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Metapopulations are often managed as a single contiguous population despite the spatial structure underlying their local and regional dynamics. Disturbances from human activities can also be spatially structured with mortality impacts concentrated to just a few local populations among the aggregate. Scale transitions between local and regional processes can generate emergent properties whereby the whole system can fail to recover as quickly as expected for an equivalent single population. Here, we draw on theory and empirical case studies to ask: what is the consequence of spatially structured ecological and disturbance processes on metapopulation recoveries? We suggest that exploring this question could help address knowledge gaps for managing metapopulations including: Why do some metapopulations recover quickly while others remain collapsed? And, what risks are unaccounted for when metapopulations are managed at aggregate scales? First, we used model simulations to examine how scale transitions among ecological and disturbance conditions interact to generate emergent metapopulation recovery outcomes. In general, we found that the spatial structure of disturbance was a strong determinant of recovery outcomes. Specifically, disturbances that unevenly impacted local populations consistently generated the slowest recoveries and highest conservation risks. Ecological conditions that dampened metapopulation recoveries included low dispersal, variable local demography, sparsely connected habitat networks, and spatially and temporally correlated stochastic processes. Second, we illustrate the unexpected challenges of managing metapopulations by examining the recoveries of three USA federally listed endangered species: Florida Everglade snail kites, California and Alaska sea otters, and Snake River Chinook salmon. Overall, our results show the pivotal role of spatial structure in metapopulation recoveries whereby the interplay between local and regional processes shapes the resilience of the whole system. With this understanding, we provide guidelines for resource managers tasked with conserving and managing metapopulations and identify opportunities for research to support the application of metapopulation theory to real‐world challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gyps species declined rapidly between the late 1990s and early 2000s in southern Asia due to the use of diclofenac and are listed as Critically Endangered species. Long-term data on breeding ecology is essential to understand the population trends of these threatened species. This study assessed the breeding phenology and reproductive performance of two critically endangered Gyps species--Longbilled Gyps indicus (Scopoli) (LBV) and White-rumped Gyps bengalensis (Gmelin) (WRV) vultures--through long-term monitoring at breeding colonies in Kaghaznagar and Sironcha Forest Divisions in the Deccan Plateau of India between 2010 and 2021. LBV began their nest construction and copulation in the second week of October, and ended in the fourth week of November, while the WRV completed the same between the first and second weeks of October. LBV started egg-laying during the first week of December and ended in the first week of January, with a peak during the third week on 14 December, and the mean incubation period was 54 ± 1 days. The WRV completed their egg-laying early, during the second and third weeks of October, and peaked during the second week on 14 October and had a relatively longer incubation of 61 ± 1 days. For LBV, hatching peaked during the first week of February, and the mean nestling period was 103±2 days, while for WRV hatching peaked much earlier, during the third week of December and the mean nestling period was 105±1 days. Overall nest success, breeding success, and productivity estimated based on 159 breeding pairs of LBV observed over 12 years were lower compared to that of 124 breeding pairs of WRV observed over 6-year period. The decline in breeding success of LBV since 2019 is discussed in light of cattle poisoning reported in 2018, and the reopening of the Sirpur paper industry (Kaghaznagar) in 2017 that discharges its hazardous effluent into the Peddavagu stream. Therefore, the present study suggests long-term monitoring of breeding colonies including evaluation of the drivers of population and breeding, molecular and toxicological studies, and implementation of Vulture Safe Zones to save these critically endangered Gyps vultures from local extinction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wild orchids, especially the terrestrial temperate ones are endangered species due to challenges in their natural habitats. Therefore, there is an urgent need to introduce efficient propagation methods to overcome the natural reproduction problems of these orchids. In this study, the effects of different light spectrums, explant types, wounding, and combinations of different plant growth regulators (PGRs) on direct somatic embryogenesis (DSE) of two species of these endangered orchids listed in the conservation category, were studied. The highest percentages of DSE formation and embryo germination were observed in Dactylorhiza umberosa protocorm explants exposed to white light (400–730 nm) and in Epipactis veratifolia protocorm explants exposed to a combination of red and far-red spectra (R: FR = 70:30). This occurred while red (610–700) alone and in combination with far-red (710–730 nm) spectrum induced embryogenesis more than the blue spectrum and dark condition in E. veratifolia. Thidiazuron (TDZ, 3 mg L−1), produced the highest percentage of protocorm-like bodies (PLBs) on protocorm explants in both orchids. Kinetin (Kin, 2 mg L−1) and Benzyladenine (BA 3 mg L−1) had the most effect on the survival and growth of PLBs, respectively, in D. umberosa and E. veratifolia. Species did not show similar embryogenesis responses under light spectrums. In a medium containing 3 mg L−1 TDZ, white light and R-FR spectra produced the most PLBs on wounded protocorm explants of D. umberosa and E. veratifolia respectively. The developmental stage of apical meristem of PLBs in both species was more advanced under R-B spectra, compared to others. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By the mid-twentieth century, wolves were nearly extinct in the lower 48 states, with a small number surviving in northern Minnesota. After wolves were placed on the endangered species list in 1973, the northern Minnesota wolf population increased and stabilized by the early 2000s. A wolf trophy hunt was introduced in 2012–2014 and then halted by a court order in December 2014. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources collected wolf radiotelemetry data for the years 2004–2019. Statistical analysis showed that wolf mortality remained close to constant from 2004 until the initiation of the hunt, and that mortality doubled with the initiation of the first hunting and trapping season in 2012, remaining at a nearly constant elevated level through 2019. Notably, average annual wolf mortality increased from 21.7% before wolf hunting seasons (10.0% by human causes and 11.7% natural causes) to 43.4% (35.8% by human causes and 7.6% natural causes). The fine-grained statistical trend implies that human-caused mortality increased sharply during the hunting seasons, while natural mortality initially dropped. After the hunt's discontinuation, human-caused mortality remained higher than prior to the hunting seasons throughout the five years of the available after-hunt radiotelemetry data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The evolution of endosymbionts and their hosts can lead to highly dynamic interactions with varying fitness effects for both the endosymbiont and host species. Wolbachia, a ubiquitous endosymbiont of arthropods and nematodes, can have both beneficial and detrimental effects on host fitness. We documented the occurrence and patterns of transmission of Wolbachia within the Hawaiian Drosophilidae and examined the potential contributions of Wolbachia to the rapid diversification of their hosts. Screens for Wolbachia infections across a minimum of 140 species of Hawaiian Drosophila and Scaptomyza revealed species-level infections of 20.0%, and across all 399 samples, a general infection rate of 10.3%. Among the 44 Wolbachia strains we identified using a modified Wolbachia multi-locus strain typing scheme, 30 (68.18%) belonged to supergroup B, five (11.36%) belonged to supergroup A, and nine (20.45%) had alleles with conflicting supergroup assignments. Co-phylogenetic reconciliation analysis indicated that Wolbachia strain diversity within their endemic Hawaiian Drosophilidae hosts can be explained by vertical (e.g., co-speciation) and horizontal (e.g., host switch) modes of transmission. Results from stochastic character trait mapping suggest that horizontal transmission is associated with the preferred oviposition substrate of the host, but not the host's plant family or island of occurrence. For Hawaiian Drosophilid species of conservation concern, with 13 species listed as endangered and 1 listed as threatened, knowledge of Wolbachia strain types, infection status, and potential for superinfection could assist with conservation breeding programs designed to bolster population sizes, especially when wild populations are supplemented with laboratory-reared, translocated individuals. Future research aimed at improving the understanding of the mechanisms of Wolbachia transmission in nature, their impact on the host, and their role in host species formation may shed light on the influence of Wolbachia as an evolutionary driver, especially in Hawaiian ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Salmonids with a complex life history variation present challenges for conservation management, but genetic approaches alongside fisheries monitoring can address questions regarding the viability of the natural populations. Methods: We genotyped adult (n = 3108) and juvenile (n = 2624) samples of steelhead Oncorhynchus mykiss that were collected in the Klickitat River, Washington, USA at traps in the lower drainage to examine tributary level productivity, straying from outside sources, and variation in adult migration timing. Result: Genetic assignment of steelhead from this system indicated that the majority were produced within or near tributaries of the middle Klickitat River (juvenile mean = 72.8%; adult mean = 87.3%). Analyses with parentage‐based tagging identified that most hatchery‐origin adults were assigned to the Skamania Hatchery (80.8%), as expected, since this has been the release stock for decades within the Klickitat River drainage. Hatchery‐origin adults were also identified from programs operating outside the Klickitat River, which were primarily strays from Snake River hatcheries. Most natural‐origin steelhead were assigned to the Klickitat River, but there were also natural‐origin fish identified as strays from other regions of the Columbia River (22.3% of natural returns). We also examined genes known to be associated with migration timing in adult steelhead observed at the trap and observed a strong relationship between migration date and alleles for early and late migration, but individual outliers were detected across seasons. Conclusion: Our results indicate that genetic variation of steelhead in the Klickitat River has been influenced by hatchery programs as well as natural‐origin straying from other subbasins, but genetic diversity remains high throughout the subbasin, and both early and late migration alleles are maintained. The genetic diversity present in Klickitat River steelhead may enable this Endangered Species Act listed (threatened) species to better adapt to stochastic environmental conditions compared to less diverse populations. Impact statementSteelhead are ecologically, culturally, and economically significant and there are steelhead populations listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act. To assist conservation efforts, we evaluated the genetic diversity of these populations as a measure of their fitness and ability to adapt to environmental changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With continued global change, recovery of species listed under the Endangered Species Act is increasingly challenging. One rare success was the recovery and delisting of the Channel Island fox (Urocyon littoralis) after 90%–99% population declines in the 1990s. While their demographic recovery was marked, less is known about their genetic recovery. To address genetic changes, we conducted the first multi‐individual and population‐level direct genetic comparison of samples collected before and after the recent bottlenecks. Using whole‐exome sequencing, we found that already genetically depauperate populations were further degraded by the 1990s declines and remain low, particularly on San Miguel and Santa Rosa Islands, which underwent the most severe bottlenecks. The two other islands that experienced recent bottlenecks (Santa Cruz, and Santa Catalina islands) showed mixed results based on multiple metrics of genetic diversity. Previous island fox genomics studies showed low genetic diversity before the declines and no change after the demographic recovery, thus this is the first study to show a decrease in genetic diversity over time in U. littoralis. Additionally, we found that divergence between populations consistently increased over time, complicating prospects for using inter‐island translocation as a conservation tool. The Santa Catalina subspecies is now federally listed as threatened, yet other de‐listed subspecies are still recovering genetic variation which may limit their ability to adapt to changing environmental conditions. This study further demonstrates that species conservation is more complex than population size and that some island fox populations are not yet 'out of the woods'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pityopsis ruthii (Small) Small, Ruth's golden aster, is an endangered Asteraceae species that grows in the riparian zone along small sections of two rivers in the Southern Appalachian Mountains of the United States of America (USA). Since 1985, the species has been listed under the Endangered Species Act by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). The mission of the USFWS is to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, and plants and their habitats for the continued benefit of the American people. The agency provides national leadership in the recovery and conservation of imperiled plant species by working with the scientific community to protect important habitats, increase species' populations, and identify and reduce threats to species survival with the goal of removal from federal protection. Over the past 35 years, research efforts have focused on studies designed to delineate the range and size of populations, determine habitat requirements, reproductive and propagation potential, and understand the demographic, ecological, and genetic factors that may increase vulnerability to extinction for P. ruthii. Cooperative partnerships have driven the completion of actions called for in the strategy to recover P. ruthii, and in this review, we highlight these efforts within the context of species conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Atlantic sturgeon (Acipenser oxyrinchus oxyrinchus) is a anadromous fish found along the east coast of North America and is listed under the Endangered Species Act of the United States. Decades of overfishing and habitat degradation have caused range-wide population declines, and the population status of this species in many rivers is unclear. Quantifying annual recruitment is one way to assess the status of sturgeon populations, but such assessments are few. The objective of this study was to quantify recruitment of juvenile Atlantic sturgeon in the Savannah, Ogeechee, and Satilla Rivers in Georgia. Because we used identical methods in 3 rivers simultaneously, we were able to directly compare recruitment among these populations with that of other populations observed in contemporaneous studies in other rivers. We conducted mark-recapture sampling during 2014-2017 and used Huggins closed population models to estimate annual recruitment. Because there are no historical data for comparison, we evaluated the 3 populations in terms of recruit abundance, variation, and consistency. The Savannah River annually had relatively large numbers of recruits (639-937 individuals). Fewer recruits were produced in the Ogeechee (27-57 individuals) and Satilla (51-134 individuals) Rivers; recruitment occurred in only some years in those rivers. Populations that produce few recruits or do not have regular recruitment may be experiencing bottlenecks preventing recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thirty years after its designation as a federally endangered species, the Florida Perforate Cladonia (FPC) remains imperiled in isolated populations in the Florida scrub in the southeastern USA. For threatened and endangered species, such as FPC, reference genomes provide critical insight into genomic diversity, local adaptations, landscape-level genetics, and phylogenomics. Using high-throughput sequencing, we assemble the first draft nuclear and mitochondrial genomes for the FPC mycobiont—Cladonia perforata. We also assess genetic diversity within and among populations in southeastern Florida using genome-scale data and investigate diversity across the entire nuclear ribosomal cistron, including the standard DNA barcoding marker for fungi. The draft nuclear genome spanned 33.6 Mb, and the complete, circular mitochondrial genome was 59 Kb. We also generated the first chloroplast genome, to our knowledge, for the photobiont genus associated with FPC, an undescribed Asterochloris species. We inferred the presence of multiple, distinct mycobiont parental genotypes (genets) occurring at local scales in southeastern Florida, and strikingly, no genets were shared among even the closest sample sites. All sampled thalli shared identical mitochondrial genomes, while the nuclear ribosomal cistron showed limited variability—highlighting the genetic resolution provided by nuclear genome-scale datasets. The genomic resources generated here provide critical resources for informed conservation efforts for the FPC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this paper was identifed anatomically and describe wood species marketed as charcoal in the region of Papanduva, SC, southern Brazil, to provide technical information to help in identification of species from the Atlantic Forest biome. Packages of 3 to 10 kg of charcoal were purchased, a pre-selection from more similar pieces was performed, macro and microscopic images were obtained for posterior anatomical description and material identification. Mislabeling was found in some charcoal packages, including genus, from both angiosperm and gymnosperm groups. Samples were found in decreasing frequency order, from the genera Eucalyptus/Corymbia, Ocotea/Nectandra, Acacia, Pinus, Araucaria, Alchornea, Casearia, Cedrela, Eugenia, Hieronyma, Ilex, Schinus and Zanthoxyllum. In gymnosperms, it was possible to verify growth rings distinct, with differences in cell wall thickness of tracheid and resin canals in pinus. In angiosperms, diffuse porosity was more frequent, with highlight to semiring porous in genus Cedrela. The presence of tyloses was predominant in genus Eucalyptus/Corymbia; septate fibers were characteristics for genus Ocotea/Nectandra. Simple perforate plate and alternate intervessel pits were predominant, with exception of genus Ilex with scalariform perforation plate and opposite intervessel pits. Secretory canals were observed in genus Zanthoxyllum. The predominance of eucalyptus from planted forests was observed, but the presence of araucaria, which is on the list of endangered species, indicated the importance of better supervision and training for awareness of producers and local traders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

On December 10, 2020, Elizabeth Ann, a black-footed ferret, was born. This was a momentous occasion, as it was the first time a native species listed under the Endangered Species Act (“ESA”) had been cloned. This is the first major attempt to use biotechnology to aid in the conservation of an endangered species, but it will certainly not be the last. While cloning may only be relevant for a small subsection of species, other forms of biotechnology, like genetic engineering, could be used to restore lost diversity or make novel changes to genomes. Projects to modify coral to withstand warmer oceans, or to create resistance against chronic disease in amphibians, are already in progress in academic and industry labs. Despite the promise, the application of these techniques to wild-life conservation is controversial. The use of genetic engineering to intervene in evolution is contentious because it challenges humanity’s assumptions about the very meaning of Nature. Genetic interventions pit the goals of protection of species and preservation of functioning ecosystems against deeply ingrained views that wildlife should exist apart from our influence. Many threats that listed species face are unlikely to be abated using traditional conservation approaches, forcing us to perpetually manage rather than truly recover. In this Article, I argue that genetic engineering can facilitate the recovery of biodiversity. Our actions have already permanently modified “natural” genomes, and many of our management strategies clearly impinge upon the “wildness” of these species. With this in mind, taking a more informed and active role in that modification, limiting the temporal scope of management, is important for the future of wildlife conservation. Additionally, even though the Coordinated Framework does a poor job regulating conservation engineering, the ESA could provide regulatory oversight for the creation and release of these organisms through the use of: (1) recovery permits; (2) the Controlled Propagation regulations; (3) the 10(j) experimental population procedures; and (4) special 4(d) rules. I conclude by making recommendations to improve this oversight and suggest factors to guide the Services in using these technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gastrodia elata (Orchidaceae) is native to mountainous areas of Asia and is a plant species used in traditional medicine for more than two thousand years. The species was reported to have many biological activities, such as neuroprotective, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activity. After many years of extensive exploitation from the wild, the plant was added to lists of endangered species. Since its desired cultivation is considered difficult, innovative cultivation methods that can reduce the costs of using new soil in each cycle and at the same time avoid contamination with pathogens and chemicals are urgently needed on large scale. In this work, five G. elata samples cultivated in a facility utilizing electron beam-treated soil were compared to two samples grown in the field concerning their chemical composition and bioactivity. Using hyphenated high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) and multi-imaging (UV/Vis/FLD, also after derivatization), the chemical marker compound gastrodin was quantified in the seven G. elata rhizome/tuber samples, which showed differences in their contents between facility and field samples and between samples collected during different seasons. Parishin E was also found to be present. Combining HPTLC with on-surface (bio)assays, the antioxidant activity and inhibition of acetylcholinesterase as well as the absence of cytotoxicity against human cells were demonstrated and compared between samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In January 2020, a mortality event was documented in endangered Pallid Sturgeon (Scaphirhynchus albus) at the Neosho National Fish Hatchery (Neosho, MO, USA). Moribund fish appeared emaciated, with hemorrhages on the fins and rostrums. Mortality steadily increased, prompting an investigation into the cause. No viral or bacterial pathogens were detected; however, a high number of the novel Gyrodactylus sp. was identified on the fins and body surface of the affected fish. Treatment of the parasites with a formalin product was effective, and mortality decreased. Herein, we describe the novel species Gyrodactylus conei using a combination of morphological and molecular data. Due to the listing of the host as an endangered species, the concept of parasite conservation is also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hawaii, despite being only about 0.2% of the land mass of the continental United States, accounts for nearly half of all endangered species listed under the Endangered Species Act. Among the most prominent threats to biodiversity, including climate change and habitat destruction, impacts from invasive species are among the most notable. Each year dozens of novel plant and animal species are introduced and establish in Hawaii, and it is likely that many more go undetected. Those that establish and spread negatively impact the nearly 10,000 endemic species that evolved in isolation over millions of years. This process of rapid extinction of native species and replacement with globally distributed generalists is homogenizing Hawaii's unique fauna, causing the islands' biota to resemble more and more that of any other warm rocks in the ocean. The loss of biodiversity extends beyond species loss, and with each extinction, we are losing the stories and connections we have with the land through our shared evolutionary history, connections on which the hope to preserve the distinctive culture and ways of living in Hawaii, and globally, depend. Here we report the case of two newly recorded invasive snail species, Otala lactea and Zachrysia provisoria, and emphasize the necessity of formalizing and broadening partnerships to help stem the tide of invasive species and help conserve the valuable natural and biocultural resources on which island life relies. Hawaii, like many oceanic islands, serves as a microcosm for processes impacting the entire world. The lessons learned, and practices applied here can help develop prevention and management policies and actions that can be scaled up to stem biodiversity loss globally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The snub-nosed monkey genus Rhinopithecus (Colobinae) comprises five species (Rhinopithecus roxellana, Rhinopithecus brelichi, Rhinopithecus bieti, Rhinopithecus strykeri, and Rhinopithecus avunculus). They are range-restricted species occurring only in small areas in China, Vietnam, and Myanmar. All extant species are listed as endangered or critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, all with decreasing populations. With the development of molecular genetics and the improvement and cost reduction in whole-genome sequencing, knowledge about evolutionary processes has improved largely in recent years. Here, we review recent major advances in snub-nosed monkey genetics and genomics and their impact on our understanding of the phylogeny, phylogeography, population genetic structure, landscape genetics, demographic history, and molecular mechanisms of adaptation to folivory and high altitudes in this primate genus. We further discuss future directions in this research field, in particular how genomic information can contribute to the conservation of snub-nosed monkeys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study compiled data on the distribution of sponge species along the coasts of countries bordering the Levantine and Aegean Seas (eastern Mediterranean). The checklist comprises 313 species belonging to 67 families, 23 orders, and 4 classes. Out of these species, 37 species are endemic to the Eastern Mediterranean and 77 species are endemic to the Mediterranean. The orders, namely Tetractinellida (44 species), Haplosclerida (36 species), Suberitida (35 species), Poecilosclerida (34 species) and Dictyoceratida (31 species) have the highest number of species in the region. The Aegean coast of Greece has the highest number of sponge species (231 species), followed by the Aegean coast of Türkiye (129 species) and the Levantine coast of Israel (65 species). Due to the limited number of studies performed on sponges, the lowest number of species were found along the Libyan and Syrian coasts. Among the sponges reported, four species, namely Geodia micropuntata, Amphimedon chloros, Niphates toxifera and Paraleucilla magna appear to be alien species in the regions. A total of 14 sponge species listed as endangered or threatened species according to the Bern (1979) and Barcelona (2013) conventions have been recorded in the regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Juglans regia L. is a crucial species as a forest tree and for its nutritional and medicinal values. It is also included in the list of endangered species in Albania and thus, there is a need to find methodologies to ensure its rapid regeneration and ex situ conservation. This research, investigated the regeneration of plantlets from synthetic seeds containing shoot tips of four native walnut varieties: 'Përmet', 'Korçë', 'Peshkopi', and 'Tropojë'. First, in vitro-derived shoot tips from walnut seedlings are encapsulated using sodium alginate. After that, the regeneration potential of the encapsulated shoot tips and the influence of incubation conditions are evaluated. The synthetic seeds were incubated at either 25 °C or 8 °C, with and without dehydration treatment, in 0.5 M sucrose solution for 3 h. The synthetic seeds in both temperature regimes (25 °C and 8 °C) develop plantlets and provid conservation potential without the need for subcultures for 4 and 3.5 months, respectively. Furthermore, all walnut varieties incubated in these conditions achiev a high regeneration rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Therya is the property of Asociacion Mexicana de Mastozoologia, A. C. 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 Natura Sloveniae: Revija za Terensko Biologijo / Journal of Field Biology is the property of Natura Sloveniae 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.)

Simple Summary: We used camera traps to survey wild mammals in a portion of western Thailand and recorded 32 species, 17 of which were IUCN-listed from Near Threatened to Critically Endangered. Of all photo-captures, 4 species comprised 62%, and several species were captured only rarely. This area holds a rich community of mammals, but some differences in photo-rates from an adjacent sanctuary and comparisons with other research on local mammals suggest that some species were missed because of their rarity and the limitations of the technique used. The Thung Yai Naresuan (East) Wildlife Sanctuary (TYNE), in the core area of the Western Forest Complex of Thailand, harbors a diverse assemblage of wildlife, and the region has become globally significant for mammal conservation. From April 2010 to January 2012, 106 camera traps were set, and, in 1817 trap-nights, registered 1821 independent records of 32 mammal species. Of the 17 IUCN-listed (from Near Threatened to Critically Endangered) mammal species recorded, 5 species listed as endangered or critically endangered included the Asiatic elephant (Elephas maximus), tiger (Panthera tigris), Malayan tapir (Tapirus indicus), dhole (Cuon alpinus), and Sunda pangolin (Manis javanica). The northern red muntjac (Muntiacus vaginalis), large Indian civet (Viverra zibetha), Malayan porcupine (Hystrix brachyuran), and sambar deer (Cervus unicolor) were the most frequently recorded species (10–22 photos/100 trap-nights), representing 62% of all independent records, while the golden jackal (Canis aureus), clouded leopard (Neofelis nebulosa), marbled cat (Pardofelis marmorata), and Sunda pangolin were the least photographed (<0.1/100 trap-nights). Species accumulation curves indicated that the number of camera trap locations needed to record 90% of taxa recorded varied from 26 sites for herbivores to 67 sites for all mammals. TYNE holds a rich community of mammals, but some differences in photo-rates from an adjacent sanctuary and comparisons with other research on local mammals suggest that some species are rare and some are missed because of the limitations of our technique. We also conclude that the management and conservation plan, which involves the exclusion of human activities from some protected areas and strict protection efforts in the sanctuaries, is still suitable for providing key habitats for endangered wildlife populations, and that augmented and regular survey efforts will help in this endeavor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The discussion by Gell and Finlayson ([10]) contains incorrect assertions and fails to disprove the multi-faceted independent scientific evidence presented by Bourman I et al i . In recent work (Tibby I et al i ., [32], [33]) and herein, a salinity threshold of <3000 mg/L (total dissolved solids) is applied to define freshwater conditions, as it has a strong ecological basis and is widely used in Australia (Nielsen I et al i ., [26]). In other central basin Lake Alexandrina cores, namely Ax3 and Ax9 (Haynes I et al i ., [16]) and Ax2 and Ax7 (Tibby I et al i ., [33]; supplementary material), I Staurosirella pinnata i is the dominant post-colonisation diatom, represented by more than 60 samples. Gell and Finlayson ([10]) ignore the genetic and the ecological niche modelling evidence demonstrating the prevalence of the freshwater Southern Pygmy Perch throughout the Pleistocene in Lake Alexandrina and the lower River Murray (Buckley I et al i ., [5], [6]). [Extracted from the article]

Copyright of Hladnikia is the property of Botanical Society of Slovenia / Botanicno Drustvo Slovenije 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.)

Most coral species of known reproductive traits are broadcast spawners, with about 65% being hermaphrodites that envelop their gametes together in oocyte–sperm bundles. While these bundles are crucial for the dispersion and successful cross-fertilization of gametes, research evaluating their structure in detail is rare in the literature. Here, we investigated the composition of the bundle and the arrangement of the gametes within, before and after dissociation, using histological and ultrastructural analyses. The endemic coral Mussismilia harttii was used, since it is one of the main reef builders in Brazil and is listed as an endangered species. Our results showed that there is no pattern to the distribution of gametes in the bundle, though there are regions of higher concentrations reaching 91 spermatozoa mm−2. The dissociation of the bundle promotes important morphological changes to the oocytes, making them larger and with less dense and thicker microvilli on the surface. Spermatozoa are located within hexagonal-shaped structures, similar to the alveoli in a honeycomb. Given the morphological structural complexity observed, we believe that the release of spermatozoa occurs through the complete rupture of the walls of spermatic cysts and that such structure is a component of the spermatocytes. Once released into the gastrovascular cavity, the spermatocytes are enveloped in mucus, maintaining spermatozoa in the same organization. Our findings shed light on a poorly explored area that can assist in a better understanding of hermaphrodite broadcasting coral fertilization and provide support for future studies on reproductive biotechnologies for coral conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Geominas is the property of FUNDA-GEOMINAS. (Fundacion de Egresados d Amigos de la Escuela de Ingenieria Geologica y de Minas) 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.)

The species endangerment listing process is governed not solely by causal factors but also by human perception, particularly as it relates to observability. Because human perception is important in species detection, we hypothesized that ecological indicators associated with human perception would change noticeably over time. Testing our hypothesis on species listed under the US Endangered Species Act, we found that – in general and across (not within) different taxa – body mass and geographic range of listed species decreased over time and that animals that produced vocalizations and exhibited grouping behavior were listed earlier than silent and solitary animals. Specifically, since the year of their listing, the body mass of birds, mammals, and reptiles decreased, whereas the body mass of amphibians increased; likewise, the geographic range of insects, mammals, and plants contracted, whereas the geographic range of amphibians, bivalves, birds, and fish slightly expanded. Our results demonstrate a temporal shift in endangered species listings, suggesting that approaches to listing species may need to be reevaluated and methodologically revised. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study depicts the results from the extensive monitoring of the invertebrate fauna of Belchishta Wetland, which is the largest preserved wetland in North Macedonia with an area of 137 hectares, including flooded forests and wet habitats. A total of thirty taxa belonging to eight systematic groups were registered, three of them being endemic species. Among the three endemic species, two are on the national list of endangered species. The thirty registered taxa of the invertebrate fauna of Belchishta Wetland point to a pronounced biodiversity, the framework of which includes endemic species with a narrow area of distribution and low abundance. These are justified arguments for the immediate adoption of conservation and protection measures through integral management of the whole Belchishta Wetland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The threatened mint Florida skullcap (Scutellaria floridana) is endemic to four counties in the Florida panhandle. Because development and habitat modification extirpated several historical occurrences, only 19 remain to date. To inform conservation management and delisting decisions, a comprehensive investigation of the genetic diversity and relatedness, population structure, and clonal diversity was conducted using SNP data generated by ddRAD. Compared with other Lamiaceae, we detected low genetic diversity (HE = 0.125–0.145), low to moderate evidence of inbreeding (FIS = −0.02–0.555), and moderate divergence (FST = 0.05–0.15). We identified eight populations with most of the genetic diversity, which should be protected in situ, and four populations with low genetic diversity and high clonality. Clonal reproduction in our circular plots and in 92% of the sites examined was substantial, with average clonal richness of 0.07 and 0.59, respectively. Scutellaria floridana appears to have experienced a continued decline in the number of extant populations since its listing under the Endangered Species Act; still, the combination of sexual and asexual reproduction may be advantageous for maintaining the viability of extant populations. However, the species will likely require ongoing monitoring, management, and increased public awareness to ensure its survival and effectively conserve its genetic diversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The sea cucumber Apostichopus japonicus is an important aquatic invertebrate in the aquaculture industry. It has high nutritional and medicinal value and is popular with consumers, in particular in Asia. The high demand for the species has led to declines in wild populations and A. japonicus is listed as an endangered species by IUCN. Aquaculture of sea cucumber is important to safeguard the conservation of the species in the wild, and its successful reproduction in captivity is a prerequisite for industrial production. It is known that parental nutrient reserves, in particular of lipids, are directly related to the reproductive performance of sea cucumbers. In this study, we investigated the impact of a high-fat diet on the intestinal and gonadal metabolism of male and female A. japonicus. Diet lipid content significantly affected the intestinal microbiome and metabolite profile, and also interfered with gonadal metabolites. Dietary lipid supplementation enhanced the dominance of Proteobacteria in the intestines. Other microbes in the intestines responded to a high-fat diet, which may contribute to maintain intestinal homeostasis. The physiological and metabolic responses of sea cucumbers to a high-fat diet showed sex differences. Interestingly, a correlation between intestinal and gonadal tissue levels of polyunsaturated fatty acid was found. The results of this study indicate that the lipid content in diets can be differentially adjusted for male and female sea cucumbers to improve nutrition and promote reproduction. This data also contributes to a better understanding of the reproductive biology and sex differences of sea cucumbers. Parental nutrient reserves are directly related to reproductive performance in sea cucumbers. This study focused on the lipid requirements of male and female sea cucumbers Apostichopus japonicus during the reproductive stage and analyzed their physiological responses to a high-fat diet (HFD). The intestinal lipid metabolites and microbiome profile changed significantly in animals fed with the HFD, as given by an upregulation of metabolites related to lipid metabolism and an increase in the predominance of Proteobacteria in the microbiome, respectively. The metabolic responses of male and female sea cucumbers to the HFD differed, which in turn could have triggered sex-related differences in the intestinal microbiome. These results suggest that the lipid content in diets can be differentially adjusted for male and female sea cucumbers to improve nutrition and promote reproduction. This data contributes to a better understanding of the reproductive biology and sex differences of sea cucumbers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Using traditional methods for surveying and monitoring Siamese bat catfish (Oreoglanis siamensis Smith, 1933), an endangered and endemic species in Thailand, is difficult. In this study, the eDNA-based method was used to confirm the O. siamensis habitat and its presence in the Doi Inthanon National Park, Chiang Mai, Thailand. Water samples were collected, and eDNA was analyzed by real-time PCR with species-specific primers. The eDNA of O. siamensis was detected in 12 samples out of 15 samples, inferring its distribution in the rivers of the Doi Inthanon National Park. The results showed that the eDNA-based approach can successfully detect O. siamensis in 300 mL turbid water samples. This information may be beneficial for the species management plan. The success of the eDNA-based method in O. siamensis detection indicates the usefulness of this method for rare species surveys in unfavorable environments. Siamese bat catfish (Oreoglanis siamensis Smith, 1993) has been listed as an endangered species, and its abundance has been severely declining due to habitat degradation and overfishing. To establish an appropriate management strategy, it is crucial to gain information about the distribution of this endangered species. As O. siamensis live under rocks in streams, detecting their presence is difficult. Recently, environmental DNA (eDNA)–based detection has been demonstrated to be a valid tool for monitoring rare species, such as O. siamensis. Therefore, this study developed an eDNA assay targeting a 160 bp fragment of the COI region to detect the presence of this species in its natural habitat. An amount of 300 mL of water samples (0.7 μm filtered) were collected from 15 sites in the Mae Klang sub-basin, where this fish species was visually detected at two locations. O. siamensis eDNA was detected at 12 of the 15 sites sampled with varying concentrations (0.71–20.27 copies/mL), including at the sites where this species was visually detected previously. The developed O. siamensis eDNA assay was shown to be effective for detecting the presence of this endangered species in the Klang Phat and Klang Rivers within the Doi Inthanon National Park. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Black Sea cetaceans are isolated and nominated as endemic subspecies listed in the IUCN Red List of Endangered species: the harbour porpoise and bottlenose dolphin as Endangered (EN) and the common dolphin as Vulnerable (VU). Studies of their distribution and abundance are scarce but obligatory for assessment of their conservation status. Being highly mobile apex predators entails large variations in spatial and temporal distribution. Two vessel line–transect distance sampling surveys were conducted in 2017 in the Bulgarian shelf with the aim to estimate the density, abundance and distribution during spring and autumn. Results have revealed a shift from the coastal to offshore shelf of harbour porpoises with marked southern movement. Density of porpoises varied from 1.423 ind./km2 (CV = 25.4%) in spring to 0.576 ind./km2 (CV = 43.43%) in autumn. The density of common dolphins was also decreasing, from 0.391 ind./km2 (CV = 36.84%) to 0.088 ind./km2 (CV = 42.13%), which was more significant in offshore (0.031 ind./km2, CV = 58.04%) than in the coastal shelf (0.138 ind./km2, CV = 48.59%). Bottlenose dolphins had almost constant density in both seasons in the coastal shelf: 0.211 ind./km2 (CV = 52.15%) and 0.187 ind./km2 (CV = 52.13%) but a very low density in the offshore shelf in autumn: 0.042 ind./km2 (CV = 71.07%). The importance of existing NATURA 2000 sites for the harbour porpoise (BG0000621 Shabla-Ezerets, BG0000573 Kompleks Kaliaka, BG0001001 Ropotamo and BG0001007 Strandzha) and bottlenose dolphin (BG0000621 Shabla-Ezerets, BG0000573 Kompleks Kaliaka, BG0001501 Emona and BG0001001 Ropotamo) were confirmed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Green sea turtles are currently listed as an endangered species. Therefore, any information on unstudied populations could provide valuable insight into the status of the species. Within the intracoastal waterway in northern Florida, juvenile green sea turtles are consistently seen eating the large leafy algae growing on the local marinas. The goal of this project was to use photographic records of each green sea turtle to determine whether individuals could be identified at two of these local marinas. Unique individuals were successfully identified, which allowed us to keep records of how often and where we saw certain turtles. To date, we have identified 195 turtles over an 18-month study period. The largest numbers were documented in warmer summer months, and the numbers decreased in colder winter months. Individual turtles were seen anywhere from once to 26 different encounters, with the longest duration between the first and last sighting of 569 days. This information can help bolster support for enacting local regulations to help conserve juvenile green sea turtles. As conservation efforts regarding green sea turtles, Chelonia mydas, continue, it is imperative to document behaviors and foraging habits/habitats of understudied populations. We have conducted an 18-month study dedicated to photographing the local population feeding alongside floating docks within the Guana Tolomato Matanzas estuary to determine the capability of matching head scale patterns efficiently through a pattern matching program: HotSpotter. To date, 195 unique sea turtles have been identified between two different marinas located in St. Augustine, FL. Of these, 98 were spotted more than once, with 39 of them being "tracked" for longer than a year. Temperature trends were also monitored in conjunction, showing that more individuals appeared during the warmer months of the year. The evidence, overall, indicates that these locations host a resident population of green sea turtles, leading to the need for a discussion on potential threats originating from the usage of these marinas by humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Entomological survey of the oldgrowth forest in Salajka National Nature Reserve in the Moravian-Silesian Beskids was conducted in 2019. In total, 638 individuals belonging to 19 species of ground beetles (Carabidae) were collected using pitfall traps with vinegar. Saproxylic beetles were captured using flight interception traps with salt solution. A total of 104 species belonging to 27 families were collected. Including beetles obtained by supplementary hand collecting, 19 species listed in the Czech Red list of endangered species were found. Rare saproxylic fauna was represented by Peltis grossa (Trogossitidae), Ceruchus chrysomelinus (Lucanidae) and Lacon lepidopterus (Elateridae), which are considered primeval forest relict species. Most important species of epigeic beetles were Carabus variolosus and Pterostichus rufitarsis cordatus. These findings underline the high conservation value of the Salajka National Nature Reserve in protecting endangered saproxylic and epigeic species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present the novel reference genome of the Versatile Fairy Shrimp, Branchinecta lindahli. The Versatile Fairy Shrimp is a freshwater anostracan crustacean found across the western United States from Iowa to Oregon and from Alberta to Baja California. It is an ephemeral pool specialist, living in prairie potholes, irrigation ditches, tire treads, vernal pools, and other temporary freshwater wetlands. Anostracan fairy shrimp are facing global declines with 3 species in California on the Endangered Species list. This species was included in the California Conservation Genomics Project to provide an easily accessible reference genome, and to provide whole-genome resources for a generalist species, which may lead to new insights into Anostracan resiliency in the face of climate change. The final gapped genome comprises 15 chromosome-length scaffolds covering 98.63% of the 384.8 Mb sequence length, and an additional 55 unscaffolded contigs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The document titled "The Aquatic Veterinarian AQUARIUM REPORT" provides information about the Acuario Mazatlán and Sea Museum in Mazatlán, Mexico. The aquarium was created in 1980 as part of a larger project called "Forest City" and aims to provide recreation for the local population and tourists. It features a variety of marine and freshwater species, including seahorses, clownfish, surgeonfish, sea turtles, and piranhas. The aquarium also has conservation programs for seahorses, sea turtles, and brown pelicans, as well as a dedicated frog area and a sea lion show. Visitors can also explore the Sea Museum, which showcases marine mammal skeletons, coral exhibitions, and fishing methods. [Extracted from the article]

The blue-crowned laughingthrush Pterorhinus courtoisi (Ménégaux, 1923) is listed as a critically endangered species on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List. This species occupies an extremely small known breeding range in China. In this study, we obtain the complete mitochondrial genome of the blue-crowned laughingthrush by using Illumina NovaSeq sequencing. The total length of the genome is 17,875 bp, containing 13 protein-coding genes, 22 transfer RNA genes, 2 ribosomal RNA genes and 2 control regions, with a slight A-T preference (52.84%) in base composition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Myrtaceae is a diverse family in Brazil and the sixth most representative family in the Atlantic Forest. In Paraná, the Parque Nacional do Iguaçu (ParNa Iguaçu) is a large National Park and also one of the largest remnants of this phytogeographic domain. The objective of the present study was to carry out a floristic inventory of the Myrtaceae of the ParNa Iguaçu, presenting an identification key to the species, illustrations, conservation status evaluation, and comments on geographic distribution and phenology. The collections were carried out between May 2019 and March 2020 in two areas composed of Seasonal Semideciduous Forest and a transitional area to Mixed Ombrophilous Forest. In addition to the samples collected by us, material from other herbaria were also examined. Twenty-five native species and one exotic species of Myrtaceae were found, distributed in seven genera. Eugenia was the most representative genus with 11 species. Of the 26 species, seven are new occurrences for ParNa Iguaçu. From the samples collected in this research and other records in the northwest and west regions of the state of Paraná, the presence of Psidium striatulum in Seasonal Semideciduous Forest is confirmed. Eugenia myrciariifolia was the only species on Brazil's endangered species list, the IUCN conservation status of which is Endangered (EN). The other species were considered as Least Concern (LC), but some of these species are restricted to certain areas or types of vegetation. Therefore, we conclude that ParNa Iguaçu contributes to the maintenance of these species in their natural environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing population models for assessing risks to terrestrial plant species listed as threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) is challenging given a paucity of data on their life histories. The purpose of this study was to develop a novel approach for identifying relatively data‐rich nonlisted species that could serve as representatives for species listed under the ESA in the development of population models to inform risk assessments. We used the USDA PLANTS Database, which provides data on plants present in the US territories, to create a list of herbaceous plants. A total of 8742 species was obtained, of which 344 were listed under the ESA. Using the most up‐to‐date phylogeny for vascular plants in combination with a database of matrix population models for plants (COMPADRE) and cluster analyses, we investigated how listed species were distributed across the plant phylogeny, grouped listed and nonlisted species according to their life history, and identified the traits distinguishing the clusters. We performed elasticity analyses to determine the relative sensitivity of population growth rate to perturbations of species' survival, growth, and reproduction and compared these across clusters and between listed and nonlisted species. We found that listed species were distributed widely across the plant phylogeny as well as clusters, suggesting that listed species do not share a common evolution or life‐history characteristics that would make them uniquely vulnerable. Lifespan and age at maturity were more important for distinguishing clusters than were reproductive traits. For clusters that were intermediate in their lifespan, listed and nonlisted species responded similarly to perturbations of their life histories. However, for clusters at either extreme of lifespan, the response to survival perturbations varied depending on conservation status. These results can be used to guide the choice of representative species for population model development in the context of ecological risk assessment. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2023;19:213–223. © 2022 The Authors. Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of Society of Environmental Toxicology & Chemistry (SETAC). KEY POINTS: Population models of US herbaceous terrestrial plants of no conservation concern may be representative of plants listed in the Endangered Species Act (ESA) and can help to inform risk assessments.Basing the selection of representative species in lieu of data on systematic life‐history analyses helps to ensure that population models representing listed species are both representative and protective.US herbaceous terrestrial plants (listed and nonlisted in the US ESA) exhibit clear differences in their age at first reproduction and longevity but not in their reproductive output.US herbaceous terrestrial plants that are long‐lived can be used as a sensitive representative for plants listed in the ESA when trying to evaluate the potential effects of herbicides that target plant survival. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The Mexican Long-nosed bat (Leptonycteris nivalis) is the largest nectarivorous species in the New World, and one of three migratory nectarivores in Mexico. It is considered an 'Endangered Species' under the U.S. Endangered Species Act and 'Threatened' by the Mexican Federal List of Endangered Species. In 1994, a Recovery Plan was developed by the USFWS with the participation of Mexican and American researchers, and the most urgent actions to ensure the species protection were identified. Locating and protecting roosts are among the most urgent tasks recognized. With this study, we aimed to identify the most suitable areas potentially holding additional mating roosts of Leptonycteris nivalis, and we conducted surveys of these areas to confirm its presence, and to assess the reproductive state of individuals. We used Maxent, the Genetic Algorithm for Rule-set Production (GARP), and Bioclim algorithms to generate an agreement map of the potential distribution of additional mating roosts, and we implemented a Euclidian multidimensional distances analysis to identify ecologically similar regions to "La Cueva del Diablo", the only mating roost known for the species. We identified suitable areas in the states of Morelos, Puebla and the State of Mexico. We visited seventeen caves distributed in ten different localities in these areas. For two consecutive years, we found the species in a cave called: "La Cueva de los Coyotes", located in the State of Mexico, where we captured eighteen individuals, including a pregnant female. The location of an unknown roost so far, occupied by individuals of L. nivalis, and among them a pregnant female, allows us to reflect about the reproductive dynamics of the species. In that sense, reproductive populations may be splitting into smaller colonies to mate, other than "La Cueva del Diablo", or pregnant females might me moving to additional and nearby roosts to spend the rest of the winter season. Using these tools and further refinements we may be able to locate additional mating roosts, thus, providing more possibilities for the application of conservation measures for the protection of the species. El murciélago magueyero mayor (Leptonycteris nivalis) es el murciélago nectarívoro más grande de América y una de las tres especies nectarívoras migratorias de México. Se encuentra catalogada como especie 'En Peligro de Extinción' en Estados Unidos y como 'Amenazada' bajo la ley federal mexicana. A pesar de que L. nivalis tiene una amplia distribución en el país, solamente se ha documentado un refugio de apareamiento de esta especie: "La Cueva del Diablo", localizada en el estado de Morelos, en el centro de México. En 1994, con la participación de investigadores origen mexicano y de Estado Unidos, a través de la USFWS, se elaboró el Plan de Recuperación de L. nivalis, donde se identificaron las acciones más urgentes y necesarias para su recuperación. Dentro de dichas acciones se encuentran la localización y protección de refugios. En este estudio identificamos áreas potenciales de distribución de refugios de apareamiento en el centro de México, realizamos visitas a las zonas predichas por los análisis para confirmar la presencia de L. nivalis y realizamos una evaluación del estado reproductivo de los individuos. Para los análisis realizamos modelos de nicho ecológico utilizando los algoritmos Maxent, Bioclim y GARP y generamos un mapa consenso de las zonas potenciales de distribución. Adicionalmente, realizamos un análisis de distancias euclidanas multidimensionales para identificar las zonas ecológicamente más similares a la "Cueva del Diablo". Como resultado identificamos áreas potenciales en los estados de Morelos, Puebla y el Estado de México. Visitamos 17 cuevas distribuidas en 10 localidades y encontramos individuos de L. nivalis por dos años consecutivos en la "Cueva de los Coyotes", localizada en el suroeste del Estado de México. Capturamos 18 individuos en total, incluyendo una hembra preñada. La ubicación de un refugio ocupado por la especie L. nivalis, y particularmente por una hembra preñada, nos permite reflexionar sobre las dinámicas reproductivas de la especie. En ese sentido, las poblaciones reproductivas podrían estarse separando en pequeñas colonias de apareamiento, a parte de "La Cueva del Diablo", o las hembras preñadas podrían estarse moviendo hacia otros refugios para pasar el resto del inverno. Con el mejoramiento de las técnicas utilizadas en este estudio será posible encontrar y proteger refugios de apareamiento adicionales de L. nivalis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]