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The nature reserve of Bec du Feyi near Wibrin has been the object of protection and nature conservation management measures for over 30 years to ensure its perennity. The reserve consists mainly of a mosaic of hay meadows, marshes, ponds, aquatic environments and old clear-cuts in the process of recolonization. The manager shares his thoughts on the evolution of nature through the various environments and habitats that make up this natural site, based on the impact of management actions, but also based on the influence of the numerous factors affecting the local environment and, more broadly, climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Caddisfly larvae are aquatic insects that play a crucial role in the diverse ecological functions of river ecosystems. In this study, the authors document the caddisfly fauna in northwest Hunan from 2017 to 2022, presenting a checklist for Hunan Province. Prior to this research, only 22 caddisfly species were known in this region. Our collections revealed 73 species, including 67 new records for the province. Descriptions and illustrations of seven new species, Chimarra ventriserrata n. sp., Wormaldia shapingensis n. sp., Psychomyia longispina n. sp., Psychomyia paralonga n. sp., Oecetis unguiculata n. sp., Anisocentropus rotundatus n. sp., Agapetus aries n. sp., along with two noteworthy known species, Diplectrona cf. Kallirrhoe Malicky 2002 and Wormaldia unispina Sun, 1998 are provided. This elevates the total caddisfly fauna in Hunan Province to 89 species, surpassing the previous record fourfold. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study is based on oribatid mite materials collected from Arsi Mountains National Park, Ethiopia, in 2021. A list of 43 species, belonging to 29 genera and 22 families, is presented; of these, three species (Scutovertex evansi, Scheloribates rugiceps and Pilogalumna arabica) are reported for the first time in the Ethiopian fauna. One new species—Antarctozetes behanpelletierae Ermilov sp. nov. (Punctoribatidae) – is described. An identification key to the known species of Antarctozetes from the Afrotropical region is provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species, Typhlodromips coniferaphilussp. nov., is described and illustrated based on females collected from various conifers in the Altai Republic and Sakhalin Island, Russia. Moreover, a complementary description of T. quaesitus (Wainstein & Beglyarov) is provided based on females and males collected from various angiosperm plants in the Sakhalin Island, Russia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Compost fauna act by releasing various enzymes that break down organic matter into a stable, agriculturally useful products. Mesofauna are the least studied compared to micro- and macrofauna, with the existing studies relying on classical methods such as morphological identification, essentially leaving out cryptic taxa. We sought to evaluate the ecological response of the mesofauna community to different composting materials and durations. Total mesofauna community 18S rRNA was purified in triplicate from lantana-based, tithonia-based, grass-based, and mixed (lantana + tithonia + grass)-based compost heaps after 21, 42, 63, and 84 days of composting and sequenced using the Illumina Miseq platform. Before performing statistical data analysis, we used the Divisive Amplicon Denoising Algorithm version 2 workflow for bioinformatic analyses. The composting duration, but not the composting materials, significantly influenced the total population and composition of the mesofauna communities. The composting materials and duration significantly affected the dispersion and uniqueness of the compost mesofauna communities. Canonical correspondence analysis of the compost's physical–chemical and biological states showed a significant influence of the materials on the mesofauna community colonization capacity. The mesofauna communities had a significant response to the composting duration. This, therefore, presents them as valuable tools for understanding the temporal evolution of compost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF EMF) from anthropogenic sources have become ubiquitous in the environment. International guidelines have been set by expert scientific bodies to protect human health from excessive exposure. There are no specifically established exposure guidelines to protect plants and animals. A previous systematic map identified 334 studies investigating the effects of RF EMF exposure from anthropogenic sources on animals and plants. This study aimed to analyse the effect of RF EMF and its relationship to different exposure parameters and the quality of those studies. Statistically significant inverse relationships were found between effect size and exposure-level parameters for studies investigating effects in animals. The results indicated that quality score is more indicative of the magnitude of the effect size than exposure-level parameters or exposure duration. This highlights the need for further, high-quality research on the effects of RF EMF exposure on plants and animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study is based on oribatid mite material collected from five locations in Eastern Guatemala. A list of 98 species, belonging to 68 genera and 43 families, is presented; 70 species are recorded for the first time in Guatemalan fauna. A new species of genus Pergalumna, P. paraobsidiana sp. nov. is described from rainforest litter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study is based on oribatid mite materials collected from the Gambela region, Ethiopia. A list of 41 species, belonging to 30 genera and 20 families, is presented. One new species Scheloribates (Scheloribates) aboboensis Ermilov sp. nov. (Scheloribatidae) is described. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aeolothrips kishensis sp. n. is described. Thrips diversity in Iran is briefly discussed and a list of 47 species and nine genera described and recorded during 2018 to 2024 is prepared. Diagnostic characters and illustrations for the new species are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we provide additional data on the orb-weaver spider fauna (Araneae: Araneidae) of Kosovo. Three species are reported for the first time from this country: Araneus grossus (C.L. Koch, 1844), Argiope lobata (Pallas, 1772) and Cyclosa oculata (Walckenaer, 1802). In consideration of the findings and the updated checklist of Araneidae in this study, the documented number of spider species in Kosovo has now increased to 251. Given that the spider fauna of Kosovo is still not fully explored, our study emphasizes the necessity of ongoing exploration to better comprehend the diversity of spider species within the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Species of the subfamily Diplazontinae (Hym.: Ichneumonidae) were studied in West Azarbaijan province (Northwest of Iran). The specimens were collected using Malaise traps, during 2019-2020. Five species belonging to three genera were collected and identified. One species, Homotropus riedeli Johansson, 2020 was a new record for Iran as well as Asia. The distribution range of this species extends from Sweden to the north-west of Iran. A checklist is being compiled for 27 known Iranian species of this subfamily. In addition, a distribution map based on the recorded areas for each species within the Iranian provinces has been provided. We proposed a new direction for future biodiversity inventories of this subfamily in Iran. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aphids constitute a significant cohort of herbivorous insects, primarily nourishing themselves by extracting plant sap, sometimes posing a notable threat to plant health. Here, we present a comprehensive investigation into the aphid fauna associated with Carthamus in Iran, unveiling 18 species across 11 genera within the Aphididae. Furthermore, 31 associations between aphid species and host plants were recognized, of which two are new for Iran. Our study expands upon prior knowledge by documenting three new occurrences, shedding light on previously unrecorded aphid species in Isfahan and Razavi Khorasan provinces. In addition, we describe the previously unknown male of Uroleucon carthami, offering insights into its life cycle and reproductive strategies. An identification key to the apterous viviparous female aphids living on Carthamus in Iran is provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Semiarid Patagonia represents 25% of the rangeland area in Argentina, and sheep overgrazing has degraded about a third of it in the past. In this century, depleted domestic stocks have mostly stabilized, but Guanaco populations have grown. These native camelids share habitat and diets with sheep, but their effect on vegetation is poorly understood and has long been debated. We set up an exclusion experiment in Monte León and Cañadón Vaca, a semiarid shrubland grassland in southern Patagonia, currently grazed only by guanacos. Vegetation baselines were studied in 2016 in twelve plots, and half of them were protected from guanaco grazing. Thirty-six plots were cleared to study revegetation. Vegetation was reassessed in 2021, and changes were evaluated using a paired t -test. Within protected plots, vegetation cover increased, bare soil diminished, and vegetated patches grew in size, but the density of the patch-interpatch arrangement did not change. Biodiversity, measured by richness and the Shannon-Wiener (SW) index, grew significantly. Nutrient recycling increased, as did the Stability and Infiltration Land Function indexes, although these last differences were not significant. Vegetation cover under guanaco grazing also increased, mainly due to the growth of dwarf shrubs, a typical tendency in sheep grazing-induced transitions in the region. Vegetated patches under grazing fragmented, resulting in smaller patches and denser patch structures, while diversity and land function indexes remained unchanged. Young plants established in cleared plots without guanacos showed higher cover density and individual size. These effects are similar to those observed in numerous experimental sheep exclosures. Guanaco grazing may thus prevent restoration and contribute to the generalized land degradation processes that overgrazing has been causing in Patagonia for over a century. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we provide additional data on the orb-weaver spider fauna (Araneae: Araneidae) of Kosovo. Three species are reported for the first time from this country: Araneus grossus (C.L. Koch, 1844), Argiope lobata (Pallas, 1772) and Cyclosa oculata (Walckenaer, 1802). In consideration of the findings and the updated checklist of Araneidae in this study, the documented number of spider species in Kosovo has now increased to 251. Given that the spider fauna of Kosovo is still not fully explored, our study emphasizes the necessity of ongoing exploration to better comprehend the diversity of spider species within the region.

Aphids constitute a significant cohort of herbivorous insects, primarily nourishing themselves by extracting plant sap, sometimes posing a notable threat to plant health. Here, we present a comprehensive investigation into the aphid fauna associated with Carthamus in Iran, unveiling 18 species across 11 genera within the Aphididae. Furthermore, 31 associations between aphid species and host plants were recognized, of which two are new for Iran. Our study expands upon prior knowledge by documenting three new occurrences, shedding light on previously unrecorded aphid species in Isfahan and Razavi Khorasan provinces. In addition, we describe the previously unknown male of Uroleucon carthami, offering insights into its life cycle and reproductive strategies. An identification key to the apterous viviparous female aphids living on Carthamus in Iran is provided.

Species of the subfamily Diplazontinae (Hym.: Ichneumonidae) were studied in West Azarbaijan province (Northwest of Iran). The specimens were collected using Malaise traps, during 2019–2020. Five species belonging to three genera were collected and identified. One species, Homotropus riedeli Johansson, 2020 was a new record for Iran as well as Asia. The distribution range of this species extends from Sweden to the north-west of Iran. A checklist is being compiled for 27 known Iranian species of this subfamily. In addition, a distribution map based on the recorded areas for each species within the Iranian provinces has been provided. We proposed a new direction for future biodiversity inventories of this subfamily in Iran.

One new species Aeolothrips kishensis sp. n. is described. Thrips diversity in Iran is briefly discussed and a list of 45 species and nine genera described and recorded during 2018 to 2024 is prepared. Diagnostic characters and illustrations for the new species are provided.

An annotated list of 26 species of sawfies belonging to four families collected in Tajikistan is presented. Arge scita (Moscáry, 1880), Athalia cornubiae Benson, 1931, Halidamia afnis (Fallén, 1807), Nematus tataricus Zinovjev, 1978, and Tenthredo echo Zhelochovtsev, 1961 are recorded for the fauna of Tajikistan for the frst time. Morphological differences between the superfcially similar species Tenthredo pamyrensis Jakowlew, 1888 and T. variabilis Mocsáry, 1909 are discussed. Diferences between the colour forms of T. grombczewskii (Jakowlew, 1891), T. haberhaueri Kirby, 1881 and T. pamyrensis are considered. For all found species, the features of biotopic confnement and distribution in the studied area are given.

Statement of the problem and goal. Vinnytsia region now demonstrates one of the lowest indicators of provision of natural protected areas and objects (2.27% of the region’s area). The regional figure for Vinnytsia is even lower, which is 1.65% of the city’s area. The need of the day is to study the localities of rare species of biota, rare biotopes, and migration routes of animals in an urbanized environment as potential objects for the development of protected areas. Materials and methods. Determination of the optimal methodology for identifying the taxonomic structure and ecological groups of the studied fauna based on the analysis of literary, cartographic, and stock materials. To assess the geocomponent representativeness of the fauna of the urban environment, expedition research methods were used. Systematization of terrestrial and terrestrial-aquatic taxonomic groups of fauna was carried out using empirical methods. Identification of characteristic traces and remains is used to record animals through visual observation. Audio Moth v.1.2.0 recording devices and an Echo Meter Touch 2 active bat detector were used to record owls (Strigiformes, Aves) and bats (Chiroptera, Mammalia). With the help of control catches, as well as through analysis of the catches of amateur fishermen, the species composition of fish was established. Results and discussion. Under conditions of significant technogenic transformation of the biotopes of the tract and nearby aquatic landscapes, a relatively rich zoocenosis has formed. This zoocenosis unites synanthropic and local species of birds, reptiles, mammals, amphibians and fish. This is facilitated by the combination of a wide range of facies that provide the trophic and topical needs of animals. The territory of the tract, thanks to the rich species composition of animals and stable interspecies connections, can effectively serve as a center for the conservation of biodiversity and an educational, ecological and aesthetic mission in an urban landscape. Scientific novelty. A specific faunal complex of the park, the mouth of the town of Tyazhilivka and the adjacent part of the Sabarovskoe reservoir has been identified. It includes 104 species of animals of the genus Chordata: class Mammals (Mammalia) - 14 species, class Birds (Aves) - 66 species, class Reptiles (Reptilia) - 4 species, class Amphibians (Amphibia) - 4 species, class Orthoptera (Actinopterygii) – 16 species. Research materials are the basis for the creation of a nature conservation area and the expansion and optimization of the existing natural reserve network of the urban environment.

The helminth fauna of cattle in the Russian Federation is represented, on average, by 80 parasite species, including 10 trematode species, 13 cestode species and 57 nematode species. In Kabardino-Balkaria and Dagestan, up to 65–100% of cattle population are Strongylata and Anoplocephalata infected, up to 87% are Dicrocoelium infected, up to 40% are Fasciola infected, and up to 23% are Echinococcus infected. Continuous helminth fauna monitoring tests and studies of the epizootic patterns of helminth infections in transhumant livestock in the North Caucasus are an urgent task. Parasitological examinations were carried out on the farms of the Kabardino-Balkarian Republic that practise vertical transhumance at different altitudes in 2018–2022. The animals of various ages were observed on a year-round basis. The examinations covered transhumant cattle in the subalpine and alpine-subnival subzones of the mountain zone of the Republic, 100 animals per subzone. In the subalpine subzone of the mountain zone of Kabardino-Balkaria, 25 helminth species were detected in the transhumant cattle in the summer and autumn periods, and 7–11 helminth species were detected in the winter and spring periods. The following species prevailed: Dicrocoelium lanceatum, Paramphistomum cervi, Trichostrongylus axei, Trichostrongylus colubriformis, Oesophagostomum radiatum, Bunostomum trigonocephalum, Nematodirus helvetianus, Nematodirus spathiger, Ostertagia ostertagi, Teladorsagia circumcincta, Ostertagiella occidentalis, Haemonchus placei. In the alpine-subnival subzone of the mountain zone of the Republic, 16 helminth species were detected in the transhumant cattle in the summer and autumn periods, and 3–7 helminth species were detected in the winter and spring periods. The following species were found to prevail in this subzone: Trichostrongylus colubriformis, Bunostomum trigonocephalum, Dicrocoelium lanceatum, Nematodirus helvetianus, Ostertagia ostertagi, Teladorsagia circumcincta, Haemonchus placei, Oesophagostomum radiatum.

The order Hymenoptera comprises an important group of insects, with ecological and economic importance, and serving as ecological indicators. Investigating the diversity and distribution of fauna is considered a prerequisite for biodiversity conservation. In this research, the hymenopteran fauna in mangrove forests on the southern coast of Iran were studied during 2021–2022. The collection was made by sweeping net and light trap. The survey revealed the presence of ten species and nine genera belonging to six families. Of which, two species, Ampulex assimilis Kohl, 1893 (Hym.: Ampulicidae) and Paridris leda Kozlov & Kononova, 1985 (Hym.: Scelionidae) are recorded for the first time for the Iranian fauna. Diagnostic characters of the new records and geographical distribution of all species are provided.

This study aimed to establish a systematic plan for an integrated inventory of insects based on long-term faunistic research of Korean islands. Preparing the plan involved the following processes: 1) examination of 6,117 species belonging to 402 families and 29 orders occurring on 541 islands, based on a survey of the status of insect species on Korean islands; 2) identification of 498 species belonging to 110 families and 14 orders, based on preliminary faunistic surveys of 10 human-inhabited islands in 2021 for efficient research of island insects; and 3) a list of species, voucher specimen, habitat information, and image data for each species, in addition to the generation of 135 Cytochrome c Oxidase subunit I sequences of 70 species for DNA barcode analysis to resolve the identity of taxa that are challenging to identify morphologically. The results of this study may be used for establishing a long-term systematic plan for faunistic research and acquisition of comprehensive biological information on the insects native to Korean islands, while the results may also contribute to the establishment of criteria for the sustainable utilization of bioresources and the conservation of species.

Artykuł skupia się na nazwach miejscowości z obszaru współczesnego powiatu garwolińskiego. Celem pracy jest opis pochodzenia i struktury słowotwórczej zebranego materiału toponimicznego, uwzględniającego ojkonimy związane pierwszo- lub drugorzędnie semantycznie ze światem zwierząt lub roślin. Wśród 569 ojkonimów z terenu powiatu garwolińskiego możemy wyszczególnić 152 onimy nawiązujące do roślin bądź zwierząt. Trzonem artykułu jest opis semantyczno-strukturalny badanego materiału według klasyfikacji stworzonej przez Witolda Taszyckiego, a zmodyfikowanej przez Władysława Makarskiego. W zgromadzonym materiale nazewniczym przeważają nazwy związane z roślinami (76% całości). Wśród nich największą grupę semantyczną stanowią ojkonimy odarboralne inspirowane topolami, brzozami, grabami i dębami. Zdecydowanie mniej liczne nazwy odzwierzęce (24% całości) semantycznie odnoszą się do zwierząt wodnych i wilków. Podsumowanie artykułu zawiera syntezę uzyskanych wyników, ukazujących miejsce odzwierzęcych i odroślinnych nazw miejscowych w pejzażu toponimicznym powiatu garwolińskiego.

Abstract Background Bombyliidae, a large Dipteran family, includes over 5380 species globally. Adults are frequently the primary pollinators of a wide variety of flowering plants, and larvae are predators of other holometabolous insects' immature stages. While 50 species of the family have been recorded in the UAE, a comparison with recent studies in neighboring countries suggests that this number underestimates the true diversity of Bombylliid fauna in the UAE. Results In the present study, eleven species, classified in nine genera, five tribes, and three subfamilies are added to the UAE’s bombyliid fauna for the first time. These species are Geron (Geron) gibbosus (Olivier, 1789) [subfamily Toxophorinae], Heterotropus aegyptiacus Paramonov, 1929, H. bisglaucus Bezzi, 1925 [subfamily Heterotropinae], Anthrax dentatus (Becker, 1906), A. zohrayensis El‐Hawagry, 2002, Satyramoeba bipunctata (Fabricius, 1805), Spogostylum incisurale (Macquart, 1840), Heteralonia (Zygodipla) submucorea Greathead, 1980, Exhyalanthrax triangularis (Bezzi, 1924), Petrorossia letho (Wiedemann, 1828), and Xeramoeba near salwae El Hawagry, 2001 [subfamily Anthracinae]. Three of the genera, Geron, Heterotropus and Satyramoeba, and two of the subfamilies, Toxophorinae and Heterotropinae, are recorded for the first time in the UAE. Distributions, diagnoses, remarks on feeding habits and photographs of recorded species are provided. Conclusion The present study adds eleven species to the UAE's bombyliid fauna, classified in nine genera, five tribes, and three subfamilies. This boosts the overall recorded number of bombyliid species in the UAE to 61 species.

Social parasitic ants exploit the colonies of other ant species, either permanently or temporarily. The permanent parasites are amongst the rarest species of ants, although their hosts may be very common. Due to their rarity and often restricted distribution range, most of them are listed as vulnerable. Filling in the gaps in geographical and host ranges will advance our understanding of the social parasitic lifestyle's origin and evolution.This study reports the first records of the slave-makers Myrmoxenus algerianus (Cagniant, 1968) for Europe (Italy, Sicily) and M. ravouxi (André 1896) for Albania and the inquiline Anergates atratulus (Schenck, 1852) for Malta (Gozo). We also report new localities of Camponotus universitatis Forel, 1890 for Albania and Myrmoxenus gordiagini Ruzsky, 1902, M. kraussei (Emery, 1915) and Anergates atratulus for Bulgaria. Diversity, type of parasite-host relationships, host range, distribution and conservation of social parasitic ant species in Bulgaria are discussed. Although social parasitic ants are still understudied in Bulgaria, they represent 21% of the regional ant fauna.

In the European Mediterranean Region, palm trees are a common element in cities and semi-urban landscapes and have become important habitat structures for local fauna. This study aimed to monitor the invertebrate and vertebrate fauna occurring on and associated with ornamental palms of the genus Phoenix, over the course of one year. Five study sites were used in southern Spain, with varying levels of management. Several complementary methods were applied monthly in order to assess the vertebrates and invertebrates associated with the full seasonal cycle of palms, including flowering and fruiting. The study resulted in the identification of 216 invertebrate families from seven different classes and 89 vertebrate species, consisting of 62 bird, 20 mammal (including bats), six reptile and one amphibian species associated with Phoenix palms. It thus highlights that Phoenix palms provide a habitat for many species and individuals over the course of one year.

The spider fauna of the Ogasawara Islands, oceanic islands located 1,000 km south of mainland Japan was comprehensively examined by the National Museum of Nature and Science in 2011, which revealed that approximately 70% of the spider fauna was composed of non-native species. Following the preceding study, however, only descriptions of several new species have been added and no major updates have been made for the overall spider fauna of the Islands.The faunistic survey of spiders conducted on Chichi-jima Island, the largest island in the Ogasawara Islands in 2023 revealed the presence of two ground-dwelling spider species, Oedignatha scrobiculata Thorell, 1881 (Araneae, Liocranidae) and Boagrius qiong Lin & Li, 2022 (Araneae, Palpimanidae) on the Island. This represents the first record of the two species from Japan, the first record of palpimaid spiders from Japan and the initial documentation of liocranid spiders in the Ogasawara Islands.

An annotated checklist for the dipteran family Tachinidae of the Republic of Mordovia (Russia) is presented. This checklist is based on the material collected in 2016–2021. In total 228 species are recorded, two of which for the first time for both Europe and Russia, two for Europe, eleven for Russia and another eight for the European part of Russia. Special reference is made to the occurrence of Tachinidae in the two largest state protected areas of Mordovia. The tachinid fauna of the Republic of Mordovia refects its zoogeographical position on the crossroads of Europe and Siberia, as well as on the crossroads of taiga and steppe.

Scorpion stings are the major public health problem related to arthropods in tropical and subtropical areas of Iran. The study aimed to determine the species diversity and geographical distribution of scorpions in southern regions of Kerman province, Iran. The descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out from March 2019 to November 2021 in the south of Kerman province. The specimens were collected by rock rolling method using long forceps during the day and UV light during the night. The specimens were put in containers containing 80% ethanol, transported to the laboratory, identified using valid taxonomic keys, and studied their sexes. A total of 126 scorpions were collected from 2 families, 7 genera, and 10 species including Hemiscorpius acanthocercus (2.2%), H. enischnochela (0.4%), Androctonus crassicauda (56.1%), Mesobuthus kirmanensis (29%), Odontobuthus baluchicus (3.5%), Hottentotta navidpouri (2.2%), Ho. sistanensis (2.2%), Orthochirus hormozganensis (1.3%), O. kucerai (0.9%) and Sassanidotus gracilis (1.3%). Mesobuthus kirmanensis were reported as dominant species. H. navidpouri, H. sistanensis, O. baluchicus, and O. hormozganensis are reported for the first time from Kerman province. Androctonus crassicauda, H. acanthocercus and H. enischnochela are known as dangerous species and could enhance the potential risk of scorpion stings deaths, especially in children. The fauna and geographical distribution of scorpions in the southeast of Iran showed the presence of suitable habitats for scorpions and can be a warning to the health care system. Identification of dangerous species and their range of distribution can be comprehensive and valuable guides to reducing the exposure of scorpions in high-risk areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ant species diversity in tropical Asia has been investigated in several locations, however, these studies mainly focused on well preserved forests or plantations. The ant fauna in urban parks has only been investigated in a limited number of locations in Singapore, Hong Kong, Macao, and Indonesia. We investigated the ant fauna in the Purwodadi Botanical Gardens, East Java, and compared it to the ant fauna obtained in the Bogor Botanical Gardens. In the Purwodadi Botanical Gardens, we employed the following sampling methods that were also carried out in Bogor: (1) visual searching of ants on tree trunks, (2) visual searching of litter and top-soil ants by hand sifting (3) visual searching of ant colonies, (4) visual searching of foraging workers. In total, 109 species in 44 genera from 9 subfamilies were collected. The number of species collected from litter and soil in Purwodadi was remarkably smaller than that in Bogor, while the ant species diversity on tree trunks was similar to that of Bogor. Of the 109 species, 68 were common to Bogor. Arboreal ants were more similar than ground ants between Bogor and Purwodadi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This study represents the first investigation of the seasonal dynamics and species diversity of Drosophilidae in Moscow, Russia, from 2021 to 2023. Traps were placed on the ground under trees to collect the specimens. Among the collected species, Drosophila obscura Fll., D. phalerata Mg., and D. testacea Roser were the most abundant. Peaks in the abundance of drosophilids varied between years, but the lowest abundance was always observed in May. In 2022, the highest number of flies was collected (9604 specimens), and the highest species diversity (33 species) was recorded. The effects of temperature and precipitation on the species abundance and community diversity indices are evident during the preimaginal developmental stages of drosophila. The insect fauna of natural parks in large cities has not been sufficiently studied in Russia. This study represents the first investigation of the seasonal dynamics and species diversity of Drosophilidae in Moscow city. Traps with fermenting liquid were placed on the ground under trees to collect flies from four natural park sites between early May and late September from 2021 to 2023. A total of 26,420 individuals belonging to 11 genera and 33 drosophilid species were identified, with 21 species from 6 genera being new to the fauna of Moscow. Drosophila obscura Fll., D. phalerata Mg., and D. testacea Roser were the most abundant species in the traps. Peaks in the abundance of drosophilids varied between years, but the lowest abundance was always observed in May. In 2022, the highest number of flies was collected (9604 specimens), with slightly fewer in 2023 (8496 specimens), and even fewer in 2021 (8320 specimens). In 2022, the highest species diversity of drosophilids was also recorded—33 species—while 28 species were found in both 2021 and 2023. The high variability in the abundance of individual drosophila species obscures the differences between the studied years due to the effects of the "Month" and "Site" factors. The diversity metrics exhibit similar patterns among drosophila communities inhabiting comparable biotopes. Specific climatic factors, such as the temperature and precipitation, impact the species abundance and community diversity indices primarily through their effects on the preimaginal stages of drosophila development. For several species, the population dynamics in the spring, post-hibernation, are influenced by the conditions preceding winter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study is based on oribatid mite material collected from three localities in Madagascar. A list of 26 species, belonging to 18 genera and 14 families, is presented; of these, six species are reported for the first time from Madagascar. Two new species – Zetorchestes saltipessp. nov. (Zetorchestidae) and Scheloribates (Scheloribates) erectisensillussp. nov. (Scheloribatidae) – are described from forest leaf litter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The species list of Dytiscidae of Iran has been composed using recently studied material and all literature data known to us. We report 139 species of Iranian diving beetles including one Dytiscus species of uncertain taxonomic position. Two species, Agabus amoenus Solsky, 1874 and Copelatus pulchellus (Klug, 1834) are recorded for the first time from Iran. For 57 species, new provincial records are provided. Twenty-two species and one genus have been excluded from the Iranian diving beetle fauna as based on misidentifications. The distributional pattern in Iran and preferred habitat (if available) are summarised for each species and discussed in general. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polymixis mossadeghi sp. n. from the Zagros Mountains of Iran is described as new to science. The new species is the seventh species of the subgenus Eremophysa Boursin, 1858 that occurs in Iran, all with Iranian type locality. It is compared with its close relative, P. gracilis (Brandt, 1941), together with depicting the adult wing pattern and male genitalia illustrations. Moreover, the presence of Orthosia cruda ([Denis & Schiffermüller] 1775) in Iran is confirmed. This latter species is compared with its close relative, O. sordescens Hreblay, 1993, notes on its bionomics and distribution are given. Furthermore, new provincial records for nine species of Noctuidae are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the collection from Karbala, southern Iraq, seven species from six genera of the family Pteromalidae were identified. All of the genera are the first records of the fauna of Iraq. Norbanus tabatabaeii Lotfalizadeh & Alsendi sp. nov. was described from Iraq and compared with closely allied species of the genus in the Palaearctic region. Six species were recorded for the first time in Iraq: Catolaccus crassiceps (Masi), Goidanichium atrum Bouček, Merisus splendidus Walker, Notanisus vanharteni Gibson, N. versicolor Walker, and Systasis encyrtoides Walker. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anomalini beetles (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Rutelinae) constitute an important group of pests causing significant crop losses in wheat cultivation areas worldwide, including Türkiye. The aim of this study was to comprehensively evaluate the phylogeny, diversity, abundance, and distribution of Anomalini beetles in wheat fields of Van province, Türkiye. Surveys were conducted between April and August 2021, involving monthly sample collection at predetermined locations within six districts: Başkale, Çaldıran, Erciş, Gevaş, İpekyolu, and Tuşba. A Standard sweepnet with a diameter of 35 cm was used to collect samplings. In molecular studies, the mitochondrial COI gene region has been amplified and sequenced using universal primers. Anomalini beetles were detected in all sampling areas except Çatak district. Seven species were identified: Anisoplia austriaca, A. signata, A. lata, Brancoplia leucaspis, Blitopertha nigripennis, Chaetopteroplia segetum, and an unidentified Anisoplia sp. Chaetopteroplia segetum emerged as the most prevalent and abundant species across all districts. Notably, all identified Anomalini species represent the first records for Van province and its environs. While Anomalini beetles were present in the region, their population densities were not considered high enough to cause economic damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Bombyliidae, a large Dipteran family, includes over 5380 species globally. Adults are frequently the primary pollinators of a wide variety of flowering plants, and larvae are predators of other holometabolous insects' immature stages. While 50 species of the family have been recorded in the UAE, a comparison with recent studies in neighboring countries suggests that this number underestimates the true diversity of Bombylliid fauna in the UAE. Results: In the present study, eleven species, classified in nine genera, five tribes, and three subfamilies are added to the UAE's bombyliid fauna for the first time. These species are Geron (Geron) gibbosus (Olivier, 1789) [subfamily Toxophorinae], Heterotropus aegyptiacus Paramonov, 1929, H. bisglaucus Bezzi, 1925 [subfamily Heterotropinae], Anthrax dentatus (Becker, 1906), A. zohrayensis El‐Hawagry, 2002, Satyramoeba bipunctata (Fabricius, 1805), Spogostylum incisurale (Macquart, 1840), Heteralonia (Zygodipla) submucorea Greathead, 1980, Exhyalanthrax triangularis (Bezzi, 1924), Petrorossia letho (Wiedemann, 1828), and Xeramoeba near salwae El Hawagry, 2001 [subfamily Anthracinae]. Three of the genera, Geron, Heterotropus and Satyramoeba, and two of the subfamilies, Toxophorinae and Heterotropinae, are recorded for the first time in the UAE. Distributions, diagnoses, remarks on feeding habits and photographs of recorded species are provided. Conclusion: The present study adds eleven species to the UAE's bombyliid fauna, classified in nine genera, five tribes, and three subfamilies. This boosts the overall recorded number of bombyliid species in the UAE to 61 species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aleuroclava canangae (Corbett, 1935) was discovered on an ornamental Coleus species in Kerala, India, and represents the first occurrence of this species in India and on this plant host. The species is redescribed and illustrations of the puparium and adult males and females are provided along with morphometric data. A molecular analysis of the species using the COI gene was conducted to characterise it, determine its genetic lineage and compare it to seven other species of Aleuroclava Singh, 1931 and those of other whitefly genera. Results of the DNA analysis indicate that A. canangae forms a clade with Aleuroclava indica (Singh, 1932) which also has two pairs of very elongate, tuberculate setae which appear two-jointed because they have a wider basal part separated from a long slender apical part by a fine suture. The Aleuroclava canangae species group is established and an illustrated key is provided for the 12 species in the group, all of which were once placed in the genus Martiniella Jesudasan and David, 1990, now a synonym of Aleuroclava. The molecular analysis indicates that A. psidii (Singh, 1931), A. guyavae (Takahashi, 1932), A. montanus (Takahashi, 1939) and A. gordoniae (Takahashi, 1932) form a clade within the genus Aleuroclava and share similar morphological characters. Based on the results of the molecular and morphological analyses, Aleurothrixus trachoides (Back, 1912) is transferred back to Aleurotrachelus trachoides (Back, 1912) based on its morphology and the results of the DNA analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species of Heterostigmatic mites from the family Microdispidae, Premicrodispus (Premicrodispus) abani Rahiminejad & Majidi sp. n., is described and illustrated based on female individuals recovered from macro-fungi, Trichaptum sp. (Fungi: Polyporales), in forestry areas of Gorgan, northern Iran. Additionally, distributional records of four pygmephoroid species belonging to Pediculaster Vitzthum, 1931, Metapygmephorellus Rahiminejad, Hajiqanbar & Khaustov, 2015, and Krczaldania Sasa, 1961 genera are reported from various mushrooms over the sampling region. All the fungi, including Trichaptum sp. (Polyporales), Psathyrella sp., and Pleurotus sp. (Fungi: Agaricales), are recorded for the first time as hosts of Heterostigmata. Moreover, Pediculaster sklarii Sevastianov & Chydyrov, 1994 and P. amerahae Sevastianov & Abo-korah, 1984, are recorded for the first time in the arthropod fauna of Iran. Eventually, an overview of heterostigmatic mites associated with macro-fungi, as well as their host range and distribution, has been provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For the first time, the faunal complexes of helminths of waterbirds in the Aidar-Arnasay system of lakes in Uzbekistan were studied. The material for this work was collections of parasitic worms of waterbirds obtained during the hunting seasons of 2020-2023. Using parasitological dissection, 326 bird individuals belonging to 31 species and 6 orders (Grebes, Copepods, Flamingiformes, Anseriformes, Craniformes and Charadariformes) were studied. The features of the distribution and ecology of helminths of the studied groups of birds are considered. In total, 79 species of parasites have been registered in the Aidar-Arnasay lake system. Of these, 29 species belong to the class Cestoda, the class Trematoda is represented by 27 species, the class Acanthocephala - by 3 species and the class Nematoda - by 20 species, which are indicated for the study area for the first time. Original data on the structure of the helminth fauna of 6 orders of waterfowl and wading birds are presented. Various routes of transmission of helminths to their hosts, birds, and methods of circulation of the invasion have been elucidated. The life cycles of most species of helminths noted by us involve intermediate (first and second) and reservoir hosts - invertebrate and vertebrate animals. The dietary choices of individual waterbird orders play a significant role in determining the types of parasitic worms that infect them, and are the primary factor in shaping their overall worm population. These processes undeniably take place within a specific timeframe and location, closely regulated by environmental factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A survey of Scarabaeoidea species was carried out in forest nurseries of the Western Black Sea region. Seven forest nurseries in five provinces were sampled between 2021 and 2022 using forceps, pitfall trap, sweep net, light trap, and pheromone trap. In total, 3 families, 8 subfamilies, 23 genera, and 24 species were identified in this study. The antennal sensilla and aedeagus of some scarab beetles were photographed using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and stereo microscope. Results of Shannon–Wiener and Simpson diversity indices showed that the highest species diversity was recorded in Muzaffer Büyükterzi and Bolu Forest Nurseries with 2.254 and 1.985 respectively. Margalef’s richness index was found to be the highest in Muzaffer Büyükterzi Forest Nursery (3.620). The nursery with the highest dominance was found to be Pınar Forest Nursery with 0.351. Shannon and Simpson evenness results showed that Muzaffer Büyükterzi and Gölköy Forest Nurseries had the highest evenness with 0.907 and 0.156, respectively, while Pınar and Bolu Forest Nurseries had the lowest evenness with 0.475 and 0.081, respectively. At the end of the study, four insect species were new records for the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: Social parasitic ants exploit the colonies of other ant species, either permanently or temporarily. The permanent parasites are amongst the rarest species of ants, although their hosts may be very common. Due to their rarity and often restricted distribution range, most of them are listed as vulnerable. Filling in the gaps in geographical and host ranges will advance our understanding of the social parasitic lifestyle's origin and evolution. New information: This study reports the first records of the slave-makers Myrmoxenus algerianus (Cagniant, 1968) for Europe (Italy, Sicily) and M. ravouxi (André 1896) for Albania and the inquiline Anergates atratulus (Schenck, 1852) for Malta (Gozo). We also report new localities of Camponotus universitatis Forel, 1890 for Albania and Myrmoxenus gordiagini Ruzsky, 1902, M. kraussei (Emery, 1915) and Anergates atratulus for Bulgaria. Diversity, type of parasite-host relationships, host range, distribution and conservation of social parasitic ant species in Bulgaria are discussed. Although social parasitic ants are still understudied in Bulgaria, they represent 21% of the regional ant fauna. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the European Mediterranean Region, palm trees are a common element in cities and semi-urban landscapes and have become important habitat structures for local fauna. This study aimed to monitor the invertebrate and vertebrate fauna occurring on and associated with ornamental palms of the genus Phoenix, over the course of one year. Five study sites were used in southern Spain, with varying levels of management. Several complementary methods were applied monthly in order to assess the vertebrates and invertebrates associated with the full seasonal cycle of palms, including flowering and fruiting. The study resulted in the identification of 216 invertebrate families from seven different classes and 89 vertebrate species, consisting of 62 bird, 20 mammal (including bats), six reptile and one amphibian species associated with Phoenix palms. It thus highlights that Phoenix palms provide a habitat for many species and individuals over the course of one year. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conservation biological controls utilizing native natural enemies need to comprehend the natural enemy fauna in the area. While green lacewings (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae) are an important group of natural enemies in agriculture, their distribution remains unclear in Japan, particularly in the Nansei Islands. This study reports newly recorded green lacewing species found in the Nansei Islands, and summarizes the distribution information of lacewing species. Four species were newly recorded from the Amami Islands, 2 from the Okinawa Islands, 5 from the Miyako Islands, 2 from the Yaeyama Islands, and 4 from the Daito Islands. A total of 25 species of green lacewings were recognized including one species newly found in the Nansei Islands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dating between 1450 CE and 1650 CE, Huber (11CK1) is the type site for the Upper Mississippian Huber phase identified in the western Great Lakes region. Occupied at a critical time in American Indian history, this late precontact village contains some of the earliest European trade goods found in Illinois. The site was briefly investigated in 1929 and again in 1957, but since then it was thought to have been virtually destroyed by looting and urban development. Recent field investigations by the Illinois State Archaeological Survey (ISAS), completed between 2017 and 2020, confirm that large portions of the site remain intact and preserved on public lands and adjacent residential yards. Discoveries include house basins, possible ridged field structures, well-preserved organics, ceramics, chipped- and ground-stone tools, and additional trade items. New analyses of cupreous materials recovered from 11CK1, as well as other Huber phase sites in the region, better identify relationships between sixteenth- and early seventeenth-century Huber peoples and (1) earlier occupations in the area, such as Fisher, (2) potentially contemporaneous Indigenous communities, such as Langford or Oneota, and (3) European peoples and trade goods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]