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Pavonia is the only genus of the tribe Malvaviscae in the FSA region and is distinguished by the style branches and stigmas being twice as many as the carpels. In this revision, 12 species are recognised, four of which are endemic to the FSA region (P. dentata, P. dregei, P. praemorsa and P. transvaalensis) with P. dregei being classified as Vulnerable in the IUCN red list. The new subspecies, Pavonia elegans subsp. stellata is described and P. gossweileri is taken into synonymy with P. rehmannii. In the present revision, a combination of leaf, epicalyx, calyx and mericarp characters are used to distinguish the species of Pavonia. We include correct nomenclature, typification, descriptions, geographical distributions, and a key to the species.

This study was conducted to re-examine the geographic distribution and update the existing maps and distribution data of the two Greater Luzon Philippine malkohas (Lepidogrammus cumingi and Dasylophus superciliosus) derived from museum specimens and online anecdotes. Precise locality of each skin specimen from various museum collections and recent field accounts from various online platforms on the occurrence of these malkohas were collected, plotted, and compared with the existing distribution maps from the BirdLife International using the Quantum Geographic Information System (QGIS) software. Results showed that the data collected on the locations of the two endemic Philippine malkohas revealed that L. cumingi and D. superciliosus exhibited broader range on their distributions compared to the existing BirdLife International distribution data. Furthermore, the collected distribution data also revealed that the subspecies D. s. cagayanensis is not restricted in the northeast region of Cagayan province but also occurs in its southern regions as well as in the provinces of Benguet and Nueva Vizcaya. The updated and generated maps of the distribution of these birds constitutes a significant range extension that will serve as additional information in the proper implementation of conservation management plan of the Philippine Malkohas.

Mostly southeast Asian countries are known as the area of biodiversity’s hotspot; nevertheless, there are lots of uncleared distributional information and taxonomic errors in insect biodiversity. To resolve and advance the basic data in the species of Lepidoptera from Myanmar, checklist of the family Nymphalidae is provided. As a result, 529 species (included subspecies) of 105 genera in 13 subfamilies of Nymphalidae are listed from Myanmar based on the recent updated taxonomic data and original descriptions.

The lower/upper Emsian boundary witnessed prominent diversification of biostratigraphically important genera Polygnathus Hinde, Caudicriodus Bultynck, and Latericriodus Muller. In contrast, conodonts previously reported around this boundary from the South China Block were characterized by relatively low species or subspecies diversity, and only a few widely distributed and extensively studied zone-defining taxa were recorded. In this paper, conodonts from the Daliantang Formation at the Daliantang section (Guangnan, southeastern Yunnan), one of the representative sections of the transitional facies between the benthic Xiangzhou facies and the pelagic Nandan facies, are investigated. The conodont fauna shows a remarkably high species or subspecies diversity, with fourteen taxa that are assignable to the notoperbonus Zone and inversus Zone. Five polygnathid species are described: P. gronbergi Klapper and Jonson, P. inversus Klapper and Jonson, Polygnathus sp. B, P. luciae Martinez-Perez and Valenzuela-Rios, and P. mashkovae Bardashev. The latter two are reported for the first time from the South China Block. Additionally, three icriodontid taxa are also described, of which L. guangnanensis n. sp. is characterized by distinctly chevron-shaped transverse rows in the anterior part and a well-developed process branching off to the outer side. The new conodont record increases our understanding of the diversification and faunal composition around the lower/upper Emsian boundary in the South China Block. It contributes to the regional and inter-regional biostratigraphical correlation between shallower- and deeper-water facies and also furnishes important South China material for future discussion and deliberation on the position of the lower/upper Emsian boundary.

In much of the United States and Canada, the common reed consists of both a native subspecies Phragmites australis americanus, and a highly invasive introduced subspecies P. australis australis. DNA testing is generally used to distinguish them definitively and is necessary to detect hybridization. We report a group of single nucleotide polymorphisms and indels in the nuclear NRT2 gene of Phragmites that differentiate North American native and European-introduced populations. All native samples tested were identical in NRT2 sequence over 1564 bases except for two positions. There were nine positions, consisting of seven base substitutions and two indels, at which all introduced samples were fixed for a different allele than the native samples. For the two indels, samples collected from northern Europe were also fixed for the same allele as the introduced samples collected across North America. One of the indels was easily detected by a PCR-RFLP assay and provides a rapid and inexpensive way to screen for hybrids between native and European-introduced populations of Phragmites and thus can facilitate more widespread surveillance for hybrids between native and introduced populations in North America.

This study was based on a 12-year survey data on the distribution of vascular plants between 2007 and 2019 in forest genetic resource reserves designated and managed by the Korea Forest Service. A total of 2,039 taxa were identified, which comprised 1,819 species, 33 subspecies, 161 varieties, and 26 forms from 703 genera and 154 families. There were 149 taxa of Korean endemic plants in the study area. There were 198 taxa of rare plants, with 28 critically endangered (CR) taxa 46 endangered (EN) taxa, 68 vulnerable (VU) taxa, 56 taxa of least concern (LC) taxa. There were a total of 739 taxa of floristic target species, Category V (52 taxa), Category IV (178 taxa), Category III (218 taxa), Category II (131 taxa), Category I (160 taxa). There were 1,312 taxa of useful plants: 580 taxa of plants used for pasture (P), 512 taxa of edible plants (E), 455 taxa of medicinal plants (M), 257 taxa of ornamental plants (O), 59 taxa of plants used for timber (T), 48 taxa of plants used for staining (S), 22 taxa of plants used for fiber (F) and 9 taxa of industrial plants (R).

The high resemblance between closely related mimetic species poses a challenge to taxonomists who describe and define these species. An emblematic example is found within Stalachtis Hubner, 1818 (Lepidoptera: Riodinidae), a small Neotropical genus of brightly colored butterflies engaged in mimicry rings. Its systematic position within Riodinidae is difficult to define based on morphology alone, and while its taxonomy is inflated due to intraspecific color polymorphisms, phenotypic variation might be concealing cryptic species. Thus, we examined the subspecific diversity within S. phlegia (Cramer, 1779) through an integrative approach based on both molecular and morphological data, aiming to investigate taxon limits. Both morphology and molecular data support the status of S. phlegia and Stalachtis susanna stat. rev. as distinct species. S. susanna stat. rev. is a medium sized butterfly with an orange-black wing color pattern with a few white dots. Furthermore, S. susanna stat. rev. has no subspecies, and is endemic to the Atlantic Forest, while the four subspecies within S. phlegia are widely distributed throughout the Amazon, the Cerrado savanna and in parts of the Atlantic Forest. We consider S. phlegia a promising model for studies of the effect of deforestation on mimetic color patterns in the Amazon–Cerrado transition.

Species and subspecies within the Salmonella genus have been defined for public health purposes by biochemical properties; however, reference laboratories have increasingly adopted sequence-based, and especially whole genome sequence (WGS), methods for surveillance and routine identification. This leads to potential disparities in subspecies definitions, routine typing, and the ability to detect novel subspecies. A large-scale analysis of WGS data from the routine sequencing of clinical isolates was employed to define and characterise Salmonella subspecies population structure, demonstrating that the Salmonella species and subspecies were genetically distinct, including those previously identified through phylogenetic approaches, namely: S. enterica subspecies londinensis (VII), subspecies brasiliensis (VIII), subspecies hibernicus (IX) and subspecies essexiensis (X). The analysis also identified an additional novel subspecies, reptilium (XI). Further, these analyses indicated that S. enterica subspecies arizonae (IIIa) isolates were divergent from the other S. enterica subspecies, which clustered together and, on the basis of ANI analysis, subspecies IIIa was sufficiently distinct to be classified as a separate species, S. arizonae. Multiple phylogenetic and statistical approaches generated congruent results, suggesting that the proposed species and subspecies structure was sufficiently biologically robust for routine application. Biochemical analyses demonstrated that not all subspecies were distinguishable by these means and that biochemical approaches did not capture the genomic diversity of the genus. We recommend the adoption of standardised genomic definitions of species and subspecies and a genome sequence-based approach to routine typing for the identification and definition of novel subspecies., Highlights • A large-scale analysis of genomic data demonstrate Salmonella species and subspecies are genetically distinct. • Biochemical analysis does not capture the genomic diversity of the Salmonella genus but routine species and subspecies identification can be achieved with rMLST • Average Nucleotide Identify (ANI) with a 95% criteria was suitable to distinguish species and 98% to distinguish subspecies. • Five novel S. enteric subspecies (VII-XI) type strains are defined. • Reclassification of S. arizonae as a separate species is recommended.

The common harbor porpoise is a widely-distributed marine mammal with three known subspecies, including P. phocoena phocoena, with a clearly distinct and critically endangered (CR) subpopulation from the Baltic Sea (Baltic Proper). As part of an assessment of the condition and health threats of these mammals, it is important to conduct parasitological monitoring. The aim of the study was therefore to compare the data on porpoise parasitofauna from this subpopulation with those on porpoises from other areas. The study included 37 individuals from 1995 to 2019; eight species of parasites were found (prevalence 83.8%, mean intensity 724.2, range 2–3940), with a predominance of lung nematodes – Stenurus minor (94.7%), Torynurus convolutus (69.4%), Pseudalius inflexus (63.8%), Halocercus invaginatus (22.2%); the highest intensity was recorded for S. minor (989, 53–2928). Two species of Anisakidae (Anisakis simplex – 33.3%, Contracaecum sp. – 20.0%) were found in the digestive tracts, which were a new record for this population. The fluke Campula oblonga was found in the livers of 31.3% of porpoises. The tapeworm Diphylobothrium stemmacephalum was also recorded in the intestine of one individual; this is typical for these hosts, but previously undetected in the Baltic subpopulation. Parasites coexisted in numerous hosts, constituting a heavy burden for them. The obtained data were compared with those from the P. phocoena parasitofauna from other regions, based on a compiled checklist (1809–2021) including all species of porpoise parasites (55 taxa). Compared to the worldwide porpoise parasitofauna checklist, the number of parasites found in the nominative subspecies (Baltic Proper subpopulation) is small: including only 10 taxa (eight in the current study). These species are typical of porpoises and usually the most common; however, the level of infection of Baltic porpoises (intensity and total parasite load) is very high, which can undoubtedly have a negative impact on their condition and overall health.

The ant Acromyrmex ameliae is a social parasite of two leaf-cutting ant subspecies: Acromyrmex subterraneus subterraneus and A. subterraneus brunneus. Cytogenetic data are available for 14 species of Acromyrmex and all of them possess 2n = 38 chromosomes. In this study, chromosome number, heterochromatin detection, and detection of AT and GC-rich blocks of colonies of A. ameliae and its hosts were carried out. Additionally, the detection of nucleolus organizer regions and 18S rDNA clusters in chromosomes of the parasite and physical mapping of telomeres were undertaken. The same chromosome number and morphology were detected for the hosts 2n = 38 (10m + 14sm + 12st + 2a), while the females and males of the social parasite A. ameliae presented 2n = 36 (10m + 16sm + 8st + 2a) and n = 18 (5m + 8sm + 4st + 1a). In both A. ameliae and its hosts, the terminal region on the short arm of the largest subtelocentric pair is heterochromatic GC-rich, and this region corresponded to the 18S rDNA clusters in the parasite. The short arms of several chromosomes were heterochromatin-rich. The telomeric probe hybridized telomeres on all chromosomes of the parasite and was not detected in intrachromosomal regions. Through a comparative cytogenetic analysis, we hypothesize that the karyotype of A. ameliae (2n = 36) originated from a chromosomal rearrangement that reduced the number of chromosomes from 38 to 36; as available data on the genus Acromyrmex show that all other species possess 38 chromosomes, representing 45% of the 33 valid species in this genus. The mechanism of the chromosome rearrangement is discussed. Thus, the chromosome number observed in A. ameliae is a derivation from the genus. Our data show variation in the chromosomal number in Acromyrmex and suggest that analyses of the karyotypes of parasite species can yield novel insights with regards to the evolution of this genus.

The west African honeybee, Apis mellifera adansonii, is a subspecies of western honeybees that live in a wide range of habitats. In Nigeria, there is a lack of knowledge of its population genetics. Thus, we examined its mitochondrial genetic diversity and population structure using the subunit I of the cytochrome c oxidase gene. Our results showed an overall high level of genetic diversity (haplotype diversity = 0.702) of A. m. adansonii in Nigeria. Analyses revealed a low level of population genetic structuring (ΦST = 0.31986) across the geographical regions of Nigeria. Results showed that a substantial degree of haplotype diversity was evident in the populations from the Middle belt of Nigeria. However, individuals from southern Nigeria expressed low haplotype diversity. The mismatch distribution and historical demographics supported evidence of population expansion of A. m. adansonii in Nigeria. The matrilineal genealogy demonstrated a lack of clear patterns of population structuring. In sum, our analysis showed a high degree of genetic diversity with no population divergence within A. m. adansonii from Nigeria. Further study involving additional mitochondrial and nuclear gene markers could aid to elucidate gene flow patterns among populations of A. m. adansonii across its range in West Africa.

This study investigated the distribution of vascular plants in Mt. Anam located in Haksa-ri in Kimwha-eup, Cheorwon-gun, Gangwon-do. Eight surveys were conducted from March 2015 to May 2018. In this survey, a total of 416 taxa of vascular plants were observed, comprising 354 species, 4 subspecies, 52 varieties, and 6 forms belonging to 260 genera and 86 families. This included five taxa of endemic plants (such as Salix koriyanagi Kimura, Clematis brachyura Maxim., and Berberis koreana Palib.), nine taxa of rare plants designated by the Korea Forest Service, two taxa of vulnerable plants (such as Epimedium koreanum Nakai), and seven taxa of least concern plants (such as Aristolochia contorta Bunge). Forty-nine taxa of plants with floristic characteristics were found—1 taxon in Grade V (Epimedium koreanum Nakai), 3 taxa in Grade IV (such as Athyrium iseanum Rosenst.), 12 taxa in Grade III (such as Berberis koreana Palib.), 10 taxa in Grade II (such as Thalictrum rochebrunnianum var. grandisepalum (H. Lev.) Nakai), and 23 taxa in Grade I (such as Chloranthus japonicus Siebold). For invasive alien plants, there were 25 taxa comprising 25 species belonging to 23 genera and 10 families (such as Rumex crispus L., Lepidium virginicum L., and Ambrosia artemisiifolia L.).

In Japan, Camellia japonica and Camellia rusticana are naturally distributed. Despite differences in their habitats and morphologies, they have been classified by various researchers as either varieties, subspecies, or species. The taxonomic position of C. japonica and C. rusticana remain unclear because morphological comparisons have been restricted to limited areas and quantitative data are scarce. C. rusticana grows in snowy places, unlike C. japonica. While C. japonica displays ornithophily, C. rusticana displays entomophily. Both species have adapted to different growing environments and pollinators, which have altered the morphology of flowers and leaves. We therefore quantitatively estimated the differentiation between these two taxa by comparing the morphologies of leaf hypodermis, flower form, petal color, and filament color in twenty populations. Our findings allowed us to differentiate these two species by the presence or absence of a leaf hypodermis. We also discovered an intermediate type of leaf hypodermis, which might also be caused by hybridization. Principal component analysis (PCA) indicated that the flower morphologies between these species were significantly different. The petal and filament colors were also significantly different. Our quantitative analysis suggests that speciation caused by differences in both pollinators and environment is one of the factors involved in this group. These findings in C. japonica and C. rusticana help to explain speciation processes for other species as well., Highlights • Camellia japonica and C. rusticana can be distinguished by leaf morphology (i.e., the presence or absence of hypodermis). • PCA of flower morphology shows differentiation in these species. • C. japonica and C. rusticana flower petal and filament colors are statistically different. • Morphological divergence between these species was likely caused by differences in pollinator type and environment. • Mismatches between leaf morphology and distribution are indicators of hybridization.

The caviomorph Octodon degus is likely the most studied Chilean mammal species. Several studies have centered in its natural history, ecology, behavior, and physiology; in addition, the species is used as model organism in biomedicine and neurobiology research. However, basic aspects such as its genetic and morphological variation throughout its distribution have not been adequately assessed. In fact, the last taxonomic study focused on populations of O. degus dates to the first half of the last century. Here we integrate morphologic (137 specimens from 23 localities) and genetic (cytochrome-b gene sequences of 47 individuals from 17 localities) evidence to assess the level and pattern of geographic variation along the whole species distribution. We found that specimens of O. degus present one of two morphotypes that are quali and quatitative differentiable. A gracile morphotype is found towards the north and a robust morphotype towards the south. Skull size variation correlates with precipitation, temperature and primary productivity. In addition, genealogical analysis uncovered two mains clades, one of them formed by haplotypes from specimens from the north and the other formed by haplotypes from specimens from the south of the distribution. We consider these differences warrant recognition at the subspecies level. As such, after assigning a neotype for Sciurus degus (= O. degus) that attaches this name to the southern morph, we described and named a new subspecies for the northern populations of O. degus.

Mitochondrial DNA sequence variations and the geometric morphometric method can be used to differentiate honeybee subspecies and evolutionary lineages. Molecular markers are powerful tools for discriminating honeybee subspecies. In this study, 19 beekeeping sites were selected to collect Iranian honeybee samples. The honeybee forewing images stored at Oberursel (the Bee Data Bank) were used to compare with those of Iranian honeybees using the geometric morphometric method. Furthermore, the abilities of DNA markers to differentiate Iranian honeybees (A. m. meda) from the most common commercial subspecies (A. m. carnica and A. m. ligustica) were assessed. In the present research, 16S rDNA (Mitochondrial 16S rDNA Region) showed greater ability in differentiating Iranian honeybees from other subspecies compared with ATP 6 and 8 and Cyt b. The phylogenetic tree derived from 16S rDNA differentiated A. m. carnica and A. m. ligustica from Iranian honeybees. Principle component analysis (PCA) discriminated C lineage and Z subgroup from A and M lineages using 16S rDNA. In addition, the phylogenetic tree of the 16S rDNA affirmed the findings of the cluster analysis derived from the geometric morphometric method in differentiating A. m. carnica and A. m. ligustica from Iranian honeybees. The cluster analysis grouped reference subspecies of A. m. meda with Iranian honeybees. Moreover, the Discriminant Function Analyses (DFA) differentiated Iranian honeybees from A. m. ligustica and A. m. carnica.

Apis mellifera jemenitica incorporates a few perceived subspecies that vary in their natural properties and farming qualities. Mitochondrial COI gene sequence (mtCOI) has not been used before for bee identification in the southwestern region of Saudi Arabia. The aim of this work was to study the morphometry and analyzing the mtCOI of all collected bees. The nucleotide sequence of the mtCOI gene was analyzed. Similarity searches and distances between each obtained DNA and sequences available in GenBank were made. Morphometric analysis revealed close similarities among the studied bees, but these similarities are different from those previously indicated in earlier studies of the same region. Molecular studies revealed that the collected bees are similar to each other and some other sequences found in GenBank, but these bees are a new hybrid or subspecies that are different from those previously reported in the same region, indicating the emergence of a new hybrid.

Orthophragminids are a key biostratigraphic proxy for Paleocene–Eocene sequences in western Tethys, but poorly known in eastern Tethys. The orthophragminids were previously misinterpreted as Paleocene's orbitoidiform foraminifera in the Indus Basin, Pakistan. This study focuses on detailed taxonomy and biostratigraphy of orthophragminids. Nine species/subspecies of orthophragminids are identified, including Discocyclina ranikotensis, D. archiaci bakhchisaraiensis, D. a. ex. interc. staroseliensis bakhchisaraiensis, D. dispansa hungarica, D. d. taurica, D. d. broennimanni and Orbitoclypeus schopeni ramaraoi, and two new species Discocyclina pseudoranikotensis n. sp. and Discocyclina debalensis n. sp. are described. The identified orthophragminid taxa represent the orthophragminid zones OZ2-3, corresponding to the shallow benthic zones SBZ5-7 of early Ypresian (early Eocene), which are correlated with those in western Tethys. However, we found that the first appearances of D. d. hungarica and D. d. taurica occur in the OZ3 or SBZ7 in this study instead of the OZ5 or SBZ10 as in western Tethys. The possible paleoecological setting for the occurrences of recognized species is interpreted as inner to middle shelf.

The giant short-faced hyena, Pachycrocuta brevirostris, was the largest and most spectacular bone-cracking hyena that ever existed. Although already extinct long ago, it was extensively distributed across Eurasia during the Early and Middle Pleistocene. P. brevirostris is remarkable for a series of iconic craniodental adaptations in sway with a commitment to scavenging off carcasses of other large herbivores, such as the powerfully built skull and massive premolars, yet the most eye-catching aspect is the enormous size as emphasized by its vernacular name. The largest hitherto known skull of this species is the holotype from Sainzelles in Auvergne, France, discovered over a century ago. We hereby report a new discovery from Jinyuan Cave in Dalian, China, which slightly surpasses the holotype in craniodental dimension, posing a new record in Pachycrocuta body size. Three skull fragments of the same individual unearthed from the site are described in detail herein and compared with other P. brevirostris discoveries from both Europe and Asia. Thorough comparative studies show that the newly discovered materials are very close to the holotype from Sainzelles both metrically and morphologically, which fully indicates that the European morphotype, namely Pachycrocuta brevirostris brevirostris, surprisingly appeared in Northeast Asia as well, and further challenges the conventional concept of the population or subspecies. The giant hyenas from Asia were originally proposed as independent species, such as Pachycrocuta licenti or P. sinensis, but now broadly accepted as conspecifics of the European Pachycrocuta brevirostris, forming only different subspecies. The occurrence of P. b. brevirostris in Northeast Asia forcefully demonstrates that the differentiation is more of temporal than geographical significance, i.e., the subspecies of Eurasia basically constituted an ancestor-descendant sequence, from licenti to sinensis via brevirostris. Moreover, represented by the newly discovered specimens, the forerunner of P. b. brevirostris with transitional features appeared in Northeast Asia as early as 2.0 Ma, which implies the population of Europe most likely originated and dispersed from Northeast Asia. A hypothesis of “out of Northeast Asia” is hereby proposed for P. b. brevirostris. In the present paper, a series of diagnostic craniodental characters, such as carnassial morphology, the accessory cuspids of the premolars and the shape of the skull profile, are also discussed and re-valuated to investigate their potential significance in phylogenetic analysis.

Strong genetic incompatibilities exist between two primary rice subspecies, indica and japonica. However, the wild ancestors of rice, O. nivara Sharma et Shastry and O. rufipogon Griff., are genetically compatible. How this genetic incompatibility became established has not been clearly elucidated. To provide insights into the process, we analyzed a pair of hybrid sterility genes in rice, DOPPELGANGER 1 (DPL1) and DOPPELGANGER 2 (DPL2). Either of the two loci can have one defective allele (DPL1- and DPL2-). Hybrid pollen carrying both DPL1- and DPL2- alleles is sterile. To explore the origination of DPL1- and DPL2-, we sequenced the DPL1 and DPL2 genes of 811 individual plants, including Oryza sativa (132), O. nivara (296) and O. rufipogon (383). We then obtained 20 DPL1 and 34 DPL2 sequences of O. sativa from online databases. Using these sequences, we analyzed the genetic and geographic distribution patterns of DPL genes in modern rice and its wild ancestors. Compared with the ancestral populations, DPL1- and DPL2- showed reduced diversity but increased frequency in modern rice. We speculated that the diversity reduction was due to a historic genetic bottleneck, and the frequency had likely increased because the defective alleles were preferred following this artificial selection. Such results indicated that standing variances in ancestral lines can lead to severe incompatibilities among descendants. Haplotype analysis indicated that the DPL1- haplotype of rice emerged from an O. nivara population in India, whereas the DPL2- haplotype emerged from O. rufipogon in South China. Hence, the evolutionary history of DPLs conforms to the presumed multiple domestication events of modern rice.

The taxonomy of honey bee A. mellifera contains a lot of issues due to the specificity of population structure, features of biology and resolutions of honey bee subspecies discrimination methods. There are a lot of transition zones between ranges of subspecies which led to the gradual changes of characteristics among neighbor subspecies. The modern taxonomic pattern of honey bee Apis mellifera is given in this paper. Thirty-three distinct honey bee subspecies are distributed across all Africa (11 subspecies), Western Asia and the Middle East (9 subspecies), and Europe (13 subspecies). All honey bee subspecies are subdivided into 5 evolutionary lineages: lineage A (10 subspecies) and its sublineage Z (3 subspecies), lineage M (3 subspecies), lineage C (10 subspecies), lineage O (3 subspecies), lineage Y (1 subspecies), lineage C or O (3 subspecies).

The native vascular plants on Ulleungdo and Dokdo islands in Korea were investigated with the objective of determining conservation priorities and establishing a sustainable strategy for conservation of the plant species diversity. A total of 2,058 voucher specimens collected were identified and listed the diversity of plant species of each island. And the species composition, life forms, and rare and endemic species were characterized with respect to the plant species list. The vascular plants native to Ulleungdo island were surveyed 494 taxa in total comprising 102 families, 306 genera, 427 species, 6 subspecies, 57 varieties, 5 forma, and 1 hybrid. Among these, the distribution of 30 taxa was newly identified. On Dokdo island, 58 taxa were recorded comprising 28 families, 49 genera, 47 species, 1 subspecies, 6 varieties, and 1 hybrid. The 496 and 58 taxa of vascular plants native to Ulleungdo and Dokdo islands were classified based on the genera of vascular of Korea (F.K.E.C. 2007), respectively. We provide details on those endangered plants characterized by small population sizes and numbers, and discuss measures for the conservation of plant species diversity on Ulleungdo and Dokdo island, with respect to these endangered plants in particular and to the native plants in general.

A well-preserved antlered braincase of wapiti (Cervus canadensis) from the Late Pleistocene of Saint-Hippolyte (Puy de Dome, France) is described herein. The specific morphology of antlers suggests peculiar adaptations to the open landscapes of periglacial tundra-steppe that permitted to identify a new fossil subspecies Cervus canadensis combrayicus n. ssp. The specimen attests the occurrence of Cervus canadensis in the paleontological record of Western Europe and helps to clarify the systematical position of some disputed findings of Cervus from Western Europe. The revised systematic position of some fossil and sub-fossil cervid findings reveals the paleobiogeographic story of wapiti in Western Europe during the Last Glacial Maximum and the postglacial time. The treeless Alpine altitudes and Sweden are proposed as the glacial refugia for the last European wapiti. The medium-sized deer from Capri Island is regarded as an insular dwarfed wapiti C. canadensis tyrrhenicus closely related to the continental form C. canadensis palmidactyloceros from the alpine refugium.

The Villafranchian fossil record of Perissodactyla is of a great interest because the appearance of the genus Equus and disappearance of the genus Tapirus mark important faunal turnovers. Here, we provide new data on Italian Villafranchian Tapiridae, Rhinocerotidae, and Equidae with updates from the last comprehensive review; most relevant are those of the Rhinocerotidae and Equidae. At present only two Villafranchian rhinoceros’ species are documented in Italy: Stephanorhinus jeanvireti and Stephanorhinus etruscus. The two species can be distinguished by several morphological features and by the dimensions of their bones. Stephanorhinus etruscus occurred throughout the Villafranchian; despite the numerous records, its remains are not enough to investigate morphometric trends. The Equidae include seven species including new occurrences of Hipparionine horses and of the genus Equus. The statistical analyses performed on the Equus species show two different evolutionary trends, namely the stenonine lineage “Equus livenzovensis - Equus stenonis” and the small-to-medium-sized lineage “Equus senenzensis - Equus stehlini”, suggesting a different evolution of these species. Moreover, the analyses show close relationships between the Italian Equus stenonis samples and three European Equus stenonis subspecies (E. stenonis vireti, E. stenonis guthi, and E. stenonis pueblensis). We begin to reconsider the validity of E. stenonis subspecies identification in order to provide new perspectives on the taxonomy of this species.

This article represents a new checklist of the genus Primula L., including eight species and five subspecies belonging to four sections that are native to Mongolia. Primula bukukunica Kovt. and P. nivalis subsp. turkestanica (J.H.Haage & E.Schmidt) Kovt. are newly recorded to the flora of Mongolia based on the materials of LE, NS, NSK, MHA, MW, and UBA herbarium collections. Primula maximowiczii Regel was assessed as critically endangered species based on the area of occupancy, in which it is estimated to occur in less than 10 km2 in the eastern Mongolia. The nomenclatural type, identification key, regional conservation status of rare species, as well as distribution maps and photographs of each species are provided. Additional collections and photographs are based on our field survey between 2012 and 2019.

Prior to this study, only 8 species of oak gall-forming wasps were known from Korea. After material examination and an exhaustive bibliographic revision, a total of 17 oak gall wasps species have been reported. The following species correspond to new records: Andricus hakonensis (Ahmead); A. pseudocurvator Tang & Melika; A. songshui Tang & Melika; Cerroneuroterus folimargo (Monzen); C. monzeni (Dettmer); C. vonkuenburgi (Dettmer); Neuroterus hakonensis Ashmead, Trichagalma acutissimae (Monzen), T. formosana Melika & Tang. It was impossible to obtain adult specimens for all the species, and and the following species are recorded only based on galls: Andricus kashiwaphilus Abe; A. mukaigawae (Mukaigawa); A. pseudoflos (Monzen); A. targionii Kieffer; Cerroneuroterus folimargo (Monzen); C. monzeni (Dettmer); Neuroterus hakonensis Ashmead; Trichagalma acutissimae (Monzen). The species Dryocosmus kunugiphagus Ide & Abe, 2015 is transferred to the genus Plagiotrochus: Plagiotrochus kunugiphagus ( Ide & Abe, 2015 ) n. comb. Additionally a new subspecies of Trichagalma formosana is described to include the material from Korea and Mainland China, closely related but morphologically different to the Taiwan populations. For each species live cycle, morphology of galls, hosts, phenology, and distribution are commented. In some of them taxonomic or morphological comments are mentioned and a key of agamic Trichagalma with dark smoky pigmented spots in the forewing is added. All galls are illustrated. An up-to-date checklist of the Korean Cynipini is provided. The previously reported species from Korea (Andricus noliquercicola Shinji, 1938; Aphelonyx crispulae Mukaigawae, 1920; Neuroterus narae Shinji, 1941 and Neuroterus nawai Ashmead, 1904 ) are here excluded from the Korean species list.

A study on the flora of Geomun Oreum, designated as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site, was surveyed in 2019. Vascular plants in this area revealed 310 taxa belonging to 90 families, 210 genera, 279 species, one subspecies, 27 varieties, and three formas. The Geomun Oreum showed low mean annual temperature, but it was confirmed that the emergence of warm-temperate plant species and evergreen broad-leaved forests was prominent. These results were interpreted to be due to a great deal of precipitation, many frost-free days, and the difference between the highest and lowest temperatures depending on the geographical characteristics of Geomun Oreum. Geomun Oreum is evaluated as a relatively natural habitat given the limited access of visitors and management, but it was confirmed that Sedum tosaense, a critically endangered species of the rare plants designated by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, requires conservation plans in the area.

From 2000 to 2019, 11,895 new names or new additions to the Chinese vascular flora were proposed by 4226 individuals (4086 articles and 140 books), as documented in the Chinese Plant Names Index (CPNI). During those 20 years, 4407 new taxa of vascular plants were described from China, including 7 new families, 132 new genera, 3543 new species, 68 new subspecies, 497 new varieties and 160 new forms. Additionally, 3562 new combinations and names at new rank and 306 new replacement names were also proposed. Among these various new names were 150 invalid names and 108 illegitimate names, including some that have not been resolved. Six hundred and forty three vascular plants were reported as new to China, while 2349 names were reduced to synonyms of 1406 taxa. The data show that the Chinese flora increased in size at the rate of about 200 taxa annually during those years. Despite the increased attention given to biodiversity in recent years, the evidence indicates that a large number of species in China have yet to be discovered. Further basic investigation of the Chinese flora is needed. Additionally, in the past two decades only 8.5% of the newly published species have been based on molecular evidence, but in the past five years such data have increased significantly, reaching about 20%. Molecular data will undoubtedly become increasingly significant in the discovery of new species in the coming years. Yunnan, Guangxi, Sichuan, Xizang and Taiwan were important sources of new discoveries, with more than 3300 new taxa and records from these five provinces. By area, Taiwan and Hainan, two islands in southern China, have the highest density of newly discovered species. Regional plant surveys are still needed, especially in areas in the southwest and on the southern islands.

The study presents data on the karyotype characteristics and features of chromosomal polymorphism of Chironomus nuditarsis Keyl, 1961 (Diptera, Chironomidae) from seven natural populations of Caucasus (Northwest, Central and East Caucasus). We found 16 banding sequences in the Caucasian populations. We observed inversion polymorphism almost in all chromosome arms except for arms C and E. The genetic distances between all the studied populations of Ch. nuditarsis were calculated using Nei criteria (1972). In spite of relative geographic proximity, the genetic distances between populations of the Caucasus are quite big, and they do not form a single cluster of Caucasian populations. The population of the Northwest Caucasus goes to European cluster; the populations of Central and East Caucasus form their own separate clusters. The principal component analysis (PCA) shows the similar picture. We suggest that such a clear separation of Caucasian populations in distinct clusters is a result of differences of collection sites in terms of geography and climate (complex diverse terrain and microclimate conditions). Four of the Caucasian populations do not follow Hardy-Weinberg expectation. In two populations, there being a marked deficiency of heterozygotes in arms B, F and G. In two other populations, there being a marked excess of heterozygotes in arms B and G. One can suggest that observed pictures could be a reflection of multi-directional selection of heterozygotes in different populations. The populations of Ch. nuditarsis from different parts of the Caucasus possibly diverged from each other at the level of subspecies. All the obtained data are indicative of the complex genetic structure of Caucasian populations of Ch. nuditarsis and total complexity of microevolution processes occurring in the Caucasus region.

The current work investigated the discriminatory potential of MALDI-TOF MS fingerprinting towards most-relevant major (Streptococcus agalactiae, S. dysgalactiae, S. uberis) and minor (S. canis, S. parauberis, S. salivarius, S. equinus and S. gallolyticus) streptococci involved in bovine mastitis (BM), in comparison to 16S rRNA gene sequencing (GS)-based identification. The MALDI-TOF MS-generated spectral fingerprints were recruited for eliciting a detailed proteomic map that demonstrated clear variability for inter- and intra-species-specific biomarkers. Besides, a phyloproteomic dendrogram was evolved and comparatively analyzed against the phylogenetic one obtained from 16S rRNA GS in order to assess the differentiation of streptococci of bovine origin based on variability of protein fingerprints versus the variation of 16S rRNA gene homology. Results showed that the discrimination of BM-implicated streptococci can be obtained by both approaches; however MALDI-TOF MS was superior, achieving more variability at both intra- and sub-species levels. MALDI-TOF MS spectral analytics revealed that Streptococcus spp. exhibited three genus-specific biomarkers (peaks with m/z values at 2112, 4452 and 5955) and all streptococci exhibited spectral variability at both species and subspecies levels. Remarkably, MALDI-TOF MS fingerprinting was found to be at least as robust as 16S rRNA GS-based identification, allowing much cheaper and faster analysis, and additionally exhibiting high reliability for characterization of BM-implicated streptococci, thus proving to be a powerful tool that can be used independently within dairy diagnostics.

Four distinct new Euryops taxa, E. dasyphyllus J.H.J. Vlok, E. bertilii J.H.J. Vlok, E. diosmiphyllus J.H.J. Vlok and E. subcarnosus DC. subsp. fallax J.H.J. Vlok, from the Klein Karoo (Western Cape Province, South Africa) are described. A conservation status is proposed for each of the taxa and amendments to current keys are provided to include these new taxa. A note is provided on the phytogeography of Euryops in this region.

Objectives: Characteristics of the Mycobacterium avium–intracellulare complex pulmonary disease (MAC-PD) caused by distinct subspecies remain uncertain. Methods: This study was conducted from 2013–2015 in three hospitals in Taiwan. Results: Among the 144 patients with MAC-PD, 57 (39.6%), 37 (25.7%), 37 (25.7%), and 13 (9.0%) were infected with Mycobacterium intracellulare subspecies intracellulare (MIsI), Mycobacterium avium subspecies hominissuis (MAsH), Mycobacterium intracellulare subspecies chimaera (MIsC), and others, respectively. Patients with MAsH-PD were younger (p = 0.010) with higher human immunodeficiency virus infection rates (27.0%, 0.0%, 0.0%, and 7.7% for MAsH-PD, MIsC-PD, MIsI-PD, and others, respectively; p

A new sample of 65 specimens representing a minimum number of 15 individuals of the Eurasian antelope Gazellospira torticornis is described from the Lower Pleistocene fossil sites of Dafnero (DFN, N. Greece). The intrapopulation comparisons highlight that several cranial (frontal sinuses, inter-frontal sutures, longitudinal grooves, degree of the horn-cores torsion, and development of anterior keel) and postcranial features are likely subject to sexual dimorphism, suggesting a mixed-herd DFN population of both males and females with a social distribution estimated at a ∼1:2 ratio (seven females and three presumed males). The analysis also reveals that both cranial and postcranial elements of G. torticornis are subjected to a strong temporal linear regression during the Villafranchian; this trend appears more evident in western than eastern European territories. Furthermore, for contemporaneous samples, the metapodials of G. torticornis show higher dimensions in northern (above ca. 42.5° of latitude) than in meridional latitudes. A preliminary ecomorphological study suggests that open landscapes with plains and quite homogeneous substrates was the preferred habitat of Gazellospira from Dafnero. A revision of Eurasian specimens and taxa referred to several genera and species of heteronymous spiral horned antelopes spanning from the Late Pliocene to the Early Pleistocene, allows us to propose synonymizing Gazellospira gromovae with Antilospira? zdanskyi, and to recognize Parastrepsiceros sokolovi as an early eastern subspecies of G. torticornis. Our morphological analysis does not support recent results about close phylogenetic relationships of Gazellospira with either Antilospira or Spirocerus. A biogeographic scenario is proposed, in which Gazellospira originates in the peri-Black Sea region with a radiation westwards and eastwards during the early Villafranchian.

Turtles and tortoises (chelonians) have been integral components of global ecosystems for about 220 million years and have played important roles in human culture for at least 400,000 years. The chelonian shell is a remarkable evolutionary adaptation, facilitating success in terrestrial, freshwater and marine ecosystems. Today, more than half of the 360 living species and 482 total taxa (species and subspecies combined) are threatened with extinction. This places chelonians among the groups with the highest extinction risk of any sizeable vertebrate group. Turtle populations are declining rapidly due to habitat loss, consumption by humans for food and traditional medicines and collection for the international pet trade. Many taxa could become extinct in this century. Here, we examine survival threats to turtles and tortoises and discuss the interventions that will be needed to prevent widespread extinction in this group in coming decades.

Summary Background Zoonotic tuberculosis is defined as human infection with Mycobacterium bovis. Although globally, India has the largest number of human tuberculosis cases and the largest cattle population, in which bovine tuberculosis is endemic, the burden of zoonotic tuberculosis is unknown. The aim of this study was to obtain estimates of the human prevalence of animal-associated members of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) at a large referral hospital in India. Methods We did a molecular epidemiological surveillance study of 940 positive mycobacteria growth indicator tube (MGIT) cultures, collected from patients visiting the outpatient department at Christian Medical College (Vellore, India) with suspected tuberculosis between Oct 1, 2018, and March 31, 2019. A PCR-based approach was applied to subspeciate cultures. Isolates identified as MTBC other than M tuberculosis or as inconclusive on PCR were subject to whole-genome sequencing (WGS), and phylogenetically compared with publicly available MTBC sequences from south Asia. Sequences from WGS were deposited in the National Center for Biotechnology Information Sequence Read Archive, accession number SRP226525 (BioProject database number PRJNA575883). Findings The 940 MGIT cultures were from 548 pulmonary and 392 extrapulmonary samples. A conclusive identification was obtained for all 940 isolates; wild-type M bovis was not identified. The isolates consisted of M tuberculosis (913 [97·1%] isolates), Mycobacterium orygis (seven [0·7%]), M bovis BCG (five [0·5%]), and non-tuberculous mycobacteria (15 [1·6%]). Subspecies were assigned for 25 isolates by WGS, which were analysed against 715 MTBC sequences from south Asia. Among the 715 genomes, no M bovis was identified. Four isolates of cattle origin were dispersed among human sequences within M tuberculosis lineage 1, and the seven M orygis isolates from human MGIT cultures were dispersed among sequences from cattle. Interpretation M bovis prevalence in humans is an inadequate proxy of zoonotic tuberculosis. The recovery of M orygis from humans highlights the need to use a broadened definition, including MTBC subspecies such as M orygis, to investigate zoonotic tuberculosis. The identification of M tuberculosis in cattle also reinforces the need for One Health investigations in countries with endemic bovine tuberculosis. Funding Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Canadian Institutes for Health Research.

With about 5000 known species, the Vespidae is a large family belongs to order Hymenoptera. The genus Vespa with 22 species is one of the four genera of the subfamily Vespinae. In Korea, 10 species and subspecies are recognized. Because of their social behavior, their treat to human health and their impact in apiculture, the reliable and sometimes automated identification of these insects to species level are important. To test the efficacy of DNA barcoding method for identification of species of the genus Vespa in Korea, 30 samples of eight Korean species of genus Vespa were collected and mitochondrial DNAs of 658 bp fragment cytochrome oxidase subunit 1 (CO1) region were sequenced. A Bayesian Inference based on COI gene of the Korean Vespa species was constructed. The phylogenetic tree shoed that identification of all specimens is possible based on COI gene and we found strong relation between the sequences of the collected species from different localities in South Korea which clustered together with 100% support with sequences of the same species in GenBank. The results demonstrate that DNA barcoding is a useful technique for rapid and accurate species recognition in Korean Vespa species. The DNA barcode part of COI for V. binghami is provided for the first time that can help for identification of this species through DNA barcoding. Also, the genetic diversity among Korean Vespa velutina was zero suggests that the invasion might have occurred in a single event with small number of founders.

The morphological characters of honeybees have an important role for discriminating honeybee subspecies. In the present research, Iranian populations of honeybee (Apis mellifera) were collected from 19 areas in Iran. The samples were collected from stationary beekeeping sites. Moreover, pictures of honeybee forewings held in the Bee Data Bank in Oberursel were compared with Iranian honeybee populations. 19 morphological characters were measured for each forewing of worker honeybee to evaluate differentiation of Iranian honeybee populations from the commercial honeybee subspecies A. m. mellifera, A. m. carnica, A. m. caucasica and A. m. ligustica. Additionally, part of the tRNAleu gene, an intergenic region and part of COII was used to confirm differentiation of the commercial subspecies from Iranian honeybee populations. Results of the cluster analyses showed that 19 morphological characters of forewings differentiated Iranian populations from the commercial subspecies. Moreover, the phylogenetic tree of part of the tRNAleu gene, an intergenic region and part of COII differentiated the commercial subspecies from Iranian honeybee populations. Results of the discriminant function analyses (DFA) indicated that the references samples of A. m. meda overlapped with Iranian populations.

Speciation has long been regarded as an irreversible process once the reproductive barriers had been established. However, unlike in natural populations, artificial selection might either accelerate or prevent speciation processes in domesticated species. Asian cultivated rice is a target crop for both domestication and artificial breeding; it contains two subspecies of indica and japonica, which usually produce sterile inter-subspecific hybrids due to reproductive barriers. In this study, we constructed the evolutionary trajectory of a reproductive isolation system S5, which regulates fertility in indica-japonica hybrids via three adjacent genes, based on the data of 606 accessions including two cultivated and 11 wild rice species. Although hybrid sterility haplotypes at S5 lead to establishment of a killer-protector reproductive barrier, origin of wide-compatibility haplotypes by complex hybridization and recombination provides an opposing force to reproductive isolation and thus prevents speciation during domestication. Analysis in a diallel set of 209 crosses involving 21 parents showed that the wide-compatibility genotypes largely rescued fertility of indica-japonica hybrids, indicating that the wide-compatibility gene would enable gene flow to maintain species coherence. This counteracting system indicates that combined effects of natural evolution and artificial selection may result in reversible processes of speciation in rice, which may also have implications for genetic improvement of rice.

Studies of the domestication of animals in the Americas suggest strong relationships between humans and a large number of animal species, with the application of many management strategies. Two species of the endemic pheasant genus Meleagris live in America: the wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo), culturally the most well-known species, with a natural distribution from North America to central Mexico; and the ocellated turkey (Meleagris ocellata), endemic to the Yucatan Peninsula. However, the cultural exchange of both species, which began with the first sedentary human societies, has obscured the natural distributions of both species in central and southern Mexico. We have modelled the geographical distribution of both species based on the amplitude of the ecological niche, a concept that facilitates our understanding of biological adaptations. The models use temperature, precipitation and current distribution data to project back to the late Pleistocene. Three main inferences can be derived from our models. First, during the late Pleistocene both species of Meleagris experienced a reduction and drastic change in their geographical distribution. Second, the speciation events of the genus Meleagris occurred before the late Pleistocene. Third, the subspecies Meleagris gallopavo gallopavo displays the highest niche amplitude, spanning all other M. gallopavo subspecies, suggesting that it could be a product of cultural management.

As a contribution to the still open debate on the multiple african origins of the domesticated donkey, this work focuses on the wild ass of the Maghreb. It follows the recent paleontological review of the equids from Lac Karâr, a middle Pleistocene site in Northern Algeria, where most of the faunal remains were attributed to wild asses (Equus africanus Heuglin and Fitzinger, 1866). The morphometric resemblance between the equid of Lac Karâr, and Equus melkiensis Bagtach, Hadjouis and Eisenmann, 1984 which might correspond to the equid commonly referred to, as the Atlas wild ass (vernacular name) and, by descent, to Equus tabeti Arambourg, 1970, the only subspecies of ass from the early Pleistocene in Northern Africa, highlights the need for extensive biomolecular and radiometric studies on this wild and robust ass, endemic to the Maghreb. This is especially important given that progress in extracting ancient DNA from equids has been demonstrated by several recent studies and that remains of wild asses are still being uncovered in many late Pleistocene to Holocene (Neolithic) deposits in the Maghreb. The results from such studies could substantially improve the knowledge on the origin of asses. In particular, these analyses could shed light on the, as yet, undetermined clade 2 which may originate from the wild ass of the Maghreb as recently hypothesized by several authors. The archaeological and genetic data reviewed in this paper focuses on the ancient range of the Atlas wild ass mainly from sites in the northern part of the Maghreb; it contributes to current debates regarding this subspecies as one of the possible ancestors of modern asses. In addition, the paper identifies directions for further genetic researches on the extant donkey of the Maghreb.

The Asian cultivated rice (Oryza sativa L.) grown worldwide is divided into two subspecies, indica and japonica. It is well known that the heterosis of inter-subspecies is usually stronger than that of intra-subspecies. Since the 1970s, indica hybrid rice, an intra-subspecific hybrid rice, has being widely used in China and even in the world. However, the inter-subspecific hybrid rice between indica and japonica is still unavailable. The major obstacle is the hybrid sterility of the inter-subspecies. In recent decades, the genetic and molecular basis of indica-japonica hybrid sterility was understood more and more clearly. Some breeding approaches for overcoming inter-subspecific hybrid sterility were proposed and used to develop the indica-japonica hybrid rice. The updated understanding will offer new approaches for development of breeding lines for overcoming indica-japonica hybrid sterility, which facilitates developing of inter-subspecific hybrid rice.

The Collared Kingfisher (Todiramphus chloris) is widely distributed across the Indian and western Pacific Oceans and consists of about 50 subspecies. Two different subspecies of T. chloris occur in the Arabian Peninsula: T. c. abyssinicus from the Red Sea coast and T. c. kalbaensis from the Arabian Sea coast in the United Arab Emirates and Oman. The aim of this study was to determine the molecular relationship between the two Arabian subspecies and to establish the first DNA barcodes from the Arabian Peninsula for this species. Three different mitochondrial genes were used: (i) cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI), (ii) 12S rRNA (12S) and (iii) NADH dehydrogenase-1 (ND1). The COI gene sequences of the two subspecies were 100% identical, while the 12S and ND1 gene sequences revealed a unique single nucleotide variation between the two subspecies. Thus, this single nucleotide variation can be used as a DNA barcode to discriminate between two subspecies. Furthermore, the genetic profile or fingerprint for both subspecies were compared using ten primers of the highly polymorphic nuclear markers (Inter Simple Sequence Repeat, ISSR). As expected, the DNA analysis of the ISSR markers was able to distinguish between the specimens of the two subspecies. These results suggest that T. c. abyssinicus and T. c. kalbaensis are not identical and thus belong to different subspecies. Besides, the sequences of the COI gene for T. c. abyssinicus and T. c. kalbaensis differs by only 1.28% from T. sanctus suggesting that the Arabian subspecies are closely related to the Sacred Kingfisher (T. sanctus). Keywords: Todiramphus chloris, Todiramphus sanctus, DNA barcode, Arabian Peninsula, ISSR markers

The seminal work of Mills et al. (1993) lists 137 established aquatic species as nonindigenous to the Great Lakes (two plants are further subdivided into two subspecies groups). We have removed seven of these species: three have been redefined as probably native, and four plants (including both subspecies of Sonchus arvensis) have been reclassified as terrestrial. Thirty-five species that arrived prior to 1993 (some due to reclassification, some due to a time lag in discovery and reporting) have been added to the list. Twenty-four new species have become established post-1993, bringing the total to 188 (with Pluchea odorata including two subspecies). Notably, 21 of the 23 species were introduced between 1993 and 2006, but only 3 new species have been documented with new reproducing and overwintering populations in the last decade. Multiple revisions have been made to taxonomy and introduction dates based on additional review of literature and museum/herbarium collections. Over the most recent 25 years, the rate of introduction of nonindigenous species capable of becoming established has declined. With the 2006 expansion of ballast regulations to include residual ballast sediments in vessels declaring ‘No Ballast on Board’, the rate of new invasions has fallen to a low of only 0.25 species per year.

Trypanosoma brucei causes human African trypanosomiasis (HAT). Three subspecies were described: T. b. gambiense (Tbg) and T. b. rhodesiense (Tbr) in humans, and T. b. brucei (Tbb) in animals. Molecular markers subdivided Tbg into two groups: Tbg1 and Tbg2, of which the latter is different from Tbg1 and Tbr (absence of the SRA gene), but indistinguishable from Tbb. Tbg2 is considered to be a zoonotic form of HAT in West Africa. Tbg2 was found mainly in Côte d'Ivoire between 1978 and 1992, but the latest description was made in Ghana in 2013. New molecular tools would be welcome to characterize such infections and determine their origins (resistance to human serum or patient immunodeficiency) in the current context of HAT elimination.

Field surveys were conducted in the northern part of Mongolia in 2017 and 2018. Vascular plants floristic data are based on collections from the study area, and more than 800 new collections are made in this study. In total, 289 taxa (8 subspecies and 6 variates) were identified, representing 173 genera from 60 families of vascular plants. The families most diverse in species were Rosaceae with 28 taxa, followed by Ranunculaceae (25 taxa), Asteraceae (19 taxa), and Fabaceae (19 taxa). The largest genera were Salix with 11 species, followed by Viola (9 species) and Carex (9 species). Thirty-seven taxa are newly recorded for Mongolian Dauria (8), Khangai (8), Khentei (4) and Khuvsgul (17) regions. Several threatened species were found in the field area. We provide photographs and distribution maps for species of Cypripedium (C. calceolus L., C. guttatum Sw., C. macranthos Sw., and C. ventricosum Sw.). In addition, Campanula cervicaria was newly recorded for the flora of Mongolia. Keywords: Campanula, Cypripedium, New records, Northern Mongolia, Plant diversity

The Iranian species in the Chrysis pulchella and C. varidens species groups are investigated. Six species are recognized, two of which are described for the first time: Chrysis gamberoonensis Farhad, Rosa and Talebi sp. nov. and Chrysis brunneamarginata Farhad, Rosa and Talebi sp. nov.. Chrysis gamberoonensis Farhad, Rosa and Talebi sp. nov. belongs to the C. pulchella group and is recognizable within this species group by its unique blue body coloration, scattered mesosoma punctures, polished pit row with elongated pits, and a small median tooth on the lateral edge of metasomal tergum 3. Chrysis brunneamarginata Farhad, Rosa and Talebi sp. nov. belongs to the C. varidens group and is recognizable by the usually colorless apical rim of metasomal tergum 3, and the unique shape of the anterior corners of the scutellum which are enlarged, thickened and directed backward covering the axillary trough. Dichotomous keys and distributional data for Iranian species included in these species groups are provided. Chrysis schwarzi Linsenmaier, 1968 is raised to species rank. The number of Iranian Chrysis species and subspecies is raised to 122. www.zoobank.org/urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:F419F860-3B90-4679-9A19-2CF5C255AE6B

Background The Savanna Nightjar (Caprimulgus affinis) is a widespread, polytypic species which was previously treated as two or three species. It is currently treated as a single species based on superficial similarity of their songs but no detailed comparisons of the songs in this complex have been made. Methods A total of 15 acoustic variables were measured for the songs of 86 individuals representing 8 of the 10 subspecies in the complex. Results Three major groups can be distinguished based on univariate and multivariate analyses: a northern group consisting of the subspecies C. a. monticolus, C. a. amoyensis and C. a. stictomus; a southern group consisting of C. a. affinis, C. a. kasuidori, C. a. timorensis and C. a. propinquus; and a third group in the Philippines consisting of C. a. griseatus. Conclusions It is here argued that these groups are best treated as species, and that Franklin’s Nightjar (C. monticolus) and Kayumanggi Nightjar (C. griseatus) are reinstated as separate species.

Background Field studies from 2011 onwards have demonstrated the presence of a breeding population of Yellow Wagtails (Motacilla flava) in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China that is phenotypically distinct from known subspecies occurring in Asia. Here we describe the plumages and vocalisations of this population and discuss its taxonomic status. Methods The analysis of plumage is based on field studies and photos available online. Recordings of vocalisations are compared with recordings from other Yellow Wagtail populations, and differences are analysed based on sonograms. Mitochondrial DNA from one individual is compared to other Yellow Wagtail taxa. Results Unlike M. flava subspecies breeding in or near Xinjiang, males in the studied population show a blue-grey head without prominent white supercilium, being most similar to the widely disjunct M. f. cinereocapilla. They differ from the similarly widely allopatric M. f. thunbergi, which might occur as a migrant or vagrant in Xinjiang, by on average cleaner yellow breast and more extensive white on the throat, and from the widely disjunct M. f. plexa and M. f. macronyx, which might also occur on migration in that area, by softer contact calls and slower pace of song. Females are similar to female M. f. feldegg in plumage. The mitochondrial ND2 tree shows the single sample from Xinjiang to be nested in the clade of western Yellow Wagtail taxa. Conclusion We discuss whether the Xinjiang breeding population could represent an intergrade between subspecies breeding nearby, or whether it is better regarded as a separate as yet unrecognized subspecies. We argue that the localization of its apparent range in relation to other subspecies along with fairly consistent male and female plumages suggest that it is more likely to represent an undescribed taxon, but conclude that more research is needed to firmly establish its status.

When animal mating signals diverge between populations, reproductive isolation and speciation may occur. Variation in animals' responses to these signals may reveal whether differences in perception contribute to behavioural differences between populations. We tested whether signal divergence influences receiver responses to playback in the rufous-capped warbler, Basileuterus rufifrons, a Neotropical resident songbird with a contact zone between two divergent subspecies, B. r. delattrii and B. r. rufifrons, in southern Mexico. Studying nearby populations of birds living in allopatry and sympatry, we presented warblers with playback-simulated territorial male rivals of each subspecies. In sympatry, both delattrii and rufifrons responded more strongly to songs of their own subspecies than to songs of the other subspecies, whereas in allopatry, delattrii responded strongly to songs of both subspecies, suggesting possible reproductive character displacement. Our research demonstrates that sympatric delattrii and rufifrons discriminate between each other's songs, suggesting that song is a premating isolating barrier between these divergent subspecies. This study adds to the growing literature on receiver response to vocal signal divergence in closely related sympatric and allopatric animal populations.

Recent studies have emphasized the role of the western honey bee, Apis mellifera, as a managed agricultural species worldwide, but also as a potential threat to endangered wild pollinators. This has resulted in the suggestion that honey bees should be regulated in natural areas to conserve wild pollinators. We argue that this perspective fails to appreciate the multifaceted nature of honey bees as native or introduced species with either managed or wild colonies. Wild populations of A. mellifera are currently imperiled, and natural areas are critical for the conservation of local subspecies and genotypes. We propose that a differentiation between managed and wild populations is required and encourage integrated conservation planning for all endangered wild bees, including A. mellifera.

The narrow range of distribution and special habitat of Taihangia rupestris Yu et Li have rendered it endangered. The absence of a reliable taxonomic tool increases the difficulty of identifying this species. Molecular species identification with DNA barcoding is a promising tool for the investigation and conservation of both endangered plant and animal species. This approach can facilitate species-level identification even if only a small fragment of the organism, flowers or fruits, at any developmental stage is present. Therefore, this study was undertaken to develop DNA barcodes of the two subspecies of the genus Taihangia by using the loci from both the chloroplast and nuclear genomes. The five loci tested for their potential as effective barcodes were Rubisco large subunit, maturase K, psbA-trnH, internally transcribed spacer (ITS), and ITS2. Six parameters were calculated to analyze intraspecific variation and interspecific divergence. The neighbor-joining tree on the basis of the psbA-trnH sequence can clearly discriminate the two subspecies of T. rupestris, namely, T. rupestris var. ciliate and T. rupestris var. rupestris. These results can advance our understanding of Taihangia, and increased number of studies should be undertaken in the future to clarify this issue. Such recognition will facilitate the preservation of the genetic diversity in Taihang mountains.