Viewport Size Code:
Login | Create New Account
picture

  MENU

About | Classical Genetics | Timelines | What's New | What's Hot

About | Classical Genetics | Timelines | What's New | What's Hot

icon

Bibliography Options Menu

icon
QUERY RUN:
HITS:
PAGE OPTIONS:
Hide Abstracts   |   Hide Additional Links
NOTE:
Long bibliographies are displayed in blocks of 100 citations at a time. At the end of each block there is an option to load the next block.

Bibliography on: Invasive Species

The Electronic Scholarly Publishing Project: Providing world-wide, free access to classic scientific papers and other scholarly materials, since 1993.

More About:  ESP | OUR CONTENT | THIS WEBSITE | WHAT'S NEW | WHAT'S HOT

ESP: PubMed Auto Bibliography 24 May 2025 at 01:51 Created: 

Invasive Species

Standard Definition: Invasive species are plants, animals, or pathogens that are non-native (or alien) to the ecosystem under consideration and whose introduction causes or is likely to cause harm. Although that definition allows a logical possibility that some species might be non-native and harmless, most of time it seems that invasive species and really bad critter (or weed) that should be eradicated are seen as equivalent phrases. But, there is a big conceptual problem with that notion: every species in every ecosystem started out in that ecosystem as an invader. If there were no invasive species, all of Hawaii would be nothing but bare volcanic rock. Without an invasion of species onto land, there would be no terrestrial ecosystems at all. For the entire history of life on Earth, the biosphere has responded to perturbation and to opportunity with evolutionary innovation and with physical movement. While one may raise economic or aesthetic arguments against invasive species, it is impossible to make such an argument on scientific grounds. Species movement — the occurrence of invasive species — is the way the biosphere responds to perturbation. One might even argue that species movement is the primary, short-term "healing" mechanism employed by the biosphere to respond to perturbation — to "damage." As with any healing process, the short-term effect may be aesthetically unappealing (who thinks scabs are appealing?), but the long-term effects can be glorious.

Created with PubMed® Query: ("invasive species" OR "invasion biology" OR "alien species" OR "introduced species" ) NOT pmcbook NOT ispreviousversion

Citations The Papers (from PubMed®)

-->

RevDate: 2025-05-22
CmpDate: 2025-05-22

Parga A, Mattu J, Belibasakis GN, et al (2025)

A polymicrobial perspective into the ecological role of Enterococcus faecalis in dental root canal infections.

NPJ biofilms and microbiomes, 11(1):83.

Enterococcus faecalis, a non-oral nosocomial pathogen, intriguingly ranks among the most frequently retrieved species from polymicrobial infections of dental root canals. This review integrates findings from the latest omics approaches, alongside emerging evidence of E. faecalis interactions within oral polymicrobial communities, to refine our understanding of its role in these infections. Herein, E. faecalis emerges as an ecologically invasive species and a catalyst of the pathogenicity of entire communities.

RevDate: 2025-05-22
CmpDate: 2025-05-22

Hordijk I, Poorter L, Liang J, et al (2025)

Effect of climate on traits of dominant and rare tree species in the world's forests.

Nature communications, 16(1):4773.

Species' traits and environmental conditions determine the abundance of tree species across the globe. The extent to which traits of dominant and rare tree species differ remains untested across a broad environmental range, limiting our understanding of how species traits and the environment shape forest functional composition. We use a global dataset of tree composition of >22,000 forest plots and 11 traits of 1663 tree species to ask how locally dominant and rare species differ in their trait values, and how these differences are driven by climatic gradients in temperature and water availability in forest biomes across the globe. We find three consistent trait differences between locally dominant and rare species across all biomes; dominant species are taller, have softer wood and higher loading on the multivariate stem strategy axis (related to narrow tracheids and thick bark). The difference between traits of dominant and rare species is more strongly driven by temperature compared to water availability, as temperature might affect a larger number of traits. Therefore, climate change driven global temperature rise may have a strong effect on trait differences between dominant and rare tree species and may lead to changes in species abundances and therefore strong community reassembly.

RevDate: 2025-05-22

Tanney JB, Kemler M, Vivas M, et al (2025)

Silent invaders: the hidden threat of asymptomatic phytobiomes to forest biosecurity.

The New phytologist [Epub ahead of print].

Populations of diverse, unknown, and potentially pathogenic fungi and fungus-like organisms are continuously introduced into new locations via asymptomatic infections (e.g. as endophytes or latent pathogens) within internationally traded live plants. Interactions between these asymptomatic fungi and novel recipient host trees can be unpredictable, and urban introductions may act as bridgeheads into natural and managed forests. Historical examples of novel, highly destructive forest tree diseases highlight the potential threat of this pathway. As the trade in live plants continues to expand, the likelihood of high-impact incursions increases. This has led to calls for more proactive management, including more stringent treatment and regulatory standards, and even the phasing out of trade in plants determined to be an untenable risk to forest ecosystems. In this review, we discuss how biosecurity systems should consider advances in understanding the diversity and ecology of phytobiomes associated with asymptomatic plants and what measures can be considered to reduce this threat to global forest health.

RevDate: 2025-05-23
CmpDate: 2025-05-21

Bacher S, Ryan-Colton E, Coiro M, et al (2025)

Global Impacts Dataset of Invasive Alien Species (GIDIAS).

Scientific data, 12(1):832.

Invasive alien species are a major driver of global change, impacting biodiversity, ecosystem services, and human livelihoods. To document these impacts, we present the Global Impacts Dataset of Invasive Alien Species (GIDIAS), a dataset on the positive, negative and neutral impacts of invasive alien species on nature, nature's contributions to people, and good quality of life. This dataset arises from the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services' (IPBES) thematic assessment report of this topic. Data were compiled from published sources, including grey literature, reporting a direct observation of an invasive alien species' impact. All impact records contain up to 52 fields of contextual information and attempt to link impacts to the global standard "environmental impact classification for alien taxa" (EICAT) and "socio-economic impact classification for alien taxa" (SEICAT). GIDIAS includes more than 22000 records of impacts caused by 3353 invasive alien species (plants, vertebrates, invertebrates, microorganisms) from all continents and realms (terrestrial, freshwater, marine), extracted from over 6700 sources. We intend GIDIAS to be a global resource for investigating and managing the variety of impacts of invasive alien species across taxa and regions.

RevDate: 2025-05-21

Yang J, Chen Z, Zhang W, et al (2025)

Relationships among multiple ecosystem services in mountainous regions: A case study of the Gaoligong Mountains.

Journal of environmental management, 387:125765 pii:S0301-4797(25)01741-4 [Epub ahead of print].

Understanding the drivers and ecological implications of trade-offs and synergies among ecosystem services (ESs) is essential for sustainable mountain management. While previous studies have mapped ES relationships, the mechanisms underpinning their spatial heterogeneity in coupled human-natural systems remain underexplored. Here, we integrated gradient-based approaches to assess the distribution patterns of four ESs-water yield (WY), carbon storage (CS), net primary productivity (NPP), and habitat quality (HQ)-in the transboundary Gaoligong Mountains from 2001 to 2020. We found that: (1) Process-based services (WY-NPP) exhibited strong trade-offs, driven by climatic constraints and plantation expansion on southern slopes, where monoculture forests enhanced NPP but reduced infiltration capacity; (2) Synergies between structure-based services (CS-HQ) dominated mid-elevation forests, reflecting the dual role of conserved evergreen broadleaf forests in sequestering carbon and sustaining biodiversity through environmental conditions, complex canopy structures, and minimal human disturbance. Human activities disrupted natural synergies, as CS-HQ relationships shifted to trade-offs in high-intensity zones (e.g., cropland fragmentation and invasive species spread), highlighting conflicts between short-term provisioning and long-term regulating services; (3) Elevation gradients further shaped these dynamics: mid-elevation zones maintained balanced ecosystem service provision, while low-elevation agricultural areas experienced dual declines in net primary productivity (NPP) and habitat quality (HQ) due to cultivated land fragmentation, creating a trade-off between these services. This study contributes significantly to our understanding of ESs and intricate relationships within mountainous regions across temporal and spatial gradients. Our findings underscore the need to prioritize mid-elevation conservation corridors and adaptive agroforestry, providing valuable insights for decision-making processes in transboundary ecosystem conservation.

RevDate: 2025-05-21

Mayack C, Carlson M, Niño BD, et al (2025)

Impacts of almond pollination service and inter-row cover cropping on honey bee colony strength and performance.

The Science of the total environment, 983:179703 pii:S0048-9697(25)01344-0 [Epub ahead of print].

Intensive agriculture has become necessary to meet the growing global demand for food and in some crops, successful fruit and seed production involves the activity of insect pollinators. Among insects, honey bees are one of the most efficient pollinators and in the agriculture industry, worth over 200 billion dollars annually, economic yield of some commodity crops, such as almonds, are heavily reliant upon pollination by honey bees. Almonds are a quintessential example of the commercial application of plant-pollinator dependency. Acreages of almonds mostly comprise of self-incompatible varieties that need bees for transferring pollen from the flowers of 'pollenizer' varieties to those of nut-yielding varieties, facilitating cross-pollination. Early season flowering phenology of almonds, when there are very few other plants in bloom, facilitates honey bee colony growth after the overwintering quiescence. Here, (i) we assessed colony strength and performance before and after almond pollination service and (ii) the impacts of availability of flowering interrow mustard-mix cover crops. Results show that there were consistently more frames of bees, pollen stores, brood, and adult bees in colonies returning from almond pollination service. The availability of mustard-mix cover crops supports increased colony strength through the season, facilitating long lasting positive impacts on honey bee health. Our findings suggest that agroecosystem management practices such as interrow cover cropping, strengthen the immediate and long-term positive impacts from pollination services by improving honey bee colony performance while simultaneously promoting ecosystem function.

RevDate: 2025-05-23
CmpDate: 2025-05-21

Lutschini IRT, Ballard KR, Wang T, et al (2025)

Acetylcholinesterase-like proteins are a major component of reproductive trail mucus in the invasive pest land snail, Theba pisana.

PloS one, 20(5):e0323380.

Invasive invertebrate pests have become a major threat to food security as global populations increase. Pesticides, often containing organophosphates, have long been used as agents for providing immediate short-term recovery, yet are often broad-spectrum, leading to the development of resistance. In insect species, one mechanism for resistance is known to be driven by mutations in acetylcholinesterase (AChE), an enzyme that catalyses the hydrolysis of acetylcholine. In this study, we explored a potential role for resistance-modified AChE in invasive pest land snails, using the Mediterranean snail Theba pisana. Following tissue transcriptomic investigation, an expanded family of AChE-like genes were identified that clustered phylogenetically into three individual clades, with one clade including vertebrate AChE. The majority of T. pisana AChE-like genes demonstrated the highest expression in the snail mucous gland during its reproductive stage. Subsequent proteomic analysis of trail mucus at the reproductive stage identified four AChE-like proteins as a major component. Immunolocalisation revealed that AChE-like protein(s) were prominent in the mucous gland secretory cells and widespread throughout the reproductive stage trail mucus, yet were largely absent from trail mucus at the non-reproductive stage. In summary, this study established a potential role for resistance-modified AChE-like proteins in pest land snail pesticide resistance via their deployment into trail mucus that may bio-scavenge organophosphates, rendering them ineffective. Their abundance during the reproductive stage is likely due to the snail's increased mobility, following periods of immobile aestivation.

RevDate: 2025-05-21
CmpDate: 2025-05-21

Verneau O, Quinn D, Smith KG, et al (2025)

Role of Trachemys scripta elegans in polystome (Platyhelminthes, Monogenea, Polystomatidae) spillover and spillback following the trade of freshwater turtles in southern Europe and North America.

Parasite (Paris, France), 32:30.

The red-eared slider, Trachemys scripta elegans (Wied, 1938), has been introduced worldwide, partly because of the exotic pet trade in the 1980s and 1990s. When T. s. elegans is released or escapes into natural environments, it often establishes new feral populations due to its tolerance for a variety of aquatic ecosystems. Therefore, it is now considered one of the most invasive species in the world because it can compete with native turtle species. In the present study, our objectives were to identify the potential for polystome spillover and spillback resulting from the introduction of the red-eared slider into new environments in North America. Fieldwork investigations were thus conducted mainly in aquatic habitats in Florida and North Carolina, United States, but also in Connecticut, Indiana, Kansas, Maine, Nebraska and New York. Using DNA barcoding based on cytochrome c oxidase I (COI) sequences, we surveyed the species diversity of polystome within American freshwater turtles. These included T. s. elegans but also Apalone ferox, Apalone spinifera, Chelydra serpentina, Chrysemys picta, Kinosternon baurii, Pseudemys spp., Sternotherus minor and Sternotherus odoratus. Genetic evidence confirmed that invasive populations of T. s. elegans in southern Europe have transmitted their own polystomes to native host species following spillover effects, and revealed here that T. s. elegans in non-indigenous habitats in the United States acts as a new reservoir of infection for native polystomes following spillback effects, thus increasing indigenous parasite transmission in the wild. Together, these findings raise further concern about the spread of non-native turtles and their impact on parasite transmission.

RevDate: 2025-05-22

Bian C, Li R, Ouyang Y, et al (2025)

Chromosome-level genome assemblies of five Sinocyclocheilus species.

GigaByte (Hong Kong, China), 2025:gigabyte155.

Sinocyclocheilus, a genus of tetraploid fishes endemic to Southwest China's karst regions, are classified as second-class nationally protected species due to their fragile habitat. Limited high-quality genomic resources have hampered studies on their phylogenetic relationships and the origin of their polyploidy. Here, we present a high-quality genome assembly of the most abundant Sinocyclocheilus species, the golden-line barbel (Sinocyclocheilus grahami), by integrating PacBio long-read and Hi-C sequencing. The resulting scaffold-level genome-assembly is 1.6 Gb long, with a scaffold N50 of up to 30.7 Mb. We annotated 42,806 protein-coding genes. Also, 93.1% of the assembled genome sequences (about 1.5 Gb) and 93.8% of the total predicted genes were successfully anchored onto 48 chromosomes. Furthermore, we obtained chromosome-level genome assemblies for four other Sinocyclocheilus species (S. anophthalmus, S. maitianheensis, S. anshuiensis, and S. rhinocerous) based on homologous comparisons. These genomic resources will enable in-depth investigations on cave adaptation, improvement of economic values, and conservation of diverse Sinocyclocheilus fishes.

RevDate: 2025-05-22

Ye N, Mai W, Qin F, et al (2025)

Early detection of Citrus Huanglongbing by UAV remote sensing based on MGA-UNet.

Frontiers in plant science, 16:1503645.

Citrus Huanglongbing (HLB), also known as citrus greening, is a severe disease that has caused substantial economic damage to the global citrus industry. Early detection is challenging due to the lack of distinctive early symptoms, making current diagnostic methods often ineffective. Therefore, there is an urgent need for an intelligent and timely detection system for HLB. This study leverages multispectral imagery acquired via unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and deep convolutional neural networks. This study introduce a novel model, MGA-UNet, specifically designed for HLB recognition. This image segmentation model enhances feature transmission by integrating channel attention and spatial attention within the skip connections. Furthermore, this study evaluate the comparative effectiveness of high-resolution and multispectral images in HLB detection, finding that multispectral imagery offers superior performance. To address data imbalance and augment the dataset, this study employ a generative model, DCGAN, for data augmentation, significantly boosting the model's recognition accuracy. Our proposed model achieved a mIoU of 0.89, a mPA of 0.94, a precision of 0.95, and a recall of 0.94 in identifying diseased trees. The intelligent monitoring method for HLB presented in this study offers a cost-effective and highly accurate solution, holding considerable promise for the early warning of this disease.

RevDate: 2025-05-21

Reck J, Gonchoroski GZ, de Mello LS, et al (2025)

Feline Leukemia Virus in Free-ranging Neotropical Wild Felids and in Domestic Cats Found Inside Protected Areas within Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.

Journal of wildlife diseases pii:506991 [Epub ahead of print].

Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) are retroviruses that cause severe diseases in domestic cats. Recently, they have emerged as a concern for wild felids. The aim of this study was to evaluate the exposure to feline retroviruses in free-ranging Neotropical wild felids from southern Brazil. A total of 48 road-killed wild felids belonging to three species were sampled: Geoffroy's cat (Leopardus geoffroyi), margay (Leopardus wiedii), and Southern tiger cat (Leopardus guttulus). In addition, 28 domestic cats found inside protected areas were investigated. Both the wild and domestic felids were tested for the presence of FeLV and FIV with lateral flow immunoassay (LFA) and molecular methods. Three wild felids (two Geoffroy's cats and one margay) were positive to FeLV by LFA (antigen), PCR (proviral DNA), and quantitative reverse-transcription PCR (viral RNA). From the 28 free-roaming domestic cats sampled inside protected areas, 10 (35%) were positive for FeLV. None of the domestic or wild felids were positive for FIV. In addition to the occurrence of FeLV in two species of free-ranging Neotropical felids, FeLV-positive domestic cats appear to be relatively common in protected areas from southern Brazil, posing an important risk of FeLV transmission to threatened wild felids inside those areas.

RevDate: 2025-05-20

Gunay F, Yildirim A, Zangaladze E, et al (2025)

Predicting the Potential Distribution of Aedes albopictus in the Black Sea Region at the Range Edge.

Acta tropica pii:S0001-706X(25)00137-8 [Epub ahead of print].

Aedes albopictus is a globally invasive species and a major vector of multiple arboviruses that cause human disease. The species has been spreading throughout the Black Sea region since 2011, posing an important public health threat. Here, we use a species distribution modeling to predict the potential distribution of Ae. albopictus including updated field collections from the Black Sea region and georeferenced occurrence data from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, Global Biodiversity Information Facility, and Mosquito Alert. Temperature and precipitation values from WorldClim Bioclimatic data and LandScan human population density data served as environmental variables, and models were run using a maximum entropy algorithm in the Maxent program. Human population density contributed the greatest to model performance, followed by minimum temperature of the coldest month. In the Black Sea region, we observed patchy but notable increases in predicted suitability compared to previous global models, including in less densely populated areas. In addition to multiple coastal areas, temperate rainforests of the Caucasus and around the Bosphorus were predicted to be highly suitable for Ae. albopictus. Our field collections confirm Ae. albopictus at high elevations (1779 m), highlighting the need to include habitats at the interface of areas predicted environmentally unsuitable in transboundary surveillance efforts. Model outputs provide new information for institutions monitoring the spread of this invasive vector. Results indicate the need for comprehensive, region-focused surveillance and control strategies to mitigate Ae. albopictus expansion in areas previously considered unsuitable in Georgia, Turkey, Ukraine, and their neighboring countries.

RevDate: 2025-05-20
CmpDate: 2025-05-21

Chouvenc T, Helmick EE, Brown A, et al (2025)

Ongoing human-mediated spread and hybridization of two major invasive termite species.

Proceedings. Biological sciences, 292(2047):20250413.

Human-mediated biological invasions can lead to introgressive hybridization events between lineages that have evolved independently, with potential for evolutionary, ecological, economic and social impacts. This study provides evidence for the ongoing spread and hybridization between two major invasive and destructive termite pest species, Coptotermes gestroi and C. formosanus in Florida. Heterospecific courtship behaviour between alates (winged reproductive caste) of the two species has led to the establishment of F1 hybrid colonies in the field, which have matured and produced F1 hybrid alates. Laboratory backcross attempts confirmed the possibility for F1 hybrid female alates to establish viable F2 colonies with males of either parental species. With the recent documentation of introgressive hybridization between the two species in Taiwan, the current study confirms its independent occurrence in Florida, demonstrating that both Coptotermes species can hybridize in areas where their distributions overlap. In Florida, the proximity of field-established hybrid colonies to the large leisure boat industry implies that Florida populations of C. gestroi, C. formosanus and their hybrids will continue to serve as a bridgehead source of propagules for further dispersal beyond their current distribution, with a potential for F1 hybrids to spread outside of Florida.

RevDate: 2025-05-21

Sencenbaugh L, Maxwell BD, LJ Rew (2025)

Clash of the Invaders: Competition Dynamics of Bromus tectorum and Ventenata dubia in an Addition Series Study.

Ecology and evolution, 15(5):e71458.

Competitive interactions between co-occurring invasive species can have detrimental impacts on native communities and cause counter-effective responses to management. Targeted removal of one invader may allow for the release of a subdominant invader, causing a secondary invasion. The goal of this research was to elucidate competitive dynamics between Bromus tectorum and Ventenata dubia, two invasive winter annual grasses found in the western United States. We quantified the impacts of (1) intraspecific competition on B. tectorum and V. dubia as the density of conspecifics increased and (2) interspecific competition between the two at varying proportions. The two species were grown at increasing densities and proportions (addition series) over 10 weeks in a greenhouse. Aboveground biomass was harvested and weighed. We derived the intraspecific and interspecific competitive effects on each species with a nonlinear analysis and used these coefficients to determine relative competitive ability (RCA). Both species were impacted by interspecific competition and intraspecific competition. More conspecifics were required to cause a decline in both species' biomass relative to the number of allospecifics that caused the same response. Interestingly, the number of allospecific individuals to imposed an impact was similar. The RCA values for both species were < 1, which indicated that interspecific competition had a greater influence on both species than intraspecific competition. This suggests that the replacement of B. tectorum by V. dubia is unlikely to be caused by aboveground competition alone. However, there are differences in germination timing between the two species; both germinate in the fall, but V. dubia also germinates in the spring. Management that targets fall-germinating individuals may reduce B. tectorum and fall-germinating V. dubia but not impact spring-germinating V. dubia, which may release these individuals from competition. Understanding the competitive interactions between these species provides insight into invasive species impacts and management.

RevDate: 2025-05-21
CmpDate: 2025-05-19

Kartakis S, Horrocks KJ, Cingiz K, et al (2025)

Migration extent and potential economic impact of the fall armyworm in Europe.

Scientific reports, 15(1):17405.

The fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith, 1979), is a major agricultural pest native to the Americas that feeds on several crops, particularly maize. Since 2016, FAW has invaded more than 50 African countries, much of Southeast Asia, and Oceania, severely impacting agriculture and posing a threat to global food security. Following its recent detections in Europe in 2023, this study investigates FAW's migratory capacity and potential direct economic impact on European grain maize production under a "no-control" scenario-areas previously unexplored in the context of Europe. We explored FAW's potential distribution across the European continent by incorporating updated climatic data, refined parameter values, and an expanded occurrence dataset into a revised CLIMEX niche model. Our results reveal sizable potential economic impacts with the southern European Member States facing up to €546 ha[- 1] grain maize gross margin annual losses, exceeding €900 million under the worst-case scenario. These member states bear the highest risk since they include areas projected to be climatically suitable for both permanent FAW establishment and transient populations during warmer months. This study provides important insights into the risks posed by FAW to Europe and can inform preparedness and decision-making to mitigate the economic consequences of its invasion.

RevDate: 2025-05-21
CmpDate: 2025-05-19

Culotta JA, Ervin ML, Vetter BJ, et al (2025)

Conditioning invasive bigheaded carps (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix and H. nobilis)to enhance the efficacy of acoustic and CO2 deterrents.

PloS one, 20(5):e0320395.

Invasive bigheaded carps (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix and H. nobilis) have caused substantial ecological and economic damage throughout the Mississippi River Basin and expanded their range threatening the Laurentian Great Lakes. Broadband acoustic deterrents have shown promise in repelling carp and are currently being assessed in navigational lock chambers on the Mississippi River. These nonphysical deterrents permit vessel navigation while reducing carp passage. However, no single deterrent is 100% effective and fish may habituate to the sound after repeated playback. Carp exhibit aversive behaviors to carbon dioxide, which suggests combining these two stimuli into one deterrent system could extend the effective duration of sound and reduce the frequency of carbon dioxide ([Formula: see text]) application. We conditioned bigheaded carps to associate broadband sound from outboard boat motors (0.06-5 kHz, [Formula: see text]150 dB re. 1 [Formula: see text]Pa) with [Formula: see text] application ([Formula: see text]35,000 ppm) in small (80 L) and large (3475 L) two-choice shuttle tanks. We compared negative phonotaxis responses over one to four weeks between fish conditioned with sound and [Formula: see text], sound and air, or sound alone. Similar [Formula: see text] avoidance thresholds were found across tank sizes and species. Conditioning treatment did not affect time to leave the sound chamber, confirming sound alone remains a deterrent for all fish. Carp conditioned with [Formula: see text] took longer to return to the sound chamber than control treatments. Control fish were closer to the speaker during playback than during the pre-sound period, while fish conditioned with [Formula: see text] were not significantly closer. Conditioning paradigms may extend the effective duration of nonphysical deterrents for bigheaded carps. Conditioning with [Formula: see text] may also increase proactive flight-responses over reactive freeze-responses. Findings could be applied to increase nonphysical barrier effectiveness at locks along the Mississippi River and help protect the Laurentian Great Lakes from invasion.

RevDate: 2025-05-19

Muell MR, Hall JM, Smith KV, et al (2025)

Comparison of thermal developmental plasticity among seven recently sympatric Anolis species: insights into the evolution of reaction norms.

Evolution; international journal of organic evolution pii:8137875 [Epub ahead of print].

Theory predicts that thermal developmental plasticity evolves in response to thermal heterogeneity, suggesting that plasticity may be an important trait for establishment in novel climates. However, few studies use multi-species comparisons to examine how plasticity evolves, meaning there is little empirical basis with which to examine key theoretical predictions. We estimate patterns of thermal developmental plasticity in morphological and performance traits for seven Anolis lizard species inhabiting South Florida, USA. We found interspecific differences as well as intraspecific variation in reaction norms across species. Neither temperature heterogeneity in present-day invasive ranges in Florida, nor historical temperature heterogeneity from the contemporary native ranges, predicted reaction norm variation. Phylogeny and species identity typically predicted around 90-95% of reaction norm variation. Overall, these results suggest that thermal developmental plasticity in these traits exhibits variation that could be inconsistent with patterns expected under adaptive evolution to macroclimate. Examining the role of maternal nesting behavior and sampling of additional species can help to distinguish between neutral variation and selection toward multiple adaptive peaks. Our comparative study of thermal developmental plasticity in lizards provides new insight about macroevolutionary dynamics behind the evolution of developmental plasticity and the conditions under which adaptive plasticity is expected to evolve.

RevDate: 2025-05-21
CmpDate: 2025-05-19

Vardakas L, Perdikaris C, Freyhof J, et al (2025)

Global Patterns and Drivers of Freshwater Fish Extinctions: Can We Learn From Our Losses?.

Global change biology, 31(5):e70244.

Nearly one-third of extant freshwater fish species, which account for over 50% of global fish diversity, are at risk of extinction. Despite their crucial ecological and socioeconomic importance, the extinction of freshwater fishes remains under-researched on a global scale. This is a comprehensive assessment of taxonomic, spatial, and temporal patterns of freshwater fish extinctions while identifying key extinction drivers and driver synergies. Using data from the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List, 89 extinct freshwater fish and 11 extinct in the wild were analyzed. Taxonomic statistical analysis revealed the disproportionate impact on Cyprinidae, Leuciscidae, and Salmonidae. Estimated globally for the period 1851-2016, the modern extinction rate for freshwater fishes stands at 33.47 extinctions per million species-years (E/MSY), more than 100 times greater than the natural background extinction rate of 0.33 E/MSY. Extinction rates, when calculated per continent using the number of extinct species and the total number of species per continent, indicated that North America has the highest extinction rate (225.60 E/MSY), followed by Europe (220.26 E/MSY) and Asia (34.62 E/MSY). Although Africa is less affected, it still shows a 42-fold increase over the background rate. Bayesian modeling, reflecting cumulative species extinctions, indicated a strong association of North America and Asia with species loss (37 and 34 extinctions, respectively), a moderate one for Europe (20 extinctions) and a weak association of Africa (eight extinctions). Natural system modification, pollution, and invasive species emerged as the primary extinction drivers, often acting synergistically. Temporal trends indicate an acceleration in extinctions since the mid-20th century. This study highlights that, despite recent increases in conservation efforts, freshwater fish extinctions continue to rise, indicating the urgent need for integrated conservation strategies. Without immediate action, many species currently at risk may soon follow the same trajectory of extinction as the 100 extinct freshwater fishes of this study.

RevDate: 2025-05-19
CmpDate: 2025-05-19

Liu Z, Zhu B, Gao L, et al (2025)

Native Plant Diversity Provides Resistance to Invasion by an Alien Species in Natural and Experimental Settings.

Ecology letters, 28(5):e70137.

It remains uncertain whether native plant diversity increases resistance to plant invasions at meaningful scales in nature due to contradictions between observational and experimental studies. In a field survey of 253 sites spanning 15 latitudinal degrees in China, we found that the relative abundance of the invader Alternanthera philoxeroides decreased with increasing native plant richness. Results from a 3-year field experiment and a 2-year mesocosm experiment further demonstrated that native diversity can suppress A. philoxeroides population growth (but not dominance) when natives precede the invader, or limit its population size when natives arrive after the invader. Insect herbivores and the soil biota were unlikely to influence diversity-based resistance in the field experiment, as their effects on both A. philoxeroides and native species did not change with native richness. Our results provide solid evidence that native plant diversity can provide resistance against plant invasion in natural ecosystems.

RevDate: 2025-05-20

Cai M, Chen L, Chen M, et al (2025)

Nitrate nitrogen uptake and metabolism in Mikania micrantha stem: insights into enhanced growth and invasiveness.

Frontiers in plant science, 16:1525303.

The increasing atmospheric nitrogen deposition, characterized by a rising proportion of nitrate nitrogen (NO3[-]-N), is exacerbating the spread of invasive plant species. Despite this trend, the response mechanisms of Mikania micrantha, a highly invasive plant, to NO3[-]-N remain poorly understood. This study investigates the unique adaptation strategies of M. micrantha to elevated NO3[-]-N levels, providing novel insights into its invasive success under changing nitrogen deposition patterns. Field experiments showed that M. micrantha rhizosphere soil contained higher NO3 [-]N content and protease activity compared to companion plants (Paederia scandens, Ipomoea nil, and Ipomoea cairica). Both roots and stems of M. micrantha had higher NO3 [-]N content and demonstrated stronger nitrogen metabolism capabilities. Pot experiments further showed that increasing NO3[-]-N concentrations (0 mM-40 mM) significantly promoted M. micrantha growth, with optimal phenotypic responses (main stem length, leaf number, branch number, and biomass) observed at 5 mM NO3[-]-N. Nitrogen metabolism enzyme assays revealed that nitrate reductase (NR), nitrite reductase (NiR), glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH), and free amino acid content increased progressively with NO3[-]-N concentration. Transcriptome sequencing and qPCR analyses identified upregulation of key genes related to transcription factors, nitrate transporter-related, nitrogen metabolism enzyme, and amino acid synthesis pathway. These findings demonstrate that M. micrantha employs a multifaceted strategy to exploit elevated NO3[-]-N conditions: enhanced NO3[-]-N uptake from soil, efficient transport to stems, and robust nitrogen metabolism facilitated by coordinated gene expression. This study reveals the adaptation mechanisms of M. micrantha to NO3[-]-N enrichment, offering critical insights for predicting and managing invasive species responses to global atmospheric nitrogen deposition changes. The results highlight the importance of considering nitrogen composition, rather than just quantity, in invasive species management strategies.

RevDate: 2025-05-18
CmpDate: 2025-05-18

Xiang ZB, Wu RW, Huang RZ, et al (2024)

A survey of the introduction of Rhododendron from China to the United States during 1898-2023.

Ying yong sheng tai xue bao = The journal of applied ecology, 35(12):3369-3376.

The United States has conducted extensive plant introduction activities worldwide since the 19th century. Rhododendron species received particular attention due to their high ornamental value. In the 20th century, the United States focused particularly on Rhododendron resources in China. To clarify the history of the introduction of Rhododendron from China to the United States, we compiled historical records to trace the history of American Rhododendron introductions from China between 1898 and 2023, and verified the botanical names, introduction times, locations, and collectors. The results showed that a total of 1406 records of American Rhododendron introductions from China were compiled, including 215 species (including 27 varieties and 12 subspecies), which accounted for 29.5% of the total number of Rhododendron species in China. The introduction activities covered 20 provincial administrative regions, and 10 collectors were involved, with Wilson and Rock standing out for their significant contributions. The American introductions of Rhododendron from China enriched the diversity of Rhododendron species in the United States and enhancing their application in American gardens.

RevDate: 2025-05-18
CmpDate: 2025-05-18

Azri-Shah NN, Yusoff NAH, Abdullah F, et al (2025)

Genetic and Population Diversity of Temnocephalids Associated with the Invasive Crayfish Cherax quadricarinatus in Malaysia.

Acta parasitologica, 70(3):112.

PURPOSE: A previous study revealed that temnocephalids Diceratocephala boschmai, Craspedella pedum, and Decadidymus sp. were highly prevalent in Cheraq quadricarinatus in Melaka and Johor, Malaysia.

METHODS: Herein, study was conducted to extract temnocephalids from C. quadricarinatus and identified using a molecular approach via two DNA markers: 28S ribosomal DNA and mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (CO1). Thereafter, the population diversity of D. boschmai in Malaysia using the CO1 DNA marker was analysed to visualize the genetic associations among populations.

RESULTS: The analysis of 16 variable (segregating) sites in the CO1 gene alignment of sequence from D. boschmai revealed a calculated haplotype diversity of 0.1266 among populations which indicates genetic variation within the studied groups. Additionally, the determination of nucleotide diversity (II) yielded a value of 0.0035, and Tajima's D neutrality test yielded a negative value for all populations, suggesting no significant departure from neutral evolution.

CONCLUSION: AMOVA analysis indicated that the genetic variation or polymorphism is primarily contributed within populations (95%) compared to between populations (4%).

RevDate: 2025-05-16

Everts T, Deflem I, Van Driessche C, et al (2025)

Multiple source locations and long-distance dispersal explain the rapid spread of a recent amphibian invasion.

Heredity [Epub ahead of print].

Rapid range expansions are characteristic for non-native invasive species when introduced outside their native range. Understanding the dynamics and mechanisms of expanding non-native invasive species is key for regional management. While population genetics and long-term occurrence records are often used in this context, each provides only partial insights, highlighting the need for a combined approach. We demonstrate this synergy using the American bullfrog (Lithobates catesbeianus) invasion in the Grote Nete river valley (Belgium) as a case study. It is commonly believed that this invasion constitutes a single metapopulation established by one primary introduction followed by downstream dispersal. However, recent evidence suggests a more complex scenario, involving introduction at multiple locations and bidirectional dispersal. To differentiate between both scenarios, we analysed nearly three decades of occurrence records and 8592 single nucleotide polymorphisms across 372 individuals from 31 localities, and determined the number of source locations, the range expansion rate, the population genetic structure, and the magnitude and direction of gene flow. We found that invasive spread originated from up to six source locations followed by bidirectional dispersal and downstream long-distance dispersal (LDD) events. Our results suggest that at least two source locations were founded by primary introductions, two from LDD events, while the remaining resulted from secondary introductions. A canal crossing the river was identified as a dispersal barrier, leading to different invasion dynamics on both sides. Our study shows how asynchronous introductions at multiple locations, dispersal barriers, and environmental heterogeneity can lead to distinct spread dynamics within a seemingly continuous and interconnected metapopulation.

RevDate: 2025-05-17

Sánchez O, González-García V, Robla J, et al (2025)

Slow Invaders Going Fast: New Data of Exotic Slugs (Gastropoda: Eupulmonata) From Spain.

Ecology and evolution, 15(5):e71306.

Invasive species are a major concern in the current scenario of biodiversity loss. Most studies focus on vertebrates and insects, while other groups have been profoundly overlooked. Particularly, terrestrial slugs are among the most understudied taxa. Here, we contribute to expanding the scarce knowledge on exotic invertebrates by reporting the occurrence of two non-native terrestrial slugs in the Iberian Peninsula (northern Spain): Ambigolimax parvipenis, being also the first morphological confirmation for continental Spain, and Boettgerilla pallens, constituting the first record for continental Spain as well. Both species were collected in gardened urban areas or in peri-urban areas with a high presence of exotic ornamental plants. Some individuals were used for anatomical studies, while other ones were subjected to DNA extraction and PCR amplification and sequencing, comparing their sequences with closely related species from GenBank and confirming their previous morphological identification. Early detection of exotic species is crucial to avoid potential future threats. Unfortunately, many non-native species remain understudied or misidentified, leading to a silent invasion. Our findings entail a new step in the understanding of this neglected group and in the implications of urban gardened areas as a source of arrival of exotic fauna.

RevDate: 2025-05-20
CmpDate: 2025-05-20

Ceriani A, Chafik Y, Miali A, et al (2025)

Remediating heavy metal-contaminated soil through invasive alien plant-derived biochar and stinging nettle powder.

Chemosphere, 380:144435.

Invasive alien plant species (IAPS) threaten ecosystem integrity worldwide. IAPS eradication is expensive, and their biomass is considered waste. Producing biochar from IAPS biomasses could turn waste into a resource. At the same time, this material could be used to remediate polluted soils. Also, using widespread native weeds, such as Urtica dioica (U), as an additional amendment could further improve soil remediation. In a phytoremediation experiment, we applied biochar produced from two widespread IAPS' biomass, i.e. Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) (BA) and Solidago gigantea Aiton (BS), at different rates (2 % and 5 % w/w) together with Urtica dioica L. powder (U) (2 % w/w) in an Arsenic (As) and Lead (Pb)-contaminated soil, using Phaseolus vulgaris L. as an indicator plant species. We measured the amendment's effects on soil pore water (SPW) properties, plant and fine root development, and soil enzymatic activities. When BS was added alone, and when BA was combined with U SPW's pH and electrical conductivity (EC) increased and [Pb] diminished, which augmented plant growth and reduced Pb uptake. Combining the biochar types and U increased the soil's enzymatic activities, fine root length, biomass, and specific root length. Finally, both biochar types with U increased As mobility in SPW, leading to higher plant uptake in roots, although without translocation to aboveground organs. Our findings contribute to developing cost-effective and environmentally sustainable practices for managing polluted soil. Simultaneously, they tackle the problem of IAPS, which can be used in the future to provide guidelines for policymakers.

RevDate: 2025-05-15

Calvo-Mac C, Delgado-Parada N, Muñoz-Zanzi C, et al (2025)

Landscape Variables Associated with Toxoplasma gondii Exposure in American Mink (Neogale vison) and Domestic Cats (Felis catus) in the Valdivian Temperate Rainforest, Chile.

Journal of wildlife diseases pii:506930 [Epub ahead of print].

Toxoplasma gondii, a globally distributed protozoan, poses risks to wildlife and public health, with domestic cats playing a significant role in its dissemination. The Valdivian temperate rainforest in southern Chile, known for its biodiversity and endemism, faces threats from human activities and from invasive species such as domestic cats. We evaluated T. gondii seroprevalence in two sympatric introduced carnivores, an intermediate host, the American mink (Neogale vison), and a definitive host, the domestic cat (Felis catus), and we determined landscape variables linked to exposure for both species and identified high T. gondii exposure using ecological niche modeling. Seroprevalence for T. gondii in 180 American minks and 140 domestic cats exceeded 60% in both species, indicating significant exposure to T. gondii within the study area. Spatial analysis highlighted a relationship between low-altitude areas, characterized by floodable forests and slower river flow, and elevated T. gondii exposure in both species. Areas with agricultural activity and higher human and cattle densities, such as croplands and grasslands, exhibited an increased risk of T. gondii exposure. Parasite exposure was higher in the Tolten and Valdivia River basins compared to the other four basins studied. These findings emphasize the importance of considering landscape factors, including altitude, land use, and human activities, when assessing T. gondii exposure patterns. The identified landscape variables associated with exposure and the mapping of high-risk areas can guide public health and conservation management plans.

RevDate: 2025-05-15

Alexandre N, Balacco J, Tilley T, et al (2025)

A Chromosome-level genome of the Nicobar pigeon, Caloenas nicobarica.

The Journal of heredity pii:8132812 [Epub ahead of print].

The Nicobar pigeon (Caloenas nicobarica), the closest living relative of the extinct Dodo (Raphus cucullatus), is endemic to Southeast Asia with a fragmented distribution across numerous small islands. It suffers from habitat loss, hunting, and predation from invasive species, resulting in its classification as Near-Threatened by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN). We have generated a haplotype-resolved and chromosome-level genome assembly of the Nicobar pigeon using a combination of PacBio HiFi long-read sequencing and Arima Hi-C chromatin interaction mapping. This assembly includes two haplotypes, each spanning approximately 1.2 Gb. Haplotype 1 has a contig N50 of 25.2 Mb and a scaffold N50 of 79.7 Mb, while haplotype 2 has a contig N50 of 24.7 Mb and a scaffold N50 of 107.9 Mb. As the first high-quality genome assembly of any bird in the Columbidae Indo-Pacific clade, this resource provides valuable insights for phylogenetic studies. Furthermore, the phylogenetic proximity of the Nicobar pigeon to the Dodo (Raphus cucullatus) and the Rodrigues Solitaire (Pezophaps solitaria) offers a unique opportunity to study these extinct species, making this assembly a critical resource for evolutionary studies. It also offers a unique model for studying genetic diversity, adaptation, and speciation in island environments. This genomic resource will not only enhance our understanding of the evolutionary history of the Nicobar pigeon but also serves as a valuable tool for future conservation efforts aimed at preserving this unique species and its fragile island ecosystem.

RevDate: 2025-05-15

Bitarafan Z, Kaczmarek-Derda W, Berge TW, et al (2025)

Steaming soil is effective in eliminating invasive alien plants (IAPs) - part II: effect of soil type.

Pest management science [Epub ahead of print].

BACKGROUND: Soil disinfestation by steaming was evaluated due to its efficacy in controlling or potentially eradicating weed seeds. We exposed two soil types containing aggressive weeds to steam using a soil vacuum steaming method. The aim was to examine whether the method could be used to avoid the spreading of viable seeds to new regions when soil is reused.

RESULTS: Dry seeds from two populations of Avena fatua and Echinochloa crus-galli and one population of Bromus sterilis, Lupinus polyphyllus, and Heracleum mantegazzianum were incorporated in a medium sandy soil and a silty coarse sandy soil and examined for thermal sensitivity. Soil temperatures in the target range of 60-99 °C, followed by a 3-min dwelling period, were tested. Increased soil temperature decreased seed germination. The two soil types did not influence the germination or viability response in most cases. For both populations of A. fatua, B. sterilis, and E. crus-galli, a soil temperature of approximately 75 °C followed by a dwelling period of 180 s reduced the germination by about 90%. Heracleum mantegazzianum was more susceptible to heat than L. polyphyllus which required more than 100 °C to reduce seed germination by 90%.

CONCLUSION: Soil steaming using a vacuum was an effective method to kill seeds of invasive alien plants (IAPs) in both soil types. However, the species showed different responses, indicating that steam temperature must be adapted to the specific weeds' susceptibility to heat. A temperature above 100 °C (or longer dwelling periods than 3 min) in the soil matrix might be necessary to kill all seeds. © 2025 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.

RevDate: 2025-05-16

Ligero-López J, Bargues MD, Artigas P, et al (2025)

Molecular identification of Coranus spp. in a pregnant patient: A case of misidentified Chagas disease vector in Spain.

Parasite epidemiology and control, 29:e00426.

Chagas disease is a significant public health concern in the Americas, transmitted primarily by vectors of the Triatominae subfamily. While Europe, particularly Spain, is free from endemic vectors, the potential for misidentification of non-hematophagous insects as Chagas vectors exists, leading to unnecessary alarm. We present the case of a 31-year-old pregnant Venezuelan woman residing in Spain, who sought medical attention after being bitten by an arthropod she identified as Triatoma infestans. The patient's awareness of Chagas disease in her country of origin heightened her concern about vertical transmission of Trypanosoma cruzi to her fetus. However, serological testing for T. cruzi antibodies was negative. The insect was initially misidentified as T. infestans but was later confirmed through molecular analysis to be Coranus spp., a non-hematophagous reduviid predator. The 18S rRNA gene sequence revealed a 99.37 % similarity to Coranus spp., ruling out any vectorial capacity for Chagas disease. This case underscores the importance of accurate arthropod identification, especially in non-endemic regions, to prevent misdiagnosis and unnecessary treatment. From a public health perspective, the introduction of a Chagas disease vector into Spain would represent a serious threat, necessitating prompt identification and containment measures. Our findings highlight the challenges posed by invasive species and the need for vigilance in regions where Chagas disease is not endemic. Proper identification of suspected vectors is crucial to ensure appropriate clinical and public health responses, preventing unwarranted anxiety and ensuring accurate disease surveillance.

RevDate: 2025-05-16

Vo-Tan K, Bich VTT, Thanh MT, et al (2025)

The Complete Chloroplast Genome Sequence of Callisia fragrans (Lindl.) Woodson (Commelinaceae).

Ecology and evolution, 15(5):e71402.

Callisia fragrans (Lindl.) Woodson (Commelinaceae) is an invasive species in Vietnam but exhibits ornamental and potential medicinal values. However, the genomic data of C. fragrans have not been discovered. In this study, we employed the Illumina sequencing platform to complete the chloroplast genome of C. fragrans, which was 163,887 bp in length. This quadripartite genome consisted of a large single copy region of 90,751 bp, a small single copy region of 18,684 bp, and two inverted repeat regions of 27,226 bp each. Additionally, there were 79 protein-coding genes, 30 transfer RNA genes, and four ribosomal RNA genes in the chloroplast genome of C. fragrans. Comparative genomic analysis revealed a conserved pattern of genome structure and gene content among Callisia species. However, in contrast to the pseudogenization of accD and rpoA in C. repens and C. insignis, these genes were intact in C. fragrans. Comparative genomic analysis revealed seven variable regions in the chloroplast genomes of three Callisia species, including rps16-trnQ_UUG, psbI-trnG_UCC, rpoB-psbM, trnP_UGG-rpl33, ndhF-trnL_UAG, rps15-ycf1, and ycf1. Phylogenetic analysis indicated the monophyly of Callisia species and a close relationship between C. fragrans and C. repens. This study provides initial data of the chloroplast genome for further genomic studies examining genetic populations, phylogeny, and molecular markers of C. fragrans and related species in Commelinaceae.

RevDate: 2025-05-15
CmpDate: 2025-05-15

Yang JY, Ding GY, XJ Tian (2025)

Research progress on the application of the MaxEnt model in species habitat prediction.

Ying yong sheng tai xue bao = The journal of applied ecology, 36(2):614-624.

Climate change and anthropogenic activities are profoundly affecting species distribution range and habitat suitability. In recent years, using models to predict potential suitable habitats for different species has become one of the research focuses in this field. The maximum entropy model (MaxEnt), a machine learning model based on the data of species distribution and environmental variables, has been widely used in predicting species habitats. First, we introduced the mechanism, establishment process, optimization method and assessment system of the MaxEnt model. Then, we reviewed the application of the model in potential habitat prediction of endangered species and invasive species, and the simulation of the potential distribution of species under future climate change. Fina-lly, we proposed current challenges and future development prospects of the MaxEnt model, aiming to strengthen its role in predicting the natural distribution of species, and provide technical references for biodiversity conservation and management.

RevDate: 2025-05-15
CmpDate: 2025-05-15

Sun R, Zhao YZ, Chen Y, et al (2025)

Litter, soil carbon and nitrogen fractions and enzyme activity in a typical broadleaved forest invaded by Moso bamboo.

Ying yong sheng tai xue bao = The journal of applied ecology, 36(2):489-496.

We investigated the effects of bamboo invasion on the quantity and quality of litter input, soil carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) fractions and enzyme activities across an invasion sequence composed of evergreen broadleaved forest, mixed broadleaved and bamboo forest, and pure Moso bamboo forest. The results showed that stan-ding litter biomass, annual litter production, and the litter C content in mixed broadleaved and Moso bamboo forest was lower than the broadleaved forest by 49.0%, 7.3% and 8.2%, respectively, while that in pure Moso bamboo forest was lower than the broadleaved forest by 59.5%, 48.6%, and 18.7%. Bamboo invasion resulted in a significant decrease in soil organic C in broadleaved forest. Compared with broadleaved forest, soil organic C and total N in pure Moso bamboo forest were decreased by 52.1% and 15.0%. There was no significant difference between the mixed forest and broadleaved forest. Bamboo invasion significantly increased soil microbial biomass C and N, but decreased soil labile and recalcitrant C pools, as well as the proportion of recalcitrant C pool to soil organic C. The activities of soil phenol oxidase, peroxidase and β-glucosidase in mixed forest and pure bamboo forest were generally lower than those in broadleaved forest. The specific enzyme activities (per unit of soil organic C) in bamboo forest was significantly higher than that in the broadleaved forest and mixed forest. Soil organic C content and the recalcitrant C fraction were significantly positively correlated with annual litter production, standing litter biomass, and litter C content, but negatively correlated with the specific enzyme activities of phenol oxidase and peroxidase. Results of structural equation modeling showed that Moso bamboo invasion decreased recalcitrant C pool mainly by reducing litter input and enhancing the specific activities of enzymes involved in organic C degradation. In conclusion, Moso bamboo invasion reduced litter C input, increased the specific activities of soil enzymes involved in soil organic matter decomposition, which was not conducive to the accumulation of soil organic matter in broadleaved forest.

RevDate: 2025-05-14
CmpDate: 2025-05-14

Diallo JO, Converse SJ, Chmiel M, et al (2025)

Optimizing control of a freshwater invader in time and space.

Ecological applications : a publication of the Ecological Society of America, 35(3):e70026.

The global spread of invasive species in aquatic ecosystems has prompted population control efforts to mitigate negative impacts on native species and ecosystem functions. Removal programs that optimally allocate removal effort across space and time offer promise for improving invader suppression or eradication, especially given the limited resources available to these programs. However, science-based guidance to inform such programs remains limited. This study leverages two intensive fish removal programs for nonnative green sunfish (Lepomis cyanellus) in intermittent streams of the Bill Williams River basin in Arizona, USA, to explore alternative management strategies involving variable allocation of removal effort in time and space and compare static versus dynamic decision rules. We used Bayesian hierarchical modeling to estimate demographic parameters using existing removal data, with evidence that both removal programs led to at least a 0.39 probability of eradication. Simulated alternative management strategies revealed that population suppression, but not eradication, could be achieved with reduced effort and that dynamic management practices that respond to species abundance in real time can improve the efficiency of removal efforts. High removal frequency and program duration, including continued monitoring after zero fish were captured, contributed to successful population control. With management efforts struggling to keep pace with the rising spread and impacts of invasive species, this research demonstrates the utility of quantitative removal models to help improve invasive removal programs and robustly evaluate the success of population suppression and eradication.

RevDate: 2025-05-14

Drenovsky RE, Reicholf R, Futrell CJ, et al (2025)

Functional trait responses of invasive Ludwigia species to contrasting hydrological conditions.

American journal of botany [Epub ahead of print].

PREMISE: Hydrological regime influences wetland plant species distribution and performance. Global warming and extreme weather events are magnifying flooding patterns, and understanding how invasive taxa respond across life stages (establishment vs. established phase) is important for predicting and managing their colonization and spread. Our objective was to measure flood trait responses at contrasting life stages in closely related congeners (Ludwigia peploides, diploid; L. hexapetala, decaploid; Onagraceae) differing in their invasiveness in the field.

METHODS: In the field, we assessed phenological responses to seasonal hydrological changes, and in mesocosms, we assessed flood stress responses of establishing shoot fragments under deep-flooded, shallow-flooded, and gradual drawdown hydrological treatments.

RESULTS: Counter to expectations, establishing L. peploides expressed more flood tolerance traits in mesocosms than L. hexapetala. For example, L. peploides had greater total leaf area and aerenchyma production than L. hexapetala, supporting its growth under flooding, whereas L. hexapetala expressed more flood escape traits (higher shoot elongation rates, trend for longer shoot internode length). Although L. hexapetala expressed some traits associated with drought tolerance, these trends were not significant. In the field, longer-established plants had a reversed pattern for flood escape versus tolerance traits. Ludwigia peploides rapidly shifted to sexual reproduction as soils began to dry, whereas L. hexaetala flowered regardless of soil moisture availability.

CONCLUSIONS: These contrasting patterns of flood tolerance versus escape traits demonstrate that invasive Ludwigia congeners have differing strategies to counter physiological stress induced by flooding and emphasize the importance of life stage in response to environmental variation.

RevDate: 2025-05-15

Zhang L, Li J, Yang C, et al (2025)

Identifying Drivers Affecting the Spatial Distribution of Suitable Habitat for the Pine Wood Nematode (Bursaphelenchus xylophilus) in China: Insights From Ensemble Model and Geographical Detector.

Ecology and evolution, 15(5):e71433.

Biological invasions have become an important threat to global ecological security and forest health, and exploring the environmental driving mechanisms of invasive species is important for prevention and control. Bursaphelenchus xylophilus (Steiner and Buhrer, 1934), as a highly destructive invasive species, has its distribution and spread driven by a combination of various environmental factors. The study systematically evaluated the habitat suitability and key driving factors of B. xylophilus in the current period by applying an ensemble model and an optimized parameter-based geographical detector. The results indicate that bioclimatic, vegetation indices, topographical features, and human activities are key environmental factors influencing the distribution of B. xylophilus, with highly suitable areas primarily located in southern, northern, and northeastern China. Meanwhile, the synergistic interaction between slope and population density (PD) significantly enhanced the suitability of B. xylophilus distribution, while the interaction between normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) and global human influence index (GHII) exhibited a nonlinear weakening effect. Additionally, the habitat suitability of B. xylophilus increased with the expansion of isothermality, mean temperature of the wettest quarter, precipitation of the driest month, global human footprint, GHII, and PD, while it gradually decreased with the increase of UV-B seasonality and NDVI. This study thoroughly explored the mechanisms by which various environmental factors influence the habitat suitability of B. xylophilus, revealing the complexity of regional driving factors. The findings not only provide theoretical support for predicting the ecological suitability of B. xylophilus but also offer scientific evidence for comprehensively analyzing the key factors affecting its distribution.

RevDate: 2025-05-15

Le Roux JJ, Brown L, Carroll SP, et al (2025)

Fitness and Morphology Support Genetic Differentiation Across Different Geographic Scales in a Native Insect Utilising Native vs. Invasive Host Plants.

Ecology and evolution, 15(5):e71373.

Native species can evolve rapidly in response to utilising invasive species as novel resources. We investigated the genetic and trait differentiation of the Australian soapberry bug Leptocoris tagalicus across three biotypes: those feeding on invasive Cardiospermum grandiflorum in New South Wales (NSW) and Queensland (Qld), invasive C. halicacabum in the Northern Territory (NT), and on the native host Alectryon tomentosus (in Qld). Genetic analyses revealed moderate differentiation between NT insects and those from NSW and Qld (F ST = 0.033). Conversely, insects from NSW and Qld had low genetic differentiation, irrespective of their host plant associations (F ST = 0.008). Field data and data from a multi-generation experiment indicated ongoing adaptation in proboscis length in insects feeding on the two invasive host plant species, likely in response to the sizes of their fruits. Multi-generation hybridisation experiments demonstrated high narrow sense heritability in insect proboscis length and body size (H2 = 0.48 and 0.4, respectively). Crosses involving F1 hybrids of insect biotypes generally outperformed inter-biotype and control crosses. Taken together, these findings support ongoing genetic differentiation among L. tagalicus biotypes across different spatial scales, even in instances of high gene flow.

RevDate: 2025-05-14

Cao K, Shi P, Xu X, et al (2025)

Self-Inhibition Effects of Litter-Mediated Plant-Phyllosphere Feedback on Seedling Growth in Invasive and Native Congeneric Species.

Plants (Basel, Switzerland), 14(9): pii:plants14091355.

Plant-phyllosphere feedback (PPF) is an ecological process in which phyllosphere microbiota, originating from plant litter, are transmitted via aerosols and subsequently influence the growth of conspecific or heterospecific plants. However, the cross-species generality of this mechanism and its role in invasive plant success remain to be fully elucidated. This study systematically examined PPF effects using three invasive/native congeneric plant pairs from distinct families (Phytolaccaceae, Asteraceae, and Amaranthaceae) in Jiangxi Province, China. Key findings include the following: (1) Wide conspecific negative feedback across families, with four of six species exhibiting 6.2-12.7% biomass reduction under their own litter treatments (p < 0.05). (2) Comparable feedback intensity between invasive and native species, as indicated by average pairwise indices (invasive I = -0.05 vs. native I = -0.04; p = 0.15). Notably, the invasive species Phytolacca americana uniquely showed a positive biomass response (+7.1%), though underlying mechanisms (phytochemical or microbial) were not investigated. (3) Lack of correlation between PPF strength and plant functional traits or phylogenetic distance, as indicated by Mantel tests (p > 0.8), in contrast to the trait/phylogeny associations commonly observed in soil feedback systems. This study provided the first evidence of PPF universality across multiple plant families-previously documented only within Asteraceae-and highlights the potential microbial-mediated advantages in plant invasions. Future research should integrate spatiotemporal metagenomic and metabolomic approaches to decipher the dynamic pathogen/microbe networks and their phytochemical interactions.

RevDate: 2025-05-14

Wang H, Yang M, Ma X, et al (2025)

The Ecological Risks and Invasive Potential of Introduced Ornamental Plants in China.

Plants (Basel, Switzerland), 14(9): pii:plants14091361.

The import of ornamental plants has become a major source of alien invasive plants in China, posing threats to local ecosystems. However, research on their invasive potential and management strategies remains limited. This study evaluated the invasion risks of nine representative introduced ornamental plants (including naturalized and invasive species) in China (IOPCs). Using ecospat to perform climatic niche comparisons, we found significant unfilling and expansion (>50%) in most introduced ornamental plants, indicating strong invasiveness. Species distribution models (SDMs) were applied to predict the current and future distributions of these IOPCs under four shared socioeconomic pathways (SSPs: SSP1-2.6, SSP2-4.5, SSP3-7.0, and SSP5-8.5) across four time periods (2021-2040, 2041-2060, 2061-2080, and 2081-2100). The SDM results showed that the current high-risk areas are concentrated in southern China. Under future climate change, moderate- and high-risk zones are projected to shift northward, with the total areas increasing significantly, namely moderate-risk areas by 106.10% and high-risk areas by 64.35%, particularly in the border regions of Jiangxi, Fujian, and Zhejiang. We recommend establishing restricted introduction lists for non-native ornamental plants, enhancing monitoring and management in high-risk regions, and implementing early eradication measures. This study quantified the invasion risks and potential distributions of representative invasive ornamental plants, providing a scientific basis for effective control strategies.

RevDate: 2025-05-14
CmpDate: 2025-05-14

Kato-Noguchi H, M Kato (2025)

Defensive Compounds Involved in the Invasiveness of Tithonia diversifolia.

Molecules (Basel, Switzerland), 30(9): pii:molecules30091946.

Tithonia diversifolia (Hemsl.) A. Gray forms high-density impenetrable monospecific stands as an invasive plant species. Its life history traits, such as high adaptability with high genetic variation under different environmental conditions, and high growth and reproductive capacity, may contribute to its success in invading and increasing its population in the introduced ranges. Evidence has accumulated in the literature for the activity of compounds involved in the invasive characteristics of Tithonia diversifolia against natural enemies such as herbivorous insects and mammals, pathogenic nematodes, fungi, and viruses, and of allelochemicals against neighboring competitive plant species. Tagitinin A, tagitinin C, 1β-methoxydiversifolin, phytol, phytol acetate, α-pinene, bicyclo[3.1.0]hexane,4-methylene-1-(1-methylethyl), hispidulin, dihydro-p-coumaric acid, and methyl linoleate are toxic to herbivorous insects, and tagitinin C and 5-O-(E)-caffeoylquinic acid are harmful to herbivorous mammals. Tirotundin has nematocidal activity. α-Pinene, camphor, eucalyptol, and α-terpineol have fungicidal activity. Tagitinin A, tagitinin C, and 1β-methoxydiversifolin-3-O-methyl ether have antiviral activity. Tagitinin A, tagitinin C, 1β-methoxydiversifolin, and hispidulin act as allelochemicals that inhibit the growth of neighboring competing plant species. The ability to outcompete natural enemies and competing plant species is one of the essential factors for infestation and increase in the population and distribution of Tithonia diversifolia in new habitats. Therefore, these compounds may be involved in the invasive characteristics of Tithonia diversifolia. This is the first review article focusing on the compounds involved in the invasive characteristics of Tithonia diversifolia.

RevDate: 2025-05-13
CmpDate: 2025-05-14

Liu Y, Li Z, Li L, et al (2025)

Physiological and transcriptomic analysis of Spartina alterniflora in response to imazapyr acid stress.

BMC plant biology, 25(1):630.

As a key aspect of managing of invasive alien species in China, the prevention and control of Spartina alterniflora have become an important part of the work in coastal provinces, and imazapyr acid has been gradually applied in the control work due to its advantages of high efficiency and low toxicity. In this study, we applied 6.0 L/acre of 25% imazapyr acid aqueous stress treatment, and determined and analyzed the physiological activities and transcriptome profiles of S. alterniflora under sustained stress. Chlorophyll fluorescence was used as a technical tool to analyze the mechanism of photosynthesis and the photosynthetic physiological status of S. alterniflora. We analyzed the root system structure of S. alterniflora using a root system imaging system, and characterized the transcriptome of S. alterniflora by high-throughput sequencing technology. Specifically, after imazapyr acid exposure, the fluorescence imaging area of leaves were all decreased, and the fluorescence indexes such as Fv/Fm, Y(II) and PIabs were significantly decreased, while Y(NO) was significantly increased, and Y(NPQ) showed an increase followed by a decrease. Meanwhile, total root length, root surface area and biomass of S. alterniflora were suppressed after imazapyr acid exposure. In transcriptomic analysis, imazapyr acid inhibited the expression of genes involved in phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, nucleotide sugar-related metabolism, valine, leucine and isoleucine biosynthesis, and DNA replication in S. alterniflora. These results indicate that the effects of imazapyr acid stress on the leaves of S. alterniflora are heterogeneous, with the leaves initiating photoprotective mechanisms to ensure the normal functioning of the photosystem in the early stage of stress, and the PSII reaction centers being damaged in the late stage of stress, ultimately destroying the photosynthetic system. Meanwhile, imazapyr acid stress alters basic physiological processes such as metabolism and growth and development of S. alterniflora, thus affecting the growth and development of the plant root system, and ultimately leading to the death of S. alterniflora.

RevDate: 2025-05-13

Xiao Z, Dong S, Zhang Z, et al (2025)

Spatio-temporal distribution of environmental DNA from amphibian and turtle species in a pond ecosystem.

Environmental research, 279(Pt 2):121834 pii:S0013-9351(25)01085-0 [Epub ahead of print].

Environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis has emerged as a transformative tool for biodiversity monitoring and conservation. However, uncertainties in the ecological processes of eDNA in aquatic environments decrease the reliability of eDNA-based surveys. Understanding the distribution and persistence patterns of eDNA is essential to effectively correlate eDNA data with species occurrence across spatial and temporal scales. Here, we investigated the spatio-temporal distribution of eDNA from amphibian and turtle species in a pond ecosystem, by establishing controlled eDNA sources from American bullfrogs (Lithobates catesbeianus) and red-eared sliders (Trachemys scripta elegans), and quantifying eDNA concentrations from different water layers and sediment samples using droplet digital PCR. Our results showed that eDNA from both species was highly concentrated within 2-5 m of the biological sources, with dispersal distance independent of the duration of organism' presence in the pond and exhibiting a vertically increasing trend over time. eDNA concentration and persistence varied significantly depending on species and substrate type, with bullfrogs showing notably higher eDNA detectability. The average eDNA concentration in sediment was 1.4 × 10[4] times higher than in water, and eDNA persisted approximately one week longer. Our findings demonstrate that the strong aggregation patterns of eDNA can provide valuable insights into the spatial distribution of amphibians and turtles in pond systems. eDNA from surface water showed greater timeliness for biodiversity monitoring and aquatic invasive species management. The specificity of target taxa and the temporal complementarity of sedimentary eDNA should be carefully considered in future eDNA sampling designs.

RevDate: 2025-05-13

Gray WJ, Rakes LM, Cole C, et al (2025)

Rapid wing size evolution in African fig flies (Zaprionus indianus) following temperate colonization.

Evolution; international journal of organic evolution pii:8129715 [Epub ahead of print].

Invasive species often encounter novel selective pressures in their invaded range, and understanding their potential for rapid evolution can offer insight towards evolutionary processes and the factors that drive invasion success. Zaprionus indianus is an invasive drosophilid native to Africa that reached Florida in 2005 and likely re-establishes temperate North American populations each year. We addressed two evolutionary questions in this system: first, do populations evolve phenotypic changes in the generations immediately following colonization of temperate environments? Second, does Z. indianus evolve directional phenotypic changes along a latitudinal cline? We established isofemale lines from wild collections and measured twelve ecologically relevant phenotypes, using a reference strain as a control. Z. indianus evolved smaller wings following colonization, and we found evidence of significant post-colonization evolution when considering all phenotypes simultaneously. We found little evidence for latitudinal clines. However, we documented substantial laboratory evolution and large effects of the laboratory environment across multiple phenotypes, emphasizing the importance of controlling for both possibilities in common garden studies. Our results demonstrate the potential for rapid evolution in Z. indianus, which could contribute to its ongoing expansion, and offer insights towards the types of rapid evolutionary changes that might occur in invasive insects.

RevDate: 2025-05-15
CmpDate: 2025-05-15

Petrusek A, Mojžišová M, Mikešová A, et al (2025)

Prevalence and diversity of Aphanomyces astaci in cambarid crayfish of Pennsylvania: where native and introduced hosts meet.

Parasitology, 152(1):92-105.

The crayfish plague pathogen Aphanomyces astaci (Oomycota: Saprolegniales) is native to North America but expanded with its crayfish hosts to other regions. In most of its invaded range, A. astaci haplotypes are associated with specific American crayfish, probably due to introduction bottlenecks, but haplotype diversity is higher and clear host-specific associations are lacking in its native range. However, little is known about the infection rate and load of this pathogen in North America. We investigated the distribution, prevalence and genetic variation of A. astaci in Pennsylvania (eastern USA), where multiple native and introduced crayfish species (family Cambaridae) occur. We used A. astaci-specific quantitative PCR to screen 533 individuals representing 8 crayfish species (2 Cambarus and 6 Faxonius) from 49 sites. Faxonius limosus, an American species first introduced to Europe and carrier of A. astaci genotype group E, was of particular interest. We confirmed A. astaci infections in 76% of sites in all but 1 host taxon, with the pathogen infection rate and load comparable to established populations of North American crayfish studied in Europe and Japan. Despite the absence of highly infected hosts, we genotyped A. astaci from 14 sites. We only detected 2 mitochondrial haplotypes, but nuclear markers indicated the presence of at least 4 distinct pathogen genotypes, none documented from invaded areas in Europe or Asia. Genotype group E was not detected in F. limosus, possibly due to limited spatial distribution of the original strain. Our results highlight both benefits and limitations of combining multiple pathogen genotyping methods.

RevDate: 2025-05-13

San Juan A, Azémar F, A Dejean (2025)

Pheidole megacephala: An invasive ant that raids colonies of the red imported fire ant, Solenopsis invicta.

Ecology, 106(5):e70113.

RevDate: 2025-05-14
CmpDate: 2025-05-13

Wisely SM, Torhorst C, Botero-Cañola S, et al (2025)

Contact between soft tick vectors of African swine fever virus and invasive wild pigs in the southeastern USA.

Parasites & vectors, 18(1):172.

BACKGROUND: African swine fever virus is a transboundary pathogen of high economic impact to the global pork industry. Florida has multiple factors that contribute to the high risk of introduction of African swine fever virus (ASFV) including high levels of commerce and human migration between Florida and Caribbean nations with ASFV, established backyard swine production, abundant populations of invasive wild pigs (Sus scrofa), and the presence of a soft tick species (Ornithodoros turicata americanus) that has been found to be a competent vector of ASFV in laboratory experiments. To better assess the hazard of ASFV vector-borne transmission in Florida, we documented contact between invasive wild pigs and O. t. americanus throughout Florida.

METHODS: We surveyed gopher tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus) burrows throughout Florida and collected O. t. americanus from infested burrows. To identify definitive contact between invasive wild pigs and soft ticks, we used established real time polymerase chain reaction primers and a probe to detect the deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) of invasive wild pigs in the bloodmeals of O. t. americanus.. To detect potential wild pig-soft tick contact, we surveyed for evidence of pig activity within 5 m of an infested burrow entrance.

RESULTS: Across 61 sites, we found that 203 of 591 burrows (34%) were infested with the soft tick, O. t. americanus. Ten burrows across 57 sites (18%) had soft ticks with wild pig DNA in their abdomens. In total, 6 of 591 burrows (1%) had evidence of invasive wild pigs near the entrance. Three infested burrows had evidence of wild pigs near the entrance, one of these burrows also had soft ticks that were positive for wild pig DNA. Including both definitive and potential wild pig-soft tick contact, 12 of 61 sites (20%) had evidence of wild pig-soft tick association.

CONCLUSIONS: In Florida, contact between invasive wild pigs, a potential reservoir for ASFV, and O. t. americanus, a competent vector, was measurable and occurred throughout the distribution of the vector. Florida is at risk not only for ASFV emergence but establishment of this pathogen in a sylvatic cycle. In addition to managing invasive wild pigs, future ASFV response planning needs to include plans for surveying and managing vector populations should an outbreak occur.

RevDate: 2025-05-12
CmpDate: 2025-05-13

Tripathi A, Matey C, Buchmann K, et al (2025)

Monogeneans on exotic Indian freshwater fish. 7. Results of a national study on ornamental fishes from 2019-2022.

Parasite (Paris, France), 32:28.

This study reports the results of a nationwide parasitological survey that was conducted from 2019 to 2022 to investigate the potential introduction of monogenean parasites into India via the ornamental fish trade. A total of 619 individual exotic ornamental fish representing 27 teleost species from nine families were collected from the country's major aquaria markets and examined for monogeneans. To identify monogeneans at the species level, we employed a morphometric analysis of sclerotised structures (haptoral and reproductive hard parts), as well as a molecular analysis of nuclear 28S rRNA and ITS2 regions. Indian conditions for importing exotic ornamental fish species require a pre-quarantine certificate, quarantine treatment, and post-quarantine follow-up. Despite these restrictions, 26 monogenean species from 12 known genera were detected and identified in 17 of the 27 fishes examined. Dactylogyrus was represented by a maximum of nine species, followed by Gyrodactylus with five. Cyprinidae was the most parasitised fish family (13 species), followed by Cichlidae (three species) and Helostomatidae, Poeciliidae, and Serrasalmidae (two species each). The majority of co-transported parasite species originated from Asia (65.38%, n = 17), followed by South America (23.07%, n = 6), North and Central America (7.69%, n = 2), and Africa (3.5%, n = 1). Three fish species were identified as the first host records for monogenean parasites: Chindongo socolofi for Cichlidogyrus tilapiae Paperna, 1960, Metynnis hypsauchen for Mymarothecium sp., and Betta splendens for Heteronchocleidus sp. In general, exotic populations had fewer parasite species than in their native distribution ranges.

RevDate: 2025-05-14
CmpDate: 2025-05-12

Dawes TN, Bufford JL, PE Hulme (2025)

Historical frequency of plants in nursery catalogues predicts likelihood of naturalization in ornamental species.

Ecological applications : a publication of the Ecological Society of America, 35(3):e70023.

Ornamental horticulture is the major pathway of non-native plant species introductions worldwide. Historic nursery catalogues capture a long-term view of introduction effort arising from garden plantings and are a powerful resource for understanding why some introduced ornamental species subsequently jump the garden fence. Analyses of historic nursery catalogues can help us understand the reasons for failed invasions as well as why some species successfully naturalize or invade. We used New Zealand nursery catalogues from the 1860s to the 1990s to understand the patterns of failed invasions, as well as successful naturalization and invasion. Together with data on several horticulturally relevant plant traits, we used a boosted classification model to predict the likelihood of naturalization and invasion. A species' maximum height, its frequency in nursery catalogues, and the family-level global naturalization rate were the most influential variables. Naturalized species were generally taller, more frequently offered for sale, and belonged to families with higher global naturalization rates than those that had not naturalized. Other traits such as cold hardiness or shade tolerance were not significantly different between naturalized and non-naturalized species but contributed somewhat to the overall model fit. By contrast, our predictions of the likelihood a species would become invasive were poor, without any robust relationships with any of the covariates. This indicates that factors that drive the transition from naturalized to invasive species may be determined by the characteristics of the habitats that they invade. Species incorrectly predicted to be naturalized may not have had sufficient opportunity to do so and may pose a greater risk of naturalizing in the future. This provides an avenue for identifying future naturalized species and enabling proactive management or monitoring of these species of concern.

RevDate: 2025-05-14
CmpDate: 2025-05-12

Bellver-Arnau J, Blanco-Sierra L, Escartin S, et al (2025)

Climate-responsive vector control strategies for Aedes albopictus.

Parasites & vectors, 18(1):168.

BACKGROUND: The rise in mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue, Zika, and chikungunya, exacerbated by the ever-expanding habitats of Aedes albopictus, poses a significant public health risk. Even marginal improvements in vector control efficacy can be crucial in mitigating these risks.

METHODS: In this study, we employed a metapopulation model to simulate Ae. albopictus population dynamics and dispersal, optimizing the timing and spatial allocation of larvicidal treatments.

RESULTS: Simulations revealed that larvicide treatments are most effective when applied preventively, early in the mosquito season, particularly under conditions of lower-than-average cumulative rainfall and, to a minor extent, colder-than-average temperatures, as these conditions limit larvae proliferation. We found that breeding site characteristics, particularly surface area and maximum water holding capacity, are critical in determining optimal treatment allocation in scarce-resource scenarios. However, a cost-effectiveness trade-off exists, as larger breeding sites offer more substantial reductions in mosquito populations but also demand higher larvicide dosages. Spatial factors such as breeding site distribution had minimal impact on treatment efficacy, possibly due to the high mobility range of adult mosquitoes compared with the size of the study area.

CONCLUSIONS: Our results highlight the superior efficiency of the optimized approach in comparison with routine vector control strategies, especially when resources are limited, offering a more effective use of larvicide in controlling mosquito populations. This study demonstrates that vector control strategies for Ae. albopictus can be significantly enhanced by considering climatic variables and breeding site characteristics in treatment planning. This research provides a framework for developing cost-effective and flexible mosquito control programs that can adapt to environmental conditions, potentially improving public health outcomes by reducing the transmission risk of mosquito-borne diseases.

RevDate: 2025-05-12
CmpDate: 2025-05-10

Helleman P, Schrama M, Trimbos KB, et al (2025)

The ecological niche and population history shape mosquito population genetics on a group of three Caribbean islands.

Parasites & vectors, 18(1):167.

BACKGROUND: While studies on mosquito population genetics have primarily focused on medically relevant species, fewer have examined the genetic population structure of mosquitoes from a diverse range of species within a single geographical area. The limited comparison between native and non-native species, as well as ecologically divergent species from the same region, hampers our ability to generalise previously described patterns in mosquito population genetics. This study uses the mosquito fauna of the Caribbean islands of Aruba, Curaçao and Bonaire as a case study to explore population genetic variation among both native and non-native mosquito species, as well as among native species occupying different ecological niches. We examine how genetic patterns relate to their population history and species-specific ecologies.

METHODS: Mitochondrial COII sequences were obtained from 258 mosquito specimens belonging to six species, occurring on all three islands. Sequences were used in haplotype network analysis to assess the genetic variation between mosquito populations of each of the six ecologically diverse species, which vary in both their population history and ecological niche.

RESULTS: Both the genetic diversity and population genetic structure were found to differ strongly between sets of species, leading to a subdivision into three species groups: (1) non-native species with low genetic diversity across all three investigated islands, (2) locally native species with high genetic diversity and closely related haplotypes occurring on different islands and (3) locally native species with high genetic diversity and locally restricted haplotypes.

CONCLUSIONS: Our results show that the population genetics of non-native and native species strongly differ, likely as a result of population history. Furthermore, the results suggest that mosquito species sharing the same area may display distinct population genetic structure, likely related to differences in their ecology and dispersal capacity. We suggest that addressing a broader range of species within a single area will benefit future research on mosquito population genetics to place observed patterns into a broader historical, ecological and evolutionary context.

RevDate: 2025-05-14

Jones ML, Thresher RE, NJ Bax (2025)

Biased tertiary sex ratios enhance the efficacy of sex-ratio distorting genetic techniques to control invasive species.

Journal of theoretical biology, 608:112137 pii:S0022-5193(25)00103-1 [Epub ahead of print].

Genetic biocontrol strategies are increasingly being developed and tested for reducing the effects of invasive species, and are highly likely to be an important tool of integrated pest management in the future. Included among such strategies are those that distort the sex ratio of the target species. Models used to forecast the efficacy of such strategies generally assume, implicitly, that the tertiary sex ratio of the target population is 50:50. We present evidence that this assumption is important, and that if the tertiary sex ratio is biased towards females, a sex-distorting construct introduced into the population that produces phenotypic males will become fixed at a level determined by the magnitude of the bias, even after further introductions cease. We show, first using a simple logistic population model, and second using a realistic simulation of an important aquatic invasive species - the sea lampreyPetromyzon marinus- how this effect can greatly increase the effectiveness of a sex-distorting construct at population suppression, but also increase the risk of such strategies due to reduced reversibility. We also present evidence that biased tertiary sex ratios might be present in many invasive species, particularly when their population sizes are low relative to environmental carrying capacity.

RevDate: 2025-05-09

Shen Z, Cui J, Li J, et al (2025)

Differential impacts of invasive aquatic plants water lettuce (Pistia stratiotes) and water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) on plankton community dynamics and its ecosystem functionality.

Journal of environmental management, 385:125606 pii:S0301-4797(25)01582-8 [Epub ahead of print].

Plankton plays a pivotal role in maintaining aquatic ecosystem stability and food web equilibrium. Yet, the mechanistic responses of plankton communities to invasive aquatic plants (e.g., Pistia stratiotes and Eichhornia crassipes) remain poorly understood. This study investigated the temporal effects of these invasive species on plankton biodiversity, native plant (Ludwigia ovalis) growth, and nutrient dynamics in freshwater systems in a 50-day microcosm experiment. Results indicated no significant change in L. ovalis growth (p > 0.05), while pH, EC, TN, and TP significantly decreased (p < 0.05). And plankton dominant species, functional communities (e.g., functional group D and small copepoda and cladocera filter feeders) and their co-occurrence networks were disrupted. Moreover, the Shannon index of phytoplankton was significantly higher at day 10 and lower at day 50 (p < 0.05) than that of P. stratiotes, while the metazoan zooplankton showed the reverse trend. P. stratiotes reduced network complexity including average degree and graph density, while E. crassipes disrupted architectural integrity as modularity, collectively destabilizing plankton interactions. SEM model revealed that E. crassipes indirectly decreased EC via TN reduction (-0.412) while P. stratiotes directly suppressed EC (-0.242), cascading into decreased plankton biomass, density, and diversity. These findings elucidated species-specific invasion mechanisms and their cascading impacts on planktonic ecosystems, which could provide actionable insights for mitigating biodiversity loss in invaded freshwater habitats and enhancing ecological monitoring frameworks to safeguard ecosystem services.

RevDate: 2025-05-09

Xiong J, Gao Y, Zhou Y, et al (2025)

Four chromosome-scale ampullariid genomes: High-quality resources for ecological, evolutionary and invasion biology studies.

DNA research : an international journal for rapid publication of reports on genes and genomes pii:8128059 [Epub ahead of print].

The New World Ampullariids, encompassing the ecologically important genera Pomacea and Marisa, are organisms with dual attributes-serving as model systems for evolutionary and environmental research while posing severe threats as globally invasive species. Here, we present chromosome-scale genomes of four key species-Pomacea canaliculata, P. maculata, P. diffusa, and Marisa cornuarietis-generated through PacBio HiFi sequencing and Hi-C scaffolding. These assemblies exhibit exceptional continuity and completeness (BUSCO scores >95%) with genome sizes ranging 450-540 Mb, while high-quality annotations predicting 21,687-22,481 protein-coding genes per genome. Comparative analysis reveals divergent genome architectures: the invasive P. canaliculata and P. maculata harbour lower LINE (5.7-5.8%) and LTR (0.7-0.8%) content compared to non-invasive P. diffusa (LINE: 7.7%; LTR: 0.8%) and M. cornuarietis (LINE: 9.5%; LTR: 1.1%), suggesting repeat dynamics linked to ecological plasticity. Macrosynteny analyses identify five dynamic but conserved ancestral chromosomal fusions across species but with limited rearrangements among species. These resources, integrating chromosomal resolution with functional annotation, provide a foundation for comparative studies on molluscan karyotype evolution and adaptive radiation research, as well as possible targets for CRISPR-cas9-driven biocontrol strategies.

RevDate: 2025-05-11
CmpDate: 2025-05-10

Rad SPH, Duque TS, Flory SL, et al (2025)

Predicting the spread of invasive Imperata cylindrica under climate change: A global risk assessment and future distribution scenarios.

PloS one, 20(5):e0321027.

Invasive plant species, such as Imperata cylindrica (cogongrass), threaten native ecosystems, natural resources, and lands worldwide. With climate change, the risk of invasions may increase as more favorable conditions enable non-native species to spread into new areas. This study employs the CLIMEX model to predict the potential distribution of I. cylindrica under current and future climate scenarios, under the SRES A2 scenario. A comprehensive dataset comprising 6,414 occurrence records was used to simulate the species' ecological niche based on key climatic parameters, including temperature and soil moisture. Our results indicate that more than 16% of the global land surface is currently highly suitable for I. cylindrica (Ecoclimatic Index ≥ 30), with significant risk areas identified in Central America, Africa, and Australia. Future projections under the A2 scenario suggest an expansion of suitable habitats by 2050, 2080, and 2100, particularly in regions such as southern Argentina and parts of North America, while areas in Africa may experience a decrease in suitability due to rising temperatures. Sensitivity analysis revealed that temperature-related parameters (DV0, DV1, DV2, and DV3) are the most influential in determining the species' distribution, highlighting the critical role of climate in driving the invasive potential of I. cylindrica. These findings provide valuable insights into the future risks associated with I. cylindrica invasions.

RevDate: 2025-05-09

Schneller NM, Strugnell JM, Field MA, et al (2025)

Putting Structural Variants Into Practice: The Role of Chromosomal Inversions in the Management of Marine Environments.

Molecular ecology [Epub ahead of print].

Major threats to marine species and ecosystems include overfishing, invasive species, pollution and climate change. The changing climate not only imposes direct threats through the impacts of severe marine heatwaves, cyclones and ocean acidification but also complicates fisheries and invasive species management by driving species range shifts. The dynamic nature of these threats means that the future of our oceans will depend on the ability of species to adapt. This has led to calls for genetic interventions focussed on enhancing species' adaptive capacity, including translocations, restocking and selective breeding. Assessing the benefits and risks of such approaches requires an improved understanding of the genetic architecture of adaptive variation, not only in relation to climate-resilient phenotypes but also locally adapted populations and the fitness of hybrids. Large structural genetic variants such as chromosomal inversions play an important role in local adaptation by linking multiple adaptive loci. Consequently, inversions are likely to be particularly important when managing for adaptive capacity. However, under some circumstances, they also accumulate deleterious mutations, potentially increasing the risk of inbreeding depression. Genetic management that takes account of these dual roles on fitness is likely to be more effective at ensuring population persistence. We summarise evolutionary factors influencing adaptive and deleterious variation of inversions, review inversions found in marine taxa, and provide a framework to predict the consequences of ignoring inversions in key management scenarios. We conclude by describing practical methods to bridge the gap between evolutionary theory and practical application of inversions in conservation.

RevDate: 2025-05-09
CmpDate: 2025-05-09

Imlau M, Browne JA, Browett SS, et al (2025)

Surveillance for Leptospira sp. in Native and Invasive Shrews in Ireland Compared with Cohabitating Shrews in France.

Journal of wildlife diseases, 61(2):477-482.

Leptospirosis is a complex and often underestimated global bacterial disease that continues to be of zoonotic concern. It is difficult to diagnose and has an unclear pathogenesis. Several new species of the genus Leptospira have been discovered in recent years; the impact of these species on animal health is unknown. In 2013, Leptospira tipperaryensis was first identified in greater white-toothed shrews (GWTSs, Crocidura russula) in Ireland, where they are an invasive species that displaces the native pygmy shrew (Sorex minutus). This study investigated the prevalence of Leptospira spp., including L. tipperaryensis, and their potential impact on the health of shrews from Ireland using histopathology (n=212), immunohistochemistry (IHC; n=206), and quantitative PCR (n=168) on renal tissues. Shrews (n=81) from Belle Île, France were examined as a species and habitat control group using histopathology (n=81) and IHC (n=79). No Leptospira were detected with any of the methods in renal tissues from shrews sampled in Ireland and there was no significant renal pathology. In contrast, 34.6% (28/81) of shrews from Belle Île were positive on IHC for Leptospira sp. and had associated chronic nephritis in histopathology. The results do not indicate a negative impact by L. tipperaryensis or other Leptospira spp. on the health and distribution of the GWTS and the pygmy shrew in Ireland; onward transmission within the shrew population currently appears unlikely.

RevDate: 2025-05-12
CmpDate: 2025-05-12

Moi DA, Saito VS, Quirino BA, et al (2025)

Human land use and non-native fish species erode ecosystem services by changing community size structure.

Nature ecology & evolution, 9(5):801-809.

Organism body size influences ecosystem services, and human pressures alter the size structure of ecological communities. However, our understanding of how different human-induced pressures (such as land use and biotic invasion) interact to drive community size structure and ecosystem services remains limited. Combining 21 years of fish size spectrum data and fishery potential (fishery monetary value in the Upper Paraná River Floodplain, Brazil), we demonstrate that the size spectrum exponent of native species has become more negative over time, indicating a relative decrease in the biomass of large versus small individuals. Conversely, the size spectrum exponent of non-native species has become less negative over time owing to the increased abundance of large species. Overall, fishery potential declined by more than 50% over time. Human land use replaced the coverage of natural environments, indirectly reducing native richness. This scenario decreased the exponent of the native size spectrum, indirectly reducing fishery potential. Our study illustrates how intensification of human land use alters the size structure of communities, favouring non-native individuals and suppressing ecosystem services.

RevDate: 2025-05-11
CmpDate: 2025-05-11

Chouvenc T (2025)

Invasive termites and their growing global impact as major urban pests.

Current opinion in insect science, 69:101368.

While termites play important ecological roles, a fraction of species have strong invasive capabilities and represent urban pests of economic importance worldwide. Their invasive potential is exacerbated by human activities such as maritime transport, with privately owned boats serving as key vectors for local and global termite dispersal, particularly for Cryptotermes and Coptotermes pest species. Land establishment by invasive termites can remain undetected for decades, often making eradication attempts too late to succeed. Ultimately, invasive termite species will likely continue to spread at the global scale, and recent new invasive records point toward an underestimation of their actual current invasive status.

RevDate: 2025-05-11
CmpDate: 2025-05-11

Leskey TC, Carnio V, LJ Nixon (2025)

Chemically mediated trophic interactions of invasive herbivorous insects and their applications for monitoring and management.

Current opinion in insect science, 69:101364.

Introduction of invasive herbivorous insects has significantly disrupted agricultural and forest ecosystems. Sources of stimuli used for monitoring and biosurveillance tools or as the basis for management strategies involve chemically mediated interactions between the insect and key primary producers (plants) or secondary consumers (predators and parasites). While successful application of chemicals identified from these interactions has emerged for some species with a few multitrophic interactions identified, other systems remain challenging, particularly when native species share similar chemically mediated cues. Applied molecular technologies such as environmental DNA or gut content analyses can be used to gain further insight into multitrophic interactions, which could potentially lead to improved chemical mediation tools.

RevDate: 2025-05-11
CmpDate: 2025-05-11

Pietri JE, M Laroche (2025)

Invasive indoor pests under the microbiological lens: bacterial and viral diversity from local to global scales in bed bugs and cockroaches.

Current opinion in insect science, 69:101344.

Essentially, all animal life interacts closely with an array of microorganisms, such as bacteria and viruses, which can have both beneficial and harmful effects. The advancement of high-throughput molecular biology approaches (DNA and RNA sequencing) has led to an ongoing boom in investigating the composition and functions of microbial communities (microbiota) associated with a wide range of animal taxa, including insects. As this area of investigation has blossomed, such research on indoor urban insect pests has lagged more widely studied species. However, over the last several years, significant strides have been made in understanding the diversity and biological roles of microbes associated with such insects. This review highlights and discusses recent key findings, focusing on bed bugs and cockroaches, two of the most prolific globally invasive indoor insect pests. Advances in this area of research have long-term implications for public health and for the development of novel pest control approaches.

RevDate: 2025-05-11
CmpDate: 2025-05-11

Ruszkowski KM, JM Mola (2025)

Exotic bees in urban ecosystems: establishment, impact, and potential for invasion.

Current opinion in insect science, 69:101339.

Native bee species decline has sparked extensive research and conservation efforts, particularly in urban areas where initiatives and interventions aim to restore native bee populations. Paradoxically, these same urban interventions may inadvertently support non-native bee species, fostering the establishment of thriving exotic populations. Exotic bees often thrive in urban environments where advantageous traits, such as cavity-nesting and high reproductive plasticity, combine with human activities that intentionally and unintentionally facilitate their introduction and spread. Although many exotic species remain benign, others may transition to invasive status, leading to competition with native bees, the spread of diseases, and interference in biodiversity assessments. This review synthesizes current knowledge on how urbanization impacts exotic bee establishment and assesses potential pathways for these species to become invasive.

RevDate: 2025-05-09
CmpDate: 2025-05-09

Sweeney J, Gao W, Gutowski JM, et al (2025)

Diversity in trap color and height increases species richness of bark and woodboring beetles detected in multiple funnel traps.

PloS one, 20(5):e0322412 pii:PONE-D-25-03887.

Early detection of non-native, potentially invasive bark beetles and woodboring beetles (BBWB) (Coleoptera: Buprestidae, Cerambycidae, Disteniidae; Curculionidae: Scolytinae) inadvertently introduced to new habitats via global trade is a critical issue for regulatory agencies in numerous countries. We conducted trapping experiments to evaluate the effects of trap color (black vs. green vs. purple) and trap height (canopy vs. understory) on detection of BBWB in Canada, Poland, USA, and China, using Fluon-treated 12-unit multiple-funnel traps. Each trap was baited with the same pheromone and ethanol lures known to attract several species of BBWB. We predicted BBWB species composition would differ between vertical strata and among trap colors, and that the number of BBWB species detected would increase with greater diversity of trapping methods, i.e., by using more than one color of trap and by placing traps in both the canopy and understory. Our prediction was partially supported, i.e., placing one color of trap in the understory and a different colored trap in the canopy detected more species than did a single trap color placed in either the understory or canopy. However, the combinations of trap height and colors that detected the most species varied among sites. The community of BBWB species captured in traps was significantly affected by trap height and trap color at all sites, with the strongest patterns in the data from Poland and the USA. Black and purple traps caught similar communities of BBWB species in the canopy and understory, but green traps caught a different species assemblage in the canopy in Poland and the USA. Effects of trap height and color on species richness were consistent across all four sites within the subfamilies Agrilinae (more species captured in green canopy traps than any other trap height-color combination), Chrysochroinae (more species captured in purple canopy traps than any trap height-color combination) and Scolytinae (more species captured in the understory than the canopy and no effect of trap color), but varied significantly among sites within Cerambycidae subfamilies. None of the species accumulation curves reached an asymptote for any trap color-height combination at any site, indicating that 8-9 traps per site were not sufficient to detect all BBWB species present. Thus, increasing the number of traps deployed per site will increase the BBWB species richness captured and the chances of detecting non-native species that may be present.

RevDate: 2025-05-08
CmpDate: 2025-05-08

Luo Y, Li C, Hu X, et al (2025)

Spongy moths from Europe and Asia: Who could have higher invasion risk in North American?.

PloS one, 20(5):e0320598 pii:PONE-D-24-46649.

North American forest systems are significantly impacted by spongy moths (Lymantria dispar Linnaeus). It is unclear, nevertheless, how are the invasion risks of spongy moths from Asia and Europe in North American relative to each other. In this study, we compared the potential ranges of spongy moths from Asia (ASM) and those from Europe (ESM) in North America, and investigated the range shifts between spongy moths in North America (NASM) and ASM and ESM. ASM and ESM would occupy larger potential ranges in North America than NASM, i.e., 7.16 and 6.98 times, respectively. Thus, one should not undervalue the invasive potential posed by spongy moths from Asia and Europe. Compared to ESM, ASM displayed larger ranges in North America. It is likely due to ASM's tolerance of more variable climates. Consequently, even though ASM was more recently introduced to North America than ESM, it's possible that the former has higher invasion risk in North American.

RevDate: 2025-05-07

Klink JC, Rieger A, Wohlsein P, et al (2025)

Pathological findings in raccoon dogs (Nyctereutes procyonoides) in Schleswig-Holstein, Germany.

Journal of comparative pathology, 219:59-77 pii:S0021-9975(25)00227-0 [Epub ahead of print].

Raccoon dogs (Nyctereutes procyonoides) originated from East Asia and are listed as invasive alien species of Union concern in the European Union. Apart from their potential negative impact on native fauna as predators and competitors, they are discussed as reservoirs and vectors for various infectious diseases. Between 2021 and 2022, comprehensive post-mortem examinations of 110 raccoon dogs were performed as part of a health and risk assessment study of selected invasive alien species in Schleswig-Holstein, Germany. Parasitic infections, often accompanied by eosinophilic and/or granulomatous inflammation, were one of the most common and significant findings. In total, 64% animals had an ectoparasitosis and up to 76% an endoparasitosis. Alaria alata and Trichinella spp were the most relevant endoparasite species found. Eggs of A. alata were detected in 30% of faecal samples, while the prevalence of Trichinella spp in muscle samples was 0.9%. Influenza A virus, canine distemper virus, rustrela virus, Borna disease virus 1 and severe acute respiratory syndrome corona virus 2 were not detected. Carnivore protoparvovirus 1 was detected with a prevalence of 3%, but was not associated with pathognomonic lesions. In general, most of the pathological findings were of minor significance regardless of whether pathogens were detected or not, and therefore did not appear to affect the overall health status of the examined animals. Our study shows that raccoon dogs may contribute to the spread and persistence of certain pathogens by acting as carriers of infectious diseases. This underpins the need to further investigate the risk they pose to endemic European wildlife, livestock and human health.

RevDate: 2025-05-09
CmpDate: 2025-05-07

Colin R, Aguirre-Planter E, LE Eguiarte (2025)

Genetic and ecological characterization of the giant reed (Arundo donax) in Central Mexico.

PloS one, 20(5):e0319214.

Arundo donax (giant reed) is currently found in all tropical-subtropical and warm-temperate areas of the world. In Mexico, A. donax is a common introduced species, growing in a variety of climates and habitats. We used Inter Simple Sequence Repeats (ISSRs) markers to analyze 20 populations across different geographic regions of Mexico to estimate the geographic structure of its genetic variation, the levels of clonal diversity, and their predominant reproductive mode (clonal vs. sexual), and to explore environmental factors that may be related to genetic differentiation. In addition, we used bioclimatic variables to perform multivariate statistical analyses. We detected a total of 77 different genotypes, finding that all the analyzed populations are multiclonal (including from 3 to 9 different genotypes). The data suggest that sporadic sexual reproduction takes place in some populations. We found four main genetic groups and low levels of gene flow among clusters. Ecological characterization analyses indicate that the distribution and abundance of genotypes is structured and influenced by environmental factors, supporting the existence of three main ecological-genetic groups in Mexico (Central Highlands, Coasts, and North).

RevDate: 2025-05-09

Jian L, Yang Y, Xie S, et al (2025)

Life Table Parameters and Digestive Enzyme Activity of Araecerus fasciculatus (Coleoptera: Anthribidae) Feeding on Different Stored Products.

Insects, 16(4):.

Araecerus fasciculatus (De Geer, 1775) is an important stored-product pest worldwide. In this study, the development time, survival rate, oviposition, and digestive enzyme (α-amylase, cellulase, pepsin, and lipase) activities of A. fasciculatus fed on five commodities (coffee, jujube, maize, wheat, and kansui) were investigated. Our results showed that the developmental duration of A. fasciculatus from egg to adult was shortest on coffee beans (51.41 days) and longest on kansui (69.65 days). The survival rate of A. fasciculatus adults was lowest on kansui (42.22%) and highest on coffee beans (63.33%). Significant differences in fecundity were also observed, with the greatest number on coffee beans (80.78 eggs/female) and the lowest on kansui (50.43 eggs/female). Araecerus fasciculatus showed the greatest intrinsic rate of natural increase (rm) on coffee beans (0.141), followed by jujube (0.129), maize (0.117), wheat (0.105), and kansui (0.097). The net productive rate (R0) showed a similar trend to rm, with values of 48.42, 42.53, 35.39, 27.53, and 21.47, respectively, on these stored products. Although no significant differences were observed in the lipase activities when A. fasciculatus was fed on different stored products, activities of α-amylase, pepsin, and cellulase were highest on coffee beans and lowest on kansui. The variation in the population development of A. fasciculatus associated with different foods may be related to its digestive enzyme performance. These results indicated that coffee beans were the most suitable host food, while kansui was the least suitable for the development of A. fasciculatus.

RevDate: 2025-05-09

Bisia M, Balatsos G, Sakellariou Sofianou M, et al (2025)

Two-Year Entomological Survey of Mosquito Fauna in the Attica Region, Greece: Species Composition.

Insects, 16(4):.

Vector-borne diseases significantly impact global public health, with mosquitoes playing a critical role in the transmission of various pathogens. This study focused on the mosquito fauna in the Attica region of Greece, conducting a two-year entomological survey from March 2021 to December 2022 as part of an ongoing mosquito-management program. The research employed stratified random sampling to establish 57 adult traps across the region, with additional traps on the islands of Argosaronikos and Kythira island. The BG-sentinel traps, enhanced with CO2 to attract multiple mosquito species, were utilized for mosquito collection. Morphological identification of the collected mosquitoes revealed the presence of various species, with Aedes albopictus, Culex pipiens s.l., and Culiseta longiareolata being the most prevalent. Notably, all of our traps tested 100% positive for these species. Molecular techniques, including PCR amplification of ITS2 and COI genes, confirmed species identification. The findings highlight significant variations in species composition across different locations and emphasize the presence of invasive species such as Aedes albopictus, posing public health concerns. This study underscores the importance of continuous mosquito surveillance and integrated management strategies to mitigate the risk of mosquito-borne diseases in the Attica region. The results contribute to the development of evidence-based mosquito-control programs, which are essential for safeguarding public health in urban and peri-urban environments.

RevDate: 2025-05-09

Guo S, Li Z, Zhao X, et al (2025)

Additive Insecticidal Effects of Chitosan/dsRNA Nanoparticles Targeting V-ATPaseD and Emamectin Benzoate-Lufenuron Formulations Against Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae).

Insects, 16(4):.

The fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda, a lepidopteran pest from the family Noctuidae, has become a major invasive pest since 2016. Using RNAi methods to control S. frugiperda is currently under investigation. This study is the first to target the V-ATPaseD gene of S. frugiperda using RNAi. Injection of dsRNA-V-ATPaseD into the hemolymph of 4th-instar larvae significantly suppressed gene expression at 24 and 48 h post-injection. Treated larvae showed delayed development and reduced pupation after 7 days. Subsequently, V-ATPaseD silencing was achieved through topical or oral administration of chitosan/dsRNA-V-ATPaseD nanoparticles. Larvae fed these nanoparticles exhibited significant reductions in V-ATPaseD mRNA at 72 h, persisting until 96 h before normalizing. Additionally, the treated larvae displayed disrupted molting and impaired pupation. Furthermore, larvae fed chitosan/dsRNA-V-ATPaseD were more susceptible to emamectin benzoate-lufenuron at LC30 concentrations, resulting in 68% mortality-27% higher than the pesticide alone-72 h post-exposure. Combining chitosan/dsRNA-V-ATPaseD nanoparticles with emamectin benzoate-lufenuron significantly enhanced pest control efficacy, providing new insights into pesticide reduction and sustainable pest control methods for this invasive species.

RevDate: 2025-05-09

Xu T, Wang W, Chen X, et al (2025)

Interspecific Mating Is Trivial and Asymmetrical Between Two Destructive Anoplophora Beetles.

Insects, 16(4):.

The Asian longhorn beetle (ALB), Anoplophora glabripennis, and citrus longhorn beetle (CLB), Anoplophora chinensis, are two destructive invasive wood-boring pests, with high similarities in morphology, geographical distribution, host range, life cycle, adult behaviors and male-produced pheromone, implying a potential existence of interspecific interactions. Matings have been found to occur across females and males of the two species when manually paired in confined spaces. However, interspecific mating and its regulating factors are unclear between sympatric populations on hosts. Herein, by observing mountings and tracking the beetles that freely coexisted on host branches in cages, we found that the majority of mountings appeared within species; however, interspecific mountings occasionally occurred between male CLBs and female ALBs. The CLB was more active than the ALB at night. It seems that males actively searched for female ALBs, while the inverse was the case with CLBs. The main release periods of shared pheromone components overlapped between the two species, while compound ratios had significant differences. Our results unveil a trivial and asymmetrical interspecific mating between ALBs and CLBs, implying a risk of co-outbreaks of the two species in either native or invaded areas.

RevDate: 2025-05-08
CmpDate: 2025-05-08

Huang Q, van Kleunen M, Y Liu (2025)

Plant invasion resistance due to 2D native diversity.

Trends in ecology & evolution, 40(5):436-438.

Biodiversity entails species diversity both within a trophic level (horizontal diversity) and across levels (vertical diversity). While invasion resistance studies usually focus on horizontal diversity, vertical diversity could provide additional biotic resistance to invasion. Quantifying the role of such 2D diversity will provide a more comprehensive understanding of the diversity-invasibility relationship.

RevDate: 2025-05-07

Caton BP, Manoukis NC, Pallipparambil GR, et al (2025)

Evaluating a novel core-and-perimeter delimiting trapping survey design for insects. II. Simulations and case studies.

Journal of economic entomology pii:8126313 [Epub ahead of print].

We compared 2 delimitation trapping designs via mark-release-recapture of Ceratitis capitata Weidemann (Medfly) [Tephritidae: Diptera]: a fully trapped grid versus a novel, "core-and-perimeter" design. Results showed some disadvantages of fully trapped and supported the core-and-perimeter concept, but grids were too small to address all questions. Here we used computer models to more fully compare the designs. We employed random walk dispersal using parameters from recent results for another Dipteran. Parameter sensitivity was highest for maximum step distance (DDay), but structural sensitivity was more affected by dispersal probability (PDisp) and correlated movement (θMax). We incorporated trapping, modeling capture probabilities based on the hyperbolic secant function. We quantified the likelihood of inner traps to "intercept" insects along their paths and implemented that process in all trapping models. Validation against 3 independent datasets was successful using PDisp of 0.4 or 0.3, and θMax = 180°, based on dispersal densities and proportion of flies captured. Under the validated dispersal model, Medflies never traveled more than 2.8 km in 30 d. A trapping version gave zero perimeter captures with the core-and-perimeter design, but core area captures in 40% of iterations for single flies. The fully trapped grid captured flies in 79% of iterations but only 12% of traps had captures, indicating suboptimal efficiency. Finally, we compared fully trapped and core-and-perimeter trapping costs using published plans for Medfly and four other species. The costs of the core-and-perimeter designs were 49% to 77% lower at standard sizes but 69% to 88% lower with optimal (shorter) radii.

RevDate: 2025-05-07

Dos Santos GS, Sellera FP, Furlan JPR, et al (2025)

The ecological threat posed by invasive species as silent carriers of global priority bacteria to wildlife.

One health (Amsterdam, Netherlands), 20:101043.

•Invasive species can act as silent carriers of multidrug-resistant bacterial species.•Invasive species in natural environments without predators can amplify the spread of antimicrobial resistance.•Global data on WHO priority bacteria and antimicrobial resistance in invasive species are provided.•Epidemiological surveillance of antimicrobial resistance in invasive species is discussed.

RevDate: 2025-05-07

Clark EI, Bean DW, Bitume EV, et al (2025)

Heritability of body size matches trait evolution in the range expansion of a biological control agent.

Current research in insect science, 7:100112.

Adaptive evolution requires both natural selection and genetic variation. In introduced species, the selective dynamics of range expansion are predicted by theory to lead to differences between the core and the leading edge, with edge individuals evolving to be more fecund (under r-selection) and have greater dispersal ability than core individuals. In arthropods, both fecundity and dispersal ability are often positively correlated with body size. Here, we quantify genetic variation available for evolution of body size in a beetle (Diorhabda carinulata) introduced into North America as a biological control agent. Previously, we found that females at the edge of the range expansion have evolved to be larger than those at the core as predicted by theory, while male body size has not clearly changed, despite the evolution of increased dispersal capacity. Using a half-sib mating design, we measure genetic variation in mass at eclosion and thorax width of female and male beetles from a single introduced population at the core of the range expansion. We find significant heritable genetic variation in females in both traits, but not in males. Thus, lack of genetic variation in body size may preclude evolution of size in males along this expansion front.

RevDate: 2025-05-07

Frank LE, Lindsey LL, Kipp EJ, et al (2024)

Rapid molecular species identification of mammalian scat samples using nanopore adaptive sampling.

Journal of mammalogy, 105(5):965-975.

Accurate taxonomic species identification is essential to the study of mammals. Despite this necessity, rapid and accurate identification of cryptic, understudied, and elusive mammals remains challenging. Traditional barcoding of mitochondrial genes is standard for molecular identification but requires time-consuming wet-lab methodologies. Recent bioinformatic advancements for nanopore sequencing data offer exciting opportunities for noninvasive and field-based identification of mammals. Nanopore adaptive sampling (NAS), a polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-free method, selectively sequences regions of DNA according to user-specified reference databases. Here, we utilized NAS to enrich mammalian mitochondrial genome sequencing to identify species. Fecal DNA extractions were sequenced from 9 mammals, several collected in collaboration with Minnesota Tribal Nations, to demonstrate utility for NAS barcoding of noninvasive samples. By mapping to the entire National Center for Biotechnology Information mammalian mitochondrial reference genome database and bioinformatically analyzing highly similar matches, we successfully produced species identifications for all fecal samples. Eight of 9 species identifications matched previous PCR or animal/fecal appearance-based identifications. For the ninth species, our genetic data indicate a misidentification stemming from the original study. Our approach has a range of applications-particularly in field-based wildlife research, conservation, disease surveillance, and monitoring of wildlife trade. Of importance to Minnesota tribes is invasive species monitoring, detections, and confirmation as climate impacts cause changes in biodiversity and shifts in species distributions. The rapid assessment techniques described here will be useful as new introductions and range expansions of native and invasive species may first be detected by the presence of signs such as scat rather than direct observations and will be helpful for chronically understaffed tribal natural resources agencies.

RevDate: 2025-05-07
CmpDate: 2025-05-07

Ndjomatchoua FT, Stutt ROJH, Guimapi RA, et al (2025)

Integration of temperature-driven population model and pest monitoring data to estimate initial conditions and timing of first field invasion: application to the cassava whitefly, Bemisia tabaci.

Journal of the Royal Society, Interface, 22(226):20250059.

Empirical field data and simulation models are often used separately to monitor and analyse the dynamics of insect pest populations over time. Greater insight may be achieved when field data are used directly to parametrize population dynamic models. In this paper, we use a differential evolution algorithm to integrate mechanistic physiological-based population models and monitoring data to estimate the population density and the physiological age of the first cohort at the start of the field monitoring. We introduce an ad hoc temperature-driven life-cycle model of Bemisia tabaci in conjunction with field monitoring data. The likely date of local whitefly invasion is estimated, with a subsequent improvement of the model's predictive accuracy. The method allows computation of the likely date of the first field incursion by the pest and demonstrates that the initial physiological age somewhat neglected in prior studies can improve the accuracy of model simulations. Given the increasing availability of monitoring data and models describing terrestrial arthropods, the integration of monitoring data and simulation models to improve model prediction and pioneer invasion date estimate will lead to better decision-making in pest management.

RevDate: 2025-05-07
CmpDate: 2025-05-07

Yang Y, Liu X, Wu J, et al (2025)

A comprehensive county-level distribution database of alien and invasive plants in China.

Ecology, 106(5):e70084.

Over the past half century, international trade and exchange have continued to increase in China, resulting in the widespread introduction of alien plant species. The accumulation of these alien species has accelerated invasion events, posing serious threats to local ecological security and economic development. Comprehensive and accurate species distribution records are extremely important for early detection, understanding dispersal dynamics, and supporting various management strategies and research initiatives. However, biodiversity databases, both global and local, often lack comprehensive and high-resolution distribution data for alien invasive plant species (AIPs). This limitation is particularly evident in China, where local databases typically provide coarse spatial data, often restricted to the provincial level, leading to a substantial underestimation of the actual distribution of AIPs. Here, we fill this gap by creating the most comprehensive distribution database for AIPs in China at a much finer spatial resolution. By integrating 73,469 distribution records from China's online herbarium, biodiversity databases, flora, published literature, and 173,396 georeferenced records from GBIF, we built the county-level distribution database for 400 AIPs and report for the first time their presence in 2684 administrative counties in China (92.5% of the total counties). Notably, our database provides 2.58 times more distribution records than global biodiversity data repositories such as GBIF and also includes the earliest introduction dates for each AIP. The temporal range of the records spans from 1607 to 2023, capturing over 400 years of AIP presence in China. These rigorously quality-controlled georeferenced data can be used to examine the dynamics and influencing factors of plant invasions in China. They can also serve as the most updated data reference for policy makers in designing effective AIP management policies in China. We encourage users to cite this data paper when utilizing the data, and there are no restrictions on its use for non-commercial purposes.

RevDate: 2025-05-06
CmpDate: 2025-05-07

Doherty K, Gurinas M, Samsoe E, et al (2025)

Ground-truthed and high-resolution drone images of the leafy spurge weed plant (Euphorbia esula).

Scientific data, 12(1):746.

This dataset comprises 1.3 cm resolution aerial images of grasslands in western Montana, USA, captured by a commercial drone. Many scenes contain leafy spurge (Euphorbia esula), introduced to North America, now widespread in rangeland ecosystems, which is highly invasive and damaging to crop production and biodiversity. Technicians surveyed 1000 points in the study area, noting spurge presence or absence, and recorded each point's position with precision global navigation satellite systems. We cropped tiles from an orthomosaic image at these locations. We publicly release these images and metadata as a Hugging Face Dataset, accessible in one line of code. Our aim is to invite the research community to develop classifiers as early warning systems for spurge invasion. We tested classification performance for two contemporary vision models and achieved 0.85 test accuracy. This demonstrates the feasibility yet difficulty of this classification task.

RevDate: 2025-05-06
CmpDate: 2025-05-07

Marchioro M, Rossini M, Ortis G, et al (2025)

The first host plant dataset of Curculionidae Scolytinae of the world: Hylastini LeConte, Hylurgini Gistel, Ipini Bedel, Phloeosinini Nusslin, Polygraphini Chapuis.

Scientific data, 12(1):751.

Wood-boring beetles and, in particular, Scolytinae (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) are one of the most successful groups of invasive species worldwide. They can be easily transported across continents at the larval stage as their development takes place inside the tissues of live plants, timber, wood products and wood-packaging materials. This grants them protection from adverse travel conditions and allows them to often go unnoticed by phytosanitary inspections at ports of entry. In this context, knowledge of biological traits of these species, particularly the recorded host plants, is essential for planning effective monitoring strategies. This kind of information is scattered through a large amount of papers, catalogs and books. Thus, the purpose of this paper is to provide a comprehensive list of host plants and their economic categorization for five scolytine tribes. This fourth contribution presents the list of host plants for 829 species belonging to five tribes that mainly, but not exclusively, infest conifers: Hylastini LeConte, Hylurgini Gistel, Ipini Bedel, Phloeosinini Nusslin, and Polygraphini Chapuis.

RevDate: 2025-05-06
CmpDate: 2025-05-07

Arabesky V, Johnson AD, Rozenberg T, et al (2025)

Maternal care thwarts parasitoids in the invasive brown widow spider (Latrodectus geometricus).

Proceedings. Biological sciences, 292(2046):20242735.

Maternal care can maximize offspring survival and may contribute to the establishment success of invasive species. The brown widow spider, Latrodectus geometricus, is a successful invader worldwide. Here, we investigated the role of maternal care in enhancing its success. We compared the defence mechanisms of the invasive L. geometricus with those of another widow spider native to the Negev desert, Latrodectus pallidus, against an egg sac parasitoid wasp. Both spider species exhibited guarding behaviours following exposure to wasps; however, only L. geometricus efficiently evaded and successfully killed the parasitoid. Accordingly, its egg sacs were parasitized less frequently than those of L. pallidus. Next, we evaluated the defensive role of the silk spike-like structures on L. geometricus egg sacs. When spikes were removed from half of the egg sac surface, the wasps laid more eggs on the spike-free side. In an additional experiment, L. geometricus females increased spike density on subsequent egg sacs after exposure to the parasitoid. We showed that L. geometricus employs both behavioural defences and modifications to the egg sac structure to protect against the parasitoid. These defences may provide L. geometricus with an advantage over native species in its invasive range, potentially contributing to its invasion success.

RevDate: 2025-05-06

van Rees CB, Geist J, AH Arthington (2025)

Grasping at water: a gap-oriented approach to bridging shortfalls in freshwater biodiversity conservation.

Biological reviews of the Cambridge Philosophical Society [Epub ahead of print].

Freshwater biodiversity is the fastest declining part of the global biota, threatened by multiple stressors including habitat loss and fragmentation, climate change, invasive species, water pollution, and abstraction by humans. A multitude of recent agenda-setting publications have pointed out key objectives and goals for addressing this freshwater biodiversity crisis, but important gaps must be overcome to reach ambitious conservation targets. In this perspective, we complement these high-level papers in freshwater conservation by highlighting important gaps in knowledge, governance, and implementation. This gap-oriented approach is designed to facilitate meaningful action by highlighting missing 'pieces' in the conservation process, and their connection to existing and emerging solutions in the literature. We derive 13 overarching gaps from a conference session and informal synthesis of recent literature in freshwater biodiversity conservation to catalyse research, advocacy, and action to meet freshwater goals for the post-2020 Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF). Key gaps include inventory data on global freshwater biodiversity, collating and mobilizing conservation evidence in practice, improving coordination of ecological governance at scale -including within and across catchments-and navigating trade-offs between economic development, resource consumption, and priorities for freshwater biodiversity. Finally, we apply this gap-oriented approach to key language describing GBF goals for freshwater biodiversity conservation, and point out existing and emerging solutions which may help address important gaps. Major themes that address multiple gaps include the use of Nature-based Solutions and Other Effective Area-based Conservation Measures (OECMs), navigation of water management trade-offs between human and environmental needs, co-production of knowledge with Indigenous and local people and other stakeholders, integration of conservation research and action between aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems, and funding and policy mechanisms to facilitate conservation action and support meaningful monitoring of conservation evidence across hydrological scales.

RevDate: 2025-05-06

Prabhakaran N, Gupta GVM, BSK Kumar (2025)

A critical review on ocean acidification driven by disinfection by-products discharge from ships' ballast water management systems: Impacts on carbon chemistry.

Marine pollution bulletin, 217:118029 pii:S0025-326X(25)00504-1 [Epub ahead of print].

The world's blue economy is closely tied to maritime trade, but ballast water from ships often carries harmful aquatic organisms and pathogens, which disrupt the marine environment. To address this, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) mandated ballast water treatment to eradicate these invasive species. However, the treatment processes inherently generate numerous Disinfection by-Products (DBPs). The discharge of these DBPs exacerbates ocean acidification through various acid- and CO2-releasing reactions. The IMO's Ballast Water Working Group has listed 41 high-priority DBPs for risk assessment due to their toxicity and prevalence in treated ballast water. This review quantitatively evaluates changes in pH and carbonate ions in seawater using the PyCO2SYS software package. Results reveal that DBPs can reduce ocean pH by ∼0.057 units and carbonate ion concentrations by 24.06 μmol kg[-1] during a single discharge of 1 m[3] treated water. In addition, this review outlines the challenges and research gaps for marine ecosystems sustainability.

RevDate: 2025-05-07
CmpDate: 2025-05-06

Proboste T, Turnlund A, Bengsen A, et al (2025)

Quantifying feral pig interactions to inform disease transmission networks.

eLife, 13:.

Feral pigs threaten biodiversity in 54 countries and cause an estimated $120 billion in damages annually in the USA. They endanger over 600 native species and have driven 14 to extinction. Additionally, they pose a significant zoonotic disease risk, carrying pathogens such as Brucella, leptospirosis, and Japanese encephalitis. Understanding and controlling disease spread relies on models of social dynamics, but these vary widely across regions, limiting the transferability of findings from the USA and Europe to other locations like Australia. This study addresses this gap by analysing the social interactions of 146 GPS-tracked feral pigs in Australia using a proximity-based social network approach. Findings reveal that females exhibit stronger group cohesion, while males act as key connectors between groups. Contact rates are high within groups, facilitating rapid intra-group disease spread, whereas inter-group transmission is slower. Seasonal variations further impact dynamics, with increased contact in summer. These insights suggest that targeting adult males in control programs could help limit disease outbreaks. Given the rising economic and public health concerns associated with animal diseases, the study highlights the need for localized strategies based on feral pig social behaviour to enhance global control efforts.

RevDate: 2025-05-07
CmpDate: 2025-05-06

Ji F, Shen J, Zhang W, et al (2025)

Discriminating spatiotemporal heterogeneity and environmental drivers of fish assemblages using environmental DNA metabarcoding in mosaic habitat ecosystems.

Scientific reports, 15(1):15705.

Surveys of fish diversity in complex heterogeneous environments are highly challenging to perform using traditional survey methods. Although environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding has been effectively used to evaluate fish diversity, studies exploring the spatial and temporal variability of fish communities in mosaic habitats and their connection to water quality after ecological project implementation are still scarce. Here, we evaluated the changes in water quality and fish assembles using the traditional method and environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding after Ecological water replenishment (EWR) and the links between fish communities and water quality were established in the Baiyangdian (BYD) ecosystem in the North China Plain. All water quality variables including TN, NH3-N, CODMn and TP showed a conspicuous improvement pattern, and the number of fish species increased notably after EWR. In addition, 6 more introduced fish species were recorded when compared with the historical data before the implementation of the EWR project. Furthermore, the species richness showed a highly significant difference among the four habitats in the summer 2020 and spring 2021 (spring: P = 0.000; summer: P = 0.002), and obvious discrimination of fish communities across two seasons was observed (P = 0.001) with eDNA metabarcoding. The water quality variables driving the changes of fish communities during the same period varied significantly across different habitats, while not all showed noticeable discrepancy in driving cross-seasonal fish community changes. Thus, our study highlights that the continuous EWR improves the water quality and fish richness but potential ecological issues associated with introduced species should be carefully considered after EWR. Our results also confirm that eDNA is a reliable tool for assessing fish diversity and distinguishing spatiotemporal variability of fish communities in mosaic habitat ecosystems.

RevDate: 2025-05-07
CmpDate: 2025-05-07

Coelho-Souza SA, Falsarella LN, Leite KL, et al (2025)

A "short blanket" reality: The challenge to control sun coral invasion in a large no-take marine protected area over a decade of adaptive management.

Marine pollution bulletin, 216:117947.

Marine protected areas (MPAs) should be prioritized for management actions against bioinvasions. Controlling underwater invaders is particularly challenging because of the need for specific tools and methodologies with long-term investment. Since 2013, a Brazilian no-take MPA has adopted the adaptive management of sun coral (Tubastraea spp.). The historical dataset of sun coral removal in the Alcatrazes MPA was analyzed, as well as its relative abundance from 2021 to 2023. Between 2014 and 2023, almost 1.3 million colonies (12 t) of sun corals were removed. Control actions were primarily concentrated at three sites before 2021. Since 2021, the development of a new technique using a pneumatic drill along with the identification of new invasion foci through the monitoring plan, allowed an increased removal rate. While sun coral abundance was controlled considering the whole archipelago, the effect of management was variable at a smaller spatial scale. While for some sites the reduction of sun coral abundance lasted for just six months, one annual action was enough to control the abundance at other sites. It was not possible to achieve equally high management effort at all sites, resulting in a "short blanket" outcome: i.e., when some sites had high removal rates, others were less managed and experienced increasing sun coral abundance between control actions. By integrating the monitoring and management datasets, we suggest a protocol from an adaptive management perspective that considers both the degree of invasion and tailored removal rates per site.

RevDate: 2025-05-07
CmpDate: 2025-05-07

Horsák M, Janáč M, Zhai M, et al (2025)

Temporal niche dynamics of spreading native invertebrates underlie doubling of richness in pristine temperate streams.

The Journal of animal ecology, 94(4):693-705.

While biodiversity loss is undeniably a global phenomenon, an increase in taxonomic richness has recently been reported from some ecosystems and spatial scales. A striking increase in abundance and/or species richness has been documented from temperate rivers over the last 25 years, with many of the expanding species (i.e. winners) being native species. However, the lack of repeatedly collected local environmental data prevents the exploration of their niche dynamics and also makes it difficult to distinguish between possible causes. We fill this gap by using species occurrence data from 65 pristine Czech rivers sampled in 1997-2000 and 2015. The same methods were used for sampling macroinvertebrates and measuring environmental parameters in both periods. We selected 43 winners, defined as taxonomically validated and originally non-rare native macroinvertebrate species whose occupancy increased by at least six sites between the time periods. We searched for consistent patterns of niche dynamics (i.e. stability, expansion and restriction) among species that might contribute most to the overall increase in species richness. Using several biological traits, we also compared the winners with the other 253 taxa collected to look for differences. Analysis of the occurrence data showed that niche stability was by far the predominant pattern of the niche dynamics. This clearly indicates that the winners fill their original niches, with a limited contribution of niche shift or expansion, depending on the species. As no significant differences in either temperature preferences or the other biological traits were found between the winners and the other taxa, there is no unique set of functional traits that explain the success of the winners. The observed mechanism of filling the original niche space by the spreading native species not only explains the increase in local species richness, but also contributes to support the hypothesis of a climate-driven increase in ecosystem energy flow from a new perspective. The increased metabolism of the system may relax interspecific competition allowing it to carry more individuals and species, even without the need for an increase in nutrients and ecosystem recovery.

RevDate: 2025-05-05

Ewert AM, McMenamin A, Adjaye D, et al (2025)

Microalgae functional feed additives strengthen immunity and increase longevity in honey bees.

Journal of invertebrate pathology pii:S0022-2011(25)00086-2 [Epub ahead of print].

Honey bees (Apis mellifera) are faced with a myriad of immunological threats, often worsened by poor nutrition. The use of functional feed additives offers a promising strategy to address colony nutritional deficiencies while helping strengthen bee immune responses and mitigate stress. Microalgae have gained recognition as beneficial diet ingredients for livestock due to their abundance of essential nutrients and immunomodulatory properties. Here, we tested the effects of microalgae-containing feed on honey bee immunity, lifespan, and nutrient assimilation. Caged bees were fed a commercial artificial diet or the same diet with added pollen, spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) or Chlorella (Chlorella vulgaris). Immune-related gene expression, longevity, and body weight were measured following six days of ad libitum feeding. All diets resulted in similar body weights, indicating adequate nutrient assimilation. While bees fed the pollen-containing diet lived the longest (median lifespan = 51 days), bees fed spirulina- and Chlorella-containing diets lived significantly longer (median lifespan = 48 and 46 days, respectively) than those fed the base diet (median lifespan = 40 days). Spirulina-fed bees exhibited significantly higher expression of several antimicrobial peptide (AMP) genes relative to the base diet and had superior bacterial clearing ability after injection with live E. coli cells. We propose that this increased immunocompetence is at least partially due to elevated AMP levels. Our findings suggest that the tested microalgae can improve honey bee longevity and immune functions with negligible health costs relative to a commonly used artificial diet. Determining the effects of microalgae feed additives in field-relevant contexts and in the face of diverse pathogen challenges should be the focus of future research efforts.

RevDate: 2025-05-05
CmpDate: 2025-05-05

Jensen AJ, Goldstein BR, Cove MV, et al (2025)

Mammals on the Margins: Identifying the Drivers and Limitations of Range Expansion.

Global change biology, 31(5):e70222.

Accurately estimating species distributions is critical for tracking how biodiversity is shaped by global change. While some species are expanding their ranges, the importance of factors like climate change, habitat change, and human avoidance for explaining this expansion is not well understood. Here, we used observations of 94 North American mammals on iNaturalist to (1) identify errors of omission in the existing range maps; (2) differentiate between extra-range populations that are likely products of natural expansions vs. introductions; and (3) test hypotheses about where natural range expansions occur. We found a substantial percentage of observations were outside both IUCN (16%) and Area of Habitat (36%) maps, suggesting that integrating contemporary citizen science data would improve existing range maps. We estimated that most observations outside IUCN ranges were natural expansions and 95% of species had at least one naturally expanding population. We also identified introductions for 36% of species, which were particularly extensive for several species. We show that natural range expansions are generally associated with a lighter human footprint and less habitat change and are not associated with warming temperatures. This suggests that habitat modifications by humans constrain the ability of species to expand their range to track a changing climate. We also found substantial variation in the directionality of effects from all factors across species, meaning that our species-specific findings will be useful for conservation planning. Our study demonstrates that citizen science data can be useful for conservation by tracking how organisms are responding, or failing to respond, to global change.

RevDate: 2025-05-05

Staude IR, Grenié M, Thomas CD, et al (2025)

Many non-native plant species are threatened in parts of their native range.

The New phytologist [Epub ahead of print].

RevDate: 2025-05-05
CmpDate: 2025-05-05

Lu JZ, Yang J, Bluhm C, et al (2025)

Mixed forests with native species mitigate impacts of introduced Douglas fir on soil decomposers (Collembola).

Ecological applications : a publication of the Ecological Society of America, 35(3):e70034.

Forest ecosystem management requires the conservation of associated biodiversity. Enriching native forests with economically valuable conifer species provides economic gains and meets the increasing societal demand for timber but may threaten biodiversity. Soil sustains most of forest biodiversity, but the impact of changes in tree species composition, including native and non-native species, on soil invertebrates remains little studied. We investigated the impact of different forest types on the taxonomic and functional composition of springtail communities (Collembola, Insecta), an abundant and diverse microarthropod group inhabiting litter and soil. Using native Fagus sylvatica (European beech) as reference, we compared Collembola communities with native but range-expanding Picea abies (Norway spruce) and non-native Pseudotsuga menziesii (Douglas fir) as well as beech-conifer mixtures. The abundance of Collembola was higher in Norway spruce than in European beech, with little difference among the other forest types. Further, the taxonomic and functional composition of Collembola was shifted to more parthenogenetic species at sandy sites, stressing the importance of regional factors such as soil type and climate in structuring Collembola communities. Collembola communities in Douglas fir were more pigmented and distributed to the surface, resulting in a lower proportion of euedaphic Collembola compared to European beech forests. In mixed forests, the impacts of Douglas fir on euedaphic Collembola were reduced, suggesting that negative effects of introduced tree species on soil animal communities might be alleviated by limiting Douglas fir to enrichment plantings only. Overall, the results indicate that vertical distribution in soil and morphological traits of Collembola help to better understand the changes in decomposer communities due to planting non-native tree species.

RevDate: 2025-05-03

Sands B, Giroux L, J Bruce (2025)

Dung beetle species assemblages in cattle pastures of Vermont and New York State.

Environmental entomology pii:8124528 [Epub ahead of print].

Dung beetles provide key ecosystem services in pasture environments. In the Northeastern U.S., dairy is the largest agricultural sector and grass-based dairy production is increasing. Despite the importance of dung beetles as beneficial pasture insects, the consequences of changes in pasture habitat with more cattle out on pasture are not well understood, nor is dung beetle species composition known for several states in Northeastern U.S. The aims of this study were to investigate dung beetle diversity and community structure on dairy pastures across Vermont and North Country, New York, and identify relevant livestock management factors that influence these dynamics. Dung baited pitfall trapping and soil health analysis were conducted on 29 grazing dairy farms using different grazing strategies and parasite management. The results reveal an abundant and diverse dung beetle community; however, the population was dominated by individuals of introduced species of European origin, particularly Colobopterus erraticus (Linnaeus, 1758; Coleoptera; Scarabaeidae) which comprised 74% of beetles collected. Native dung beetle species abundance was lower in the Northeast Kingdom of VT. Species assemblage structure differed between management practices related to parasiticide use and grazing. The soil health outcomes bulk density (0 to 50 mm), total carbon, and total nitrogen were correlated with dung beetle biodiversity indices and grazing management. The results indicate that livestock management may influence dung beetle species assemblages and strategies to support biodiversity may support soil health and nutrient cycling in the Northeast.

RevDate: 2025-05-06
CmpDate: 2025-05-06

Bradley EA, Lockaby BG, Madere S, et al (2025)

Stream pathogenic bacteria levels rebound post-population control of wild pigs.

Journal of environmental quality, 54(2):359-368.

The range and density of one of North America's most destructive and invasive mammalian species, wild pigs (Sus scrofa), has expanded rapidly over the past several decades. Alongside this growth, their fecal contamination of surface waters has impaired water quality through significantly increased levels of pathogenic bacteria, raising concerns over the potential for zoonotic disease transmission. Significant remediation of these water quality impacts has been shown as a result of reductions in wild pig populations due to control efforts; however, the duration of these remediation effects as populations rebound remains unclear. Our study sought to determine the longevity of water quality remediation resulting from wild pig population control efforts. We found that median concentrations of Escherichia coli and fecal coliform (CFU/100 mL) increased by 746% and 159% in the year following the conclusion of removal efforts, resulting in median concentrations of 79% and 159% greater than those observed prior. We also found increased public health risk, with samples exceeding E. coli and fecal coliform guidelines 10% and 12% more often than pre-removal, respectively. While further research into wild pig population dynamics and fecal contamination is necessary, we conclude that ongoing population control efforts may be necessary to remediate water quality impacts and public health risks associated with invasive wild pigs.

RevDate: 2025-05-06
CmpDate: 2025-05-06

Wayne SM, Norris MC, Fargevieille A, et al (2025)

Reduced Water Availability to Mothers and Embryos Has Little Effect on Offspring Phenotypes in an Invasive Lizard.

Journal of experimental zoology. Part A, Ecological and integrative physiology, 343(5):535-545.

Water availability has critical impacts on numerous physiological functions in all organisms and can have different effects across life stages. For example, water available to reproductive females can influence offspring production, and has the potential to influence how early-stage offspring (e.g., embryos) respond to moisture in their developmental environment. In this study, we use the brown anole lizard (Anolis sagrei) to examine the effects of water availability on reproductive investment. We tested the hypothesis that water available to mothers influences embryonic development under different levels of moisture in their incubation environment. We demonstrate that a substantial reduction in water availability to mothers (~70% reduction) has no observable effect on fecundity, egg size, or egg hydration. We also provide evidence that our water restriction to mothers does not influence how embryos respond to moisture conditions during egg incubation. However, moisture in the egg incubation substrate positively affected egg water uptake, egg hatching success and hatchling body size (but not hatchling hydration). Overall, our study shows that reproduction in adult female A. sagrei is robust to variation in water availability, but survival during early life stages is sensitive to this variable. Thus, the effect of water availability on different fitness components varies between life stages.

RevDate: 2025-05-06
CmpDate: 2025-05-06

Laojun S, T Chaiphongpachara (2025)

Phenotypic and genetic variation of Aedes albopictus (Diptera: Culicidae) in Thailand and its global relationships: Insights from wing morphometric and mitochondrial COI gene analyses.

Medical and veterinary entomology, 39(2):315-334.

Aedes albopictus (Diptera: Culicidae), commonly known as the Asian tiger mosquito, is an important vector transmitting dangerous arboviruses to humans. This study investigated the phenotypic and genetic variation of this species in Thailand through wing geometric morphometric (GM) and mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene sequence analyses. A total of 236 Ae. albopictus specimens from 12 populations in Thailand and 89 specimens from invasive populations in Florida, Hawaii and Brazil underwent wing GM analysis. The centroid size (CS) of Ae. albopictus populations in Thailand ranged from 2.00 mm in Bangkok to 2.36 mm in Chanthaburi, while in invasive populations, CS varied from 2.25 mm in Brazil to 2.47 mm in Florida. Pairwise comparisons of wing shape revealed significant differences for most population pairs, with distances ranging from 1.63 to 10.02. The clustering tree indicated distant relationships in wing shape between native and invasive populations. Additionally, partial COI gene sequences were amplified from 108 specimens, revealing a mean haplotype diversity of 0.842 ± 0.025 and a mean nucleotide diversity of 0.002 ± 0.001. The results from neutral Tajima's D and Fu's Fs tests indicated negative and statistically significant values (-2.159 and -33.846, respectively), suggesting population expansion. Further examination of haplotype relationships between Thailand and other countries identified two distinct groups: a Southeast Asia group, with Thai haplotypes clustered exclusively within it, and a non-Southeast Asia group. These findings highlight the phenotypic and genetic variation of Ae. albopictus in Thailand, providing essential insights for disease control strategies and tracing the mosquito's origins across regions.

RevDate: 2025-05-03
CmpDate: 2025-05-03

Ojha M, Shigwan BK, Nerlekar AN, et al (2025)

Differential impacts of invasion on plant communities of two types of savannas in India.

Ecological applications : a publication of the Ecological Society of America, 35(3):e70035.

Biological invasions pose a threat to biodiversity in tropical savannas. Invasive plants can alter savanna communities in complex ways, where impacts can vary with the intensity of invasion, the spatial scales examined, and by climate. However, our understanding of such impacts on Asian tropical savannas is limited. To address this knowledge gap, we examined how plant invasion impacted plant communities across increasing levels of invasion, at different spatial scales, in two climatically determined savannas in tropical India. We sampled vegetation at three sites each in drier fine-leaf savannas (FLS) and wetter broadleaf savannas (BLS). At each site, we sampled replicate locations with plots assigned to uninvaded savannas, invaded savannas at three invasion levels, and old-growth savannas that served as a benchmark for comparison. We quantified alpha and beta plant diversity, and differences in community composition that were partitioned into components representative of species loss and replacement. We found that while richness and diversity decreased linearly, evenness increased linearly with invasion. The loss of species was much greater in BLS (60%) than in FLS (30%). Differences in composition with invasion were more pronounced in BLS and driven by species turnover in both savannas. We did not find evidence for homogenization at larger spatial scales, with no differences in beta diversity in FLS and an increase in BLS with invasion. These results highlight the utility of examining multiple measures of diversity, as they provide insights into how relationships between richness and evenness can translate into diversity. The linear nature of responses of the community to increasing invasion suggests that management efforts may be equally effective at different stages of invasion in these savannas. Further, the observed increase in beta diversity in invaded BLS communities adds to the growing reports of spatial scale-dependent effects and reinforces the need to examine invasion at multiple spatial scales. Overall, the greater loss of species and pronounced community changes in BLS, which is the dominant savanna type in the Indian subcontinent and home to many endemic species, suggest that it should be prioritized for conservation, management, and future restoration.

RevDate: 2025-05-02

Perelló E, Pinya S, Box A, et al (2025)

Assessing heavy metal accumulation in the invasive blue crab (Callinectes sapidus): environmental and human health implications.

Environmental science and pollution research international [Epub ahead of print].

Heavy metals are increasingly becoming a significant environmental concern, especially regarding food safety and security. This is especially concerning as the consumption of harvested marine species can pose potential health concerns. The arrival of the blue crab, Callinectes sapidus, to the Balearic Islands has led to the need to evaluate its environmental implications and potential as a food source as part of management efforts. In the present study, the concentrations of cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), and mercury (Hg) in the muscle tissue of C. sapidus were evaluated at several locations in the Balearic Islands in the western Mediterranean Sea. A total of eighty-three blue crabs were examined (45 males and 38 females) and the concentrations of the heavy metals were evaluated. Regarding metal concentrations, overall, Hg was the most present followed by Cd and then Pb. Concentrations were also site dependent, with Es Grau having the highest Hg concentrations while in s'Albufereta the highest Cd concentrations were observed. Moreover, differences in metal accumulation were also observed between sexes, with juveniles and females exhibiting higher Cd concentrations than males. Furthermore, regarding potential human health concerns for consumption, the margin of exposure (MOE) for Pb were all above 1 and the estimated weekly ingestion (EWI) for Cd and Hg, were all below the established guidelines for food safety. These results highlight that the consumption of C. sapidus from the Balearic Islands does not currently pose a health risk the recreational fisheries sector. Considering these findings, the muscle tissue of C. sapidus is a valuable bioindicator for monitoring heavy metal levels, and continued site-specific monitoring is recommended for the coastal ecosystems of the Balearic Islands.

RevDate: 2025-05-02

Yalcin IE, Altay V, M Ozturk (2025)

Phytoremediation potential and ecophysiological features of water hyacinth Eichornia crassipes: a case study from Orontes River, Türkiye.

Journal of environmental science and health. Part A, Toxic/hazardous substances & environmental engineering [Epub ahead of print].

The pollution of freshwater resources has become a critical global issue due to intensive and unregulated agricultural practices, rapid urbanization, and industrial expansion along waterways. Phytoremediation, which involves using aquatic macrophytes to remove contaminants from water, is recognized as an environmentally sustainable and cost-effective remediation strategy. This study investigates the phytoremediation capacity of Eichhornia crassipes in reducing heavy metal contamination in the transboundary Orontes (Asi) River within Türkiye's borders. The Asi River, spanning 571 km from Lebanon through Syria to the Mediterranean Sea in Hatay, Türkiye, is severely affected by heavy metal pollution, primarily due to agricultural activities. The study assessed the bioaccumulation potential of E. crassipes, which grows abundantly in the river, focusing on metal accumulation in its petioles. The concentrations of cadmium, cobalt, chromium, and lead in petioles were quantified at 6.69, 23.50, 29.77, and 65.25 mg kg[-1], respectively, while the maximum concentrations of these metals in the aquatic habitat were 76.57, 303.26, 693.58, and 106.19 µg L[-1], respectively. The effectiveness of phytoremediation can be further enhanced through genetic modification, microbial stimulation, and chemical or natural amendments. These findings illustrate the significant potential of E. crassipes for heavy metal remediation in natural water bodies, contributing to ecosystem conservation, species sustainability, and biodiversity protection.

RevDate: 2025-05-02

Konishi T, Uemori K, Tamura S, et al (2025)

The avoidance of conspecific cues during egg-laying decision-making in the Asian long-horned beetle Anoplophora glabripennis.

Bulletin of entomological research pii:S000748532500032X [Epub ahead of print].

For insects whose larvae are incapable of moving between food resources, the selection of oviposition sites by females is critical to the survival and development of their offspring. In such insects, it is known that females utilise and benefit from conspecific cues for oviposition choice. Studying how information from the behaviour of conspecifics affects egg-laying decision-making is crucial for understanding the biology of insects, which can lead to novel strategies for pest management. We focused on the reproductive behaviour of the Asian long-horned beetle Anoplophora glabripennis, which has become an invasive pest species throughout the world. Here, we show that A. glabripennis avoids sites already containing conspecific cues during egg-laying decision-making. The field survey measuring the distance between neighbouring oviposition scars (in this species, females make scars through the bark of host branches for laying eggs) suggested that the selection of oviposition sites by females is not random. In laboratory oviposition-choice bioassays, females made less oviposition scars on branches containing scars made by other females than those without scars. In addition, female oviposition was also deterred by the presence of their own oviposition scars. Our results indicate that avoiding sites containing conspecific (and their own) traces realises fitness benefit such as reducing resource competition among larvae. This study provides insights into the reproductive behaviour of this invasive longhorn beetle, which is useful for developing environmentally friendly control methods such as oviposition deterrents.

RevDate: 2025-05-02
CmpDate: 2025-05-02

Waki T, Nitta M, Ansai E, et al (2025)

Introduction of Azygia hwangtsiyui (Trematoda: Azygidae) to Japan with its life cycle information.

Journal of helminthology, 99:e59 pii:S0022149X25000379.

In Japan, three trematode species of the genus Azygia have been recorded: A. gotoi, A. perryii, and A. rhinogobii. Here, we report the first detection of A. hwangtsiyui in Japan, identified from the introduced snakehead Channa argus. This trematode was previously known only from the snakeheads in mainland China. Between 2015 and 2024, we sampled snakeheads and snails in Japan, collecting adult trematodes and rediae. Adult trematodes were identified morphologically as A. hwangtsiyui, a determination corroborated by molecular analyses of the COI and 28S rDNA regions. Rediae extracted from the snail Sinotaia quadrata histrica were also identified molecularly as A. hwangtsiyui, indicating the snail acts as an intermediate host. Juvenile trematodes from the short-spined Japanese trident goby Tridentiger brevispinis were also morphologically identified as A. hwangtsiyui, indicating that this goby acts as a paratenic host. Given the snakehead's introduction to Japan between 1923 and 1924, the absence of records of later introductions, and the presence of both intermediate and paratenic hosts in Japan at that time, A. hwangtsiyui was likely introduced concurrently with the snakehead. As the detection of three COI haplotypes suggests multiple introductions, subsequent introductions via the aquarium trade or other pathways involving the transport of freshwater fish and mollusks from Asia to Japan are also plausible.

RevDate: 2025-05-04
CmpDate: 2025-05-04

Altamiranda-Saavedra M, Ávila-Jiménez J, Rojas M, et al (2025)

Global potential distribution and realized niche conservatism during biological invasion of Culicoides imicola from Africa to the Mediterranean basin of Europe.

Acta tropica, 265:107627.

Many Culicoides species transmit arboviruses that affect animals and humans. Culicoides imicola, a key vector of bluetongue virus (BTV), has expanded its range from Africa to Europe, spreading disease. Biting midges breed in diverse habitats and contribute significantly to the epidemiology of vector-borne diseases. In the present study, C. imicola occurrences were obtained and spatially filtered, resulting in 703 occurrences divided into the training and validation datasets (a 70-30 % split). Four bioclimatic variable sets were created based on their contributions to environmental niche modeling. Ecological niche models were built using combinations of variables and feature classes, and evaluated based on the Akaike information criterion, the omission rate, and partial receiver operating characteristic curve analysis using the Kuenm package in R version 4.2.3. Niche comparison between the native (Africa) and invaded (Europe) regions was performed using NicheA 3.0 and niche dynamics, including unfilling, expansion, and stability, with ecoregions delineating native and invaded areas determined using the Ecospat package in R version 4.2.3. The results indicated that C. imicola had a wide transcontinental distribution; the model predicted suitable habitats mainly in subtropical and temperate zones. The niche overlap analysis showed that the Jaccard index and Schoener's D predicted low niche overlap between the native and invaded areas, with limited expansion and 93.6 % niche stability. The niches of C. imicola's native and invaded areas were more similar than would be expected by chance, but they were not equivalent. In conclusion, there was high niche stability for C. imicola between Africa and Mediterranean Europe, with temperature strongly influencing its distribution.

RevDate: 2025-05-01

Ohanna M, Silveira TCL, Crivellaro MS, et al (2025)

Charting the invasion: Predicting Tubastraea spp. next move into Brazilian marine protected areas.

Marine pollution bulletin, 217:118030 pii:S0025-326X(25)00505-3 [Epub ahead of print].

In the late 1980s, the sun coral, Tubastraea spp. (Scleractinia; Dendrophylliidae), was introduced to Brazil via biofouling on oil platforms and drilling vessels. Today, these corals have spread over 3000 km of the Brazilian coast, colonizing a range of habitats, including oil platforms, drilling ships, monobuoys and natural reefs. Concerned about the potential impacts on Brazilian marine ecosystems, management actions have been implemented in various regions. To achieve success in management, early detection and monitoring are essential. To address this need, our study focuses on modeling the habitat suitability for Tubastraea spp. along the Brazilian coast, aiming to support control and monitoring activities within marine protected areas (MPAs). By utilizing habitat suitability models that incorporate both environmental and anthropogenic predictors, our results indicate a broad potential distribution for Tubastraea spp., with oil and gas extraction identified as the primary influencing factor. Our analysis ranked the most vulnerable Brazilian MPAs to Tubastraea spp. invasion, highlighting the Arapiranga-Tromaí Extractive Reserve, Trindade and Martim Vaz Islands Natural Monument, and the Costa dos Corais Environmental Protected Area as the most threatened. This study offers valuable insights into prioritizing efforts and resources for the control, monitoring, and prevention of sun coral invasion along the Brazilian coast, particularly in light of ongoing discussions about the oil industry's plans to operate at the Amazon River mouth.

RevDate: 2025-05-02

Tobias ZJC, Miller G, CK Tepolt (2025)

Variation of thermal tolerance during northward range expansion in the invasive golden star tunicate, Botryllus schlosseri.

Conservation physiology, 13(1):coaf018.

Populations within a species can differ with respect to their thermal physiology, with variation often observed across gradients in environmental temperature with latitude or elevation. The tempo at which phenotypic plasticity and/or local adaptation are able to shape variation in thermal tolerance has implications for species persistence in an increasingly volatile climate. Having encountered novel environments during introduction and subsequent range expansion, non-indigenous species present useful case studies for examining thermal tolerance differentiation on contemporary time scales. Here we test for differentiation of heat and cold tolerance among three populations of the invasive golden star tunicate, Botryllus schlosseri (Pallas), spanning a 24.3° latitudinal gradient in the Northeast Pacific. We observed differentiation of post-larval heat tolerance among our sites, with our southern, putatively warm-adapted population exhibiting a significantly higher LT50 than the two more northern populations. We also found that adult cardiac performance at cold temperatures is progressively greater in colder, higher latitude populations. This pattern may suggest compensatory genetic adaptation to colder environmental temperatures. By examining both heat tolerance and cold performance simultaneously among populations of an invasive ascidian, we document how this marine ectotherm is capable of shifting its physiology to novel environmental conditions over compressed time scales, with implications for the spread of this invasive species and, more broadly, for species' responses to temperature in an era of global change.

LOAD NEXT 100 CITATIONS

ESP Quick Facts

ESP Origins

In the early 1990's, Robert Robbins was a faculty member at Johns Hopkins, where he directed the informatics core of GDB — the human gene-mapping database of the international human genome project. To share papers with colleagues around the world, he set up a small paper-sharing section on his personal web page. This small project evolved into The Electronic Scholarly Publishing Project.

ESP Support

In 1995, Robbins became the VP/IT of the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle, WA. Soon after arriving in Seattle, Robbins secured funding, through the ELSI component of the US Human Genome Project, to create the original ESP.ORG web site, with the formal goal of providing free, world-wide access to the literature of classical genetics.

ESP Rationale

Although the methods of molecular biology can seem almost magical to the uninitiated, the original techniques of classical genetics are readily appreciated by one and all: cross individuals that differ in some inherited trait, collect all of the progeny, score their attributes, and propose mechanisms to explain the patterns of inheritance observed.

ESP Goal

In reading the early works of classical genetics, one is drawn, almost inexorably, into ever more complex models, until molecular explanations begin to seem both necessary and natural. At that point, the tools for understanding genome research are at hand. Assisting readers reach this point was the original goal of The Electronic Scholarly Publishing Project.

ESP Usage

Usage of the site grew rapidly and has remained high. Faculty began to use the site for their assigned readings. Other on-line publishers, ranging from The New York Times to Nature referenced ESP materials in their own publications. Nobel laureates (e.g., Joshua Lederberg) regularly used the site and even wrote to suggest changes and improvements.

ESP Content

When the site began, no journals were making their early content available in digital format. As a result, ESP was obliged to digitize classic literature before it could be made available. For many important papers — such as Mendel's original paper or the first genetic map — ESP had to produce entirely new typeset versions of the works, if they were to be available in a high-quality format.

ESP Help

Early support from the DOE component of the Human Genome Project was critically important for getting the ESP project on a firm foundation. Since that funding ended (nearly 20 years ago), the project has been operated as a purely volunteer effort. Anyone wishing to assist in these efforts should send an email to Robbins.

ESP Plans

With the development of methods for adding typeset side notes to PDF files, the ESP project now plans to add annotated versions of some classical papers to its holdings. We also plan to add new reference and pedagogical material. We have already started providing regularly updated, comprehensive bibliographies to the ESP.ORG site.

cover-pic

SUPPORT ESP: Order from Amazon
The ESP project will earn a commission.

This is a must read book for anyone with an interest in invasion biology. The full title of the book lays out the author's premise — The New Wild: Why Invasive Species Will Be Nature's Salvation. Not only is species movement not bad for ecosystems, it is the way that ecosystems respond to perturbation — it is the way ecosystems heal. Even if you are one of those who is absolutely convinced that invasive species are actually "a blight, pollution, an epidemic, or a cancer on nature", you should read this book to clarify your own thinking. True scientific understanding never comes from just interacting with those with whom you already agree. R. Robbins

Electronic Scholarly Publishing
961 Red Tail Lane
Bellingham, WA 98226

E-mail: RJR8222 @ gmail.com

Papers in Classical Genetics

The ESP began as an effort to share a handful of key papers from the early days of classical genetics. Now the collection has grown to include hundreds of papers, in full-text format.

Digital Books

Along with papers on classical genetics, ESP offers a collection of full-text digital books, including many works by Darwin and even a collection of poetry — Chicago Poems by Carl Sandburg.

Timelines

ESP now offers a large collection of user-selected side-by-side timelines (e.g., all science vs. all other categories, or arts and culture vs. world history), designed to provide a comparative context for appreciating world events.

Biographies

Biographical information about many key scientists (e.g., Walter Sutton).

Selected Bibliographies

Bibliographies on several topics of potential interest to the ESP community are automatically maintained and generated on the ESP site.

ESP Picks from Around the Web (updated 28 JUL 2024 )