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Diversity, Volume 17, Issue 1 (January 2025) – 75 articles

Cover Story (view full-size image): Diversity is a peer-reviewed, open access journal on the science of biodiversity from molecules, genes, populations, and species, to ecosystems and is published monthly online by MDPI.
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22 pages, 9847 KiB  
Article
Protection of Passeriformes Birds in Wetland Ecological Restoration: A Case Study of the Reed Parrotbill (Paradoxornis heudei) in Baiyangdian
by Qi Sun, Heng Wu, Taijun Zuo, Zengrui Tian, Jiaojiao Wang and Jianhua Hou
Diversity 2025, 17(1), 75; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17010075 - 20 Jan 2025
Viewed by 544
Abstract
Due to the increasing impact of human activities on the environment, habitat loss, fragmentation, and degradation pose significant threats to bird diversity worldwide. Baiyangdian, the largest freshwater lake wetland in North China, is an important habitat for birds. The degradation of water quality [...] Read more.
Due to the increasing impact of human activities on the environment, habitat loss, fragmentation, and degradation pose significant threats to bird diversity worldwide. Baiyangdian, the largest freshwater lake wetland in North China, is an important habitat for birds. The degradation of water quality caused by decaying reed rhizomes has prompted governmental initiatives for ecological restoration in Baiyangdian. However, it has also led to the significant destruction of reed habitats within the wetlands consequently. Bird species that rely on these reed habitats, especially the reed parrotbill, face a significant threat, necessitating the establishment of species reserves to mitigate the loss of bird diversity. Our research aims to identify the potential suitable habitats for the reed parrotbill in Baiyangdian and establish priority conservation areas. Using the environmental factors determined with Google Earth Engine (GEE), ultimately we designated the following areas as priority conservation zones: the Fuhe Wetland (FHW), the reed area south of Beihezhuang (BHV), both sides of the Baiyangdian Bridge (BYDB), the western shoreline of Shaochedian (SCD), Yannandi Park (YNDP), east of Guangdianzhangzhuang Village (GDZZV), east of Dongtianzhuang (DTV), north of Xilizhuang (XLV), south of Caiputai Village (CPTV), north of Gaolou Village (GLV), and the Xiaoyihe Wetland (XYW). Our findings provide a scientific reference for ecological restoration projects in the Baiyangdian region and offer supporting data for the conservation management of the reed parrotbill. Full article
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12 pages, 1686 KiB  
Article
DNA Barcoding Reveals Widespread Co-Occurrence of Other Chub Species in the Range of the Endemic Catalan Chub, Squalius laietanus
by Núria Pérez-Bielsa, Sandra Heras, Alba Abras and Jose-Luis García-Marín
Diversity 2025, 17(1), 74; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17010074 - 20 Jan 2025
Viewed by 408
Abstract
The Catalan chub, Squalius laietanus, was described in 2007 and has recently reached Vulnerable status on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. The assigned range for this species includes the lower course of the Ebro River in Spain and northwards to [...] Read more.
The Catalan chub, Squalius laietanus, was described in 2007 and has recently reached Vulnerable status on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. The assigned range for this species includes the lower course of the Ebro River in Spain and northwards to the Tech, Têt, Agly, and Massane Rivers in Southeastern France. In this study, 246 chub specimens caught at 15 sites in the nine main river basins of the Spanish range were barcoded by sequencing a 624 bp fragment of the mitochondrial COI gene. Squalius laietanus haplotypes were found in 68% of the fish caught. In a tributary of the Ebro River, all specimens (6%) were identified as the Tagus chub, S. pyrenaicus, another endemic Iberian chub species. The remaining fish (26%) had a haplotype typical of the European chub, S. cephalus, populations outside Spain. This haplotype was present in six sites in four basins, being particularly abundant in the Ebro River. Considering that Squalius species can hybridize with other native and non-native cyprinid species, the potential co-occurrence of several species in the same site or basin raises concerns about the real extent of an exclusive range for the Catalan chub and the integrity of its native gene pools throughout its range. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2024 Feature Papers by Diversity’s Editorial Board Members)
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18 pages, 2998 KiB  
Article
Effect of Simulated Autogamy and Allogamy on the Success of Cephalanthera longifolia and Cephalanthera rubra (Orchidaceae) Fruit Set
by Laurynas Taura and Zigmantas Gudžinskas
Diversity 2025, 17(1), 73; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17010073 - 20 Jan 2025
Viewed by 434
Abstract
Detailed knowledge of reproductive traits and success is essential for the effective conservation of rare and endangered species. It has been reported that Cephalanthera longifolia and C. rubra (Orchidaceae) were abundantly fruiting in some regions several decades ago, but recent studies have shown [...] Read more.
Detailed knowledge of reproductive traits and success is essential for the effective conservation of rare and endangered species. It has been reported that Cephalanthera longifolia and C. rubra (Orchidaceae) were abundantly fruiting in some regions several decades ago, but recent studies have shown a low natural fruit set rate for both species. The aim of this study was to experimentally test the fruit set of C. longifolia and C. rubra after simulated self-pollination and cross-pollination, and to investigate the mating system of both species. Simulated self-pollination and cross-pollination experiments were conducted on two populations of C. longifolia and one population of C. rubra in Lithuania in 2022. The results of the experiment showed that the fruit set rate of C. longifolia after simulated cross-pollination was 68.9%, and after simulated self-pollination, it was 70.4%, while in the control group (free pollination), the fruit set rate was 5.1%. The fruit set rate of C. rubra was 88.2% after simulated cross-pollination, 96.5% after simulated self-pollination and 17.8% in the control group (free pollination). No significant differences in fruit set rate were found between simulated cross-pollination and self-pollination, but significant differences were found compared to the control group (free pollination) in both study species. We conclude that both study species are self-compatible, can set fruit after self-pollination, and that natural low fruit set is not related to limited energy resources of the individual, but is caused by the inefficient pollination of flowers due to a lack of pollinators during the flowering period. The artificial pollination of flowers can be used to increase fruit set in rare species of the Orchidaceae family and improve their natural recruitment by seed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biodiversity Conservation)
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38 pages, 19057 KiB  
Article
Review of the Mackerel Genus Rastrelliger (Teleostei: Scombridae) with Redescription of R. chrysozonus (Rüppell, 1836) and R. kanagurta (Cuvier, 1816)
by Sergey V. Bogorodsky, Nozomu Muto, Harutaka Hata, Hiroyuki Motomura and Tilman J. Alpermann
Diversity 2025, 17(1), 72; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17010072 - 20 Jan 2025
Viewed by 640
Abstract
The Indo-West Pacific scombrid genus Rastrelliger Jordan & Starks is reviewed. Formerly, the genus was considered to contain three valid species, viz., R. brachysoma (Bleeker, 1851) known from the south-east coast of India to Samoa Islands; R. faughni Matsui, 1967 reported from the [...] Read more.
The Indo-West Pacific scombrid genus Rastrelliger Jordan & Starks is reviewed. Formerly, the genus was considered to contain three valid species, viz., R. brachysoma (Bleeker, 1851) known from the south-east coast of India to Samoa Islands; R. faughni Matsui, 1967 reported from the south-east coast of India to Fiji; and R. kanagurta (Cuvier, 1816), the most widespread species known from the east coast of Africa and the Persian/Arabian Gulf east to Tonga. Herein, R. chrysozonus (Rüppell, 1836), restricted to the Red Sea, is resurrected from the synonymy with R. kanagurta and both species are redescribed in detail, based on an integrative morphological and molecular assessment. Consequently, Scomber microlepidotus Rüppell, 1836 is moved from the synonymy with R. kanagurta to synonymy with R. chrysozonus. Rastrellidger chrysozonus differs from R. kanagurta primarily by a longer upper jaw. Rastrelliger brachysoma differs from the other three species by a deeper body, a deeper caudal peduncle, and a very long intestine. Rastrelliger faughni differs from the other three species in having a more slender body, usually X spines in the first dorsal fin (versus IX spines), shorter and fewer gill rakers, a shorter maxilla, and a shorter intestine. The phylogenetic analysis of mitochondrial genes of all Rastrelliger species also demonstrated that R. chrysozonus forms a well divergent evolutionary lineage, with R. kanagurta being its closest relative. In addition to the redescriptions of R. chrysozonus and R. kanagurta, brief species accounts for R. brachysoma and R. faughni and the key to the four species are provided. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Marine Diversity)
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18 pages, 1153 KiB  
Article
Beauty Bias? Exploring the Influence of Attractiveness on Conservation Intentions for Plants and Their Pollinators
by Pavol Prokop, Simona Todáková and Jana Fančovičová
Diversity 2025, 17(1), 71; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17010071 - 19 Jan 2025
Viewed by 370
Abstract
Plants are an essential component of ecosystems; however, their significance is frequently underestimated, resulting in less effective conservation efforts. One approach to address plant blindness (PB) or plant awareness disparity (PAD) is to establish connections between plants and animals, as animals inherently attract [...] Read more.
Plants are an essential component of ecosystems; however, their significance is frequently underestimated, resulting in less effective conservation efforts. One approach to address plant blindness (PB) or plant awareness disparity (PAD) is to establish connections between plants and animals, as animals inherently attract more human attention. In this study, we employed an online questionnaire to manipulate visual materials featuring plant flowers alone, plant flowers accompanied by pollinators, and pollinators in isolation. We assessed participants’ willingness to protect (WTP) and the perceived attractiveness of both plants and their pollinators. Our findings revealed that pollinators presented alone received higher WTP scores than plants. Moreover, the visual association between pollinators and plants enhanced WTP plants. Conversely, plants were consistently perceived as more attractive than pollinators, irrespective of whether the flowers were displayed alone or alongside pollinators. The perceived attractiveness of both plants and pollinators was significantly correlated with WTP. Notably, colourful pollinators such as Selasphorus rufus, Vestiaria coccinea, and Danaus plexippus positively influenced WTP plants, while the remaining five species (predominantly invertebrates) did not exhibit a similar effect. We propose that establishing a connection between visually appealing pollinators and plants can help mitigate PB/PAD. These pollinators should be utilised as umbrella species to enhance human attention and interest in pollination processes and plant biology. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Socioecology and Biodiversity Conservation—2nd Edition)
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54 pages, 7371 KiB  
Article
The Diversity of Edible Flowers and Its Biocultural Role in Local Food System in Dali, Southwest China
by Qing Zhang, Jihai Zhang, Congli Xu, Xianjin Wu and Chunlin Long
Diversity 2025, 17(1), 70; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17010070 - 19 Jan 2025
Viewed by 542
Abstract
Edible flowers (EFs) form a special group of food plants that serve a pivotal role in local food systems, both in their utilitarian value and cultural significance. Dali, renowned for its rich biocultural diversity, is home to various ethnic groups with unique traditions [...] Read more.
Edible flowers (EFs) form a special group of food plants that serve a pivotal role in local food systems, both in their utilitarian value and cultural significance. Dali, renowned for its rich biocultural diversity, is home to various ethnic groups with unique traditions regarding the consumption of EFs. However, systematic and comprehensive ethnobotanical studies of EFs are lacking, and their biocultural significance has not been discussed. Through ethnobotanical surveys conducted in 15 markets across Dali, 163 taxa of EFs were documented, encompassing 56 families and 108 genera. They were consumed in 16 ways and as 5 types of food. Quantitative evaluations using the Relative Occurrence Frequency (ROF) and Cultural Food Significance Index (CFSI) assessed the local importance of these flowers. Comparisons were made with another site regarding flower-eating species and methods, revealing biocultural differences. The study highlights how these flowers contribute to local dietary practices and cultural traditions. The role of EFs in sustainable food systems (SFS) is discussed, with emphasis on their economic, environmental, and social impacts. Protecting biocultural diversity means maintaining reciprocal relationships between people and edible species, which are crucial nodes in local SFS. Full article
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19 pages, 588 KiB  
Article
Natural Hybridization Between Quercus crassipes and Q. crassifolia (Fagaceae) Is a Key Process to Ensure the Biodiversity of Their Associated Lichen Community
by Leticia Valencia-Cuevas, Jennie Melhado-Carboney and Efraín Tovar-Sánchez
Diversity 2025, 17(1), 69; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17010069 - 19 Jan 2025
Viewed by 524
Abstract
Lichens are organisms whose dynamics take place on terrestrial substrates such as rock, dead wood, living plants, and soil. Living trees are used for lichens as structural support to access light. However, little is known about how the genetic traits of a host [...] Read more.
Lichens are organisms whose dynamics take place on terrestrial substrates such as rock, dead wood, living plants, and soil. Living trees are used for lichens as structural support to access light. However, little is known about how the genetic traits of a host tree influence which lichen species grow on it and, consequently, the community structure of this funga. In this study, we investigated how the genetic diversity GD of host oak taxa (Quercus crassifolia, Q. crassipes and their putative hybrid: Q. × dysophylla) influence the community structure of the associated epiphytic lichen community in two hybrid zones (HZs) in Central Mexico. The lichen community was composed of 76 species, 27 genera and 14 families. We found significant differences in lichen composition between genetically distinct individuals and oak taxa in each HZ. Lichen diversity in Q. × dysophylla was intermediate and significantly different between parents in both HZs. We conclude that genetic differences between host oaks promoted significantly different lichen communities and that hybrids may act as ecological islands, accumulating lichen species from both parental species and their own novel species. Consequently, the conservation of HZs due to their high GD may be a strategy to ensure biodiversity conservation of oak-associated lichen communities. Full article
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19 pages, 8318 KiB  
Article
Effects of Flow Velocity on the Dynamics of Juvenile Fish Habitats in River Meanders of the Irtysh River
by Andrey A. Chemagin, Elena I. Popova and Martin Schletterer
Diversity 2025, 17(1), 68; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17010068 - 19 Jan 2025
Viewed by 498
Abstract
Understanding the spatial distribution of freshwater fish in heterogeneous aquatic environments is crucial for understanding riverine ecosystems and the rational use of aquatic biological resources. This study investigates the distribution patterns of juvenile fish in the lower reaches of the Irtysh River, including [...] Read more.
Understanding the spatial distribution of freshwater fish in heterogeneous aquatic environments is crucial for understanding riverine ecosystems and the rational use of aquatic biological resources. This study investigates the distribution patterns of juvenile fish in the lower reaches of the Irtysh River, including hydrodynamic conditions during different water level regimes. With hydroacoustic surveys, we assessed fish density and distribution in two wintering riverbed depressions during the spring flood and summer low water period. The main fish aggregations consisted of Cyprinidae and Percidae, with juveniles predominantly occupying areas with reduced flow velocities (0.15–0.75 m s−1). Correlation analysis showed strong direct relationships between the area occupied by juvenile carp and perch and zones with specific flow velocities. The study highlights that hydrodynamic characteristics, particularly flow velocity, are key factors influencing the distribution and aggregation of juvenile fish. These findings underscore the importance of considering hydrodynamic factors and species-specific traits in understanding fish distribution patterns and in managing freshwater ecosystems effectively. This research contributes to the understanding of the multifunctional roles of riverbed depressions in supporting juvenile fish populations and emphasizes the importance of hydroacoustics to predict fish distributions in dynamic aquatic environments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Socioecology and Biodiversity Conservation—2nd Edition)
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17 pages, 7659 KiB  
Article
Prediction of Climate Change Impacts on the Distribution of an Umbrella Species in Western Sichuan Province, China: Insights from the MaxEnt Model and Circuit Theory
by Xiaoyun Deng and Qiaoyun Sun
Diversity 2025, 17(1), 67; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17010067 - 19 Jan 2025
Viewed by 425
Abstract
Climate change poses a significant threat to biodiversity. Predicting the impacts of climate change on species distribution and dispersal through computational models and big data analysis can provide valuable insights. These predictions are crucial for developing effective strategies to mitigate the threats that [...] Read more.
Climate change poses a significant threat to biodiversity. Predicting the impacts of climate change on species distribution and dispersal through computational models and big data analysis can provide valuable insights. These predictions are crucial for developing effective strategies to mitigate the threats that climate change poses to biodiversity. Our study investigated the potential impact of climate change on an umbrella species (Ursus arctos pruinosus) in Western Sichuan Province, China. We employed the MaxEnt and Circuit Theory to assess both the current and potential future shifts in the distribution and migration corridors. The results indicated that climate and environmental factors had the greatest influence on species distribution, with bioclimatic variables bio12, bio3, and elevation contributing 22.1%, 21.5%, and 19.3%, respectively. Under current climatic conditions, the total suitable habitat area for the species was 70,969.78 km2, with the largest suitable habitats located in Shiqu and Litang, accounting for 24.39% and 15.86% of the total area, respectively. However, under future climate scenarios, predictions for RCP 2.6, RCP 4.5, and RCP 8.5 showed a significant reduction in suitable habitat area, ranging from 7789.26 km2 to 16,678.85 km2. The Yajiang and Xinlong counties experienced the most severe habitat reductions, with declines exceeding 50%. Additionally, the altitudinal distribution of suitable habitats shifted, with suitable habitats gradually moving to higher elevations under future climate scenarios. Our study also analyzed the species’ dispersal paths. Under current climatic conditions, the dispersal paths predominantly followed a northwest-to-southeast orientation. However, by the 2070s, under all three RCPs, dispersal resistance is projected to significantly increase, the density of dispersal paths will decrease, and the connectivity of these paths will be reduced. In the most extreme RCP 8.5 scenario, southern dispersal paths nearly disappeared, and the dispersal paths contracted towards the northwest. These findings highlight potential threats posed by climate change to the species’ habitats and dispersal corridors, emphasizing the importance of considering both current and future climate change in conservation strategies to protect this vulnerable species and its ecosystem. Full article
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23 pages, 5018 KiB  
Data Descriptor
Biology of Blattodea and Dermaptera in the Continental Biogeographical Region and Adjacent Areas of European Russia
by Victor V. Aleksanov, Alexander B. Ruchin, Nikolai V. Shulaev, Inessa O. Karmazina, Sergey V. Lukiyanov, Evgeniy A. Lobachev, Anna M. Nikolaeva and Mikhail N. Esin
Diversity 2025, 17(1), 66; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17010066 - 18 Jan 2025
Viewed by 431
Abstract
(1) Background: Blattodea and Dermaptera in the temperate forest zone include a limited number of species, some of which are widely distributed and common. However, digital data on their biology remains insufficient. (2) Methods: The surveyed area extends from Kaluga Oblast to Tatarstan [...] Read more.
(1) Background: Blattodea and Dermaptera in the temperate forest zone include a limited number of species, some of which are widely distributed and common. However, digital data on their biology remains insufficient. (2) Methods: The surveyed area extends from Kaluga Oblast to Tatarstan and from Vladimir Oblast to Voronezh Oblast. Insects were sampled from 736 plots using various methods, including pitfall traps, beer traps, window traps, pan traps, and sweep nets. (3) Results: The dataset contains 2149 occurrences comprising 18,362 specimens belonging to 5 species of Blattodea and 4 species of Dermaptera. For most occurrences, we recorded the developmental stage (nymph or adult) and the sex (male or female for adults) of the specimens. (4) Conclusions: Three non-synanthropic species are widely distributed and common: Ectobius lapponicus, E. sylvestris, and Forficula auricularia. Ectobius sylvestris is characterized as a true forest species, while E. lapponicus inhabits both forest and grassland habitats. In contrast, F. auricularia is associated with gardens, urban habitats, and some meadows. Ectobius sylvestris exhibits a more pronounced sexual dimorphism concerning the effectiveness of different sampling methods compared to E. lapponicus. Seasonal dynamics of cockroaches and earwigs are described and discussed. Full article
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20 pages, 311 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of Diversity of Newly Bred Czech Sweet Cherry Cultivars in Extensive Plantations
by Jiří Sedlák, Boris Krška, Liliia Pavliuk, Jana Čmejlová, František Paprštein and Jitka Blažková
Diversity 2025, 17(1), 65; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17010065 - 18 Jan 2025
Viewed by 417
Abstract
Sweet cherry (Prunus avium L.) is an economically important and profitable stone fruit species grown in the temperate and subtropical climates, bearing fruits with unique flavour and nutritional benefits. There is also a long tradition of sweet cherry breeding in the Czech [...] Read more.
Sweet cherry (Prunus avium L.) is an economically important and profitable stone fruit species grown in the temperate and subtropical climates, bearing fruits with unique flavour and nutritional benefits. There is also a long tradition of sweet cherry breeding in the Czech Republic. We report here the evaluation of economically important fruit and vegetative characters in 27 sweet cherry cultivars grown in the Research and Breeding Institute of Pomology (RBIP) in the genebank plantation. The cultivars were evaluated phenotypically using standard descriptors for sweet cherries. Established cultivars ‘Burlat’ (early ripening) and ‘Kordia’ (late ripening) were included in the study as commercial standards. The cultivar ‘Früheste der Mark’ was used as the earliest cultivar of the sweet cherry season. The results presented in this study demonstrate the high diversity of the analyzed sweet cherry germplasm. The cultivars ‘Horka’, ‘Justyna’, and ‘Sandra’ stood out in terms of fruit size and taste quality. The evaluated newly bred Czech sweet cherry cultivars are broadly described at the end of the presented paper. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Diversity Hotspots in the 2020s)
16 pages, 3090 KiB  
Article
The Aging of Urban Gardens Can Enhance Their Role as Refuges for Local Ant Species
by Gema Trigos-Peral and Joaquín L. Reyes-López
Diversity 2025, 17(1), 64; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17010064 - 17 Jan 2025
Viewed by 534
Abstract
Urban gardens can be crucial for preserving the biodiversity in cities, but their construction often leads to shifts in local ant communities due to drastic habitat changes. Over time, ant communities can recover as species arrive from surrounding habitats. In this study, we [...] Read more.
Urban gardens can be crucial for preserving the biodiversity in cities, but their construction often leads to shifts in local ant communities due to drastic habitat changes. Over time, ant communities can recover as species arrive from surrounding habitats. In this study, we explored ant community dynamics over ten years in four gardens of varying maturity on a university campus in South Spain. We examined: (1) ant community composition in the gardens and surrounding natural/seminatural areas; (2) changes in biodiversity over time; (3) indicator values of species in the campus; and (4) population dynamics of the most representative species. We found distinct ant community compositions in gardens and natural/seminatural habitats. The ant community in older gardens showed greater similarity to surrounding natural areas than in young gardens. In the youngest garden, biodiversity initially declined post-construction but later increased to levels comparable to older gardens. Exotic species were more abundant in the young garden, and the population of native species like the garden ant Lasius niger increased over the years. We found that disturbances promote the establishment of exotic species, regardless of habitat maturity. We emphasize the importance of a context-dependent interpretation of species bioindicator information to assess habitat ecological status accurately. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biodiversity Conservation)
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19 pages, 8924 KiB  
Article
Exploring Traditional Knowledge and Potential Uses of Local Freshwater Algae and Aquatic Plants in Thai Wetland Communities
by Pasin Norkum Ai, Angkhana Inta, Sarana Rose Sommano, Kittiya Phinyo, Kritsana Duangjan and Tibet Tangpao
Diversity 2025, 17(1), 63; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17010063 - 17 Jan 2025
Viewed by 416
Abstract
This study explored the ecological and cultural significance of Thailand’s wetlands, particularly the Nong Bong Kai Non-Hunting Area and the Lower Songkhram River. These areas were essential for biodiversity, flood prevention, and supporting local livelihoods, serving as food sources, biofertilizers, and natural water [...] Read more.
This study explored the ecological and cultural significance of Thailand’s wetlands, particularly the Nong Bong Kai Non-Hunting Area and the Lower Songkhram River. These areas were essential for biodiversity, flood prevention, and supporting local livelihoods, serving as food sources, biofertilizers, and natural water purifiers. However, these wetlands faced mounting threats from pollution, habitat loss, and climate change, jeopardising their ecological health and biodiversity. Ethnobotanical surveys were conducted to assess regional and demographic patterns in using and recognising algae and aquatic plants. The collected data highlighted traditional ecological knowledge held primarily by older community members. Principal component analysis (PCA) was employed to analyse generational differences in knowledge and utilisation, focusing on the potential generational knowledge gap due to migration trends among younger individuals. The study revealed significant biodiversity differences between the wetland areas, with Nong Bong Kai exhibiting greater diversity in aquatic plant species. Older residents demonstrated higher recognition and use of algae and aquatic plants for sustainable practices, though a generational knowledge gap was evident. This gap suggested that local ecological knowledge may be at risk as younger residents migrate to urban areas. This research underscored the need for conservation and educational initiatives to bridge generational gaps and engage younger generations in resource management. By integrating local cultural practices and focusing on high-impact species like Lemna perpusilla Torr. and Hydrilla verticillate (L.f.) Royle, region-specific conservation efforts could enhance wetland sustainability, preserve biodiversity, and support ecosystem health in Thailand’s wetland regions. Full article
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25 pages, 2988 KiB  
Article
White Oaks Genetic and Chemical Diversity Affect the Community Structure of Canopy Insects Belonging to Two Trophic Levels
by Elgar Castillo-Mendoza, Leticia Valencia-Cuevas, Patricia Mussali-Galante, Fernando Ramos-Quintana, Alejandro Zamilpa, Miriam Serrano-Muñoz, Juli Pujade-Villar and Efraín Tovar-Sánchez
Diversity 2025, 17(1), 62; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17010062 - 17 Jan 2025
Viewed by 536
Abstract
The hybridization phenomenon increases genetic diversity and modifies recombinant individuals’ secondary metabolite (SMs) content, affecting the canopy-dependent community. Hybridization events occur when Quercus rugosa and Q. glabrescens oaks converge in sympatry. Here, we analyzed the effect of the genetic diversity (He) [...] Read more.
The hybridization phenomenon increases genetic diversity and modifies recombinant individuals’ secondary metabolite (SMs) content, affecting the canopy-dependent community. Hybridization events occur when Quercus rugosa and Q. glabrescens oaks converge in sympatry. Here, we analyzed the effect of the genetic diversity (He) and SMs of Q. rugosa, Q. glabrescens and hybrids on the community of gall-inducing wasps (Cynipidae) and their parasitoids on 100 oak canopy trees in two allopatric and two hybrid zones. Eighteen gall wasp species belonging to six genera and six parasitoid genera contained in four families were identified. The most representative parasitoid genera belonged to the Chalcidoidea family. Abundance, infestation levels and richness of gall wasps and their parasitoids registered the next pattern: Q. rugosa higher than the hybrids, and the hybrids equal to Q. glabrescens. Oak host genetic diversity was the variable with the highest influence on the quantitative SMs expression, richness and abundance of gall wasps and their parasitoids. The influence of SMs on gall wasps and their parasitoids showed the next pattern: scopoletin > quercitrin > rutin = caffeic acid = quercetin glucoside. Our findings indicate that genetic diversity may be a key factor influencing the dynamics of tri-trophic interactions that involve oaks. Full article
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21 pages, 3082 KiB  
Article
Resolving Rapid Radiation of Voles and Lemmings (Arvicolinae: Cricetinae, Rodentia) with QuaddRAD Sequencing and Transcriptome Analysis
by Natalia Abramson, Elizaveta Skalon, Olga Bondareva, Semen Bodrov, Tatyana Petrova and Ivan Dvoyashov
Diversity 2025, 17(1), 61; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17010061 - 17 Jan 2025
Viewed by 502
Abstract
Voles and lemmings (subfamily Arvicolinae) remain some of the most difficult groups for disentangling phylogenetic relations owing to recent and very fast explosive radiation. The rapid radiation events are challenging for phylogenetic analysis and produce bushes of various shapes that are impossible to [...] Read more.
Voles and lemmings (subfamily Arvicolinae) remain some of the most difficult groups for disentangling phylogenetic relations owing to recent and very fast explosive radiation. The rapid radiation events are challenging for phylogenetic analysis and produce bushes of various shapes that are impossible to resolve with a straightforward approach using individual loci. Here using the quaddRAD-seq technique and transcriptomes, we tested whether data from the nuclear genome are consistent with trees inferred earlier from individual loci and from mitogenomes in topology and divergence dating. Both the transcriptome and quaddRAD-seq data convincingly place Arvicola as the earliest derivative within Arvicolini. This result is in agreement with the fossil record and conventional taxonomy. For the first time, whole-genome sequencing data resolved relations within the third radiation wave of the subfamily’s taxa, namely the tribes Arvicolini, Lagurini, and Ellobiusini, which have formed polytomy in mitochondrial trees in earlier articles. This study indicates that divergence dating is highly dependent on the number and position of calibration points in a tree and on taxa sampling. In terms of phylogenetic inference, the position of nodes with insufficient taxa representation is the most susceptible to errors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Phylogeny and Evolution Hot Topics in 2024)
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20 pages, 6922 KiB  
Article
Genetic Diversity of Diaphorina citri and Its Endosymbiont Across Diffusion Frontier and Epidemic Areas of Citrus Huanglongbing in China
by Jin Yang, Ai-Jun Huang, Jun Zhou, Ping You, Xiang Li, Han Luo and Long Yi
Diversity 2025, 17(1), 60; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17010060 - 17 Jan 2025
Viewed by 362
Abstract
Citrus huanglongbing (HLB) is one of the most severe diseases affecting the citrus industry, with Diaphorina citri (Hemiptera: Liviidae) serving as its primary natural vector. To understand the genetic diversity and population structure of D. citri in the context of HLB diffusion, we [...] Read more.
Citrus huanglongbing (HLB) is one of the most severe diseases affecting the citrus industry, with Diaphorina citri (Hemiptera: Liviidae) serving as its primary natural vector. To understand the genetic diversity and population structure of D. citri in the context of HLB diffusion, we analyzed 13 populations from the HLB diffusion frontier and 25 populations from epidemic areas in China. The HLB diffusion frontier areas refer to the peripheral regions of HLB distribution in China, including the western Zhejiang, southern Jiangsu, northern Jiangxi, northern Hunan, and eastern Sichuan provinces. In contrast, the HLB epidemic areas represent regions in China where HLB is actively widespread and causing significant impacts. We utilized mitochondrial genes (COI, ND5, and Cytb) of D. citri and housekeeping genes (dnaQ, rpoC, and argH) of its endosymbiont Candidatus Carsonella ruddii (Ca. C. ruddii) for this analysis. Our findings revealed that the D. citri and Ca. C. ruddii in different regions showed low haplotype diversity and nucleotide diversity. While the genetic variation in D. citri populations primarily occurred within populations, the endosymbiont showed contrasting patterns in the HLB epidemic areas. We identified three dispersal paths: (1) migration of the Yunnan population to Sichuan, Guizhou, and Guangxi; (2) movement of the Guangdong population to Fujian, Jiangxi, and Zhejiang; and (3) dispersal of the Guangdong population to Hunan and Guangxi. Our study suggests that D. citri populations at the HLB diffusion frontier are predominantly transmitted from neighboring epidemic areas. Full article
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21 pages, 2316 KiB  
Review
Emerging Marine Nematodes as Model Organisms: Which Species for Which Question?
by Federica Semprucci, Eleonora Grassi, Adele Cocozza di Montanara, Roberto Sandulli and Elisa Baldrighi
Diversity 2025, 17(1), 59; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17010059 - 17 Jan 2025
Viewed by 916
Abstract
Marine nematodes possess all the prerequisites to serve as “simpler models” for investigating biological phenomena and are gaining attention as emerging model organisms. This review evaluates their potential to address diverse biological questions regarding ecosystem functioning, climate change adaptation, host–microbe interactions, ecotoxicology, and [...] Read more.
Marine nematodes possess all the prerequisites to serve as “simpler models” for investigating biological phenomena and are gaining attention as emerging model organisms. This review evaluates their potential to address diverse biological questions regarding ecosystem functioning, climate change adaptation, host–microbe interactions, ecotoxicology, and biotechnological applications. Among the reviewed taxa, Litoditis marina and select Monhysteridae species, such as Diplolaimella dievengatensis, Halomonhystera disjuncta, and Diplolaimelloides spp., emerge as leading candidates due to their manageable life cycles, adaptability to laboratory conditions, and available genomic resources. These tiny organisms provide valuable insights into phenomena such as developmental plasticity, epigenetic regulation, and adaptive responses to environmental stress. Symbiotic relationships in Stilbonematinae and Astomonematinae, alongside the antimicrobial properties of the Oncholaimidae species, offer unique opportunities to explore mutualistic evolution and resilience in extreme environments. Despite challenges in culturing these species, recent advances in culturing other meiofaunal organisms with chemosynthetic symbionts have opened up promising opportunities. The roles of marine nematodes as ethical and versatile models position them to address pressing challenges in biological and biomedical research, highlighting their significant potential for future studies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2024 Feature Papers by Diversity’s Editorial Board Members)
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19 pages, 5339 KiB  
Article
Zooplankton as an Indicator: A Dramatic Shift in Its Composition Following a Sudden Temporal Brownification of a Tropical Oligotrophic Lake in Southern Mexico
by Manuel Elías-Gutiérrez, Martha Valdez-Moreno, Lucia Montes-Ortiz and Alma E. García-Morales
Diversity 2025, 17(1), 58; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17010058 - 17 Jan 2025
Viewed by 1027
Abstract
Lake Bacalar, a fragile oligotrophic ecosystem located in the southeast of Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico, suffered from a sudden brownification after the tropical storm Cristobal in June 2020 in the Gulf of Mexico. The color change was the most visible effect of the storm, [...] Read more.
Lake Bacalar, a fragile oligotrophic ecosystem located in the southeast of Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico, suffered from a sudden brownification after the tropical storm Cristobal in June 2020 in the Gulf of Mexico. The color change was the most visible effect of the storm, but all other water variables changed towards eutrophication. We used light traps and DNA barcoding of the zooplankton specimens based on previous baseline constructed for comparison with the species found after the change. A dramatic shift in the zooplankton community occurred: biomass was reduced to a minimum and 20 species of water mites, five copepods, three cladocerans, three chironomids and six species of fish larvae disappeared for a period of at least one year. They were replaced by three species of water mites, four cladocerans, one copepod, 23 chironomids and one ephemeropteran previously not registered, most of the species being characteristic of more eutrophic environments. The southernmost part of the lake, Laguna Xul-Ha, which conserved its oligotrophic characteristics, apparently became a refuge for the original fauna from the whole system. The ecosystem did not fully recover to its original condition until about two years later. While the system has returned to its original state after the storm described here, future changes in land use, including unsustainable tourism expansion, may compromise its resilience and induce hysteresis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity, Ecology and Conservation of Zooplankton)
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11 pages, 15297 KiB  
Article
Karyotype Analysis and Genome Size Estimation Using Flow Cytometry of the Genus Encyclia Hook. (Orchidaceae: Laeliinae)
by Chengcheng Zhou, Qingyun Leng, Jinping Lu, Shisong Xu, Donghui Peng, Junmei Yin and Junhai Niu
Diversity 2025, 17(1), 57; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17010057 - 17 Jan 2025
Viewed by 335
Abstract
Encyclia Hook. is a tropical orchid known for its delightful fragrance and distinctive flower shapes, which have been widely used as superior parents for inter and intrageneric breeding. In this study, karyotype analysis shows that the number of chromosomes in diploid plants of [...] Read more.
Encyclia Hook. is a tropical orchid known for its delightful fragrance and distinctive flower shapes, which have been widely used as superior parents for inter and intrageneric breeding. In this study, karyotype analysis shows that the number of chromosomes in diploid plants of Encyclia is 40, with all species exhibiting mesial and central filamentous chromosomes. The karyotype of diploid plants is primarily 2B. Among the three detected intergeneric hybrids, both Enanthleya Circus Lady ‘Coastal Star’ and Guaricyclia Kyoguchi ‘Fumi’ are triploid, while Robertsara ‘Green Wonder’ is tetraploid. By evaluating various lysates and tissues, a flow cytometry system (FCM) is developed with Galbraith’s buffer (GLB) and tender leaves. By using Dendrobium officinale as an external reference, the genome size of the Encyclia species and its intra and intergeneric hybrids are assessed, which ranges from 1.07 Gb to 3.23 Gb. These results will establish a foundation for high-throughput identification of germplasms, advance crossbreeding efforts, and enhance the understanding of the genome in Encyclia. Full article
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14 pages, 253 KiB  
Review
Greening up the City with Native Species: Challenges and Solutions
by Amy Hardberger, Danielle Craig, Catherine Simpson, Robert D. Cox and Gad Perry
Diversity 2025, 17(1), 56; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17010056 - 16 Jan 2025
Viewed by 507
Abstract
Urban green spaces provide many benefits, including to human wellbeing, ecosystem services, and urban wildlife. Thus, there are many reasons to green up urban spaces, especially by using native species. Furthermore, urban green spaces are suited to enhancing biodiversity without negatively impacting food [...] Read more.
Urban green spaces provide many benefits, including to human wellbeing, ecosystem services, and urban wildlife. Thus, there are many reasons to green up urban spaces, especially by using native species. Furthermore, urban green spaces are suited to enhancing biodiversity without negatively impacting food or fiber production. Municipalities and private landowners invest substantially in landscaping and its maintenance. However, much of that outlay supports non-native plants that may be less adapted to local conditions such as rainfall patterns and temperature ranges, thus having greater resource requirements, as well as being less supportive of native wildlife and possessing a greater potential of becoming invasive. Here, we explore ways to increase the use of native plant species in urban settings to reduce the need for watering or chemical application, enhance the support of native species, and reduce the risk of invasion to urban and ex-urban habitats. We identify three main impediments: the perception of native species as less aesthetically pleasing, the availability of native plants in the nursery industry, and the willingness of policymakers to take supportive measures. We propose methods to address all three, providing successful examples from a number of US localities and a case study that demonstrates what drivers might exist and what actions remain to be taken. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity Conservation in Urbanized Ecosystems)
23 pages, 9879 KiB  
Article
Mammal Diversity on Conservation Islands in Protected Areas in Oaxaca, Mexico
by Eugenio Padilla, Rosa Elena Galindo-Aguilar and Miguel Briones-Salas
Diversity 2025, 17(1), 55; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17010055 - 16 Jan 2025
Viewed by 572
Abstract
Protected sites managed by indigenous people have been used for decades to conserve natural resources. These sites can be considered “conservation islands” and can maintain high biodiversity. This study explores the diversity and structure of medium and large mammals in (1) four protected [...] Read more.
Protected sites managed by indigenous people have been used for decades to conserve natural resources. These sites can be considered “conservation islands” and can maintain high biodiversity. This study explores the diversity and structure of medium and large mammals in (1) four protected natural areas in Oaxaca, Mexico, and (2) two different conservation strategies: one protected natural area (PNA) and three Voluntary Conservation Areas (VCAs). Data from 30 camera traps installed by community monitoring between 2013 and 2019 were used. A total of 29,304 camera days were accumulated in the Central Valleys and the Western Mountains and Valleys province. A total of 60,725 photographic records were analyzed, resulting in 13,471 independent events. Twenty-four species of wild mammals were documented, including endangered species. VCA showed higher species richness compared to PNA. Odocoileus virginianus was the most dominant in PNA, while Dicotyles angulatus was most dominant in VCA. We found differences in species richness between the four sites and between the two conservation strategies. Both conservation strategies are effective in maintaining mammal richness. We consider that these sites can serve as conservation islands that, in turn, can inter-connect landscapes and serve as potential biological corridors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Diversity)
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20 pages, 3020 KiB  
Article
Bayesian Inference of Human-Made Hazards in Networks of Island Wetlands: The Case of the Aegean Archipelago
by Cleo M. Gaganis and Andreas Y. Troumbis
Diversity 2025, 17(1), 54; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17010054 - 16 Jan 2025
Viewed by 709
Abstract
This research aims to provide guidelines using probabilistic methods to understand better the dominant characteristics of the 824 under-pressure wetlands on 75 islands within Greece and to inform future conservation efforts. Identifying the characteristics and types of anthropogenic pressures is crucial for developing [...] Read more.
This research aims to provide guidelines using probabilistic methods to understand better the dominant characteristics of the 824 under-pressure wetlands on 75 islands within Greece and to inform future conservation efforts. Identifying the characteristics and types of anthropogenic pressures is crucial for developing effective conservation strategies. The study employs power-law modeling to validate the natural size distribution of wetlands, naïve Bayesian inference to model human impacts, and the epsilon statistic to assess wetland sensitivity to specific pressures, addressing potential sampling biases. Power-law modeling reveals a natural heavy-tailed distribution of wetland sizes, highlighting the ecological significance of larger, rarer systems. Naïve Bayesian inference indicates that agriculture and transportation are the predominant pressures affecting natural coastal wetlands. The epsilon statistic further differentiates wetland sensitivity, identifying estuaries, lagoons, and marshes as particularly vulnerable. By profiling the most vulnerable wetlands using these methods, the research provides a framework for assessing anthropogenic impacts and informing targeted conservation and management strategies to protect these vital ecosystems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Socioecology and Biodiversity Conservation—2nd Edition)
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6 pages, 5018 KiB  
Interesting Images
Reimagining Venom Harvesting: Practical Electrostimulation on Vespa velutina Nest in Nature
by Xesús Feás, Daniel J. Cabadas and Carmen Vidal
Diversity 2025, 17(1), 53; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17010053 - 15 Jan 2025
Viewed by 627
Abstract
The growing interest in Vespa velutina venom stems primarily from its impact on human health due to stings and its potential pharmacological applications. Traditionally, venom extraction methods have relied on capturing individual hornets or removing and euthanizing entire nests, followed by dissection of [...] Read more.
The growing interest in Vespa velutina venom stems primarily from its impact on human health due to stings and its potential pharmacological applications. Traditionally, venom extraction methods have relied on capturing individual hornets or removing and euthanizing entire nests, followed by dissection of venom sacs—a labor-intensive and disruptive process. In this work, we present a novel, non-invasive approach to venom harvesting. Using a portable electrostimulation device, venom was extracted directly from active Vespa velutina nests in their natural habitat. This method eliminates the need for nest manipulation, significantly reducing disturbance and improving efficiency. These visuals highlight the practicality and potential of this groundbreaking technique, opening new avenues for sustainable and scalable venom collection. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Diversity)
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23 pages, 3728 KiB  
Article
Spatiotemporal Variations in Phytoplankton Community Structure and Diversity: A Case Study for a Macroalgae–Oyster Reef Ecosystem
by Min Xu, Qi Zhao, Yufu Xu, Shenzhi Wang, Yingbo Yu, Haipeng Zhang, Yun Wang, Jiabin Shen, Linlin Yang, Yunling Zhang, Takayoshi Otaki, Teruhisa Komatsu and Kaida Xu
Diversity 2025, 17(1), 52; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17010052 - 15 Jan 2025
Viewed by 423
Abstract
The estuarine area of Luanhe River is an important fisheries ground in China’s Bohai Sea. In 2016, Tangshan Marine Ranching Co., Ltd. constructed a 2 km2 artificial oyster–macroalgae reef area by placing artificial reefs on the seabed adjacent to the Luanhe River [...] Read more.
The estuarine area of Luanhe River is an important fisheries ground in China’s Bohai Sea. In 2016, Tangshan Marine Ranching Co., Ltd. constructed a 2 km2 artificial oyster–macroalgae reef area by placing artificial reefs on the seabed adjacent to the Luanhe River Estuary. This action resulted in sustainable annual economic outputs through the fishing and sea cucumber put-and-take fishery. Although Luanhe River runoff and reef construction are important to the local phytoplankton community and fisheries’ production, little is known about how these factors affect phytoplankton community structure in the local coastal ecosystem. In this study, we conducted field surveys to investigate the spatiotemporal variations in species composition, abundance, dominant species, diversity indexes, niche width and overlap, and interspecific connection of the phytoplankton community in the ecosystem of oyster–macroalgal reefs. From July 2016 to August 2017, we collected data before and after reef construction in areas inside and outside of the benthic reefs in both the flood and dry seasons of Luanhe River runoff. We found a total of 79 species, with the majority represented by diatoms and dinoflagellates. The dominant species were Paralia sulcata and Coscinodiscus sp. The total species number and abundance increased from May to September. The species number in the reef area was greater than that outside the reef. Species abundance from August to September was greater in the reef area than in the control area, which was opposite the situation from May to June. We found more phytoplankton abundance in the flood season compared with that in the dry season. Our results suggest that reef construction can benefit the local phytoplankton community and that further studies of the relationship among oysters, macroalgae, and phytoplankton in the system are warranted. Moreover, we provide baseline data about variations in the phytoplankton community in a sea ranch area. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biogeography and Macroecology)
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14 pages, 2125 KiB  
Article
Seasonal and Spatial Variation in the Diet of Gambusia holbrooki in Different Water Bodies of Karaburun Peninsula (Western Türkiye)
by Gülşah Saç, Sevan Ağdamar, Ümit Acar and Daniela Giannetto
Diversity 2025, 17(1), 51; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17010051 - 15 Jan 2025
Viewed by 722
Abstract
The Eastern mosquitofish Gambusia holbrooki Girard, 1859, has been widely introduced into tropical and temperate countries as a biological agent to control mosquitos, which are associated with diseases such as malaria and yellow fever. However, the species exhibits invasive characteristics by competing with [...] Read more.
The Eastern mosquitofish Gambusia holbrooki Girard, 1859, has been widely introduced into tropical and temperate countries as a biological agent to control mosquitos, which are associated with diseases such as malaria and yellow fever. However, the species exhibits invasive characteristics by competing with native species for food and habitat use. This study investigates the feeding ecology of G. holbrooki populations from three distinct freshwater environments (Lake Iris, Eğlenhoca Reservoir, and Parlak Reservoir) on the Karaburun Peninsula (North-Western Türkiye), a region outside its native range. The primary aim was to evaluate seasonal and spatial variations in the diet of the species. A total of 871 specimens were analysed: 247 from Iris Lake, 318 from Parlak Reservoir, and 306 from Eğlenhoca Reservoir. Low percentages of empty stomachs (≤20%) across all populations indicate high feeding intensity. The results reveal that G. holbrooki exhibits a generalist feeding strategy, consuming a wide range of food items such as insects, zooplankton, and plant material across all the investigated environments. The relative importance of food groups (determined by the Importance Index, MI%) varied seasonally but not spatially. In all three populations, the most important food source in the spring was dipterans, followed by plants in the summer and fall, and cladocerans in the winter. Plants accounted for the largest percentage of the diet in every population (MI% >65%). These findings suggest that G. holbrooki adapts its diet to seasonal food availability. Full article
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17 pages, 5130 KiB  
Article
A Framework for Developing Biodiversity Conservation Networks Based on Morphological Spatial Pattern Analysis and the Maximum Entropy Model: A Case Study of the Jianghan Plain, China
by Xiaohua Guo, Chang Liu, Shibo Bi and Xuewen Zhang
Diversity 2025, 17(1), 50; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17010050 - 14 Jan 2025
Viewed by 424
Abstract
Constructing ecological networks in urban areas improves ecosystem stability and biodiversity protection. However, most studies focus on optimizing ecological environments through objective assessments, often neglecting species diversity. This study developed a biodiversity grading framework for the Jianghan Plain using species observation and ecosystem [...] Read more.
Constructing ecological networks in urban areas improves ecosystem stability and biodiversity protection. However, most studies focus on optimizing ecological environments through objective assessments, often neglecting species diversity. This study developed a biodiversity grading framework for the Jianghan Plain using species observation and ecosystem diversity data. Supported by ArcGIS, ecological sources were identified via MSPA and graded using the Guidelines and MaxEnt model. The MCR model was used to simulate connectivity barriers between ecological sources and calculate the minimum cumulative resistance distance, thereby generating corridors and ultimately constructing a hierarchical biodiversity conservation network for the Jianghan Plain. Our findings indicated the following: (1) The Jianghan Plain hosts 21 major ecological sources, primarily natural water bodies at the plain’s edge, which can be classified into five primary and 16 secondary sources based on biodiversity grades. (2) The recessive corridors, comprising 10 primary and 95 secondary ones, are mainly concentrated in the central Jianghan Plain, with primary corridors located centrally and westward, characterized by a large overall span. (3) Changhu Lake and Honghu Lake, two critical water bodies with high-quality habitats and significant biodiversity, were identified as key ecological nodes from the ecological sources, bridging and guiding the central and southern corridors. (4) Based on the ecological network distribution and key nodes and corridors, a “three zones, three belts, and two points” strategy was proposed for optimizing the Jianghan Plain’s ecological network. This study provides a novel framework and theoretical support for regional habitat, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable development. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity Conservation Planning and Assessment)
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16 pages, 8029 KiB  
Article
A Vermetid Bioconstruction at the Adriatic Coast of Apulia (Italy)
by Maria Mercurio, Isabella Coccia, Manuel Marra, Tamara Lazic, Giuseppe Corriero and Maria Flavia Gravina
Diversity 2025, 17(1), 49; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17010049 - 14 Jan 2025
Viewed by 467
Abstract
This study presents the first comprehensive data on a vermetid formation along the Apulian coast of the Adriatic Sea, representing one of the northernmost records in the Mediterranean. Surveys along the Brindisi coastline employed visual inspection to map the bioconstruction’s distribution and extension. [...] Read more.
This study presents the first comprehensive data on a vermetid formation along the Apulian coast of the Adriatic Sea, representing one of the northernmost records in the Mediterranean. Surveys along the Brindisi coastline employed visual inspection to map the bioconstruction’s distribution and extension. Detailed data on the bioconstruction inner and the outer edge length, thickness, width, slope and topographic complexity were collected at three selected sites. Moreover, photographic replicates were used to assess shell aperture density and diameters of Dendropoma sp. Associated fauna was studied using two quantitative sampling squares in each transect. The results showed that the vermetid bioconstruction consisted of a thin, encrusted monolayer (thickness < 1.5 cm) that extended for 3.273 linear kilometers, covering 17.23% of the investigated area; it had an average width of 0.5 m, with a mean density of Dendropoma sp. at 2.52 ind/cm2. The associated fauna was composed of 47 taxa dominated by crustaceans, mollusks and annelids. Species richness was correlated with the bioconstruction’s thickness and complexity. These findings underline the ecological importance of vermetid bioconstructions as biodiversity hotspots. The lack of massive mortality events along the Apulian coast, in contrast to other Mediterranean vermetid bioconstructions, underscores the necessity for targeted conservation measures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity and Ecology in the Mediterranean Sea)
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14 pages, 3196 KiB  
Article
Molecular Data Confirm the Occurrence of the Allochthonous Gambusia holbrooki (Pisces: Poeciliidae) in Sicily and the Maltese Archipelago
by Luca Vecchioni, Mirko Liuzzo, Arnold Sciberras, Jeffrey Sciberras, Justin Formosa, Alan Deidun, Gabriele Giacalone, Vincenzo Arizza, Marco Arculeo, Federico Marrone and Francesco Paolo Faraone
Diversity 2025, 17(1), 48; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17010048 - 13 Jan 2025
Viewed by 996
Abstract
A major threat to biodiversity is represented by Invasive Alien Species (IAS), particularly on freshwater ecosystems, which are already heavily altered by human activities. Two of the most pernicious IAS are the eastern and western mosquitofish, i.e., Gambusia holbrooki and G. affinis [...] Read more.
A major threat to biodiversity is represented by Invasive Alien Species (IAS), particularly on freshwater ecosystems, which are already heavily altered by human activities. Two of the most pernicious IAS are the eastern and western mosquitofish, i.e., Gambusia holbrooki and G. affinis. These two poeciliids are morphologically very close to each other, and soon after their formal description, G. holbrooki was considered a subspecies of G. affinis. In the following years, several studies proved that these two entities belonged to two different species; nevertheless, it was only at the end of the 1990s that their separate taxonomic status was re-established. In the 1920s and 1930s, both G. holbrooki and G. affinis were asynchronously introduced from the United States into Europe and subsequently translocated globally as biocontrol agents of the malaria vector (i.e., the larvae of the Anopheles mosquitoes), with dramatic consequences for the inland water native fauna. However, due to taxonomic uncertainties and nomenclatural instability, for years, there were doubts about which Gambusia species had been introduced in different regions. The first available molecular studies confirmed the occurrence of G. holbrooki in Europe, but no evidence confirming the occurrence of G. affinis was found. Despite this, some records report the occurrence of western mosquitofish in Italy and Malta. Considering the negative effects that the mosquitofish has on the native biota, it is of paramount importance to know the precise biological diversity of the native and non-native species to better implement environmental management strategies to properly preserve the already-fragile waterbodies. Therefore, to check for the possible occurrence of G. affinis in Italy and Malta, we conducted extensive sampling in Sicily (Italy) and in the Maltese archipelago, aiming to verify the identity of Gambusia populations occurring in the study area. Based on sequences of the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene, we consistently observed the occurrence of only G. holbrooki in the investigated area, finding, almost exclusively, the most common haplotype known for the species in the whole invaded range (i.e., “HOL1”). Full article
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14 pages, 3602 KiB  
Article
Environmental Factors Affecting the Phytoplankton Composition in the Lake of Tibetan Plateau
by Qinghuan Zhang, Zijian Xie, Chunhua Li, Chun Ye, Yang Wang, Zishu Ye, Weiwei Wei and Hao Wang
Diversity 2025, 17(1), 47; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17010047 - 13 Jan 2025
Viewed by 541
Abstract
Due to the high altitude, unique geographical location, difficult accessibility and low temperature, the environmental factors influencing phytoplankton composition have rarely been investigated in the Selin Co Lake, which is the largest lake in the Tibetan Plateau. Phytoplankton composition can indicate aquatic ecosystem [...] Read more.
Due to the high altitude, unique geographical location, difficult accessibility and low temperature, the environmental factors influencing phytoplankton composition have rarely been investigated in the Selin Co Lake, which is the largest lake in the Tibetan Plateau. Phytoplankton composition can indicate aquatic ecosystem conditions, which may be sensitive to environmental factors in the Tibetan Plateau. In this study, we investigated the main environmental factors that influence phytoplankton species in the Selin Co Lake by analyzing the spatial distribution and applying statistical analyses. We also compared the influential environmental factors in this lake with other lakes around the world. The results suggest that the eleven environmental variables can explain about 46.78% of the phytoplankton’s composition. DO and fluoride were the most significant environmental variables, followed by arsenic and COD, and the other variables had comparatively smaller and more insignificant influences on phytoplankton composition. There were five dominant phytoplankton species in the Selin Co Lake, namely, Microcystis sp., Navicula spp., Chlorella vulgaris, Ankistrodesmus falcatus, and Westella sp. Some of these dominant species were also found in other tropical lakes, suggesting that the phytoplankton community could adapt to environmental changes. A clear understanding of the influential environmental variables affecting phytoplankton composition could help us to make proper water quality protection strategies in future climate change scenarios. Full article
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21 pages, 3344 KiB  
Article
Multidimensional Environmental Drivers of Bamboo Species Richness on Subtropical Islands
by Weifeng Zhan, Yanqiu Xie, Xinran Xie, Zujian Chen, Chuanyuan Deng and Hui Huang
Diversity 2025, 17(1), 46; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17010046 - 13 Jan 2025
Viewed by 495
Abstract
Understanding the distribution patterns and driving mechanisms of bamboo species diversity on islands is essential for advancing knowledge of island ecosystem processes and informing strategies for bamboo resource conservation and management. This study utilized standardized major axis regression (SMA) to assess the effects [...] Read more.
Understanding the distribution patterns and driving mechanisms of bamboo species diversity on islands is essential for advancing knowledge of island ecosystem processes and informing strategies for bamboo resource conservation and management. This study utilized standardized major axis regression (SMA) to assess the effects of island area and isolation on bamboo species across 30 islands in Fujian, China. Furthermore, a partial least squares structural equation model (PLS-SEM) was constructed to explore the driving mechanisms underlying bamboo species richness. This analysis incorporated six key environmental factors—island size, isolation, shape, climate, development intensity, and habitat heterogeneity—spanning a total of 12 variables. The primary findings were as follows: (1) Eight genera and twenty-nine bamboo species were identified on Fujian islands. Species richness increased significantly with island area, consistent with the theory of area effects, while isolation had no significant impact on richness. (2) Different reproductive types exhibited distinct responses to environmental conditions. This was evident in the species–area relationship slopes (z-values): SR = 2.07; monopodial = 0.94; sympodial = 0.82; and polycyclic = 0.44. These variations highlight the ecological adaptability and functional traits of different reproductive strategies within island ecosystems. (3) Among the six environmental factors, island area exerted the greatest influence on species richness, underscoring its role as the primary driver of bamboo diversity and reproductive strategies. (4) Island area and isolation also impacted species richness indirectly through their effects on development intensity. In conclusion, the bamboo species richness and reproductive types on Fujian islands are primarily shaped by island area, followed by development intensity and habitat heterogeneity. In contrast, climate, island shape, and isolation play relatively minor roles. This study provides critical insights into the interplay of island area, isolation, shape, climate, development intensity, and habitat heterogeneity in shaping bamboo diversity. The findings offer a valuable foundation for bamboo resource conservation, island ecosystem management, and sustainable development. Full article
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