Diversity

21 pages, 6852 KB

Open AccessArticle

Phenotypic and Genetic Diversity of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Accessions from Kazakhstan

by Alibek Zatybekov, Yuliya Genievskaya, Shynar Anuarbek, Mukhtar Kudaibergenov, Yerlan Turuspekov and Saule Abugalieva

Diversity 2025, 17(9), 664; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17090664 - 22 Sep 2025

Viewed by 481

Abstract

Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is a key legume crop of global economic and nutritional importance, yet its cultivation in Kazakhstan is constrained by a narrow genetic base and exposure to stress-prone environments. To characterize the diversity available for breeding and conservation, 27 [...] Read more.

Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is a key legume crop of global economic and nutritional importance, yet its cultivation in Kazakhstan is constrained by a narrow genetic base and exposure to stress-prone environments. To characterize the diversity available for breeding and conservation, 27 accessions (22 kabuli and 5 desi) were evaluated for phenotypic and molecular diversity to assess its potential for use in breeding programs. Seven agronomic traits were assessed, including plant height, the first pod’s height, the number of main stems per plant, and seed yield components. The collection showed considerable variability across traits, with the plant height ranging from 37 to 75 cm and hundred-seed weight ranging from 21 to 42 g. Strong positive correlations between the number of fertile nodes, number of seeds per plant, and yield per plant (r > 0.83) highlighted their utility as indirect selection criteria. Genotyping with 28 SSR markers revealed 110 alleles (mean 3.9 ± 0.4 per locus) with moderate polymorphism (PIC = 0.493 ± 0.089). Loci CaM00495 and TAI71 were highly informative (PIC > 0.804), while two accessions showed low polymorphism, indicating genetic uniformity. Population structure analysis grouped accessions into four highly admixed clusters. Overall, Kazakh chickpea germplasm exhibits substantial phenotypic and genetic diversity under optimal conditions, providing valuable preliminary data for selecting parental lines for future breeding programs, which should include targeted stress screening to evaluate resilience. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Economic Plant Diversity in the Anthropocene)

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14 pages, 2662 KB

Open AccessArticle

Multidimensional Scaling Analysis of Morphological Spike Traits in Local Wheat Genotypes from the Van Lake Basin

by Fevzi Altuner, Sana Jamal-Salih, Burak Özdemir, Erol Oral, Mehmet Mendes, Mehmet Ulker, Solmaz Najafi, Beatrice Farda and Loretta Pace

Diversity 2025, 17(9), 663; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17090663 - 22 Sep 2025

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Abstract

Wheat landraces are considered a valuable resource of potential phenotypic variation that could be used in germplasm improvement. Here, we examined 588 local wheat genotypes collected from farmers’ fields at 127 locations around Van Lake Basin and evaluated the morphological diversity and trait [...] Read more.

Wheat landraces are considered a valuable resource of potential phenotypic variation that could be used in germplasm improvement. Here, we examined 588 local wheat genotypes collected from farmers’ fields at 127 locations around Van Lake Basin and evaluated the morphological diversity and trait associations using Multidimensional Scaling Analysis. Spike and yield traits were measured and scored according to the UPOV and ICARDA phenotypic characterization criteria. Multidimensional Scaling Analysis divided the wheat samples into four main groups based on the number of spikelets (NOS), number of fertile spikelets (NFS), thousand-grain weight (TGW), and number of seeds per spike (NSS) and indicated a strong correlation between NOS and NFS. Furthermore, the analysis revealed that the glume and awn color of most of the genotypes was black, and they were within the locally known Karakılçık group. Only two genotypes were excluded from the Karakılçık group; No. 231 was within the Geverik local wheat group, and genotype No. 579 was found to be Tir. The Hevidik and Kirik groups had the same spike color, but the Hevidik group had spikes similar to compactum wheat, whereas the Kirik group had larger spikes. Finally, genotype No. 57 varied from all other genotypes when all the measured traits were taken into consideration. Overall, the Van Lake Basin landraces combine broad similarity with meaningful phenotypic heterogeneity shaped by local environments and traditional on-farm selection. These findings provide practical cues for conservation efforts and for the use of landraces as valuable resources in future wheat breeding programs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Adaptation and Survival Under Global Environmental Change)

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27 pages, 4993 KB

Open AccessReview

The Ecophysiological Role of Trees in Dryland Agroecosystems: Implications for Natural Resource Conservation and Sustainable Food Production in Sub-Saharan Africa

by K. V. R. Priyadarshini, Herbert H. T. Prins and Steven de Bie

Diversity 2025, 17(9), 662; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17090662 - 21 Sep 2025

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Abstract

Agroforestry involves maintaining trees alongside crops and is widely recognised to provide multiple benefits, including improving food security, production efficiency, and soil quality and mitigating climate change. However, in Sub-Saharan Africa, a predominantly dry landscape, various pressures are leading to the removal of [...] Read more.

Agroforestry involves maintaining trees alongside crops and is widely recognised to provide multiple benefits, including improving food security, production efficiency, and soil quality and mitigating climate change. However, in Sub-Saharan Africa, a predominantly dry landscape, various pressures are leading to the removal of trees from farmlands. Evidence from natural dryland systems shows that trees play a central role in regulating the key ecological processes of nutrient and water redistribution, an aspect also invoked in dryland agroecology. In this paper, we synthesise the ecophysiological functioning of trees, focusing on two key processes: water and nutrient redistribution. Additionally, we synthesise the influence of these functions on soil biotic interactions, detailing their ecological significance. Based on available evidence from both natural and agroecosystems, we review the role of tree ecophysiology in sustainable food production in dryland agroecosystems of Sub-Saharan Africa. We provide caveats related to prevalent interpretations and the current understanding of plant resource use in agroecology. Trees in agroforestry systems of Sub-Saharan Africa play a potentially critical role in the ecological intensification of food production. However, there is a lack of data on the roles of tree functions in enhancing crop yields and conserving resources in this region. Although evidence from natural drylands and indirect evidence from dryland agroforests indicate that tree ecophysiological functions may be crucial for ecological intensification of food production in Sub-Saharan Africa, many claims related to agroecosystems are overstated, underscoring the urgent need for focused research. Importantly, large trees on farms need to be conserved. To effectively exploit ecosystem services provided by trees, a key feature of ecological intensification, research tailored to local farm conditions is needed, with a focus on maintaining soil quality, securing long-term productivity, and conserving resources. Balancing agricultural intensification with ecological sustainability remains a challenge, yet it is vital for addressing food security, land degradation, and climate change. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in 2025)

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14 pages, 2404 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of UV-B Radiation on the Growth of Alien Myriophyllum aquaticum

by Zhi Huang, Mingkai Leng, Xiaodong Wu, Xuguang Ge, Mengting Gong, Haoran Liu, Xing Wang, Haoyue Li and Xin Mou

Diversity 2025, 17(9), 661; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17090661 - 21 Sep 2025

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Abstract

Myriophyllum aquaticum is an invasive plant that poses a threat to native plants and industries in China. Therefore, this study aimed to specifically investigate the effects of varying UV-B radiation intensities on the growth and physiological traits of M. aquaticum. We established [...] Read more.

Myriophyllum aquaticum is an invasive plant that poses a threat to native plants and industries in China. Therefore, this study aimed to specifically investigate the effects of varying UV-B radiation intensities on the growth and physiological traits of M. aquaticum. We established three treatment groups: (1) a control group exposed to natural UV-B radiation (~20.0 μW·cm⁻²), (2) a +25% group exposed to UV-B irradiance increased by 25% (~25.0 μW·cm⁻²), and (3) a +50% group exposed to UV-B irradiance increased by 50% (~30.0 μW·cm⁻²). In the +50% group, the growth indices decreased but were still slightly higher than those in the control group, and the plants survived and maintained normal physiology throughout the experimental period. This suggests that M. aquaticum is tolerant of UV-B radiation. However, there may be a threshold beyond which negative effects are exacerbated. As the UV-B irradiance increased, the number of meristems and tillers, as well as the flavonoid content, increased, whereas the malondialdehyde (MDA) content initially decreased and then increased. Thus, M. aquaticum may respond to increased UV-B radiation stress by up-regulating the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites, such as flavonoids. This species adapts to environments with different levels of UV-B radiation by adjusting its morphological characteristics and physiological metabolism, thereby enabling successful invasion. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aquatic Plant Diversity, Conservation, and Restoration)

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16 pages, 2535 KB

Open AccessArticle

Spatial and Seasonal Variations in Invertebrate Communities in the Chai River Based on eDNA Biomonitoring

by Yuanyuan Lin, Jingge Xu, Xuexiu Chang, Shan Xu, Liang Shen and Zheng Zhao

Diversity 2025, 17(9), 660; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17090660 - 20 Sep 2025

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Abstract

As environmental indicators, invertebrate communities are closely related to changes in the water environment. Efficient and accurate monitoring of invertebrates is of great significance for providing references for water environment conservation. However, environmental DNA metabarcoding has rarely been used in invertebrate research at [...] Read more.

As environmental indicators, invertebrate communities are closely related to changes in the water environment. Efficient and accurate monitoring of invertebrates is of great significance for providing references for water environment conservation. However, environmental DNA metabarcoding has rarely been used in invertebrate research at the Chai River in Kunming, Yunnan, China, and the current characteristics of invertebrate communities are unclear. Therefore, this study investigated the spatial and seasonal patterns of invertebrates and the environmental stressors of the Chai River. Based on eDNA metabarcoding, 873 ASVs of invertebrates belonging to Annelida, Arthropoda, Cnidaria, Gastrotricha, Mollusca, Nematoda, Platyhelminthes, Protozoa, and Rotifera were identified, with Arthropoda being the absolute dominant phylum. Distinct spatial and seasonal variations in the invertebrate communities (e.g., ASV number, dominant genera, relative abundances) were observed. Macrothrix and Acanthamoeba were the first and second most dominant genera, both in dry and wet periods. A spatial–seasonal heterogeneity of the relation between the invertebrate communities and environmental factors was observed in the Chai River. The water temperature (WT), chemical oxygen demand (COD), conductivity (C), and Chlorophyll-a (Chl-a) levels were deemed to be the crucial environmental factors influencing the distributions of invertebrate communities in the Chai River, which was consistent with the spatial and seasonal differences in pollution characteristics around the Chai River. This study provides insights into conserving the diversity of invertebrate communities and the management of the Chai River and similar agricultural rivers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Diversity)

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16 pages, 4816 KB

Open AccessArticle

Demographic Differences in Behavior, Movement, and Habitat Use in the Toad-Headed Agama (Phrynocephalus versicolor) of the Gobi Desert (Dornogovi, Mongolia)

by Kaera Utsumi, Alicia Pham, Batdelger Erdenetsetseg, Maria Eifler and Douglas Eifler

Diversity 2025, 17(9), 659; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17090659 - 20 Sep 2025

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Abstract

Demographic constraints can have a profound effect on behavioral ecology. Yet examinations of intraspecific variation considering both sex and age are rare. We assess age and sex-specific habitat use, movement, and behavior in variegated toad-headed agamas (Phrynocephalus versicolor) in the Gobi [...] Read more.

Demographic constraints can have a profound effect on behavioral ecology. Yet examinations of intraspecific variation considering both sex and age are rare. We assess age and sex-specific habitat use, movement, and behavior in variegated toad-headed agamas (Phrynocephalus versicolor) in the Gobi Desert, Mongolia. We predicted that juveniles would move and forage more than either adult sex and would engage in more random movement paths (i.e., higher entropy) than adults. We conducted 15 min focal observations, marking locations every 30 s to delineate the movement path of individuals. We recorded foraging and tail displays throughout the observation and habitat data at each marker. We found no sex-specific variation in behavior, number of moves, or entropy, but did record sex-specific variation in habitat use and movement paths. Age-specific variation in behavior, movement, entropy, and habitat use was prevalent and nuanced. Juveniles ate, dug, moved, and tail displayed more than adults, and they had movement paths with higher entropy than either adult sex. Sex and age-based variation in behavior, movement, and habitat use could arise from differential body size, experience, or reproductive status. Future work is needed to understand the function of tail displays and the relationship of entropy in movement paths to behavioral ecology. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biogeography, Ecology and Conservation of Reptiles)

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34 pages, 28285 KB

Open AccessArticle

Tachinid Flies (Diptera), Caterpillar Hosts (Lepidoptera) and Their Food Plants, Reared in Área de Conservación Guanacaste (ACG), Northwestern Costa Rica: Documenting Community Structure with the Aid of DNA Barcodes

by Donald L. J. Quicke, Alan J. Fleming, D. Monty Wood, Norman E. Woodley, Ramya Manjunath, Suresh Naik, M. Alex Smith, Michael J. Sharkey, Winnie Hallwachs, Daniel H. Janzen, José Fernández-Triana, James B. Whitfield, Paul D. N. Hebert and Buntika A. Butcher

Diversity 2025, 17(9), 658; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17090658 - 20 Sep 2025

Viewed by 1083

Abstract

We describe the trophic relationships of tachinid parasitoid flies that attack exophagous, leaf-eating Lepidoptera caterpillars in Área de Conservación Guanacaste (ACG), northwestern Costa Rica over approximately forty years beginning in 1984. The dataset contains more than 34,000 individual tachinid rearings from individual wild-caught [...] Read more.

We describe the trophic relationships of tachinid parasitoid flies that attack exophagous, leaf-eating Lepidoptera caterpillars in Área de Conservación Guanacaste (ACG), northwestern Costa Rica over approximately forty years beginning in 1984. The dataset contains more than 34,000 individual tachinid rearings from individual wild-caught caterpillars. Identification of parasitoids and caterpillars up until 2004 was based entirely on morphology. From 2004 onwards most reared specimens were DNA-barcoded and some retroactive barcoding was also carried out with varying degrees of success. Generally, for older specimens, generating good quality-barcodes requires more expensive protocols. Barcoding of reared specimens led to the recognition that many morpho-species were made up of multiple species of flies but those reared from an individual caterpillar were 99.95% a single species. Consequently, estimates of diet breadth of caterpillars and tachinids changed considerably after 2003. The data analysed here were pruned to include only rearings with complete host and food plant data and excluded potentially duplicated rearings and ones whose identification could not be confidently assigned. The cleaned dataset includes 13,735 independent rearings. Chao1 estimates of numbers of tachinid, caterpillar and food plant species suggest that species sampling is 86, 70 and 91 percent complete, respectively. However, this was not the case for bi- and tritrophic interactions which increased linearly with effort. We show that while the tachinids of ACG are more host-specialised than was expected prior to the combined efforts of rearing and barcoding, they have broader host ranges and higher host Shannon diversity indices than either Braconidae or Ichneumonidae. This may be attributable to the effects of the induced host-derived sac enclosing the larvae and their posterior spiracles. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue DNA Barcodes for Evolution and Biodiversity—2nd Edition)

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15 pages, 5826 KB

Open AccessArticle

Will They Still Be Together? Distribution Modeling of Six Co-Occurring Species of Swertia (Gentianaceae) in Asia

by Min-Xue Deng, Shi-Jia Wen, Ding Wu, Zhiyong Wang and Zong-Xin Ren

Diversity 2025, 17(9), 657; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17090657 - 19 Sep 2025

Viewed by 406

Abstract

Investigating the factors determining the co-existence of closely related species is key to understanding how biodiversity is structured and maintained. To this end, we seek to comprehend the geographical distribution of species, their range overlap, and the evolutionary and ecological mechanisms that promote [...] Read more.

Investigating the factors determining the co-existence of closely related species is key to understanding how biodiversity is structured and maintained. To this end, we seek to comprehend the geographical distribution of species, their range overlap, and the evolutionary and ecological mechanisms that promote co-existence in ecological communities. In the Anthropocene, climate change dramatically shapes ecosystems along with species distributions. Here, we focus on six co-occurring species of Swertia (Gentianaceae). For instance, all of them grow within an area of 2 km² in the north of Kunming city, occupying different microhabitats. We employed the maximum entropy model (MaxEnt) and a geographic information system (ArcGIS) to predict how future climate change will impact their distribution. We also tested the relationship between ecological niche overlap and phylogenetic distance among these species. We found that these six species co-occur in the mountains of Yunnan, Sichuan, and Guizhou provinces. Precipitation in the warmest quarter, mean temperature of driest quarter, solar radiation, annual temperature range, and elevation influence their distribution. In the predicted future climate, four outcrossing species, S. bimaculata, S. kouitchensis, S. punicea, and S. cincta, will expand their distribution range. The other two self-pollinating species, S. macrosperma and S. nervosa, will experience range contractions. We found no significant correlation between ecological niches and the phylogenetic distances of these species. Under the future climate scenarios, the six species of Swertia plants will tend to grow in clusters, suggesting a higher likelihood of co-occurrence in the future, and creating a potentially high level of habitat and resource competition among them. These findings hold significant implications for the conservation of Swertia. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biodiversity Conservation)

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59 pages, 16204 KB

Open AccessArticle

Taxonomic Revision of Pasiphaea (Pasiphaeidae: Crustacea) of the Southwest Tropical Pacific with a Description of Eight New Species

by Anton M. Tikhomirov, Dmitrii N. Kulagin, Anastasiia A. Lunina, Elodie Vourey and Alexander L. Vereshchaka

Diversity 2025, 17(9), 656; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17090656 - 19 Sep 2025

Viewed by 1007

Abstract

The genus Pasiphaea Savigny, 1816, comprises a diverse assemblage of meso- to bathypelagic shrimps, currently including 69 valid species. Taxonomic investigations have long been hampered by numerous synonymies and by species known only from their original, overly brief descriptions. Here, we address these [...] Read more.

The genus Pasiphaea Savigny, 1816, comprises a diverse assemblage of meso- to bathypelagic shrimps, currently including 69 valid species. Taxonomic investigations have long been hampered by numerous synonymies and by species known only from their original, overly brief descriptions. Here, we address these deficiencies by examining Pasiphaea specimens collected in the Western and Central Pacific during multiple research cruises using mid-water trawls. Integrating traditional morphological characters (carapace carination, pleonal relief, telson end morphology, and pereopodal dentition) with a novel morphometric framework, we standardized terminology and defined a suite of quantitative measurements across the carapace, pleon, telson, and chelae. In order to corroborate species boundaries, we sequenced three mitochondrial gene markers (COI, 16S rDNA, and 12S rDNA) and calculated genetic distances under the Kimura two-parameter model. This combined approach extended or confirmed the geographic ranges of five described taxa, facilitated the formal description of eight new species, and demonstrated the synonymy of P. gracilis Hayashi, 1999, and P. fragilis Hayashi, 1999. Phylogenetic reconstructions further highlighted cases of pseudocryptic speciation in neighboring bathyal habitats. Our results expose substantial lacunae in the Southwest Pacific Pasiphaea fauna and substantiate the necessity for a comprehensive, genus-level revision. This study thereby contributes to both refining species diagnoses and advancing our understanding of deep-sea crustacean biodiversity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2025 Feature Papers by Diversity’s Editorial Board Members)

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16 pages, 1011 KB

Open AccessArticle

Molecular Identification of Cryptic Cysticercosis: Taenia spp. in Wild and Domestic Intermediate Hosts in Kazakhstan

by Vladimir Kiyan, Ainura Smagulova, Rabiga Uakhit, Carlos Hermosilla, Lyudmila Lider, Karina Jazina and Nurassyl Manapov

Diversity 2025, 17(9), 655; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17090655 - 18 Sep 2025

Viewed by 427

Abstract

Cysticercosis in wild and domestic ungulates, caused by the larval metacestode stages of Taenia hydatigena and Taenia multiceps (formerly known as Cysticercus tenuicollis and Coenurus cerebralis, respectively), is a widespread parasitic disease and poses a significant concern worldwide, particularly in endemic regions. [...] Read more.

Cysticercosis in wild and domestic ungulates, caused by the larval metacestode stages of Taenia hydatigena and Taenia multiceps (formerly known as Cysticercus tenuicollis and Coenurus cerebralis, respectively), is a widespread parasitic disease and poses a significant concern worldwide, particularly in endemic regions. Although Taenia species have been extensively studied globally, their epidemiology and genetic diversity in Kazakhstan remain poorly understood. In this study, wild (roe deer, red deer, moose) and domestic (cattle, sheep) ungulates, serving as intermediate hosts for Taenia spp., were examined for cysticerci in muscle tissues and internal organs. Phylogenetic analysis and pairwise nucleotide variation assessments of the cox1 and nad1 genes were conducted. An overall prevalence of 5.2% was recorded among 1370 ruminant carcasses (cattle = 773, sheep = 563, roe deer = 25, moose = 9), with infection rates of 0.6% in cattle, 1.1% in sheep, 8.0% in roe deer, and 11.1% in moose. Cattle, sheep, and moose were infected with T. hydatigena, while roe deer were infected with T. multiceps. DNA sequence analysis of all isolates revealed four nad1 gene haplotypes for T. hydatigena, with Hap_3 being the most common (10 isolates). Phylogenetic analysis showed that T. multiceps isolates from roe deer clustered within the clade defined by the reference sequences for this species. This study provides important baseline data on the prevalence and genetic variation in T. hydatigena and T. multiceps in Kazakhstan and lays the groundwork for future research on the epidemiology and population genetics of Taenia species in the region. Full article

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12 pages, 732 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Fruiting Plants on Frugivorous Bird Diversity Across Different Disturbed Habitats

by Yuzhen Mei, Zheng Wang and Ning Li

Diversity 2025, 17(9), 654; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17090654 - 17 Sep 2025

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Abstract

Bird–plant interactions are critical for maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem function, and represent a key research focus in modern ecology. Using the line transect method, we surveyed bird diversity and collected plant trait data in four habitat types in the southern zone of Fujian’s [...] Read more.

Bird–plant interactions are critical for maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem function, and represent a key research focus in modern ecology. Using the line transect method, we surveyed bird diversity and collected plant trait data in four habitat types in the southern zone of Fujian’s Meihuashan National Nature Reserve during October–December 2021 and July–August 2022. This study investigated how plant traits (tree height, diameter at breast height (DBH), canopy density fruit amount) influence the diversity of frugivorous birds (species richness, abundance, Shannon–Wiener, Pielou, Simpson) across four disturbed habitats—villages (residential areas), bamboo forests (economic plantations), unguarded broad-leafed forests (wild forests), and nurtured broad-leafed forests (managed forests)—during both summer (breeding season) and autumn–winter (fruiting season). The key findings revealed that (1) significant correlations between plant traits and bird diversity were exclusive to the fruiting season, with no associations found in summer; (2) during autumn–winter, the key plant traits driving bird diversity varied distinctively by habitat: tree height and canopy density were paramount in villages; both habitat structure (canopy density) and fruit amount were important in bamboo forests, whereas in both broad-leafed forests, a combination of tree structure (height, DBH, canopy density) and fruit amount determined bird abundance; (3) a significant interaction between season and habitat was detected for community evenness, indicating that habitat type modulates the seasonal effects on community composition. This study underscores that in human-modified landscapes, conserving habitat structural complexity and key resource plants is crucial for sustaining frugivorous bird diversity and its ecological functions. Conservation strategies must account for seasonal dynamics to be effective. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Avian Ecology and Diversity, Population Monitoring and Conservation II: Recent Advances and New Challenges)

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18 pages, 2438 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Role of Ecological Niche Divergence in Shaping Hybridization Patterns in Testudo graeca

by Neda Ranjbar, Mansoureh Malekian, Mohammad Reza Ashrafzadeh, Szilvia Kusza and Mahmoud-Reza Hemami

Diversity 2025, 17(9), 653; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17090653 - 17 Sep 2025

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Abstract

Determining evolutionary significant units (ESUs) is essential for the purpose of biological conservation. Recent definitions of ESUs stress the importance of using ecological data with molecular analysis. The present work aimed to study the genetic structure and ecological niche of the spur-thighed tortoise [...] Read more.

Determining evolutionary significant units (ESUs) is essential for the purpose of biological conservation. Recent definitions of ESUs stress the importance of using ecological data with molecular analysis. The present work aimed to study the genetic structure and ecological niche of the spur-thighed tortoise (Testudo graeca) in its contact zone, with a special focus on hybridization between T. g. buxtoni and T. g. zarudnyi in Central Iran using a combination of genetic data (microsatellite markers) and ecological niche modeling (ENM). Our results indicated that despite the distinct mitochondrial clades, nuclear markers reveal gene flow between the two subspecies, especially in the contact zone, with the majority of hybrids belonging to T. g. zarudnyi. The genetic structure of T. graeca reflects a complex interplay of ancient vicariance and recent gene flow. While mitochondrial markers suggest long-term separation, nuclear markers reveal more recent hybridization events. The results obtained from ENMs demonstrated the niche differentiations. Climatic variables, such as annual rainfall and temperature seasonality, primarily drive the distribution of both subspecies. The western clade is associated with higher precipitation and lower temperature variability. These findings suggest that both subspecies hold valuable evolutionary and conservation issues. Based on these mentioned results, we strongly recommend assigning the two subspecies as ESUs to enhance the accuracy of conservation measurements. We believe that understanding the ecological factors influencing species distribution, along with molecular analysis under the recent concept of ESUs, can provide valuable insights into the conservation and management of the T. graeca complex in its wide geographic range. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biogeography and Macroecology)

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22 pages, 3346 KB

Open AccessBrief Report

Effects of Water Stress on Growth and Leaf Water Physiology of Major Plants in the Qaidam Basin

by Mei Dong, Han Luo and Qingning Wang

Diversity 2025, 17(9), 652; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17090652 - 17 Sep 2025

Viewed by 712

Abstract

Water stress represents one of the most critical limiting factors affecting plant distribution, growth rate, biomass accumulation, and crop yield across diverse growth stages. Variations in species’ drought tolerance fundamentally shape global biodiversity patterns by influencing survival rates, distribution ranges, and community composition [...] Read more.

Water stress represents one of the most critical limiting factors affecting plant distribution, growth rate, biomass accumulation, and crop yield across diverse growth stages. Variations in species’ drought tolerance fundamentally shape global biodiversity patterns by influencing survival rates, distribution ranges, and community composition under changing environmental conditions. This study investigated the physiological responses of six plant species (Haloxylon ammodendron (H.A.), Nitraria tangutorum Bobr. (N.T.B.), Sympegma regelii Bge. (S.R.B.), Tamarix chinensis (T.C.), Potentilla fruticosa (P.F.R.), and Sabina chinensis (Linn.) Ant. (S.C.A.)) to varying water stress levels through controlled water gradient experiments. Four treatment levels were established: W1 (full water supply, >70% field water holding capacity); W2 (mild stress, 50–55%); W3 (moderate stress, 35–40%); and W4 (severe stress, 20–25%). Height growth and leaf mass per area decreased significantly with increasing water stress across all species. S.C.A. consistently exhibited the highest leaf mass per area among the six species, while H.A. showed the lowest values across all treatments. Leaf water content declined progressively with intensifying water stress, with T.C. and P.F.R. showing the most pronounced reductions (T.C.: 16.53%, 18.07%, and 33.37% under W2, W3, and W4, respectively; P.F.R.: 19.45%, 28.52%, and 36.08%), whereas N.T.B. and H.A. demonstrated superior water retention capacity (N.T.B.: 2.44%, 6.64%, and 9.76%; H.A.: 1.44%, 4.39%, and 5.52%). Water saturation deficit increased correspondingly with declining soil moisture. Diurnal leaf water potential patterns exhibited a characteristic V-shaped curve under well-watered (W1) and mildly stressed (W2) conditions, transitioning to a double-valley pattern with unstable fluctuations under moderate (W3) and severe (W4) stress. Leaf water potential showed linear relationships with air temperature and relative humidity, and a quadratic relationship with atmospheric water potential. For all six species, the relationship between pre-dawn leaf water potential and soil water content followed the curve equation y = a + b/x. Under water-deficient conditions, S.C.A. exhibited the greatest water physiological changes, followed by P.F.R. Both logarithmic and power function relationships between leaf and soil water potentials were highly significant (all F > 55.275, all p < 0.01). T.C. leaf water potential was the most sensitive to soil water potential changes, followed by S.C.A., while H.A. demonstrated the least sensitivity. These findings provide essential theoretical foundations for selecting drought-resistant plant species in arid regions of the Qaidam Basin. This study elucidates the response mechanisms of six distinct drought-tolerant plant species under water stress. It provides critical theoretical support for selecting drought-tolerant species, designing community configurations, and implementing water management strategies in vegetation restoration projects within the arid Qaidam Basin. Furthermore, it contributes empirical data at the plant physiological level to understanding the mechanisms sustaining species diversity in arid ecosystems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ecology and Diversity of Plants in Arid and Semi-Arid Ecosystems)

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13 pages, 1369 KB

Open AccessArticle

Integrating Egg Case Morphology and DNA Barcoding to Discriminate South American Catsharks, Schroederichthys bivius and S. chilensis (Carcharhiniformes: Atelomycteridae)

by Carlos Bustamante, Carolina Vargas-Caro, María J. Indurain and Gabriela Silva

Diversity 2025, 17(9), 651; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17090651 - 16 Sep 2025

Viewed by 849

Abstract

Catsharks are benthic elasmobranchs that share spatial niches with littoral and demersal bony fishes. The genus Schroederichthys includes five species, two of which, S. chilensis and S. bivius, occur in the waters of Chile. These species are morphologically similar and are often [...] Read more.

Catsharks are benthic elasmobranchs that share spatial niches with littoral and demersal bony fishes. The genus Schroederichthys includes five species, two of which, S. chilensis and S. bivius, occur in the waters of Chile. These species are morphologically similar and are often misidentified because of their overlapping external features and color patterns. To improve species discrimination, we analyzed the egg case morphology of both species based on 36 egg cases (12 S. chilensis, 24 S. bivius) collected from gravid females captured as bycatch in artisanal fisheries between Iquique and Puerto Montt (July–December 2021). Nine morphometric variables were measured and standardized using the total egg case length. Although the egg cases were similar in general appearance, multivariate analyses revealed significant interspecific differences, with egg case height and anterior border width emerging as the most diagnostic variables. Linear discriminant analysis achieved a 100% classification accuracy within this dataset. To confirm species identity, 24 tissue samples (12 per species) were sequenced for the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene. The haplotypes corresponded to previously published sequences from Chile (S. chilensis) and Argentina (S. bivius), with reciprocal monophyly and 100% bootstrap support. While COI barcoding provided robust confirmation, the core contribution of this study lies in the identification of species-specific egg case morphometrics. Together, these findings establish a dual-track toolkit, egg case morphology for primary discrimination and COI barcodes for confirmatory validation, that can be incorporated into bycatch monitoring and biodiversity assessments, supporting the conservation of poorly known catsharks in the Southeast Pacific. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Shark Ecology)

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40 pages, 7229 KB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Habitat on the Impact of Non-Native Fishes on Native Ichthyofauna in a Group of Lakes of the Lower Doce River, Espírito Santo, Southeastern Brazil

by Eduardo Hoffmam de Barros, Nuno Caiola, Renan Luxinger Betzel, Ronaldo Fernando Martins-Pinheiro and Luisa Maria Sarmento-Soares

Diversity 2025, 17(9), 650; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17090650 - 16 Sep 2025

Viewed by 692

Abstract

The Doce River basin is the largest river system in southeastern Brazil. Over the last century, the Doce River has been undergoing a serious process of degradation, culminating in a huge environmental disaster due to Fundão tailing dam bursting in Mariana (Minas Gerais) [...] Read more.

The Doce River basin is the largest river system in southeastern Brazil. Over the last century, the Doce River has been undergoing a serious process of degradation, culminating in a huge environmental disaster due to Fundão tailing dam bursting in Mariana (Minas Gerais) and causing severe damage to biodiversity and local human communities. Near its mouth, the Doce River harbors an extensive lake area, with over ninety lakes on coastal lowlands. These lakes are of fluvial origin and connected to each other and to the main Doce River by small tributary streams. In this area, one of the main sources of impact on the fish fauna is the presence of non-native fish species. We compared richness, taxonomic diversity, beta diversity, species composition and proportion of non-native species in lakes and streams, and related these variables to each other and to environmental variables. We used the indicator species index (IndVal) to identify species associated with each type of environment. We used multivariate analyses to test the influence of stream habitat on the fish fauna in streams and Generalized Linear Models (GLMs) to test the influence of distance to lakes on the proportion of non-native species in streams, and the influence of this proportion on total and native fish richness and diversity. The results showed that some non-native species originating from lentic environments have adapted to the lakes and are spread throughout the internal lake system. In streams, there are proportionally fewer non-native fish and their distribution is more fragmented, as some stretches do not provide the conditions for the establishment of some of these species, making them potential refuges for native ichthyofauna. As the streams move away from the lakes, the proportion of non-native species tends to decrease. In streams, the richness and diversity of native species are affected by the proportion of non-native species, but not in lakes. The native vegetation in the landscape showed no potential for reducing the invasion of non-native species. The depth and width of the streams are directly related to the proportion of non-native species within the streams and are structural characteristics that should be considered in strategies for the conservation of the fish fauna. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Diversity)

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15 pages, 1767 KB

Open AccessArticle

Ichthyoplankton Composition and Environmental Drivers in the Sanquianga Tapaje Estuarine System, Eastern Tropical Pacific

by Juan José Gallego-Zerrato, Andrés Cuellar and Alan Giraldo

Diversity 2025, 17(9), 649; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17090649 - 16 Sep 2025

Viewed by 425

Abstract

Estuaries are vital coastal ecosystems that support fish during key life stages such as spawning, feeding, and early development. This study investigates ichthyoplankton composition and abundance in the Sanquianga Tapaje estuarine system, located in the southern Eastern Tropical Pacific (ETP) of Colombia. Zooplankton [...] Read more.

Estuaries are vital coastal ecosystems that support fish during key life stages such as spawning, feeding, and early development. This study investigates ichthyoplankton composition and abundance in the Sanquianga Tapaje estuarine system, located in the southern Eastern Tropical Pacific (ETP) of Colombia. Zooplankton samples were collected using bongo nets at 11 stations across four river mouths (Tapaje, Amárales, Sanquianga, and Guascama), alongside measurements of oceanographic parameters at 1 and 10 m depths. A total of 357 fish larvae were identified, representing 23 species and 11 families, with Engraulidae, Gobiidae, and Carangidae dominating the assemblage. Water column conditions reflected typical tropical estuarine dynamics, influenced by tidal action and freshwater input. Spearman’s rank correlation revealed strong positive associations between larval abundance and surface salinity (r_s = 0.81, p = 0.003), as well as dissolved oxygen saturation and concentration (r_s > 0.68, p < 0.021). Diversity indices (Shannon, Pielou, Whittaker) indicated high species turnover in transitional zones, and larval hotspots were associated with outer estuarine zones. Salinity and dissolved oxygen emerged as key drivers of ichthyoplankton distribution. These findings underscore the ecological complexity and nursery function of tropical estuaries, offering baseline data to inform biodiversity conservation, ecosystem monitoring, and adaptive management in Colombia’s Pacific region and across the ETP. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Marine Zooplankton and Ichthyoplankton Ecology: Patterns, Processes, and Perspective)

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16 pages, 4566 KB

Open AccessArticle

Asymmetric Distribution of Fish Diversity in Inflows of the Black Irtysh River (Central Asia, Kazakhstan)

by Nadir Shamilevich Mamilov, Nazym Sapargaliyevna Sapargaliyeva, Erlan Kegenov, Gulnar Bolatovna Kegenova, Igor Nikolaevich Magda, Oleg Efimovich Lopatin, Gulnaz Barinova, Sayat Ermukhanbetovich Sharakhmetov, Aliya Gabdullina, Gleb Bolbotov, Valentin Rudoi and Vladimir Vorobyov

Diversity 2025, 17(9), 648; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17090648 - 15 Sep 2025

Viewed by 726

Abstract

The diversity and distribution of fish in the water bodies of the Black Irtysh basin was studied in connection with six abiotic environmental parameters (surface flow velocity, width and depth of rivers, connection with the main river, and bottom and maximum temperature). The [...] Read more.

The diversity and distribution of fish in the water bodies of the Black Irtysh basin was studied in connection with six abiotic environmental parameters (surface flow velocity, width and depth of rivers, connection with the main river, and bottom and maximum temperature). The current species diversity of fish consists of 29 native and 11 alien species. The diversity of right and left tributaries varies greatly as a result of differences in abiotic parameters. The presence of a hydrological connection of reservoirs by itself does not guarantee the distribution of species throughout the basin. Rare indigenous Siberian Taimen Hucho taimen and Markakol Lenok Brachymystax savinovi were regularly found in the right tributaries of the Irtysh River and Lake Markakol, respectively. New fish species to the Kazakh section of the Black Irtysh River have been discovered: Tibetan stone loach Triplophysa stolickai, Severtsov’s loach Triplophysa sewerzowi and alien fish species as asp Leuciscus aspius, Chinese false gudgeon Abbottina rivularis, sunbleak Leucaspius delinetaus, and Misgurnus sp. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Freshwater Biodiversity)

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13 pages, 3646 KB

Open AccessArticle

Recruitment, Spat Settlement and Growth of the Cultured Mediterranean Mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis in the Maliakos Gulf (Central Aegean Sea)

by John A. Theodorou, Ioannis Tzovenis, Fotini Kakali, Cosmas Nathanailides, Ifigenia Kagalou, George Katselis and Dimitrios K. Moutopoulos

Diversity 2025, 17(9), 647; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17090647 - 13 Sep 2025

Viewed by 1021

Abstract

The present study explored the seasonal dynamics of spat settlement and growth of the Mediterranean mussel (Mytilus galloprovincialis) in the semi-enclosed and eutrophic Maliakos Gulf (Central Aegean, Greece), a coastal system within the Natura 2000 network (GR 2440002, Natura 2000). Spat [...] Read more.

The present study explored the seasonal dynamics of spat settlement and growth of the Mediterranean mussel (Mytilus galloprovincialis) in the semi-enclosed and eutrophic Maliakos Gulf (Central Aegean, Greece), a coastal system within the Natura 2000 network (GR 2440002, Natura 2000). Spat collectors were deployed at three mussel farms representing different locations in the gulf (north, south, and inner west) and at multiple depths over a year. The results revealed a clear reproductive cycle, with spawning initiated in early January and spat settlement occurring from March to June. Settlement intensity was highest in shallower waters during the beginning of the season (March) and in the end (June), while depth had no significant effect mid-season. Mussel size and weight varied significantly with season and location, with the largest individuals observed during spring and early summer at the north and south sites. Environmental monitoring depicted strong nitrogen enrichment and phosphorus limitation, driven by inputs from the Spercheios River and surrounding agricultural activities. During winter, elevated chlorophyll-a concentrations likely supported early larval development, while nutrient imbalances threaten long-term ecosystem stability. These findings underscore the importance of area- and season-specific management of spat collectors and call for integrated monitoring and regulation of nutrient inputs to safeguard the ecological integrity of the gulf and ensure sustainable mussel farming. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Marine Diversity)

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17 pages, 5761 KB

Open AccessArticle

Characterization and Prevalence of Different Isolates of Pseudomonas savastanoi and Pathogenicity Properties on Olive and Oleander Plants

by Serkan Bayman and Hamit Kavak

Diversity 2025, 17(9), 646; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17090646 - 12 Sep 2025

Viewed by 391

Abstract

This study investigated the distribution and epidemiology of Pseudomonas savastanoi pv. savastanoi (Pss), the causal agent of olive knot disease, in major olive-growing provinces of Southeastern Anatolia, Turkey, between 2019 and 2021. Field surveys in Adıyaman and Mardin revealed knot symptoms [...] Read more.

This study investigated the distribution and epidemiology of Pseudomonas savastanoi pv. savastanoi (Pss), the causal agent of olive knot disease, in major olive-growing provinces of Southeastern Anatolia, Turkey, between 2019 and 2021. Field surveys in Adıyaman and Mardin revealed knot symptoms on olive shoots, and Pss isolates were successfully obtained from symptomatic tissues. Biochemical assays on King’s B medium identified all strains as Gram-negative, oxidase-negative, pectolytic activity-negative, and arginine dihydrolase-negative while showing a positive hypersensitive reaction. Among the four isolates, two were levan-positive and non-fluorescent, whereas two were levan-negative and fluorescent. PCR with IAALF and IAALR primers amplified a 454 bp fragment in all isolates, confirming their identity as Pss. Pathogenicity assays on carrot slices and olive plants verified their pathogenic nature. Virulence tests demonstrated that infection severity was highest in pink oleander, followed by olive and white oleander. Disease incidence differed markedly between provinces, averaging 0.017% in Adıyaman and 33.28% in Mardin, with Derik district reaching 50.37% incidence and 100% prevalence. A novel infection-area-based method yielded results consistent with knot size assessments. These findings confirm the pathogenic potential and host range of Pss in Southeastern Anatolia and emphasize the importance of monitoring, epidemiological assessment, and management strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pseudomonas Biology and Biodiversity)

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22 pages, 2411 KB

Open AccessArticle

Morphometric, Phenological, and Nutritional Characterization of Five Wild Bean Species from Durango, Mexico

by Denisse Téllez-Mazzocco, Yolanda Herrera-Arrieta, Gabriel Alejandre-Iturbide, Miguel Mauricio Correa-Ramírez, Marlon Rojas-López and Kalina Bermúdez-Torres

Diversity 2025, 17(9), 645; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17090645 - 12 Sep 2025

Viewed by 393

Abstract

The taxonomic complexity of the genus Phaseolus requires a detailed characterization of traits that highlight species diversity. This study evaluated five wild bean species throughout their life cycle, analyzing 20 qualitative and 18 quantitative morphometric variables as well as phenological traits such as [...] Read more.

The taxonomic complexity of the genus Phaseolus requires a detailed characterization of traits that highlight species diversity. This study evaluated five wild bean species throughout their life cycle, analyzing 20 qualitative and 18 quantitative morphometric variables as well as phenological traits such as days, along with recording phenological data such as the number of days from germination to seed maturity. The nutritional composition was assessed using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) to identify the functional groups of organic compounds in the seed coat and embryo. Significant differences were observed among species, including distinct germination forms that may affect environmental adaptation and flower colors potentially linked to pollinator interactions. Morphological and phenological diversity was documented, along with variation in seed and embryo protein, polysaccharide, and lipid content. Three species were identified as being the most suitable with agronomic potential for crop improvement: P. vulgaris, P. leptostachyus, and P. acutifolius, while P. coccineus and P. leptostachyus stood out for their nutritional profiles and potential contributions to food security. The results underscore the importance of integrating morphological, phenological, and nutritional data to better understand Phaseolus diversity and inform conservation and breeding strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Diversity)

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24 pages, 22832 KB

Open AccessArticle

Habitat and Conservation Assessment of Annual Killifishes of the Genus Xenurolebias (Rivulidae: Cynolebiinae) from Coastal Floodplains, Including the First Record South of the Rio Doce, Southeastern Brazil

by Bruno Pinheiro Gomes, Luisa Maria Sarmento-Soares, Ronaldo Fernando Martins-Pinheiro and Gustavo Rocha Leite

Diversity 2025, 17(9), 644; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17090644 - 12 Sep 2025

Viewed by 1428

Abstract

The Atlantic Forest coastal tablelands is home to a wide diversity of small-sized freshwater fish sharing a biogeographically congruent distributional pattern. The annual killifish Xenurolebias are among these remarkable inhabitants in the riparian wetlands with four species in the area. Xenurolebias pataxo are [...] Read more.

The Atlantic Forest coastal tablelands is home to a wide diversity of small-sized freshwater fish sharing a biogeographically congruent distributional pattern. The annual killifish Xenurolebias are among these remarkable inhabitants in the riparian wetlands with four species in the area. Xenurolebias pataxo are located between the Jucuruçu and Mucuri rivers, geographically replaced by Xenurolebias myersi at the Riacho Doce and the Rio Itaúnas, and, further south, Xenurolebias cricarensis are in the floodplains of the Rio São Mateus and Xenurolebias izecksohni, living in temporary environments of the Rio Barra Seca, north of the Rio Doce. Due to their restricted habitat in the lowlands, these annual killifish could all be designated as a target species, providing benefits in the conservation of riparian wetlands. However, less is known about their habits and real distribution. Otherwise, the accelerated habitat loss is worrisome. Two of these species are threatened with extinction on Red Lists; one is Near-Threatened; and one is Data-Deficient. After ten years since the last species description, our investigations revealed a fifth species, the first recorded south of Rio Doce. The present contribution aims to characterize the occupied habitat by each species within the temporary environments and present an updated distributional data on these fish. Additionally, a new Xenurolebias is described, the first one recorded south of Rio Doce. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Evolution, Systematic and Conservation of Freshwater Fishes)

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11 pages, 3432 KB

Open AccessArticle

Plant Diversity Affects Rodents’ Selection of Different-Sized Seeds

by Jiming Cheng, Yingqun Feng, Ningli Wang, Chao Zhang, Jiahui Liu, Xinyue Chen, Xingfu Yan and Yonghong Luo

Diversity 2025, 17(9), 643; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17090643 - 12 Sep 2025

Viewed by 443

Abstract

Environmental changes may affect animal hoarding behavior through changes to plant diversity. Food hoarding behavior in small mammals can affect the seed dispersal process and thus the regeneration of the plant population. However, little is known about how small mammals select seeds of [...] Read more.

Environmental changes may affect animal hoarding behavior through changes to plant diversity. Food hoarding behavior in small mammals can affect the seed dispersal process and thus the regeneration of the plant population. However, little is known about how small mammals select seeds of different sizes under different forest types. Here, we tracked the fates of 3360 seeds in the field. We used a generalized linear mixed model to analyze the effects of small mammals on three fates (predation in situ, predation after dispersal, hoarding after dispersal) and two dispersal distances (predation distance after dispersal and hoarding distance after dispersal) of different seeds by size and forest type. The results showed that small mammals consume smaller seeds in situ and cache larger seeds after dispersal. The predation distance after dispersal and hoarding distance after dispersal of the large seeds were significantly higher than those of small seeds. Forest types with dense vegetation conditions exhibited lower hoarding rates after dispersal, while those with poor vegetation conditions had increased predation and hoarding distances after dispersal. Our results suggest that larger seeds are dispersed to further distances, potentially enhancing plant population regeneration. However, seeds are more often scatter-hoarded and dispersed over longer distances in forests with poor vegetation conditions, which may also benefit plant population regeneration. These results provide insights into how seed size and forest type influence seed predation and dispersal by small mammals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Diversity)

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23 pages, 3357 KB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring Cladocera Assemblage and Responses to Land Use Patterns

by Sheila Mumbi A. Wamugi, István Gyulai, Jázmin Jakab, Umar Abba Kawu, Andor G. Soltész, Andrea Böjthe, Zsófi Sajtos, Géza Selmeczy and Janos Korponai

Diversity 2025, 17(9), 642; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17090642 - 12 Sep 2025

Viewed by 553

Abstract

Cladocera communities in surface sediments from 31 lakes in Hungary were analysed to assess the impacts of land use on the aquatic systems. We evaluated the alpha and beta diversity metrics, with land use classification types based on the Corine Land Cover. Physical [...] Read more.

Cladocera communities in surface sediments from 31 lakes in Hungary were analysed to assess the impacts of land use on the aquatic systems. We evaluated the alpha and beta diversity metrics, with land use classification types based on the Corine Land Cover. Physical and water chemistry parameters were analysed using standardised procedures. Using redundancy analysis (RDA), total phosphorus (TP) was identified as the key driver of Cladocera composition and distribution. End-member mixing analysis (EMMA) revealed distinctive ecological patterns in Cladocera assemblages across land use types. Our results demonstrate that agriculture and urbanisation contribute to the associated degradation of the lakes and changes in trophic states. Wetlands, forests, and open waters play a critical role as buffer zones in mitigating anthropogenic effects, with Cladocera community composition mirroring the nutrient conditions of the lakes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity and Ecology of Freshwater Plankton)

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12 pages, 1608 KB

Open AccessArticle

Digitization of the Marine Herbarium “TAR” to Increase Biodiversity Knowledge

by Loredana Papa, Ester Cecere, Antonella Petrocelli and Lucia Spada

Diversity 2025, 17(9), 641; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17090641 - 11 Sep 2025

Viewed by 638

Abstract

Over the past twenty years, significant efforts have been made to digitize natural collections. This process represents a crucial step in preserving and enhancing biodiversity data. In this context, the phycology team from the Institute for Water Research (CNR-IRSA) in Taranto (southern Italy), [...] Read more.

Over the past twenty years, significant efforts have been made to digitize natural collections. This process represents a crucial step in preserving and enhancing biodiversity data. In this context, the phycology team from the Institute for Water Research (CNR-IRSA) in Taranto (southern Italy), as a partner of the NRRP Project ITINERIS, and within the nascent European Research Infrastructure “Distributed System of Scientific Collections” (DiSSCo), answered to the challenge of digitizing and sharing the extensive biodiversity data preserved in the marine macrophyte collection Herbarium TAR. This herbarium includes over 500 species collected between 1982 and 2025. Digitization was carried out in accordance with international standards for imaging and in compliance with FAIR principles for metadata curation. A total of 353 digital specimens were produced, including 152 species of seaweeds (76 Rhodophyta, 47 Heterokontophyta, and 29 Chlorophyta) and 3 species of Spermatophyta. Notably, 15 non-indigenous species were documented. Part of the metadata, structured using the Darwin Core standard, has been published on GBIF. This initiative, carried out within the ITINERIS framework, highlights the value of both long-term biodiversity monitoring and digital data in supporting research on climate change, biological invasions, and the conservation of marine ecosystems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Marine Diversity)

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17 pages, 3762 KB

Open AccessArticle

Drouetiella elegans (Oculatellaceae, Cyanobacteriota): A New Species of the Recently Established Genus from the Russian Arctic

by Denis Davydov and Anna Vilnet

Diversity 2025, 17(9), 640; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17090640 - 11 Sep 2025

Viewed by 342

Abstract

The species diversity of the recently described genus Drouetiella (Oculatellaceae, Cyanobacteriota), including thin filamentous cyanobacteria, has been rapidly increasing due to the subsequent discovery of new-to-science species in the last several years. This study focuses on one more strain that was isolated from [...] Read more.

The species diversity of the recently described genus Drouetiella (Oculatellaceae, Cyanobacteriota), including thin filamentous cyanobacteria, has been rapidly increasing due to the subsequent discovery of new-to-science species in the last several years. This study focuses on one more strain that was isolated from a small lake on the Chukotka Peninsula in the Russian Arctic and tested by an integrative approach. In the result of molecular phylogenetic analysis of the 16S rRNA gene and the 16S–23S ITS rRNA region, this strain was found in a separate clade in the genus Drouetiella. The strain is characterized by unique secondary structures of conserved regions D1–D1′, Box–B, V2, and V3 helices of the 16–23S ITS rRNA. Morphologically, the tested strain was distinct from other Drouetiella species by long cells in mature trichomes, absence of false branching, and hormogonia. Drouetiella elegans occurred in the plankton of a small lake and shared ecological similarities with some aquatic strains of Drouetiella lurida. We provide a taxonomic description of a new species, Drouetiella elegans sp. nov. Full article

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

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17 pages, 7235 KB

Open AccessArticle

A New Species of Gammanema (Nematoda: Chromadorida: Selachinematidae) from Jeju Island, South Korea

by Kyeongmoon Son and Raehyuk Jeong

Diversity 2025, 17(9), 639; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17090639 - 11 Sep 2025

Viewed by 466

Abstract

During a survey of the intertidal zone on the eastern coast of Jeju Island, Korea, a new species of free-living marine nematode belonging to the Selachinematidae (Chromadorida) family was discovered and described. Gammanema papillatum sp. nov. is morphologically most similar to G. lunatum [...] Read more.

During a survey of the intertidal zone on the eastern coast of Jeju Island, Korea, a new species of free-living marine nematode belonging to the Selachinematidae (Chromadorida) family was discovered and described. Gammanema papillatum sp. nov. is morphologically most similar to G. lunatum and G. agglutinans, both recorded from New Zealand, by sharing a loop-shaped amphid in males, unlike the multispiral amphid typical of most congeners, and the presence of cuticular spines. It differs from G. lunatum in body length (1122–1366 µm vs. 754–1196 µm), a-ratio (21–23 vs. 13–15), shape of the supplementary organs (papilla-shaped vs. cup-shaped), and distance from the posterior-most supplement to the cloacal opening (58–63 µm vs. 18–32 µm). In terms of precloacal supplementary organ morphology, the new species also resembles Gammanema conicauda, as both are the only congeners with papilla-shaped precloacal supplementary organs. However, G. papillatum sp. nov. differs from G. conicauda by the number of supplementary organs (7–8 vs. 22), amphidial shape (loop-shaped vs. unispiral), and the presence of cuticular spines (absent in G. conicauda). Near full-length SSU and D2–D3 region LSU rDNA sequences were obtained for the new species. Molecular analyses revealed the lowest divergence from G. lunatum (SSU: 1.7%; LSU: 19.8%), with greater divergence from other congeners (SSU: 4.0–4.6%; LSU: 30.5–37.1%). This represents the second record of Gammanema from Korean waters and provides new insights into trait combinations that may help define a subgroup within the genus. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Distribution, Biodiversity, and Ecology of Nematodes)

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20 pages, 9322 KB

Open AccessArticle

Thermal Ecology of Hermann’s Tortoise, Testudo hermanni and Glass Lizard Pseudopus apodus in a Seasonal Environment

by Ana Vujović, Vladimir Pešić and Roger Meek

Diversity 2025, 17(9), 638; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17090638 - 11 Sep 2025

Viewed by 601

Abstract

The importance of temperature for the biology and ecology of reptiles is well known. In temperate regions where temperatures fluctuate on a daily and seasonal basis, reptiles must respond appropriately to maintain body temperatures that enable activity. In this study, we describe temporal [...] Read more.

The importance of temperature for the biology and ecology of reptiles is well known. In temperate regions where temperatures fluctuate on a daily and seasonal basis, reptiles must respond appropriately to maintain body temperatures that enable activity. In this study, we describe temporal changes in the thermal environment from January to December in Montenegro and the impact on two species of reptile, Hermann’s tortoise, Testudo hermanni, and the large, legless lizard Pseudopus apodus. These reptiles differ in morphology and diet and have a long phylogenetic separation but experience the same thermal environment. To give insight into any impact of these factors on their thermal ecology we calculated monthly thermoregulatory efficiency indexes derived from field body temperatures, set point temperatures—defined as the preferred body temperatures, and temperatures of null models. The results indicated that both species exhibited high thermoregulatory efficiency, with T. hermanni showing the highest levels across the active year and also maintaining higher body temperatures than P. apodus potentially reflecting the dietary and lifestyle differences. During the hottest months, body temperatures of T. hermanni frequently exceeded the set point range but were not exceeded by P. apodus at any time. Microhabitat patches of closely situated sunlight and shaded areas were the most frequently selected patches in both species, with T. hermanni spending greater amounts of time in shaded patches compared to P. apodus. The efficiency indexes, together with data on microhabitat selection, indicated both species moved non-randomly through the environment, selecting appropriate habitat patches and maintaining body temperatures close to the set point range whilst avoiding the dangerously high body temperatures that occur during the hotter months. During the winter months from November to February, the second and third quartiles of the model temperatures fell below the set point range temperatures of both species. This corresponded with their dormant period. In general, the results emphasise the importance of habitat diversity and integrity in reptile ecology and for their conservation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Diversity)

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16 pages, 9515 KB

Open AccessArticle

A New Species of the Genus Pseudoparamenexenus (Phasmatodea: Lonchodidae: Necrosciinae) and Its Phylogenetic Relationships

by Yanting Qin, Zhenzhen Cui and Xun Bian

Diversity 2025, 17(9), 637; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17090637 - 10 Sep 2025

Viewed by 640

Abstract

We describe a new stick insect species, Pseudoparamenexenus beiliuensis sp. nov., by an integrated approach using morphological and molecular data. The mitochondrial genomes of this new species and Pseudoparamenexenus yangi collected from Jianfengling, Hainan, China, were fully sequenced and annotated. Both mitogenomes contained [...] Read more.

We describe a new stick insect species, Pseudoparamenexenus beiliuensis sp. nov., by an integrated approach using morphological and molecular data. The mitochondrial genomes of this new species and Pseudoparamenexenus yangi collected from Jianfengling, Hainan, China, were fully sequenced and annotated. Both mitogenomes contained the standard metazoan gene set arranged in the ancestral phasmid order, with ATP8 showing the highest evolutionary rate, and COX1 the strongest purifying selection. Phylogenetic analyses were conducted based on 13 protein-coding genes, revealing the two species form a well-supported sister-group relationship. The systematic position of the genus Pseudoparamenexenus was resolved as follows: ((Pseudoparamenexenus beiliuensis sp. nov. + Pseudoparamenexenus yangi) + (Neohirasea stephanus + (Neohirasea japonica + Neohirasea hongkongensis))) + ((Pachyscia longicauda + Acanthophasma brevicercum) + ((Sinophasma brevipenne + Micadina phluctainoides) + (Micadina brevioperculina + Micadina brachyptera))). The discovery of this species not only advances our understanding of the genus Pseudoparamenexenus but also addresses knowledge gaps concerning the diversity of stick insects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Diversity)

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2 pages, 142 KB

Open AccessCorrection

Correction: Lone et al. Phylogenetic Relationships in Earthworm Megascolex Species (Oligochaeta: Megascolecidae) with Addition of Two New Species. Diversity 2022, 14, 1006

by Azhar Rashid Lone, Samrendra Singh Thakur, Pooja Tiwari, Samuel Wooster James and Shweta Yadav

Diversity 2025, 17(9), 636; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17090636 - 10 Sep 2025

Viewed by 203

Abstract

In the original publication [...] Full article

16 pages, 2493 KB

Open AccessArticle

Investigation of Insect Diversity in the Restoration Area of Yimin Surface Mine in Inner Mongolia

by Yuzhen Zhang, Yawen Yang, Rui Shi, Xintian Li, Haoran Yan, Xue Bai and Shaobo Gao

Diversity 2025, 17(9), 635; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17090635 - 9 Sep 2025

Viewed by 541

Abstract

Elucidating the relationship between changes in insect assemblage structure and diversity and the number of years of ecological restoration will help us evaluate the effectiveness of ecological restoration. Our objective is to investigate the response of the structure and diversity of insect communities [...] Read more.

Elucidating the relationship between changes in insect assemblage structure and diversity and the number of years of ecological restoration will help us evaluate the effectiveness of ecological restoration. Our objective is to investigate the response of the structure and diversity of insect communities in the ecological restoration area of Yimin Surface Mine in Inner Mongolia to different restoration years (1 year, 4 years, 7 years) by monitoring in 2018, 2021, and 2024. A total of 1282 insect specimens were collected using sweep-netting methods, representing 70 species from 46 families across 8 orders. The results demonstrated that as restoration progressed, insect taxa significantly increased from 25 to 55 species (p < 0.01), with key functional groups (Coleoptera and Lepidoptera) showing marked richness enhancement. α-diversity indices (Shannon–Wiener and Margalef) significantly increased, while the Simpson dominance index decreased, indicating a more homogeneous species distribution. β-diversity analysis revealed reduced compositional dissimilarity among plots during later restoration stages, reflecting enhanced assemblage stability. The trophic structure shifted from phytophagous dominance to stabilized proportions across all feeding guilds, signaling food web maturation and ecosystem development. Overall, local ecological restoration projects had a significantly positive effect on insect survival and biodiversity development. Our research addresses a gap in faunal assemblage studies of coal mine rehabilitation zones. Full article

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Diversity, Volume 17, Issue 9 (September 2025) – 74 articles

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