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Walter WD, Fameli A, Russo‐Petrick K, Edson JE, Rosenberry CS, Schuler KL, Tonkovich MJ. Large-scale assessment of genetic structure to assess risk of populations of a large herbivore to disease. Ecol Evol 2024; 14:e11347. [PMID: 38774134 PMCID: PMC11106048 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.11347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Chronic wasting disease (CWD) can spread among cervids by direct and indirect transmission, the former being more likely in emerging areas. Identifying subpopulations allows the delineation of focal areas to target for intervention. We aimed to assess the population structure of white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) in the northeastern United States at a regional scale to inform managers regarding gene flow throughout the region. We genotyped 10 microsatellites in 5701 wild deer samples from Maryland, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. We evaluated the distribution of genetic variability through spatial principal component analysis and inferred genetic structure using non-spatial and spatial Bayesian clustering algorithms (BCAs). We simulated populations representing each inferred wild cluster, wild deer in each state and each physiographic province, total wild population, and a captive population. We conducted genetic assignment tests using these potential sources, calculating the probability of samples being correctly assigned to their origin. Non-spatial BCA identified two clusters across the region, while spatial BCA suggested a maximum of nine clusters. Assignment tests correctly placed deer into captive or wild origin in most cases (94%), as previously reported, but performance varied when assigning wild deer to more specific origins. Assignments to clusters inferred via non-spatial BCA performed well, but efficiency was greatly reduced when assigning samples to clusters inferred via spatial BCA. Differences between spatial BCA clusters are not strong enough to make assignment tests a reliable method for inferring the geographic origin of deer using 10 microsatellites. However, the genetic distinction between clusters may indicate natural and anthropogenic barriers of interest for management.
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Affiliation(s)
- W. David Walter
- U.S. Geological Survey, Pennsylvania Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research UnitThe Pennsylvania State UniversityUniversity ParkPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Alberto Fameli
- Pennsylvania Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research UnitThe Pennsylvania State UniversityUniversity ParkPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Kelly Russo‐Petrick
- Pennsylvania Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research UnitThe Pennsylvania State UniversityUniversity ParkPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Jessie E. Edson
- Pennsylvania Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research UnitThe Pennsylvania State UniversityUniversity ParkPennsylvaniaUSA
| | | | - Krysten L. Schuler
- Cornell Wildlife Health Lab, New York State Wildlife Health ProgramIthacaNew YorkUSA
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2
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Todisco V, Fridolfsson E, Axén C, Dahlgren E, Ejsmond MJ, Hauber MM, Hindar K, Tibblin P, Zöttl M, Söderberg L, Hylander S. Thiamin dynamics during the adult life cycle of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar). JOURNAL OF FISH BIOLOGY 2024; 104:807-824. [PMID: 37823583 DOI: 10.1111/jfb.15584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
Thiamin is an essential water-soluble B vitamin known for its wide range of metabolic functions and antioxidant properties. Over the past decades, reproductive failures induced by thiamin deficiency have been observed in several salmonid species worldwide, but it is unclear why this micronutrient deficiency arises. Few studies have compared thiamin concentrations in systems of salmonid populations with or without documented thiamin deficiency. Moreover, it is not well known whether and how thiamin concentration changes during the marine feeding phase and the spawning migration. Therefore, samples of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) were collected when actively feeding in the open Baltic Sea, after the sea migration to natal rivers, after river migration, and during the spawning period. To compare populations of Baltic salmon with systems without documented thiamin deficiency, a population of landlocked salmon located in Lake Vänern (Sweden) was sampled as well as salmon from Norwegian rivers draining into the North Atlantic Ocean. Results showed the highest mean thiamin concentrations in Lake Vänern salmon, followed by North Atlantic, and the lowest in Baltic populations. Therefore, salmon in the Baltic Sea seem to be consistently more constrained by thiamin than those in other systems. Condition factor and body length had little to no effect on thiamin concentrations in all systems, suggesting that there is no relation between the body condition of salmon and thiamin deficiency. In our large spatiotemporal comparison of salmon populations, thiamin concentrations declined toward spawning in all studied systems, suggesting that the reduction in thiamin concentration arises as a natural consequence of starvation rather than to be related to thiamin deficiency in the system. These results suggest that factors affecting accumulation during the marine feeding phase are key for understanding the thiamin deficiency in salmonids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vittoria Todisco
- Centre for Ecology and Evolution in Microbial Model Systems (EEMiS), Linnaeus University, Kalmar, Sweden
| | - Emil Fridolfsson
- Centre for Ecology and Evolution in Microbial Model Systems (EEMiS), Linnaeus University, Kalmar, Sweden
| | - Charlotte Axén
- Section for Fish, National Veterinary Institute (SVA), Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Elin Dahlgren
- Institution of Aquatic Resources, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Maciej J Ejsmond
- Centre for Ecology and Evolution in Microbial Model Systems (EEMiS), Linnaeus University, Kalmar, Sweden
- Institute of Environmental Science, Jagiellonian University, Cracow, Poland
| | - Marc M Hauber
- Centre for Ecology and Evolution in Microbial Model Systems (EEMiS), Linnaeus University, Kalmar, Sweden
| | - Kjetil Hindar
- Norwegian Institute for Nature Research (NINA), Trondheim, Norway
| | - Petter Tibblin
- Centre for Ecology and Evolution in Microbial Model Systems (EEMiS), Linnaeus University, Kalmar, Sweden
| | - Markus Zöttl
- Centre for Ecology and Evolution in Microbial Model Systems (EEMiS), Linnaeus University, Kalmar, Sweden
| | - Linda Söderberg
- Institution of Aquatic Resources, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Samuel Hylander
- Centre for Ecology and Evolution in Microbial Model Systems (EEMiS), Linnaeus University, Kalmar, Sweden
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3
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Chen D, Zhang L, Peng Y, Si X. Exploring the association between social media and farmers' knowledge of a worldwide invasive agricultural pest, Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2024; 80:678-686. [PMID: 37758689 DOI: 10.1002/ps.7796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Public education has profound effects on the management effectiveness of invasive alien species by shaping stakeholders' knowledge systems. However, our understanding of the association between social media and farmers' knowledge is lacking for the majority of invasive agricultural pests. In this study, we used the fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda, one of the most invasive insects globally, as a case to test the hypothesis that social media has a significant association with farmers' knowledge of FAW. To address this, we developed a theoretical framework, conducted extensive household questionnaires in the China-Myanmar-Laos border region (China), and used quantitative descriptions and binary logistic regressions in statistical analyses. RESULTS Our results showed that (1) farmers frequently reported using 12 social media applications on smartphones (SMASs), and obtained FAW-relevant information from six of them, with high preferences for WeChat and TikTok, (2) farmers possessed a generally high level of knowledge of FAW which was significantly associated with their socio-demographic profiles, and (3) FAW-relevant information from SMASs was significantly associated with certain aspects of farmers' knowledge of FAW. CONCLUSIONS We concluded that social media has a significant association with farmers' knowledge of FAW. We suggest that well-designed and -conducted educational programs based on the use of SMASs could help improve the management of FAW, and the Department of Agricultural Extension could play an important and necessary role. Our findings provide insights into this novel educational approach for the management of serious invasive agricultural pests. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongming Chen
- Institute of International Rivers and Eco-Security, Yunnan University, Kunming, China
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of International Rivers and Transboundary Eco-Security, Yunnan University, Kunming, China
- Asian International Rivers Center, Yunnan University, Kunming, China
| | - Liyun Zhang
- Institute of International Rivers and Eco-Security, Yunnan University, Kunming, China
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of International Rivers and Transboundary Eco-Security, Yunnan University, Kunming, China
- Asian International Rivers Center, Yunnan University, Kunming, China
| | - Ya Peng
- Institute of International Rivers and Eco-Security, Yunnan University, Kunming, China
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of International Rivers and Transboundary Eco-Security, Yunnan University, Kunming, China
- Asian International Rivers Center, Yunnan University, Kunming, China
| | - Xiaozheng Si
- Institute of International Rivers and Eco-Security, Yunnan University, Kunming, China
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of International Rivers and Transboundary Eco-Security, Yunnan University, Kunming, China
- Asian International Rivers Center, Yunnan University, Kunming, China
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Suffridge CP, Shannon KC, Matthews H, Johnson RC, Jeffres C, Mantua N, Ward AE, Holmes E, Kindopp J, Aidoo M, Colwell FS. Connecting thiamine availability to the microbial community composition in Chinook salmon spawning habitats of the Sacramento River basin. Appl Environ Microbiol 2024; 90:e0176023. [PMID: 38084986 PMCID: PMC10807462 DOI: 10.1128/aem.01760-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Thiamine deficiency complex (TDC) is a major emerging threat to global populations of culturally and economically important populations of salmonids. Salmonid eggs and embryos can assimilate exogenous thiamine, and evidence suggests that microbial communities in benthic environments can produce substantial amounts of thiamine. We therefore hypothesize that natural dissolved pools of thiamine exist in the surface water and hyporheic zones of riverine habitats where salmonids with TDC migrate, spawn, and begin their lives. To examine the relationship between dissolved thiamine-related compounds (dTRCs) and their microbial source, we determined the concentrations of these metabolites and the compositions of microbial communities in surface and hyporheic waters of the Sacramento River, California and its tributaries. Here we determine that all dTRCs are present in femto-picomolar concentrations in a range of critically important salmon spawning habitats. We observed that thiamine concentrations in the Sacramento River system are orders of magnitude lower than those of marine waters, indicating substantial differences in thiamine cycling between these two environments. Our data suggest that the hyporheic zone is likely the source of thiamine to the overlying surface water. Temporal variations in dTRC concentrations were observed where the highest concentrations existed when Chinook salmon were actively spawning. Significant correlations were seen between the richness of microbial taxa and dTRC concentrations, particularly in the hyporheic zone, which would influence the conditions where embryonic salmon incubate. Together, these results indicate a connection between microbial communities in freshwater habitats and the availability of thiamine to spawning TDC-impacted California Central Valley Chinook salmon.IMPORTANCEPacific salmon are keystone species with considerable economic importance and immeasurable cultural significance to Pacific Northwest indigenous peoples. Thiamine deficiency complex has recently been diagnosed as an emerging threat to the health and stability of multiple populations of salmonids ranging from California to Alaska. Microbial biosynthesis is the major source of thiamine in marine and aquatic environments. Despite this importance, the concentrations of thiamine and the identities of the microbial communities that cycle it are largely unknown. Here we investigate microbial communities and their relationship to thiamine in Chinook salmon spawning habitats in California's Sacramento River system to gain an understanding of how thiamine availability impacts salmonids suffering from thiamine deficiency complex.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kelly C. Shannon
- Department of Microbiology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, USA
| | - H. Matthews
- Department of Microbiology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, USA
| | - R. C. Johnson
- Fisheries Ecology Division, NOAA Fisheries, Southwest Fisheries Science Center, Santa Cruz, California, USA
- University of California, Center for Watershed Sciences, Davis, California, USA
| | - C. Jeffres
- University of California, Center for Watershed Sciences, Davis, California, USA
| | - N. Mantua
- Fisheries Ecology Division, NOAA Fisheries, Southwest Fisheries Science Center, Santa Cruz, California, USA
| | - A. E. Ward
- University of California, Center for Watershed Sciences, Davis, California, USA
| | - E. Holmes
- University of California, Center for Watershed Sciences, Davis, California, USA
- California Department of Water Resources, West Sacramento, California, USA
| | - J. Kindopp
- California Department of Water Resources, Division of Integrated Science and Engineering, Oroville, California, USA
| | - M. Aidoo
- Bronx Community College, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - F. S. Colwell
- Department of Microbiology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, USA
- College of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, USA
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5
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Thill A, Cammaerts MC, Balmori A. Biological effects of electromagnetic fields on insects: a systematic review and meta-analysis. REVIEWS ON ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH 2023; 0:reveh-2023-0072. [PMID: 37990587 DOI: 10.1515/reveh-2023-0072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
Worldwide, insects are declining at an alarming rate. Among other causes, the use of pesticides and modern agricultural practices play a major role in this. Cumulative effects of multiple low-dose toxins and the distribution of toxicants in nature have only started to be investigated in a methodical way. Existing research indicates another factor of anthropogenic origin that could have subtle harmful effects: the increasingly frequent use of electromagnetic fields (EMF) from man-made technologies. This systematic review summarizes the results of studies investigating the toxicity of electromagnetic fields in insects. The main objective of this review is to weigh the evidence regarding detrimental effects on insects from the increasing technological infrastructure, with a particular focus on power lines and the cellular network. The next generation of mobile communication technologies, 5G, is being deployed - without having been tested in respect of potential toxic effects. With humanity's quest for pervasiveness of technology, even modest effects of electromagnetic fields on organisms could eventually reach a saturation level that can no longer be ignored. An overview of reported effects and biological mechanisms of exposure to electromagnetic fields, which addresses new findings in cell biology, is included. Biological effects of non-thermal EMF on insects are clearly proven in the laboratory, but only partly in the field, thus the wider ecological implications are still unknown. There is a need for more field studies, but extrapolating from the laboratory, as is common practice in ecotoxicology, already warrants increasing the threat level of environmental EMF impact on insects.
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Rowland FE, Richter CA, Tillitt DE, Walters DM. Evolutionary and ecological correlates of thiaminase in fishes. Sci Rep 2023; 13:18147. [PMID: 37875540 PMCID: PMC10598016 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-44654-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Thiamine (vitamin B1) is required by all living organisms in multiple metabolic pathways. It is scarce in natural systems, and deficiency can lead to reproductive failure, neurological issues, and death. One major cause of thiamine deficiency is an overreliance on diet items containing the enzyme thiaminase. Thiaminase activity has been noted in many prey fishes and linked to cohort failure in salmonid predators that eat prey fish with thiaminase activity, yet it is generally unknown whether evolutionary history, fish traits, and/or environmental conditions lead to production of thiaminase. We conducted literature and GenBank BLAST sequence searches to collect thiaminase activity data and sequence homology data in expressed protein sequences for 300 freshwater and marine fishes. We then tested whether presence or absence of thiaminase could be predicted by evolutionary relationships, trophic level, omega-3 fatty acid concentrations, habitat, climate, invasive potential, and body size. There was no evolutionary relationship with thiaminase activity. It first appears in Class Actinoptergyii (bony ray-finned fishes) and is present across the entire Actinoptergyii phylogeny in both primitive and derived fish orders. Instead, ecological factors explained the most variation in thiaminase: fishes were more likely to express thiaminase if they fed closer to the base of the food web, were high in polyunsaturated fatty acids, lived in freshwater, and were from tropical climates. These data provide a foundation for understanding sources of thiaminase leading to thiamine deficiency in fisheries and other organisms, including humans that eat uncooked fish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Freya E Rowland
- U.S. Geological Survey, Columbia Environmental Research Center, 4200 New Haven Rd, Columbia, MO, 65201, USA.
| | - Catherine A Richter
- U.S. Geological Survey, Columbia Environmental Research Center, 4200 New Haven Rd, Columbia, MO, 65201, USA
| | - Donald E Tillitt
- U.S. Geological Survey, Columbia Environmental Research Center, 4200 New Haven Rd, Columbia, MO, 65201, USA
| | - David M Walters
- U.S. Geological Survey, Columbia Environmental Research Center, 4200 New Haven Rd, Columbia, MO, 65201, USA
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7
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Willcox BK, Potts SG, Brown MJF, Alix A, Al Naggar Y, Chauzat MP, Costa C, Gekière A, Hartfield C, Hatjina F, Knapp JL, Martínez-López V, Maus C, Metodiev T, Nazzi F, Osterman J, Raimets R, Strobl V, Van Oystaeyen A, Wintermantel D, Yovcheva N, Senapathi D. Emerging threats and opportunities to managed bee species in European agricultural systems: a horizon scan. Sci Rep 2023; 13:18099. [PMID: 37872212 PMCID: PMC10593766 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-45279-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Managed bee species provide essential pollination services that contribute to food security worldwide. However, managed bees face a diverse array of threats and anticipating these, and potential opportunities to reduce risks, is essential for the sustainable management of pollination services. We conducted a horizon scanning exercise with 20 experts from across Europe to identify emerging threats and opportunities for managed bees in European agricultural systems. An initial 63 issues were identified, and this was shortlisted to 21 issues through the horizon scanning process. These ranged from local landscape-level management to geopolitical issues on a continental and global scale across seven broad themes-Pesticides & pollutants, Technology, Management practices, Predators & parasites, Environmental stressors, Crop modification, and Political & trade influences. While we conducted this horizon scan within a European context, the opportunities and threats identified will likely be relevant to other regions. A renewed research and policy focus, especially on the highest-ranking issues, is required to maximise the value of these opportunities and mitigate threats to maintain sustainable and healthy managed bee pollinators within agricultural systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryony K Willcox
- Centre for Agri-Environmental Research, School of Agriculture, Policy and Development, University of Reading, Reading, RG6 6AR, UK.
| | - Simon G Potts
- Centre for Agri-Environmental Research, School of Agriculture, Policy and Development, University of Reading, Reading, RG6 6AR, UK
| | - Mark J F Brown
- Department of Biological Sciences, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham, UK
| | - Anne Alix
- Corteva Agriscience, Regulatory and Stewardship Europe, Middle East and Africa, Abingdon, UK
| | - Yahya Al Naggar
- General Zoology, Institute for Biology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Hoher Weg 8, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta, 31527, Egypt
- Unit of Bee Research and Honey Production, Faculty of Science, King Khalid University, P.O. Box 9004, 61413, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Marie-Pierre Chauzat
- ANSES, Sophia Antipolis Laboratory, Unit of Honey Bee Pathology, 06902, Sophia Antipolis, France
| | - Cecilia Costa
- CREA Research Centre for Agriculture and Environment, 40128, Bologna, Italy
| | - Antoine Gekière
- Laboratory of Zoology, Research Institute for Biosciences, University of Mons, Mons, Belgium
| | - Chris Hartfield
- National Farmers' Union, Agriculture House, Stoneleigh Park, Stoneleigh, Warwickshire, CV8 2TZ, UK
| | - Fani Hatjina
- Department of Apiculture, Institute of Animal Science, ELGO 'DIMITRA', 63200, Nea Moudania, Greece
| | - Jessica L Knapp
- Department of Botany, School of Natural Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland
- Department of Biology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Vicente Martínez-López
- Department of Evolution, Ecology and Behaviour, Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- Department of Zoology and Physical Anthropology, Faculty of Veterinary, University of Murcia, 30100, Murcia, Spain
| | | | | | - Francesco Nazzi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Agroalimentari, Ambientali e Animali, Università degli Studi di Udine, Udine, Italy
- National Biodiversity Future Center, Palermo, Italy
| | - Julia Osterman
- Nature Conservation and Landscape Ecology, University of Freiburg, Tennenbacher Str. 4, 79106, Freiburg, Germany
- Gothenburg Global Biodiversity Centre, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Risto Raimets
- Department of Plant Protection, Estonian University of Life Sciences, 51014, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Verena Strobl
- Institute of Bee Health, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | - Dimitry Wintermantel
- Nature Conservation and Landscape Ecology, University of Freiburg, Tennenbacher Str. 4, 79106, Freiburg, Germany
| | | | - Deepa Senapathi
- Centre for Agri-Environmental Research, School of Agriculture, Policy and Development, University of Reading, Reading, RG6 6AR, UK
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Treder M, Müller M, Fellner L, Traynor K, Rosenkranz P. Defined exposure of honey bee colonies to simulated radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF): Negative effects on the homing ability, but not on brood development or longevity. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 896:165211. [PMID: 37391156 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023]
Abstract
Urbanization and the increasing use of wireless technologies lead to higher emission rates of radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) in populated areas. This anthropogenic electromagnetic radiation is a form of environmental pollution and a potential stressor on bees or other flying insects. Cities often have a high density of wireless devices operating on microwave frequencies, which generate electromagnetic frequencies e.g. in the 2.4 and 5.8 GHz bands commonly used by the wireless technologies. To date the effects of nonionizing electromagnetic radiation on the vitality and behavior of insects are poorly understood. In our experiment we used honey bees as model organisms and analyzed the effects of defined exposures to 2.4 and 5.8 GHz on brood development, longevity and homing ability under field conditions. To generate this radiation, we used a high-quality radiation source which generates a consistent, definable and realistic electromagnetic radiation, engineered for this experiment by the Communications Engineering Lab (CEL) at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology. Our results show significant effects of long-term exposures on the homing ability of foraging honey bees, but no effects on brood development and adult worker longevity. Using this novel and high-quality technical set-up, this interdisciplinary work provides new data on the effects of these widely used frequencies on important fitness parameters of free-flying honey bees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Treder
- State Institute of Bee Research, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany.
| | - Marcus Müller
- Communications Engineering Lab, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Larissa Fellner
- State Institute of Bee Research, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Kirsten Traynor
- State Institute of Bee Research, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Peter Rosenkranz
- State Institute of Bee Research, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany
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9
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Edwards KA, Randall EA, Wolfe PC, Angert ER, Kraft CE. Dietary factors potentially impacting thiaminase I-mediated thiamine deficiency. Sci Rep 2023; 13:7008. [PMID: 37117240 PMCID: PMC10147936 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-34063-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Fish population declines from thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency have been widespread in ecologically and economically valuable organisms, ranging from the Great Lakes to the Baltic Sea and, most recently, the California coast. Thiamine deficiencies in predatory fishes are often attributed to a diet of prey fishes with high levels of thiamine-degrading (e.g., thiaminase) enzymes, such as alewives, rainbow smelt, and anchovies. Since their discovery, thiaminase I enzymes have been recognized for breaking down thiamine into its pyrimidine and thiazole moieties using various nucleophilic co-substrates to afford cleavage, but these studies have not thoroughly considered other factors that could modify enzyme activity. We found the thiaminase I enzyme from Clostridium botulinum efficiently degrades thiamine in the presence of pyridoxine (vitamin B6) as a co-substrate but has relatively limited activity in the presence of nicotinic acid (vitamin B3). Using fluorescence measurements, thiamine degradation in an over-the-counter complete multivitamin formulation was inhibited, and a B-complex formulation required co-substrate supplementation for maximal thiamine depletion. These studies prompted the evaluation of specific constituents contributing to thiaminase I inhibition by both chromatography and fluorescence assays: Cu2+ potently and irreversibly inhibited thiamine degradation; ascorbic acid was a strong but reversible inhibitor; Fe2+, Mn2+ and Fe3+ modulated thiamine degradation to a lesser degree. The enhancement by pyridoxine and inhibition by Cu2+ extended to thiaminase-mediated degradation from Burkholderia thailandensis, Paenibacillus thiaminolyticus, and Paenibacillus apiarius in tryptic soy broth supernatants. These co-substrate limitations and the common presence of inhibitory dietary factors complement recent studies reporting that the intended function of thiaminase enzymes is to recycle thiamine breakdown products for thiamine synthesis, not thiamine degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie A Edwards
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Binghamton University, Binghamton, NY, 13902, USA.
- Department of Microbiology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA.
| | - Eileen A Randall
- Department of Natural Resources and the Environment, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
| | - Patricia C Wolfe
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Binghamton University, Binghamton, NY, 13902, USA
| | - Esther R Angert
- Department of Microbiology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
| | - Clifford E Kraft
- Department of Natural Resources and the Environment, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
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10
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Couton M, Hürlemann S, Studer A, Alther R, Altermatt F. Groundwater environmental DNA metabarcoding reveals hidden diversity and reflects land-use and geology. Mol Ecol 2023. [PMID: 37067032 DOI: 10.1111/mec.16955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023]
Abstract
Despite being the most important source of liquid freshwater on the planet, groundwater is severely threatened by climate change, agriculture, or industrial mining. It is thus extensively monitored for pollutants and declines in quantity. The organisms living in groundwater, however, are rarely the target of surveillance programmes and little is known about the fauna inhabiting underground habitats. The difficulties accessing groundwater, the lack of expertise, and the apparent scarcity of these organisms challenge sampling and prohibit adequate knowledge on groundwater fauna. Environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding provides an approach to overcome these limitations but is largely unexplored. Here, we sampled water in 20 communal spring catchment boxes used for drinking water provisioning in Switzerland, with a high level of replication at both filtration and amplification steps. We sequenced a portion of the COI mitochondrial gene, which resulted in 4917 ASVs, yet only 3% of the reads could be assigned to a species, genus, or family with more than 90% identity. Careful evaluation of the unassigned reads corroborated that these sequences were true COI sequences belonging mostly to diverse eukaryotic groups, not present in the reference databases. Principal component analyses showed a strong correlation of the community composition with the surface land-use (agriculture vs. forest) and geology (fissured rock vs. unconsolidated sediment). While incomplete reference databases limit the assignment of taxa in groundwater eDNA metabarcoding, we showed that taxonomy-free approaches can reveal large hidden diversity and couple it with major land-use drivers, revealing their imprint on chemical and biological properties of groundwater.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marjorie Couton
- Department of Aquatic Ecology, Eawag: Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, Dübendorf, Switzerland
| | - Samuel Hürlemann
- Department of Aquatic Ecology, Eawag: Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, Dübendorf, Switzerland
| | - Angela Studer
- Department of Aquatic Ecology, Eawag: Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, Dübendorf, Switzerland
| | - Roman Alther
- Department of Aquatic Ecology, Eawag: Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, Dübendorf, Switzerland
- Department of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies, University of Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Florian Altermatt
- Department of Aquatic Ecology, Eawag: Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, Dübendorf, Switzerland
- Department of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies, University of Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland
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11
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Understanding China's political will for sustainability and conservation gains. PEOPLE AND NATURE 2023. [DOI: 10.1002/pan3.10425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
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12
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Richter CA, Evans AN, Heppell SA, Zajicek JL, Tillitt DE. Genetic basis of thiaminase I activity in a vertebrate, zebrafish Danio rerio. Sci Rep 2023; 13:698. [PMID: 36639393 PMCID: PMC9839694 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-27612-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Thiamine (vitamin B1) metabolism is an important driver of human and animal health and ecological functioning. Some organisms, including species of ferns, mollusks, and fish, contain thiamine-degrading enzymes known as thiaminases, and consumption of these organisms can lead to thiamine deficiency in the consumer. Consumption of fish containing thiaminase has led to elevated mortality and recruitment failure in farmed animals and wild salmonine populations around the world. In the North American Great Lakes, consumption of the non-native prey fish alewife (Alosa pseudoharengus) by native lake trout (Salvelinus namaycush) led to thiamine deficiency in the trout, contributed to elevated fry mortality, and impeded natural population recruitment. Several thiaminases have been genetically characterized in bacteria and unicellular eukaryotes, and the source of thiaminase in multicellular organisms has been hypothesized to be gut microflora. In an unexpected discovery, we identified thiaminase I genes in zebrafish (Danio rerio) with homology to bacterial tenA thiaminase II. The biochemical activity of zebrafish thiaminase I (GenBank NP_001314821.1) was confirmed in a recombinant system. Genes homologous to the zebrafish tenA-like thiaminase I were identified in many animals, including common carp (Cyprinus carpio), zebra mussel (Dreissena polymorpha) and alewife. Thus, the source of thiaminase I in alewife impacting lake trout populations is likely to be de novo synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine A Richter
- U.S. Geological Survey, Columbia Environmental Research Center, Columbia, MO, 65201, USA.
| | - Allison N Evans
- Department of Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA.,Department of Microbiology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA
| | - Scott A Heppell
- Department of Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA
| | - James L Zajicek
- U.S. Geological Survey, Columbia Environmental Research Center, Columbia, MO, 65201, USA
| | - Donald E Tillitt
- U.S. Geological Survey, Columbia Environmental Research Center, Columbia, MO, 65201, USA
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13
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Mehrabi Z, Delzeit R, Ignaciuk A, Levers C, Braich G, Bajaj K, Amo-Aidoo A, Anderson W, Balgah RA, Benton TG, Chari MM, Ellis EC, Gahi NZ, Gaupp F, Garibaldi LA, Gerber JS, Godde CM, Grass I, Heimann T, Hirons M, Hoogenboom G, Jain M, James D, Makowski D, Masamha B, Meng S, Monprapussorn S, Müller D, Nelson A, Newlands NK, Noack F, Oronje M, Raymond C, Reichstein M, Rieseberg LH, Rodriguez-Llanes JM, Rosenstock T, Rowhani P, Sarhadi A, Seppelt R, Sidhu BS, Snapp S, Soma T, Sparks AH, Teh L, Tigchelaar M, Vogel MM, West PC, Wittman H, You L. Research priorities for global food security under extreme events. ONE EARTH (CAMBRIDGE, MASS.) 2022; 5:756-766. [PMID: 35898653 PMCID: PMC9307291 DOI: 10.1016/j.oneear.2022.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Extreme events, such as those caused by climate change, economic or geopolitical shocks, and pest or disease epidemics, threaten global food security. The complexity of causation, as well as the myriad ways that an event, or a sequence of events, creates cascading and systemic impacts, poses significant challenges to food systems research and policy alike. To identify priority food security risks and research opportunities, we asked experts from a range of fields and geographies to describe key threats to global food security over the next two decades and to suggest key research questions and gaps on this topic. Here, we present a prioritization of threats to global food security from extreme events, as well as emerging research questions that highlight the conceptual and practical challenges that exist in designing, adopting, and governing resilient food systems. We hope that these findings help in directing research funding and resources toward food system transformations needed to help society tackle major food system risks and food insecurity under extreme events. We asked experts for top threats to global food security from extreme events We find unresolved governance challenges underpin many of the key threats We also asked experts for top outstanding research priorities on this topic Coordination to design, adopt, and govern resilient food systems is needed
Heat waves, floods, droughts, pest outbreaks and diseases, financial crises, and human conflicts are threatening the production and supply of food around the world. These extreme events are on the rise, and our ability to prepare for them seems limited. Multiple events occurring at the same time compound the problem. Research teams and policymakers are developing solutions to improve the resilience of food systems, but this is often done in isolation—tackling one problem at a time. In this article we bring together food system experts to identify the top threats over the next two decades and priority research questions to address them. We find that unresolved governance challenges in international relations underpin many of the key threats and that coordinated research is needed to help design and adopt systems of governance for food systems that are resilient to extreme events in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zia Mehrabi
- Department of Environmental Studies, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO, USA.,Mortenson Center in Global Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
| | | | - Adriana Ignaciuk
- Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Rome, Italy
| | - Christian Levers
- Department of Environmental Geography, Institute for Environmental Studies, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Institute for Resources, Environment and Sustainability, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Ginni Braich
- Institute for Resources, Environment and Sustainability, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Kushank Bajaj
- Institute for Resources, Environment and Sustainability, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Araba Amo-Aidoo
- Kassel University, Department of Agricultural Engineering, Kassel University, 37213 Witzenhausen, Germany.,Kumasi Technical University, Department of Automotive and Agricultural Mechanization, P.O. Box 854, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Weston Anderson
- Earth System Science Interdisciplinary Center, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20740, USA.,International Research Institute for Climate and Society, Columbia University, Palisades, NY 10964, USA
| | - Roland A Balgah
- College of Technology, The University of Bamenda, Bamenda, Cameroon.,Higher Institute of Agriculture and Rural Development, Bamenda University of Science and Technology - BUST, Bamenda, Cameroon
| | - Tim G Benton
- Royal Institute of International Affairs, Chatham House, 10 St James Sq, London SW1Y 4LE, UK
| | - Martin M Chari
- Risk & Vulnerability Science Centre, Faculty of Science & Agriculture, University of Fort Hare, Alice, South Africa
| | - Erle C Ellis
- Department of Geography & Environmental Systems, University of Maryland, Baltimore County, 1000 Hilltop Circle, Baltimore, MD 21250, USA
| | | | - Franziska Gaupp
- International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA), Schlossplatz 1, 2361 Laxenburg, Austria.,Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK), Telegrafenberg, 14473 Potsdam, Germany
| | - Lucas A Garibaldi
- Universidad Nacional de Río Negro, Instituto de Investigaciones en Recursos Naturales, Agroecología y Desarrollo Rural, Río Negro, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Instituto de Investigaciones en Recursos Naturales, Agroecología y Desarrollo Rural, Río Negro, Argentina
| | - James S Gerber
- Institute on the Environment, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN 55108, USA
| | - Cecile M Godde
- Agriculture and Food Business Unit, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Ingo Grass
- Ecology of Tropical Agricultural Systems, Institute of Agricultural Sciences in the Tropics, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Tobias Heimann
- Kiel Institute for the World Economy (IfW), Kiel, Germany
| | - Mark Hirons
- Environmental Change Institute, School of Geography and the Environment, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Gerrit Hoogenboom
- Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Meha Jain
- School for Environment and Sustainability, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Dana James
- Institute for Resources, Environment and Sustainability, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - David Makowski
- UMR MIA 518, Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, Paris, France
| | - Blessing Masamha
- Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC), Africa Institute of South Africa (AISA), 134 Pretorius Street, Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa
| | - Sisi Meng
- Keough School of Global Affairs, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, USA
| | - Sathaporn Monprapussorn
- Department of Geography, Faculty of Social Sciences, Srinakharinwirot University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Daniel Müller
- Leibniz Institute of Agricultural Development in Transition Economies (IAMO), Theodor-Lieser-Str. 2, 06120 Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Andrew Nelson
- Faculty of Geo-Information Science and Earth Observation (ITC), University of Twente, Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - Nathaniel K Newlands
- Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Science and Technology Branch, Summerland Research and Development Centre, Summerland, BC, Canada
| | - Frederik Noack
- Food and Resource Economics Group, the University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - MaryLucy Oronje
- Centre for Agriculture and Biosciences International (CABI), 673 Canary Bird, Limuru Road, Muthaiga, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Colin Raymond
- Jet Propulsion Laboratory/California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | | | - Loren H Rieseberg
- Department of Botany and Biodiversity Research Centre, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | - Todd Rosenstock
- The Alliance of Bioversity International and International Center for Tropical Agriculture, Rome, Italy
| | - Pedram Rowhani
- Department of Geography, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
| | - Ali Sarhadi
- Lorenz Center, Department of Earth, Atmospheric and Planetary Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Ralf Seppelt
- Helmholtz Institute for Environmental Research (UFZ), Leipzig, Germany.,Institute of Geoscience and Geography, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Balsher S Sidhu
- Institute for Resources, Environment and Sustainability, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Sieglinde Snapp
- Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences, Center for Global Change and Earth Observations, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Tammara Soma
- School of Resource and Environmental Management, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Adam H Sparks
- Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, Perth, WA 6000, Australia.,University of Southern Queensland, Centre for Crop Health, Toowoomba, QLD 4350, Australia
| | - Louise Teh
- Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | - Martha M Vogel
- Man and the Biosphere Programme, Division of Ecological and Earth Sciences, Natural Sciences Sector, UNESCO, Paris, France
| | - Paul C West
- Department of Applied Economics, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN 55108, USA.,Project Drawdown, 3450 Sacramento Street, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Hannah Wittman
- Institute for Resources, Environment and Sustainability, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Liangzhi You
- International Food Policy Research Institute, Washington, DC, USA
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14
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Nyirenda VR, Namukonde N, Lungu EB, Mulwanda S, Kalezu K, Simwanda M, Phiri D, Chomba C, Kalezhi J, Lwali CA. Effects of phone mast-generated electromagnetic radiation gradient on the distribution of terrestrial birds and insects in a savanna protected area. Biologia (Bratisl) 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s11756-022-01113-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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15
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Troumbis AY, Iosifidis S, Kalloniatis C. Uncovering patterns of public perceptions towards biodiversity crime using conservation culturomics. CRIME, LAW, AND SOCIAL CHANGE 2022; 78:405-426. [PMID: 35529301 PMCID: PMC9055009 DOI: 10.1007/s10611-022-10028-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
This paper examines aspects of the relationship between (1) the recently typified form of biodiversity crime, (2) information made available to the public through the Internet, and (3) cultural dynamics quantified through info-surveillance methods through Culturomics techniques. We propose two conceptual models: (1) the building-up process of a biodiversity crime culturome, in some language, and (2) a multi-stage biodiversity conservation chain and biodiversity-crime activities relating to each stage. We use crowd search volumes on the Internet on biodiversity crime-related terms and topics as proxies for measuring public interest. The main findings are: (1) the concept of biodiversity-crime per se is still immature and presents low penetration to the general public; (2) biodiversity-crime issues, not recognized as such, are amalgamated in conservation-oriented websites and pages; and (3) differences in perceptions and priorities between general vs. niche public with particular interest(s) in environmental issues- are discernable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Y. Troumbis
- Biodiversity Conservation Laboratory, Department of the Environment, University of the Aegean, 81100 Mytilini, Greece
| | - Spyridon Iosifidis
- Biodiversity Conservation Laboratory, Department of the Environment, University of the Aegean, 81100 Mytilini, Greece
| | - Christos Kalloniatis
- Privacy Engineering and Social Informatics Laboratory, Dept. of Cultural Technology and Communication, University of the Aegean, Mitilini, Greece
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16
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Thompson RM, Hall J, Morrison C, Palmer NR, Roberts DL. Ethics and governance for internet-based conservation science research. CONSERVATION BIOLOGY : THE JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR CONSERVATION BIOLOGY 2021; 35:1747-1754. [PMID: 34057267 DOI: 10.1111/cobi.13778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2020] [Revised: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Internet-based research is increasingly important for conservation science and has wide-ranging applications and contexts, including culturomics, illegal wildlife trade, and citizen science. However, online research methods pose a range of ethical and legal challenges. Online data may be protected by copyright, database rights, or contract law. Privacy rights may also restrict the use and access of data, as well as ethical requirements from institutions. Online data have real-world meaning, and the ethical treatment of individuals and communities must not be marginalized when conducting internet-based research. As ethics frameworks originally developed for biomedical applications are inadequate for these methods, we propose that research activities involving the analysis of preexisting online data be treated analogous to offline social science methods, in particular, nondeceptive covert observation. By treating internet users and their data with respect and due consideration, conservationists can uphold the public trust needed to effectively address real-world issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth M Thompson
- Durrell Institute of Conservation and Ecology, School of Anthropology and Conservation, University of Kent, Canterbury, Kent, UK
| | - Jordan Hall
- Information Compliance Office, Darwin College, University of Kent, Canterbury, Kent, UK
| | - Chris Morrison
- Copyright, Licensing & Policy, Information Services, Templeman Library, University of Kent, Canterbury, Kent, UK
| | - Nicole R Palmer
- Research Ethics and Governance, Research Services, The Registry, University of Kent, Canterbury, Kent, UK
| | - David L Roberts
- Durrell Institute of Conservation and Ecology, School of Anthropology and Conservation, University of Kent, Canterbury, Kent, UK
- Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Oxford Martin School, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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17
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Dewar R, Gavin C, McCarthy C, Taylor RA, Cook C, Simons RRL. A user-friendly decision support tool to assist one-health risk assessors. One Health 2021; 13:100266. [PMID: 34041349 PMCID: PMC8141943 DOI: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2021.100266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Revised: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
One-Health risk assessments are integral to developing efficient responses to disease threats, including global pandemics. However, short timeframes, inadequate disease-specific information and an insufficient skill-base make it hard for inexperienced assessors to distinguish between a large portfolio of approaches. The wrong choice can detract from the disease response. Here, we present an interactive decision support tool to help with this choice. A workshop with participants from diverse professional backgrounds provided six themes that should be considered when deciding on the best approach. Questions based on these themes were then developed to populate a decision tree which guides users to their most appropriate approach. One-Health risk assessment tools and literature were used as examples of the different approaches. The tool provides links to these examples and short descriptions of the approaches. Answers are easily changed, facilitating exploration though different approaches. The simple data structure of the tool means it is easy to update with more resources and approaches. It provides a valuable source of guidance and information for less experienced risk assessors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rob Dewar
- Animal and Plant Health Agency, Woodham Lane, Addlestone, KT15 3NB, United Kingdom
| | - Christine Gavin
- Animal and Plant Health Agency, Woodham Lane, Addlestone, KT15 3NB, United Kingdom
| | - Catherine McCarthy
- Animal and Plant Health Agency, Woodham Lane, Addlestone, KT15 3NB, United Kingdom
| | - Rachel A Taylor
- Animal and Plant Health Agency, Woodham Lane, Addlestone, KT15 3NB, United Kingdom
| | - Charlotte Cook
- Animal and Plant Health Agency, Woodham Lane, Addlestone, KT15 3NB, United Kingdom
| | - Robin R L Simons
- Animal and Plant Health Agency, Woodham Lane, Addlestone, KT15 3NB, United Kingdom
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18
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Zeng H, Liu X, Zhang L, Li Y, Zhu M, Chen D. Educational Approaches Help Bridge Perception Gaps of Invasive Alien Species (Mikania micrantha) between Managers and Non-managers. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2021; 68:340-352. [PMID: 34274979 DOI: 10.1007/s00267-021-01505-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Invasive alien species (IAS) significantly impact biodiversity, human health, and economies, and considerable resources are often used to manage their spread. Few studies have focused on the human perception of IAS management, and little is known about approaches to improve stakeholder perception. This study examined perception gaps between managers and non-managers of a notorious weed Mikania micrantha and the preference for educational approaches to bridge those gaps. Household questionnaires and key informant interviews were conducted in the China-Myanmar Border Region (China), and ordinal logistic regressions and Wilcoxon rank sum tests were used in statistical analyses. We found a high level of perception of M. micrantha among stakeholders, and a significant influence of socio-demographic factors including gender, educational level, ethnic group, and geographical location. Scores of the identification, damage, control measure, and manual treatment of M. micrantha were significantly higher for managers than those for non-managers, indicating that there were certain perception gaps between two stakeholder groups. Nine educational approaches were identified as being effective in improving stakeholder perception of IAS, of which training workshops were mostly preferred, followed by brochures (or leaflets) and other promotional materials. Additionally, we propose that well-designed and well-conducted educational approaches would benefit stakeholder perception of IAS, and that integration of IAS management into a comprehensive rural development scheme would improve its long-term performance in marginalized rural communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiyun Zeng
- Institute of International Rivers and Eco-Security, Yunnan University, South Section, East Outer Ring Road, Chenggong District, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of International Rivers and Transboundary Eco-Security, Yunnan University, South Section, East Outer Ring Road, Chenggong District, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China
| | - Xiaofei Liu
- Institute of International Rivers and Eco-Security, Yunnan University, South Section, East Outer Ring Road, Chenggong District, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of International Rivers and Transboundary Eco-Security, Yunnan University, South Section, East Outer Ring Road, Chenggong District, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China
| | - Liyun Zhang
- Institute of International Rivers and Eco-Security, Yunnan University, South Section, East Outer Ring Road, Chenggong District, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China.
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of International Rivers and Transboundary Eco-Security, Yunnan University, South Section, East Outer Ring Road, Chenggong District, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China.
| | - Yingzhen Li
- Institute of International Rivers and Eco-Security, Yunnan University, South Section, East Outer Ring Road, Chenggong District, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of International Rivers and Transboundary Eco-Security, Yunnan University, South Section, East Outer Ring Road, Chenggong District, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China
| | - Min Zhu
- Institute of International Rivers and Eco-Security, Yunnan University, South Section, East Outer Ring Road, Chenggong District, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of International Rivers and Transboundary Eco-Security, Yunnan University, South Section, East Outer Ring Road, Chenggong District, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China
| | - Dongming Chen
- Institute of International Rivers and Eco-Security, Yunnan University, South Section, East Outer Ring Road, Chenggong District, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of International Rivers and Transboundary Eco-Security, Yunnan University, South Section, East Outer Ring Road, Chenggong District, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China
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19
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LaCava MEF, Malmberg JL, Edwards WH, Johnson LNL, Allen SE, Ernest HB. Spatio-temporal analyses reveal infectious disease-driven selection in a free-ranging ungulate. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2021; 8:210802. [PMID: 34430048 PMCID: PMC8355672 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.210802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Infectious diseases play an important role in wildlife population dynamics by altering individual fitness, but detecting disease-driven natural selection in free-ranging populations is difficult due to complex disease-host relationships. Chronic wasting disease (CWD) is a fatal infectious prion disease in cervids for which mutations in a single gene have been mechanistically linked to disease outcomes, providing a rare opportunity to study disease-driven selection in wildlife. In Wyoming, USA, CWD has gradually spread across mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus) populations, producing natural variation in disease history to evaluate selection pressure. We used spatial variation and a novel temporal comparison to investigate the relationship between CWD and a mutation at codon 225 of the mule deer prion protein gene that slows disease progression. We found that individuals with the 'slow' 225F allele were less likely to test positive for CWD, and the 225F allele was more common in herds exposed to CWD longer. We also found that in the past 2 decades, the 225F allele frequency increased more in herds with higher CWD prevalence. This study expanded on previous research by analysing spatio-temporal patterns of individual and herd-based disease data to present multiple lines of evidence for disease-driven selection in free-ranging wildlife.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie E. F. LaCava
- Wildlife Genomics and Disease Ecology Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Program in Ecology, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY 82071, USA
| | - Jennifer L. Malmberg
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Wyoming State Veterinary Laboratory, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY 82070, USA
| | - William H. Edwards
- Wyoming Game and Fish Department, Wildlife Health Laboratory, Laramie, WY 82070, USA
| | - Laura N. L. Johnson
- Wildlife Genomics and Disease Ecology Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY 82071, USA
| | - Samantha E. Allen
- Wyoming Game and Fish Department, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY 82070, USA
| | - Holly B. Ernest
- Wildlife Genomics and Disease Ecology Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Program in Ecology, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY 82071, USA
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20
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Skórka P, Banach A, Banasiak M, Bokalska-Rajba J, Bonk M, Czachura P, García-Rodríguez A, Gaspar G, Hordyńska N, Kaczmarczyk A, Kapłoniak K, Kociński M, Łopata B, Mazur E, Mirzaei M, Misiewicz A, Parres A, Przystałkowska A, Pustkowiak S, Raczyński M, Sadura I, Splitt A, Stanek M, Sternalski J, Wierzbicka A, Wiorek M, Zduńczyk P. Congruence between the prioritisation of conservation problems at the local and national scale: an evaluation by environmental scientists in Poland. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:35317-35326. [PMID: 34100204 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-14741-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The anthropogenic pressure on the environment depends on the spatial scale. It is crucial to prioritise conservation actions at different spatial scales to be cost-efficient. Using horizon scanning with the Delphi technique, we asked what the most important conservation problems are in Poland at local and national scales. Twenty-six participants, PhD students, individually identified conservation issues important at the local and national scales. Each problem was then scored and classified into broader categories during the round discussions. Text mining, cross-sectional analyses, and frequency tests were used to compare the context, importance scores, and frequency of identified problems between the two scales, respectively. A total of 115 problems were identified at the local scale and 122 at the national scale. Among them, 30 problems were identical for both scales. Importance scores were higher for national than local problems; however, this resulted from different sets of problems identified at the two scales. Problems linked to urbanisation, education, and management were associated with the local scale. Problems related to policy, forestry, and consumerism were more frequent at the national scale. An efficient conservation policy should be built hierarchically (e.g. introducing adaptive governance), implementing solutions at a national scale with the flexibility to adjust for local differences and to address the most pressing issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piotr Skórka
- Institute of Nature Conservation, Polish Academy of Sciences, Al. Adama Mickiewicza 33, 31-120, Kraków, Poland.
| | - Agata Banach
- Institute of Systematics and Evolution of Animals, Polish Academy of Sciences, Sławkowska 17, 31-016, Kraków, Poland
| | - Marek Banasiak
- Institute of Systematics and Evolution of Animals, Polish Academy of Sciences, Sławkowska 17, 31-016, Kraków, Poland
| | - Joanna Bokalska-Rajba
- W. Szafer Institute of Botany, Polish Academy of Sciences, Lubicz 46, 31-512, Kraków, Poland
| | - Maciej Bonk
- Institute of Nature Conservation, Polish Academy of Sciences, Al. Adama Mickiewicza 33, 31-120, Kraków, Poland
| | - Paweł Czachura
- W. Szafer Institute of Botany, Polish Academy of Sciences, Lubicz 46, 31-512, Kraków, Poland
| | - Alberto García-Rodríguez
- Institute of Nature Conservation, Polish Academy of Sciences, Al. Adama Mickiewicza 33, 31-120, Kraków, Poland
| | - Gabriela Gaspar
- Institute of Systematics and Evolution of Animals, Polish Academy of Sciences, Sławkowska 17, 31-016, Kraków, Poland
| | - Natalia Hordyńska
- The Franciszek Górski Institute of Plant Physiology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Niezapominajek 21, 30-239, Kraków, Poland
| | - Adriana Kaczmarczyk
- The Franciszek Górski Institute of Plant Physiology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Niezapominajek 21, 30-239, Kraków, Poland
| | - Kamila Kapłoniak
- The Franciszek Górski Institute of Plant Physiology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Niezapominajek 21, 30-239, Kraków, Poland
| | - Maciej Kociński
- Institute of Systematics and Evolution of Animals, Polish Academy of Sciences, Sławkowska 17, 31-016, Kraków, Poland
| | - Barbara Łopata
- W. Szafer Institute of Botany, Polish Academy of Sciences, Lubicz 46, 31-512, Kraków, Poland
| | - Edyta Mazur
- W. Szafer Institute of Botany, Polish Academy of Sciences, Lubicz 46, 31-512, Kraków, Poland
| | - Mohamadreza Mirzaei
- The Franciszek Górski Institute of Plant Physiology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Niezapominajek 21, 30-239, Kraków, Poland
| | - Anna Misiewicz
- Institute of Nature Conservation, Polish Academy of Sciences, Al. Adama Mickiewicza 33, 31-120, Kraków, Poland
| | - Aida Parres
- Institute of Nature Conservation, Polish Academy of Sciences, Al. Adama Mickiewicza 33, 31-120, Kraków, Poland
| | - Anna Przystałkowska
- Institute of Systematics and Evolution of Animals, Polish Academy of Sciences, Sławkowska 17, 31-016, Kraków, Poland
| | - Sylwia Pustkowiak
- Institute of Nature Conservation, Polish Academy of Sciences, Al. Adama Mickiewicza 33, 31-120, Kraków, Poland
| | - Mateusz Raczyński
- Institute of Nature Conservation, Polish Academy of Sciences, Al. Adama Mickiewicza 33, 31-120, Kraków, Poland
| | - Iwona Sadura
- The Franciszek Górski Institute of Plant Physiology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Niezapominajek 21, 30-239, Kraków, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Splitt
- Institute of Nature Conservation, Polish Academy of Sciences, Al. Adama Mickiewicza 33, 31-120, Kraków, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Stanek
- W. Szafer Institute of Botany, Polish Academy of Sciences, Lubicz 46, 31-512, Kraków, Poland
| | - Jakub Sternalski
- Institute of Systematics and Evolution of Animals, Polish Academy of Sciences, Sławkowska 17, 31-016, Kraków, Poland
| | - Alicja Wierzbicka
- National Research Institute of Animal Production, Krakowska 1, 32-083, Balice, Poland
| | - Marcin Wiorek
- Institute of Systematics and Evolution of Animals, Polish Academy of Sciences, Sławkowska 17, 31-016, Kraków, Poland
| | - Paweł Zduńczyk
- W. Szafer Institute of Botany, Polish Academy of Sciences, Lubicz 46, 31-512, Kraków, Poland
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21
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Balmori A. Electromagnetic radiation as an emerging driver factor for the decline of insects. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 767:144913. [PMID: 33636787 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.144913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Revised: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The biodiversity of insects is threatened worldwide. Numerous studies have reported the serious decline in insects that has occurred in recent decades. The same is happening with the important group of pollinators, with an essential utility for pollination of crops. Loss of insect diversity and abundance is expected to provoke cascading effects on food webs and ecosystem services. Many authors point out that reductions in insect abundance must be attributed mainly to agricultural practices and pesticide use. On the other hand, evidence for the effects of non-thermal microwave radiation on insects has been known for at least 50 years. The review carried out in this study shows that electromagnetic radiation should be considered seriously as a complementary driver for the dramatic decline in insects, acting in synergy with agricultural intensification, pesticides, invasive species and climate change. The extent that anthropogenic electromagnetic radiation represents a significant threat to insect pollinators is unresolved and plausible. For these reasons, and taking into account the benefits they provide to nature and humankind, the precautionary principle should be applied before any new deployment (such 5G) is considered.
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22
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Väisänen T, Heikinheimo V, Hiippala T, Toivonen T. Exploring human-nature interactions in national parks with social media photographs and computer vision. CONSERVATION BIOLOGY : THE JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR CONSERVATION BIOLOGY 2021; 35:424-436. [PMID: 33749054 DOI: 10.1111/cobi.13704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Revised: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the activities and preferences of visitors is crucial for managing protected areas and planning conservation strategies. Conservation culturomics promotes the use of user-generated online content in conservation science. Geotagged social media content is a unique source of in situ information on human presence and activities in nature. Photographs posted on social media platforms are a promising source of information, but analyzing large volumes of photographs manually remains laborious. We examined the application of state-of-the-art computer-vision methods to studying human-nature interactions. We used semantic clustering, scene classification, and object detection to automatically analyze photographs taken in Finnish national parks by domestic and international visitors. Our results showed that human-nature interactions can be extracted from user-generated photographs with computer vision. The different methods complemented each other by revealing broad visual themes related to level of the data set, landscape photogeneity, and human activities. Geotagged photographs revealed distinct regional profiles for national parks (e.g., preferences in landscapes and activities), which are potentially useful in park management. Photographic content differed between domestic and international visitors, which indicates differences in activities and preferences. Information extracted automatically from photographs can help identify preferences among diverse visitor groups, which can be used to create profiles of national parks for conservation marketing and to support conservation strategies that rely on public acceptance. The application of computer-vision methods to automatic content analysis of photographs should be explored further in conservation culturomics, particularly in combination with rich metadata available on social media platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuomas Väisänen
- Digital Geography Lab, Department of Geosciences and Geography, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, 00014, Finland
- Helsinki Institute of Sustainability Science, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, 00014, Finland
| | - Vuokko Heikinheimo
- Digital Geography Lab, Department of Geosciences and Geography, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, 00014, Finland
- Helsinki Institute of Sustainability Science, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, 00014, Finland
| | - Tuomo Hiippala
- Digital Geography Lab, Department of Geosciences and Geography, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, 00014, Finland
- Helsinki Institute of Sustainability Science, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, 00014, Finland
- Department of Languages, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, 00014, Finland
| | - Tuuli Toivonen
- Digital Geography Lab, Department of Geosciences and Geography, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, 00014, Finland
- Helsinki Institute of Sustainability Science, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, 00014, Finland
- Conservation Science Group, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 3EJ, U.K
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23
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Mittermeier JC, Correia R, Grenyer R, Toivonen T, Roll U. Using Wikipedia to measure public interest in biodiversity and conservation. CONSERVATION BIOLOGY : THE JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR CONSERVATION BIOLOGY 2021; 35:412-423. [PMID: 33749051 DOI: 10.1111/cobi.13702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Revised: 09/27/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The recent growth of online big data offers opportunities for rapid and inexpensive measurement of public interest. Conservation culturomics is an emerging research area that uses online data to study human-nature relationships for conservation. Methods for conservation culturomics, though promising, are still being developed and refined. We considered the potential of Wikipedia, the online encyclopedia, as a resource for conservation culturomics and outlined methods for using Wikipedia data in conservation. Wikipedia's large size, widespread use, underlying data structure, and open access to both its content and usage analytics make it well suited to conservation culturomics research. Limitations of Wikipedia data include the lack of location information associated with some metadata and limited information on the motivations of many users. Seven methodological steps to consider when using Wikipedia data in conservation include metadata selection, temporality, taxonomy, language representation, Wikipedia geography, physical and biological geography, and comparative metrics. Each of these methodological decisions can affect measures of online interest. As a case study, we explored these themes by analyzing 757 million Wikipedia page views associated with the Wikipedia pages for 10,099 species of birds across 251 Wikipedia language editions. We found that Wikipedia data have the potential to generate insight for conservation and are particularly useful for quantifying patterns of public interest at large scales.
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Affiliation(s)
- John C Mittermeier
- School of Geography and the Environment, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3QY, U.K
- American Bird Conservancy, 4301 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, DC, 20008, U.S.A
| | - Ricardo Correia
- The Digital Geography Lab, Department of Geosciences and Geography, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, 00014, Finland
- Helsinki Lab of Interdisciplinary Science (HELICS), University of Helsinki, Helsinki, 00014, Finland
| | - Rich Grenyer
- School of Geography and the Environment, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3QY, U.K
| | - Tuuli Toivonen
- Helsinki Lab of Interdisciplinary Science (HELICS), University of Helsinki, Helsinki, 00014, Finland
| | - Uri Roll
- Mitrani Department of Desert Ecology, The Jacob Blaustein Institutes for Desert Research, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Midreshet Ben-Gurion, 8499000, Israel
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24
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Janousek WM, Graves TA, Berman EE, Chong GW, Cole EK, Dewey SR, Johnston AN, Cross PC. Human activities and weather drive contact rates of wintering elk. J Appl Ecol 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/1365-2664.13818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- William M. Janousek
- United States Geological Survey Northern Rocky Mountain Science Center West Glacier MT USA
| | - Tabitha A. Graves
- United States Geological Survey Northern Rocky Mountain Science Center West Glacier MT USA
| | - Ethan E. Berman
- United States Geological Survey Northern Rocky Mountain Science Center West Glacier MT USA
| | - Geneva W. Chong
- United States Geological Survey Northern Rocky Mountain Science Center Bozeman MT USA
| | - Eric K. Cole
- United States Fish and Wildlife Service Jackson WY USA
| | - Sarah R. Dewey
- National Park Service Grand Teton National Park Moose WY USA
| | - Aaron N. Johnston
- United States Geological Survey Northern Rocky Mountain Science Center Bozeman MT USA
| | - Paul C. Cross
- United States Geological Survey Northern Rocky Mountain Science Center Bozeman MT USA
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25
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Troumbis AY. The physics of conservation culturomics: the mass-energy-information equivalence principle to address misrepresented controversies. Heliyon 2021; 7:e06333. [PMID: 33718645 PMCID: PMC7921509 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e06333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The application of the mass-energy-information equivalence principle developed after the experimentally demonstrated Landauer's principle on thermodynamics, entropy, and information is an unexplored but promising path in search of objectivity and compatibility between strict physical and mathematical entities and relative human behavior in biodiversity conservation issues. Conservation culturomics is proposed as the epistemic methodology and programme to trace the evolution in cultural human-nature relationships. Historically, controversies do persist between pro- vs. non- environmental opinions and policies. The proposed combination of physics and culturomics is feasible, although complex, multileveled, and depending on a series of academic, technical, and political prerequisites. In the era of staggering information technologies, Internet use proliferation and cultural relativism, reliable information on conservation knowledge vs. often unfounded story-tellings is a sine qua non for the development of badly needed modern global conservation strategies, targets, and goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Y. Troumbis
- Biodiversity Conservation Laboratory, Department of the Environment, University of the Aegean, Greece
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26
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Jiao Y, Li Y, Yuan L, Huang J. Allelopathy of uncomposted and composted invasive aster (Ageratina adenophora) on ryegrass. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2021; 402:123727. [PMID: 33254761 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2020.123727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Revised: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
In many areas invaded by Ageratina adenophora, the piles of A. adenophora residue need to be safely treated and economically utilized. To explore a new potential use for these residues, on-site aerobic composting, seed germination test and greenhouse experiment were conducted to compare the phytotoxic allelochemicals in uncomposted and composted A. adenophora plants (UA and CA, respectively) and their influence on ryegrass seed germination and seedling growth. The phytotoxicants 4,7-dimethyl-1-(propan-2-ylidene)-1,4,4a,8a-tetrahydronaphthalene-2,6(1H,7H)-dione (DTD) and 6-hydroxy-5-isopropyl-3,8-dimethyl-4a,5,6,7,8,8a-hexahydronaphthalen-2(1 H)-one (HHO) in UA decreased by 10.09 and 11.01 times in CA on average, respectively. Aqueous extracts of CA increased the seed germination rate, root dehydrogenase activity, leaf chlorophyll content and nitrate reductase activity; those of UA behaved oppositely. Compared with chemical fertilizers (CF), CF + CA promoted plant growth, increased plant nutrient uptake, and resulted in higher soil available nutrients, enzyme activity and microbial biodiversity, whereas CA alone had similar or better influences on plants and soils than CF. The predominant bacterial and fungal composition was the same in the soils supplied with CA and CF + CA. Therefore, on-site aerobic composting eliminated the phytotoxicity of CA and provided a new, simple and economical approach for the potential use of A. adenophora biomass as a plant- and soil-friendly organic fertilizer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujie Jiao
- College of Resources and Environment, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400716, PR China
| | - Yong Li
- College of Resources and Environment, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400716, PR China
| | - Ling Yuan
- College of Resources and Environment, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400716, PR China
| | - Jianguo Huang
- College of Resources and Environment, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400716, PR China.
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27
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Jacob U, Beckerman A, Antonijevic M, Dee LE, Eklöf A, Possingham HP, Thompson R, Webb TJ, Halpern BS. Marine conservation: towards a multi-layered network approach. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2020; 375:20190459. [PMID: 33131435 PMCID: PMC7662205 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2019.0459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Valuing, managing and conserving marine biodiversity and a full range of ecosystem services is at the forefront of research and policy agendas. However, biodiversity is being lost at up to a thousand times the average background rate. Traditional disciplinary and siloed conservation approaches are not able to tackle this massive loss of biodiversity because they generally ignore or overlook the interactive and dynamic nature of ecosystems processes, limiting their predictability. To conserve marine biodiversity, we must assess the interactions and impacts among biodiversity and ecosystem services (BD-ES). The scaling up in complexity from single species to entire communities is necessary, albeit challenging, for a deeper understanding of how ecosystem services relate to biodiversity and the roles species have in ecosystem service provision. These interactions are challenging to map, let alone fully assess, but network and system-based approaches provide a powerful way to progress beyond those limitations. Here, we introduce a conceptual multi-layered network approach to understanding how ecosystem services supported by biodiversity drive the total service provision, how different stressors impact BD-ES and where conservation efforts should be placed to optimize the delivery of ecosystem services and protection of biodiversity. This article is part of the theme issue 'Integrative research perspectives on marine conservation'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ute Jacob
- Helmholtz-Institute for Functional Marine Biodiversity at the University of Oldenburg (HIFMB), Ammerländer Heerstrasse 231, 26129 Oldenburg, Germany
- Alfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research, Am Handelshafen 12, 27570 Bremerhaven, Germany
| | - Andrew Beckerman
- Department of Animal and Plant Sciences, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Mira Antonijevic
- ach and krach GmbH, Branddesign, Grindelberg 17, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Laura E. Dee
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80309, USA
| | - Anna Eklöf
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, Linköping 581 83, Sweden
| | - Hugh P. Possingham
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, Saint Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Ross Thompson
- Centre for Applied Water Science, University of Canberra, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Thomas J. Webb
- Department of Animal and Plant Sciences, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Benjamin S. Halpern
- National Centre for Ecological Analysis and Synthesis, University of California, Santa Barbara, 735 State Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101-5504, USA
- Bren School of Environmental Science and Management, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA
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28
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Mysterud A, Ytrehus B, Tranulis MA, Rauset GR, Rolandsen CM, Strand O. Antler cannibalism in reindeer. Sci Rep 2020; 10:22168. [PMID: 33335134 PMCID: PMC7747554 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-79050-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Prion diseases constitute a class of invariably fatal and degenerative encephalopathies. Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) is a contagious prion disease among cervids, which is spreading and causing marked population declines in USA and Canada. The first outbreak of CWD in Europe was discovered in a reindeer population in Norway in 2016. In the worst-case scenario with continental-wide spreading of CWD in Eurasia, an annual harvest of around 4 million cervids is at stake only in Europe, with huge economic and cultural significance. An in situ origin of CWD was suspected, and it appear urgent to identify the likely cause to prevent future emergences. Here, we document the novel phenomenon of extensive antler cannibalism prior to shedding among reindeer in the CWD-infected population. The extent of antler cannibalism increased over the last decades when CWD emerged, and included ingestion of vascularized antlers. Ingestion of tissues from conspecifics is a risk factor for the emergence of prion diseases, where the presence of extensive antler cannibalism opens the intriguing possibility of a ‘Kuru-analogue’ origin of CWD among the reindeer in Europe. Based on general insight on pathology of prion diseases and strain selection processes, we propose an hypothesis for how contagious CWD may emerge from sporadic CWD under the unique epidemiological conditions we document here. More research is required to document the presence of prions in reindeer antlers, and whether antler cannibalism actually led to a strain selection process and the emergence of a contagious form of CWD from a sporadic form of CWD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atle Mysterud
- Centre for Ecological and Evolutionary Synthesis (CEES), Department of Biosciences, University of Oslo, Blindern, P.O. Box 1066, 0316, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Bjørnar Ytrehus
- Norwegian Institute for Nature Research (NINA), Torgarden, P. O. Box 5685, 7485, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Michael A Tranulis
- Department of Preclinical Sciences and Pathology, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, P.O. Box 369 Sentrum, 0102, Oslo, Norway
| | - Geir Rune Rauset
- Norwegian Institute for Nature Research (NINA), Torgarden, P. O. Box 5685, 7485, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Christer M Rolandsen
- Norwegian Institute for Nature Research (NINA), Torgarden, P. O. Box 5685, 7485, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Olav Strand
- Norwegian Institute for Nature Research (NINA), Torgarden, P. O. Box 5685, 7485, Trondheim, Norway
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29
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Cullingham CI, Peery RM, Dao A, McKenzie DI, Coltman DW. Predicting the spread-risk potential of chronic wasting disease to sympatric ungulate species. Prion 2020; 14:56-66. [PMID: 32008428 PMCID: PMC7009333 DOI: 10.1080/19336896.2020.1720486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2019] [Revised: 01/16/2020] [Accepted: 01/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Wildlife disease incidence is increasing, resulting in negative impacts on the economy, biodiversity, and potentially human health. Chronic wasting disease (CWD) is a fatal, transmissible spongiform encephalopathy of cervids (wild and captive) which continues to spread geographically resulting in exposure to potential new host species. The disease agent (PrPCWD) is a misfolded conformer of the cellular prion protein (PrPC). In Canada, the disease is endemic in Alberta and Saskatchewan, affecting mule and white-tail deer, with lesser impact on elk and moose. As the disease continues to expand, additional wild ungulate species including bison, bighorn sheep, mountain goat, and pronghorn antelope may be exposed. To better understand the species-barrier, we reviewed the current literature on taxa naturally or experimentally exposed to CWD to identify susceptible and resistant species. We created a phylogeny of these taxa using cytochrome B and found that CWD susceptibility followed the species phylogeny. Using this phylogeny we estimated the probability of CWD susceptibility for wild ungulate species. We then compared PrPC amino acid polymorphisms among these species to identify which sites segregated between susceptible and resistant species. We identified sites that were significantly associated with susceptibility, but they were not fully discriminating. Finally, we sequenced Prnp from 578 wild ungulates to further evaluate their potential susceptibility. Together, these data suggest the host-range for CWD will potentially include pronghorn, mountain goat and bighorn sheep, but bison are likely to be more resistant. These findings highlight the need for monitoring potentially susceptible species as CWD continues to expand.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine I. Cullingham
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
- Department of Biology, Carleton University, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Rhiannon M. Peery
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Anh Dao
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Debbie I. McKenzie
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - David W. Coltman
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
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30
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Mysterud A, Rauset GR, Van Moorter B, Andersen R, Strand O, Rivrud IM. The last moves: The effect of hunting and culling on the risk of disease spread from a population of reindeer. J Appl Ecol 2020. [DOI: 10.1111/1365-2664.13761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Atle Mysterud
- Department of Biosciences Centre for Ecological and Evolutionary Synthesis (CEES) University of Oslo Oslo Norway
| | | | | | - Roy Andersen
- Norwegian Institute for Nature Research (NINA) Trondheim Norway
| | - Olav Strand
- Norwegian Institute for Nature Research (NINA) Trondheim Norway
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31
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Broad A, Rees MJ, Davis AR. Anchor and chain scour as disturbance agents in benthic environments: trends in the literature and charting a course to more sustainable boating and shipping. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2020; 161:111683. [PMID: 33038636 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2020.111683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Revised: 08/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Millions of recreational boats and ~ 65,000 ocean-going merchant ships anchor routinely. Anchor and chain scour associated with these vessels mechanically disturb the seabed having implications for marine environments globally. Our review summarises the scientific literature that examines the response of biota to anchor scour across five habitats; unvegetated sediments; seagrass; rhodolith beds; coral and rocky reefs. Forty-one studies met our criteria with >85% of articles targeting recreational-based disturbances, mostly focussed on seagrass. Investigations of anchor scour from ships comes almost exclusively from cruise ships anchoring on coral reef. All research examined reported biota responding negatively to anchor scour, either directly or indirectly. Effects to biota were dependent on the spatio-temporal scale of the perturbation or the life-histories of the organisms impacted. We highlight several key knowledge gaps requiring urgent investigation and suggest a range of management strategies to work towards sustainable anchoring practices and the preservation of valuable seabed environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison Broad
- School of Earth, Atmospheric and Life Sciences, University of Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia.
| | - Matthew J Rees
- NSW Department of Primary Industries, Marine Ecosystem Unit, Fisheries Research, PO Box 89, Huskisson, NSW 2540, Australia
| | - Andrew R Davis
- School of Earth, Atmospheric and Life Sciences, University of Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
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32
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Chowdhury S, Braby MF, Fuller RA, Zalucki MP. Coasting along to a wider range: niche conservatism in the recent range expansion of the Tawny Coster,
Acraea terpsicore
(Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae). DIVERS DISTRIB 2020. [DOI: 10.1111/ddi.13200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Shawan Chowdhury
- School of Biological Sciences The University of Queensland Brisbane QLD Australia
| | - Michael F. Braby
- Division of Ecology and Evolution Research School of Biology The Australian National University Canberra ACT Australia
- The Australian National Insect Collection National Research Collections Australia Canberra ACT Australia
| | - Richard A. Fuller
- School of Biological Sciences The University of Queensland Brisbane QLD Australia
| | - Myron P. Zalucki
- School of Biological Sciences The University of Queensland Brisbane QLD Australia
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33
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Comizzoli P, Holt WV. Breakthroughs and new horizons in reproductive biology of rare and endangered animal species. Biol Reprod 2020; 101:514-525. [PMID: 30772911 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2019] [Revised: 02/08/2019] [Accepted: 02/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Because of higher extinction rates due to human and natural factors, more basic and applied research in reproductive biology is required to preserve wild species and design proper strategies leading to sustainable populations. The objective of the review is to highlight recent, inspiring breakthroughs in wildlife reproduction science that will set directions for future research and lead to more successes in conservation biology. Despite new tools and approaches allowing a better and faster understanding of key mechanisms, we still know little about reproduction in endangered species. Recently, the most striking advances have been obtained in nonmammalian species (fish, birds, amphibians, or corals) with the development of alternative solutions to preserve fertility or new information about parental nutritional influence on embryo development. A novel way has also been explored to consider the impact of environmental changes on reproduction-the allostatic load-in a vast array of species (from primates to fish). On the horizon, genomic tools are expected to considerably change the way we study wildlife reproduction and develop a concept of "precision conservation breeding." When basic studies in organismal physiology are conducted in parallel, new approaches using stem cells to create artificial gametes and gonads, innovations in germplasm storage, and more research on reproductive microbiomes will help to make a difference. Lastly, multiple challenges (for instance, poor integration of new tools in conservation programs, limited access to study animals, or few publication options) will have to be addressed if we want reproductive biology to positively impact conservation of biodiversity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre Comizzoli
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Washington DC, USA
| | - William V Holt
- Academic Unit of Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
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Hunting strategies to increase detection of chronic wasting disease in cervids. Nat Commun 2020; 11:4392. [PMID: 32873810 PMCID: PMC7463264 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-18229-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The successful mitigation of emerging wildlife diseases may involve controversial host culling. For livestock, ‘preemptive host culling’ is an accepted practice involving the removal of herds with known contact to infected populations. When applied to wildlife, this proactive approach comes in conflict with biodiversity conservation goals. Here, we present an alternative approach of ‘proactive hunting surveillance’ with the aim of early disease detection that simultaneously avoids undesirable population decline by targeting demographic groups with (1) a higher likelihood of being infected and (2) a lower reproductive value. We applied this harvesting principle to populations of reindeer to substantiate freedom of chronic wasting disease (CWD) infection. Proactive hunting surveillance reached 99% probability of freedom from infection (<4 reindeer infected) within 3–5 years, in comparison to ~10 years using ordinary harvest surveillance. However, implementation uncertainties linked to social issues appear challenging also with this kind of host culling. Rarely are the outcomes of mathematical (probability) models of wildlife disease detection used to inform policy or management changes. Here the authors develop a proactive hunting surveillance program that shortened the time required to establish freedom from chronic wasting disease at the population level in reindeer.
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Essl F, Lenzner B, Bacher S, Bailey S, Capinha C, Daehler C, Dullinger S, Genovesi P, Hui C, Hulme PE, Jeschke JM, Katsanevakis S, Kühn I, Leung B, Liebhold A, Liu C, MacIsaac HJ, Meyerson LA, Nuñez MA, Pauchard A, Pyšek P, Rabitsch W, Richardson DM, Roy HE, Ruiz GM, Russell JC, Sanders NJ, Sax DF, Scalera R, Seebens H, Springborn M, Turbelin A, van Kleunen M, von Holle B, Winter M, Zenni RD, Mattsson BJ, Roura‐Pascual N. Drivers of future alien species impacts: An expert-based assessment. GLOBAL CHANGE BIOLOGY 2020; 26:4880-4893. [PMID: 32663906 PMCID: PMC7496498 DOI: 10.1111/gcb.15199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the likely future impacts of biological invasions is crucial yet highly challenging given the multiple relevant environmental, socio-economic and societal contexts and drivers. In the absence of quantitative models, methods based on expert knowledge are the best option for assessing future invasion trajectories. Here, we present an expert assessment of the drivers of potential alien species impacts under contrasting scenarios and socioecological contexts through the mid-21st century. Based on responses from 36 experts in biological invasions, moderate (20%-30%) increases in invasions, compared to the current conditions, are expected to cause major impacts on biodiversity in most socioecological contexts. Three main drivers of biological invasions-transport, climate change and socio-economic change-were predicted to significantly affect future impacts of alien species on biodiversity even under a best-case scenario. Other drivers (e.g. human demography and migration in tropical and subtropical regions) were also of high importance in specific global contexts (e.g. for individual taxonomic groups or biomes). We show that some best-case scenarios can substantially reduce potential future impacts of biological invasions. However, rapid and comprehensive actions are necessary to use this potential and achieve the goals of the Post-2020 Framework of the Convention on Biological Diversity.
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Societal attention toward extinction threats: a comparison between climate change and biological invasions. Sci Rep 2020; 10:11085. [PMID: 32632156 PMCID: PMC7338409 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-67931-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2019] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Public attention and interest in the fate of endangered species is a crucial prerequisite for effective conservation programs. Societal awareness and values will largely determine whether conservation initiatives receive necessary support and lead to adequate policy change. Using text data mining, we assessed general public attention in France, Germany and the United Kingdom toward climate change and biological invasions in relation to endangered amphibian, reptile, bird and mammal species. Our analysis revealed that public attention patterns differed among species groups and countries but was globally higher for climate change than for biological invasions. Both threats received better recognition in threatened than in non-threatened species, as well as in native species than in species from other countries and regions. We conclude that more efficient communication regarding the threat from biological invasions should be developed, and that conservation practitioners should take advantage of the existing attention toward climate change.
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Seymour CL, Gillson L, Child MF, Tolley KA, Curie JC, da Silva JM, Alexander GJ, Anderson P, Downs CT, Egoh BN, Ehlers Smith DA, Ehlers Smith YC, Esler KJ, O’Farrell PJ, Skowno AL, Suleman E, Veldtman R. Horizon scanning for South African biodiversity: A need for social engagement as well as science. AMBIO 2020; 49:1211-1221. [PMID: 31564051 PMCID: PMC7128016 DOI: 10.1007/s13280-019-01252-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2019] [Revised: 08/16/2019] [Accepted: 08/26/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
A horizon scan was conducted to identify emerging and intensifying issues for biodiversity conservation in South Africa over the next 5-10 years. South African biodiversity experts submitted 63 issues of which ten were identified as priorities using the Delphi method. These priority issues were then plotted along axes of social agreement and scientific certainty, to ascertain whether issues might be "simple" (amenable to solutions from science alone), "complicated" (socially agreed upon but technically complicated), "complex" (scientifically challenging and significant levels of social disagreement) or "chaotic" (high social disagreement and highly scientifically challenging). Only three of the issues were likely to be resolved by improved science alone, while the remainder require engagement with social, economic and political factors. Fortunately, none of the issues were considered chaotic. Nevertheless, strategic communication, education and engagement with the populace and policy makers were considered vital for addressing emerging issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colleen L. Seymour
- South African National Biodiversity Institute, Kirstenbosch Research Centre, Private Bag X7, Claremont, 7735 South Africa
- FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, DST/NRF Centre of Excellence, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, 7701 South Africa
| | - Lindsey Gillson
- Plant Conservation Unit, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cape Town, private Bag X3, Rondebosch, 7701 South Africa
| | - Matthew F. Child
- South African National Biodiversity Institute, Kirstenbosch Research Centre, Private Bag X7, Claremont, 7735 South Africa
- Mammal Research Institute, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X20 Hatfield, Pretoria, 0028 South Africa
| | - Krystal A. Tolley
- South African National Biodiversity Institute, Kirstenbosch Research Centre, Private Bag X7, Claremont, 7735 South Africa
- Department of Zoology, Centre for Ecological Genomics and Wildlife Conservation, University of Johannesburg, P.O. Box 524, Auckland Park, 2000 South Africa
| | - Jock C. Curie
- South African National Biodiversity Institute, Kirstenbosch Research Centre, Private Bag X7, Claremont, 7735 South Africa
- Institute for Coastal and Marine Research, Nelson Mandela University, PO Box 77000, Port Elizabeth, 6031 South Africa
| | - Jessica M. da Silva
- South African National Biodiversity Institute, Kirstenbosch Research Centre, Private Bag X7, Claremont, 7735 South Africa
- Department of Botany & Zoology, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag x1, Matieland, 7602 South Africa
| | - Graham J. Alexander
- School of Animal, Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2050 South Africa
| | - Pippin Anderson
- Department of Environmental and Geographical Science, University of Cape Town, Private Bag X3, Rondebosch, 7701 South Africa
| | - Colleen T. Downs
- Centre for Functional Biodiversity, School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Private Bag X01, Scottsville, Pietermaritzburg, 3209 South Africa
| | - Benis N. Egoh
- Department of Earth System Science, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697 USA
| | - David A. Ehlers Smith
- Centre for Functional Biodiversity, School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Private Bag X01, Scottsville, Pietermaritzburg, 3209 South Africa
| | - Yvette C. Ehlers Smith
- Centre for Functional Biodiversity, School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Private Bag X01, Scottsville, Pietermaritzburg, 3209 South Africa
| | - Karen J. Esler
- Centre for Invasion Biology and Department of Conservation Ecology & Entomology, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag x1, Matieland, 7602 South Africa
| | - Patrick J. O’Farrell
- Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, PO Box 320, Stellenbosch, 7599 South Africa
- FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, DST/NRF Centre of Excellence, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, 7701 South Africa
| | - Andrew L. Skowno
- South African National Biodiversity Institute, Kirstenbosch Research Centre, Private Bag X7, Claremont, 7735 South Africa
- Plant Conservation Unit, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cape Town, private Bag X3, Rondebosch, 7701 South Africa
| | - Essa Suleman
- NextGen Health Cluster, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, P.O. Box 395, Pretoria, 0001 South Africa
- National Zoological Garden, South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI), 232 Boom Street, Pretoria, 0001 South Africa
| | - Ruan Veldtman
- South African National Biodiversity Institute, Kirstenbosch Research Centre, Private Bag X7, Claremont, 7735 South Africa
- Department of Conservation Ecology & Entomology, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag x1, Matieland, 7602 South Africa
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Analyzing the popularity of YouTube videos that violate mountain gorilla tourism regulations. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0232085. [PMID: 32437370 PMCID: PMC7241773 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0232085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2019] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Although ecotourism is expected to be compatible with conservation, it often imposes negative effects on wildlife. The ecotourism of endangered mountain gorillas has attracted many tourists and functioned as a key component of their conservation. There might be expectations on the part of tourists to observe or interact with gorillas in close proximity and such expectations may have been engendered by the contents of social media in this Information Age. However, the risk of disease transmission between humans and gorillas is a large concern and it is important to maintain a certain distance while observing gorillas to minimize risk. We conducted a content analysis and described the general characteristics of 282 YouTube videos related to mountain gorilla tourism. Humans and gorillas were observed simultaneously in 70% of the videos, and physical contact or close proximity within arm's reach were identified in 40%. To explore the factors affecting the number of views and likes that these videos received, we ran generalized linear mixed models and performed AIC model selection with 206 videos in which humans and gorillas were observed simultaneously. Videos obtained more views and likes when the thumbnail photos included humans and gorillas together, while videos with thumbnail photos of only gorillas did not obtain more views and likes compared with those that included no gorillas. Moreover, videos obtained more views and likes in cases where physical contact or close proximity within arm's reach with gorillas were clearly observed, compared with those that did not clearly include close human-gorilla interaction. These results suggest that human-gorilla interaction and proximity with gorillas attract more public attention than gorillas shown by themselves. Our study highlights the importance of further investigation on the direct link between such contents that violate tourism regulations and the conflicting situation.
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Miller WL, Miller‐Butterworth CM, Diefenbach DR, Walter WD. Assessment of spatial genetic structure to identify populations at risk for infection of an emerging epizootic disease. Ecol Evol 2020; 10:3977-3990. [PMID: 32489625 PMCID: PMC7244803 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.6161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2019] [Revised: 01/04/2020] [Accepted: 01/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding the geographic extent and connectivity of wildlife populations can provide important insights into the management of disease outbreaks but defining patterns of population structure is difficult for widely distributed species. Landscape genetic analyses are powerful methods for identifying cryptic structure and movement patterns that may be associated with spatial epizootic patterns in such cases.We characterized patterns of population substructure and connectivity using microsatellite genotypes from 2,222 white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States, a region where chronic wasting disease was first detected in 2009. The goal of this study was to evaluate the juxtaposition between population structure, landscape features that influence gene flow, and current disease management units.Clustering analyses identified four to five subpopulations in this region, the edges of which corresponded to ecophysiographic provinces. Subpopulations were further partitioned into 11 clusters with subtle (F ST ≤ 0.041), but significant genetic differentiation. Genetic differentiation was lower and migration rates were higher among neighboring genetic clusters, indicating an underlying genetic cline. Genetic discontinuities were associated with topographic barriers, however.Resistance surface modeling indicated that gene flow was diffuse in homogenous landscapes, but the direction and extent of gene flow were influenced by forest cover, traffic volume, and elevational relief in subregions heterogeneous for these landscape features. Chronic wasting disease primarily occurred among genetic clusters within a single subpopulation and along corridors of high landscape connectivity.These results may suggest a possible correlation between population substructure, landscape connectivity, and the occurrence of diseases for widespread species. Considering these factors may be useful in delineating effective management units, although only the largest features produced appreciable differences in subpopulation structure. Disease mitigation strategies implemented at the scale of ecophysiographic provinces are likely to be more effective than those implemented at finer scales.
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Affiliation(s)
- William L. Miller
- Pennsylvania Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research UnitDepartment of Ecosystem Science and ManagementIntercollege Graduate Degree Program in EcologyThe Pennsylvania State UniversityUniversity ParkPAUSA
| | | | - Duane R. Diefenbach
- U.S. Geological SurveyPennsylvania Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research UnitThe Pennsylvania State UniversityUniversity ParkPAUSA
| | - W. David Walter
- U.S. Geological SurveyPennsylvania Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research UnitThe Pennsylvania State UniversityUniversity ParkPAUSA
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iEcology: Harnessing Large Online Resources to Generate Ecological Insights. Trends Ecol Evol 2020; 35:630-639. [PMID: 32521246 DOI: 10.1016/j.tree.2020.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2019] [Revised: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 03/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Digital data are accumulating at unprecedented rates. These contain a lot of information about the natural world, some of which can be used to answer key ecological questions. Here, we introduce iEcology (i.e., internet ecology), an emerging research approach that uses diverse online data sources and methods to generate insights about species distribution over space and time, interactions and dynamics of organisms and their environment, and anthropogenic impacts. We review iEcology data sources and methods, and provide examples of potential research applications. We also outline approaches to reduce potential biases and improve reliability and applicability. As technologies and expertise improve, and costs diminish, iEcology will become an increasingly important means to gain novel insights into the natural world.
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Serr ME, Valdez RX, Barnhill-Dilling KS, Godwin J, Kuiken T, Booker M. Scenario analysis on the use of rodenticides and sex-biasing gene drives for the removal of invasive house mice on islands. Biol Invasions 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s10530-019-02192-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Lennox RJ, Veríssimo D, Twardek WM, Davis CR, Jarić I. Sentiment analysis as a measure of conservation culture in scientific literature. CONSERVATION BIOLOGY : THE JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR CONSERVATION BIOLOGY 2020; 34:462-471. [PMID: 31379018 DOI: 10.1111/cobi.13404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2019] [Revised: 07/10/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Culturomics is emerging as an important field within science, as a way to measure attitudes and beliefs and their dynamics across time and space via quantitative analysis of digitized data from literature, news, film, social media, and more. Sentiment analysis is a culturomics tool that, within the last decade, has provided a means to quantify the polarity of attitudes expressed within various media. Conservation science is a crisis discipline; therefore, accurate and effective communication are paramount. We investigated how conservation scientists communicate their findings through scientific journal articles. We analyzed 15,001 abstracts from articles published from 1998 to 2017 in 6 conservation-focused journals selected based on indexing in scientific databases. Articles were categorized by year, focal taxa, and the conservation status of the focal species. We calculated mean sentiment score for each abstract (mean adjusted z score) based on 4 lexicons (Jockers-Rinker, National Research Council, Bing, and AFINN). We found a significant positive annual trend in the sentiment scores of articles. We also observed a significant trend toward increasing negativity along the spectrum of conservation status categories (i.e., from least concern to extinct). There were some clear differences in the sentiments with which research on different taxa was reported, however. For example, abstracts mentioning lobe finned fishes tended to have high sentiment scores, which could be related to the rediscovery of the coelacanth driving a positive narrative. Contrastingly, abstracts mentioning elasmobranchs had low scores, possibly reflecting the negative sentiment score associated with the word shark. Sentiment analysis has applications in science, especially as it pertains to conservation psychology, and we suggest a new science-based lexicon be developed specifically for the field of conservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert J Lennox
- NORCE Norwegian Research Centre, Laboratory for Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries, Nygårdsgaten 112, Bergen, 5008, Norway
| | - Diogo Veríssimo
- Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, 11a Mansfield Road, Oxford, OX1 3SZ, U.K
- Oxford Martin School, University of Oxford, 34 Broad Street, Oxford, OX1 3BD, U.K
- Institute for Conservation Research, San Diego Zoo Global, 15600 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, CA, 92027, U.S.A
| | - William M Twardek
- Fish Ecology and Conservation Physiology Laboratory, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, K1S 5B6, Canada
| | - Colin R Davis
- Insilicor Analytics, 98 Caroline Avenue, Ottawa, ON, K1Y 0S9, Canada
| | - Ivan Jarić
- Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Institute of Hydrobiology, Na Sádkách 702/7, 37005, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
- Faculty of Science, Department of Ecosystem Biology, University of South Bohemia, Branišovská 31a, 37005, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
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Colombo SM, Rodgers TFM, Diamond ML, Bazinet RP, Arts MT. Projected declines in global DHA availability for human consumption as a result of global warming. AMBIO 2020; 49:865-880. [PMID: 31512173 PMCID: PMC7028814 DOI: 10.1007/s13280-019-01234-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2019] [Revised: 05/22/2019] [Accepted: 07/20/2019] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is an essential, omega-3, long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid that is a key component of cell membranes and plays a vital role in vertebrate brain function. The capacity to synthesize DHA is limited in mammals, despite its critical role in neurological development and health. For humans, DHA is most commonly obtained by eating fish. Global warming is predicted to reduce the de novo synthesis of DHA by algae, at the base of aquatic food chains, and which is expected to reduce DHA transferred to fish. We estimated the global quantity of DHA (total and per capita) currently available from commercial (wild caught and aquaculture) and recreational fisheries. The potential decrease in the amount of DHA available from fish for human consumption was modeled using the predicted effect of established global warming scenarios on algal DHA production and ensuing transfer to fish. We conclude that an increase in water temperature could result, depending on the climate scenario and location, in a ~ 10 to 58% loss of globally available DHA by 2100, potentially limiting the availability of this critical nutrient to humans. Inland waters show the greatest potential for climate-warming-induced decreases in DHA available for human consumption. The projected decrease in DHA availability as a result of global warming would disproportionately affect vulnerable populations (e.g., fetuses, infants), especially in inland Africa (due to low reported per capita DHA availability). We estimated, in the worst-case scenario, that DHA availability could decline to levels where 96% of the global population may not have access to sufficient DHA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie M. Colombo
- Present Address: Department of Animal Science and Aquaculture, Faculty of Agriculture, Dalhousie University, 58 Sipu Road, Haley Building, Bible Hill, Truro, NS B2N 5E3 Canada
- Department of Chemistry and Biology, Ryerson University, 350 Victoria St., Toronto, ON M5B 2K3 Canada
| | - Timothy F. M. Rodgers
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada
- Department of Earth Sciences, University of Toronto, 22 Russell St., Toronto, ON M5S 3B1 Canada
| | - Miriam L. Diamond
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada
- Department of Earth Sciences, University of Toronto, 22 Russell St., Toronto, ON M5S 3B1 Canada
| | - Richard P. Bazinet
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Toronto, Medical Sciences Building, 5th Floor, Room 5358, 1 King’s College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8 Canada
| | - Michael T. Arts
- Department of Chemistry and Biology, Ryerson University, 350 Victoria St., Toronto, ON M5B 2K3 Canada
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Miller WL, Walter WD. Can genetic assignment tests provide insight on the influence of captive egression on the epizootiology of chronic wasting disease? Evol Appl 2020; 13:715-726. [PMID: 32211062 PMCID: PMC7086050 DOI: 10.1111/eva.12895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2019] [Revised: 10/23/2019] [Accepted: 10/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Identifying the sources of ongoing and novel disease outbreaks is critical for understanding the diffusion of epizootic diseases. Identifying infection sources is difficult when few physical differences separate individuals with different origins. Genetic assignment procedures show great promise for assessing transmission dynamics in such situations. Here, we use genetic assignment tests to determine the source of chronic wasting disease infections in free-ranging white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) populations. Natural dispersal is thought to facilitate the geographic diffusion of chronic wasting disease, but egression from captive cervid populations represents an alternative source of infection that is difficult to detect due to physical similarities with wild deer. Simulated reference populations were created based on allele frequencies from 1,912 empirical microsatellite genotypes collected in four sampling subregions and five captive facilities. These reference populations were used to assess the likelihood of ancestry and assignment of 1,861 free-ranging deer (1,834 noninfected and 27 infected) and 51 captive individuals to captive or wild populations. The ancestry (Q) and assignment scores (A) for free-ranging deer to wild populations were high (average Q wild = 0.913 and average A wild = 0.951, respectively), but varied among subregions (Q wild = 0.800-0.947, A wild = 0.857-0.976). These findings suggest that captive egression and admixture are rare, but risk may not be spatially uniform. Ancestry and assignment scores for two free-ranging deer with chronic wasting disease sampled in an area where chronic wasting disease was previously unobserved in free-ranging herds indicated a higher likelihood of assignment and proportion of ancestry attributable to captive populations. While we cannot directly assign these individuals to infected facilities, these findings suggest that rare egression events may influence the epizootiology of chronic wasting disease in free-ranging populations. Continued disease surveillance and genetic analyses may further elucidate the relative disease risk attributable to captive and wild sources.
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Affiliation(s)
- William L. Miller
- Pennsylvania Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research UnitDepartment of Ecosystem Science and ManagementIntercollege Graduate Degree Program in EcologyThe Pennsylvania State UniversityUniversity ParkPAUSA
| | - W. David Walter
- U.S. Geological SurveyPennsylvania Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research UnitThe Pennsylvania State UniversityUniversity ParkPAUSA
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Meek MH. Linking gene expression patterns with survival studies elucidates adaptive potential in changing environments. Mol Ecol 2020; 29:1031-1034. [PMID: 32073182 DOI: 10.1111/mec.15389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
A major goal in ecology, evolution and conservation biology is understanding how species adapt to changing conditions and using that information to improve conservation actions. Primary to advancing our understanding of adaptation and adaptive potential is determining the causes and consequences of the genetic and phenotypic intraspecific variation that allows for adaptation. However, few studies have been able to link the variation present in molecular process under differing conditions to intraspecific variation in survival. In a From the Cover article in this issue of Molecular Ecology, Harder et al explore the relationship between molecular process and survival to understand the adaptive variation underlying tolerance to low thiamine (vitamin B1, an essential micronutrient) conditions in Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar). Thiamine is required for metabolic functioning, including energy production and nervous and cardiovascular system functioning. By combining controlled breeding and phenotyping with a survival study and transcriptomics, the authors are able to quantify among-family differences in survival under low thiamine conditions. They find wide variation in survival among families, and this survival is linked to differences in gene expression patterns. Their study elucidates the importance of combining different data types to characterize within-population phenotypic variation and understand how that variation may lead to genetic adaptation under stressful conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariah H Meek
- Department of Integrative Biology and AgBioResearch, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
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Moshobane MC, Nnzeru LR, Nelukalo K, Mothapo NP. Patterns of permit requests and issuance for regulated alien and invasive species in South Africa for the period 2015‐2018. Afr J Ecol 2020. [DOI: 10.1111/aje.12720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Moleseng C. Moshobane
- South African National Biodiversity Institute Pretoria National Botanical Garden Pretoria South Africa
| | - Livhuwani R. Nnzeru
- Department of Environmental Affairs Biosecurity Directorate Cape Town South Africa
| | | | - Natasha P. Mothapo
- Division for Research and Development Stellenbosch University Stellenbosch South Africa
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Friedman WR, Halpern BS, McLeod E, Beck MW, Duarte CM, Kappel CV, Levine A, Sluka RD, Adler S, O’Hara CC, Sterling EJ, Tapia-Lewin S, Losada IJ, McClanahan TR, Pendleton L, Spring M, Toomey JP, Weiss KR, Possingham HP, Montambault JR. Research Priorities for Achieving Healthy Marine Ecosystems and Human Communities in a Changing Climate. FRONTIERS IN MARINE SCIENCE 2020; 7. [PMID: 0 DOI: 10.3389/fmars.2020.00005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
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Deficiency syndromes in top predators associated with large-scale changes in the Baltic Sea ecosystem. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0227714. [PMID: 31917814 PMCID: PMC6952091 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0227714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2019] [Accepted: 12/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Vitamin B1 (thiamin) deficiency is an issue periodically affecting a wide range of taxa worldwide. In aquatic pelagic systems, thiamin is mainly produced by bacteria and phytoplankton and is transferred to fish and birds via zooplankton, but there is no general consensus on when or why this transfer is disrupted. We focus on the occurrence in salmon (Salmo salar) of a thiamin deficiency syndrome (M74), the incidence of which is highly correlated among populations derived from different spawning rivers. Here, we show that M74 in salmon is associated with certain large-scale abiotic changes in the main common feeding area of salmon in the southern Baltic Sea. Years with high M74 incidence were characterized by stagnant periods with relatively low salinity and phosphate and silicate concentrations but high total nitrogen. Consequently, there were major changes in phytoplankton and zooplankton, with, e.g., increased abundances of Cryptophyceae, Dinophyceae, Diatomophyceae and Euglenophyceae and Acartia spp. during high M74 incidence years. The prey fish communities also had increased stocks of both herring and sprat in these years. Overall, this suggests important changes in the entire food web structure and nutritional pathways in the common feeding period during high M74 incidence years. Previous research has emphasized the importance of the abundance of planktivorous fish for the occurrence of M74. By using this 27-year time series, we expand this analysis to the entire ecosystem and discuss potential mechanisms inducing thiamin deficiency in salmon.
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Engelhardt J, Frisell O, Gustavsson H, Hansson T, Sjöberg R, Collier TK, Balk L. Severe thiamine deficiency in eastern Baltic cod (Gadus morhua). PLoS One 2020; 15:e0227201. [PMID: 31895939 PMCID: PMC6939936 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0227201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2019] [Accepted: 12/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The eastern Baltic cod (Gadus morhua) population has been decreasing in the Baltic Sea for at least 30 years. Condition indices of the Baltic cod have decreased, and previous studies have suggested that this might be due to overfishing, predation, lower dissolved oxygen or changes in salinity. However, numerous studies from the Baltic Sea have demonstrated an ongoing thiamine deficiency in several animal classes, both invertebrates and vertebrates. The thiamine status of the eastern Baltic cod was investigated to determine if thiamine deficiency might be a factor in ongoing population declines. Thiamine concentrations were determined by chemical analyses of thiamine, thiamine monophosphate and thiamine diphosphate (combined SumT) in the liver using high performance liquid chromatography. Biochemical analyses measured the activity of the thiamine diphosphate-dependent enzyme transketolase to determine the proportion of apoenzymes in both liver and brain tissue. These biochemical analyses showed that 77% of the cod were thiamine deficient in the liver, of which 13% had a severe thiamine deficiency (i.e. 25% transketolase enzymes lacked thiamine diphosphate). The brain tissue of 77% of the cod showed thiamine deficiency, of which 64% showed severe thiamine deficiency. The thiamine deficiency biomarkers were investigated to find correlations to different biological parameters, such as length, weight, otolith weight, age (annuli counting) and different organ weights. The results suggested that thiamine deficiency increased with age. The SumT concentration ranged between 2.4–24 nmol/g in the liver, where the specimens with heavier otoliths had lower values of SumT (P = 0.0031). Of the cod sampled, only 2% of the specimens had a Fulton’s condition factor indicating a healthy specimen, and 49% had a condition factor below 0.8, indicating poor health status. These results, showing a severe thiamine deficiency in eastern Baltic cod from the only known area where spawning presently occurs for this species, are of grave concern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josefin Engelhardt
- Department of Environmental Science and Analytical Chemistry, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
- * E-mail: (JE); (LB)
| | - Oscar Frisell
- Department of Environmental Science and Analytical Chemistry, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Hanna Gustavsson
- Department of Environmental Science and Analytical Chemistry, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Tomas Hansson
- Department of Environmental Science and Analytical Chemistry, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Rajlie Sjöberg
- Institute of Marine Research, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Lysekil, Sweden
| | - Tracy K. Collier
- Huxley College of the Environment, Western Washington University, Bellingham, Washington, United States of America
| | - Lennart Balk
- Department of Environmental Science and Analytical Chemistry, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
- * E-mail: (JE); (LB)
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A Horizon Scan of Emerging Global Biological Conservation Issues for 2020. Trends Ecol Evol 2020; 35:81-90. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tree.2019.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2019] [Revised: 10/17/2019] [Accepted: 10/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
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