Diversity

58 pages, 67772 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Diatom Diversity from Watercourses of North-Eastern Kamchatka with Description of One New Species

by Elena M. Kezlya, Anton M. Glushchenko and Maxim S. Kulikovskiy

Diversity 2024, 16(9), 592; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16090592 - 23 Sep 2024

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A study of diatoms in eight watercourses (four spawning rivers and four streams) in the area of the Ozernovsky Mining and Metallurgical Complex (MMC) on the Kamchatka Peninsula was carried out for the first time. A total of 174 taxa were identified, and [...] Read more.

A study of diatoms in eight watercourses (four spawning rivers and four streams) in the area of the Ozernovsky Mining and Metallurgical Complex (MMC) on the Kamchatka Peninsula was carried out for the first time. A total of 174 taxa were identified, and a comparative analysis of periphyton species diversity at the sampling stations was carried out. A new species for science was proposed: Gomphonema anissimovae Glushchenko, Kezlya & Kulikovskiy sp. nov. The composition and quantitative characteristics of plankton were analysed only in samples collected from rivers. It was shown that all rivers are oligotrophic in terms of phytoplankton biomass. The work includes lists of taxa with indication of their abundance, as well as illustrative material of found diatom taxa, which will provide an opportunity to monitor changes in planktonic and periphyton microalgae communities in the studied watercourses in the context of potentially high anthropogenic load from industry. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Freshwater Biodiversity)

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14 pages, 1497 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Extinct or Not? Confirming the “Extinct” Status of Hieracium tolstoii (Asteraceae) with Integrated Taxonomic Investigation

by Federico Fainelli, Giacomo Baldesi, Mattia Pallanza and Simone Orsenigo

Diversity 2024, 16(9), 591; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16090591 - 20 Sep 2024

Viewed by 831

Abstract

Hieracium is one of the largest flowering plant genera that has recently experienced a rapid evolutionary radiation. Due to the massive morphological variation among species, frequent hybridization, and polyploidization events, combined with apomictic reproduction in polyploids, the concept of species in Hieracium is [...] Read more.

Hieracium is one of the largest flowering plant genera that has recently experienced a rapid evolutionary radiation. Due to the massive morphological variation among species, frequent hybridization, and polyploidization events, combined with apomictic reproduction in polyploids, the concept of species in Hieracium is widely debated, and species identification is incredibly challenging. Taxonomic investigation can lead to changes in conservation status or, in some cases, to de-extinctions of species. Taxa with doubtful classification are particularly sensitive to this kind of problem. Hieracium tolstoii was a narrow Italian endemic species that is nowadays considered extinct. Described as a morphological intermediate form between two other species, no further investigations were conducted after its first description. To clarify H. tolstoii’s origin and ensure the validity of its current conservation status, we conducted a taxonomic investigation on herbaria specimens of the early XX century. Specimens were studied using a morphometric analysis that compared H. tolstoii with other closely related taxa. Moreover, we performed phylogenetic investigations using three plastid intergenic spacers to evaluate the relationship between species. Plastid markers revealed the presence of indels and SNPs in H. tolstoii sequences that differ from sequences of the supposed parental species. Morphometry revealed differences among species that led us to confirm the validity of H. tolstoii as an independent apomictic species and, therefore, unfortunately, its extinction. Full article

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

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22 pages, 2104 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Burrowing Owls Require Mutualist Species and Ample Interior Habitat Space

by K. Shawn Smallwood and Michael L. Morrison

Diversity 2024, 16(9), 590; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16090590 - 19 Sep 2024

Viewed by 742

Abstract

Mitigating habitat loss of western burrowing owls (Athene cunicularia hypugaea) often involves relocation from California ground squirrel (Otospermophilus beecheyi) burrows to offsite nest boxes. Naval Air Station Lemoore (NASL), Kings and Fresno counties, California, initiated this approach to displace [...] Read more.

Mitigating habitat loss of western burrowing owls (Athene cunicularia hypugaea) often involves relocation from California ground squirrel (Otospermophilus beecheyi) burrows to offsite nest boxes. Naval Air Station Lemoore (NASL), Kings and Fresno counties, California, initiated this approach to displace a regionally important population from airfield grasslands. We examined monitoring data of burrowing owls and fossorial mammals at NASL to assess mitigation options. Occupied nests increased by 33 (61%), with 47 nest box installations in 1997–2001, peaked at 87 in 1999, then declined by 50 through 2013. Although ≥13 nest boxes were occupied in 2000, none were occupied in 2003–2013. Within a 43.1 ha isolated grassland monitored for 13 years, nest site reuse in ground squirrel burrows averaged only 17% between any 2 consecutive years. Compared to the average density across grassland study areas, ground squirrel burrow systems/ha numbered 43% higher within 60 m of occupied nests and non-breeding-season burrows. Vegetation clearing to restore kangaroo rat (Dipodomys n. nitratoides) habitat preceded a 7.4-fold increase in ground squirrel burrow systems and a 4-fold increase in occupied nests, but drought-induced extirpation of ground squirrels eliminated occupied nests from the 43.1 ha grassland study area. Ground cover near occupied nests averaged 58% of the mean vegetation height and 67% of the mean percentage of bare ground in the field. Both nest sites and non-breeding-season burrows occurred >60 m interior to field edges 1.4 times more than expected. Non-breeding-season burrows averaged 328 m from same-year nest sites, and only 7% of non-breeding-season burrows were also used as nest sites. Mitigating habitat loss should be made more effective by fostering natural burrow construction by fossorial mammals on patches of short-stature vegetation that is sufficiently expansive to support breeding colonies of ≥12 pairs averaging ≥60 m from the field’s edge and a separation between non-breeding-season burrows and nest burrows minimally equal to mean nearest-neighbor distances among nests. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biodiversity Loss & Dynamics)

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8 pages, 2347 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Diversity of Rotifera in Freshwaters of Bolivia: An Updated Checklist

by Carla E. Fernández, Melina Campero, Francisca Acosta, Pablo E. Prado, Mabel Maldonado, Edgar Goitia, Georgia Stamou, Evangelia Michaloudi and Carlos López

Diversity 2024, 16(9), 589; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16090589 - 18 Sep 2024

Viewed by 639

Abstract

Biodiversity records are of great importance, especially in light of the biodiversity crisis. Here, we present a study on the diversity of rotifers in Bolivia based on an extensive investigation of the literature published so far. Through this approach and an analysis of [...] Read more.

Biodiversity records are of great importance, especially in light of the biodiversity crisis. Here, we present a study on the diversity of rotifers in Bolivia based on an extensive investigation of the literature published so far. Through this approach and an analysis of samples from 207 water bodies of the country, we updated the checklist of reported species. This study revealed a total of 195 species of rotifers previously reported; we identified 153 species in our samples, with 84 of them being reported for the first time in Bolivia. Thus, a total of 279 species are known at present in this country. Our findings suggest that Bolivia has a rich and diverse rotifer community, with many species likely to be unique to the region. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity and Ecology of Zooplankton in Freshwater Subhabitats: Second Edition)

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12 pages, 2507 KiB

Open AccessBrief Report

Genetic Diversity, Kinship, and Polychromatism in the Spotted Eagle Ray Aetobatus ocellatus of Fiji

by Kerstin Glaus and Sharon A. Appleyard

Diversity 2024, 16(9), 588; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16090588 - 18 Sep 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1013

Abstract

The spotted eagle ray Aetobatus ocellatus (Kuhl, 1923) has a widespread Indo-West Pacific distribution and displays substantial population genetic structuring. Genetic data are crucial for understanding the species’ diversity, connectivity, and adaptation. However, molecular genetic information on A. ocellatus from Melanesia is lacking, [...] Read more.

The spotted eagle ray Aetobatus ocellatus (Kuhl, 1923) has a widespread Indo-West Pacific distribution and displays substantial population genetic structuring. Genetic data are crucial for understanding the species’ diversity, connectivity, and adaptation. However, molecular genetic information on A. ocellatus from Melanesia is lacking, which impedes our understanding of gene flow among geographic regions. In this study, we sampled 45 A. ocellatus, primarily from Fiji’s largest fish market in the capital, Suva. Mitochondrial DNA Cytochrome C Oxidase subunit I (COI) barcoding was used for species identification, and DArT-seqTM technology was applied to assess the nuclear genetic diversity. Barcoding of the COI gene showed a 98.6% to 99.8% similarity to A. ocellatus reference sequences in the Barcode of Life Data System, and the 45 individuals were represented by three major evolutionary haplotype clusters. Genotyping resulted in 24,313 Single-Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) which were quality-filtered to 7094 SNPs per individual. The observed heterozygosity level was 0.310. The inbreeding coefficient was positive, and genotyping identified one full-sibling pair and one half-sibling pair from the 45 individuals. Additionally, eagle rays exhibit polychromatic patterns, and at least three ventral pattern variations were recorded in specimens from the market. Collectively, our main findings characterize the genetic profile of A. ocellatus in Fiji and can help to understand the diversification of this species within the region. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genetic Connectivity, Species Diversity and Conservation Biology of Chondrichthyes)

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12 pages, 2718 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effects of Arbuscular Mycorrhiza Trees on the Diversity of Forest Communities Worldwide Are Greater than Those of Ectotrophic Mycorrhiza Trees

by Zihao Li, Wenxin Liu, Xinyu Xue, Rui Qi, Xueying Li, Qian Li, Nuonuo Xu, Fengqin Liu, Yizhen Shao, Yongzhong Ye, Yun Chen, Dongwei Wei and Zhiliang Yuan

Diversity 2024, 16(9), 587; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16090587 - 17 Sep 2024

Viewed by 640

Abstract

The interaction between woody plants and mycorrhizal fungi is an important biological interaction; however, the driving factors behind the diversity of mycorrhizal trees formed through the symbiosis of mycorrhizal fungi and woody plants remain unclear. In this study, we collected and compiled the [...] Read more.

The interaction between woody plants and mycorrhizal fungi is an important biological interaction; however, the driving factors behind the diversity of mycorrhizal trees formed through the symbiosis of mycorrhizal fungi and woody plants remain unclear. In this study, we collected and compiled the woody plant data of 34 forest dynamic plots containing 3350 species from habitats around the world and divided them into AM and EcM trees. We tested the contribution of AM and EcM trees to tree diversity and its components in forest communities worldwide. Our results showed that AM trees rather than EcM trees affect the tree diversity of forest communities, and that the diversity of AM trees has a significant latitudinal gradient pattern. Climate variables, especially temperature, are strongly correlated with the diversity patterns for AM trees rather than EcM trees. Topography is the most significant factor affecting the diversity of EcM trees. Our findings highlight the importance of AM trees for the tree diversity of forest communities worldwide. Our findings have important implications for understanding the response of complex woody plant communities with different types of mycorrhizal symbiosis to climate change. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant-Insect-Microbe Interactions and Diversity)

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22 pages, 10641 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Systematic of a Massively Constructed Specimen of Iguanodon galvensis (Ornithopoda, Iguanodontidae) from the Early Barremian (Early Cretaceous) of Eastern Spain

by Josué García-Cobeña, Francisco J. Verdú and Alberto Cobos

Diversity 2024, 16(9), 586; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16090586 - 17 Sep 2024

Viewed by 3576

Abstract

Styracosternan ornithopods are plenty abundant in the Lower Cretaceous fossil record of Europe. In particular, Iguanodon, the second genus of dinosaurs described worldwide, has been found in UK, Belgium, France, Germany, and Spain, evidencing a wide geographical distribution. Currently, the genus Iguanodon [...] Read more.

Styracosternan ornithopods are plenty abundant in the Lower Cretaceous fossil record of Europe. In particular, Iguanodon, the second genus of dinosaurs described worldwide, has been found in UK, Belgium, France, Germany, and Spain, evidencing a wide geographical distribution. Currently, the genus Iguanodon comprises two species, the type species I. bernissartensis from the late Barremian–Aptian of Europe and I. galvensis from the early Barremian of Teruel, Spain. The latter species is well known mainly from perinate and juvenile specimens. Here, axial and appendicular fossils of an adult, large and massively constructed ornithopod from the lower Barremian (Lower Cretaceous) Camarillas Formation of Galve (province of Teruel, Spain) are described. Fossil dimensions and some osteological evidence reveal that the specimen was a large (roughly 10 m long) ornithopod. An autapomorphic feature in the ischium and other characters allow us to ascribe this specimen to I. galvensis. In addition, postcranial co-ossification and fusion of the neurocentral suture indicate that the specimen was skeletally mature. Part of the material studied here was unknown in adults of I. galvensis, providing a better knowledge of the axial and appendicular region of this species. Full article

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10 pages, 2705 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Vertical Distribution of Culicoides Biting Midges in Temperate Forests

by Rasa Bernotienė, Rimgaudas Treinys and Dovilė Bukauskaitė

Diversity 2024, 16(9), 585; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16090585 - 16 Sep 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 823

Abstract

Culicoides biting midges are small dipterous insects known as biological vectors of arboviruses, protozoa, and filaria parasites worldwide. Many studies on Culicoides focus on trapping them at ground level, without considering the best trap heights for different vector species. This implies that we [...] Read more.

Culicoides biting midges are small dipterous insects known as biological vectors of arboviruses, protozoa, and filaria parasites worldwide. Many studies on Culicoides focus on trapping them at ground level, without considering the best trap heights for different vector species. This implies that we might overlook insects positioned higher in the canopy. From June to August, we used UV traps to catch Culicoides biting midges at three different heights in three temperate mature forest areas in east Lithuania, Baltic region of Europe. We conducted this study to test the differences in midge numbers, male and female proportions, and female parity at each height. We caught the majority of biting midges (80.6%) at the mid-canopy and high-canopy. A higher number of female Culicoides midges than males was caught, with the proportion of males varying based on height and reaching its lowest point at ground level. No significant difference between the proportion of nulliparous and parous females caught at different height was detected. Culicoides pictipennis and C. festivipennis were the most common species of biting midge we found. They were found in the mid-canopy (86.8%) and the high-canopy (50.0%), respectively. Culicoides kibunensis was next, found at ground level (66.2%), and C. punctatus was found at the high canopy strata (63.0%). Each species’ abundance was seasonal dependent. Information on the vertical distribution of vector species in the temperate forest ecosystem is an important step in understanding patterns of vector borne disease transmission in wildlife. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wildlife in Natural and Altered Environments)

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16 pages, 1064 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Invasive Glossy Buckthorn (Frangula alnus) Has Weak Impact on Native Understory Plant and Saprophagous Macroarthropod Communities

by Gabrielle Roberge, Ira Tanya Handa, Tristan Juette and Daniel Kneeshaw

Diversity 2024, 16(9), 584; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16090584 - 14 Sep 2024

Viewed by 2142

Abstract

Glossy buckthorn (Frangula alnus Miller) is an invasive alien plant species (IAPS) rapidly expanding in North America but is largely understudied compared to the common buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica). Our study investigated the effects of a 27-year-old F. alnus invasion on [...] Read more.

Glossy buckthorn (Frangula alnus Miller) is an invasive alien plant species (IAPS) rapidly expanding in North America but is largely understudied compared to the common buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica). Our study investigated the effects of a 27-year-old F. alnus invasion on native understory plant and saprophagous macroarthropod communities in a wet deciduous woodland in Southern Québec, Canada. We hypothesized a decreased taxonomic diversity and a change in community composition of both indicator taxa with increasing F. alnus density. The understory plant and saprophagous macroarthropod communities were characterized, respectively, through vegetation surveys and pitfall trapping across a density gradient of 43 plots invaded by F. alnus. Our results demonstrated that F. alnus did not exert a strong influence on species community composition, although the homogenization of understory plant communities was observed. Despite several decades of F. alnus invasion at our study site, the consequences on the selected indicator taxa were overall relatively small, suggesting that the magnitude of effects is variable. We suggest that further investigation at a larger scale should be performed to evaluate the effect of F. alnus on a broad diversity of indicators and understand any context dependency. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Plant Invasion)

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10 pages, 2397 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Elucidating the Origins of Stranded Loggerhead Sea Turtles (Caretta caretta) in the Eastern Mediterranean through Mitochondrial DNA Mixed-Stock Analysis

by Arzu Kaska, Tugçe Binen, Dogan Sözbilen, Robin Snape, Annette Broderick, Brendan Godley, Damla Beton, Meryem Ozkan, Carlos Carreras and Yakup Kaska

Diversity 2024, 16(9), 583; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16090583 - 14 Sep 2024

Viewed by 908

Abstract

It is widely recognized that the examination of haplotypes among sea turtles inhabiting nesting beaches holds significant importance. Yet, an effective conservation effort of a population also requires an investigation of the origin of sea turtles that strand on the shore, especially as [...] Read more.

It is widely recognized that the examination of haplotypes among sea turtles inhabiting nesting beaches holds significant importance. Yet, an effective conservation effort of a population also requires an investigation of the origin of sea turtles that strand on the shore, especially as many of these result from interactions with fisheries. In consideration of this, we analyzed the haplotypes of 542 stranded individuals from the Eastern Mediterranean and identified a total of 9 different haplotypes. Two of these were new haplotypes, one individual was found in Marmaris, Türkiye, and the other in a stranded species in northern Cyprus. Mixed-stock analysis demonstrated that the majority of the individuals stranded in western Türkiye originated from nesting beaches in the same area (33%), followed by Dalyan, Türkiye (25%), and Cyprus (21%). The partial mixed-stock analysis of individuals stranded in the Dalyan–Dalaman region of Türkiye revealed that most originated from Dalaman (45%) and Dalyan (21%), followed by western Greece (11%). The partial mixed-stock analysis for the Eastern Mediterranean showed that the majority of individuals originated from western Türkiye (69%), followed by Cyprus (11%) and Dalyan (7%). These findings, by quantifying the relative contributions of each region, provide valuable insights for guiding conservation efforts regarding Caretta caretta in the Mediterranean marine environment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biology, Biodiversity and Conservation of Marine Mammals and Sea Turtles)

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26 pages, 3259 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Eucarid and Peracarid Fauna of the Valencia Seamount, a Deep-Isolated Seamount of the Western Mediterranean: Colonisation Capacity and Historical Changes

by Joan E. Cartes

Diversity 2024, 16(9), 582; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16090582 - 13 Sep 2024

Viewed by 478

Abstract

Seamounts can have a strong influence on the distribution and diversity of species, creating an oasis effect that may favour diversification. In order to assess how and to what extent supra- and epibenthic crustaceans can colonise these environments, the eucarid and peracarid fauna [...] Read more.

Seamounts can have a strong influence on the distribution and diversity of species, creating an oasis effect that may favour diversification. In order to assess how and to what extent supra- and epibenthic crustaceans can colonise these environments, the eucarid and peracarid fauna collected from the summit of the Valencia Seamount (VS), a small deep seamount (summit depth: 1056 m), rising from a depth of ca. 1850 m, in the oligotrophic Balearic Basin, was analysed. Based on a first sampling (beam trawls, plankton nets and stomach contents), and a faunal reconstruction from a sediment core (MC2, at 1151 m), the supra(epi)benthic crustaceans at the VS summit (to 1300 m) were composed of nine Eucarida and 25 Peracarida. Polycheles typhlops, Munida tenuimana, and Aristeus antennatus were the dominant species among eucarids. Among Peracarida the most abundant species were the Mysida Boreomysis arctica, the Amphipoda Rhachtropis caeca, and the Isopoda Munnopsurus atlanticus. Among Decapoda, a species with a wide amplitude in their depth distribution and small eggs (i.e., with planktotrophic larvae), showed a higher colonisation capacity. In the absence of larvae, the colonisation of peracarids depends on the amplitude of their depth distribution and only those species that reach the highest depths in the entire Balearic Basin, at least 1600–1800 m, were able to colonise the summit of VS. The natatory capacity of the species also has some influence and whole groups with low natatory capacity, such as the Desmosomatidae, were completely absent on the VS summit; however, they are distributed throughout the Balearic Basin to depths (up to about 1500 m) exceeding the depth of the seamount summit. Therefore, colonisation by peracarids must not have occurred by swimming through the entire water column, but by swimming along or just above the bottom. Remains of some suprabenthic species (mainly the isopod M. atlanticus) in MC2 and another core collected in NW Mallorca (MC3, 1114 m), i.e., out of the VS, showed how isopod diversity and size distribution changed historically. Also, after the 1960s, a decrease in primary production due to a decrease in rainfall and river runoff associated with river damming could have reduced the abundance of M. atlanticus. These types of historical studies can be useful in interpreting long-term changes in deep-sea communities and optimising the management of these vulnerable areas. Full article

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10 pages, 1826 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Initial Genetic Assessment of the Emblematic Pumas of the Torres del Paine UNESCO Biosphere Reserve

by L. Mark Elbroch, Byron V. Weckworth, Kristine Pilgrim, Omar Ohrens, Nicolás Lagos, Stephanny Arroyo-Arce, Mauricio Montt, Dania Goic and Michael K. Schwartz

Diversity 2024, 16(9), 581; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16090581 - 13 Sep 2024

Viewed by 991

Abstract

Physical and genetic isolation are recognized as significant threats to wildlife, especially in large carnivores inhabiting fragmented landscapes. We conducted an initial genetic assessment of pumas (Puma concolor) using 19 microsatellite loci for the emblematic puma population in the Torres del [...] Read more.

Physical and genetic isolation are recognized as significant threats to wildlife, especially in large carnivores inhabiting fragmented landscapes. We conducted an initial genetic assessment of pumas (Puma concolor) using 19 microsatellite loci for the emblematic puma population in the Torres del Paine UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in southernmost Chile, which exhibits some distinctive phenology that some local people speculate may be due to isolation and inbreeding depression. We extracted DNA from 385 scats collected in the field, of which 96 were identified as puma, representing 20 unique individuals. Torres del Paine pumas exhibited an H_o (0.51) only slightly lower than H_e (0.53), with 2 of the 19 loci significantly out of Hardy–Weinberg Equilibrium. Tests for a recent bottleneck of the population were not significant. The small sample size of individuals notwithstanding, these results seemingly do not support high levels of inbreeding. We also identified individual pumas in the field and assessed them for observable cowlicks (twirls of fur on their backs), a trait some have associated with genetic inbreeding depression in other puma populations. A total of 7 of 39 pumas exhibited cowlicks, consistent with geographic patterns of cowlicks within the species. Our tests exploring population structure among local pumas provided the most support for a single-population cluster, but we explored secondary structures as well, given its conservation implications. We encourage additional sampling in the region to further explore population structure and connectivity and determine the conservation status of the region’s pumas to guide the development of best strategies to ensure their persistence. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Diversity)

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26 pages, 10142 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dispersal Ecology of Golden Eagles (Aquila chrysaetos) in Northern Greece: Onset, Ranging, Temporary and Territorial Settlement

by Lavrentis Sidiropoulos, D. Philip Whitfield, Konstantinos Poirazidis, Elisabeth Navarrete, Dimitris P. Vasilakis, Anastasios Bounas, Elzbieta Kret and Vassiliki Kati

Diversity 2024, 16(9), 580; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16090580 - 13 Sep 2024

Viewed by 2234

Abstract

Natal dispersal is a crucial period for raptors with serious implications for individuals’ survival and population demography. In this study we analyzed data from 18 GPS-tracked golden eagles in order to describe their dispersal ecology in northern Greece, where the species feeds mostly [...] Read more.

Natal dispersal is a crucial period for raptors with serious implications for individuals’ survival and population demography. In this study we analyzed data from 18 GPS-tracked golden eagles in order to describe their dispersal ecology in northern Greece, where the species feeds mostly on tortoises. Young eagles in our population dispersed at 176 days post fledging, spent their first year of independence relatively close (40–60 kms) to their natal ranges and exhibited a variable temporary settlement behavior. Overall dispersal range sizes did not differ seasonally, but temporary settlement area range sizes were significantly larger in winter. Three eagles survived to territorial settlement and occupied ranges 20–60 kms from their natal areas. The application and refinement of the Scottish GET dispersal ranging model suggested that eagles used areas that had higher topographical relief and lower canopy cover during their natal dispersal. Habitat heterogeneity seems to also be influential during temporary settlement. Our study is the first to provide both such insights for golden eagles in southern eastern Europe and a method for delineating temporary settlement areas for the species. Our findings can be explained in terms of food and habitat availability. We highlight the importance of conserving heterogeneous open areas of complex topography and applying proactive management measures within temporary settlement areas for our population’s conservation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Conservation and Ecology of Raptors—2nd Edition)

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21 pages, 2399 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Contribution to the Study of the Flora and Vegetation of Mnemba Island, Zanzibar

by Alan Barrett, Lorraine Raby Bronkhorst and Leslie Brown

Diversity 2024, 16(9), 579; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16090579 - 13 Sep 2024

Viewed by 1618

Abstract

Swahili coastal forests, spanning the Kenyan and Tanzanian coastlines and the Zanzibar Archipelago, are integral to the biodiverse Eastern Arc and Coastal Forest region. These forest ecosystems face considerable anthropogenic threats. This study contributes to the available knowledge on the floral composition and [...] Read more.

Swahili coastal forests, spanning the Kenyan and Tanzanian coastlines and the Zanzibar Archipelago, are integral to the biodiverse Eastern Arc and Coastal Forest region. These forest ecosystems face considerable anthropogenic threats. This study contributes to the available knowledge on the floral composition and plant community assemblages of Mnemba Island, a small sandy cay in the Zanzibar Archipelago, which helps to establish baseline data for conservation purposes. Two main coastal forest plant communities were identified: (1) the Casuarina cunninghamiana–Suriana maritima open to closed sandy dry coastal forest, and (2) the Eugenia capensis–Mimusops obtusifolia coastal forest. A total of 91 different plant species belonging to 54 plant families were identified for the island. Community 2, an indigenous forest, supports diverse bird breeding colonies and is a crucial habitat for the threatened Aders’ duiker. Understory development is limited due to the historical Suni antelope overpopulation. Environmental factors like salt spray, allelochemicals, herbivore browsing, and climate fluctuations influence the vegetation abundance and composition. The study underscores differences in species diversity and composition between the planted Casuarina community and the natural atoll vegetation. The natural vegetation shows affinities with the Zanzibar–Inhambane edaphic coral-rag scrub forest and the transitional rainforest. Several species characteristic of Indian Ocean atolls were identified, providing insights into invasion ecology and conservation strategies. The study contributes conceptually to our understanding of vegetation dynamics in island ecosystems by highlighting the interplay between plant communities, environmental processes, and human activities. The fragile yet resilient nature of Mnemba’s unique ecosystem is emphasised, offering insights for conservation management, long-term monitoring, and adaptive approaches tailored to island environments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Diversity on Islands)

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17 pages, 17092 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Detection and Assessment of White Flowering Nectar Source Trees and Location of Bee Colonies in Rural and Suburban Environments Using Deep Learning

by Atanas Z. Atanasov, Boris I. Evstatiev, Asparuh I. Atanasov and Ivaylo S. Hristakov

Diversity 2024, 16(9), 578; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16090578 - 13 Sep 2024

Viewed by 574

Abstract

Environmental pollution with pesticides as a result of intensive agriculture harms the development of bee colonies. Bees are one of the most important pollinating insects on our planet. One of the ways to protect them is to relocate and build apiaries in populated [...] Read more.

Environmental pollution with pesticides as a result of intensive agriculture harms the development of bee colonies. Bees are one of the most important pollinating insects on our planet. One of the ways to protect them is to relocate and build apiaries in populated areas. An important condition for the development of bee colonies is the rich species diversity of flowering plants and the size of the areas occupied by them. In this study, a methodology for detecting and distinguishing white flowering nectar source trees and counting bee colonies is developed and demonstrated, applicable in populated environments. It is based on UAV-obtained RGB imagery and two convolutional neural networks—a pixel-based one for identification of flowering areas and an object-based one for beehive identification, which achieved accuracies of 93.4% and 95.2%, respectively. Based on an experimental study near the village of Yuper (Bulgaria), the productive potential of black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia) areas in rural and suburban environments was determined. The obtained results showed that the identified blooming area corresponds to 3.654 m², out of 89.725 m² that were scanned with the drone, and the number of identified beehives was 149. The proposed methodology will facilitate beekeepers in choosing places for the placement of new apiaries and planning activities of an organizational nature. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ecology and Diversity of Bees in Urban Environments)

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8 pages, 866 KiB

Open AccessBrief Report

Presence and Absence of Beehives as a Management Tool for Reducing Elephant-Induced Tree Mortality

by Robin M. Cook and Michelle D. Henley

Diversity 2024, 16(9), 577; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16090577 - 13 Sep 2024

Viewed by 1054

Abstract

Beehives have previously been used to protect large trees from elephant impact in sub-arid savannas, thus improving the persistence of large trees as habitats for other species. This brief report aimed to investigate the effectiveness of the presence and absence of beehives as [...] Read more.

Beehives have previously been used to protect large trees from elephant impact in sub-arid savannas, thus improving the persistence of large trees as habitats for other species. This brief report aimed to investigate the effectiveness of the presence and absence of beehives as a management tool for reducing elephant-induced tree mortality. The study was conducted in three phases: Phase 1 (2015–2020) involved actively maintaining beehives on marula trees (Sclerocarya birrea subsp. caffra), Phase 2 (2020–2022) the systematic reduction in the number of active beehives, and Phase 3 (2022–2024) the removal of all beehives. The persistence rates of the trees with beehives were compared to those without beehives. We found that beehives significantly improved the persistence of the trees in the presence of elephants. During Phase 1, only 10% of the trees with beehives died compared to 34% of the trees with no beehives. In Phase 2, with a reduced number of active beehives, the mortality rates increased slightly for both trees with beehives and those without. However, in Phase 3, after the removal of all the beehives, the mortality rates significantly increased for all the trees monitored as part of the study. We also found that the mortality rate of the original trees with no beehives increased when beehives were removed from the study site, whilst the mortality rate of the original beehive trees without beehives in Phase 3 (8.7%) surpassed that of the 8.1% prior to the hanging of beehives. These findings highlight the effectiveness of beehives as a tree protection method against elephant impact and how beehives can improve the persistence of tree populations co-occurring with elephants. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biodiversity Conservation)

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27 pages, 9128 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Revalidation of the Arboreal Asian Snake Genera Gonyophis Boulenger, 1891; Rhynchophis Mocquard, 1897; and Rhadinophis Vogt, 1922, with Description of a New Genus and Tribe (Squamata: Serpentes: Colubridae)

by Van Wallach, Rune Midtgaard and Emma Hsiao

Diversity 2024, 16(9), 576; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16090576 - 13 Sep 2024

Viewed by 1792

Abstract

Based on the latest molecular phylogenies of Gonyosoma sensu lato, which recovered five clades with robust support, we utilize morphological characters to demonstrate the distinctiveness of each clade, resulting in the resurrection of three genera (Gonyophis Boulenger, 1891; Rhynchophis Mocquard, 1897; and [...] Read more.

Based on the latest molecular phylogenies of Gonyosoma sensu lato, which recovered five clades with robust support, we utilize morphological characters to demonstrate the distinctiveness of each clade, resulting in the resurrection of three genera (Gonyophis Boulenger, 1891; Rhynchophis Mocquard, 1897; and Rhadinophis Vogt, 1922) and a proposal of a new genus and a new tribe. A synopsis of the group, with descriptions and diagnoses, is provided for the five genera and eight species in addition to distribution maps and illustrations of the head of each taxon. An artificial key to the species and genera in the new tribe is presented in addition to the estimated origin times for each clade. Full article

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

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16 pages, 13159 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Could Some Lost Fishing Gears Be Suitable Substrata for Benthic Invertebrates? The Case of Some Colonizer Sponge Assemblages in the Western Mediterranean Sea

by Gabriele Costa, Renata Manconi, Gabriele Sanna, Nicola Arrostuto, Nicola Fois, Claudio Sechi, Paolo Tomassetti and Serena Lomiri

Diversity 2024, 16(9), 575; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16090575 - 13 Sep 2024

Viewed by 666

Abstract

This study presents novel information on sponge (Porifera) colonization of artificial substrates in the framework of the LIFE EU Strong Sea Life Project, focusing on the northwestern Sardinian Sea (Western Mediterranean Sea). Five abandoned, lost, or discarded fishing gears (ALDFGs) of the local [...] Read more.

This study presents novel information on sponge (Porifera) colonization of artificial substrates in the framework of the LIFE EU Strong Sea Life Project, focusing on the northwestern Sardinian Sea (Western Mediterranean Sea). Five abandoned, lost, or discarded fishing gears (ALDFGs) of the local artisanal fishery from circum-seas of the Asinara Island Marine Protected Area (MPA) were focused. The composition, taxonomic richness, relative abundance, and lifestyle of sponge assemblages are reported. Taxonomic richness is notably high with 2 classes and 13 orders comprising 26 families, 36 genera, and 47 species of Porifera displaying miniaturized body size and dominant encrusting to massive/erect growth forms. New records at species level are reported for the MPA, the Sardinian Sea, and the Western Mediterranean Sea. The successful colonization of the recovered ghost fishing gears by sponges highlights that adaptive strategies of these basal metazoans support their ability to settle and persist on synthetic materials. This dataset contributes to the inventory of (i) recovered ALDFGs in MPAs, (ii) exogenous substrata as suitable substrata for sponge settlement, and (iii) species richness of an MPA and (iv) promotes the biodiversity assessment of the plastisphere in a global context of ocean pollution. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Patterns Of Marine Benthic Biodiversity)

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18 pages, 1033 KiB

Open AccessOpinion

Mangrove-Based Carbon Market Projects: 15 Considerations for Engaging and Supporting Local Communities

by Daria Agnieszka Karpowicz, Midhun Mohan, Michael S. Watt, Jorge F. Montenegro, Shalini A. L. King, Pandi P. Selvam, Manickam Nithyanandan, Barakalla Robyn, Tarig Ali, Meshal M. Abdullah, Willie Doaemo and Ewane Basil Ewane

Diversity 2024, 16(9), 574; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16090574 - 12 Sep 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2160

Abstract

Mangroves provide numerous ecological, social, and economic benefits that include carbon sequestration, habitat for biodiversity, food, recreation and leisure, income, and coastal resilience. In this regard, mangrove-based carbon market projects (MbCMP), involving mangrove conservation, protection, and restoration, are a nature-based solution (NbS) for [...] Read more.

Mangroves provide numerous ecological, social, and economic benefits that include carbon sequestration, habitat for biodiversity, food, recreation and leisure, income, and coastal resilience. In this regard, mangrove-based carbon market projects (MbCMP), involving mangrove conservation, protection, and restoration, are a nature-based solution (NbS) for climate change mitigation. Despite the proliferation of blue carbon projects, a highly publicized need for local community participation by developers, and existing project implementation standards, local communities are usually left out for several reasons, such as a lack of capacity to engage in business-to-business (B2B) market agreements and communication gaps. Local communities need to be engaged and supported at all stages of the MbCMP development process to enable them to protect their ecological, economic, and social interests as custodians of such a critical ecosystem. In this paper, we provided 15 strategic considerations and recommendations to engage and secure the interests of local communities in the growing mangrove carbon market trade. The 15 considerations are grouped into four recommendation categories: (i) project development and community engagement, (ii) capacity building and educational activities, (iii) transparency in resource allocation and distribution, and (iv) partnerships with local entities and long-term monitoring. We expect our study to increase local participation and community-level ecological, social, and economic benefits from MbCMP by incorporating equitable benefit-sharing mechanisms in a B2B conservation-agreement model. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity and Conservation of Mangroves)

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13 pages, 1386 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Life on the Wire—Plant Growth on Power Lines in the Americas

by Gerhard Zotz and Alfredo Cascante-Marín

Diversity 2024, 16(9), 573; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16090573 - 12 Sep 2024

Viewed by 560

Abstract

There are a number of rather anecdotal reports of plant growth on power cables in the Americas, but until now there has been no systematic attempt to gauge the geographical extension of this phenomenon nor a documentation of the diversity of species found [...] Read more.

There are a number of rather anecdotal reports of plant growth on power cables in the Americas, but until now there has been no systematic attempt to gauge the geographical extension of this phenomenon nor a documentation of the diversity of species found there. Using observations from the participatory science data platform iNaturalist and the scientific literature, we document almost 700 occurrences of more than 40 species of vascular plants and three lichen species on power cables with a geographical distribution over 7000 km from the southern United States to northern Argentina. Based on these observations we discuss the ecological conditions of plant growth on power cables in terms of climate; elevational distribution; and the morphological, physiological, and life history traits that allow the observed set of species to thrive on this anthropic structure. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2024 Feature Papers by Diversity’s Editorial Board Members)

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31 pages, 5470 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impacts of El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) Events on Trophodynamic Structure and Function in Taiwan Bank Marine Ecosystem

by Po-Yuan Hsiao, Kuo-Wei Lan, Wen-Hao Lee, Ting-Yu Liang, Cheng-Hsin Liao and Nan-Jay Su

Diversity 2024, 16(9), 572; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16090572 - 12 Sep 2024

Viewed by 1666

Abstract

Taiwan Bank (TB) is located in the southern Taiwan Strait (TS). The uplifted continental slope and bottom currents in this area result in the formation of upwelling areas, which serve as crucial fishing grounds. Climate-induced fluctuations in fish populations occur in the TS. [...] Read more.

Taiwan Bank (TB) is located in the southern Taiwan Strait (TS). The uplifted continental slope and bottom currents in this area result in the formation of upwelling areas, which serve as crucial fishing grounds. Climate-induced fluctuations in fish populations occur in the TS. However, how predation and competition affect the interspecies relationships in the TB ecosystem warrants clarification. In this study, we collected high-grid-resolution data on fishery activity (2013–2019) and constructed ecosystem models using Ecopath with Ecosim (EwE). Three mass-balanced models for determining the influence of El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) events on the TB ecosystem were constructed using EwE. A range of groups, including representative pelagic, benthic, and reef species, were collected for analyzing the relationship between migratory and sedentary species in terms of ecosystem structure variation due to climate change. The results demonstrated that the total system throughput (TST) was 10,556–11,122 t km⁻² year⁻¹, with an average transfer efficiency of 12.26%. According to the keystoneness index, calculated through mixed trophic impact analysis, Polydactylus sextarius and Scomber japonicus were the key species with top–down control and relatively high impact on the ecosystem in normal years. The keystone species also shifted to the predator fish Thunnus albacares and Katsuwonus pelamis during El Niño and La Niña events, respectively. Moreover, total biomass, TST, consumption, and respiration were noted to increase during ENSO events. However, during La Niña events, the diversity and connectance indexes were relatively low but pelagic species’ biomass was relatively high, whereas the biomass of most benthic and reef species was relatively high during El Niño events. Full article

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11 pages, 5841 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Variations in Soil Seed Banks in Sedge Peatlands across an Altitude Gradient

by Qi Chen, Guodong Wang, Ming Wang, Meiling Zhao, Yusong Yuan, Jingci Meng, Yantong Zhao, Nanlin Hu, Tao Zhang and Bo Liu

Diversity 2024, 16(9), 571; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16090571 - 12 Sep 2024

Viewed by 453

Abstract

As a key component of the ecosystem, soil seed banks (SSBs) play a vital role in the evolution and renewal of plant communities. Although the pattern and mechanisms of influence of SSBs along the altitudinal gradient have been reported, most studies have focused [...] Read more.

As a key component of the ecosystem, soil seed banks (SSBs) play a vital role in the evolution and renewal of plant communities. Although the pattern and mechanisms of influence of SSBs along the altitudinal gradient have been reported, most studies have focused on forest, grassland and alpine meadow ecosystems. The pattern and factors of SSBs across the altitudinal gradient in sedge peatlands remain largely unknown. Through vegetation surveys and seed germination experiments, we studied the changes in aboveground vegetation and SSBs in sedge peatlands at altitudes ranging from 300 m to 1300 m in the Changbai Mountains, China, and discussed the direct and indirect effects of climatic factors, soil properties and aboveground vegetation on SSBs. The results showed that the richness and density of the SSBs of sedge peatlands decreased with the altitude. Similarly, aboveground vegetation richness and density declined with altitude. A Spearman correlation analysis showed that SSB richness and density were mainly correlated with mean annual temperature, soil total phosphorus and ammonia nitrogen and the plant composition and richness of aboveground vegetation. A structural equation model analysis showed that climatic factors and aboveground vegetation directly affected seed bank richness, while soil properties indirectly affected it by directly affecting aboveground vegetation. Climatic factors, soil properties and aboveground vegetation directly affected SSB density, and soil properties indirectly affected it by directly affecting aboveground vegetation. This finding enhances our understanding of the altitude patterns of the SSBs in sedge peatlands and the response to future climate and environmental changes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Diversity)

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23 pages, 15222 KiB

Open AccessPerspective

Changing Asian Mountain Steppes Require Better Conservation for Endangered Argali Sheep

by Terry V. Callaghan, Irina I. Volkova, Igor V. Volkov, Alexey O. Kuzhlekov, Denis I. Gulyaev and Olga M. Shaduyko

Diversity 2024, 16(9), 570; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16090570 - 12 Sep 2024

Viewed by 686

Abstract

We present a rare insight into the biodiversity of a remote, mountainous area of central Asia and outline challenges to conserve the critically endangered keystone argali (Ovis ammon ammon L.), the largest subspecies of mountain sheep. Existing conservation is set in the context [...] Read more.

We present a rare insight into the biodiversity of a remote, mountainous area of central Asia and outline challenges to conserve the critically endangered keystone argali (Ovis ammon ammon L.), the largest subspecies of mountain sheep. Existing conservation is set in the context of competition with livestock grazing and disturbance by local pastoralists. We suggest how this pressure would increase as pastures become degraded by a future more arid climate. Focusing on the transboundary population, migrating between the Russian and Mongolian Altai over the Sailugem Ridge, we track historical population numbers. Due to increased protection, the argali’s local population is currently growing. However, most argali populations live outside the protected areas where they are forced to compete for forage with livestock. Due to ever-increasing anthropogenic pressures, argali has almost reached the region’s environmental capacity, so the number of local populations is decreasing. Consequently, even the current situation requires more areas of protection, and climate change will accelerate pasture degradation, thereby further increasing competition with livestock. We present various ways to predict the impacts of changes in climate, e.g., the “7 M’s approach” and grazing pressure and then recommend additional conservation measures acceptable for the indigenous population of traditional pastoralists. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Restoring and Conserving Biodiversity: A Global Perspective)

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18 pages, 1028 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Structure of Reef Fish Families (Butterflyfishes and Angelfishes) at Isolated Oceanic Reefs in the Indian Ocean: Christmas Island and the Cocos (Keeling) Islands

by Jean-Paul A. Hobbs and Maya Srinivasan

Diversity 2024, 16(9), 569; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16090569 - 12 Sep 2024

Viewed by 712

Abstract

There has been substantial research on the factors that structure reef fish assemblages, but this has mostly focused on nearshore or continental reefs. This study examines patterns of abundance and species composition for two iconic groups of coral reef fishes, angelfishes (family Pomacanthidae) [...] Read more.

There has been substantial research on the factors that structure reef fish assemblages, but this has mostly focused on nearshore or continental reefs. This study examines patterns of abundance and species composition for two iconic groups of coral reef fishes, angelfishes (family Pomacanthidae) and butterflyfishes (family Chaetodontidae) at two isolated, oceanic reefs in the Indian Ocean: Christmas Island and the Cocos (Keeling) Islands. Six explanatory variables were investigated to determine whether large-scale physical factors are more important than fine-scale biotic factors in structuring reef fish communities on oceanic islands. For angelfishes, depth was the factor that most explained patterns in abundance (explaining 46.5% of the variation), species richness (44.8%) and composition (15.3%), with both abundance and species richness being greater at 20 m than at 5 m. Differences in species composition were greater between depths than between islands. For butterflyfishes, variation in abundance and species richness was best explained by the difference in aspect or exposure among sites, though abundance and composition also differed significantly between Christmas Island and the Cocos (Keeling) Islands. Large-scale variation in the structure of these reef fish assemblages could not be explained based on differences in habitat diversity, or coral and algal cover. This study indicates that large-scale physical factors (island location, exposure, depth) are more important than fine-scale biotic factors in structuring reef fish assemblages on oceanic islands. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2024)

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37 pages, 18007 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Problematic Genus Liodesmus Wagner and a New Genus of Caturoidea (Halecomorphi, Neopterygii) from the Upper Jurassic Solnhofen-Archipelago

by Martin Ebert and Adriana López-Arbarello

Diversity 2024, 16(9), 568; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16090568 - 12 Sep 2024

Viewed by 4388

Abstract

Our revision of the type material of Liodesmus led to significant adjustments in our understanding of the taxon when the original type specimen of Pholidophorus gracilis, which was later determined as the type species of the genus Liodesmus, was recently found in [...] Read more.

Our revision of the type material of Liodesmus led to significant adjustments in our understanding of the taxon when the original type specimen of Pholidophorus gracilis, which was later determined as the type species of the genus Liodesmus, was recently found in the collection in Berlin. It had been confused with a specimen that was described as the type specimen of the species Liodesmus gracilis in the collection in Munich. Moreover, the Munich specimen was mistakenly considered by all authors who have studied Liodesmus as a type specimen for the genus Liodesmus. However, the original holotype of Pholidophorus gracilis and this Munich specimen of Liodesmus gracilis belong to two different families. Caturus brevicostatus, whose holotype was recently found in Berlin as well, is described in detail here for the first time. Liodesmus sprattiformis is now described under the new genus Nasrinsotoudehichthys outside Caturidae but within the Caturoidea. Since all specimens that have been described so far under Liodesmus either belong to other, previously described genera, belong to new genera clearly outside the description of the genus Liodesmus, or are nomina dubia (including the type species Pholidophorus gracilis), the genus Liodesmus and the Liodesmidae are nomina dubia as well. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity, Biogeography and Evolution of Actinopterygians)

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18 pages, 1001 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Factors Affecting the Adoption of Anti-Predation Measures by Livestock Farmers: The Case of Northern Chile

by Camila Núñez, Lisandro Roco and Victor Moreira

Diversity 2024, 16(9), 567; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16090567 - 11 Sep 2024

Viewed by 1160

Abstract

Livestock farming has been a practice of great importance for the evolution of civilization, not only influencing social, economic, and cultural aspects at a global level, but also food, the economy, and sustainability, especially in developing countries, where it generates significant pressure on [...] Read more.

Livestock farming has been a practice of great importance for the evolution of civilization, not only influencing social, economic, and cultural aspects at a global level, but also food, the economy, and sustainability, especially in developing countries, where it generates significant pressure on natural resources and biodiversity. In this context, conflict arises between wildlife, mainly top predators, and livestock farmers. Despite the efforts of different communities to implement measures against predation, the conflict continues to increase. In Latin America, the livestock sector is growing at a much higher rate than in the rest of the world, particularly in Chile, where around a third of agricultural production units use livestock as their main source of livelihood. To understand the factors influencing the behavior of goat farmers when adopting measures, we applied a hurdle model with social, spatial, economic, and productive information to assess the decision to adopt measures and the intensity of the adoption of such practices. To perform this, we used data from a survey, administered in 2014 to 476 farmers located in the three provinces of the Coquimbo Region. Our dependent variable was defined by six measures: a protection dog, night confinement of the herd, supervised grazing, anti-carnivore corral, the death or capture of the predator, and repelling the predator. The adoption decision, as well as the intensity of adoption, were influenced by the location, household size, the type of livestock, the income generated by the livestock, health management, and access to technical advice. The decision to adopt measures was influenced by the production system and whether it was self-sustaining, while the intensity of adoption was influenced by herd size and the number of losses due to predation. The results showed the importance of developing and adjusting livestock support initiatives in the study area, including those that could be created, based on differentiated measures according to the profiles of farmers in the territory. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Human-Wildlife Conflicts)

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19 pages, 5701 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Molecular and Morphological Evidence for the Description of Three Novel Velvet Worm Species (Onychophora: Peripatopsidae: Peripatopsis sedgwicki s.s.) from South Africa

by Aaron Barnes and Savel R. Daniels

Diversity 2024, 16(9), 566; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16090566 - 11 Sep 2024

Viewed by 590

Abstract

During the present study, DNA sequence and morphological data were used to delineate species boundaries in the velvet worm, Peripatopsis sedgwicki species complex. The combined mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit one (COI) and the nuclear 18S rRNA loci were phylogenetically analyzed [...] Read more.

During the present study, DNA sequence and morphological data were used to delineate species boundaries in the velvet worm, Peripatopsis sedgwicki species complex. The combined mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit one (COI) and the nuclear 18S rRNA loci were phylogenetically analyzed using Bayesian inference and maximum likelihood platforms that both demonstrated the presence of four, statistically well-supported clades (A–D). In addition, five species delimitation methods (ASAP, bPTP, bGMYC, STACEY and iBPP) were used on the combined DNA sequence data to identify possible novel lineages. All five species delimitation methods supported the distinction of the Fort Fordyce Nature Reserve specimens in the Eastern Cape province, however, in the main P. sedgwicki s.l. species complex, the species delimitation methods revealed a variable number of novel operational taxonomic units. Gross morphological characters were of limited utility, with only the leg pair number in the Fort Fordyce Nature Reserve specimens and the white head-collar of the Van Stadens Wildflower Nature Reserve specimens being diagnostic. The RADseq results from the earlier study of P. sedgwicki s.l. provided highly congruent results with the four clades observed in the present study. The distribution of P. sedgwicki s.s. (clade B) is restricted to the western portions of its distribution in the Afrotemperate forested regions of the Western Cape Province, South Africa. Three novel species, P. collarium sp. nov., (clade C) P. margaritarius sp. nov., (clade A) and P. orientalis sp. nov., (clade D) are described, of which the first two species are narrow range endemics. The present study, along with several recent systematic studies of velvet worms affirms the importance of fine-scale sampling to detect and document the alpha taxonomic diversity of Onychophora. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Diversity)

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15 pages, 2308 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evolutionary Insights from Dental Diversity in Afro-Asian Primates

by Hao Pan, He Zhang, Dionisios Youlatos, Jing Wang, Gang He, Songtao Guo, Kang Huang, Rong Hou, Ruliang Pan, Gu Fang, Yuli Li, Pei Zhang and Baoguo Li

Diversity 2024, 16(9), 565; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16090565 - 11 Sep 2024

Viewed by 1649

Abstract

The evolutionary development and phylogenetic division between Asian and African cercopithecoids (Cercopithecidae) have attracted significant attention in genetics, molecular biology, behavior, and morphology. However, less emphasis has been placed on how they have evolved morphologically after divergence, approximately 10 million years ago (mya) [...] Read more.

The evolutionary development and phylogenetic division between Asian and African cercopithecoids (Cercopithecidae) have attracted significant attention in genetics, molecular biology, behavior, and morphology. However, less emphasis has been placed on how they have evolved morphologically after divergence, approximately 10 million years ago (mya) for Colobinae and 5–7 mya for Cercopithecinae, corresponding to the significant variation and diversity in landscape, climate, habitat, and ecologies between the two continents. This study examines whether such variation and diversity have been reflected in dental morphology. Our findings reveal substantial differences between Hylobatidae and Cercopithecidae, as well as between Colobinae and Cercopithecinae, indicating that size-adjusted dental variation mainly reveals the diversity associated with evolution and phylogenetic inertia. Interestingly, despite the earlier divergence of Afro-Asian colobines, their Euclidean Distance is comparable to that of Afro-Asian cercopithecines. This implies that latecomers (macaques) demonstrate equivalent diversity to colobines due to their extensive dispersion and broader adaptative radiation on the same continent. Colobinae exhibit more developed premolar and molar regions. However, when post-canine teeth are considered alone, Colobinae present a significantly larger molar size than Asian Cercopithecinae but not with the African Cercopihecinae. This contradicts the hypothesis that folivorous primates (Colobinae) have larger post-canine molars than frugivorous ones (Cercopithecinae). The considerable molar size in African Cercopithecinae must be associated with their more protrusive and larger facial structure rather than a specific dietary preference, being less diverse than their Asian counterparts—a trait that has evolved phylogenetically. This study also paves the way for further exploration of facial and cranial differences between the continental groups of Cercopithecinae and Colobinae, delving deeply into diversity variation due to geographical and climatic adaptations. Full article

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13 pages, 5475 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Taxonomic Exploration of Rare Amphipods: A New Genus and Two New Species (Amphipoda, Iphimedioidea, Laphystiopsidae) Described from Seamounts in the Western Pacific

by Yanrong Wang, Zhongli Sha and Xianqiu Ren

Diversity 2024, 16(9), 564; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16090564 - 10 Sep 2024

Viewed by 494

Abstract

During two expeditions to the seamounts in the Yap-Caroline area of the Western Pacific, a new genus, Phoxirostus gen. nov., in the family Laphystiopsidae Stebbing, 1899, is erected for two new species, P. longicarpus sp. nov. (type species) and P. yapensis sp. nov. [...] Read more.

During two expeditions to the seamounts in the Yap-Caroline area of the Western Pacific, a new genus, Phoxirostus gen. nov., in the family Laphystiopsidae Stebbing, 1899, is erected for two new species, P. longicarpus sp. nov. (type species) and P. yapensis sp. nov. The new genus can be distinguished from the other three laphystiopsid genera by the acute rostrum not overreaching the distal end of the first peduncular article of antenna 1, the outer plate of maxilla 1 bearing 10–11 spines, and the elongated carpus of pereopods 3–7 being distinctly longer than half the length of the propodus. Phoxirostus longicarpus sp. nov. differs from P. yapensis sp. nov. by the shape of the eyes and coxa 4, the presence of posterodistal protrusions on pleonite 1, and the number of posterodistal protrusions on pleonite 2. Generic analysis of one mitochondrial (COI) and one nuclear (H3) gene using maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference clarified the phylogenetic position of the Laphystiopsidae within the superfamily Iphimedioidea Boeck, 1871. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity and Evolution within the Amphipoda)

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15 pages, 7232 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Current and Future Distribution of the Cataglyphis nodus (Brullé, 1833) in the Middle East and North Africa

by Remya Kottarathu Kalarikkal, Hotaek Park, Christos Georgiadis, Benoit Guénard, Evan P. Economo and Youngwook Kim

Diversity 2024, 16(9), 563; https://doi.org/10.3390/d16090563 - 9 Sep 2024

Viewed by 787

Abstract

Climate change is a major threat to the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, which can cause significant harm to its plant and animal species. We predicted the habitat distribution of Cataglyphis nodus (Brullé, 1833) in MENA using MaxEnt models under current [...] Read more.

Climate change is a major threat to the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, which can cause significant harm to its plant and animal species. We predicted the habitat distribution of Cataglyphis nodus (Brullé, 1833) in MENA using MaxEnt models under current and future climate conditions. Our analysis indicates that the cooler regions of the MENA are projected to experience temperature increases of 1–2 °C by 2040 and 2–4 °C by the 2070s. Similarly, the warmer regions may anticipate rises of 0.5–2 °C by 2040 and 2–4 °C by the 2070s. MaxEnt model results for the current climate show good agreement with observations (mean area under the curve value of 0.975 and mean true statistical skill value of 0.8), indicating good potential habitat suitability for C. nodus. Significant factors affecting habitat suitability are elevation, mean monthly precipitation of the coldest quarter, temperature seasonality, and precipitation amount of the driest month. The research predicts that under Shared Socioeconomic Pathway (SSP) 1.2.6, the habitat suitability area may increase by 6% in 2040, while SSP 3.7.0 (0.3%) and SSP 5.8.5 (2.6%) predict a decrease. For 2070, SSP 5.8.5 predicts a 2.2% reduction in habitat suitability, while SSP 1.2.6 (0.4%) and SSP 3.7.0 (1.3%) predict slight increases. The results provide insight into the potential impacts of climate change on the species and regional biodiversity changes associated with the projected species distribution. Full article

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Diversity, Volume 16, Issue 9 (September 2024) – 82 articles

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