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Biological Invasion and Biodiversity

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A special issue of Sustainability (ISSN 2071-1050). This special issue belongs to the section "Sustainability, Biodiversity and Conservation".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (15 April 2023) | Viewed by 12425

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Prof. Dr. Congyan Wang

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Institute of Environment and Ecology & School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, No. 301, Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang 212013,China
Interests: invasion ecology; plant invasion
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Dr. Xiao Guo

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Guest Editor

College of Landscape Architecture and Forestry, Qingdao Agricultural University, No. 700, Changcheng Road, Qingdao 266109, Shandong, China
Interests: population ecology; invasion biology; biodiversity; plant ecophysiology
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Dear Colleagues,

Biodiversity loss, which has engendered great concern around the world, has a profound impact on the sustainable development of human society and the stability of the global ecosystem.

In addition, with the rising frequency and intensity of human activities, the environmental and ecological problems caused by biological invasion have become increasingly prominent, and the level of environmental risk caused by biological invasion may continue to increase. More importantly, biological invasion has become a key environmental factor in biodiversity loss. Therefore, the relationship between biological invasion and biodiversity represents a major research frontier in the field of ecology. It is urgent that we further elucidate the key mechanisms driving the successful invasion of alien invasive species and biodiversity loss.

This Special Issue will provide an in-depth analysis and comprehensive overview of the mechanisms underlying successful invasions and the loss of biodiversity considering the coupled regulation of mutualistic relationships between the two.

Original research articles and reviews are welcome. Research areas may include (but are not limited to) the following:

Effects and mechansims of biological invasion of alien invasive species on the growth of native species;
The role of native species during the invasion process of alien invasive species;
The relationship between alien invasive species diversity and that of native species;
The effects and mechanisms of biological invasion of alien invasive species on plant diversity;
Impacts of biological invasion of alien invasive species on animal diversity;
Impacts and mechanisms of biological invasion mediated by alien invasive species on microbial diversity and the mechanisms;
Impacts and mechanims of biodiversity on community invasibility and resistance to biological invasion.

I look forward to receiving your contributions.

Prof. Dr. Congyan Wang
Dr. Xiao Guo
Guest Editors

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Keywords

biodiversity
invasion ecology
biological invasion
alien invasive species
invasiveness
community invasibility
invasion resistance
community stability

Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

9 pages, 5865 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

First Report of Giant African Snail (Lissachatina fulica) in a Protected Area of the Cottian Alps, Northwest Italy

by Alice Gabetti, Alessandra Maganza, Marino Prearo, Maria Vittoria Riina, Sabrina Nodari, Barbara Rizzioli, Valentina Mangini, Luciano Di Tizio, Pierluigi Acutis, Alessandro Dondo, Giuseppe Esposito and Paolo Pastorino

Sustainability 2023, 15(11), 8633; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15118633 - 25 May 2023

Viewed by 2292

Abstract

The Giant African snail (Lissachatina fulica) is listed among the top 100 worst invasive alien species. Native to East Africa, it has been introduced voluntarily or accidentally into more than 50 countries, where it impacts negatively on biodiversity, ecosystems, agriculture, and public health. Here we describe for the first time the finding of a specimen of L. fulica in a protected area of the Cottian Alps (Avigliana Lakes Nature Park, northwest Italy). The snail underwent morphometric analysis and species identification. Given its reproductive characteristics (i.e., hermaphroditism with self-fertilization), it poses a potential threat to the biodiversity of the area and is a vector of zoonotic parasites for humans and animals. Health monitoring of specimens found in the wild and those kept as pets is of crucial importance, as is the establishment of monitoring plans in these areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biological Invasion and Biodiversity)

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15 pages, 3090 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing the Impact of Biodiversity (Species Evenness) on the Trophic Position of an Invasive Species (Apple Snails) in Native and Non-Native Habitats Using Stable Isotopes

by Kevin E. Scriber II, Christine A. M. France and Fatimah L. C. Jackson

Sustainability 2023, 15(11), 8560; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15118560 - 25 May 2023

Viewed by 1185

Abstract

Invasive apple snails negatively impact non-native habitats and human well-being. Here, the trophic position of Pomacea canaliculata in native habitats (Maldonado, Uruguay) and non-native habitats (Hangzhou, China and Hawaii, USA) are compared. Detritus samples and tissue samples from apple snails were collected in all sites. Trophic levels were calculated as the difference between the mean δ¹⁵N values of detritus samples and corresponding apple snail tissue samples, divided by the mean δ¹⁵N fractionation for nitrogen per trophic level in freshwater habitats. The mean δ¹⁵N values of detritus in sites served as a baseline (i.e., zero trophic level), allowing direct comparisons. Linear regression analysis established a correlation between species evenness and apple snail trophic level (R² = 0.8602) in line with a Pearson’s product-moment correlation value (−0.83) and 95% confidence interval (−0.87, −0.77). Normal quartile plots indicated two normally distributed subsets of apple snail trophic-level data: (1) a biodiverse subset containing the Uruguayan and Chinese lake sites and (2) the homogenized Hawaiian and Chinese creek sites. A precipice value for species evenness (separating biodiversity from homogenization), between (3.7) and (2.4), once descended to or surpassed separates statistically distinct, normal distributions of invasive apple snail trophic-level data from diverse versus homogenized habitats. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biological Invasion and Biodiversity)

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10 pages, 1356 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Predicting the Potential Distribution of the Alien Invasive Alligator Gar Atractosteus spatula in China

by Dawei Liu, Chunping Xie, Chi Yung Jim, Yanjun Liu and Senlin Hou

Sustainability 2023, 15(8), 6419; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15086419 - 10 Apr 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1565

Abstract

Alligator gar Atractosteus spatula originates from North America but has been introduced into China recently. Considered an invasive fish, it may cause losses in the diversity and number of local species and in fish catch due to its predation on numerous aquatic animals in non-native habitats. A comprehensive study of this alien invasive species’ existing spatial patterns in relation to climatic variables is critical to understanding the conditions amenable to its distribution and controlling its further spread into potential range areas. We used MaxEnt and QGIS species distribution modeling to estimate the likely biogeographical range of A. spatula in China based on 36 validated distribution records and seven selected environmental variables. The highly suitable area was found primarily in a series of provinces extending from inland to coastal regions, covering southwest to south, central and east China. The model identified the minimum temperature of the coldest month (Bio6) and mean temperature of the warmest quarter (Bio10) as the strongest predictors of A. spatula distribution. The findings could offer scientific guidance for managing and preventing the spread of this invasive fish and hint at controlling invasive aquatic fauna. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biological Invasion and Biodiversity)

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13 pages, 1144 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Alien Invader, Rhus typhina L., Outperforms Its Native Competitor in the Scenario of Nitrogen Deposition and Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) Inoculation

by Xianhui Zhao, Tong Wang, Yuwu Li, Mingyan Li and Xuanrui Huang

Sustainability 2023, 15(7), 6082; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15076082 - 31 Mar 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1060

Abstract

Nitrogen deposition has been proven to facilitate the establishment of alien plants. Previous studies have certified that nitrogen deposition enhances the resource availability of habitats and promotes the growth of alien invaders. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) symbiose with vascular plants and assist plants in nutrient acquisition. AMF colonization has been proven to be another driving factor of plant invasion. However, few studies have integrated nitrogen deposition and AMF inoculation into the exploration on invasion mechanism. Based on a trait approach, the present study subjected the alien invader, Rhus typhina L., and its co-occurring native species, Acer truncatum Bunge, to nitrogen deposition and AMF inoculation and compared the phenotypic variation in aboveground and belowground traits in an inter-specific competition experiment. Through the effects of different nitrogen deposition and AMF infection on the functional traits of R. typhina and A. truncatum, the effects of mycorrhizal symbiosis between R. typhina and A. truncatum on abiotic factors and interspecific relationships were analyzed. We found that inter-specific competition stimulated the colonization of AMF in R. typhina, however, decreased the colonization rate of AMF in A. truncatum. Correspondingly, inter-specific competition significantly reduced the plant growth of A. truncatum as the aboveground morphological traits including plant height and crown area, and belowground traits including root length, root surface area, root volume, number of root tips, number of root tip branches and number of root cross decreased for A. truncatum. Nitrogen deposition promoted the shoot growth of R. typhina rather than that of A. truncatum. AMF inoculation significantly affected the belowground traits of A. truncatum as the root length and root surface area significantly decreased after AMF inoculation in the mixture planting of the two species. The chlorophyll content of A. truncatum decreased without AMF inoculation, while nitrogen deposition enhanced the net photosynthetic rate of R. typhina. The alien invader R. typhina outperforms its native competitor in the simulated scenario of resource fluctuation and facilitates its establishment. We speculate that AMF colonization promotes the extension of R. typhina rhizosphere and, thus, accelerates the growth and invasion of R. typhina. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biological Invasion and Biodiversity)

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19 pages, 5587 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Potential Allelopathic Effect of Wheat Straw Aqueous Extract on Bermudagrass Noxious Weed

by Sameera A. Alghamdi, Ashwag A. Al-Nehmi and Omer H. M. Ibrahim

Sustainability 2022, 14(23), 15989; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142315989 - 30 Nov 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1614

Abstract

Residues of several crops, including wheat, have a promising allelopathic effect on noxious weed species and thus represent eco-friendly alternatives to harmful, widely applied herbicides. The current investigation deals with the effects of wheat straw aqueous extract on the growth and biochemical aspects of bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon L.) as a model of harmful weeds for the wheat crop. The prepared aqueous extract from wheat straw was subjected to high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis to identify and quantify phenolic and flavonoid components. In addition, the allelopathic effect of different concentrations of the extract on the germination, seedling growth, and biochemical aspects of bermudagrass was assessed. Our findings showed a significant decrease in bermudagrass seed germination percentage (ranging from 29.6 to 82.4%) and germination index (ranging from 10.07 to 32.43) in response to the extract treatments and a significant decline in all morphological growth parameters of the seedling. HPLC analysis of the extract showed the presence of seven phenolic acids and six flavonoids. The most prevalent phenolics included pyrogallol (13.75 µg/g), ferulic acid (9.82 µg/g), gallic acid (8.5 µg/g), and isoferulic acid (4.47 µg/g), while the predominant flavonoids included catechin (11.04 µg/g), luteolin (8.26 µg/g) and quercetin (7.74 µg/g). The highest extract concentrations (75% and 100%) showed a corresponding decline in the leaf content of chlorophylls a and b but a significant increase in the content of free amino acids, total protein and soluble carbohydrates. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity exposed a concentration-dependent reduction, while the activities of both catalase (CAT) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) were reduced only with the highest extract concentration. The principal component analysis (PCA) showed a high correlation among the morphological growth parameters, indicating that these elements either have a common ground of variance or are inter-correlated. Accordingly, our findings suggest the possibility of combating bermudagrass weeds using the aqueous extract of wheat straw. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biological Invasion and Biodiversity)

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10 pages, 959 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Weather Influence on Native and Alien Mantis Dynamics and Their Abundance in the Current Climate Change Conditions

by Alexandru-Mihai Pintilioaie, Beatrice Daniela Filote, Lucian Sfîcă and Emanuel Ștefan Baltag

Sustainability 2022, 14(23), 15861; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142315861 - 28 Nov 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1488

Abstract

Humans have traded and transported alien species for millennia, both with and without intention to spread them to new areas. Consistent knowledge of their ecology will allow decision makers to take suitable conservation actions, with the aim of avoiding threatening native species. Praying mantids (Mantodea) are predatory insects with a high impact on local invertebrates’ fauna. An alien mantis species (Hierodula tenuidentata) could create a disequilibrium in both the local ecosystem and in autochthonous mantid species (Mantis religiosa) if it can adapt to the local ecological conditions. Through this study, we reveal that the number of Hierodula tenuidentata individuals from an Eastern European Natura 2000 site was 7.6 times higher than the number of Mantis religiosa suggesting a higher density of the allochthonous species in the study area. According to a GLM analysis, the population of Mantis religiosa, measured from August to the end of October, declines more rapidly and is negatively influenced by the number of days from the first day of the year, while the population of Hierodula tenuidentata is influenced by local weather factors. This is the first study which analyzes the influence of local weather factors (namely air temperature, precipitation, daily atmospheric pressure, daily wind direction and speed, daily cloud cover, sunshine duration and number of days from the first day of the year) on the abundance dynamic of mantises in order to understand their ecology in the current climate change influence. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biological Invasion and Biodiversity)

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17 pages, 2938 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Nitrogen Influence to the Independent Invasion and the Co-Invasion of Solidago canadensis and Conyza canadensis via Intensified Allelopathy

by Jialong Zhou, Zhelun Xu, Shanshan Zhong, Youli Yu, Zhongyi Xu, Daolin Du and Congyan Wang

Sustainability 2022, 14(19), 11970; https://doi.org/10.3390/su141911970 - 22 Sep 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1574

Abstract

The allelopathy of alien plants is critical to their successful invasion. In nature, two alien plants can co-invade the same habitat. Changes in the forms of nitrogen may have the potential to alter the invasion process of alien plants by causing alterations in their allelopathy. This study aimed to evaluate the individual and combined allelopathy of two alien plants from the Asteraceae family, Solidago canadensis L. and Conyza canadensis (L.) Cronq. This study examined the effects of aqueous leaf extracts of the two alien plants with different nitrogen forms (NO₃−N, NH₄−N, and CO(NH₂)₂−N, and the mixed nitrogen forms at a 1:1:1 ratio) on the seed germination and seedling growth of the horticultural Asteraceae species Lactuca sativa L. using a germination bioassay. The allelopathy of the two alien plants significantly reduced the seed germination and seedling growth of L. sativa. Extracts from S. canadensis produced stronger allelopathy on the seed germination and seedling growth of L. sativa compared with those from C. canadensis. The mixture of extracts from the two alien plants produced an antagonistic effect when compared with the effects of extracts from each plant species. The addition of nitrogen intensified the allelopathy of the two alien plants on the seed germination and seedling growth of L. sativa. The degree of influence of nitrogen on the individual and combined allelopathy of the two alien plants was similar. Thus, nitrogen deposition may facilitate the independent invasion and co-invasion of the two alien plants via intensified allelopathy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biological Invasion and Biodiversity)

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