Diversity

12 pages, 3091 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Two New Edible Lyophyllum Species from Tibetan Areas, China

by Shuhong Li, Songming Tang, Jun He and Dequn Zhou

Diversity 2023, 15(9), 1027; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15091027 - 21 Sep 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1702

Two new species, Lyophyllum yiqunyang and L. heimogu, that belong to the section Difformia of the genus Lyophyllum, are described based on collections from Tibetan areas, China. The two species are delicious edible low-temperature mushrooms and are widely collected and [...] Read more.

Two new species, Lyophyllum yiqunyang and L. heimogu, that belong to the section Difformia of the genus Lyophyllum, are described based on collections from Tibetan areas, China. The two species are delicious edible low-temperature mushrooms and are widely collected and eaten by local people. Lyophyllum yiqunyang sp. nov. is saprotrophic and has medium-sized basidiomata, olive-grey pileus, cheilocystidia, absent pleurocystidia, globose to subglobose basidiospores (6.12–6.31 × 6.02–6.23 μm) and clamp connections at the pileus context, hymenophoral trama and stipe. Lyophyllum heimogu sp. nov. is saprotrophic and has a dark grey to olive pileus, medium-sized basidiomata and globose to subglobose basidiospores (5.31–5.63 × 5.22–5.41 μm). In the phylogenetic analyses, our two new species formed distinct clades that are well supported by posterior probabilities and bootstrap proportions. Detailed descriptions, colour photos, illustrations and a phylogenetic tree to show the positions of the two new species are presented. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Hidden Fungal Diversity in Asia 2.0)

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19 pages, 3189 KiB

Open AccessReview

A Review of Ixodid Ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) Associated with Lacerta spp. (Reptilia: Lacertidae) from the Caucasus and Adjacent Territory

by Maria V. Orlova, Igor V. Doronin, Marina A. Doronina and Nikolay V. Anisimov

Diversity 2023, 15(9), 1026; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15091026 - 21 Sep 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1807

Abstract

Based on a literature review, as well as on our own data, 14 ixodid tick species belonging to 5 genera were registered for the lizard hosts of the genus Lacerta (L. agilis, L. media, and L. strigata) in the [...] Read more.

Based on a literature review, as well as on our own data, 14 ixodid tick species belonging to 5 genera were registered for the lizard hosts of the genus Lacerta (L. agilis, L. media, and L. strigata) in the Caucasus and the adjacent territories: Haemaphysalis sulcata, Haem. punctata, Haem. parva, Haem. caucasica, Haem. concinna, Haem. inermis, Ixodes ricinus, I. redikorzevi, Dermacentor marginatus, D. reticulatus, Hyalomma marginatum, Rhipicephalus bursa, Rh. rossicum, and Rh. turanicum. Tick species Haem. caucasica were recorded from Armenia for the first time. Our findings of Haem. punctata represent the first record of this species for Chechnya, Ingushetia (Russia), Armenia, and Azerbaijan. Most of the parasite species are associated with L. agilis (13) and L. strigata (12); L. media is a host of 6 tick species. Data on the infestation of Lacerta spp. by four tick species from our material (I. ricinus, Haem. punctata, Haem. caucasica, and Hyal. marginatum) are presented in the article. In addition, our article contains information on the range of infections associated with the above tick species. Castor bean tick I. ricinus (236 specimens), the most represented species in our collection, parasitizes all available terrestrial vertebrates including humans and can be vector of many various pathogens, so our study provides significant epidemiological information. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Herpetofauna of Eurasia)

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5 pages, 5388 KiB

Open AccessInteresting Images

Branching Lithophyllum Coralline Algae: Dominant Reef Builders on Herbivory-Depressed Tropical Reefs after High Coral Mortality

by Tom Schils

Diversity 2023, 15(9), 1025; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15091025 - 21 Sep 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1574

Abstract

A unique shift in benthic community composition, where scleractinian corals are replaced by coralline algae, has been observed on coral reefs in Guam in the western Pacific. Guam’s reefs have been subjected to intense fishing pressure and impaired water quality for decades. Since [...] Read more.

A unique shift in benthic community composition, where scleractinian corals are replaced by coralline algae, has been observed on coral reefs in Guam in the western Pacific. Guam’s reefs have been subjected to intense fishing pressure and impaired water quality for decades. Since 2013, heat stress has emerged as an additional major threat to the island’s coral reefs. After a severe coral bleaching and mortality event in 2017, branching coralline algae of the genus Lithophyllum rapidly overgrew dead coral skeletons of the ecosystem engineer Acropora abrotanoides and have since become major components of forereef communities over a broad depth range. By now, the persistence of increased Lithophyllum cover meets the temporal criterium of phase shifts, but accurate estimates on the degree of dominance over appropriate spatial scales are lacking due to the absence of reliable baseline data. The ecological impacts of coral reef transitions towards increased coralline cover are unclear. Whereas carbonate budgets and reef growth could remain positive in the long term, the downstream effect of changes in structural complexity, (micro)habitat diversity, and benthic community composition on ecological processes and reef-associated faunal assemblages is unknown. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Interesting Images from the Sea)

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22 pages, 7632 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dynamics of Zooplankton along the Romanian Black Sea Coastline: Temporal Variation, Community Structure, and Environmental Drivers

by Elena Bișinicu, Luminița Lazăr and Florin Timofte

Diversity 2023, 15(9), 1024; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15091024 - 20 Sep 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1518

Abstract

Between 2013 and 2020, a total of 27 distinct zooplankton taxa, encompassing both holoplanktonic and meroplanktonic organisms spanning different classes and orders, were successfully identified along the Romanian Black Sea coastline. The seasonal dispersion patterns of these zooplankton taxa revealed a notable augmentation [...] Read more.

Between 2013 and 2020, a total of 27 distinct zooplankton taxa, encompassing both holoplanktonic and meroplanktonic organisms spanning different classes and orders, were successfully identified along the Romanian Black Sea coastline. The seasonal dispersion patterns of these zooplankton taxa revealed a notable augmentation in species identification during the warmer periods, contrasting with reduced zooplankton diversity during the colder seasons. This phenomenon was underscored by the outcomes of SIMPER analysis, which highlighted that copepods, meroplankton, and cladocerans predominantly contributed to the community structure during warmer seasons. In contrast, during colder seasons, cladocerans were scarcely represented, and the density levels of copepods and meroplankton were diminished. From a quantitative perspective, the dinoflagellate Noctiluca scintillans, exhibited its highest density and biomass during the warm season, with a relatively lower representation during colder periods. The variation in the abundance of zooplankton was closely linked to changes in salinity and temperature, culminating in noticeable fluctuations, which were particularly evident during the cold season. During this period, the values of zooplankton abundance were notably lower compared to those observed in the warmer season. The comprehension of zooplankton dynamics stands as a critical facet for assessing biodiversity, monitoring ecosystem well-being, and guiding conservation endeavours. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in the Diversity and Ecology of Zooplankton)

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Graphical abstract

26 pages, 25677 KiB

Open AccessReview

Hypecoum spp.—Chemistry and Biological Activity of Alkaloids

by Nadezhda Kostova and Tsvetelina Doncheva

Diversity 2023, 15(9), 1023; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15091023 - 19 Sep 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1283

Abstract

Genus Hypecoum Tourn. ex L. belongs to the poppy family Papaveraceae and comprises about 19 species occurring in Europe, Northern Africa and Asia. Hypecoum species have been widely used in traditional medicine as antipyretic, analgesic and anti-inflammatory remedies. Their effects are associated with [...] Read more.

Genus Hypecoum Tourn. ex L. belongs to the poppy family Papaveraceae and comprises about 19 species occurring in Europe, Northern Africa and Asia. Hypecoum species have been widely used in traditional medicine as antipyretic, analgesic and anti-inflammatory remedies. Their effects are associated with the biologically and pharmacologically active isoquinoline alkaloids in them, such as protopines, protoberberines, benzophenanthridines, aporphines, simple isoquinolines, secoberbines, spirobenzylisoquinolines and others. In this study, we aimed to review and organize information on ethnomedicinal, phytochemical, chemotaxonomical and pharmacological studies of alkaloids and extracts obtained from Hypecoum plants, and to suggest opportunities for further research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Chemistry and Biology of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants)

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14 pages, 7408 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Active Coral Restoration to Preserve the Biodiversity of a Highly Impacted Reef in the Maldives

by Irene Pancrazi, Kayla Feairheller, Hassan Ahmed, Carolina di Napoli and Monica Montefalcone

Diversity 2023, 15(9), 1022; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15091022 - 19 Sep 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3974

Abstract

Maldivian coral reefs have been experiencing significant degradation due to a combination of global climate change and local anthropogenic pressures. To enforce the conservation of coral reefs worldwide, coral restoration is becoming a popular tool to restore ecosystems actively. In the Maldives, restoration [...] Read more.

Maldivian coral reefs have been experiencing significant degradation due to a combination of global climate change and local anthropogenic pressures. To enforce the conservation of coral reefs worldwide, coral restoration is becoming a popular tool to restore ecosystems actively. In the Maldives, restoration interventions are performed only around touristic islands, where there are economic resources available to support these projects. Unfortunately, on local islands, coral restoration does not benefit from the same support and is rarely boosted. A challenging coral restoration experiment has been performed, for the first time, on a local island of the Maldives affected by intense human pressures that caused the degradation of its reefs. A total of 242 coral fragments were collected from impacted colonies and transferred to the coral nursery of the island. Survival and growth rates of the fragments were monitored for 12 months. After one year, a survival rate of 70% was recorded. Although this rate might appear lower when compared to other restoration experiences, it is very promising considering the origin of the fragments and the poor quality of the environment where they have been transplanted. Some potential threats to the success of this restoration have also been identified, i.e., water temperature anomaly, diseases, and parasites, the latter being the leading causes of coral mortality. The procedure presented here is less expensive compared to the typical relocation of entire coral colonies from donor-healthy reefs to degraded reefs, thus providing an opportunity and a viable option for local islands to restore their reefs and preserve local biodiversity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Marine Ecosystem Restoration: Challenges and Opportunities)

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16 pages, 2429 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Population Structure and Phylogeography of Marine Gastropods Monodonta labio and M. confusa (Trochidae) along the Northwestern Pacific Coast

by Yuh-Wen Chiu, Hor Bor, Jin-Xian Wu, Bao-Sen Shieh and Hung-Du Lin

Diversity 2023, 15(9), 1021; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15091021 - 17 Sep 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1434

Abstract

The genetic structure and demographic history of marine organisms are influenced by biological and ecological features, oceanic currents, and the paleo-geological effects of sea-level fluctuations. In this study, we used mitochondrial COI + 16S gene analysis to investigate the phylogeographic pattern and demography [...] Read more.

The genetic structure and demographic history of marine organisms are influenced by biological and ecological features, oceanic currents, and the paleo-geological effects of sea-level fluctuations. In this study, we used mitochondrial COI + 16S gene analysis to investigate the phylogeographic pattern and demography of Monodonta labio and M. confusa in Taiwan, the Ryukyu Islands, Japan, mainland China, and Korea. Our genetic analysis identified two major lineages that were not evident from the distribution patterns of different populations. The Taiwan Strait, which acted as a land bridge during Pleistocene glaciations, and the lack of strong dispersal barriers to gene flow between ocean basins after glaciations shaped the phylogeographic pattern. The genetic differentiation in the Ryukyu Islands was influenced by the specialist-generalist variation hypothesis and the Kuroshio Current. Bayesian skyline plot analyses suggested that the effective population size of M. labio and M. confusa rapidly increased approximately 0.1 and 0.075 million years ago, respectively. Our approximate Bayesian computation analysis suggested that all M. labio and M. confusa populations experienced a decline in population size following a recent population expansion and constant size, respectively. Our study provides a baseline for future investigations of the biogeographical patterns of marine gastropods in the Northwest Pacific and offers valuable insights for the management, sustainable resource utilization, and conservation of this species. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Evaluating the Influence of Environmental Variables on Fish Ecology and Diversity)

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17 pages, 4700 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Transcriptomic Analysis of Medicago truncatula under Long-Day Conditions

by Wenju Luo, Yajiao Li, Peijie Ma, Caijun Chen, Longjiao Yang, Dengming He and Xiaoli Wang

Diversity 2023, 15(9), 1020; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15091020 - 15 Sep 2023

Viewed by 1378

Abstract

The objective of this research was to understand the expression characteristics and biological functions of Medicago truncatula genes under long-day conditions. The leaves of “R108” tribulus Medicago truncatula at the branch stage (A), bud stage (B), initial flowering stage (C), and full flowering [...] Read more.

The objective of this research was to understand the expression characteristics and biological functions of Medicago truncatula genes under long-day conditions. The leaves of “R108” tribulus Medicago truncatula at the branch stage (A), bud stage (B), initial flowering stage (C), and full flowering stage (D) were sequenced using RNA-Seq technology. The genome of Medicago truncatula, a related species of Medicago truncatula, was used as the reference genome for sequence comparison. The transcriptomes of three adjacent periods (A vs. B, B vs. C, and C vs. D) were analyzed for differential gene expression and these genes were screened. A total of 6875 differentially expressed genes were detected. GO functional analysis showed that differentially expressed genes were mainly involved in biological processes, cell components, and molecular functions, among which the most differentially expressed genes were involved in the synthesis of cell components. KEGG enrichment analysis showed that the differentially expressed genes were mainly involved in circadian rhythm, photosynthetic antenna protein, ribosome metabolism, and other pathways. The number of single nucleotide variants detected by cSNP analysis was 312,875, and the frequency of A/G and C/T were the highest. The function of eggNOG was divided into 23 categories, with a total of 26,745 genes having similarities, while 9008 genes were classified as having an unknown function, 2669 genes were classified as part of signal transduction mechanisms, and 2194 genes were classified as being involved in transcription. In different developmental stages (A vs. B, B vs. C, and C vs. D), 3463 up-regulated and 3412 down-regulated differentially expressed genes were found. The difference between up-regulated and down-regulated genes was more noteworthy at the bud stage and the initial flowering stage. In addition, a total of 79 flowering genes were found, of which 51 differential genes were identified as participating in the photoperiodic regulation pathway, consisting of 23 differential genes that were up-regulated, and 28 differential genes that were down-regulated. The ratios of gene-LOC11410562(GI), gene-LOC11435974(CO), gene-LOC11422615(TOC1), and gene-LOC11432385(LHY) were higher than those of gene-LOC25500742(PHYA) and gene-LOC11 431402(ELF3); gene-LOC11434778(Col13), gene-LOC25498015(Col6), and gene-LOC11415514(Col9) were pre-expressed. The above differentially expressed genes were significantly expressed in different developmental stages of Medicago truncatula, which lays a foundation for further study of the molecular mechanism of Medicago truncatula. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Diversity)

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14 pages, 4544 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Marine Non-Indigenous Species Dynamics in Time and Space within the Coastal Waters of the Republic of Ireland

by Arjan Gittenberger, Luca Mirimin, John Boyd, Francis O’Beirn, Grainne Devine, Martina O’Brien, Marjolein Rensing, Katie O’Dwyer and Edmund Gittenberger

Diversity 2023, 15(9), 1019; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15091019 - 15 Sep 2023

Viewed by 1361

Abstract

Documenting temporal and spatial occurrence trends of Non-Indigenous Species (NIS) is essential to understand vectors and pathways of introduction, and for horizon scanning for future introductions. This study provides an overview of marine NIS found in the Republic of Ireland up to 2020. [...] Read more.

Documenting temporal and spatial occurrence trends of Non-Indigenous Species (NIS) is essential to understand vectors and pathways of introduction, and for horizon scanning for future introductions. This study provides an overview of marine NIS found in the Republic of Ireland up to 2020. Taxonomic groups, species origin, and location of first reporting (counties) were compiled and analysed focusing on the last three decades. While the unambiguous characterisation of introduction events is challenging, analysis of 110 species corroborated the global weight of evidence that shipping activities to/from ports and marinas are the most likely vectors and pathways in Ireland. A comparable review study for the Netherlands revealed that most NIS were first introduced to mainland Europe and subsequently would take on average >15 years to reach Ireland. In the last two decades there has been an increase in NIS-focused surveys in Ireland. Incorporating data from these surveys in centralized national repositories such as the National Biodiversity Data Centre, will strongly aid the evaluation of potential NIS management responses. Furthermore, the availability of robust baseline data as well as predictions of future invaders and their associated vectors and pathways will facilitate the effective application of emerging monitoring technologies such as DNA-based approaches. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Trends in Marine Non-Indigenous Species in Europe by 2020, and Predictions through Modelling and Horizon Scanning for 2050)

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16 pages, 4144 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Distribution and Characteristics of Two Species of Stingless Bee Hives (Tetragonula spp.) in the Rural Landscape of Sumedang Regency (Indonesia)

by Susanti Withaningsih, Fauzan Diaz, Fakhrur Rozi and Parikesit Parikesit

Diversity 2023, 15(9), 1018; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15091018 - 14 Sep 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1987

Abstract

Tetragonula beekeeping is in high demand, and the activity of hunting wild Tetragonula bees in nature is increasing. The purpose of this study was to determine the type and distribution of wild stingless bee colonies in the Sumedang area of Indonesia, as well [...] Read more.

Tetragonula beekeeping is in high demand, and the activity of hunting wild Tetragonula bees in nature is increasing. The purpose of this study was to determine the type and distribution of wild stingless bee colonies in the Sumedang area of Indonesia, as well as the characteristics of their hives in nature. We used survey methods in this research. Data collection was accomplished by studying and collecting biotic and abiotic data around hives. Two species of Tetragonula bees were found, namely Tetragonula laeviceps Smith at 71 locations in 6 sub-districts and Tetragonula drescheri Schwarz at 9 locations in 5 districts. Tetragonula bees like to occupy building gaps and holes in the stems of tall plants. Differences were found in the length of the hive entrance, the thickness of the hive door, the texture of the hive door, and the direction of the hive door for each species. Environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and light intensity greatly affect colony activity, whereas wind speed and weather conditions affect the condition of the hive door. The presence of food sources around the hive also affects the survival of the colony and colony activity. Full article

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5 pages, 1528 KiB

Open AccessInteresting Images

Something’s Fishy: An Unexpected Intertidal Encounter with the New Zealand Lancelet, Epigonichthys hectori (Benham, 1901), near the Whangarei Heads, NZ

by Werner de Gier and Jeroen Hubert

Diversity 2023, 15(9), 1017; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15091017 - 14 Sep 2023

Viewed by 1532

Abstract

A specimen of the endemic New Zealand lancelet Epigonichthys hectori (Benham, 1901) was found and photographed in the intertidal area of a beach near the Whangarei Heads in New Zealand. This only lancelet species for New Zealand is rarely caught and is known [...] Read more.

A specimen of the endemic New Zealand lancelet Epigonichthys hectori (Benham, 1901) was found and photographed in the intertidal area of a beach near the Whangarei Heads in New Zealand. This only lancelet species for New Zealand is rarely caught and is known for its specific habitat requirements, demanding clean, coarse sand. The specimen was found in an almost dried-out puddle during low tide on a beach with a lot of human activity. The species is also known to inhabit greater depths, making this observation (together with another recent, unpublished record) a constitution for evidence that it also inhabits tidal areas. Distribution records from the literature are reviewed, plotted on a map, and supplemented by this new observation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Interesting Images from the Sea)

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14 pages, 1721 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Next Generation Sequencing of Bee Gut Microbiota in Urban and Rural Environments

by Mustafa Rüstemoğlu

Diversity 2023, 15(9), 1016; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15091016 - 14 Sep 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2037

Abstract

The gut microbiota plays a vital role in the physiological and behavioral processes of organisms, thereby influencing the quality of life of their host. Investigating the microbial diversity of the gut microbiota of Apis mellifera, the ecological organizer, may provide key insights [...] Read more.

The gut microbiota plays a vital role in the physiological and behavioral processes of organisms, thereby influencing the quality of life of their host. Investigating the microbial diversity of the gut microbiota of Apis mellifera, the ecological organizer, may provide key insights into the ecological and health-related factors affecting host populations. This study aims to investigate the comparative gut microbiota of forager A. mellifera collected from both rural and urban environments in each of the four provinces located in southeastern Türkiye by employing Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology, specifically amplicon metagenome sequencing targeting the V3–V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene. In general, the urban samples possessed a higher level of gut microbial diversity when compared with the rural samples. Interestingly, the rural samples, in addition to the majority of previously reported core microbiota members, contained human pathogens such as Salmonella enterica, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, and Streptococcus pyogenes. Moreover, this study is the first to report the predominant existence of Enterococcus wangshanyuanii, Alkalihalobacillus halodurans, and Vitreoscilla sp. in several samples. This study contributes to the idea that urban apiculture practices can alter bacteria residing in the digestive tracts and discusses possible effects of potential infestation of A. mellifera by human-pathogenic bacteria on different aspects of life traits. Full article

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

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14 pages, 3970 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effectiveness of Seed Traps for Assessing Seed Rain in Periurban Grasslands

by Clément Gros, Adeline Bulot, Ferréol Braud, Stéphanie Aviron and Hervé Daniel

Diversity 2023, 15(9), 1015; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15091015 - 13 Sep 2023

Viewed by 1150

Abstract

Landscape context plays an important role in plant community structuring, with selection pressure affecting dispersal ability. This is particularly true in cities, where land use heterogeneity and habitat fragmentation can affect plant dispersal patterns. Seed rain surveys are often used to study dispersal [...] Read more.

Landscape context plays an important role in plant community structuring, with selection pressure affecting dispersal ability. This is particularly true in cities, where land use heterogeneity and habitat fragmentation can affect plant dispersal patterns. Seed rain surveys are often used to study dispersal but involve a wide variety of methods and trap types and rarely address the urban context. This study aimed to (1) compare seed rain, especially of anemochorous seeds, in different spatial contexts in a periurban area in Angers (western France); and (2) compare seed rain captured using different trap types (funnel traps/sticky traps), trap heights, and shapes. Seven sites, each equipped with five replicates of funnel traps, were selected in a periurban area in the western part of Angers. Within one of these sites, ten types of traps (differing in trapping method, height, shape, degree of tilt, and area) were employed and their performance compared. The results show that trap height rather than trap type is responsible for differences in seed density and composition. Furthermore, the composition of collected seeds appears to be associated with surrounding land cover, in particular built areas, which has implications for urban ecology in terms of understanding the influence of landscape factors on plant dispersal. Full article

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23 pages, 2102 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Fish Diversity in Relation to Littoral Habitats in Three Basins of Lake Kivu (East Africa)

by Tchalondawa Kisekelwa, Wilondja Alimasi, Lutete Mazambi, Grite N. Mwaijengo, Lwikitcha Hyangya, Heri Muzungu, Mudagi Joyeuse, Amani Lubala, Musombwa Kubota, Alfred Wüest, Amisi Muvundja and Mulungula Masilya

Diversity 2023, 15(9), 1014; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15091014 - 12 Sep 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 4506

Abstract

In total, 28 of the 29 fish species reported from the Lake Kivu basin occur in the littoral zone of the lake, but information about their structure, occurrence, and the habitats affecting their distribution is largely lacking. The lake’s inshore area is poorly [...] Read more.

In total, 28 of the 29 fish species reported from the Lake Kivu basin occur in the littoral zone of the lake, but information about their structure, occurrence, and the habitats affecting their distribution is largely lacking. The lake’s inshore area is poorly heterogenous, with rock and macrophyte habitats representing the major habitats. The lack of heterogeneity in the habitats is probably an important factor influencing species richness, abundance, and the association between the species and habitats. We evaluated the fish diversity, abundance, and habitat parameters across 14 sites representing the major habitats of the lake, using data collected between April 2018 and October 2019. We calculated Hull and Jaccard indices and applied uni- and multivariate statistical approaches to the collected data. We identified 18 fish species in the lake. In the north, 17 species were found, with high abundance in rocky sites but low abundance in sandy habitats. In the south, 15 species were reported. We identified 12 species in the Ishungu Basin where the site with rock substrate had high abundance and 13 species in the Bukavu Basin with weak species richness and low abundance across degraded sites. Lamprichthys tanganicanus, a non-native species, was abundant in rocky (north) and macrophyte sites (south). Sand, rock, conductivity, depth, dissolved oxygen, and water transparency were significant parameters that could explain the fish distribution in the north while dissolved oxygen, vegetation cover, depth, and conductivity were significant in the south. A monitoring programme of the fish fauna in Lake Kivu is needed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity and Biogeography of Freshwater Fish)

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15 pages, 6286 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Hydrolithon farinosum and Lithophyllum epiphyticum sp. nov. (Corallinaceae, Corallinales, Rhodophyta), Two Epiphytic Crustose Coralline Algae from the Abrolhos Archipelago, Brazil, Southwestern Atlantic

by Manoela B. Lyra, Ricardo G. Bahia, Michel B. Jesionek, Rodrigo T. Carvalho, Fernando C. Moraes, Adele S. Harvey, Renato C. Pereira, Fabiano Salgueiro and Leonardo T. Salgado

Diversity 2023, 15(9), 1013; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15091013 - 12 Sep 2023

Viewed by 1517

Abstract

The aim of this study was to elucidate the taxonomy of the common but overlooked epiphytic coralline algae species from shallow reefs and seagrass meadows of the Abrolhos Archipelago, Brazil. Two thin (two vegetative cells thick) epiphytic coralline species were recorded: Lithophyllum epiphyticum [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to elucidate the taxonomy of the common but overlooked epiphytic coralline algae species from shallow reefs and seagrass meadows of the Abrolhos Archipelago, Brazil. Two thin (two vegetative cells thick) epiphytic coralline species were recorded: Lithophyllum epiphyticum sp. nov. and Hydrolithon farinosum. Molecular analysis from psbA genetic marker confirmed the position of L. epiphyticum into Lithophylloideae and revealed a phylogenetic relationship with an undescribed Lithophyllum from Italy. Thin thallus (2–3 cells thick) and cells lining the pore of tetrasporangial conceptacles protruding laterally occluding the canal, either partially or totally, are its main diagnostic characteristics. Hydrolithon farinosum is herein described in detail for Brazil, and its worldwide distribution is then discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity and Ecology of Marine Benthic Communities)

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28 pages, 3605 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Species Diversity and Geographical Distribution Patterns of Balsaminaceae in China

by Yi Chen, Jun Chen, Qin-Qin Yong, Tao-Hua Yuan, Qiu Wang, Mei-Jun Li, Sheng-Wei Long and Xin-Xiang Bai

Diversity 2023, 15(9), 1012; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15091012 - 12 Sep 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1625

Abstract

Balsaminaceae are world-famous ornamental flowers because of their high species diversity, rich variation, peculiar flower patterns, and long ornamental cycles. To study the species diversity, distribution patterns, and distribution hotspots of Balsaminaceae in China, we updated the list of Balsaminaceae by systematically searching [...] Read more.

Balsaminaceae are world-famous ornamental flowers because of their high species diversity, rich variation, peculiar flower patterns, and long ornamental cycles. To study the species diversity, distribution patterns, and distribution hotspots of Balsaminaceae in China, we updated the list of Balsaminaceae by systematically searching the related literature. The distribution pattern and hotspots of Impatiens spp. were analyzed using the ArcGIS 10.8.2 software. Combining 19 meteorological factors and one elevation factor, the Maxent model was applied to analyze the dominant environmental factors that govern the distribution of Impatiens spp. As of February 2023, Balsaminaceae in China included 360 taxa in two genera, including one taxon in the genus of Hydrocera, 359 taxa in the genus Impatiens, 271 national endemic species, and 157 provincial endemic species. Impatiens spp. showed a diffusion pattern from the tropical and subtropical regions to the high-latitude and high-elevation regions concentrated in Southwest China, especially in the Hengduan Mountains in the broad sense, Southern Tibet, the Yunnan–Guizhou–Guangxi karst region, the Qinling–Daba Mountains, and the southeastern hills. The highest species richness was found in the 1200~1500 m elevation range, with 164 species of Impatiens spp. This high species richness was maintained at between 900 and 2700 m, the elevation range where Impatiens spp. are concentrated. When 100% of the species were screened out, 110 hotspots were found, including Southeast Yunnan, Northwest Yunnan, Southern Tibet, and Western Sichuan, where most of the hotspots were concentrated and overlapped with global biodiversity centers, but other hotspots were more scattered. Annual precipitation, the minimal temperature of the coldest month, the altitude and temperature annual range, and four environmental variables with a cumulative contribution of 93.7% were the dominant environmental factors affecting the distribution of Impatiens spp. in China. This study lays the foundation for subsequent studies of Balsaminaceae diversity and is conducive to the development and use of Impatiens spp. resources. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances and Future Perspectives for Balsaminaceae Research)

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22 pages, 3889 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Unexpected Links between Communities of a Freshwater–Cropland Mediterranean Metanetwork

by Javier González-Barrientos, Rodrigo Ramos-Jiliberto, Lidia Aliste-Jara, Nahuel Canelo-Araya and Pedro E. Cattan

Diversity 2023, 15(9), 1011; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15091011 - 12 Sep 2023

Viewed by 1090

Abstract

Cropland ecosystem functioning may be affected by human perturbations transmitted from adjacent ecosystems, such as freshwater systems. However, our limited knowledge of the ecological interactions within cropland–freshwater networks hinders projecting the consequences of anthropogenic pressures. We reviewed the information from freshwater and cropland [...] Read more.

Cropland ecosystem functioning may be affected by human perturbations transmitted from adjacent ecosystems, such as freshwater systems. However, our limited knowledge of the ecological interactions within cropland–freshwater networks hinders projecting the consequences of anthropogenic pressures. We reviewed the information from freshwater and cropland communities in the Mediterranean zone of Chile and constructed an ecological metanetwork for characterizing the structure and projecting responses of this system facing environmental pressures. We performed a semi-qualitative analysis to identify the nodes that strongly influence other network components and (or) could significantly affect the transmission of effects within the system. Our analyses show that omnivore fish, amphibians, annual pollinated crops, and deciduous orchards are the most important groups. Although we expected that amphibious predators were the most important groups in transmitting perturbations between ecosystems, we also found groups of plants and pollinators performing this function. We stress that the fate of crop systems facing environmental disturbances should be assessed in a broader context rather than as an isolated system. Full article

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14 pages, 2812 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Occurrence and Diversity of Yeast Associated with Fruits and Leaves of Two Native Plants from Brazilian Neotropical Savanna

by Eugenio Miranda Sperandio, Jefferson Brendon Almeida dos Reis, Lucas Gabriel Ferreira Coelho and Helson Mario Martins do Vale

Diversity 2023, 15(9), 1010; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15091010 - 12 Sep 2023

Viewed by 1360

Abstract

Background: This work studied the occurrence, density, and diversity of yeast species associated with the leaves and fruits of Sabicea brasiliensis and Anacardium humile. Methods: Fragments of leaves and fruits were subjected to maceration and placed under agitation in peptone water. One [...] Read more.

Background: This work studied the occurrence, density, and diversity of yeast species associated with the leaves and fruits of Sabicea brasiliensis and Anacardium humile. Methods: Fragments of leaves and fruits were subjected to maceration and placed under agitation in peptone water. One hundred µL aliquots of each of the decimal dilutions were plated on YM chloramphenicol agar medium. The different morphotypes were identified through sequence analysis of the 26S rDNA. Results: A total of 83 yeast isolates were recovered from the organs sampled, 40 from fruits and 19 from the leaves of S. brasiliensis, while 14 were recovered from fruits and 10 from the leaves of A. humile. The isolates were identified as belonging to two phyla, six classes, eight orders, and eight families. Most isolates, at 71 (84.3%), belong to Ascomycota, with Saccharomycetes dominant in fruits and Dothideomycetes in leaves. The remaining 12 (15.7%) isolates belong to the phylum Basidiomycota. The most frequent genera were Aureobasidium, Candida, Rhodotorula, and Wickerhamiella. The Wickerhamiella isolates made possible the subsequent description of a new species within this genus. Conclusions: Our data reveal the yeast species that inhabit different Cerrado plant organs and indicate that these hosts can be considered an important habitat for yeast diversity, including new and/or previously unreported species in this biome. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Microbial Diversity and Culture Collections)

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28 pages, 3977 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Annual Dynamics of a Layered Phytoplankton Structure in a Meromictic Lagoon Partially Isolated from the White Sea

by Irina G. Radchenko, Vasilisa A. Aksenova, Dmitry A. Voronov, Dmitry Viktorovich Rostanets and Elena Dmitrievna Krasnova

Diversity 2023, 15(9), 1009; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15091009 - 11 Sep 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1171

Abstract

In a saline semi-isolated lagoon on Cape Zeleny (White Sea), the annual dynamics of the vertical hydrological structure and the seasonal dynamics of phytoplankton were traced. Species composition, vertical distribution, abundance, nutrition type, and biomass were analyzed. In total, 293 species and supraspecific [...] Read more.

In a saline semi-isolated lagoon on Cape Zeleny (White Sea), the annual dynamics of the vertical hydrological structure and the seasonal dynamics of phytoplankton were traced. Species composition, vertical distribution, abundance, nutrition type, and biomass were analyzed. In total, 293 species and supraspecific taxa of algae and cyanobacteria were found. Most of the identified species are marine, and 38 species are freshwater. Taxonomic composition changed in the lagoon throughout the year. Dinoflagellates dominated in winter and early June; unidentified cocci and flagellates in July; diatoms, dinoflagellates, and unidentified cells in August; dinoflagellates in September; and unidentified cocci and flagellates in October–November. The abundance of algae also changed in the lagoon throughout the year. The integrated biomass in the water column varied from 0.01 g C/m² in January to 0.78 g C/m² in early September. According to the environmental parameters, the water column of the lagoon was subdivided into several zones with different environmental conditions and corresponding phytoplankton communities. The similarity between the communities of different horizons was 32–46% in summer and 7% in winter. The chemocline layer was the most populous. It contained a maximum of phytoplankton biomass, 1–2 orders of magnitude higher than that in the overlying horizons. Despite the connection to the sea, the phytoplankton structure in the surface water layer in the lagoon and in the sea differed significantly in composition, quantitative parameters, and seasonal dynamics. The similarity between the communities never exceeded 50%. In terms of biomass dynamics, the lagoon lagged behind the sea until mid-summer, but, starting from August, it outnumbered it, and the phytoplankton development in the lagoon lasted longer, until late autumn. According to sequential tests DistLM, the phytoplankton structure and dynamics in the lagoon and in the sea were related to the daylength, water salinity, oxygen content, and pH by 24.5%. At the same time, the PhP structure did not depend on water temperature, underwater illuminance, or depth. Oxygen content and pH were defined by PhP activity. Salinity serves as a vector of the vertical sequence of ecological niches. The day length seems to be the crucial factor of the seasonal PhP dynamics in the semi-isolated coastal stratified lakes and lagoons. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Estuaries Ecology and Coastal Marine Waters)

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16 pages, 2976 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring Genetic and Morphological Integrity across Ocean Basins: A Case Study of the Mesopelagic Shrimp Systellaspis debilis (Decapoda: Oplophoridae)

by Anna Shapkina, Dmitry Kulagin, Vadim Khaitov, Anastasiia Lunina and Alexander Vereshchaka

Diversity 2023, 15(9), 1008; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15091008 - 10 Sep 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1250

Abstract

Plankton communities often consist of cosmopolitan species with an extensive gene flow between populations. Nevertheless, populations of some plankton species are genetically structured, owing to various barriers such as ocean currents, hydrological fronts, and continents. Drivers that could explain the genetic structures of [...] Read more.

Plankton communities often consist of cosmopolitan species with an extensive gene flow between populations. Nevertheless, populations of some plankton species are genetically structured, owing to various barriers such as ocean currents, hydrological fronts, and continents. Drivers that could explain the genetic structures of most mesopelagic species remain unknown on an ocean-basin scale, and our study aims to analyze the genetic and morphological differences between populations of a cosmopolitan mesopelagic shrimp, Systellaspis debilis, from the Southern and Northern Atlantic Ocean, and the Southwest Indian Ocean. We analyzed the ITS-1 and COI markers of 75 specimens and assessed the genetic integrity and within-species variability of these genes. We also coded 32 morphological characteristics in 73 specimens, analyzed their variability, and assessed the correlation between morphological and genetic characteristics using a Redundancy analysis and Mantel test. Systellaspis debilis was genetically cohesive across the whole Atlantic and Southwest Indian Oceans, which is possibly a result of an intensive gene flow through ecological barriers, the resistance of species to hydrological gradients, a purifying selection of mitochondrial genes, etc. In contrast, we found significant morphological differences between populations from different regions, which mirrors morphological diversification and calls for further genomic approaches in order to understand the basis of these variations and uncover potential local adaptations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2023)

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10 pages, 621 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Seasonal Resource Selection and Use of Hardwood Regeneration by Translocated Wild Turkeys in the Mississippi Alluvial Valley

by M. Kyle Marable, Jerrold L. Belant, Dave Godwin and Guiming Wang

Diversity 2023, 15(9), 1007; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15091007 - 10 Sep 2023

Viewed by 1189

Abstract

Reforestation practices have intensified in the Mississippi Alluvial Valley (MAV) of the United States of America with the aid of Farm Bill programs during the past three decades. Increases in reforested land also enhance possibilities to restore once-abundant but currently sparse species, such [...] Read more.

Reforestation practices have intensified in the Mississippi Alluvial Valley (MAV) of the United States of America with the aid of Farm Bill programs during the past three decades. Increases in reforested land also enhance possibilities to restore once-abundant but currently sparse species, such as eastern wild turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo silvestris) in the MAV. However, it is unknown whether <20-year-old hardwood regeneration provides a suitable habitat for re-establishing wild turkey populations in the MAV. We translocated wild turkeys to two study sites in reforested areas of the MAV. We monitored 74 wild turkeys’ habitat use and resource selection using radio telemetry from February 2009 to June 2010. We developed land use and land cover maps for the resource selection analysis of translocated wild turkeys. We found that turkey habitat use varied by site, sex, season, land cover type, and distance to mature hardwoods. Habitat use by wild turkeys decreased as distance to mature hardwood forest increased. Female wild turkeys used more hardwood regeneration during nesting and post-nesting seasons than during pre-nesting seasons. Although wild turkeys did not use regenerating and mature hardwood forests to the same extent, management of these forests appears critical to restoring wild turkeys in the MAV. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wildlife Population Ecology and Spatial Ecology under Global Change)

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32 pages, 10715 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Diversity of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi and Their Associations in South America: A Case Study of Argentinean and Brazilian Cattle Raising Productive Ecosystems: A Review

by Mónica A. Lugo, Roberto Emanuel Ontivero, Hebe J. Iriarte, Bakhytzhan Yelikbayev and Marcela C. Pagano

Diversity 2023, 15(9), 1006; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15091006 - 10 Sep 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2291

Abstract

Mycorrhizal fungus diversity is an ecosystem health indicator, and thus, the appreciation of the aboveground as well as the belowground biota, such as fungi associated with natural and managed ecosystems, is essential to provide sustainable products and suggestions to farmers. Less is known [...] Read more.

Mycorrhizal fungus diversity is an ecosystem health indicator, and thus, the appreciation of the aboveground as well as the belowground biota, such as fungi associated with natural and managed ecosystems, is essential to provide sustainable products and suggestions to farmers. Less is known about the totally arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and fungal endophytes useful to agroecology, which are environment friendly microbial biofertilizers to mitigate the complications of conventional farming. Specific AMF are found in most covers; grassy ecosystems are increasingly investigated through their exclusive fungal species that improve sustainable cultivation. Different grazed pastures, forages, and their diversity are important objects of study either in economic or ecological scope. Based on recent reports, the occurrence of AMF in grasslands and pastures is significant, supporting more diverse AMF than native forests. Therefore, we show current information on these topics. We conducted a Web of Science search of published articles on AMF, pastures, and grasslands and analyzed them. The results confirmed the important role of pH as the driver of AMF diversity distribution between the grassy ecosystems from Argentina and Brazil. In grasslands, the main family represented was Glomeraceae, while pastures maintain predominantly Acaulosporaceae. Brazilian grasslands and pastures presented four times the AMF richness of those from Argentina. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Microbial Diversity and Culture Collections)

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11 pages, 1680 KiB

Open AccessBrief Report

The Mitochondrial Genome of Littoraria melanostoma Reveals a Phylogenetic Relationship within Littorinimorpha

by Kun Chen, Mingliu Yang, Haisheng Duan and Xin Liao

Diversity 2023, 15(9), 1005; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15091005 - 10 Sep 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1279

Abstract

Littoraria melanostoma (Gray, 1839) is one of the most common species of gastropods in mangroves. They quickly respond during the early stage of mangrove restoration and usually form a dominant community within a certain period. We characterized the complete mitochondrial genome of this [...] Read more.

Littoraria melanostoma (Gray, 1839) is one of the most common species of gastropods in mangroves. They quickly respond during the early stage of mangrove restoration and usually form a dominant community within a certain period. We characterized the complete mitochondrial genome of this species. The whole mitogenome of L. melanostoma was 16,149 bp in length and its nucleotide composition showed a high AT content of 64.16%. It had 37 genes, including 13 protein-coding genes, 2 ribosomal RNA genes, and 22 transfer RNA genes, and 1 control region between tRNA-Phe and COX3. The A/T composition in the control region was 74.7%, and is much higher than the overall A/T composition of the mitochondrial genomes. The amino acid composition and codon usage of the mitochondrial genomes from seven superfamilies of Littorinimorpha were analyzed, and the results showed that CUU (Leu), GCU (Ala), AUU (Ile), UCU (Ser), UUA (Leu), GUU (Gly), and UUU (Phe) are the commonly used codons. The maximum likelihood phylogenetic tree reconstructed using 62 species of Littorinimorpha presented consistency between the molecular and morphological classifications, which provide a basis to understand the phylogeny and evolution of this order. In the phylogenetic tree, L. melanostoma is located within Littorinoidea and is closely related to L. sinensis, a rock-dwelling species that is widespread in the coastal intertidal zone of China. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Phylogeny and Evolution)

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14 pages, 2718 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Characterization of Lacinutrix neustonica sp. nov., Isolated from the Sea Surface Microlayer of Brackish Lake Shihwa, South Korea

by Jy Young Choi, Soo Yoon Kim, Yeon Woo Hong, Bok Jin Kim, Dong Young Shin, Jin Kyeong Kang, Byung Cheol Cho and Chung Yeon Hwang

Diversity 2023, 15(9), 1004; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15091004 - 9 Sep 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1843

Abstract

A Gram-negative, strictly aerobic, non-motile, slightly curved rod-shaped bacterial strain, designated as HL-RS19^T, was isolated from a sea surface microlayer (SML) sample of the brackish Lake Shihwa. Here, we characterized the new strain HL-RS19^T using a polyphasic approach to determine [...] Read more.

A Gram-negative, strictly aerobic, non-motile, slightly curved rod-shaped bacterial strain, designated as HL-RS19^T, was isolated from a sea surface microlayer (SML) sample of the brackish Lake Shihwa. Here, we characterized the new strain HL-RS19^T using a polyphasic approach to determine its taxonomic position. A phylogenetic analysis of its 16S rRNA gene sequence revealed that strain HL-RS19^T belonged to the genus Lacinutrix and was closely related to L. mariniflava AKS432^T (97.9%), L. algicola AKS293^T (97.8%), and other Lacinutrix species (<97.3%). The complete genome sequence of strain HL-RS19^T comprised a circular chromosome of 3.9 Mbp with a DNA G+C content of 35.2%. Genomic comparisons based on the average nucleotide identity and digital DNA-DNA hybridization showed that strain HL-RS19^T was consistently discriminated from its closely related taxa in the genus Lacinutrix. Strain HL-RS19^T showed optimal growth at 20–25 °C, pH 6.5–7.0, and 3.0–3.5% (w/v) sea salts. The major fatty acids (>5%) of strain HL-RS19^T were identified as iso-C_15:1 G (16.5%), iso-C_16:0 3-OH (12.9%), anteiso-C_15:1 A (9.9%), anteiso-C_15:0 (9.7%), iso-C_15:0 (9.0%), and iso-C_15:0 3-OH (8.3%). The polar lipids consisted of phosphatidylethanolamine, three unidentified aminolipids, an unidentified phospholipid, and two unidentified lipids. The major respiratory quinone was MK-6. Based on phylogenetic, genomic, phenotypic, and chemotaxonomic data, strain HL-RS19^T represents a novel species belonging to the genus Lacinutrix, for which the name Lacinutrix neustonica sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is HL-RS19^T (=KCCM 90497^T = JCM 35710^T). The genome sequence analysis of strain HL-RS19^T suggests that it may be well adapted to a harsh SML environment and is likely involved in arsenic cycling, potentially contributing to the bioremediation of anthropogenic arsenic pollution. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Extreme Environments: Microbial and Biochemical Diversity)

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5 pages, 212 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

DNA Barcodes for Evolution and Biodiversity

by Stephan Koblmüller

Diversity 2023, 15(9), 1003; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15091003 - 8 Sep 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1872

Abstract

Questions centered around how biological diversity is being generated and maintained, as well as how this biodiversity can be conserved/protected, are being frequently asked in basic and applied evolutionary biological and biodiversity research [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue DNA Barcodes for Evolution and Biodiversity)

13 pages, 5794 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mitogenomics of Three Ziczacella Leafhoppers (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae: Typhlocybinae) from Karst Area, Southwest China, and Their Phylogenetic Implications

by Jinqiu Wang, Ni Zhang, Tianyi Pu, Can Li and Yuehua Song

Diversity 2023, 15(9), 1002; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15091002 - 8 Sep 2023

Viewed by 1126

Abstract

Leafhoppers (Hemiptera, Auchenorrhyncha, Cicadellidae) are distributed worldwide and include around 2550 genera, more than 21,000 species, including almost 2000 species in China. Typhlocybinae is the second largest subfamily in Cicadellidae after Deltocephalinae. Previously, morphological characteristics were the diagnostic basis of taxonomy, but they [...] Read more.

Leafhoppers (Hemiptera, Auchenorrhyncha, Cicadellidae) are distributed worldwide and include around 2550 genera, more than 21,000 species, including almost 2000 species in China. Typhlocybinae is the second largest subfamily in Cicadellidae after Deltocephalinae. Previously, morphological characteristics were the diagnostic basis of taxonomy, but they were not combined with molecular biology. The genus Ziczacella Anufryev, 1970 has only six known species worldwide. The mitogenomes of Ziczacella steggerdai Ross, 1965, Ziczacella dworakowskae Anufriev, 1969 and Ziczacella heptapotamica Kusnezov, 1928 were sequenced and identified here for the first time. They all contained 13 PCGs, 22 tRNA genes, 2 rRNA genes, and a control region, and the complete mitochondrial genomes were 15,231 bp, 15,137 bp, and 15,334 bp, respectively. The results show heavy AT nucleotide bias. Phylogenetic analysis yielded the following topology: (Empoascini + Alebrini) + ((Erythroneurini + Dikraneurini) + (Zyginellini + Typhlocybini)). In this study, three newly sequenced species were closely related to Mitjaevia dworakowskae and M. shibingensis. We confirmed the monophyly of the four tribes within Typhlocybinae again, and Zyginellini should be combined with Typhlocybini, which supports Chris’s points. Full article

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16 pages, 807 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Human Dimensions and Visitors’ Perspective in Freshwater Crayfish Conservation: The Case of a Protected Area in Italy

by Elena Mercugliano, Valeria Messina, Marco Bonelli, Raoul Manenti, Davide Scaccini, Linda Ferrante, Pierfrancesco Biasetti and Barbara de Mori

Diversity 2023, 15(9), 999; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15090999 - 7 Sep 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1598

Abstract

Human dimensions in endangered species conservation are often overlooked. However, including human dimensions in conservation projects can help conservationists integrate social and ecological dimensions and investigate individual or society’s perspectives toward conservation efforts. The aim of this study was to investigate how visitors [...] Read more.

Human dimensions in endangered species conservation are often overlooked. However, including human dimensions in conservation projects can help conservationists integrate social and ecological dimensions and investigate individual or society’s perspectives toward conservation efforts. The aim of this study was to investigate how visitors of a protected area perceived the conservation of the native white-clawed crayfish (Austropotamobius pallipes), a species recently brought to disappearance by the introduction of the spiny-cheek crayfish (Faxonius limosus). From August to October 2017, we distributed a questionnaire to park visitors, aiming to: (i) identify behaviors that could affect the conservation of the native crayfish after reintroduction; (ii) investigate if visitors’ awareness and knowledge of native freshwater crayfish may increase approval for conservation initiatives. Of the 290 respondents, most (73%) had never heard of alien species. The respondents’ inclination to be favorable to resource investment and alien crayfish eradication and to perform specific educational training was significantly related to their knowledge of crayfish features. Knowledge of freshwater crayfish features resulted in being a main determinant in affecting visitors’ attitudes towards conservation initiatives. These results confirm that visitors’ awareness can increase approval for conservation programs and the importance of investigating the proper human dimensions before establishing management actions for endangered species. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Aspects in Freshwater Fauna Conservation)

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20 pages, 3294 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Polychaete Diversity and Functional Trait Composition in Subtropical Mangrove Ecosystems

by Mohadeseh Miri, Jafar Seyfabadi, Mehdi Ghodrati Shojaei, Hassan Rahimian and Mohammad Valipour

Diversity 2023, 15(9), 998; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15090998 - 7 Sep 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2078

Abstract

Polychaetes play a vital role in the structure and functioning of benthic communities in mangrove ecosystems. Nevertheless, our understanding of the diversity and functional structure of polychaete assemblages across different habitats in the mangrove ecosystems along the coast of the Persian Gulf and [...] Read more.

Polychaetes play a vital role in the structure and functioning of benthic communities in mangrove ecosystems. Nevertheless, our understanding of the diversity and functional structure of polychaete assemblages across different habitats in the mangrove ecosystems along the coast of the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman is limited. In this study, we investigated the species and trait composition of polychaetes and environmental variables, in vegetated and mudflat habitats of three subtropical mangroves. The results showed that Neanthes glandicincta was widely distributed across all regions and habitats. The three-factor ANOVA showed that the abundance and taxonomic diversity of polychaetes differed significantly between two habitats and three mangrove ecosystems. The abundance of polychaetes was observed to be higher in mud habitats than in vegetated habitats. There was a significant difference in species and trait composition between different regions and habitats. Vegetated habitats had higher proportions of crawler predatory species that are longer lived (3–5 years), with larger body size (80–100 mm), and are upward conveyors, whereas mudflat habitats had higher proportions of mobile (burrower) omnivore species that are moderately lived (1–3 years), with larger body size (>100 mm), and are biodiffusers. The three-factor ANOVA showed a significant difference in the community weighted mean (CWM) index between two habitats and three mangrove ecosystems. Thus, the species and trait composition of polychaetes depend on the structural complexity of their respective habitats. The DistLM analysis showed that total organic carbon content of the sediment was the main predictor variable influencing species composition, while silt/clay content and salinity were the main predictor variables influencing the traits’ composition. The results showed how the composition of traits and the structure of polychaete communities change in mangrove ecosystems, which can be used for future studies on conservation strategies for mangrove ecosystems throughout the world. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Investigation of the Biology, Ecology, Distribution of Marine Macrozoobenthic Communities)

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14 pages, 6699 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Diversity and Distribution Characteristics of Culturable Bacteria in Burqin Glacier No. 18, Altay Mountains, China

by Mao Tian, Puchao Jia, Yujie Wu, Xue Yu, Shiyu Wu, Ling Yang, Binglin Zhang, Feiteng Wang, Guangxiu Liu, Tuo Chen and Wei Zhang

Diversity 2023, 15(9), 997; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15090997 - 7 Sep 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1285

Abstract

Ecosystems away from human disturbance provide an ideal paradigm for microbial ecology research. The Burqin glacier No. 18 in the Chinese Altay Mountains is such an ecosystem; however, there are no prior studies on the microbiology in the area. Here, we isolated 902 [...] Read more.

Ecosystems away from human disturbance provide an ideal paradigm for microbial ecology research. The Burqin glacier No. 18 in the Chinese Altay Mountains is such an ecosystem; however, there are no prior studies on the microbiology in the area. Here, we isolated 902 bacterial strains on the Burqin glacier No. 18 to determine the diversity and distribution characteristics of microorganisms. Isolated strains belonged to six phyla (in the order of dominance: Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Cyanobacteria, Firmicutes, and Deinococcus-Thermus) and 90 genera. Our results also demonstrated the presence of a high proportion of potential new species (43%) in the Burqin glacier No. 18, and 67% of the potential new species were isolated at 25 °C. Species diversity varied among habitats, with the lowest diversity in surface ice and the highest diversity in the soil farthest from the glacier terminus. The pigmented colonies made up 52.7% of all isolates, with yellow-colored colonies being the most abundant (18.8%). This study indicates that the Burqin glacier No. 18 hosts rich bacterial strain diversity, and may represent a significant potential source of new functional and pigmented bacteria for the development of critical pharmaceuticals. Full article

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12 pages, 953 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Efficacy of Giant River Prawn Macrobrachium rosenbergii in Controlling the Invasive Snail Pomacea canaliculata: Implications for Ecological Farming

by Yingying Wang, Yixiang Zhang, He Lv and Qiang Sheng

Diversity 2023, 15(9), 1001; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15091001 - 7 Sep 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1879

Abstract

The invasive golden apple snail Pomacea canaliculata has a strong reproductive capacity and has rapidly spread in Asian countries. Current control methods include physical, chemical, and biological approaches, but there has been limited research on the control of P. canaliculata in its different [...] Read more.

The invasive golden apple snail Pomacea canaliculata has a strong reproductive capacity and has rapidly spread in Asian countries. Current control methods include physical, chemical, and biological approaches, but there has been limited research on the control of P. canaliculata in its different life stages. This study assessed the effectiveness of using giant river prawns Macrobrachium rosenbergii in controlling juveniles of P. canaliculata through a controlled indoor experiment. The density, size, and dispersal range of recently hatched juvenile snails were significantly lower among those kept with prawns than those kept without prawns, indicating a control effect of M. rosenbergii at least on P. canaliculata juveniles. Furthermore, the study speculates on the potential application of M. rosenbergii in the context of a rice–prawn symbiotic system of ecological farming to control invasive P. canaliculata. In terms of effectiveness and safety, its application might lead to a win-win situation for both rice-farm profits and the ecological benefits of invasive species control. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Alien Species and Their Invasion Processes)

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