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Arctic food webs are being impacted by borealisation and environmental change. To quantify the impact of these multiple forcings, it is crucial to accurately determine the temporal change in key ecosystem metrics, such as trophic position of top predators. Here, we measured stable nitrogen isotopes (δ15N) in amino acids in harp seal teeth from across the North Atlantic spanning a period of 60 years to robustly assess multi‐decadal trends in harp seal trophic position, accounting for changes in δ15N at the base of the food web. We reveal long‐term variations in trophic position of harp seals which are likely to reflect fluctuations in prey availability, specifically fish‐ or invertebrate‐dominated diets. We show that the temporal trends in harp seal trophic position differ between the Northwest Atlantic, Greenland Sea and Barents Sea, suggesting divergent changes in each local ecosystem. Our results provide invaluable data for population dynamic and ecotoxicology studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Invasive plants are a threat to natural ecosystems worldwide, with urban wetlands being some of the most susceptible and highly modified environments of all. The tiger snake (Notechis scutatus) is a top predator that persists in urban wetlands of south-western Australia, many of which have been degraded by introduced kikuyu grass (Cenchrus clandestinus). To evaluate the potential impact of kikuyu grass on habitat quality for tiger snakes we quantified the structural features of habitats within wetlands degraded by kikuyu grass and compared them to wetlands with native vegetation. We also examined tiger snake prey availability, assessed predation risk for juvenile snakes using clay models, and measured the thermal quality of the vegetation. Proliferation of kikuyu grass has reduced habitat structural heterogeneity by reducing available bare ground and increasing vegetation density. This homogenisation of habitat structure had little effect on the predation risk for juveniles or the thermal properties of tiger snake shelter sites; however, one key prey species, the motorbike frog, had significantly lower abundance in the most impacted habitat. Habitat types with more structural complexity also offered tiger snakes more stable thermal regimes and lower predation risk. These findings indicate that the current extent of kikuyu grass invasion offers overall similar habitat quality for tiger snakes to native vegetation and may contribute to their persistence in urban wetlands; however, both tiger snakes and their anuran prey may benefit from increased habitat structural complexity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Killer whales (Orcinus orca) are highly mobile, large marine apex predators that inhabit all oceans. Despite being the most conspicuous top predator, little is known about their ecology along Patagonia, Argentina. Here, we used carbon (d13C) and nitrogen (d15N) isotope analysis of bone and dentine collagen from killer whales (n = 13) stranded in northern Patagonia during the period 1970-2014 to assess their trophic ecology. A model-based clustering analysis identified three distinct groups related with three large marine ecosystems: the Patagonia (P), Subtropical (ST), and Antarctica (A) groups. Group P (n = 8) is characterized by individuals with high d13C and d15N values fitting within the isotopic ratios observed over the Patagonian shelf. Group ST (n = 3) is composed of individuals with high d13C and low d15N values, similar to those reported for conspecifics in southern Brazil. Group A (n = 2) is composed of individuals with low d13C and d15N values, typical from high latitude areas like sub-Antarctic/Antarctic waters. The finding of different killer whales' isotopic groups over the Patagonian shelf suggests the existence of individuals or groups exploiting different habitats. Our results expand the limited ecological knowledge for the species while presenting the basis to infer more complex ecological hypotheses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The extinct "false mako" shark, Parotodus benedenii (Lamniformes: Otodontidae), is essentially known from large, robust teeth that are widespread but overall rare in Oligocene to Pliocene deposits worldwide. More than 150 years after its description, this species still represents a palaeontological conundrum, as very little is known about its body aspect and palaeoecology. Here, we describe new specimens of P. benedenii from the Pliocene of Tuscany, central Italy. These new finds comprise some of the geologically youngest finds of P. benedenii worldwide, witnessing to the survival of false makos until the Late Pliocene at least, which in turn suggests that P. benedenii may have been the latest surviving member of the family Otodontidae. Building upon a thorough literature review, we provide an updated synthesis of the palaeobiology of P. benedenii. In light of the morphological evidence, and considering previously published suggestions, P. benedenii may be reconstructed as a large-sized, carnivorous shark that dwelt in pelagic settings and fed primarily on large, soft prey and scavenging items. Thus, some ecological partitioning did likely exist between P. benedenii and other elasmobranch apex predators of the Neogene mid-latitude seas (including, in Pliocene times, the extant species Carcharodon carcharias, Carcharhinus leucas and Galeocerdo cuvier). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global declines in foundation species and associated losses of biodiversity and ecosystem services have made restoration of foundation species and the habitats they create a top priority. Because restoration success has been highly variable, the field is increasingly using both experimentation and ecological theory to augment success. We conducted a meta‐analysis of studies (18) in estuarine and marine systems, which increased the abundance of top predators as a restoration approach, thus improving biogenic habitat‐forming foundation species recovery by reducing consumers. Beyond testing the general idea of whether top predator addition enhances foundation species restoration, we examined whether the degree of restoration success could be explained by classic predictors of top‐down strength, such as taxonomic identity of the foundation species and top predators, direct and indirect effects of top predators, and the latitude and duration of the study. Top predators successfully elicited a trophic cascade by decreasing consumer abundances (direct effect) and increasing foundation species recovery (indirect effect) when compared with control restoration projects without top predators. Direct effects are expected to be stronger than indirect effects, in accordance with classic ecological theory. We found no evidence of magnitude differences between direct and indirect effects of top predator addition. Increasing invertebrate top predators produced a 3.5× greater increase in the basal trophic level than adding vertebrate top predators. Despite the strong effect of predator type, the log response ratio of all foundation species types (algae, animal, and plant) increased 10‐fold in top predator addition treatments. We found diminishing effects of top predator addition as study duration increased, which supports recent developments that the positive effects of marine protected area designation decline over time. Our results highlight the promise of harnessing top‐down control via top predator addition as a mechanism to aid foundation species recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nest predation is the main cause of nest failure in passerine birds and thus is a key determinant of breeding traits. Accordingly, nest predator community composition and abundance modulate nest predation rates. When top predators are absent, mesopredator populations may become unchecked, which in turn increases the predation pressure on their prey species. We evaluated whether nest predator abundance and breeding traits of an endangered grassland bird, the Strange‐tailed Tyrant Alectrurus risora, differed between two protected areas: Iberá National Park (INP), where top predators have been extinct for 50 years, and Reserva El Bagual (REB), where Pumas Puma concolor still have a stable population. We measured abundances of potential nest predator species and during the 2015–2018 breeding seasons we monitored Strange‐tailed Tyrant nests and set camera traps to identify nest predators. Mesopredator abundance was higher in INP, and foxes were identified as the main nest predators. Nest predation rate was also higher in INP, where the daily nest predation rate and cumulative probability of nest predation were 0.05 ± 0.006 and 0.81, whereas in REB they were 0.04 ± 0.004 and 0.70, respectively. The 10‐fold higher frequency of fox records in INP could explain the higher nest predation rate observed, suggesting that the extinction of top predators may increase nest predation rates of endangered grassland birds in protected areas through release of native mesopredator species. The lower nest predation observed in REB was compensated for by a higher nest abandonment rate, which resulted in a similar fledgling production in the two study sites. Clutch size, hatching success and number of nestlings did not differ between study sites. The low breeding success recorded for this endangered species despite its populations being in protected areas of high conservation value is alarming given the global decline that grassland bird populations are facing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genetic analysis can provide valuable information for conservation programmes by unravelling the demographic trajectory of populations, estimating effective population size or inferring genetic differentiation between populations. Here, we investigated the genetic differentiation within Snowy Owls Bubo scandiacus in North America, a species identified as vulnerable by the IUCN, to (1) quantify connectivity among wintering areas, (2) evaluate current genetic diversity and effective population size, and (3) infer changes in the historical effective population size changes from the last millennia to the recent past. The Snowy Owl, a highly mobile top predator, breeds across the Arctic tundra, a region especially sensitive to current climate change. Using single‐nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)‐based analyses on Snowy Owls sampled across the North American non‐breeding range, we found an absence of genetic differentiation among individuals located up to 4650 km apart. Our results suggest high genetic intermixing and effective dispersal at the continental scale despite documented philopatry to non‐breeding sites in winter. Reconstructing the population demographic indicated that North American Snowy Owls have been steadily declining since the Last Glacial Maximum c. 20 000 years ago, and concurrently with global increases in temperature. Conservation programmes should now consider North American Snowy Owls a single, genetically homogeneous continental‐wide population which is probably sensitive to the long‐term global warming occurring since the Last Glacial Maximum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Habitat loss and fragmentation threaten population persistence because they affect the ability of individuals to disperse between remaining patches of good-quality habitat and reduce refuge areas for populations. In cougars (Puma concolor), males are predominantly dispersers while females tend to be more philopatric. To examine the dispersal ability and philopatry of cougars in a human-dominated landscape in Brazil, we performed relatedness and spatial autocorrelation analyses based on genotyped cougars from different sampling groups: forest fragments within a human-modified matrix, continuous forest, and road-killed individuals. We found similarly high relatedness and a positive spatial autocorrelation at the shortest spatial scale (0–100 km) for both males and females from the forest fragments within a human-modified matrix. In the continuous forest and among cougars sampled as roadkills, we detected no spatial autocorrelation and observed low relatedness for both sexes. We also detected higher male:female sex ratio among road-killed individuals, likely due to the greater dispersal tendency of males. Our results confirm female philopatry in the forest fragments. However, the high relatedness and positive autocorrelation observed in the forest fragments suggest kin clustering also for males, which may be a result of unsuccessful dispersal. We reported the first evidence for a South American cougar population of unsuccessful dispersal in response to human-altered landscapes. Further research is needed to assess the specific causes of male unsuccessful dispersal and how it may affect species persistence in human-dominated landscapes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human-carnivore conflict can lead to serious reduction and even extirpation of top predators when management policies are inadequate or are absent. This is especially true in central Argentina where a few small protected areas are interspersed within a mosaic of ranches and game reserves. We used camera-trapping surveys and spatial mark–resight models, to reanalyze, estimate, and compare puma (Puma concolor) densities among these three different land-use types. We also used an occupancy modeling framework to determine drivers of puma habitat use. We used kernel density estimation to determine if land use altered puma daily activity patterns across sites. Puma density estimates (D ± SE) in cattle ranches and one game reserve were lower (1.00 ±0.36 and 1.38 ±0.91 pumas per 100 km2, respectively) than in the protected area (4.90 ±1.51 pumas per 100 km2) but CIs were wide. Puma detection was the lowest in the game reserve. Puma habitat use increased strongly with vegetation cover and probability of detection was negatively influenced by cattle encounter rates. Pumas were mostly nocturnal with some crepuscular activity in ranches and game reserve, and cathemeral in the protected area. Our results suggest that pumas likely seek refuge in protected areas and relax timing of activity there, information relevant to management plans designed to prevent puma decline or extirpation in central Argentina. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Lesser sandeel (Ammodytes marinus) is widely distributed in North Sea ecosystems. Sandeel acts as a critical trophic link between zooplankton and top predators (fish, mammals, sea birds). Because they live buried in the sand, sandeel may be directly affected by the rapid expansion of anthropogenic activities linked to their habitat on the sea bottom (e.g., hydrocarbon extraction, offshore renewable energy, and subsea mining). It is, therefore, important to understand the impact of cumulative environmental and anthropogenic stressors on this species. A detailed description of the ontogenetic timeline and developmental staging for this species is lacking limiting the possibilities for comparative developmental studies assessing, e.g., the impact of various environmental stressors. Results: A detailed description of the morphological development of lesser sandeel and their developmental trajectory, obtained through visual observations and microscopic techniques, is presented. Methods for gamete stripping and intensive culture of the early life stages are also provided. Conclusion: This work provides a basis for future research to understand the effect of cumulative environmental and anthropogenic stressors on development in the early life stages of lesser sandeel. Key Findings: Lesser sandeel live buried in the sand and may be affected by the rapid expansion of anthropogenic activities linked to their habitat on the sea bottom. The ontogeny of this species has not been described.A timeline of changing morphological and physiological features of sandeel are reported in a comprehensive developmental map.Intensive culture techniques were developed that allowed for early life history of sandeel to be completed. This will support comparative developmental studies under controlled rearing conditions.The need for a mechanical stimulation during the hatching period to improve synchronicity, was identified as important factor in the intensive culture environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mercury contamination is a widespread phenomenon that impacts ecosystems worldwide. Artisanal Small Scale Gold Mining (ASGM) activities are responsible for more than a third of atmospheric Hg emission. Due to Hg toxicity and its broad and elevated prevalence in the environment resulting from ASGM activities in the tropics, its biomonitoring is essential to better understand the availability of its methylmercury (MeHg) form in the environment. The Minamata Convention was ratified with the objective to "protect human health and the environment from anthropogenic emissions and releases of mercury compounds". Biomagnification of MeHg occurs through the trophic food web, where it biomagnifies and bioaccumulates in top predators. To monitor environmental MeHg contamination, studies have evaluated the use of living organisms; however, reptiles are among the least documented vertebrates regarding MeHg exposure. In this review we evaluate the use of crocodylians for Hg biomonitoring in tropical ecosystems. We found that out of the 28 crocodiles species, only 10 have been evaluated regarding Hg contamination. The remaining challenges when using this taxon for Hg biomonitoring are inconsistencies in the applied methodology (e.g., wet versus dry weight, tissues used, quantification method). However, due to their life history traits, crocodylians are particularly relevant for monitoring MeHg contamination in regions where ASGM activities occur. In conclusion and given their ecological and socio-economic importance, crocodylians are at great risk of MeHg contamination and are excellent bioindicators for tropical ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mercury (Hg) pollution is a global problem affecting remote areas of the open ocean, but the bioaccumulation of this neurotoxic pollutant in tropical top predators remains poorly documented. The objective of this study was to determine Hg contamination of the seabird community nesting on Clipperton Island using blood and feathers to investigate short and longer-term contamination, respectively. We examined the significance of various factors (species, sex, feeding habitat [δ13C] and trophic position [δ15N]) on Hg concentrations in six seabird species. Among species, Great Frigatebirds had the highest Hg concentrations in blood and feathers, boobies had intermediate values, and Brown Noddies and Sooty Terns the lowest. At the interspecific level, although δ13C values segregated boobies from frigatebirds and noddies/terns, Hg concentrations were explained by neither δ13C nor δ15N values. At the intraspecific level, both Hg concentrations in blood and feathers show relatively small variations (16–32 and 26–74%, respectively), suggesting that feeding ecology had low seasonal variation among individuals. Despite most species being sexually dimorphic, differences in Hg contamination according to sex was detected only in Brown Boobies during the breeding period. Indeed, female Brown Boobies feed at a higher trophic level and in a different area than males during this period, resulting in higher blood Hg concentrations. The present study also shows that most of the seabirds sampled at Clipperton Island had little or no exposure to Hg toxicity, with 30% in the no risk category and 70% in the low risk category. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes the parameterization and calibration of an end-to-end Atlantis model for the Bay of Biscay, characterising spatially the structure and functioning of the ecosystem. The Bay of Biscay is considered rich in terms of ecological diversity and different oceanographic events such as coastal upwelling, coastal run-off and river plumes, and seasonal currents, take place in the area. These features, in addition to the different pressures caused by human activities and management criteria, demand for concurrent modelling of all the characteristics of the Bay of Biscay ecosystem in order to improve our understanding of the system and its functioning. The modelled area is 145 970 km2 and was divided into 36 spatial polygons, each with multiple vertical layers. The model was composed by 54 functional groups, ranging from primary producers to top predators. Our results highlighted the importance of lower trophic levels to the pelagic system and how the trophic interactions among phytoplankton and zooplankton groups impact the structure of the ecosystem. The results also demonstrate the importance of having accurate and precise data for biological processes and showed the need of further study in the age-specific data such as biomass and weight distribution per age and diet interactions between juvenile and adult fish stages. Overall, the Bay of Biscay Atlantis model has been shown to be a tool that has the potential to improve our understanding of the spatial functioning of the Bay of Biscay ecosystem that will help establishing management measures of human activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes the parameterization and calibration of an end-to-end Atlantis model for the Bay of Biscay, characterising spatially the structure and functioning of the ecosystem. The Bay of Biscay is considered rich in terms of ecological diversity and different oceanographic events such as coastal upwelling, coastal run-off and river plumes, and seasonal currents, take place in the area. These features, in addition to the different pressures caused by human activities and management criteria, demand for concurrent modelling of all the characteristics of the Bay of Biscay ecosystem in order to improve our understanding of the system and its functioning. The modelled area is 145 970 km2 and was divided into 36 spatial polygons, each with multiple vertical layers. The model was composed by 54 functional groups, ranging from primary producers to top predators. Our results highlighted the importance of lower trophic levels to the pelagic system and how the trophic interactions among phytoplankton and zooplankton groups impact the structure of the ecosystem. The results also demonstrate the importance of having accurate and precise data for biological processes and showed the need of further study in the age-specific data such as biomass and weight distribution per age and diet interactions between juvenile and adult fish stages. Overall, the Bay of Biscay Atlantis model has been shown to be a tool that has the potential to improve our understanding of the spatial functioning of the Bay of Biscay ecosystem that will help establishing management measures of human activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Defecation by large whales is known to fertilise oceans with nutrients, stimulating phytoplankton and ecosystem productivity. However, our current understanding of these processes is limited to a few species, nutrients and ecosystems. Here, we investigate the role of cetacean communities in the worldwide biological cycling of two major nutrients and six trace nutrients. We show that cetaceans release more nutrients in mesotrophic to eutrophic temperate waters than in oligotrophic tropical waters, mirroring patterns of ecosystem productivity. The released nutrient cocktails also vary geographically, driven by the composition of cetacean communities. The roles of small cetaceans, deep diving cetaceans and baleen whales differ quantitatively and functionally, with contributions of small cetaceans and deep divers exceeding those of large whales in some areas. The functional diversity of cetacean communities expands beyond their role as top predators to include their role as active nutrient vectors, which might be equally important to local ecosystem dynamics. Cetaceans such as dolphins and whales contribute to the cycling of essential nutrients in the surface ocean through defecation. Using a bioenergetic modelling approach, this study shows that the contribution of different cetaceans is heterogeneous both in terms of quantity and in quality, as the nutrient cocktails they release reflect the physiology and ecology of each species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Marine heatwaves cause widespread environmental, biological, and socio-economic impacts, placing them at the forefront of 21st-century management challenges. However, heatwaves vary in intensity and evolution, and a paucity of information on how this variability impacts marine species limits our ability to proactively manage for these extreme events. Here, we model the effects of four recent heatwaves (2014, 2015, 2019, 2020) in the Northeastern Pacific on the distributions of 14 top predator species of ecological, cultural, and commercial importance. Predicted responses were highly variable across species and heatwaves, ranging from near total loss of habitat to a two-fold increase. Heatwaves rapidly altered political bio-geographies, with up to 10% of predicted habitat across all species shifting jurisdictions during individual heatwaves. The variability in predicted responses across species and heatwaves portends the need for novel management solutions that can rapidly respond to extreme climate events. As proof-of-concept, we developed an operational dynamic ocean management tool that predicts predator distributions and responses to extreme conditions in near real-time. This study examines the effect of four marine heatwaves in the Northeast Pacific on the distributions of 14 top predators, revealing a wide-array of predator responses both among and within heatwaves. Predator responses were highly predictable, demonstrating capacity for early warning systems of heatwave impacts, similar to weather forecasts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Raptors face global threats like electrocution, collisions, and habitat fragmentation. Many species remain understudied, and their distribution patterns are unknown. Understanding their current and future distribution is crucial for conservation. Protecting these top predators requires knowledge of their spatial distribution and environmental influences. This study addresses knowledge gaps in raptor habitats and distributions in Kenya, considering current and future climate changes. Using species distribution models and occurrence data from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility, we evaluated suitable habitats for four endangered Kenyan raptor species: Martial eagle, Secretarybird, Bateleur, and Steppe Eagle. We assessed the impact of climatic predictors on their distribution, considering two climate change scenarios for 2020–2040. Our findings reveal that raptor distribution in Kenya is predominantly concentrated in the southwestern region, extending into the central region of the country. The most significant predictors of raptor species distribution varied for each species, with Steppe eagle and Secretarybird being highly influenced by precipitation during the warmest quarter, Martial eagle being influenced by mean temperature during the driest quarter, and Bateleur being primarily influenced by precipitation during the coldest quarter. When projecting our model into the climate change scenarios for 2020–2040, all species except the Bateleur exhibited a negative range shift. The results of our study suggest that climate change may have adverse impacts on the raptor species examined. In light of these findings, we recommend implementing targeted monitoring and conducting surveys in accordance with our current model predictions. Specifically, our focus should be on monitoring areas that exhibit the highest climate suitability, as these areas are likely to undergo significant shifts in the near future. By conducting regular monitoring and engaging in further research, we can enhance our understanding of these raptor species and gather valuable data to improve the accuracy and reliability of our model predictions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arctic warming is occurring at a much faster rate than in other parts of the globe, with potentially devastating consequences for the diverse array of species within ecologically and biologically sensitive areas in the Arctic marine region. However, climate change research in this region is sparse compared to other biomes, hindering conservation efforts. In this article, we review and synthesize the available literature to understand the observed and potential impacts of climate change on different species and ecosystems in the Arctic marine region. We reviewed 253 articles reporting changes in species and ecosystems in the Arctic marine region in response to climate change (225 studies documenting observed impacts and 28 reporting predicted impacts). The review revealed that most research effort has been concentrated in only a subset of Arctic Large Marine Ecosystems (LMEs) (5/18 LMEs), with the majority of Arctic LMEs being poorly studied. The majority of the reviewed papers focused on marine mammals (19%) followed by microalgae (17%). A number of studies documented variability in planktonic communities (microalgae, macroalgae, zooplankton), resulting in alteration in ecosystem structure and function. Reproductive failure, decline in populations, and changes in diet composition, behavior, and breeding biology were reported for sea birds and mammals. Further, shifts in spatial distribution of fishes were observed by several studies. This review provides persuasive evidence that multiple climate change indices in the Arctic region are changing, with impacts on almost all components of marine biotic ecosystems (from plankton to top predators). We identify a number of gaps (such as limited inventory of biota, robustness of data supporting climate change indices on an Arctic Ocean scale, and climate suitability assessment for all species) in climate change research in Arctic marine ecosystems where future studies can help to quantify the impacts of climate change on species and ecosystems and advance understanding for their adaptive management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recreational use of wild spaces is increasingly popular, resulting in a burgeoning tourism industry. Such activities can degrade the environment and disrupt the behaviour and natural function of organisms. A small population of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) is resident in Dusky Sound, New Zealand, a fjord with increasing human use. Dolphins, as top predators, play an important role within ecosystems and are at risk of long-term negative consequences from behavioural changes when exposed to high levels of vessel activity. A better understanding of the distribution of the dolphins in Dusky Sound would provide a framework for developing management within the fjord. Here we describe where dolphins were most frequently found, based on >40,000 km of photo-ID survey effort conducted over 10 years. Kernel density estimation revealed two large core areas that remained consistent over the duration of this study. This information could be used to determine areas within Dusky Sound where human activities around dolphins could be managed to avoid anthropogenically driven detrimental impacts. We suggest the following: (1) establish dolphin protection zones, (2) create a marine mammal sanctuary, (3) extend marine reserve boundaries, and/or (4) lower catch limits for fish within the fjord boundaries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies of species habitat and distribution patterns are an important prerequisite for conservation efforts, and habitat quality and integrity play a crucial role in the population health and recovery of endangered species. This is especially applicable to the snow leopard, a top predator that is key to highland mountain ecosystems. In this study, 112 valid snow leopard distribution loci obtained by infrared camera surveys in the mid-eastern Tianshan, Xinjiang were examined. Combined with 12 characteristic environmental variables, the maximum entropy model (MaxEnt) and GIS techniques were used to analyse the potential distribution areas and suitable habitats of snow leopards in the mid-eastern Tianshan. The results showed that the total area of suitable habitat for snow leopards in the mid-eastern Tianshan was 15919 km2, and the most suitable habitat was mainly concentrated in a western patch around Wusu, Hutubi, and the southern mountains of Urumqi. The results of a Jackknife analysis showed that land cover type, the daily difference in average temperature, isothermality, slope, and altitude were important factors affecting the distribution of snow leopards. Deciduous coniferous forests, grasslands, and bare rock areas with sparse vegetation at altitudes from 2500 m to 5000 m are the areas where snow leopards have a higher probability of occurrence in the mid-eastern Tianshan. This study determined the key distribution areas of snow leopards and provides a scientific basis for establishing key areas for snow leopard monitoring and protection in the mid-eastern Tianshan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Whereas most native top food species were shown to be sources of both fruit and leaves for brown howler monkeys, some alien species were not exploited for leaves (Chaves and Bicca-Marques [12]). This sampling protocol might have reduced the possibility of nest predation by howler monkeys and of witnessing nest predation events in general. 3) acknowledged the role of alien plant species as important fruit sources during lean seasons for free-ranging black-and-gold howler monkeys ( I Alouatta caraya i ) inhabiting small habitat patches (Bicca-Marques and Calegaro-Marques [6]). Under these circumstances, nest predation by howler monkeys could be the mechanism causing islands with hyperdense leafcutter ants to lose bird species faster than those without hyperdense ants, as reported by Feeley and Terborgh ([24]). [Extracted from the article]

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The article discusses the misuse of the terms "Darwinian" and "Darwinism" in public discourse, particularly in relation to the concept of "Social Darwinism." The author argues that this limited understanding of evolution fails to acknowledge the role of symbiosis, cooperation, altruism, and empathy in the process. The article also highlights the importance of chance and luck in evolution, emphasizing that these factors are often overlooked in favor of selection. The author suggests that a correct understanding of nature could help combat societal issues such as racism and sexism, and criticizes the belief that wealth and success are inherently deserved. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the history of wolves in Britain and the myths and stories that surround them. Wolves were likely extirpated from the British Isles in the 18th century, but there is little physical evidence to confirm this. Sightings of wolves in Britain since then are unsubstantiated and may be feral dogs or escaped animals from menageries. The author, Derek Gow, explores the relationship between humans and wolves throughout history, presenting a collection of myths and legends related to wolves in Britain. The book also examines the challenges and controversies surrounding the reintroduction of wolves in Britain. [Extracted from the article]

Biodiversity conservation and management are a worldwide concern. They play a vital role as prey and predator to maintain the balance of tropic levels for food chain. They are also an important and widespread component of freshwater ecosystems, being the top predators. Dragonflies are potential biocontrol agents. In the present study, an attempt has been taken to know about the diversity of Odonates in Khunti at different locations. All together 15 species of dragonflies and 5 species of damselflies were recorded from various study sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Marine animal biomass is expected to decrease in the 21st century due to climate driven changes in ocean environmental conditions. Previous studies suggest that the magnitude of the decline in primary production on apex predators could be amplified through the trophodynamics of marine food webs, leading to larger decreases in the biomass of predators relative to the decrease in primary production, a mechanism called trophic amplification. We compared relative changes in producer and consumer biomass or production in the global ocean to assess the extent of trophic amplification. We used simulations from nine marine ecosystem models (MEMs) from the Fisheries and Marine Ecosystem Models Intercomparison Project forced by two Earth System Models under the high greenhouse gas emissions Shared Socioeconomic Pathways (SSP5-8.5) and a scenario of no fishing. Globally, total consumer biomass is projected to decrease by 16.7 ± 9.5% more than net primary production (NPP) by 2090–2099 relative to 1995–2014, with substantial variations among MEMs and regions. Total consumer biomass is projected to decrease almost everywhere in the ocean (80% of the world's oceans) in the model ensemble. In 40% of the world's oceans, consumer biomass was projected to decrease more than NPP. Additionally, in another 36% of the world's oceans consumer biomass is expected to decrease even as projected NPP increases. By analysing the biomass response within food webs in available MEMs, we found that model parameters and structures contributed to more complex responses than a consistent amplification of climate impacts of higher trophic levels. Our study provides additional insights into the ecological mechanisms that will impact marine ecosystems, thereby informing model and scenario development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leopard seals (Hydrurga leptonyx) are top predators that can exert substantial top-down control of their Antarctic prey species. However, population trends and genetic diversity of leopard seals remain understudied, limiting our understanding of their ecological role. We investigated the genetic diversity, effective population size and demographic history of leopard seals to provide fundamental data that contextualizes their predatory influence on Antarctic ecosystems. Ninety leopard seals were sampled from the northern Antarctic Peninsula during the austral summers of 2008–2019 and a 405bp segment of the mitochondrial control region was sequenced for each individual. We uncovered moderate levels of nucleotide (π = 0.013) and haplotype (Hd = 0.96) diversity, and the effective population size was estimated at around 24,000 individuals (NE = 24,376; 95% CI: 16,876–33,126). Consistent with findings from other ice-breeding pinnipeds, Bayesian skyline analysis also revealed evidence for population expansion during the last glacial maximum, suggesting that historical population growth may have been boosted by an increase in the abundance of sea ice. Although leopard seals can be found in warmer, sub-Antarctic locations, the species' core habitat is centered on the Antarctic, making it inherently vulnerable to the loss of sea ice habitat due to climate change. Therefore, detailed assessments of past and present leopard seal population trends are needed to inform policies for Antarctic ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article examines the impact of climate change on highly migratory top predator species in the Northwest Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico. Using predictive models, the research projects substantial habitat losses and northward displacement of core habitats for these species due to warming ocean temperatures, potentially disrupting ecosystems, fisheries, and management frameworks.

Food webs can be conceptualized as being powered by energy derived from living and dead vegetation, respectively. Most food web research has focused on "green food webs" which begin with the consumption of living vegetation by herbivores. However, "brown food webs" which stem from the consumption of senescent vegetation by detritivores are also an important channel of energy transfer. In theory, herbivores have the potential to disrupt brown food webs by consuming plant material before it can senesce and become available for detritivores. Here we investigate the effects that grazing by kangaroos, whose population had irrupted partly due to the absence of an apex predator, has on the brown food web in an arid environment. We compared the cover of living and dead vegetation, the abundances of detritivorous termites and their predators inside one ha herbivore exclosures and nearby control plots. Results show there was more cover of living and dead vegetation inside the exclosures. Similarly, abundances of termites and small vertebrate predators of termites were greater inside the exclosures. Our study provides evidence that consumption of plant material by irruptive herbivores can disrupt the functioning of the brown food web by reducing the flow of energy from plant biomass to termites which in turn translates to reduced abundances of termites and small vertebrates that feed on termites. Our findings have implications for conservation and management because they shed light on a previously unconsidered threat to the functioning of arid ecosystems, disruption of brown food webs by irruptive herbivores. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Niche widths and individual specialization were studied based on the isotopic signals, but using the innovative and non-lethal approach. We analyzed four different body tissues with different isotopic half-lives, and revealed crucial results on trophic interactions of fish. We assume that the observed trends will occur in other food webs with similar trophic positions. For example, the apex predator status of ectotherms is linked to the individual size, not to the species. In addition, thanks to the consideration of the site trophic state (total phosphorus content), which has been little studied in relation to niche width, we observed a significant impact on the individual specialization of species in higher trophic positions. Thus, eutrophication can significantly change the foraging behavior. Intra-species variability in isotopic niches, specifically isotopic total niche width (ITNW), isotopic individual niche width (IINW), and isotopic individual specialization (IIS), was studied using an innovative approach without sacrificing the vertebrates. Stable isotopes (δ13C, δ15N) in four body tissues differing in isotopic half-life were analyzed from four freshwater fish species representing different trophic positions. ITNW was widest for the apex predator (European catfish) and narrowest for the obligate predator (Northern pike). IINW exhibited a polynomial trend for the European catfish, Northern pike, and Eurasian perch (mesopredator), decreasing with body mass and increasing again after exceeding a certain species-dependent body mass threshold. Thus, for ectotherms, apex predator status is linked rather to its size than to the species. In herbivores (rudd), IINW increased with body mass. The IIS of predators negatively correlated with site trophic state. Therefore, eutrophication can significantly change the foraging behavior of certain species. We assume that the observed trends will occur in other species at similar trophic positions in either aquatic or terrestrial systems. For confirmation, we recommend conducting a similar study on other species in different habitats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sharks are essential components of marine communities, and their removal might simplify ecosystems and lead to unpredictable and detrimental effects on the food web. Comparing the isotopic niche of species between archaeological and modern communities can provide information to assess temporal changes in the ecological dynamics of communities. Here, stable isotope analysis was used to compare food web topology metrics between two shark guilds or communities, a late Holocene archaeological community (AC) dating from 700 to 500 years ago and a modern community (MC) trophic web, both from South Brazil. In the same line of comparison, we assess the trophic position of a top predator, Carcharias taurus. Results showed topological temporal differences such as higher trophic redundancy and higher patterns of niche overlap in the AC. Higher trophic redundancy could be expected in late Holocene food webs, as similar studies also observed these findings. In contrast, the MC showed less dense packing of species within the isotopic niche space, thus higher niche partitioning and higher trophic diversity, suggesting changing ecological interaction dynamics. We found that Carcharias taurus has increased its trophic level, possibly due to a release from the intraspecific competition and a dietary shift towards larger prey items. We suggest that anthropic impacts, such as overfishing, may cause these differences in the trophic position of this species. We also advocate that this study method might help future trophic reconstructions using shark teeth, as information about past marine environments is scarce, and could serve as a baseline for future studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Keywords: conservation; early life history diversity; habitat diversity; keystone environments; portfolio effect; salmonids EN conservation early life history diversity habitat diversity keystone environments portfolio effect salmonids 1 5 5 08/03/23 20230801 NES 230801 Life history diversity facilitates long-term species persistence by buffering populations against environmental stochasticity across space and time (Schindler et al., [14]). Does fine-scale habitat diversity promote meaningful phenotypic diversity within a watershed network? The ecological literature suggests that broad-scale habitat diversity (e.g., lakes, floodplains, rivers) creates resilience in long-term salmonid population dynamics and can play an important role in species diversity and persistence via the portfolio effect. Conservation, habitat diversity, keystone environments, early life history diversity, portfolio effect, salmonids. [Extracted from the article]

Context-dependency is prevalent in nature, challenging our understanding and prediction of the potential ecological impacts of non-native species (NNS). The presence of a top predator, for example, can modify the foraging behaviour of an intermediate consumer, by means of non-consumptive effects. This raises the question of whether the fear of predation might modulate consumption rates of NNS, thus shaping the magnitude of ecological impacts. Here, we quantified the functional feeding responses of three non-native crayfish species - red swamp crayfish Procambarus clarkii, rusty crayfish Faxonius rusticus and virile crayfish Faxonius virilis - compared to the native analogue signal crayfish Pacifastacus leniusculus, considering the predation risk imposed by a top fish predator, the globally invasive largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides. We applied the comparative functional response (FR) approach using snails as prey and exposing crayfish to water containing predator and dietary chemical cues or not. All crayfish species presented a destabilising Type II FR, regardless of the presence of chemical cues. Predation risk resulted in significantly longer handling times or lower attack rates in non-native crayfish; however, no significant differences were observed in signal crayfish. We estimated per capita impacts for each species using the functional response ratio (FRR; attack rate divided by handling time). The FRR metric was lower for all crayfish species when exposed to predation risk. Rusty crayfish demonstrated the highest FRR in the absence of chemical cues, followed by signal crayfish, virile crayfish and red swamp crayfish. By contrast, the FRR of signal crayfish was nearly twice that of rusty crayfish and virile crayfish and ten times greater than red swamp crayfish when chemical cues were present. The latter result agrees with the well-recognised ecological impacts of signal crayfish throughout its globally-introduced range. This study demonstrates the importance of considering the non-consumptive effects of predators when quantifying the ecological impacts of intermediate non-native consumers on prey. The direction and magnitude of the modulating effects of predators have clear implications for our understanding of NNS impacts and the prioritisation of management actions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we define an intraguild predation model of one-resource and two-predator, in which the mesopredator catched by a top predator, feeds on a resource that grows according to a logistic growth law; for both the meso and the top predator, Holling type II functional responses are considered. Predators and prey diffuse into a connected bounded region in R². Two scenarios are considered: 1. As a defense mechanism, the resource attracts the top predator that feeds on the mesopredator; 2. The top predator in search of food moves towards areas where the mesopredator population is increasing. Some general properties of the solutions of the model are proved. In addition, the results of the numerical simulations carried out to analyze the effect on the spatial distribution of the populations of the indirect defense mechanism of the first scenario are shown. This is contrasted with the results of the model simulations corresponding to the second scenario, in which the diffusion of the top predator is regulated by a tendency to move towards the mesopredator gradient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pelagic predators must contend with low prey densities that are irregularly distributed and dynamic in space and time. Based on satellite imagery and telemetry data, many pelagic predators will concentrate horizontal movements on ephemeral surface fronts—gradients between water masses—because of enhanced local productivity and increased forage fish densities.Vertical fronts (e.g. thermoclines, oxyclines) can be spatially and temporally persistent, and aggregate lower trophic level and diel vertically migrating organisms due to sharp changes in temperature, water density or available oxygen. Thus, vertical fronts represent a stable and potentially energy rich habitat feature for diving pelagic predators but remain little explored in their capacity to enhance foraging opportunities.Here, we use a novel suite of high‐resolution biologging data, including in situ derived oxygen saturation and video, to document how two top predators in the pelagic ecosystem exploit the vertical fronts created by the oxygen minimum zone of the eastern tropical Pacific.Prey search behaviour was dependent on dive shape, and significantly increased near the thermocline and hypoxic boundary for blue marlin Makaira nigricans and sailfish Istiophorus platypterus, respectively. Further, we identify a behaviour not yet reported for pelagic predators, whereby the predator repeatedly dives below the thermocline and hypoxic boundary (and by extension, below the prey). We hypothesize this behaviour is used to ambush prey concentrated at the boundaries from below.We describe how habitat fronts created by low oxygen environments can influence pelagic ecosystems, which will become increasingly important to understand in the context of global change and expanding oxygen minimum zones. We anticipate that our findings are shared among many pelagic predators where strong vertical fronts occur, and additional high‐resolution tagging is warranted to confirm this. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent metanalyses suggest that microzooplankton biomass density scales linearly with phytoplankton biomass density, suggesting a simple, general rule may underpin trophic structure in the global ocean. Here, we use a set of highly simplified food-web models, solved within a global general circulation model, to examine the core drivers of linear predator-prey scaling. We examine a parallel food-chain model which assumes microzooplankton grazers feed on distinct size-classes of phytoplankton, and contrast this with a diamond food-web model allowing shared microzooplankton predation on a range of phytoplankton size classes. Within these two contrasting model structures, we also evaluate the impact of fixed vs. density-dependent microzooplankton mortality. We find that the observed relationship between microzooplankton predators and prey can be reproduced with density-dependent mortality on the top predator, regardless of choices made about plankton food-web structure. Our findings point to the importance of parameterizing mortality of the top predator for models to recapitulate trophic structure in the global ocean. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although nesting in colonies can offer substantial reproductive benefits for many seabird species, increased visibility to predators remains a significant disadvantage for most colony‐breeders. To counteract this, some seabird species have evolved aggressive nest defense strategies to protect vulnerable eggs and chicks. Here, we used an experimental approach to test whether colony inhabitance by breeding gulls Larus spp. in western Norway impacts visitation rates of a native, mammalian predator, the Eurasian otter Lutra lutra during the breeding season. Camera traps were placed inside of and on the periphery of seabird colonies prior to the breeding season and left to run for one continuous year. Sighting frequency of otters on these cameras was compared to a control region free of gull nesting. We found that otter activity was significantly reduced in the colonies when gulls were incubating and rearing chicks, compared to time periods when gulls were building nests and absent from the colonies. Rhythmic activity patterns did not seem to be significantly impacted by the presence of gulls. This study provides clear evidence that certain colony‐nesting species can have a direct, negative impact on visitation rates of a native carnivore. Seasonal carnivore activity patterns are likely to be highly dependent on differing nesting strategies and level of nest defense by seabirds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key traits of functional biodiversity are examined for 31,134 species of fishes. These traits are maximum body weight, productivity, and trophic level. A new, simple framework is presented that shows the combined usage of these traits, in ordinal categories, for close to 90% of extant species of fishes. Most species are clustered tightly along an evolutionary axis in size-productivity-trophic space (SPT-space) from few large, evolutionary old species with very low productivity to many medium-sized newly evolved species with high productivity, superseding Cope's rule of a within-lineages trend towards larger size and lower productivity. The across-lineages evolutionary axis is also found in the subsets of marine, freshwater, and Arctic species. Another notable prediction is the five-fold increase in top predators in Arctic waters in 2100, which could cause the extinction of endemic species. The main purpose of this study is to demonstrate the usefulness of the SPTframework for comparing functional biodiversity patterns in ecosystems by salinity, geography or time. Also, the SPT-framework was used to explore correlations with other traits such as body shape, and to display the position of individual species, represented by pictograms of body shape and habitat, within SPT-space. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to potentially hostile behaviors and elusive habitats, moray eels (Muraenidae) as one group of apex predators in coral reefs all across the globe have not been well investigated. Here, we constructed a chromosome-level genome assembly for the representative Reeve's moray eel (Gymnothorax reevesii). This haplotype genome assembly is 2.17 Gb in length, and 97.87% of the sequences are anchored into 21 chromosomes. It contains 56.34% repetitive sequences and 23,812 protein-coding genes, of which 96.77% are functionally annotated. This sequenced marine species in Anguilliformes makes a good complement to the genetic resource of eel genomes. It not only provides a genetic resource for in-depth studies of the Reeve's moray eel, but also enables deep-going genomic comparisons among various eels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The red squat lobster Pleuroncodes monodon, a key crustacean in the Humboldt Current System (HCS), plays an important role as predator and prey of several species of commercial interest. Off the Chilean coast, P. monodon presents benthic habits and constitutes the main resource of the industrial crustacean fishery. In contrast, off the coast of Peru, the red squat lobster exhibits pelagic habits, with knowledge gaps on traits of its ecology and no commercial fishery activities. Therefore, this review explores research conducted in the HCS, including ecological aspects and its use as a marine bioresource. This study focused on gathering available information on Pleuroncodes monodon, a widely distributed crustacean in the Humboldt Current System. Off the Chilean coast, this species presents benthic habits and constitutes the main resource of the industrial crustacean fishery; many studies have been carried out on its life cycle during the last century. In contrast, off the coast of Peru, this species exhibits mainly pelagic habits, with latent information gaps on aspects of its life history and no commercial fishery activities, such as catching, taking or harvesting from the marine environment. P. monodon is an ecologically important species, as a source of energy for its predators, which include invertebrates, birds, marine mammals and fish of commercial interest. Thus, P. monodon seems to play a key role in this ecosystem, mainly as an intermediate link between top predators and the first links in the food chain. In addition, this species presents various adaptation strategies to the changing oceanographic parameters of the areas it inhabits, even tolerating hypoxic environments and great depths in order to avoid being predated. Likewise, from an economic viewpoint, it has a high commercial value as a marine bioresource with great potential in the pharmaceutical and food industries. Considering this, more studies must be carried out to corroborate the biological, ecological, and fishing importance of this species in order to generate efficient management measures and ensure a sustainable fishery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Terrestrial crustaceans are represented by approximately 4,900 species from six main lineages. The diversity of terrestrial taxa ranges from a few genera in Cladocera and Ostracoda to about a third of the known species in Isopoda. Crustaceans are among the smallest as well as the largest terrestrial arthropods. Tiny microcrustaceans (Branchiopoda, Ostracoda, Copepoda) are always associated with water films, while adult stages of macrocrustaceans (Isopoda, Amphipoda, Decapoda) spend most of their lives in terrestrial habitats, being independent of liquid water. Various adaptations in morphology, physiology, reproduction, and behavior allow them to thrive in virtually all geographic areas, including extremely arid habitats. The most derived terrestrial crustaceans have acquired highly developed visual and olfactory systems. The density of soil copepods is sometimes comparable to that of mites and springtails, while the total biomass of decapods on tropical islands can exceed that of mammals in tropical rainforests. During migrations, land crabs create record-breaking aggregations and biomass flows for terrestrial invertebrates. The ecological role of terrestrial microcrustaceans remains poorly studied, while omnivorous macrocrustaceans are important litter transformers and soil bioturbators, occasionally occupying the position of the top predators. Notably, crustaceans are the only group among terrestrial saprotrophic animals widely used by humans as food. Despite the great diversity and ecological impact, terrestrial crustaceans, except for woodlice, are often neglected by terrestrial ecologists. This review aims to narrow this gap discussing the diversity, abundance, adaptations to terrestrial lifestyle, trophic relationships and ecological functions, as well as the main methods used for sampling terrestrial crustaceans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study uses the local knowledge of artisanal fishers to assess ecosystem structure, functioning, and fishing impacts within a coastal lagoon in Uruguay. To this end, we used an Ecopath with Ecosim modelling approach based on fishers' knowledge and scientific data. The model considered 23 functional groups, while three fleets represented fishing activities targeting different species. The model output shows a foodweb which spans four trophic levels, including fish species as top predators, such as the flatfish Paralichthys orbignyanus and the tararira Hoplias malabaricus. Furthermore, according to fishers' knowledge, gastropods, polychaetes, and bivalves constitute primary consumers, while detritus and phytoplankton represent the primary food sources. The trophic impact analysis shows that the fish Mugil spp. and Odontesthes spp. generate important positive and negative impacts on most other ecosystem components, while fishing impacts occur at moderate exploitation levels on the targeted fish species. The indicators of the ecosystem effects of fishing including The Trophic Level of the Catch ranging from 2.4 to 2.6, the Primary Production Required showing relative low values of 2.3% and low probability of an ecosystem being sustainably fished alert us to the risk of ecosystem-level overfishing. The vast potential of fishers' knowledge in research can allow the co-creation of new insights into ecosystem structure and function. By including fishers in research, local communities can be empowered and benefit from management decisions through their trust in science. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forage fishes are a critical food web link in marine ecosystems, aggregating in a hierarchical patch structure over multiple spatial and temporal scales. Surface‐level forage fish aggregations (FFAs) represent a concentrated source of prey available to surface‐ and shallow‐foraging marine predators. Existing survey and analysis methods are often imperfect for studying forage fishes at scales appropriate to foraging predators, making it difficult to quantify predator–prey interactions. In many cases, general distributions of forage fish species are known; however, these may not represent surface‐level prey availability to predators. Likewise, we lack an understanding of the oceanographic drivers of spatial patterns of prey aggregation and availability or forage fish community patterns. Specifically, we applied Bayesian joint species distribution models to bottom trawl survey data to assess species‐ and community‐level forage fish distribution patterns across the US Northeast Continental Shelf (NES) ecosystem. Aerial digital surveys gathered data on surface FFAs at two project sites within the NES, which we used in a spatially explicit hierarchical Bayesian model to estimate the abundance and size of surface FFAs. We used these models to examine the oceanographic drivers of forage fish distributions and aggregations. Our results suggest that, in the NES, regions of high community species richness are spatially consistent with regions of high surface FFA abundance. Bathymetric depth drove both patterns, while subsurface features, such as mixed layer depth, primarily influenced aggregation behavior and surface features, such as sea surface temperature, sub‐mesoscale eddies, and fronts influenced forage fish diversity. In combination, these models help quantify the availability of forage fishes to marine predators and represent a novel application of spatial models to aerial digital survey data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An ecosystem's ability to maintain key functions during environmental change is largely determined by its biodiversity. We compared fish species composition, richness, diversity, catch per unit effort (CPUE), and fish size between a 1.5 km2 no-take marine protected area (MPA) and a nearby fished area on the southern Norwegian coast annually for one decade (2011–2021), including before-protection status. In total, >26 thousand fish representing 31 species were sampled using a beach seine. No significant effect of protection was detected on either species richness, diversity, or evenness. For selected species of small-bodied intermediate predators, there was a significant decline in mean body size in the MPA area compared to the fished area, indicative of a response to protection involving trophic interactions. No significant effect of the MPA was detected on either CPUE or body size of Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua), a top predator mainly captured at the juvenile stage by our sampling. The limited responses seen in this study may be linked to the small size of the MPA compared to the dispersal and movement capabilities of species such as the cod. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Advocates, practitioners and policy‐makers continue to use and advocate for marine protected areas (MPAs) to meet global ocean protection targets. Yet many of the worlds MPAs, and especially no‐take MPAs, are plagued by poaching and ineffective governance. Using a global dataset on coral reefs as an example, we quantify the potential ecological gains of governing MPAs to increase compliance, which we call the 'compliance gap'. Using ecological simulations based on model posteriors of joint Bayesian hierarchical models, we demonstrate how increased compliance in no‐take MPAs could nearly double target fish biomass (91% increases in median fish biomass), and result in a 292% higher likelihood of encountering top predators. Achieving these gains and closing the compliance gap necessitates a substantial shift in approach and practice to go beyond optimizing enforcement, and towards governing for compliance. This will require engaging and integrating a broad suite of actors, principles, and practices across three key domains: (i)) harnessing social influence, (ii) integrating equity principles, and (iii) aligning incentives through market‐based instruments. Empowering and shaping communication between actor groups (e.g., between fishers, practitioners, and policy‐makers) using theoretically underpinned approaches from the behavioural sciences is one of the most essential, but often underserved aspects of governing MPAs. We therefore close by highlighting how this cross‐cutting tool could be further integrated in governance to bolster high levels of compliance in MPAs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Smooth-coated Otter (Lutrogale perspicillata) (SCO) is a semi-aquatic, top predator and a biological indicator of freshwater environments. We assessed the distribution of SCO and its relation to habitat variables in the Kauriala branch of the Karnali River. We searched for evidence of SCO in plots of 100m x 10m in the middle of each of 70 transects of 1 km, on both sides of the river, on a 39km stretch of river. Signs of ocupancy were observed in stretches where the river width ranged from 50 m to 300 m, but river width was negatively associated with probability of occurrence of SCO. Observed signs of SCO were maximal in areas of shrub cover and sandy substrate. Human activity is considered to be the most pressing threat, followed by grazing, stone extraction, fishing and construction activities. Formulation and implementation of a SCO conservation action plan should be prepared to protect the species in the Karnali River. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent excavations at the site of Vermont's historically important Parker Quarry, long considered worked out where fossils were concerned, have yielded not only spectacular lower Cambrian trilobites but also soft‐bodied animals including the early chordate Emmonsaspis cambrensis and a new multi‐segmented bivalved arthropod Vermontcaris montcalmi. The first radiodont specimen from the locality indicates the presence of one of these apex predators more than 30‐cm long. New discoveries from this Burgess Shale‐type deposit add to our knowledge of the geographical diversity of animals that evolved during the Cambrian explosion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]