Search

This study was conducted in the context of a taxonomic treatment for Myrcia species occurring in the Brazilian state of Rio de Janeiro. While revising current synonyms of endemic species of Myrcia sect. Gomidesia, we found consistent morphological separation between Myrcia gestasiana and Myrcia dolichopetala, presently treated as synonyms and detached here. Individuals co‐occurring with M. dolichopetala are here recognized and described as a new species, Myrcia macrobracteosa, the specific epithet being allusive of its unusually showy, persistent and accrescent bracts and bracteoles. A taxonomic treatment is provided for each species based on herbarium collections and field data, and their diagnostic characters are contrasted in a comparative table. Morphological plates of fresh and dry material are also provided with notes on taxonomy and distribution, including a map of occurrence records. The three taxa occur in urban forest remnants under extreme threat in the Rio de Janeiro Metropolitan Region. In this context, preliminary conservation assessments are also provided for each species based on occurrence data from herbaria and field information. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• 2,4-D pulse at 20 µM and 30 µM induces direct somatic embryogenesis on the embryonic axis of Plinia peruviana. • 26.7 % of the induction rate of direct somatic embryogenesis was obtained using 20 µM of 2,4-D for 5 days. • Germination of embryonic axes is inversely proportional to the auxin concentration in Plinia peruviana. • Additional improvements to the protocol are still needed to improve embryo conversion into plantlets. Plinia peruviana (Myrtaceae) is a fruit tree species endemic to Brazil with high importance to the food and pharmacological industries. Despite the need for vegetative propagation of selected genotypes for genetic breeding or fruit production, efficient propagation methods for the species have not yet been determined. This study aimed to advance the establishment of a protocol for inducing somatic embryogenesis from mature P. peruviana seeds. Three concentrations of 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (10, 20, and 30 µM) in four auxinic pulses (1, 3, 5, and 7 days of exposure times) were tested. 20 µM and 30 µM of 2,4-D promoted the highest callogenesis (20–40 %), regardless of the exposure period, but calli did not present embryogenic potential. The formation of somatic embryos occurred asynchronously directly on the embryonic axes and was dependent on adding 2,4-D to the culture medium. The highest induction rate of direct somatic embryogenesis (26.7 %) was obtained using 20 µM of 2,4-D for 5 days of exposure. The light and electronic microscopic analyses allowed the characterization of the embryos at different stages of development and identified some abnormalities. Additional improvements to the protocol are still needed, including testing different culture media since no conversion and formation of complete plantlets was achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

McKown, J.G.; Burdick, D.M.; Moore, G.E.; Gibson, J.L., and Ferguson, W., 2024. Evaluation of drainage enhancement for vegetation recovery in New England salt marshes using public domain, high-resolution aerial imagery. Journal of Coastal Research, 40(6), 1144–1159. Charlotte (North Carolina), ISSN 0749-0208. Paired stressors of sea-level rise and abandoned ditches and embankments from historic farming practices have exacerbated waterlogging and accelerated replacement of valuable interior high marsh with large pools throughout the United States Atlantic seaboard. High marsh loss has contributed to substantial population declines and the threat of future extinction of the Saltmarsh Sparrow (Ammodramus caudacutus), an endemic species of coastal wetlands. Creation of runnels and selective ditch maintenance has been promoted as short- and medium-term solutions to conserve and restore high marsh habitat and restore natural single-channel hydrology. A comprehensive monitoring program was launched in 2020 to evaluate the effect of runnels and maintenance of selective ditches on the hydrology, vegetation, and elevation of interior marshes across 17 marshes of Maine, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island, with the explicit goal of habitat conservation for the Saltmarsh Sparrow. The marsh surface was classified from 2010–21 with public aerial imagery to document the change in aerial extent of the vegetated marsh surface and unvegetated:vegetated ratio of tidal watersheds (mean size = 2.12 ± 0.18 ha) associated with specific management actions: runnelling, reference healthy marshes, and no-action pannes and pools. Runnels reversed the expansion of pools and pannes with annual declines of –0.037 unvegetated:vegetated ratio and gains of 1.55% vegetated area. Tidal watersheds gained an overall net 2.08 ha vegetated surface post-restoration, despite continued losses in reference and no-action tidal watersheds. Re-establishing hydrologic paths to allow regular tidal flooding and drainage promotes revegetation of shallow waterlogged pools—a first step toward rebuilding marsh elevation and conserving habitat for saltmarsh sparrows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Serpentine ecosystems are characterised by multiple environmental stressors: high levels of trace metals such as nickel (Ni), low availability of macronutrients and low water retention. These harsh environmental conditions exert a strong selective force on the vegetation, but their effect on community assembly processes and the functional trait composition remains unknown. In 26 plots on four serpentine sites on Lesbos Island (Greece), we measured six leaf functional traits related to resource acquisition and stress resistance on the 20 most abundant plant species. We quantified the proportion of variance explained by inter‐ and intraspecific trait differences and tested if individual species showed changes in trait values explained by soil Ni content. We investigated the adaptive value and the community level changes for each trait along the natural soil Ni gradient using a mixed model approach and functional diversity analyses. We tested the role of the abundant serpentine endemic and Ni‐hyperaccumulating species Odontarrhena lesbiaca in driving these patterns. Intraspecific variation explained by soil Ni content is smaller than 4%, and most of the variance is explained by interspecific differences in trait values. Most species do not show significant changes in trait values in response to soil Ni. At the community level, low specific leaf areas, small and thick leaves are selected on high Ni soils. Functional diversity analyses suggest a shift towards a stress tolerance syndrome (thick and small leaves with low SLA values) and an increase in functional diversity on Ni‐rich soils. However, these patterns are driven by the increasing abundance of O. lesbiaca. The endemic Ni hyperaccumulator has a stress tolerance strategy with small thick leaves and low SLA, while the community of broadly distributed species show an increase in trait values related to dominance and fast growth. Synthesis. Intraspecific variation in leaf trait responds little to soil metal toxicity. Endemic species harbour unique trait values compared to species with broad distribution which should justify their conservation as a priority. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the montane flora of Taiwan, Anaphalis nepalensis is the most widely present species of Anaphalis (Compositae), yet its taxonomic status is uncertain. In the present study, we employed both morphological and molecular data to demonstrate that A. nepalensis is misidentified and does not occur in Taiwan. In contrast, the name has been misapplied in Taiwan to the previously described endemic species, A. nagasawae, which can be further divided into two varieties based on the number of heads in the inflorescence: A. nagasawae var. nagasawae has one or two heads, while A. nagasawae var. niitakayamensis has three to five heads. Furthermore, the typification of A. nagasawae, A. nepalensis and Gnaphalium niitakayamense are discussed here. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Social Impact Statement: For hundreds of years, Agave marmorata plants have been used in the production of alcoholic beverages in Mexico. This species is very important in small‐scale rural economies because it is a large plant, yielding five liters of mezcal. However, the production of these beverages takes place when it reaches its reproductive stage, which takes up to 35 years. Due to its slow maturation and high demand, it is considered an endangered species. Therefore, as a conservation strategy, this study proposes the creation of nurseries, genetic breeding programs, and demographic monitoring of wild populations to counteract the extraction of wild plants and, the conservation of the genetic diversity. Summary: Agave marmorata Roezl., is an endemic species distributed in the states of Oaxaca and Puebla, Mexico, and locally is widely used to produce mezcal.We assessed the genomic diversity and differentiation using the RADseq method and 29,101 high‐quality single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in wild plants and grown under three different management types (cultivated, plants used as live fences, and young plants growing in nurseries). We examined the demographic history and used species distribution modeling to understand the future of A. marmorata under scenarios of climate change.We found high levels of genomic diversity (HS = 0.229) and moderate levels of inbreeding (FIS = 0.106 and Fhat3 = 0.190). The cultivated samples harbored less genetic diversity than the wild plants. Furthermore, we estimated low differentiation between cultivated and wild localities (FST = 0.037). In the wild samples, we identified two main genetic groups, one in the East and another in the West of its distribution area. This genetic structure possibly derived from a population contraction during the Pleistocene (~216,879.75 BP) and the formation of two refugia in small areas with climatic stability. Furthermore, the demographic reconstruction indicated that A. marmorata went through a recent population expansion event, with a large current Ne (Ne = 8,009). The future climate change models indicated contrasting possible changes in its distribution range, from an increase to the reduction of its suitable habitat, differences related to model parametrization, and future levels of CO2 production.We propose conservation measures for the different management types of the species while also considering the biotic and abiotic interactions of Agave marmorata. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding has the potential to significantly improve surveys of biodiversity in freshwater systems. However, this methodology is still infrequently used in global hotspots of endemic species, in part because of two major barriers to the success of eDNA metabarcoding: (1) insufficient regional taxonomic representation in public reference sequence databases; and (2) inconsistent species incidence and abundance estimates when compared to conventional surveys.We sampled eDNA and conducted visual surveys in the headwaters of two rivers in the Cape Fold aquatic ecoregion, South Africa. A reference sequence database was generated for the regional diversity of fishes to improve taxonomic classification of endemic species. We also compared the consistency of incidence data and relative abundance estimates of fishes from eDNA metabarcoding sequencing results and visual surveys (snorkel and underwater cameras) at each site sampled.Only 1% of eDNA metabarcoding reads could be classified to fish species without the supplementation of reference sequence databases for local endemic species. Once regional reference sequences were added, a total of nine species were detected and >99% reads classified. A strong positive relationship (Φ = 0.75) was observed between the patterns of detections using eDNA and visual approaches. However, eDNA metabarcoding detected more species than visual methods. In addition, the relative read frequency and abundance observed in visual surveys was significantly correlated (R2 = 0.85–0.88, p < 0.001) in the majority of the small pools surveyed.Incomplete public reference sequence databases hinder the use of eDNA metabarcoding in regions of high endemicity. Local reference sequence libraries can overcome these challenges. When appropriately implemented, eDNA metabarcoding shows promise, producing results consistent or better than the more frequently used and labour‐intensive visual surveys.Efficient survey methods like eDNA metabarcoding are urgently needed to improve aquatic monitoring efforts globally. Understanding how eDNA metabarcoding sequencing results relate to conventional survey methods is a key step in its implementation in ecoregions with high endemicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change is causing stream flow regimes to change in many regions globally, including southwestern Australia (SWA) where many perennial streams have switched to intermittent flow regimes. In drier landscapes, ecological refuges and evolutionary refugia will become critical for conserving freshwater biodiversity. This study aimed to determine the contribution of dry season refuges to species persistence and community recovery in a forested headwater catchment where perennial streams have been exposed to severe permanent drying, causing them to become intermittent. That is, in streams where formerly no drought refuges were present.Macroinvertebrate assemblages were sampled in dry season refuges within recently intermittent streams. Refuges included small spring‐fed pools, perched pools and subterranean refuges associated with granite inselbergs. Dry streambeds were searched for organisms aestivating in situ, and sediments were collected from each intermittent stream for rehydration.Mantel tests were used to compare the contribution of refuges to species assemblages in the early wet season when intermittent streams had begun to flow. Analysis of similarities was used to compare patterns between dry and wet season assemblages of intermittent streams and the single remaining perennial stream in the catchment, to infer the contribution of the perennial stream to community recovery in intermittent streams.Refuge types had very different assemblages: spring‐fed refuges supported several locally endemic species, but perched pools were dominated by opportunistic colonists. Several taxa were found aestivating in dry sediments, primarily adult Coleoptera and larval Chironomidae. Inselberg springs supported small populations of endemic Trichoptera and Ephemeroptera and provided subterranean refuge for an endemic amphipod. However, dry season refuges did not significantly contribute to community recovery. Rather, assemblages in early winter flows were similar to those inhabiting the perennial stream, showing that recolonisation from perennial streams is likely the primary process of community recovery in these recently intermittent streams.Newly formed dry season refuges supported some locally endemic species, but also colonising species that were formerly absent (or rare) when all streams were perennial. However, continued loss of perennial streams in SWA will result in landscape‐wide reductions in diversity (as colonisation sources are lost), because there are no known evolutionary refugia in this landscape for relictual species to retreat into. Granite inselbergs may become evolutionary refugia for a few species, as perennial streams are lost.Refuges will likely play a pivotal role in persistence of species able to use them; however, the existence of refuges is also under threat from prolonged climatic drying, including refuges newly formed by stream dry. Thus, identification and protection of future evolutionary refugia is a matter of urgency in regions facing drier climates, as it is ultimately evolutionary refugia that will become critical reservoirs of freshwater biodiversity as perennial streams and refuges are lost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Endemicity is one of the main indicators to describe and compare regional biotas. Endemic species can originate from inter‐ or intra‐regional speciation, but few studies have measured the relative contribution of these two mechanisms in the assembly of regional biotas. We investigated the relative contributions of inter‐ and intra‐regional speciation in assembling the endemic avifauna of the Cerrado, the largest South American savanna region. We also tested hypotheses about the relationships between habitat preferences with range size and evolutionary age, as well as whether the biogeographical relationships between the Cerrado and neighbouring regions are randomly distributed around the region. Location: Cerrado, central South America. Taxon: Birds. Methods: We used distributional and phylogenetic data of Cerrado endemic birds. Results: The proportion of endemic species in the Cerrado region is relatively low, when compared to other organisms living in the same region. Furthermore, we found that inter‐regional speciation is the primary factor promoting bird endemism in the Cerrado and that sister species of Cerrado endemics are concentrated in northwestern (forest species) and southwestern (nonforest species) South America. We also found that nonforest endemic bird species do not necessarily have larger geographical ranges than forest endemic species; however, nonforest endemic species are evolutionarily older than forest species. Main conclusions: The assembly of the Cerrado endemic avifauna is complex and idiosyncratic. The intricate history of the Cerrado endemic avifauna suggests that it is constantly exchanging species with its neighbouring regions. Due to its high ecological heterogeneity, the Cerrado ecosystems are capable of harbouring populations of both endemic and non‐endemic species acquired during periods of significant biotic exchange. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Armadillo is represented by 26 species, three of which are recorded from Tunisia: the Mediterranean A. officinalis Duméril, 1816, and the endemic A. mayeti Simon, 1885 and A. pseudomayeti Mattern, 1999. In this paper, the endemic species A. mayeti is redescribed, its morphological diagnostic characters are illustrated, and its stridulation apparatus structure and biochemical composition are highlighted for the first time using optical and scanning electronic microscopy. The stridulation apparatus, visible dorsally on propodus of pereopods 4 and 5, is structured in a row of chain scales. Regarding its chemical composition, the scale contains numerous elements with a high carbon content (C = 58.71%) followed by calcium (Ca = 19.63%), oxygen (O = 13.98), aluminium (Al = 4.81), copper (Cu = 1.02), iron (Fe = 0.63), potassium (K = 0.43), and silicon (Si = 0.20). Its distribution is extended and its status on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List is reported. Armadillo mayeti is then compared with the widespread Mediterranean A. officinalis for diagnostic purposes on the bases of morphological features and the stridulation apparatus structure focusing on the chemical composition. The taxonomic status of A. pseudomayeti is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Correlations between natural geographic boundaries and variations in organisms' morphology have been well-documented in Sulawesi Island, which has a unique geological history and hundreds of endemic species. One of the widely distributed species of small mammals is Sulawesi giant rat (Paruromys dominator). Considering the geographic condition of Sulawesi, this species is a suitable model for studying geographic influences on morphological change. Moreover, there are no comprehensive studies on this species. Previous studies cannot fully explain the variability due to the lack of representative samples. Here, we measure 19 skull characteristics for 131 adult complete-skull specimens from six distribution areas in Sulawesi. We investigate the variation in skull characteristics using agglomeration nesting (AGNES) for cluster analysis and the standardized major axis (SMA) for allometry analysis. Our results show that P. dominator can be categorized into two groups, but distribution areas, elevation, or sex do not influence those. P. dominator in group 1 had a larger skull size than group 2. The two groups can be distinguished from four characteristics: breadth of mesopterygoid fossa (BMF), breadth of first upper molar (BM1), length of the auditory bulla (LB), and breadth of incisive foramina (BIF). The BMF and BM1 are related to mastication, and the LB and BIF are related to communication. We propose that the skull variation of this species is not correlated with geographical barriers but more clearly correlated with their feeding habits, mating behavior, and ability to escape predation. These findings were useful for future studies on the taxonomic status of P. dominator. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New Caledonian crickets of the tribe Lebinthini are renowned for their high endemicity and their use of high‐frequency calling songs. Although previous studies have found them to originate from New Guinea around 30 Ma, recent discoveries of new lineages of Lebinthini in New Caledonia and in Australia questioned this result. Here, we describe Kanakinthus koniambo Le Flanchec & Robillard gen. et sp.nov., a new genus and species endemic to New Caledonia. We also describe three new species of the endemic genus Agnothecous: A. anonymous Le Flanchec, Vendanger & Robillard sp.nov., A. borendyi Le Flanchec, Vendanger & Robillard sp.nov. and A. kwakwe Le Flanchec, Vendanger & Robillard sp.nov. We include these new taxa and the Australian Lebinthini in a molecular phylogeny of the subfamily Eneopterinae, estimate their divergence times and reconstruct their historical biogeography. Our results confirm the monophyly of the clade endemic to New Caledonia and its origin from a single colonization event from New Guinea, around 30 Ma, shortly after the archipelago completely re‐emerged in its current configuration, 34 Ma. We also infer an independent colonization of Australia by the genus Julverninthus from New Guinea, around 25 Ma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Life is not a beach for those animals that survive in the rough ecological conditions found in marine sandy beaches – and yet, microscopic animals thrive on them. We explore the drivers for meiofaunal diversity in beaches by analysing taxonomic and functional patterns of 348 flatworm communities across 116 reflective beaches in the western Mediterranean, totalling 152 species (61.2% new to science). First, we confirm that species richness does not differ between beach hydrodynamic levels (swash, shoaling and surf) but rather depends on the characteristics of each beach. Second, we demonstrate that species composition across those levels depends on the species traits, in addition to geographical and abiotic factors. Third, we highlight that the species functional space has a lower richness than expected and a lower redundancy in the wave‐exposed swash level compared to the shoaling and subtidal levels, suggesting a trait‐based ecological filtering. Finally, we show that those differences depend on the higher frequency of hydrodynamics‐related traits in the species of the swash level. Our results suggest that the rough hydrodynamic conditions in the swash level favour a unique combination of species traits, which might be linked to ecological speciation in flatworms but also in other interstitial animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biogeography is a valid scientific endeavour for exploring diatom distributions because the concept of endemism is generally accepted and not considered an irrelevant idea – endemism is taken seriously because it has been documented for many species in many areas around the globe. But to study biogeography meaningfully one does not just need the recognition of endemism. What is required is a problem, such as explaining the diversity of species or species groups in the Southern hemisphere. This requires the identification of species or species groups that are demonstrated to be endemic in at least some of the areas of interest and are related in a very specific way (monophyly). This paper deals with the genus Fragilariforma, which has ca. 30 + included species (taxa) that can be divided into a Northern component and a Southern component, the latter potentially speaking to the origin of the southern hemisphere biota. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Invasive species are major drivers of global ecosystem change. They often displace native species through competitive exclusion, creating novel species interactions. These interactions can lead to ecological cascades, where the presence of one invasive species enhances the fitness of another. Despite this, the mechanisms that underpin these mutualistic interactions and promote secondary invasions remain poorly understood. We assessed how the introduction of the invasive Argentine ant (Linepithema humile) alters mutualistic interactions within the recipient community, enhancing the dispersal and fitness of species of a secondary invasive plant genus (Acacia spp.). Our study examines these interactions at the community, individual species, and trait levels for a range of native and non‐native ant and plant species. Specifically, we aimed to investigate the direct and indirect effects of L. humile on seed dispersal mutualisms. We found that in L. humile invaded locations, seeds of the invasive Acacia plant species were approximately three times more likely to be dispersed than seeds of native endemic plant species. This preference is driven by indirect changes in the community structure of native seed‐dispersing ants, rather than direct interactions between the invasive ant and plant species. Moreover, we found that native ant species that co‐exist with L. humile, such as Tetramorium sericeiventre, respond to a narrower range of seed traits—traits which the invasive Acacia seeds possess. Our findings suggest that the invasion of L. humile has cascading effects on ant‐plant mutualisms, potentially increasing community permeability to secondary invasions. These results highlight that the impact of invaders like the Argentine ant may be greater than initially perceived, driving losses in both biological and functional plant diversity. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Aim Location Methods Results Main Conclusions Rapid technological advancements and the biodiversity crisis have motivated efforts to document species before their extinction. However, taxonomic coverage gaps, where certain species are underrepresented in biodiversity databases, can distort our understanding of ecosystems. Here, we quantified how many of the plant species found in a hotspot are invisible, i.e. they would be excluded from studies due to insufficient occurrence data. Additionally, we identified factors influencing the invisibility of species.Atlantic Forest hotspot, Brazil.We downloaded and filtered occurrence data from 15,010 plant species from online biodiversity databases. We utilized multiple thresholds, each representing a minimum required number of records, to classify species as “invisible” if their record count fell below these thresholds. We fitted logistic models to estimate how factors such as life form, presence of a vernacular name, geographical distribution, endemism, and year of taxonomic publication influence the odds of species exclusion.The proportion of invisible species ranged from 14% when employing simple tools requiring just three records to as high as 64% with more demanding tools requiring at least 60 records. Species with specific characteristics are more prone to invisibility, including non‐tree species, species without vernacular names, species with restricted distributions within Atlantic Forest, endemic species, and species with names published more recently. A significant portion of these invisible species are distributed along the coastline. In contrast, the continental portion of the biome exhibits fewer taxonomic coverage gaps of known species, most likely due to lower rates of new species descriptions.Coverage gaps are shaped by the interaction of biological traits, societal preferences, limited technical support, and human activities. Studies relying on distributional data must balance the rigour of filters and thresholds to achieve both geographical reliability and taxonomic coverage, adjusting them to align with each study's specific data and goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Throughout the world, the exceptional biodiversity and endemism of spring ecosystems are threatened by the expansion of invasive species. However, mechanisms affecting the distribution and impact of invasive species on spring macroinvertebrate communities remain poorly understood. We investigated the impact of the invasive New Zealand mud snail Potamopyrgus antipodarum on the native gastropod assemblages of 43 karstic springs in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Firstly, we showed that P. antipodarum invaded only human‐modified low‐altitude springs with lower dissolved oxygen concentrations (7.61 mg/L), where it co‐occurred only with four other gastropod species (out of the 17 recorded in our dataset), two of which are endemic Dinaric karst spring specialists. Then, by comparing the n‐dimensional ecological space of the springs invaded and uninvaded by the mud snail, we showed that low‐altitude springs have a higher risk of invasion. Finally, we characterized the shift in the niche optimum exhibited by native endemic gastropods in invaded springs using Huisman–Olff–Fresco models. Overall, we showed that human alterations of low‐altitude springs might facilitate the invasion of P. antipodarum, which possibly out‐competes endemic crenic species by displacing them to suboptimal niches. The use of Huisman–Olff–Fresco models and n‐dimensional hypervolumes together provided a useful framework for quantifying the response of endemic and endangered species to the spread of invaders in globally endangered spring habitats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The events of the Cenozoic era such as mountain formation caused Iran to become one of the most amazing biodiversity hotspots in the world today. This pioneering study on Iranian snake biogeography integrates historical and ecological analyses. A phylogeographic review traces speciation and dispersal, while cluster analysis with a new snake checklist assesses faunistic similarities within Iran and its surroundings. Jaccard and Sorenson indices generate similarity dendrograms, Indicator Species Analysis pinpoints regional key species, and Endemism index calculates regional endemism rates, enriching our knowledge of Iran's species diversity. Phylogeographic analyses identify four biogeographical corridors for snake ingress into Iran: the Arabian region through southwestern Iran, the Western Asian mountainous transition zone via northwestern Iran, the Turanian region into northeastern Iran, and the Indus River Valley into southeastern and eastern Iran. Dendrogram analysis divides snake fauna into three groups. The first group associates western Zagros and Khuzestan fauna with the Sahara and Arabian regions. The second group links Kopet Dagh and Turkmen Steppe fauna with the Turanian region, and Central Plateau and Baluchistan fauna with the Iranian region. The third group connects northwest highlands, Alborz and Zagros mountains, and Caspian Sea coasts with the Western Asian Mountain transition zone. The study validates broad biogeographic patterns via ecoregional associations and indicator species analysis, providing finer resolution. Species like Platyceps najadum in Caspian Hyrcanian mixed forests exemplify ecoregional alignment, while Zagros and Alborz mountains exhibit unique faunal indicators, indicating species-level divergence. Shared indicators among widespread ecoregions reflect habitat continuity; exclusive indicators emphasize regional distinctiveness. Despite endemic species prevalence, they seldom act as significant indicators due to various factors. Our research confirms the Zagros Mountains, Khuzestan Plain, Alborz Mountains, and Persian Gulf coasts as snake diversity hotspots, marked by higher species richness compared to other Iranian regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Different theories have been proposed to explain the phenotypic changes observed in island lineages, but it remains unclear if predictable evolutionary trajectories can be identified within island communities. Using a 3D functional space approach, we tested whether insular endemic species tend to evolve towards apparent holes in niche space (expecting niche filling) or tend to become generalists, that is, moving towards the centre of the functional space (expecting niche expansion). We tested these two hypotheses in 378 insular endemic species from 24 islands of 8 archipelagos, including 177 prehistoric anthropogenically extinct species. Analyses were conducted with and without accounting for species size difference. We found that 57% of island endemic species evolved towards more unoccupied regions of the global morphospace (i.e. more distinct body sizes compared to the ones of their ancestors), suggesting a tendency for niche filling. When adjusted traits for body size, we found that half of the endemic species (50%) showed more distinct trait values than their ancestors. Results also revealed that certain dietary niches (terrestrial herbivores and nectarivores) evolved distinct body sizes more frequently. Differences noted between islands and archipelagos suggest that biogeographic factors may influence evolutionary trajectory and interactions between these two hypotheses. Our study confirms that extinct species occupied specific niches that have been left vacant, suggesting that these evolutionary ‘oddities’ could be more sensitive to extinction. Overall, it calls for a global assessment of the avian functional diversity lost from recent extinctions. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThis study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a gamified e-learning experience in marine ecology among Iranian maritime students. A pre-test/post-test design was adopted to achieve this purpose, focussing on the gamified experience itself rather than comparing it with traditional instructional approaches. The statistical population consisted of 15 undergraduate students at a maritime institute in Tehran, Iran, who were randomly selected. Reliability tests were conducted to collect data, and the test’s validity was approved by teachers and experts in the field of environmental education. Its reliability was determined to be 0.75 using the Kuder-Richardson methodology. Participants engaged in a gamified learning experience over a 2-week period. The study highlighted the post-test results and participants’ perceptions within the gamified learning environment. The results revealed that e-learning paired with gamification had a positive impact on students’ engagement and understanding of geographically remote ecological topics, including coral reefs, mangrove forests, seagrass beds and endemic species of the regions. These findings provide valuable insights for environmental teachers, learners, authorities and curriculum developers in maritime educational systems, emphasising the potential benefits of incorporating gamified learning experiences in educational curricula. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Widely distributed Species in different geological and ecological environments often exhibit great intraspecific diversity. Aphaniops stoliczkanus (Day, 1872) is an endemic species of Middle East occurring over a vast geographic range in different basins. This species has been observed in freshwater, brackish water and hot sulphur springs; therefore, its populations are known to exhibit considerable morphological variation. In the present study, we have investigated the poorly studied populations of A. stoliczkanus of the Hormuz and Makran basins of Iran in terms of otolith morphology and morphometrics. According to the results, these populations can be divided into two distinct groups including east and west of the Strait of Hormuz. Our results also provide evidence that there is a relationship between otolith morphology and the environment, serving as environmental factors that may influence the formation of specific regions in the otolith shape. Despite the remarkable morphological similarities among otoliths in geographically close populations of Charak and Chiruyeh, our data purposed that geographically these populations have different dorsal tip shapes in their otolith. In comparison to the data from other studies, the otoliths of Qeshm Island appear to resemble the overall shape of otolith found in Oman very closely. However, it is believed that Qeshm Island population was separated from the Hormuz basin populations during the Holocene Sea level rise. Also, the outcomes of this study provide insights into the potential role of environmental factors in shaping intraspecific diversity and the migration patterns of this species within the Persian Gulf. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Astroblepus species, commonly known as Andean climbing catfish, exhibit a unique challenge in species delimitation, leading to ongoing taxonomic debates. Here we report data on Astroblepus mindoensis, a vulnerable species endemic to Ecuador, obtained by an integrative approach that includes cytogenetic analysis, molecular identification of the specimens, and recording of morphological and morphometric characters useful for species diagnosis. Thus, this study aimed to associate the karyotype data of the specimens analyzed with morphological and molecular characters, improving and expanding the existing taxonomic information, thus contributing to the systematics of the species. Our morphology results, unlike Regan's original description, which is brief and ambiguous, provide a more detailed morphometric and meristic description. Molecular phylogenetic reconstruction and genetic distance based on a fragment of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) showed that our samples constitute a well‐supported and monophyletic clade within the A. grixalvii species complex. The cytogenetic analysis identified distinct chromosomal markers, including a single cluster of major ribosomal genes (on chromosome pair 3) and of minor ribosomal genes (on chromosome pair 12) with their localization differing from those reported in other Astroblepus species analyzed. Additionally, the presence of a heteromorphic chromosome pair in males suggests the presence of an XX/XY sex‐determination system that has not been identified in other congeneric species. Further investigation is necessary to determine if these chromosomes are associated with the accumulation of repeated sequences, as typically occurs with sex chromosomes, and to assess their presence in other species of the genus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genetic variation among populations is reflected in biogeographic patterns for many species, but general rules of spatial genetic variation have not been established. In this paper, we establish a theoretical framework based on projecting environmental Grinellian niches back through time to relate the present geographic distribution of population genetic structure to a given species' historical evolutionary context. Thanks to advances in next‐generation sequencing technologies, as well as more accurate climate models and the amassing of information stored in biological collections, it is possible to implement this theoretical framework directly. We develop a case study of the tassel‐eared squirrel Sciurus aberti to jointly analyze spatial, environmental, and genetic data to predict the historical endemic area of this species. Our results reveal that in cases of genetic isolation by geographic distance, the prevalence of environmental suitability over time corresponds to the genetic fixation index (Fst) of populations with respect to a source population. Populations closer to the historical endemic area show higher genetic diversity and a lower Fst value. This empirical example relates back to the theoretical framework, allowing two further advances: 1) a layer of biogeographic explanation for the results obtained from population genomic methods; and 2) predictive maps of this genetic structure to support biodiversity conservation efforts. Overall, this work advances a perspective that integrates population genetics with historical patterns of species distribution. The limitations posed in the theoretical framework should be considered before implementing the suitability prevalence area (SPA) in a general way over different taxa. Otherwise, the predictability of the genetic diversity of populations as a product of environmental stability over time may not be adequate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parthenogenesis is an asexual reproduction mode characterized by the development of a female oocyte without fertilization. From an evolutionary perspective, parthenogenesis seems less successful than the predominant sexual mode, though there are groups in which both reproductive types exist, an example of which is the genus Artemia Leach, 1819. This salt-tolerant crustacean inhabiting hypersaline environments contains regionally endemic sexual species and obligate parthenogenetic groups with different ploidy levels, collectively referred to as Artemia parthenogenetica. Here, we discuss the difficulties of using a common species concept in Artemia Leach, 1819. While sexual species are widespread and fit the Biological Species Concept (BSC), which emphasizes reproductive isolation to maintain species genetic integrity or cohesiveness, it does not apply to uniparental organisms originating from sexual species with major meiotic changes. We show that different ploidy levels of parthenogenetic Artemia groups with uniform nuclear gene pools are maternally independent genetic entities (or cohesive), collectively and wrongly referred to as Artemia parthenogenetica. Thus, we conclude that ' Artemia parthenogenetica ' is an invalid nominal specific name. Additionally, parthenogenetic Artemia groups cannot be considered a form of Artemia species (A. urmiana and/or A. sinica). In conclusion, we recommend using the term 'parthenogenetic lineage(s)' instead of 'parthenogenetic population(s)' to describe asexual Artemia group(s), because in modern population genetics and systematics, the term 'population' refers to interbreeding individuals with sexual reproduction. Furthermore, it clarifies that parthenogenetic lineages of Artemia are native to Mediterranean biodiversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review synthesizes recent developments in the field of tardigrade biogeography, tracing back to the origins of Baas Becking's hypothesis that 'everything is everywhere but the environment selects' to the latest empirical studies that favour biogeographic structuring of these microinvertebrates. I recapitulate evidence for diverse means of meiofauna dispersal, focusing on the two principal mechanisms suggested for tardigrades: wind (aeolian dispersal/anemochory) and animals (zoochory). I argue that tardigrade species with relatively well-documented geographic distributions display climatic regionalization. The literature treating purportedly cosmopolitan tardigrades is critically scrutinized and evidence for strict cosmopolitanism is deemed insufficient. Due to the presence of numerous endemics restricted to mountains, elevational diversity gradients can be recognized at a local scale (for example, within a single biogeographic region). Finally, the tardigrade faunas of a given region should be likely regarded as part of a regionalized macrometazoan fauna containing a small fraction of widespread, ubiquitous species (called 'biogeographic noise' herein). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quercus chungii, a rare and endangered endemic tree species, is found exclusively in subtropical regions of China. Understanding the population structure and temporal dynamics of Q. chungii is pivotal for effective conservation and restoration of its populations and associated ecosystems. However, large knowledge gaps remain about its population structure and temporal change and its key demographic rates across size classes. In this study, we investigated the population structures of Q. chungii in 2013 and 2023 in a nature reserve specifically established to better conserve this species and its associated ecosystems. We found that Q. chungii increased in its overall abundance and tree size in the past decade, suggesting active regeneration and a rapid growth rate for this species and the effectiveness of past conservation efforts. The age structure in 2023 showed a pyramid shape, with a sharp decline in the numbers of individuals from germinated seeds to seedlings and from seedlings to saplings. These led to the low numbers of seedlings and saplings and high age‐specific death probabilities at the early developmental stages. These results indicated potential risks of future population decline. These risks may have already manifested over the past decade, as a high mortality rate during the seedling‐to‐sapling transition could be one of the primary reasons contributing to the decreased proportion of saplings in 2023 compared to 2013. We propose that future studies may benefit from in‐depth studies on the regeneration processes of Q. chungii by considering seed predation and germination under changing climate. This study improves the prediction of population development of Q. chungii, thereby offering theoretical guidance essential for its conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Eastern Arc Mountains (EAM) and Coastal forests of Tanzania are renowned for harboring large number of threatened and endemic vertebrate species, yet most of these areas have been partially studied. The Kimboza Nature Forest Reserve (KNFR) is a small forest which is in transition between the EAM and Coastal forests, and among the poorly surveyed areas for amphibians and reptiles. We conducted systematic surveys across the KNFR in 2012 and between 2020 and 2023 using a range of approaches with the aim of establishing a comprehensive and updated list of reptile and amphibian species and assess the contribution of EAM and Coastal forests to the KNFR's herpetofauna. We identified 77 species, 29 amphibians and 48 reptiles, substantially updating previous species lists. Three of these species (Kinyongia magomberae, Trachylepis boulengeri and Philothamnus macrops) represent range extensions from previously known ranges. Fourteen species are endemic to East Africa, 11 of them being restricted to Tanzania. These results make the KNFR the richest forest reserve for herpetofauna per square km in Tanzania, and most similar in its composition to the Coastal, rather than Eastern Arc forests. With the caveats concerning taxonomic uncertainties and the inequalities of sampling intensity across the region, this study shows that the KNFR is an important area that deserves conservation attention. The KNFR, like other Coastal forests, is under significant pressure from anthropogenic activities which call for an urgent action to protect this small but rich forest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change has a pivotal impact on the potential distribution of endangered and relic tree species. Probably due to unrepresentative sampling and single algorithm, at present, there are different views on the potential range of the endangered tree Emmenopterys henryi, endemic to China. Here, we first collated 612 occurrence records and 22 environmental variables including climate, topography, and soil. Combined the Biomod2 with MaxEnt, we then predicted its past, current, and future potential suitable area in China, and determined the key factors influencing its distribution. The ensemble model results showed that the main environmental variables affecting this species were the minimum temperature of the coldest month (BIO6), precipitation of warmest quarter (BIO18), and temperature seasonality (BIO4). Its current potential distribution area was 176.53 × 104 km2, mainly concentrated in eastern, central, and southwestern China. Collectively, the suitable area of E. henryi would averagely decrease by 3.90% in all 16 future scenarios, with its centroid largely migrating northeastward. Our findings indicate that the endangered E. henryi covered 18 provinces in China, having a larger area than known. Moreover, climate change may have an adverse effect on its potential distribution. In addition, the ensemble model can produce more effective prediction outcomes than MaxEnt for such endemic tree species with large environmental range. We recommend increasing sample representativeness by analyzing the completeness properties of sample coverage, and simultaneously selecting appropriate algorithms to ensure the reliability of distribution prediction for endangered and relict tree species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The semideciduous forest is a prominent yet highly degraded phytophysiognomy within the Atlantic Forest. Historically, bird species inhabiting these forests occurred throughout central and western São Paulo state, south‐eastern Brazil, until the mid‐20th century. Many of these species have not been observed again or are nearing extinction within the state's inland forest fragments. This study reviews and compares historical and recent ornithological records, using museum specimens, literature, citizen science and recent field surveys to understand these species' current lack of records. In the early 20th century, extensive deforestation occurred statewide, resulting in the current forest fragments, which are currently in various stages of regeneration, conservation and isolation. Many of these fragments lack the specific habitats some species require, or they have not been recolonised due to insufficient connectivity with other forest fragments where these species still exist (particularly in the eastern Atlantic Forest). The non‐detection of forest species in semideciduous forest fragments strongly suggests an unprecedented and largely unnoticed extinction scale. This pattern of defaunation, as predicted 30 years ago, may be prevalent across numerous Semideciduous Atlantic Forests in Brazil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insects are the major pollination vectors for angiosperms, and insects native to a given habitat can play an irreplaceable ecological role in food webs and plant reproduction. With precipitous declines in insect species over the last decades, it is urgent to document insect assemblages in native plant communities to support conservation efforts. Identifying pollinators and their pollination activity is challenging; however, emerging technological methods are providing new monitoring capabilities. In this study, we compare the accuracy of two different methods of monitoring to assess the flower‐visiting insect assemblage and likely pollinators of Encinitas baccharis (Baccharis vanessae): focal observations and video recordings from camera traps. B. vanessae is a rare, endemic species found in Coastal Sage Scrub communities in San Diego County. This federally listed species is threatened by habitat loss and fragmentation, which may also be affecting the availability of its insect pollinators. Results indicate that B. vanessae supports and is supported by a variety of flower‐visiting insect groups. The diversity of insect visitors at male and female plants were similar across all diversity measurements. The insect vectors identified were as expected given B. vanessae pollination syndrome. This syndrome also aligns with wind as a pollination vector, providing evidence of ambophily. While focal observations underreported insect activity by approximately half, the proportions of common diurnal visitors were similar with both methods. Camera traps were unable to provide sufficient detail to discern visually similar groups, but were able to record nocturnal insect activity, which was dominated by moths (Lepidoptera, 82%). While collection protocol in this study did not record the time an insect spent interacting with a flower, we anecdotally observed moths spent notably longer periods in contact with flowers than most diurnal insects. This study has implications for effective monitoring and conservation of endangered plant species and their affiliated pollinators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/objectives: Apodanthera glaziovii is an endemic species from the semi-arid Brazilian, which has limited toxicological and pharmacological studies. This species belongs to a well-studied family known for its bioactive compounds used in treating inflammatory. This study aimed to identify secondary metabolites in the stems from A. glaziovii, evaluate toxicity, and investigate the anti-inflammatory potential of the stem hydroalcoholic extract (SHE-Ag). Methods: qualitative and quantitative assays were employed to identify secondary metabolites, along with chromatographic analyses and 1H and 13C NMR. Toxicity was assessed through in vitro hemolytic toxicity, in vivo genotoxicity, and oral acute toxicity tests before the pharmacological assays were conducted. Results: phytochemical screening, HPLC and NMR analyses suggested the presence of saponins of the norcucurbitacin class. The SHE-Ag exhibited no hemolytic activity and no mutagenic potential. However, in vivo toxicity at a dose of 2000 mg/kg revealed hematological and biochemical alterations, while the 500 mg/kg dose was safe. In the anti-inflammatory assays, SHE-Ag at 100 mg/kg reduced paw edema by 55.8%, and leukocyte and neutrophil migration by 62% and 68% in the peritonitis model, respectively; inflammatory cell migration by 70% in the air pouch model, outperforming indomethacin, which showed a 54% reduction. Conclusions: these findings indicate that SHE-Ag is rich in saponins, confirmed through HPLC and 1H and 13C NMR analyses. The SHE-Ag also demonstrated low toxicity. The inflammation models used showed a reduction in inflammation, pro-inflammatory cells, and edema, highlighting the significant anti-inflammatory activity of hydroethanolic extract A. glaziovii stems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to clarify the taxonomy of Loxanthocereus riomajensis, as well as to understand its actual and potential geographic distribution, and to present its conservation status. Specialized literature was reviewed, and field visits were conducted. The collected data, including herbarium samples, presence records, and additional information, were used to describe the species in detail, create a geographical distribution map, generate potential distribution models using the MaxEnt algorithm, and assess its conservation status using IUCN considerations. The results demonstrate that morphologically, L. riomajensis is an independent species endemic to the departament of Arequipa, found in the provinces of Condesuyos and Caylloma, spanning an altitudinal range from 1600 to 2100 m asl. The potential distribution covers an area of 1135.3 km², in the provinces of Condesuyos, Castilla, La Unión, Caravelí, Caylloma, and Arequipa. Regarding its conservation status, it is classified as endangered (EN). Finally, a lectotype is designated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we present an updated list of bats from the Cusco department, based on the review of scientific collections, databases, and published research. Our data show that Cusco is one of the regions with the highest bat diversity in the country, recording seven families, 55 genera, and 114 species, nearly 60% of those recorded for Peru. This diversity includes two of the nine endemic species registered in Peru: Mormopterus phrudus and Anoura javieri. According to Peruvian legislation, five species are categorized as threatened, while six species are listed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Additionally, 10 species are considered common, and 27 are classified as rare. The density map of records indicates that the highest concentration of records is in the La Convención province and identifies four areas with information gaps: 1) Southeast of Cusco, 2) Southwest, encompassing the provinces of Chumbivilcas and Espinar, 3) Northwest of La Convención, and 4) Northeast of La Convención. The list provides species data at the provincial level, highlighting information gaps and updates on species distribution across ecoregions, besides is included the distribution maps of all species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Circumscription of the large genus Pultenaea Sm. has been contentious since shortly after description. We draw on recently generated phylogenomic data to provide a fully resolved phylogeny of Pultenaea and related genera based on near-complete species level sampling for the genus. Phylogenomic data divide Pultenaea sens. lat. into five independent lineages, corresponding to previously identified clades, that we recognise as distinct genera. Pultenaea sens. str. contains most of the currently recognised species and as circumscribed here, all of the species are endemic to eastern Australia except for P. tenuifolia R.Br. & Sims that extends across the Nullarbor into Western Australia. The genus Euchilus R.Br. is reinstated for eight species, all endemic to south-west Western Australia except for E. elachistus (F.Muell.) R.L.Barrett & Orthia that also occurs in South Australia. Three new genera are described, with all of the constituent species endemic to south-west Western Australia: Grievea R.L.Barrett, Clugston & Orthia, with two species, Jennata R.L.Barrett, Clugston & Orthia, with nine species and Loricobbia R.L.Barrett, Clugston & Orthia with six species. Pultenaea adunca Turcz. remains unplaced but we exclude this species from our concept of Pultenaea. Twenty-one new combinations are made: Euchilus aridus (E.Pritz.) R.L.Barrett & Orthia, E. calycinus subsp. proxenus (Orthia & Chappill) Orthia & R.L.Barrett, E. daena (Orthia & Chappill) Orthia & R.L.Barrett, E. elachistus (F.Muell.) R.L.Barrett & Orthia, Grievea brachytropis (Benth. ex Lindl.) R.L.Barrett & Orthia, G. craigiana (C.F.Wilkins, Orthia & Crisp) Orthia & R.L.Barrett, Jennata brachyphylla (Turcz.) R.L.Barrett & Clugston, J. empetrifolia (Meisn.) R.L.Barrett & Clugston, J. ericifolia (Benth.) R.L.Barrett & Clugston, J. indira (Orthia & Crisp) Orthia & R.L.Barrett, J. indira subsp. monstrosita (Orthia) Orthia & R.L.Barrett, J. indira subsp. pudoides (Orthia) Orthia & R.L.Barrett, J. radiata (H.B.Will.) R.L.Barrett & Clugston, J. strobilifera (Meisn.) R.L.Barrett & Clugston, J. verruculosa (Turcz.) R.L.Barrett & Clugston, Loricobbia aspalathoides (Meisn.) R.L.Barrett & T.D.Macfarl., L. ochreata (Meisn.) R.L.Barrett & T.D.Macfarl., L. pauciflora (M.B.Scott) R.L.Barrett & T.D.Macfarl., L. pinifolia (Meisn.) R.L.Barrett & T.D.Macfarl., L. reticulata (Sm.) R.L.Barrett & T.D.Macfarl. and L. skinneri (F.Muell.) R.L.Barrett & T.D.Macfarl. The bush-pea genus (Pultenaea) is one of the larger legume genera in Australia but has been difficult to define. We present a new classification of the group, recognising five genera instead of one using a large DNA based analysis of relationships. Three genera are newly described and one genus is reinstated, and these are almost entirely restricted to south-west Western Australia, with true Pultenaea being mostly restricted to eastern Australia. (Photograph by Russell Barrett.) This article belongs to the collection Genomics for Australian Plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Closely related and young species often show high morphological similarity, challenging their identification and correct assignment. Molecular markers and integrative approaches have contributed to solving many taxonomic uncertainties. In this study, we evaluated the genetic variability and ecological features of Petunia guarapuavensis and Petunia scheideana , over which there is a taxonomic debate. Both species are endemic and rare, distributed in the subtropical highland grasslands in southern South America. We based our analyses on nuclear microsatellite and plastid sequences, aiming to disentangle the taxonomic ambiguities that made some consider these entities synonymous despite occupying different clades in the genus phylogenetic tree. Our findings support that there is genetic differentiation between these species, suggesting that they are independent taxonomic entities despite sharing floral traits and a few molecular polymorphisms. The low genetic sharing between the species is likely due to a common ancestor and recent divergence time. In contrast, their morphological similarity can be attributed to the absence of selective pressure, as both grow under similar ecological conditions. This study emphasizes that adding more than one sequence per species, combining data with dissimilar inheritance patterns, and exploring data through different methodologies help to disentangle taxonomic incongruences and reveal diversity that might otherwise remain hidden. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Island species are highly vulnerable due to habitat destruction and their often small population sizes with reduced genetic diversity. The Hawaiian Islands constitute the most isolated archipelago on the planet, harboring many endemic species. Kokia is an endangered flowering plant genus endemic to these islands, encompassing 3 extant and 1 extinct species. Recent studies provided evidence of unexpected genetic diversity within Kokia. Here, we provide high-quality genome assemblies for all 3 extant Kokia species, including an improved genome for Kokia drynarioide s. All 3 Kokia genomes contain 12 chromosomes exhibiting high synteny within and between Kokia and the sister taxon Gossypioides kirkii. Gene content analysis revealed a net loss of genes in K. cookei compared to other species, whereas the gene complement in K. drynarioides remains stable and that of Kokia kauaiensis displays a net gain. A dated phylogeny estimates the divergence time from the last common ancestor for the 3 Kokia species at ∼1.2 million years ago (mya), with the sister taxa (K. cookei + K. drynarioides) diverging ∼0.8 mya. Kokia appears to have followed a stepping-stone pattern of colonization and diversification of the Hawaiian archipelago, likely starting on low or now submerged older islands. The genetic resources provided may benefit conservation efforts of this endangered endemic genus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new subalpine species of Bufonia sect. Longipedicellata from the Zagros Mountains in west Iran is described and illustrated here. It colonizes mountain slopes with gravelly, stony, and scree substrates in one locality of Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari province, preferably with a western and north‐west orientation, at elevations between 2700 and 3100 m a.s.l. The new species, B. darvishii, is diagnosed against the morphologically similar B. macrocarpa. The two species share similarities such as filiform and long pedicels, a lax panicle‐cyme inflorescence, distribution pattern of trichomes, and long peduncles. However, the new species stands out with semi‐shrub life form, its greater height, retention of the previous year's stems, cymes bearing more flowers, orbicular petals, larger petals, a broadly ovate ovary, larger sepals with more pronounced nervation, shorter pedicels, larger flowers, etc. Bufonia darvishii is proposed to be Critically Endangered (CR) following the guidelines of the IUCN. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new, distinctively short‐bodied giraffe catfish of Parauchenoglanis is described from the Ndzaa River, a small left‐bank tributary of the Mfimi‐Lukenie basin in the Central basin of the Congo River in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The new species can be distinguished from all congeners by having 29 or fewer (vs. 33 or more) total vertebrae. It can further be distinguished from all congeners, except Parauchenoglanis zebratus Sithole et al., 2023 and Parauchenoglanis ngamensis (Boulenger 1911), by having 13 or 14 (vs. 16 or more) pre‐anal vertebrae. The species is endemic to the Mfimi River basin, where it has been collected mainly in blackwater tributaries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Vietnam is one of the countries with the highest diversity of golden camellias in the world, with more than forty endemic species. However, studies on Vietnamese golden camellias need to be expanded to fill a knowledge gap on these species' chemical profiles and pharmacological properties. This qualitative study focuses on six golden camellias: four endemic species from Tam Dao district, Vinh Phuc province, including Camellia hakodae, Camellia phanii, Camellia tamdaoensis, Camellia tienii and two species commonly cultivated in Quang Ninh province including Camellia petelotii and Camellia euphlebia. A mutual profile of 131 metabolites was obtained by using widely targeted metabolomics analysis using ultra‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry. Comparative metabolomics was performed among leaf extracts of six golden teas, between young and mature leaves and between freeze‐drying and oven‐drying leaves to discriminate these species, and determine the effect of developmental stage and post‐harvesting method on the plant metabolism. The PLS‐DA model successfully illustrated a clear separation of the six species and suggested apigenin C‐glycoside derivatives as chemical markers for the diversity. Young and mature leaves of all six species also produced distinguished metabolomes, differentiated by mostly amino acid derivatives. The multivariate analysis also indicated the conversion of some flavonoids and amino acids induced by heat in the drying process. These results offer metabolite markers for quality control of Vietnamese golden camellias and recommendations for their usage and preparation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species of Melanorivulus is described from the upper Taquari River drainage, upper Paraguay River basin, in the Western Brazilian Cerrado. This species is a member of the Melanorivulus pictus group, endemic to the central Brazilian plateau and adjacent areas. Melanorivulus terena, new species, is endemic to the Paraguay River basin and is possibly closely related to other species endemic to the upper Paraná River basin, such as M. linearis, M. interruptus and M. egens, by the absence of distinctive dark marks on the humeral region in males. The new species is distinguished from all other species of the M. pictus group by a distal margin of unpaired fins and pelvic fin that is orangish red, and by the number of scales in the transversal series. The possible close relationship between the new species and other species recorded in the Paraná River basin may indicate an ancestral interconnection of the headwaters of the Rio Taquari (Paraguay River basin) with the headwaters of the upper Rio Verde and Rio Pardo (Paraná River basin). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Iberian Peninsula and the South of France are a centre of diversification of the Lumbricidae family, which has many endemisms and basal genera in the phylogeny of lumbricids in that area. Two basal and endemic genera of this area are Cataladrilus and Prosellodrilus. These genera are very poorly studied, and there are very few phylogenetic studies in which representatives of these genera have been included. In the case of Prosellodrilus, the type species has never been included in phylogenetic analyses. Therefore, in this study, after capturing specimens of different species of Cataladrilus and Prosellodrilus in their type localities (including the type species of both genera), a phylogenetic analysis was carried out using the molecular markers COI, 16S (mitochondrial) and 28S (nuclear). Sequences from other lumbricid genera obtained in previous studies were also included, with the purpose of testing the monophyly of Prosellodrilus and Cataladrilus and recovering their phylogenetic relationships with other basal genera. As a result, it was possible to demonstrate that both genera are monophyletic and, therefore, valid. Both genera are evolutionarily very close and are found very close to other basal genera such as Castellodrilus and Zophoscolex. Furthermore, by calculating the ancestral area of Prosellodrilus it was possible to observe that the origin of the genus is located in an area between Sardinia and eastern France and that the genus predates the separation of Sardinia from France and the formation of the Pyrenees, which could explain the presence of P. festae in Sardinia and the presence of this genus on both sides of the Pyrenees. Furthermore, if the geological age of the Pyrenees and its formation process are studied in detail, it can be observed how the different stages of formation of this mountain range largely coincide with the distribution of the different species of Prosellodrilus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given calls to decolonise engagement with Indigenous communities, this article explores how allied researchers can participate in self-determined learning with Indigenous Peoples. Drawing on over a decade of experience within an action-research collective in a Mapuche context, the authors suggest that allied researchers can accompany Indigenous-led co-design in a manner that not only strengthens genuine Indigenous participation but also fosters mutual and collective learning from within the co-creative processes themselves. Lake Budi, a biocultural hotspot in the Pacific coast of Northern Patagonia, Chile, is a coastal wetland habitat for hundreds of endemic and migratory species and the ancestral homeland for the Mapuche-Lafkenche (∼15,000) who, through grassroots learning, are determining practical steps towards restoring their territory and its self-governance for kvmemongen. This Mapuche concept refers broadly to enacting forms of living well together, humans and non-humans. As allied participants in a Mapuche-led codesign collective since 2013, in this paper, we focus on exploring key “moments of mutual learning” within this longer-than-usual co-design process. Each of these moments involved collective learning that required interaction and feedback loops across diverse areas of expertise, made possible over longer and flexible rhythms and periods. Tools, protocols, and methods gradually take shape in such a process through mutual learning opportunities provided by relationship building, cultural immersion, community-led protocols, decision-making, and evaluation mechanisms. This work suggests a new understanding of the involvement of allied researchers in Indigenous-led co-design as an emerging and increasingly relevant form of grassroots mutual learning toward climate resilience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Volvox sect. Volvox is a group of green algae with unique morphological features (thick cytoplasmic bridges between somatic cells and spiny zygote walls) and a worldwide distribution. Despite research interest in the diversity of organisms in ancient lakes, Volvox sect. Volvox from ancient lakes worldwide has not been identified to the species level. Here, we established clonal cultures of two species of this group originating from Lake Biwa, an ancient lake in Japan, and performed identification based on morphological and molecular data. One was identified as Volvox kirkiorum based on the nuclear ribosomal DNA internal spacer region (ITS) sequence, bisexual (monoicous or monoecious) spheroids, and zygote morphology. The other showed genetic separation from related species based on the secondary structure of the ITS and results of phylogenetic analysis of a combined data set from the nuclear actin gene, ITS, and two plastid genes (large subunit of RuBisCO and photosystem II CP43 apoprotein gene); it represented a new phylogenetic lineage within Volvox sect. Volvox, suggesting possible endemism in Lake Biwa. This species produced bisexual spheroids with different zygote morphology and zygote number from other species with bisexual spheroids in Volvox sect. Volvox. Therefore, Volvox biwakoensis Nozaki et H. Yamaguchi sp. nov. is described herein. This is the first endemic species of the genus Volvox described from an ancient lake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The open ecosystem (e.g. grasslands, prairies, shrublands) tends to be ecologically less stable than closed one (i.e. forests) and encompassess higher spatial heterogeneity in terms of environmental diversity. Such differences are expected to differentially constrain the diversity and structure of the communities that inhabit each of them, but identifying the specific processes driving contrasting biodiversity patterns between open and closed systems is challenging. In order to understand how environmental variability might structure spider assemblages, both between and within open and closed ecosystems, we implement a high throughput multiplex barcode sequencing approach to generate a dataset for 8585 specimens representing 168 species, across the open ecosystem within the Canary Islands. Combining these with spider sequences from the closed ecosystem within the same islands, we show that spider communities in the open ecosystem show higher species richness, higher beta diversity, and higher proportions of rare species but proportionately lower numbers of endemic species than communities in the closed ecosystem. We furthermore assess if environmental heterogeneity and habitat stability are the major drivers of such differences by assessing spatial genetic structuring and the influence of bioclimatic variables. Our results point to environmental heterogeneity rather than stability as a major driver of spatial patterns between open and closed ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endemic fish species have long supported the livelihoods of local communities in the Rufiji River Basin (RRB). However, destructive fishing practices have led to a concerning decline in endemic fish stocks. To assess these changes, this study employed key informant interviews, focus group discussions (FGDs), and fishery surveys to assess the historical and contemporary distribution of endemic fishes within the RRB. DNA barcoding was also used to verify species identities. Out of 37 reported fish species, 33 species (54.55% endemic and 45.45% exotic to RRB) were confirmed through DNA barcoding and morphological characteristics. About 5 species including, Heterobranchus longifilis, Citharinus congicus, Labeo congoro, Mormyrus longirostris, and Labeobarbus leleupanus were rarely found in the field, despite being classified as Least Concern by IUCN. Additionally, five species that were reported to be present in the RRB by experienced fishers were not captured during sampling. This highlights the need for validation of the existence of such species through eDNA metabarcoding. Moreover, due to the rarity of some species in the area, their IUCN assessment should be revisited. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The main objective of this study was to provide the first information on the age structure of the critically endangered and endemic frog species, Rana tavasensis, in Türkiye. Age data are important in evaluating the dynamics of populations and effective conservation strategies should be addressed according to age-related parameters (e.g., longevity, mean age, growth rate, and age at maturity). Skeletochronology is an effective method for estimating the ages of amphibians, and using this method, we determined the mean age, longevity, and relationship between age and body size in both males and females of a R. tavasensis population in Çakıroluk, the terra-typica, located in Denizli province, Türkiye. The results of our study provides insights for taking feature measures to protect these frogs, whose number has progressively declined each year due to habitat loss and degradation. This study used skeletochronology to assess the relationships between age and body length among individuals in a population of the Tavas Frog (Rana tavasensis), located in the Çakıroluk plateau, Tavas district, Denizli province. The age varied from 3 to 12 years in both adult males and females. The age was 2 years in two subadult males, while it was 1 year in one juvenile specimen. The mean SVL and age of the adult individuals of the Çakıroluk population were 62.75 mm and 6.70 years in male specimens and 58.04 mm and 6.12 years in female specimens. A positive correlation was found between body size (SVL) and age in adult female and male individuals of the species. Because the number of individuals of the species is rapidly decreasing, species protection measures, based on knowledge related to the age structure and breeding features of these frogs, must be put into action urgently. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Angiosperms with large genomes experience nuclear‐, cellular‐, and organism‐level constraints that may limit their phenotypic plasticity and ecological niche, which could increase their risk of extinction. Therefore, we test the hypotheses that large‐genomed species are more likely to be threatened with extinction than those with small genomes, and that the effect of genome size varies across three selected covariates: life form, endemism, and climatic zone.We collated genome size and extinction risk information for a representative sample of angiosperms comprising 3250 species, which we analyzed alongside life form, endemism, and climatic zone variables using a phylogenetic framework.Genome size is positively correlated with extinction risk, a pattern driven by a signal in herbaceous but not woody species, regardless of climate and endemism. The influence of genome size is stronger in endemic herbaceous species, but is relatively homogenous across different climates. Beyond its indirect link via endemism and climate, genome size is associated with extinction risk directly and significantly.Genome size may serve as a proxy for difficult‐to‐measure parameters associated with resilience and vulnerability in herbaceous angiosperms. Therefore, it merits further exploration as a useful biological attribute for understanding intrinsic extinction risk and augmenting plant conservation efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Endemic plants are key to understanding the evolutionary history and enhancing biodiversity within their unique regions, while also offering significant economic potential. The East Asian endemic genus Corchoropsis Siebold & Zucc., classified within the subfamily Dombeyoideae of Malvaceae s.l., comprises three species. Results: This study characterizes the complete plastid genomes (plastomes) of C. crenata var. crenata Siebold & Zucc. and C. crenata var. hupehensis Pamp., which range from 160,093 to 160,724 bp. These genomes contain 78 plastid protein-coding genes, 30 tRNA, and four rRNA, except for one pseudogene, infA. A total of 316 molecular diagnostic characters (MDCs) specific to Corchoropsis were identified. In addition, 91 to 92 simple sequence repeats (SSRs) in C. crenata var. crenata and 75 in C. crenata var. hupehensis were found. Moreover, 49 long repeats were identified in both the Chinese C. crenata var. crenata and C. crenata var. hupehensis, while 52 were found in the South Korean C. crenata var. crenata. Our phylogenetic analyses, based on 78 plastid protein-coding genes, reveal nine subfamilies within the Malvaceae s.l. with high support values and confirm Corchoropsis as a member of Dombeyoideae. Molecular dating suggests that Corchoropsis originated in the Oligocene, and diverged during the Miocene, influenced by the climate shift at the Eocene–Oligocene boundary. Conclusions: The research explores the evolutionary relationships between nine subfamilies within the Malvaceae s.l. family, specifically identifying the position of the Corchoropsis in the Dombeyoideae. Utilizing plastome sequences and fossil data, the study establishes that Corchoropsis first appeared during the Eocene and experienced further evolutionary divergence during the Miocene, paralleling the evolutionary patterns observed in other East Asian endemic species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a habitat option for the rapidly declining old-growth forests, secondary forest patches will serve as refugia for forest species in the tropics. The present study was carried out to determine the conservational significance of the Upper Hanthana secondary forest patch in Sri Lanka, based on its avifaunal diversity and endemism. The field survey was conducted from March-November 2019. Data were collected using line transects along with point counts. Peak observation hours were during 0700-1000 h and 1500-1800 h in the sites selected by systematic random sampling. Results were compared with those of a nearby village area. According to statistical analysis, the Upper Hanthana secondary forest patch harbours a comparatively higher avifaunal diversity with 87 bird species and remarkable endemism of 17 endemic bird species out of total 34 endemic bird species in Sri Lanka. The present study highlights the significance of the Upper Hanthana forest patch for biodiversity conservation. Further studies are required to evaluate the total biodiversity of this secondary forest patch and assess better conservational measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Taiwan harbors five endemic species of salamanders (Hynobius spp.) that inhabit distinct alpine regions, contributing to population fragmentation across isolated "sky islands". With an evolutionary history spanning multiple glacial-interglacial cycles, these species represent an exceptional paradigm for exploring biogeography and speciation. However, a lack of suitable genetic markers applicable across species has limited research efforts. Thus, developing cross-amplifying markers is imperative. Expressed sequence-tag simple-sequence repeats (EST-SSRs) that amplify across divergent lineages are ideal for species identification in instances where phenotypic differentiation is challenging. Here, we report a suite of cross-amplifying EST-SSRs from the transcriptomes of the five Hynobius species that exhibit an interspecies transferability rate of 67.67%. To identify individual markers exhibiting cross-species polymorphism and to assess interspecies genetic diversity, we assayed 140 individuals from the five species across 84 sampling sites. A set of EST-SSRs with a high interspecies polymorphic information content (PIC = 0.63) effectively classified these individuals into five distinct clusters, as supported by discriminant analysis of principal components (DAPC), STRUCTURE assignment tests, and Neighbor-joining trees. Moreover, pair-wise FST values > 0.15 indicate notable between-cluster genetic divergence. Our set of 20 polymorphic EST-SSRs is suitable for assessing population structure within and among Hynobius species, as well as for long-term monitoring of their genetic composition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]