Diversity

14 pages, 9499 KiB

Open AccessArticle

First Marine Fossil Otoliths (Teleostei) from East Africa (Tanzania)

by Werner W. Schwarzhans and Laura J. Cotton

Diversity 2025, 17(4), 255; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17040255 - 31 Mar 2025

Otoliths are common in the fossil record and can provide important insight into the evolution and spatial and stratigraphic distribution of fishes, but have remained understudied in many areas of the world. Here, we describe the first marine otolith assemblage from East Africa. [...] Read more.

Otoliths are common in the fossil record and can provide important insight into the evolution and spatial and stratigraphic distribution of fishes, but have remained understudied in many areas of the world. Here, we describe the first marine otolith assemblage from East Africa. The material is from Tanzania Drilling Project cores of late Eocene to early Oligocene age, spanning the Eocene-Oligocene transition (EOT). The assemblage consists of 10 identifiable species of which 5 are new, and 4 remain in open nomenclature. The new species are as follows: Protanago africanus, Bregmaceros tanzaniensis, Ortugobius pandeanus, “Serranus” plasmaticus, and Acanthocepola signanoae. The association of shallow and deep-water taxa along with the dominance of the family Cepolidae, which has not been observed in either the extant or fossil record, makes the faunal composition unusual. However, when taxon occurrences are correlated with stable isotope records from the same cores and compared with previous studies, it is clear the otoliths reflect the sea-level fall known to occur during the EOT, with deeper dwelling taxa in the late Eocene and taxa preferring shallower, which are more shelf-like environments in the early Oligocene. Full article

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

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15 pages, 955 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Genetic Diversity in Sporophytic Apomictic Neotropical Savanna Trees: Insights from Eriotheca and Handroanthus Agamic Complexes

by Rafaela Cabral Marinho, Mariana Gonçalves Mendes, Clesnan Mendes-Rodrigues, Ana Maria Bonetti, Eduardo Leite Borba, Paulo Eugênio Oliveira and Diana Salles Sampaio

Diversity 2025, 17(4), 254; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17040254 - 31 Mar 2025

Abstract

Apomictic populations, which produce seeds with embryos without proper sexual syngamy, often show low genetic diversity, but eventually, such diversity has been reported to be surprisingly high. We studied here the genetic diversity in agamic complexes of Eriotheca crenulata (comb. n. E. gracilipes [...] Read more.

Apomictic populations, which produce seeds with embryos without proper sexual syngamy, often show low genetic diversity, but eventually, such diversity has been reported to be surprisingly high. We studied here the genetic diversity in agamic complexes of Eriotheca crenulata (comb. n. E. gracilipes), E. pubescens (Malvaceae-Bombacoideae), and Handroanthus ochraceus (Bignoniaceae), tropical tree species from the savannas in Central Brazil. We evaluated the genetic diversity and structure of self-fertile polyploid sporophytic apomicts versus self-sterile diploid or tetraploid sexual populations by using dominant ISSR markers. Genetic diversity was either similar or even higher in apomictic populations of E. crenulata and E. pubescens, but the opposite was observed in some populations of H. ochraceus. Only two individuals of E. pubescens showed identical ISSR profiles, so strict clonality in adult individuals was very rare among the studied trees. The genetic variability was notably higher within populations than among populations of H. ochraceus and very similar among and within populations of Eriotheca species. Ordination, clustering, and Bayesian analyses showed a clear distinction between populations of Eriotheca species with different breeding systems. But for H. ochraceus, a sexual population was actually grouped with the apomictics. As in other studies, eventual sexual and recombination events seem to increase genetic diversity in apomictic populations. This may explain the similar genetic diversity among apomictic and sexual populations in the studied agamic complexes and the virtual absence of strict clonal individuals. The results have evolutionary and ecological consequences for the threatened Neotropical savanna trees. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Diversity)

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9 pages, 195 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Cold Exposure for Different Durations on Laboratory-Reared Habrobracon hebetor (Say) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae)

by Jianhua Lü, Chunqi Bai, Yafei Guo, Wenjing Liu and Yanli Yue

Diversity 2025, 17(4), 253; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17040253 - 31 Mar 2025

Abstract

Biological control by releasing a large number of parasitoids has been an effective strategy for coping with stored-product pest insects. Habrobracon hebetor (Say) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) has strong control capabilities over Lepidoptera pests. Exploring the optimum storage temperature, life stage, and cold storage period [...] Read more.

Biological control by releasing a large number of parasitoids has been an effective strategy for coping with stored-product pest insects. Habrobracon hebetor (Say) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) has strong control capabilities over Lepidoptera pests. Exploring the optimum storage temperature, life stage, and cold storage period of H. hebetor is of great importance for the utilization of parasitoids. In this context, the survival, parasitism, and fecundity of H. hebetor were evaluated after 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60 d of exposure at −5, 0, 5, 10, and 15 °C for H. hebetor eggs, larvae, pupae, and adults, and the survival, parasitism, and fecundity of H. hebetor individuals that had been maintained at normal rearing condition were taken as a control. The cold exposure duration dramatically affected the development and survival of eggs, larvae, and pupae of H. hebetor, regardless of the temperatures tested. Habrobracon hebetor eggs, larvae, and pupae failed to develop into the next life stage at −5, 0, and 5 °C. Habrobracon hebetor eggs, larvae, pupae, and adults failed to survive after 10 d exposure at −5 and 0 °C. The parasitism rate, fecundity and oviposition duration of H. hebetor adults that originated from eggs, larvae, pupae, and adults after different cold storage durations markedly decreased with increasing cold storage duration. The highest parasitism rate of adults was 34.12% after exposure at 5 °C for 10 d, which was not significantly different from the control (31.86%). The maximum level of egg production of H. hebetor adults developed from initial larvae exposed at 15 °C for 10 d and 20 d were 344.67 and 340.67 eggs/female, respectively, which were not significantly different from the control (392.00 eggs/female). When H. hebetor larvae were stored at 15 °C for 10 and 60 d, the oviposition duration of newly emerged adults reached the maximum and minimum levels recorded, with 17.00 and 0.83 d, respectively. These results provide empirical support for the large-scale production and storage of H. hebetor. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Pest Management and Its Role in Biodiversity Conservation)

20 pages, 2136 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Anglers Perceptions About European Catfish Silurus glanis in a Newly Invaded Region

by João Gago, Rui Rivaes, Diogo Ribeiro, Diogo Dias, Paul Castagné, Frédéric Santoul and Filipe Ribeiro

Diversity 2025, 17(4), 252; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17040252 - 31 Mar 2025

Abstract

To avoid the spread and environmental impacts of the European catfish (Silurus glanis), which arrived in Portugal around 2006, it is fundamental to understand anglers’ behaviors and perceptions. To address this need, 339 Portuguese anglers were surveyed online and face-to-face and [...] Read more.

To avoid the spread and environmental impacts of the European catfish (Silurus glanis), which arrived in Portugal around 2006, it is fundamental to understand anglers’ behaviors and perceptions. To address this need, 339 Portuguese anglers were surveyed online and face-to-face and divided into two groups (catfish anglers, n = 115; and non-catfish anglers, n = 224). The majority of surveyed anglers were males (>95%) who consider that catfish is not beneficial to the development of angling (>62%) and acknowledge its negative impact on other fish species (>84%), mainly by predation (>89%). Catfish anglers perceive the species as more positive for angling and for other fish species. Principal Component Analysis showed that anglers’ behaviors are mainly driven by their awareness of the impacts of European catfish and by their angling experience. Regression modeling inferred the probabilities of two anglers’ behavior (targeting catfish and practice of catch and release) and one perception (catfish is beneficial to angling), which are considered promoters of catfish invasion, and detected strong correlations among these three variables. Therefore, it is strongly advised to implement an educational and law enforcement program to stop illegal practices that promote the dissemination of invasive fish species like European catfish. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Impacts of Invasive Freshwater Fish on Native Fauna and Aquatic Ecosystems)

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19 pages, 2930 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Swedish Fauna of Freshwater Snails—An Overview of Zoogeography and Habitat Selection with Special Attention to Red-Listed Species

by Ted von Proschwitz

Diversity 2025, 17(4), 251; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17040251 - 31 Mar 2025

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to describe and analyse the present Swedish fauna of freshwater snails, based on material in museum collections, the literature, records in conservation reports and in databases. The Swedish fauna comprises 50 species (42 indigenous and 8 introduced). [...] Read more.

The aim of this paper is to describe and analyse the present Swedish fauna of freshwater snails, based on material in museum collections, the literature, records in conservation reports and in databases. The Swedish fauna comprises 50 species (42 indigenous and 8 introduced). Moreover, 31 out of 50 species belong to the superorder Hygrophila. The species’ zoogeography, ecology and conservation status are highlighted. The species distributions can roughly be classified according to four different geographical groups of patterns. 23 species have their northern limit within or close to the limes norrlandicus, an important biogeographical transition zone in Central Sweden. The history of the exploration of the fauna and groups/species with taxonomical/determination problems are discussed. The six species, which are present in the Swedish National Red List, are discussed in detail. Main threats include the exploitation of Swedish rivers and the changing of insolation in small water bodies due to vegetation alteration, eutrophication and drainage. The threat status of the species in the national Swedish list and the general European list are compared and show a high degree of agreement. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Freshwater Mollusk Research)

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13 pages, 1228 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Fish Community Composition in the Emur River, a Tributary of the Upper Heilongjiang (Amur) Basin in China

by Zepeng Zhang, Shenhui Li, Lianghan Pan, Haipeng Wang, Hongyu Jin, Wanqiao Lu and Lei Li

Diversity 2025, 17(4), 250; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17040250 - 31 Mar 2025

Abstract

This study investigated the fish species composition and environment of the Emur River, a tributary of the Upper Heilongjiang (Amur) River system, which is a typical extreme-cold region of China. From 2022 to 2024, 28 native species (27 species of fish and 1 [...] Read more.

This study investigated the fish species composition and environment of the Emur River, a tributary of the Upper Heilongjiang (Amur) River system, which is a typical extreme-cold region of China. From 2022 to 2024, 28 native species (27 species of fish and 1 species of lamprey), including 4 endangered species, were monitored from 14 sampling sites. When grouped according to the main stream vs. tributaries and summer vs. autumn, we found significant differences (p < 0.05) in the composition of the fish communities. In autumn, the main stream fish assemblage was dominated by common species that prefer a slow current, including Phoxinus phoxinus (33.7%), Lota lota (25.2%), and Phoxinus lagowskii (19.8%). The tributary fish assemblage was primarily composed of typical coldwater fish species, such as L. lota (48.9%), Cottus poecilopus (20.2%), and Thymallus grubii (18.1%). However, in summer, there was no significant difference between the main course and tributaries. Canonical correspondence analysis showed environmental factors, including water temperature, elevation, and dissolved oxygen, to have significant impacts on the fish distribution to an extent that varied with species. This study may contribute to the management of coldwater fish diversity in mountain rivers and the protection of aquatic species habitats in regions of extreme cold. Full article

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21 pages, 5267 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Diversity and Composition of Soil Microbes Associated with Barringtonia racemosa Communities

by Yutong Lin, Xiaohui Tan, Ju Hu, Yanping Yu, Xiuling Yang, Lin Li, Yanfang Tan, Zeting Dong, Yilan Wei and Fang Liang

Diversity 2025, 17(4), 249; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17040249 - 30 Mar 2025

Abstract

Understanding soil microbial community assembly in endangered mangrove ecosystems is crucial for ecological conservation. This study investigated the diversity and drivers of soil microbiomes across Barringtonia racemosa communities (pure: T1; associated: T2, T3) in China’s Leizhou Peninsula, using SMRT sequencing and phospholipid fatty [...] Read more.

Understanding soil microbial community assembly in endangered mangrove ecosystems is crucial for ecological conservation. This study investigated the diversity and drivers of soil microbiomes across Barringtonia racemosa communities (pure: T1; associated: T2, T3) in China’s Leizhou Peninsula, using SMRT sequencing and phospholipid fatty acid analysis. The results reveal that pure B. racemosa communities (T1) harbored the highest microbial diversity (Chao1: 2980 bacteria, 14,378 fungal OTUs), with Pseudomonadota (37.6%) and Ascomycota (52.6%) as dominant phyla. Fungal communities exhibited 3.2-fold higher β-diversity variability than bacteria across communities (Bray–Curtis; p < 0.01). Redundancy analysis identified soil organic carbon (SOC), available nitrogen (SAN), and leaf manganese as primary drivers, collectively explaining 72.4% of microbial variation (p = 0.003). Notably, pure communities showed an elevated SOC (74.3 mg/kg) and fungal: bacterial ratio (0.19 vs. 0.13–0.14 in associated communities), indicating fungal dominance in carbon-rich sediments. Conversely, rice field controls displayed distinct SAP/SAK patterns reflecting agricultural impacts. These findings demonstrate that the B. racemosa community structure differentially regulates fungal assemblages more strongly than bacterial communities, providing critical insights for mangrove restoration through microbial-informed management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 15th Anniversary of Diversity—Biodiversity, Conservation and Ecology of Animals, Plants and Microorganisms)

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13 pages, 5914 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Spatiotemporal Ecology of an Imperiled Cushion Plant Assemblage at a North American Rocky Mountain Summit: Implications for Diversity Conservation

by Fernando Forster Furquim and John Derek Scasta

Diversity 2025, 17(4), 248; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17040248 - 30 Mar 2025

Abstract

Conservation of rare plant species diversity is often found within the context of disturbance and land use planning. In mountainous regions, globally, critical plant conservation issues can occur at esthetically pleasing topoedaphic positions, such as popular mountain summits. Here, we assess the spatiotemporal [...] Read more.

Conservation of rare plant species diversity is often found within the context of disturbance and land use planning. In mountainous regions, globally, critical plant conservation issues can occur at esthetically pleasing topoedaphic positions, such as popular mountain summits. Here, we assess the spatiotemporal ecology of an imperiled cushion plant assemblage in such a situation. Plant community dynamics of three rare cushion plant species [scented pussytoes (Antennaria aromatica), Howard’s alpine forget-me-not (Eritrichum howardii), and Shoshone carrot (Shoshonea pulvinata)] were measured at a 2475 m mountain summit near Cody, WY, USA. The survey was conducted in the summer of 2017–2019 using 1 m² quadrats across three macroplots (ranging from 295 to 2250 m² in size) to estimate all vascular plant species abundance. Altitude, canopy height, vegetative cover, standing dead biomass, rock, litter, and bare soil were also measured. We assessed annual changes in abundances, richness (#), evenness (N2/N1), and diversity (H′) and performed a constrained ordination to understand ecological drivers of distribution. Nineteen total plant species were identified, all of which were native perennial species. Five additional species were also noted to be species of conservation concern. For the three rare cushion plants of focus, abundance did not significantly change over the three-year period. Species richness was lower in 2017 than in subsequent years, but there was no difference in evenness or diversity. In the constrained ordination, the first axis explained 56.1% of the variation and was attributed to the rock-to-vegetation gradient of the environment, while the second axis explained an additional 28.7% of the variance and was attributed to altitude. The three rare cushion plants of focus appeared to segregate and occupy differential habitat niches. The popularity of this mountain peak, coupled with the presence of a diverse rare cushion plant community, should facilitate the careful monitoring and management of tourism to ensure the conservation of diversity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biodiversity Conservation)

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14 pages, 2543 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Land Use on Soil Arthropod Communities

by Loris Galli, Tony Molyneux, Enea Trombini and Matteo Zinni

Diversity 2025, 17(4), 247; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17040247 - 29 Mar 2025

Abstract

The impact of agricultural practices and changes in land use on soil microarthropod communities was investigated by analyzing the data from 53 sample sites with five different land-use categories (natural habitats, orchards, arable crops, olive groves and vineyards). These datasets are a mix [...] Read more.

The impact of agricultural practices and changes in land use on soil microarthropod communities was investigated by analyzing the data from 53 sample sites with five different land-use categories (natural habitats, orchards, arable crops, olive groves and vineyards). These datasets are a mix of published and unpublished studies and were analyzed using statistical techniques that enabled a determination and comparison of the values of the biological soil quality index for each of the five land-use systems based on the richness and community composition of the biological forms of the microarthropods identified (QBS-ar), and the chemical and physical properties of the soil [e.g., pH, soil organic carbon (SOC), dominant particle sizes present (e.g., clay) and texture] for each locality. Our results confirm that different agricultural practices diminish, in different ways, the dominance and variety of species present in soil microarthropod communities. Furthermore, these agroecosystem communities represent a sub-sample of the soil microarthropod communities found in natural habitats; presumably due to the stress factors experienced from impact(s) of the differing chemical and physical properties of the soils, and the resultant selection pressures placed upon the biological forms present in the soil. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Land-Use Change, Rural Practices and Animal Diversity)

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24 pages, 4593 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Depauperate Small Mammal Assemblage in Wolin National Park (Poland): Effects of Insular Isolation, Topography, and Vegetation

by Mateusz Ciechanowski, Zuzanna Wikar, Teresa Kowalewska, Maksymilian Wojtkiewicz, Julia Brachman, Bartosz Sarnowski, Katarzyna Borzym and Amelia Rydzyńska

Diversity 2025, 17(4), 246; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17040246 - 29 Mar 2025

Abstract

Terrestrial small mammal species typically assemble according to plant communities, but multiple factors, including large-scale geographic patterns, influence their assemblage structure. Despite their ecological significance, small mammals are often underrepresented in biodiversity assessments, and many Polish national parks lack comprehensive surveys. This is [...] Read more.

Terrestrial small mammal species typically assemble according to plant communities, but multiple factors, including large-scale geographic patterns, influence their assemblage structure. Despite their ecological significance, small mammals are often underrepresented in biodiversity assessments, and many Polish national parks lack comprehensive surveys. This is also the case for Wolin National Park (WNP), Poland’s only national park on a coastal marine island, which is known for its unique bat fauna. Here, we surveyed small mammals in WNP using live and pitfall trapping, identifying only nine species—the lowest richness among the five regional national parks (which host 11–13 species based on trapping data alone). Rarefaction analysis indicated a very low probability of detecting additional species with further sampling. This unexpectedly low richness is likely linked to insular isolation and the park’s location at the edge of the regional distributions of three species. Cluster analysis revealed a key pattern in WNP’s small mammal assemblages: a division between two distinct landscape units—moraine hills and the alluvial delta—where Apodemus flavicollis and Apodemus agrarius were the predominant species, respectively. This division had a greater influence on assemblage clustering than local vegetation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Diversity)

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17 pages, 1911 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Structure of Non-Indigenous Fouling Assemblages and Biocontamination Levels in Portuguese Recreational Marinas Under Different Salinity Conditions

by Jesús Fernández-Gutiérrez, Marcos Rubal, Leandro Sampaio, Juan Moreira, Fran Ramil, Isabel Sousa-Pinto and Puri Veiga

Diversity 2025, 17(4), 245; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17040245 - 29 Mar 2025

Abstract

The number of recreational marinas has increased in recent years due to the growing demand for leisure boating. Recreational marinas are key points for the introduction of non-indigenous species (NIS), which are considered a source of biocontamination. However, there is scarce knowledge on [...] Read more.

The number of recreational marinas has increased in recent years due to the growing demand for leisure boating. Recreational marinas are key points for the introduction of non-indigenous species (NIS), which are considered a source of biocontamination. However, there is scarce knowledge on the influence of environmental features on NIS fouling assemblages, especially regarding different salinity conditions. The aim of this study is to explore the effect of salinity on the structure of NIS fouling assemblages and biocontamination levels. Therefore, fouling assemblages associated with floating pontoons were studied in recreational marinas located in fully marine and brackish habitats on the Northern Portuguese coast. Twenty-four NIS were found, of which arthropods and bryozoans represented the most abundant taxa. Except for NIS abundance, univariate and multivariate analyses showed that NIS assemblage structure was shaped by salinity conditions. Thus, NIS richness and the ratio between NIS richness and total richness were significantly higher in marine than in brackish habitats. Similarly, consistently higher biocontamination levels were found in marine habitats, compromising their ecological status. Quantitative data provided here will be useful in the development of NIS management strategies. Thus, in Northern Portugal, efforts should be focused on marinas under fully marine salinity conditions because they harbor a greater number of NIS and, consequently, a worse ecological status. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Impacts of Invasive Species on Local Biodiversity and Ecology in the Context of Climate Change)

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11 pages, 3124 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Genetic Diversity of Tourist-Habituated Rhesus Macaques Inhabiting Wulongkou Area, Jiyuan, China: Based on Deceased Individuals

by Yuwei Wang, Yanyan Zhou, Tongtong Luo, Jundong Tian and Jiqi Lu

Diversity 2025, 17(4), 244; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17040244 - 29 Mar 2025

Abstract

Rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta), the iconic species of genus Macaca, is characterized by the greatest geographical distribution of all nonhuman primates and is an important resource in many wildlife-related tourism areas, especially in China. In the current study, the genetic [...] Read more.

Rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta), the iconic species of genus Macaca, is characterized by the greatest geographical distribution of all nonhuman primates and is an important resource in many wildlife-related tourism areas, especially in China. In the current study, the genetic diversity was assessed by ten microsatellite loci with DNA obtained from muscle tissue of deceased individuals of free-ranging but tourist-habituated rhesus population naturally inhabiting the Wulongkou Scenic Area, Jiyuan, China, where they have been exploited for tourism since the early 1980s. The results showed that the genetic diversity for the studied rhesus population was relatively lower compared with its wild and captive counterparts, and the samples collected from the population subdivision in the studied area could mask the finding. Therefore, we proposed that a group-based study of the genetic diversity would help to clarify the genetic structure/diversity of rhesus macaques in this area, and then reasonable management recommendations could be provided for the sustainable development of local wildlife-dominated tourism. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biodiversity Conservation)

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15 pages, 8307 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Distribution and Conservation Gaps of Nautilus pompilius: A Study Based on Species Distribution Models

by Xianshui Lai, Linlin Zhao, Wenhao Huang, Lusita Meilana, Tingting Li, Kaiyu Liu, Bei Wang, Bailin Cong and Shenghao Liu

Diversity 2025, 17(4), 243; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17040243 - 28 Mar 2025

Abstract

Nautilus pompilius, a ‘living fossil’ of the oceans, is crucial to the study of biological evolution and paleontology. However, the species’ habitat has been severely impacted by global climate change. Based on this, species distribution models and conservation gap analyses were conducted [...] Read more.

Nautilus pompilius, a ‘living fossil’ of the oceans, is crucial to the study of biological evolution and paleontology. However, the species’ habitat has been severely impacted by global climate change. Based on this, species distribution models and conservation gap analyses were conducted under current and future climate scenarios. The results revealed that the current habitats for N. pompilius were primarily located in the coastal waters of Australia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. Under the Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP) 4.5 scenario, suitable habitat is projected to decline by 4.8% in the 2050s and 5.3% in 2100s. This loss is expected to intensify under higher emission scenarios, particularly RCP 8.5, where the reduction could reach 15.4% in the 2100s. Conservation gap analysis indicates that while nearly 30% of suitable habitats fall within marine protected areas (MPAs), many vulnerable regions remain unprotected. Future MPA establishment should strategically address these conservation gaps, particularly in coastal waters such as the Gulf of Carpentaria, the Arafura Sea, and the southern edge of the Timor Sea. This study provides critical insights into the distribution patterns and conservation needs of N. pompilius, emphasizing the urgent need for targeted conservation efforts to protect this endangered species. Full article

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20 pages, 6380 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Flora and Phytochorology of Lahij Governorate of Yemen: 3-Systematic Revision of Malvaceae s.l. in Toor Al-Baha District

by Othman S. S. Al-Hawshabi, Ahmed K. Osman, Ahmed M. Abbas, Rahmah N. AlQthanin and Mohamed O. Badry

Diversity 2025, 17(4), 242; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17040242 - 28 Mar 2025

Abstract

This study presents a thorough revision of the Malvaceae s.l. (sensu lato) family within the Flora of the Toor Al-Baha District, Lahij Governorate, South Yemen. The documented taxa were subjected to morphological revision alongside an analysis of life forms and chorological affinities. Thirty [...] Read more.

This study presents a thorough revision of the Malvaceae s.l. (sensu lato) family within the Flora of the Toor Al-Baha District, Lahij Governorate, South Yemen. The documented taxa were subjected to morphological revision alongside an analysis of life forms and chorological affinities. Thirty taxa are categorized into 12 genera within four subfamilies. Each species is presented with its current classification, accepted names, synonyms (when applicable), vernacular names (when applicable), photographs, and distribution to aid in identifying and recognizing these species. The documented mallow species comprises 80% perennials and 20% annuals. Chamaephytes constituted the predominant life forms, comprising 50% of the total taxa surveyed. A phytogeographical analysis revealed that chorotypes with Sudano-Zambezian affinities are predominant, comprising 83.34% of the recorded mallows. The two subfamilies, Grewioideae and Sterculioideae, are distinguished by the lack of an epicalyx and the presence of an androgynophore, unlike the subfamilies Dombeyoideae and Malvoideae. The highest richness genera included Grewia, with seven taxa, and Hibiscus, Abutilon, and Corchorus, each comprising four species. The research presented nine artificial keys for wild mallows in the Lahij Governorate, comprising three for subfamilies and six for genera. Full article

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13 pages, 3680 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Geometric Morphometric Analysis of Adult and Juvenile Turtle Shells: Directional Asymmetry and Fluctuating Asymmetry

by Ece Oktay, İlayda Boz Doğan, Sokol Duro, Gülsün Pazvant, Funda Yiğit and Tomasz Szara

Diversity 2025, 17(4), 241; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17040241 - 28 Mar 2025

Abstract

Bilateral symmetry is quite common in animals, but in some cases, asymmetry can be altered by hereditary or developmental processes. Symmetry may be preserved, or asymmetry may increase as the developmental stages progress. This study applied geometric morphometric analyses at the juvenile and [...] Read more.

Bilateral symmetry is quite common in animals, but in some cases, asymmetry can be altered by hereditary or developmental processes. Symmetry may be preserved, or asymmetry may increase as the developmental stages progress. This study applied geometric morphometric analyses at the juvenile and adult stages to investigate directional asymmetry and fluctuating asymmetry in turtle shells. In total, 71 turtle shells (46 adults, 25 juveniles) of Testudo hermanni boettgeri were used. These turtle shells were recorded using the Generalized Procrustes method to interpret developmental asymmetry. A covariance matrix was then applied, followed by principal component analysis. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was used to explain individual variation. The procedures were applied and interpreted separately to the carapace and plastron. Specific structures, such as the nuchal and neural plates, exhibited a narrower shape than the mean shape configuration in directional asymmetry. The epiplastron region showed significant enlargement in juveniles compared to adults, potentially linked to developmental growth. This study investigated fluctuating asymmetry (FA) and directional asymmetry (DA) in turtle shells by analyzing the carapace and plastron. Although wavy asymmetry was not statistically significant overall, localized shape differences between the edges of the coastal and neural plates of the carapace and the edges of the plastron were observed. The side effects showed statistical significance (p = 0.0005). Environmental or developmental factors may have influenced these differences. Directional asymmetry was statistically significant for the carapace and plastron, indicating consistent shape changes associated with developmental growth. This study revealed significant directional asymmetry in the carapace and plastron of Testudo hermanni boettgeri, reflecting consistent developmental trends. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biology and Evolutionary History of Reptiles)

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19 pages, 2135 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Long-Term Set-Aside Management System on Soil Health by Evaluation of Biodiversity Indicators

by Silvia Landi, Francesco Binazzi, Rossella Papini, Giada d’Errico, Sara Del Duca, Arturo Fabiani and Stefano Mocali

Diversity 2025, 17(4), 240; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17040240 - 28 Mar 2025

Abstract

The loss of organic matter and the decline of biodiversity pose significant threats to soil health and the sustainability of agriculture. Managing set-aside land through mowing remains a practical strategy to prevent land abandonment while preserving soil biodiversity and essential soil functions that [...] Read more.

The loss of organic matter and the decline of biodiversity pose significant threats to soil health and the sustainability of agriculture. Managing set-aside land through mowing remains a practical strategy to prevent land abandonment while preserving soil biodiversity and essential soil functions that support fertility. The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of long-term set-aside (12 years) in preventing soil degradation. In an experimental field in Vicarello (Pisa, Italy), set-aside management was compared to land abandonment and conventional crop rotation. Soil chemical and microbiological analyses were conducted, and various indicators were used to assess soil fertility conservation. Soil biodiversity was evaluated through nematode and microarthropod indices. Total organic carbon increased in abandoned fields and, to a lesser extent, in set-aside areas, following a similar trend to microbial biomass values. Nematode and microarthropod indicators revealed a more stable soil structure in set-aside areas, followed by abandoned fields, highlighting their role in regulating ecosystem services such as carbon mineralization. On the whole, the results indicate that set-aside management serves as an intermediate step in the transition from conventionally managed fields to naturalized grasslands, confirming its potential benefits for soil biological diversity and function. Full article

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

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18 pages, 5036 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effects of Salinity on the Growth, Survival, and Feeding of Sanderia malayensis (Cnidaria: Scyphozoa) Ephyrae

by Kyong-Ho Shin and Keun-Hyung Choi

Diversity 2025, 17(4), 239; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17040239 - 27 Mar 2025

Abstract

Sanderia malayensis is a species from the phylum Cnidaria, class Scyphozoa, and order Semaeostomeae, found in tropical waters, including the Red Sea, Indian Ocean, and Malaysian waters. Its distribution extends to the waters of Australia and Japan. This study aimed to evaluate the [...] Read more.

Sanderia malayensis is a species from the phylum Cnidaria, class Scyphozoa, and order Semaeostomeae, found in tropical waters, including the Red Sea, Indian Ocean, and Malaysian waters. Its distribution extends to the waters of Australia and Japan. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of salinity on the growth and survival of Sanderia malayensis ephyrae and to determine its optimal salinity range. The experimental design included two temperature conditions (20 °C and 24 °C) and three salinity levels (21 PSU, 24 PSU, and 27 PSU). The results indicated that growth and feeding abilities were significantly higher in 24 PSU and 27 PSU environments compared to 21 PSU, with the best results observed at both temperatures. Survival rates were higher at 24 PSU (20 °C: 90%, 24 °C: 79%) and 27 PSU (20 °C: 87%, 24 °C: 86%) compared to 21 PSU (20 °C: 70%, 24 °C: 55%). Despite lower survival at 21 PSU, the species demonstrated wide environmental adaptability. These findings suggest that Sanderia malayensis ephyrae are highly adaptable to varying salinity conditions, indicating the potential for the species to expand its distribution into South Korean waters and other East Asian marine ecosystems, including China and Japan, which are impacted by climate change. Full article

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12 pages, 5316 KiB

Open AccessBrief Report

First Record of the European Hake Merluccius merluccius (Linnaeus, 1758) in Bulgarian Black Sea Waters

by Violin Stoyanov Raykov, Petya Ivanova, Maria Yankova, Nina Dzhembekova, Dimitar Petkov Dimitrov and Bogdan Prodanov

Diversity 2025, 17(4), 238; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17040238 - 27 Mar 2025

Abstract

One specimen of the non-native European hake, Merluccius merluccius (Linnaeus, 1758), was caught in July 2023 in the offshore waters of the Bulgarian Black Sea. The species was identified based on its morphological characteristics (15 morphometric and 5 meristic) and DNA barcoding. The [...] Read more.

One specimen of the non-native European hake, Merluccius merluccius (Linnaeus, 1758), was caught in July 2023 in the offshore waters of the Bulgarian Black Sea. The species was identified based on its morphological characteristics (15 morphometric and 5 meristic) and DNA barcoding. The male specimen had a total length of 375 mm and a weight of 417.5 g. Its age was determined as 4 years. A fragment of the cytochrome b gene from its mitochondrial DNA was sequenced to support species identification. A phylogenetic analysis revealed a 100% genetic identity between the Bulgarian specimen and a M. merluccius sequence available in GenBank. This is the first documented report of this boreal-subtropic, benthopelagic fish species along the Bulgarian Black Sea coast. The record of the European hake confirms its presence along the western Black Sea coast. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Marine Diversity)

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17 pages, 3156 KiB

Open AccessArticle

FGBNet: A Bio-Subspecies Classification Network with Multi-Level Feature Interaction

by Yang Yuan, Danping Huang, Bingbin Cai, Yang Shen, Jingdan Wang, Jiale Xv and Siyu Chen

Diversity 2025, 17(4), 237; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17040237 - 27 Mar 2025

Abstract

Biodiversity is a foundation for maintaining ecosystem health and stability, while precise species identification is crucial to monitoring and protecting ecosystems. Subspecies of organisms, as carriers of genetic diversity, play key roles in ecosystem stability and adaptive evolution. Accurate identification of subspecies helps [...] Read more.

Biodiversity is a foundation for maintaining ecosystem health and stability, while precise species identification is crucial to monitoring and protecting ecosystems. Subspecies of organisms, as carriers of genetic diversity, play key roles in ecosystem stability and adaptive evolution. Accurate identification of subspecies helps deepen our understanding of species distribution, ecological relationships, and change trends, providing a scientific basis for effective protection strategies. Therefore, this study proposes FineGrained-BioNet (FGBNet), a deep learning network model specifically constructed for fine-grained bio-subspecies image classification. The model combines a detail information supplement module, multi-level feature interaction, and a coordinate attention (CA) mechanism to improve the accuracy and efficiency of bio-subspecies classification. Through experimentation and optimization, the ConvNeXt is selected as the backbone network for FGBNet feature extraction, and the effectiveness of the multi-level feature interaction method is verified. Additionally, the optimal placement of the CA mechanism within the network is also explored. The experimental results show that, compared with ConvNeXt-Tiny, FGBNet achieved an increase of 6.204% in accuracy by increasing parameter quantity by only 5.702%, reaching an accuracy of 90.748%. This indicates that FGBNet significantly improves classification accuracy while maintaining computational efficiency. The proposed method facilitates more accurate subspecies classification, promoting the development of biodiversity monitoring and providing strong technical support for biodiversity conservation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Applications of Emerging Technologies on Biodiversity Conservation)

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