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The article challenges traditional views on pronghorn habitat by highlighting the use of high-elevation summer ranges in the Carter Mountain area of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem in Wyoming. Through GPS tracking, researchers found that some pronghorn migrate to alpine meadows and plateaus above 3000m, a behavior previously considered anomalous. The study raises questions about the processes that generate and maintain diversity in animal movement tactics, emphasizing the need for further research to understand the implications of pronghorn using high-elevation habitats. The article acknowledges the Indigenous communities with cultural and spiritual ties to the region, respecting their connection to the land. [Extracted from the article]

Mountain ecosystems play an important role globally as centers of biodiversity and in providing ecosystem services to lowland populations, but are influenced by multiple global change drivers such as climate change, nitrogen deposition, or altered disturbance regimes. As global change is accelerating and the consequences for humans and nature are intensifying, there is an increasing demand for understanding and predicting the impacts and implications of global change on mountain ecosystems. Manipulation experiments are one of the major tools for testing the causal impacts of global change and establishing a mechanistic understanding of how these changes may transform the global biota from single organisms to entire ecosystems. Over the past three decades, hundreds of such experiments have been conducted in mountainous regions worldwide. To strengthen the experimental evidence for the possible ecological consequences of global change, we systematically reviewed the literature on global change experiments in mountains. We first investigated the spread of manipulation experiments to test the effects of different global change drivers on key biological and ecological processes from the organism to the ecosystem level. We then examined and discussed the balance of evidence regarding the impact of these global change drivers on biological and ecological processes, and outlined the possible consequences for mountain ecosystems. Finally, we identified research gaps and proposed future directions for global change research in mountain environments. Among the major drivers, temperature was manipulated most frequently, generally showing consistent strong impacts between biological and ecosystem processes, functional groups, and habitat types. There is also strong evidence suggesting that changes in water and nutrient availability have a direct impact on the life history and functioning of mountain organisms. Despite these important findings, there are several gaps that require urgent attention. These include experiments testing adult trees in tropical and boreal regions, assessing animal responses and biotic interactions, and investigating aquatic environments and soil systems more extensively. A broader approach that integrates experimental data with field observations and relies on international collaboration through coordinated experiments could help address these gaps and provide a more consistent and robust picture of the impacts of global change on mountain ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Microrefugia on alpine slopes may allow species to persist in a warming climate. How plant species richness could respond to of the effectiveness of climatic buffering, defined as the difference in climate change in a microrefugium in comparison to that of an open alpine slope as mediated by competitive priority effects, is explored. Location: Alpine habitat anywhere. Taxon: Vascular plants. Methods: A simple spatially explicit model of plant species with adaptations across a climatic gradient simulates reproduction, dispersal, and mortality through climatic change. The effectiveness of microrefugia in buffering climate change and levels of competitive priority effects are included as factors that alter demographic rates in an experimental framework. Spatial patterns of microrefugia and differences in dispersal are also simulated. Differences in mean species richness were analysed. Results: The number of species conserved, relative to an instantaneous equilibrium calculation with the same climatic change, decreases with inclusion of a period of change (transient vs. instantaneous, equilibrium change) and further with competitive priority effects. In these simulations, the number of species conserved does not simply increase with buffer effectiveness, as hypothesized, but instead is bimodal. Main Conclusions: The dip in number of species conserved in the middle range of buffer effectiveness occurs because barriers develop. These are temporal ecological traps, wherein species adapted to the middle of a climatic gradient become extinct, because their colonization of microrefugia is blocked by an extinction debt of resident species. The inertia that allows these demographic consequences is increased by competitive priorities. The highest levels of buffering and resulting inertia will not be ubiquitous but the bimodal pattern indicates that assessments of the role of microrefugia need to recognize the temporal species‐environment and species‐species interactions that will change the number of species conserved versus extinctions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Invasive mammalian predators are a key threat to native fauna globally. Island ecosystems that developed in isolation from mammals are particularly threatened by introduced mammalian predators. This is the case in New Zealand, where introduced mammalian predators have caused the decline of native birds, lizards, and invertebrates. In alpine areas of New Zealand, predator control targets stoats, rats, and cats as they are recognised as the key threats to native birds. Mice, which are known predators of invertebrates at lower elevations, are not actively controlled. As a result, alpine invertebrates in New Zealand represent an ideal focus for a natural experiment to understand the effects of predator control efforts and invasive mice on native invertebrates that evolved in isolation from mammals. In the Fiordland region of New Zealand, we assessed the large-bodied alpine invertebrate community at eight different sites that vary in their occurrence of mice and control of higher-order predators. We found that the recent presence of mice influenced the invertebrate community: wētā (a group of native orthopterans) were less common at sites where mice were present, and the mean body size of invertebrates collected in pitfall traps was larger at sites where mice were absent compared to sites where they were present. Control of other predators (specifically rats and mustelids) did not influence invertebrate body size, abundance, or community composition. Our findings suggest that, as in lowland environments, mice are an important predator of large-bodied invertebrates in the alpine zone and should be incorporated into future predator management programmes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patterns of alpine plant productivity are extremely variable in space and time. Complex topography drives variations in temperature, wind, and solar radiation. Surface and subsurface flow paths route water between landscape patches. Redistribution of snow creates scour zones and deep drifts, which drives variation in water availability and growing season length. Hence, the distribution of snow likely plays a central role in patterns of alpine plant productivity. Given that these processes operate at sub‐1 m to sub‐10 m spatial scales and are dynamic across daily to weekly time scales, historical studies using manual survey techniques have not afforded a comprehensive assessment of the influence of snow distribution on plant productivity. To address this knowledge gap, we used weekly estimates of normalised difference vegetation index (NDVI), snow extent, and peak snow depth, acquired from drone surveys at 25 cm resolution. We derived six snowpack‐related and topographic variables that may influence vegetation productivity and analysed these with respect to the timing and magnitude of peak productivity. Peak NDVI and peak NDVI timing were most highly correlated with maximum snow depth, and snow‐off‐date. We observed up to a ~30% reduction in peak NDVI for areas with deeper and later snow cover, and a ~11‐day delay in the timing of peak NDVI in association with later snow‐off‐date. Our findings leverage a novel approach to quantify the importance of snow distribution in driving alpine vegetation productivity and provide a space for time proxy of potential changes in a warmer, lower snow future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pollination success of alpine plants is often restricted by low and unpredictable pollinator activity because of harsh and unstable weather conditions, where nocturnal pollination is rare. The alpine orchid, Platanthera tipuloides (Orchidaceae), has inconspicuous greenish yellow flowers with a sweet scent and a long spur that contains nectar. These floral traits are expected to be related to nocturnal moth pollination. To elucidate the pollination mode and reproductive characteristics of this species, we measured floral traits (spur length, nectar content in the spur, floral scent), documented flower visitors using camera traps, and quantified self‐compatibility and the degree of pollen limitation through controlled pollinations at two study plots in the Taisetsu Mountains, northern Japan. It was revealed that P. tipuloides is self‐incompatible and pollen limitation was absent at one of the study plots. The flowers emitted more volatile substances during the night, including lilac aldehyde isomers, which are known to attract moths. A nocturnal moth, Entephria amplicosta, was observed foraging nectar from the flowers, while no diurnal visitors were observed. The proboscis of E. amplicosta was shorter than the spur length, but it was long enough to access the accumulated nectar in the spurs. These results suggest that nocturnal pollination by moths is possible and can be efficient even in an alpine ecosystem with harsh environmental conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While vegetation has intensively been surveyed on mountain summits, limited knowledge exists about the diversity and community structure of soil biota. Here, we study how climatic variables, vegetation, parent material, soil properties, and slope aspect affect the soil microbiome on 10 GLORIA (Global Observation Research Initiative in Alpine environments) mountain summits ranging from the lower alpine to the nival zone in Switzerland. At these summits we sampled soils from all four aspects and examined how the bacterial and fungal communities vary by using Illumina MiSeq sequencing. We found that mountain summit soils contain highly diverse microbial communities with a total of 10,406 bacterial and 6,291 fungal taxa. Bacterial a-diversity increased with increasing soil pH and decreased with increasing elevation, whereas fungal a-diversity did not change significantly. Soil pH was the strongest predictor for microbial b-diversity. Bacterial and fungal community structures exhibited a significant positive relationship with plant communities, indicating that summits with a more distinct plant composition also revealed more distinct microbial communities. The influence of elevation was stronger than aspect on the soil microbiome. Several microbial taxa responded to elevation and soil pH. Chloroflexi and Mucoromycota were significantly more abundant on summits at higher elevations, whereas the relative abundance of Basidiomycota and Agaricomycetes decreased with elevation. Most bacterial OTUs belonging to the phylum Acidobacteria were indicators for siliceous parent material and several OTUs belonging to the phylum Planctomycetes were associated with calcareous soils. The trends for fungi were less clear. Indicator OTUs belonging to the genera Mortierella and Naganishia showed a mixed response to parent material, demonstrating their ubiquitous and opportunistic behaviour in soils. Overall, fungal communities responded weakly to abiotic and biotic factors. In contrast, bacterial communities were strongly influenced by environmental changes suggesting they will be strongly affected by future climate change and associated temperature increase and an upward migration of vegetation. Our results provide the first insights into the soil microbiome of mountain summits in the European Alps that are shaped as a result of highly variable local environmental conditions and may help to predict responses of the soil biota to global climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Uludağ National Park in Türkiye is famous for its rich biodiversity. The park serves as an essential habitat for a wide variety of flora and fauna and contributes significantly to the conservation of various species. This study examines biodiversity conservation strategies in Uludağ National Park. Soil samples were taken from 17 locations near the summit where endangered endemic plants grow. Analyses of the soil samples reveal the relationships between elevation and soil texture components. According to the soil analysis results, there was a weak positive correlation between elevation and silt content (r = 0.414) and a weak negative correlation between elevation and sand content (r = - 0.375). These findings indicate that silt content tends to increase and sand content tends to decrease with increasing elevation. The geomorphological features and soil structure of Uludağ National Park were also an essential part of the research. The region's metamorphic mica schists, granites and marbles affect the soil's physical properties. For example, soils are generally sandy and permeable in areas where granite parent material is present. In contrast, areas where mica-schist parent material is distributed are less resistant and more susceptible to erosion. As a result, effective soil conservation strategies must be implemented to protect biodiversity in Uludağ National Park. These strategies are essential to reduce soil erosion, increase organic matter accumulation and minimise the impacts of climate change. Furthermore, community participation and adaptive management strategies must be adopted for sustainable development and resource management. This study provides essential information for biodiversity conservation in the Uludağ region and contributes to developing conservation strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many ecosystems are defined and shaped by one or a few common, foundation species. Even though such species hold a key role in the restoration of these ecosystems, the demographic processes involved in their re‐establishment have rarely been studied. Foundation species' population dynamics, re‐establishment history, and the abiotic and biotic factors that affect individual establishment at restored sites can be studied by addressing population spatial patterns and age structure. Such an approach to studying population dynamics is particularly relevant for long‐lived species with low mortality, such as shrubs in alpine areas. We studied a population of the foundation species Empetrum nigrum ssp. hermaphroditum at an alpine spoil heap site and found evidence of population re‐establishment starting within a decade after construction. High Empetrum densities close to the spoil heap edges indicated that short distances to seed sources in the surroundings had a strong positive effect on establishment of individuals. Empetrum individuals were significantly clustered, which indicated intraspecific facilitation. As revealed by spatial analyses of recruits and older, established individuals, clustering developed gradually over time, which indicated a shift from no interaction to increased facilitation. We conclude that intraspecific facilitation promotes Empetrum reestablishment at the studied alpine spoil heap. Synthesis: We show that population spatial patterns and age structure can be successfully used to unveil the re‐establishment history of a foundation species in a restoration context. Efficient seed dispersal and intraspecific facilitation seem to be important factors behind Empetrum's successful re‐establishment at alpine spoil heaps. Identification of abiotic and biotic factors determining foundation species' establishment success at restored sites can support planning and improve success of restoration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding species richness and diversity patterns and their governing factors in less-to-unexplored regions across Himalaya provide invaluable insights into exploring drivers which shape as well as influence plant community structures. The present investigation explores plant species richness and diversity patterns across different growth forms and its association with environmental parameters along altitudinal gradient (3200 m-4800 m) in alpine regions of west Himalaya, India. A total of 265 plant taxa were documented from study area with higher proportion of herbs (212), followed by shrubs (44) and trees (9). Species richness, diversity, and density patterns were estimated for each growth form along altitude gradients using polynomial regression and an apparent monotonically decreasing trend (p

The association of vitamin D and hematological factors and their changes during high altitude training remains unclear among alpine skiers. This study aimed to evaluate the vitamin D level, iron Homeostasis, and hematological parameters in alpine skiers following two weeks of ski training at high altitude. Twenty alpine skiers were divided randomly into experimental (n = 12) and control (n = 8) groups. The subjects were selected among Iran's junior alpine skier national team volunteers. Anthropometric parameters were measured, and blood samples were collected to analyze the CBC, plasma ferritin concentration, PTH, serum 25 (OH) D, and other Iron metabolism variables before and after 2 weeks of the intervention. Each training session at 3600 m altitude for two weeks consisted of 10 mins of warm-up, the main ski training, and 5 mins of cool-down. The paired sample, and independent samples t -test to compare the mean of variables within and between groups using SPSS software at a significant level of P < 0.05. Both groups had no differences in pre-test values. After two weeks, the experimental group showed significant decreases (P < 0.05) in anthropometric characteristics such as body weight (BW), body mass index (BMI), percentage of body fat (PBF), and fat-free mass (FFM). The experimental group also demonstrated decreased levels of Fe (−19% vs −7%), Tfs (−27% vs −6%), Ca2+ (−9% vs 0%), and vitamin D (−22% vs −1%) comparing control group (P < 0.05). The experimental group showed significant increases (P < 0.05) in hemoglobin (Hb), red blood cells (RBCs), hematocrit (Hct), ferritin, and total iron-binding capacity (TIBC). However, parathyroid hormone (PTH), mean corpuscular volume (MVC), white blood cells (WBC), and mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) did not show significant changes when compared to the control group (P > 0.05). Research suggests that a two-week skiing training regimen (3000–3600m) can have a noteworthy effect on the iron homeostasis and vitamin D levels of male and female athletes. Given the common occurrence of vitamin D inadequacies among skiers, they should seek medical advice and incorporate vitamin D and iron supplements into their routine to minimize the risk of fractures, contusions, and hypothermia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Remote sensing is an invaluable tool for tracking decadal‐scale changes in vegetation greenness in response to climate and land use changes. While the Landsat archive has been widely used to explore these trends and their spatial and temporal complexity, its inconsistent sampling frequency over time and space raises concerns about its ability to provide reliable estimates of annual vegetation indices such as the annual maximum normalised difference vegetation index (NDVI), commonly used as a proxy of plant productivity. Here we demonstrate for seasonally snow‐covered ecosystems, that greening trends derived from annual maximum NDVI can be significantly overestimated because the number of available Landsat observations increases over time, and mostly that the magnitude of the overestimation varies along environmental gradients. Typically, areas with a short growing season and few available observations experience the largest bias in greening trend estimation. We show these conditions are met in late snowmelting habitats in the European Alps, which are known to be particularly sensitive to temperature increases and present conservation challenges. In this critical context, almost 50% of the magnitude of estimated greening can be explained by this bias. Our study calls for greater caution when comparing greening trends magnitudes between habitats with different snow conditions and observations. At a minimum we recommend reporting information on the temporal sampling of the observations, including the number of observations per year, when long‐term studies with Landsat observations are undertaken. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alpine habitats are regarded as particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change. On one hand, global warming is supposed to contributes to alpine environments becoming less stressful. On the other hand, altered snowpack due to warmer temperatures can intensify the stress in these habitats. The presence of non‐native plants on some of these habitats is due to the facilitative effects exerted by native nurse plants, becoming an additional threat. According to the stress gradient hypothesis the importance of facilitative interactions with nurse species is expected to diminish as environmental harshness decreases due to climate change yet remains important if climate change heightens the stress in alpine habitats. However, the responses also depend on climate change's impact on the nurse species. We conducted an experimental warming experiment in the Andes of the central Chile to assess the effects of warmer temperatures on the growth, reproduction and photochemical efficiency of the cushion nurse plant Azorella madreporica. Further we performed a cushion removal experiment involving three native species (Gamocarpha ventosa, Nocaccea magellanica and Rytidosperma pictum) and two non‐native species (Cerastium arvense and Taraxacum officinale) to assess whether facilitative interactions changed with warming. We expected that under warmer conditions facilitation continued be important for the native species but decreased for the non‐natives as the latter are abundant at warmer low elevations. We found that warmer conditions increased the photochemical efficiency and growth of the nurse cushions. Removal of cushions resulted in high mortality rates for all species. However, under warmer conditions, native species exhibited lower survival rates, whereas non‐natives showed no significant changes compared to control groups. In summary, warmer temperatures were beneficial for the nurses maintaining the importance of facilitative interactions for native species, but not for the non‐natives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The processes that influence community assembly, such as competition for resources and environmental filtering, are often scale dependent and vary across ecotones. Trait‐based ecology provides a useful framework for testing which ecological processes most strongly influence local community composition, especially across environmental gradients where species diversity varies. Where environmental filtering dominates, species distributions are expected to be defined by strong turnover along environmental gradients, with more similar species occupying more similar habitats. Where interspecific competition dominates, species are expected to diverge in relative abundance and resource utilization at sites, so species can co‐occur. Here, we integrate measurements of functional traits, microhabitat usage, isotopic composition (δ15N and δ13C), and abundance to test the importance of environmental filtering and resource/habitat partitioning in shaping a montane ground beetle species assemblage (Carabidae: Nebriini: Nebria) in the isolated, volcanic peaks of the northern Cascades Range, USA. Across species of Nebria, body size, pronotal shape, temperature preference, and isotopic enrichment varied across habitats ([gravel, rocks 10 cm–50 cm in diameter], large rocks [>50 cm in diameter], vegetation‐covered rocks, and alpine [snowfields and talus]), and habitat/microhabitat features were reliable predictors of species presence. Resource consumption among mid‐elevation species on Mt. Rainier—the peak with the greatest species diversity—is highly overlapping. Species turnover and nestedness varied significantly across habitat gradients and peaks throughout this region and varied nearly significantly across sites. Across habitat types and sites, more similar species are more likely to coexist. These results suggest that environmental filtering is the primary process structuring this species assemblage, although we find detailed evidence for microhabitat niche partitioning among species of Nebria at the site scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Enterotoxemia" or "overeating disease" is considered a common and often fatal disease affecting the economy of small ruminant breeding systems. This study presents findings on the occurrence of a peracute form of enterotoxemia in a herd of Saanen and Alpine, including an examination of the clinical signs, post-mortem findings, and methods for diagnosis. Methods: In a herd of goats a distressing situation occurred where the goats displayed signs (Sudden death and high fever) of peracute enterotoxemia (125 kids). It is noteworthy that these goats had previously been vaccinated against enterotoxemia. The onset of the condition seemed to be linked to three instances of interruption and reconnection of concentrate feed. To obtain a definitive diagnosis, the findings from postmortem examinations and ELISA were utilized. Results: In total, 60 Alpine and 65 Saanen succumbed to this peracute form. These losses occurred over three days but were successfully stopped by re-vaccination after two days. Clinical signs, postmortem observations, bacterial analysis, and ELISA results all provided confirmation of enterotoxemia. Notable findings included high fever (90%), duodenum hyperemia (89%), pulmonary edema (82%), convulsions (43%), and hemorrhage in the pericardium and endocardium (58%). Conclusion: Frequent and consecutive changes in goats' diet or discontinuation of concentrate supply by breeders can disrupt the vaccine-induced immune barrier, increasing the likelihood of enterotoxemia, and leading to casualties and economic losses. Consistent and stable nutrition practices are essential for maintaining vaccination efficacy and preventing enterotoxemia in goats, particularly kids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated regional and site level diversity for alpine and subalpine systems. The aim was to assess whether differing analytical methods could track diversity through time. The study was undertaken within Kosciusko National Park in south‐eastern Australia (6900 km2) which encompasses most of the alpine zone (~2500 km2 or 48% of its occurrence on mainland Australia). Multivariate ordination, species richness and the relationship of diversity to landscape patterns were assessed and considered in relation to changes predicted to impinge upon these systems over coming decades. Species richness had limited capacity to detect predicted changes; however, ordination based on floristic patterns may have more capacity to detect change if adequate replication is applied. Complex patterns across landscapes and at the site level contributed to these analytical challenges. Species richness is commonly used to assess ecosystem status and to provide benchmark values, but it had very limited capacity to do so in the assessed alpine and subalpine ecosystems, including the most threatened. Government agencies often rely heavily on species richness to assess ecosystem change and this urgently needs re‐evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Entoloma politum is a common lowland species in northern Europe. It has been described to have two close species with a more intense smell, E. nitriolens and E. pernitrosum. To clarify the taxonomy of these three species, the types of E. nitriolens and E. pernitrosum, as well as many recent collections were examined by ITS sequences and morphologically. Entoloma nitriolens was found to be a sibling species of E. politum, whereas E. pernitrosum was confirmed as a synonym of E. politum. Entoloma nitriolens and E. politum are described based on own material. They grow in similar habitats, but E. nitriolens prefers colder climates and calcareous ground. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Class Mulgedio-Aconitetea comprises plant communities that develop primarily in the upper montane to subalpine vegetation belts. It is vegetation where tall herb species (forbs, ferns, grasses) occur dominantly; in the Balkans, it was studied only marginally. In this article, based on floristic composition we assess two questions: (1) what is the diversity of the class Mulgedio-Aconitetea in Bulgaria and (2) what environmental factors are responsible for the vegetation assemblages in the area? We analyzed 387 plots. We created an expert system that classifies this vegetation and tested environmental variables for their influence on these vegetation types. In total, 15 associations and one uncategorized community were classified using the Braun-Blanquet approach. The length of the growing season (number of growing degree days > 0 °C) and climate moisture have a significant effect on the vegetation. Disturbance severity, disturbance frequency and reaction have influence over the species scores. Moreover, all variables significantly differed between the vegetation types. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Abstract Many ecosystems are defined and shaped by one or a few common, foundation species. Even though such species hold a key role in the restoration of these ecosystems, the demographic processes involved in their re‐establishment have rarely been studied. Foundation species' population dynamics, re‐establishment history, and the abiotic and biotic factors that affect individual establishment at restored sites can be studied by addressing population spatial patterns and age structure. Such an approach to studying population dynamics is particularly relevant for long‐lived species with low mortality, such as shrubs in alpine areas. We studied a population of the foundation species Empetrum nigrum ssp. hermaphroditum at an alpine spoil heap site and found evidence of population re‐establishment starting within a decade after construction. High Empetrum densities close to the spoil heap edges indicated that short distances to seed sources in the surroundings had a strong positive effect on establishment of individuals. Empetrum individuals were significantly clustered, which indicated intraspecific facilitation. As revealed by spatial analyses of recruits and older, established individuals, clustering developed gradually over time, which indicated a shift from no interaction to increased facilitation. We conclude that intraspecific facilitation promotes Empetrum reestablishment at the studied alpine spoil heap. Synthesis: We show that population spatial patterns and age structure can be successfully used to unveil the re‐establishment history of a foundation species in a restoration context. Efficient seed dispersal and intraspecific facilitation seem to be important factors behind Empetrum's successful re‐establishment at alpine spoil heaps. Identification of abiotic and biotic factors determining foundation species' establishment success at restored sites can support planning and improve success of restoration.

Bacterial and fungal root endophytes can impact the fitness of their host plants, but the relative importance of drivers for root endophyte communities is not well known. Host plant species, the composition and density of the surrounding plants, space, and abiotic drivers could significantly affect bacterial and fungal root endophyte communities. We investigated their influence in endophyte communities of alpine plants across a harsh high mountain landscape using high-throughput sequencing. There was less compositional overlap between fungal than bacterial root endophyte communities, with four 'cosmopolitan' bacterial OTUs found in every root sampled, but no fungal OTUs found across all samples. We found that host plant species, which included nine species from three families, explained the greatest variation in root endophyte composition for both bacterial and fungal communities. We detected similar levels of variation explained by plant neighborhood, space, and abiotic drivers on both communities, but the plant neighborhood explained less variation in fungal endophytes than expected. Overall, these findings suggest a more cosmopolitan distribution of bacterial OTUs compared to fungal OTUs, a structuring role of the plant host species for both communities, and largely similar effects of the plant neighborhood, abiotic drivers, and space on both communities.

Arctic alpine species experience extended periods of cold and unpredictable conditions during flowering. Thus, often, alpine plants use both sexual and asexual means of reproduction to maximize fitness and ensure reproductive success. We used the arctic alpine perennial Arabis alpina to explore the role of prolonged cold exposure on adventitious rooting. We exposed plants to 4°C for different durations and scored the presence of adventitious roots on the main stem and axillary branches. Our physiological studies demonstrated the presence of adventitious roots after 21 weeks at 4°C saturating the effect of cold on this process. Notably, adventitious roots on the main stem developing in specific internodes allowed us to identify the gene regulatory network involved in the formation of adventitious roots in cold using transcriptomics. These data and histological studies indicated that adventitious roots in A. alpina stems initiate during cold exposure and emerge after plants experience growth promoting conditions. While the initiation of adventitious root was not associated with changes of DR5 auxin response and free endogenous auxin level in the stems, the emergence of the adventitious root primordia was. Using the transcriptomic data, we discerned the sequential hormone responses occurring in various stages of adventitious root formation and identified supplementary pathways putatively involved in adventitious root emergence, such as glucosinolate metabolism. Together, our results highlight the role of low temperature during clonal growth in alpine plants and provide insights on the molecular mechanisms involved at distinct stages of adventitious rooting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The spatial distribution of animals has consequences for nutrition, predator–prey dynamics, spread of diseases, and population dynamics in general. Animals must establish a home range to secure adequate resources to fuel their energy needs. Home ranges, therefore, are temporally and spatially dynamic, given the changing requirements of an animal and the availability of resources on the landscape. We used data from two populations of bighorn sheep with contrasting population dynamics following pneumonia epizootics and different habitat quality on their summer range to test the hypothesis that the distribution and size of home ranges are influenced by environmental conditions and reproductive status. We used a combination of data from 768 vegetation transects and remotely sensed metrics to index forage quality of consecutive biweekly home ranges for 27 bighorn sheep, June–August 2019–2021. There were population differences in home range dynamics that were consistent with resource limitations in the population declining in abundance. Animals in both populations increased the size of their home range through the summer in association with declining forage quality indexed by plant phenology. Furthermore, animals in the Whiskey Mountain population without offspring had home ranges more than twice the size of animals with offspring, whereas there were no differences in the home range size between animals with and without offspring in Jackson. We demonstrated that limitations young offspring impose on space use of a mother may have consequences for animals living where larger home ranges are needed to secure adequate resources—sheep on Whiskey Mountain had to travel 1000 m from escape terrain to access the same amount of biomass that the Jackson sheep could access directly adjacent to escape terrain. Forage quality and availability influence movement and space use. In the presence of disease, movement and space use may influence pathogen transmission and persistence. Thus, forage availability may play an indirect role in population dynamics in the presence of disease, which is another line of evidence for how environmental and nutritional conditions may influence population dynamics when coping with disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Enterotoxemia" or "overeating disease" is considered a common and often fatal disease affecting the economy of small ruminant breeding systems. This study presents findings on the occurrence of a peracute form of enterotoxemia in a herd of Saanen and Alpine, including an examination of the clinical signs, post-mortem findings, and methods for diagnosis. Methods: In a herd of goats a distressing situation occurred where the goats displayed signs (Sudden death and high fever) of peracute enterotoxemia (125 kids). It is noteworthy that these goats had previously been vaccinated against enterotoxemia. The onset of the condition seemed to be linked to three instances of interruption and reconnection of concentrate feed. To obtain a definitive diagnosis, the findings from postmortem examinations and ELISA were utilized. Results: In total, 60 Alpine and 65 Saanen succumbed to this peracute form. These losses occurred over three days but were successfully stopped by re-vaccination after two days. Clinical signs, post-mortem observations, bacterial analysis, and ELISA results all provided confirmation of enterotoxemia. Notable findings included high fever (90%), duodenum hyperemia (89%), pulmonary edema (82%), convulsions (43%), and hemorrhage in the pericardium and endocardium (58%). Conclusion: Frequent and consecutive changes in goats' diet or discontinuation of concentrate supply by breeders can disrupt the vaccine-induced immune barrier, increasing the likelihood of enterotoxemia, and leading to casualties and economic losses. Consistent and stable nutrition practices are essential for maintaining vaccination efficacy and preventing enterotoxemia in goats, particularly kids.

Abstract The processes that influence community assembly, such as competition for resources and environmental filtering, are often scale dependent and vary across ecotones. Trait‐based ecology provides a useful framework for testing which ecological processes most strongly influence local community composition, especially across environmental gradients where species diversity varies. Where environmental filtering dominates, species distributions are expected to be defined by strong turnover along environmental gradients, with more similar species occupying more similar habitats. Where interspecific competition dominates, species are expected to diverge in relative abundance and resource utilization at sites, so species can co‐occur. Here, we integrate measurements of functional traits, microhabitat usage, isotopic composition (δ15N and δ13C), and abundance to test the importance of environmental filtering and resource/habitat partitioning in shaping a montane ground beetle species assemblage (Carabidae: Nebriini: Nebria) in the isolated, volcanic peaks of the northern Cascades Range, USA. Across species of Nebria, body size, pronotal shape, temperature preference, and isotopic enrichment varied across habitats ([gravel, rocks 10 cm–50 cm in diameter], large rocks [>50 cm in diameter], vegetation‐covered rocks, and alpine [snowfields and talus]), and habitat/microhabitat features were reliable predictors of species presence. Resource consumption among mid‐elevation species on Mt. Rainier—the peak with the greatest species diversity—is highly overlapping. Species turnover and nestedness varied significantly across habitat gradients and peaks throughout this region and varied nearly significantly across sites. Across habitat types and sites, more similar species are more likely to coexist. These results suggest that environmental filtering is the primary process structuring this species assemblage, although we find detailed evidence for microhabitat niche partitioning among species of Nebria at the site scale.

India is a large country in Asia, and covers the transition zone between the Palaearctic and Indomalayan biogeographic realms, with influences from both. Present in India are members of the genus Andrena, an enormous bee genus distributed predominantly throughout the Holarctic, with the greatest Indian diversity in the Himalayan region due to its Palaearctic influences. Despite early studies in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, there has been almost no work on this group in India during the past century. A revision of type and non-type museum material combined with new collections has produced a revised total of 36 species of Andrena for India, including 11 species reported for the first time as well as the newly described Andrena (Melandrena) kedarnatha Wood & Gautam sp. nov. (northern India and Nepal) and Andrena (Simandrena) tungnatha Wood & Gautam sp. nov. (northern India). The true holotype of A. (Euandrena) communis Smith, 1879 is definitively located. Andrena burkelii Bingham, 1908 is synonymised with A. (Pallandrena) morosa Cameron, 1897. Lectotypes are designated for A. (Euandrena) murreensis Cockerell, 1923 and A. (incertae sedis) comberima beharica Cockerell, 1920. Further comments are made on the status of Andrena taxa described from India for which type material is and is not currently available. Thirty additional Andrena taxa suggested as present in the Indian fauna are excluded as either erroneous or lacking supporting data. These results illustrate the extent to which study of the Indian Andrena fauna has been confused, and provide a more stable taxonomic base for future studies in this country.

Alpine regions are biodiversity hotspots for endemic species with unique adaptations to harsh climatic conditions. These adaptations often involve specialized behaviours and metabolism including the production of secondary metabolites that protects plants from environmental stresses. This study examines the impacts of elevated CO2 (eCO2) and combined effects of elevated CO2 and temperature (eCO2+T) on two alpine aromatic herbs, namely Angelica glauca and Nardostachys jatamansi. These species were raised in open-top chambers (OTCs) and treated with elevated CO2 (600 ppm) and temperature (+2.0 °C from control) during 2018 to 2020. The primary (total soluble sugar, starch, total soluble protein, amino acid and proline contents), secondary metabolites (Phenolics, essential oil yield, and components using GC-MS) and antioxidant activities (superoxide dismutase and peroxidase) were measured. Total soluble sugar increased under eCO2, while starch content, total amino acid and total soluble protein initially increased but later declined in response to the treatments. Proline content and antioxidant activities were higher under eCO2 and eCO2+T treatments. Total phenolic content showed both increasing (in A. glauca) and decreasing (in N. jatamansi) responses to eCO2 and eCO2+T treatments. GC–MS analysis showed decreased monoterpenes in CO2 and temperature treatments, but some sesquiterpenes showed mixed responses with both increases and decreases. These findings suggest that changes in climate can alter the composition of secondary metabolites in alpine herbs, potentially affecting their therapeutic properties and suitability for use in herbal medicine. This study provides valuable insights into the species-specific physiological responses of plants to changing climate.

Entoloma politum is a common lowland species in northern Europe. It has been described to have two close species with a more intense smell, E. nitriolens and E. pernitrosum . To clarify the taxonomy of these three species, the types of E. nitriolens and E. pernitrosum , as well as many recent collections were examined by ITS sequences and morphologically. Entoloma nitriolens was found to be a sibling species of E. politum , whereas E. pernitrosum was confirmed as a synonym of E. politum . Entoloma nitriolens and E. politum are described based on own material. They grow in similar habitats, but E. nitriolens prefers colder climates and calcareous ground.

Sarcoptic mange, caused by Sarcoptes scabiei, is a disease that affects many species of mammals, including several wild ungulate species in the region of the European Alps, especially the Alpine chamois and the Alpine ibex, which act as parasite reservoirs. Here records of mange in alpine wild ungulates and its spread over time across the eastern parts of the European Alps are reviewed. First cases were recorded from Austria in 1824, and epizootic outbreaks have been described since then from the mountainous regions of Austria (mostly Tyrol, Carinthia, and Styria), Germany (Bavaria), Italy (Udine and Trentino) and Slovenia. Switzerland, by contrast, has so far been free of mange except for cases in wild boar, indicating that this species is not a reservoir host of sarcoptic mites for other ungulate species in the European Alps, and that, so far, the disease in ruminant ungulates is restricted to the eastern and central parts of the Alps. Mutual transmission among wild and domestic ruminants is possible and, together with the protection of vulnerable wildlife, is also a reason for monitoring and, if necessary, intervention to contain mange outbreaks.

This paper presents the results of a phytosociological study on the Afroalpine vegetation of the Ruwenzori Mountains, one of the most prominent mountain ranges in Africa. This study marks the pioneering comprehensive investigation into the plant communities of this region, which holds significant phytogeographic importance. Through statistical analyses, eight distinct plant communities, three new alliances, two new orders, and one new class were identified within the altitudinal range of 3500 to 4600 m above sea level. These communities are well-defined from both floristic and ecological perspectives. Hierarchical classification was conducted using the quantitative Sørensen (Bray-Curtis) distance measure and the beta flexible linkage method. Furthermore, indicator species for each group were determined by calculating fidelity and constancy (occurrence frequency) within the classified dataset. To assess the validity of the classification results, non-metric multidimensional scaling (NMDS) was carried out. These analyses provide the first phytosociological arrangement of the Afroalpine vegetation of the Ruwenzori Mountains, providing a solid framework and valuable insights into its floristic and ecological characteristics.

An unusual, high-alpine, rapid debris slide originating in ice-rich debris occurred on June 28, 2022, at 16:33:16 MDT at the head of Chaos Canyon, a formerly glacier-covered valley in Rocky Mountain National Park, CO, USA. In this study, we integrate eyewitness videos and seismic records of the event with meteorological data, field observations, pre- and post-event satellite imagery, and uncrewed aircraft vehicle imagery to characterize the event and future hazards it may pose. Deformation of the eventual slide mass preceded rapid failure by decades, starting in the early to mid-2000s, accelerating in 2018 (the warmest year on record), and reaching ~ 20 m/year in 2021. The main event, which was preceded by smaller sliding episodes earlier that day, had a volume of ~ 2.1 million m3, reached peak velocities of about 5 m/s, slid on a surface up to 80 m deep, and moved up to ~ 245 m downslope in < 2 min. We observed blocks of frozen debris (permafrost) in the landslide deposits. Within ~ 2 weeks, these blocks had melted and became dry, conical debris mounds (molards). We hypothesize that the rapid slide was induced by gradually increasing long-term air temperatures that thawed ice and increased pore pressures. The presence and suspected influence of permafrost on the occurrence of this landslide indicate other slopes in the park, and other moderate-to-low latitude alpine regions may experience similar slope stability issues as temperatures continue to warm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diversification of woody plant lineages in New Zealand has unfolded in complex physiographic, climatic, and environmental contexts. Many tree and shrub lineages have existed in New Zealand since the late Cenozoic when Forest was the dominant biome, subsequently diversifying (or continuing to diversify) during the Pliocene/Pleistocene as Open (below treeline) and Alpine biomes emerged. We examine the links between biomes occupied, traits, and diversification. In particular, whether traits are phylogenetically conserved or ecologically constrained and their relationship to biomes occupied. We focus on Melicytus, Myrsine and Pseudopanax which occur across Forest, Open, and Alpine biomes. Our approach combines measured traits and modelled niche traits of extant species to examine the importance of biome occupancy and biome shifts on trait evolution in these lineages. Our results demonstrate trait values are filtered by biomes in these lineages and can predict biomes occupied. However, few biome shifts were associated with trait evolution, typically only biome shifts into extreme environments (Alpine) involved trait innovations. In addition to biomes, trait evolution can also be influenced by species age, trait lability and broad climatic change. Integrating functional traits in a phylogenetic framework can identify how evolutionary and ecological features create modern biogeographic patterns in New Zealand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eco-evolutionary priority effects, in which early arriving taxa pre-empt environmental niches and evolve to exclude or marginalise later arriving taxa, have been claimed to have influenced current vegetation communities in New Zealand. We here critically assess this claim. An examination of the entire New Zealand conifer and angiosperm flora shows that early arriving lineages do not have more species than later arriving lineages, and do not dominate regional species pools. A nationwide forest plot data set shows no influence of lineage age on tree dominance. Woody species with wide latitudinal ranges tend to be older, but plant height and biotically dispersed fruit exert a stronger influence. Range extent is not influenced by lineage age in the alpine zone. The New Zealand studies on which the original claim for eco-evolutionary priority effects is based are flawed as they sample only a small fraction of the flora and plant communities and base their conclusions on a few selected lineages. The large climatic and landscape alterations of the last 50 million years, changes in the type and number of immigrant taxa establishing, and extinction are likely to have been much more influential than arrival times in shaping the extant New Zealand flora. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shrubland is an important type of vegetation in the semi-arid region of the western Loess Plateau, and it is of great value to the maintenance of biodiversity and soil and water conservation. Equally, there may be significant differences in the level of diversity and the community assembly patterns across different types of shrublands (desert, alpine, and secondary shrublands). This study aimed to reveal the diversity and the community assembly patterns of different types of shrublands and the environmental explanations for these by using a taxonomic and phylogenetic analysis approach, as well as by considering soil and climate factors. The diversity level of the desert shrublands was low, and the habitats of the three types of shrubland were significantly different. Precipitation may be the main environmental factor driving the variation in and diversity of these types of shrubland. All three types of shrubland were strongly affected by environmental filtering and competitive exclusion, and their community assembly patterns were similar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The spatial and temporal distribution of Alpine snow is a sensitive gauge of environmental change. While understanding past snow dynamics is essential for reconstructing past climate and forecasting future trends, reliable snowpack data prior to the instrumental record are scarce. We present a novel pairing of cosmogenic paleothermometry and luminescence photochronometry which constrain the temperature and insolation history of bedrock outcrops at the Gotthard Pass, Switzerland, over the last ∼15,000 years. By coupling these results with cosmogenic 14C‐10Be chronology and modern in situ rock thermometry, we infer a ∼70‐day reduction of snowpack at the topographic mid‐slope. Our data indicate stable environmental conditions throughout the Holocene, followed by a 6.6 ± 2.9°C increase of ground surface temperature, coeval with an order‐of‐magnitude or more increase in ground surface insolation. Bracketing the onset of these changes between 1504 and 1807 CE, our findings tie the snowpack decline with the onset of human industrialization. Plain Language Summary: The extent of snow cover is shrinking in high elevation mountain environments due to climate change. However, it is challenging to determine when snow cover began to change because humans have only been monitoring snow cover for several decades, and snow cover has appeared to shrink over this entire time. We used two new geologic records of ground temperature and light exposure—both of which are impacted by the duration and amount of snow cover—to assess when snow cover began to change in the Gotthard Pass in Switzerland. We found that the middle slopes of the pass began experiencing snow cover loss three centuries ago, well before historical monitoring of snow cover in this region. This record of prolonged snow cover loss matters for the informed management of mountain water sources, rock and snow avalanche risk, and ecosystem change. Key Points: We present a novel data set of cosmogenic paleothermometry and luminescence photochronometry at the Gotthard Pass, SwitzerlandStable Holocene environmental conditions are followed by increases in ground temperature and insolation caused by snow cover declineThese environmental changes began between 1504 and 1807 CE, tying the observed snowpack decline with the onset of human industrialization [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The near‐surface boundary layer can mediate the response of mountain glaciers to external climate, cooling the overlying air and promoting a density‐driven glacier wind. The fundamental processes are conceptually well understood, though the magnitudes of cooling and presence of glacier winds are poorly quantified in space and time, increasing the forcing uncertainty for melt models. We utilize a new data set of on‐glacier meteorological measurements on three neighboring glaciers in the Swiss Alps to explore their distinct response to regional climate under the extreme 2022 summer. We find that synoptic wind origins and local terrain modifications, not only glacier size, play an important role in the ability of a glacier to cool the near‐surface air. Warm air intrusions from valley or synoptically‐driven winds onto the glacier can occur between ∼19% and 64% of the time and contribute between 3% and 81% of the total sensible heat flux to the surface during warm afternoon hours, depending on the fetch of the glacier flowline and its susceptibility to boundary layer erosion. In the context of extreme summer warmth, indicative of future conditions, the boundary layer cooling (up to 6.5°C cooler than its surroundings) and resultant katabatic wind flow are highly heterogeneous between the study glaciers, highlighting the complex and likely non‐linear response of glaciers to an uncertain future. Plain Language Summary: The presence of a 0°C ice surface cools the near‐surface air and generates a unique micro‐climate that complicates a glaciers response to future warming. Using a new data series on three glaciers during an extreme summer of 2022, we explore how variable this cooling is in space and time and investigate the factors that can control it. We focus largely on the role of valley and synoptic winds that are found to affect glaciers of varying size and orientation differently, influencing the amount of heat transfer to the ice surface that glaciers receive from outside its own micro‐climate. Moreover, we find that the presence of glacier winds can act to enhance or reduce overall heat transfer to the glacier, depending on the wind strength and degree of boundary layer disruption. We highlight the complexities that are ignored in simpler melt modeling frameworks and demonstrate how, especially under extreme summer heat, indicative of future conditions, static parameters to relate glacier melt to temperature are likely to be inappropriate. Key Points: Glacier size and alignment with valley/synoptic wind gradients control the magnitude of near‐surface coolingValley/synoptic winds can occur between 19% and 64% of the time and contribute between 3% and 81% of total sensible heat to the ice surfaceLocalized cooling and turbulence in the boundary layer increase the complexity and non‐linearity of glacier response to climate [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Cenozoic Alpine, and Paleozoic Variscan and eo-Variscan collisional belts are compared in the framework of the Wilson cycle considering differences between cold and hot orogens. The W. Alps result of the opening and closure of the Liguro-Piemonte ocean, whereas the Paleozoic Eovariscan and Variscan orogenies document multiple ocean openings and collisions in space and a polyorogenic history in time. Jurassic or Early Ordovician break-up of Pangea or Pannotia megacontinents led to the formation of passive continental margins, and the opening of Liguro-Piemonte, or Rheic, Tepla-Le Conquet, andMedio-European oceans, respectively. In Paleozoic or Mesozoic, microcontinents such as Apulia and Sesia or Armorica and Saxo-Thuringiawere individualized. The oceanic convergence stage was associated with the development of arcs and back-arc basins in the Variscan belt but magmatic arcs are missing in the W. Alps, and inferred in the Eo-variscan one. Though the nappe stack is mainly developed in the subducted European or Gondwana crust in the western Alps and Eo-variscan cases, the Moldanubian nappes formed in the upper plate in the Variscan case. The Alpine and Variscan metamorphic evolutions occurred under ca. 8 °C/km and 30 °C/km gradients, respectively. During the late- to post-orogenic stages, all belts experienced "unthickening" accommodated by extensional tectonics, metamorphic retrogression, and intramontane basin opening. The importance of crustal melting, represented by migmatites, granites, and hydrothermal circulations in the Variscan and Eo-Variscan belts is the major difference with the W. Alpine one. The presence, or absence, of a previous Variscan or Cadomian continental basement might have also influenced the rheological behavior of the crust. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The oscillating glacial–interglacial climate has had well-characterized effects on alpine species, driving rapid distributional and demographic shifts that have led to lineage diversification. It is unclear whether adaptive evolution has occurred during these rapid demographic changes, because strong genetic drift can overcome the force of selection. Here, using the alpine ground beetle Nebria vandykei , we test for evidence of adaptive evolution. Initially, we explore the genetic pathways induced during environmental stress responses through RNA sequencing, showing that cold, heat and desiccation stress activate a largely non-overlapping set of molecular pathways. Using additional transcriptome sequencing, we estimate the evolutionary relationship of N. vandykei to related species in the subgenus Catonebria and several outgroups. Phylogenetic analyses suggest that a history of admixture or very rapid diversification underlies the evolution of N. vandykei. Finally, using tests for selection polarized by high- and low-elevation relatives, we demonstrate selection acting on stress response pathways and on pathways known to function in tolerance to cold and hypoxic environments. These results support the role of environmental adaptation in alpine species despite rapid demographic change, while demonstrating that admixture might play a key role in facilitating adaptive diversification of alpine species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Human-driven nitrogen (N) deposition can alter soil biogeochemistry and plant communities, both critical to soil biota. However, understanding the relative impact of the relationship between nutrient resources and plants on soil communities has been hindered by a lack of experimental manipulations of both factors. We hypothesized that soil nematode communities would be structured predominantly by N addition via overall increased abundance, decreased diversity, and compositional shifts to dominance of r-selected bacterial-feeding nematodes. In contrast, we expected plant effects to be less evident and restricted to nematodes directly associated with plants. Methods: We used a long-term (18-yrs) experiment in moist meadow alpine tundra involving N addition and codominant plant (nitrophilic Deschampsia cespitosa and nitrogen-sensitive Geum rossii) removal. We characterized nematode communities via 18S rRNA metabarcoding and used soil biogeochemistry, plant, and microbial variables to determine factors shaping their communities. Results: The N addition treatment increased overall nematode abundance, decreased diversity, and affected the composition of all nematode trophic groups. Overall, nematode communities shifted to dominance of bacterial-feeding nematode taxa adapted to N-enriched environments. The likely drivers of this shift were increased soil nitrate and lower pH. The direct effects of codominant plants were more limited, with only changes in Geum rossii appearing to affect nematode responses. Conclusion: Overall, nematode communities in N-limited alpine ecosystems are highly sensitive to increases in N availability, irrespective of the nature of N preferences of codominant plants. The resulting nematode community restructuring could signify future shifts in soil functioning throughout alpine landscapes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Infectious diarrhea in young goats is one of the most common and serious threats to the animals' health, influencing the profitability of the goat industry. Considering the need to investigate the factors involved in the occurrence of neonatal diseases, especially diarrhea, to improve livestock health and increase productivity, especially in Iran, the present study was conducted with the aim of investigating the bacterial agents involved in the diarrhea of Alpine and Saanen kids. Methods: Between 1421 goats (714 Saanen and 704 Alpine) under the supervision, 254 goats (17.8%) of different ages died due to diarrhea sign. Samples from the liver, heart, and lungs were taken during the necropsy process, and bacteriological examinations were performed. Results: Forty-four kids died of non-infectious cause. Diarrhea caused by bacterial agents (10.9%) was much more than non-infectious agents (3.1%). Significantly more so than at other ages, the bacterial agent was isolated from the age of less than 2 months. Isolated bacterial agents included Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus (12.3%), Pseudomonas (7.1%), Bacillus (11%) and Klebsiella (2.6%). E. coli was isolated frequently (63.2%), and mostly at the age of less than 2 months. The highest rate of isolation of bacterial agents was from the heart, especially E. coli. Conclusion: The findings of the current research showed that in Saanen and Alpine goats reared in intensive rearing systems, E. coli bacteria has a high contribution to the occurrence of digestive problems and diarrhea, which can be avoided by controlling environmental health, improvement and preventing the density of parturitions in a short time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Species within tropical alpine treeline ecotones are predicted to be especially sensitive to climate variability because this zone represents tree species' altitudinal limits. Hawaiian volcanoes have distinct treeline ecotones driven by trade wind inversions. The local climate is changing, but little is known about how this influences treeline vegetation. To predict future impacts of climate variability on treelines, we must define the range of variation in treeline ecotone characteristics. Previous studies highlighted an abrupt transition between subalpine grasslands and wet forest on windward Haleakalā, but this site does not represent the diversity of treeline ecotones among volcanoes, lava substrates, and local climatic conditions. To capture this diversity, we used data from 225 plots spanning treelines (1500–2500 m) on Haleakalā and Mauna Loa to characterize ecotonal plant communities. Treeline indicator species differ by moisture and temperature, with common native species important for wet forest, subalpine woodland, and subalpine shrubland. The frequency or abundance of community indicator species may be better predictors of shifting local climates than the presence or absence of tree life forms per se. This study further supports the hypothesis that changes in available moisture, rather than temperature, will dictate the future trajectory of Hawaiian treeline ecotone communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Milk productivity during the lactation period (305 days) and evaluation of milk according to different quality indicators in periods of the year were studied. The experiments were carried out on 3 groups of goats of Zaanen, Alpine, and Anglo-Nubian breeds at 3–4 years old. Milk productivity was evaluated from the 1st to the 11th month of lactation, and milk quality indicators (fat, protein, SOMO, density) were analyzed using the Lactan 1-4 milk analyzer. It was established that the most incredible intensity of lactation in goats occurs during the 4–5th month after farrowing; the exceptional dynamics of the lactation curve is that it increases from the 1st to the 4th month and decreases from the 5th to the 10th. An interbreeding difference in milk yield was established (Р < 0.001, Р < 0.05) in the 4th, 5th, and 7th months of lactation, where the Anglo-Nubian, Alpine, and Zaanen breeds were arranged in the order of decreasing milk yield. The total lactation rate was maximum in Zaanen animals, and in Anglo-Nubian and Alpine goats, it was lower by 16.4 % (Р < 0.001) and 5 % (Р < 0.001), respectively. It was found that the average daily fertility of goats was in Zaanen animals, and the minimum and maximum in Anglo-Nubian and Alpine breeds about the season of the year, correspondingly spring – 15.9 %, 6.5 %; summer – 16.04 %, 3.74 %; autumn – 23.2 %, 8 %. The study of the physicochemical parameters of goat milk of various species revealed that, according to qualitative parameters, in the spring, summer, and autumn periods, there is an interspecies difference in the content of protein and fat, with the highest content in Anglo-Nubian animals, respectively by 5% (Р < 0.001), 38.6 % (P < 0.01), 36.1 % (P < 0.01). According to indicators of consistency and smell of milk, the three breeds of goats did not have a probable difference. The following discrepancies were established regarding taste qualities: a sweet taste in Anglo-Nubian animals, a rich one in Alpine animals, and no extraneous aftertaste in Zaanen animals. A light cream color is noted in the Anglo-Nubian circles, and a color variation from white to light cream is present in the Alpine and Zaanen peoples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Current knowledge of the vertical distribution of Triturus macedonicus places the species at altitudes up to 2140 m. Herein, we report its presence in the alpine lake Gistova at 2360 m on Mt. Grammos, Greece, thus extending the highest altitudinal point for the species, as well as for the Triturus genus. This record showcases the adaptive capacity of the Macedonian newt, which allows it to occupy markedly different environments. More populations may exist at similar or even higher altitudes and their discovery could positively impact conservation efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context. In south-eastern Australia, the abundance and distribution of non-native sambar deer (Cervus unicolor) has increased dramatically in alpine environments. As a result, significant concern surrounds the potential for the species to impact rare plant species and vegetation communities through browsing. Aims. We aimed to determine the diversity of the plant species eaten by sambar deerin the Alpine National Park and to understand any spatial and temporal variation in deer diets. Methods. We collected 90 sambar deer faecal pellet samples over a 3-month flowering period across two contrasting study sites with differing elevation, vegetation and underlying geology. We performed DNA sequencing using the ITS2 gene region and assigned dietary items to the lowest taxonomic level possible. The frequency of occurrence and sequencing read depth of each dietary item was calculated to investigate the diet of sambar deer at spatial and temporal scales, and dietary preferencing was assessed by comparing the frequency of occurrence of dietary items to the observation records for each dietary item in the study area. Key results. We detected a total of 369 unique plant Operational Taxonomic Units (OTUs) from sambar deer faecal samples, representing 35 families and 80 genera. Considerable variation in the diet was observed over small spatial scales, and evidence of temporal diet variation was noted in one of the study sites. We detected Silky Snow-daisy (Celmisia sericophylla), which is currently listed as critically endangered under the Victorian Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988, and Hawkweed (Pilosella spp.), a highly invasive, non-native taxon that is sparingly established in Alpine ecosystems. Conclusions. Sambar deer displayed an intermediate feeder behaviour in alpine environments, foraging on a variety of forbs and shrubs, but forbs were the dominant dietary items. The spatial variation observed in the diet of sambar deer suggests that individual deer are unlikely to be dispersing widely while foraging. Implications. Our results emphasise the need for careful evaluation of sambar deer impacts within individual sites and at small spatial scales. The detection of species of conservation significance in the diet indicates that the presence of sambar deer should be considered a significantrisk to biodiversity in areas of high conservation value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil temperature and moisture are important regulators of a broad range of biotic and abiotic processes in terrestrial ecosystems. Vegetation can, in turn, play a role in regulating soil microclimate, which creates potential for powerful and interactive feedbacks from soil and vegetation on the atmosphere. Although the regulatory effect of vegetation on soil microclimatic conditions has been quite extensively and empirically assessed, most studies have determined the net effect of intact woody vegetation versus bare ground. However, for other plant functional groups we lack a clear understanding of their role and any climate‐context dependency in controlling microclimatic conditions. We investigated the role of three major plant functional groups – graminoids, forbs and bryophytes – in regulating soil microclimate in semi‐natural alpine grasslands. Using a fully factorial above‐ground biomass removal experiment, we assessed the role of these plant functional groups in regulating soil temperature amplitude, soil moisture, and number of freezing days. The experiment was replicated across orthogonal temperature and precipitation gradients in Norway to assess whether the effects of functional group abundance varied with climate. The effect of plant biomass on soil microclimate varied among functional groups across the climatic gradients. Bryophytes reduced growing season soil temperature, whereas graminoids and forbs did not (0.5ºC compared to 0ºC), and with a stronger effect in colder climates at higher elevations and on days with high solar radiation. Bryophyte biomass further reduced the number of soil freezing days at boreal and sub‐alpine sites. Finally, graminoid biomass partly explained variation in soil moisture: soils dried more under graminoids at drier sites. Our findings highlight that functional group identity plays a key role in regulating soil microclimate in alpine grasslands across seasons. The strong effect of bryophytes on soil temperature points to their importance in the plant community for a variety of ecosystem functions, some of which may be indirectly vulnerable to future warming via biomass reductions of bryophytes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]