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A new anophthalmic carabid beetle belonging to the genus Duvalius Delarouzée, 1859, recently collected in a deep cave in the Southern Aurunci Mountains, Lazio, is described. The new species appears to be the most troglomorphic among all the thus far known Italian Duvalius. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The molecular phylogeny of the cave crickets belonging to the Rhaphidophoridae was reconstructed. • The monophyly of each assayed subfamily were supported. • Rhaphidophoridae originated in the Cretaceous period during the Mesozoic era. • The ancestral area was located both in the northern and southern hemisphere. • Fragmentation of Gondwana and Laurasia played a role in the diversification process. We investigated the molecular phylogenetic divergence and historical biogeography of cave crickets belonging to the family Rhaphidophoridae (Orthoptera, Ensifera). We used taxa representative of most of the regions embraced by the family, considering samples of Macropathinae from Gondwana land (i.e., Tasmania, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and South America); Aemodogryllinae and Rhaphidophorinae from Southern-eastern Asia (i.e., India, Bhutan, China, Philippines and the Sulawesi islands); Dolichopodainae and Troglophilinae from the Mediterranean region and Ceuthophilinae from North America. Based on previous papers, we carried out an analysis of both mitochondrial and nuclear DNA sequences considering the ribosomal RNA units 12S, 16S, 18S, and 28S. To reconstruct phylogeny, we use cladistics, Maximum Likelihood (ML), and Bayesian analyses. All phylogenetic analyses showed the same highly supported topology generally congruent with the classical systematic arrangement at the level of each sub-family but strongly disagree with previous affinity hypotheses between sub-families based on morphological characters. Our results reveal a close affinity between Asiatic and Gondwanian taxa from one hand and between North American and Mediterranean ones from the other hand. Dating estimates indicated that Rhaphidophoridae originated in the Cretaceous period during the Mesozoic era with the ancestral area located both in the northern and southern hemisphere. A possible biogeographic scenario, reconstructed using S-DEC with RASP software, suggested that the current distribution of Rhaphidophoridae might be explained by a combination of both dispersal and vicariance events occurred especially in the ancestral populations. The radiation of Rhaphidophoridae started within the Pangaea, where the ancestor of Rhaphidophoridae occurred throughout an ancestral area including Australia, North America, and the Mediterranean region. The opening of the Atlantic Ocean promoted the divergence of North American and Mediterranean lineages while the differentiation of the southern lineages, spread from Australia, appears to be related to the fragmentation of Gondwana land. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Bathysciola is widely distributed in the northern Mediterranean region, although its range extends east to the Caucasus and Iran. More than 130 species belonging to this genus are actually known in the whole geographic distribution area and 45 species are distributed in continental and insular Italy. The species belonging to the Bathysciola sisernica Cerruti and Patrizi, 1952 species group occur in the Central-Southern Italian Apennines and Pre-Apennines. This group consists of seven species, four of which (B. sisernica, B. delayi Latella and Rampini, 1994, B. rampinii Latella, 2002, B. sbordoni Rampini and Latella, 1993) were already known to science and three are described herein, Bathysciola fabiolae sp. nov., Bathysciola octaviani sp. nov., and Bathysciola valeriae sp. nov., markedly increasing the knowledge on the distribution of this genus in Central Italy. A morphological analysis was carried out based on diagnostic characters usually used to distinguish different taxa, and including both genitalia and external traits. Based on morphological characters, we reconstructed the phylogeny of this group of species, comparing them with the species belonging to other phyletic lineages, such as B. derosasi Jeannel, 1914, B. georgi Cerruti, Patrizi, 1952, B. vignai Sbordoni and Rampini, 1978, and B. sarteanensis sarteanensis (Bargagli, 1870). Results suggested that morphological traits show a clear taxonomic signal but a poor phylogenetic signal. To better understand the relationships within this group of species, we performed a molecular analysis by sequencing three mitochondrial genes, 12S rRNA, 16S rRNA, partially sequenced and the entire gene of COI. Molecular markers were used to infer phylogenetic relationships among the Bathysciola sisernica species group and to reconstruct the historical processes that shaped their current geographic distribution. Results showed that these species became isolated in very ancient times, showing very high genetic differentiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The most stable isotope of radon, 222Rn, represents the major source of natural radioactivity in confined environments such as mines, caves and houses. In this study, we explored the possible radon-related effects on the genome of Dolichopoda cave crickets (Orthoptera, Rhaphidophoridae) sampled in caves with different concentrations of radon. We analyzed specimens from ten populations belonging to two genetically closely related species, D. geniculata and D. laetitiae, and explored the possible association between the radioactivity dose and the level of genetic polymorphism in a specific family of satellite DNA (pDo500 satDNA). Radon concentration in the analyzed caves ranged from 221 to 26000 Bq/m3. Specimens coming from caves with the highest radon concentration showed also the highest variability estimates in both species, and the increased sequence heterogeneity at pDo500 satDNA level can be explained as an effect of the mutation pressure induced by radon in cave. We discovered a specific category of nuclear DNA, the highly repetitive satellite DNA, where the effects of the exposure at high levels of radon-related ionizing radiation are detectable, suggesting that the satDNA sequences might be a valuable tool to disclose harmful effects also in other organisms exposed to high levels of radon concentration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cave-dwelling organisms belong to widely different evolutionary lineages but they show parallel or convergent evolution in several morphological and physiological traits such as elongated appendages, lower metabolism, specialized sensory systems, loss of eye and pigmentation. Circadian rhythms in locomotor activity have already been documented in hypogean insects but ultradian rhythmicity in cave-dwelling organisms has been reported only by recent authors. We selectedLaemostenus latialisas a good candidate to investigate the biological clock functioning in a species thought to be at its beginning of the process of cave evolution in the darkness. We based our analysis on inferential methods used here to obtain the quantitative resolution of the rhythm features. An automatic electronic device was developed to this purpose so to continuously monitoring the general locomotor activity of individual cave-dwelling beetles. We found significant locomotor rhythms to be present and thatLaemostenusmaintained a 24-h circadian rhythm but with a different amplitude. We observed two different and opposite behavioural patterns: the “Rhythmic group” showed a typical circadian rhythmicity of surface-dwelling animals with a surprisingly and extremely stable circadian period and with a restricted variance and a high amplitude. Differently, within the “arrhythmic group” we have observed an evanescent circadian period with high variability in tau, a larger variance and a lower amplitude. DFT spectral analysis showed the presence of ultradian rhythms with several significant peaks in the range 1–10?h and a main peak at 12?h, similar to those found in mysid crustaceans, cockroaches and mice. Ultradian rhythm looked independent from the circadian one and we did not observe any regularity. Further experimental studies are still needed to track the variation of this trait along the process of adaptation to cave life, particularly in closely related populations and species of troglophilic animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Biological invasions can be considered one of the main threats to biodiversity, and the recognition of common ecological and evolutionary features among invaders can help developing a predictive framework to control further invasions. In particular, the analysis of successful invasive species and of their autochthonous source populations by means of genetic, phylogeographic and demographic tools can provide novel insights into the study of biological invasion patterns. Today, long-term dynamics of biological invasions are still poorly understood and need further investigations. Moreover, distribution and molecular data on native populations could contribute to the recognition of common evolutionary features of successful aliens. Results: We analyzed 2,195 mitochondrial base pairs, including Cytochrome b, Control Region and rRNA 12S, in 161 Italian and 27 African specimens and assessed the ancient invasive origin of Italian crested porcupine (Hystrix cristata) populations from Tunisia. Molecular coalescent-based Bayesian analyses proposed the Roman Age as a putative timeframe of introduction and suggested a retention of genetic diversity during the early phases of colonization. The characterization of the native African genetic background revealed the existence of two differentiated clades: a Mediterranean group and a Sub-Saharan one. Both standard population genetic and advanced molecular demography tools (Bayesian Skyline Plot) did not evidence a clear genetic signature of the expected increase in population size after introduction. Along with the genetic diversity retention during the bottlenecked steps of introduction, this finding could be better described by hypothesizing a multi-invasion event. Conclusion: Evidences of the ancient anthropogenic invasive origin of the Italian Hystrix cristata populations were clearly shown and the native African genetic background was preliminary described. A more complex pattern than a simple demographic exponential growth from a single propagule seems to have characterized this long-term invasion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Focuses on the phylogenetic relationships in two distinct species assemblages of cave-dwelling beetles with similar disjunct distributions in the Pyrenees and Sardinia. Phylogenetic reconstruction; Molecular rates; Rates of morphological changes.

Focuses on methods which can be used to estimate gene flow in cave and surface populations of the troglophilic woodlouse, Androniscus dentiger, from central Italy. Factors which influence gene flow; What influenced the accuracy of gene flow results attained in studies.

In this paper, we studied the genetic variability in Weddell seal from colonies in Terra Nova Bay and Wood Bay, both sites located in the Ross Sea area, Antarctica. Two mitochondrial genes and one nuclear gene, with different mutation rates, were sequenced to investigate the haplotype diversity of the colonies and to test for a possible recent expansion. Fifteen microsatellites were used to analyze their genetic structure. Sequenced genes and microsatellites were also used to estimate the effective population size of the studied colonies and the Ross Sea seal population. The Ross Sea has a high density population of Weddel seals, with an estimated effective number of 50,000 females, and 1,341 individuals for the sampling area, possibly due to its high primary production. The colonies showed high diversity (Hd > 0.90) and many exclusive haplotypes (> 75%), likely a consequence of the surprisingly high site fidelity of Weddell seals, despite the proximity of the colonies. Nevertheless, there was low microsatellite differentiation between colonies, suggesting that they are part of a single larger population. Their expansion seemed to have started during the last glacial cycle (around 58,000 years ago), indicating that the Ross Sea seal populations have been present in the area for long time, probably due to the lack of hunting by humans and terrestrial predation. As a top predator, the role of Weddell seals in the Ross Sea ecology is crucial, and its demographic dynamics should be monitored to follow the future changes of such an important ecosystem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper we present new data on the larval-pupal parasitoid Erycia furibunda found in association with coexisting populations of E. aurinia provincialis in Central Italy. For the first time we provide information on the biology of this tachinid revealing the duration of puparium stage, the protandry and adult phenology in captive conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we show the results of research that can inform conservation measures elsewhere in Europe for the endangered butterfly Euphydryas aurinia. a five year field study was undertaken to identify the host plant preference of larvae of Euphydryas aurinia provincialis in the Mediterranean and which signals are used by females to lay their eggs. The females oviposit on Gentiana cruciata, Scabiosa columbaria and Cephalaria leucantha; the larvae feed on all these plants and additionally on Lonicera caprifoliumin the wild and on Gentiana lutea in the laboratory. The females do not show any preference for a specific host plant and the larvae move from one species of plant to another without any difficulty. The most important factors in determining the female oviposition are the visibility, accessibility and sun-exposure of the host plants. The vegetative state of host plants is the key factor in larval use of plants during the pre- and post-diapause period. The large-sized host plants, G. cruciata and C. leucantha, are optimal for the growth and survival of the pre-diapause I-III larval instar, while they are unavailable to the larvae in Spring because of their delayed vegetative growth. The post-diapause larvae preferentially feed on plants of S. columbaria, and to lesser degree L. caprifolium, as they provide and abundant food source compared with G. cruciata and C. leucantha. The results also suggest that, there is an evolutionary advantage in large numbers of caterpillars feeding together, with the females of E. aurinia provincialis preferring to lay their eggs nearby or above egg batches laid previously by another female, and selecting large plants for oviposition. Despite the competition for food among caterpillars, the oviposition behaviour of females is advantageous and increases the larval survival rate on large plants. The gregarious larval behaviour provides several benefits during both pre-diapause period (avoiding starvation) and post-diapause period (efficiency in thermoregulation). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mediterranean trout populations display a diversity of phenotypes, representing a valuable model for the study of adaptation and a puzzling dilemma for taxonomists and biogeographers, which is further entangled by the widespread introgression of allochthonous genes. In this paper we analysed DNA polymorphism at multiple loci (sequence variation of the mitochondrial control region and eight nuclear fragments and length variation at eleven nuclear microsatellite loci) in representative samples of the autochthonous taxonomic diversity described in Italian trout populations ( Salmo marmoratus , S. carpio , S. cenerinus , S. cettii and S. fibreni ) and in samples from hatchery-originated strains of Atlantic S. trutta . We employed model-based clustering and Approximate Bayesian Computation in order to: (i) describe the phylogeographic structure of Italian autochthonous trout populations; (ii) evaluate a set of evolutionary/biogeographic models. The inclusion of hatchery-originated strains allowed to account for man-mediated allochthonous introgression in Italian populations. Our results (i) showed that the analysed sample consists of two main autochthonous evolutionary lineages, including the marble trout populations on one side (‘marble’ lineage) and the three peninsular populations of S. cettii , S. cenerinus and S. fibreni on the other side (‘peninsular’ lineage); (ii) indicated that S. carpio originated from a ‘peninsular’ population, with a possible, limited contribution from the ‘marble’ lineage; (iii) pointed out that the ‘marble’ lineage started diverging before the separation of the ‘peninsular’ lineage from Atlantic S. trutta ; (iv) suggested that a model of divergence involving gene flow from the ‘peninsular’ population into the ancestral gene pool of ‘marble’ trout is most consistent with the genetic data; (v) provided evidence that the autochthonous trout gene pools in the Tyrrhenian and Adriatic basins of the Italian peninsula started diverging very recently (most likely after the last glacial maximum). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim To produce a dynamic model of tree line position and habitat suitability for temperate and warm temperate forests, with high spatial and temporal resolution from the Last Glacial Maximum to the present, using an approach based on the quasi-constant altitudinal difference between the tree line altitude ( TLA) and the equilibrium line altitude ( ELA) of glaciers. Location Central Mediterranean. Methods Data sets of current tree line position and ELA were integrated and five different scenarios of tree line shifts were simulated at a millennial scale. The model was parameterized using a dense palynological data set (964 time points, representing 121 pollen sampling sites). The simulated tree line fluctuations were compared with those of the boreal forest reconstructed using field data from the southern Alps. Results The reconstructed evolution of TLA yielded good results for the interval of tree line formation (correct assignment rate: lower limit = 98.29%; upper limit = 94.29%) and the best-fitting scenario within each millennium tree line (combined scenarios: AUC ± 2 SD = 0.877 ± 0.047; Kappa ± 2 SD = 0.651 ± 0.100). There was also strong agreement between the simulated and the reconstructed tree line fluctuations for both the timing and magnitude of tree line shift. Main conclusions Although all the analyses support the hypothesis of a quasi-constant difference between TLA and ELA, we found a major relative upward shift of the tree line position within the interval of tree line formation, probably due to the increase in both precipitation and atmospheric CO2 concentration since the onset of the Bølling-Allerød Interstadial. Palaeodistribution maps may be useful for drawing inferences about the biogeography of single temperate and warm temperate species or for recolonization simulations; however, model-based inferences will need to account for several variables, including local climate variability, fire and herbivore disturbance, and lack of complete spatial association between modelled forests and species of interest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This study focuses on the phylogenetic relationships among ninety percent of known Dolichopoda species (44 out of 49); primarily a Mediterranean genus, distributed from eastern Pyrenees to Caucasus. A total of 2490 base pairs were sequenced corresponding to partial sequences of one nuclear (28SrRNA) and three mitochondrial genes (12S, 16S and COI). A relaxed molecular clock, inferred from Bayesian analysis was applied to estimate the divergence times between the lineages using well dated palaeoevents of the study areas. Molecular substitution rates per lineage per million years were also obtained for each analyzed gene. Based on the nearly complete species phylogeny, temporal patterns of diversification were analyzed using Lineage-Through-Time plots and diversification statistics. Alternative hypotheses about the colonization of present range by Dolichopoda species were tested by means of Approximate Bayesian Computation analysis. Results from this analysis carried out on the 90% of known Dolichopoda species confirmed the previous ones based on subgroups of species, suggesting the ABC analysis as a remarkable tool in biogeographic studies. Based on these results, the distribution of Dolichopoda species appears to have been shaped by the palaeogeographic and climatic events that occurred from Late Miocene up to the Plio-Pleistocene. Both vicariance and dispersal events appear to have influenced Dolichopoda species distributions, with many processes occurring in ancestral epigean populations before the invasion of the subterranean environment. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This study focuses on the phylogenetic relationships among a number of West-Mediterranean cave crickets species belonging to Dolichopoda; primarily a Mediterranean genus, distributed from eastern Pyrenees to Caucasus. In this paper, 11 Dolichopoda species from the French Pyrenees (D. linderi), the island of Corsica (D. bormansi and D. cyrnensis), and northern, central, and southern Italy (D. ligustica, D. schiavazzii, D. aegilion, D. baccettii, D. laetitiae, D. geniculata, D. capreensis, and D. palpata) were studied. Two more species, one from the Caucasus, D. euxina, and one from Greece, D. remyi, were also included in the analyses, together with more distant species within the same family to be used as outgroups. Fifteen hundred base pairs of mitochondrial DNA, corresponding to the small subunit of the ribosomal RNA (16S rRNA) and to the subunit I of the cytochrome oxidase I (COI), were sequenced in order to clarify the phylogenetic relationships and biogeography of this group of Mediterranean cave crickets. The molecular data are congruent with a phylogeographic pattern; with the geographically close species also the most related ones. Based on mtDNA divergence, the present-day distribution of genetic diversity seems to have been impacted by climatic events due to glacial and interglacial cycles that have characterized the Pleistocene era. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Dolichopoda schiavazzii is a cave cricket species endemic to Tuscany, Italy. This species inhabits natural limestone caves and also man-made hypogean environments. Dolichopoda schiavazzii can colonize new environments both passively and actively. This species shows a metapopulational structure depending on both the cave's external bioclimatic conditions and the geographical distance. This paper reports data on 26 allozyme loci in nine populations of D. s. schiavazzii and in one of D. s. caprai, investigates their genetic structuring and provides measures of gene flow between them at different geographical scales. Some loci showed heterozygote deficiencies, probably owing to the Wahlund effect, caused by the mixing of individuals belonging to two different cohorts. Genetic subdivision is high, particularly among populations inhabiting caves located on the Tyrrhenian coast. The mean F[sub ST] (θ estimator) across populations was 0.34. An analysis of the gene flow levels, carried out by comparing pairwise Nm values, indicates that the number of migrants drops as the geographical distance increases, suggesting the actual occurrence of gene flow only between geographically close populations in an inner area of Tuscany where the occurrence of mesophilous woods might favour migration between caves. The general picture, however, is one of a substantial lack of gene flow, even if a significant trend of isolation by distance is found, probably reflecting historical gene flow. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To identify the effect of multiple, temporally close, forcing events (i.e. climate‐driven habitat fragmentations/homogenizations) in shaping current patterns of biodiversity in alpine areas. Given their spatial configuration, alpine areas have been traditionally seen as islands surrounded by an "ocean" of unsuitable lands. A quantitative assessment of the effects of Holocene climate fluctuations on islands area and inter‐island connectivity is crucial to finely reconstruct past biodiversity dynamics and forecast species responses to future changes. Location: Italy. Taxa: Carabidae (Ground beetles), Chrysomelidae (Leaf beetles), Elateridae (Click beetles), Orthoptera (Grasshoppers and Crickets) and Papilionoidea (Butterflies and Skippers). Methods: A total of 1,077 species for 128,093 records were analysed and a classification based on their functional traits allowed identifying groups of good and poor dispersers within each taxon. A dynamic discrete model of ecosystem evolution provided the spatio‐temporal context to test two competing (transient equilibria vs. nonequilibrium) dynamics based on different colonization capabilities. In the transient equilibria dynamic the species are able to respond to island evolution through successful dispersal and colonization events, whereas in the nonequilibrium dynamic ineffective immigration constrains the current species richness to that generated by the strongest island contraction. Results: With the exception of Elateridae, good dispersers (Chrysomelidae and Papilionoidea) responded to environmental changes by establishing a series of transient equilibria. In contrast, the nonequilibrium dynamic better described patterns of species richness in poor dispersers (Carabidae and Orthoptera). Main conclusions: Our approach could be used as the basis for the development of spatially and temporally explicit models of island evolution and could be a valuable tool for quantifying the sensitivity of single taxa to climate‐driven habitat changes. It also represents a further step towards the forecasting of future responses to climate change and the accompanying development of conservation strategies that more effectively respond to the detrimental impacts of climate change on biodiversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The Italian biodiversity is among the richest in Europe. In particular, the Italian butterfly fauna includes almost 300 native species, and within the Euro‐Mediterranean area is second in species richness only to Turkey. Italy, however, has suffered from the lack of suitable instruments to evaluate the extinction risk of individual butterfly species on the basis of internationally recognised standards. We have been working to create the first Italian Red List for butterflies. The achievement of this goal was divided into three actions: (i) the institution of a network of experts on butterfly conservation; (ii) the evaluation of the extinction risk for all Italian butterfly species; (iii) the integration of the baseline information provided by the Italian Red Lists of other taxa crucial for future evaluations of biodiversity trends in Italy. Assessments of extinction risks were based on the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria following their most updated guidelines and were discussed during workshops involving experts from different Italian regions. All native Italian butterflies were included in the evaluation. The whole national population of each species was evaluated, including those on large and small islands. Of 289 butterfly species assessed, one has become Regionally Extinct recently. Threatened species are 18 in total, corresponding to 6.3% of the species assessed. The majority of Italian butterfly populations are stable. The main threats to Italian butterflies are natural reforestation, as a consequence of rural land abandonment, agricultural intensification and climate change for species living at high altitude. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pheromones are known to play an important role in butterfly courtship and may influence both individual reproductive success and reproductive isolation between species. Recent studies have focused on courtship in Hipparchia butterflies (Nymphalidae: Satyrinae) emphasizing morphological and behavioural traits, as well as genetic differences. Behavioural observations suggested a role for chemical cues in mate and species recognition, where the androconial scales on the forewings of these species may be involved in chemical communication between individuals. Cchemical-mediated signals have received relatively little attention in this genus. Here, we report the results of a three-year investigation of the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released by Hipparchia fagi and H. hermione in order to identify differences in VOCs between these species where they live in syntopy. Our study was carried out using an array of cross-selective sensors known as an "Electronic Nose" (EN) that operates by converting chemical patterns into patterns of sensor signals. While the identity of volatile compounds remained unknown, sensor signals can be compared to identify similar or dissimilar chemical patterns. Based on the EN signals, our results showed that: 1) the two sexes have a similar VOCs pattern in H. fagi, while they significantly diverge in H. hermione; 2) VOCs patterns were different between females of the two species, while those of males were not. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we investigated the molecular phylogenetic divergence and historical biogeography of cave crickets belonging to the genus Troglophilus (Orthoptera, Rhaphidophoridae) from caves in eastern Mediterranean and Anatolia regions. Three mitochondrial DNA genes ( COI, 12S rDNA, and 16S rDNA) and two nuclear ones ( 18S rDNA and 28S rDNA) were amplified and partially sequenced to reconstruct phylogenetic relationships among most of the known Troglophilus species. Results showed a well-resolved phylogeny with three main clades representing the Balkan, the Anatolian, and the Cycladian-Cretan lineages. Based on Bayesian analyses, we applied a relaxed molecular clock model to estimate the divergence times between these three lineages. Dating estimates indicate that radiation of the ingroup might have been triggered by the opening of the Mid-Aegean trench, while the uplift of the Anatolian Plateau in Turkey and the changes of relief, emergence, and disappearance of orographic and hydrographical barriers in the Balkan Peninsula are potential paleogeographic events responsible for the initial diversification of the genus Troglophilus. A possible biogeographic scenario, reconstructed using S- DIVA with RASP software, suggested that the current distribution of Troglophilus species can be explained by a combination of both dispersal and vicariance events that occurred in particular in the ancestral populations. The radiation of Troglophilus species likely started from the Aegean and proceeded eastward to Anatolia and westward to the Balkan region. Results are additionally compared to those available for Dolichopoda, the only other representative genus of Rhaphidophoridae present in the Mediterranean area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim Niche stability areas ( NSAs) are portions of the species range where climate conditions remain suitable through time. They represent the core of species ranges. Their distribution and extent, coupled with dispersal and colonization, shape the realized range of species. In this study, we quantified the roles of survival within NSAs and post-glacial dispersal in determining the current distribution of two groups of alpine butterflies (two taxa in the Erebia tyndarus species complex; three taxa in the Parnassius apollo- P. phoebus species complex). Location Holarctic. Methods NSAs were identified for each taxon by combining current and past potential distributions models, estimated using different modelling techniques and general circulation models. We then (1) assessed the distributional bias towards NSAs by comparing actual occurrence records with randomized occupancies of the current potential range and (2) quantified post-glacial dispersal by examining the distribution of distances from each occurrence record to the nearest NSA. Results In almost all taxa, realized distributions are biased towards NSAs. However, while Erebia's present range is strongly dominated by NSAs, some populations of Parnassius are found very far from NSAs, suggesting more effective colonization of the available geographical space. Main conclusions Our study highlights the relative roles of survival within NSAs and post-glacial dispersal in shaping the ranges of different alpine butterflies during the Holocene. Results suggest that Erebia was unable to disperse far from NSAs, thus experiencing increasing range fragmentation. Parnassius populations, on the other hand, coupled local survival with northward dispersal. As NSAs allowed the long-term survival of the species, acting as sources for recolonization, and tend to preserve most of each species' genetic diversity, identifying NSAs and understanding their importance in determining the current distribution of species represents a pivotal task for the conservation of biological diversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

All species concepts are rooted in reproductive, and ultimately genealogical, relations. Genetic data are thus the most important source of information for species delimitation. Current ease of access to genomic data and recent computational advances are blooming a plethora of coalescent-based species delimitation methods. Despite their utility as objective approaches to identify species boundaries, coalescent-based methods (1) rely on simplified demographic models that may fail to capture some attributes of biological species, (2) do not make explicit use of the geographic information contained in the data, and (3) are often computationally intensive. In this article, we present a case of species delimitation in the Erebia tyndarus species complex, a taxon regarded as a classic example of problematic taxonomic resolution. Our approach to species delimitation used genomic data to test predictions rooted in the biological species concept and in the criterion of coexistence in sympatry. We (1) obtained restriction-site associated DNA (RAD) sequencing data from a carefully designed sample, (2) applied two genotype clustering algorithms to identify genetic clusters, and (3) performed within clusters and between-clusters analyses of isolation by distance as a test for intrinsic reproductive barriers. Comparison of our results with those from a Bayes factor delimitation coalescent-based analysis, showed that coalescent-based approaches may lead to overconfident splitting of allopatric populations, and indicated that incorrect species delimitation is likely to be inferred when an incomplete geographic sample is analyzed. While we acknowledge the theoretical justification and practical usefulness of coalescent-based species delimitation methods, our results stress that, even in the phylogenomic era, the toolkit for species delimitation should not dismiss more traditional, biologically grounded, approaches coupling genomic data with geographic information. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Dolichopoda (Orthoptera; Rhaphidopohoridae) is present in Italy with 9 species distributed from northwestern Italy (Piedmont and Liguria) to the southernmost Apennines (Calabria), occurring also in the Tyrrhenian coastal areas and in Sardinia. Three morphologically very close taxa have been described in Piedmont and Liguria, i.e., D. ligustica ligustica, D. ligustica septentrionalis and D. azami azami. To investigate the delimitation of the northwestern species of Dolichopoda, we performed both morphological and molecular analyses. Morphological analysis was carried out by considering diagnostic characters generally used to distinguish different taxa, as the shape of epiphallus in males and the subgenital plate in females. Molecular analysis was performed by sequencing three mitochondrial genes, 12S rRNA, 16S rRNA, partially sequenced and the entire gene of COI. Results from both morphological and molecular analyses highlighted a very homogeneous group of populations, although genetically structured. Three haplogroups geographically distributed could be distinguished and based on these results we suggest a new taxonomic arrangement. All populations, due to the priority of description, should be assigned to D. azami azami Saulcy, 1893 and to preserve the names ligustica and septentrionalis, corresponding to different genetic haplogroups, we assign them to D. azami ligustica Baccetti & Capra, 1959, stat. n. and to D. azami septentrionalis Baccetti & Capra, 1959, stat. n. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Dolichopoda (Orthoptera; Rhaphidopohoridae) is present in Italy with 9 species distributed from northwestern Italy (Piedmont and Liguria) to the southernmost Apennines (Calabria), occurring also in the Tyrrhenian coastal areas and in Sardinia. Three morphologically very close taxa have been described in Piedmont and Liguria, i.e., D. ligustica ligustica, D. ligustica septentrionalis and D. azami azami. To investigate the delimitation of the northwestern species of Dolichopoda, we performed both morphological and molecular analyses. Morphological analysis was carried out by considering diagnostic characters generally used to distinguish different taxa, as the shape of epiphallus in males and the subgenital plate in females. Molecular analysis was performed by sequencing three mitochondrial genes, 12S rRNA, 16S rRNA, partially sequenced and the entire gene of COI. Results from both morphological and molecular analyses highlighted a very homogeneous group of populations, although genetically structured. Three haplogroups geographically distributed could be distinguished and based on these results we suggest a new taxonomic arrangement. All populations, due to the priority of description, should be assigned to D. azami azami Saulcy, 1893 and to preserve the names ligustica and septentrionalis, corresponding to different genetic haplogroups, we assign them to D. azami ligustica Baccetti & Capra, 1959, stat. n. and to D. azami septentrionalis Baccetti & Capra, 1959, stat. n. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Radon represents the major source of natural radioactivity in confined environments. Despite the clear evidence of a direct association between residential exposure and human lung cancer provided by case-control studies, results relating indoor exposure and genotoxic/mutagenic effect induction are still contradictory. The present study attempts to estimate the genotoxic effects induced by exposure to radioactive radon in wild cricket populations sampled from caves where varying concentrations of radon are present. Cave crickets are also tested as possible bio-indicator organisms of genotoxic potential of contaminated residential and confined environments. Six caves in Central Italy are considered covering a broad spectrum of radon radioactivity concentration (221-26,000 Bq/m3). Dolichopoda specimens were sampled from each cave; both haemocytes and brain cells taken from individuals were tested for responsiveness to DNA damage induced by radon through the Comet assay. Specimens from the least radioactive cave, housed in controlled conditions for 60 days before analysis, were used as control group. Statistically significant increase of DNA damage was found in all groups of individuals from each cave, for both cell types. Very low values of all Comet parameters were found in control group individuals, which gave indications of a good responsiveness of the organism to the variable environmental levels of radioactive contamination. Results indicate that cave crickets represent a reliable tool for the detection of genotoxic potential induced by radioactive contamination of confined environments and can be proposed as a possible bio-indicator system for air (-radioactive) pollution related to indoor exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Eupholidoptera includes 46 Mediterranean species distributed from Turkey to Greece, Italy and southern France. In the eastern part of its range, Eupholidoptera has been considered to consist of several distinct species, while in the Balkans and Italian peninsula only E. chabrieri has been recognized. However, the status of some Italian populations, confined to particular geographic areas, remains uncertain. To investigate the delimitation of the Italian taxa of Eupholidoptera, we performed both morphological and molecular analyses. Morphological analysis was carried out by considering diagnostic characters usually used to distinguish different taxa, such as the shape of titillators in males and the subgenital plate in females. Molecular analysis was performed by sequencing three mitochondrial genes: 12S r RNA, 16S r RNA, partially sequenced and the entire gene of cox1. Molecular markers were used to infer phylogenetic relationships among the Italian Eupholidoptera species and to reconstruct the historical processes that shaped their current geographic distribution. Results from both morphological and molecular analyses were used to revise the taxonomic arrangement of species. On the whole we were able to distinguish nine lineages of Italian Eupholidoptera, of which E. tyrrhenica sp.n. from Corsica is described as a new species. This published work has been registered in ZooBank, http://zoobank.org/urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:EBD181A0-5263-4880-AC80-66F624506E3A. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Karst habitats host a high number of specialized organisms that contribute to complex and peculiar food webs. In underground aquatic habitats, vertebrates are the top predators that strongly influence and regulate prey communities. In this study, the diet of the Italian crested newt, Triturus carnifex, in the world's deepest karst phreatic sinkhole, the Pozzo del Merro in Latium, central Italy, was analyzed. We obtained both stomach and fecal contents from twenty adult newts (ten females and ten males) sampled in summer 2010. Availability of prey in the sinkhole also was determined. Prey items were identified and classified into ten ecological groups. At Pozzo del Merro, during the summer, the aquatic stage of T. carnifex was specialized on the pre-imaginal stages of the small China-mark, Cataclysta lemnata. The recently described endemic stygobitic crustacean Niphargus cornicolanus was not found in stomach contents. Finally, our results showed that analyses of stomach and fecal contents may provide different information on the diet of newts in their aquatic phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two species of chironomid midges are currently described in the genus Belgica Jacobs, 1900. Belgica antarctica Jacobs, 1900 is endemic to parts of the maritime Antarctic, and Belgica albipes (Séguy, 1965) is endemic to Îles Crozet, a sub-Antarctic archipelago in the southern Indian Ocean. The relationships between these species, and their closest known relative ( Eretmoptera murphyi Schaeffer, 1914, endemic to sub-Antarctic South Georgia), were examined by sequencing DNA fragments for domains 1 and 3-5 of 28S ribosomal DNA and the mitochondrial gene cytochrome c oxidase 1 ( cox1). The resulting molecular relationships between the three species were unclear, although their position within the subfamily Orthocladiinae of the Chironomidae, as generated by classical taxonomy, was confirmed. Our data reinforce earlier doubts, based on classical morphological approaches, that the generic placement of E. murphyi may be incorrect. Further analyses may indeed confirm that the species represents a third member of the genus Belgica. Genetic distance analysis, limited to the barcode region of cox1, indicated high differentiation between the two populations of B. albipes sampled (one obtained from the type location), suggesting the likely presence of cryptic species within this taxon, and that the taxonomic status of this species should be revised. Analysis of cox1 sequences in B. antarctica highlighted a strong genetic structure between populations obtained from 12 locations along the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands archipelago, with a number of distinctive mtDNA lineages inhabiting geographically distinct areas. In particular, we found four different haplogroups constituting geographically close but genetically distinct populations, a pattern likely to have been encouraged by the brachyptery of the members of this genus. We suggest that the different genetic patterns shown by each haplogroup have probably been determined by historical dispersal and colonization events during the Pleistocene, and are consistent with their survival in refuges in situ during successive glacial maxima over this period. © 2012 The Linnean Society of London, Biological Journal of the Linnean Society, 2012, 106, 258-274. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim Our study provides a description of the mitogenetic structure of alpine butterflies of the Parnassius phoebus complex throughout their Holarctic distribution. Our analyses extend and reassess population history models for alpine butterflies under an explicit calibration of their mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) substitution rate. Location Mountain ranges of the Holarctic region. Methods A fragment (824 bp) of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene was sequenced in 203 samples (72 locations), and combined with previously available COI sequences (499 samples), to obtain full coverage of the Holarctic distribution of the P. phoebus complex. A global species distribution model (SDM) was calculated by the maximum entropy (Maxent) approach, allowing assignment of samples into geographically consistent 'operational' units. Phylogenetic and coalescent methods were applied to describe the global mitogenetic structure and estimate population genetics parameters. Geological and palaeoecological evidence was used for internal calibration and validation of a COI substitution rate. Results Eurasian (including Alaskan) and North American populations form two distinct mitochondrial clades. The mitochondrial time to most recent common ancestor (TMRCA) of the North American clade was estimated at less than 125 ka, and the TMRCA of the Eurasian-Alaskan clade at less than 80 ka, except for a single divergent sequence from Mongolia. Pairwise divergence times between all geographical units within each continent date well within the last 100 ka, and most likely, the last 50-10 ka. Main conclusions In contrast with its currently scattered distribution within each of Eurasia and North America, the mitogenetic structure of the P. phoebus complex in both continents is shallow and weak, and shows no evidence of geographical structure dating back earlier than the last glacial cycle. We argue that mtDNA data are consistent with recent (Würm/Wisconsin) range expansion across each of the two continents and with persistent glacial long-range gene flow which ceased during the Holocene. We propose that P. phoebus may represent a model for Holarctic alpine invertebrates with moderate dispersal abilities in that its genetic structure at a continental scale reflects extensive connectivity during the most recent glacial phases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Italian endemic genus Salamandrina has been historically regarded as monotypic but, recently, studies based on both mitochondrial and nuclear markers have indicated the existence of two distinct species of spectacled salamanders: Salamandrina perspicillata, in central and northern Italy, and Salamandrina terdigitata, in southern Italy. We analyzed nucleotide variation at mitochondrial and nuclear genes [cytochrome b, 12S and 16S rRNA, recombination activating gene (RAG 1)] in 223 individuals from 56 locations, aiming to investigate their genetic structure and recent evolutionary histories. Phylogenetic and phylogeographical analyses revealed the existence of three and two genetically distinct groups of populations in northern and southern salamander, respectively. Historical demographic analyses led to the inference of range expansion for both species in the late Pleistocene. During the last glacial stage, each salamander survived in a single refugium, namely the southern in Calabria and the northern in central Italy. At the end of this period, both lineages expanded northward and established secondary contact. Spatial distribution of RAG 1 haplotype variation revealed two differentiated population groups corresponding to the major mitochondrial (mt)DNA clades. Nuclear pattern of introgressive hybridization was more extensive than the highly limited introgression of mtDNA markers. From a conservation standpoint, southern Latium and Calabria proved to be the major genetic diversity reservoirs, thus deserving particular conservation efforts. © 2011 The Linnean Society of London, Biological Journal of the Linnean Society, 2011, 104, 903-922. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parnassius apollo (Linnaeus, 1758) is probably the most renowned Eurasian montane butterfly. Its specialized ecology makes it very sensitive to habitat and climate changes, so that it is now experiencing range contraction and local extinction across most of its range. We sequenced 869 bp of the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) cytochrome oxidase I gene in 78 P. apollo populations (201 individuals) in order to: (1) assess the phylogeographic pattern of the species; (2) shed light on the historical biogeographic processes that shaped the distribution of the species; and (3) identify geographic population units of special value for the conservation of the species' genetic diversity. Our analyses revealed a very strong phylogeographic structure in P. apollo, which displays a number of distinctive mtDNA lineages populating geographically distinct areas. Overall sequence divergence is relatively shallow, and is consistent with a recent (late Pleistocene) colonization of most of the range. We propose that P. apollo is best viewed as an atypical glacial invader in southern and western Europe, the isolated, montane populations of which, threatened by climate warming, retain a large fraction of the species evolutionary heritage. © 2010 The Linnean Society of London, Biological Journal of the Linnean Society, 2010, 101, 169–183. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Helleria brevicornis has a disjunct, peri-Tyrrhenian distribution that mirrors that of several organisms, for which geographic vicariance is invoked, due to the geological events started with the Oligocene split of the Sardo-Corsican microplate from the Pyrenees, and successive separation between Sardinia and Corsica. Molecular phylogenetic analyses demonstrated that such a biogeographic model does not apply to Helleria. The original split of the Sardinian and Corsican lineages originated in the Early Pliocene. Further diversification occurred later. The colonization of the Tuscan archipelago, French, and Italian mainland occurred most recently, but a possible time dependency bias suggests that such colonization was driven by human-transport. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Aim To investigate the molecular phylogenetic divergence and historical biogeography of cave crickets belonging to the genus Dolichopoda (Orthoptera, Rhaphidophoridae). Location Caves in continental and insular Greece. Methods We sequenced 1967 bp of mitochondrial DNA, corresponding to three fragments of the small and large subunit of the ribosomal RNA (16S and 12S rRNA, respectively) and to the subunit I of cytochrome oxidase (COI), to reconstruct phylogenetic relationships among all 30 known Greek species of Dolichopoda. Alternative hypotheses about the colonization of the Hellenic Peninsula by Dolichopoda species were tested by comparing the degree of discordance between species trees and gene trees under four plausible biogeographical scenarios. Results The present study revealed a rather well resolved phylogeny at species level, identifying a number of clades that represent long-separated lineages and diverse evolutionary histories within the genus Dolichopoda. Two main clades were revealed within Hellenic–Aegean species, identifying a north-western and a south-eastern species group. Based on Bayesian analysis, we applied a relaxed molecular clock to estimate the divergence times between the lineages. The results revealed that the origins of eastern Mediterranean lineages are much older than those of previously studied western Mediterranean Dolichopoda. Tests of alternative biogeographical hypotheses showed that a double colonization of the Hellenic Peninsula, following separate continental and trans-Aegean routes during the Messinian stage, best accounts for the present distribution of Greek Dolichopoda species. Main conclusions Reconstruction and biogeographical hypothesis testing indicated that the colonization of Greece by Dolichopoda species comprised two episodes and two different routes. The southern lineage probably arose from a trans-Aegean colonization during the Messinian salinity crisis (5.96–5.33 Ma). The northern lineage could be the result of dispersal from the north through the Balkan Peninsula. The opening of the Mid-Aegean Trench could have promoted an initial diversification within the uprising Anatolian Plateau, while the Messinian marine regression offered the conditions for a rapid dispersal through the whole Aegean–Hellenic region. In addition, climatic events during the Plio-Pleistocene may have been responsible for the speciation within each of the two different phylogeographical units, principally attributable to vicariance events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the attention given to them, the Galápagos have not yet finished offering evolutionary novelties. When Darwin visited the Galapagos, he observed both marine (Amblyrhynchus) and land (Conolophus) iguanas but did not encounter a rare pink blackstriped land iguana (herein referred to as "rosada," meaning "pink" in Spanish), which, surprisingly, remained unseen until 1986. Here, we show that substantial genetic isolation exists between the rosada and syntopic yellow forms and that the rosada is basal to extant taxonomically recognized Galapagos land iguanas. The rosada, whose present distribution is a conundrum, is a relict lineage whose origin dates back to a period when at least some of the present-day islands had not yet formed. So far, this species is the only evidence of ancient diversification along the Galapagos land iguana lineage and documents one of the oldest events of divergence ever recorded in the Galapagos. Conservation efforts are needed to prevent this form, identified by us as a good species, from extinction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The chironomid midges Belgica antarctica, Eretmoptera murphyi (subfamily Orthocladiinae) and Parochlus steinenii (subfamily Podonominae), are the only Diptera species currently found in Antarctica. The relationships between these species and a range of further taxa of Chironomidae were examined by sequencing domains 1 and 3–5 of 28S ribosomal RNA. The resulting molecular relationships between B. antarctica and E. murphyi, within Orthocladiinae, were highly supported by validation analyses, confirming their position within Chironomidae, as generated by classical taxonomy. Within Podonominae, P. steinenii from the Maritime Antarctic was more closely related to material from sub-Antarctic South Georgia than to material from Patagonia. Taking advantage of the availability of a molecular substitution rate calculated for this gene in Diptera, a dating of divergence between our study taxa was tentatively established. The divergence dates obtained were 49 million years (Myr), between B. antarctica and E. murphyi, and 68.5 Myr between these species and the closest Orthocladiinae taxon tested from Patagonia, suggesting that B. antarctica and E. murphyi were representatives of an ancient lineage. As both are endemic to their respective tectonic microplates, their contemporary distribution is, therefore, likely to have been shaped by vicariance rather than dispersal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]