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Anemone plants (Ranunculaceae) are perennial, low-growing herbs that have a long history of traditional medicinal use. However, the phylogenetic relationship of Anemone species and the comprehensive study of the tribe Anemoneae have not been thoroughly examined due to the lack of available molecular resources. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive sequencing and characterization of the complete chloroplast genomes of Anemone species. These genomes exhibited typical quadripartite structures, ranging in length from 156,659 to 162,991 bp. We also identified several highly divergent intergenic regions (trnQ-UUG–psbK, trnfM-CAU–psbC, trnT-GGU–trnC-GCA, trnG-UCC–trnL-UAA, ndhC–trnM-CAU, psbE–petL, trnW-CCA–rpl33, rps12–trnV-GAC, and trnL-UAG–ndhF) and genes (rps16, ndhD, and ycf1) that could potentially serve as phylogenetic markers. We conducted phylogenetic analyses on 125 species from the tribe Anemoneae using chloroplast genome sequences. We obtained consistent topological structures and strong support for the backbone of phylogenetic relationships by employing maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference methods. Our findings suggest that Hepatica forms a monophyletic group, while Anemone s.l. is paraphyletic, based on the phylogenetic trees. Furthermore, the Hepatica + Anemone clade and the Anemoclema + Clematis clade exhibit a sister relationship. Overall, these results provide valuable genetic resources for the identification and phylogenetic studies of Anemone species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many multicellular organisms, such as humans, plants, and invertebrates, depend on symbioses with microbes for metabolic cooperation and exchange. Reef‐building corals, an ecologically important order of invertebrates, are particularly vulnerable to environmental stress in part because of their nutritive symbiosis with dinoflagellate algae, and yet also benefit from these and other microbial associations. While coral microbiomes remain difficult to study because of their complexity, the anemone Aiptasia is emerging as a simplified model. Research has demonstrated co‐occurrences between microbiome composition and the abundance and type of algal symbionts in cnidarians. However, whether these patterns are the result of general stress‐induced shifts or depletions of algal‐associated bacteria remains unclear. Our study aimed to distinguish the effect of changes in symbiont density and thermal stress on the microbiome of symbiotic Aiptasia strain CC7 by comparing them with aposymbiotic anemones, depleted of their native symbiont, Symbiodinium linucheae. Our analysis indicated that overall thermal stress had the greatest impact on disrupting the microbiome. We found that three bacterial classes made up most of the relative abundance (60%–85%) in all samples, but the rare microbiome fluctuated between symbiotic states and following thermal stress. We also observed that S. linucheae density correlated with abundance of Oligoflexales, suggesting these bacteria may be primary symbionts of the dinoflagellate algae. The findings of this study help expand knowledge on prospective multipartite symbioses in the cnidarian holobiont and how they respond to environmental disturbance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Many multicellular organisms, such as humans, plants, and invertebrates, depend on symbioses with microbes for metabolic cooperation and exchange. Reef‐building corals, an ecologically important order of invertebrates, are particularly vulnerable to environmental stress in part because of their nutritive symbiosis with dinoflagellate algae, and yet also benefit from these and other microbial associations. While coral microbiomes remain difficult to study because of their complexity, the anemone Aiptasia is emerging as a simplified model. Research has demonstrated co‐occurrences between microbiome composition and the abundance and type of algal symbionts in cnidarians. However, whether these patterns are the result of general stress‐induced shifts or depletions of algal‐associated bacteria remains unclear. Our study aimed to distinguish the effect of changes in symbiont density and thermal stress on the microbiome of symbiotic Aiptasia strain CC7 by comparing them with aposymbiotic anemones, depleted of their native symbiont, Symbiodinium linucheae. Our analysis indicated that overall thermal stress had the greatest impact on disrupting the microbiome. We found that three bacterial classes made up most of the relative abundance (60%–85%) in all samples, but the rare microbiome fluctuated between symbiotic states and following thermal stress. We also observed that S. linucheae density correlated with abundance of Oligoflexales, suggesting these bacteria may be primary symbionts of the dinoflagellate algae. The findings of this study help expand knowledge on prospective multipartite symbioses in the cnidarian holobiont and how they respond to environmental disturbance.

The effect of the extract on the transport stress of broiler chickens transported during different seasons of the year was experimentally studied. During the months of February, March, July, August, and different regions of Iraq, with a density of 10 or 12 birds per cage, as the Ross 308 birds were divided into 10 treatments per move and three replicates for each treatment. The T1 treatment was control without spraying, and the number of birds was 10 in the cage. T2 control without spraying and the number of birds 12 in the cage. T3 Spraying the birds with an extract of local Anemone coronaria flowers at a concentration of 2% and the number of birds is 10 in the cage. T4 Spraying the birds with an extract of local Anemone coronaria flowers at a concentration of 4% and the number of birds 10 in the cage. T5 Spraying the birds with an extract of local Anemone coronaria flowers at a concentration of 6% and the number of birds 10 in the cage. T6 Spraying the birds with an extract of local Anemone coronaria flowers at a concentration of 2%. The number of birds is 12 in the cage. T7 Spraying the birds with an extract of local Anemone coronaria flowers at a concentration of 4%. The number of birds is 12 in the cage. T8 Spraying the birds with an extract of local Anemone coronaria flowers at a concentration of 6% and the number of birds is 12 in the cage. T9 Spraying birds with isoflurane at a concentration of 6%, the number of birds is 10 per cage. T10 Spraying birds with isoflurane at a concentration of 6%. The number of birds is 12 per cage ,The birds were sprayed for 5 minutes before the transfer process, according to the above treatments, and the duration of one transfer was 240 minutes ± 10 minutes, from the results of the field experiment, it can be noted that there was a significant decrease (p < 0.05) in the rate of weight loss during the months of February and March, as the spraying treatments T5, T9, T10 recorded (81, 76, 78) grams, respectively, compared with the treatments T1, T2 (108, 109) grams, respectively, and this was reflected in the percentage of weight loss, as it recorded T5,T9, and T10 (3.01, 2.90, 3.19)% compared to the treatments T1, T2 (4.04, 4.07)%. While T5,T9 and T10 recorded (319.95,300.20, 308.10) Iraqi dinars are the least financial losses for the month of March, but during the summer season, it is noted that the lost weight decreased during the months of July and August in transactions T5,T9and T10 (186,180, 187,) gm, respectively, compared with T1, T2 (216, 220) gm Respectively, it is also noted that the percentage of loss in these transactions decreased, as it recorded T5,T9, T10, (7.71,7.11, 7.36,)%, respectively. It is noted that financial losses decreased in these transactions during the month of August, as it recorded T5, T9 and T10 (734.70, 711.00, 738.65) Iraqi dinars, respectively, compared with T1, T2 (853.200, 869.00) Iraqi dinars, respectively

Understanding disease transmission in corals can be complicated given the intricacy of the holobiont and difficulties associated with ex situ coral cultivation. As a result, most of the established transmission pathways for coral disease are associated with perturbance (i.e., damage) rather than evasion of immune defenses. Here, we investigate ingestion as a potential pathway for the transmission of coral pathogens that evades the mucus membrane. Using sea anemones (Exaiptasia pallida) and brine shrimp (Artemia sp.) to model coral feeding, we tracked the acquisition of the putative pathogens, Vibrio alginolyticus, V. harveyi, and V. mediterranei using GFP-tagged strains. Vibrio sp. were provided to anemones using 3 experimental exposures (i) direct water exposure alone, (ii) water exposure in the presence of a food source (non-spiked Artemia), and (iii) through a "spiked" food source (Vibrio-colonized Artemia) created by exposing Artemia cultures to GFP-Vibrio via the ambient water overnight. Following a 3 h feeding/exposure duration, the level of acquired GFP-Vibrio was quantified from anemone tissue homogenate. Ingestion of spiked Artemia resulted in a significantly greater burden of GFP-Vibrio equating to an 830-fold, 3,108-fold, and 435-fold increase in CFU mL-1 when compared to water exposed trials and a 207-fold, 62-fold, and 27-fold increase in CFU mL-1 compared to water exposed with food trials for V. alginolyticus, V. harveyi, and V. mediterranei, respectively. These data suggest that ingestion can facilitate delivery of an elevated dose of pathogenic bacteria in cnidarians and may describe an important portal of entry for pathogens in the absence of perturbing conditions. IMPORTANCE The front line of pathogen defense in corals is the mucus membrane. This membrane coats the surface body wall creating a semi-impermeable layer that inhibits pathogen entry from the ambient water both physically and biologically through mutualistic antagonism from resident mucus microbes. To date, much of the coral disease transmission research has been focused on mechanisms associated with perturbance of this membrane such as direct contact, vector lesions (predation/biting), and waterborne exposure through preexisting lesions. The present research describes a potential transmission pathway that evades the defenses provided by this membrane allowing unencumbered entry of bacteria as in association with food. This pathway may explain an important portal of entry for emergence of idiopathic infections in otherwise healthy corals and can be used to improve management practices for coral conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change is expected to impact both the population structure and geographic distribution of plants. Species distribution models are widely used to assess range shifts and the vulnerability of plants to climate change. Despite the abundance of modeling studies, little is known about how existing populations respond to climate change. We investigated the demographic structure and vulnerability to climate change in Anemone moorei, a sub-shrub with a highly restricted distribution in a biodiversity hotspot. We improved the distribution knowledge through intensive field work. We conducted a census of stem length as a proxy for age for all known populations. We used ensemble forecasting to project distributions considering 10 future climate scenarios and developed a novel climate change vulnerability index for the species' distribution. We found that the mean stem length decreases and the proportion of young plants increases, while the size of fruiting plants decreases as A. moorei faces greater climate change vulnerability. We interpret these results as evidence for the onset of recent adaptation to climate change, consisting of reduced adult longevity and an earlier onset of reproduction. As a result of these changes, the proportion of juveniles in the population increases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Anemone shikokiana (Makino) Makino, disjunctly distributed in Shandong Peninsula of China and Shikoku Island of Japan, is a rare and endangered species. To provide genetic information and understand its phylogeny, we conducted research on the chloroplast (cp) genome of A. shikokiana. Methods and results: The complete cp genome sequence of A. shikokiana was constructed in this study. The results showed that the cp genome of A. shikokiana has a typical quadripartite cyclic with a total length of 159,286 bp. In total, 111 unique genes were identified, including 78 protein-coding genes, 29 tRNA-coding genes and 4 rRNA-coding genes. A total of 37 long repeat sequences and 67 microsatellites were found in this cp genome. The cp genome of A. shikokiana was compared with eleven other Anemone cp genomes available from the Genbank database. We found some variations among the different genomes, especially in the LSC and SSC regions, and identified some regions as potential molecular markers such as ycf1, ndhE, ndhD, ndhF-trnL, ndhA and ndhF. The results of phylogenetic analysis suggested that A. narcissiflora was the closest relative of A. shikokiana. Conclusions: The results filled the gap of cp genome sequence information of A. shikokiana, laying the foundation to explore the evolutionary relationships of A. shikokiana in future studies. It provided a valuable genetic resource for the molecular identification and phylogenetic study of Anemone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sea anemones (Actiniaria) are among the rarest of recognized fossil organisms, even rarer than jellyfish. Here we demonstrate that the most abundant fossil in the Pennsylvanian Mazon Creek Lagerstätte of Illinois, Essexella asherae, is an infaunal or semi‐infaunal anemone. Essexella is redescribed based on a taphonomic analysis of thousands of specimens, as well as associated medusae and trace fossils. Specimens of Essexella (also known as the 'blobs') were long believed to be medusae, but we reassign Essexella to the order Actiniaria and reinterpret the putative jellyfish Reticulomedusa as the pedal or oral disc of Essexella. We also implicate Essexella as a producer of Conostichus, a widespread plug‐shaped trace fossil that occurs in coeval strata in the same region. Radiate structures comparable to the bases of Conostichus and the ichnofossil Bergaueria, as well as the pedal discs of modern anemones, characterize Reticulomedusa. Bona fide medusae are present in the Mazon Creek biota, and include Anthracomedusa turnbulli and Octomedusa pieckorum, whereas the soft‐bodied fossil Lascoa mesostaurata is referred to Problematica. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Condylactis-genus anemones were examined for their proteinaceous poisons over 50 years ago. On the other hand, the current research focuses on isolating and describing the non-proteinaceous secondary metabolites from the invasive Condylactis anemones, which help take advantage of their population outbreak as a new source of chemical candidates and potential drug leads. From an organic extract of Condylactis sp., a 1,2,4-thiadiazole-based alkaloid, identified as 3,5-bis(3-pyridinyl)-1,2,4-thiadiazole (1), was found to be a new natural alkaloid despite being previously synthesized. The full assignment of NMR data of compound 1, based on the analysis of 2D NMR correlations, is reported herein for the first time. The proposed biosynthetic precursor thionicotinamide (2) was also isolated for the first time from nature along with nicotinamide (3), uridine (5), hypoxanthine (6), and four 5,8-epidioxysteroids (7–10). A major secondary metabolite (−)-betonicine (4) was isolated from Condylactis sp. and found for the first time in marine invertebrates. The four 5,8-epidioxysteroids, among other metabolites, exhibited cytotoxicity (IC50 3.5–9.0 μg/mL) toward five cancer cell lines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the full range of consequences of species introductions into island and marine habitats requires quantitative studies of systems that are currently under-represented in the scientific literature. We document the introduction, proliferation and establishment of a non-native sea anemone species in an isolated tropical marine lake, a marine ‘island’. From 2003–2012, we gathered samples to identify the introduced species and used transect and photo-quadrat surveys to describe its abundance, distribution, and any associations with native species or habitats. The non-native sea anemone was first found at the tourist entry into the lake in 2003 and identified as Exaiptasia pallida (Agassiz 1864), a species with zooxanthellae endosymbionts. Temporal patterns of tourism, the spatial extent of the sea anemone in 2003, and genetic analyses of the symbiont were consistent with the early stages of introduction. Subsequent expansion of E. pallida throughout the lake occurred within six years. The native species assemblages that were invaded by E. pallida were heterogeneous among surveys and habitats. Overall, there were few correlations that were significant between percent cover of E. pallida and native species; most significant associations were negative; the majority were on mangrove roots. There was one positive association between E. pallida and a native sponge. No significant relationship was found between the abundance of E. pallida and native species diversity. The rapid expansion of E. pallida but dearth of strong ecosystem effects presents a case study of invasive species in a tropical marine habitat where consequences are not directly proportional to invasive abundance. Whether this outcome is stable and representative of other species introduced into marine lakes, or elsewhere in marine systems, remains to be seen.

Simple Summary: Climate change has made bleaching events increasingly common in coral reefs. As such, scientists are rushing to better understand what will be the outcomes of bleaching on these tropical ecosystems. However, scientific focus is mostly being given to the direct impacts promoted by these events (e.g., mass mortality of corals, coral reef decay, community transitions), with indirect ones remaining largely overlooked (e.g., impacts on trophic interactions of highly specialized animals). Organisms directly affected by bleaching display a poorer nutritional value, but the effects this may have on their predators remain largely overlooked. To address this gap in scientific research, we advocate the use of the model predator–prey pair featuring the nudibranch sea slug Berghia stephanieae and its prey, the photosymbiotic glass anemone Exaiptasia diaphana. As the two species are already used as models in other research fields, one can build upon existing knowledge to determine if and how this highly specialized sea slug, that only preys upon glass anemones, is affected in terms of survival and reproductive fitness when only bleached prey are available. Moreover, this model pair will also allow investigating if such trophic effects cascade over consecutive generations, shaping populations and ultimately ruling species survival. Bleaching events associated with climate change are increasing worldwide, being a major threat to tropical coral reefs. Nonetheless, the indirect impacts promoted by the bleaching of organisms hosting photosynthetic endosymbionts, such as those impacting trophic interactions, have received considerably less attention by the scientific community. Bleaching significantly affects the nutritional quality of bleached organisms. The consequences promoted by such shifts remain largely overlooked, namely on specialized predators that have evolved to prey upon organisms hosting photosynthetic endosymbionts and benefit nutritionally, either directly or indirectly, from the available pool of photosynthates. In the present study, we advocate the use of the model predator–prey pair featuring the stenophagous nudibranch sea slug Berghia stephanieae that preys upon the photosymbiotic glass anemone Exaiptasia diaphana to study the impacts of bleaching on trophic interactions. These model organisms are already used in other research fields, and one may benefit from knowledge available on their physiology, omics, and culture protocols under controlled laboratory conditions. Moreover, B. stephanieae can thrive on either photosymbiotic or aposymbiotic (bleached) glass anemones, which can be easily maintained over long periods in the laboratory (unlike photosymbiotic corals). As such, one can investigate if and how nutritional shifts induced by bleaching impact highly specialized predators (stenophagous species), as well as if and how such effects cascade over consecutive generations. Overall, by using this model predator–prey pair one can start to truly unravel the trophic effects of bleaching events impacting coral reef communities, as well as their prevalence over time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The bulb flora of prefecture (nomos) Ilias in NW Peloponnese, Greece is documented with an emphasis on its distribution within the administrative unit. Families, genera and species are presented in alphabetical order. Each taxon is accompanied by a description, notes on habitat, ecology and a distribution dot map. This is the last contribution of the series and deals with the dicotyledonous families Oxalidaceae, Primulaceae and Ranunculaceae, comprising four genera — Oxalis, Cyclamen, Anemone and Ranunculus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Coral reefs are among the most diverse and productive ecosystems on Earth. This success relies on the coral’s association with a wide range of microorganisms, including dinoflagellates of the family Symbiodiniaceae that provide coral hosts with most of their organic carbon requirements. While bacterial associates have long been overlooked, research on these microorganisms is gaining traction, and deciphering bacterial identity and function is greatly enhancing our understanding of cnidarian biology. Here, we investigated bacterial communities in defensive tissues (acontia) of the coral model, the sea anemone Exaiptasia diaphana. Acontia are internal filaments that are ejected upon detection of an external threat and release toxins to repel predators. Results Using culturing techniques and 16S rRNA gene metabarcoding we identified bacterial communities associated with acontia of four Great Barrier Reef-sourced E. diaphana genotypes. We show that bacterial communities are similar across genotypes, and dominated by Alteromonadaceae, Vibrionaceae, Rhodobacteraceae, and Saprospiraceae. By analyzing abundant amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) from metabarcoding data from acontia and comparing these to data from whole anemones, we identified five potentially important bacterial genera of the acontia microbiome: Vibrio, Sulfitobacter, Marivita, Alteromonas, and Lewinella. The role of these bacteria within the acontia remains uninvestigated but could entail assistance in defense processes such as toxin production. Conclusions This study provides insight into potential bacterial involvement in cnidarian defense tissues and highlights the need to study bacterial communities in individual compartments within a holobiont.

The Condylactis-genus anemones were examined for their proteinaceous poisons over 50 years ago. On the other hand, the current research focuses on isolating and describing the non-proteinaceous secondary metabolites from the invasive Condylactis anemones, which help take advantage of their population outbreak as a new source of chemical candidates and potential drug leads. From an organic extract of Condylactis sp., a 1,2,4-thiadiazole-based alkaloid, identified as 3,5-bis(3-pyridinyl)-1,2,4-thiadiazole (1), was found to be a new natural alkaloid despite being previously synthesized. The full assignment of NMR data of compound 1, based on the analysis of 2D NMR correlations, is reported herein for the first time. The proposed biosynthetic precursor thionicotinamide (2) was also isolated for the first time from nature along with nicotinamide (3), uridine (5), hypoxanthine (6), and four 5,8-epidioxysteroids (7–10). A major secondary metabolite (−)-betonicine (4) was isolated from Condylactis sp. and found for the first time in marine invertebrates. The four 5,8-epidioxysteroids, among other metabolites, exhibited cytotoxicity (IC50 3.5–9.0 μg/mL) toward five cancer cell lines.

Bleaching events associated with climate change are increasing worldwide, being a major threat to tropical coral reefs. Nonetheless, the indirect impacts promoted by the bleaching of organisms hosting photosynthetic endosymbionts, such as those impacting trophic interactions, have received considerably less attention by the scientific community. Bleaching significantly affects the nutritional quality of bleached organisms. The consequences promoted by such shifts remain largely overlooked, namely on specialized predators that have evolved to prey upon organisms hosting photosynthetic endosymbionts and benefit nutritionally, either directly or indirectly, from the available pool of photosynthates. In the present study, we advocate the use of the model predator–prey pair featuring the stenophagous nudibranch sea slug Berghia stephanieae that preys upon the photosymbiotic glass anemone Exaiptasia diaphana to study the impacts of bleaching on trophic interactions. These model organisms are already used in other research fields, and one may benefit from knowledge available on their physiology, omics, and culture protocols under controlled laboratory conditions. Moreover, B. stephanieae can thrive on either photosymbiotic or aposymbiotic (bleached) glass anemones, which can be easily maintained over long periods in the laboratory (unlike photosymbiotic corals). As such, one can investigate if and how nutritional shifts induced by bleaching impact highly specialized predators (stenophagous species), as well as if and how such effects cascade over consecutive generations. Overall, by using this model predator–prey pair one can start to truly unravel the trophic effects of bleaching events impacting coral reef communities, as well as their prevalence over time.

Ocean warming driven bleaching is one of the greatest threats to zooxanthellate cnidarians in the Anthropocene. Bleaching is the loss of Symbiodiniaceae, chlorophyll, or both from zooxanthellate animals. To quantify bleaching and recovery, standardised methods for quantification of Symbiodiniaceae and chlorophyll concentrations have been developed for reef-building scleractinian corals, but no such standard method has been developed for octocorals. For stony corals, quantification of Symbiodiniaceae and chlorophyll concentrations often relies on normalisation to skeletal surface area or unit of biomass [i.e., protein, ash-free dry weight (AFDW)]. Stiff octocorals do not change their volume, as such studies have used volume and surface area to standardise densities, but soft-bodied octocorals can alter their size using water movement within the animal; therefore, Symbiodiniaceae and chlorophyll cannot accurately be measured per unit of surface area and are instead measured in units of Symbiodiniaceae and chlorophyll per μg of host protein or AFDW. Though AFDW is more representative of the full biomass composition than host protein, AFDW is more time and resource intensive. Here, we provide a streamlined methodology to quantify Symbiodiniaceae density, chlorophyll concentration, and protein content in soft-bodied octocorals. This technique uses minimal equipment, does not require freeze-drying or burning samples to obtain ash weight, and is effective for down to 0.2 g wet tissue. Bulk samples can be centrifuged, the Symbiodiniaceae pellet washed, and the supernatant saved for protein analysis. This efficient technique allows for clean, easy to count samples of Symbiodiniaceae with minimal animal protein contamination. Chlorophyll a and c2 extractions occurs at different rates, with chlorophyll a taking 24 h to extract completely at 4°C and chlorophyll c2 taking 48 h. Finally, we found that where necessary, wet weight may be used as a proxy for protein content, but the correlation of protein and wet weight varies by species and protein should be used when possible. Overall, we have created a rapid and accurate method for quantification of bleaching markers in octocorals.

Samples of Anemonia sulcata were collected in 2022 from different areas of the Canary Islands affected by different natural contamination sources, such sandstorms, submarine volcanic activity, continuous rainfall, upwelling and dinoflagellate blooms. Significant differences were observed between the zones for the metals and trace elements analyzed (Al, Zn, Cd, Pb, Ni, Co, Fe, B, Cu, Mg and Li). Anemones from volcanic areas showed higher levels of Cd, Pb and Ni. Individuals from sandstorm areas showed elevated levels of Al, Zn and Fe. Samples collected from areas affected by upwelling processes had higher concentrations of Cu, Mg and Li. Finally, the areas affected by dinoflagellates showed lower levels of Zn, Pb, Fe, Mg and Li. The study reveals how natural phenomena dramatically influence metal accumulation in A. sulcata , which is of great value for anticipating and managing potential problems associated with public health. • Anemonia sulcata is confirmed as a useful bioindicator. • The influence of rain on the reduction of metals concentrations in A. sulcate • Metal concentrations increase in submarine volcanoes. • Concentrations of metal increase in A. sulcata affected by sandstorms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Bulked segregant analysis coupled with whole-genome sequencing (BSA-seq) was used to excavate major loci and genes for anemone type flower in chrysanthemum. • Three out of twenty-two key candidate genes were screened out by a combination of gene functional annotation, transcriptome and qRT-PCR analyses. • The developed KASP markers would help in marker-assisted selection of anemone type flower in chrysanthemum molecular breeding. Chrysanthemum is one of the most leading commercial flower crops well-known for its flower shape diversity. Anemone type chrysanthemums receive increasing market attention that are distinguished by their pigmented and elongated disk florets. However, there are few reports on quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping and the identification genes for anemone in chrysanthemum. In this study, bulked segregant analysis coupled with whole-genome sequencing (BSA-seq) approach was employed to detect candidate genomic regions controlling anemone type flower. Two mixed DNA pools composed of 28 anemone type and 20 non-anemone type F 1 lines derived from a cross between 'Nannong Xuefeng' and 'Monalisa' together with two parents were used for high-throughput sequencing. A total of 42 consistent QTLs covering 30.00 Mb were simultaneously identified by |△(SNP/InDel-index)| and Euclidean distance (ED) algorithms based on 15,783,313 SNPs (single-nucleotide polymorphisms) and 1,546,200 small InDels (insertions and deletions). Twenty-two key candidate genes were screened out by a combination of gene functional annotation and transcriptome analysis, in which evm.model.scaffold_915.436 (CBF5), evm.model.scaffold_24.208 (U2AF65A), and a uncharacterized gene evm.model.scaffold_260.201 were highlighted by qRT-PCR. Furtherly, four associations were successfully converted to KASP (kompetitive allele specific PCR) markers, among them, the KASP markers developed for SNP locus Chr6__33961007 and Chr6__179207697 were proven to efficiently discriminate anemone and non-anemone type chrysanthemums being a couple of diagnostic markers in two populations. The results presented herein provide insights for further research on elucidating the formation mechanism of anemone type flower, and the anemone-specific KASP marker will be highly useful for applying MAS to accelerate breeding improvement of chrysanthemum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we investigated metal concentrations in Anemonia sulcata specimens from various locations in the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. A total of 84 individuals were sampled from specific zones, and their tissue samples were processed for metal analysis using Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES). The results revealed notable differences in metal concentrations among the studied regions. The Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea were found to have distinct patterns of marine pollution, influenced by a complex interplay of geographical, demographic, industrial, and environmental policy factors. Conversely, the semi-enclosed Mediterranean Sea has a lower natural dilution capacity, leading to the accumulation and prolonged presence of pollutants. Population density and industrial activities in coastal areas play a significant role in pollution disparities between the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. The Mediterranean coasts, with higher population densities and intensive industrial operations, experience greater strain on marine ecosystems due to increased pollution sources. Additionally, environmental policies and management approaches differ between the two regions, contributing to variations in pollution response and regulation. • Study encompassed 84 Anemonia sulcata individuals from Atlantic and Mediterranean zones, providing a comprehensive analysis. • Population density and industrial activities in coastal areas significantly contribute to pollution. • The vastness and topography of these oceans directly influence their interaction with pollution. • The Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea exhibit distinctive patterns of marine pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Biological adhesion (bioadhesion), enables organisms to attach to surfaces as well as to a range of other targets. Bioadhesion evolved numerous times independently and is ubiquitous throughout the kingdoms of life. To date, investigations have focussed on various taxa of animals, plants and bacteria, but the fundamental processes underlying bioadhesion and the degree of conservation in different biological systems remain poorly understood. This study had two aims: 1) To characterise tissue-specific gene regulation in the pedal disc of the model cnidarian Exaiptasia pallida, and 2) to elucidate putative genes involved in pedal disc adhesion. Results Five hundred and forty-seven genes were differentially expressed in the pedal disc compared to the rest of the animal. Four hundred and twenty-seven genes were significantly upregulated and 120 genes were significantly downregulated. Forty-one condensed gene ontology terms and 19 protein superfamily classifications were enriched in the pedal disc. Eight condensed gene ontology terms and 11 protein superfamily classifications were depleted. Enriched superfamilies were consistent with classifications identified previously as important for the bioadhesion of unrelated marine invertebrates. A host of genes involved in regulation of extracellular matrix generation and degradation were identified, as well as others related to development and immunity. Ab initio prediction identified 173 upregulated genes that putatively code for extracellularly secreted proteins. Conclusion The analytical workflow facilitated identification of genes putatively involved in adhesion, immunity, defence and development of the E. pallida pedal disc. When defence, immunity and development-related genes were identified, those remaining corresponded most closely to formation of the extracellular matrix (ECM), implicating ECM in the adhesion of anemones to surfaces. This study therefore provides a valuable high-throughput resource for the bioadhesion community and lays a foundation for further targeted research to elucidate bioadhesion in the Cnidaria.

В статье приведены сведения о типовых образцах названий 11 таксонов из семейств Betulaceae (Betula), Ranunculaceae (Anemone, Caltha, Delphinium), Asparagaceae (Asparagus) и Tofieldiaceae (Tofieldia), описанных из Восточной Сибири и хранящихся в Гербарии имени М. Г. Попова Центрального сибирского ботанического сада СО РАН (NSK). Выявлено 5 голотипов, 4 изотипа, 3 паратипа, 1 автентик. Дана новая комбинация: Asparagus gibbus Bunge var. baicalensis (N. V. Vlassova) N. V. Vlassova, comb. nov. Для каждого таксона дается его латинское название со ссылкой на публикацию протолога, категория типового образца, полный текст этикетки образца.

Background: Coral reefs are among the most diverse and productive ecosystems on Earth. This success relies on the coral's association with a wide range of microorganisms, including dinoflagellates of the family Symbiodiniaceae that provide coral hosts with most of their organic carbon requirements. While bacterial associates have long been overlooked, research on these microorganisms is gaining traction, and deciphering bacterial identity and function is greatly enhancing our understanding of cnidarian biology. Here, we investigated bacterial communities in defensive tissues (acontia) of the coral model, the sea anemone Exaiptasia diaphana. Acontia are internal filaments that are ejected upon detection of an external threat and release toxins to repel predators. Results: Using culturing techniques and 16S rRNA gene metabarcoding we identified bacterial communities associated with acontia of four Great Barrier Reef-sourced E. diaphana genotypes. We show that bacterial communities are similar across genotypes, and dominated by Alteromonadaceae, Vibrionaceae, Rhodobacteraceae, and Saprospiraceae. By analyzing abundant amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) from metabarcoding data from acontia and comparing these to data from whole anemones, we identified five potentially important bacterial genera of the acontia microbiome: Vibrio, Sulfitobacter, Marivita, Alteromonas, and Lewinella. The role of these bacteria within the acontia remains uninvestigated but could entail assistance in defense processes such as toxin production. Conclusions: This study provides insight into potential bacterial involvement in cnidarian defense tissues and highlights the need to study bacterial communities in individual compartments within a holobiont. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The results of large-scale grid mapping of relict plant species (Anemone altaica Fisch. ex C.A. Mey., A. baicalensis Turcz., Corydalis bracteata (Steph.) Pers., Eranthis sibirica DC., Primula pallasii Lehm., and Waldsteinia ternata (Steph.) Fritsch) within the nemoral refugium on the northern slope of the Khamar-Daban Ridge (the Republic of Buryatia) are given. Mapping was carried out in the lower part of the Bolshoi Mamai River basin in a model area (25 km2). The research results have confirmed the general pattern for South Siberian nemoral relics, namely, their confinement to valleys and banks of rivers and streams. At the same time, the studied species differ in their habitat preferences, including their ability to spread beyond river valleys, the range of preferred altitudes, and their resistance to disturbance of vegetation. Cluster analysis and assessment of species relationships using the nonparametric Kendall concordance coefficient have confirmed concordant spatial distribution patterns of the model species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PREMISE: State‐sponsored weather stations became ubiquitous by the 1880s, yet many old climate data and phenological observations still need to be digitized and made accessible. METHODS: We here make available flowering times for 450 species of herbs and shrubs gathered in 1844 by Carl Friedrich Philipp von Martius (1794–1868), director of the Munich Botanical Garden. The data formed part of the world's third‐oldest phenological monitoring network as we explain in a brief overview of the history of such networks. Using data from one of the world's oldest continuously functioning weather stations, Hohenpeißenberg, we relate temperature to flowering in three species with short flowering times and herbarium collections made since 1844 within the city's perimeter, namely, Anemone patens, A. pulsatilla, and Arum maculatum. RESULTS: Mean advances in flowering dates were 1.3–2.1 days/decade or 3.2–4.2 days/1°C warming. These advances are in keeping with similar advances in other European herbs during more recent periods. CONCLUSIONS: Future studies might use the 1844 flowering data made available here as a source of information on the availability of particular flowers for specialized pollinators including insects looking for oviposition sites, such as the Psychoda flies that become trapped in Arum inflorescences. Another use of Martius's 1844 data would be their incorporation into larger‐scale analyses of flowering in southern‐central Europe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A taxonomic study of the genus Anemone (Ranunculaceae) of China has been conducted. Eighty-six species are recognized and classified into ten Section. Of them, five section, Rivularidium, Anemonanthea, Himalayicae, Brachycladus and Pleurocarpus, are groups with medium-evolutionary level, and the another five sections, Omalocarpus, Stolonifera, Begoniifolia, Anemonidium and Anemone, are groups with high-evolutionary level. In these ten Sections, Sect. Himalayicae is closely related to Sect. Omalocarpus, Sect. Brachycladus is closely related to Sect. Stolonifera, and the relationships among the other six sections are not yet clear now. A key to sections, Series, species and infraspecific taxa, and literature citations and geographic distributions for all taxa are presented. Records of important specimens studied for each species and illustrations for most species are provided. Two section (Sect. Brachycladus and Pleurocarpus), four series (Ser. Hofengeses and Ser. Jiachaenes under Sect. Stolonifera and Ser.Xingyienses and Ser. Orthcarpae under Sect. Pleurocarpus), thirteen species (A. jiulongensis, A.baizhishanica, A.stenosepala, A.daofuenis, A.ludingensis, A. bomiensis, A. galonglashanica, A.trifoliolata, A. zheduoshanica, A.baoxingensis, A. gonggaensis, A. fugongensis and A.discoideogyna), one subspecies (A. obtusiloba ssp. dolichopoda), and four varieties (A. zheduoshanica var.atropurpurea, A.prattii var. sparsipilifera, A.fugongensis var. linearis Bruhl is elevated to specific rank; A. fulingensis is relagated to a variety under A. Pratti; due to that A. rupestris Hook. f. & Thmos. is an illegitimate later homonym, its specific epithet 'rupestris' is changed as 'neorupestris' in this paper; A.barbulata, long relegated to a variety under A.rivularis, is restored to its previous specific rank; and the reduction of A. demissa var. yunnanensis Franch. to var. demissa, and the reduction of A.oligocarpa Pei to A. delavayi Franch, by H. Handel-Mazzetti in 1939 are accepted in this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sampling of different body regions can reveal highly specialized bacterial associations within the holobiont and facilitate identification of core microbial symbionts that would otherwise be overlooked by bulk sampling methods. Here, we characterized compartment-specific associations present within the model cnidarian Nematostella vectensis by dividing its morphology into three distinct microhabitats. This sampling design allowed us to uncover a capitulum-specific dominance of spirochetes within N. vectensis. Bacteria from the family Spirochaetaceae made up 66% of the community in the capitulum, while only representing 1.2% and 0.1% of the communities in the mesenteries and physa, respectively. A phylogenetic analysis of the predominant spirochete sequence recovered from N. vectensis showed a close relation to spirochetes previously recovered from wild N. vectensis. These sequences clustered closer to the recently described genus Oceanispirochaeta , rather than Spirochaeta perfilievii , supporting them as members of this clade. This suggests a prevalent and yet uncharacterized association between N. vectensis and spirochetes from the order Spirochaetales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Palynomorphological features of four plants of Anemone genus, collected in fresh conditions in different areas of Elbasan region (Krastë-Elbasan, Ruen-Rrajcë, and Guri i Zi) were studied by light microscope X 400-1000. Similarities of aperture were identified, which appeared variable from three furrows at apenina, nemorosa, and ranunculoides plants to six or more furrows at hortensis plant. The sculpture of exine varied from microechinate to perforate at nemorosa, ranunculoides, and hortensis plants, varied from microechinate to reticulate at apennina plant. While furrows were sharp tips with membranes equipped with ornamentals. The pollen grains of Anemone apennina plant were the smallest ones in almost all dimensions among all palynomorphological features studied, except for the furrow length of pollen grains of Anemone ranunculoides plant, which appeared smaller than those of other plants studied. The biggest polar and equatorial axis dimensions were identified at Anemone ranunculoides plant, while in terms of exine thickness, the biggest size of pollen grains were found at Anemone hortensis plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mutualistic symbiosis between anthozoans and intra-gastrodermal dinoflagellates of the family Symbiodiniaceae is the functional basis of all coral reef ecosystems, with the latter providing up to 95% of their fixed photosynthate to their hosts in exchange for nutrients. However, recent studies of sponges, jellyfish, and anemones have revealed the potential for this mutualistic relationship to shift to parasitism under stressful conditions. Over a period of eight weeks, we compared the physiological conditions of both inoculated and aposymbiotic anemones (Exaiptasia pallida) that were either fed or starved. By the sixth week, both fed groups of anemones were significantly larger than their starved counterparts. Moreover, inoculated and starved anemones tended to disintegrate into “tissue balls” within eight weeks, and 25% of the samples died; in contrast, starved aposymbiotic anemones required six months to form tissue balls, and no anemones from this group died. Our results show that the dinoflagellates within inoculated anemones may have posed a fatal metabolic burden on their hosts during starvation; this may be because of the need to prioritize their own metabolism and nourishment at the expense of their hosts. Collectively, our study reveals the potential of this dynamic symbiotic association to shift away from mutualism during food-deprived conditions.

Dichocarpum hagiangense from Ha Giang province, northern Vietnam is described and illustrated. Diagnostic features of the new species are a short rhizomatous stem, (2–)3-foliolate or simple leaves, and pink-purple flowers. The described species is distinct from closely allied D. trifoliolatum in having longer sepals, shape and obcordate apex of petal limbs, shorter flower stem, number and tooth shape of basal leaves; it differs from D. basilare and D. carinatum in having stem leaf, retuse apex and longer of central leaflet, number and (2–)3-foliated (or simple) of leaf. With the support of molecular data, the new species was clearly distinguished from other species in the Dichocarpum group by eight autapomorphic characters in nrITS sequence. A key to all species of Dichocarpum is provided. We suggest the IUCN conservation status of D. hagiangense to be “Critically Endangered”. A newest checklist of the family Ranunculaceae in Vietnam is updated.

The western Himalaya represent an important and distinct botanical sub-region and biogeographic zone in the Himalayan Biodiversity Hotspot. There is a long history of floral exploration in this region as compared to the eastern Himalaya; however, recent additions of several species to western Himalayan flora reveal remote areas yet to be explored intensively. The present reports on Anemone trullifolia and Berberis angulosa from the subalpine-alpine areas of western Himalaya also emphasize the need for further exploration. In this article, a brief description of these species is presented along with distribution, ecology, phytogeographical notes and photographs are provided for easy identification.

The association between anemonefish and anemone is a classical example of mutualism in coral reefs. Although mutualism is probably the key innovation that triggered the adaptive radiation of anemonefish into a wide range of habitats, the coevolutionary history between the groups has not been thoroughly tested in a phylogenetic framework. We examined the evolutionary history of the association via distance-based (Parafit and PACo) and event-based methods (Core-PA, Jane). Mitochondrial DNA sequences (COI mtDNA, Cytb, 16S rDNA and 12S rDNA) were used to reconstruct the phylogenies of tropical Amphiprion species and their host anemones by using maximum likelihood with best-fit models selected. Neither distance-based analyses nor event-based analyses revealed global significant congruence between the phylogenies of the hosts and the symbionts, and thus no evidence for coevolution between anemone-anemonefish. However, at the individual pair level, the fish showed some dependence on anemone hosts. Even though living in close association and benefiting from each other, the change of genetic composition of one species (anemonefish) does not always evolve in response to changes in the other (anemones). These findings expand our understanding of the pattern and the role of evolutionary events to allow a better prediction of the future of the anemonefish-anemone relationship. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The species Anemonia sulcata, are cnidarians that serve as bioindicators in marine ecosystems, indicating the health of the environment and changes in environmental conditions. Monitoring anemone populations and studying their well-being and distribution provide valuable insights into marine ecosystem conditions. This study aimed to investigate the impact of the COVID pandemic on the metal content (Al, Cd, Cu, Fe, Pb, and Zn), 120 A. sulcata collected during a six-year period (2017-2022). The results showed a constant decreasing trend, but with the lowest concentrations occurring in 2020, matching with the two-month lockdown from March to May. This findings suggest that the reduced anthropogenic pressure on the coast due to the absence of tourism significantly decreased pollution levels. Therefore, the study supports the importance of promoting sustainable tourism worldwide, highlighting that minimizing human impact on coastal areas through responsible tourism practices can effectively reduce pollution in marine ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anemones, specifically the species Anemonia sulcata, are cnidarians that serve as bioindicators in marine ecosystems, indicating the health of the environment and changes in environmental conditions. Monitoring anemone populations and studying their well-being and distribution provide valuable insights into marine ecosystem conditions. This study aimed to investigate the impact of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic on the metal content of Anemonia sulcata. Over a six-year period (2017–2022), twenty specimens of Anemonia sulcata were collected in Tenerife, Spain. The results showed that in 2020, during the two-month lockdown in Spain from March to May when tourism was halted, A. sulcata exhibited the lowest concentrations of various metals studied (Al, Cd, Cu, Fe, Pb, and Zn). This finding suggests that the reduced anthropogenic pressure on the coast due to the absence of tourism significantly decreased pollution levels. Therefore, the study emphasizes the importance of promoting sustainable tourism worldwide. The research highlights that minimizing human impact on coastal areas through responsible tourism practices can effectively reduce pollution in marine ecosystems. [Display omitted] • A total 120 A. sulcata anemone captured over a period of six years (2017–2022). • Metal concentrations in A. sulcata were lowest just after the pandemic. • Metal contamination in A. sulcata increased after lockdown. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The complete chloroplast genome sequence of Anemone reflexa exhibited a typical quadripartite structure with two inverted repeats (IRa and IRb) of 31,260 bp, a large single-copy region (LSC) of 80,767 bp, and a small single-copy region (SSC) of 17,623 bp. The chloroplast genome encoded a set of 133 genes, comprised of 89 protein coding genes, 36 tRNA genes and 8 rRNA genes. Phylogenetic analysis suggested that A. reflexa was closely related to A. raddeana. The complete chloroplast genome sequence of A. reflexa will provide valuable genetic resources for molecular identification and phylogenetic analysis of Anemone.

The Ranunculaceae genus Anemone (order Ranunculales), comprising more than 150 species, mostly herbs, has long been used in folk medicine and worldwide ethnomedicine. Various medicinal compounds have been found in Anemone plants, especially triterpenoid saponins, some of which have shown anti-cancer activities. Some Anemone compounds and extracts display immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activities. More than 50 species have ethnopharmacological uses, which provide clues for modern drug discovery. Anemone compounds exert anticancer and other bioactivities via multiple pathways. However, a comprehensive review of the Anemone medicinal resources is lacking. We here summarize the ethnomedical knowledge and recent progress on the chemical and pharmacological diversity of Anemone medicinal plants, as well as the emerging molecular mechanisms and functions of these medicinal compounds. The phylogenetic relationships of Anemone species were reconstructed based on nuclear ITS and chloroplast markers. The molecular phylogeny is largely congruent with the morphology-based classification. Commonly used medicinal herbs are distributed in each subgenus and section, and chemical and biological studies of more unexplored taxa are warranted. Gene expression profiling and relevant “omics” platforms could reveal differential effects of phytometabolites. Genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics should be highlighted in deciphering novel therapeutic mechanisms and utilities of Anemone phytometabolites.

Herein, we synthesized anemone-like copper-based metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) loaded with gold-palladium nanoparticles (AuPd@Cu-MOFs) and polyethylenimine-reduced graphene oxide/gold-silver nanosheet composites (PEI-rGO/AuAg NSs) for the first time to construct the sensor and to detect T-2 toxin (T-2) using triple helix molecular switch (THMS) and signal amplification by swing-arm robot. The aptasensor used PEI-rGO/hexagonal AuAg NSs as the electrode modification materials and anemone-like AuPd@Cu-MOFs as the signal materials. The prepared PEI-rGO/hexagonal AuAg NSs had a large specific surface area, excellent electrical conductivity, and good stability, which successfully improved the electrochemical performance of the sensors. The AuPd@Cu-MOFs with high porosity provided a great deal of attachment sites for the signaling molecule thionine (Thi), thereby increasing the signal response. The aptasensor developed in this study demonstrated a remarkable detection limit of 0.054 fg mL -1 under optimized conditions. Furthermore, the successful detection of T-2 in real samples was achieved using the fabricated sensor. The simplicity of the THMS-based method, which entails modifying the aptamer sequence, allows for easy adaptation to different target analytes. Thus, the sensor holds immense potential for applications in quality supervision and food safety.

A single specimen of the anemone Paraphelliactis pabista was recovered from the Southern Trough of Guaymas Basin during the deep-sea expedition Extreme 2008 conducted onboard the R/V Atlantis/DSRV-2 ALVIN. We studied the bioaccumulation capacity of heavy metals in various tissues of the anemone (oral disk–columella–pedal disk), and retention or adhesion of mineral particles in the epidermis, mesoglea, and gastrodermis. The digested tissues were analyzed for As, Ba, Co, Cu, Cr, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, Se, Sb, Sr, Ti, V, and Zn by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. This analysis revealed the capacity of P. pabista for accumulating heavy metals. The predominant mineral particles identified in tissue samples was barite followed by Fe, aluminum-silicates, Sr, and with less presence Cr, Ti, and pyrite. Of the three body compartments analyzed of this anemone, the oral and pedal disks show a greater capacity of bioaccumulation of heavy metals than the columella. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Host-associated microbes play important roles in animal health. Clownfish and anemones form a mutualistic relationship where external surfaces are in constant contact with one another. The effects of this mutualism on the skin mucosal microbiome of clownfish are unknown. We monitored the mucosal microbiome of the clownfish Amphiprion clarkii before, during and after association (hosting) with the anemone Entacmaea quadricolor. Microbiome composition differed significantly between hosting and non-hosting clownfish. Upon separation of clownfish from anemones, the microbiome of post-hosting fish converged to resemble that of non-hosting fish. Bacterial sequence variants that significantly distinguished hosting from non-hosting clownfish were more abundant in the anemone microbiome and that of hosting fish, compared to non-hosting fish, suggesting transfer from or enrichment by the anemone. These results show that direct contact mutualism results in significant but reversible microbiome shifts, raising questions about a potential microbial role in mediating the fish-anemone interaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]