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Volume 17
Issue 8
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Diversity, Volume 17, Issue 8 (August 2025) – 90 articles

Cover Story (view full-size image): Audouin’s Gull (Ichthyaetus audouinii) is a protected Mediterranean seabird. Our study investigates its population dynamics, focusing on annual shifts among breeding sites. We show that within certain areas, individuals can move between colonies without reducing their fitness. These areas are defined as breeding districts, which may include several nearby colonies. We propose breeding districts as the most suitable spatial unit for monitoring and studying local populations, as they provide a clearer understanding of demographic dynamics and a stronger basis for conservation planning. View this paper
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19 pages, 1721 KB  
Review
Systematic Review of Crop Pests in the Diets of Four Bat Species Found as Wind Turbine Fatalities
by Amanda M. Hale, Cecily Foo, John Lloyd and Jennifer Stucker
Diversity 2025, 17(8), 590; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17080590 - 21 Aug 2025
Viewed by 938
Abstract
Although the ultimate drivers of bat fatalities at wind turbines are still not well understood, the foraging behavior of insectivorous bats puts them at increased risk of collision with rotating blades. Wind energy facilities are commonly located in agriculture fields where bats can [...] Read more.
Although the ultimate drivers of bat fatalities at wind turbines are still not well understood, the foraging behavior of insectivorous bats puts them at increased risk of collision with rotating blades. Wind energy facilities are commonly located in agriculture fields where bats can exploit periodic superabundant insect emergence events in the late summer and early autumn. Thermal imaging, acoustic monitoring, and bat carcass stomach content analyses show that bats prey upon insects on and near wind turbine towers. Studies have shown a positive association between insect abundance and bat activity, including in agricultural systems. We conducted a systematic review of bat diets for four common bat species in the Midwest and northern Great Plains to synthesize existing knowledge across species, assess the extent to which these bat focal species consume crop pests, and evaluate the potential for crop pest emergence models to predict temporal and spatial patterns of bat fatalities in this region. Big brown bats and eastern red bats consumed a variety of crop pests, including some for which emergence models may be available. In contrast, there were few studies for hoary bats or silver-haired bats, and the dietary evidence available has insufficient taxonomic resolution to conclude that crop pests were consumed. To augment existing data and illuminate relationships, we recommend that genetic diet analyses for bats, specifically hoary and silver-haired, be conducted in the late summer and autumn in this region. The results of these studies may provide additional candidate insect models to evaluate for predicting bat fatalities at wind turbines and clarify if the superabundant insect emergence hypothesis warrants further investigation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biodiversity Conservation)
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21 pages, 5741 KB  
Article
Post-Fledging Survival, Movement, and Habitat Use of Wood Thrushes in a Suburbanized Landscape
by Melanie L. Klein, Scott Schlossberg, Paige S. Warren, Katherine Straley and David I. King
Diversity 2025, 17(8), 589; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17080589 - 21 Aug 2025
Viewed by 526
Abstract
Suburban forest patches can have important conservation value for birds. This is a hopeful trend because the extent of urbanization is increasing, many avian populations are declining, and urban areas are where most people interact with wildlife. There is evidence that, despite an [...] Read more.
Suburban forest patches can have important conservation value for birds. This is a hopeful trend because the extent of urbanization is increasing, many avian populations are declining, and urban areas are where most people interact with wildlife. There is evidence that, despite an increased density of potential predators, the breeding success of birds in urban or suburban forest patches is comparable to that in rural areas. However, extremely limited data exists on the fledgling life stage of birds in urban or suburban areas, even though it is known that the fledgling stage strongly influences population growth rates. We used radio telemetry to look at the survival, movement, and habitat use of fledgling Wood Thrushes (Hylocichla mustelina) originating from nests in suburban forest patches and in larger swaths of rural, undeveloped forests in western Massachusetts. We tracked 168 fledglings over four field seasons and found that survival was similar for rural and suburban fledglings. Fledglings had lower mortality as they aged. Force-fledging and being left outside the nest after radio-tagging had a negative effect on survival, and we developed techniques to minimize its occurrence. We also found that rural fledglings moved farther from their natal nests, at any given age, than suburban fledglings. Fledglings in both suburban and rural sites selected denser understory growth, and the use of non-forested land cover increased as they aged. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity Conservation in Urbanized Ecosystems)
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24 pages, 1868 KB  
Article
Unraveling Elevation-Driven Variations in Forest Structure and Composition in Western Nepal
by Sagar Acharya, Rajeev Joshi, Tek Narayan Maraseni and Prakash Bhattarai
Diversity 2025, 17(8), 588; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17080588 - 20 Aug 2025
Viewed by 743
Abstract
Understanding how elevation influences forest structure and species composition is crucial for effective conservation in mountainous regions like Nepal, where ecosystems change dramatically over short distances. This study assessed forest dynamics along an elevational gradient (600–3200 m) in Nepal’s mid-hills, incorporating elevational zonation [...] Read more.
Understanding how elevation influences forest structure and species composition is crucial for effective conservation in mountainous regions like Nepal, where ecosystems change dramatically over short distances. This study assessed forest dynamics along an elevational gradient (600–3200 m) in Nepal’s mid-hills, incorporating elevational zonation (Tropical, Subtropical, Lower Temperate, and Upper Temperate) and aspect-driven variations. We established 27 square plots (20 × 20 m) at 100 m elevation intervals along a trekking route from Tallo Dungeshwor near the Karnali River to Mahabu Lek, recording all tree species with a diameter at breast height (DBH) ≥ 5 cm. Tree density across the elevational gradient ranged from 250 to 800 trees/ha. Basal area varied between 7.46 and 82.43 m2/ha, while mean tree height ranged from 6.89 to 16.62 m. Species diversity was assessed using the Shannon diversity index, and species dominance was evaluated through the Importance Value Index (IVI). Diversity peaked at mid-elevations, with Shorea robusta and Quercus semicarpifolia identified as dominant species. While minor variations occurred across topographic aspects, statistical analysis confirmed elevation as the dominant driver of forest structure and composition. Correlation analysis revealed a significant positive relationship between elevation and Simpson’s diversity index (r = 0.45, p < 0.05), indicating increased dominance diversity at higher elevations. These findings highlight the critical role of elevation and aspect in shaping forest ecosystems and offer valuable baseline data for climate-resilient management. We recommend conservation planning that is sensitive to topographic gradients, integrates long-term, climate-adaptive monitoring, and engages local communities to anticipate ecological shifts and address mounting anthropogenic pressures in vulnerable montane zones. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Canopy Ecology—Biodiversity, Functions, and Conservation)
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14 pages, 1597 KB  
Article
Relationship Between Groundwater Level and Rodent Community Structure Mediated by Nutrient Composition of Plants in Dongting Lake, China
by Tian Huang, Yiying He, Tonglin Yu, Meiwen Zhang, Chen Zhang, Yunlin Zhao, Junxiang Lin, Xiaoning Nan, Zhiyuan Hu and Zhenggang Xu
Diversity 2025, 17(8), 587; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17080587 - 20 Aug 2025
Viewed by 391
Abstract
The Dongting Lake wetland is an important habitat for rodents. In order to understand the structural characteristics of rodent communities and the effect of groundwater level on them, this study explored the changes in rodent community structure in four different habitats (Carex, Reeds, [...] Read more.
The Dongting Lake wetland is an important habitat for rodents. In order to understand the structural characteristics of rodent communities and the effect of groundwater level on them, this study explored the changes in rodent community structure in four different habitats (Carex, Reeds, Carex + Reeds, and Poplar) from 2003 to 2023. Meanwhile, the relationships between groundwater level, nutrient composition of Carex brevicuspis, and structural characteristics of rodent communities were analyzed. The results showed that the advantages of rodent species in the four different habitats are different, and the community structure of rodents has undergone significant changes in recent years. A significant correlation between groundwater level and the nutrient composition of C. brevicuspis was found. Further analysis shows a significant correlation between the nutritional components of C. brevicuspis and the population structure of rodents. Crude protein, total phosphorus, and dry matter were three key plant nutrient indicators that were significantly correlated with both capture rate and the community diversity index (p < 0.05). Total phosphorus and crude protein were significantly negatively correlated with capture rate and Simpson’s index (p < 0.05), but significantly positively correlated with Pielou’s index and Shannon–Wiener’s index (p < 0.05), while the dry matter was completely opposite. The research conclusions suggest that different habitats and groundwater levels affect different characteristics of rodent community structures, and that plant nutrients are likely to be the mediator. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wetland Biodiversity and Ecosystem Conservation)
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15 pages, 2939 KB  
Article
Molecular Updates on the ‘Warty Dorid’ Doris verrucosa Linnaeus, 1758 (Mollusca, Nudibranchia) from the Mediterranean Sea
by Giulia Furfaro, Michele Solca, Enric Madrenas, Francesco Tiralongo and Egidio Trainito
Diversity 2025, 17(8), 586; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17080586 - 20 Aug 2025
Viewed by 679
Abstract
Basic and applied research reveals the importance of sea slugs as a source of new bioactive molecules or of still little-known intra/intercellular processes, mainly linked to the highly specialised defensive strategies typical of this group of shell-less molluscs. In this context, the nudibranch [...] Read more.
Basic and applied research reveals the importance of sea slugs as a source of new bioactive molecules or of still little-known intra/intercellular processes, mainly linked to the highly specialised defensive strategies typical of this group of shell-less molluscs. In this context, the nudibranch Doris verrucosa (Gastropoda, Mollusca), commonly known as ‘warty dorid’, is particularly interesting due to its ability to produce de novo biochemical compounds with pharmacological properties and being the type species of the genus Doris, one of the oldest and richest in species, currently characterised by a troubled systematics. Despite its wide distribution across the Eastern Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, this species has not yet been characterised from a genetic point of view. Considering the importance of assessing species identity to correctly investigate the systematics and to properly unravel potentially useful applications, results from a molecular assessment of such interesting species are provided. Genetic analysis involved species delimitation, phylogeny and haplotype network methods carried out on specimens of D. verrucosa collected from highly anthropised areas of Southern Italy (central Mediterranean Sea). Furthermore, in situ observations allowed us to fill some gaps in knowledge on the ecology and the morphological variability of this species that could be useful for future comparisons. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Marine Diversity)
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15 pages, 6502 KB  
Article
Farmland Biodiversity Monitoring Using DNA Metabarcoding
by Dirk Steinke, Muhammad Ashfaq, Chris Y. Ho, Kate H. J. Perez, Jayme E. Sones, Stephanie L. DeWaard, Jeremy R. DeWaard, Sujeevan Ratnasingham, Evgeny V. Zakharov and Paul D. N. Hebert
Diversity 2025, 17(8), 585; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17080585 - 20 Aug 2025
Viewed by 643
Abstract
Although 5–20% of global crop production is lost to arthropod damage, current biomonitoring programs are extremely limited. This study evaluates the feasibility of using metabarcoding to assess overall insect diversity and detect pest species in agricultural settings. It introduces a curated DNA barcode [...] Read more.
Although 5–20% of global crop production is lost to arthropod damage, current biomonitoring programs are extremely limited. This study evaluates the feasibility of using metabarcoding to assess overall insect diversity and detect pest species in agricultural settings. It introduces a curated DNA barcode reference library for Canadian insects that are agricultural pests and applies it to metabarcoding data from the analysis of Malaise trap samples from two experimental farms in Southern Ontario. A total of 7707 arthropod species were collected across the two farms, and projections indicate that another 4000 await detection. These taxa included 231 registered pest species. The composition of the overall arthropod community composition was more heavily influenced by site location than crop type, but pest species composition was influenced by the crop. This study confirms that metabarcoding enables the evaluation of the species composition of arthropod communities in agroecosystems, allowing pest species to be tracked. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biodiversity Loss & Dynamics)
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42 pages, 2426 KB  
Review
Population Genetic Structure: Where, What, and Why?
by Adomas Ragauskas, Evelina Maziliauskaitė, Petras Prakas and Dalius Butkauskas
Diversity 2025, 17(8), 584; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17080584 - 20 Aug 2025
Viewed by 2153
Abstract
Biodiversity is crucial for humankind. It encompasses three main levels: ecosystem, species, and intraspecific genetic diversity. Species consist of populations that exhibit deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) variability, which is a key component of intraspecific genetic diversity. In turn, intraspecific genetic diversity is directly linked [...] Read more.
Biodiversity is crucial for humankind. It encompasses three main levels: ecosystem, species, and intraspecific genetic diversity. Species consist of populations that exhibit deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) variability, which is a key component of intraspecific genetic diversity. In turn, intraspecific genetic diversity is directly linked with the term population genetic structure (PGS). There is a great deal of uncertainty and confusion surrounding the concept of the PGS of species in the scientific literature, yet the term PGS is central to population genetics, and future research is expected to focus on the evolutionary continuum from populations to species. Therefore, it is necessary for current biologists and the next generation of scientists to acquire a better understanding of a PGS, both as a term and a concept, as well as the various roles PGSs play within a biodiversity context. This knowledge can then be applied to the expansion of both practical and theoretical science. Finding answers and reaching a consensus among the scientific community on certain questions regarding PGSs could expand the horizons of population genetics and related research disciplines. The major areas of interest and research are PGSs’ roles in the processes of microevolution and speciation, the sustainable use of natural resources, and the conservation of genetic diversity. Other important aspects of this perspective review include proposals for scientific definitions of some terms and concepts, as well as new perspectives and explanations that could be used as a basis for future theoretical models and applied research on PGSs. In conclusion, a PGS should be viewed as a fragile genetic mosaic encompassing at least three spatial dimensions and one temporal dimension. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biodiversity Conservation)
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20 pages, 3072 KB  
Article
First Microbial Survey of a Submerged Petrified Forest in the Black Sea: Culture-Based and Metagenomic Insights
by Mihail Iliev, Ralitsa Ilieva, Slavil Peykov, Viktoria Terziyska, Anton Pelkin and Lyubomir Kenderov
Diversity 2025, 17(8), 583; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17080583 - 20 Aug 2025
Viewed by 641
Abstract
The submerged petrified forest in Sozopol Bay, located along Bulgaria’s southeastern coast in the Black Sea, is an extraordinarily rare natural phenomenon that has remained unexplored in terms of microbial diversity until now. This study focuses on characterizing the microbial communities associated with [...] Read more.
The submerged petrified forest in Sozopol Bay, located along Bulgaria’s southeastern coast in the Black Sea, is an extraordinarily rare natural phenomenon that has remained unexplored in terms of microbial diversity until now. This study focuses on characterizing the microbial communities associated with this unique habitat. Ancient petrified tree remnants located at depths of 18–20 m were sampled in August–September 2024, targeting four tree trunks from different sites within the bay. The quantitative assessment of selected bacterial groups, essential for nutrient cycling, organic matter degradation, and marine ecosystem health, revealed distinct community profiles. 16S rDNA sequencing of cultivated isolates identified a diverse microbial community predominantly composed of γ-Proteobacteria, with key representatives such as Vibrio aestuarianus, Vibrio orientalis, Pseudoalteromonas, and Cobetia sp. The culture-independent approach confirmed the dominance of Proteobacteria, along with other prevalent phyla like Bacteroidetes, Planctomycetes, and Actinobacteria. The most abundant taxa included Woeseia oceani, Ilumatobacter coccineus, Halioglobus maricola, and Vibrio breoganii. Archaea made up about 3% of classified reads. Fungal sequences accounted for less than 2% of the total reads, indicating a low fungal prevalence. These results provide essential baseline data for future monitoring and the conservation of this unique habitat and its diverse microbial communities. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2025)
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16 pages, 1046 KB  
Systematic Review
Impacts of Mycobacterium leprae-Infection on Wild Populations of the Nine-Banded Armadillo (Dasypus novemcinctus) Species Complex: A Systematic Review
by Olivia F. Sciandra, Wesley M. Anderson, Sarah Zohdy and Kelly H. Dunning
Diversity 2025, 17(8), 582; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17080582 - 20 Aug 2025
Viewed by 703
Abstract
Leprosy is a chronically infectious disease caused by infection with Mycobacterium leprae, or the more recently discovered Mycobacterium lepromatosis. In the Americas, wild armadillos of the Dasypus genus are natural hosts. A systematic review evaluated demographics and spatiotemporal patterns of infection [...] Read more.
Leprosy is a chronically infectious disease caused by infection with Mycobacterium leprae, or the more recently discovered Mycobacterium lepromatosis. In the Americas, wild armadillos of the Dasypus genus are natural hosts. A systematic review evaluated demographics and spatiotemporal patterns of infection with leprosy-causing bacteria in wild populations of the Dasypus novemcinctus species complex. The Web of Science Core Collection, Biosis Citation Index, Dissertations and Theses, and PubMed databases, in addition to Google Scholar, were searched on 16 April 2022. 158 records were recovered, and six peer-reviewed journal articles were selected and summarized that evaluated the effects of M. leprae-infection on mortality, reproduction, age structure, and sex ratio, in addition to seasonal, annual, and spatial infection patterns. Findings indicate that infection with M. leprae has the potential to impact reproduction, mortality, and population age structure. Studies found that the pathogen does not appear to cluster in populations, but consistent temporal findings were not recovered. A limitation of this review is that there was a single reviewer, which may introduce bias. A better understanding of the impacts and distribution of leprosy in wild populations would allow for improved management recommendations for nuisance Dasypus armadillos throughout their range and limit potential zoonotic transmission. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ecology, Behavior, and Conservation of Armadillos)
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18 pages, 2889 KB  
Article
Depth-Dependent Phenotypic Plasticity Differs Between Two Deep-Freshwater Amphipod Scavengers of the Genus Ommatogammarus Despite Similarly Low Genetic Diversity in Ancient Lake Baikal
by Ekaterina Telnes, Yulia Shirokova, Tatiana Peretolchina, Andrei Mutin, Yaroslav Rzhechitskiy, Anatoly Filippov, Anton Gurkov, Maxim Timofeyev and Polina Drozdova
Diversity 2025, 17(8), 581; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17080581 - 19 Aug 2025
Viewed by 643
Abstract
Although deep-water environments make up the world’s largest ecosystem, they are poorly characterized. Lake Baikal, the only freshwater reservoir possessing rich deep-water fauna, offers unique opportunities to examine the evolutionary processes that occurred independently and concurrently with adaptation to these environments in the [...] Read more.
Although deep-water environments make up the world’s largest ecosystem, they are poorly characterized. Lake Baikal, the only freshwater reservoir possessing rich deep-water fauna, offers unique opportunities to examine the evolutionary processes that occurred independently and concurrently with adaptation to these environments in the ocean. Here, we focus on amphipods as one of the dominant elements of Baikal deep-water fauna. This study examines the genetic diversity across broad vertical (~1 km) and horizontal (~500 km) ranges, as well as depth-related traits in two deep-water scavengers, Ommatogammarus flavus (Dybowsky, 1874) and Ommatogammarus albinus (Dybowsky, 1874). Our results revealed low intraspecific diversity of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene marker fragment across locations and depths, indicating the absence of significant barriers in the distribution of either species and a bottleneck event in their evolutionary histories. At the same time, we found depth-related stratification in carotenoid-based body coloration and eye shape in O. flavus, as well as in eye color for both species. These findings suggest partial isolation between vertically stratified populations and help to characterize the ecological differences between the two studied species. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Diversity)
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17 pages, 5755 KB  
Article
Distribution and Abundance of Native Orchids on Roadside Trees in a Global Biodiversity Hotspot
by Viswambharan Sarasan, Mithun Venugopal, Ratheesh M. K. Narayanan, Sidharth S. Nair and Pradeep N. Sukumaran
Diversity 2025, 17(8), 580; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17080580 - 19 Aug 2025
Viewed by 587
Abstract
Trees play a vital role in supporting biodiversity, particularly in regions where human demand for resources is increasing and many species are experiencing population decline. Native orchids, especially those that are endemic, are particularly vulnerable to population decreases in biodiversity hotspot areas, with [...] Read more.
Trees play a vital role in supporting biodiversity, particularly in regions where human demand for resources is increasing and many species are experiencing population decline. Native orchids, especially those that are endemic, are particularly vulnerable to population decreases in biodiversity hotspot areas, with anthropogenic factors playing an increasingly significant role in this trend. A substantial portion of the northern district of Kerala, situated in southern India, falls within the biodiversity hotspot of the Western Ghats. The road network traversing the Western Ghats provides refuge for native orchids on various tree species. The present study examined a 60 km perimeter area encompassing 15 different sites located near small towns and built-up areas, regions where trees have already been lost due to settlement and infrastructure development. These roadside areas are lined with a mixture of native and exotic trees, including both naturally recruited fruit trees and exotic species. Approximately 600 trees, representing 72 different tree taxa, were recorded from the sampled areas in Wayanad. Nearly 10,000 orchids encompassing 13 species were observed, with 6 of these species, constituting 46%, being endemic to the region. This study revealed variations between sites, with some locations exhibiting high diversity and abundance of both trees and orchids. The diversity and abundance of native orchids, risks, and prospects of development mitigation are discussed in detail. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Restoring and Conserving Biodiversity: A Global Perspective)
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1 pages, 122 KB  
Correction
Correction: Mihuc et al. Lake Champlain Zooplankton Community Dynamics Following an Extreme Flood Event. Diversity 2024, 16, 451
by Timothy Mihuc, Erin Hayes-Pontius, Marshall Arnwine, Zachary Cutter and Luke Myers
Diversity 2025, 17(8), 579; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17080579 - 18 Aug 2025
Viewed by 273
Abstract
The authors would like to make the following corrections to [...] Full article
12 pages, 4724 KB  
Article
Helminths of Cats (Felis catus Linnaeus, 1758) and Their Larval Stages in Reptiles in Dubai, United Arab Emirates
by Rolf K. Schuster and Saritha Sivakumar
Diversity 2025, 17(8), 578; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17080578 - 16 Aug 2025
Viewed by 744
Abstract
An examination of 360 feral cats originating from three major habitats in the Dubai Emirate between 2002 and 2024 revealed the presence of 14 helminths, as follows: Joyeuxiella pasqualei, Joyeuxiella gervaisi, Diplopylidium nölleri, Diplopylidium acanthotetra, Hydatigera taeniaeformis, Taenia [...] Read more.
An examination of 360 feral cats originating from three major habitats in the Dubai Emirate between 2002 and 2024 revealed the presence of 14 helminths, as follows: Joyeuxiella pasqualei, Joyeuxiella gervaisi, Diplopylidium nölleri, Diplopylidium acanthotetra, Hydatigera taeniaeformis, Taenia hydatigena, Ancylostoma braziliense, Ancylostoma ceylanicum, Ollulanus tricuspis, Toxocara cati, Toxascaris leonina, Pterygodermatites cahirensis, Centrorhynchus aluconis and Macracanthorhynchus catulinus. During the same period, a total of 66 snakes (eight species) and 68 lizards (four species) from different locations in the Dubai Emirate were examined for parasites. The larval stages of the cestode genera Joyeuxiella and Diplopylidium, as well as cystacanths of Centrorhynchus sp. and Macracanthorhynchus sp. and the larval stages of two nematodes were detected. All of the snake species except sand boas, as well as two gecko species, harbored the larval stages of cestodes of the Dipylidiidae family. The high prevalence of Joyeuxiella and Diplopylidium in the cats that originated from the city center of Dubai, where the presence of reptiles can be excluded, suggests that certain arthropods might be involved in the life cycle of these cestodes as first intermediate hosts and that reptiles are paratenic hosts. Full article
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15 pages, 2515 KB  
Article
Characteristics of Rhizosphere Soil Fungal Communities of Cypripedium macranthos Sw. at Different Latitudes in Heilongjiang Province
by Jiawei Qian, Shang Dong, Jiale Liu, Mengsha Li and Liqiang Mu
Diversity 2025, 17(8), 577; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17080577 - 15 Aug 2025
Viewed by 388
Abstract
In recent years, due to over-excavation and destruction of the living environment, Cypripedium macranthos Sw. (commonly known as ‘big pocket flower’) has been in an endangered state. It is crucial to investigate the rhizosphere soil fungal community characteristics of C. macranthos to restore [...] Read more.
In recent years, due to over-excavation and destruction of the living environment, Cypripedium macranthos Sw. (commonly known as ‘big pocket flower’) has been in an endangered state. It is crucial to investigate the rhizosphere soil fungal community characteristics of C. macranthos to restore its population. In this study, we collected rhizosphere soils from C. macranthos populations along the latitudinal gradient of 44°–49° in Heilongjiang Province, China, and analysed the diversity and composition of C. macranthos rhizosphere soil fungal communities using high-throughput sequencing technology to investigate the diversity and community composition of C. macranthos. The results showed that 4228 OTUs were obtained by clustering based on a 97% similarity level. Alpha diversity results showed that Shannon diversity indices and Simpson diversity indices decreased with an increasing latitudinal gradient. The principal coordinate analysis (PCoA) results showed that the rhizosphere soil of C. macranthos at different locations differed in composition. It is important to reveal the characteristics of rhizosphere soil fungal communities at the molecular level, across varying latitudes, to conserve C. macranthos. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microbial Diversity in Different Environments)
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17 pages, 1158 KB  
Article
Fatty Acids and Fatty Acid Trophic Markers in Two Holothurian Species from the Central Mediterranean Sea
by Nicolò Tonachella, Michela Contò, Marco Martinoli, Arianna Martini, Alessandra Fianchini, Luca Fontanesi, Francescantonio Gallucci, Enrico Paris, Domitilla Pulcini, Arnold Rakaj, Riccardo Napolitano and Fabrizio Capoccioni
Diversity 2025, 17(8), 576; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17080576 - 15 Aug 2025
Viewed by 524
Abstract
Sea cucumbers, important members of the phylum Echinodermata, play a crucial role in sediment mixing and nutrient cycling on the seafloor. They also hold significant economic value, particularly in Asian food and pharmaceutical markets. In the Mediterranean Sea, the harvesting of sea cucumbers [...] Read more.
Sea cucumbers, important members of the phylum Echinodermata, play a crucial role in sediment mixing and nutrient cycling on the seafloor. They also hold significant economic value, particularly in Asian food and pharmaceutical markets. In the Mediterranean Sea, the harvesting of sea cucumbers has recently intensified, often without regulation, threatening both species populations and the health of benthic ecosystems. This study investigated the potential of using fatty acid (FA) profiles as ecological biomarkers to trace the different origin and feeding ecology of two sea cucumber species, Holothuria polii and H. tubulosa, collected from ten coastal sites in Italy. A total of 285 individuals were analyzed through lipid extraction and characterization from their body walls using gas chromatography (GC-FID and GC-MS). Key fatty acids identified included arachidonic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid, eicosenoic acid, palmitic acid, palmitoleic acid, stearic acid, and nervonic acid. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) revealed patterns consistent with geographic origin, suggesting that FA profiles can reflect site-specific trophic conditions. The analysis also indicated that sea cucumbers primarily feed on diatoms, bacteria, and blue-green algae, with notable regional variation. This study is the first to successfully apply FA-based trophic markers to differentiate Italian populations of these species, providing insights for ecological monitoring and fishery management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Marine Diversity)
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14 pages, 966 KB  
Article
Genetic Diversity of Five Pelodiscus sinensis Sub-Populations in the Dongting Lake Basin Based on Cytb and 12S rRNA Markers
by Zhiliang Zuo, Hewei Xiao, Qifan Wu, Lu Tian, Feng Gao, Cheng Li, Jiajia Ni, Zhitao Peng and Jin Xiang
Diversity 2025, 17(8), 575; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17080575 - 15 Aug 2025
Viewed by 447
Abstract
To explore the current state of genetic diversity of in the Chinese soft-shelled turtle (Pelodiscus sinensis) in the Dongting Lake basin, the genetic diversity of five sub-populations consisting of 71 turtles were analyzed through mitochondrial Cytb and 12S rRNA. Our [...] Read more.
To explore the current state of genetic diversity of in the Chinese soft-shelled turtle (Pelodiscus sinensis) in the Dongting Lake basin, the genetic diversity of five sub-populations consisting of 71 turtles were analyzed through mitochondrial Cytb and 12S rRNA. Our results revealed 13 haplotypes for Cytb and 6 for 12S rRNA. The overall haplotype diversity and nucleotide diversity indices were 0.750 and 0.014, and 0.712 and 0.009, respectively. The Shaoyang sub-population showed the lowest genetic diversity according to both markers. The genetic distances between sub-populations ranged from 0.010 to 0.018 (Cytb), and from 0.002 to 0.014 (12S rRNA), with the largest distance observed between the Shaoyang and Junshan sub-populations. The Junshan sub-population was significantly different from the other sub-populations (p < 0.05), and gene exchange was weak, despite belonging to the same population. Genetic variation within the P. sinensis sub-population was much higher than that between sub-populations. There was no recent expansion event in the history of P. sinensis. Overall, the genetic diversity of P. sinensis was high, whereas it appeared to be homogenous, suggesting a potential decline in genetic diversity. This study provides valuable insights for the conservation and sustainable use of P. sinensis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Freshwater Biodiversity)
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18 pages, 3294 KB  
Article
Permanent or Transitory Crops? The Dilemma for Biodiversity Conservation: A Case Study with Dung Beetles (Scarabaeidae: Scarabaeinae) in the Colombian Caribbean
by Jorge Luis Rangel-Acosta, Neis José Martínez-Hernández, Alfonso Siado-García and Carlos Andrés Daza-Guerra
Diversity 2025, 17(8), 574; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17080574 - 15 Aug 2025
Viewed by 594
Abstract
Crops of cocoa, avocado, cassava, yam, and maize are of utmost importance to the economy of the Colombian Caribbean, as they serve as the primary source of income for many families. However, establishing these crops requires the replacement of natural ecosystems, with limited [...] Read more.
Crops of cocoa, avocado, cassava, yam, and maize are of utmost importance to the economy of the Colombian Caribbean, as they serve as the primary source of income for many families. However, establishing these crops requires the replacement of natural ecosystems, with limited understanding of how these areas contribute to biodiversity conservation. This study analyzed the diversity of dung beetles in both transitory and permanent crops within a landscape in San Jacinto, Bolívar, to assess their contribution to the conservation of diversity within this insect group. Dung beetle communities were sampled in permanent crops of avocado and cocoa, transitory crops (cassava, yam, and maize), and a forest fragment. The forest fragment exhibited high levels of species richness, abundance, and diversity regardless of the sampling period; these values were only matched by those of the permanent cocoa crop, and only during the rainy season. Our findings highlight the necessity of preserving forest fragments for biodiversity conservation, while also indicating that certain permanent crops may contribute to this effort. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity, Distribution and Zoogeography of Coleoptera)
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17 pages, 8868 KB  
Article
Dual Influence of Rainfall and Water Temperature on Phytoplankton Diversity and Nutrient Dynamics in a Mountainous Riverine Reservoir
by Qihang Zhao, Lian Hu, Xinyue Ren, Xiang Hu, Tianchi Sun, Jun Zuo, Peng Xiao, He Zhang, Rongzhen Zhang and Renhui Li
Diversity 2025, 17(8), 573; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17080573 - 15 Aug 2025
Viewed by 435
Abstract
The combined effects of anthropogenic activities and climate change, particularly the increasing frequency of extreme rainfall events, continue to pose significant threats to the security of reservoir ecosystems and water quality. Effective prediction and management of aquatic ecosystems require a comprehensive understanding of [...] Read more.
The combined effects of anthropogenic activities and climate change, particularly the increasing frequency of extreme rainfall events, continue to pose significant threats to the security of reservoir ecosystems and water quality. Effective prediction and management of aquatic ecosystems require a comprehensive understanding of how environmental factors influence the dynamics of phytoplankton communities. However, the response patterns of phytoplankton community diversity, niche breadth, and cell density to rainfall disturbances in complex mountainous riverine reservoirs remain poorly understood. In this study, we systematically investigated the phytoplankton community structure and its environmental drivers in Zhaoshandu Reservoir (China) via field surveys, morphological identification of samples, and multivariate statistical analyses. Water temperature (WT), rainfall, and phytoplankton cell density in the study area ranged from 11.4 °C to 35.6 °C, from 0 to 72.5 mm, and from 3.33 × 103 to 7.95 × 107 cells/L, respectively. Total phosphorus and total nitrogen concentrations ranged from 0.002 to 0.633 mg/L and from 0.201 to 5.06 mg/L, respectively. Canonical correspondence analysis found that rainfall and WT were the pivotal drivers of phytoplankton density and biomass and were significantly correlated with phytoplankton diversity. Importantly, structural equation modeling revealed that the direct effects of both rainfall and WT on phytoplankton diversity and niche width, as well as the indirect effects of rainfall on ammonium nitrogen concentration, significantly modulated algal density and biomass in Zhaoshandu Reservoir. Our study highlights the role of rainfall as a potential major regulator of phytoplankton communities in this riverine reservoir. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2025 Feature Papers by Diversity’s Editorial Board Members)
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35 pages, 10269 KB  
Article
Effect of Environmental Variability on Lobster Stocks (Panulirus) in Waters off Brazil and Cuba
by Raul Cruz, Antônio G. Ferreira, João V. M. Santana, Marina T. Torres, Juliana C. Gaeta, Jessica L. S. Da Silva, Carlos G. Barreto, Carlos A. Borda, Jade O. Abreu, Rafael D. Viana, Francisco R. de Lima and Israel H. A. Cintra
Diversity 2025, 17(8), 572; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17080572 - 15 Aug 2025
Viewed by 660
Abstract
We evaluated the impact of environmental variability on lobster Panulirus argus and Panulirus laevicauda resources in the waters off Brazil and southern Cuba. This study also covered aspects of larval recruitment associated with the availability of fishing resources in the Southern and Northern [...] Read more.
We evaluated the impact of environmental variability on lobster Panulirus argus and Panulirus laevicauda resources in the waters off Brazil and southern Cuba. This study also covered aspects of larval recruitment associated with the availability of fishing resources in the Southern and Northern Hemispheres. Satellite-generated environmental data were sampled from 18 stations, 6 of which were in the sea off southern Cuba, 6 of which were in the coastal region of Brazil, and 6 of which were offshore near Brazil, covering important lobster fishing grounds and phyllosoma-rich areas of ocean surface circulation along the offshore boundary. The Southern Oscillation Index (SOI) was used to quantify the global ocean–atmosphere variability. Other environmental parameters included in the analysis were the monthly coastal sea levels, surface temperature (SST), salinity, wind/current speed, chlorophyll-a (Chl-a) concentrations, rainfall (RF), and Amazon River discharge (ARD). Variations in the level of puerulus settlement, juveniles, and population harvest in the coastal region of Brazil and Cuba were used to better understand the impact of environmental variability on organisms in their larval stages and their subsequent recruitment to fisheries. The surface temperature, chlorophyll-a concentration, and wind/current patterns were significantly associated with the variability in puerulus settlement. Larger-scale processes (as proxied by the SOI) affected RF, ARD, and sea levels, which reached a maximum during La Niña. As for Brazil, the full-year landings prediction model included Chl-a concentration, SST, RF, and ARD and their association with lobster landings (LLs). The landing predictions for Cuba were based on fluctuations in the Chl-a concentration and SST. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ecology and Biogeography of Marine Benthos—2nd Edition)
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22 pages, 4552 KB  
Article
The Chloroplast Genome of the Endemic Species Abrus bottae Deflers: Comparative and Phylogenetic Analysis with Closely Related Species of Abreae Hutch
by Widad S. Aljuhani
Diversity 2025, 17(8), 571; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17080571 - 14 Aug 2025
Viewed by 286
Abstract
Abrus bottae belongs to the subfamily Papilionoideae DC. and the family Fabaceae Lind., endemic to the Arabian Peninsula. This genus encounters numerous taxonomic issues concerning both the quantity of species within the genus and the systematic relationships among its species. Notably, there is [...] Read more.
Abrus bottae belongs to the subfamily Papilionoideae DC. and the family Fabaceae Lind., endemic to the Arabian Peninsula. This genus encounters numerous taxonomic issues concerning both the quantity of species within the genus and the systematic relationships among its species. Notably, there is a complete absence of sequence data in the GenBank database for this species. A molecular and phylogenetic study of the chloroplast genome of the species A. bottae was performed in this work. The chloroplast genome is 152,540 bp in size and exhibits a typical quadripartite structure, consisting of a substantial single-copy region of 83,507 bp, a small single-copy region of 17,681 bp, and a pair of inverted repeat regions of 25,676 bp each. The chloroplast genome of Abrus bottae encompasses 130 genes. An analysis of nucleoside diversity revealed 26 nucleotide polymorphism sites with Pi values (a measure of genetic variation within species) ≥ 0.04, serving as hotspots of variation. This work represents the first molecular phylogenetic study on the endemic species Abrus bottae and presents a comparative and phylogenetic analysis of the cp genomes of related taxa within the tribe Abreae. These outcomes can be used to develop DNA barcodes to study variation among the Abrus species. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Phylogeny and Evolution)
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25 pages, 5843 KB  
Article
Scaling Plant Functional Strategies from Species to Communities in Regenerating Amazonian Forests: Insights for Restoration in Deforested Landscapes
by Carlos H. Rodríguez-León, Armando Sterling, Dorman D. Daza-Giraldo, Yerson D. Suárez-Córdoba and Lilia L. Roa-Fuentes
Diversity 2025, 17(8), 570; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17080570 - 14 Aug 2025
Viewed by 506
Abstract
Understanding how main plant functional strategies scale from species to communities is critical for guiding restoration in tropical disturbed areas by unsustainable livestock grazing; yet, the patterns and drivers of functional trait space along successional trajectories remain poorly understood. Here, we investigated functional [...] Read more.
Understanding how main plant functional strategies scale from species to communities is critical for guiding restoration in tropical disturbed areas by unsustainable livestock grazing; yet, the patterns and drivers of functional trait space along successional trajectories remain poorly understood. Here, we investigated functional trait space using principal component analyses (PCAs) based on eight traits related to leaf, stem, and seed morphology across 226 tree species and 33 forest communities along a chronosequence of natural regeneration following cattle ranching abandonment in deforested landscapes of the Colombian Amazon. We identified three species-level functional axes—namely, the ‘Structural–Reproductive Allocation Axis’, the ‘Mechanical Support and Tissue Investment Axis’, and the ‘Leaf Economics Axis’—and two community-level axes: the ‘Colonization–Longevity Axis’ and the ‘Persistence–Acquisition Axis’. These axes aligned with the life-history strategies of short-lived pioneers, long-lived pioneers, and old-growth species, and reflected their relationships with key environmental drivers. Community-level functional composition reflected species-level patterns, but was also shaped by soil properties, microclimate, and tree species richness. Forest age and precipitation promoted conservative strategies, while declining soil fertility suggested a decoupling between above- and belowground recovery. Functional richness and divergence were highest in mid-successional forests dominated by long-lived pioneers. Our findings highlight the role of environmental and successional filters in shaping functional trait space and emphasize the value of functionally diverse communities. Particularly, our results indicate that long-lived pioneers (LLP) such as Astrocaryum chambira Burret and Pouteria campanulata Baehni, with traits like large height, intermediate wood density, and larger seed size, represent ideal candidates for early enrichment strategies due to their facilitation roles in succession supporting restoration efforts in regenerating Amazonian forests. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional and Taxonomic Plant Diversity: Applications for Ecological Monitoring and Management)
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17 pages, 4999 KB  
Article
Simulating the Phylogenetic Diversity Metrics of Plant Communities in Alpine Grasslands of Xizang, China
by Mingxue Xiang, Tao Ma, Wei Sun, Shaowei Li and Gang Fu
Diversity 2025, 17(8), 569; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17080569 - 14 Aug 2025
Viewed by 473
Abstract
Phylogenetic diversity serves as a critical complement to traditional species diversity metrics. However, the performance variations among different computational models in simulating phylogenetic diversity within plant communities in the alpine grasslands of the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau remain insufficiently characterized. Here, we evaluated nine modeling [...] Read more.
Phylogenetic diversity serves as a critical complement to traditional species diversity metrics. However, the performance variations among different computational models in simulating phylogenetic diversity within plant communities in the alpine grasslands of the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau remain insufficiently characterized. Here, we evaluated nine modeling approaches—random forest (RF), generalized boosting regression (GBR), multiple linear regression (MLR), artificial neural network (ANN), generalized linear regression (GLR), conditional inference tree (CIT), extreme gradient boosting (eXGB), support vector machine (SVM), and recursive regression tree (RRT)—for predicting three key phylogenetic diversity metrics [Faith’s phylogenetic diversity (PD), mean pairwise distance (MPD), mean nearest taxon distance (MNTD)] using climate variables and NDVImax. Our comprehensive analysis revealed distinct model performance patterns under grazing vs. fencing regimes. The eXGB algorithm demonstrated superior accuracy for fencing conditions, achieving the lowest relative bias (−0.08%) and RMSE (9.54) for MPD, along with optimal performance for MNTD (bias = 2.95%, RMSE = 44.86). Conversely, RF emerged as the most robust model for grazing scenarios, delivering the lowest bias (−1.63%) and RMSE (16.89) for MPD while maintaining strong predictive capability for MNTD (bias = −1.09%, RMSE = 27.59). Notably, scatterplot analysis revealed that only RF, GBR, and eXGB maintained symmetrical distributions along the 1:1 line, while other models showed problematic one-to-many value mappings or asymmetric patterns. These findings show that machine learning (especially RF and eXGB) enhances phylogenetic diversity predictions by integrating climate and NDVI data, though model performance varies by metric and management context. This study offers a framework for ecological forecasting, emphasizing multi-metric validation in biodiversity modeling. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Effective Strategies for Rangeland Conservation and Sustainable Management)
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12 pages, 434 KB  
Article
High Endemism of Haemosporidian Lineages in a Southern Vietnam Avian Community
by Gary Voelker, Mariel Ortega, McKenna Sanchez, Katrina D. Keith, Evgeniy A. Koblik, Andrey V. Bushuev, Anvar B. Kerimov, Nguyễn Văn Linh and Sergei V. Drovetski
Diversity 2025, 17(8), 568; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17080568 - 13 Aug 2025
Viewed by 575
Abstract
Avian haemosporidians are globally distributed protozoan parasites transmitted to birds by dipteran vectors. The effects of haemosporidian infections are wide-ranging and generally manifest as negative impacts on avian survival and fitness. The study of avian haemosporidians has grown considerably over the past 20 [...] Read more.
Avian haemosporidians are globally distributed protozoan parasites transmitted to birds by dipteran vectors. The effects of haemosporidian infections are wide-ranging and generally manifest as negative impacts on avian survival and fitness. The study of avian haemosporidians has grown considerably over the past 20 years, such that inter-regional and global effects can be explored. However, considerable gaps in intra-regional studies remain; such studies are critical to broader assessments. In this study, we conducted a community survey of avian haemosporidians found in birds in Cát Tiên National Park, Vietnam. We quantified relative parasite abundance and host associations, and compared our results to data from nearby countries. We also assessed the broader geographic distributions of previously described haemosporidian lineages that we identified in our sample. We screened 320 birds and detected infections in just 28 (8.8%). Infections were either Haemoproteus (12, 3.8%) or Plasmodium (16, 5.0%); we detected no Leucocytozoon infections. We recovered 23 haemosporidian lineages, of which 19 are new, suggesting a high degree of parasite endemism. While our positive detection rate is considerably lower than expected, the high proportion of new versus previously described lineages highlights the need for a continued focus on localized studies to broaden our knowledge of intra- and inter-regional distributions as the field seeks the mechanisms underlying generalized patterns of parasite distribution. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bird Parasites—3rd Edition)
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11 pages, 878 KB  
Article
Main Causes of Bat Mortality Obtained Through Admission to Rescue Centres
by Alfonso Balmori-de la Puente and Alfonso Balmori
Diversity 2025, 17(8), 567; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17080567 - 12 Aug 2025
Viewed by 454
Abstract
Bats have decreasing population trends around the world, and knowledge on the causes for this decline is the first step to improving conservation and management strategies to restore their populations. An important source of data for the study of the causes of bat [...] Read more.
Bats have decreasing population trends around the world, and knowledge on the causes for this decline is the first step to improving conservation and management strategies to restore their populations. An important source of data for the study of the causes of bat mortality is the admissions to rescue centres. The aim of this work was to identify the different causes of bat admissions to rescue centres in Castilla y León (Spain) over more than 30 years, analyzing the importance of the threats for different species, as well as the tendency of anthropogenic causes over the years, such as the increase in industrial wind-power facilities. The dataset included 791 bats (568 dead and 223 injured). The species with the largest number of entries was Pipistrellus pipistrellus at 451, followed by 82 Hypsugo savii, 64 Plecotus sp., 63 Tadarida teniotis, 42 Eptesicus serotinus and 24 Nyctalus lasiopterus. The most important known causes of entry for these selected species were collisions with wind turbines (n = 160); immaturity-related causes (e.g., orphan individuals with insufficient foraging and flight skills prone to injury or starvation) (n = 93); weakness due to starvation (n = 75); trauma: blow of unknown origin (n = 69); shooting: vandalism with a gun (n = 15); carnivore bite: predation (n = 8); road kill: road accident (n = 3); and disease: sickness (n = 3). In addition, there were many admissions which lacked a known cause (n = 294). The species with the most carcasses for collisions with wind turbines was Pipistrellus pipistrellus at 100, followed by 40 Hypsugo savii and 15 Nyctalus lasiopterus. As expected, the number of bats that collided with wind turbines showed a significant temporal correlation with the number of wind farms deployed in the territory, and they mainly occurred in September and October, as has also been found in other studies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Diversity)
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17 pages, 799 KB  
Article
Temporally Determinate, but Spatially Consistent Breeding Performance of Lesser Spotted Eagle (Clanga pomarina) Along the Southern Periphery of Its Distribution
by Dimitar Demerdzhiev, Dobromir Dobrev, Atanas Delchev, Mihail Iliev, Georgi Georgiev, Nikolay Terziev, Ivaylo Angelov and Volen Arkumarev
Diversity 2025, 17(8), 566; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17080566 - 12 Aug 2025
Viewed by 502
Abstract
Breeding performance encompasses offspring production, their survival rate, fertility, overall reproductive outcome, timing of reproduction, and breeding frequency. It varies in raptor species, being affected by different biotic, abiotic, and anthropogenic factors. The Lesser Spotted Eagle is a monogamous, long-lived, slowly reproducing raptor, [...] Read more.
Breeding performance encompasses offspring production, their survival rate, fertility, overall reproductive outcome, timing of reproduction, and breeding frequency. It varies in raptor species, being affected by different biotic, abiotic, and anthropogenic factors. The Lesser Spotted Eagle is a monogamous, long-lived, slowly reproducing raptor, characterized by site-fidelity and strongly territorial behavior. In this study, we examined data collected over a 10-year period, highlighting the eagles’ main breeding parameters, analyzing whether any of them demonstrated significant trends or spatial or temporal differences over the study period. We also searched for a strict correlation between species breeding density and breeding performance. We found out that the mean occupancy rate of the territories marginally decreased β2 = −0.64 ± 0.27, p = 0.047, as this process was clearly visible in Sakar Mnt. (β2 = −0.66 ± 0.27, p = 0.038), where in 2022, only 67% of the monitored territories were occupied. The overall mean productivity, breeding success, and breeding frequency did not indicate any trend over the years (p > 0.05). Of all tested breeding parameters, occupancy rate (β2 = 0.29 ± 0.14, p = 0.04) and breeding success (β2 = −0.12 ± 0.06, p = 0.04) varied yearly, while productivity (β2 = 0.25 ± 0.12, p = 0.03) and breeding frequency (β2 = 0.27 ± 0.12, p = 0.03) were influenced by density. None of the tested indicators demonstrated significant regional differences, which indicated a temporally determinate, but spatially consistent pattern of breeding performance of the species in this part of its distribution. Recently, the landscape pattern in the south-eastern part of the country was marked by spectacular habitat loss, driven by human activities and natural phenomena, with entire biodiversity facing an uncertain future. Prompt action and urgent decisions are needed to prevent the negative consequences of these imminent threats to the species. Conservation efforts should be focused on the restoration of breeding and foraging habitats. Further research on the response of eagles to the effect of natural (fires) and anthropogenic (habitat transformation) factors, as well as the relationship between breeding performance and different drivers of reproduction, such as diet, weather, habitat features, and presence of intra- and interspecific competitors, would be of crucial significance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Conservation and Ecology of Raptors—2nd Edition)
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23 pages, 2431 KB  
Review
Systematic Review: The Ecology and Cultural Significance of Oysters in the Arabian Gulf
by Manaf Alkhuzaei, Sabah Aljenaid and Ghadeer Mohamed
Diversity 2025, 17(8), 565; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17080565 - 12 Aug 2025
Viewed by 880
Abstract
Arabian Gulf oyster reefs, dominated by the pearl oyster Pinctada radiata, function simultaneously as ecological keystones and cultural touchstones. Rapid coastal urbanization and escalating pollution now threaten reef integrity. This systematic review of 1400 publications distilled 42 rigorously screened studies (3%) that [...] Read more.
Arabian Gulf oyster reefs, dominated by the pearl oyster Pinctada radiata, function simultaneously as ecological keystones and cultural touchstones. Rapid coastal urbanization and escalating pollution now threaten reef integrity. This systematic review of 1400 publications distilled 42 rigorously screened studies (3%) that document reef distribution, ecological roles, contaminant burdens, and socio-historical context. The results show that reef structures stabilize sediments, enhance water clarity through exceptional filtration rates, and furnish nursery habitats for commercially important fisheries, while heavy metal bioaccumulation in oyster tissues indicates widespread coastal contamination. The Gulf’s economy and identity were historically anchored in pearling; contemporary restoration initiatives already deploying dozens of sustainable reef modules across hundreds of traditional dive sites seek to revive this heritage and bolster ecological resilience. Persistent knowledge gaps include comprehensive spatial mapping, the effects of climate change and pollutant interactions, and long-term restoration success in hypersaline conditions. An integrated management framework that couples stringent monitoring, pollution mitigation, adaptive restoration, and heritage-centered community engagement is essential to safeguard Gulf oyster ecosystems and the cultural narratives entwined with them. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Marine Diversity)
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17 pages, 1458 KB  
Review
A Comprehensive Review of the Biology, Ecological Impacts, and Control Strategies of Eichhornia crassipes
by Matlhatse Daisy Khotsa, Nqobile Monate Mkolo, Mmei Cheryl Motshudi, Mukhethwa Micheal Mphephu, Mmamudi Anna Makhafola and Clarissa Marcelle Naidoo
Diversity 2025, 17(8), 564; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17080564 - 12 Aug 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1305
Abstract
Eichhornia crassipes, also known as water hyacinth, is a harmful aquatic weed that has spread globally, causing significant ecological and economic damage. Originating in the Amazon basin, it has spread to tropical and subtropical regions, obstructing water movement, limiting sunlight, and reducing [...] Read more.
Eichhornia crassipes, also known as water hyacinth, is a harmful aquatic weed that has spread globally, causing significant ecological and economic damage. Originating in the Amazon basin, it has spread to tropical and subtropical regions, obstructing water movement, limiting sunlight, and reducing oxygen levels. Control measures for E. crassipes include chemical, mechanical, and biological methods. Chemical controls are cost-effective but present environmental hazards, whereas mechanical removal is effective but expensive and labor-intensive. Lastly, biological control uses natural predators to reduce weeds. Despite its significant costs, E. crassipes has potential applications in bioenergy, biofertilizer production, and wastewater treatment. This review includes an overview of E. crassipes’ biology, reproductive strategies, socioeconomic impact, and management approaches, as well as an exploration of its potential benefits in Africa’s sub-Saharan region, especially South Africa. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant Diversity)
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15 pages, 1829 KB  
Article
The Splendour and Misery of European Pink Salmon, Oncorhynchus gorbuscha: Abundant Odd Lineage vs. Depressed Even Lineage—Insights from cytb Gene Analysis
by Daria A. Zelenina, Valeria A. Soshnina, Ilya I. Gordeev, Maksim Yu. Alekseev, Vladimir A. Zadelenov and Nikolai S. Mugue
Diversity 2025, 17(8), 563; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17080563 - 11 Aug 2025
Viewed by 411
Abstract
Pink salmon, Oncorhynchus gorbuscha, introduced to the White Sea and expanded throughout the West Arctic and Northern Atlantics, represents a noteworthy example of a successful marine species introduction that has significantly impacted the local fish community. In our study, we analysed mitochondrial [...] Read more.
Pink salmon, Oncorhynchus gorbuscha, introduced to the White Sea and expanded throughout the West Arctic and Northern Atlantics, represents a noteworthy example of a successful marine species introduction that has significantly impacted the local fish community. In our study, we analysed mitochondrial cytochrome b sequences from 635 individuals, representing both odd-year (n = 411) and even-year (n = 224) spawning lineages. These samples were collected from rivers in the White, Barents, Kara, and Northern seas, as well as from source populations in the Pacific. Fifteen cytb haplotypes were identified in the odd-year spawning lineage and twenty-six in the even-year lineage, with only ten haplotypes found in both lineages. The results demonstrated significant genetic differences between the native Pacific populations and the introduced Arctic populations in the odd-year lineage. In contrast, no genetic differentiation was found in the even-year lineage. This study describes the current haplotypic structure of European pink salmon in the Russian Arctic and provides insights into the genetic consequences of the species’ introductions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genetic and Morphological Diversity of Marine Fish Populations)
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16 pages, 1720 KB  
Article
The Maghreb as a Hotspot of Diversity for the Freshwater Crab Genus Potamon (Decapoda, Potamidae)
by Nesrine Rouabhi, Djaouida Bouchelouche, Luca Vecchioni, Youness Mabrouki, Fouzi Abdelkhaleq Taybi, Federico Marrone and Francesco Paolo Faraone
Diversity 2025, 17(8), 562; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17080562 - 10 Aug 2025
Viewed by 576
Abstract
The Maghreb region of North Africa, located at the intersection of the Palaearctic and Afrotropical zones, is a biodiversity hotspot for terrestrial and freshwater taxa, including the freshwater crab of genus Potamon Savigny, 1816. Recent molecular studies have suggested the presence of two [...] Read more.
The Maghreb region of North Africa, located at the intersection of the Palaearctic and Afrotropical zones, is a biodiversity hotspot for terrestrial and freshwater taxa, including the freshwater crab of genus Potamon Savigny, 1816. Recent molecular studies have suggested the presence of two distinct Potamon species in the region: Potamon algeriense Bott, 1967, and an as-yet undescribed taxon, Potamon sp. However, comprehensive data on their distribution, genetic structure, and conservation status are still lacking. In the present study, we integrate new field collections from Algeria and Morocco (2021–2023) with molecular analyses of mitochondrial (COI, ND1) and nuclear (28S rDNA) markers to assess species boundaries and genetic diversity within Potamon across the Maghreb. Phylogenetic reconstructions based on Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian Inference consistently support the presence of two well-differentiated Potamon lineages in the region, corresponding to P. algeriense in western and central Maghreb, and Potamon sp. in eastern Algeria and Tunisia. While Potamon sp. exhibits low intra-specific genetic variation, P. algeriense displays a deeply structured mitochondrial lineage composition, forming four geographically coherent subclades, each corresponding to distinct hydrological regions. In light of this, it would be advisable to revise the IUCN assessment to include both species and updated information on their distribution. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Systematics, Phylogenetics, and Phylogeography of Animals in the Mediterranean Region)
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20 pages, 2931 KB  
Article
Genetic Evidence Reveals Unexpected Diversity and Genetic Exchange Between White-Fringed Weevils (Coleoptera, Curculionidae)
by Noelia V. Guzman, Marcela S. Rodriguero, Viviana A. Confalonieri and Analia A. Lanteri
Diversity 2025, 17(8), 561; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17080561 - 10 Aug 2025
Viewed by 1714
Abstract
The closely related Naupactini species Naupactus leucoloma, Naupactus peregrinus, and Naupactus minor—collectively known as “white-fringed weevils”—form a monophyletic group within the N. leucoloma species group. Mostly parthenogenetic, a few sexually reproducing populations of both N. leucoloma and N. peregrinus occur [...] Read more.
The closely related Naupactini species Naupactus leucoloma, Naupactus peregrinus, and Naupactus minor—collectively known as “white-fringed weevils”—form a monophyletic group within the N. leucoloma species group. Mostly parthenogenetic, a few sexually reproducing populations of both N. leucoloma and N. peregrinus occur in their native ranges (Argentinian Mesopotamian region), where they overlap. In 2013, after several decades during which only females had been recorded, a few males potentially belonging to these species were discovered. To clarify their taxonomic identity and understand the group’s evolutionary dynamics, we analyzed their mitochondrial and nuclear genetic markers to assess their genetic variation distribution and infer their phylogenetic relationships. Molecular phylogenetic analyses revealed that these males constitute an independently evolving lineage, whereas morphological comparisons produced inconclusive results. Statistical tests confirmed introgression between these unidentified males and N. leucoloma. These findings uncover unexpected levels of genetic divergence within this group of Neotropical weevils. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Diversity)
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