Diversity

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8 pages, 226 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Diversity of Inland Wetlands: Important Roles in Mitigation of Human Impacts

by Igor Zelnik and Mateja Germ

Diversity 2023, 15(10), 1050; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15101050 - 29 Sep 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1689

Abstract

Inland wetlands are one of the most vulnerable ecosystems on Earth and have one of the highest rates of decline in surface and biodiversity [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity of Inland Wetlands: Important Roles in Mitigation of Human Impacts)

Research

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11 pages, 943 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Beyond the Hydro-Regime: Differential Regulation of Plant Functional Groups in Seasonal Ponds

by Jasmine Rios, Melanie Dibbell, Emely Flores and Jamie M. Kneitel

Diversity 2023, 15(7), 832; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15070832 - 2 Jul 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1433

Abstract

Plant community assembly can be influenced by many environmental factors. In seasonal wetlands, most studies focus on the considerable variation that occurs from the hydro-regime (patterns of inundation and desiccation). Other factors and their interactions also influence plants but are seldom studied, including [...] Read more.

Plant community assembly can be influenced by many environmental factors. In seasonal wetlands, most studies focus on the considerable variation that occurs from the hydro-regime (patterns of inundation and desiccation). Other factors and their interactions also influence plants but are seldom studied, including nutrient and thatch levels. Furthermore, the responses of aquatic and terrestrial functional groups can provide important insights into patterns of cover and richness. The aim of this study was to evaluate how algae and plant functional groups (aquatic and terrestrial plants) respond to variation in hydro-regime (stable and unstable), nutrient addition (none and added), and thatch (none, native plants, and exotic plants) addition. We measured algal cover, total species richness, and the cover of the functional groups over two years. Algal cover increased with unstable hydroperiods and the addition of nutrients. Algae were also negatively associated with aquatic plant cover and positively associated with terrestrial plant cover. Aquatic plant cover increased with a stable hydro-regime and decreased with increased thatch. Terrestrial plant cover increased with an unstable hydro-regime and decreased with thatch addition. Thatch accumulation and excess nutrients can be linked to human activities, which directly and indirectly alter plant community composition. The interactions of these factors with the hydro-regime should be considered when evaluating a plant community’s response to changing environmental conditions. Overall, these results are necessary for the conservation and management of essential wetland functions and services. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity of Inland Wetlands: Important Roles in Mitigation of Human Impacts)

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22 pages, 3084 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Importance of Thermally Abnormal Waters for Bioinvasions—A Case Study of Pistia stratiotes

by Nina Šajna, Tina Urek, Primož Kušar and Mirjana Šipek

Diversity 2023, 15(3), 421; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15030421 - 13 Mar 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1921

Abstract

Thermally abnormal waters represent safe sites for alien invasive plants requiring warmer conditions than provided by the ambient temperatures in the temperate zone. Therefore, such safe sites are frequently inhabited by tropical and sub-tropical plants. By performing a literature review we assessed that [...] Read more.

Thermally abnormal waters represent safe sites for alien invasive plants requiring warmer conditions than provided by the ambient temperatures in the temperate zone. Therefore, such safe sites are frequently inhabited by tropical and sub-tropical plants. By performing a literature review we assessed that at least 55 alien aquatic plant taxa from 21 families were found in thermally abnormal waters in Europe. The majority of these taxa are submerged or rooted macrophytes. Six taxa are listed as quarantine pests according to EPPO. Among these, Pistia stratiotes is present in seven European countries, most of the records of this presence being recent. We studied P. stratiotes in a thermally abnormal stream where a persistent population was able to survive harsh winters. Models showed that the optimum temperature for P. stratiotes biomass was 28.8 ± 3.5 °C. Here, we show that air temperatures had a higher influence on the photosynthetic efficiency of P. stratiotes, estimated by chlorophyll fluorescence measurements, than did water temperatures. Generally, growth, and consequently surface cover for free-floating plants, cannot be explained solely by thermally abnormal water temperatures. We conclude that even though the majority of thermophile alien plant occurrences resulted from deliberate introductions, thermally abnormal waters pose an invasion risk for further deliberate, accidental, or spontaneous spread, which might be more likely for free-floating macrophytes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity of Inland Wetlands: Important Roles in Mitigation of Human Impacts)

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29 pages, 2983 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Classification of Wetland Forests and Scrub in the Western Balkans

by Dragan Koljanin, Jugoslav Brujić, Andraž Čarni, Đorđije Milanović, Željko Škvorc and Vladimir Stupar

Diversity 2023, 15(3), 370; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15030370 - 4 Mar 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2229

Abstract

Wetland forests and scrub (WFS) are conditioned by the strong impact of water. They consist of various vegetation types, depending on many factors such as type and duration of flooding, water table level and its fluctuation, river current strength, substrate ability to retain [...] Read more.

Wetland forests and scrub (WFS) are conditioned by the strong impact of water. They consist of various vegetation types, depending on many factors such as type and duration of flooding, water table level and its fluctuation, river current strength, substrate ability to retain water, etc. WFS vegetation has been insufficiently studied in the Balkan Peninsula, especially in Bosnia and Herzegovina. By means of numerical classification, we aimed to classify Western Balkans WFS at the alliance level, and to identify the main underlying ecological gradients driving the variation in species composition. The dataset containing all published and available unpublished relevés from Slovenia, Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina was first classified using the EuroVegChecklist Expert System in Juice software in order to assign the corresponding class to each of the relevés. Relevés were subsequently analyzed within each of the four WFS classes (Alno glutinosae-Populetea albae, Salicetea purpureae, Alnetea glutinosae and Franguletea). Cluster analysis resulted in eight alliances, Salicion albae, Salicion triandrae, Salicion eleagno-daphnoidis, Alno-Quercion, Alnion incanae, Alnion glutinosae, Betulion pubescentis and Salicion cinereae, while one cluster could not be assigned with certainty. Edafic factors were found to be the most important factors determining the floristic composition and syntaxa differentiation of WFS in the study area. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity of Inland Wetlands: Important Roles in Mitigation of Human Impacts)

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14 pages, 939 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Environmental Drivers of Functional Structure and Diversity of Vascular Macrophyte Assemblages in Altered Waterbodies in Serbia

by Dragana Vukov, Miloš Ilić, Mirjana Ćuk and Ružica Igić

Diversity 2023, 15(2), 231; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15020231 - 6 Feb 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1840

Abstract

There is a gap in the knowledge about how environmental factors affect functional diversity and trait structures of macrophyte communities in altered waterbodies. We used macrophyte and environmental data collected from 46 waterbodies; we extracted data on 14 traits with 43 attributes for [...] Read more.

There is a gap in the knowledge about how environmental factors affect functional diversity and trait structures of macrophyte communities in altered waterbodies. We used macrophyte and environmental data collected from 46 waterbodies; we extracted data on 14 traits with 43 attributes for 59 species and calculated seven functional diversity indices. We used redundancy analysis (RDA) to investigate the response of functional diversity indices to the environmental variables. To relate traits to environment we performed the analysis on three data matrices: site by environmental variables (R), site by species (L), and species by traits (Q)—the RLQ analysis, and the 4th corner analyses. The RDA showed that the environmental variables explained 47.43% of the variability in the functional diversity indices. Elevation, hemeroby (integrative measure of the impact of all human intervention) of the land cover classes on the banks, and water conductivity were correlated with all diversity indices. We found that the traits characteristic of floating and emergent plants represents a strategy to increase efficiency in light interception under high nutrient concentrations in lowland waterbodies, while submerged plants dominate nutrient-poorer waterbodies at higher altitudes. Future investigations should be focused on the role of functional diversity and the structure of macrophyte communities in the indication of tradeoffs and/or facilitation between ecosystem services that altered waterbodies provide, in order to guide their adequate management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity of Inland Wetlands: Important Roles in Mitigation of Human Impacts)

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26 pages, 3158 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Current Distribution and Conservation Issues of Aquatic Plant Species Protected under Habitats Directive in Lithuania

by Zofija Sinkevičienė, Liucija Kamaitytė-Bukelskienė, Lukas Petrulaitis and Zigmantas Gudžinskas

Diversity 2023, 15(2), 185; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15020185 - 28 Jan 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1992

Abstract

The European Habitats Directive was adopted to halt the rapid loss of biodiversity and has become an important instrument for protecting biodiversity in the European Union. Three aquatic plant species protected under the European Habitats Directive have so far been found in Lithuania: [...] Read more.

The European Habitats Directive was adopted to halt the rapid loss of biodiversity and has become an important instrument for protecting biodiversity in the European Union. Three aquatic plant species protected under the European Habitats Directive have so far been found in Lithuania: Aldrovanda vesiculosa, Caldesia parnassifolia, and Najas flexilis. Our aim in this study was to evaluate the former and current distribution and the status of conservation of the target species. Screening for the above-mentioned protected aquatic plant species was performed in 73 natural lakes throughout Lithuania in 2019–2021. We confirmed extant populations of Aldrovanda vesiculosa in four lakes, Caldesia parnassifolia in two lakes, and Najas flexilis in four lakes in the northeastern part of the country. We studied Aldrovanda vesiculosa populations three times (2015, 2019, and 2022) in Lake Rūžas and once each in Lake Apvardai and Lake Dysnai (2020). The population density of Aldrovanda vesiculosa ranged from 193.4 ± 159.7 to 224.0 ± 211.0 individuals/m², the mean length of plants ranged from 12.5 ± 2.1 to 14.3 ± 2.7 cm, and the mean number of apices ranged from 2.0 ± 0.7 to 2.2 ± 0.9 per individual. The habitat of Aldrovanda vesiculosa in Lake Rūžas covered an area of about 3 ha. The number of generative individuals of Caldesia parnassifolia widely varied between years in Lake Rūžas. All populations of Najas flexilis were small, although the potential habitats in the studied lakes cover relatively large areas. We propose designating all lakes with populations of Aldrovanda vesiculosa, Caldesia parnassifolia, and Najas flexilis as special areas of conservation, as well as developing and implementing action plans for the conservation of these species and their habitats. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity of Inland Wetlands: Important Roles in Mitigation of Human Impacts)

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13 pages, 2852 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Distribution of Freshwater Alien Animal Species in Morocco: Current Knowledge and Management Issues

by Abdelkhaleq Fouzi Taybi, Youness Mabrouki and Christophe Piscart

Diversity 2023, 15(2), 169; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15020169 - 25 Jan 2023

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2476

Abstract

This work presents currently available knowledge on alien species (AS) found in the inland waters of Morocco. The objective is to provide an updated list of alien species and identify the main introduction pathways and possible threats to native biodiversity. The dataset was [...] Read more.

This work presents currently available knowledge on alien species (AS) found in the inland waters of Morocco. The objective is to provide an updated list of alien species and identify the main introduction pathways and possible threats to native biodiversity. The dataset was built from an extensive literature search supplemented by our own research work (published or in progress). The main areas harboring xenodiversity in Moroccan freshwaters correspond to protected areas (e.g., Ramsar Site and SIBE). These areas are currently home to 41 confirmed AS belonging to different taxonomic groups. Fish are the most abundant taxonomic group with 21 species, followed by molluscs (7 species) and arthropods (7 species). The presence of 15 more species was also noticed but considered doubtful. Almost half of these AS were introduced intentionally. They correspond to restocking programs and are likely the most serious threat to native biodiversity through predation, competition, and hybridization. Commercial activities around aquarium and ornamental species appear as the second source favoring colonization by AS. Implementing protective regulations regarding the import of exotic species in Morocco appears very urgent to protect local native diversity. In addition, detecting and monitoring the expansion of AS within the colonized areas and studies improving biological and ecological knowledge seem crucial to mitigate their possible impacts on native communities and preserve Moroccan freshwater ecosystems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity of Inland Wetlands: Important Roles in Mitigation of Human Impacts)

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21 pages, 4466 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Spatial Distribution of the Taxonomic Diversity of Phytoplankton and Bioindication of the Shallow Protected Lake Borovoe in the Burabay National Natural Park, Northern Kazakhstan

by Sophia Barinova, Elena Krupa and Elena Khitrova

Diversity 2022, 14(12), 1071; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14121071 - 5 Dec 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2233

Abstract

The Burabay National Natural Park unites six lakes located among the steppe landscape, with Lake Borovoe being the most visited among them. The phytoplankton of the protected Lake Borovoe was examined in the summer season of 2019, at eight stations, which were defined [...] Read more.

The Burabay National Natural Park unites six lakes located among the steppe landscape, with Lake Borovoe being the most visited among them. The phytoplankton of the protected Lake Borovoe was examined in the summer season of 2019, at eight stations, which were defined for the first time as the monitoring sites on the lake surface. Altogether, 72 algae and cyanobacteria species from seven taxonomic phyla were found in the Lake Borovoe phytoplankton during the study period. The most species-rich were three phyla: diatoms, green algae, and cyanobacteria. The average phytoplankton abundance was 3012.6 cells L⁻¹, and biomass was 2383.41 mg L⁻¹. The ecological status of the lake in 2019 was assessed based on the species richness, abundance, biomass, and calculated indices of organic pollution and toxic impact. The statistical mapping, calculated community similarity, correlation, and Redundancy Analysis (RDA) revealed zones affected by human impact. These were located in the lake shores and low-alkaline water with the saprobity index of 1.63–2.00. This is typical for naturally clean lakes, indicating the oligotrophic-to-mesotrophic status of the lake during the study period. The increase in cyanobacteria species in coastal communities can be associated with an increase in the biogenic load on the lake ecosystem in recent times. Therefore, our multivariate analysis allowed us to assess the ecological state of Lake Borovoe, which can be the result of the interaction of many external environmental factors, such as climatic conditions, long-term accumulation of organic substances, the intensity and duration of anthropogenic press, and internal lake processes such as the development of algae communities. The results suggest a tendency for the eutrophication of Lake Borovoe to increase because of pollution coming from the human impact zones on the lake shores. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity of Inland Wetlands: Important Roles in Mitigation of Human Impacts)

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17 pages, 4694 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Aquatic Insects in Habitat-Forming Sponges: The Case of the Lower Mekong and Conservation Perspectives in a Global Context

by Nisit Ruengsawang, Narumon Sangpradub and Renata Manconi

Diversity 2022, 14(11), 911; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14110911 - 27 Oct 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2670

Abstract

Shallow water sponges settled on a raft along the Pong River (Lower Mekong Basin, Thailand) were investigated to highlight the taxonomic richness, composition, relative abundance and lifestyle of sponge-dwelling aquatic Insecta. The three-dimensional biogenic structures of the model sponges hosted 4 orders of [...] Read more.

Shallow water sponges settled on a raft along the Pong River (Lower Mekong Basin, Thailand) were investigated to highlight the taxonomic richness, composition, relative abundance and lifestyle of sponge-dwelling aquatic Insecta. The three-dimensional biogenic structures of the model sponges hosted 4 orders of Insecta, belonging to 10 families and 19 genera/species, able to strictly coexist at the level of the sponges in aquiferous canals and/or at the body surface, and/or dwelling in the extracellular matrix. On the basis of the identified 379 larvae and pupae, Trichoptera and Diptera were found to be the dominant inhabitants of Corvospongilla siamensis (Demospongiae: Spongillida), endemic to Southeast Asia. In the focused lotic ecosystem, dominated by soft bottoms, sponges play a functional role. Insecta use sponges as a substratum, nursery ground, food source, and shelter microhabitat, protecting them from predation and environmental aggression. Moreover, their feeding behavior indicates the insects’ adaptive traits to recycle sponge siliceous spicules as a source of exogenous material to strengthen the larval–pupal cases and the digestive system. The results of the Thai sponge model contribute to the inventory of global engineering species richness, ecosystem types, and biogeographic diversity, thus raising awareness for freshwater biodiversity conservation. In this regard, the present data, along with the worldwide inventory, focus on sponges as (a) key habitat-forming species for aquatic insect assemblages, (b) ecosystem engineers in river/lake/wetland ecosystems, providing water purification, the processing of organic matter, recycling of nutrients, and freshwater–terrestrial coupling, and (c) promising candidates in restoration projects of tropical freshwater ecosystems by bioremediation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity of Inland Wetlands: Important Roles in Mitigation of Human Impacts)

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13 pages, 2485 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Waterbodies in the Floodplain of the Drava River Host Species-Rich Macrophyte Communities despite Elodea Invasions

by Igor Zelnik, Mateja Germ, Urška Kuhar and Alenka Gaberščik

Diversity 2022, 14(10), 870; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14100870 - 14 Oct 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1899

Abstract

The contribution discusses macrophyte communities in natural and man-made waterbodies located on the active floodplain along the Drava river (Slovenia). We presumed that these different types of wetlands host a great number of macrophyte species, but this diversity may be affected by the [...] Read more.

The contribution discusses macrophyte communities in natural and man-made waterbodies located on the active floodplain along the Drava river (Slovenia). We presumed that these different types of wetlands host a great number of macrophyte species, but this diversity may be affected by the presence of alien invasive species Elodea canadensis and E. nuttallii. Presence, relative abundance, and growth forms of plant species along with selected environmental parameters were monitored. Correlation analyses and direct gradient analyses were performed to reveal the possible relations between the structure of macrophyte community and environmental parameters. Number of macrophytes in surveyed water bodies varied from 1 to 23. Besides numerous native species we also recorded Elodea canadensis and E. nuttallii, which were present in 19 out of 32 sample sites, with E. nuttallii prevailing. The less invasive E. canadensis was absent from ponds and oxbow lakes but relatively abundant in side-channels, while E. nuttallii was present in all types but dominant in ponds. The most abundant native species were Myriophyllum spicatum and M. verticillatum, Ceratophyllum demersum and Potamogeton natans. Correlation analyses showed no negative effect of the invasive alien Elodea species to the species richness and diversity of native flora. Positive correlation between the abundance of E. nuttallii and temperature of the water was obtained. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity of Inland Wetlands: Important Roles in Mitigation of Human Impacts)

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13 pages, 3331 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Sediment Types on the Distribution and Diversity of Plant Communities in the Poyang Lake Wetlands

by Jie Li, Yizhen Liu, Ying Liu, Huicai Guo, Gang Chen, Zhuoting Fu, Yvying Fu and Gang Ge

Diversity 2022, 14(6), 491; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14060491 - 16 Jun 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2524

Abstract

At small scales, sedimentary deposition types mediate hydrological changes to drive wetland vegetation distribution patterns and species diversity. To examine the effects of sediment types on the distribution and diversity of plant communities in a wetland region, 150 quadrats were investigated (elevation range [...] Read more.

At small scales, sedimentary deposition types mediate hydrological changes to drive wetland vegetation distribution patterns and species diversity. To examine the effects of sediment types on the distribution and diversity of plant communities in a wetland region, 150 quadrats were investigated (elevation range of 10.5–12.5 m) in the lake basin areas of Poyang Lake. We divided the surface soil into three sediment types (lacustrine sediments, fluvio-lacustrine sediments, and fluvial sediments), and then compared and analyzed the distribution and species diversity of the wetland plants among them. The results revealed the following findings: (i) within this elevation range, Carex cinerascens, Carex cinerascens–Polygonum criopolitanum, Polygonum criopolitanum, and Phalaris arundinacea communities exist; (ii) from lacustrine sediments to fluvial sediments, the distribution of plant communities showed a transition trend—with the Carex cinerascens and Phalaris arundinacea communities shifting into the Polygonum criopolitanum community; (iii) detrended correspondence analysis and redundancy analysis demonstrated that the soil particle composition and flood duration in 2017 generated a differential wetland plant distribution under the conditions of three sediment types along the littoral zones of Poyang Lake; and (iv) the plant communities on the lacustrine sediments had a higher species diversity than those established on the fluvio-lacustrine sediments and fluvial sediments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity of Inland Wetlands: Important Roles in Mitigation of Human Impacts)

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16 pages, 3702 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Environment and Human Activities on Plant Diversity in Wetlands along the Yellow River in Henan Province, China

by Zhiliang Yuan, Man Xiao, Xiao Su, He Zhao, Yushan Li, Huiping Zhang, Ziyu Zhou, Rui Qi, Yun Chen and Wei Wang

Diversity 2022, 14(6), 470; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14060470 - 12 Jun 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3248

Abstract

Background and Objectives: The Yellow River is the sixth longest river in the world, and it is considered the mother river of China. Biodiversity conservation in the middle and lower reaches of the Yellow River is an urgent concern due to the [...] Read more.

Background and Objectives: The Yellow River is the sixth longest river in the world, and it is considered the mother river of China. Biodiversity conservation in the middle and lower reaches of the Yellow River is an urgent concern due to the impact of topography, sediment deposition, and human activities. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to investigate the diversity of plant communities in wetlands along the middle and lower reaches of the Yellow River from the perspectives of the natural environment and human disturbance. Materials and Methods: In this study, 830 plots were set up in seven nature reserves in the middle and lower reaches of the Yellow River to investigate wetland plant diversity. The distribution characteristics of plant diversity and the effects of environmental and human activities on plant diversity were analyzed. Results: (1) A total of 184 plant species belonging to 52 families and 135 genera were found in the seven nature reserves. Network analysis showed that the connectance index was 0.3018. (2) Betadisper analysis followed by ANOVA revealed differences in the community composition of the wetland plants (F = 21.123, p < 0.001) in the different nature reserves. (3) Analysis of variation partitioning indicated that the effects of pure environmental factors (elevation, precipitation, evaporation, and temperature) on the beta diversity of the wetland plants in the nature reserves was the strongest (15.45% and 17.08%, respectively), followed by the effects of pure human disturbance factors (population density, industrial output value, and agricultural output value) (15.13% and 16.71%, respectively). Conclusions: Variations occurred in the assemblage characteristics of the wetland plants in the different Yellow River wetland nature reserves. The wetland species exhibited strong associations with the reserves in the Yellow River wetland in Henan Province. Elevation, longitude, precipitation, and evaporation were important factors that affected the diversity of wetland plants in the middle and lower reaches of the Yellow River in China. The findings provide insights into plant biodiversity conservation in riverine wetlands. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity of Inland Wetlands: Important Roles in Mitigation of Human Impacts)

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10 pages, 559 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Barium, Lithium and Titanium Content in Herbs of Mid-Field Wet Depressions in East-Central Poland

by Elżbieta Malinowska and Jan Novak

Diversity 2022, 14(3), 189; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14030189 - 5 Mar 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2236

Abstract

This paper presents the results of research on the Ba, Li and Ti content in six species of herbs sampled from mid-field wet depressions and from the soil. These temporary flooded depressions were surrounded by arable crops, permanent grassland and shrubby vegetation. The [...] Read more.

This paper presents the results of research on the Ba, Li and Ti content in six species of herbs sampled from mid-field wet depressions and from the soil. These temporary flooded depressions were surrounded by arable crops, permanent grassland and shrubby vegetation. The research area was located in the eastern part of the Mazovian Voivodeship, east-central Poland. The following plants were used in the experiment: corn mint (Mentha arvensis L.), purple marshlocks (Comarum palustre L.), silverweed (Potentilla anserina L.), yarrow (Achillea millefolium L.), yellow loosestrife (Lysimachia vulgaris L.) and gypsy-wort (Lycopus europaeus L.). The Li, Ba and Ti content of plants, bottom sediment and soil was determined by the ICP-AES method after previous dry mineralization. Of the six herb species, Mentha arvensis L. was with the greatest accumulation potential of the chemical elements. However, no excessive Ba, Li and Ti content was found in herbs growing at different distances from arable fields, permanent grassland and shrubby vegetation. The highest Ba content was found in periodically flooded soil (zone II), while the highest amounts of Li and Ti were recorded in non-flooded soil (zone III). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity of Inland Wetlands: Important Roles in Mitigation of Human Impacts)

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20 pages, 5988 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Three New Diatom Species from Spring Habitats in the Northern Apennines (Emilia-Romagna, Italy)

by Marco Cantonati, Olena Bilous, Nicola Angeli, Liesbeth van Wensen and Horst Lange-Bertalot

Diversity 2021, 13(11), 549; https://doi.org/10.3390/d13110549 - 29 Oct 2021

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3051

Abstract

Using light (LM, including plastid characterization on fresh material) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), as well as a thorough morphological, physical, chemical, and biological characterization of the habitats, the present study aims at describing three species new to science. They belong to the [...] Read more.

Using light (LM, including plastid characterization on fresh material) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), as well as a thorough morphological, physical, chemical, and biological characterization of the habitats, the present study aims at describing three species new to science. They belong to the genera Eunotia Ehrenb., Planothidium Round and L. Bukht., and Delicatophycus M.J. Wynne, and were found in two contrasting spring types in the northern Apennines. The three new species described differ morphologically from the most similar species by: less dense striae and areolae, and the absence of a ridge at the valve face-mantle transition (SEM feature) [Eunotia crassiminor Lange-Bert. et Cantonati sp. nov.; closest established species: Eunotia minor (Kütz.) Grunow]; narrower and shorter cells [Planothidium angustilanceolatum Lange-Bert. et Cantonati sp. nov.; most similar species: Planothidium lanceolatum (Bréb. ex Kütz.) Lange-Bert.]; barely-dorsiventral symmetry, set off ends, and lower density of the central dorsal striae [Delicatophycus crassiminutus Lange-Bert. et Cantonati sp. nov.; most similar species: Delicatophycus minutus M.J.Wynne]. Two of the three species we described are separated from the closest species by dimensions. Their description improved knowledge on two taxa (Eunotia minor s.l. and Planothidium lanceolatum s.l.) likely to be only partially resolved species complexes. We could also refine knowledge on the ecological profiles of the three newly-described species. Eunotia crassiminor sp. nov., as compared to Eunotia minor, appears to occur in colder inland waters with a circumneutral pH and a strict oligotrophy as well with respect to nitrogen. The typical habitat of Planothidium angustilanceolatum sp. nov. appears to be oligotrophic mountain flowing springs with low conductivity. Delicatophycus crassiminutus sp. nov. was observed only in limestone-precipitating springs, and is therefore likely to be restricted to hard water springs and comparable habitats where CO₂ degassing leads to carbonate precipitation. Springs are a unique but severely threatened wetland type. Therefore, the in-depth knowledge of the taxonomy and ecology of characteristic diatom species is important, because diatoms are excellent indicators of the quality and integrity of these peculiar ecosystems in the face of direct and indirect human impacts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity of Inland Wetlands: Important Roles in Mitigation of Human Impacts)

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17 pages, 11157 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Relations between Benthic Diatom Community and Characteristics of Karst Ponds in the Alpine Region of Slovenia

by Katarina Novak and Igor Zelnik

Diversity 2021, 13(11), 531; https://doi.org/10.3390/d13110531 - 25 Oct 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1944

Abstract

The aim of this research was to investigate the structure of the benthic diatom community and its relations to selected environmental parameters. We collected samples in 16 karst ponds in the alpine region of Slovenia, where the Alpine karst is found. Since the [...] Read more.

The aim of this research was to investigate the structure of the benthic diatom community and its relations to selected environmental parameters. We collected samples in 16 karst ponds in the alpine region of Slovenia, where the Alpine karst is found. Since the predominating substrate in these ponds was clay, the epipelic community was analyzed. Hydromorphological characteristics, and physical and chemical conditions were also measured at each site. We found 105 species of diatoms, which belonged to 32 genera. The most frequent taxa were Gomphonema parvulum (Kützing) Kützing, Navicula cryptocephala Kützing, Sellaphora pupula (Kützing) Mereschkowsky (species group) and Achnanthidium pyrenaicum (Hustedt) Kobayasi. The pond with the lowest diversity was found at the highest altitude, while, on the other hand, the most species-rich pond was found at the lowest altitude. Regarding the ecological types, the most common were motile species. We confirmed a positive correlation between the number of diatom species and the saturation of water with oxygen, while correlation between species richness and NH₄-N was negative. The content of NO₃-N and NH₄-N explained almost 20% of the total variability of diatom community. Unlike our expectations, we calculated a negative correlation between the diversity of macroinvertebrates and diatoms, which is probably a consequence of different responses to environmental conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity of Inland Wetlands: Important Roles in Mitigation of Human Impacts)

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Review

Jump to: Editorial, Research

27 pages, 3398 KiB

Open AccessReview

Ecological Basis of Ecosystem Services and Management of Wetlands Dominated by Common Reed (Phragmites australis): European Perspective

by Hana Čížková, Tomáš Kučera, Brigitte Poulin and Jan Květ

Diversity 2023, 15(5), 629; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15050629 - 5 May 2023

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3194

Abstract

The common reed (Phragmites australis) is a frequent dominant species in European wetlands. Yet, its performance can vary in response to different combinations of environmental factors. This accounts for P. australis decline on deep-water sites, its stable performance in constructed wetlands [...] Read more.

The common reed (Phragmites australis) is a frequent dominant species in European wetlands. Yet, its performance can vary in response to different combinations of environmental factors. This accounts for P. australis decline on deep-water sites, its stable performance in constructed wetlands with subsurface horizontal flow and its expansion in wet meadows. Reed stands provide habitats for nesting, feeding or roosting of vulnerable bird species. Conservation measures aim at preventing or stopping the decline of P. australis stands, increasing their micro-habitat heterogeneity and reducing the reed penetration into wet meadows. Service-oriented measures aim at providing suitable conditions for direct use of reed stalks for roof thatching or as a renewable energy crop or the use of the reed-dominated habitats for waterfowl hunting, cattle grazing or fishing. The compatibility between nature conservation and different socioeconomic uses can be promoted by collective agreements, agri-environmental contracts or payments for ecosystem services of the reedbeds. In situations with multiple uses, a modelling approach considering the participation of all the stakeholders concerned can be a useful tool for resolving conflicts and developing a shared vision of the respective socio-ecosystem. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity of Inland Wetlands: Important Roles in Mitigation of Human Impacts)

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27 pages, 7105 KiB

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The Orchids of Wetland Vegetation in the Central Balkans

by Vladan Djordjević, Svetlana Aćić, Eva Kabaš, Predrag Lazarević, Spyros Tsiftsis and Dmitar Lakušić

Diversity 2023, 15(1), 26; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15010026 - 23 Dec 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3775

Abstract

Wetland ecosystems are important habitats for the growth and survival of numerous terrestrial orchids in Europe. This study reviews the current knowledge on the orchids of wetland vegetation in the Central Balkans. The orchid flora was analyzed from taxonomic, phytogeographical, ecological and conservation [...] Read more.

Wetland ecosystems are important habitats for the growth and survival of numerous terrestrial orchids in Europe. This study reviews the current knowledge on the orchids of wetland vegetation in the Central Balkans. The orchid flora was analyzed from taxonomic, phytogeographical, ecological and conservation aspects. The most important taxa include the two Balkan endemics (Dactylorhiza cordigera subsp. bosniaca and D. kalopissi subsp. macedonica) and the three subendemics of the Balkans and the Carpathians (Dactylorhiza cordigera subsp. cordigera, D. maculata subsp. transsilvanica and Gymnadenia frivaldii), as well as a considerable number of Central European, Eurasian and boreal orchid representatives. Several orchid taxa occurring in the wet meadows and fens of the Central Balkans have a southern limit of their distribution in this part of Europe, suggesting that wetlands are important refuges for them. In total, 33 orchid taxa were recorded in plant communities from five classes, 10 orders and 17 alliances. Most orchid taxa grow in the following wetland vegetation types: wet meadows (class Molinio-Arrhenatheretea, order Molinietalia caeruleae, alliances Molinion caeruleae, Deschampsion cespitosae and Calthion palustris); fens (class Scheuchzerio palustris-Caricetea fuscae, order Caricetalia fuscae, alliance Caricion fuscae); tall-herb vegetation along mountain streams and springs (class Mulgedio-Aconitetea); marshes and herb-land vegetation of freshwater or brackish water bodies (class Phragmito-Magnocaricetea). This study highlights the importance of serpentine and silicate wetland vegetation types as important habitats for the survival of terrestrial orchids. In addition, detailed taxonomic, ecological and chorological studies of the wetland orchids of the Central Balkans need to be carried out in order to establish a successful plan for their conservation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity of Inland Wetlands: Important Roles in Mitigation of Human Impacts)

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21 pages, 8355 KiB

Open AccessReview

Ventilation Systems in Wetland Plant Species

by Lars Olof Björn, Beth A. Middleton, Mateja Germ and Alenka Gaberščik

Diversity 2022, 14(7), 517; https://doi.org/10.3390/d14070517 - 27 Jun 2022

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 5273

Abstract

Molecular oxygen and carbon dioxide may be limited for aquatic plants, but they have various mechanisms for acquiring these gases from the atmosphere, soil, or metabolic processes. The most common adaptations of aquatic plants involve various aerenchymatic structures, which occur in various organs, [...] Read more.

Molecular oxygen and carbon dioxide may be limited for aquatic plants, but they have various mechanisms for acquiring these gases from the atmosphere, soil, or metabolic processes. The most common adaptations of aquatic plants involve various aerenchymatic structures, which occur in various organs, and enable the throughflow of gases. These gases can be transferred in emergent plants by molecular diffusion, pressurized gas flow, and Venturi-induced convection. In submerged species, the direct exchange of gases between submerged above-ground tissues and water occurs, as well as the transfer of gases via aerenchyma. Photosynthetic O₂ streams to the rhizosphere, while soil CO₂ streams towards leaves where it may be used for photosynthesis. In floating-leaved plants anchored in the anoxic sediment, two strategies have developed. In water lilies, air enters through the stomata of young leaves, and streams through channels towards rhizomes and roots, and back through older leaves, while in lotus, two-way flow in separate air canals in the petioles occurs. In Nypa Steck palm, aeration takes place via leaf bases with lenticels. Mangroves solve the problem of oxygen shortage with root structures such as pneumatophores, knee roots, and stilt roots. Some grasses have layers of air on hydrophobic leaf surfaces, which can improve the exchange of gases during submergence. Air spaces in wetland species also facilitate the release of greenhouse gases, with CH₄ and N₂O released from anoxic soil, which has important implications for global warming. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity of Inland Wetlands: Important Roles in Mitigation of Human Impacts)

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