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Introduction: The knowledge of British and Irish bryophytes has been summarised at intervals since 1690 in national floras and checklists. The number of species and varieties recognised in these works can be used to track the discovery of British and Irish bryophytes. Methods: The main floras and checklists were identified, and the taxa recognised in twenty of them counted and their identity assessed in relation to the current (2021) checklist. Key results: The number of known bryophytes increased rapidly after the publication of Ray's Synopsis (1690). Dillenius's (1741) Historia muscorum brought together all previous reports. His polynomials were the main source for Linnaeus's binomial names in Species plantarum (1753). Linnaeus cut the number of British and Irish species from 179 to 119, omitting those that seemed to him obscure. It was clumsily done, and William Hudson (1762), in Flora Anglica, increased the number to 139, with 51 varieties, of which 37 are now treated as species. His contemporary Richard Pulteney made an early attempt to trace first records in a manuscript compiled ca. 1789. We agree with 134 of Pulteney's first records, but disagree with 88. All the historic lists contain redundancies – species that were then thought distinct but are now lumped together, the maximum being Smith's (1804) Flora Britannica, with 62. From 1855 to 1930 numerous varieties were recognised. These peaked at 309 moss varieties in Duncan's (1926) checklist and 117 liverworts in Wilson's (1930) checklist. In 2021 they have shrunk to 33 moss varieties and 9 liverworts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presented study probed to compare two naturally grown oak species in the District Atrush, Dohuk Governorate, Northern Iraq. These two species were Quercus aegilops L. and Quercus infectoria Oliv., which belonged to the genus Quercus L. The research employed two methods to determine the comparative anatomical characteristics, i.e., chemically separating cells (Maceration) and mechanically separating cells using the Macrotome. The results showed significant differences in the quantitative and qualitative characteristics of the wood of the two studied species. It helps diagnose and separate the two species, which were similar in phenotypic attributes. Quercus infectoria acorns appeared with lengthier vascular elements than edible oak wood. However, the eating oak was distinguishable by the vessel elements, which had a larger diameter than the gall oak. The edible oak differed by the greater thickness of the vessel wall than that of the stump oak vessel. An edible oak also illustrated greater values of the vessel element cavity diameter, the inner diameter of the inserted holes, and the fiber length and diameter. However, the acorn gall demonstrates a fiber wall of superior thickness to the edible oak fiber wall. The Runkel ratio was 0.499 and 0.937 in the species Quercus aegilops and Quercus infectoria, respectively. Thus, according to Runkel's ratio, the edible acorn was better in paper pulp manufacturing and the paper compared with the acorns.The qualitative traits also contributed to the diagnosis and isolation of two studied species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Against the backdrop of a global paper resource shortage, there is a growing need to identify fast-growing tree species capable of producing long-lasting paper. Three plant species namely Broussonetia kazinoki, Broussonetia papyrifera and hybrid paper mulberry, belong to the Broussonetia genus, were collected from China to study their white bark suitability for pulp and papermaking. Their chemical composition revealed that the holocellulose content in Broussonetia kazinoki and Broussonetia papyrifera was more than 80%. The molecular weight distribution of several holocellulose/α-cellulose is observed by GPC, which allows us to better observe the changes of various components on the molecular weight. The yield, lignin, whiteness, and molecular weight of the pulps obtained by NaOH treatment were determined. Optical microscope was used to characterize the fiber length-width ratio and rigidity. Finally, the improvement of the fiber rigidity method based on the Kratky-Porod chain model makes it more theoretical and further reveals the influencing factors of fiber rigidity. This study demonstrates the high potentiality of these three species for papermaking applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In their response to Wilson, Pashkevich, Rookmaaker, et al. (2022), Ferreira et al. argue that our conclusions regarding shrinking rhino horns were risky, given the low sample size used for this assessment, the variation in rhino horn length related to non‐heritable factors (including age, sex, environment and behaviour) and the low impact that current selective trophy hunting has on rhino numbers.We agree that our sample size was low and that many factors can influence horn length and therefore we discussed these points as important caveats in Wilson, Pashkevich, Rookmaaker, et al. (2022).However, we argue that although many factors can lead to variation in horn length, they do not explain the decline in relative horn length over time that we observed, and we note that the response does not offer an alternative explanation for this temporal shift.Although selective hunting is currently a minor factor in rhino mortality, this may have been relatively more important and to have had a potentially greater selective influence in the past.Our dataset does not allow identification of factors driving this change, and in Wilson, Pashkevich, Rookmaaker, et al. (2022), we offered selective hunting as one possible explanation for the relative decline, calling for more work to investigate this further.We highlight that the focus of Wilson, Pashkevich, Rookmaaker, et al. (2022) was far more than an assessment of changing relative horn length and instead aimed to demonstrate that a wide range of data can be extracted effectively from image repositories for use in a conservation context.We hope that the results in Wilson, Pashkevich, Rookmaaker, et al. (2022) will provide a useful starting point for future research, including addressing the questions raised by Ferreira et al.Ultimately, we feel that the attention given to Wilson, Pashkevich, Rookmaaker, et al. (2022) reveals the enduring interest people have in rhinos, a topic addressed in other parts of our original paper, which we encourage readers to read in its entirety. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper highlighted the annual distribution, seasonality and reproduction status of two species of sea turtles in Negeri Sembilan, Peninsular Malaysia between January 2016 and July 2020 (55 months). These data were officially provided by the Department of Fisheries Malaysia (Negeri Sembilan’s state), as a part of a conservation effort made by them to protect the endangered species, as the turtle’s population residing in Negeri Sembilan is one of the smallest in Malaysia. Current status shows that the hawksbill turtles, Eretmochelys Imbricata population in Negeri Sembilan is in stable decline with an average of <30 nests per year, and an average of <10 nests per year for the green turtle, Chelonia mydas. The overall sum was 122 nests collected for both species from 2016–2020. This paper updated the status of the hawksbill and green turtle after 30 years from the first study recorded by Mortimer et al. in 1993. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wolbachia continue to be reported in species previously thought to lack them, particularly Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. The presence of Wolbachia in this arbovirus vector is considered important because releases of mosquitoes with transinfected Wolbachia are being used around the world to suppress pathogen transmission and these efforts depend on a lack of Wolbachia in natural populations of this species. We previously assessed papers reporting Wolbachia in natural populations of Ae. aegypti and found little evidence that seemed convincing. However, since our review, more and more papers are emerging on Wolbachia detections in this species. Our purpose here is to evaluate these papers within the context of criteria we previously established but also new criteria that include the absence of releases of transinfections within the local areas being sampled which has contaminated natural populations in at least one case where novel detections have been reported. We also address the broader issue of Wolbachia detection in other insects where similar issues may arise which can affect overall estimates of this endosymbiont more generally. We note continuing shortcomings in papers purporting to find natural Wolbachia in Ae. aegypti which are applicable to other insects as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of ZooKeys is the property of Pensoft Publishers and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Much research has in recent years been devoted to better our understanding of the intricate relationships between ecology and the evolutionary success of species. These explorations have often focused on understanding the complex interplay among ecological factors and evolutionary rhythms of the species in various environments. Central to these studies is the concept of the survival of the fittest, proposed by Charles Darwin, where evolutionary circumstances, often portrayed as social dilemmas, favour the welfare of self-interested over others. To further advance this line of research, we here develop a theoretical framework that features three interconnected traits in an evolutionary setting, namely: prey, predator and parasite, each adopting distinct strategies akin to a social dilemma and resembling a Rock-Paper-Scissors scenario. These traits, which we term strategic species, adhere to the eco-evolutionary game dynamics. We further extend our analysis by conducting a sensitivity assessment of the system's payoff parameters using the Sobol indices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vilca or cebil (Anadenanthera colubrina var. cebil) is a species known for its psychoactive properties and its widespread use among the pre-Hispanic peoples who inhabited the southern Andean area (southern Peru, Bolivia, northern Chile and northwest Argentina). Studies on this species, as well as on medicinal, psychoactive, or magical plants in general, tend to consider its use in post-Spanish conquest times to be scarce or irrelevant in the Andes of South America. However, based on an in-depth review of the existing literature and on ethnobotanical research conducted in markets in Argentina, Bolivia, and Peru, this paper provides an updated overview affirming the continuity of the use of this species. The results indicate a significant diversity in terms of usage types, plant parts used, treatments, and conditions in which it is applied, along with new records of vernacular names. This paper also offers an interpretation from the perspective of Andean logics, highlighting the current therapeutic effectiveness of the seeds of this plant, facilitated through a series of "movements" that aim to restore the affected person's health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We first recall the construction of a twisted pre-Lie algebra structure on the species of finite connected topological spaces. Then, we construct a corresponding non-coassociative permutative (NAP) coproduct on the subspecies of finite connected T 0 topological spaces, i.e. finite connected posets, and we prove that the vector space generated by isomorphism classes of finite posets is a free pre-Lie algebra and also a cofree NAP coalgebra. Furthermore, we give an explicit duality between the non-associative permutative product and the proposed NAP coproduct. Finally, we prove that the results in this paper remain true for finite connected topological spaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The species of the adaptive male–female sex ratio has different effects on the bio-community. This paper is aimed at figuring out these effects through mechanism analysis and Ordinary Differential Equation (ODE). Hence, the ODE environmental model is created by combining the Lotka–Volterra model, the interspecific model, and other external factors. The stability is used to characterize these effects. According to this model, effects on bio-community stability under different male–female sex ratios are roughly observed. By innovatively considering different living environments during the species' lifecycle, the ODE environmental model is optimized, and the effects of different male–female sex ratios on the bio-community are further analyzed by phase-track maps and relative standard deviation. It is found that there are different findings and features in resource-rich and resource-scarce living environments during the lifecycle. Meanwhile, bio-communities in these two types of environments are in a stable state based on different male–female sex ratios. Based on these findings, directive opinions can be used to manage and help relevant bio-communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adaptation to different ecological niches is considered one of the main drivers of species diversification, also in cryptic species complexes, notwithstanding their morphological stasis. We here review all the published information on ecological differentiation within cryptic species complexes within the phylum Rotifera. We found 177 instances of cryptic species identified genetically, published in 101 papers. Only a subset of the papers contained available information on ecological differences and only for two of the 54 known complexes, namely Brachionus calyciflorus s.l. and Brachionus plicatilis s.l., sufficient data were available for analyses of ecological differences. For the B. calyciflorus complex, B. fernandoi consistently occurred at a significantly lower temperature than the other species in the complex; no differences were found for other environmental variables. For the B. plicatilis complex, B. paranguensis occurred in waters with higher pH than the other species; no differences were found for other environmental variables. These results, even if preliminary and based on scattered information, reveal that adaptation to different ecological niches exists also between closely related species. Our aim is to showcase this interesting field of research spurring further detailed studies to focus on the mechanisms of ecological speciation using rotifer cryptic species as a model system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The nomenclatural status and typification of the names Arthrocaulon macrostachyum, Salicornia fruticosa, S. fruticosa var. deflexa, S. fruticosa var. glaucescens, S. fruticosa var. intermedia, S. fruticosa var. humilis, S. fruticosa var. pachystachya, S. fruticulosa, S. glauca, S. lignosa, S. macrostachya var. virescens, S. macrostachya var. glaucescens, S. perennis, S. radicans, S. radicans var. caespitosa, S. sarmentosa, S. sempervirens, and S. virginica, as well as an unnamed β-variety of S. fruticosa proposed by A. Bertoloni, are investigated. Concerning A. macrostachyum, we document that the type indicated in literature (G00177362) is not a holotype, and that lectotypification is necessary. A specimen from G (G00687638) is here designated as a lectotype. On the level of variety, Arthrocnemum fruticosum var. macrostachyum is an earlier legitimate name for Salicornia fruticosa var. pachystachya. Furthermore, Piirainen et al. are incorrect when citing Forsskål's "Salicornia" from Alexandria as "S. virginica Forssk."; it is not a new name and should be cited as S. virginica auct. non L., as published in Forsskål's Flora Aegyptiaco-Arabica. Like with numerous other parallel cases in Flora Aegyptiaco-Arabica, Forsskål's designation of "Salicornia virginica" for an Arabian plant is to be considered a misapplication of the earlier Linnaean name for an American plant. Arthrocnemum glaucum (a nomen illegitimum of Ungern-Sternberg), was listed as type species of Arthrocnemum by the Names in Current Use project; the basionym, Salicornia glauca Delile, is here lectotypified and identified as Arthrocaulon meridionale, published by Ramirez et al. Updated synonymies of Arthrocaulon macrostachyum, A. meridionale, Salicornia fruticosa, and S. perennis are proposed. Salicornia sempervirens is an invalid name according to Art. 36.1a of ICN. No original material was found for S. radicans var. caespitosa. This paper also refer to lecto- or neotypifications on specimens deposited at BM, G, LINN-HS, LY, MPU, NAP, and PAL, and their current taxonomic positions are suggested in a taxonomic part of the paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Health concerns about the toxicity of arsenic compounds have therefore encouraged the development of new analytical tools for quick monitoring of arsenic in real samples with improved sensitivity, selectivity, and reliability. An overview of advanced optical colorimetric sensor techniques for real-time monitoring of inorganic arsenic species in the environment is given in this review paper. Herein, several advanced optical colorimetric sensor techniques for arsenite (As+3) and arsenate (As+5) based on doping chromogenic dyes/reagents, biomolecule-modified nanomaterials, and arsenic-binding ligand tethered nanomaterials are introduced and discussed. This review also highlights the benefits and limitations of the colorimetric sensor for arsenic species. Finally, prospects and future developments of an optical colorimetric sensor for arsenic species are also proposed. For future study in this sector, particularly for field application, authors recommend this review paper will be helpful for readers to understand the design principles and their corresponding sensing mechanisms of various arsenic optical colorimetric sensors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a prominent polyphenol found abundantly in tea, has garnered significant attention for its potential in preventing and ameliorating a wide range of diseases. Its remarkable antioxidant properties and ability to capture reactive carbonyl species make it a key player among tea's polyphenolic components. This paper delves into the synthesis and origins of both EGCG and reactive carbonyl species (RCS), emphasizing the toxicity of RCS in various food sources and their formation during food processing. Understanding EGCG's capability to capture and metabolize RCS is crucial for harnessing its health benefits. Thus, this paper explores the underlying mechanisms of EGCG for RCS inhibition and its role in capturing these compounds to generate EGCG-RCS adducts. And the absorption and metabolism of EGCG-RCS adducts is also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to propose an quantitative engineering approach to study and compare the jaw mechanisms of different marine species, considering essential mechanical parameters generally used to evaluate the performance of industrial linkage mechanisms. By leveraging these parameters, the paper demonstrates how the species' characteristics and behaviors align with the findings of biologists, enabling a meaningful comparison that was not previously possible. Seven fish species from various families are chosen to maintain a generic approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hard ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) are the economically and ecologically most important blood-sucking arthropod vectors that can transmit disease agents under temperate climate. In this group, the highest number of species (currently nearing 270) belongs to the genus Ixodes. For this review, more than 400 papers related to this genus in the context of Russia were checked for data on the host records, locations of collection, as well as ecology of assigned tick species. This monograph compensates for the lack of a similarly comprehensive English-language overview of Ixodes species in the region of Russia for nearly half century, and also makes a large set of data easily available for international readers, which is especially important if the original source is difficult to access from outside this country. In addition, the data from a significant number of papers on this topic available only in the Russian language are made accessible through this work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the genus Vitrea Fitzinger, 1833 in Serbia is reviewed. All previous literature data on this genus from Serbia are summarised and used to discuss its distribution in the country and create distribution maps, supplemented by new material collected by the authors. All Serbian species are figured. For each species, a brief description of the examined specimens, data on previous findings in Serbia, the material (including types) that were analysed, the distribution and habitats in Serbia they inhabit, as well as remarks on specific species are given. A new species, Vitrea virgo Gojšina & Dedov, sp. nov., is described from a pit on Mt. Devica in eastern Serbia. Vitrea pygmaea (O. Boettger, 1880) is reported for the first time for the territory of Serbia. As some Vitrea species have a narrow geographical range and prefer certain habitats, they are particularly vulnerable to habitat changes, which is also discussed in the paper. An identification key for all hitherto known Serbian species is given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Orchid is a type of plant that grows on land. It is highly valued for its beauty and is cherished by many because of its graceful flower shape, delicate fragrance, vibrant colors, and noble symbolism. Although there are various types of orchids, some of them look similar in appearance and color, making it challenging for people to distinguish them quickly and accurately. The existing methods for classifying orchid species face issues with accuracy due to the similarities between different species and the differences within the same species. This affects their practical use. To address these challenges, this paper introduces an efficient method for classifying orchid species using transfer learning. The main achievement of this study is the successful utilization of transfer learning to achieve accurate orchid species classification. This approach reduces the need for large datasets, minimizes overfitting, cuts down on training time and costs, and enhances classification accuracy. Specifically, the proposed approach involves four phases. First, we gathered a collection of 12 orchid image sets, totaling 12,227 images, through a combination of network sources and field photography. Next, we analyzed the distinctive features present in the collected orchid image sets. We identified certain connections between the acquired orchid datasets and other datasets. Finally, we employed transfer learning technology to create an efficient classification function for orchid species based on these relationships. As a result, our proposed method effectively addresses the challenges highlighted. Experimental results demonstrate that our classification algorithm, which utilizes transfer learning, achieves a classification accuracy rate of 96.16% compared to not using the transfer learning method. This substantial improvement in accuracy greatly enhances the efficiency of orchid classification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Two new species of chiggers in the two genera (Chiroptella Vercammen-Grandjean, 1960 and Rudnicula Vercammen-Grandjean, 1964) have been described in Indonesia since 2020. The checklist of all known bat-infesting chiggers has also been compiled for Indonesia. It summarizes 16 species in 9 genera of chiggers parasitizing 12 bat species belonging to 5 families collected on 8 Indonesian islands. Nine specimens collected in 2020 on Nusa Penida Island were not included in the checklist because of their uncertain taxonomy. In the current paper, we resolve the taxonomy of these specimens belonging to Trombicula sensu stricto group. We also revise the existing characters of this group and provide new characters helping with the clear definition of this taxa. Methods: Hosts and chiggers were captured in February 2020 in Nusa Penida Islands in Indonesia using standard bat-capturing and parasite-collecting methods. For the specimens examined in this study were provided drawings, measurements, and microscopy images. This type material is deposited in the Slovak and Czech National museums. Results: In the paper, we describe a new species parasitizing diadem leaf-nosed bat in the Goa Peteng cave on Nusa Penida Island (Lesser Sunda Islands, East Indonesia). This new species differs from all related species by the presence of a very long tarsala I (S1). A key to the larvae of all seven known Trombicula s. s. species is provided. The differentiation of Trombicula s. s. group is based on leg segmentation fsp = 6.6.6, rugose scutum with complete AM, AL and PL setation, and fT = 5B, 5BN or 4B2N. Conclusion: A new species within the genus Trombicula, group minor has been described. The new species also increases the number of known chiggers in Indonesia and the number of species parasitizing the host species Hipposideros diadema. Trombicula s. s. has also been revised and more clearly defined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This comprehensive global meta-analysis reviews the parasitism levels of tick genera and species, life stages, seasonality, attachment sites, the global mean ranks of tick species parasitism rates and records, and their distribution and role as vectors. Methods: From the 418 papers identified, 390 papers were selected to become part of the study. Results: The genera recorded as infesting domestic ruminants were Rhipicephalus (42 species), Haemaphysalis (32 species), Hyalomma (19 species), Amblyomma (18 species), Ixodes (10 species), Dermacentor (8 species), Margaropus and Nosomma (1 species). Globally, domestic ruminants are more infested by adult females and males than by the nymphal and larval stages of the tick species. The global tick species parasitism levels at the attachment sites of domestic ruminants were, in order, tail and anal region, neck and dewlap, scrotum or udder, ear region, thigh and abdomen, and dorsal surface. Conclusions: Among 131 species of eight genera of hard ticks recorded infesting domestic ruminants, 42 species had mean ranks of tick species parasitism rates up to 10%, and 37 species had mean ranks of tick species parasitism up to 10 records. Briefly, the higher the indexes of tick species parasitism rates and records, the more important their role as vectors. In addition, the majority of them are found among tick species-infested humans with nearly high ranks of tick species parasitism rates and records that double their medical, veterinary, and zoonotic importance to be the most common vectors and reservoirs of bacterial, protozoan, and viral pathogenic microorganisms, causing severe infectious diseases, and as a result, can be more dangerous to humans and domestic ruminants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Mycosystema is the property of Mycosystema Editorial Board and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

In this paper, we describe a new species of the Hydropsyche angustipennis species group, Hydropsyche nador sp. n., from Selouan and Bni Snassen areas in Morocco. The males of the new species are closest to those of Hydropsyche maroccana Navás, 1936 and H. resmineda Malicky, 1977 but differ from them mainly in the shape of the apical part of phallus, dorsal keel of segment IX, and the shape of harpago. We also used the size of head, eyes, and occipital setal warts and interocular distance, as well as the associated ratios for species delimitation. In total, ten species of the genus Hydropsyche Pictet, 1834 are now known from Morocco. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to explore the challenges, interplay and potential directions for future service research to address the first three Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of no poverty, zero hunger and good health and well-being. Design/methodology/approach: This commentary examines how service research has addressed these SDGs in the literature, and through the development of a theory of change, the authors propose an agenda for service research going beyond serving, to enabling and transforming service systems, expanding the current focus on individual to community and population well-being through promotion and prevention. Findings: Service research has increasingly advocated human-centered approaches but requires a shift towards an all of humanity perspective. Individual and collective well-being have gained attention in service research, emphasizing the importance of considering collective well-being. Research limitations/implications: The commentary underscores the need for a comprehensive approach to develop services that contribute to the well-being of the human species. It calls for research that transcends dyadic interactions, considers systemic dynamics and broadens the focus from individual to collective and population well-being. Social implications: This paper discusses important societal issues of poverty, hunger and good health and well-being and the need for integrated and ecosystem approaches to develop equitable and sustainable solutions for collective well-being. Originality/value: While SDGs 1, 2 and 3 address individual goals, they collectively underpin the well-being of communities and societies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: In this paper, the Merodon avidus (Diptera, Syrphidae) species complex was revised, whereupon we discovered and described four new species for science. An integrative taxonomy approach was used to delimit species boundaries. The molecular analysis, the differences in the shape of the wings, the morphological characters of the adults and the distribution ranges successfully separated all species from the complex. In this paper, the Merodon avidus (Diptera, Syrphidae) species complex was revised, whereupon we discovered and described four new species for science: Merodon atroavidus Vujić, Radenković et Likov sp. nov., M. magnus Vujić, Kočiš Tubić et Ačanski sp. nov., M. nigroscutum Vujić, Radenković et Likov sp. nov. and M. pseudomoenium Vujić, Kočiš Tubić et Ačanski sp. nov. An integrative taxonomy approach was used to delimit species boundaries. Two molecular markers (the mitochondrial COI gene and nuclear 28S rRNA gene—newly analysed marker for the complex) and geometric morphometry of the wing shape, together with morphological data and distribution, successfully separated all species from the complex. The morphological variability of the analysed species is described and discussed and an illustrated diagnostic key for typical morpho-forms of species from the M. avidus complex is presented. A distribution map of all investigated species from the complex is provided. The level of endemicity of the M. avidus complex was discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is a continuation of a previous one in which I described and revised different Middle Triassic nassellarian Radiolaria from the Alps and Carpathians illustrated with drawings. On the present paper, are described two new groups of Middle Triassic dicyrtid Nassellaria with bell-shaped shell from the same area to enrich the inventory of these microfossils. Two new families (Gorispelidae and Humerocyrtiidae), five new genera (Silicotintinnabulum, Colpotrelus, Gorispela, Pozsvartia and Humerocyrtis) and 30 new species are described from these genera and illustrated with drawings [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The list of 135 reported spider mite species (family Tetranychidae) belonging to two subfamilies, six tribes and 20 genera, from various parts of India has been enlisted here. This paper is aimed at compiling the data from published records, which could be useful for future reference as well as research purposes. A list of scientific names of the Indian tetranychid mite species with their synonyms and their distribution are provided in this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents very rare fossil record of crane flies. Inclusions in Baltic amber have documented the second evidence of the existence of the genus Tasiocera (Diptera: Limoniidae: Chioneinae) in ancient epochs of Earth's history. Hypotheses were also introduced regarding the environmental preferences of fossil Dasymolopilus in relation to modern representatives of the subgenus. The genus is numerous in species and widespread in the modern fauna, while only one species, Tasiocera (Dasymolophilus) circumcincta, has been known from the fossil record to date. The paper presents an additional description and graphic documentation of this species based on new materials. The discovery of two other species Tasiocera (Dasymolophilus) gorskii sp. nov. and Tasiocera (Dasymolophilus) baltica sp. nov. in Eocene resins documents the occurence of Tasiocera since Eocene. Interestingly, only subgenus Dasymolophilus is represented both in extinct and extant fauna while subgenus Tasiocera is not known from the fossil record. The new discovery is very significant, and the result of the study adds a brick to our understanding of the evolution of this group of insects and their habitat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Anteon Jurine, 1807 is a cosmopolitan genus of dryinid parasitoids that attack leafhoppers. Sexual dimorphism is extreme in Anteon species, rendering the morphological taxonomy of these parasitoids difficult. This paper employs an integrated taxonomic approach that combines morphology with DNA barcoding to investigate the species delimitation of Anteon from China. Of the twenty-nine morphospecies examined, twenty-four species were identified as previously known species and five were described here as new species. The sexual association of six species was confirmed by DNA barcoding, indicating that such tools are powerful to tackle the taxonomic challenges in parasitoids with sexual dimorphism. Species of Anteon Jurine, 1807 are a large group of parasitoids attacking leafhoppers, which are important insect pests. Despite their great potential in pest biological control, the taxonomy and biology of these parasitoids are far from clear. Sexual dimorphism is extreme in Anteon species and has hampered the taxonomy of these parasitoids, resulting in many species described based on a single sex. In this paper, we employed an integrated taxonomic approach for delimitating species, combining morphological examinations with DNA barcoding, to investigate Anteon species from China. In total, 53 COI sequences representing 29 species of Anteon were obtained and analyzed. On the basis of both morphology and DNA barcoding, five new species of Anteon were discovered and described: A. clariclypeum sp. nov., A. maguanense sp. nov., A. parafidum sp. nov., A. shaanxianum sp. nov., and A. shandonganum sp. nov. The neotype of A. claricolle Kieffer is designated. The sexual association of six species was confirmed by DNA barcoding, which led to the synonymy of Anteon liui Xu, Olmi & He 2010, new syn., under Anteon meifenganum Olmi, 1991. Keys to species of Anteon from the Oriental and Eastern Palaearctic are updated to contain the five new species. Our study demonstrates that DNA barcoding is a potent tool for tackling the taxonomic challenges in parasitoids with extreme sexual dimorphism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the possibilities for nature in contemporary times through a ground‐up investigation of nature practices in Chennai, India. It navigates dissonant strands of scholarship on the promise of urban regions as sites of exemplary social natures with an analytical framework that examines how autonomous nonhuman life in Chennai is variously enabled and inhibited. By studying a breadth of natures and nature practices within this urban site (instead of focusing on a particular species or habitat), the paper illuminates the socio‐material processes that undermine some natures even while supporting others, highlighting paradoxical responses to nonhuman agencies and resilience within the domain of ecological concern. The simultaneous analysis of Chennai's abundant and diminishing natures explains dissonances in urban natures scholarship, while offering fresh insights on more equitable approaches to nonhuman nature in human‐dominated landscapes. Specifically, it points to the value of reconfiguring concepts and practices of nature, both within and beyond conservation, in ways that are attentive to the plural forms of nonhuman flourishing and experiential vulnerability. Any meaningful prospect for more‐than‐human futures in urbanising worlds, the paper argues, rests not on biopolitical conservation that seeks to reproduce the past or build future ecologies of ‘legitimate’ natures, but on desisting from the displacement of, and re‐allowing room – conceptual, material and ethical – for already existing natures, whether scientifically valued or unintentional, whether imperilled or flourishing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This is the third paper in the series Catalogue of fungi in China that aims to systematically and promptly publish Chinese fungal species. In this paper of the series, we focus on macrofungi from the southern border area of Xizang, a previously less concerned region. A total of 15 new species in six orders, 11 families, and 12 genera from Agaricomycetes, Basidiomycota are described. Both morphological and phylogenetic analyses support the identity of these new species and their taxonomic placements. In addition, one new combination Trechispora cryptomerioides is proposed. We hope that the third paper in the series Catalogue of fungi in China will draw more attention to reporting Chinese fungal diversity in the border areas of Xizang and other special geographic regions besides the aim of this series itself. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Jungle Game is used in population dynamics to describe cyclic competition among species that interact via a food chain. The dynamics of the Jungle Game supports a heteroclinic network whose cycles represent coexisting species. The stability of all heteroclinic cycles in the network for the Jungle Game with four species determines that only three species coexist in the long-run, interacting under cyclic dominance as a Rock–Paper–Scissors Game. This is in stark contrast with other interactions involving four species, such as cyclic interaction and intraguild predation. We use the Jungle Game with four species to determine the success of a fourth species invading a population of Rock–Paper–Scissors players. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is concerned with the spreading behavior of a two-species strong-weak competition system with two free boundaries. The model may describe how a strong competing species invades into the habitat of a native weak competing species. The asymptotic spreading speed of invading fronts has been determined by making use of semi-wave systems in Du et al. (J Math Pures Appl 107:253–287, 2017). Here we give a sharp estimate for the asymptotic spreading speed of invading fronts. Moreover, we prove that the solution of the free boundary problem evolves eventually into a semi-wave solution when the spreading happens, while the solution of the free boundary problem exponentially converges to a semi-trivial solution of such system when the vanishing happens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We continue our study on the global dynamics of a non- local reaction-diffusion-advection system modeling the population dynamics of two competing phytoplankton species in a eutrophic environment, where the species depend solely on light for their metabolism. In our previous works, we proved that system (1.1) is a strongly monotone dynamical system with respect to a non-standard cone, and some competitive exclusion results were obtained. In this paper, we aim to demonstrate the existence of coexistence steady state as well as competitive exclusion. Our results highlight that advection in dispersal strategy can lead to transitions between various competitive outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, I introduce the notion of 'philosophy moves': prominent tropes featured in contemporary academic philosophy. Moves are more than patterns—they are tools for advancing and enriching philosophical debates. By recognizing these patterns in the philosophical literature, we collect an ensemble of moves for deployment in novel contexts, each with the potential to forge new paths of philosophical investigation through a given topic. The moves featured in this paper are constructive and progressive, with the potential to push past stalemates and open a wider conceptual landscape. Following a presentation of five exemplars taken from the philosophy of biology literature, I show how different moves could be made within a current interdisciplinary debate. Overall, I aim to demonstrate that recognizing these patterns is insightful pedagogically and potentially useful when used as part of one's philosophical methodology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Reductive elimination is a key step in Ni-catalysed cross-couplings, which is often considered to result in new covalent bonds. Due to the weak oxidizing ability of Ni(II) species, reductive eliminations from Ni(II) centers are challenging. A thorough mechanistic understanding of this process could inspire the rational design of Ni-catalysed coupling reactions. In this article, we give an overview of recent advances in the mechanistic study of reductive elimination from Ni(II) species achieved by our group. Three possible models for reductive elimination from Ni(II) species were investigated and discussed, including direct reductive elimination, electron density-controlled reductive elimination, and oxidation-induced reductive elimination. Notably, the direct reductive elimination from Ni(II) species often requires a high activation energy in some cases. In contrast, the electron density-controlled and oxidation-induced reductive elimination pathways can significantly enhance the driving force for reductive elimination, accelerating the formation of new covalent bonds. The intricate reaction mechanisms for each of these pathways are thoroughly discussed and systematically summarized in this paper. These computational studies showcase the characteristics of three models for reductive elimination from Ni(II) species, and we hope that it will spur the development of mechanistic studies of cross-coupling reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In addition to the type locality (the summit of Aprada-tepui, Bolívar State of Venezuela), the distribution of the egg-brooding frog Stefania satelles was long thought to include several isolated tabletop mountain (tepui) summits surrounding the large Chimantá Massif in Bolívar State (hence the Latin name "satelles"). However, multilocus molecular phylogenetic analyses have revealed that this taxon includes several undescribed morphologically cryptic species, and that S. satelles should be restricted to its type locality. Two tepui-summit species confused under that name in the literature remain to be named, and the present paper aims at describing these populations previously referred to as Stefania sp. 3 and S. sp. 5. Stefania sp. 3 is only known from the small summit of Angasima-tepui, while S. sp. 5 is only reported from the small summit of Upuigma-tepui, both mountains being located south of the Chimantá Massif. These new, phylogenetically distinct species are described based on external morphology and osteology and in comparison to close relatives in the S. ginesi clade, which consists exclusively of tepui summit species. Both new species have highly restricted geographic ranges (less than 3 km2) and should be listed as Critically Endangered according to IUCN criteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new Clathrosperchon (Rhynchohydracaridae: Hydryphantoidea) species were described (Clathrosperchon nunesaesp. nov. and C. bitucaisp. nov.) and tabular and dichotoumous keys to the known Clathrosperchon species based on adults are provided. In addition, the phylogenetic placement of Rhynchohydracaridae was inferred using five molecular markers: COI, 18S, 28S, HSP70 and SRP54, testing previous hypothesis that the family may be more closely related to Neohydrachnidia than Hydryphantoidea due to larval characters. Our results recovered Rhynchohydracaridae nested among Lebertioidea, as sister group to Limnesiidae, and the traditional composition of Hydryphantoidea and Lebertioidea could be rejected based on AU-test. Given the larval characters and the recovered phylogenetic placement of the family, we propose that Rhynchohydracaridae must be included in Neohydrachnidia. This paper represents the first record of Hydrachnidia for the Minas Gerais State, Brazil, and is also the largest dataset of neotropical water mites included in a phylogenetic inference to date. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently 1677 species are listed under the U.S. Endangered Species Act (ESA), yet only a small percentage have been delisted due to recovery. In the fall of 2021, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service proposed delisting 23 species due to extinction. Tracking changes in species 'recovery status over time is critical to understanding species' statuses, informing adaptive management strategies, and assessing the performance of the ESA to prevent further species loss. In this paper, we describe four key obstacles in tracking species recovery status under the ESA. First, ESA 5‐year reviews lack a standardized format and clear documentation. Second, despite having been listed for decades, many species still suffer major data gaps in their biology and threats, rendering it difficult if not impossible to track progress towards recovery. Third, many species have continued declining after listing, yet given the above (1 & 2), understanding potential causes (proximate and/or ultimate) can be difficult. Fourth, many species currently have no path to clear recovery, which represents a potential failing of the process. We conclude with a discussion of potential policy responses that could be addressed to enhance the efficacy of the ESA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Myxomycetes are an important component of terrestrial ecosystems, and in order to understand their diversity and phylogenetic relationships, taxonomic issues need to be addressed. In our 1985–2021 biodiversity investigations in Shaanxi Province, Jilin Province, the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, Hubei Province, and Henan Province, China, Diderma samples were observed on rotten leaves, rotten branches, and dead wood. The samples were studied, based on morphological features coupled with multigene phylogenetic analyses of nSSU, EF-1α, and COI sequence data, which revealed two new species (Diderma shaanxiense sp. nov. and D. clavatocolumellum sp. nov.) and two known species (D. radiatum and D. globosum). In addition, D. radiatum and D. globosum were newly recorded in Henan Province and the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, respectively. The paper includes comprehensive descriptions, detailed micrographs, and the outcomes of phylogenetic analyses for both the newly discovered and known species. Additionally, it offers morpho-logical comparisons between the new species and similar ones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper documents the occurrence of the genus Umbilicaria in the Argentine Islands–Kyiv Peninsula region of the Graham Coast in the maritime Antarctic. The presence of seven Umbilicaria species (U. africana, U. antarctica, U. aprina, U. decussata, U. kappenii, U. nylanderiana and U. umbilicarioides) in the ice-free areas of the Argentine Islands–Kyiv Peninsula region were confirmed. The species of U. africana and U. aprina are documented from the studied region for the first time. This study moves the southern distribution limit of U. africana about 300 km to the south: to the Argentine Islands–Kyiv Peninsula region. The distribution maps of Umbilicaria species for the studied region and maritime Antarctica are prepared. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Twenty-one species of digamasellid mites were collected from Guilan province in northern Iran. Oligodentatus shcherbakae Barilo, 1989, O. tridentatus Shcherbak & Bregetova, 1980 and Dendrolaelaspis longisetosus (Shcherbak, 1977) are new records for the Iranian mite fauna. Redescriptions, including figures, of the adult female for these three species are provided, based on the material collected from Iran. This paper provides a checklist for 31 digamasellid species recorded from Iran and a taxonomic key for their identification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper deals with two new species viz. Anemonastrum teetapurense Bhaumik & G. Krishna.; Callianthemum pathakii G. Krishna & Bhaumik and one new combination Anemonastrum obtusilobum (D. Don) Mosyakin, subsp. leiophylla (W.T. Wang) Bhaumik & G. Krishna. Beesia deltophylla C.Y. Wu reported first time from India. All taxa belong to the family Ranunculaceae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Dugesiana is the property of Universidad de Guadalajara and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The aim of this study was to assess the occurrence of microplastic in digestive organs (esophagus to intestine) of popular marine commercial fish species: Jack (Caranx SP.), blackspot snapper (Lutjanus fulviflamma), coral grouper (Epinephelus carallicala), golden snapper (Lutjanus johnii) and pickhandle barracuda (Sphyraena jello) from Pangempang Estuary in Indonesia. To separate the microplastic particles, each sample was digested using alkaline digestion solution, filtered on Whatman paper and then dried. Microplastic particles in the processed digestive organ contents were identified and enumerated using a dissecting stereo microscope. Microplastics were observed in 94 % of fish digestive organs sampled: 100 % jacks (n = 10), 80 % blackspot snapper (n = 10), 100 % coral grouper (n = 10), 90 % golden snapper (n = 10) and 100 % pickhandle barracuda (n = 10). In these fish samples we found in average of 41 ± 6.0, 26 ± 11.0, 15 ± 2.0, 11 ± 1.0 and 14 ± 2.0 SE microplastic particles per individual and an average of 499.5 ± 94.4, 501.5 ± 198.8, 83.6 ± 18.4, 79.8 ± 11.6 and 40.2 ± 25.0 SE microplastic particles per kg fish weight, in jacks, blackspot snapper, coral grouper, golden snapper and pickhandle barracuda, respectively. Fiber was the most dominant type accounting for 78.6 % of all observed microplastics. Microplastic beads were not detected. The correlation of the average consumed microplastic and the average fish weight per species showed a negative relationship (R² = 0.36), but was not significant (p-value = 0.28). Our finding suggests that demersal fish like jacks, blackspot snapper and coral grouper may have ingested a higher quantity of microplastic particles compared to pelagic species like pickhandle barracuda. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phylogenetic inference of polyploid species is the first step towards understanding their patterns of diversification. In this paper, we review the challenges and limitations of inferring species relationships of polyploid plants using traditional phylogenetic sequencing approaches, as well as the mischaracterization of the species tree from single or multiple gene trees. We provide a roadmap to infer interspecific relationships among polyploid lineages by comparing and evaluating the application of current phylogenetic, phylogenomic, transcriptomic, and whole‐genome approaches using different sequencing platforms. For polyploid species tree reconstruction, we assess the following criteria: (1) the amount of prior information or tools required to capture the genetic region(s) of interest; (2) the probability of recovering homeologs for polyploid species; and (3) the time efficiency of downstream data analysis. Moreover, we discuss bioinformatic pipelines that can reconstruct networks of polyploid species relationships. In summary, although current phylogenomic approaches have improved our understanding of reticulate species relationships in polyploid‐rich genera, the difficulties of recovering reliable orthologous genes and sorting all homeologous copies for allopolyploids remain a challenge. In the future, assembled long‐read sequencing data will assist the recovery and identification of multiple gene copies, which can be particularly useful for reconstructing the multiple independent origins of polyploids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cetoniinae are the members of scarab beetles commonly known as flower scarabs, fruit, chafers, and beetle. The present study was conducted from 2021 to 2023 in different ecological zones of Sindh-Pakistan. A total of 77 specimens were collected and sorted out into family Scarabaeidae, subfamily Cetoniinae with 02 genera i-e: Clinteria (Burmeister, 1842) and Protaetia (Burmeister, 1842) and with 02 species i-e: Clinteria klugi (Hope, 1831) and Protaetia aurichalcea (Fabricius, 1775) respectively. Besides this, species description, geographical maps, ecological data, and digital images of studied species are illustrated in the present paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human beings' domination of the planet has not been kind to many species. This is to be expected. Humans have radically altered natural landscapes, harvested heavily from the ocean, and altered the climate in an unprecedented way. Recent concerns over the extent and rate of biodiversity loss have led to renewed interest in extinction outcomes and speculation concerning humans' potential role in any future mass extinction. In this paper, we discuss the economic causes of extinction in two high-profile cases—Sharks and the North American Buffalo—and then extend our analysis to multiple species and discuss the possibility of mass extinction. Throughout, we present evidence drawn from authoritative data sources with a focus on shark populations to ground our analysis. Despite large gaps in our data, the available evidence reveals a worrisome trend: extinction risks are rising for many species and policymakers have been very slow to react. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]