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Cliffs are marginal and poorly studied habitats that are home to a high proportion of endemic or threatened species. Here, we reviewed the survival patterns and population dynamics of plants growing on vertical cliffs and compared them to other plants with similar life forms that grow on the ground. To this end, we have compiled studies of cliff and ground-level plants from two main sources: MONITO and COMPADRE. The resulting dataset after applying some filters included a total of 243 populations of 134 plant species monitored for several years in the northern hemisphere. We tested whether survival rates of seedlings and older stages, population growth rates, and their temporal variability showed similar patterns between cliff and ground plants, and the relationship between those demographic parameters. Cliff plants showed higher survival rates for both seedlings and older life stages, as well as lower distance to population equilibrium and more stable population trends over time, compared to plants growing in the ground. Population equilibrium and temporal stability was highly correlated with the survival of post-seedling stages in both groups. These results suggest that cliff plants may be better adapted to withstand climatic variability than the more common ground-level plants occurring in less stressful environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Cliffs are home to rare and endemic species but are under threat from increasing disturbance. • Monitoring can provide land managers with the site-specific information needed to support cliff conservation. • Monitoring methodologies should be standardized, easy to implement, and dependent on objective criteria. • We urge the development and proliferation of cliff monitoring projects, especially those which include community participation. • To facilitate success, specialists should lead a platform to integrate, process, and analyze information collected through monitoring. Cliffs harbor unique and specialized biodiversity that warrants attention and conservation. At the same time, cliffs are under increased threat from anthropogenic disturbance and climate change. Since cliffs are highly heterogeneous, spatially isolated, and often inaccessible compared to nearby habitats, land managers require up-to-date and site-specific information to protect them. Cliffs are often overlooked due to the technical and logistical challenges posed by surveying these environments, but field inventorying and monitoring can fill this gap. We present three case studies of cliff monitoring in action: mapping populations of an endemic rare plant in the Southern Appalachian Mountains (US), photo-sampling of cliff specialist plants in Spain, and surveying peregrine falcons in Western North Carolina (US). These case studies highlight the application of various monitoring techniques, the possibilities for collaboration among stakeholders, and some ways that data from monitoring can inform cliff conservation and stewardship. To facilitate the development of easy-to-implement monitoring, we outline three approaches and associated best practices for monitoring cliff plants. Methods range from simple photo point monitoring to more in-depth species inventories and could be implemented by community scientists alongside a broader audience interested in providing up-to-date data on cliff environments. We call for action, urging the expansion and advancement of cliff biodiversity monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We developed a new concentration kit, called the ParaEgg (PE), for easy detection trematode eggs from fecal samples in endemic areas of clonorchiasis and metagonimiasis in Korea. To create a standard of detection efficiency, 120 fecal samples were examined using the water–ether concentration method (WECM). The PE kit and Mini ParaSep (PS) kit were used to compare the detection sensitivity of 100 egg-positive and 20 egg-negative samples in WECM. Additionally, stool samples, which were intentionally spiked with 10, 20, and 30 Clonorchis sinensis eggs, were evaluated to assess the sensitivity in low-infection cases. The PE and PS kits showed detection rates of 100% and 92%, respectively, from 100 egg-positive samples in WECM. Meanwhile, eggs were detected in 3 (PE) and 2 (PS) out of 20 egg-negative samples in WECM. The PE kit detected the highest number of eggs per gram of feces (727 on average), followed by the WECM (524) and PS kit (432). In fecal samples that were intentionally spiked with 10, 20, and 30 C. sinensis eggs, PE only detected eggs 2 out of 5 samples in 10 eggs spiked (40%), and the detection rates were 80% and 100%, respectively. The PE kit enabled a more accurate identification of trematode eggs because of the clearance of small fecal debris in the microscopic field. In conclusion, the PE kit is obviously helpful to detect and identify trematode eggs in stool examinations especially in endemic areas of clonorchiasis and metagonimiasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sparganosis is one of the common zoonotic diseases caused by infection with the larval plerocercoids (spargana) of the cestode genus Spirometra. While this parasite distributes globally in canine and feline hosts, human infection is predominantly reported in East Asia, especially China, Korea, Japan, and Thailand. Maybe related to the behavior and food culture, this zoonotic disease is rather rare in South Asia to the Middle East. In these areas, sporadic case reports have been appeared mostly in the local medical journals. To draw a solid picture of sparganosis in these non-endemic areas of Asia, we made an extensive literature survey to gather sparganosis cases in the Indian subcontinent and the Middle East. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Caryodaphnopsis is a small genus of the Lauraceae family with disjunct distribution in tropical Asia and tropical America. Taxa from each region form a well-supported monophyletic clade. However, the species circumscription in Asian Caryodaphnopsis remains ambiguous due to few and generally unstable morphological characters used for classification. To address this, we conducted an integrative taxonomy of the Asian clade. We investigated 13 populations, sampled 57 accessions covering the entire taxonomic diversity, geographic range, and morphological variation in Asia, and reconstructed a new phylogeny using single‐nucleotide polymorphisms. We obtained a well‐resolved phylogeny of the Asian Caryodaphnopsis. The first diverged clade consists of three species endemic to lowland forests. The second (largest) clade (eight species in total) mainly occurs in limestone mountain forests and has a double‐layered lower leaf epidermis morphology of type 2 (less complete roomy with closed "roof") and type 3 (complete roomy with closed "roof"). Based on the diagnostic morphological characters, distinct distributional ranges, and monophyly of each clade, we recognize 12 species in the Asian Caryodaphnopsis, including three new species: C. cangyuanensis sp. nov., C. hekouensis sp. nov., and C. rubrinervis sp. nov. We also reinstate C. latifolia, and re‐circumscribe the widespread C. tonkinensis and other species based on fruit and inflorescence morphology and molecular evidence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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• Lucilia cuprina (Diptera: Calliphoridae) are associated with human decomposition. • L. cuprina have been recorded in very few cases within Malaysia. • This species has been collected in a recent indoor forensic case in Malaysia. • Further research on L. cuprina 's development and behavior in casework is necessary. Lucilia cuprina (Wiedemann) (Diptera: Calliphoridae) has been collected in human forensic case work. This species is endemic in Malaysia but is not one of the most common species and is often found in outdoor cases. However, it is hypothesized that the presence of L. cuprina larvae may provide useful information in forensic case studies in Malaysia where this species has previously been ignored. This review will discuss the current background knowledge on L. cuprina , particularly when it comes to other forensic cases in Malaysia. General biology as well as key information for forensic work such as geographical distribution and developmental data will be reviewed. Finally, we discuss the potential for L. cuprina to provide beneficial and unique forensic insight into indoor cases with refuse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Neotropical Biology & Conservation is the property of Pensoft Publishers and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Berberidopsidales comprises two families: monotypic Aextoxicaceae (Aextoxicon punctatum in Chile and Argentina) and Berberidopsidaceae. The latter includes Australian monotypic Streptothamnus (S. moorei) and Berberidopsis (B. beckleri in Australia and B. corallina in Chile). A new Berberidopsis species from the Central Chilean Andes is here described. Phylogenetic analyses based on nuclear and chloroplast data clarified the relationships within Berberidopsidales. The new species, Berberidopsis granitica, is sister to the Chilean endemic B. corallina, and this clade is sister to the Australian B. beckleri. The dated molecular phylogeny places the split between the South American B. corallina and B. granitica into the late Miocene/early Pleistocene and the split between South American and Australian Berberidopsis to the late Miocene and Pliocene, suggesting transoceanic dispersal rather than vicariance. Climatic niche analyses show two distinct and non‐overlapping climatic niches for the Australian and southern South American species. Berberidopsis granitica and B. corallina also differ clearly in their habitat and morphology, in addition to their climatic niche. Berberidopsis granitica has a very restricted distribution area and grows in the Andes under montane climatic conditions, unique within Berberidopsidales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to determine the floristic characteristics and general vegetation structure of the Mavga Castle, a natural and cultural site located in the Mut district of Mersin province. 57 taxa belonging to the 28 families and 52 genera were identified in the study areas. The distribution of the identified plants is as follows: Mediterranean region 17 taxa (29.32%), Irano-Turanian region 4 taxa (7.01%), widely distributed three taxa (5.26%) and phytogeographic region unknown or multi-regional 33 taxa (57.89%). The most prominent families in the area, based on the number of taxa they contain, are Lamiaceae (10), Fabaceae (7), Asteraceae (5) and Brassicaceae (5). It is noteworthy that there are no European-Siberian elements. Additionally, 8 endemic taxa were identified in the study area, resulting in an endemism rate of 14.03%. When examining the threat category of the endemic plants, It was found that 4 taxa are Near Threatened (NT), 2 are Least Concern (LC), 1 is Vulnerable (VU), and 1 taxon is Endangered (EN). Characteristic species of the vegetation classes Quercetea ilicis, Cisto-Micromerietea, Quercetea pubescentis, and Querco-Fagetea were found throughout the study area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on historical and recent records, an updated list of 244 nominal species and three undescribed mosquitoes from Mexico is presented. Since 1990, 15 species have been recorded for the first time in Mexico: Aedes guatemala, Ae. brelandi, Ae. insolitus, Ae. melanimon, Ae. albopictus, Culex daumastocampa, Cx. metempsytus, Cx. erethyzonfer, Culiseta melanura, Limatus asulleptus, Sabethes gymnothorax, Trichoprosopon pallidiventer, Toxorhynchites moctezuma, Uranotaenia socialis, and Wyeomyia chalcocephala. Five species were discovered and described: Ae. amaterui, Ae. lewnielseni, Cx. diamphidius, Shannoniana huasteca, and Tr. mixtli. Three species were discovered without yet describing or naming them: Ae. (Protomacleaya) sp. 1, Ae. (Ochlerotatus) sp. 2, and Wyeomyia sp. 3. Five species had been removed from the Mexican mosquito fauna: Ae. stigmaticus, Cx. imitator, Onirion personatum, Sa. tarsopus, and Tx. theobaldi. With the intention of updating the checklist of the mosquito species in Mexico, historical and recent species records were reviewed, as well as the review of entomological collections, resulting in the confirmation of the presence in Mexico of Ae. thelcter, Cs. impatiens, and Orthopodomyia alba. Morphological and molecular evidence confirms the presence of Wy. jocosa, while Anopheles atropos, Psorophora confinnis, Cx. jenningsi, Mansonia indubitans, Tr. pallidiventer, and Tr. soaresi are removed from the Mexican mosquito fauna. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Avances is the property of Instituto de Informacion Cientifica y Tecnologica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

A significant study of the amblypygid fauna of Honduras is lacking. Historically, species were misidentified and data on distribution, natural history and conservation status of the known species are lacking or insufficient. In this contribution, an overview on the amblypygids of Honduras, including taxonomy, distribution, natural history and comments on their conservation are provided. In a review of the literature of the Honduran amblypygids, we examined 21 works, including books, unpublished thesis, articles, the World Amblypygi Catalogue (2023), as well as the website Arácnidos de Centroamérica and the citizen-science websites Alamy, iNaturalist and Flicks. Only the family Phrynidae, with the genera Paraphrynus Moreno, 1940 and Phrynus Lamarck, 1801, is known to occur in Honduras. A total of seven species have been recorded, but only four [Paraphrynus laevifrons (Pocock, 1894), Phrynus palenque Armas, 1996, Ph. similis Armas, Víquez & Trujillo, 2017 and Ph. whitei Gervais, 1842] have been positively identified. No endemic species are known, but available data suggest that some undescribed new species may be restricted to Honduras. In order to understand the amblypygids of Honduras, sampling within the country must be conducted and revisionary studies will be needed. This paper examines our current knowledge of the fauna. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Neotropical Biology & Conservation is the property of Pensoft Publishers and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of SHILAP Revista de Lepidopterologia is the property of Sociedad Hispano-Luso-Americana de Lepidopterologia and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This article analyzed the infection characteristics of metacercariae of Metagonimus spp. (MsMc) in fish from 9 major water systems in Korea. A total of 19,568 fish in 87 species were examined over a period of 10 years (2011-2020). MsMc were detected in fish from all 44 survey areas in 9 water systems. Most of the surveyed sites showed very low and low infection levels (66.7%), while 33.3% of the areas, such as Tamjin-gang and Seomjin-gang, revealed moderate and high infection levels. High endemicity depends on the abundance of susceptible fish species, especially sweet smelt (Plecoglosus altivelis). The susceptibility index (SI) with MsMc in index fish, Zacco spp., was very low and low levels in 62.0%, moderate in 28.0%, and high in 10.0% regions. The SI was highest in the following order: Yeongam-cheon (283.8), Hoeng-cheon (192.3), Togyo-jeosuji (131.2), Deokcheon-gang (119.1), and Joyang-gang (106.3). The recent infection status of MsMc in P. altivelis was analyzed by the survey localities. In addition, except for P. altivelis, 9 fish species were highly infected with MsMc in some survey areas, including Zacco platypus, Z. koreanus, Z. temminckii, Opsariichthys uncirostris, Rhynchocypris oxycephalus, Carassius auratus, Acheilognathus rhombeus, Onchorhynchus masou, and Tribolodon hakonensis. In Korea, 74 fish species (15 families) are collectively listed as second intermediate hosts of Metagonimus spp. This review provides several novel characteristics of MsMc infection and clarifies the fish species of second intermediate host of Metagonimus spp. in this country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Namalycastis abiuma has been recorded as a worldwide distributed species, found in most tropical and subtropical mangroves and estuarine environments. However, this status has been questioned in several publications, which indicate that several distinct species are being identified under the name N. abiuma. In this study, we perform a morphological analysis, along with a series of species delimitation tests and a phylogenetic analysis--using the molecular marker 16S--to evaluate whether analyzed populations previously identified as Namalycastis abiuma belong to the same species. We used sequences from the GenBank database in the analysis, as well as six newly sequenced specimens collected from the coast of Brazil, two of them from the N. abiuma type-locality. For species delimitation, we applied the Generalized Mixed Yule Coalescent (GMYC), the Assemble Species by Automatic Partitioning (ASAP), and the Multi-rate Poisson Tree Processes (mPTP) tests. Results from GMYC and ASAP suggest that Namalycastis abiuma may be endemic to the type-locality and that all other populations studied represent a second distinct species. However, mPTP indicates that all Namalycastis species included should be grouped into one single species. The mPTP results seem to be biased due to data limitation as it showed poor statistical support. Our morphological data, especially on the shape and dentition of the sub-neuroacicular falciger blades, support the GMYC and ASAP results, suggesting restricted endemism for Namalycastis abiuma. Based on these results, we conclude that N. abiuma is restricted to its type-locality and we provide a description of a new species, Namalycastis lanai sp. nov. occurring in Brazilian waters from 22°S to 27°S, including, at its southern range, an overlap with N. abiuma at Florianópolis. Finally, we provide a key to all Namalycastis species found in Brazil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Copyright of SHILAP Revista de Lepidopterologia is the property of Sociedad Hispano-Luso-Americana de Lepidopterologia and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Anjaw district in the eastern Arunachal Pradesh is part of the Eastern Himalaya biodiversity hotspot. This region is rich in biodiversity and harbours endemic species, some of which are classified as threatened. The Anjaw district is dominated by Miju Mishimi, Digaru Mishimi and the Mayor tribe who follow traditional hunting, fishing and other cultural practices that influence species conservation. However, there exist knowledge gaps pertaining to their traditional cultural practices, fishing and hunting and their impact on sustainability and conservation needs. We conducted surveys in 64 households in 14 villages using a semi-structured interview schedule to understand the demography, livelihood patterns, social taboos, hunting and fishing approaches of the communities in the Anjaw district of Arunachal Pradesh. Our surveys showed that agriculture is the primary occupation in the area. Hunting is widely practiced by the communities that also involve hunting of the threatened species. Parallelly, the communities also follow social taboos, which prohibits hunting of certain species some of which are also classified as threatened. Both traditional and modern gears are used for hunting and fishing. Also, forest fire is used extensively for the purpose of hunting which have a drastic impact on the forests and the concerned species. Understanding the social attributes of communities is crucial to develop frameworks and policies for biodiversity conservation in Anjaw district. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The caddisfly genus Protoptila (Trichoptera, Glossosomatidae) in Panama is currently represented by 15 species, including four endemic species and 11 species also found in Costa Rica. The shared occurrences of Panamanian species with other countries in the region are minimal. Herein, we describe and illustrate a new species, Protoptila harrisi sp. nov., and add one new country record, Protoptila bribri Holzenthal & Blahnik, 2006. These additions are the result of several projects conducted by the Aquatic Invertebrate Research Group at the Universidad Autónoma de Chiriquí. The Republic of Panama now has 17 species of Protoptila and 535 species of caddisflies distributed among 15 families and 56 genera. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the importance of conserving biodiversity on islands and the inadequacy of the "30 × 30" target in preventing the extinction of highly imperiled island species. Two case studies are presented to illustrate this point. The first case study focuses on the Vangunu giant rat in the Solomon Islands, where only 7% of the island remains as habitat for the species. Despite efforts to protect this area, logging has been approved, which could lead to the extinction of the rat. The second case study examines the Rennell flying fox, endemic to Rennell Island in the Solomon Islands. Although almost 30% of the island is protected as a World Heritage Site, the species has not been observed since 2021, suggesting that protection measures have been insufficient. The article argues that a more nuanced approach to conservation is needed, taking into account the unique characteristics and vulnerabilities of island biotas. [Extracted from the article]

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Copyright of Iheringia. Série Zoologia is the property of Fundacao Zoobotanica do Rio Grande do Sul and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Neotropical temperate grasslands comprise the Pampas ecoregion in Argentina. This region is also the center of agricultural development in Argentina, which has led to a significant simplification and homogenization of the landscape. The Tandilia Mountains, located in the Southeast of the ecoregion, house one of the last remnants of the highland grassland that acts as a refuge for several native species, including both endemic and threatened species. This work aims to present an updated inventory of mammal species that inhabit the highland grassland remnants of the Tandilia Mountains. We used several sources of information to compile the list, including museum collections, citizen science projects (i.e., iNaturalist, EcoRegistros, and Argentinian Network for Monitoring Run Over Fauna), literature, and personal observations. We recorded 40 species of mammals, which include 32 native species and eight exotic species. The richest orders were Rodentia (42.5%), Chiroptera (17.5%), and Carnivora (12.2%). The native mammals found in the Tandilia Mountains represent 44% of the mammal diversity of the Pampas ecoregion, among which there are endemic species of the ecoregion, species whose populations are declining globally, and threatened species. Unfortunately, the presence of protected areas in the system is limited to a few small ones, which highlights the urgency of increasing the number and variety of protected areas. The information presented in this work contributes to the knowledge of biodiversity and the planning of conservation actions for the last remnants of highland grasslands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding habitat use on a fine scale is essential for the development of management plans for threatened and endangered species. Several heavily managed State Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Wildlife Refuges provide critical foraging habitat for the endangered Hawaiian Stilt, or Ae'o (Himantopus mexicanus knudseni). The foraging behavior and habitat use of Hawaiian Stilts at Hāmākua Marsh State Wildlife Sanctuary, O'ahu, Hawai'i was investigated. Foraging tactics, success, and microhabitat were recorded for 227 birds over 24 2-hr periods from September to December 2021. Hawaiian Stilts made the most foraging attempts in shallow (< 8 cm deep) water, and had the most success in intermediate (8–15 cm deep) water. The most commonly recorded foraging tactic was pecking, while the most successful was plunging. Visual tactics were both more common and more successful than tactile. The overall foraging success rate for Hawaiian Stilts in this study was 0.16, markedly less than success rates observed by other researchers in related species. It is possible that prey in Hāmākua Marsh is either less abundant or less vulnerable to capture than in other similar habitats. Our results suggest that future habitat management for Hawaiian Stilts should prioritize areas of shallow water and further investigate food availability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of SHILAP Revista de Lepidopterologia is the property of Sociedad Hispano-Luso-Americana de Lepidopterologia and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Freshwater environments are a significant source of microplastics in the oceans, but, little is known about the distribution of microplastics in rivers and lakes. This study was undertaken to investigate the abundance and composition of microplastics (MPs) in the surface water and sediment of Karasu Creek, Gölbaşı Lake and Orontes River which are critical habitats for many endangered species. The mean microplastic abundance in the surface water and sediment of the Orontes Basin was determined to be 3.2 ± 4.0 MPs/L and 456 ± 318 MPs/kg, respectively. Due to the similar socioeconomic status and anthropogenic activities in the vicinity of stations, there wasn't any temporal variation in the microplastic abundance depending on stations. However, microplastic abundance in the surface water was drastically increased during flood periods. A correlation between microplastic abundance in the surface water and sediment was not detected due to insufficient data representing the hydrodynamic properties of the study area. Morphologically, fiber MPs were dominant (89 %), followed by fragments (9 %). The majority of the extracted MPs were <1 mm. This led to an increase in the number of individuals and species likely to be negatively affected by MPs. In terms of color, majority of the MPs were black (44 %) followed by blue (21 %), red (18 %), transparent and white (9 %). Results obtained in this study proved the ubiquity and dominance of the microplastics in both surface water and sediment. Therefore, the findings clearly show a remarkable ecological risk and indicate the need for mitigation strategies in the Orontes Basin ecosystem. This study provided critical data for local and national authorities to take necessary precautions to manage microplastic pollution in the Orontes Basin. However, more comprehensive understanding of the long-term impacts of pollution from MPs on endemic species is crucial for effective conservation strategies. [Display omitted] • Microplastics were persistent in both surface water and sediment throughout the Orontes Basin. • Microplastic pollution could a remarkable ecological risk to aquatic organisms, mostly endemic species. • Common characteristics of microplastics were fiber, black and <1 mm in size. • Polyethylene and its derivatives form the majority of examined MPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to determine the content and bioaccumulation patterns of eight trace elements (Li, Cr, Co, As, Se, Cd, Pb and Hg) and one radioisotope (U) in kidney, liver and muscle tissues of two fish species (Squalius orpheus and Barbus strumicae) from Nestos River (northern Greece), and the potential human health risk due to the fish muscle consumption. Kidney and liver accumulate higher element concentrations, except Hg. The site closer to the river-mouth presents higher concentrations since it receives effluents from agricultural activities. The upstream station shows lower element concentrations, due to obstruction of the free transportation of sediments and suspended matter downstream the irrigation dam. The sediment inhabitant and feeder B. strumicae showed elevated concentrations compared to the water column resident S. orpheus. According to calculated hazard indices, the consumption of the fish edible tissue poses zero health risk in developing chronic undesired effects in humans. • Trace element bioaccumulation was investigated in fish of Nestos River, Greece. • Higher concentrations of almost all elements were found in kidney and liver. • Species at the site closer to the river-mouth showed elevated concentrations. • Feeding habits are a significant factor for the element accumulation in fish. • The consumption of edible fish tissue poses no risks for human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioactive plant species are gaining scientific importance daily. New natural goods with added value are encouraged by the link between health, modern and traditional lifestyles. For about 145 years, Micromeria cymuligera , a Turkish endemic, was presumed extinct. For years, no specimen of this medicinal and fragrant species has been found in the region, but rich populations have lately been found in Bingöl province, Turkey. Like other Micromeria species, M. cymuligera has been used in tea and cooking due to its powerful bioactivities and scent. This is the first study to look at the complete quantification of bioactive phytochemicals, antioxidant capacity, and enzyme inhibitory evaluation of the long-thought-to-be-extinct M. cymuligera species. Using a previously established and validated LC-MS/MS methodology, this study aimed to screen the bioactive phytochemicals of M. cymuligera and assess its diverse antioxidant and enzyme inhibitory properties. The EtOH extract of the species had substantial concentrations of rosmarinic acid (13.05 mg/g extract), quinic acid (4.57 mg/g extract), chlorogenic acid (2.34 mg/g extract), and cynaroside (2.37 mg/g extract), according to LC-MS/MS data. Furthermore, it was shown that the species had relatively high total phenolic-flavonoid contents (40.94 ± 0.38 mgGAEs/g extract and 5.13 ± 0.29 mgREs/g extract, respectively). The extract shown noteworthy activity (82.00 ± 0.74, 126.23 ± 3.43, 48.33 ± 1.36, and 35.89 ± 0.44 mgTEs/g extract in FRAP, CUPRAC, ABTS, and DPPH respectively) in all antioxidant assays when the bioactivity experiments on M. cymuligera were considered. Furthermore, of all the enzyme inhibitory tests (tyrosinase, α-amylase, α-glucosidase, BChE, and AChE), the species demonstrated outstanding inhibitory action against tyrosinase (70.80 ± 1.34 mgKAE/g extract). • First study on long-thought-to-be-extinct M. cymuligera species. • A detailed phytochemical evaluation of an edible endemic species by LC-MS/MS. • Remarkable amounts of rosmarinic acid, chlorogenic acid and cynaroside. • Several compounds were detected for the first time in M. cymuligera. • In-depth antioxidant and enzyme inhibitory evaluation of M. cymuligera. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Spawning events show active reproduction of Pinna nobilis on Lake Faro. • Natural recruits were detected in the lake after the mass mortality event. • Larval collectors failed in capturing P. nobilis larvae, while they were highly colonized by other organisms, including bivalve alien species. • P. nobilis population is not self-sustaining in Lake Faro, being mostly supported by external (marine) larval supply. The noble fan shell, Pinna nobilis, is an endemic Mediterranean species included in the IUCN Red List because it is at risk of extinction after the global mass mortality event (MME) first detected in late 2016 in the Spanish waters. Throughout the whole Mediterranean Sea, measures to evaluate reproduction and recruitment in relict populations have been undertaken, in view of a wished species recovery. In this study we highlight the potential resilience of the Lake Faro P. nobilis population (north-eastern Sicily), which partially survived to the MME affection. Results of both monitoring and installation of larval collectors during a three-year period (from 2021 to 2023) are reported. Despite spawning events show that the population is reproductively active, a poor natural recruitment was detected. Each sign of potential resilience, moreover, contrasts with the failure of collectors in capturing P. nobilis larvae, while they were highly colonized by more competitive organisms, including non-native species, such as the ascidian Styela plicata and the bivalves Pinctada radiata , Isognomon bicolor and Anadara transversa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2020, the 250-person community of Tristan da Cunha announced the establishment of the fourth largest fully-protected MPA in the world: the Tristan da Cunha Marine Protection Zone (MPZ). The MPZ protects 91 % of the 750,000 km2 EEZ in the South Atlantic, which is home to numerous endemic and endangered species reliant on the healthy marine environment. After legal gazettement in 2021, the next challenge is to build strong foundations for the MPZ that will support it in perpetuity. The Tristan da Cunha community and its partners are rising to this challenge by developing and implementing a programme of work focused on three core areas for MPZ success: effective management, research and monitoring, and community stewardship. Alongside assistance in MPZ management from the UK Government Blue Belt Programme and the establishment of a conservation endowment fund, the RSPB, Blue Nature Alliance, and Tristan da Cunha Government are providing dedicated support for the community for the first years of the MPZ. The partnership is supporting the establishment of monitoring programmes and citizen science initiatives, providing mentorship opportunities, facilitating global knowledge exchanges, strengthening the community's cultural connection to its marine environment and enhancing the global identity of the Tristan da Cunha community as 'Atlantic Guardians'. Providing support for the MPZ that is adaptive, flexible and community led, beyond the moment of designation is essential for the longevity of the Tristan da Cunha Marine Protection Zone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Length-weight relations (LWR) were estimated for 14 endemic and indigenous fish species from the Aral Sea basin: Alburnoides holciki Coad et Bogutskaya, 2012; Capoetobrama kuschakewitschi (Kessler, 1872); Cottus spinulosus Kessler, 1872; Glyptosternon oschanini (Herzenstein, 1889); Gobio lepidolaemus Kessler, 1872; Gobio nigrescens (Keyserling, 1861); Iskandaria kuschakewitschi (Herzenstein, 1890); Iskandaria pardalis (Turdakov, 1941); Paracobitis longicauda (Kessler, 1872); Sabanejewia aralensis (Kessler, 1877); Schizothorax fedtschenkoi Kessler, 1872; Triplophysa daryoae Sheraliev, Kayumova et Peng, 2022; Triplophysa ferganaensis Sheraliev et Peng, 2021; and Triplophysa uranoscopus (Kessler, 1872). Measurements were taken for total length (0.1 cm precision) and total weight (0.1 g precision). The LWR parameters were determined using a linear logarithmic regression model of weight against length in which values for the slope of the regression, b, that are higher and lower than 3 indicate positive and negative allometric growth, respectively. The estimated values of parameter b ranged from 2.703 (Iskandaria kuschakewitschi) to 3.162 (Gobio nigrescens). The correlation coefficient (r²) values varied from 0.951 to 0.993, indicating a strong positive relation between length and weight. The maximum total lengths of four of the species (Glyptosternon oschanini, Iskandaria kuschakewitschi, Triplophysa daryoae, and Triplophysa uranoscopus) constitute new records, and the LWRs of twelve fish species have hitherto not been available in FishBase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The family Profundulidae is one of the few families of freshwater fishes endemic to the Mesoamerican region, and one of the least speciose within the order Cyprinodontiformes, with only 13 valid species. Sexual dimorphism is poorly developed and sparsely studied in this family. Herein, we report the presence of spicule-like organs of contact in scales and fins (anal and dorsal) in fishes of the family Profundulidae and discuss the use of spicules as a means to facilitate the identi?cation of male and female in this family. Data from museum specimens of the 13 species of profundulid fishes were analyzed. We studied the following species: Tlaloc labialis (Günther, 1866); Tlaloc candalarius (Hubbs, 1924); Tlaloc hildebrandi (Miller, 1950); Tlaloc portillorum (Matamoros et Schaefer, 2010); Profundulus punctatus (Günther, 1866); Profundulus guatemalensis (Günther, 1866); Profundulus oaxacae (Meek, 1902); Profundulus balsanus Ahl, 1935; Profundulus kreiseri Matamoros, Schaefer, Hernández et Chakrabarty, 2012; Profundulus parentiae Matamoros, Domínguez-Cisneros, Velázquez-Velázquez et McMahan, 2018; Profundulus mixtlanensis Ornelas-García, Martínez-Ramírez et Doadrio, 2015; Profundulus adani Dominguez-Cisneros, Velázquez-Velázquez, McMahan, et Matamoros, 2021; Profundulus chimalapensis Del Moral-Flores, López-Segovia et Hernández-Arellano, 2020. Scales were observed and photographed with a Hitachi VP-MEB SU1510 scanning electron microscope; the spicules in fins were observed from specimens cleared and double-stained. This study revealed the presence of 1-10 spicules on the surface of the scales in males and its absence in females of all species analyzed. Numerous, small and thin spicules were also observed and they were restricted to the middle rays of the anal and dorsal fins of the males. The observation of spicules in the anal fins for the sexual identification of profundulid fishes constitutes an advantage of operational simplicity, speed, and potential for its application in taxonomic and ecological studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The quest to understand species' distribution patterns and delineate their limits has led to the establishment of the world's ecoregions, large units of land containing a distinct assemblage of species, both for terrestrial and marine ecosystems. However, freshwaters constitute their own special case within terrestrial ecosystems, and have only recently been divided into freshwater ecoregions, primarily based on watershed limits. Freshwater ecoregions used by the European Water Frame Directive (WFD), which guides freshwater management policies in the European Union, have been criticized for not adequately representing freshwater fish biogeography. This study compares the geographic agreement between WFD ecoregions and freshwater fish distribution at the European scale. Using IUCN Red List distribution maps, we determined the composition of freshwater fish communities in major European basins. Then, we calculated a similarity matrix in order to cluster freshwater basins with more related fish assemblages. We compare our findings with WFD ecoregions and global ecoregions from the Freshwater Ecoregions of the World (FEOW) database. Our results reveal that WFD ecoregions do not sufficiently capture freshwater fish assemblage differences across Europe. Mediterranean basins exhibit high freshwater fish endemism and greater species variation, whereas central European basins harbor more similar fauna. Overall, our results align more with those of FEOW. To enhance the relevance of freshwater ecoregions in Europe for management and conservation, we propose several measures to ensure a comprehensive study involving all stakeholders in the process of defining these ecoregions accurately. • European Water Frame Directive ecoregions have been previously questioned. • Freshwater fish biodiversity patterns in Europe do not agree with WFD ecoregions. • Endemic species shape the communities' delineation in Mediterranean basins. • Central European basins show higher clustering patterns than established in WFD. • There is a need for a better approach to delineate European freshwater biogeography. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Actinodaphne quercina Blume (Lauraceae) is a narrow endemic tree species found only in Sawarna Village of Lebak Regency, Banten Province, Indonesia. Due to its narrow distribution, small population size, and threat from habitat conversion, the species is classified as Critically Endangered (CR). In the present study, we report the new distributional records of A. quercina on Nusakambangan Island of Central Java Province c. 300 km southeast of the previous location, alongside population data and characteristics of the habitat of the species in the new locations. A total of 31 individuals were observed from two locations, with the majority (87 %) being immature. Only four individuals are deemed mature, with a diameter at breast height ranging from 17 to 28 cm. Based on our findings, the species is still qualified for CR status under criteria CR C2a(i),D. We observed that in the locations, habitat conversion into agricultural lands is the main threat to the species. To enhance the conservation of the species, a propagation trial had been conducted and the results showed that sand media could be used to propagate the species from shoot cuttings. Furthermore, by employing species distribution models, we provided the potential distribution map of the species to assist future population surveys and species recovery initiatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Climate refugia for widespread endemic anurans of the Atlantic Forest are found in Serra do Mar range, an area with higher climatic heterogeneity. • The models suggest that most of the climate refugia persist in future climate change scenarios, but there are important losses. • This study warns about the effect of climate change on widespread endemic anurans. Anthropic influence has accelerated climate change rates and become a major cause of the sixth mass extinction. Conservation strategies such as identifying climate refugia can provide preliminary information for conservation planning. Our study aimed to identify climate refugia for 132 widespread endemic anuran species of the South America Atlantic Forest and assess their persistence in future climate change scenarios. Using species distribution models, we generated geographic projections for six time periods, including the Last Interglacial, Last Glacial Maximum, Mid Holocene, current time, and two periods in the future under two climate change scenarios each. We defined climate refugia as areas where the geographic distributions of species overlapped in the three time periods in the past and present. We observed a maximum overlap of 40 species and found them mainly in parts of the southeastern and northeastern Atlantic Forest. These refugia should remain suitable for most species in future climate change scenarios, making them important for conservation. Our study highlights the importance of these areas to maintain biodiversity and prevent the loss of endemic anuran species in the megadiverse Atlantic Forest. Overall, our findings have important implications for conservation planning in the Atlantic Forest and other regions affected by climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rare endemic plant species are very susceptible to anthropogenic threats and natural changes, thereby facing a high risk of extinction. The Mediterranean Basin supports a rich flora with high percentages of endemic species. An iconic case of Mediterranean narrow endemic plant taxon is represented by Onobrychis conferta subsp. conferta (Desf.) Desv. (Fabaceae). Management of this species requires better information on its habitat requirements and population status. Field surveys and historical records were used to characterize the distribution of O. conferta in Tunisia. Habitats were characterized using topography, soils, climate, and land cover variables. Expeditions on ten previously reported sites revealed the presence of O. conferta in only one of the previous recorded localities and, for the first time, in two new localities. We recorded a sharp decreasing trend for the total number of plants per population in all locations over 6-year period. Our findings showed that the current status of O. conferta in Tunisia is Critically Endangered (CR). Onobrychis conferta faces an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild. Therefore, prompt comprehensive conservation actions are needed to ensure its survival. We propose a conservation and recovery recommendations including in situ and ex situ conservation actions. In situ actions are aimed at minimizing the effects of the identified threats and to create new populations of O. conferta in its characterized habitat. Ex situ actions include an environmental education campaign and seed preservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work presents a checklist of the Bromeliaceae in Serra do Conduru State Park (PESC), in the Atlantic Forest of the state of Bahia, Brazil, including data on their growth habit, endemism and conservation status. We also describe and illustrate a new species, Aechmea urussucensis, that is endemic to the area studied and classified by us as critically endangered. The data were collected through field expeditions, analysis of herbarium material and review of the specialized literature. We found 70 species of Bromeliaceae distributed in 20 genera of the subfamilies Bromelioideae (48 spp.) and Tillandsioideae (22 spp.). The diversity of Bromeliaceae in the PESC is the greatest recorded to date in a conservation unit or forest fragment in Brazil. The species studied have a variety of life forms, with 52 spp. being exclusively epiphytic, 7 terrestrial and 11 species occurring in either of these forms. With regard to conservation status, four species are classified as critically endangered, nine as endangered and seven as vulnerable according to the IUCN criteria. In relation to endemism, 33 species are endemic to Bahia (47%), more specifically 31 spp. to the southern region of the state, and three species are microendemic (Aechmea urussucensis, Lymania languida and Wittmackia conduruensis) so far only observed within the PESC. Our results demonstrate that the southern region of Bahia has high diversity in comparison with other regions of the state and also of Brazil. These findings also reveal the scientific value of the PESC and the need for further research conservation and efforts of this region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Present study identified 295 plant species into 8 different rarity classes. • Tree diversity decreased and its endemic subset increased along the gradients. • At all altitudes, some species with narrow distributions and others with wide ranges. • The study found 16 most rare species in the studied region. • Rarity analysis species has highlighted conservation priorities at local to regional scale. The assessment of plant rarity patterns and mapping of endemic species is a challenging task, however, this kind of assessment having great conservation significance. In the present study, a classification system of rarity, considering biogeographical, ecological and abundance of species was developed along with assessing the vegetation composition. Following systematic random approach of vegetation sampling, three altitude transects were sampled within each 100 m interval in three possible aspects (North-West, North-East and South-West) in the high-altitude forested zone (2000–3300 m asl) of Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary (KWS). The study identified a total of 295 plant species (191 genera and 70 families) in the studied region. Considering different attributes of rarity, 8- rarity groups were used for identification of rare and endemic plants. Altogether, most of the species exhibited wide geographical distribution an attribute of commonness, and few of these have narrow distributions due to habitat specificity. The lower altitudinal zone exhibited the maximum floristic diversity (184 spp.; 62.4 %), and minimum in the higher zone (134 spp.; 45.4 %). Tree species richness decreases, and its endemic subset increased along the altitudinal gradient due to remoteness, habitat heterogeneity, isolation of the areas and other environmental factors. A sharp decline was observed in the tree species richness from lower (33 spp.; 84.6 %) to higher altitude (8 spp.; 20.51 %). The species to genera ratio in the entire altitudinal range was 1.2 for trees and 1.6 for shrubs and herbs. Rarity analysis of these native and endemic species has highlighted conservation priorities at local and regional scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the beneficial biological activity of four Allium species was examined to determine the metabolite components, antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiproliferative, wound healing, and enzyme inhibitory activities. All in vitro tests were compared to their reference compounds. The quantitative phytochemical analysis was distinctively profiled fifteen metabolites. The extract of A. eldivanense exhibited promising inhibitory effect against AChE (IC 50 : 0.335 ± 0.04 mg mLˉˡ), BChE (IC 50 : 0.375 ± 0.04 mg mLˉˡ), α-glucosidase (IC 50 : 0.148 ± 0.01 mg mLˉˡ), and tyrosinase (IC 50 : 11.87 ± 1.07 μg mLˉˡ) enzymes. The extract from A. olympicum and A. ilgazense exhibited ABTS scavenging activity closer to that of BHT among four antioxidant assays. A. eldivanense showed antibacterial ability ranging from 4 to 8 mg mLˉˡ concentrations, and the extract is promising compared to ampicillin. A. peroninianum demonstrated the highest cytotoxic effect (IC 50 : 84.03 μg mLˉˡ) on cervical cancer cells, and all Allium extracts applied to the HeLa cell line significantly slowed down wound closure. The molecular implementation studies predicate the in vitro enzyme inhibitory findings, and the major compounds in the onion extract have the highest affinity for the targets. The findings suggested that Allium species have potential biological activities according to the comprehensive in vitro and in silico analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]