1
|
Salazar J, González J, Riofrío R, Siavichay F, Carrera M, Mogrovejo A, Barrera-Galicia G, Valdez-Tenezaca A. MALDI-TOF Mass Spectrometry Characterization of Culturable Microbiota Associated with the Skin of Amphibians from the Southern Andes Mountains of Ecuador. MICROBIAL ECOLOGY 2025; 88:47. [PMID: 40402178 PMCID: PMC12098423 DOI: 10.1007/s00248-025-02555-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2025] [Accepted: 05/13/2025] [Indexed: 05/23/2025]
Abstract
Ecuador is recognized for having a high diversity of anuran species, which are distributed mainly south of the Andes mountains. However, due to their geographic location and accessibility, there are few studies related to the culturable microbiota of these amphibians in this region. The objective of this study was to explore the bacterial and fungal biodiversity present on the skin of wild anuran species in the southern Andes of Ecuador and to observe whether geographical barriers in the region could increase the variability of the culturable microbiota through MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry. This analysis revealed the presence of 29 bacterial taxa and 9 fungal taxa, consisting mainly of: Pseudomonas chlororaphis (28%), Acinetobacter iwoffii (14%), Pseudomonas fluorescens (14%), and Hortaea werneckii (26.4%), Fusarium solani (20.5%), Syncephalastrum spp. (20.5%), respectively. Diversity varied across the five sampling locations, with geographic location proving to be a significant driver of diversity. Some of the most abundant bacterial and fungal genera have important associations with skin diseases in wildlife and humans. This work represents a glimpse into the complex biodiversity of bacteria and fungi that inhabit the skin substrate, and further studies will be needed to better understand bacterial and fungal biodiversity with potential implications for establishing conservation strategies, along with the development of necessary animal protection measures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J Salazar
- Laboratorio de Ecología Microbiana y Principios Activos, Centro de Investigación Innovación y Transferencia de Tecnología CIITT, Universidad Católica de Cuenca, Vía a Biblín, Ricaurte, Cuenca, 010108, Ecuador.
- Grupo de Investigación Geociencia Ambiente y Recursos Naturales (GARN), Cuenca, 010108, Ecuador.
| | - J González
- Laboratorio de Ecología Microbiana y Principios Activos, Centro de Investigación Innovación y Transferencia de Tecnología CIITT, Universidad Católica de Cuenca, Vía a Biblín, Ricaurte, Cuenca, 010108, Ecuador
- Laboratorio de Entomología Agrícola Fitosanitario, Universidad Católica de Cuenca, Cuenca, 010101, Ecuador
| | - R Riofrío
- Laboratorio de Ecología Microbiana y Principios Activos, Centro de Investigación Innovación y Transferencia de Tecnología CIITT, Universidad Católica de Cuenca, Vía a Biblín, Ricaurte, Cuenca, 010108, Ecuador
| | - F Siavichay
- Centro de Conservación de Anfibios, Bioparque AMARU, Cuenca, 010109, Ecuador
| | - M Carrera
- Laboratorio de Ecología Microbiana y Principios Activos, Centro de Investigación Innovación y Transferencia de Tecnología CIITT, Universidad Católica de Cuenca, Vía a Biblín, Ricaurte, Cuenca, 010108, Ecuador
| | - A Mogrovejo
- Laboratorio de Ecología Microbiana y Principios Activos, Centro de Investigación Innovación y Transferencia de Tecnología CIITT, Universidad Católica de Cuenca, Vía a Biblín, Ricaurte, Cuenca, 010108, Ecuador
| | - G Barrera-Galicia
- Laboratorio de Microbiología Ambiental, Unidad Académica de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad de Zacatecas, Campus Siglo XXI, Carretera Zacatecas-Guadalajara Km 6, La Escondida, Zacatecas, 98160, México
| | - A Valdez-Tenezaca
- Laboratorio de Ecología Microbiana y Principios Activos, Centro de Investigación Innovación y Transferencia de Tecnología CIITT, Universidad Católica de Cuenca, Vía a Biblín, Ricaurte, Cuenca, 010108, Ecuador.
- Laboratorio de Patología Frutal, Departamento de Producción Agrícola, Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias, Universidad de Talca, Campus Talca, Av. Lircay S/N, 360000, Talca, Chile.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Neely WJ, Moretta-Urdiales MDM, Smart U, Lynch RL, Guayasamin JM, McCracken SF, Rodriguez D. Community-Wide Genotyping of Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis in Ecuadorian Forests. ECOHEALTH 2025:10.1007/s10393-025-01716-y. [PMID: 40325318 DOI: 10.1007/s10393-025-01716-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2025] [Indexed: 05/07/2025]
Abstract
The amphibian chytrid fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) is a cosmopolitan pathogen with numerous distinct lineages. The global panzootic lineage (Bd-GPL) is the most widespread and virulent lineage and is responsible for many recorded amphibian declines. Mapping the extent of Bd-GPL and other more established lineages is important for predicting disease dynamics in amphibian communities. Ecuador is the most biodiverse country per unit area for amphibian taxa and, thus, a priority for studies on genotypic diversity of Bd. In this study, we tested skin swab samples collected from 464 individual amphibians across coastal, Andean montane, and Amazonian forests, for the presence of two Bd lineages known to be present in South America: the globally-distributed Bd-GPL and the Brazilian-endemic Bd-Asia2/Brazil lineage. By using a discriminatory qPCR SNP assay, we found widespread prevalence of Bd-GPL in Ecuador in diverse host taxa. Genotyping efficiency was 36% in this study, meaning that one in every three swabs that tested positive for Bd in infection assays were successfully genotyped. Through this study, we provide further support for the presence of a single Bd lineage in this neotropical biodiversity hotspot.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wesley J Neely
- Department of Biology, Texas State University, 601 University Drive, San Marcos, TX, USA
| | - M D M Moretta-Urdiales
- Department of Biology, Texas State University, 601 University Drive, San Marcos, TX, USA
| | - Utpal Smart
- Department of Biology, Texas State University, 601 University Drive, San Marcos, TX, USA
- Department of Natural Sciences, Texas A&M University - San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | | | - Juan Manuel Guayasamin
- Laboratorio de Biología Evolutiva, Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas y Ambientales BIOSFERA, Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Shawn F McCracken
- Department of Life Sciences, College of Science, Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi, Corpus Christi, TX, USA
| | - David Rodriguez
- Department of Biology, Texas State University, 601 University Drive, San Marcos, TX, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Yánez-Muñoz MH, Reyes-Puig JP, Reyes-Puig C, Lagla-Chimba G, Paucar-Veintimilla C, Urgiles-Merchán MA, Carrión-Olmedo JC. High speciation in the cryptic Pristimantis celator clade (Anura: Strabomantidae) of the Mira river basin, Ecuador-Colombia. PeerJ 2025; 13:e18680. [PMID: 39897485 PMCID: PMC11786716 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.18680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2024] [Accepted: 11/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2025] Open
Abstract
Over the past decade, research in the montane forests of the Mira River basin, spanning Ecuador and Colombia, has identified it as crucial for the adaptive radiation of flora and fauna, shaped by its complex geological and climatic history. This study focuses on the phylogenetic and systematic revision of a frog clade initially labeled as Pristimantis verecundus, revealing significant cryptic diversity. Through detailed analyses of type material and expanded molecular sampling, we found that the original description actually included specimens representing two additional species, which are described herein. In this work, we discovered and formally described four new species within montane forests at elevations from 1,600 to 2,300 meters. Genetic distances of 3.34% to 14% and clear morphological differences underscore the clade's hidden diversity. We propose renaming the group Pristimantis celator clade within Pristimantis myersi species group and subgenus Trachyphrynus, aligning with phylogenetic evidence and resolving taxonomic ambiguities using the oldest available name, Pristimantis celator (Lynch, 1976). This reclassification includes 14 species, seven formally described, and seven as candidates, distributed across northwestern Ecuador and southwestern Colombia, particularly in Mira and Esmeraldas River basins. The study highlights the Andean orogeny's role in species diversification within Pristimantis celator clade, with geographic barriers like Cerro Golondrinas influencing genetic isolation. Genetic divergences exceeding 3.34% indicate evolutionary isolation across these landscapes. Our findings provide insights into montane ecosystem speciation, emphasizing vicariance, niche adaptation, and altitudinal gradients in shaping biodiversity. A polytomy among three well-supported clades within Pristimantis myersi species group is noted due to incomplete genetic data, yet distinctiveness and evolutionary relationships are affirmed. Cryptic diversity within Pristimantis celator clade links to unique orogenic and climatic conditions, highlighting conservation needs. Lastly, we provide a redescription of Pristimantis verecundus and species identification key to aid future research and conservation in this biogeographically influential region.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mario H. Yánez-Muñoz
- Unidad de Investigación, Instituto Nacional de Biodiversidad (INABIO), Quito, Pichincha, Ecuador
| | - Juan P. Reyes-Puig
- Unidad de Investigación, Instituto Nacional de Biodiversidad (INABIO), Quito, Pichincha, Ecuador
- Red de Bosques Amenazados, Fundación Ecominga, Baños, Tungurahua, Ecuador
- Departamento de Ambiente, Fundación Oscar Efren Reyes, Baños, Tungurahua, Ecuador
| | - Carolina Reyes-Puig
- Unidad de Investigación, Instituto Nacional de Biodiversidad (INABIO), Quito, Pichincha, Ecuador
- Departamento de Ambiente, Fundación Oscar Efren Reyes, Baños, Tungurahua, Ecuador
- Instituto de Biodiversidad Tropical IBIOTROP, Museo de Zoología & Laboratorio de Zoología Terrestres, Colegio de Ciencias Ambientales, Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ), Quito, Pichincha, Ecuador
| | - Gabriela Lagla-Chimba
- Unidad de Investigación, Instituto Nacional de Biodiversidad (INABIO), Quito, Pichincha, Ecuador
| | | | | | - Julio C. Carrión-Olmedo
- Unidad de Investigación, Instituto Nacional de Biodiversidad (INABIO), Quito, Pichincha, Ecuador
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Smart U, McCracken SF, Brunner RM, Rivera C, Rodriguez D. Detection of the Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis global panzootic lineage in Ecuadorian anurans of the Amazonian lowlands. DISEASES OF AQUATIC ORGANISMS 2024; 160:115-125. [PMID: 39665309 DOI: 10.3354/dao03830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2024]
Abstract
Considerable attention has been directed to studying the infection dynamics of the fungal pathogen Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) affecting amphibians in the high elevations of the Neotropics. However, lowland forests of the same realm remain comparatively understudied in this context. Herein, we attempt to bridge this gap by measuring the prevalence of Bd via quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) in several anuran taxa inhabiting the Amazonian lowlands in the northeast of Ecuador. To this end, we sampled 207 anurans from 10 different families, 25 different genera, and 55 distinct host species originally collected in 2008. Taxonomy (at the family level), morphology (i.e. weight and snout-vent length), and life-long aquatic dependency of hosts (i.e. aquatic index) were also compiled to serve as potential predictors of Bd infection status. Our findings revealed a relatively high Bd prevalence of 58%, with 88% of sampled anuran families testing positive for the fungus at varying proportions. Model selection involving fitting and testing several different linear models, including mixed linear models, revealed a significant negative relationship between host weight and Bd infection status (p < 0.01). However, no significant associations were observed between taxonomy, aquatic dependency, snout-vent length, and Bd infections. In addition, we only detected the global panzootic lineage of Bd (Bd-GPL) and not the Bd-Asia-2/Bd-Brazil lineage via qPCR single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotyping. Our findings contribute to the understanding of Bd dynamics in the Neotropical lowlands and emphasize the need for future research on the ecological factors influencing Bd in the Amazon and their implications for amphibian conservation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Utpal Smart
- Department of Biology, Texas State University, San Marcos, TX 78666, USA
| | - Shawn F McCracken
- Department of Life Sciences, College of Science, Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi, TX 78412, USA
| | - Rebecca M Brunner
- Department of Environmental Science, Policy, & Management, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Clarissa Rivera
- Department of Biology, Texas State University, San Marcos, TX 78666, USA
| | - David Rodriguez
- Department of Biology, Texas State University, San Marcos, TX 78666, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Yánez Galarza JK, Riascos-Flores L, Naranjo-Briceño L, Carrera-Gonzalez A, Ortega-Andrade HM. Molecular detection of Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Chytridiomycota) and culturable skin bacteria associated with three critically endangered species of Atelopus (Anura: Bufonidae) in Ecuador. PeerJ 2024; 12:e18317. [PMID: 39465153 PMCID: PMC11512805 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.18317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/24/2024] [Indexed: 10/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Chytridiomycosis is a fungal disease responsible for massive amphibian die-offs worldwide, caused by the fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd). Potential symbiotic relationships between frogs and the bacteria residing on their skin-referred to as skin-bacteria-may inhibit Bd growth, aiding in resistance to this lethal disease. This research had three main objectives: (1) to detect the presence of Bd in native populations of Atelopus balios, A. bomolochos, and A. nanay in the central Andes and coastal southern regions of Ecuador; (2) to identify the culturable skin-bacteria; and (3) to analyze differences among the bacterial communities in the three Atelopus species studied. Skin swabs were collected from two populations of A. balios (107-203 m a.s.l.) and one population each of A. bomolochos and A. nanay (3,064-3,800 m a.s.l.). These swabs served two purposes: first, to detect Bd using conventional PCR; and second, to isolate culturable bacteria, which were characterized through DNA sequencing, molecular phylogeny, and community composition similarity analysis (Jaccard index). Results showed that Bd was present in all species, with positive Bd PCR amplification found in 11 of the 12 sampled amphibians. The culturable skin-bacteria were classified into 10 genera: Pseudomonas (31.4%), Stenotrophomonas (14.3%), Acinetobacter (11.4%), Serratia (11.4%), Aeromonas (5.7%), Brucella (5.7%), Klebsiella (5.7%), Microbacterium (5.7%), Rhodococcus (5.7%), and Lelliottia (2.9%). The Jaccard index revealed that bacterial genera were least similar in A. bomolochos and A. balios (J = 0.10), while the highest similarity at the genus level was between A. bomolochos and A. nanay (J = 0.33). At the clade-species level, only A. bomolochos and A. nanay show common bacteria (J = 0.13). Culturable bacterial communities of specimens diagnosed as Bd positive (n = 10) or Bd negative (n = 1) share a J value of 0.1 at genus and 0.04 at species-clade level. The prevalence of Bd and the composition of cutaneous bacteria could be influenced by Bd reservoirs, Atelopus biology, and intrinsic environmental conditions. This research contributes to understanding the relationship between endangered Andean species and Bd, and explores the potential use of native skin-bacteria as biocontrol agents against Bd.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jomira K. Yánez Galarza
- Ingeniería en Biotecnología, Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Universidad Regional Amazónica Ikiam, Tena, Napo, Ecuador
- Grupo de Investigación en Biogeografía y Ecología Espacial (BioGeoE2), Universidad Regional Amazónica Ikiam, Tena, Napo, Ecuador
| | - Lenin Riascos-Flores
- Department of Animal Sciences and Aquatic Ecology, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Gent University, Gent, Belgium
- Research Institute for Nature and Forest, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Leopoldo Naranjo-Briceño
- Ingeniería en Biotecnología, Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Universidad Regional Amazónica Ikiam, Tena, Napo, Ecuador
- Biotech Lab, Spora Biotech, Santiago, Región Metropolitana, Chile
| | - Andrea Carrera-Gonzalez
- Ingeniería en Biotecnología, Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Universidad Regional Amazónica Ikiam, Tena, Napo, Ecuador
- Grupo de Investigación en Biogeografía y Ecología Espacial (BioGeoE2), Universidad Regional Amazónica Ikiam, Tena, Napo, Ecuador
| | - H. Mauricio Ortega-Andrade
- Grupo de Investigación en Biogeografía y Ecología Espacial (BioGeoE2), Universidad Regional Amazónica Ikiam, Tena, Napo, Ecuador
- Herpetology Division, Instituto Nacional de Biodiversidad (INABIO), Quito, Pichincha, Ecuador
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Brito-Zapata D, Chávez-Reyes JD, Pallo-Robles MD, Carrión-Olmedo JC, Cisneros-Heredia DF, Reyes-Puig C. A new species of frog of the genus Noblella Barbour, 1930 (Amphibia: Strabomantidae) from the Cordillera del Cóndor, Ecuador. PeerJ 2024; 12:e17939. [PMID: 39372721 PMCID: PMC11453160 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.17939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 07/26/2024] [Indexed: 10/08/2024] Open
Abstract
We describe a new species of leaflitter frog of the genus Noblella from southern Ecuador, province of Zamora Chinchipe. The new species is diagnosed from all its congeners by having one or two tubercles on the upper eyelids; distal phalanges strongly T-shaped; phalangeal formula on hands 2-2-3-3; phalangeal formula on feet 2-2-3-4-3; heel with a small subconical tubercle; disc on all toes with papillae; dorsum brown or brown with gray, with V-shaped inverted or scattered irregular darker marks. We include a detailed description of its osteology and a study of its phylogenetic relationships. Finally, we evaluate its conservation status and discuss the threats that are currently impacting at the type locality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David Brito-Zapata
- Museo de Zoología, Laboratorio de Zoología Terrestre, Instituto de Biodiversidad Tropical IBIOTROP, Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales, Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Quito, Pichincha, Ecuador
| | - Juan D. Chávez-Reyes
- Museo de Zoología, Laboratorio de Zoología Terrestre, Instituto de Biodiversidad Tropical IBIOTROP, Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales, Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Quito, Pichincha, Ecuador
| | - Matheo David Pallo-Robles
- Museo de Zoología, Laboratorio de Zoología Terrestre, Instituto de Biodiversidad Tropical IBIOTROP, Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales, Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Quito, Pichincha, Ecuador
| | | | - Diego F. Cisneros-Heredia
- Museo de Zoología, Laboratorio de Zoología Terrestre, Instituto de Biodiversidad Tropical IBIOTROP, Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales, Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Quito, Pichincha, Ecuador
- Unidad de Investigación, Instituto Nacional de Biodiversidad, Quito, Pichincha, Ecuador
| | - Carolina Reyes-Puig
- Museo de Zoología, Laboratorio de Zoología Terrestre, Instituto de Biodiversidad Tropical IBIOTROP, Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales, Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Quito, Pichincha, Ecuador
- Unidad de Investigación, Instituto Nacional de Biodiversidad, Quito, Pichincha, Ecuador
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Forrester N. Harrowing trends: how endangered-species researchers find hope in the dark. Nature 2024; 631:467-469. [PMID: 38977938 DOI: 10.1038/d41586-024-02205-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
|
8
|
Cruz‐García K, Zapata‐Salvatierra N, Sánchez‐Nivicela JC, Chauca N, Matecki S, Perez‐Correa J. Revealing hidden biodiversity: Novel insights on reptile and amphibian distribution in western Ecuador. Ecol Evol 2024; 14:e11401. [PMID: 38855317 PMCID: PMC11156955 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.11401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024] Open
Abstract
We present notable distributional updates for 14 species from western Ecuador (seven amphibians and seven reptiles). Our findings include the northernmost confirmed sighting of Pristimantis kuri and the southernmost documented record of Imantodes inornatus and Lepidoblepharis buchwaldi. Additionally, we document new records and notes on the distribution range of Agalychnis spurrelli, Hyloscirtus alytolylax, Engystomops montubio, Pristimantis muricatus, Pristimantis nyctophylax, Pristimantis walkeri, Chironius flavopictus, Chironius grandisquamis, Dendrophidion graciliverpa, Ninia schmidti, and Urotheca fulviceps. These observations significantly contribute to filling information gaps in our understanding of these species' distributions. The data, derived from samples collected across diverse forested areas in the western region of Ecuador (provinces of Bolívar, Cañar, Guayas, El Oro, and Los Ríos), provide valuable insights into the ecology and conservation of these species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Keyko Cruz‐García
- Instituto de Biodiversidad Tropical IBIOTROP, Laboratorio de Zoología Terrestre, Museo de ZoologíaUniversidad San Francisco de Quito USFQQuitoEcuador
- Museo de ZoologíaUniversidad Técnica Particular de LojaLojaEcuador
- Facultad de Ciencias NaturalesUniversidad de GuayaquilGuayaquilEcuador
| | - Natalia Zapata‐Salvatierra
- Facultad de Ciencias NaturalesUniversidad de GuayaquilGuayaquilEcuador
- Laboratorio de Zoología, Facultad de Ciencias de la VidaEscuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral, ESPOLGuayaquilEcuador
| | - Juan C. Sánchez‐Nivicela
- Instituto de Biodiversidad Tropical IBIOTROP, Laboratorio de Zoología Terrestre, Museo de ZoologíaUniversidad San Francisco de Quito USFQQuitoEcuador
- Grupo de Investigación, Evolución y Ecología de Fauna Neotropical, Facultad de CienciasUniversidad Nacional de ColombiaBogotá D.C.Colombia
- Instituto Nacional de BiodiversidadQuitoEcuador
| | - Nadia Chauca
- Facultad de Ciencias NaturalesUniversidad de GuayaquilGuayaquilEcuador
- Fundación para la Conservación e Investigación JaPuGuayaquilEcuador
| | | | - Julian Perez‐Correa
- Laboratorio de Zoología, Facultad de Ciencias de la VidaEscuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral, ESPOLGuayaquilEcuador
- Instituto Nacional de BiodiversidadQuitoEcuador
- Fundación para la Conservación e Investigación JaPuGuayaquilEcuador
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Browne RK, Luo Q, Wang P, Mansour N, Kaurova SA, Gakhova EN, Shishova NV, Uteshev VK, Kramarova LI, Venu G, Vaissi S, Taheri-Khas Z, Heshmatzad P, Bagaturov MF, Janzen P, Naranjo RE, Swegen A, Strand J, McGinnity D, Dunce I. Ecological Civilisation and Amphibian Sustainability through Reproduction Biotechnologies, Biobanking, and Conservation Breeding Programs (RBCs). Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1455. [PMID: 38791672 PMCID: PMC11117272 DOI: 10.3390/ani14101455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Intergenerational justice entitles the maximum retention of Earth's biodiversity. The 2022 United Nations COP 15, "Ecological Civilisation: Building a Shared Future for All Life on Earth", is committed to protecting 30% of Earth's terrestrial environments and, through COP 28, to mitigate the effects of the climate catastrophe on the biosphere. We focused this review on three core themes: the need and potential of reproduction biotechnologies, biobanks, and conservation breeding programs (RBCs) to satisfy sustainability goals; the technical state and current application of RBCs; and how to achieve the future potentials of RBCs in a rapidly evolving environmental and cultural landscape. RBCs include the hormonal stimulation of reproduction, the collection and storage of sperm and oocytes, and artificial fertilisation. Emerging technologies promise the perpetuation of species solely from biobanked biomaterials stored for perpetuity. Despite significant global declines and extinctions of amphibians, and predictions of a disastrous future for most biodiversity, practical support for amphibian RBCs remains limited mainly to a few limited projects in wealthy Western countries. We discuss the potential of amphibian RBCs to perpetuate amphibian diversity and prevent extinctions within multipolar geopolitical, cultural, and economic frameworks. We argue that a democratic, globally inclusive organisation is needed to focus RBCs on regions with the highest amphibian diversity. Prioritisation should include regional and international collaborations, community engagement, and support for RBC facilities ranging from zoos and other institutions to those of private carers. We tabulate a standard terminology for field programs associated with RBCs for publication and media consistency.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Qinghua Luo
- School of Biological Resources and Environmental Sciences, Jishou University, Jishou 416000, China; (Q.L.); (P.W.)
- College of Biological and Chemical Engineering, Changsha University, Changsha 410022, China
| | - Pei Wang
- School of Biological Resources and Environmental Sciences, Jishou University, Jishou 416000, China; (Q.L.); (P.W.)
- College of Biological and Chemical Engineering, Changsha University, Changsha 410022, China
| | - Nabil Mansour
- Fujairah Research Centre (FRC), Al-Hilal Tower 3003, Fujairah P.O. Box 666, United Arab Emirates;
| | - Svetlana A. Kaurova
- Institute of Cell Biophysics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Pushchino 142290, Russia; (S.A.K.); (E.N.G.); (N.V.S.); (V.K.U.)
| | - Edith N. Gakhova
- Institute of Cell Biophysics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Pushchino 142290, Russia; (S.A.K.); (E.N.G.); (N.V.S.); (V.K.U.)
| | - Natalia V. Shishova
- Institute of Cell Biophysics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Pushchino 142290, Russia; (S.A.K.); (E.N.G.); (N.V.S.); (V.K.U.)
| | - Victor K. Uteshev
- Institute of Cell Biophysics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Pushchino 142290, Russia; (S.A.K.); (E.N.G.); (N.V.S.); (V.K.U.)
| | - Ludmila I. Kramarova
- Institute of Theoretical and Experimental Biophysics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Pushchino 142290, Russia;
| | - Govindappa Venu
- Centre for Applied Genetics, Department of Zoology, Jnana Bharathi Campus, Bangalore University, Bengaluru 560056, India;
- Evolving Phylo Lab, Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru 560012, India
| | - Somaye Vaissi
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Razi University, Kermanshah 57146, Iran; (S.V.); (Z.T.-K.)
| | - Zeynab Taheri-Khas
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Razi University, Kermanshah 57146, Iran; (S.V.); (Z.T.-K.)
| | - Pouria Heshmatzad
- Department of Fisheries, Faculty of Fisheries and Environmental Sciences, Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Gorgan 49138, Iran;
| | - Mikhail F. Bagaturov
- IUCN/SSC/Athens Institute for Education and Research/Zoological Institute RAS, St. Petersburg 199034, Russia;
| | - Peter Janzen
- Verband Deutscher Zoodirectoren/Justus-von-Liebig-Schule, 47166 Duisburg, Germany;
| | - Renato E. Naranjo
- Centro Jambatu de Investigación y Conservación de Anfibios, Fundación Jambatu, Giovanni, Farina 566 y Baltra, San Rafael, Quito 171102, Ecuador;
| | - Aleona Swegen
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, College of Engineering, Science and Environment, University of Newcastle, Callaghan 2308, Australia;
| | - Julie Strand
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Science, Aarhus University, Blichers Alle 20, 8830 Tjele, Denmark;
| | - Dale McGinnity
- Ectotherm Department, Nashville Zoo at Grassmere, Nashville, TN 37211, USA;
| | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Riascos-Flores LR, Bonilla J, Naranjo-Briceño L, Apunte-Ramos K, Reyes-Ortega GC, Cabrera M, Cáceres-Andrade JF, Carrera-Gonzalez A, Yánez-Galarza JK, Siavichay Pesántez F, Oyagata-Cachimuel LA, Goethals P, Celi J, Van der Heyden C, Ortega-Andrade HM. Field-based molecular detection of Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis in critically endangered Atelopus toads and aquatic habitats in Ecuador. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0299246. [PMID: 38484016 PMCID: PMC10939218 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0299246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) is a lethal fungal species that parasitizes vertebrates and is associated with the worldwide decline of amphibian populations. The development of sensitive, rapid detection methods, particularly DNA-based techniques, is critical for effective management strategies. This study evaluates the efficacy of DNA extraction and a portable PCR device in a mountable field laboratory setup for detecting Bd near the habitats of three critically endangered Atelopus toad species in Ecuador. We collected skin swabs from Atelopus balios, A. nanay, and A. bomolochos, and environmental DNA (eDNA) samples from streams in Andean and coastal regions of Ecuador. For eDNA, a comparison was made with duplicates of the samples that were processed in the field and in a standard university laboratory. Our findings revealed Bd detection in eDNA and swabs from 6 of 12 water samples and 10 of 12 amphibian swab samples. The eDNA results obtained in the field laboratory were concordant with those obtained under campus laboratory conditions. These findings highlight the potential of field DNA-based monitoring techniques for detecting Bd in amphibian populations and their aquatic habitats, particularly in remote areas. Furthermore, this research aligns with the National Action Plan for the Conservation of Ecuadorian Amphibians and contributes to the global effort to control this invasive and deadly fungus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lenin R. Riascos-Flores
- Department of Animal Sciences and Aquatic Ecology, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Gent University, Gent, Belgium
- Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral, ESPOL/Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Centro de Investigaciones Biotecnológicas del Ecuador, Campus Gustavo Galindo Guayaquil, Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | - Julio Bonilla
- Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral, ESPOL/Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Centro de Investigaciones Biotecnológicas del Ecuador, Campus Gustavo Galindo Guayaquil, Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | - Leopoldo Naranjo-Briceño
- Applied Microbiology Research Group, Life Sciences Faculty, Universidad Regional Amazónica IKIAM, Tena, Ecuador
- Fungal Biotech Lab, Spora Biotech, Huechuraba, Santiago, Región Metropolitana, Chile
| | - Katherine Apunte-Ramos
- Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Lab, Universidad Regional Amazónica IKIAM, Tena, Ecuador
| | - Grace C. Reyes-Ortega
- Biogeography and Spatial Ecology Research Group, Life Sciences Faculty, Universidad Regional Amazónica IKIAM, Tena, Ecuador
| | - Marcela Cabrera
- Laboratorio Nacional de Referencia del Agua, Universidad Regional Amazónica Ikiam, Tena, Ecuador
- University of Valencia, Paterna, Spain
| | | | | | - Jomira K. Yánez-Galarza
- Applied Microbiology Research Group, Life Sciences Faculty, Universidad Regional Amazónica IKIAM, Tena, Ecuador
- Biogeography and Spatial Ecology Research Group, Life Sciences Faculty, Universidad Regional Amazónica IKIAM, Tena, Ecuador
| | | | | | - Peter Goethals
- Department of Animal Sciences and Aquatic Ecology, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Gent University, Gent, Belgium
| | - Jorge Celi
- Water and Aquatic Resources Research Group, School of Earth and Water Sciences, Universidad Regional Amazónica Ikiam, Tena, Ecuador
| | - Christine Van der Heyden
- Department of Biosciences and Industrial Technology, Health and Water Technology Research Centre, HOGENT—University of Applied Sciences and Arts, Gent, Belgium
| | - H. Mauricio Ortega-Andrade
- Biogeography and Spatial Ecology Research Group, Life Sciences Faculty, Universidad Regional Amazónica IKIAM, Tena, Ecuador
- Herpetology Division, Instituto Nacional de Biodiversidad, Quito, Pichincha, Ecuador
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Angiolani‐Larrea FN, Jindiachi L, Tinajero‐Romero JG, Valencia‐Aguilar A, Garrido‐Priego M, Culebras J, Ringler E. Egg burying behaviour in Pristimantis highlights the link between direct development and specialised parental care. Ecol Evol 2023; 13:e10808. [PMID: 38099135 PMCID: PMC10719609 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.10808] [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: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 11/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
One of the most extreme adaptations to terrestriality in anurans is direct development, where eggs from terrestrial clutches entirely circumvent an aquatic tadpole stage and directly develop into small froglets. We here report the first case of egg-burying behaviour in a neotropical direct-developing frog with subsequent short-term maternal care. An amplectant pair of Pristimantis chocoensis was found at the Reserva Canandé in Esmeraldas, Ecuador, and we recorded oviposition and the later rotation and active burying of the clutch by the female. Both parents remained close to the nest area the following day. This rare observation sheds light on the complex but often cryptic reproductive behaviours of terrestrial amphibians and suggests that the evolution of direct development has selected for highly specialized forms of parental care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Lelis Jindiachi
- Division of Behavioural Ecology, Institute of Ecology and EvolutionUniversity of BernBernSwitzerland
- Pueblo Shuar ArutamFederacion Interprovincial Centros Shuar (FICSH)SucúaEcuador
| | - José Gabriel Tinajero‐Romero
- Division of Behavioural Ecology, Institute of Ecology and EvolutionUniversity of BernBernSwitzerland
- Present address:
Escuela de BiologiaUniversidad de Costa RicaSan JoséCosta Rica
| | - Anyelet Valencia‐Aguilar
- Division of Behavioural Ecology, Institute of Ecology and EvolutionUniversity of BernBernSwitzerland
| | - Marina Garrido‐Priego
- Division of Behavioural Ecology, Institute of Ecology and EvolutionUniversity of BernBernSwitzerland
| | - Jaime Culebras
- Photo Wildlife ToursQuitoEcuador
- Fundación Cóndor AndinoQuitoEcuador
| | - Eva Ringler
- Division of Behavioural Ecology, Institute of Ecology and EvolutionUniversity of BernBernSwitzerland
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
López-Tobar R, Herrera-Feijoo RJ, Mateo RG, García-Robredo F, Torres B. Botanical Collection Patterns and Conservation Categories of the Most Traded Timber Species from the Ecuadorian Amazon: The Role of Protected Areas. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:3327. [PMID: 37765489 PMCID: PMC10536464 DOI: 10.3390/plants12183327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
The Ecuadorian Amazon is home to a rich biodiversity of woody plant species. Nonetheless, their conservation remains difficult, as some areas remain poorly explored and lack georeferenced records. Therefore, the current study aims predominantly to analyze the collection patterns of timber species in the Amazon lowlands of Ecuador and to evaluate the conservation coverage of these species in protected areas. Furthermore, we try to determine the conservation category of the species according to the criteria of the IUCN Red List. We identified that one third of the timber species in the study area was concentrated in three provinces due to historical botanical expeditions. However, a worrying 22.0% of the species had less than five records of presence, and 29.9% had less than ten records, indicating a possible underestimation of their presence. In addition, almost half of the species evaluated were unprotected, exposing them to deforestation risks and threats. To improve knowledge and conservation of forest biodiversity in the Ecuadorian Amazon, it is recommended to perform new botanical samplings in little-explored areas and digitize data in national herbaria. It is critical to implement automated assessments of the conservation status of species with insufficient data. In addition, it is suggested to use species distribution models to identify optimal areas for forest restoration initiatives. Effective communication of results and collaboration between scientists, governments, and local communities are key to the protection and sustainable management of forest biodiversity in the Amazon region.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rolando López-Tobar
- Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias y Forestales, Universidad Técnica Estatal de Quevedo (UTEQ), Quevedo Av. Quito km, 1 1/2 Vía a Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas, Quevedo 120550, Ecuador;
- Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingeniería de Montes, Forestal y del Medio Natural, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
- Unidad de Posgrado, Universidad Técnica Estatal de Quevedo (UTEQ), Quevedo Av. Quito km, 1 1/2 Vía a Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas, Quevedo 120550, Ecuador
| | - Robinson J. Herrera-Feijoo
- Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias y Forestales, Universidad Técnica Estatal de Quevedo (UTEQ), Quevedo Av. Quito km, 1 1/2 Vía a Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas, Quevedo 120550, Ecuador;
- Unidad de Posgrado, Universidad Técnica Estatal de Quevedo (UTEQ), Quevedo Av. Quito km, 1 1/2 Vía a Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas, Quevedo 120550, Ecuador
- Escuela de Doctorado, Centro de Estudios de Posgrado, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, C/Francisco Tomás y Valiente, nº 2, 28049 Madrid, Spain
- Departamento de Biología (Botánica), Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Rubén G. Mateo
- Departamento de Biología (Botánica), Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049 Madrid, Spain;
- Centro de Investigación en Biodiversidad y Cambio Global (CIBC-UAM), Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - Fernando García-Robredo
- Departamento de Ingeniería y Gestión Forestal y Ambiental, Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingeniería de Montes, Forestal y del Medio Natural, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, C/José Antonio Novais 10, 28040 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Bolier Torres
- Facultad de Ciencia de la Vida, Universidad Estatal Amazónica (UEA), Puyo 160101, Ecuador;
- Ochroma Consulting and Services, Puerto Napo, Tena 150150, Ecuador
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Quilumbaquin W, Carrera-Gonzalez A, Van der heyden C, Ortega-Andrade HM. Environmental DNA and visual encounter surveys for amphibian biomonitoring in aquatic environments of the Ecuadorian Amazon. PeerJ 2023; 11:e15455. [PMID: 37456876 PMCID: PMC10348306 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.15455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The development of anthropogenic activities has generated a decline in aquatic fauna populations, and amphibians have been the most affected. The decline of batrachofauna is concerning, as 41% of all species worldwide are endangered. For this reason, rapid, efficient, and non-invasive biodiversity monitoring techniques are needed, and environmental DNA (eDNA) is one such tool that has been sparsely applied in Ecuador. This technique has allowed scientists generates information on species diversity and amphibian community composition from a water sample. This study applied eDNA-based biomonitoring analyses and visual encounter surveys (VES) as inventory techniques to identify the diversity of aquatic amphibians in the Tena River micro-basin (TRMB). Methods The experimental design was divided into three components: (1) fieldwork: all amphibians were recorded by the VES technique and water samples were collected; (2) laboratory work: DNA isolation from amphibian tissue samples and eDNA-containing filters, amplification, electrophoresis, and sequencing were performed; (3) Data analysis: a local DNA reference database was constructed, and eDNA sequence data were processed for classification, taxonomic assignment, and ecological interpretation. Results Using both eDNA and VES, we detected 33 amphibian species (13 with eDNA only, five with VES only, and 15 with both methods). These species belonged to six amphibian families: Hylidae being the richest with 14 species (three eDNA, one VES, and 10 with both methods), followed by Strabomantidae with nine species (six eDNA, one VES, and two with both methods). All families were detected with both methods, except for the Aromobatidae, having one single record (Allobates aff. insperatus) by VES. Individually, eDNA detected 28 species and had a detection probability (DP) of 0.42 CI [0.40-0.45], while VES recorded 20 species with a DP of 0.17 CI [0.14-0.20]. Similarly, using VES, Cochranella resplendens was detected for the first time in TRMB, while with eDNA, four mountain frogs Pristimantis acerus, Pristimantis eriphus, Pristimantis mallii, and Pristimantis sp. (INABIO 15591) previously recorded at 1,518 m.a.s.l. at altitudes below 600 m.a.s.l. were detected. Conclusions Results obtained in this study showed that eDNA-based detection had a greater capacity to detect amphibians in aquatic environments compared to VES. The combination of VES and eDNA improves the sensitivity of species detection and provides more reliable, robust, and detailed information. The latter is essential for developing conservation strategies in the Ecuadorian Amazon.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Walter Quilumbaquin
- Biogeography and Spatial Ecology Research Group, Universidad Regional Amazónica Ikiam, Tena, Napo, Ecuador
| | - Andrea Carrera-Gonzalez
- Biogeography and Spatial Ecology Research Group, Universidad Regional Amazónica Ikiam, Tena, Napo, Ecuador
- Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Lab, Universidad Regional Amazónica Ikiam, Tena, Napo, Ecuador
| | - Christine Van der heyden
- Health and Water Technology Research Centre, Department of Biosciences and Industrial Technology, HOGENT–Univesity of Applied Sciences and arts, Gent, Belgium
| | - H. Mauricio Ortega-Andrade
- Biogeography and Spatial Ecology Research Group, Universidad Regional Amazónica Ikiam, Tena, Napo, Ecuador
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Andrade‐Rivas F, Paul N, Spiegel J, Henderson SB, Parrott L, Delgado‐Ron JA, Echeverri A, van den Bosch M. Mapping Potential Population-Level Pesticide Exposures in Ecuador Using a Modular and Scalable Geospatial Strategy. GEOHEALTH 2023; 7:e2022GH000775. [PMID: 37426690 PMCID: PMC10326482 DOI: 10.1029/2022gh000775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
Human populations and ecosystems are extensively exposed to pesticides. Most nations lack the capacity to control pesticide contamination and have limited availability of pesticide use information. Ecuador is a country with intense pesticide use with high exposure risks to humans and the environment, although relative or combined risks are not well understood. Here, we analyzed the distribution of application rates in Ecuador and identified regions of concern because of high potential exposure. We used a geospatial analysis to identify grid cells (∼8 km × 8 km) where the highest pesticide application rates and density of human populations overlap. Furthermore, we identified other regions of concern based on the number of amphibian species as an indicator of ecosystem integrity and the location of natural protected areas. We found that 28% of Ecuador's population dwelled in areas with high pesticide application rate. We identified an area of ∼512 km2 in the Amazon region where high application rates, large human settlements, and a high number of amphibian species overlapped. Additionally, we distinguished clusters of pesticide application rates and human populations that intersected with natural protected areas. Ecuador exemplifies how pesticides are disproportionately applied in areas with the potential to affect human health and ecosystems' integrity. Global estimates of population dwelling, pesticide application rates, and environmental factors are key in prioritizing locations to conduct further exposure assessments. The modular and scalable nature of the geospatial tools we developed can be expanded and adapted to other regions of the world where data on pesticide use are limited.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Federico Andrade‐Rivas
- School of Population and Public HealthThe University of British ColumbiaVancouverBCCanada
- Instituto de Salud y AmbienteUniversidad El BosqueBogotáColombia
| | - Naman Paul
- School of Population and Public HealthThe University of British ColumbiaVancouverBCCanada
- Environmental Health ServicesBritish Columbia Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC)VancouverBCCanada
| | - Jerry Spiegel
- School of Population and Public HealthThe University of British ColumbiaVancouverBCCanada
| | - Sarah B. Henderson
- School of Population and Public HealthThe University of British ColumbiaVancouverBCCanada
- Environmental Health ServicesBritish Columbia Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC)VancouverBCCanada
| | - Lael Parrott
- Department of BiologyThe University of British ColumbiaKelownaBCCanada
- Department of Earth, Environmental and Geographic SciencesThe University of British ColumbiaKelownaBCCanada
- Okanagan Institute for Biodiversity, Resilience, and Ecosystem ServicesThe University of British ColumbiaKelownaBCCanada
| | - Jorge Andrés Delgado‐Ron
- School of Population and Public HealthThe University of British ColumbiaVancouverBCCanada
- Faculty of Health SciencesSimon Fraser UniversityVancouverBCCanada
| | - Alejandra Echeverri
- Centre for Conservation BiologyStanford UniversityStanfordCAUSA
- The Natural Capital ProjectStanford UniversityStanfordCAUSA
| | - Matilda van den Bosch
- School of Population and Public HealthThe University of British ColumbiaVancouverBCCanada
- ISGlobalParc de Recerca Biomèdica de BarcelonaBarcelonaSpain
- Universitat Pompeu FabraBarcelonaSpain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP)MadridSpain
- Department of Forest and Conservation SciencesThe University of British ColumbiaVancouverBCCanada
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Sánchez-Nivicela JC, Falcón-Reibán JM, Cisneros-Heredia DF. A new stream treefrog of the genus Hyloscirtus (Amphibia, Hylidae) from the Río Negro-Sopladora National Park, Ecuador. Zookeys 2023; 1141:75-92. [DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1141.90290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent surveys in the Río Negro-Sopladora National Park revealed a striking new species of Hyloscirtus. The new species is easily diagnosed from all other congeners by its large body size (64.9 mm SVL in adult female); broad dermal fringes in fingers and toes; prepollex not projected into a prepollical spine and hidden under thenar tubercle; dorsum greyish-green, with paler-hued reticulum, yellow spots and black speckles; throat, venter, flanks and hidden surfaces of limbs golden-yellow with large black blotches and spots; fingers, toes and webbing yellow with black bars and spots; iris pale pink with black periphery. It is currently known only from its type locality, in the high montane forest on the southern slopes of the Cordillera Oriental of the Andes, southeastern Ecuador. The new species might be related to the H. larinopygion species group based on its morphology.
Collapse
|
16
|
Valencia JH, Ortega-Andrade HM, Laborde J, Pineda E. Species richness, composition, distribution and conservation status of the amphibians and reptiles of the Cordillera del Cóndor, a region between Ecuador and Peru. COMMUNITY ECOL 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s42974-023-00132-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
|
17
|
Franco-Mena D, Guayasamin JM, Andrade-Brito D, Yánez-Muñoz MH, Rojas-Runjaic FJM. Unveiling the evolutionary relationships and the high cryptic diversity in Andean rainfrogs (Craugastoridae: Pristimantis myersi group). PeerJ 2023; 11:e14715. [PMID: 36879909 PMCID: PMC9985417 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.14715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 03/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Pristimantis is the most diverse genus of terrestrial frogs. Historically, it has been divided into several phenetic groups in order to facilitate species identification. However, in light of phylogenetic analysis, many of these groups have been shown to be non-monophyletic, denoting a high degree of morphological convergence and limited number of diagnostic traits. In this study, we focus on the Pristimantis myersi group, an assemblage of small rainfrogs distributed throughout the Andes of Ecuador and Colombia, whose external morphology is highly conserved, and its species diversity and evolutionary relationships largely unknown. Methods We inferred a new phylogenetic hypothesis for the frog genus Pristimantis, including all available sequences of the mtDNA 16S rRNA, as well as new DNA sequences from 175 specimens. Our sampling included 19 of the 24 species currently recognized as part of the Pristimantis myersi group. Results Our new evolutionary hypothesis recovered the P. myersi group as non-monophyletic and composed of 16 species. Therefore, we exclude P. albujai, P. bicantus, P. sambalan, and P. nelsongalloi in order to preserve the monophyly of the group. We discovered at least eight candidate species, most of them hidden under the names of P. leoni, P. hectus, P. festae, P. gladiator, and P. ocreatus. Discussion Our results reveal the occurrence of a high level of cryptic diversity to the species level within the P. myersi group and highlight the need to redefine some of its species and reassess their conservation status. We suggest that the conservation status of six species within the group need to be re-evaluated because they exhibit smaller distributions than previously thought; these species are: P. festae, P. gladiator, P. hectus, P. leoni, P. ocreatus, and P. pyrrhomerus. Finally, given that the Pristimantis myersi group, as defined in this work, is monophyletic and morphologically diagnosable, and that Trachyphrynus is an available name for the clade containing P. myersi, we implement Trachyphrynus as a formal subgenus name for the Pristimantis myersi group.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Franco-Mena
- Laboratorio de Biología Evolutiva, Instituto BIOSFERA, Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales COCIBA, Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Quito, Campus Cumbaya, Pichincha, Ecuador.,Facultad de Ciencias de Medio Ambiente, Universidad Tecnológica Indoamérica, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Juan M Guayasamin
- Laboratorio de Biología Evolutiva, Instituto BIOSFERA, Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales COCIBA, Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Quito, Campus Cumbaya, Pichincha, Ecuador
| | - Diego Andrade-Brito
- Laboratorio de Biología Evolutiva, Instituto BIOSFERA, Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales COCIBA, Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Quito, Campus Cumbaya, Pichincha, Ecuador
| | - Mario H Yánez-Muñoz
- División de Herpetología, Instituto Nacional de Biodiversidad INABIO, Quito, Pichincha, Ecuador
| | - Fernando J M Rojas-Runjaic
- Fundación La Salle de Ciencias Naturales, Museo de Historia Natural La Salle (MHNLS), Caracas, Venezuela.,Laboratório de Herpetologia, Coordenação de Zoologia, Museu Paraense Emílio Goeldi (MPEG), Belém, Pará, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Cisneros-Heredia DF, Yánez-Muñoz MH, Sánchez-Nivicela JC, Ron SR. Two new syntopic species of glassfrogs (Amphibia, Centrolenidae, Centrolene) from the southwestern Andes of Ecuador. PeerJ 2023; 11:e15195. [PMID: 37187515 PMCID: PMC10178282 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.15195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
We describe two new species of glassfrogs of the genus Centrolene living in syntopy at La Enramada, province of Azuay, southwestern Ecuador. They were found in a small creek in montane evergreen forests at 2,900 m elevation. The first new species is distinguished from all other members of the genus Centrolene by having the following combination of characters: dentigerous process of vomer absent; sloping snout in lateral view; thick, white labial stripe and a faint white line between the lip and anterior ¼ of body; humeral spine in adult males; parietal peritoneum covered by iridophores, visceral peritonea translucent (except pericardium); ulnar and tarsal ornamentation; dorsal skin shagreen with dispersed warts; uniform green dorsum with light yellowish green warts; and green bones. The new species is remarkable by being sister to a species from the opposite Andean versant, C. condor. The second new species is distinguished from all other Centrolene by having the following combination of characters: dentigerous process of vomer absent; round snout in lateral view; thin, yellowish labial stripe with a row of white tubercles between the lip and arm insertion, and a yellowish line between arm insertion and groin; uniform green dorsum; humeral spine in adult males; parietal peritoneum covered by iridophores, visceral peritonea translucent (except pericardium); dorsal skin shagreen with dispersed spicules; ulnar and tarsal ornamentation; and green bones. The second new species is sister to C. sabini and an undescribed species of Centrolene from southeastern Ecuador. Based on nuclear and mitochondrial DNA sequences, we present a new phylogeny for Centrolene and comment on the phylogenetic relationships inside the genus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diego F. Cisneros-Heredia
- División de Herpetología, Instituto Nacional de Biodiversidad, Quito, Ecuador
- Laboratorio de Zoología Terrestre, Instituto de Biodiversidad Tropical IBIOTROP, Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales, Universidad San Francisco de Quito USFQ, Quito, Ecuador
| | | | - Juan C. Sánchez-Nivicela
- División de Herpetología, Instituto Nacional de Biodiversidad, Quito, Ecuador
- Laboratorio de Zoología Terrestre, Instituto de Biodiversidad Tropical IBIOTROP, Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales, Universidad San Francisco de Quito USFQ, Quito, Ecuador
- Facultad de Ciencias, Grupo de Investigación en Evolución y Ecología de Fauna Neotropical, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá D.C., Colombia
| | - Santiago R. Ron
- Escuela de Biología, Museo de Zoología, Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Sánchez-Nivicela JC, Toral-Contreras E, Urgiles VL. Una nueva especie de Pristimantis (Anura: Strabomantidae) de la provincia del Azuay, Andes sur de Ecuador. NEOTROPICAL BIODIVERSITY 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/23766808.2022.2123731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Juan C. Sánchez-Nivicela
- Grupo de Investigación Evolución y Ecología de Fauna Neotropical, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá D.C, Colombia
- Museo de Zoología & Laboratorio de Zoología Terrestre, Laboratorio de Zoología Terrestre y Museo de Zoología, Universidad San Francisco de Quito USFQ, Instituto de Diversidad Biológica Tropical iBIOTROP, Quito, Ecuador
- División de Herpetología, Instituto Nacional de Biodiversidad INABIO, Quito, Ecuador
| | | | - Verónica L. Urgiles
- División de Herpetología, Instituto Nacional de Biodiversidad INABIO, Quito, Ecuador
- Department of Biology, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
First report of visual displays in the Neotropical treefrog Dendropsophus carnifex. Acta Ethol 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10211-022-00407-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
|
21
|
Reyes-Puig C, Mancero E. Beyond the species name: an analysis of publication trends and biases in taxonomic descriptions of rainfrogs (Amphibia, Strabomantidae, Pristimantis). Zookeys 2022; 1134:73-100. [PMID: 36761112 PMCID: PMC9836588 DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1134.91348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The rainfrogs of the genus Pristimantis are one of the most diverse groups of vertebrates, with outstanding reproductive modes and strategies driving their success in colonizing new habitats. The rate of Pristimantis species discovered annually has increased continuously during the last 50 years, establishing the remarkable diversity found in this genus. In this paper the specifics of publications describing new species in the group are examined, including authorship, author gender, year, language, journal, scientific collections, and other details. Detailed information on the descriptions of 591 species of Pristimantis published to date (June 2022) were analyzed and extracted. John D. Lynch and William E. Duellman are the most prolific authors, yet Latin American researchers have scaled up and continued the description processes since the 1990s. The most common language used for descriptions is English, followed by Spanish. The great majority of authors have described only one species. The largest proportion of authors who have participated in the descriptions is of Ecuadorian nationality. Ecuador is the country with the highest description rate per year (3.9% growth rate). Only 20% of the contributions have included women and only 2% have featured women as principal authors. 36.8% of the species described are in the Not Evaluated or Data Deficient categories under the IUCN global red list. The importance of enhancing the descriptions in Spanish is emphasized and the inclusion based on equal access to opportunities for female researchers in Pristimantis taxonomy is encouraged. In general, if the current trends in Pristimantis descriptions continue, in ten years, a total of 770 or more species described could be expected.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Reyes-Puig
- Universidad San Francisco de Quito USFQ, Instituto iBIOTROP, Museo de Zoología & Laboratorio de Zoología Terrestre, Quito, 170901, Ecuador,Universidad San Francisco de Quito USFQ, Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales COCIBA, Quito, 170901, Ecuador
| | - Emilio Mancero
- Instituto Nacional de Biodiversidad, Unidad de Investigación, Quito, 170506, Ecuador
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Astudillo PX, Jiménez R, Siddons DC, Timbe B. New occurrences and habitat description of southern Ecuador endemic frog Atelopus exiguus (Anura: Bufonidae) from a conservation hotspot in the high Andes. REVISTA PERUANA DE BIOLOGÍA 2022. [DOI: 10.15381/rpb.v29i3.22742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Atelopus species are classified as a priority taxon for monitoring and conservation, of these A. exiguus is endemic to southern Ecuador and is classified as critically endangered, however, within its known geographic range, little attention has been given to identifying new localities particularly across the páramo ecosystem (> 3500 m a.s.l.). Therefore, in the páramo landscape of Macizo del Cajas Biosphere Reserve, a conservation hotspot, we intensively searched for A. exiguus across 15 localities (elevation range: 3550 – 3800 m a.s.l.). In one year of monitoring (2020 – 2021), we recorded four individuals of A. exiguus (two were tadpoles) in two localities. The localities are characterized by a higher proportion of páramo grassland in association with shrubby páramo as well as cushion páramo; this riparian habitat is related to relatively good water quality (according to Andean Biotic Index), relatively low water temperatures and relatively low water flow. Our findings, accompanied by a detailed monitoring protocol, suggest habitat requirements for A. exiguus. Further intensive surveys beyond the limits of protected areas of Azuay province, especially across the páramos, is emerging as an urgent step to improve conservation decisions.
Collapse
|
23
|
Guayasamin JM, Brunner RM, Valencia-Aguilar A, Franco-Mena D, Ringler E, Medina Armijos A, Morochz C, Bustamante L, Maynard RJ, Culebras J. Two new glassfrogs (Centrolenidae: Hyalinobatrachium) from Ecuador, with comments on the endangered biodiversity of the Andes. PeerJ 2022; 10:e13109. [PMID: 35321409 PMCID: PMC8935995 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.13109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The Tropical Andes is the world's most biodiverse hotspot. This region contains >1,000 amphibian species, more than half of which are endemic. Herein we describe two new glassfrog species (Centrolenidae: Hyalinobatrachium) that we discovered within relatively unexplored and isolated localities of the Ecuadorian Andes. Methods We employed morphological, acoustic, and molecular methods to test the hypothesis that Hyalinobatrachium mashpi sp. nov and H. nouns sp. nov. are species new to science. Following standard methods, we generated mitochondrial sequences (16S) of 37 individuals in the genus Hyalinobatrachium. We inferred the phylogenetic relationships of the two new species in comparison to all other glassfrogs using Maximum Likelihood. In addition to describing the call of H. mashpi sp. nov., we performed a discriminant analysis of principal components (DAPC) with the advertisement call characteristics of several congeners. Results Based on an integrative taxonomy approach, we describe two new species. Morphological traits and the inferred phylogeny unambiguously place the new taxa in the genus Hyalinobatrachium. Both species are distinguished from other glassfrogs mainly by their dorsal coloration (i.e., dorsum lime green with small light yellow spots, head usually with interorbital bar) and transparent pericardium (i.e., the heart is visible through the ventral skin). The new species exhibit a high morphological similarity (i.e., cryptic) and occur within relatively close geographical proximity (closest aerial distance = 18.9 km); however, their uncorrected p distance for the mitochondrial gene 16S is 4.6-4.7%, a value that greatly exceeds the genetic distance between closely related species of centrolenid frogs. The DAPC revealed that the advertisement call of H. mashpi sp. nov. is acoustically distinct. Discussion Our findings are congruent with several previous studies that report a high degree of endemism in the Toisán mountain range, which appears to be isolated from the main Andean cordillera for some amphibian groups. We recommend that both H. mashpi sp. nov. and H. nouns sp. nov. be listed as Endangered, following IUCN criteria. These new species provide another example of cryptic diversity in the Andes-further evidence that the region fosters much more biodiversity than we have the resources to catalog. Threatened by mining and other exploitative industries, these glassfrogs and many other yet-to-be-discovered Andean species highlight the dire need for effective conservation measures-especially in northwestern Ecuador.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juan M. Guayasamin
- Laboratorio de Biología Evolutiva, Instituto Biósfera, Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales COCIBA, Universidad San Francisco de Quito USFQ, Quito, Ecuador
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States
| | - Rebecca M. Brunner
- Third Millennium Alliance, Quito, Ecuador
- Department of Environmental Science, Policy, and Management, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California, United States
| | - Anyelet Valencia-Aguilar
- Division of Behavioral Ecology, Institute of Ecology and Evolution, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Daniela Franco-Mena
- Laboratorio de Biología Evolutiva, Instituto Biósfera, Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales, Universidad San Francisco de Quito USFQ, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Eva Ringler
- Division of Behavioral Ecology, Institute of Ecology and Evolution, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | - Carlos Morochz
- Biology & Research Department, Mashpi Lodge, Mashpi, Ecuador
| | | | | | - Jaime Culebras
- Photo Wildlife Tours, Quito, Ecuador
- Fundación Cóndor Andino, Quito, Ecuador
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Abstract
Forest conservation is of particular concern in tropical regions where a large refuge of biodiversity is still existing. These areas are threatened by deforestation, forest degradation and fragmentation. Especially, pressures of anthropogenic activities adjacent to these areas significantly influence conservation effectiveness. Ecuador was chosen as study area since it is a globally relevant center of forest ecosystems and biodiversity. We identified hotspots of deforestation on the national level of continental Ecuador between 1990 and 2018, analyzed the most significant drivers of deforestation on national and biome level (the Coast, the Andes, The Amazon) as well as inside protected areas in Ecuador by using multiple regression analysis. We separated the national system of protected areas (SNAP) into higher and lower protection levels. Besides SNAP, we also considered Biosphere Reserves (BRs) and Ramsar sites. In addition, we investigated the rates and spatial patterns of deforestation in protected areas and buffer zones (5 km and 10 km outwards the protected area boundaries) using landscape metrics. Between 1990 and 2018, approximately 4% of the accumulated deforestation occurred within the boundaries of SNAP, and up to 25.5% in buffer zones. The highest rates of deforestation have been found in the 5 km buffer zone around the protected areas with the highest protection level. Protected areas and their buffer zones with higher protection status were identified as the most deforested areas among SNAP. BRs had the highest deforestation rates among all protected areas but most of these areas just became BRs after the year 2000. The most important driver of deforestation is agriculture. Other relevant drivers differ between the biomes. The results suggest that the SNAP is generally effective to prevent deforestation within their protection boundaries. However, deforestation around protected areas can undermine conservation strategies to sustain biodiversity. Actions to address such dynamics and patterns of deforestation and forest fragmentation, and developing conservation strategies of their landscape context are urgently needed especially in the buffer zones of areas with the highest protection status.
Collapse
|
25
|
Sánchez-Carvajal MJ, Reyes-Ortega GC, Cisneros-Heredia DF, Ortega-Andrade HM. Rediscovery of Laura's glassfrog Nymphargus laurae (Anura: Centrolenidae) with new data on its morphology, colouration, phylogenetic position and conservation in Ecuador. PeerJ 2022; 9:e12644. [PMID: 35036140 PMCID: PMC8710250 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.12644] [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: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
We report the rediscovery of Laura’s Glassfrog, Nymphargus laurae Cisneros-Heredia & McDiarmid, 2007, based on two specimens collected at the Colonso-Chalupas Biological Reserve, province of Napo, Ecuador. The species was described and known from a single male specimen collected in 1955 at Loreto, north-eastern Andean foothills of Ecuador. Limited information was available about the colouration, systematics, ecology, and biogeography of N. laurae. We provide new data on the external morphology, colouration, distribution and comment on its conservation status and extinction risk. We discuss the phylogenetic relationships of N. laurae, which forms a clade together with N. siren and N. humboldti. The importance of research in unexplored areas must be a national priority to document the biodiversity associated, especially in protected areas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- María José Sánchez-Carvajal
- Ingeniería en Ecosistemas, Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Universidad Regional Amazónica Ikiam, Tena, Napo, Ecuador.,Grupo de Investigación en Biogeografía y Ecología Espacial, Universidad Regional Amazónica Ikiam, Tena, Napo, Ecuador
| | - Grace C Reyes-Ortega
- Ingeniería en Ecosistemas, Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Universidad Regional Amazónica Ikiam, Tena, Napo, Ecuador.,Grupo de Investigación en Biogeografía y Ecología Espacial, Universidad Regional Amazónica Ikiam, Tena, Napo, Ecuador
| | - Diego F Cisneros-Heredia
- Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales, Instituto de Biodiversidad Tropical iBIOTROP, Museo de Zoología, Laboratorio de Zoología Terrestre, Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Quito, Pichincha, Ecuador.,División de Herpetología, Instituto Nacional de Biodiversidad, Quito, Pichincha, Ecuador
| | - H Mauricio Ortega-Andrade
- Ingeniería en Ecosistemas, Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Universidad Regional Amazónica Ikiam, Tena, Napo, Ecuador.,Grupo de Investigación en Biogeografía y Ecología Espacial, Universidad Regional Amazónica Ikiam, Tena, Napo, Ecuador.,División de Herpetología, Instituto Nacional de Biodiversidad, Quito, Pichincha, Ecuador
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Development of assisted reproductive technologies for the conservation of Atelopus sp. (spumarius complex). Cryobiology 2021; 105:20-31. [PMID: 34968472 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2021.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Amphibians are in peril, given the ongoing sixth mass extinction of wildlife. Thus, Conservation Breeding Programs (CBPs) are attempting to breed some species under laboratory conditions. The incorporation of assisted reproduction technologies (ARTs), such as hormonal stimulation, sperm collection and cryopreservation, and in vitro fertilization is contributing to successful CBPs. The objective of this study was to apply ARTs in sexually mature individuals of an undescribed species of Atelopus (spumarius complex) (harlequin frog). Our procedure involves hormonal induction of gametogenesis in this species. We were able to induce gamete release through administration of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in males, and in females this has been achieved through the sequential administration of hCG (priming doses), and combinations of hCG with gonadotropin releasing hormone analogue, GnRHa (ovulary dose). We standardized sperm cryopreservation by performing toxicity tests of cryoprotectants, fast/slow freezing and thawing, as well as supplementation of non-penetrating cryoprotectants (sugars). Next, we performed in vitro fertilization, evaluated the fertilization capacity of the cryopreserved sperm, and describe external features of fresh and cryopreserved sperm. We found that 10 IU/g hCG induced the release of the highest sperm concentrations between 3 and 5 h post-injection, while 2.5 IU/g hCG induced the release of eggs in most treated females. Under cryopreservation conditions, the highest recovery of forward progressive motility or FPM was 26.3 ± 3.5%, which was obtained in cryosuspensions prepared with the 5% DMF and 2.5% sucrose. Cryopreserved sperm showed narrower mitochondrial vesicles after thawing, while in frozen samples without cryodiluent showed 31% of spermatozoa lost their tails. In most cases, our attempts of in vitro fertilization were successful. However, only ∼10% of embryos were viable. Overall, our study demonstrates that the development of ARTs in individuals of Atelopus sp. (spumarius complex) bred in laboratory can be successful, which result in viable offspring through in vitro fertilization. Our study provides a baseline for assisted breeding protocols applicable to other harlequin frogs of the genus Atelopus.
Collapse
|
27
|
Urgiles VL, Ramírez ER, Villalta CI, Siddons DC, Savage AE. Three Pathogens Impact Terrestrial Frogs from a High-Elevation Tropical Hotspot. ECOHEALTH 2021; 18:451-464. [PMID: 34894333 DOI: 10.1007/s10393-021-01570-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Revised: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Three infectious pathogens Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd), Ranavirus (Rv) and Perkinsea (Pr) are associated with widespread and ongoing amphibian population declines. Although their geographic and host ranges vary widely, recent studies have suggested that the occurrence of these pathogens could be more common than previously thought, even in direct-developing terrestrial species traditionally considered less likely to harbor these largely aquatic pathogens. Here, we characterize Bd, Rv, and Pr infections in direct-developing terrestrial amphibians of the Pristimantis genus from the highland Ecuadorean Andes. We confirm the first detection of Pr in terrestrial-breeding amphibians and in the Andean region, present the first report of Rv in Ecuador, and we add to the handful of studies finding Bd infecting Pristimantis. Infection prevalence did not differ significantly among pathogens, but infection intensity was significantly higher for Bd compared to Pr. Neither prevalence nor intensity differed significantly across locality and elevation for Bd and Rv, although low prevalence in our dataset and lack of seasonal sampling could have prevented important epidemiological patterns from emerging. Our study highlights the importance of incorporating pathogen surveillance in biodiversity monitoring in the Andean region and serves as starting point to understand pathogen dynamics, transmission, and impacts in terrestrial-breeding frogs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Veronica L Urgiles
- Department of Biology, University of Central Florida, 4110 Libra Dr, Orlando, FL, 32816, USA.
- Instituto Nacional de Biodiversidad del Ecuador, Pasaje Rumipamba 341 y Avenida de los Shirys, Quito, Ecuador.
| | - Ervin R Ramírez
- Escuela de Biología, Ecología y Gestión, Universidad del Azuay, Ave 24 de Mayo 7-77, Cuenca, Ecuador
| | - Cristian I Villalta
- Escuela de Biología, Ecología y Gestión, Universidad del Azuay, Ave 24 de Mayo 7-77, Cuenca, Ecuador
| | - David C Siddons
- Escuela de Biología, Ecología y Gestión, Universidad del Azuay, Ave 24 de Mayo 7-77, Cuenca, Ecuador
| | - Anna E Savage
- Department of Biology, University of Central Florida, 4110 Libra Dr, Orlando, FL, 32816, USA
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Armijos-Ojeda D, Székely D, Székely P, Cogălniceanu D, Cisneros-Heredia DF, Ordóñez-Delgado L, Escudero A, Espinosa CI. Amphibians of the equatorial seasonally dry forests of Ecuador and Peru. Zookeys 2021; 1063:23-48. [PMID: 34720623 PMCID: PMC8545738 DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1063.69580] [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: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Seasonally dry forests (SDFs) are one of the most challenging ecosystems for amphibians, fueling the diversity of this group of vertebrates. An updated inventory of native amphibians present in the Equatorial SDF is provided, which extends along the Pacific coast of Ecuador and northwestern Peru. The study is based on an extensive field sampling (two thirds of the total records) carried out throughout the Equatorial SDF, along with a compilation of the available information on distribution of amphibians in the region from published scientific papers, museum collections and on-line databases. The final dataset included 2,032 occurrence records for 30 amphibian species, belonging to eight anuran families. Additionally, data regarding conservation status, habitat use, spawn deposition site, reproductive mode, and body size, along with an identification key for all encountered species are provided. The results indicate a strong sampling bias with a deficit in the Peruvian part of the study area, and a need for urgent inventories targeted at under-sampled areas, using modern taxonomic methods. The study emphasizes the conservation priorities in the Equatorial SDF, based on the distribution, conservation status and life-history data. This information should be useful for the local authorities and institutions involved in the management and conservation of biodiversity in SDF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diego Armijos-Ojeda
- Laboratorio de Ecología Tropical y Servicios Ecosistémicos (EcoSs-Lab), Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas y Agropecuarias, Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja, Loja 110107, Ecuador.,Programa de Doctorado en Conservación de Recursos Naturales, Escuela Internacional de Doctorado, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, 28933 Móstoles, Madrid, Spain.,Museo de Zoología, Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja, San Cayetano Alto, calle París s/n, Loja, Ecuador
| | - Diana Székely
- Laboratorio de Ecología Tropical y Servicios Ecosistémicos (EcoSs-Lab), Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas y Agropecuarias, Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja, Loja 110107, Ecuador.,Museo de Zoología, Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja, San Cayetano Alto, calle París s/n, Loja, Ecuador
| | - Paul Székely
- Laboratorio de Ecología Tropical y Servicios Ecosistémicos (EcoSs-Lab), Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas y Agropecuarias, Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja, Loja 110107, Ecuador.,Museo de Zoología, Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja, San Cayetano Alto, calle París s/n, Loja, Ecuador
| | - Dan Cogălniceanu
- Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, Ovidius University Constanţa, 900470, Constanţa, Romania
| | - Diego F Cisneros-Heredia
- Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales COCIBA, Universidad San Francisco de Quito USFQ, Quito 170901, Ecuador.,Museo de Zoología & Laboratorio de Zoología Terrestre, Instituto de Biodiversidad Tropical iBIOTROP, Universidad San Francisco de Quito USFQ, Quito, Ecuador.,Department of Geography, King's College, London, UK.,Instituto Nacional de Biodiversidad INABIO, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Leonardo Ordóñez-Delgado
- Laboratorio de Ecología Tropical y Servicios Ecosistémicos (EcoSs-Lab), Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas y Agropecuarias, Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja, Loja 110107, Ecuador.,Programa de Doctorado en Conservación de Recursos Naturales, Escuela Internacional de Doctorado, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, 28933 Móstoles, Madrid, Spain.,Museo de Zoología, Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja, San Cayetano Alto, calle París s/n, Loja, Ecuador
| | - Adrián Escudero
- Department of Science, Rey Juan Carlos University, 28933, Móstoles, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carlos Iván Espinosa
- Laboratorio de Ecología Tropical y Servicios Ecosistémicos (EcoSs-Lab), Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas y Agropecuarias, Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja, Loja 110107, Ecuador
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Székely P, Székely D, Ordóñez-Delgado L, Armijos-Ojeda D, Vörös J. Our unknown neighbor: A new species of rain frog of the genus Pristimantis (Amphibia: Anura: Strabomantidae) from the city of Loja, southern Ecuador. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0258454. [PMID: 34705824 PMCID: PMC8550592 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0258454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
We describe a new species of rain frog of the genus Pristimantis from the city of Loja, Southern Ecuador, based on an integrative taxonomy approach, combining molecular, morphological and bioacoustics data. Pristimantis lojanus sp. nov. is a medium sized species of the phylogenetically strongly supported P. phoxocephalus group, and its sister species is P. torresi. The new species can be easily distinguished from its closest congeners and morphologically similar species (that also have acuminate snout with a fleshy keel) by its characteristic advertisement call and morphological features (dorsum finely tuberculate with scattered larger tubercles, flanks without longitudinal lateral folds, no markings in axilla, groin or on concealed limb surfaces, and bronze iris). Additionally, we describe the advertisement call of its sister species, P. torresi. Finally, we detail the current situation of the amphibian species present in the city of Loja and its surroundings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paul Székely
- Museo de Zoología, Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja, Loja, Ecuador
- Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas y Agropecuarias, Laboratorio de Ecología Tropical y Servicios Ecosistémicos (EcoSs-Lab), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja, Loja, Ecuador
| | - Diana Székely
- Museo de Zoología, Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja, Loja, Ecuador
- Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas y Agropecuarias, Laboratorio de Ecología Tropical y Servicios Ecosistémicos (EcoSs-Lab), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja, Loja, Ecuador
| | - Leonardo Ordóñez-Delgado
- Museo de Zoología, Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja, Loja, Ecuador
- Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas y Agropecuarias, Laboratorio de Ecología Tropical y Servicios Ecosistémicos (EcoSs-Lab), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja, Loja, Ecuador
- Programa de Doctorado en Conservación de Recursos Naturales, Escuela Internacional de Doctorado, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Madrid, Spain
| | - Diego Armijos-Ojeda
- Museo de Zoología, Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja, Loja, Ecuador
- Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas y Agropecuarias, Laboratorio de Ecología Tropical y Servicios Ecosistémicos (EcoSs-Lab), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja, Loja, Ecuador
- Programa de Doctorado en Conservación de Recursos Naturales, Escuela Internacional de Doctorado, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Madrid, Spain
| | - Judit Vörös
- Department of Zoology, Hungarian Natural History Museum, Budapest, Hungary
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Kim HW, Adhikari P, Chang MH, Seo C. Potential Distribution of Amphibians with Different Habitat Characteristics in Response to Climate Change in South Korea. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11082185. [PMID: 34438643 PMCID: PMC8388377 DOI: 10.3390/ani11082185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Amphibian species are one of one of the groups most vulnerable to climate change according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Limited research has been conducted investigating the effects of climate change on amphibian species in South Korea. In our study, we aimed to predict the impacts of climate change on the distribution of 16 of the 18 species of amphibians currently reported in South Korea. Altogether, 30,281 occurrence points, six bioclimatic variables, and one environmental variable (altitude) were used in modeling. Moreover, we classified 16 Korean amphibians into three groups based on their habitat characteristics: wetland amphibians (Group 1), migrating amphibians (Group 2), and forest-dwelling amphibians (Group 3). Altitude has been predicted to be a major factor in present amphibian distributions in South Korea. In general, our results show that the seven species in Group 1 should be the most resistant to climate change. The five migrating amphibians (Group 2) should decline with preferred habitat reductions. The forest-dwelling amphibian species (Group 3) are the most vulnerable to climate change and their protection requires the immediate implementation of conservation strategies. We will continue to refine our model as it evolves into a useful tool for our endeavor to preserve South Korea’s amphibians as climate change progresses. Abstract Amphibian species are highly vulnerable to climate change with significant species decline and extinction predicted worldwide. However, there are very limited studies on amphibians in South Korea. Here, we assessed the potential impacts of climate change on different habitat groups (wetland amphibians, Group 1; migrating amphibians, Group 2; and forest-dwelling amphibians, Group 3) under future climate change and land cover change in South Korea using a maximum entropy modelling approach. Our study revealed that all amphibians would suffer substantial loss of suitable habitats in the future, except Lithobates catesbeianus, Kaloula borealis, and Karsenia koreana. Similarly, species richness for Groups 2 and 3 will decline by 2030, 2050, and 2080. Currently, amphibian species are widely distributed across the country; however, in future, suitable habitats for amphibians would be concentrated along the Baekdudaegan Mountain Range and the southeastern region. Among the three groups, Group 3 amphibians are predicted to be the most vulnerable to climate change; therefore, immediate conservation action is needed to protect them. We expect this study could provide crucial baseline information required for the government to design climate change mitigation strategies for indigenous amphibians.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hyun Woo Kim
- EcoBank Team, National Institute of Ecology, Seocheon-gun, Chungnam 33657, Korea;
| | - Pradeep Adhikari
- Institute of Ecological Phytochemistry, Hankyong National University, Anseong-si 17579, Korea;
| | - Min Ho Chang
- Environmental Impact Assessment Team, National Institute of Ecology, Seocheon-gun, Chungnam 33657, Korea;
| | - Changwan Seo
- Division of Ecological Assessment, National Institute of Ecology, Seocheon-gun, Chungnam 33657, Korea
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-41-950-5432
| |
Collapse
|