist diversity in rhizosphere soils from both wild and cultivated date palm varieties. Our results identified nitrate, nitrite, calcium, and carbon content as key soil factors significantly correlated with protist diversity. Only 9.2% (42) of operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were shared across all soil samples, suggesting that these taxa possess traits enabling adaptation to extreme environmental conditions. The dominant protist families belonged to Rhizaria, Alveolata, Amoebozoa, and Archaeplastida, primarily comprising bacterial consumers, alongside taxa from Stramenopiles, Opisthokonta, Hacrobia, and Excavata. At the class level, Filosa-Sarcomonadea, Colpodea, Variosea, Tubulinea, and Chlorophyceae were the most abundant. Filosa-Sarcomonadea and Colpodea were positively correlated with bacterial and fungal genera, suggesting their role as consumers, while Variosea showed a negative correlation with bacteria, reflecting predator-prey dynamics. Notably, the protist community composition in wild date palm rhizosphere soils was distinct from that in cultivated soils, with Opisthokonta being particularly abundant, likely reflecting adaptation to drought conditions. Overall, this study highlights the significant differences in protist diversity and community structure between wild and cultivated date palm ecosystems. Full article
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