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Bute TF, Wyness A, Wasserman RJ, Dondofema F, Keates C, Dalu T. Microbial community and extracellular polymeric substance dynamics in arid-zone temporary pan ecosystems. Sci Total Environ 2024; 932:173059. [PMID: 38723976 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
Microbial extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) are an important component in sediment ecology. However, most research is highly skewed towards the northern hemisphere and in more permanent systems. This paper investigates EPS (i.e., carbohydrates and proteins) dynamics in arid Austral zone temporary pans sediments. Colorimetric methods and sequence-based metagenomics techniques were employed in a series of small temporary pan ecosystems characterised by alternating wet and dry hydroperiods. Microbial community patterns of distribution were evaluated between seasons (hot-wet and cool-dry) and across depths (and inferred inundation period) based on estimated elevation. Carbohydrates generally occurred in relatively higher proportions than proteins; the carbohydrate:protein ratio was 2.8:1 and 1.6:1 for the dry and wet season respectively, suggesting that EPS found in these systems was largely diatom produced. The wet- hydroperiods (Carbohydrate mean 102 μg g-1; Protein mean 65 μg g-1) supported more EPS production as compared to the dry- hydroperiods (Carbohydrate mean 73 μg g-1; Protein mean 26 μg g-1). A total of 15,042 Unique Amplicon Sequence Variants (ASVs) were allocated to 51 bacterial phyla and 1127 genera. The most abundant genera had commonality in high temperature tolerance, with Firmicutes, Actinobacteria and Proteobacteria in high abundances. Microbial communities were more distinct between seasons compared to within seasons which further suggested that the observed metagenome functions could be seasonally driven. This study's findings implied that there were high levels of denitrification by mostly nitric oxide reductase and nitrite reductase enzymes. EPS production was high in the hot-wet season as compared to relatively lower rates of nitrification in the cool-dry season by ammonia monooxygenases. Both EPS quantities and metagenome functions were highly associated with availability of water, with high rates being mainly associated with wet- hydroperiods compared to dry- hydroperiods. These data suggest that extended dry periods threaten microbially mediated processes in temporary wetlands, with implications to loss of biodiversity by desiccation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tafara F Bute
- Department of Zoology and Entomology, Rhodes University, Makhanda 6140, South Africa.
| | - Adam Wyness
- Department of Zoology and Entomology, Rhodes University, Makhanda 6140, South Africa; Scottish Association for Marine Science, Oban PA37 1QA, United Kingdom
| | - Ryan J Wasserman
- Department of Zoology and Entomology, Rhodes University, Makhanda 6140, South Africa; South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity, Makhanda 6140, South Africa
| | - Farai Dondofema
- Department of Geography and Environmental Sciences, University of Venda, Thohoyandou 0950, South Africa
| | - Chad Keates
- Department of Zoology and Entomology, Rhodes University, Makhanda 6140, South Africa; South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity, Makhanda 6140, South Africa
| | - Tatenda Dalu
- South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity, Makhanda 6140, South Africa; School of Biology and Environmental Sciences, University of Mpumalanga, Nelspruit 1200, South Africa
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Munyai LF, Mugwedi L, Wasserman RJ, Dondofema F, Riddell E, Keates C, Dalu T. Water and sediment chemistry drivers of chlorophyll-a dynamics within a Ramsar declared floodplain pan wetland system. Environ Sci Pollut Res Int 2024; 31:28549-28563. [PMID: 38561533 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-33052-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Floodplain pans are hydrologically dynamic in nature and characterised by variables such as chlorophyll-a (chl-a), water, and sediment chemistry over their hydroperiods. The present study investigated the spatio-temporal variations in water and sediment physico-chemical, and chlorophyll-a concentration characteristics of six floodplain pans found in the Ramsar declared Makuleke wetlands, Kruger National Park, South Africa. The water and sediment physico-chemical variable values were generally elevated during the high-water period, whereas chlorophyll-a concentrations varied across pans and hydroperiod. Benthic chl-a concentration significantly varied across pans with concentrations ranging from 161 to 1036.2 mg m2. The two-way ANOVA showed significant differences in benthic chl-a concentration among hydroperiods, and no significant differences were observed in pelagic chl-a across pans and hydroperiods. Generally, pelagic and benthic chl-a concentration increased as water and sediment chemistry variables increased. Furthermore, three sediment variables, i.e. pH, calcium, and magnesium, and water conductivity were found to be significant in structuring benthic chlorophyll-a dynamics in pans. However, none of the sediment and water variables had a significant effect on pelagic chl-a. Hydroperiod had a significant effect on influencing chl-a concentration, with high and low water level periods being characterised by low and high chl-a concentration, respectively. The n-MDS results showed strong overlaps in chl-a biomass among the Makuleke floodplain pans across hydroperiods. The increasing chl-a concentration in these floodplain pans due to potential bioturbation effects as a result of large mammals could potentially lead to eutrophication, which in turn could affect the system's primary productivity and aquatic biota. Therefore, it is important to establish a continuous monitoring programme on these pans to inform sound management decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linton F Munyai
- School of Biology and Environmental Sciences, University of Mpumalanga, Nelspruit, 1200, South Africa.
- Aquatic Systems Research Group, Department of Geography and Environmental Science, University of Venda, Thohoyandou, 0950, South Africa.
| | - Lutendo Mugwedi
- Aquatic Systems Research Group, Department of Geography and Environmental Science, University of Venda, Thohoyandou, 0950, South Africa
| | - Ryan J Wasserman
- Department of Zoology and Entomology, Rhodes University, Makhanda, 6140, South Africa
- South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity, Makhanda, 6140, South Africa
| | - Farai Dondofema
- Aquatic Systems Research Group, Department of Geography and Environmental Science, University of Venda, Thohoyandou, 0950, South Africa
| | - Eddie Riddell
- Regional Integration Unit, Conservation Management, SANParks, Kruger National Park, Skukuza, 1350, South Africa
- Centre for Water Resources Research, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 3209, South Africa
| | - Chad Keates
- South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity, Makhanda, 6140, South Africa
| | - Tatenda Dalu
- School of Biology and Environmental Sciences, University of Mpumalanga, Nelspruit, 1200, South Africa
- South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity, Makhanda, 6140, South Africa
- Stellenbosch Institute for Advanced Study, Wallenberg Research Centre at Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, 7600, South Africa
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Masina FM, Wasserman RJ, Wu N, Mungenge CP, Dondofema F, Keates C, Shikwambana P, Dalu T. Macroinvertebrate diversity in relation to limnochemistry in an Austral semi-arid transboundary aquifer region pan system. Sci Total Environ 2023; 878:163161. [PMID: 37004768 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.163161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Pan-wetland systems are one of the world's essential and productive ecosystems and are considered important, unique and complex ecosystems. Anthropogenic activities around the temporary pans in the Khakhea Bray Transboundary Aquifer region are increasingly becoming a big issue of concern as this may affect pan biodiversity. The study specifically aimed to investigate spatial and temporal distributions of metal and nutrient concentrations within the pans in relation to land use, identify potential pollution sources in this water-scarce region, and assess macroinvertebrate diversity and distribution in relation to pan limnochemistry using a combination of multivariate analyses from 10 pans across three seasons. Environmental and anthropogenic variables influence water quality and the distribution of metals concentration in Khakhea-Bray pan systems. Anthropogenic activities such as animal grazing, infrastructure degradation, water withdrawal and littering have resulted in poor water quality within temporary pans, which may strongly influence macroinvertebrate diversity and distribution. Forty-one macroinvertebrate species from 5 insect orders (i.e., Coleoptera, Hemiptera, Odonata, Ephemeroptera, Diptera), Crustacea and Mollusca were identified. Significant differences were observed across the seasons for macroinvertebrate taxa, with high and low species richness being observed in autumn and winter, respectively. Water (i.e., temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH, salinity, conductivity), physical (i.e., stone composition) and sediment (i.e., sulphur, sodium) parameters were found to have a significant impact on the macroinvertebrate communities. Therefore, understanding the relationships between macroinvertebrates and their environment is crucial in understanding how the ecosystem taxa are structured and is vital for informing conservation managers on how to properly manage and protect these systems from further degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fannie M Masina
- Aquatic Systems Research Group, School of Biology and Environmental Sciences, University of Mpumalanga, Nelspruit 1200, South Africa
| | - Ryan J Wasserman
- Department of Zoology and Entomology, Rhodes University, Makhanda 6140, South Africa; South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity, Makhanda 6140, South Africa
| | - Naicheng Wu
- Department of Geography and Spatial Information Techniques, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
| | - Chipo P Mungenge
- Department of Zoology and Entomology, Rhodes University, Makhanda 6140, South Africa
| | - Farai Dondofema
- Department of Geography and Environmental Sciences, University of Venda, Thohoyandou 0950, South Africa
| | - Chad Keates
- South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity, Makhanda 6140, South Africa
| | - Purvance Shikwambana
- Aquatic Systems Research Group, School of Biology and Environmental Sciences, University of Mpumalanga, Nelspruit 1200, South Africa
| | - Tatenda Dalu
- Aquatic Systems Research Group, School of Biology and Environmental Sciences, University of Mpumalanga, Nelspruit 1200, South Africa; South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity, Makhanda 6140, South Africa; Stellenbosch Institute for Advanced Study, Wallenberg Research Centre at Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch 7600, South Africa.
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Mungenge CP, Wasserman RJ, Dondofema F, Keates C, Masina FM, Dalu T. Assessing chlorophyll-a and water quality dynamics in arid-zone temporary pan systems along a disturbance gradient. Sci Total Environ 2023; 873:162272. [PMID: 36801321 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.162272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Temporary pans are susceptible to various anthropogenic effects such as pollution, resource extraction, and land use intensification. However, given their small endorheic nature, they are almost entirely influenced by activities close to their internally drained catchments. Human-mediated nutrient enrichment within the pans can lead to eutrophication, resulting in increased primary productivity and decreased associated alpha diversity. The Khakhea-Bray Transboundary Aquifer region and the pan systems that characterise the area are understudied area with no records available of the biodiversity therein. Additionally, the pans are a major water source for the people in these areas. This study assessed differences in nutrients (i.e., ammonium, phosphates) and their effect on chlorophyll-a (chl-a) concentrations in pans along a disturbance gradient in the Khakhea-Bray Transboundary Aquifer region, South Africa. Physicochemical variables, nutrients, and chl-a were measured from 33 pans representing variable anthropogenic exposure during the cool-dry season in May 2022. Five environmental variables (i.e., temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, ammonium, and phosphates) showed significant differences between the undisturbed and disturbed pans. The disturbed pans generally had elevated pH, ammonium, phosphates and dissolved oxygen compared to the undisturbed pans. A strong positive relationship was observed between chl-a and temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, phosphates and ammonium. Chlorophyll-a concentration increased as surface area, and the distance from kraals, buildings and latrines decreased. Anthropogenic activities were found to have an overall effect on the pan water quality within the Khakhea-Bray Transboundary Aquifer region. Therefore, continuous monitoring strategies should be established to better understand the nutrient dynamics through time and the effect that this may have on productivity and diversity in these small endorheic systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chipo P Mungenge
- Department of Zoology and Entomology, Rhodes University, Makhanda 6140, South Africa.
| | - Ryan J Wasserman
- Department of Zoology and Entomology, Rhodes University, Makhanda 6140, South Africa; South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity, Makhanda 6140, South Africa
| | - Farai Dondofema
- Department of Geography and Environmental Sciences, University of Venda, Thohoyandou 0950, South Africa
| | - Chad Keates
- Department of Zoology and Entomology, Rhodes University, Makhanda 6140, South Africa; South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity, Makhanda 6140, South Africa
| | - Fannie M Masina
- Aquatic Systems Research Group, School of Biology and Environmental Sciences, University of Mpumalanga, Nelspruit 1200, South Africa
| | - Tatenda Dalu
- South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity, Makhanda 6140, South Africa; Aquatic Systems Research Group, School of Biology and Environmental Sciences, University of Mpumalanga, Nelspruit 1200, South Africa; Stellenbosch Institute for Advanced Study (STIAS), Wallenberg Research Centre at Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch 7600, South Africa.
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Wasserman RJ, Dondofema F, Keates C, Cuthbert R, Dalu T. Turtle-mediated dispersal of anostracan dormant eggs: Evidence for dominance hierarchy effects. Ecology 2023:e4066. [PMID: 37102397 DOI: 10.1002/ecy.4066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ryan J Wasserman
- South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity, Makhanda, South Africa
- Department of Zoology and Entomology, Rhodes University, South Africa
| | - Farai Dondofema
- Department of Geography and Environmental Sciences, University of Venda, Thohoyandou, South Africa
| | - Chad Keates
- South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity, Makhanda, South Africa
- Department of Zoology and Entomology, Rhodes University, South Africa
| | - Ross Cuthbert
- South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity, Makhanda, South Africa
- Institute for Global Food Security, School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland
| | - Tatenda Dalu
- South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity, Makhanda, South Africa
- School of Biology and Environmental Sciences, University of Mpumalanga, Nelspruit, South Africa
- Stellenbosch Institute for Advanced Study, Wallenberg Research Centre at Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
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Conradie W, Keates C, Baptista NL, Lobón-Rovira J. Taxonomical review of Prosymnaangolensis Boulenger, 1915 (Elapoidea, Prosymnidae) with the description of two new species. Zookeys 2022; 1121:97-143. [PMID: 36760759 PMCID: PMC9848606 DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1121.85693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
African Shovel-snout snakes (Prosymna Gray, 1849) are small, semi-fossorial snakes with a unique compressed and beak-like snout. Prosymna occur mainly in the savanna of sub-Saharan Africa. Of the 16 currently recognised species, four occur in Angola: Prosymnaambigua Bocage, 1873, P.angolensis Boulenger, 1915, P.frontalis (Peters, 1867), and P.visseri FitzSimons, 1959. The taxonomical status and evolutionary relationships of P.angolensis have never been assessed due to the lack of genetic material. This species is known to occur from western Angola southwards to Namibia, and eastwards to Zambia, Botswana and Zimbabwe. The species shows considerable variation in dorsal colouration across its range, and with the lower ventral scales count, an 'eastern race' was suggested. In recent years, Prosymna material from different parts of Angola has been collected, and with phylogenetic analysis and High Resolution X-ray Computed Tomography, the taxonomic status of these populations can be reviewed. Strong phylogenetic evidence was found to include the angolensis subgroup as part of the larger sundevalli group, and the existence of three phylogenetic lineages within the angolensis subgroup were identified, which each exhibit clear morphological and colouration differences. One of these lineages is assigned to the nominotypical P.angolensis and the other two described as new species, one of which corroborates the distinct eastern population previously detected. These results reinforce that a considerable part of Angolan herpetological diversity is still to be described and the need for further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Werner Conradie
- Port Elizabeth Museum (Bayworld), P.O. Box 13147, Humewood 6013, Gqeberha, South AfricaNelson Mandela UniversityGeorgeSouth Africa,Department of Nature Conservation Management, Natural Resource Science and Management Cluster, Faculty of Science, George Campus, Nelson Mandela University, George, South AfricaPort Elizabeth Museum (Bayworld)GqeberhaSouth Africa,National Geographic Okavango Wilderness Project, Wild Bird Trust, Sandton, South AfricaNational Geographic Okavango Wilderness Project, Wild Bird TrustSandtonSouth Africa
| | - Chad Keates
- Department of Nature Conservation Management, Natural Resource Science and Management Cluster, Faculty of Science, George Campus, Nelson Mandela University, George, South AfricaPort Elizabeth Museum (Bayworld)GqeberhaSouth Africa,National Geographic Okavango Wilderness Project, Wild Bird Trust, Sandton, South AfricaNational Geographic Okavango Wilderness Project, Wild Bird TrustSandtonSouth Africa,South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity (SAIAB), Makhanda, South AfricaSouth African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity (SAIAB)MakhandaSouth Africa,Department of Zoology and Entomology, Rhodes University, Makhanda, South AfricaRhodes UniversityMakhandaSouth Africa
| | - Ninda L. Baptista
- National Geographic Okavango Wilderness Project, Wild Bird Trust, Sandton, South AfricaNational Geographic Okavango Wilderness Project, Wild Bird TrustSandtonSouth Africa,Instituto Superior de Ciências da Educação da Huíla (ISCED-Huíla), Rua Sarmento Rodrigues, Lubango, AngolaUniversidade do PortoVairaoPortugal,CIBIO-InBIO, Centro de Investigação em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genéticos, Laboratório Associado, Universidade do Porto, Campus Agrário de Vairão, Rua Padre Armando Quintas, 4485-661 Vairão, PortugalUniversidade do PortoPortoPortugal,Departamento de Biologia, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade do Porto, 4099-002 Porto, PortugalInstituto Superior de Ciências da Educação da Huíla (ISCED-Huíla), Rua Sarmento RodriguesLubangoAngola,BIOPOLIS Program in Genomics, Biodiversity and Land Planning, CIBIO, Campus de Vairão, 4485-661 Vairão, PortugalBiodiversity and Land Planning, CIBIOVairaoPortugal
| | - Javier Lobón-Rovira
- CIBIO-InBIO, Centro de Investigação em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genéticos, Laboratório Associado, Universidade do Porto, Campus Agrário de Vairão, Rua Padre Armando Quintas, 4485-661 Vairão, PortugalUniversidade do PortoPortoPortugal,Departamento de Biologia, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade do Porto, 4099-002 Porto, PortugalInstituto Superior de Ciências da Educação da Huíla (ISCED-Huíla), Rua Sarmento RodriguesLubangoAngola,BIOPOLIS Program in Genomics, Biodiversity and Land Planning, CIBIO, Campus de Vairão, 4485-661 Vairão, PortugalBiodiversity and Land Planning, CIBIOVairaoPortugal
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Keates C, Conradie W, Dalu T, Dondofema F, Riddel ES, Wasserman RJ. Phylogenetic placement of the enigmatic Floodplain water snake, Lycodonomorphus obscuriventris FitzSimons, 1964. Koedoe 2022. [DOI: 10.4102/koedoe.v64i1.1698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Lycodonomorphus is a genus of lamprophiid water snake endemic in Africa. Although widespread, abundant and presumably an important component of many aquatic and semi-aquatic food webs, these snakes are poorly understood taxonomically, particularly from a phylogenetic perspective. With only four of the nine species currently sequenced, this study attempts to improve our understanding of the evolutionary relationships within the genus through the phylogenetic placement of one of the most elusive species, Lycodonomorphus obscuriventris. Collected in the Ramsar declared Makuleke Wetlands in northern Kruger National Park (South Africa), the sample used in this study not only yielded the first DNA sequences for the taxon but also represented the most northerly South African record, bridging the gap between the southern and northern populations. The snake was sequenced for three partial mitochondrial genes (16S, Cyt-b, ND4) and one partial nuclear gene (c-mos) and phylogenetically placed, relative to the rest of the genus, using maximum likelihood (ML) and Bayesian inference (BI). Sequence divergences between sister taxa were also estimated using pairwise distance analysis. The concatenated phylogenetic reconstruction yielded similar topological structuring when compared to phylogenies from past articles, with both the ML and BI algorithms recovering strong support for L. obscuriventris as sister to a clade comprising of L. whytii + L. laevissimus + L. rufulus. The phylogenetic placement, albeit based on a single sample, challenges the original placement (morphological) of L. obscuriventris as sub-specific within L. whytii, suggesting that multiple species concepts should be considered when delineating species within this group.Conservation implications: Prior to the discovery of the new record, the global distribution of L. obscuriventris was characterised by two disjunct populations. The new record bridges the distribution gap between these two populations, rendering the distribution continuous. This bodes well for the species as there is likely no barrier to gene flow, thereby buffering the species from localised threats given the more expansive distribution. Furthermore, given that the specimen was sampled from the Kruger National Park, the species is likely to be well-protected as much of its distribution within South Africa seems to fall within protected areas.
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Lobon-Rovira J, Conradie W, Pinto PV, Keates C, Edwards S, Plessis ADU, Branch WR. Systematic revision of Afrogecko ansorgii (Boulenger, 1907) (Sauria: Gekkonidae) from western Angola. Zootaxa 2022; 5124:401-430. [PMID: 35391113 DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5124.4.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Here we provide the first phylogenetic analysis that include Afrogecko ansorgii and a detailed morphological comparison with other species of leaf-toed geckos. For this purpose, we used two mitochondrial (16S, ND2) and four nuclear (RAG1, RAG2, CMOS, PDC) genes to produce a robust phylogenetic reconstruction. This allowed us to show that A. ansorgii is not related as previously believed to circum-Indian Ocean leaf-toed geckos and is rather more closely related to other Malagasy leaf-toed geckos. Additionally, we explore and compare osteological variation in A. ansorgii skulls through High Resolution X-ray Computed Tomography with previously published material. This allowed us to describe herein a new genus, Bauerius gen. nov., and additionally provide a detailed redescription of the species (including the first description of male material), supplementing the limited original description and type series, which consisted of only two females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Lobon-Rovira
- CIBIO, Centro de Investigao em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genticos, InBIO Laboratrio Associado, Campus de Vairo, Universidade do Porto, 4485-661 Vairo, Portugal. 2Departamento de Biologia, Faculdade de Cincias, Universidade do Porto, 4099-002 Porto, Portugal. 3BIOPOLIS Program in Genomics, Biodiversity and Land Planning, CIBIO, Campus de Vairo, 4485-661 Vairo, Portugal..
| | - Werner Conradie
- Port Elizabeth Museum (Bayworld), Beach Road, Humewood, Port Elizabeth, 6013, South Africa. Department of Nature Conservation Management, Natural Resource Science and Management Cluster, Faculty of Science, George Campus, Nelson Mandela University, George, South Africa. .
| | - Pedro Vaz Pinto
- CIBIO, Centro de Investigao em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genticos, InBIO Laboratrio Associado, Campus de Vairo, Universidade do Porto, 4485-661 Vairo, Portugal. BIOPOLIS Program in Genomics, Biodiversity and Land Planning, CIBIO, Campus de Vairo, 4485-661 Vairo, Portugal. Fundao Kissama, Rua Joquim Kapango, 49 1 Luanda, Angola..
| | - Chad Keates
- Zoology and Entomology Molecular Lab (ZEML), Department of Zoology and Entomology, Rhodes University, Makhanda, 6140, South Africa. .
| | - Shelley Edwards
- Zoology and Entomology Molecular Lab (ZEML), Department of Zoology and Entomology, Rhodes University, Makhanda, 6140, South Africa..
| | - Anton DU Plessis
- Physics Department, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, 7602, South Africa. CT Scanner Facility, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, 7602, South Africa..
| | - William R Branch
- Port Elizabeth Museum (Bayworld), Beach Road, Humewood, Port Elizabeth, 6013, South Africa. .
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Baptista NL, Pinto PV, Keates C, Edwards S, Rdel MO, Conradie W. A new species of red toad, Schismaderma Smith, 1849 (Anura: Bufonidae), from central Angola. Zootaxa 2021; 5081:301-332. [PMID: 35391006 DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5081.3.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
A new species of red toad, from the previously monotypic genus Schismaderma, is described. The new species was found in Malanje Province, and seems endemic to central Angola, occurring approximately 500 km west of the closest known records of Schismaderma carens. Unusual adult colouration and geographical distance to remaining S. carens populations suggested specific differentiation. In an integrative approach, we compared the red toads from central Angola with S. carens from across the entire range, including molecular data, morphology of adults and tadpoles, and male advertisement calls. Phylogenetic analysis based on mitochondrial (12S, 16S, COI) and nuclear (CXCR4, RAG1) markers, retrieved the Angolan clade as monophyletic, and revealed intra-specific substructuring among the remaining Schismaderma. Genetic distances supported specific differentiation of the central Angolan material compared with other S. carens. Adults from the new Angolan species have bolder ventral patterning and smaller body size than S. carens. No obvious differences were detected between the tadpoles and the advertisement calls of the two Schismaderma species. This discovery adds to the knowledge of the herpetofauna of the Angolan Miombo woodlands, a poorly understood ecoregion, and likely more biodiverse than previously assumed. The result of past river basin dynamics in central Angola likely led to the evolution of this new species of Schismaderma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ninda L Baptista
- CIBIO-InBIO, Centro de Investigao em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genticos, Laboratrio Associado, Universidade do Porto, Campus Agrrio de Vairo, Rua Padre Armando Quintas, 4485-661 Vairo, Portugal. Departamento de Biologia, Faculdade de Cincias, Universidade do Porto, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal.
| | - Pedro Vaz Pinto
- CIBIO-InBIO, Centro de Investigao em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genticos, Laboratrio Associado, Universidade do Porto, Campus Agrrio de Vairo, Rua Padre Armando Quintas, 4485-661 Vairo, Portugal. Fundao Kissama, Luanda, Angola.
| | - Chad Keates
- Zoology and Entomology Molecular Lab, Department of Zoology and Entomology, Rhodes University, Makhanda, South Africa 8South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity (SAIAB), Makhanda, South Africa.
| | - Shelley Edwards
- Zoology and Entomology Molecular Lab, Department of Zoology and Entomology, Rhodes University, Makhanda, South Africa.
| | - Mark-Oliver Rdel
- Museum fr NaturkundeLeibniz Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity Science, Invalidenstr. 43, 10115 Berlin, Germany. Berlin-Brandenburg Institute of Advanced Biodiversity ResearchBBIB, Altensteinstr. 34, 14195 Berlin, Germany .
| | - Werner Conradie
- South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity (SAIAB), Makhanda, South Africa.
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10
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Conradie W, Keates C, Lobón-Rovira J, Pinto PV, Verburgt L, Baptista NL, Harvey J, Júlio T. New insights into the taxonomic status, distribution and natural history of De Witte’s Clicking Frog (Kassinula wittei Laurent, 1940). African Zoology 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/15627020.2020.1821771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Werner Conradie
- Port Elizabeth Museum, Humewood, South Africa
- School of Natural Resource Management, George Campus, Nelson Mandela University, George, South Africa
- National Geographic Okavango Wilderness Project, Wild Bird Trust, South Africa
| | - Chad Keates
- National Geographic Okavango Wilderness Project, Wild Bird Trust, South Africa
- Department of Zoology and Entomology, Rhodes University, Makhanda, South Africa
| | - Javier Lobón-Rovira
- CIBIO/InBio Centro de Investigação em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genéticos, Universidade do Porto, Vairão, Portugal
- Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Pedro Vaz Pinto
- CIBIO/InBio Centro de Investigação em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genéticos, Universidade do Porto, Vairão, Portugal
- Fundação Kissama, Luanda, Angola
- Instituto Superior de Ciências da Educação da Huíla, Lubango, Angola
| | - Luke Verburgt
- National Geographic Okavango Wilderness Project, Wild Bird Trust, South Africa
- Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Ninda L Baptista
- National Geographic Okavango Wilderness Project, Wild Bird Trust, South Africa
- CIBIO/InBio Centro de Investigação em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genéticos, Universidade do Porto, Vairão, Portugal
- Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Instituto Superior de Ciências da Educação da Huíla, Lubango, Angola
| | | | - Timóteo Júlio
- National Geographic Okavango Wilderness Project, Wild Bird Trust, South Africa
- Fundação Kissama, Luanda, Angola
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11
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Conradie W, Deepak V, Keates C, Gower DJ. Kissing cousins: a review of the African genus Limnophis Günther, 1865 (Colubridae: Natricinae), with the description of a new species from north-eastern Angola. AFR J HERPETOL 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/21564574.2020.1782483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Werner Conradie
- Port Elizabeth Museum (Bayworld), Humewood, Port Elizabeth, South Africa
- School of Natural Resource Management, George Campus, Nelson Mandela University, George, South Africa
- National Geographic Okavango Wilderness Project, Wild Bird Trust, South Africa
| | - V Deepak
- Department of Life Sciences, The Natural History Museum, London, United Kingdom
| | - Chad Keates
- National Geographic Okavango Wilderness Project, Wild Bird Trust, South Africa
- Zoology and Entomology Molecular Lab, Department of Zoology and Entomology, Rhodes University, Makhanda, South Africa
| | - David J Gower
- Department of Life Sciences, The Natural History Museum, London, United Kingdom
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12
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Keates C, Conradie W, Greenbaum E, Edwards S. A snake in the grass: Genetic structuring of the widespread African grass snake (
Psammophylax
Fitzinger 1843), with the description of a new genus and a new species. J ZOOL SYST EVOL RES 2019. [DOI: 10.1111/jzs.12337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Chad Keates
- Zoology and Entomology Molecular Lab Department of Zoology and Entomology Rhodes University Grahamstown South Africa
| | - Werner Conradie
- Port Elizabeth Museum (Bayworld) Humewood South Africa
- School of Natural Resource Management Nelson Mandela University George Campus George South Africa
- National Geographic Okavango Wilderness Project, Wild Bird Trust Hogsback South Africa
| | - Eli Greenbaum
- Department of Biological Sciences University of Texas at El Paso El Paso TX USA
| | - Shelley Edwards
- Zoology and Entomology Molecular Lab Department of Zoology and Entomology Rhodes University Grahamstown South Africa
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