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Garcia VC, Almeida-Santos SM. Reproductive cycles of two island pitvipers species (Serpentes, Viperidae) determined by ultrasonography and radiography. Anat Histol Embryol 2024; 53:e13038. [PMID: 38563615 DOI: 10.1111/ahe.13038] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
We used ultrasonography and radiography to assess the sexual organs and characterize the reproductive cycle of captive golden lancehead (Bothrops insularis) and Alcatrazes lancehead (B. alcatraz), two endangered island snake species in Brazil. We assessed 46- individuals of golden lancehead and 12 of Alcatrazes lancehead kept in captivity between 2014 and 2020. Follicular development was similar between species, but follicles in Alcatrazes lancehead were smaller than in the golden lanceheads. Female golden lanceheads produced 24 live young, seven stillborn and 73 undeveloped eggs. Parturition of live young occurred between midsummer (February) and early autumn and gestation averaged 8 months. Female Alcatrazes lanceheads produced four live young in midsummer, and one undeveloped egg in early autumn. Males and females of both species have seasonal and biennial reproductive cycles. Sperm storage in both sexes is essential to coordinate male and female cycles. The data obtained with golden lancehead and Alcatrazes lancehead in captivity, demonstrate a degree of conservatism, following data from other Bothrops.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viviane Campos Garcia
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Anatomia dos Animais Domésticos e Silvestres, Departamento de Cirurgia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Laboratório de Ecologia e Evolução, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Selma Maria Almeida-Santos
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Anatomia dos Animais Domésticos e Silvestres, Departamento de Cirurgia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Laboratório de Ecologia e Evolução, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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Torres A, Zu Ermgassen SOSE, Navarro LM, Ferri-Yanez F, Teixeira FZ, Wittkopp C, Rosa IMD, Liu J. Mining threats in high-level biodiversity conservation policies. Conserv Biol 2024:e14261. [PMID: 38571408 DOI: 10.1111/cobi.14261] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Amid a global infrastructure boom, there is increasing recognition of the ecological impacts of the extraction and consumption of construction minerals, mainly processed as concrete, including significant and expanding threats to global biodiversity. We investigated how high-level national and international biodiversity conservation policies address mining threats, with a special focus on construction minerals. We conducted a review and quantified the degree to which threats from mining these minerals are addressed in biodiversity goals and targets under the 2011-2020 and post-2020 biodiversity strategies, national biodiversity strategies and action plans, and the assessments of the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services. Mining appeared rarely in national targets but more frequently in national strategies. Yet, in most countries, it was superficially addressed. Coverage of aggregates mining was greater than coverage of limestone mining. We outline 8 key components, tailored for a wide range of actors, to effectively mainstream biodiversity conservation into the extractive, infrastructure, and construction sectors. Actions include improving reporting and monitoring systems, enhancing the evidence base around mining impacts on biodiversity, and modifying the behavior of financial agents and businesses. Implementing these measures could pave the way for a more sustainable approach to construction mineral use and safeguard biodiversity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurora Torres
- Departamento de Ecología, Universidad de Alicante, Alicante, Spain
- Georges Lemaître Earth and Climate Research Centre, Earth and Life Institute, Université catholique de Louvain, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
- Center for Systems Integration and Sustainability, Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Sophus O S E Zu Ermgassen
- Interdisciplinary Centre for Conservation Science, Department of Biology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Durrell Institute of Conservation and Ecology, School of Anthropology and Conservation, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK
| | - Laetitia M Navarro
- Departamento de Biología de la Conservación y Cambio Global, Estación Biológica de Doñana (EBD-CSIC), Sevilla, Spain
| | - Francisco Ferri-Yanez
- Departamento de Biología de la Conservación y Cambio Global, Estación Biológica de Doñana (EBD-CSIC), Sevilla, Spain
- Instituto Multidisciplinar para el Estudio del Medio "Ramón Margalef", Universidad de Alicante, Alicante, Spain
| | - Fernanda Z Teixeira
- Graduate Program in Ecology, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Constanze Wittkopp
- German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
- Institute of Biology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | | | - Jianguo Liu
- Center for Systems Integration and Sustainability, Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
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3
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Mahdavikia F, Ebadi MT, Shojaeiyan A, Ayyari M, Falahati-Anbaran M. Genetic variation and structure of endemic and endangered wild celery ( Kelussia odoratissima Mozaff.) quantified using novel microsatellite markers developed by next-generation sequencing. Front Plant Sci 2024; 15:1301936. [PMID: 38638345 PMCID: PMC11024376 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2024.1301936] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
Kelussia odoratissima Mozaff. (Apiaceae) is a native plant that has been traditionally consumed in Iran's food and pharmaceutical industries. Overharvesting of the taxon, especially at the beginning of the growing season, due to its considerable medicinal and economic value, is believed to be the main reason for the extirpating of this plant. The consequences of the severe anthropogenic impacts on the genetic diversity of populations are poorly known. In order to investigate the level of genetic variation and patterns of the genetic structure of K. odoratissima, we developed novel microsatellite markers using the 454 Roche next-generation sequencing (NGS) platform for the first time. Out of 1,165 microsatellite markers bioinformatically confirmed, twenty-five were tested, of which 23 were used to screen genetic variation across 12 natural populations. Our results showed that the average number of alleles per locus and the polymorphic information content (PIC) were 10.87 (range 7 to 27), and 0.81 (range 0.67 to 0.94), respectively. The mean observed and expected heterozygosities (± SD) across all populations were 0.80 ± 0.31 and 0.72 ± 0.14, respectively. The average pairwise FST among the populations was 0.37 (range 0.04 to 0.81). Bayesian and distance-based clustering, and principal coordinate analyses revealed at least four major genetic clusters. Although high level of structure can be explained by landscape topography and geographic distance, presence of admixed populations can be associated to seed or pollen dispersal. Contrary to expectations, the high level of genetic variation and lack of inbreeding suggest that overexploitation has not yet significantly purged the allelic variability within the natural populations in protected areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faezeh Mahdavikia
- Department of Horticultural Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Tarbiat Modares University (TMU), Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad-Taghi Ebadi
- Department of Horticultural Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Tarbiat Modares University (TMU), Tehran, Iran
| | - Abdolali Shojaeiyan
- Department of Horticultural Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Tarbiat Modares University (TMU), Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahdi Ayyari
- Department of Horticultural Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Tarbiat Modares University (TMU), Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohsen Falahati-Anbaran
- NTNU University Museum, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
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Brocka CW, Mazzamuto MV, Koprowski JL. The high cost of movement in an arid working landscape for an endangered amphibian. Ecol Evol 2024; 14:e11259. [PMID: 38628912 PMCID: PMC11019298 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.11259] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Connectivity is essential for the maintenance of genetic diversity and stability of wildlife populations. Drought and changing precipitation regimes have caused natural aquatic amphibian breeding habitats to disappear or become isolated and have led to the replacement of natural surface water with artificial livestock water tanks. Terrestrial movement is the only means of responding to aquatic threats in arid landscapes and to allow population connectivity. Aridity may present an impenetrable barrier in hydrologically fragmented environments. We used a facultatively paedomorphic and federally endangered salamander to assess the challenges of movement across arid working lands. Sonoran tiger salamanders (Ambystoma mavortium stebbinsi) are endemic to the San Rafael Valley of southeastern Arizona, United States of America, where they depend on livestock water tanks as breeding habitat. The ecology of this species' metamorphs outside of stock tanks is virtually unknown. To assess survival on the landscape during terrestrial movement we used radio-transmitters to track 78 adult metamorphosed salamanders over 2 years. Sonoran tiger salamanders moved up to 1 km from the tank edge, and average distances moved of over 400 m were higher than most Ambystoma species. However, during the study period, none reached neighboring stock tanks. We found high mortality due to predation and desiccation. Individuals that dispersed to terrestrial habitat in summer survived longer than individuals that dispersed in spring. High mortality suggests terrestrial movement is exceptionally risky and may contribute to isolated subpopulations and elevated levels of inbreeding. Conservation actions that improve and maintain artificial aquatic habitats as well as increase connectivity may improve long-term management for pond-breeding amphibians in arid regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colin W. Brocka
- School of Natural Resources and the EnvironmentUniversity of ArizonaTucsonArizonaUSA
| | | | - John L. Koprowski
- School of Natural Resources and the EnvironmentUniversity of ArizonaTucsonArizonaUSA
- Haub School of Environment and Natural ResourcesUniversity of WyomingLaramieWyomingUSA
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Bellis J, Osazuwa-Peters O, Maschinski J, Keir MJ, Parsons EW, Kaye TN, Kunz M, Possley J, Menges E, Smith SA, Roth D, Brewer D, Brumback W, Lange JJ, Niederer C, Turner-Skoff JB, Bontrager M, Braham R, Coppoletta M, Holl KD, Williamson P, Bell T, Jonas JL, McEachern K, Robertson KL, Birnbaum SJ, Dattilo A, Dollard JJ, Fant J, Kishida W, Lesica P, Link SO, Pavlovic NB, Poole J, Reemts CM, Stiling P, Taylor DD, Titus JH, Titus PJ, Adkins ED, Chambers T, Paschke MW, Heineman KD, Albrecht MA. Identifying predictors of translocation success in rare plant species. Conserv Biol 2024; 38:e14190. [PMID: 37768181 DOI: 10.1111/cobi.14190] [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: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
The fundamental goal of a rare plant translocation is to create self-sustaining populations with the evolutionary resilience to persist in the long term. Yet, most plant translocation syntheses focus on a few factors influencing short-term benchmarks of success (e.g., survival and reproduction). Short-term benchmarks can be misleading when trying to infer future growth and viability because the factors that promote establishment may differ from those required for long-term persistence. We assembled a large (n = 275) and broadly representative data set of well-documented and monitored (7.9 years on average) at-risk plant translocations to identify the most important site attributes, management techniques, and species' traits for six life-cycle benchmarks and population metrics of translocation success. We used the random forest algorithm to quantify the relative importance of 29 predictor variables for each metric of success. Drivers of translocation outcomes varied across time frames and success metrics. Management techniques had the greatest relative influence on the attainment of life-cycle benchmarks and short-term population trends, whereas site attributes and species' traits were more important for population persistence and long-term trends. Specifically, large founder sizes increased the potential for reproduction and recruitment into the next generation, whereas declining habitat quality and the outplanting of species with low seed production led to increased extinction risks and a reduction in potential reproductive output in the long-term, respectively. We also detected novel interactions between some of the most important drivers, such as an increased probability of next-generation recruitment in species with greater seed production rates, but only when coupled with large founder sizes. Because most significant barriers to plant translocation success can be overcome by improving techniques or resolving site-level issues through early intervention and management, we suggest that by combining long-term monitoring with adaptive management, translocation programs can enhance the prospects of achieving long-term success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joe Bellis
- Center for Conservation and Sustainable Development, Missouri Botanical Garden, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
- Center for Plant Conservation, Escondido, California, USA
| | - Oyomoare Osazuwa-Peters
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Joyce Maschinski
- Center for Plant Conservation, Escondido, California, USA
- Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, Coral Gables, Florida, USA
| | - Matthew J Keir
- Department of Land and Natural Resources, Hawai'i Division of Forestry and Wildlife, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
| | - Elliott W Parsons
- Pacific Regional Invasive Species and Climate Change Management Network, University of Hawaii at Mānoa, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
| | - Thomas N Kaye
- Institute for Applied Ecology, Corvallis, Oregon, USA
- Department of Botany and Plant Pathology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, USA
| | - Michael Kunz
- North Carolina Botanical Garden, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Eric Menges
- Archbold Biological Station, Venus, Florida, USA
| | - Stacy A Smith
- Archbold Biological Station, Venus, Florida, USA
- Agronomy Department, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Daniela Roth
- New Mexico Energy, Minerals, and Natural Resources Department, Forestry Division, Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA
| | - Debbie Brewer
- Fort Huachuca Environmental and Natural Resources Division, Fort Huachuca, Arizona, USA
| | | | - James J Lange
- Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, Coral Gables, Florida, USA
| | | | | | - Megan Bontrager
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Richard Braham
- Department of Forestry and Environmental Resources, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Karen D Holl
- Environmental Studies Department, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California, USA
| | - Paula Williamson
- Department of Biology, Texas State University, San Marcos, Texas, USA
| | | | - Jayne L Jonas
- Department of Biology, University of Nebraska at Kearney, Kearney, Nebraska, USA
| | - Kathryn McEachern
- U.S. Geological Survey, WERC-Channel Islands Field Station, Ventura, California, USA
| | | | | | - Adam Dattilo
- Tennessee Valley Authority, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
| | - John J Dollard
- Croatan National Forest, Forest Service, New Bern, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Wendy Kishida
- Department of Land and Natural Resources, Hawai'i Division of Forestry and Wildlife, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
| | - Peter Lesica
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, Montana, USA
| | - Steven O Link
- Department of Natural Resources, Energy and Environmental Sciences Program, Pendleton, Oregon, USA
| | - Noel B Pavlovic
- U.S. Geological Survey, GLSC - Lake Michigan Ecological Research Station, Chesterton, Indiana, USA
| | - Jackie Poole
- Texas Parks & Wildlife Department, Austin, Texas, USA
| | | | - Peter Stiling
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - David D Taylor
- Daniel Boone National Forest, USDA Forest Service, Winchester, Kentucky, USA
| | - Jonathan H Titus
- Biology Department, Science Center, State University of New York, Fredonia, New York, USA
| | | | - Edith D Adkins
- Pacific Cooperative Studies Unit, University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
| | - Timothy Chambers
- U.S Army Natural Resources Program on Oahu, Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, USA
| | - Mark W Paschke
- Department of Forest and Rangeland Stewardship, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | | | - Matthew A Albrecht
- Center for Conservation and Sustainable Development, Missouri Botanical Garden, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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Reed J, New L, Corkeron P, Harcourt R. Disentangling the influence of entanglement on recruitment in North Atlantic right whales. Proc Biol Sci 2024; 291:20240314. [PMID: 38471549 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2024.0314] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
North Atlantic right whales are Critically Endangered and declining, with entanglements in fishing gear a key contributor to their decline. Entanglement events can result in lethal and sub-lethal (i.e. increased energetic demands and reduced foraging ability) impacts, with the latter influencing critical life-history states, such as reproduction. Using a multi-event framework, we developed a Bayesian mark-recapture model to investigate the influence of entanglement severity on survival and recruitment for female right whales. We used information from 199 known-aged females sighted between 1977 and 2018, combined with known entanglements of varying severity that were classified as minor, moderate or severe. Severe entanglements resulted in an average decline in survival of 27% for experienced non-breeders, 9% for breeders and 26% for pre-breeding females compared with other entanglements and unentangled individuals. Surviving individuals with severe entanglements had low transitional probabilities to breeders, but surprisingly, individuals with minor entanglements had the lowest transitional probabilities, contrary to expectations underpinning current management actions. Management actions are needed to address the lethal and sub-lethal impacts of entanglements, regardless of severity classification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Reed
- School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, New South Wales, 2109, Australia
| | - Leslie New
- Department of Mathematics, Computer Science and Statistics, Ursinus College, Collegeville, PA, 19426, USA
| | - Peter Corkeron
- Centre for Planetary Health and Food Security, Griffith University, Nathan, Queensland 4111, Australia
| | - Robert Harcourt
- School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, New South Wales, 2109, Australia
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Lear KM, Moore CT, King EG, Gómez‐Ruiz E, Flores Maldonado JJ, Ibarra Sanchez C, Castañeda Aguilera A, Prebyl TJ, Hepinstall‐Cymerman J. Agave distribution and floral display influence foraging rates of an endangered pollinating bat and implications for conservation. Ecol Evol 2024; 14:e11125. [PMID: 38495433 PMCID: PMC10941551 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.11125] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Wildlife conservation involves making management decisions with incomplete knowledge of ecological relationships. Efforts to augment foraging resources for the endangered Mexican long-nosed bat (Leptonycteris nivalis) are progressing despite limited knowledge about the species' foraging behavior and requirements. This study aimed to understand L. nivalis responses to floral resource availability, focusing on individual agave- and local-scale characteristics influencing visitation rates to flowering agaves. We observed bat visitation at 62 flowering agaves around two roosts in northeast Mexico on 46 nights in the summers of 2017 and 2018. We found visitation rate had positive relationships with two agave-scale characteristics: the number of umbels with open flowers and the lower vertical position on the stalk of those umbels (i.e., earlier phenological stages of flowering). However, these factors exhibited strong negative interaction: with few umbels with open flowers, the position of flowering umbels had little effect on visitation rate, but when umbels with open flowers were abundant, visitation rate was more strongly related to the lower flowering umbel position. We also found relationships between visitation rate and two local-scale characteristics: negative for the density of flowering conspecifics within 30 m of the focal agave and positive for the density of dead standing agave stalks within 30 m. Our findings suggest opportunities to augment foraging resources for L. nivalis in ways that are consistent with their foraging behavior, including: increasing the supply of simultaneously blooming flowers by planting agave species that tend to have more umbels with simultaneously open flowers; planting multiple species of agaves with different flowering times to increase the availability of agaves with open flowers on lower-positioned umbels throughout the period when bats are present in the region; planting agaves in clusters; and keeping dead standing agave stalks on the landscape. Our study points to useful management strategies that can be implemented and monitored as part of an adaptive management approach to aid in conservation efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen M. Lear
- Bat Conservation InternationalAustinTexasUSA
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural ResourcesUniversity of GeorgiaAthensGeorgiaUSA
- Integrative Conservation ProgramUniversity of GeorgiaAthensGeorgiaUSA
| | - Clinton T. Moore
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural ResourcesUniversity of GeorgiaAthensGeorgiaUSA
- Integrative Conservation ProgramUniversity of GeorgiaAthensGeorgiaUSA
| | - Elizabeth G. King
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural ResourcesUniversity of GeorgiaAthensGeorgiaUSA
- Integrative Conservation ProgramUniversity of GeorgiaAthensGeorgiaUSA
- Odum School of EcologyUniversity of GeorgiaAthensGeorgiaUSA
| | - Emma Gómez‐Ruiz
- Parque Ecológico Chipinque, A.B.P.San Pedro Garza GarcíaNuevo LeónMexico
| | | | | | | | - Thomas J. Prebyl
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural ResourcesUniversity of GeorgiaAthensGeorgiaUSA
| | - Jeffrey Hepinstall‐Cymerman
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural ResourcesUniversity of GeorgiaAthensGeorgiaUSA
- Integrative Conservation ProgramUniversity of GeorgiaAthensGeorgiaUSA
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Mola JM, Pearse IS, Boone ML, Evans E, Hepner MJ, Jean RP, Kochanski JM, Nordmeyer C, Runquist E, Smith TA, Strange JP, Watson J, Koch JBU. Range-wide genetic analysis of an endangered bumble bee (Bombus affinis, Hymenoptera: Apidae) reveals population structure, isolation by distance, and low colony abundance. J Insect Sci 2024; 24:19. [PMID: 38569059 PMCID: PMC10990054 DOI: 10.1093/jisesa/ieae041] [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: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Declines in bumble bee species range and abundances are documented across multiple continents and have prompted the need for research to aid species recovery and conservation. The rusty patched bumble bee (Bombus affinis) is the first federally listed bumble bee species in North America. We conducted a range-wide population genetics study of B. affinis from across all extant conservation units to inform conservation efforts. To understand the species' vulnerability and help establish recovery targets, we examined population structure, patterns of genetic diversity, and population differentiation. Additionally, we conducted a site-level analysis of colony abundance to inform prioritizing areas for conservation, translocation, and other recovery actions. We find substantial evidence of population structuring along an east-to-west gradient. Putative populations show evidence of isolation by distance, high inbreeding coefficients, and a range-wide male diploidy rate of ~15%. Our results suggest the Appalachians represent a genetically distinct cluster with high levels of private alleles and substantial differentiation from the rest of the extant range. Site-level analyses suggest low colony abundance estimates for B. affinis compared to similar datasets of stable, co-occurring species. These results lend genetic support to trends from observational studies, suggesting that B. affinis has undergone a recent decline and exhibit substantial spatial structure. The low colony abundances observed here suggest caution in overinterpreting the stability of populations even where B. affinis is reliably detected interannually. These results help delineate informed management units, provide context for the potential risks of translocation programs, and help set clear recovery targets for this and other threatened bumble bee species.
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Affiliation(s)
- John M Mola
- Department of Forest and Rangeland Stewardship, Warner College of Natural Resources, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
- Graduate Degree Program in Ecology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Ian S Pearse
- Graduate Degree Program in Ecology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
- U.S. Geological Survey, Fort Collins Science Center, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Michelle L Boone
- Department of Entomology, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN, USA
| | - Elaine Evans
- Department of Entomology, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN, USA
| | - Mark J Hepner
- Metamorphic Ecological Research and Consulting, LLC, Alonzaville, VA, USA
| | - Robert P Jean
- Environmental Solutions and Innovations, Inc., Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Jade M Kochanski
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Cale Nordmeyer
- Conservation Department, Minnesota Zoo, Apple Valley, MN, USA
| | - Erik Runquist
- Conservation Department, Minnesota Zoo, Apple Valley, MN, USA
| | - Tamara A Smith
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Minnesota–Wisconsin Ecological Services Field Office, Bloomington, MN, USA
| | - James P Strange
- Department of Entomology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Jay Watson
- Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Green Bay, WI, USA
| | - Jonathan B U Koch
- U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Pollinating Insect Research Unit, Logan, UT, USA
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Gartrell BD, Hunter S, Collen R, Jolly M, McInnes K, Richardson A, Reed C, Ward R, Pita A. Health impacts of poor water quality on an endangered shorebird breeding programme in Aotearoa New Zealand. N Z Vet J 2024; 72:103-111. [PMID: 37752889 DOI: 10.1080/00480169.2023.2263425] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
CASE HISTORY Two clusters of mortality among endangered tūturuatu/tchūriwat'/shore plover (Thinornis novaeseelandiae) have occurred at captive breeding facilities around New Zealand in recent years. In the first, four chicks died at Pūkaha National Wildlife Centre (Mount Bruce, NZ) in February 2016, and in the second five adult birds at the Cape Sanctuary (Cape Kidnappers, NZ) died in 2022. CLINICAL FINDINGS In 2016, four chicks were noted to become weak, have increased vocalisations and closed eyes prior to death. The remaining chicks were treated for 5 days with amoxycillin/clavulanate orally twice daily. Water containers and brooders were cleaned and disinfected with chlorhexidine. No further mortality was seen.In the 2022 cluster, three adult breeding birds died acutely and five others showed inappetence, weight loss and diarrhoea approximately 10 days after heavy rains flooded the local river. The five birds were treated with amoxycillin/clavulanate orally twice daily and oral fluids for 5 days. Two birds died and three survived. No breeding occurred in the aviaries in the following season. PATHOLOGICAL FINDINGS In 2016, the chicks showed pulmonary changes ranging from congestion and oedema to heterophilic inflammation consistent with septicaemia.In 2022, the adult birds showed proliferation of bacteria in the distal small intestine associated with mucosal ulceration and heterophilic infiltration. Acid-fast staining of the caecal contents in one bird showed organisms consistent with Cryptosporidium spp. LABORATORY FINDINGS Aerobic bacterial cultures of the lung and liver of two affected chicks carried out in 2016 showed heavy growth of Plesiomonas shigelloides. The same organism was cultured from water trays and holding tanks containing water boatmen (Sigara arguta) on which the chicks were fed.In 2022, cultures from the livers of three dead birds each showed a mixed bacterial growth with differing dominant organisms (Aeromonas sobria, Hafnia alvei, Citrobacter freundii and an Enterococcus sp.). PCR and sequencing confirmed Cryptosporidium parvum in the caecum of one bird. Fresh faeces from 24 breeding birds from the captive breeding facilities were negative by PCR for Cryptosporidium spp.The captive breeding facilities obtain water for the aviaries and aquatic invertebrates to feed to the chicks from local freshwater sources. Water quality testing at the Cape Sanctuary revealed concentrations of faecal indicator bacteria in excess of safe drinking water guidelines, with peaks following heavy rainfall. CLINICAL RELEVANCE Fluctuations in water quality associated with mammalian faecal bacteria can adversely affect bird health and impact on captive rearing of endangered wildlife.
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Affiliation(s)
- B D Gartrell
- Wildbase, Tāwharau Ora - School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - S Hunter
- Wildbase, Tāwharau Ora - School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - R Collen
- Department of Conservation, Invercargill, New Zealand
| | - M Jolly
- Wildbase, Tāwharau Ora - School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - K McInnes
- Department of Conservation, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - A Richardson
- The Isaac Conservation and Wildlife Trust, Harewood, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - C Reed
- Pūkaha National Wildlife Centre, Mount Bruce, New Zealand
| | - R Ward
- The Cape Sanctuary, Cape Kidnappers, Hawkes Bay, New Zealand
| | - A Pita
- Molecular Epidemiology and Public Health Laboratory, Hopkirk Research Institute, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
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10
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Unger P, Schmidt J, Dorow M, Möller S, Palm HW. Reaching the steady state: 30 years of Anguillicola crassus infection of European eel, Anguilla anguilla L., in Northern Germany. Parasitology 2024; 151:300-308. [PMID: 38212980 PMCID: PMC11007276 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182024000039] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
A 30 years long data series on the infection dynamics of European eel (Anguilla anguilla L.) with the non-native invasive nematode Anguillicola crassus Kuwahara, Niimi & Hagaki, 1974 is presented. Parasite burden was evaluated for 30 years in inland and coastal waters in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania from 1991 to 2020. The total prevalence, mean intensity and damage status of the swim bladders were very high during the first decade (1991–2000), and significantly decreased in both marine and freshwater eel populations in the following decades (2001–2010, 2011–2020). The parasite intensity of eels in coastal waters was significantly lower compared with the freshwater systems (61.3% vs 79.5% in the first decade), indicating the vulnerability of the parasites to brackish water conditions and the fact that the life cycle of A. crassus cannot be completed under high saline conditions. Eel caught in the western part of the Baltic Sea (west of Darss sill) had the lowest mean infection (51.8% in first decade) compared to the eastern part with 63.8%. Thus, besides different infection patterns caused by the environmental conditions, a temporal trend towards a reduced parasite intensity and a more balanced parasite–host relationship developed in the 30 years of interaction after the first invasion. Possible reasons and mechanisms for the observed trends in parasite–host interactions are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Unger
- Aquaculture and Sea-Ranching, Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, University of Rostock, Justus-von-Liebig-Weg 6, 18059 Rostock, Germany
| | - Johanna Schmidt
- General and Specific Zoology, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Rostock, Universitätsplatz 2, 18055 Rostock, Germany
- Faculty of Biology and Psychology, Georg-August-University Göttingen, Wilhelmsplatz 1, 37073 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Malte Dorow
- Mecklenburg-Vorpommern Research Centre for Agriculture and Fisheries (LFA-MV), Fischerweg 408, Rostock 18069, Germany
| | - Sören Möller
- General and Specific Zoology, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Rostock, Universitätsplatz 2, 18055 Rostock, Germany
| | - Harry Wilhelm Palm
- Aquaculture and Sea-Ranching, Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, University of Rostock, Justus-von-Liebig-Weg 6, 18059 Rostock, Germany
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11
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Halliday B, Taggers A, Herrod A. A record of the parasitic mite Hemimyialges macdonaldi (Evans et al. 1963) (Acari: Epidermoptidae) in the Orange-bellied Parrot Neophema chrysogaster (Latham, 1790) (Psittaciformes: Psittaculidae) in Australia. Aust Vet J 2024; 102:96-100. [PMID: 38126166 DOI: 10.1111/avj.13308] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
The subcutaneous parasitic mite Hemimyialges macdonaldi was found in a specimen of the Orange-bellied Parrot Neophema chrysogaster that died in captivity. A review of the host range and geographic distribution of this mite shows it is cosmopolitan and occurs in a very wide range of birds. It does not appear to be a cause of significant mortality in its hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Halliday
- Australian National Insect Collection, CSIRO, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, 2601, Australia
| | - A Taggers
- The Unusual Pet Vets, Frankston, Victoria, 3199, Australia
| | - A Herrod
- Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park, Pearcedale, Victoria, 3912, Australia
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12
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Bugarski-Stanojević V, Đokić M, Stamenković G, Barišić Klisarić N, Stojković O, Jojić V, Savić I. A Cryptic Subterranean Mammal Species, the Lesser Blind Mole Rat ( Nannospalax leucodon syrmiensis)-Retreated but Not Extinct. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:774. [PMID: 38473158 DOI: 10.3390/ani14050774] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Blind mole rats (genus Nannospalax) attract a great deal of attention because of their cancer resistance and longevity. Due to the high rate of chromosome rearrangements, 74 Nannospalax chromosomal forms have been discovered. The convergence of their external morphology complicates their taxonomy, and many cryptic species remain unrecognized. Thus, the European N. leucodon supersp. is listed in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species with "Data Deficient" status. It is crucial for the conservation of biodiversity to clarify its taxonomy, to recognize each cryptic species, and assign to them the correct conservation status. Of the more than 20 chromosomal forms described within N. leucodon, five cryptic species occur in Serbia. The most threatened among them-N. l. syrmiensis, described and named 50 years ago in the regions of Srem, Belgrade and Mačva-has been declared extinct in the literature, which may have negative consequences for the conservation of wildlife genetic diversity. Through five years of fieldwork and comparison of 16SrRNA and MT-CYTB gene segments between old, archived teeth and recently collected material, we show that N. l. syrmiensis is not extinct. However, its habitat has been fragmented and reduced, owing primarily to anthropogenic impact. Therefore, detailed surveillance, population-structure studies, risk assessment, and appropriate conservation measures are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanja Bugarski-Stanojević
- Department of Genetic Research, Institute for Biological Research "Siniša Stanković"-National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, 11108 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Marko Đokić
- Department of Genetic Research, Institute for Biological Research "Siniša Stanković"-National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, 11108 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Gorana Stamenković
- Department of Genetic Research, Institute for Biological Research "Siniša Stanković"-National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, 11108 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Nataša Barišić Klisarić
- Department of Evolutionary Biology, Institute for Biological Research "Siniša Stanković"-National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, 11108 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Oliver Stojković
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11060 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Vida Jojić
- Department of Genetic Research, Institute for Biological Research "Siniša Stanković"-National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, 11108 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Ivo Savić
- Institute of Zoology, Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade, 11060 Belgrade, Serbia
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13
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García-Rodríguez A, Tovar-Ávila J, Arellano-Cuenca AH, Rivas-Landa D, Chávez-Arrenquín DA, Amezcua F. Size at sexual maturity, seasonal variation by maturity stages, and fecundity of the spotted round ray (Urobatis maculatus) and the thorny stingray (Urotrygon rogersi) from the northern tropical eastern Pacific. J Fish Biol 2024. [PMID: 38417833 DOI: 10.1111/jfb.15709] [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] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/01/2024]
Abstract
Round rays (family: Urotrygonidae) are commonly caught as by-catch by shrimp trawl fisheries in the tropical eastern Pacific (TEP). However, little information on their life history and catch species composition exists for most round ray species, preventing the evaluation of the impact of fishing on their populations. The mean size at sexual maturity (DW50 ), seasonal variation by maturity stages, and fecundity for two round ray species caught during shrimp trawl research cruises in the south-eastern Gulf of California (northern TEP) were estimated using a multi-model approach and inference for the first time, to determine the part of the population of each species that is being affected by shrimp trawling. Disc width (DW) ranged from 7.0 to 30.9 cm for the spotted round ray (Urobatis maculatus), and 7.2-33.5 cm for the thorny stingray (Urotrygon rogersi), with females reaching larger sizes than males in both species. The DW50 was estimated at 12.8 and 11.8 cm DW for the males and females of U. maculatus, respectively, whereas for U.rogersi, it was 15.0 and 18.4 cm DW for males and females, respectively. Embryos were found in females ≥14.5 cm DW in both species. The maximum fecundity was five embryos for U. maculatus (mean = 3.1 ± 0.2 S.E., mode = 4), and six embryos for U. rogersi (mean = 3.0 ± 0.3 S.E., mode = 2). Fecundity and embryo size did not vary with maternal size. Male and female immature and mature individuals for both species, including pregnant females, were found in the catches in all seasons of the year. Our results can help determine the vulnerability of the studied species populations to fishing pressure from shrimp trawling in the northern TEP and guide the development of future monitoring strategies and conservation actions for these species, if necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alain García-Rodríguez
- Instituto de Ciencias del Mar y Limnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Unidad Académica Mazatlán, Mazatlán, Mexico
| | - Javier Tovar-Ávila
- IMIPAS, Centro Regional de Investigación Acuícola y Pesquera Bahía de Banderas, Bahìa de Banderas, Mexico
| | | | - David Rivas-Landa
- Instituto Tecnológico Nacional de México, Campus Bahía de Banderas, Bahía de Banderas, Mexico
| | | | - Felipe Amezcua
- Instituto de Ciencias del Mar y Limnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Unidad Académica Mazatlán, Mazatlán, Mexico
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14
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Tavares FDS, Martins C, Delella FK, Nascimento LASD, Rodrigues ALF, Moreira S, Cardoso AL, Noronha RCR. Establishment and Characterization of a Primary Fibroblast Cell Culture from the Amazonian Manatee ( Trichechus inunguis). Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:686. [PMID: 38473072 DOI: 10.3390/ani14050686] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The vulnerable status of the Amazon manatee, Trichechus inunguis, indicates the need to seek measures to guarantee its conservation. In this context, the cultivation of cells in vitro is a strategy that should at least guarantee the preservation of their genetic material. Thus, we established for the first time a primary culture of Amazonian manatee fibroblasts (TINsf) from a skin biopsy of a young male. Karyotypic analysis of the 3rd, 7th, and 12th passages confirmed the taxonomic identity of the species T. inunguis (2n = 56/NF = 92) and indicated that this culture presents genomic stability. Gene and protein expression of vimentin at the 13th passage show the predominant presence of fibroblasts in TINsf. To test the cell line's responsiveness to materials and demonstrate a possible application of this culture, it was exposed to andiroba seed oil (ASO), and its viability and proliferative capacity were evaluated. ASO demonstrated toxic effects at the highest concentrations and longest exposure times tested, reproducing results observed in human cultures, indicating the applicability of TINsf in toxicological and biotechnological studies. After cryopreservation, the TINsf line maintained its proliferative potential, indicating the establishment of a new culture available for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flávia Dos Santos Tavares
- Laboratório de Genética e Biologia Celular, Centro de Estudos Avançados da Biodiversidade, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém 66075-110, PA, Brazil
| | - Cesar Martins
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences at Botucatu, Sao Paulo State University-UNESP, Botucatu 18618-689, SP, Brazil
| | - Flávia Karina Delella
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences at Botucatu, Sao Paulo State University-UNESP, Botucatu 18618-689, SP, Brazil
| | | | | | - Sávia Moreira
- Instituto Biologia e Conservação dos Mamíferos Aquáticos da Amazônia (BioMA), Belém 66077-830, PA, Brazil
| | - Adauto Lima Cardoso
- Laboratório de Genética e Biologia Celular, Centro de Estudos Avançados da Biodiversidade, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém 66075-110, PA, Brazil
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences at Botucatu, Sao Paulo State University-UNESP, Botucatu 18618-689, SP, Brazil
- Laboratório de Óleos da Amazônia, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém 66075-110, PA, Brazil
| | - Renata Coelho Rodrigues Noronha
- Laboratório de Genética e Biologia Celular, Centro de Estudos Avançados da Biodiversidade, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém 66075-110, PA, Brazil
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15
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Zhao R, He Q, Chu X, He A, Zhang Y, Zhu Z. Regional environmental differences significantly affect the genetic structure and genetic differentiation of Carpinus tientaiensis Cheng, an endemic and extremely endangered species from China. Front Plant Sci 2024; 15:1277173. [PMID: 38405582 PMCID: PMC10885731 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2024.1277173] [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] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Differences in topography and environment greatly affect the genetic structure and genetic differentiation of species, and endemic or endangered species with limited geographic ranges seem to be more sensitive to changes in climate and other environmental factors. The complex topography of eastern China is likely to affect genetic differentiation of plants there. Carpinus tientaiensis Cheng is a native and endangered plants from China, and exploring its genetic diversity has profound significance for protection and the collection of germplasm resources. Based on AFLP markers, this study found that C. tientaiensis has low genetic diversity, which mainly came from within populations, while Shangshantou and Tiantai Mountain populations have relatively high genetic diversity. The Nei genetic distance was closely related to geographical distance, and temperature and precipitation notablely affected the genetic variation and genetic differentiation of C. tientaiensis. Based on cpDNA, this study indicated that C. tientaiensis exhibits a moderate level of genetic diversity, and which mainly came from among populations, while Tiantai Mountain population have the highest genetic diversity. It demonstrated that there was genetic differentiation between populations, which can be divided into two independent geographical groups, but there was no significant phylogeographic structure between them. The MaxEnt model showed that climate change significantly affects its distribution, and the suitable distribution areas in Zhejiang were primarily divided into two regions, eastern Zhejiang and southern Zhejiang, and there was niche differentiation in its suitable distribution areas. Therefore, this study speculated that the climate and the terrain of mountains and hills in East China jointly shape the genetic structure of C. tientaiensis, which gived rise to an obvious north-south differentiation trend of these species, and the populations located in the hilly areas of eastern Zhejiang and the mountainous areas of southern Zhejiang formed two genetic branches respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Runan Zhao
- College of Landscape Architecture, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, China
- Co-Innovation Center for Sustainable Forestry in Southern China, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qianqian He
- Research Center for Urban and Rural Living Environment, Zhijiang College of Zhejiang University of Technology, Shaoxing, China
| | - Xiaojie Chu
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua, China
| | - Anguo He
- Administration of Zhejiang Dapanshan National Nature Reserve, Pan’an, China
| | - Yuanlan Zhang
- Co-Innovation Center for Sustainable Forestry in Southern China, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, China
- College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zunling Zhu
- College of Landscape Architecture, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, China
- Co-Innovation Center for Sustainable Forestry in Southern China, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, China
- Jinpu Research Institute, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, China
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16
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Johnson NA, Henderson AR, Jones JW, Beaver CE, Ahlstedt SA, Dinkins GR, Eckert NL, Endries MJ, Garner JT, Harris JL, Hartfield PD, Hubbs DW, Lane TW, McGregor MA, Moles KR, Morrison CL, Wagner MD, Williams JD, Smith CH. Glacial vicariance and secondary contact shape demographic histories in a freshwater mussel species complex. J Hered 2024; 115:72-85. [PMID: 38015800 DOI: 10.1093/jhered/esad075] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Characterizing the mechanisms influencing the distribution of genetic variation in aquatic species can be difficult due to the dynamic nature of hydrological landscapes. In North America's Central Highlands, a complex history of glacial dynamics, long-term isolation, and secondary contact have shaped genetic variation in aquatic species. Although the effects of glacial history have been demonstrated in many taxa, responses are often lineage- or species-specific and driven by organismal ecology. In this study, we reconstruct the evolutionary history of a freshwater mussel species complex using a suite of mitochondrial and nuclear loci to resolve taxonomic and demographic uncertainties. Our findings do not support Pleurobema rubrum as a valid species, which is proposed for listing as threatened under the U.S. Endangered Species Act. We synonymize P. rubrum under Pleurobema sintoxia-a common and widespread species found throughout the Mississippi River Basin. Further investigation of patterns of genetic variation in P. sintoxia identified a complex demographic history, including ancestral vicariance and secondary contact, within the Eastern Highlands. We hypothesize these patterns were shaped by ancestral vicariance driven by the formation of Lake Green and subsequent secondary contact after the last glacial maximum. Our inference aligns with demographic histories observed in other aquatic taxa in the region and mirrors patterns of genetic variation of a freshwater fish species (Erimystax dissimilis) confirmed to serve as a parasitic larval host for P. sintoxia. Our findings directly link species ecology to observed patterns of genetic variation and may have significant implications for future conservation and recovery actions of freshwater mussels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan A Johnson
- U.S. Geological Survey, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Andrew R Henderson
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Ecological Services, Asheville, NC, United States
| | - Jess W Jones
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Virginia Tech University, Blacksburg, VA, United States
| | - Caitlin E Beaver
- U.S. Geological Survey, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Steven A Ahlstedt
- McClung Museum of Natural History and Culture, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Gerald R Dinkins
- McClung Museum of Natural History and Culture, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Nathan L Eckert
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Neosho National Fish Hatchery, Neosho, MO, United States
| | - Mark J Endries
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Ecological Services, Asheville, NC, United States
| | - Jeffrey T Garner
- Alabama Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries, Florence, AL, United States
| | - John L Harris
- Arkansas State University Museum of Zoology, Jonesboro, AR, United States
| | - Paul D Hartfield
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Ecological Services, Jackson, MS, United States
| | - Don W Hubbs
- DJH Environmental Services, Camden, TN, United States
| | - Timothy W Lane
- Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources, Marion, VA, United States
| | - Monte A McGregor
- Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, Frankfort, KY, United States
| | - Kendall R Moles
- Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, Benton, AR, United States
| | - Cheryl L Morrison
- U.S. Geological Survey, Eastern Ecological Science Center, Kearneysville, WV, United States
| | - Matthew D Wagner
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Ecological Services, Jackson, MS, United States
| | - James D Williams
- Florida Museum, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Chase H Smith
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, United States
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17
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Hidalgo-Hermoso E, Cabello J, Lopez R, Vergara-Wilson V, Vera F, Valencia C, Sanchez C, Celis S, Silva A, Cariñanos A, Barria I, Vicencio R, Muñoz-Leal S, Aravena P, Lagos R, Toro-Letelier J, Verasay-Caviedes S, Garnham A, Peña I, Sánchez F, Moreira-Arce D, Vergara PM, Alegria-Moran R, Cortés-Hinojosa G. Molecular and phylogenetic analysis of herpesviruses in endangered free-ranging cervids of Chile: ovine gammaherpesvirus-2-A novel threat to wild and domestic animal health in Chilean Patagonia. Front Vet Sci 2024; 10:1321172. [PMID: 38362467 PMCID: PMC10867328 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1321172] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Herpesvirus infections have been highlighted as emerging diseases affecting wildlife health and the conservation of several taxa. Malignant catarrhal fever (MCF) and infectious keratoconjunctivitis (IKC) are two viruses that infect wild ruminants. Nevertheless, epidemiological data on herpesviruses in South American wild ruminants are limited. An outbreak of caprine gammaherpesvirus-2 (CpHV-2) that recently was suspected as the cause of MCF in southern pudus (Pudu puda) prompted the need to conduct molecular screenings in Chilean cervids to understand the epidemiology of herpesviruses. The aim of this study was to determine the occurrence and genetic diversity of herpesviruses in free-ranging cervids from Chile. Methods Herpesvirus infection was assessed in antemortem blood samples (n = 86) from pudus (n = 81) and huemuls (Hippocamelus bisulcus) (n = 5), as well as postmortem samples of spleen (n = 24) and lung (n = 3) from pudus, using a nested pan-herpesvirus PCR assay. Results Combining all suitable sample types, DNA of pudu gammaherpesvirus-1 was detected in five pudues and five huemuls, with an overall prevalence of 9.90% (n = 10/101; 95% CI = 5.11-17.87%). One pudu tested positive for ovine gammaherpesvirus-2 (n = 1/96; 1.04%; 95% CI = 0.05-6.49%), and one pudu tested positive for a Macavirus sequence with 98.63 similarity to ovine gammaherpesvirus-2 (n = 96; 1.04%; 95% CI = 0.05-6.49%). Discussion To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of a herpesvirus in huemul and of ovine gammaherpesvirus-2 in Chile. Our results also confirm the active circulation of herpesvirus in free-ranging cervids in Chilean Patagonia, and as such, MCF should be considered as a possible cause of disease in free-ranging Chilean pudus and livestock species. Further research is necessary to develop a plan of systematic monitoring (serological and pathological screening) of herpesviruses in Chilean wild and domestic ruminants to understand their diversity and impact on animal health and conservation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Javier Cabello
- Centro de Conservación de la Biodiversidad Chiloé-Silvestre, Ancud, Chile
| | | | | | - Frank Vera
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Facultad de Ciencias de la Naturaleza, Universidad San Sebastian, Puerto Montt, Chile
| | - Carola Valencia
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Facultad de Ciencias de la Naturaleza, Universidad San Sebastian, Puerto Montt, Chile
| | - Carlos Sanchez
- Veterinary Medical Center, Oregon Zoo, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Sebastian Celis
- Departamento de Veterinaria, Parque Zoológico Buin Zoo, Buin, Chile
| | - Alejandra Silva
- Departamento de Areas Silvestres Protegidas, Corporacion Nacional Forestal, Punta Arenas, Chile
| | - Aintzane Cariñanos
- Departamento de Areas Silvestres Protegidas, Corporacion Nacional Forestal, Punta Arenas, Chile
| | - Ismael Barria
- Departamento de Areas Silvestres Protegidas, Corporacion Nacional Forestal, Punta Arenas, Chile
| | - Rocio Vicencio
- Centro de Conservación de la Biodiversidad Chiloé-Silvestre, Ancud, Chile
| | - Sebastián Muñoz-Leal
- Departamento de Ciencia Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad de Concepción, Chillán, Chile
| | - Paula Aravena
- Departamento de Ciencia Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad de Concepción, Chillán, Chile
| | - Rocio Lagos
- Laboratorio Clínico, Hospital Veterinario SOS Buin Zoo, Buin, Chile
| | - Juan Toro-Letelier
- Facultad de Cs Veterinarias y Pecuarias, Univeridad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | | | - Antonio Garnham
- Escuela de Medicina Veterinaria, Universidad Mayor, Santiago, Chile
| | - Irene Peña
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Universidad Andrés Bello, Santiago, Chile
- Escuela de Medicina Veterinaria, Facultad de Agronomía e Ingeniería Forestal, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Fernando Sánchez
- Escuela de Medicina Veterinaria, Facultad de Agronomía e Ingeniería Forestal, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Dario Moreira-Arce
- Departamento de Gestión Agraria, Universidad de Santiago de Chile (USACH), Santiago, Chile
- Institute of Ecology and Biodiversity (IEB), Santiago, Chile
| | - Pablo M. Vergara
- Departamento de Gestión Agraria, Universidad de Santiago de Chile (USACH), Santiago, Chile
| | - Raul Alegria-Moran
- Escuela de Medicina Veterinaria, Sede Santiago, Facultad de Recursos Naturales y Medicina Veterinaria, Universidad Santo Tomás, Santiago, Chile
| | - Galaxia Cortés-Hinojosa
- Escuela de Medicina Veterinaria, Facultad de Agronomía e Ingeniería Forestal, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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Van Rossum F, Godé C, Baruca Arbeiter A, Raspé O, Simsek M, Barigand B, Hardy OJ, Bandelj D. Genetic diversity assessment of Helichrysum arenarium (Asteraceae) for the genetic restoration of declining populations. Ecol Evol 2024; 14:e10953. [PMID: 38371858 PMCID: PMC10869947 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.10953] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Helichrysum arenarium (L.) Moench (Asteraceae) is a self-compatible, insect-pollinated herb occurring in sand grasslands, and is declining and endangered in many parts of its European distribution range. A recovery plan of H. arenarium has been conducted in southern Belgium, involving plant translocations. We developed multiplex genotyping protocol for nine microsatellite markers previously published for Helichrysum italicum and two newly developed microsatellite markers for H. arenarium. Eleven polymorphic loci were associated (pooled) in two multiplex panels, to assess the genetic status of the only small remaining population in Belgium and of three large German populations used as seed source for propagating transplants. The small Belgian population was characterized by high clonality, with only two, however heterozygous, genets detected. The three large German populations showed high genetic diversity (H e ranging from 0.635 to 0.670) and no significant inbreeding coefficient values, despite expectations of geitonogamous selfing. Management practices (grazing livestock) increasing seed dispersal distances, inbreeding depression at early stages of development, and mechanisms preventing or delaying selfing might be hypothesized to explain the observed patterns. The two Belgian genotypes remained within genetic variation range of German populations so that the high genetic differentiation between Belgian and German populations (F ST values ranging from 0.186 to 0.206) likely resulted from genetic drift effects and small sample size. Transplants obtained from seeds sampled from the three large source populations from Germany constitute a highly diverse, noninbred gene pool, and are thus of high genetic quality for plant translocations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabienne Van Rossum
- Meise Botanic GardenMeiseBelgium
- Service Général de l'Enseignement Supérieur et de la Recherche Scientifique, Fédération Wallonie‐BruxellesBrusselsBelgium
| | - Cécile Godé
- Univ. Lille, CNRS, UMR 8198 ‐ Evo‐Eco‐PaleoLilleFrance
| | - Alenka Baruca Arbeiter
- Faculty of Mathematics, Natural Sciences and Information TechnologiesUniversity of PrimorskaKoperSlovenia
| | - Olivier Raspé
- Meise Botanic GardenMeiseBelgium
- Service Général de l'Enseignement Supérieur et de la Recherche Scientifique, Fédération Wallonie‐BruxellesBrusselsBelgium
| | - Melike Simsek
- Unit of Evolutionary Biology and EcologyUniversité Libre de BruxellesBrusselsBelgium
| | - Benjamin Barigand
- Unit of Evolutionary Biology and EcologyUniversité Libre de BruxellesBrusselsBelgium
| | - Olivier J. Hardy
- Unit of Evolutionary Biology and EcologyUniversité Libre de BruxellesBrusselsBelgium
| | - Dunja Bandelj
- Faculty of Mathematics, Natural Sciences and Information TechnologiesUniversity of PrimorskaKoperSlovenia
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Zhang X, Zhong H, Ran J, Luo J, Chen M, Li H, Wang Y, Cheng S, Yan Y, Huang X. Analysis of winter diet in Guizhou golden monkey ( Rhinopithecus brelichi) using DNA metabarcoding data. Ecol Evol 2024; 14:e10893. [PMID: 38314313 PMCID: PMC10834204 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.10893] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024] Open
Abstract
The Guizhou golden monkey (Rhinopithecus brelichi) is a critically endangered wildlife species, and understanding its diet composition may be useful for assessing its feeding strategies. DNA metabarcoding was used to determine the dietary diversity of R. brelichi. DNA was extracted from 31 faecal samples and amplified chloroplast rbcL and mitochondrial COI DNA was sequenced using the Illumina NovaSeq platform. A comparative analysis of the sequences revealed that the five most abundant plant genera were Magnolia, Morinda, Viburnum, Tetradium and Eurya. In winter, R. brelichi mostly consumed shrubs, herbs and shrubs/trees according to the habit of plant genera with higher abundances comparatively. The five most abundant families in animal diet were Psychodidae, Trichinellidae, Staphylinidae, Scarabaeidae and Trichoceridae. This study is the first to show the composition of the winter animal diets of R. brelichi based on DNA metabarcoding. These results provide an important basis for understanding the diet of wild R. brelichi, which inhabits only the Fanjingshan National Nature Reserve, China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu Zhang
- Guizhou Academy of Forestry ScienceGuiyangChina
- Guizhou Fanjingshan Observation and Research Station for Forest EcosystemNational Forestry and Grass‐land AdministrationTongrenChina
- Guizhou Caohai Observation and Research Station for Wet EcosystemNational Forestry and Grassland AdministrationBijieChina
- Key Laboratory of National Forestry and Grassland Administration on Biodiversity Conservation in Karst Mountainous Areas of Southwestern ChinaGuizhou Academy of ForestryGuiyangChina
| | - Huafu Zhong
- Guizhou Fanjingshan Observation and Research Station for Forest EcosystemNational Forestry and Grass‐land AdministrationTongrenChina
- Fanjingshan National Nature Reserve AdministrationTongrenChina
| | - Jingcheng Ran
- Guizhou Academy of Forestry ScienceGuiyangChina
- Guizhou Fanjingshan Observation and Research Station for Forest EcosystemNational Forestry and Grass‐land AdministrationTongrenChina
- Guizhou Caohai Observation and Research Station for Wet EcosystemNational Forestry and Grassland AdministrationBijieChina
- Key Laboratory of National Forestry and Grassland Administration on Biodiversity Conservation in Karst Mountainous Areas of Southwestern ChinaGuizhou Academy of ForestryGuiyangChina
| | - Jiaxin Luo
- College of Life ScienceGuizhou Normal UniversityGuiyangChina
| | - Meifeng Chen
- Guizhou Academy of Forestry ScienceGuiyangChina
- Key Laboratory of National Forestry and Grassland Administration on Biodiversity Conservation in Karst Mountainous Areas of Southwestern ChinaGuizhou Academy of ForestryGuiyangChina
- College of Life ScienceGuizhou Normal UniversityGuiyangChina
| | - Haibo Li
- Guizhou Fanjingshan Observation and Research Station for Forest EcosystemNational Forestry and Grass‐land AdministrationTongrenChina
- Fanjingshan National Nature Reserve AdministrationTongrenChina
| | - Yeying Wang
- College of Life ScienceGuizhou Normal UniversityGuiyangChina
| | - Shaochuan Cheng
- Guizhou Academy of Forestry ScienceGuiyangChina
- Guizhou Fanjingshan Observation and Research Station for Forest EcosystemNational Forestry and Grass‐land AdministrationTongrenChina
- Guizhou Caohai Observation and Research Station for Wet EcosystemNational Forestry and Grassland AdministrationBijieChina
- Key Laboratory of National Forestry and Grassland Administration on Biodiversity Conservation in Karst Mountainous Areas of Southwestern ChinaGuizhou Academy of ForestryGuiyangChina
| | - Yuying Yan
- Guizhou Academy of Forestry ScienceGuiyangChina
- Guizhou Fanjingshan Observation and Research Station for Forest EcosystemNational Forestry and Grass‐land AdministrationTongrenChina
- Guizhou Caohai Observation and Research Station for Wet EcosystemNational Forestry and Grassland AdministrationBijieChina
- Key Laboratory of National Forestry and Grassland Administration on Biodiversity Conservation in Karst Mountainous Areas of Southwestern ChinaGuizhou Academy of ForestryGuiyangChina
| | - Xiaolong Huang
- Guizhou Academy of Forestry ScienceGuiyangChina
- Guizhou Fanjingshan Observation and Research Station for Forest EcosystemNational Forestry and Grass‐land AdministrationTongrenChina
- Guizhou Caohai Observation and Research Station for Wet EcosystemNational Forestry and Grassland AdministrationBijieChina
- Key Laboratory of National Forestry and Grassland Administration on Biodiversity Conservation in Karst Mountainous Areas of Southwestern ChinaGuizhou Academy of ForestryGuiyangChina
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20
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Glaus K, Gordon L, Vierus T, Marosi ND, Sykes H. Rays in the Shadows: Batoid Diversity, Occurrence, and Conservation Status in Fiji. Biology (Basel) 2024; 13:73. [PMID: 38392292 PMCID: PMC10886612 DOI: 10.3390/biology13020073] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Over recent decades, elasmobranchs (sharks, rays, and skates) have been increasingly recognized among the world's most threatened marine wildlife, leading to heightened scientific attention. However, batoids (rays and skates) are relatively understudied, especially in Large Ocean States of the Pacific. This synthesis compiles insights on batoid diversity and occurrence in Fiji's waters by integrating a literature review, participatory science programs such as the Great Fiji Shark Count (GFSC) Initiative, Projects Abroad Fiji (PA), Manta Project Fiji (MPF), and iNaturalist, along with environmental DNA. Nineteen batoid species from seven families were identified: 19 species from the literature, 12 from participatory science programs, and six from eDNA analysis. Notably, this study provides the first photographic evidence for the bentfin devil ray (Mobula thurstoni, Lloyd, 1908) in Fiji. GFSC data indicated the highest species diversity in the Western Division, with spotted eagle rays (Aetobatus ocellatus, Kuhl, 1823) and maskrays (Neotrygon sp.) being observed most. In-person interviews conducted by PA provided information on the occurrence of wedgefishes and potentially sawfishes. MPF records and iNaturalist uploads were dominated by reef manta rays (M. alfredi, Krefft, 1868), while the pink whipray (Pateobatis fai, Jordan and Seale, 1906) yielded the most DNA sequences. Overall, 68.4% of the species face an elevated extinction risk based on the International Union for the Conservation of Nature Red List criteria. Although caution is warranted with older literature-based records for the giant guitarfish (Glaucostegus typus, Anonymous [Bennett], 1830), giant stingaree (Plesiobatis daviesi, Wallace, 1967), and the lack of sawfish verification, this synthesis highlights the effectiveness of a combined methodological approach in establishing a reference point for the diversity and occurrence of this understudied taxon in Fiji.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerstin Glaus
- School of Agriculture, Geography, Environment, Ocean and Natural Sciences, SAGEONS, The University of the South Pacific, Laucala Campus, Suva, Fiji
| | | | | | - Natasha D Marosi
- Beqa Adventure Divers, Pacific Harbour, Fiji
- Centre for Research in Animal Behaviour, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4SB, UK
- Fiji Shark Lab., Pacific Harbour, Fiji
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Graham LH, Leishman EM, Demers K, Whiteside DP, McAdie M. Factors Associated with Reproductive Success in Captive Vancouver Island Marmots ( Marmota vancouverensis). Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:387. [PMID: 38338030 PMCID: PMC10854754 DOI: 10.3390/ani14030387] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2023] [Revised: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The Vancouver Island marmot (Marmota vancouverensis) is Canada's most endangered endemic mammal. In 1997, a conservation breeding-for-release program was established to supplement wild marmot populations. Retrospective analyses of captive breeding studbook records since 2000 indicate the age of the sire and the dam significantly impacted the odds of successfully weaning a litter. Dams and sires between 5 and 7 years of age had more than double the odds of reproductive success compared to older animals. Successful reproduction by the dam in the previous year also doubled the odds of successfully weaning a litter in subsequent years. Assessment of adrenal function via fecal glucocorticoid analyses indicated established breeding pairs had decreased stress compared to new pairs (5.74 ± 0.28 ng/g vs. 7.60 ± 0.34 ng/g; p < 0.0001). Pairs that were ultimately successful at weaning pups in a breeding season had decreased stress compared to unsuccessful pairs (6.05 ± 0.34 ng/g vs. 7.22 ± 0.28 ng/g; p = 0.0006). These endocrine results suggest social buffering via familiarity and breeding/pair bond formation may be decreasing stress in established and successful pairs, respectively. The results of this study will be used to assist in the captive breeding management of this species to optimise numbers of animals produced to supplement the wild populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura H. Graham
- WRG Conservation Foundation, West Montrose, ON N0B 2V0, Canada
- College of New Caledonia, Prince George, BC V2N 1P8, Canada
| | - Emily M. Leishman
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada;
| | - Kahlee Demers
- Independent Researcher, Maple Ridge, BC V2W 0A9, Canada
| | | | - Malcolm McAdie
- Marmot Recovery Foundation, Nanaimo, BC V9R 6X6, Canada;
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Xiao K, Huang H, Shi X, Shu T, Cheng X, Du H, Yang J. The Effects of Tachykinin1 Gene Products on Prepubertal Dabry's Sturgeon ( Acipenser dabrynus) Pituitary Hormone Secretion and Gene Expression. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:227. [PMID: 38254396 PMCID: PMC10812735 DOI: 10.3390/ani14020227] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
As an ancient and endangered species unique to the Yangtze River in China, the wild population of the Dabry's sturgeon has become scarce. Due to the long time till the first sexual maturity of Dabry's sturgeon, the population of artificially bred Dabry's sturgeon recovered slowly. As a member of the tachykinin family, TAC1 has been reported to have a variety of functions in mammals such as pain control, smooth muscle contraction and reproductive cycle regulation, but the function of Tac1 in fish has been rarely reported. In this study, we synthesized two tac1 gene products, Substance P (SP) and neurokinin A (NKA), and further verified the effect of two tac1 gene products on the secretion of related hormones in the pituitary of Dabry's Sturgeon by intraperitoneal injection and co-culture of primary cells. Expression studies revealed that the newly cloned tac1 were mainly distributed in the hypothalamus and pituitary tissue of the brain. In prepubertal Dabry's sturgeon, this study showed that the two gonadotropins' mRNA levels in pituitary tissue can be significantly increased by SP and NKA through intraperitoneal injection, and the LH protein level in serum was also increased. Further study showed that both NKA and SP could promote the two gonadotropins' mRNA expression in pituitary cells of Dabry's sturgeon. In addition, we explored the optimal dose and time of SP and NKA on pituitary cells is 24 h and over 10 nM. These results, as a whole, suggested that tac1 gene products play an important role in gonadotropin release and gonadal development in prepubertal Dabry's sturgeon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kan Xiao
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Three Gorges Project for Conservation of Fishes, Yichang 443100, China; (K.X.); (H.H.); (X.S.); (T.S.); (X.C.); (H.D.)
- Chinese Sturgeon Research Institute, China Three Gorges Corporation, Yichang 443100, China
| | - Hongtao Huang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Three Gorges Project for Conservation of Fishes, Yichang 443100, China; (K.X.); (H.H.); (X.S.); (T.S.); (X.C.); (H.D.)
- Chinese Sturgeon Research Institute, China Three Gorges Corporation, Yichang 443100, China
| | - Xuetao Shi
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Three Gorges Project for Conservation of Fishes, Yichang 443100, China; (K.X.); (H.H.); (X.S.); (T.S.); (X.C.); (H.D.)
- Chinese Sturgeon Research Institute, China Three Gorges Corporation, Yichang 443100, China
| | - Tingting Shu
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Three Gorges Project for Conservation of Fishes, Yichang 443100, China; (K.X.); (H.H.); (X.S.); (T.S.); (X.C.); (H.D.)
- Chinese Sturgeon Research Institute, China Three Gorges Corporation, Yichang 443100, China
| | - Xu Cheng
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Three Gorges Project for Conservation of Fishes, Yichang 443100, China; (K.X.); (H.H.); (X.S.); (T.S.); (X.C.); (H.D.)
- Chinese Sturgeon Research Institute, China Three Gorges Corporation, Yichang 443100, China
| | - Hejun Du
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Three Gorges Project for Conservation of Fishes, Yichang 443100, China; (K.X.); (H.H.); (X.S.); (T.S.); (X.C.); (H.D.)
- Chinese Sturgeon Research Institute, China Three Gorges Corporation, Yichang 443100, China
| | - Jing Yang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Three Gorges Project for Conservation of Fishes, Yichang 443100, China; (K.X.); (H.H.); (X.S.); (T.S.); (X.C.); (H.D.)
- Chinese Sturgeon Research Institute, China Three Gorges Corporation, Yichang 443100, China
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23
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Li CJ, Chang CC, Tsai LK, Peng M, Lyu WN, Yu JF, Tsai MH, Sung LY. Generation of induced pluripotent stem cells from Bornean orangutans. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 11:1331584. [PMID: 38250322 PMCID: PMC10797036 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1331584] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Orangutans, classified under the Pongo genus, are an endangered non-human primate (NHP) species. Derivation of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) represents a promising avenue for conserving the genetic resources of these animals. Earlier studies focused on deriving orangutan iPSCs (o-iPSCs) from Sumatran orangutans (Pongo abelii). To date, no reports specifically target the other Critically Endangered species in the Pongo genus, the Bornean orangutans (Pongo pygmaeus). Methods: Using Sendai virus-mediated Yamanaka factor-based reprogramming of peripheral blood mononuclear cells to generate iPSCs (bo-iPSCs) from a female captive Bornean orangutan. In this study, we evaluate the colony morphology, pluripotent markers, X chromosome activation status, and transcriptomic profile of the bo-iPSCs to demonstrate the pluripotency of iPSCs from Bornean orangutans. Results: The bo-iPSCs were successfully derived from Bornean orangutans, using Sendai virus-mediated Yamanaka factor-based reprogramming of peripheral blood mononuclear cells. When a modified 4i/L/A (m4i/L/A) culture system was applied to activate the WNT signaling pathway in these bo-iPSCs, the derived cells (m-bo-iPSCs) manifested characteristics akin to human naive pluripotent stem cells, including high expression levels of KLF17, DNMT3L, and DPPA3/5, as well as the X chromosome reactivation. Comparative RNA-seq analysis positioned the m-bo-iPSCs between human naive and formative pluripotent states. Furthermore, the m-bo-iPSCs express differentiation capacity into all three germlines, evidenced by controlled in vitro embryoid body formation assay. Discussion: Our work establishes a novel approach to preserve the genetic diversity of endangered Bornean orangutans while offering insights into primate stem cell pluripotency. In the future, derivation of the primordial germ cell-like cells (PGCLCs) from m-bo-iPSCs is needed to demonstrate the further specific application in species preservation and broaden the knowledge of primordial germ cell specification across species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Jung Li
- Institute of Biotechnology, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Branch, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Chun Chang
- Institute of Biotechnology, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Li-Kuang Tsai
- Institute of Biotechnology, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Min Peng
- Institute of Biotechnology, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Ni Lyu
- Institute of Biotechnology, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Jane-Fang Yu
- Conservation and Research Center, Taipei Zoo, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Mong-Hsun Tsai
- Institute of Biotechnology, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Li-Ying Sung
- Institute of Biotechnology, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Center for Developmental Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
- Center for Biotechnology, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Agricultural Biotechnology Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
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Soares MC, Cardoso SC, Fernandes P, Alves JC, Anastácio PM, Banha F. First record of intraspecific cleaning behavior by the threatened Leuciscidae Squalius alburnoides (Steindachner, 1866) at the Guadiana River basin (Portugal). J Fish Biol 2024; 104:320-323. [PMID: 37749828 DOI: 10.1111/jfb.15571] [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: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
Squalius alburnoides (Steindachner, 1866) is an endemic threatened species from the Iberian Peninsula. Here, we report the first observations of intraspecific cleaning behavior in isolated summer pools in the Guadiana River Basin (Portugal). We found that focal S. alburnoides solicited cleaning by adopting an immobile tail-stand position known as "posing," which immediately signaled a response to a few conspecifics that approached and inspect them. Our study expands the list of cleanerfish species in freshwaters, giving emphasis to the importance of mutual positive behavior within an endangered species, particularly when facing seasonal disturbance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta C Soares
- CIBIO, Centro de Investigação em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genéticos, Universidade do Porto, InBIO Laboratório Associado, Porto, Portugal
- BIOPOLIS Program in Genomics, Biodiversity and Land Planning, Centro de Investigação em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genéticos, Campus de Vairão, Vairão, Portugal
- MARE - Centro de Ciências do Mar e do Ambiente, ARNET - Rede de Investigação Aquática, Departamento de Paisagem, Ambiente e Ordenamento, Universidade de Évora, Évora, Portugal
| | - Sónia C Cardoso
- CIBIO, Centro de Investigação em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genéticos, Universidade do Porto, InBIO Laboratório Associado, Porto, Portugal
- BIOPOLIS Program in Genomics, Biodiversity and Land Planning, Centro de Investigação em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genéticos, Campus de Vairão, Vairão, Portugal
- MARE - Centro de Ciências do Mar e do Ambiente, ARNET - Rede de Investigação Aquática, Departamento de Paisagem, Ambiente e Ordenamento, Universidade de Évora, Évora, Portugal
| | - Pedro Fernandes
- MARE - Centro de Ciências do Mar e do Ambiente, ARNET - Rede de Investigação Aquática, Departamento de Paisagem, Ambiente e Ordenamento, Universidade de Évora, Évora, Portugal
| | - José C Alves
- INESC TEC, Campus da Faculdade de Engenharia da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Pedro M Anastácio
- MARE - Centro de Ciências do Mar e do Ambiente, ARNET - Rede de Investigação Aquática, Departamento de Paisagem, Ambiente e Ordenamento, Universidade de Évora, Évora, Portugal
| | - Filipe Banha
- MARE - Centro de Ciências do Mar e do Ambiente, ARNET - Rede de Investigação Aquática, Departamento de Paisagem, Ambiente e Ordenamento, Universidade de Évora, Évora, Portugal
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25
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Ferreira IM, Murillo L, Le-Corre JM, Correia M, Anastácio R, Pereira MJ. Nesting Ecology of Lepidochelys olivacea in Lobito, Angola. Methods Protoc 2023; 7:2. [PMID: 38251195 PMCID: PMC10801490 DOI: 10.3390/mps7010002] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The scarcity on the Atlantic coast of the African sea turtle population and its dynamics data is well known. This article discusses the nesting ecology methods and analysis of a nascent Angolan project aimed at preserving the nesting female population of the Olive Ridley turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea) on the coast of Lobito. This study examines the nesting ecology of this species from 2020 to 2023. Females had an average CCL of 70.2 cm and CCW of 68.5 cm. These females laid 127 eggs in nests that averaged 47.0 cm deep. The ex situ nest incubation period averaged 60 days, and the hatchling success was 82.1%. Some techniques used in this project require modifications and enhancements. The utilization of photo identification did not yield the anticipated outcomes, prompting the adoption of passive integrated transponders (PITs) in the last season. However, due to limited funding, the success of this method is contingent upon an augmented field effort, allowing for the recapture of a larger number of females. The continuity of this project hinges upon collaboration between higher authorities and the local community. Together, it is possible to deepen the understanding of the nesting ecology of this species and address pivotal issues for its conservation, thereby implementing the most effective preservation measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inês M. Ferreira
- Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, 3800-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Luz Murillo
- Guardiões da Costa Mwangolé Association, Benguela, Angola
| | | | - Marco Correia
- Guardiões da Costa Mwangolé Association, Benguela, Angola
| | | | - Mário J. Pereira
- Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, 3800-193 Aveiro, Portugal
- Department of Biology & CESAM (Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies), University of Aveiro, 3800-193 Aveiro, Portugal
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Alpeeva EV, Sharova NP, Sharov KS, Vorotelyak EA. Russian Biodiversity Collections: A Professional Opinion Survey. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:3777. [PMID: 38136814 PMCID: PMC10740833 DOI: 10.3390/ani13243777] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Biodiversity collections are important vehicles for protecting endangered wildlife in situations of adverse anthropogenic influence. In Russia, there are currently a number of institution- and museum-based biological collections, but there are no nation-wide centres of biodiversity collections. In this paper, we report on the results of our survey of 324 bioconservation, big-data, and ecology specialists from different regions of Russia in regard to the necessity to create several large national biodiversity centres of wildlife protection. The survey revealed specific goals that have to be fulfilled during the development of these centres for the protection and restoration of endangered wildlife species. The top three problems/tasks (topics) are the following: (1) the necessity to create large national centres for different types of specimens; (2) the full sequencing and creation of different "omic" (genomic, proteomic, transcriptomic, etc.) databases; (3) full digitisation of a biodiversity collection/centre. These goals may constitute a guideline for the future of biodiversity collections in Russia that would be targeted at protecting and restoring endangered species. With the due network service level, the translation of the website into English, and permission from the regulator (Ministry of Science and Higher Education of Russian Federation), it can also become an international project.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Konstantin S. Sharov
- Koltzov Institute of Developmental Biology of Russian Academy of Sciences, 26 Vavilov Street, 119334 Moscow, Russia; (E.V.A.); (N.P.S.)
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Campos DP, Granger-Neto HP, Júnior JES, Faux P, Santos FR. Population Genomics of the Critically Endangered Brazilian Merganser. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:3759. [PMID: 38136797 PMCID: PMC10741106 DOI: 10.3390/ani13243759] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The Brazilian merganser (Mergus octosetaceus) is one of the most endangered bird species in South America and comprises less than 250 mature individuals in wild environments. This is a species extremely sensitive to environmental disturbances and restricted to a few "pristine" freshwater habitats in Brazil, and it has been classified as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List since 1994. Thus, biological conservation studies are vital to promote adequate management strategies and to avoid the decline of merganser populations. In this context, to understand the evolutionary dynamics and the current genetic diversity of remaining Brazilian merganser populations, we used the "Genotyping by Sequencing" approach to genotype 923 SNPs in 30 individuals from all known areas of occurrence. These populations revealed a low genetic diversity and high inbreeding levels, likely due to the recent population decline associated with habitat loss. Furthermore, it showed a moderate level of genetic differentiation between all populations located in four separated areas of the highly threatened Cerrado biome. The results indicate that urgent actions for the conservation of the species should be accompanied by careful genetic monitoring to allow appropriate in situ and ex situ management to increase the long-term species' survival in its natural environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davidson P. Campos
- Department of Genetics, Ecology and Evolution, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil; (D.P.C.); (H.P.G.-N.); (J.E.S.J.)
| | - Henry Paul Granger-Neto
- Department of Genetics, Ecology and Evolution, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil; (D.P.C.); (H.P.G.-N.); (J.E.S.J.)
| | - José E. Santos Júnior
- Department of Genetics, Ecology and Evolution, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil; (D.P.C.); (H.P.G.-N.); (J.E.S.J.)
| | - Pierre Faux
- GenPhySE, Université de Toulouse, INRAE, ENVT, 31326 Castanet-Tolosan, France;
| | - Fabrício R. Santos
- Department of Genetics, Ecology and Evolution, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil; (D.P.C.); (H.P.G.-N.); (J.E.S.J.)
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Ip YCA, Tan A, Ong J, Fernandez CJ, Lau C, Wong WK, Chang SF, Yap HH, Er KBH. Anthropogenic Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 from Humans to Lions, Singapore, 2021. Emerg Infect Dis 2023; 29:2550-2553. [PMID: 37885046 PMCID: PMC10683833 DOI: 10.3201/eid2912.221916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
In Singapore, 10 captive lions tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 by real-time PCR. Genomic analyses of nanopore sequencing confirmed human-to-animal transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant. Viral genomes from the lions and zookeeper shared a unique spike protein substitution, S:A1016V. Widespread SARS-CoV-2 transmission among humans can increase the likelihood of anthroponosis.
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Esnaola A, Larrañaga A, González-Esteban J, Elosegi A, Aihartza J. Using biological traits to assess diet selection: the case of the Pyrenean Desman. J Mammal 2023; 104:1205-1215. [PMID: 38059010 PMCID: PMC10697428 DOI: 10.1093/jmammal/gyad061] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Traditionally, researchers have assessed diet selection by comparing consumed versus available taxa. However, taxonomic assignment is probably irrelevant for predators, who likely base their selection on characteristics including prey size, habitat, or behavior. Here, we use an aquatic insectivore, the threatened Pyrenean Desman (Galemys pyrenaicus), as a model species to assess whether biological traits help unravel the criteria driving food and habitat preferences. We reanalyzed data from a previous taxonomy-based study of prey selection in two contrasting streams, one with excellent conservation status and the other affected by diversion for hydropower and forestry. Available and consumed prey were characterized according to nine biological traits, and diet selection was estimated by comparing availability-measured from Surber net samples, and consumption-analyzed by metabarcoding desman feces. Traits offered a biologically coherent image of diet and almost identical selection patterns in both streams, depicting a highly specialized rheophilic predator. Desmans positively selected prey with a preference for fast flow and boulder substrate, indicating their preferred riffle habitat. On the other hand, they positively selected prey with larger but not the largest potential size, living in the water column or the litter, and not inside sediments. They also chose agile prey, swimmers or prey attached to the substrate, prey with high body flexibility, and prey living exposed and clustered in groups. Overall, our results offer a picture of desman diet preference and point to biological traits as being better than taxonomic identity to describe the diet preference of consumers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amaiur Esnaola
- Department of Zoology and Animal Cell Biology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, the Basque Country 48940, Spain
- EKOLUR Asesoría Ambiental – Ingurumen Aholkularitza S.L.L., Oiartzun, the Basque Country 20180, Spain
| | - Aitor Larrañaga
- Department of Plant Biology and Ecology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, the Basque Country 48940, Spain
| | | | - Arturo Elosegi
- Department of Plant Biology and Ecology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, the Basque Country 48940, Spain
| | - Joxerra Aihartza
- Department of Zoology and Animal Cell Biology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, the Basque Country 48940, Spain
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Zimmer SN, Holsinger KW, Dawson CA. A field-validated ensemble species distribution model of Eriogonum pelinophilum, an endangered subshrub in Colorado, USA. Ecol Evol 2023; 13:e10816. [PMID: 38107426 PMCID: PMC10721943 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.10816] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding the suitable habitat of endangered species is crucial for agencies such as the Bureau of Land Management to plan management and conservation. However, few species distribution models are directly validated, potentially limiting their application in management. In preparation for a Species Status Assessment of clay-loving wild buckwheat (Eriogonum pelinophilum), an endangered subshrub found in southwest Colorado, we ran a series of species distribution models to estimate the species' potential occupied habitat and validated these models in the field. A 1-meter resolution digital elevation model derived from LiDAR and a high-resolution geology mapping helped identify biologically relevant characteristics of the species' habitat. We employed a weighted ensemble model based on two Random Forest and one Boosted Regression Tree model, and discrimination performance of the ensemble model was high (AUC-PR = 0.793). We then conducted a systematic field survey of model habitat suitability predictions, during which we discovered 55 new subpopulations of the species and demonstrated that new species observations were strongly associated with model predictions (p < .0001, Cliff's delta = 0.575). We further refined our original models by incorporating the additional species occurrences collected in the field survey, a new explanatory variable, and a more diverse set of models. These iterative changes marginally improved performance of the ensemble model (AUC-PR = 0.825). Direct validation of species distribution models is extremely rare, and our field survey provides strong validation of our model results. This helps increase confidence to utilize predictions in planning. The final model predictions greatly improve the Bureau of Land Management's understanding of the species' habitat and increase our ability to consider potential habitat in planning land use activities such as road development and travel management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott N. Zimmer
- Uncompahgre Field OfficeBureau of Land ManagementMontroseColoradoUSA
- Fire Sciences LaboratoryRocky Mountain Research Station, U.S. Forest ServiceMissoulaMontanaUSA
| | | | - Carol A. Dawson
- Colorado State OfficeBureau of Land ManagementLakewoodColoradoUSA
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Maroso F, Padovani G, Muñoz Mora VH, Giannelli F, Trucchi E, Bertorelle G. Fitness consequences and ancestry loss in the Apennine brown bear after a simulated genetic rescue intervention. Conserv Biol 2023; 37:e14133. [PMID: 37259604 DOI: 10.1111/cobi.14133] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Reduction in population size, with its predicted effects on population fitness, is the most alarming anthropogenic impact on endangered species. By introducing compatible individuals, genetic rescue (GR) is a promising but debated approach for reducing the genetic load unmasked by inbreeding and for restoring the fitness of declining populations. Although GR can improve genetic diversity and fitness, it can also produce loss of ancestry, hampering local adaptation, or replace with introduced variants the unique genetic pools evolved in endemic groups. We used forward genetic simulations based on empirical genomic data to assess fitness benefits and loss of ancestry risks of GR in the Apennine brown bear (Ursus arctos marsicanus). There are approximately 50 individuals of this isolated subspecies, and they have lower genetic diversity and higher inbreeding than other European brown bears, and GR has been suggested to reduce extinction risks. We compared 10 GR scenarios in which the number and genetic characteristics of migrants varied with a non-GR scenario of simple demographic increase due to nongenetic factors. The introduction of 5 individuals of higher fitness or lower levels of deleterious mutations than the target Apennine brown bear from a larger European brown bear population produced a rapid 10-20% increase in fitness in the subspecies and up to 22.4% loss of ancestry over 30 generations. Without a contemporary demographic increase, fitness started to decline again after a few generations. Doubling the population size without GR gradually increased fitness to a comparable level, but without losing ancestry, thus resulting in the best strategy for the Apennine brown bear conservation. Our results highlight the importance for management of endangered species of realistic forward simulations grounded in empirical whole-genome data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Maroso
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Giada Padovani
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | | | - Francesco Giannelli
- Department of Life and Environmental Science, Marche Polytechnic University, Ancona, Italy
| | - Emiliano Trucchi
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Department of Life and Environmental Science, Marche Polytechnic University, Ancona, Italy
| | - Giorgio Bertorelle
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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Staines MN, Versace H, Laloë JO, Smith CE, Madden Hof CA, Booth DT, Tibbetts IR, Hays GC. Short-term resilience to climate-induced temperature increases for equatorial sea turtle populations. Glob Chang Biol 2023; 29:6546-6557. [PMID: 37795641 DOI: 10.1111/gcb.16952] [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: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
Projection models are being increasingly used to manage threatened taxa by estimating their responses to climate change. Sea turtles are particularly susceptible to climate change as they have temperature-dependent sex determination and increased sand temperatures on nesting beaches could result in the 'feminisation' of hatchling sex ratios for some populations. This study modelled likely long-term trends in sand temperatures and hatchling sex ratios at an equatorial nesting site for endangered green turtles (Chelonia mydas) and critically endangered hawksbill turtles (Eretmochelys imbricata). A total of 1078 days of sand temperature data were collected from 28 logger deployments at nest depth between 2018 and 2022 in Papua New Guinea (PNG). Long-term trends in sand temperature were generated from a model using air temperature as an environmental proxy. The influence of rainfall and seasonal variation on sand temperature was also investigated. Between 1960 and 2019, we estimated that sand temperature increased by ~0.6°C and the average hatchling sex ratio was relatively balanced (46.2% female, SD = 10.7). No trends were observed in historical rainfall anomalies and projections indicated no further changes to rainfall until 2100. Therefore, the sex ratio models were unlikely to be influenced by changing rainfall patterns. A relatively balanced sex ratio such as this is starkly different to the extremely female-skewed hatchling sex ratio (>99% female) reported for another Coral Sea nesting site, Raine Island (~850 km West). This PNG nesting site is likely rare in the global context, as it is less threatened by climate-induced feminisation. Although there is no current need for 'cooling' interventions, the mean projected sex ratios for 2020-2100 were estimated 76%-87% female, so future interventions may be required to increase male production. Our use of long-term sand temperature and rainfall trends has advanced our understanding of climate change impacts on sea turtles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa N Staines
- School of the Environment, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Hayley Versace
- Conflict Islands Conservation Initiative, Alotau, Milne Bay Province, Papua New Guinea
| | - Jacques-Olivier Laloë
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Caitlin E Smith
- World Wide Fund for Nature-Australia, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- School of Science, Technology and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Hervey Bay, Australia
| | | | - David T Booth
- School of the Environment, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Ian R Tibbetts
- School of the Environment, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Graeme C Hays
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
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Hidalgo-Hermoso E, Sepúlveda-García P, Cabello J, Celis S, Valencia C, Ortiz C, Kemec I, Moreira-Arce D, Orsola M, Canales N, Garnham A, Vera F, Muller A. Molecular survey and phylogenetic analysis of Bartonella sp., Coxiella sp., and hemoplamas in pudu ( Pudu puda) from Chile: first report of Bartonella henselae in a wild ungulate species. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1161093. [PMID: 38033637 PMCID: PMC10687462 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1161093] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Recent evidence shows a high diversity of infectious agents in wildlife that represent a threat to human, domestic, and wild animal health. In Chile, wild populations of the most common cervid species, pudu (Pudu puda), have been reported as hosts for novel pathogens such as Mycoplasma ovis-like and a novel ecotype of Anaplasma phagocytophilum. A better understanding of the epidemiology of this group and other intracellular bacteria that might have cervids as hosts would enlighten their population relevance. This study aimed to determine the occurrence and genetic diversity of Bartonella spp., hemotropic mycoplasmas, and Coxiella burnetii in pudus from Chile. Methods The DNA was extracted from the blood samples of 69 wild free-ranging and 30 captive pudus from Chile. A combination of real-time (nouG gene for Bartonella and IS1111 element for C. burnetii) and conventional PCR (16S rRNA for hemotropic Mycoplasma spp. and rpoB, gltA, and ITS for Bartonella spp.) was used for pathogen screening and molecular characterization. Results DNA of Bartonella spp. was detected in 10.1% [95% CI (5.2-18.2%)] samples, hemotropic Mycoplasma spp. in 1.7% [95% CI (0.08-10.1%)], and C. burnetii in 1.0% [95% CI (0.05-6.3%)] samples. Two sequenced samples were identified as Mycoplasma ovis-like, and one free-ranging pudu was positive for C. burnetii. While one captive and two free-ranging pudus were positive for Bartonella henselae, one wild pudu was co-positive for B. henselae and Bartonella sp., similar to Bartonellae identified in ruminants. Discussion To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of B. henselae in wild ungulate species, and C. burnetii and Bartonella spp. in wild ungulate species in South America. Further research will be necessary to evaluate the potential role of pudu as reservoirs of infection and identify the sources for disease transmission among humans and wild and domestic animals.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paulina Sepúlveda-García
- Instituto de Medicina Preventiva Veterinaria, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
- Escuela de Graduados, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Javier Cabello
- Centro de Conservación de la Biodiversidad, Chiloé-Silvestre, Ancud, Chiloé, Chile
| | - Sebastian Celis
- Departamento de Veterinaria, Parque Zoológico Buin Zoo, Buin, Chile
| | - Carola Valencia
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Naturaleza, Sede De La Patagonia, Universidad San Sebastián, Puerto Montt, Chile
| | - Carolina Ortiz
- Departamento de Veterinaria, Parque Zoológico Buin Zoo, Buin, Chile
| | - Ignacio Kemec
- Departamento de Veterinaria, Parque Zoológico Buin Zoo, Buin, Chile
| | - Dario Moreira-Arce
- Departamento de Gestión Agraria, Universidad de Santiago de Chile (USACH), Santiago, Chile
- Institute of Ecology and Biodiversity (IEB), Santiago, Chile
| | - Miguel Orsola
- Centro Integrativo de Biología y Química Aplicada (CIBQA), Universidad Bernardo O'Higgins, Santiago, Chile
| | - Nivia Canales
- Instituto de Bioquímica y Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Antonio Garnham
- Escuela de Medicina Veterinaria, Universidad Mayor, Santiago, Chile
| | - Frank Vera
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Naturaleza, Sede De La Patagonia, Universidad San Sebastián, Puerto Montt, Chile
| | - Ananda Muller
- Biomedical Sciences Department, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis
- Instituto de Ciencias Clínicas Veterinarias, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
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Campos Cassavia Cintra de Oliveira L, Queiroz Vacari G, Maurício Barbanti Duarte J. A Method to Freeze Skin Samples for Cryobanks: A Test of Some Cryoprotectants for an Endangered Deer. Biopreserv Biobank 2023. [PMID: 37944047 DOI: 10.1089/bio.2023.0030] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The genetic diversity of endangered deer species, such as Mazama jucunda, can be preserved with the help of somatic cell cryopreservation. This procedure allows obtaining several cells from the individual even after its death, which is very important for applications in reproductive biotechnologies. This study's objective was to test cryopreservation protocols of skin fragments of M. jucunda, using different cryoprotectants in slow freezing. We evaluated four treatments, composed of three cryoprotectants, dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), and ethylene glycol (EG), used alone and in combination. There was also a control group where the tissue did not undergo cryopreservation. Skin fragments were collected from the medial region of the pelvic limbs of three individuals. Each fragment was divided into 10 equal parts, standardized by weight, making two pieces for each treatment and control from each animal. The collected fragments were evaluated in culture, based on the speed of occupation of the free spaces of the cell culture flask. Cell viability was also evaluated using Trypan Blue dye and the mitotic index to understand the effect of toxicity and freezing on cell membrane integrity and cell division capacity, respectively. The treatments that used association with PVP proved to be more damaging to the cells, taking longer to reach confluence. EG alone showed better results than DMSO in the slow-freezing protocol. Clinical Trial Registration Number is 1390/21.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Campos Cassavia Cintra de Oliveira
- Departamento de Zootecnia, Deer Conservation and Research Center (NUPECCE), Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, São Paulo State University, Jaboticabal, Brazil
| | - Gabrielle Queiroz Vacari
- Departamento de Zootecnia, Deer Conservation and Research Center (NUPECCE), Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, São Paulo State University, Jaboticabal, Brazil
| | - José Maurício Barbanti Duarte
- Departamento de Zootecnia, Deer Conservation and Research Center (NUPECCE), Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, São Paulo State University, Jaboticabal, Brazil
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Cidón CF, Turchetto-Zolet AC, Bajay MM, Zucchi MI, Konzen ER. Phenotypic and molecular basis for genetic variation in jelly palms (Butia sp.): where are we now and where are we headed to? Genet Mol Biol 2023; 46:e20230145. [PMID: 37948507 PMCID: PMC10637346 DOI: 10.1590/1678-4685-gmb-2023-0145] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
We compiled studies that addressed morphological and physicochemical traits, as well as population genetic studies involving jelly palms, genus Butia (Arecaceae). First, we conducted a bibliometric study with selected articles, by revising the fundamental contributions to unraveling phenotypic traits that have been used for describing the phenotypic variation within and among populations. Moreover, we sought to comprehend the patterns of genetic diversity and structure that have been presented so far, based on molecular markers. Finally, we conducted a review of the gene sequences registered to NCBI for Butia. Overall, morphological descriptors have been proposed to depict population-level variability, but the most significant results are available from chemical properties and characterization of metabolites, revealing important traits to being explored. Yet, limited information is available to describe population variation and their genetic components. On the molecular level, almost all studies so far provided results with classical molecular markers. The literature of SNP markers for Butia species is virtually non-existent. Given the current endangered state of Butia species, it is urgent that researchers pursue updated genomic technologies to invest in in-depth characterizations of the genetic diversity and structure of jelly palms. The current state of population fragmentation urges effective measures toward their conservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camila Fritzen Cidón
- Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Programa de Pós-Graduação
em Genética e Biologia Molecular, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Andreia Carina Turchetto-Zolet
- Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Programa de Pós-Graduação
em Genética e Biologia Molecular, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
- Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Departamento de Genética,
Porto Alegre RS, Brazil
| | - Miklos Maximiliano Bajay
- Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina, Centro de Educação
Superior da Região Sul, Laguna, SC, Brazil
| | - Maria Imaculada Zucchi
- Agência Paulista de Tecnologia dos Agronegócios, Laboratório de
Conservação Genética e Genômica, Piracicaba, SP, Brazil
| | - Enéas Ricardo Konzen
- Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Programa de Pós-Graduação
em Genética e Biologia Molecular, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
- Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Departamento
Interdisciplinar, Centro de Estudos Costeiros, Limnológicos e Marinhos, Campus
Litoral Norte, Imbé, RS, Brazil
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36
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Zanette LY, Frizzelle NR, Clinchy M, Peel MJS, Keller CB, Huebner SE, Packer C. Fear of the human "super predator" pervades the South African savanna. Curr Biol 2023; 33:4689-4696.e4. [PMID: 37802052 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2023.08.089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023]
Abstract
Lions have long been perceived as Africa's, if not the world's, most fearsome terrestrial predator,1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9 the "king of beasts". Wildlife's fear of humans may, however, be far more powerful and all-prevailing1,10 as recent global surveys show that humans kill prey at much higher rates than other predators,10,11,12 due partly to technologies such as hunting with dogs or guns.11,13,14,15 We comprehensively experimentally tested whether wildlife's fear of humans exceeds even that of lions, by quantifying fear responses1 in the majority of carnivore and ungulate species (n = 19) inhabiting South Africa`s Greater Kruger National Park (GKNP),9,15,16,17 using automated camera-speaker systems9,18 at waterholes during the dry season that broadcast playbacks of humans, lions, hunting sounds (dogs, gunshots) or non-predator controls (birds).9,19,20,21,22 Fear of humans significantly exceeded that of lions throughout the savanna mammal community. As a whole (n = 4,238 independent trials), wildlife were twice as likely to run (p < 0.001) and abandoned waterholes in 40% faster time (p < 0.001) in response to humans than to lions (or hunting sounds). Fully 95% of species ran more from humans than lions (significantly in giraffes, leopards, hyenas, zebras, kudu, warthog, and impala) or abandoned waterholes faster (significantly in rhinoceroses and elephants). Our results greatly strengthen the growing experimental evidence that wildlife worldwide fear the human "super predator" far more than other predators,1,19,20,21,22,23,24,25,26,27,28 and the very substantial fear of humans demonstrated can be expected to cause considerable ecological impacts,1,6,22,23,24,29,30,31,32,33,34,35 presenting challenges for tourism-dependent conservation,1,36,37 particularly in Africa,38,39 while providing new opportunities to protect some species.1,22,40.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liana Y Zanette
- Department of Biology, Western University, London, ON N6A 5B7, Canada.
| | | | - Michael Clinchy
- Department of Biology, Western University, London, ON N6A 5B7, Canada
| | - Michael J S Peel
- ARC - Animal Production Institute, Rangeland Ecology Group, Mbombela 1200, South Africa; School for Animal, Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2017, South Africa; Applied Behavioural Ecology and Ecosystem Research Unit, University of South Africa, Florida 1710, South Africa
| | - Carson B Keller
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Sarah E Huebner
- Department of Ecology, Evolution and Behavior, University of Minnesota, St Paul, MN 55108, USA
| | - Craig Packer
- Department of Ecology, Evolution and Behavior, University of Minnesota, St Paul, MN 55108, USA
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Machado CRD, Azambuja M, Domit C, da Fonseca GF, Glugoski L, Gazolla CB, de Almeida RB, Pucci MB, Pires TT, Nogaroto V, Vicari MR. Integrating morphological, molecular and cytogenetic data for F2 sea turtle hybrids diagnosis revealed balanced chromosomal sets. J Evol Biol 2023; 36:1595-1608. [PMID: 37885128 DOI: 10.1111/jeb.14236] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
Hybridization could be considered part of the evolutionary history of many species. The hybridization among sea turtle species on the Brazilian coast is atypical and occurs where nesting areas and reproductive seasons overlap. Integrated analysis of morphology and genetics is still scarce, and there is no evidence of the parental chromosome set distribution in sea turtle interspecific hybrids. In this study, chromosome markers previously established for pure sea turtle species were combined with morphological and molecular analyses aiming to recognize genetic composition and chromosome sets in possible interspecific hybrids initially identified by mixed morphology. The data showed that one hybrid could be an F2 individual among Caretta caretta × Eretmochelys imbricata × Chelonia mydas, and another is resulting from backcross between C. caretta × Lepidochelys olivacea. Native alleles of different parental lineages were reported in the hybrids, and, despite this, it was verified that the hybrid chromosome sets were still balanced. Thus, how sea turtle hybridism can affect genetic features in the long term is a concern, as the implications of the crossing-over in hybrid chromosomal sets and the effects on genetic function are still unpredictable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Regina Dias Machado
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Genética, Departamento de Genética, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Centro Politécnico, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Matheus Azambuja
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Genética, Departamento de Genética, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Centro Politécnico, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Camila Domit
- Laboratório de Ecologia e Conservação, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Pontal do Paraná, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Fraga da Fonseca
- Laboratório de Ecologia e Conservação, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Pontal do Paraná, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Larissa Glugoski
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Genética Evolutiva e Biologia Molecular, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, São Carlos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Camilla Borges Gazolla
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Genética, Departamento de Genética, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Centro Politécnico, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Rafael Bonfim de Almeida
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Genética, Departamento de Genética, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Centro Politécnico, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Marcela Baer Pucci
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Genética Evolutiva e Biologia Molecular, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, São Carlos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Viviane Nogaroto
- Departamento de Biologia Estrutural, Molecular e Genética, Universidade Estadual de Ponta Grossa, Ponta Grossa, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Marcelo Ricardo Vicari
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Genética, Departamento de Genética, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Centro Politécnico, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
- Departamento de Biologia Estrutural, Molecular e Genética, Universidade Estadual de Ponta Grossa, Ponta Grossa, Paraná, Brazil
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Behrendorff L, King R, Allen BL. Trouble in paradise: When two species of conservation and cultural value clash, causing a management conundrum. Ecol Evol 2023; 13:e10726. [PMID: 38020708 PMCID: PMC10653987 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.10726] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Threatened species throughout the world are in decline due to various causes. In some cases, predators of conservation or cultural value are causing the decline of threatened prey, presenting a conservation conundrum for managers. We surveyed marine turtle nests on K'gari (formally known as Fraser Island), Australia, to investigate dingo predation of green and loggerhead turtle nests, where each of these species is of conservation value. Our monitoring revealed that 84% of nests were predated by dingoes. Only 16% of nests were not consumed by dingoes, and only 5.7% of nests were confirmed to have successfully hatched. Up to 94% of nests were consumed in some areas, and predation rates were similar across different dingo packs. Information on the available numbers of nests and dingoes in the area indicated that turtle nests alone are sufficient to support extant dingoes over the summer. These results indicate that marine turtle eggs represent a previously unquantified but important food source for dingoes on K'gari, and that turtle nests at this rookery site are under serious threat from dingoes. This research should highlight the importance of prioritising the protection of turtle nests from dingoes or risk losing the entire rookery forever in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Behrendorff
- School of Agriculture and Food SciencesUniversity of QueenslandGattonQueenslandAustralia
- Queensland Government Department of Environment and ScienceQueensland Parks and Wildlife ServiceK'gariQueenslandAustralia
| | - Rachel King
- School of Mathematics, Physics and ComputingUniversity of Southern QueenslandToowoombaQueenslandAustralia
| | - Benjamin L. Allen
- Institute for Life Sciences and the EnvironmentUniversity of Southern QueenslandToowoombaQueenslandAustralia
- Centre for African Conservation EcologyNelson Mandela UniversityPort ElizabethSouth Africa
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Cypher BL, Deatherage NA, Kelly EC, Westall TL. Syntopy between Endangered San Joaquin Kit Foxes and Potential Competitors in an Urban Environment. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:3210. [PMID: 37893934 PMCID: PMC10603722 DOI: 10.3390/ani13203210] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The endangered San Joaquin kit fox (Vulpes macrotis mutica; SJKF) occurs in the city of Bakersfield, CA, where several putative competitors also occur, including domestic cats (Felis catus), striped skunks (Mephitis mephitis), raccoons (Procyon lotor), and opossums (Didephis virginiana). We used data from a multi-year (2015-2022) city-wide camera station survey to assess whether the other species were simply sympatric with SJKF or coexisting syntopically (i.e., occurring in the same habitats without apparent competition). Annual detection rates for the other species were not correlated with SJKF rates either within SJKF habitat suitability categories (low, medium, and high) or for all categories combined. Also, detection rates for the other species did not increase in response to a significant decline in SJKF abundance caused by sarcoptic mange. The use of all SJKF habitat suitability categories by the other species and co-detections with SJKF at camera stations indicate high spatial overlap. Interference and exploitative competition between the species are apparently negligible, likely due to similar body sizes and high resource abundance. Thus, SJKF and the other species appear to be coexisting syntopically in the urban environment, resulting in a significant additional SJKF population that facilitates range-wide conservation and recovery of this endangered species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian L. Cypher
- Endangered Species Recovery Program, California State University-Stanislaus, 1 University Circle, Turlock, CA 95382, USA; (N.A.D.); (E.C.K.); (T.L.W.)
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Dertien JS, Negi H, Dinerstein E, Krishnamurthy R, Negi HS, Gopal R, Gulick S, Pathak SK, Kapoor M, Yadav P, Benitez M, Ferreira M, Wijnveen AJ, Lee ATL, Wright B, Baldwin RF. Mitigating human-wildlife conflict and monitoring endangered tigers using a real-time camera-based alert system. Bioscience 2023; 73:748-757. [PMID: 37854891 PMCID: PMC10580963 DOI: 10.1093/biosci/biad076] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The recovery of wild tigers in India and Nepal is a remarkable conservation achievement, but it sets the stage for increased human-wildlife conflict where parks are limited in size and where tigers reside outside reserves. We deployed an innovative technology, the TrailGuard AI camera-alert system, which runs on-the-edge artificial intelligence algorithms to detect tigers and poachers and transmit real-time images to designated authorities responsible for managing prominent tiger landscapes in India. We successfully captured and transmitted the first images of tigers using cameras with embedded AI and detected poachers. Notifications of tiger images were received in real time, approximately 30 seconds from camera trigger to appearing in a smart phone app. We review use cases of this AI-based real-time alert system for managers and local communities and suggest how the system could help monitor tigers and other endangered species, detect poaching, and provide early warnings for human-wildlife conflict.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hrishita Negi
- Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina, United States
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - A J Wijnveen
- CVEDIA Ltd, in Reading, Berkshire, United Kingdom
| | | | - Brett Wright
- Tigers United University Consortium, Clemson University, in Clemson, South Carolina, United States
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Nascimento MB, Moura YBF, Oliveira REM, Borges AA, Oliveira MF, Luna FO, Attademo FLN, Pereira AF. Influence of Intracellular Cryoprotectants on the Conservation of Dermal Somatic Tissues Derived from Antillean Manatees ( Trichechus manatus manatus Linnaeus, 1758). Biopreserv Biobank 2023; 21:483-492. [PMID: 36459125 DOI: 10.1089/bio.2022.0044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryopreservation of somatic tissue has been studied as a tool for the knowledge and conservation of endangered species, such as Antillean manatees. The use of vitrification protocols is an important step in the establishment of biological banks. To decrease the damage caused by this technique, a reduction in the concentration of cryoprotectants has been proposed. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate combinations and concentrations of intracellular cryoprotectants for the conservation of somatic tissues derived from Antillean manatees. Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium, F-12 composed of 10% fetal bovine serum and 0.25 M sucrose, was supplemented with 3.0 M ethylene glycol (EG) plus 3.0 M dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), or 1.5 M EG plus 1.5 M DMSO or 3.0 M EG or 3.0 M DMSO, to produce four solutions for solid-surface vitrification. Noncryopreserved tissues were used as the controls. After warming, tissues derived from four Antillean manatees were evaluated for ultrastructure, histology, and in vitro culture. No differences were observed among the cryopreserved and noncryopreserved tissues in terms of ultrastructure. The dermis thickness of the cryopreserved fragments in solutions containing 3.0 M EG plus 3.0 M DMSO, 3.0 M EG, and 3.0 DMSO was similar to that of the control. Moreover, cryopreservation with 3.0 M EG plus 3.0 M DMSO maintained tissue proliferative capacity potential evaluated by quantification of nucleolar organizing regions. Nevertheless, none of the cryopreserved fragments were able to maintain the number of fibroblasts and the collagen percentage as compared with that of the noncryopreserved fragments. Also, none of the cryopreserved fragments in the different solutions were able to produce cells in vitro. In summary, even reducing the concentration of intracellular cryoprotectants as well as their association did not guarantee the maintenance of cells after in vitro culture. Further studies are needed to optimize the cryopreservation protocols in Antillean manatee somatic tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matheus B Nascimento
- Department of Biosciences, Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Laboratory of Applied Animal Morphophysiology, Federal Rural University of Semi-Arid (UFERSA), Mossoro, Brazil
| | - Yasmin B F Moura
- Department of Biosciences, Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Laboratory of Applied Animal Morphophysiology, Federal Rural University of Semi-Arid (UFERSA), Mossoro, Brazil
| | - Radan E M Oliveira
- Department of Animal Sciences, Laboratory of Applied Animal Morphophysiology, Federal Rural University of Semi-Arid (UFERSA), Mossoro, Brazil
| | - Alana A Borges
- Department of Biosciences, Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Laboratory of Applied Animal Morphophysiology, Federal Rural University of Semi-Arid (UFERSA), Mossoro, Brazil
| | - Moacir F Oliveira
- Department of Animal Sciences, Laboratory of Applied Animal Morphophysiology, Federal Rural University of Semi-Arid (UFERSA), Mossoro, Brazil
| | - Fábia O Luna
- National Center for Research and Conservation of Aquatic Mammals by Chico Mendes Institute for Biodiversity Conservation, Santos, Brazil
| | - Fernanda L N Attademo
- National Center for Research and Conservation of Aquatic Mammals by Chico Mendes Institute for Biodiversity Conservation, Santos, Brazil
- Laboratory of Behavior and Conservation Ecology, Department of Zoology, Recife, Brazil
| | - Alexsandra F Pereira
- Department of Biosciences, Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Laboratory of Applied Animal Morphophysiology, Federal Rural University of Semi-Arid (UFERSA), Mossoro, Brazil
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Heineman KD, Anderson SM, Davitt JM, Lippitt L, Endress BA, Horn CM. San Diego Thornmint ( Acanthomintha ilicifolia) Populations Differ in Growth and Reproductive Responses to Differential Water Availability: Evidence from a Common Garden Experiment. Plants (Basel) 2023; 12:3439. [PMID: 37836179 PMCID: PMC10574424 DOI: 10.3390/plants12193439] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
The responses of rare plants to environmental stressors will determine their potential to adapt to a rapidly changing climate. We used a common garden approach to evaluate how six populations of the annual San Diego thornmint (Acanthomintha ilicifolia Lamiaceae; listed as endangered in the state of California and as threatened by the US Fish and Wildlife Service) from across the species range respond in terms of growth (biomass, height, and width) and reproduction (seed production, floral production, and next generation seed viability) to experimental differences in water availability. We found a significant irrigation-by-population interaction on the aboveground growth, wherein the differences in the magnitude and direction of treatment did not correlate directly with climate variables in natural populations. With respect to reproduction, the low-irrigation treatment produced more seeds per plant, more reproductive individuals, and a larger proportion of viable seed in most, but not all, populations. The seed production and the effect of irrigation on seed production correlated positively with rainfall at wild source populations. These results suggest that Acanthomintha ilicifolia responds to water limitation by creating more and higher-quality seed, and that plants locally adapted to a higher annual rainfall show a greater plasticity to differences in water availability than plants adapted to a lower annual rainfall, a finding that can inform the in situ demographic management and ex situ collection strategy for Acanthomintha ilicifolia and other rare California annuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine D. Heineman
- Center for Plant Conservation, 15600 San Pasqual Valley Rd., Escondido, CA 92027, USA;
| | - Stacy M. Anderson
- San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, 15600 San Pasqual Valley Rd., Escondido, CA 92027, USA; (S.M.A.); (J.M.D.); (L.L.)
| | - Joseph M. Davitt
- San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, 15600 San Pasqual Valley Rd., Escondido, CA 92027, USA; (S.M.A.); (J.M.D.); (L.L.)
| | - Laurie Lippitt
- San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, 15600 San Pasqual Valley Rd., Escondido, CA 92027, USA; (S.M.A.); (J.M.D.); (L.L.)
| | - Bryan A. Endress
- Eastern Oregon Agriculture Research Center, Oregon State University, 372 S. 10th Street, Union, OR 97883, USA;
| | - Christa M. Horn
- San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, 15600 San Pasqual Valley Rd., Escondido, CA 92027, USA; (S.M.A.); (J.M.D.); (L.L.)
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Tsipinana S, Husseiny S, Alayande KA, Raslan M, Amoo S, Adeleke R. Contribution of endophytes towards improving plant bioactive metabolites: a rescue option against red-taping of medicinal plants. Front Plant Sci 2023; 14:1248319. [PMID: 37771494 PMCID: PMC10522919 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2023.1248319] [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] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
Medicinal plants remain a valuable source for natural drug bioprospecting owing to their multi-target spectrum. However, their use as raw materials for novel drug synthesis has been greatly limited by unsustainable harvesting leading to decimation of their wild populations coupled with inherent low concentrations of constituent secondary metabolites per unit mass. Thus, adding value to the medicinal plants research dynamics calls for adequate attention. In light of this, medicinal plants harbour endophytes which are believed to be contributing towards the host plant survival and bioactive metabolites through series of physiological interference. Stimulating secondary metabolite production in medicinal plants by using endophytes as plant growth regulators has been demonstrated to be one of the most effective methods for increasing metabolite syntheses. Use of endophytes as plant growth promotors could help to ensure continuous supply of medicinal plants, and mitigate issues with fear of extinction. Endophytes minimize heavy metal toxicity in medicinal plants. It has been hypothesized that when medicinal plants are exposed to harsh conditions, associated endophytes are the primary signalling channels that induce defensive reactions. Endophytes go through different biochemical processes which lead to activation of defence mechanisms in the host plants. Thus, through signal transduction pathways, endophytic microorganisms influence genes involved in the generation of secondary metabolites by plant cells. Additionally, elucidating the role of gene clusters in production of secondary metabolites could expose factors associated with low secondary metabolites by medicinal plants. Promising endophyte strains can be manipulated for enhanced production of metabolites, hence, better probability of novel bioactive metabolites through strain improvement, mutagenesis, co-cultivation, and media adjustment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sinawo Tsipinana
- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Samah Husseiny
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, Faculty of Postgraduate Studies for Advanced Sciences, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - Kazeem A. Alayande
- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Mai Raslan
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, Faculty of Postgraduate Studies for Advanced Sciences, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - Stephen Amoo
- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
- Agricultural Research Council – Vegetables, Industrial and Medicinal Plants, Roodeplaat, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Rasheed Adeleke
- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
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Li Y, Cui M, Le X, Gong J, Jiang K, Tong X, Zhang Q, Li J, Li H, Lu L, Zou J, Wang R, Chen X. Genetic structure shows the presence of small-scale management units in a relict tree species. Ecol Evol 2023; 13:e10500. [PMID: 37706160 PMCID: PMC10495812 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.10500] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Identifying conservation units is crucial for the effective conservation of threatened species. Previous cases are almost exclusively based on large-scale but coarse sampling for genetic structure analyses. Significant genetic structure can occur within a small range, and thus multiple conservation units may exist in narrowly distributed plants. However, small-scale genetic structure is often overlooked in conservation planning especially for wind-pollinated and wind-dispersed trees, largely due to the absence of dense and elaborate sampling. In this study, we focused on a representative endangered relict plant, Metasequoia glyptostroboides. Using both nuclear microsatellites (nSSRs) and chloroplast DNA (cpDNA) fragments, we sampled across the narrow distribution range of this species and determined its conservation units by exploring its genetic structure and historical demography. cpDNA haplotypes were classified into two groups, but mixed in space, suggesting that the existent wild trees of M. glyptostroboides cannot be divided into different evolutionarily significant units. However, using nSSRs, we detected strong spatial genetic structure, with significant genetic differentiation and weak gene flow between the samples in the east of the species' distribution range and other samples. The divergence between the two nSSR groups was dated to the Last Glacial Maximum (c. 19.6 kya), suggesting that such spatial genetic structure has been maintained for a long term. Therefore, these two nSSR groups should be considered as different conservation units, that is, management units, to protect intergroup genetic variations, which is likely to be the outputs of local adaptation. Our findings highlight the necessity to reveal small-scale genetic structure and population demography to improve the conservation strategies of evolutionary potential of endangered plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan‐Yuan Li
- Zhejiang Tiantong Forest Ecosystem National Observation and Research Station, Shanghai Key Lab for Urban Ecological Processes and Eco‐Restoration, School of Ecological and Environmental SciencesEast China Normal UniversityShanghaiChina
- Institute of Eco‐Chongming (IEC)ShanghaiChina
| | - Min‐Yan Cui
- Zhejiang Tiantong Forest Ecosystem National Observation and Research Station, Shanghai Key Lab for Urban Ecological Processes and Eco‐Restoration, School of Ecological and Environmental SciencesEast China Normal UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Xiao‐Wei Le
- Zhejiang Tiantong Forest Ecosystem National Observation and Research Station, Shanghai Key Lab for Urban Ecological Processes and Eco‐Restoration, School of Ecological and Environmental SciencesEast China Normal UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Jun Gong
- Zhejiang Tiantong Forest Ecosystem National Observation and Research Station, Shanghai Key Lab for Urban Ecological Processes and Eco‐Restoration, School of Ecological and Environmental SciencesEast China Normal UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Kai Jiang
- Zhejiang Tiantong Forest Ecosystem National Observation and Research Station, Shanghai Key Lab for Urban Ecological Processes and Eco‐Restoration, School of Ecological and Environmental SciencesEast China Normal UniversityShanghaiChina
- Eastern China Conservation Centre for Wild Endangered Plant ResourcesShanghai Chenshan Botanical GardenShanghaiChina
| | - Xin Tong
- Zhejiang Tiantong Forest Ecosystem National Observation and Research Station, Shanghai Key Lab for Urban Ecological Processes and Eco‐Restoration, School of Ecological and Environmental SciencesEast China Normal UniversityShanghaiChina
- Eastern China Conservation Centre for Wild Endangered Plant ResourcesShanghai Chenshan Botanical GardenShanghaiChina
| | - Qian Zhang
- Zhejiang Tiantong Forest Ecosystem National Observation and Research Station, Shanghai Key Lab for Urban Ecological Processes and Eco‐Restoration, School of Ecological and Environmental SciencesEast China Normal UniversityShanghaiChina
- State Key Laboratory of Systematic and Evolutionary Botany, Institute of BotanyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Jia‐Hui Li
- Zhejiang Tiantong Forest Ecosystem National Observation and Research Station, Shanghai Key Lab for Urban Ecological Processes and Eco‐Restoration, School of Ecological and Environmental SciencesEast China Normal UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Hong‐Yue Li
- Zhejiang Tiantong Forest Ecosystem National Observation and Research Station, Shanghai Key Lab for Urban Ecological Processes and Eco‐Restoration, School of Ecological and Environmental SciencesEast China Normal UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Ling Lu
- Zhejiang Tiantong Forest Ecosystem National Observation and Research Station, Shanghai Key Lab for Urban Ecological Processes and Eco‐Restoration, School of Ecological and Environmental SciencesEast China Normal UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Jie Zou
- Zhejiang Tiantong Forest Ecosystem National Observation and Research Station, Shanghai Key Lab for Urban Ecological Processes and Eco‐Restoration, School of Ecological and Environmental SciencesEast China Normal UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Rong Wang
- Zhejiang Tiantong Forest Ecosystem National Observation and Research Station, Shanghai Key Lab for Urban Ecological Processes and Eco‐Restoration, School of Ecological and Environmental SciencesEast China Normal UniversityShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Sustainable Plant InnovationShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological SecurityShanghaiChina
| | - Xiao‐Yong Chen
- Zhejiang Tiantong Forest Ecosystem National Observation and Research Station, Shanghai Key Lab for Urban Ecological Processes and Eco‐Restoration, School of Ecological and Environmental SciencesEast China Normal UniversityShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Sustainable Plant InnovationShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological SecurityShanghaiChina
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Lehnert SJ, Bradbury IR, Wringe BF, Van Wyngaarden M, Bentzen P. Multifaceted framework for defining conservation units: An example from Atlantic salmon ( Salmo salar) in Canada. Evol Appl 2023; 16:1568-1585. [PMID: 37752960 PMCID: PMC10519414 DOI: 10.1111/eva.13587] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Conservation units represent important components of intraspecific diversity that can aid in prioritizing and protecting at-risk populations, while also safeguarding unique diversity that can contribute to species resilience. In Canada, identification and assessments of conservation units is done by the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC). COSEWIC can recognize conservation units below the species level (termed "designatable units"; DUs) if the unit has attributes that make it both discrete and evolutionarily significant. There are various ways in which a DU can meet criteria of discreteness and significance, and increasing access to "big data" is providing unprecedented information that can directly inform both criteria. Specifically, the incorporation of genomic data for an increasing number of non-model species is informing more COSEWIC assessments; thus, a repeatable, robust framework is needed for integrating these data into DU characterization. Here, we develop a framework that uses a multifaceted, weight of evidence approach to incorporate multiple data types, including genetic and genomic data, to inform COSEWIC DUs. We apply this framework to delineate DUs of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar, L.), an economically, culturally, and ecologically significant species, that is also characterized by complex hierarchical population structure. Specifically, we focus on an in-depth example of how our approach was applied to a previously data limited region of northern Canada that was defined by a single large DU. Application of our framework with newly available genetic and genomic data led to subdividing this DU into three new DUs. Although our approach was developed to meet criteria of COSEWIC, it is widely applicable given similarities in the definitions of a conservation unit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J. Lehnert
- Northwest Atlantic Fisheries CentreFisheries and Oceans CanadaSt. John'sNewfoundland and LabradorCanada
| | - Ian R. Bradbury
- Northwest Atlantic Fisheries CentreFisheries and Oceans CanadaSt. John'sNewfoundland and LabradorCanada
| | - Brendan F. Wringe
- Bedford Institute of OceanographyFisheries and Oceans CanadaDartmouthNova ScotiaCanada
| | | | - Paul Bentzen
- Biology DepartmentDalhousie UniversityHalifaxNova ScotiaCanada
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Wilson KL, Sawyer AC, Potapova A, Bailey CJ, LoScerbo D, Sweeney-Bergen EK, Hodgson EE, Pitman KJ, Seitz KM, Law LK, Warkentin L, Wilson SM, Atlas WI, Braun DC, Sloat MR, Tinker MT, Moore JW. The role of spatial structure in at-risk metapopulation recoveries. Ecol Appl 2023; 33:e2898. [PMID: 37303288 DOI: 10.1002/eap.2898] [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: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Metapopulations are often managed as a single contiguous population despite the spatial structure underlying their local and regional dynamics. Disturbances from human activities can also be spatially structured with mortality impacts concentrated to just a few local populations among the aggregate. Scale transitions between local and regional processes can generate emergent properties whereby the whole system can fail to recover as quickly as expected for an equivalent single population. Here, we draw on theory and empirical case studies to ask: what is the consequence of spatially structured ecological and disturbance processes on metapopulation recoveries? We suggest that exploring this question could help address knowledge gaps for managing metapopulations including: Why do some metapopulations recover quickly while others remain collapsed? And, what risks are unaccounted for when metapopulations are managed at aggregate scales? First, we used model simulations to examine how scale transitions among ecological and disturbance conditions interact to generate emergent metapopulation recovery outcomes. In general, we found that the spatial structure of disturbance was a strong determinant of recovery outcomes. Specifically, disturbances that unevenly impacted local populations consistently generated the slowest recoveries and highest conservation risks. Ecological conditions that dampened metapopulation recoveries included low dispersal, variable local demography, sparsely connected habitat networks, and spatially and temporally correlated stochastic processes. Second, we illustrate the unexpected challenges of managing metapopulations by examining the recoveries of three USA federally listed endangered species: Florida Everglade snail kites, California and Alaska sea otters, and Snake River Chinook salmon. Overall, our results show the pivotal role of spatial structure in metapopulation recoveries whereby the interplay between local and regional processes shapes the resilience of the whole system. With this understanding, we provide guidelines for resource managers tasked with conserving and managing metapopulations and identify opportunities for research to support the application of metapopulation theory to real-world challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle L Wilson
- Earth to Ocean Research Group, Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
- Central Coast Indigenous Resource Alliance, Campbell River, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Alexandra C Sawyer
- Earth to Ocean Research Group, Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Anna Potapova
- Earth to Ocean Research Group, Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Colin J Bailey
- Earth to Ocean Research Group, Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Daniella LoScerbo
- Cooperative Resource Management Institute, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, School of Resource & Environmental Management, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Elissa K Sweeney-Bergen
- Earth to Ocean Research Group, Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Emma E Hodgson
- Earth to Ocean Research Group, Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Kara J Pitman
- Earth to Ocean Research Group, Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Karl M Seitz
- Earth to Ocean Research Group, Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Lauren K Law
- Earth to Ocean Research Group, Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Luke Warkentin
- Earth to Ocean Research Group, Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Samantha M Wilson
- Earth to Ocean Research Group, Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - William I Atlas
- Earth to Ocean Research Group, Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Douglas C Braun
- Cooperative Resource Management Institute, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, School of Resource & Environmental Management, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | | | - M Tim Tinker
- Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California, USA
| | - Jonathan W Moore
- Earth to Ocean Research Group, Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
- Cooperative Resource Management Institute, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, School of Resource & Environmental Management, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
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47
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Lombardo MS, Mirolo M, Brandes F, Osterhaus ADME, Schütte K, Ludlow M, Barkhoff M, Baumgärtner W, Puff C. Case report: Canine distemper virus infection as a cause of central nervous system disease in a Eurasian lynx ( Lynx lynx). Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1251018. [PMID: 37645675 PMCID: PMC10461803 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1251018] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx) represents an endangered species with only small populations remaining in Central Europe. Knowledge about the threat posed by potential infectious agents to these animals is crucial for informing ongoing protection measures. Canine distemper virus (CDV) is known to have a wide host range with infection reported in many mammalian species including several lynx species (Lynx pardinus, Lynx canadensis, Lynx rufus), but is an extremely rare finding in the Eurasian lynx. The present report describes a case of a Eurasian lynx showing central nervous signs, including apathy and ataxia. A CT scan revealed multiple hypodense areas in different localizations within the brain as well as enlarged liquid filled areas, leading to the suspicion of a degenerative process. Due to clinical deterioration, the animal was euthanized and submitted for macroscopical and histological investigations. Histological investigations revealed multifocal demyelinations in the cerebellum, brain stem and cervical spinal cord as well as a multifocal, perivascular, lymphohistiocytic meningoencephalitis. A CDV infection was confirmed by immunohistochemistry and RT-PCR analyses. This CDV infection of a Eurasian lynx resembles a classical chronic manifestation of distemper in dogs and highlights the threat posed by canine distemper to this species.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Monica Mirolo
- Research Center for Emerging Infections and Zoonoses, University of Veterinary Medicine, Hannover, Germany
| | - Florian Brandes
- Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center Sachsenhagen, Sachsenhagen, Germany
| | - Albert D. M. E. Osterhaus
- Research Center for Emerging Infections and Zoonoses, University of Veterinary Medicine, Hannover, Germany
| | - Karolin Schütte
- Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center Sachsenhagen, Sachsenhagen, Germany
| | - Martin Ludlow
- Research Center for Emerging Infections and Zoonoses, University of Veterinary Medicine, Hannover, Germany
| | | | | | - Christina Puff
- Department of Pathology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Hannover, Germany
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48
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Wadl PA, Dattilo AJ, Call G, Hadziabdic D, Trigiano RN. Pityopsis ruthii: An Updated Review of Conservation Efforts for an Endangered Plant. Plants (Basel) 2023; 12:2693. [PMID: 37514307 PMCID: PMC10385060 DOI: 10.3390/plants12142693] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
Pityopsis ruthii (Small) Small, Ruth's golden aster, is an endangered Asteraceae species that grows in the riparian zone along small sections of two rivers in the Southern Appalachian Mountains of the United States of America (USA). Since 1985, the species has been listed under the Endangered Species Act by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). The mission of the USFWS is to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, and plants and their habitats for the continued benefit of the American people. The agency provides national leadership in the recovery and conservation of imperiled plant species by working with the scientific community to protect important habitats, increase species' populations, and identify and reduce threats to species survival with the goal of removal from federal protection. Over the past 35 years, research efforts have focused on studies designed to delineate the range and size of populations, determine habitat requirements, reproductive and propagation potential, and understand the demographic, ecological, and genetic factors that may increase vulnerability to extinction for P. ruthii. Cooperative partnerships have driven the completion of actions called for in the strategy to recover P. ruthii, and in this review, we highlight these efforts within the context of species conservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phillip A Wadl
- U.S. Vegetable Laboratory, United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Charleston, SC 29414, USA
| | | | - Geoff Call
- United States Fish and Wildlife Service, Cookeville, TN 38501, USA
| | - Denita Hadziabdic
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, The University of Tennessee, 2505 EJ Chapman Drive, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Robert N Trigiano
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, The University of Tennessee, 2505 EJ Chapman Drive, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
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Balàka PF, Ugarković P, Türtscher J, Kriwet J, Niedermüller S, Krstinić P, Jambura PL. Updated Checklist of Chondrichthyan Species in Croatia (Central Mediterranean Sea). Biology (Basel) 2023; 12:952. [PMID: 37457320 PMCID: PMC7614753 DOI: 10.3390/biology12070952] [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] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Almost half of all chondrichthyan species in the Mediterranean Sea are threatened with extinction, according to the IUCN Red List. Due to a substantial lack of access to data on chondrichthyan catches in the Mediterranean Sea, especially of threatened species, the implementation of conservation measures is extremely insufficient. This also concerns the Adriatic Sea. Here we present a detailed and up-to-date assessment of the species occurring in Croatian waters, as the last checklist of chondrichthyans in Croatian waters was conducted in 2009. Occurrence records from historical data, literature and citizen science information have been compiled in order to present a comprehensive list of species occurrences. We found 54 chondrichthyan species between 1822 and 2022, consisting of a single chimaera, 23 rays and skates, and 30 shark species. Here, four additional species are listed but are considered doubtful. Five species are reported here for the first time for Croatian waters that were not listed in the survey from 2009. Nearly one-third of the species reported here are critically endangered in the entire Mediterranean Sea, based on the IUCN Red List. Additionally, we revisited the Croatian records of the sandtiger shark Carcharias taurus Rafinesque, 1810 and discussed its potential confusion with the smalltooth sandtiger shark Odontaspis ferox (Risso, 1810). Our results thus provide novel insights into the historical and current distribution patterns of chondrichthyan fishes in the Croatian Sea and provide a basis for further research as well as conservation measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pia F. Balàka
- Department of Palaeontology, University of Vienna, Josef-Holaubek-Platz 2 (UZA II), 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Pero Ugarković
- World Wide Fund for Nature Adria (WWF Adria), Gundulićeva 63, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Julia Türtscher
- Department of Palaeontology, University of Vienna, Josef-Holaubek-Platz 2 (UZA II), 1090 Vienna, Austria
- Vienna Doctoral School of Ecology and Evolution (VDSEE), University of Vienna, Djerassiplatz 1, 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Jürgen Kriwet
- Department of Palaeontology, University of Vienna, Josef-Holaubek-Platz 2 (UZA II), 1090 Vienna, Austria
- Vienna Doctoral School of Ecology and Evolution (VDSEE), University of Vienna, Djerassiplatz 1, 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Simone Niedermüller
- World Wide Fund for Nature Mediterranean Marine Initiative (WWF MMI), Via Po 25/c, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Patrik Krstinić
- World Wide Fund for Nature Adria (WWF Adria), Gundulićeva 63, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Patrick L. Jambura
- Department of Palaeontology, University of Vienna, Josef-Holaubek-Platz 2 (UZA II), 1090 Vienna, Austria
- Vienna Doctoral School of Ecology and Evolution (VDSEE), University of Vienna, Djerassiplatz 1, 1030 Vienna, Austria
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50
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Garcia VC, Amorim LGDS, Esteves RG, de Carvalho-E-Silva AMPT, de Almeida-Santos SM. Ultrasonographic and radiographic evaluation of gestation in golden lanceheads (Bothrops insularis) in ex situ breeding programs. Zoo Biol 2023; 42:577-581. [PMID: 36959717 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21764] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/25/2023]
Abstract
The golden lancehead (Bothrops insularis) is a critically endangered snake endemic to Queimada Grande Island, southeastern Brazil. Captive breeding programs are vital for the conservation of this species. This study evaluates the gestation of two females golden lanceheads using radiography and ultrasonography. The first female was collected on the island while reproductively active (late vitellogenesis or early pregnancy) and kept in captivity. This female gave birth to five neonates after an 8-month gestation period, which is longer than estimates based on specimens preserved in museums. The second female copulated in captivity in July and probably ovulated in October. In this case, no embryonic development was detected, and the female deposited 14 undeveloped eggs approximately 6 months after ovulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viviane Campos Garcia
- Departamento de Cirurgia, Programa de Pós-graduação em Anatomia dos Animais Domésticos e Silvestres, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Centro de Desenvolvimento Científico, Laboratório de Ecologia e Evolução, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Lígia Grazziely Dos Santos Amorim
- Departamento de Cirurgia, Programa de Pós-graduação em Anatomia dos Animais Domésticos e Silvestres, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Centro de Desenvolvimento Científico, Laboratório de Ecologia e Evolução, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rhaiza Gama Esteves
- Departamento de Zoologia, Programa de Pós-graduação em Biodiversidade Neotropical, Faculdade de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Ana Maria Paulino Telles de Carvalho-E-Silva
- Departamento de Zoologia, Programa de Pós-graduação em Biodiversidade Neotropical, Faculdade de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Selma Maria de Almeida-Santos
- Departamento de Cirurgia, Programa de Pós-graduação em Anatomia dos Animais Domésticos e Silvestres, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Centro de Desenvolvimento Científico, Laboratório de Ecologia e Evolução, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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