Diversity

17 pages, 1670 KiB

Open AccessArticle

New Insights into the Taxonomy of Malacopsylloidea Superfamily (Siphonaptera) Based on Morphological, Molecular and Phylogenetic Characterization of Phthiropsylla agenoris (Malacopsyllidae) and Polygenis (Polygenis) rimatus (Rhopalopsyllidae)

by Antonio Zurita, Marcela Lareschi and Cristina Cutillas

Diversity 2023, 15(2), 308; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15020308 - 20 Feb 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1703

Abstract

From a phylogenetic point of view, the Malacopsyllidae family and the Rhopalopsillidae family (comprising Parapsyllinae and Rhopalopsyllinae subfamilies) have been traditionally classified within the Malacopsylloidea superfamily, mostly restricted to South America. The phylogenetic relationships and taxonomic status of Malacopsyllidae and Rhopalopsillidae have never [...] Read more.

From a phylogenetic point of view, the Malacopsyllidae family and the Rhopalopsillidae family (comprising Parapsyllinae and Rhopalopsyllinae subfamilies) have been traditionally classified within the Malacopsylloidea superfamily, mostly restricted to South America. The phylogenetic relationships and taxonomic status of Malacopsyllidae and Rhopalopsillidae have never been assessed since no molecular loci of Malacopsyllidae have been sequenced by any authors, and the phylogeny provided so far was not based on any sort of formal quantitative analysis of flea morphology. Based on these precedents, the objective of this study was to carry out a comparative phylogenetic, molecular and morphological study of two different species belonging to each family, Phthiropsylla agenoris (Malacopsylla) and Polygenis (Polygenis) rimatus (Rhopalopsyllidae, Rhopalopsyllinae). In this study, we demonstrated the usefulness of several morphological features as diagnostic characters to differentiate between P. (P.) rimatus and P. agenoris. Using molecular and phylogenetic data, we easily discriminated between the two taxa (P. agenoris and P. (P.) rimatus) by comparing both nuclear and mitochondrial markers. This fact proves the usefulness of ITS2, EF1−α, cox1, cytb and cox2 as molecular diagnostic markers to characterize and identify different Siphonaptera taxa. Additionally, the phylogenetic results confirm, for the first time, the monophyly of the Malacopsyllidae family and suggest a clear paraphyletic position of the Paraspsyllinae subfamily and, consequently, the Rhopalopsyllidae family. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Taxonomy, Epidemiology, Evolution and Phylogeny of Common Ectoparasites of Vertebrates: Siphonaptera and Acari)

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21 pages, 4680 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Phylogeography of the Plateau Pika (Ochotona curzoniae) in Response to the Uplift of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau

by Yinglian Qi, Xiaoyan Pu, Zhilian Li, Daoguang Song and Zhi Chen

Diversity 2023, 15(2), 307; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15020307 - 20 Feb 2023

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Abstract

The evolution and current distribution of species on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau have been significantly impacted by historical occurrences, including the uplift of the plateau and the Quaternary climate upheaval. As a remnant species, the plateau pika (Ochotona curzoniae) is a great [...] Read more.

The evolution and current distribution of species on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau have been significantly impacted by historical occurrences, including the uplift of the plateau and the Quaternary climate upheaval. As a remnant species, the plateau pika (Ochotona curzoniae) is a great model for researching historical events. In this study, 302 samples from 42 sample sites were utilized to analyze the impact of historical events on the evolution and distribution pattern of plateau pikas. The genetic diversity, patterns of differentiation, and historical dynamics of the plateau pika were investigated using molecular markers that included four mitochondrial genes (COI, D-loop, Cytb, and 12S rRNA) and three nuclear genes (GHR, IRBP, and RAG1). The results showed that: (1) The genetic diversity of the plateau pika was high in the Tibetan Plateau (H_d = 0.9997, π = 0.01205), and the plateau pika evolved into five lineages that occupied different geographical areas, with lineage 1 (Group 1) in the south of the Yarlung Zangbo River, lineage 2 (Group 2) in the hinterland of the plateau, lineage 3 (Group 3) in the northeastern part of the plateau, lineage 4 (Group 4) in the Hengduan Mountains, and lineage 5 (Group 5) in the eastern part of the plateau. (2) The gene flow among the five lineages was low, and the differentiation level was high (N_m < 0.25; Fst > 0.25), indicating that the geographical barriers between the five lineages, such as the Yarlung Zangbo River, the Qaidam-Ghuong-Guide Basin, and the Lancang River, effectively promoted the population differentiation of the plateau pika. (3) The plateau pika first spread from the Hengduan Mountains to the entire Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and then conducted small-scale migration and dispersal in several refuges across the plateau in response to climate changes during the glacial and interglacial periods. (4) Except for Group 1 and Group 4, all the other populations exhibited a rapid expansion between 0.06 and 0.01 Mya, but the expansion was considerably delayed or halted by the effects of climate change during the last glacial maximum (0.02 Mya). Overall, the plateau pika on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau exhibits high genetic diversity, and topographic obstacles, including mountains, valleys, and basins, created by the uplift of the plateau and climatic changes since the Quaternary period have played an important role in the differentiation and historical dynamics of the plateau pika population. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Adaptive Evolution and Management in Small Mammals)

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17 pages, 6259 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Diversity and Endemism of Southern African Gekkonids Linked with the Escarpment Has Implications for Conservation Priorities

by Gary K. Nicolau and Shelley Edwards

Diversity 2023, 15(2), 306; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15020306 - 20 Feb 2023

Viewed by 1893

Abstract

South Africa is recognised for its high reptile diversity and endemism, specifically among lizards. Phylogenetic diversity, endemism, and richness can have clear implications or raise important questions in a range of fields, and most urgently in conservation. Among squamate reptiles, these indices are [...] Read more.

South Africa is recognised for its high reptile diversity and endemism, specifically among lizards. Phylogenetic diversity, endemism, and richness can have clear implications or raise important questions in a range of fields, and most urgently in conservation. Among squamate reptiles, these indices are very commonly associated with high temperatures and topographic heterogeneity. Indeed, mountainous biogeography has been a critical driver in the radiation of the family Gekkonidae within the subregion. Here, we assess the species richness, diversity, and endemism of Gekkonidae species inhabiting South Africa, Lesotho, and Eswatini, accounting for phylogenetic relationships. We also employ the CANAPE method to identify regions that have neo- and/or paleoendemics. Southern African gekkonids appear to be most diverse and show high levels of endemism in three regions of Southern Africa: the northwestern Richtersveld, the escarpment running west to southeast, and the northeastern escarpment in the Limpopo province. Implications for conservation priorities are discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Montane Ecosystems and Diversity)

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11 pages, 2469 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Molecular Species Delimitation Using COI Barcodes of Mealybugs (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) from Coffee Plants in Espírito Santo, Brazil

by Pablo Viana Oliveira, Alexandre Rosa dos Santos, Emily Lopes Olive, Karolinni Bianchi Britto, Francine Alves Nogueira de Almeida, Vitor Cezar Pacheco da Silva, Carolina Barros Machado, Maurício José Fornazier, José Aires Ventura, Mark Paul Culik and Greiciane Gaburro Paneto

Diversity 2023, 15(2), 305; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15020305 - 20 Feb 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2127

Abstract

Mealybugs are insects belonging to the family Pseudococcidae. This family includes many plant-pest species with similar morphologies, which may lead to errors in mealybug identification and delimitation. In the present study, we employed molecular-species-delimitation approaches based on distance (ASAP) and coalescence (GMYC and [...] Read more.

Mealybugs are insects belonging to the family Pseudococcidae. This family includes many plant-pest species with similar morphologies, which may lead to errors in mealybug identification and delimitation. In the present study, we employed molecular-species-delimitation approaches based on distance (ASAP) and coalescence (GMYC and mPTP) methods to identify mealybugs collected from coffee and other plant hosts in the states of Espírito Santo, Bahia, Minas Gerais, and Pernambuco, Brazil. We obtained 171 new COI sequences, and 565 from the BOLD Systems database, representing 26 candidate species of Pseudococcidae. The MOTUs estimated were not congruent across different methods (ASAP-25; GMYC-30; mPTP-22). Misidentifications were revealed in the sequences from the BOLD Systems database involving Phenacoccus solani × Ph. solenopsis, Ph. tucumanus × Ph. baccharidis, and Planacoccus citri × Pl. minor species. Ten mealybug species were collected from coffee plants in Espírito Santo. Due to the incorrect labeling of the species sequences, the COI barcode library of the dataset from the database needs to be carefully analyzed to avoid the misidentification of species. The systematics and taxonomy of mealybugs may be improved by integrative taxonomy which may facilitate the integrated pest management of these pests. Full article

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

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27 pages, 4531 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Is a Modified Actin the Key to Toxin Resistance in the Nudibranch Chromodoris? A Biochemical and Molecular Approach

by Cora Hertzer, Nani Ingrid Jacquline Undap, Adelfia Papu, Dhaka Ram Bhandari, Stefan Aatz, Stefan Kehraus, Fontje Kaligis, Robert Bara, Till F. Schäberle, Heike Wägele and Gabriele M. König

Diversity 2023, 15(2), 304; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15020304 - 18 Feb 2023

Viewed by 2307

Abstract

Five Chromodoris species from North Sulawesi, Indonesia, were investigated for their sequestration of marine natural products. The cytotoxic 2-thiazolidinone macrolide latrunculin A (LatA) was the major metabolite in all examined Chromodoris species, as well as in one of the associated sponges Cacospongia mycofijiensis [...] Read more.

Five Chromodoris species from North Sulawesi, Indonesia, were investigated for their sequestration of marine natural products. The cytotoxic 2-thiazolidinone macrolide latrunculin A (LatA) was the major metabolite in all examined Chromodoris species, as well as in one of the associated sponges Cacospongia mycofijiensis (Kakou, Crews & Bakus, 1987), supporting a dietary origin of LatA. Furthermore, LatA was secreted with the mucus trail, suggesting a possible use in short-range chemical communication. MALDI MS-Imaging revealed an accumulation of LatA throughout the mantle tissue, mucus glands, and especially in vacuoles of the mantle dermal formations (MDFs). Cytotoxicity of the isolated LatA was tested in HEK-293 cells, confirming that LatA targets the actin cytoskeleton. In vivo toxicity experiments with the sacoglossan Elysia viridis (Montagu, 1804) showed 100% mortality, but 100% survival of Chromodoris specimens, demonstrating resistance to LatA. A novel actin isoform was detected in all investigated Chromodoris species with two amino acid substitutions at the ‘nucleotide binding’ cleft, the binding site of LatA. These are suggested to cause insensitivity against LatA, thus enabling the storage of the toxin within the body for the slugs’ own defense. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Systematics and Evolution of Gastropods)

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17 pages, 4062 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Does a Rural-Urban Gradient Affect Beetle Assemblages in an Arid Ecosystem?

by Mahmoud S. Abdel-Dayem, Mostafa R. Sharaf, Jonathan D. Majer, Mohammed K. Al-Sadoon, Ahmed M. Soliman, Abdulrahman S. Aldawood, Hathal M. Aldhafer and Gamal M. Orabi

Diversity 2023, 15(2), 303; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15020303 - 18 Feb 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1437

Abstract

Urbanization affects all elements of the pre-urban environment, including soils, hydrology, vegetation, and microclimate. Recently, Saudi Arabia has experienced rapid urbanization and growth. Thus, the country’s biodiversity has been threatened. In the Riyadh region, beetle assemblages were assessed along a rural-suburban-urban gradient. A [...] Read more.

Urbanization affects all elements of the pre-urban environment, including soils, hydrology, vegetation, and microclimate. Recently, Saudi Arabia has experienced rapid urbanization and growth. Thus, the country’s biodiversity has been threatened. In the Riyadh region, beetle assemblages were assessed along a rural-suburban-urban gradient. A total of 2791 individuals from 94 species belonging to seven families were collected at 15 sites along three different gradients of urbanization in Wadi Hanifa, which runs for a length of 120 km from northwest to southeast. Tenebrionidae dominated abundance (60.1%) and richness (38%). Beetle abundance, evenness, and diversity were not different among habitats; however, species richness was higher in rural habitats. Detrended correspondence “DCA” and canonical correspondence “CCA” analyses showed distinct differences among sites along gradients. Urbanization intensity, soil variables, and land cover were significantly correlated with CCA axis 1, while elevation and flora were significantly correlated with CCA axis 2. The most critical operating environmental variables in Wadi Hanifa were buildings, elevation, soil organic carbon, litter cover, and litter depth, as well as plant species such as Launaea capitata, Lycium shawii, Alhagi graecorum, and Heliotropium currasavicum. Ten species in our study were associated with urban habitats, six with suburban habitats, and seven with rural habitats. Consequently, expanding urban areas may negatively affect the richness and composition of beetles and may result in the loss of some native species. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity in Extreme Environments)

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14 pages, 5380 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Artificial Green Corridors in an Andean City as Effective Support of Avian Diversity

by Alain Hambuckers, Johann Delcourt, Bryan Leborgne and Jennifer R. A. Cahill

Diversity 2023, 15(2), 302; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15020302 - 18 Feb 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2721

Abstract

Ensuring connectivity in the countryside and cities is a key element of nature protection, allowing genetic fluxes between populations in fragmented ecosystems. We tested the hypothesis that artificial green corridors are effective for birds in the city of Cochabamba (Bolivia). We compared the [...] Read more.

Ensuring connectivity in the countryside and cities is a key element of nature protection, allowing genetic fluxes between populations in fragmented ecosystems. We tested the hypothesis that artificial green corridors are effective for birds in the city of Cochabamba (Bolivia). We compared the following aspects of natural corridors, with generally preserved vegetation, to those of artificial corridors, constituting parks and gardens in a matrix of streets densely planted with trees: species abundance and richness, functional diversity, and the traits of bird communities. We used canonical redundancy analysis to relate species abundance to the corridor type, noise, tree vegetation structure, richness, and functional diversity. We also tested the explanatory factors for relationships with bird species richness, functional diversity, and traits. We found that most species were shared between the corridor types; the corridor type, nevertheless, had significant effects, with bird species in the green corridors being more common and heavier and having a lower beak depth/mass. By contrast, noise-reflecting urbanization deeply affected all of the studied traits, indicating large shifts in species composition. In conclusion, green corridors seem reliable enough to maintain birds at a level almost comparable to that in linear corridors, but noise is a limiting factor for efficiency for both types. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity and Human-Environment Interactions II)

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13 pages, 2123 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Characterization of Tomato Brown Rugose Fruit Virus (ToBRFV) Detected in Czech Republic

by Ales Eichmeier, Miroslava Hejlova, Hana Orsagova, Lucie Frejlichova, Eliska Hakalova, Katerina Tomankova, Sarka Linhartova, Pavel Kulich, Vaclav Cermak and Jana Cechova

Diversity 2023, 15(2), 301; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15020301 - 18 Feb 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2339

Abstract

Tomato is the most consumed vegetable in the world. The tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV) is an important destructive virus that damages tomatoes and peppers with significant economic impact. The detection and characterization of this important viral pathogen were evaluated at the [...] Read more.

Tomato is the most consumed vegetable in the world. The tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV) is an important destructive virus that damages tomatoes and peppers with significant economic impact. The detection and characterization of this important viral pathogen were evaluated at the molecular and morphological level. The viral isolate was purified and inoculated on tomato and pepper plants. Small RNAs were sequenced in both plants and the profiles were compared. The complete genome of the isolate was obtained, and microRNA (miRNA) profiles were unveiled by small RNA sequencing. Symptoms caused by the isolate were also described and the morphology of the isolate was observed by transmission electron microscopy. Our results contribute to further understanding of the role of miRNAs in ToBRFV pathogenesis, which may be crucial for understanding disease symptom development in tomatoes and peppers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Plant-Pathogen Interactions)

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22 pages, 3444 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Diversity, Distribution, and Habitat Association of Anuran Species from Keffa, Southwest Ethiopia

by Abeje Kassie, Afework Bekele Simegn, Bezawork Afework Bogale, Sandra Goutte and Stephane Boissinot

Diversity 2023, 15(2), 300; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15020300 - 17 Feb 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3234

Abstract

The aim of the current study was to provide a description of the species composition and habitat association of anuran species found in the Keffa area of southwest Ethiopia, among the least studied natural areas in Ethiopia. Data were gathered in both the [...] Read more.

The aim of the current study was to provide a description of the species composition and habitat association of anuran species found in the Keffa area of southwest Ethiopia, among the least studied natural areas in Ethiopia. Data were gathered in both the rainy and dry seasons. Opportunistic observations, audio, and visual encounters were used to perform the survey. To capture different frog species, drift fence and pitfall trap techniques were used. Three habitat types—wetlands, agricultural land, and riverine forests—were explored for the frog species. A total of 3672-person field hours were spent and 5678 individuals of 26 different anuran species from eight different families were recorded. Of these, six species were new records for the Keffa area. Species determination was assessed using morphology and validated with genetic barcoding. The mitochondrial 16S rRNA and COI gene sequence analysis have been used in molecular systematic analyses of the frog species. The Leptopelis ragazzii that was discovered to be present in the earlier study was actually Leptopelis vannutellii, as evidenced by DNA sequencing. The Hyperolius individuals were initially categorized as H. nasutus, but after conducting DNA barcoding, they were found to be H. microps. At least three potential new candidate species (Leptopelis sp. 1, Leptopelis sp. 2, and Phrynobatrachus sp. 1) were discovered. Hyperoliidae was the most abundant family from the recorded anurans, followed by Phrynobatrachidae, while Conrauidae was the least abundant. Most species were found in the wetland habitat, followed by riverine forest, while agricultural land had the least. Wetlands had the highest values for the Shannon diversity index (2.131), followed by agricultural land (1.58) and riverine forests (1.459). The environmental variables revealed that temperature had a considerable negative impact, while precipitation had a non-significantly positive relationship with anuran abundance. The Keffa area is rich in frog species, accounting for 35% of the country’s batrachofauna. However, the habitats have been fragmented and ruined by agricultural expansion, water drainage from the wetlands, and the conversion of horticulture to field crops. We recommend that non-governmental organizations, districts, regional officials, and local people in and around Keffa actively engage in wetland and forest conservation and protection. Full article

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20 pages, 25644 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Exceptional Presence of Megaloceros giganteus in North-Eastern Iberia and Its Palaeoecological Implications: The Case of Teixoneres Cave (Moià, Barcelona, Spain)

by Antigone Uzunidis, Florent Rivals, Anna Rufà, Ruth Blasco and Jordi Rosell

Diversity 2023, 15(2), 299; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15020299 - 17 Feb 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3564

Abstract

In this article we announce the discovery of the first remains of Megaloceros giganteus found in Catalonia (north-eastern Iberia) from the Late Pleistocene: a fragment of maxillary. Dated between 35,000 and 37,000 cal BP, it is also among the youngest occurrence of this [...] Read more.

In this article we announce the discovery of the first remains of Megaloceros giganteus found in Catalonia (north-eastern Iberia) from the Late Pleistocene: a fragment of maxillary. Dated between 35,000 and 37,000 cal BP, it is also among the youngest occurrence of this taxon in the Iberian Peninsula, while its last known occurrence is dated to the Neolithic period. Through a comparison with the giant deer of the northern Pyrenees, we analyzed the herbivore guilds in which this taxon was associated to understand the context in which it was able to enter the Iberian Peninsula. By comparing its diet with those of specimens from Northern Europe, we detail the ecological adaptations of this taxon in this new environment. We suggest that Megaloceros accompanied the migrations of cold-adapted species by taking advantage of the opening of corridors on both sides of the Pyrenees during the coldest periods of the Late Pleistocene. The diet of the Iberian individuals, which is oriented towards abrasive plants, suggests an adaptation to a different ecological niche than that found in Northern European individuals. The northern Iberian Peninsula may have been an extreme in the geographical expansion of M. giganteus. More specimens will be needed in the future to establish the variability of the southern Megaloceros populations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ecology and Evolution of Mammals)

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15 pages, 3188 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Bacterial Communities in a Gradient of Abiotic Factors Near a Sulfide Thermal Spring in Northern Baikal

by Svetlana Chernitsyna, Irina Elovskaya, Tatyana Pogodaeva, Sergei Bukin, Aleksandra Zakharenko and Tamara Zemskaya

Diversity 2023, 15(2), 298; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15020298 - 17 Feb 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1461

Abstract

The structure and diversity of microbial communities developing in the combined gradient of temperature (44–19 °C), as well as concentration of oxygen (0–10 mg/L) and hydrogen sulfide (33–0.7 mg/L), were studied in the thermal sulfide spring on the coast of Northern Lake Baikal. [...] Read more.

The structure and diversity of microbial communities developing in the combined gradient of temperature (44–19 °C), as well as concentration of oxygen (0–10 mg/L) and hydrogen sulfide (33–0.7 mg/L), were studied in the thermal sulfide spring on the coast of Northern Lake Baikal. The predominance of bacteria participating in sulfur and nitrogen cycles and significant changes in the composition of microbial communities were noted at changing physicochemical conditions. Thiovirga sp. (sulfur-oxidizing bacteria, up to 37%) and Azonexus sp. (nitrogen-fixing bacteria, up to 43%) were dominant at high temperatures and concentrations of hydrogen sulfide in two hydrotherms. In addition, a significant contribution of the Rhodocyclaceae family (up to 51%) which is involved in the denitrification processes, and Acetoanaerobium sp. (up to 20%) fixing carbon oxide were found in the spring water. In the stream, mainly oxygenic cyanobacteria (up to 56%) developed at a temperature of 33 °C, in the presence of hydrogen sulfide and oxygen. In addition, sulfur bacteria of the genus Thiothrix (up to 48%) found in epibiotic communities of benthic animals of Lake Baikal were present here. Thiothrix sp. formed massive fouling in the zone of mixing lake and thermal waters with a significant contribution of hydrogen-oxidizing bacteria of the genus Hydrogenophaga (up to 22.5%). As well as chemolitho- and phototrophic bacteria, chemoorganotrophs (phyla Firmicutes, Chloroflexi, Desulfobacterota, Nitrospirota, Fibrobacterota, etc.) have been identified in all communities. The chemical parameters of water in spring and coastal zones indicate a significant change in the composition of thermal waters occurring with the participation of diverse microbial communities that contribute to the assimilation of inorganic components of mineral thermal waters. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity and Ecology of Freshwater Lake Microbial Communities)

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11 pages, 1394 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mate Choice in Molluscs of the Genus Littorina (Gastropoda: Littorinidae) from White Sea

by Eugene V. Kozminsky, Elena A. Serbina and Alexey O. Smurov

Diversity 2023, 15(2), 297; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15020297 - 17 Feb 2023

Viewed by 1401

Abstract

We studied the reproductive behaviour associated with mate choice by size in three species of White Sea molluscs of the genus Littorina—L. saxatilis, L. obtusata and L. fabalis. Three behavioural patterns were revealed after a comparative analysis of the [...] Read more.

We studied the reproductive behaviour associated with mate choice by size in three species of White Sea molluscs of the genus Littorina—L. saxatilis, L. obtusata and L. fabalis. Three behavioural patterns were revealed after a comparative analysis of the behaviour of the male snails. The males of L. obtusata, regardless of their size, could mate with all females but preferred to mate with larger ones. The males of L. fabalis chose females of their own size or larger. The males of L. saxatilis mated with females of approximately their own size. In the first case (L. obtusata), there is a free exchange of genes between all the size groups in the population. In the second case (L. fabalis), the gene transfer from small males to females of any size is free but the gene transfer from large males to small females is limited. In the third case (L. saxatilis), the gene flow is limited between groups of individuals of dramatically different size. Thus, in the case of L. saxatilis and L. fabalis, to varying degrees restriction of random mating associated with size assortativity in choosing a mating partner was expressed, which under certain circumstances (divergence of individuals in different econiches, the presence of ecotypes differing in size, lack of stronger natural selection in the other direction) can favour sympatric speciation. The males of all the three periwinkles’ species preferred larger females but sexual selection in favour of larger females was found only in L. obtusata. In the other two species, there were no statistically significant size differences between copulating and non-copulating females. This appears to be due to the occurrence of size-assortative mating in these species, which limits the ability of males to choose larger female partners. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Systematics, Phylogeography, Evolution and Conservation of Molluscs)

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26 pages, 18611 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Hemogregarine Diversity Infecting Brazilian Turtles with a Description of Six New Species of Haemogregarina (Apicomplexa: Adeleorina: Haemogregarinidae)

by Letícia Pereira Úngari, André Luiz Quagliatto Santos, Reinaldo José da Silva and Lucia Helena O’Dwyer

Diversity 2023, 15(2), 296; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15020296 - 17 Feb 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2274

Abstract

(1) Background: Hemoparasites of the genus Haemogregarina (Haemogregarinidae) are commonly reported in freshwater turtles. However, in Brazil, only three species have currently been characterised using molecular methods. This study aimed to bring new insights on the diversity of species of Haemogregarina infecting Brazilian [...] Read more.

(1) Background: Hemoparasites of the genus Haemogregarina (Haemogregarinidae) are commonly reported in freshwater turtles. However, in Brazil, only three species have currently been characterised using molecular methods. This study aimed to bring new insights on the diversity of species of Haemogregarina infecting Brazilian freshwater turtles from Mato Grosso and Goiás states using molecular and morphological tools. (2) Methods: In total, 2 mL of blood was collected, with between two to five blood smears prepared, fixed with absolute methanol, and stained with a 10% Giemsa solution. Blood was stored at −20 °C for molecular analysis targeting the 18S rRNA gene. Fragments of the organs (liver, spleen, heart, and kidney) were separated and stained with hematoxylin-eosin. (3) Results: A total of 40 turtles were screened and hemogregarines were observed in 34 (85%) individuals (3 Podocnemis expansa and 31 Podocnemis unifilis). Haemogregarina embaubali and six new species of Haemogregarina were observed and formally described as follows: H. unifila n. sp., H. rubra n. sp., H. goianensis n. sp., H. araguaiensis n. sp., H. tigrina n. sp., and H. brasiliana n. sp. (4) Conclusions: This study contributes to the diversity and knowledge of Brazilian fresh-water turtle blood parasites, using integrative approaches for diagnosing and characterizing hemoparasites, with the identification of six undescribed species. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Taxonomy, Biodiversity and Ecology of Parasites of Aquatic Organisms)

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38 pages, 16027 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Characterizing and Quantifying Water Content in 14 Species of Bryophytes Present in Azorean Native Vegetation

by Márcia C. M. Coelho, Rosalina Gabriel and Claudine Ah-Peng

Diversity 2023, 15(2), 295; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15020295 - 17 Feb 2023

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2650

Abstract

Bryophytes are an important component of plant diversity, may be found from sea level to mountaintops, and are particularly conspicuous on the Azores islands. These plants rely on environmental water, which acquires intercepting rain and dew (liquid water) and uses fog (water vapor), [...] Read more.

Bryophytes are an important component of plant diversity, may be found from sea level to mountaintops, and are particularly conspicuous on the Azores islands. These plants rely on environmental water, which acquires intercepting rain and dew (liquid water) and uses fog (water vapor), and transports both externally, by capillary forces, and internally, in different cells (specialized or not). This study characterizes and quantifies the ability of six liverworts and eight mosses to retain water, through different pathways, and to lose water by evaporation. Twelve replicates of each species were collected in Azorean native vegetation during the summer of 2016. The absolute water content (AWC) was obtained through measurements of specimens saturated, without free water, and completely dry. Most of the 14-target species showed an ectohydric behavior pattern retaining more than 60% of water through gametophyte surface. The AWC value ranged from 646% in Polytrichum commune to 5584% in Sphagnum subnitens. The water loss by direct evaporation showed, for most of species, an exponential decay curve along time. Understanding how much native bryophytes, acquire, store, and release water into the system contributes not only to the knowledge of native vegetation resilience but also to potential impacts on the availability and quality of water—a major ecosystem service performed by bryophytes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Biodiversity in the Azores: A Whole Biota Assessment)

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15 pages, 2719 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Role of Uncultivated Habitats in Supporting Wild Bee Communities in Mediterranean Agricultural Landscapes

by Tohar Roth, Moshe Coll and Yael Mandelik

Diversity 2023, 15(2), 294; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15020294 - 17 Feb 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1354

Abstract

In agricultural landscapes, uncultivated habitat patches may have a focal role in supporting communities of ecosystem service providers. However, little is known on the variances among different types of uncultivated habitat patches in providing resources and maintaining populations of these beneficial organisms. We [...] Read more.

In agricultural landscapes, uncultivated habitat patches may have a focal role in supporting communities of ecosystem service providers. However, little is known on the variances among different types of uncultivated habitat patches in providing resources and maintaining populations of these beneficial organisms. We studied wild bee communities in natural and semi-natural uncultivated patches embedded in semi-arid Mediterranean agricultural landscapes. We investigated the effects of local- and landscape-scale land-use characteristics, as well as their interactions, on bee diversity, functional composition, and forage and nesting resources. Most bee community parameters were affected by both local- and landscape-scale characteristics, but no significant interactions were found among the scales. Local land-use effects were related primarily to overall plant cover, and to the abundance and richness of flowering plants. Landscape effects, mostly limited to a 400 m range, were varied. The abundance of focal crop pollinators varied considerably between patch type and pollinator species. The different types of uncultivated habitats maintain complementary bee and flower communities. Our findings show the important role of uncultivated habitat patches in providing floral and nesting resources for bees, and creating resource-landscapes that can support wild bee communities and crop pollination services in Mediterranean agricultural landscapes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Invertebrate Diversity in Fragmented Habitats)

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14 pages, 4981 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Different Types of Agricultural Land Use on the Occurrence of Common Aquatic Bugs (Nepomorpha, Heteroptera) in Habitats with Slow Flowing Water in Bulgaria, Southeast Europe

by Desislava Stoianova

Diversity 2023, 15(2), 292; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15020292 - 17 Feb 2023

Viewed by 1507

Abstract

Agricultural activities can have a significant impact on aquatic organisms, including aquatic insects. Most of the aquatic Heteroptera are known as moderately tolerant to low oxygen and high nutrient concentrations. Nevertheless, the complex effects of agriculture (source of both pesticides and nutrient loads) [...] Read more.

Agricultural activities can have a significant impact on aquatic organisms, including aquatic insects. Most of the aquatic Heteroptera are known as moderately tolerant to low oxygen and high nutrient concentrations. Nevertheless, the complex effects of agriculture (source of both pesticides and nutrient loads) on this group are still unclear. Therefore, the relationship between six agricultural land use classes and the occurrence of common aquatic bugs in Bulgaria was studied. In order to avoid detection bias, presence-only models were applied; Maxent algorithm was used. According to the results, land use practices connected to arable land (annual crops) have stronger influence on the occurrence of the selected aquatic Heteroptera species than those connected to perennial crops (vineyards and fruit trees). Higher sensitivity to the effects of agriculture was indicated for species preferring microhabitats without macrophyte vegetation, Aphelocheirus aestivalis (Fabricius, 1794) and Micronecta griseola Horváth, 1899, compared to species preferring macrophyte dominated sites, Nepa cinerea Linnaeus, 1758, Ilyocoris cimicoides (Linnaeus, 1758) and Sigara striata (Linnaeus, 1758). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Heteroptera: Biodiversity, Evolution, Taxonomy and Conservation)

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17 pages, 2484 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Lipid Profile of the Freshwater Pearl Mussel Margaritifera margaritifera Inhabiting Different Biotopes of the Lake-River System of the Kem River, White Sea Basin

by Svetlana N. Pekkoeva, Viktor P. Voronin, Evgeny P. Ieshko, Natalia N. Fokina, Denis A. Efremov and Svetlana A. Murzina

Diversity 2023, 15(2), 293; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15020293 - 16 Feb 2023

Viewed by 1558

Abstract

The freshwater pearl mussel Margaritifera margaritifera is considered to be the most rapidly declining species of freshwater bivalve, whereas its colonies in rivers of the White Sea Basin remain the most numerous in the world. The lipid profiles of mantle, muscle (foot), and [...] Read more.

The freshwater pearl mussel Margaritifera margaritifera is considered to be the most rapidly declining species of freshwater bivalve, whereas its colonies in rivers of the White Sea Basin remain the most numerous in the world. The lipid profiles of mantle, muscle (foot), and digestive gland tissues of the freshwater pearl mussel from the Kem, Ukhta, and Vozhma Rivers in autumn (end of September, early October) were studied using high performance thin-layer chromatography. The highest total lipid [TL] content was found in the digestive gland. Cholesterol esters, non-esterified fatty acids, phospholipids, and cholesterol were the dominant lipids in all studied tissues. The reduced triacylglycerol content in the mussels was associated with its utilization during the spawning period. The colony of the freshwater pearl mussel inhabiting the Vozhma River was distinguished by higher TL content in the mantle and digestive gland. Data on the size-age characteristics of mollusks from the Kem, Ukhta, and Vozhma Rivers and the relationship between the structural and storage lipid content and size-age parameters are discussed. The results are important for different conservation strategies of endangered species, such as the freshwater pearl mussel, especially in ecological monitoring based on evaluation of the physiological and biochemical state of mollusks and rare natural colonies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Women’s Special Issue Series: Diversity)

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14 pages, 3324 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Stream Connectivity on Phytoplankton Diversity and Community Structure in Sunken Lakes: A Case Study from an August Survey

by Lingli Jiang, Yuping Yao, Siyong Zhang, Linqiang Wan and Zhongze Zhou

Diversity 2023, 15(2), 291; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15020291 - 16 Feb 2023

Viewed by 1071

Abstract

After the underground coal resources were exploited in the Huainan high diving mining area, the surface subsidence water formed a subsidence lake. Studying the influencing factors of the phytoplankton community structure in coal mining subsidence lakes is extremely important in enabling us to [...] Read more.

After the underground coal resources were exploited in the Huainan high diving mining area, the surface subsidence water formed a subsidence lake. Studying the influencing factors of the phytoplankton community structure in coal mining subsidence lakes is extremely important in enabling us to understand the nutritional status and ecological environment of the lake. In this study, we sampled phytoplankton in sunken lakes in August 2021 and analyzed the effects of the environmental factors on the phytoplankton community structure and diversity. The results showed that WT, pH, Cond, AN, NO and TP were the main environmental factors affecting phytoplankton cell density. The density and diversity of phytoplankton cells revealed obvious spatial distribution differences depending on the different drainage connectivity of sunken lakes, and the density and diversity of phytoplankton cells were higher in sunken lakes with better drainage connectivity. This study provides basic data for an in-depth understanding of sunken lakes, a special water body, and provides scientific data support for the reconstruction, restoration and sustainable development of the ecological environment in the mining area from the perspective of ecology. Full article

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11 pages, 1734 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Both Light Stimuli and Predation Risk Affect the Adult Behavior of a Stygobiont Crustacean

by Matteo Galbiati, Stefano Lapadula, Martina Forlani, Benedetta Barzaghi and Raoul Manenti

Diversity 2023, 15(2), 290; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15020290 - 16 Feb 2023

Viewed by 946

Abstract

Stygobiont species show common, typical traits derived from their adaptation to subterranean life. Due to the general absence of light in cave environments, the majority of them are eyeless. Although the absence of eyes generally does not allow them to perceive luminous stimuli, [...] Read more.

Stygobiont species show common, typical traits derived from their adaptation to subterranean life. Due to the general absence of light in cave environments, the majority of them are eyeless. Although the absence of eyes generally does not allow them to perceive luminous stimuli, some stygobionts still present phototaxis. Previous studies determined that different species of the eyeless amphipod crustaceans of the genus Niphargus are able to react to light; this has been interpreted as an adaptation to avoid dangerous surface habitats, even if recent studies suggest that this could also be an adaptation to exploit them when a situation is less dangerous (i.e., during the night). Niphargus thuringius is a stygobiont amphipod that can also be observed in spring environments despite possessing all the main morphological features of subterranean organisms, such as depigmentation and a lack of eyes. In the present study, we test how the species respond to light stimuli according to the light cycle and predation risk experienced during a conditioning period. We assessed the reactions to light stimuli of adult individuals of N. thuringius after 30 days of rearing in microcosms with different conditions of light occurrence (total darkness or a light/darkness daily cycle) and predation risk (without predators, with one predator, and with two predators). Both light stimuli during the test and rearing conditions affected the behavior of Niphargus thuringius. With light stimuli, individuals presented a strong photophobic response. Moreover, individuals reared in conditions of high predation risk preferred a more sheltered environment during behavioral tests than individuals reared in safe conditions. Our results add a new species to those of stygobiont amphipods known to display negative phototaxis, confirming that this pattern is widespread and conserved in the field. N. thuringius could be a good candidate model to perform further studies aiming to assess if differences occur between spring populations and populations present in deeper groundwater. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ecotones as Diversity Drivers: New Research Perspective from Boundaries and Border Habitats)

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14 pages, 1322 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Drying Shapes Aquatic Fungal Community Assembly by Reducing Functional Diversity

by Rebeca Arias-Real, Pilar Hurtado, Giulia Gionchetta and Cayetano Gutiérrez-Cánovas

Diversity 2023, 15(2), 289; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15020289 - 16 Feb 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1829

Abstract

Aquatic fungi are highly diverse organisms that play a critical role in global biogeochemical cycles. Yet it remains unclear which assembly processes determine their co-occurrence and assembly patterns over gradients of drying intensity, which is a common stressor in fluvial networks. Although aquatic [...] Read more.

Aquatic fungi are highly diverse organisms that play a critical role in global biogeochemical cycles. Yet it remains unclear which assembly processes determine their co-occurrence and assembly patterns over gradients of drying intensity, which is a common stressor in fluvial networks. Although aquatic fungi possess drying-specific adaptations, little is known about how functional similarity influences co-occurrence probability and which functional traits are sorted by drying. Using field data from 15 streams, we investigated how co-occurrence patterns and assembly processes responded to drying intensity. To do so, we determined fungal co-occurrence patterns, functional traits that best explain species co-occurrence likelihood, and community assembly mechanisms explaining changes in functional diversity over the drying gradient. Our results identified 24 species pairs with positive co-occurrence probabilities and 16 species pairs with negative associations. The co-occurrence probability was correlated with species differences in conidia shape and fungal endophytic capacity. Functional diversity reduction over the drying gradient is generally associated with non-random abiotic filtering. However, the assembly processes changed over the drying gradient, with random assembly prevailing at low drying intensity and abiotic filtering gaining more importance as drying intensifies. Collectively, our results can help anticipate the impacts of global change on fungal communities and ecosystem functioning. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular and Microbial Ecology: Plastic Responses and Eco-Evolutionary Interactions with Environmental Stressors and Climate Change)

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20 pages, 20089 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Long-Term Succession on Offshore Wind Farms and the Role of Species Interactions

by Mirta Zupan, Bob Rumes, Jan Vanaverbeke, Steven Degraer and Francis Kerckhof

Diversity 2023, 15(2), 288; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15020288 - 16 Feb 2023

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2140

Abstract

The presence of biofouling communities in very large densities in offshore wind farms (OWFs) generates broad effects on the structure and functioning of the marine ecosystem, yet the mechanisms behind the temporal development of these communities remain poorly understood. Here, we use an [...] Read more.

The presence of biofouling communities in very large densities in offshore wind farms (OWFs) generates broad effects on the structure and functioning of the marine ecosystem, yet the mechanisms behind the temporal development of these communities remain poorly understood. Here, we use an 11-year series on biofouling fauna from OWFs installed in Belgian waters to determine succession patterns and to unravel the role of biological interactions in shaping community development. Our analysis shows that biological interactions, besides age and location, affect diversity patterns in OWFs. The abundance of foundation species, predators, and space occupiers was significantly related to richness and/or diversity. The trends in richness, diversity, and community composition suggest that no permanent stable climax is reached after 11 years, which can be linked to the dynamic and disturbance-prone environment of offshore fouling communities. Full article

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4 pages, 1015 KiB

Open AccessInteresting Images

First In Situ Observation of Sperm Release in Corynactis carnea (Anthozoa: Corallimorpharia) from Patagonia, Argentina

by Gonzalo Bravo, Gregorio Bigatti, Pablo Penchaszadeh and Daniel Lauretta

Diversity 2023, 15(2), 287; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15020287 - 16 Feb 2023

Viewed by 1094

Abstract

Jewel sea anemones constitute a relatively small group of solitary cnidarians, a sister group of scleractinian corals. In the southwest Atlantic Ocean off Argentina, two species of jewel sea anemones have been found: Corynactis carnea and Corallimorphus rigidus. Corynactis carnea is a [...] Read more.

Jewel sea anemones constitute a relatively small group of solitary cnidarians, a sister group of scleractinian corals. In the southwest Atlantic Ocean off Argentina, two species of jewel sea anemones have been found: Corynactis carnea and Corallimorphus rigidus. Corynactis carnea is a common and abundant species in shallow water of northern Atlantic Patagonia, but reproductive data on this species is scarce; the species is known to reproduce asexually. During a SCUBA diving survey in an Atlantic rocky reefs (20 m depth) in Patagonia, we observed for the first time specimens of C. carnea releasing sperm, eight days after the full moon and during the summer season while spawning has been previously observed in at least three species of Corynactis, but all were recorded as occurring in winter. Full article

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9 pages, 1432 KiB

Open AccessBrief Report

The First Fossil Coelacanth from Thailand

by Lionel Cavin, Haiyan Tong, Eric Buffetaut, Kamonlak Wongko, Varavudh Suteethorn and Uthumporn Deesri

Diversity 2023, 15(2), 286; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15020286 - 16 Feb 2023

Viewed by 4659

Abstract

Mawsoniidae is a family of coelacanths restricted to the Mesozoic. During the Cretaceous, mawsoniids were mainly represented by the Mawsonia/Axelrodichthy complex, long known to be from western Gondwana only (South America and Africa). This apparent biogeographical distribution then faded following the [...] Read more.

Mawsoniidae is a family of coelacanths restricted to the Mesozoic. During the Cretaceous, mawsoniids were mainly represented by the Mawsonia/Axelrodichthy complex, long known to be from western Gondwana only (South America and Africa). This apparent biogeographical distribution then faded following the discovery of representatives in the Late Cretaceous of Laurasia (Europe and North America). We report here the presence, in the Lower Cretaceous site of Kham Phok, NE Thailand, of an angular bone referred to the Mawsonia/Axelrodichthys complex. A comparison with angulars referring to both genera found in various regions of the world between the Late Jurassic and the Late Cretaceous indicated that the distinctions between these genera, and even more so between their constituent species, are unclear. This discovery is further confirmation of the very slow morphological evolution within this lineage, which may explain why their evolutionary history appears to be disconnected, at least in part, from their geographical distribution over time. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Evolution and Diversity of Fishes in Deep Time)

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12 pages, 2723 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Lichen and Lichenicolous Fungal Communities Tested as Suitable Systems for the Application of Cross-Taxon Analysis

by Roberto De Carolis, Lucia Muggia and Giovanni Bacaro

Diversity 2023, 15(2), 285; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15020285 - 16 Feb 2023

Viewed by 1345

Abstract

Lichens are outstanding examples of fungal symbioses that form long-lived structures, the lichen thalli, in which a multiplicity of other microorganisms are hosted. Among these, microfungi seem to establish diverse trophic relationships with their lichen hosts. The most specialised of these fungi are [...] Read more.

Lichens are outstanding examples of fungal symbioses that form long-lived structures, the lichen thalli, in which a multiplicity of other microorganisms are hosted. Among these, microfungi seem to establish diverse trophic relationships with their lichen hosts. The most specialised of these fungi are the parasitic lichenicolous fungi, of which the diversity has hardly been explained as a proxy for the diversity of lichen species. Here, we used an exemplar dataset of a well-studied alpine lichen community composed of 63 lichen and 41 lichenicolous fungal species and tested it to verify the strength of the co-occurrences of the two species groups with predictive co-correspondence analyses. The results showed that the distribution of lichen abundances affects the abundance and variation of lichenicolous fungi and supports our hypothesis to use lichens as surrogates for lichenicolous fungi in surrogacy analysis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Studies of Lichenized Fungi and Holobiomes)

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11 pages, 5779 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The First Side-Necked Turtle (Pleurodira, Bothremydidae) from the Campanian (Late Cretaceous) of Egypt

by Mohamed AbdelGawad, Adán Pérez-García, Ren Hirayama, Sara Mohesn, Abdel-Aziz Tantawy and Gebely Abu El-Kheir

Diversity 2023, 15(2), 284; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15020284 - 16 Feb 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3663

Abstract

The Quseir Formation is an Upper Cretaceous (Campanian) deposit in the Kharga oasis of the Southwestern Desert (Egypt). This formation comprises a clastic sequence of bioturbated mudstone and sandstone intercalations, including rare scattered and fragmented vertebrate remains such as shark teeth, dinosaur remains, [...] Read more.

The Quseir Formation is an Upper Cretaceous (Campanian) deposit in the Kharga oasis of the Southwestern Desert (Egypt). This formation comprises a clastic sequence of bioturbated mudstone and sandstone intercalations, including rare scattered and fragmented vertebrate remains such as shark teeth, dinosaur remains, and turtle plates. These deposits indicate a supratidal marsh environment. A complete shell of a turtle discovered from the Quseir Formation, at the Kharga oasis, is attributed here to Bothremydini (Pleurodira, Bothremydidae), and determined as a new taxon: Khargachelys caironensis gen. et sp. nov. This form represents the only Bothremydini member currently identified in the Campanian record not only of Egypt but also of North Africa. Therefore, it helps fill the missing evolutionary gap from the Late Cretaceous pleurodires in Egypt and in North Africa. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fossil Reptiles and Associated Faunal Record)

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23 pages, 43688 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Biodiversity and Environmental Factors Structuring Diatom Assemblages of Mineral Saline Springs in the French Massif Central

by Aude Beauger, Olivier Voldoire, Elisabeth Allain, Pierre Gosseaume, Christelle Blavignac, Lory-Anne Baker and Carlos E. Wetzel

Diversity 2023, 15(2), 283; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15020283 - 15 Feb 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1532

Abstract

Springs are abundant and present worldwide and are among the most threatened ecosystems on Earth. The main aim of this study was to evaluate the biodiversity of seventy-nine (79) mineral saline springs situated in the French Massif Central, focusing on the species richness [...] Read more.

Springs are abundant and present worldwide and are among the most threatened ecosystems on Earth. The main aim of this study was to evaluate the biodiversity of seventy-nine (79) mineral saline springs situated in the French Massif Central, focusing on the species richness and the estimated richness and also on the diatom community composition. The influence of physical and chemical factors on both richness and communities was analyzed in order to have a better knowledge of the diatom ecological preferences and identify species typical of saline springs. Since December 2014, an on-going inventory of mineral springs has been in progress. For each spring, physical and chemical characteristics were measured, and benthic diatoms were sampled. The richness was the lowest in the springs presenting a man-made construction around the emergence. In the other springs, the highest richness was associated with the lowest lithium, sodium, total dissolved solid concentrations, and conductivity. Mineralization and some ions (bromine, calcium, chloride, fluoride, lithium, potassium, and sodium) were found to be the most critical drivers of diatom community composition. Some diatom species were typical of specific abiotic conditions, such as Navicula sanctamargaritae, which was associated with the highest potassium concentration. These species could appear as bio-indicators of these conditions. Full article

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

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13 pages, 6310 KiB

Open AccessArticle

First Record of Osphya (Melandryidae: Osphyinae) from Chinese Mainland Based on Morphological Evidence and Mitochondrial Genome-Based Phylogeny of Tenebrionoidea

by Haoyu Liu, Lilan Yuan, Ping Wang, Zhao Pan, Junbo Tong, Gang Wu and Yuxia Yang

Diversity 2023, 15(2), 282; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15020282 - 15 Feb 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1395

Abstract

Osphya Illiger (Melandryidae: Osphyinae) as a species-poor insect group, exhibits a widespread distribution in the Northern Hemisphere, however, the research of the genus is poorly documented especially in East Asia. Herein, an interesting species is discovered in Shennongjia National Natural Reserve (Hubei, China). [...] Read more.

Osphya Illiger (Melandryidae: Osphyinae) as a species-poor insect group, exhibits a widespread distribution in the Northern Hemisphere, however, the research of the genus is poorly documented especially in East Asia. Herein, an interesting species is discovered in Shennongjia National Natural Reserve (Hubei, China). The examination of morphological characters and comparisons with others show it to be a new member of Osphya, which is described under the name of O. sinensis sp. n. The characteristic photos and a key to the species of Osphya from East Asia are provided. Meanwhile, the mitochondrial genome of O. sinensis sp. n. is sequenced and annotated. Based on this obtained mitogenome and the publicly available data, we reconstructed the phylogeny of Tenebrionoidea by different cladistics methods to investigate the relationships between the new species with others. The results consistently recover O. sinensis sp. n. sister to O. bipunctata (Fabricius) with high supporting values, which further confirm the placement of the new species in the genus Osphya. This is the first time reporting the genus Osphya, the only representative genus of melandryid Osphyinae from mainland China, which enriches the diversity of beetles from the Chinese fauna at both generic and subfamilial levels. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Taxonomy, Systematics and Evolution of Coleoptera)

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12 pages, 4936 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Elemental Variability in Stems of Pinus sylvestris L.: Whether a Single Core Can Represent All the Stem

by Vladimir L. Gavrikov, Alexey I. Fertikov, Vladimir E. Vidus, Ruslan A. Sharafutdinov and Eugene A. Vaganov

Diversity 2023, 15(2), 281; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15020281 - 15 Feb 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1248

Abstract

In dendrochemical studies, an analysis of wooden cores extracted from tree stems is a widely spread research method. A methodological problem is related to the method: whether a single core per tree can be representative of all the stems. The study aimed to [...] Read more.

In dendrochemical studies, an analysis of wooden cores extracted from tree stems is a widely spread research method. A methodological problem is related to the method: whether a single core per tree can be representative of all the stems. The study aimed to estimate how the elemental contents are variable in the tree rings and whether the contents correlate among different cores. The cores were extracted from stems of Pinus sylvestris L., four cores per tree, according to the cardinal directions (east, west, north, south). The elemental contents (Al, Si, P, S, Cl, K, Ca, Ti, Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn, and Sr) were estimated through the X-ray fluorescent analysis facility Itrax Multiscanner (COX Analytical Systems). The agreement between the temporal series of different cores was estimated through Spearman’s correlation coefficients. It has been found that the temporal intra-tree series for almost all the studied elements do not correlate with each other. The exclusions are Ca and K which show strong consistent correlations. The source for the correlations is, however, the long-term trends from the pith to the bark. The detrending of the Ca and K series reveals some high-frequency correlations which are not consistent among the trees. At least for Scots pine, a single core is unlikely to be a reliable representative of the whole stem in the respect of elemental content. A few research directions to overcome the uncertainty has been discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Plant Diversity)

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10 pages, 1353 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Revealing the Differences in Ulnaria acus and Fragilaria radians Distribution in Lake Baikal via Analysis of Existing Metabarcoding Data

by Alexey Morozov, Yuri Galachyants, Artem Marchenkov, Yulia Zakharova and Darya Petrova

Diversity 2023, 15(2), 280; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15020280 - 15 Feb 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1373

Abstract

Two diatom species, Ulnaria acus and Fragilaria radians, are morphologically very similar and often coexist, which makes it difficult to compare their abundances. However, they are easily separated by molecular data; thus, in this work, we attempted to estimate the differences in [...] Read more.

Two diatom species, Ulnaria acus and Fragilaria radians, are morphologically very similar and often coexist, which makes it difficult to compare their abundances. However, they are easily separated by molecular data; thus, in this work, we attempted to estimate the differences in their spatial and temporal distribution from existing metabarcoding datasets. Reanalyzing published sequences with an ASV-based pipeline and ad hoc classification routine allowed us to estimate the relative abundances of the two species, increasing the precision compared to usual OTU-based analyses. Existing data permit qualitative comparisons between two species that cannot be differentiated by other methods, detecting the distinct seasonal peaks and spatial distributions of F. radians and U. acus. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aquatic Organisms Research with DNA Barcodes)

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20 pages, 1795 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cuticular Swabs and eDNA as Non-Invasive Sampling Techniques to Monitor Aphanomyces astaci in Endangered White-Clawed Crayfish (Austropotamobius pallipes Complex)

by Andrea Basso, Valentina Paolini, Daniela Ghia, Gianluca Fea, Marica Toson and Tobia Pretto

Diversity 2023, 15(2), 279; https://doi.org/10.3390/d15020279 - 15 Feb 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1709

Abstract

In endangered crayfish conservation projects, it is paramount to map the distribution of the causative agent of crayfish plague, Aphanomyces astaci, in native populations. Considering the inapplicability of the destructive cuticular sampling protocol for monitoring endangered populations, we explored the use of [...] Read more.

In endangered crayfish conservation projects, it is paramount to map the distribution of the causative agent of crayfish plague, Aphanomyces astaci, in native populations. Considering the inapplicability of the destructive cuticular sampling protocol for monitoring endangered populations, we explored the use of non-invasive sampling techniques to detect this pathogen with molecular assays. In the present study, we exploited environmental DNA (testing increasing water volumes combined with different filter porosities) and cuticular swabs to collect A. astaci DNA. In addition, we evaluated the impact of the storage method on DNA preservation during field activities. After the first evaluations performed on both highly infected Austropotamobius pallipes and carrier Procambarus clarkii specimens in laboratory conditions, these sampling techniques were applied to wild populations of white-clawed crayfish. Our findings highlight better results with the filtration of 5 L of water with filters of 2.7 µm porosity for eDNA analysis and demonstrate that cuticular swabbing is equally effective as the World Organisation of Animal Health’s protocol. Storage in absolute ethanol proved to be the best solution to preserve swabs and filter samples for up to a week at room temperature. In conclusion, we suggest an integration of both sampling methods when monitoring A. astaci for conservation purposes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue eDNA for Basic and Applied Sciences)

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