A genetic history of the Balkans from Roman frontier to Slavic migrations

The rise and fall of the Roman Empire was a socio-political process with enormous ramifications for human history. The Middle Danube was a crucial frontier and a crossroads for population and cultural movement. Here, we present genome-wide data from 136 Balkan individuals dated to the 1st millennium CE. Despite extensive militarization and cultural influence, we find little ancestry contribution from peoples of Italic descent. However, we trace a large-scale influx of people of Anatolian ancestry during the Imperial period. Between ∼250 and 550 CE, we detect migrants with ancestry from Central/Northern Europe and the Steppe, confirming that "barbarian" migrations were propelled by ethnically diverse confederations. Following the end of Roman control, we detect the large-scale arrival of individuals who were genetically similar to modern Eastern European Slavic-speaking populations, who contributed 30%-60% of the ancestry of Balkan people, representing one of the largest permanent demographic changes anywhere in Europe during the Migration Period.

Two new Ptychoptera Meigen, 1803 (Diptera, Ptychopteridae) from the Western Palaearctic

Ptychopteraxanthopleura Dvořák, Oboňa & Manko, sp. nov. from Azerbaijan and Georgia, and Ptychopterastaryi Dvořák, Oboňa & Manko, sp. nov. from Bulgaria are described. P.xanthopleurasp. nov. differs from the other member of the lacustris group mainly by having almost completely yellow pleurae, and by the shape of the epandrium and gonocoxites. The diagnostics of P.staryisp. nov. and P.incognita Török, Kolcsár & Keresztes, 2015 based on male genitalia are provided.

Phytochemicals and Their Correlation with Molecular Data in Micromeria and Clinopodium (Lamiaceae) Taxa

A study of the phytochemical and molecular characteristics of ten Micromeria and six Clinopodium taxa (family Lamiaceae) distributed in the Balkan Peninsula was carried out. The phytochemicals detected in essential oils by gas chromatography, mass spectrometry, and molecular data amplified fragment length polymorphism were used to study the taxonomic relationships among the taxa and the correlations between phytochemical and molecular data. STRUCTURE analysis revealed three genetic groups, while Bayesian Analysis of Population Structure grouped the studied taxa into 11 clusters nested in the groups obtained by STRUCTURE. Principal components analysis performed with the 21 most represented compounds in the essential oils yielded results that were partly consistent with those obtained by STRUCTURE and neighbour-joining analyses. However, their geographic distributions did not support the genetic grouping of the studied taxa and populations. The Mantel test showed a significant correlation between the phytochemical and genetic data (r = 0.421, p < 0.001). Genetic distance explained 17.8% of the phytochemical distance between populations. The current taxonomic position of several of the studied taxa is yet to be satisfactorily resolved, and further studies are needed. Such future research should include nuclear and plastid DNA sequences from a larger sample of populations and individuals.

Environmental Niche Modelling Predicts a Contraction in the Potential Distribution of Two Boreal Owl Species under Different Climate Scenarios

Studying current and future geographic distribution is essential for conserving endangered species such as the Boreal Owl and Eurasian Pygmy Owl. The main aim of this study was to determine the potential distribution of both species in the Balkan Peninsula by using spatial distribution models (SDMs) in MaxEnt. We used data from field surveys, the scientific and grey literature, and an online database. We considered the current time and two future periods, 2041-2060 and 2061-2080. For future periods, we included different climate scenarios (SSP 126, 245, 370, and 585) in studying the potential geographic distribution of both species. We identified two types of potential future refugia for species: in situ and ex situ. Our study shows the highly suitable area for the Boreal Owl increased during the 2041-2060 period compared with the current area in all scenarios, except in SSP 585. However, during the 2061-2080 period, the highly suitable areas contracted. For the Eurasian Pygmy Owl, highly suitable areas decreased during 2041-2060, but during the 2061-2080 period, it was larger than the current area. Our study is of importance for conservation and preserving areas of potential distribution and refugia for Boreal and Eurasian Pygmy Owls in the face of climate change.

Southern Carpathian ultramafic grasslands within the central-southeast European context: syntaxonomic classification and overall eco-coenotic patterns

BACKGROUND

Previous investigations carried out in ultramafic habitats emphasized the greater importance of site conditions over soil toxic metal content for vegetation composition. Very little is known about the floristic structure of the Southern Carpathian ultramafic grasslands and there is no information on the local environmental drivers of their composition and coenotic features. Here, we aim to fill these knowledge gaps by referring to similar phytocoenoses described in the Balkan Peninsula and central Europe. In particular, we searched for: (i) floristic and ecological patterns supporting the classification and taxonomic assignment of these grasslands, and (ii) simple relationships between serpentine vegetation characteristics and its physiographic environment. A total of 120 phytosociological relevés, of which 52 performed in the Southern Carpathians, were analysed through cluster, ordination and regression procedures.

RESULTS

Despite some floristic similarities with their Balkan counterparts, the Southern Carpathian ultramafic grasslands were clustered into four distinct groups, which were assigned to as many new syntaxa: Plantago serpentinae-Armerietum halleri, Asplenio serpentini-Achnatheretum calamagrostis, Minuartio frutescentis-Plantaginetum holostei and Sileno saxifragae-Plantaginetum holostei. The latter was best individualised through the occurrence of several Carpathian endemic taxa. The first two ordination axes were significantly related with the terrain slope/presence of xerophilous species and respectively, with site elevation/presence of calcifugous species. The total plant cover showed a unimodal relationship with respect to site elevation. While controlling for the effect of the sampled area, species richness showed a unimodal response to both elevation and slope of the terrain, although their effects were not singular.

CONCLUSIONS

The syntaxonomic distinctiveness of the Southern Carpathian ultramafic grasslands is mainly supported by their overall species composition rather than regional differential species. The main limiting factors driving the composition, cover and species richness of all studied ultramafic grasslands are the water deficit at low elevation and on steep slopes, and the low soil fertility at higher elevations. Our results confirm the previous findings according to which physiographic conditions and, to a lesser extent, soil base nutrients are more important than heavy metal concentrations in structuring the ultramafic vegetation.

Distribution of Y-chromosome haplogroups in Serbian population groups originating from historically and geographically significant distinct parts of the Balkan Peninsula

Our study enrolled 1200 Serbian males originating from three geographical regions in the Balkan Peninsula inhabited by Serbs: present-day Serbia, regions of Old Herzegovina and Kosovo and Metohija. These samples were genotyped using the combination of 23 Y-chromosomal short tandem repeats (Y-STRs) loci and 17 Ychromosomal single nucleotide polymorphisms (Y-SNPs) loci for the haplotype and haplogroup analysis in order to characterize in detail Y chromosome flow in the recent history. Serbia's borders have changed through history, forcing Serbs constantly to migrate to different regions of Balkan Peninsula. The most significant migration waves in the recent history towards present-day Serbia occurred from the regions of Old- Herzegovina and Kosovo and Metohija that lie in the south-west/south. High haplotype diversity and discrimination capacity were observed in all three datasets, with the highest number of unique haplotypes (381) and discrimination capacity (0.97) detected in the samples originating from the present-day Serbia. Haplogroup composition didn't differ significantly among datasets, with three dominant haplogroups (I-M170, E-P170 and R-M198), and haplogroup I-M170 being the most frequent in all three datasets. Haplogroup E-P170 was the second most dominant in the dataset originating from geographical region of Kosovo and Metohija, whereas haplogroup R-M198 was the second most prevalent in the dataset from historical region of Old Herzegovina. Based on the phylogenetic three for haplogroup I constructed within this study, haplogroup I2a1-P37.2 was the most dominant within all three datasets, especially in the dataset from historical region of Old Herzegovina, where 182 out of 400 samples were derived for SNP P37.2. Genetic distances between three groups of samples, evaluated by the Fst and Rst statistical values, and further visualized through multidimensional scaling plot, showed great genetic similarity between datasets from Old Herzegovina and present-day Serbia. Genetic difference in the haplogroup distribution and frequency between datasets from historical region of Old Herzegovina and from geographical region of Kosovo and Metohija was confirmed with highest Fst and Rst vaules. In this study we have distinguished genetic structure, diversity and haplogroup frequencies within 1200 Serbian males from three datasets, relationships among them as well as with other Balkan and European populations, which is useful for studying recent demographic history.

First record of Psorergatoides Fain, 1959 (Acari, Cheyletoidea, Psorergatidae) for the Balkan Peninsula with description of the cutaneous lesions on the wing membrane of its hosts Myotismyotis (Borkhausen, 1797) and Myotisblythii (Tomes, 1857) (Chiroptera, Vespertilionidae)

Healthy wing membranes are essential for bats. They are critical for maintaining the water balance and, during hibernation, they protect the bat's body from dehydration. Assessing the state of the membrane visually is an easy and effective way to monitor a bat's health and discover abnormal structures and infections in wild bat populations. During pre- and post-hibernation surveys of bats' wings, we identified the presence of skin mites, Psorergatoideskerivoulae (Fain, 1959). The parasite causes cutaneous lesions on the wing membranes of the greater moused-eared bat, Myotismyotis (Borkhausen, 1797) and the lesser moused-eared bat, Myotisblythii (Tomes, 1857). The lesser mouse-eared bat is a new host for this parasite. Our study is the first to describe the histopathology of the infection on the wings of the greater and lesser mouse-eared bats. To our knowledge, this is the southernmost record of this parasite and the first mention of the genus Psorergatoides for the Balkans.

Strategies of accumulation of potentially toxic elements in Minuartia recurva and M. bulgarica

The aim of this study was to determine the concentrations of potentially toxic elements in soil samples and plant tissues of Minuartia recurva and M. bulgarica, predominantly or exclusively calcifuge species. Biological concentration (BCs) and translocation factors (TFs) were used to evaluate their accumulation potential. Considerable differences were observed between M. recurva and M. bulgarica assessions in terms of accumulation strategies of potentially toxic elements (PTEs). In M. recurva, most of the elements analyzed (Mn, Cu, Zn, Cd, and Co) were transported to the shoot, whereas in M. bulgarica, these elements remained predominantly in the roots. The Cu concentrations in the shoot samples of M. recurva from an abandoned iron-copper mine at Mt. Kopaonik were clearly above the notional hyperaccumulation threshold, characterizing this species as a possible Cu hyperaccumulator. Additionally, strong accumulation potential for Cr, Ni, Zn, Pb, and Cd was observed in M. recurva assessions, but without significant accumulation due to the low concentrations of these elements in the soils. The strong accumulation capacity and the different strategies in tolerance to PTEs indicate a potential of the two species for an application in phytoremediation: M. recurva for phytoextraction and M. bulgarica for phytostabilization.

Genome Size Variation in Dianthus sylvestris Wulfen sensu lato (Caryophyllaceae)

Genome size (GS) is an important characteristic that may be helpful in delimitation of taxa, and multiple studies have shown correlations between intraspecific GS variation and morphological or environmental factors, as well as its geographical segregation. We estimated a relative GS (RGS) of 707 individuals from 162 populations of Dianthus sylvestris with a geographic focus on the Balkan Peninsula, but also including several populations from the European Alps. Dianthus sylvestris is morphologically variable species thriving in various habitats and six subspecies have been recognized from the Balkan Peninsula. Our RGS data backed-up with chromosome counts revealed that the majority of populations were diploid (2n = 30), but ten tetraploid populations have been recorded in D. sylvestris subsp. sylvestris from Istria (Croatia, Italy). Their monoploid RGS is significantly lower than that of the diploids, indicating genome downsizing. In addition, the tetraploids significantly differ from their diploid counterparts in an array of morphological and environmental characteristics. Within the diploid populations, the RGS is geographically and only partly taxonomically correlated, with the highest RGS inferred in the southern Balkan Peninsula and the Alps. We demonstrate greater RGS variation among the Balkan populations compared to the Alps, which is likely a result of more pronounced evolutionary differentiation within the Balkan Peninsula. In addition, a deep RGS divergence within the Alps likely points to persistence of the alpine populations in different Pleistocene refugia.

On the identity of Thymushumifususvar.aureopunctatus (Lamiaceae) and taxonomic notes on the Th.richardii complex

The name Thymushumifususvar.aureopunctatus, described from Bosnia and Herzegovina, is lectotypified, and its taxonomic value is discussed. Thymusrichardiisubsp.richardii is currently considered an endemic subspecies common to Mallorca (Balearic Islands) and Bosnia and Herzegovina from the Balkan Peninsula. Specimens identified as Th.richardii from both Balearic Islands and Bosnia and Herzegovina were studied to determine if they are indeed the same taxonomic entity. Detailed micromorphological observations and morphometric analysis, suggest that the Balkan plants (Th.humifususvar.aureopunctatus) and the Majorcan populations (Th.richardiisubsp.richardii) are clearly separate entities. For the former name, based on morphological, phytochemical, biogeographical and present results, we propose the subspecific rank, as Th.richardiisubsp.aureopunctatuscomb. & stat. nov. Full descriptions of all five subspecies currently accepted within Th.richardii are provided.

Population genetic structure of wolves in the northwestern Dinaric-Balkan region

The Balkan Peninsula and the Dinaric Mountains possess extraordinary biodiversity and support one of the largest and most diverse wolf (Canis lupus) populations in Europe. Results obtained with diverse genetic markers show west-east substructure, also seen in various other species, despite the absence of obvious barriers to movement. However, the spatial extent of the genetic clusters remains unresolved, and our aim was to combine fine-scale sampling with population and spatial genetic analyses to improve resolution of wolf genetic clusters. We analyzed 16 autosomal microsatellites from 255 wolves sampled in Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina (BIH), and Serbia and documented three genetic clusters. These comprised (1) Slovenia and the regions of Gorski kotar and Lika in Croatia, (2) the region of Dalmatia in southern Croatia and BIH, and (3) Serbia. When we mapped the clusters geographically, we observed west-east genetic structure across the study area, together with some specific structure in BIH-Dalmatia. We observed that cluster 1 had a smaller effective population size, consistent with earlier reports of population recovery since the 1980s. Our results provide foundation for future genomic studies that would further resolve the observed west-east population structure and its evolutionary history in wolves and other taxa in the region and identify focal areas for habitat conservation. They also have immediate importance for conservation planning for the wolves in one of the most important parts of the species' European range.

New insight into spatial ecology of Griffon Vulture (Gypsfulvus) on the Balkans provides opportunity for focusing conservation actions for a threatened social scavenger

The knowledge in the behaviour and movement of endangered species is of key importance for the precise targeting and assessing the efficiency of nature conservation actions, especially considering vultures, which explore vast areas to locate ephemeral and unpredictable food resources. Therefore, a total of 51 Griffon Vultures (Gypsfulvus) from both the re-introduced population and the autochthonous Balkan Peninsula (Balkans) colonies have been tagged with GPS/GSM transmitters in recent years, in order to study their seasonal and spatial distribution. The current study presents the analysis of the high-resolution GPS location data, acquired between January 2016 and March 2021. A total of 1,138,383 locations (an average number of 23,716 ± 18,886 positions per bird, ranged between 2,515 and 76,431 of total fixes per bird; n=48) were used to estimate the home range size and identify the traditional foraging areas and roosting sites of the birds during the wintering, migration/roaming and summering periods. Our results reveal that Griffon Vultures movement activity and home range size varied considerably throughout the annual cycle, especially between their wintering and summering grounds, while exhibiting significant overlapping amongst the tracked individuals. Specifically, immature Griffon Vultures travel long distances across all Balkan Peninsula countries, but always gather with conspecifics, showing strong fidelity to active breeding/roosting sites. The total home range 95% area of the Griffon Vulture population on the Balkans was estimated at 39,986.4 km² and the 50% core area at 1,545.42 km² (n = 48). All tracked birds were found to either visit or frequently use (> 95% of the time) the same seven vulture key zones on the Balkan Peninsula – one in Serbia, one shared between North Macedonia and Bulgaria, one shared between Bulgaria and Greece, two entirely lying in Bulgaria, one in western Greece and one shared between Kvarner Archipelago islands in Croatia and the Julian Alps - Italy, Austria and Slovenia. Several smaller sub-zones were also defined within these general ones. The seven key zones form a coherent network and are used as stepping stones for Griffon Vultures during their migration movements and roaming, but also wintering and summering. The observed concentration tendency of Griffon Vultures on the Balkans and the predictability of their temporal and spatial presence should be used to precisely target, address and substantially increase the efficiency of the conservation measures in this marginal and, thus, still vulnerable meta-population.

Micromorphological Traits of Balcanic Micromeria and Closely Related Clinopodium Species (Lamiaceae)

A study of the trichomes types and distribution and pollen morphology was carried out in nine Micromeria taxa (M. cristata ssp. cristata, M. cristata ssp. kosaninii, M. croatica, M. graeca ssp. graeca, M. graeca ssp. fruticulosa, M. juliana, M. kerneri, M. longipedunculata and M. microphylla) and five closely related Clinopodium species (C. dalmaticum, C. frivaldszkyanum, C. pulegium, C. serpyllifolium and C. thymifolium) from the Lamiaceae family of the Balkan Peninsula. By scanning electron microscope, non-glandular trichomes, peltate and capitate trichomes were observed on the calyx, leaves and stem of the studied species. Two subtypes of capitate trichomes were observed in Micromeria species: subtype 1 (consisting of a basal epidermal cell and an elliptically shaped head cell) and subtype 2 (consisting of a basal epidermal cell, two to three stalk cells and a round head cell). In Clinopodium species, three types of capitate trichomes were observed: subtype 1, subtype 3 (consisting of a basal epidermal cell, a short peduncle cell, and a single round head cell), and subtype 4 (consisting of a basal epidermal cell, a stalk cell, and an elongated head cell). These results support the recent transfer of Micromeria species from the section Pseudomelissa to the genus Clinopodium.

Plantago subulata as indicator of potentially toxic elements in the substrate

Plantago subulata is a facultative serpentinophyte, with predominantly ultramafic distribution in Serbia and Montenegro. The plant samples were collected from ultramafic and non-ultramafic substrate, including two abandoned mining sites, with the aim to assess the accumulation potential of this species. The samples were collected from 10 sites in Serbia and Montenegro and element concentrations in plants and soils were determined. Particularly high concentrations of Fe, Cu, Mn, Zn, and Cd were found in the soil and plant samples from an abandoned iron mining site, Mt. Kopaonik, Suvo Rudište. The concentrations of Ni, Cr, Fe, Co, and Cd were statistically different between soil and plant samples from ultramafic and non-ultramafic bedrock. Considering the fact that concentrations of Zn, Ni, and Cr in roots and shoots were positively correlated with their respective contents in the soil, i.e., the chemical composition of the plant and soil samples reflected the characteristics of the substrate, and for most of the elements analyzed, P. subulata acted as indicator species. For Cd and Pb, only the root concentrations were positively correlated with soil content, indicating exclusion and root sequestration as the main tolerance strategies for these elements. Although below the hyperaccumulation threshold, a strong accumulation capacity of P. subulata was found for Ni and Cu.

Uncovering the diversity of monogeneans (Platyhelminthes) on endemic cypriniform fishes of the Balkan Peninsula: new species of Dactylogyrus and comments on their phylogeny and host-parasite associations in a biogeographic context

Seven new species of Dactylogyrus Diesing, 1850 (Dactylogyridae) are described from the gills of seven endemic species of cyprinoids (Cyprinidae, Leuciscidae) inhabiting the Balkan Peninsula: Dactylogyrus romuli n. sp. from Luciobarbus albanicus (Greece), Dactylogyrus remi n. sp. from Luciobarbus graecus (Greece), Dactylogyrus recisus n. sp. from Pachychilon macedonicum (Greece), Dactylogyrus octopus n. sp. from Tropidophoxinellus spartiaticus (Greece), Dactylogyrus vukicae n. sp. from Delminichthys adspersus (Bosnia and Herzegovina), Dactylogyrus leptus n. sp. from Chondrostoma knerii (Bosnia and Herzegovina), and Dactylogyrus sandai n. sp. from Telestes karsticus (Croatia). To delineate species boundaries, we used an integrative taxonomic approach combining morphological and genetic data. With these tools, we illustrate that some species of monogeneans considered as cryptic might be designated as pseudocryptic (morphologically similar, not easily differentiated) after a posteriori detailed morphological examination, as happened with D. romuli n. sp. and D. remi n. sp. Thus, for accurate species characterization, it is particularly important to acquire both morphological and molecular data from the same individual specimens, ideally along with illustrations of taxonomically important structures directly taken from hologenophores. Using phylogenetic reconstruction, we investigated the phylogenetic position of newly described Dactylogyrus species within Dactylogyrus species from Balkan cyprinoids with regard to morphological characteristics, host range, and geographical distribution.

Genetic similarities versus morphological resemblance: Unraveling a polyploid complex in a Mediterranean biodiversity hotspot

The Balkan Peninsula is recognized as one of the hotspots of biodiversity in Europe. This area has shown since the Last Glacial Maximum appropriate conditions for species diversification and hybridization, which has led to the existence of numerous taxonomically unresolved entities. Here, we focus on the Western Balkans and explore the genetic structure and relationships among species belonging to the V. austriaca - V. orbiculata diploid-polyploid complex, including populations showing intermediate morphologies. A combination of nuclear markers (microsatellites), plastid DNA regions (trnH-psbA, ycf6-psbM) and ploidy level estimations using flow cytometry are employed to assess the genetic structure and evolutionary dynamics of this polyploid complex. To reconstruct the evolutionary history, an approximate Bayesian computation approach is combined with projections of the species distribution models onto the climatic scenarios of the Mid-Holocene (6 ka BP) and Last Glacial Maximum (22 ka BP). Four main groups were found: one well-established entity within the diploid level, V. dalmatica, a second diploid-tetraploid group which corresponds to V. orbiculata, a hexaploid cluster harboring V. austriaca subsp. jacquinii individuals, and an enigmatic tetraploid group. According to the molecular data obtained, this latter cluster represents an allopolyploid cryptic lineage −with V. orbiculata and V. dalmatica as putative parents− morphologically similar to V. orbiculata, but genetically more related to V. austriaca subsp. jacquinii. Veronica dalmatica and this “uncertain tetraploid” group are involved in the formation of the hexaploid taxon V. austriaca subsp. jacquinii, with the possibility of recent gene flow among different cytotypes. The present study supports a scenario of diversification from a diploid common ancestor leading to two different but interrelated lineages. The first one would correspond with the diploid V. orbiculata plus tetraploid individuals of this species arising through allo- and autopolyploidization, and the second one would involve all ploidy levels with allopolyploidization being prevalent.

Ectomycorrhizal community composition of organic and mineral soil horizons in silver fir (Abies alba Mill.) stands

Vertical ectomycorrhizal (ECM) community composition was assessed on silver fir (Abies alba Mill.) in beech-silver fir forests in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Organic and upper mineral horizons were described by pedological analyses. Silver fir root tips were divided into vital ECM, old and non-mycorrhizal for each horizon separately. Morpho-anatomical classification of vital ECM root tips with an assessment of abundance was followed by ITS-based molecular characterization and classification into exploration types. The percentage of vital ECM root tips was not affected by the soil horizon. Altogether, 40 ECM taxa were recorded. Several taxa have not previously been reported for silver fir: Hebeloma laterinum, Inocybe fuscidula, I. glabripes, Lactarius acris, L. albocarneus, L. blennius, L. fluens, Ramaria bataillei, Russula badia, R. lutea, R. mairei, Sistotrema sp., Tarzetta catinus, Tomentella atroarenicolor, T. badia, T. cinerascens, T. bryophylla, and T. ramosissima, indicating high potential for diversity of ECM fungi in silver fir stands. No significant differences in community composition and species richness and diversity were detected between mineral and organic horizons. Community composition was affected by CaCO₃, organic carbon concentration, organic carbon stock, total nitrogen stock, C/N ratio and soil bulk density. No significant effects of soil parameters were detected for exploration types. The contact exploration type was dominant in both soil horizons. Significantly different relative abundances of dominant taxa Tomentella stuposa, Cenococcum geophilum and Piloderma sp. 1 were detected in the two horizons. Twelve taxa were limited to the organic horizon and eight to the mineral horizon.

Biologer: an open platform for collecting biodiversity data

Background

We have developed a new platform named "Biologer" intended for recording species observations in the field (but also from literature resources and collections). The platform is created as user-friendly, open source, multilingual software that is compatible with Darwin Core standard and accompanied by a simple Android application. It is made from the user’s perspective, allowing everyone to choose how they share the data. Project team members are delegated by involved organisations. The team is responsible for development of the platform, while local Biologer communities are engaged in data collection and verification.

New information

Biologer has been online and available for use in Serbia since 2018 and was soon adopted in Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina. In total, we have assembled 536 users, who have collected 163,843 species observation records data from the field and digitalised 33,458 literature records. The number of active users and their records is growing daily. Out of the total number of gathered data, 89% has been made open access by the users, 10% is accessible on the scale of 10×10 km and only 1% is closed. In the future, we plan to provide a taxonomic data portal that could be used by local and national initiatives in Eastern Europe, aggregate all data into a single web location, create detailed data overview and enable fluent communication between users.

Spatio-temporal partitioning facilitates mesocarnivore sympatry in the Stara Planina Mountains, Bulgaria

The top trophic level in many terrestrial food webs is typically occupied by mammalian carnivores (Order Carnivora) that broadly affect and shape ecosystems through trophic cascades. Their inter-specific interactions can further complicate effects on community dynamics as a consequence of intra-guild competition. The capacity for competitive mammalian carnivores to segregate their hunting and activity regimes is in major part a function of their similarity, in terms of body-size and dietary niche; termed the 'niche variation hypothesis'. In this study, we used camera-trapping to investigate intra-guild interactions and spatio-temporal partitioning among five mesocarnivores, the golden jackal (Canis aureus), European badger (Meles meles), red fox (Vulpes vulpes), European wildcat (Felis sylvestris) and stone marten (Martes foina), in the Stara Planina Mountains, Bulgaria. We collected a total of 444 images of golden jackals, 236 images of European badgers, 200 images of red foxes, 171 images of stone martens, and 145 images of European wildcats, from 6612 camera-days across fifteen camera-trapping stations. With respect to body size, the three smaller species (fox, wildcat and marten) were active in different time periods than the two larger competitors (jackal and badger) through both the warm and cold season. The more similar the trophic niche between species pairs (particularly relating to rodent consumption), the greater the spatio-temporal partitioning we observed within the pair; however, this adapted to seasonal dietary shifts. In conclusion, spatial and temporal (fine-scale and seasonal) niche partitioning appeared to reduce encounter probabilities and competition and may act to facilitate sympatric coexistence among this regional mesocarnivore guild.

Preliminary division of not socially parasitic Greek Temnothorax Mayr, 1861 (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) with a description of three new species

The division of Greek members of the genus Temnothorax into 17 morphological groups is proposed. Temnothoraxaveli species group is reviewed with three species: T.turcicus (Santschi) (North Aegean Islands, Sterea Ellas, Peloponnese and Thessaly), and two species new to science: Temnothoraxbrackoisp. nov. (Epirus, Ionian Islands, Macedonia, Peloponnese, western Sterea Ellas, Thessaly, and also Dalmatia in Croatia), and T.messiniaensissp. nov. (Ionian Islands and Peloponnese); a new species Temnothoraxtriangularissp. nov., a member of the Temnothoraxnylanderi species group is also described (Sterea Ellas: Euboea Island).

First checklist of mayflies (Insecta, Ephemeroptera) from Kosovo

This research provides the first systematic contribution to the mayfly (Ephemeroptera) Fauna of Kosovo. This investigation was conducted from March to November in 2017 and 2018; 32 sites were sampled covering the different freshwater ecosystems of the country. The first checklist of mayflies of Kosovo is provided. During this survey, we found 48 species belonging to 20 genera and nine families. The highest number of species belongs to the following two families, Heptageniidae (24) and Baetidae (9). This investigation is a contribution to the knowledge about taxonomy, biogeography, and ecology of mayflies of the Balkan Peninsula by giving new data on species composition and distribution range in Kosovo.

Taxonomic status and behavioural documentation of the troglobiont Lithobiusmatulici (Myriapoda, Chilopoda) from the Dinaric Alps: Are there semiaquatic centipedes in caves?

Lithobiusmatulici Verhoeff, 1899 is redescribed based on type material and newly collected specimens. Strandiolusjugoslavicus Hoffer, 1937, described from another cave in the same region in Bosnia and Hercegovina, is presented as a junior subjective synonym of L.matulici (syn. nov.). L.matulici is shown to be most closely related to Lithobiusremyi Jawłowski, 1933, type species of the subgenus Thracolithobius Matic, 1962. The completeness of the chitin-lines on the forcipular coxosternite is discussed as a promising character for interspecific differentiation within Lithobiomorpha. Documentation of hitherto unknown semiaquatic behaviour in L.matulici and other cave-dwelling centipede species from Herzegovinian-, Montenegrin- and Pyrenean caves is presented.

From climate zone to microhabitat-environmental factors affecting the coastal distribution of tiger beetles (Coleoptera: Cicindelidae) in the south-eastern European biodiversity hotspot

Background

Tiger beetles (Coleoptera: Cicindelidae) are predatory insects usually occurring in various sandy habitats. In south-eastern Europe, especially in lowland areas located close to the sea coast, the diversity of Cicindelidae is one of the highest in the Palaearctic realm. Although previous studies conducted in different areas of the world show that many species are habitat specialists, unfortunately little is known about environmental factors affecting the diversity and distribution of tiger beetles in this region.

Material and Methods

Habitat preferences for 12 tiger beetles taxa were analysed. Over 100 samples collected in eight countries located in coastal areas of the Black and Mediterranean Seas were studied, for which climate data, macrohabitat types, and soil parameters (soil humidity, salinity, pH, and structure) were investigated.

Results

Most studied Cicindelidae were characterised by narrow or very narrow habitat specialisation and did not co-occur with other ones, including 11 taxa found as habitat specialists occurring only in one or two types of macrohabitat. The most eurythopic species was Calomera littoralis nemoralis which occupied four macrohabitat types. The climatic zone, altitude, and humidity were found as the most important factors in the distribution of the studied tiger beetle species. Salt marshes and sandy sea beaches were noted as the most diverse macrohabitat types.

Discussion

Tiger beetle fauna of south-eastern Europe consists mainly of habitat specialists sensitive to environmental changes, which makes these beetles perfect bioindicators. Moreover, as a great number of studied Cicindelidae taxa occur in habitats which are under a significant human impact, we suggest that in the studied area the group can be successfully used as a flagship taxon for insect and nature conservation.

Traditional wound-healing plants used in the Balkan region (Southeast Europe)

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The geographical and ecological specificity of the Balkan Peninsula has resulted in the development of a distinct diversity of medicinal plants. In the traditional culture of the Balkan peoples, plants have medicinal, economic and anthropological/cultural importance, which is reflected in the sound knowledge of their diversity and use. This study analyses the traditional use of medicinal plants in the treatment of wounds and the pharmacological characteristics of the most frequently used species.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A detailed analysis of the literature related to ethnobhe uses of medicinal plants in the Balkan region was carried out. Twenty-five studies were analysed and those plants used for the treatment of wounds were singled out.

RESULT

An ethnobotanical analysis showed that 128 plant species (105 wild, 22 cultivated and 1 wild/cultivated) are used in the treatment of wounds. Their application is external, in the form of infusions, decoctions, tinctures, syrups, oils, ointments, and balms, or direct to the skin. Among those plants recorded, the most commonly used are Plantago major, Hypericum perforatum, Plantago lanceolata, Achillea millefolium, Calendula officinalis, Sambucus nigra, Tussilago farfara and Prunus domestica. The study showed that the traditional use of plants in wound healing is confirmed by in vitro and/or in vivo studies for P. major and P. lanceolata (3 laboratory studies for P. major and 2 for P. lanceolata), H. perforatum (5 laboratory studies and 3 clinical trials), A. millefolium (3 laboratory studies and one clinical trial), C. officinalis (6 laboratory studies and 1 clinical trial), S. nigra (3 laboratory studies) and T. farfara (one laboratory study).

CONCLUSION

The beneficial effects of using medicinal plants from the Balkan region to heal wounds according to traditional practices have been proven in many scientific studies. However, information on the quantitative benefits to human health of using herbal medicines to heal wounds is still scarce or fragmented, hindering a proper evaluation. Therefore, further studies should be aimed at isolating and identifying specific active substances from plant extracts, which could also reveal compounds with more valuable therapeutic properties. Furthermore, additional reliable clinical trials are needed to confirm those experiences encountered when using traditional medicines. A combination of traditional and modern knowledge could result in new wound-healing drugs with a significant reduction in unwanted side effects.

Recent acute crayfish mortality reveals Aphanomyces astaci presence in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Although the introduction of the crayfish plague pathogen Aphanomyces astaci to Europe is responsible for substantial declines in native crayfish populations throughout the whole continent, its presence has never been officially confirmed in many European regions, including most of the Balkan Peninsula. We demonstrate that the recent crayfish mortality observed in Bosnia and Herzegovina (Mostarsko blato karst field, Neretva river drainage) was caused by A. astaci. The causative strain is known only from European crayfish, indicating that A. astaci poses a threat to native species in this region, even in the absence of its main vectors, the North American crayfish.

Mitochondrial super-haplogroup U diversity in Serbians

BACKGROUND

Available mitochondrial (mtDNA) data demonstrate genetic differentiation among South Slavs inhabiting the Balkan Peninsula. However, their resolution is insufficient to elucidate the female-specific aspects of the genetic history of South Slavs, including the genetic impact of various migrations which were rather common within the Balkans, a region having a turbulent demographic history.

AIM

The aim was to thoroughly study complete mitogenomes of Serbians, a population linking westward and eastward South Slavs.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Forty-six predominantly Serbian super-haplogroup U complete mitogenomes were analysed phylogenetically against ∼4000 available complete mtDNAs of modern and ancient Western Eurasians.

RESULTS

Serbians share a number of U mtDNA lineages with Southern, Eastern-Central and North-Western Europeans. Putative Balkan-specific lineages (e.g. U1a1c2, U4c1b1, U5b3j, K1a4l and K1a13a1) and lineages shared among Serbians (South Slavs) and West and East Slavs were detected (e.g. U2e1b1, U2e2a1d, U4a2a, U4a2c, U4a2g1, U4d2b and U5b1a1).

CONCLUSION

The exceptional diversity of maternal lineages found in Serbians may be associated with the genetic impact of both autochthonous pre-Slavic Balkan populations whose mtDNA gene pool was affected by migrations of various populations over time (e.g. Bronze Age pastoralists) and Slavic and Germanic newcomers in the early Middle Ages.

The unexpected finding of Parapholidoptera castaneoviridis in south-eastern Romania (Insecta, Orthoptera, Tettigoniidae)

The Balkano-Anatolian genus Parapholidoptera comprises 21 species and the westernmost one, Parapholidopteracastaneoviridis, previously recognized to occur in western Turkey, north-eastern Greece and south-eastern Bulgaria is recorded for the first time from south-eastern Romania, almost 300 km away from the closest known locality. Illustrations and measurements of morphological characters are given and the male calling song from this new, northernmost population is described.

On the origins of Balkan endemics: the complex evolutionary history of the Cyanus napulifer group (Asteraceae)

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The Balkan Peninsula is one of the most important centres of plant diversity in Europe. Here we aim to fill the gap in the current knowledge of the evolutionary processes and factors modelling this astonishing biological richness by applying multiple approaches to the Cyanus napulifer group.

METHODS

To reconstruct the mode of diversification within the C. napulifer group and to uncover its relationships with potential relatives with x = 10 from Europe and Northern Africa, we examined variation in genetic markers (amplified fragment length polymorphisms [AFLPs]; 460 individuals), relative DNA content (4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole [DAPI] flow cytometry, 330 individuals) and morphology (multivariate morphometrics, 40 morphological characters, 710 individuals). To elucidate its evolutionary history, we analysed chloroplast DNA (cpDNA) sequences of the genus Cyanus deposited in the GenBank database.

KEY RESULTS

The AFLPs revealed a suite of closely related entities with variable levels of differentiation. The C. napulifer group formed a genetically well-defined unit. Samples outside the group formed strongly diversified and mostly species-specific genetic lineages with no further geographical patterns, often characterized also by a different DNA content. AFLP analysis of the C. napulifer group revealed extensive radiation and split it into nine allopatric (sub)lineages with varying degrees of congruence among genetic, DNA-content and morphological patterns. Genetic admixture was usually detected in contact zones between genetic lineages. Plastid data indicated extensive maintenance of ancestral variation across Cyanus perennials.

CONCLUSION

The C. napulifer group is an example of a rapidly and recently diversified plant group whose genetic lineages have evolved in spatio-temporal isolation on the topographically complex Balkan Peninsula. Adaptive radiation, accompanied in some cases by long-term isolation and hybridization, has contributed to the formation of this species complex and its mosaic pattern.

Chemodiversity of Epicuticular n-Alkanes and Morphological Traits of Natural Populations of Satureja subspicata Bartl. ex Vis. along Dinaric Alps - Ecological and Taxonomic Aspects

Morphological characters and the composition of epicuticular leaf n-alkanes of two Satureja subspicata Bartl. ex Vis. subspecies (subsp. liburnica Šilić and subsp. subspicata) from nine natural populations along Dinaric Alps range were studied. Morphological characters were chosen based on Šilić's subspecies separation. Seventeen n-alkane homologues (C₁₉ - C₃₅ ) were identified using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) and GC/flame ionisation detector (FID). The most abundant n-alkane in all populations was n-nonacosane (C₂₉ ), followed by n-hentriacontane (C₃₁ ), with the exception of Divača population where these two alkanes were co-dominant. Diversity and variability of n-alkane patterns and morphological characters and their relation to different geographic and bioclimatic parameters, including exposure, were analysed by several statistical multivariate methods (PCA, HCA, Discriminant Analysis, Mantel test). These tests showed clear separation of subsp. liburnica from subsp. subspicata, even though population Velebit showed separation from other subsp. liburnica populations based on phytochemical characters. Mantel test showed high correlation with geographical distribution in both investigated data sets. High correlation between morphological and phytochemical characters was also established. However, exposure can influence n-alkane profile, suggesting precaution while taking samples from natural habitats.

Three new species of the genus Leptonetela from Greece (Araneae, Leptonetidae)

Three new species of the spider genus Leptonetela collected from caves in Greece are described: Leptonetela arvanitidisi sp. n. (male & female), Leptonetela paragamiani sp. n. (male & female) and Leptonetela penevi sp. n. (male & female). Detailed illustrations of the new species are provided. DNA barcodes were obtained for future use.

Complete mitochondrial genome of the endemic legless lizard Anguis cephallonica Werner, 1894 and its comparison with mitogenome of Anguis fragilis Linnaeus, 1758

Complete mitochondrial genome of the Peloponnese endemic lizard species Anguis cephallonica is presented in this study. The complete sequence is 17 208 bp long and consists of 13 protein-coding genes, 22 tRNA genes, two rRNA genes and one control region. The gene order is same as in the relative species Anguis fragilis. Length of the 22 tRNA genes varies from 64 bp to 73 bp. The Anguis cephallonica mitogenome base composition is: A (30.5%), T (24.2%), C (30.5%), G (14.8%), with an A + T bias (54.7%). Six protein coding genes have incomplete stop codons. This is the first complete mitogenome described in this species as well as in any endemic Peloponnese lizard. Presented complete mitochondrial genome will form a basis for future comparative analysis within the genus Anguis.

Lichenized and lichenicolous fungi from the Albanian Alps (Kosovo, Montenegro)

396 taxa (381 species) of lichenized and 45 species of lichenicolous fungi from the upper montane, subalpine and alpine belts of the Albanian Alps (= Prokletije Mountain Range, Bjeshkët e Nemuna) are presented. 92 lichenized and 26 lichenicolous fungi are new to Montenegro, 165 lichenized and 24 lichenicolous fungi are new to Kosovo, and 25 lichenized fungi (23 species) are new for the Balkan Peninsula.

Croatian mayflies (Insecta, Ephemeroptera): species diversity and distribution patterns

Knowledge of the mayfly biodiversity in the Balkan Peninsula is still far from complete. Compared to the neighbouring countries, the mayfly fauna in Croatia is very poorly known. Situated at the crossroads of central and Mediterranean Europe and the Balkan Peninsula, Croatia is divided into two ecoregions: Dinaric western Balkan and Pannonian lowland. Mayflies were sampled between 2003 and 2013 at 171 sites, and a total of 66 species was recorded. Combined with the literature data, the Croatian mayfly fauna reached a total of 79 taxa. Of these, 29 species were recorded for the first time in Croatia while 15 species were not previously recorded in Dinaric western Balkan ecoregion. Based on the mayfly assemblage, sampling sites were first structured by ecoregion and then by habitat type. In comparison with the surrounding countries, the Croatian mayfly fauna is the most similar to the Hungarian and Bosnian fauna. Some morphologically interesting taxa such as Baetiscf.nubecularis Eaton, 1898 and Rhithrogena from the diaphana group were recorded. Ephemeracf.parnassiana Demoulin, 1958, the species previously recorded only from Greece, was also recorded.

Canine and human Dirofilaria infections in the Balkan Peninsula

Dirofilaria immitis and Dirofilaria repens infections are mosquito-borne diseases, mainly of dogs. Both parasites are zoonotic, and they sometimes cause serious infections in humans. The aim of this short review was to examine the situation in the Balkan Peninsula, from where it is not always easy to obtain suitable data, often reported in journals and other publications difficult to be retrieved and with poor or no visibility. The review included data from international and regional literature, doctoral theses, and conference proceedings.

Genetic variation of the East Balkan Swine (Sus scrofa) in Bulgaria, revealed by mitochondrial DNA and Y chromosomal DNA

East Balkan Swine (EBS) Sus scrofa is the only aboriginal domesticated pig breed in Bulgaria and is distributed on the western coast of the Black Sea in Bulgaria. To reveal the breed's genetic characteristics, we analysed mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and Y chromosomal DNA sequences of EBS in Bulgaria. Nucleotide diversity (πn ) of the mtDNA control region, including two newly found haplotypes, in 54 EBS was higher (0.014 ± 0.007) compared with that of European (0.005 ± 0.003) and Asian (0.006 ± 0.003) domestic pigs and wild boar. The median-joining network based on the mtDNA control region showed that the EBS and wild boar in Bulgaria comprised mainly two major mtDNA clades, European clade E1 (61.3%) and Asian clade A (38.7%). The coexistence of two mtDNA clades in EBS in Bulgaria may be the relict of historical pig translocation. Among the Bulgarian EBS colonies, the geographical differences in distribution of two mtDNA clades (E1 and A) could be attributed to the source pig populations and/or historical crossbreeding with imported pigs. In addition, analysis of the Y chromosomal DNA sequences for the EBS revealed that all of the EBS had haplotype HY1, which is dominant in European domestic pigs.

Mitochondrial DNA perspective of Serbian genetic diversity

Although south-Slavic populations have been studied to date from various aspects, the population of Serbia, occupying the central part of the Balkan Peninsula, is still genetically understudied at least at the level of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) variation. We analyzed polymorphisms of the first and the second mtDNA hypervariable segments (HVS-I and HVS-II) and informative coding-region markers in 139 Serbians to shed more light on their mtDNA variability, and used available data on other Slavic and neighboring non-Slavic populations to assess their interrelations in a broader European context. The contemporary Serbian mtDNA profile is consistent with the general European maternal landscape having a substantial proportion of shared haplotypes with eastern, central, and southern European populations. Serbian population was characterized as an important link between easternmost and westernmost south-Slavic populations due to the observed lack of genetic differentiation with all other south-Slavic populations and its geographical positioning within the Balkan Peninsula. An increased heterogeneity of south Slavs, most likely mirroring turbulent demographic events within the Balkan Peninsula over time (i.e., frequent admixture and differential introgression of various gene pools), and a marked geographical stratification of Slavs to south-, east-, and west-Slavic groups, were also found. A phylogeographic analyses of 20 completely sequenced Serbian mitochondrial genomes revealed not only the presence of mtDNA lineages predominantly found within the Slavic gene pool (U4a2a*, U4a2a1, U4a2c, U4a2g, HV10), supporting a common Slavic origin, but also lineages that may have originated within the southern Europe (H5*, H5e1, H5a1v) and the Balkan Peninsula in particular (H6a2b and L2a1k).

Testing the efficiency of nested barriers to dispersal in the Mediterranean high mountain plant Edraianthus graminifolius (Campanulaceae)

Due to strong spatial heterogeneity and limited Pleistocene glaciation, the Balkan Peninsula is a major European biodiversity hot spot. Surprisingly little, however, is known about patterns and processes of intraspecific diversification of its biota in general and of high-altitude species in particular. A well-suited system to test hypotheses with respect to various isolating factors acting at different geographic scales and to explore full-range phylogeographic patterns on the Balkan Peninsula is Edraianthus graminifolius (Campanulaceae), distributed in the western Balkan mountain systems, the southwestern Carpathians and the Apennine Peninsula. To this end, we used a dense population sampling and employed amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) markers and plastid DNA sequences supplemented by ecological niche modelling. The strongest splits were inferred to separate southern and northern Balkan populations from the central ones, from where range extension occurred to the Carpathians and, in more recent times, once or twice to the Apennine Peninsula. The three genetic groups in the western Balkan Peninsula were remarkably congruent among molecular markers, suggesting that the barriers to gene flow acted over long time periods facilitating allopatric differentiation. Each main group of Balkan populations contained genetically and geographically distinct subgroups, which likely are the result of local refugia during warmer periods. Evidently, the topographically highly complex and during the Last Glacial Maximum only locally glaciated Balkan Peninsula is a hot spot of species richness and endemism as well as a sanctuary of intraspecific genetic diversity, even if the underlying causes remain insufficiently understood.

Genetic analysis of Dobrava-Belgrade virus from western Serbia--a newly detected focus in the Balkan Peninsula

Dobrava-Belgrade virus (DOBV) is a hantavirus species that causes the most severe form of haemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) in Europe. DOBV has been detected in three Apodemus rodents: A. flavicollis, A. agrarius and A. ponticus. These emerging viruses appear throughout the Balkan Peninsula including Serbia as its central part. In this study, we examined the seroprevalence, molecular epidemiology and phylogenetics of DOBV from A. flavicollis captured at six Serbian localities. Furthermore, we applied microsatellite typing of host animal genome to analyse the role of host kinship in DOBV animal transmission. The overall IgG seropositivity rate over 3 years (2008-2010) was 11.9% (22/185). All seropositive samples were subjected to RT-PCR and DNA sequencing for S and L genome segments (pos. 291-1079 nt and 2999-3316 nt, respectively). DOBV was genetically detected in three samples from mountain Tara in western Serbia, a newly detected DOBV focus in the Balkans. No sequence data from human cases from Serbia are available for the studied period. However, collected DOBV isolates in this work phylogenetically clustered together with isolates from Serbian human cases dating from 2002, with 1.9% nucleotide divergence. We determined the level of kinship between seropositive and seronegative animal groups and found no significant difference, suggesting that horizontal virus transmission in the studied population was the same within and among the hatches. Our findings are the first genetic detection of DOBV in rodents in Serbia. We confirm wide and continuous hantavirus presence in the examined parts of the Balkans, underlying the necessity of continual monitoring of hantavirus circulation in A. flavicollis.

Greece: a Balkan subrefuge for a remnant red deer (cervus elaphus) population

A number of phylogeographic studies have revealed the existence of multiple ice age refugia within the Balkan Peninsula, marking it as a biodiversity hotspot. Greece has been reported to harbor genetically differentiated lineages from the rest of Balkans for a number of mammal species. We therefore searched for distinct red deer lineages in Greece, by analyzing 78 samples originating from its last population in Parnitha Mountain (Central Greece). Additionally, we tested the impact of human-induced practices on this population. The presence of 2 discrete mtDNA lineages was inferred: 1) an abundant one not previously sampled in the Balkans and 2) a more restricted one shared with other Balkan populations, possibly the result of successful translocations of Eastern European individuals. Microsatellite-based analyses of 14 loci strongly support the existence of 2 subpopulations with relative frequencies similar to mitochondrial analyses. This study stresses the biogeographic importance of Central Greece as a separate Last Glacial Maximum period refugium within the Balkans. It also delineates the possible effects that recent translocations of red deer populations had on the genetic structuring within Parnitha. We suggest that the Greek red deer population of Parnitha is genetically distinct, and restocking programs should take this genetic evidence into consideration.

Traditional use of the native medicinal plant resource of Mt. Rtanj (Eastern Serbia): ethnobotanical evaluation and comparison

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

This study reports on the uses of medicinal plants and ethnobotanical significance of Mt. Rtanj, Eastern Serbia. The aim of the study was collecting information on plant utilization and creating the list of medicinal plants collected by local community in the region of Rtanj Mt. in Serbia.

METHODOLOGY

A group of generally elderly people from the region were interviewed, asked to identify a certain number of plant taxa used against various human ailments. A quantitative ethnobotanical comparison has been performed in relation to other studies concerning the central Balkan Peninsula.

RESULTS

There is an inventory of 45 plant species recorded. At the family level, the most common in traditional usage were species of Labiatae (22%), Rosaceae (20%) and Compositae (13%). The results of the survey suggested that Hypericum perforatum was the most popular medicinal plant. Among the 7 different recorded types of preparation, the aerial parts of plants were the most popular (47.3%). The most frequently reported medicinal uses of herbal drugs include remedies for immune system (22.97%), respiratory system (15.77%) and digestive system disorders (15.32%). However, a comparatively small number of available plant species was used for medicinal purposes while the level of ethnobotanical diversity was lower when compared to adjacent regions.

CONCLUSIONS

Ethnobotanical knowledge in this area is decreasing due to high emigration rates during the last period. The historically developed ethnobotanical heritage should be preserved and promoted on the larger level, getting the special position in the future management plans for this area.

Trichoptera biodiversity of the Aegean and Adriatic sea basins in the republic of Kosovo

We present the first preliminary inventory of Trichoptera taxa in the Aegean and Adriatic Sea basins in Kosovo that have previously received poor and fragmentary attention. Adult caddisflies were collected using ultraviolet (UV) light traps in 13 stations in areas of the Aegean Sea and Adriatic Sea drainage basins in Kosovo. Nineteen species out of 82, reported in this article, are first records for the Kosovo caddisfly fauna. Five genera are recorded for the first time in Kosovo: Brachycentrus, Ecclisopteryx, Psilopteryx, Thremma, and Oecetis. During this investigation, we found several Southeastern European endemic and rare species whose previous known distribution was limited to particular areas of this region, as well as other species whose distribution is considerably enlarged by this investigation: Polycentropus ierapetra, Polycentropus irroratus, Chaetopteryx stankovici, Drusus schmidi, Drusus tenellus, Potamophylax goulandriourum, Oecetis notata, and Notidobia melanoptera. Even though this article is a result of a limited sampling effort, it increases the number of Trichoptera taxa recorded for the Republic of Kosovo to 131.

The evolution of substrate differentiation in Minuartia series Laricifoliae (Caryophyllaceae) in the European Alps: In situ origin or repeated colonization?

PREMISE OF THE STUDY

Substrate specialization is often considered an important factor in evolutionary diversification. A classic example of divergence related to different substrate types is the dichotomy between calcicole and calcifuge plants on calcareous and siliceous substrates as found in the European Alps. When closely related species with contrasting substrate preferences are found in the same area, it is generally hypothesized that they diverged where they now occur. However, it is possible that Alpine edaphic diversity instead allows the coexistence of related species whose edaphic differentiation took place deeper in the phylogeny, in some other part of the range of their clades.

METHODS

We used sequences of the nuclear internal and external transcribed spacer regions to examine the origin of substrate differentiation in Minuartia series Laricifoliae, which contains many edaphic endemics, including a pair of Alpine taxa with contrasting substrate preferences: Minuartia langii (calcicole) and M. laricifolia (calcifuge).

KEY RESULTS

MINUARTIA LANGII and M. laricifolia are each more closely related to Balkan species than they are to each other and reached the Alps independently. The clade to which they belong is ancestrally calcicole. Minuartia langii inherited the ancestral ecology, while M. laricifolia is part of a subclade with serpentine endemics and one substrate generalist.

CONCLUSIONS

In the study group, taxa with contrasting substrate preferences did not diverge in the Alps. Instead, taxa whose substrate differentiation arose elsewhere, likely on the Balkan Peninsula, were preadapted to take advantage of Alpine substrate diversity.

Annotated checklist of Albanian butterflies (Lepidoptera, Papilionoidea and Hesperioidea)

The Republic of Albania has a rich diversity of flora and fauna. However, due to its political isolation, it has never been studied in great depth, and consequently, the existing list of butterfly species is outdated and in need of radical amendment. In addition to our personal data, we have studied the available literature, and can report a total of 196 butterfly species recorded from the country. For some of the species in the list we have given explanations for their inclusion and made other annotations. Doubtful records have been removed from the list, and changes in taxonomy have been updated and discussed separately. The purpose of our paper is to remove confusion and conflict regarding published records. However, the revised checklist should not be considered complete: it represents a starting point for further research.

The caddisfly fauna (Insecta, Trichoptera) of the rivers of the Black Sea basin in Kosovo with distributional data for some rare species

Adult caddisflies were collected from 12 stations in the Black Sea basin in Kosovo using UV light traps. Sixty-five of the seventy-six species reported in this paper are first records for the Kosovo caddisfly fauna. The unexpected discovery of several species during this investigation: Agapetus delicatulus McLachlan, 1884, Psychomyia klapaleki Malicky, 1995, Tinodes janssensi Jacquemart, 1957, Hydropsyche emarginata Navas, 1923, Drusus botosaneanui Kumanski, 1968, Potamophylax rotundipennis (Brauer, 1857), Potamophylax schmidi Marinković-Gospodnetić, 1970, Ceraclea albimacula (Rambur, 1842), Helicopsyche bacescui Orghidan & Botosaneanu, 1953, Adicella filicornis (Pictet, 1834), Beraea maurus (Curtis, 1834) and Beraeamyia hrabei Mayer, 1937 illustrates that collections from poorly investigated areas in Europe will almost certainly revise the existing knowledge on the distribution of these and other species.

How unique is the tiger beetle fauna (Coleoptera, Cicindelidae) of the Balkan Peninsula?

The tiger beetle fauna of the Balkan Peninsula is one of the richest in Europe and includes 19 species or 41% of the European tiger beetle fauna. Assembled by their biogeographical origins, the Balkan tiger beetle species fall into 14 different groups that include, Mediterranean, Middle Oriental, Central Asiatic, Euro-Siberian, South and East European, Pannonian-Sarmatian, West Palaearctic, Turano-European and Afrotropico Indo-Mediterranean species. The Mediterranean Sclerophyl and the Pontian Steppe are the Balkan biogeographical provinces with the highest species richness, while the Balkan Highlands has the lowest Cicindelidae diversity. Most species are restricted to single habitat types in lowland areas of the Balkan Peninsula and only Calomera aulica aulica and Calomera littoralis nemoralis occur in respectively 3 and 4 different types of habitat. About 60% of all Balkan Cicindelidae species are found in habitats potentially endangered by human activity.