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Peromyscus sonoriensis is a widespread species ranging from southern Texas to the Yukon, from the Mississippi to the Pacific. Because of this extensive range, there are substantial differences in morphology due to variation in temperature, precipitation, and habitat. We used 2 data sets (n = 4,840 and n = 20,175) to study morphological differences of their crania and appendages. Consistent with Allen's rule (shorter appendages with colder temperature), both data sets show a strong, positive, correlation between tail length and the average January temperature. However, there was an equally strong, but negative, correlation between tail length and average July temperature. We observed similar results for feet and crania. Ear length had a significant negative correlation with July average temperature but no correlation with January average temperature. When we controlled for temperature, cranial and appendage length increased with latitude, which was opposite of what we expected. Furthermore, longitude had a strong impact as mice trapped further west had longer appendages. When divided into habitats, forest deer mice are more likely than prairie or desert deer mice to demonstrate morphological responses to differences in climate, location, and year trapped. Our results show that P. sonoriensis exhibit notable morphological variation linked to location, habitat, and climate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrological connectivity in river systems facilitates the movement of animals across riverine landscapes and influences fish habitat but is threatened by climate change and water resource developments. We studied fish assemblages across a large wet–dry tropical river system in northern Australia that is under consideration for new agricultural and water resource developments, which are expected to alter hydrological connectivity. We explored relationships between the environment and several biotic variables; fish taxonomic composition, species turnover, and species trait presence, quantifying how they were related to hydrological connectivity. Environmental dissimilarity of sites was influenced by hydrological connectivity variables, including flow, elevation, and river distance. Environment characteristics and hydrological connectivity together were important predictors of fish taxonomic composition. Fish species turnover was highest in headwater sites, and species presence absence was related to feeding and reproductive traits. Our results suggest that habitat specialists and species with reproductive traits that depend on hydrological connectivity, such as diadromous species, are most vulnerable to declines in relative abundance following a reduction in connectivity, which would lead to range contractions within catchments. Maintaining habitats that support taxonomically and functionally unique fish assemblages, such as wetlands and headwater streams, is important for maintaining biodiversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We confirm the presence of the shrimp Solenocera membranacea (Risso, 1816) (Solenoceridae) in the Canary Islands. In this region, the species was only known from the capture of a specimen on the island of Lanzarote. The present finding based on a male collected on the island of Tenerife represents the second record. The data suggest that the species may be preferentially associated with soft mobile substrates, especially muddy ones, on continental shelves and upper slopes, while its presence on the hard bottoms of the volcanic archipelagos of Macaronesia would be testimonial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Himalayan ranges are well-known biological diversity hotspot. This attempt has been made to prepare the first avifaunal checklist of the Narendra Nagar Forestdivision, Tehri Garhwal, Uttarakhand, a part of the Western Himalaya, India, from October 2020 to December 2022. A total of 177 avian species belonging to 50 families were observed. Among of these, a total of 133 (75%), 28 (16%) and 16 (9%) avian species were identified as resident, winter visitor and summer visitor respectively. The family Muscicapidae was found to be the most diverse family with 17 bird species having the highest relative diversity index followed by Picidae (10), Accipitridae (8), Corvidae, Columbidae and Cuculidae (7), Leiothrichidae (6), etc. We also encountered of few species belonging to important conservation status such as Near Threatened (Alexandrine Parakeet, Great Thick-knee, River Lapwing, Himalayan Griffon), and Endangered (Egyptian Vulture and Pallas's fish eagle) categories as per IUCN Red data book. This study provides the first baseline information about the avian species of the study area. The presence of threatened species indicates that more conservation efforts are needed in the study area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leishmania spp. are zoonotic parasites transmitted by phlebotomine sand flies, including those of the Lutzomyia genus, which can cause leishmaniases in both humans and dogs. Lutzomyia spp. are established in many countries in South and Central America and some areas of the southern United States, with suspected potential of these vectors to undergo further range expansion due to climate change. A scoping review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses Extensions for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA‐ScR) guidelines to describe the current state of knowledge on the key ecological factors associated with Lutzomyia spp. survival, reproduction and establishment. The following electronic databases were searched for eligible studies published from 1 January 1990, to the date of search, 26 April 2023: CAB Direct (CABI), MEDLINE (via Ovid), Biological Sciences Database and Environmental Sciences Database. Primary research articles that were available in English and focused on ecological factors associated with Lutzomyia spp., such as climatic and habitat factors, geographic range, seasonality and temporality, and host abundance, were eligible for inclusion in the study. Following de‐duplication, a total of 167 studies were included in Level 1 screening, 64 studies were included in Level 2 screening and 31 studies met the criteria for data extraction. Study locations included Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Peru, Venezuela, the United States, Mexico and Canada, with some studies including multiple regions. A total of 31 different Lutzomyia spp. were assessed across these studies, with most (51.6%) of the studies focused on Lutzomyia longipalpis. Eligible studies investigated factors such as seasonality (n = 5), temperature (n = 19), precipitation (n = 13), humidity (n = 2), vegetation presence or requirements (n = 13), ecotypes (n = 7), and/or community type (i.e., urban, suburban, rural) (n = 5). Lutzomyia spp. activity was found to be higher during the rainy season, and peak when temperatures were between 20 and 25°C. Lutzomyia spp. were also found to preferentially reside in tropical or subtropical forests, which are characterised by their lack of a distinct dry season and high precipitation. This scoping review summarised the current state of the literature on the ecological factors associated with the survival, activity and reproduction of Lutzomyia spp. While there appears to be some consensus in the literature regarding some ecological requirements (such as seasonality, temperature and habitat features), overall, there is a lack of published research in this topic. This poses a significant challenge for future studies, which aim to predict the future distribution of Lutzomyia spp. in the context of climate and land use changes. Additional ecological research is urgently needed on Lutzomyia spp. given their relevance to both human and animal health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Living tragulids are commonly considered “living fossils” that display morphological conformity with their ancestors. However, well-preserved limb remains of fossil tragulids are rare, which makes them difficult to investigate. In the present study, we took advantage of the rich tragulid limb bone record of Early Miocene sites in Napak (Uganda) and compiled a data set on tragulid limb bones from the Miocene of the Afro-Eurasian realm. We performed a number of analyses to document similarities and unique features in limb bone osteology among species and to investigate limb structures. The results indicate that extinct and extant tragulids have profoundly similar limb morphology, except for the metapodials. Extinct Dorcatherium and Dorcabune share short and robust metapodials and unfused central metacarpals with the living Hyemoschus, which is indicative of little cursoriality and a closed habitat. In contrast, the metapodials of extinct ?Siamotragulus songhorensis and Siamotragulus sanyathanai and living Tragulus napu are long and slender with fused central metatarsus and metacarpus, which implies more cursoriality and non-fully-closed habitats. Body mass estimation indicates that overall limb length did not scale allometrically with body size, what supports ecological adaptations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to ascertain whether the utilization of multiple b-value diffusion-weighted habitat imaging, a technique that depicts tumor heterogeneity, could aid in identifying breast cancer patients who would derive substantial benefit from neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC). This prospective study enrolled 143 women (II–III breast cancer), who underwent multi-b-value diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) in 3-T magnetic resonance (MR) before NAC. The patient cohort was partitioned into a training set (consisting of 100 patients, of which 36 demonstrated a pathologic complete response [pCR]) and a test set (featuring 43 patients, 16 of whom exhibited pCR). Utilizing the training set, predictive models for pCR, were constructed using different parameters: whole-tumor radiomics (Model WH), diffusion-weighted habitat-imaging (Model Habitats), conventional MRI features (Model CF), along with combined models Model Habitats+CF. The performance of these models was assessed based on the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) and calibration slope. In the prediction of pCR, Model WH , Model Habitats , Model CF , and Model Habitats+CF achieved AUCs of 0.733, 0.722, 0.705, and 0.756 respectively, within the training set. These scores corresponded to AUCs of 0.625, 0.801, 0.700, and 0.824 respectively in the test set. The DeLong test revealed no significant difference between Model WH and Model Habitats (P = 0.182), between Model Habitats and Model Habitats+CF (P = 0.113). The habitat model we developed, incorporating first-order features along with conventional MRI features, has demonstrated accurate predication of pCR prior to NAC. This model holds the potential to augment decision-making processes in personalized treatment strategies for breast cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To establish and validate a predictive multi-machine learning model for the long-term efficacy of uterine artery embolization (UAE) in the treatment of adenomyosis based on habitat subregions. Patients who underwent UAE for adenomyosis at institution A between November 2015 and June 2018 were included in the training cohort and those at institution B between June 2017 and June 2019 were included in the test cohort. The regions of interest (ROI) were manually segmented on the T2-weighted images (T2WI). The ROIs were subsequently partitioned into habitat subregions using k-means clustering. Radiomic features were extracted from each subregion on T1WI, T2WI, apparent diffusion coefficient, and contrast-enhanced images. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) was used to select the subregion radiomics features. With the improvement in patients' symptoms at 36 months post-UAE, the habitat subregion features were trained using six machine-learning classifiers. The most suitable classifier was chosen based on model performance to establish the habitat radiomics model (HRM). The efficacy of the model was validated using both the training and test cohorts. Finally, a whole-region radiomics model (WRM) and clinical model (CM) were established. The Delong test was used to compare the predictive performance of the habitat subregion model and the two other models. The study included 258 patients, 191 in the training cohort and 67 in the test cohort. The ROIs were divided into four habitat subregions. Radiomics features were extracted from different sequence images of the subregions. After LASSO regression, 24 habitat subregion features were included in the model. Based on the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, the area under the curve (AUC) of the HRM was 0.921 (95% CI, 0.857–0.985, training) and 0.890 (95% CI, 0.736–1.000, test). The AUCs for the WRM were 0.805 (95% CI, 0.737–0.872, training) and 0.693 (95% CI, 0.497–0.889, test). Compared to the HRM, the difference in predictive performance was statistically significant (p = 0.008, training; p = 0.007, test). The AUCs for the CM were 0.788 (95% CI, 0.711–0.866, training) and 0.735 (95% CI, 0.566–0.903, test). Compared to the HRM, there was a statistically significant difference in the training cohort (p = 0.014) but not in the test cohort (p = 0.186). The HRM can predict the long-term efficacy of UAE in the treatment of adenomyosis. The predictive performance was superior to that of both the WRM and CM, serving as an effective tool to assist interventional physicians in clinical decision-making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was carried out to document and analyze the common structure, diversity and abundance of butterfly in Jiwaji University, Campus, Gwalior Madhya Pradesh, India from July, 2023 to June, 2024. Direct visual encounter method used for recorded butterfly and photographs were taken for identification of butterfly species. A total of 40 species of butterflies belonging to 5 families were recorded. Nymphalidae family consists of maximum number (13) of butterfly species followed by Pieridae (11), Lycaenidae (9), Papilionidae (4) and Heperiidae (3) respectively. Total 496 number of butterfly captured among them Eurema brigitta recorded highest number of butterfly (14) of total abundance. Present study will help to assess the habitat and effective conservation of butterfly diversity in University campus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Movement of animals, habitat connectivity, and nutrient transport are key elements in the ecological functioning of coral reef ecosystems. However, most studies have focused on the diurnal component of these aspects; nocturnal patterns are less known. Our study aims to address this knowledge gap by assessing diel movement patterns in ecologically and commercially important nocturnal coral reef fishes. We evaluate 122-days of acoustic telemetry data from 4 nocturnal species in 2 coral reef fish families (Haemulidae and Lutjanidae) on the Great Barrier Reef. For all species, we found a clear division between daytime resting areas on the reef and a move towards off-reef areas at night. This was highlighted in the low number of detections at night and the high average transitions between receivers at twilight. Over our study period, average nocturnal space use area (minimum convex polygon) of Plectorhincus gibbosus was 328,089 m2, Plectorhincus lineatus 28,828 m2, and Lutjanus carponotatus 20,369 m2. However, results from a Principal Component Analysis revealed that space use, and movement, varied substantially within species; for 3 of the 4 species the main axis of variation correlated with individual-level behaviour. These large differences in individual space use patterns highlight the need for caution when using species averages when considering ecosystem functions. Overall, our preliminary observations provide a glimpse into the large spatial extent, potential habitat connectivity, and intra and interspecific variation in activity patterns among large nocturnal Indo-Pacific reef fishes. This highlights their potential importance in maintaining ecosystem links between coral reefs and adjacent habitats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The conservation of insects, particularly endangered species such as the Apollo butterfly, is a pressing global concern. Understanding the habitat requirements and factors influencing species occupancy is crucial for designing effective conservation strategies. We focused on investigating the habitat characteristics expected to affect the occupancy of the nationally endangered Apollo butterfly in Southwest Finland. We conducted field surveys and GIS analysis to assess the impact of larval host plant and adult nectar resources, habitat encroachment, elevation, connectivity, and spatial variation on Apollo larval occupancy in rocky outcrop habitats. We found that rocky outcrops with abundant host plants and those less isolated from nectar patches play a significant role in supporting Apollo reproduction, whereas encroachment, specifically increased tree volume, negatively affected occupancy. We additionally observed spatial variation in occupancy across different blocks within the study area. Our findings emphasise the importance of resource availability for Apollo butterflies and highlight the dynamic nature of their habitat requirements. Maintaining a network of intact rocky outcrops with suitable resources is essential for the long-term persistence of the Apollo butterfly population in the region. Implications for insect conservation: Our research underscores the critical need to protect and restore habitats for the Apollo butterfly, particularly by addressing threats such as habitat encroachment and construction projects that pose risks to their breeding sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presence of the nationally critical ground beetles, Holcaspis abdita and H. bidentella on the Simons Pass and Pukaki River Tekapo River Confluence Dryland Recovery Conservation Areas was confirmed and the habitat described. Pitfall trap surveys collected 63 specimens from most sites within the conservation areas, but predominantly on the Pukaki Flats where the habitat was degraded, indigenous herb field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

River restoration projects often focus on water quality and riparian vegetation, assuming this will result in direct improvements to ecological health. However, successful recovery of aquatic communities likely requires additional steps targeting habitat beneath the water surface. We trialled the addition of simple, instream habitat units as a practicable short-term restoration tool targeting aquatic macroinvertebrate communities. Habitat units were built from readily available, biodegradable materials. They were deployed at three sites around Auckland with differing hydromorphology and surrounding land use, enabling evaluation of both the efficacy of installation and impacts on biodiversity. Additional macroinvertebrate sampling (Surber and drift collection) was conducted to assess community responses following habitat unit addition. All habitat units showed significant increases in macroinvertebrate densities and taxon richness compared to the surrounding existing habitat. However, the most marked increases in abundance may be attributable to inundation of habitat units by pre-existing tolerant taxa capitalising on the increase in available habitat, rather than successful colonisation by additional taxa. This work highlights the potential of small-scale, short-term habitat additions as a restoration tool. This approach facilitates evaluation of restoration potential, informing design and implementation of more permanent restoration measures in future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing online availability of biodiversity data and advances in ecological modeling have led to a proliferation of open‐source modeling tools. In particular, R packages for species distribution modeling continue to multiply without guidance on how they can be employed together, resulting in high fidelity of researchers to one or several packages. Here, we assess the wide variety of software for species distribution models (SDMs) and highlight how packages can work together to diversify and expand analyses in each step of a modeling workflow. We also introduce the new R package ‘sdmverse' to catalog metadata for packages, cluster them based on their methodological functions, and visualize their relationships. To demonstrate how pluralism of software use helps improve SDM workflows, we provide three extensive and fully documented analyses that utilize tools for modeling and visualization from multiple packages, then score these tutorials according to recent methodological standards. We end by identifying gaps in the capabilities of current tools and highlighting outstanding challenges in the development of software for SDMs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When healthy, Ostrea edulis populations are capable of creating remarkable biogenic reefs, providing a unique habitat for marine biodiversity. At present, the biotic assemblages associated with flat oysters remain poorly defined. This study aims to analyze biodiversity associated with the reef's development stage by focusing on its epibiotic community. The studied oyster population is an old remnant bed located in the Bay of Brest, which has been undergoing restoration for 5 years. The epibiotic communities (>500 μm) of scattered individual living (n = 10) and dead (n = 9) oysters, as well as of aggregates from the ground (n = 10) and from a restored reef (n = 3) were compared. 137 species associated with oysters were found, among which 22 were specific to individual oysters and 55 to aggregates and reefs. Although reef samples formed a distinct group in the SIMPER analysis, Shannon's (between 2.25 and 2.52) and Simpson's (between 0.84 and 0.86) diversity indices remained constant for each reef development stage. Piélou's indices (between 0.71 and 0.80) were significantly lower for aggregates displaying a less evenly distributed community. Mean abundance and species richness per sample were higher for aggregated structures. However, when standardized to abundance per centimeter square of shell surface, both parameters were significantly higher for individual oysters. Therefore, while reefs may support a higher species richness at a larger spatial scale, at a smaller scale, single oysters have a higher species richness per unit area of shell. Seemingly, despite the poor state of their remnant populations, flat oysters are still hosting important macrofaunal biodiversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Acoustic communication plays a prominent role in various ecological and evolutionary processes involving social interactions. The properties of acoustic signals are thought to be influenced not only by the interaction between signaller and receiver but also by the acoustic characteristics of the environment through which the signal is transmitted. This conjecture forms the core of the so‐called “acoustic adaptation hypothesis” (AAH), which posits that vegetation structure affects frequency and temporal parameters of acoustic signals emitted by a signaller as a function of their acoustic degradation properties. Specifically, animals in densely vegetated “closed habitats” are expected to produce longer acoustic signals with lower repetition rates and lower frequencies (minimum, mean, maximum, and peak) compared to those inhabiting less‐vegetated “open habitats”. To date, this hypothesis has received mixed results, with the level of support depending on the taxonomic group and the methodology used. We conducted a systematic literature search of empirical studies testing for an effect of vegetation structure on acoustic signalling and assessed the generality of the AAH using a meta‐analytic approach based on 371 effect sizes from 75 studies and 57 taxa encompassing birds, mammals and amphibians. Overall, our results do not provide consistent support for the AAH, neither in within‐species comparisons (suggesting no overall phenotypically plastic response of acoustic signalling to vegetation structure) nor in among‐species comparisons (suggesting no overall evolutionary response). However, when considering birds only, we found weak support for the AAH in within‐species comparisons, which was mainly driven by studies that measured frequency bandwidth, suggesting that this variable may exhibit a phenotypically plastic response to vegetation structure. For among‐species comparisons in birds, we also found support for the AAH, but this effect was not significant after excluding comparative studies that did not account for phylogenetic non‐independence. Collectively, our synthesis does not support a universal role of vegetation structure in the evolution of acoustic communication. We highlight the need for more empirical work on currently under‐studied taxa such as amphibians, mammals, and insects. Furthermore, we propose a framework for future research on the AAH. We specifically advocate for a more detailed and quantitative characterisation of habitats to identify frequencies with the highest detection probability and to determine if frequencies with greater detection distances are preferentially used. Finally, we stress that empirical tests of the AAH should focus on signals that are selected for increased transmission distance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Habitat fragmentation is often assumed to negatively impact species diversity because smaller, more isolated populations on smaller habitat patches are at a higher extinction risk. However, some empirical and theoretical studies suggest that landscapes with numerous small habitat patches may support higher species richness, although the circumstances remain elusive. We used an agent-based metacommunity model to investigate this and simulate landscapes of the same total area but diverse patch sizes. Our model, as generic and unbiased by specific assumptions as possible, aimed to explore which circumstances may be more conducive to supporting higher biodiversity. To this end, most parameters and behaviors were random. The model included generalized species traits, dispersal, and interactions to explore species richness dynamics in fragmented landscapes of distinct patch sizes. Our results show that landscapes with many small patches maintain higher species richness than those with fewer large patches. Moreover, the relationship between patch connectivity and species richness is more pronounced in landscapes with smaller patches. High connectivity in these landscapes may support species diversity by preventing local extinctions and facilitating recolonization. In contrast, connectivity is less significant in large-patch landscapes, where generalist species dominate. The findings highlight the complex interplay between patch size quality, connectivity, species traits, and diverse interactions among species in determining species richness. We suggest the patterns produced by the model represent null predictions and may be useful as a reference for a diversity of more specialized questions and predictions. These insights may also have specific implications for conservation strategies, suggesting that maintaining a mosaic of small, well-connected patches could enhance biodiversity in fragmented landscapes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Variations in the size and shape of the eye have been observed in many species of fish. As eye size is positively related to visual acuity, larger eyes should favour foraging and detection of predators.However, few studies have examined the variation in eye morphology in relation to the complexity of lake conditions, including environmental perturbation and spatial variation in predation and competition. Such tests are especially important as the degrading of the visual climate is expected due to climate change, where browning, turbidity and variations in structural complexity should set different demands for visual acuity of foraging fish under predation risk.In this study, we tested the variation of the eye size among 667 individuals of an aquatic predator perch, Perca fluviatilis, from littoral and pelagic habitats of 14 lakes. We used Secchi depth to assess the effects of the visual climate of our lake systems, as fish foraging is highly related to visual conditions, and studied eye size variation in relation to the contribution of the pelagic resources to an individual's diet and the risk of predation.Secchi depth, the pelagic contribution to the diet and the percentage of piscivores had significant effects on eye size.These variable outcomes suggest that the lake environment in terms of visual climate, predation landscape and diet are major factors of eye size variation in this generalist predator. As many fish species trade off foraging against predation risk, future studies will show whether the complexity of intra‐ and interspecific interactions contribute to the variation in eye size in freshwater fish. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article challenges traditional views on pronghorn habitat by highlighting the use of high-elevation summer ranges in the Carter Mountain area of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem in Wyoming. Through GPS tracking, researchers found that some pronghorn migrate to alpine meadows and plateaus above 3000m, a behavior previously considered anomalous. The study raises questions about the processes that generate and maintain diversity in animal movement tactics, emphasizing the need for further research to understand the implications of pronghorn using high-elevation habitats. The article acknowledges the Indigenous communities with cultural and spiritual ties to the region, respecting their connection to the land. [Extracted from the article]

Habitat loss due to wildfire is an increasing problem internationally for threatened animal species, particularly tree-dependent and arboreal animals. The koala (Phascolartos cinereus) is endangered in most of its range, and large areas of forest were burnt by widespread wildfires in Australia in 2019/2020, mostly areas dominated by eucalypts, which provide koala habitats. We studied the impact of fire and three subsequent years of recovery on a property in South-East Queensland, Australia. A classified Differenced Normalised Burn Ratio (dNBR) calculated from pre- and post-burn Sentinel-2 scenes encompassing the local study area was used to assess regional impact of fire on koala-habitat forest types. The geometrically structured composite burn index (GeoCBI), a field-based assessment, was used to classify fire severity impact. To detect lower levels of forest recovery, a manual classification of the multitemporal dNBR was used, enabling the direct comparison of images between recovery years. In our regional study area, the most suitable koala habitat occupied only about 2%, and about 10% of that was burnt by wildfire. From the five koala habitat forest types studied, one upland type was burnt more severely and extensively than the others but recovered vigorously after the first year, reaching the same extent of recovery as the other forest types. The two alluvial forest types showed a negligible fire impact, likely due to their sheltered locations. In the second year, all the impacted forest types studied showed further, almost equal, recovery. In the third year of recovery, there was almost no detectable change and therefore no more notable vegetative growth. Our field data revealed that the dNBR can probably only measure the general vegetation present and not tree recovery via epicormic shooting and coppicing. Eucalypt foliage growth is a critical resource for the koala, so field verification seems necessary unless more-accurate remote sensing methods such as hyperspectral imagery can be implemented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustainable human exploration of the Moon will largely rely on in-situ resource utilisation, such as using regolith in habitat construction. This paper investigates the relative effectiveness of a polymer-enriched regolith brick versus a multilayer configuration of bare regolith and successive polyethylene layers as a passive shielding solution, when irradiated with Galactic Cosmic Ray (GCR) protons. Radiation–matter interactions are simulated with RayXpert® software and the dose equivalent in the ICRU sphere behind a representative habitat wall is calculated. The secondary emission of neutrons and protons from the shielding solution is studied as well. This work provides a quantitative insight into how much polymer is required to achieve a significant improvement in terms of radiation protection when compared to a bare regolith wall. At least 30–50% of polyethylene by mass is required to be added to a regolith mix to achieve a significant advantage in radiation protection capability vis-à-vis bare regolith. Multilayer solutions are far better in terms of radiation protection than the polymer-enriched regolith. For example, the thinnest polyethylene layer tested (0.78 cm), reduces the total dose equivalent by about 3.3%. Thicker polyethylene layers added behind a bare regolith brick reduce the total dose equivalent and the dose equivalent due to protons significantly. For instance, a multilayer with 23.4 cm of polyethylene reduces the total dose equivalent by 19%. The equivalent case of polymer–regolith mix (with 30% of polyethylene by mass) reduces the total dose equivalent only by 3%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Chagas disease is a neglected tropical disease caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi that is transmitted mainly by the feces of infected Triatomines. In Ecuador the main vector is Rhodnius ecuadoriensis which is distributed in several provinces of the country. More than 40% of these insects in the wild have T. cruzi as part of their intestinal microbiota. For this reason, the objective of this research was to characterize the intestinal bacterial microbiota of R. ecuadoriensis. Methods: The methodology used was based on the DNA extraction of the intestinal contents from the wild collected insects (adults and nymphs V), as well as the insects maintained at the insectary of the CISeAL. Finally, the samples were analyzed by metagenomics extensions based on the dierent selected criteria. Results: The intestinal microbiota of R. ecuadoriensis presented a marked divergence between laboratory-raised and wild collected insects. This dierence was observed in all stages and was similar between insects from Loja and Manabí. A large loss of microbial symbionts was observed in laboratory-raised insects. Discussion: This study is a crucial first step in investigating microbiota interactions and advancing new methodologie. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The collection of a dead specimen of the coral Heterocyathus cf. sulcatus on a sandy beach in southern Odisha highlights the importance of exploring offshore waters along this coast. The specimen was identified based on prominent taxonomic characters and association with coral boring worm. This genus was previously known to occur along the eastern coast of India, from the Gulf of Mannar/Palk Bay and off the Chennai coast. The presence of rocky offshore outcrops and a sandy substratum in the vicinity suggests that the specimen likely originated from that location. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The results of faecal analysis in the present study indicated no significant difference in prey items and prey occurrence between breeding and non-breeding seasons in yellow-wattled lapwings. However, Coleoptera and Araneae represented the highest and lowest prey items and prey occurrences respectively. Prey abundance significantly varied between breeding and non-breeding seasons. Uncultivated and cultivated habitat types had the highest and lowest prey abundances respectively. Jacob's index reflected that they primarily consumed arthropod larvae. Additionally, there was a positive selection for adult insects in the orders Coleoptera, Diptera and Blattodea and a negative selection for Oligochaeta, Diplopoda and Araneae. Thus, the yellow-wattled lapwings are flexible feeders, particularly in the breeding season; however, they favour uncultivated areas where food is abundant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Understanding the ecological determinants of interspecific achromatic (light‐to‐dark) plumage variation in birds is crucial yet challenging due to the complex interplay of climatic, habitat‐related, and morphological influences. This study aimed to disentangle the effects of temperature, precipitation, habitat openness, body mass and hand‐wing index (HWI, a widely used single‐parameter proxy for the extent to which a species relies on flight) on shaping achromatic plumage variation among bird species. Location: Global. Time Period: Contemporary. Major Taxa Studied: Birds. Methods: Based on data from over 8000 sessile bird species globally, we employed phylogenetic linear regressions to account for achromatic plumage colour in relation to temperature, precipitation, habitat openness, body mass and HWI, while correcting for phylogenetic non‐independence between species. Furthermore, we conducted phylogenetic path analyses to decompose direct from indirect effects. Results: We found that temperature, precipitation, habitat openness and body mass exerted separate but interactive effects on the variation in achromatic colour across species. Species inhabiting cold, wet or densely vegetated environments were darker coloured, while smaller species were lighter. Darker plumage was more strongly related to higher precipitation in colder regions for nocturnal species. For diurnal species, darker plumage was more closely associated with higher precipitation in more open habitats, whereas lighter plumage was more linked to lower mass in denser habitats. Noteworthy was the identification of a substantial correlation between achromatic colour and HWI. Diurnal species that are more aerial were lighter. Conversely, nocturnal flyers, especially females, tended to be darker. Main Conclusions: The findings highlight the multifaceted nature of plumage coloration evolution, with adaptations for thermal efficiency, crypsis, signalling, waterproofing or protection against bacteria. However, the variable relative importance of these factors among groups emphasizes the significance of each factor in different contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Malaria is an infectious disease caused by the Plasmodium parasite that lives and multiplies in human red blood cells. Babahan Hamlet was declared an area with malaria KLB (Extraordinary Event), after 25 residents were confirmed positive for malaria in August 2022. Based on Epidemiological Research (PE) data, in Babahan Hamlet there are 10 mosquito breeding habitat points. The habitat has characteristics that can support the life of Anopheles sp mosquito larvae such as water temperature, the presence of sunlight, water depth, turbidity, type of flow, water pH, the presence of aquatic vegetation and aquatic animals. Objective: The purpose of this study is to find out the description of the characteristics of the breeding habitat of Anopheles sp mosquitoes in Babahan Hamlet and then compare it with the criteria of the waters as a malaria vector habitat based on the literature from previous related studies. Method: This study is an observational research with a quantitative descriptive method carried out during September – October 2022 in Babahan Hamlet, Sidomulyo Village, Purworejo District, Purworejo Regency Results: The results showed that the characteristics of mosquito breeding habitats in Babahan Hamlet, namely water temperature, depth, turbidity, water pH, and the presence of aquatic vegetation met the criteria of waters that could be a habitat for malaria vectors. Conclusion: The main difference between mosquito breeding habitats with Anopheles sp larvae and those without Anopheles sp larvae is in the physical characteristics, namely the type of water flow. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abies nephrolepis Nature Reserve has complex habitats and rich species diversity but lacks systematic ecological surveys. We focused on Orchid in Abies nephrolepis Nature Reserve, investigated and analyzed Orchid diversity and changes in community structure according to the characteristics of the alpine valleys in the study area, in terms of altitude gradient and habitat type, using the sample line method and the quadrat method. The results showed that 11 genera and 13 species of Orchidaceae were found in the survey, among which the species richness of Malaxis monophyllos was the highest, Neottia puberula was the second highest, and the species richness of Tulotis ussuriensis was the lowest, and the species with relative plurality ≥ 10% were Malaxis monophyllos (51.69%), Neottia puberula (14.77%), and Cypripedium guttatum (11.15%). The results of diversity analysis showed that Orchidaceae species were rich and the diversity index were the highest in the middle altitude area of 1950–2250 m; the distribution of Orchidaceae in the low altitude area was obviously clustered, and the similarity with the high altitude area was low. With the increase in altitude, the number of species showed an increase and then a decrease, showing a single‐peak state, which was in line with the theory of "Intermediate altitude expansion hypothesis". The species and number of Orchidaceae in different habitats of Abies nephrolepis Nature Reserve also varied considerably, with Shannon‐Wiener diversity index being the highest in EV4 (Abies nephrolepis + Picea meyeri + Picea wilsonii + Larix gmelinii var. principis‐rupprechtii—Lonicera hispida—Carex lanceolata community) and EV5, and the smallest in EV1 habitats, Pielow evenness index being the highest in EV5 habitats and the lowest in EV1 habitats, and Simpson's index being the highest in EV5 habitats and the lowest in EV1 habitats. This study provides a scientific basis for strengthening regional monitoring of species diversity and protecting biodiversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We examine the distribution, habitat association, morphometrics, meristics, and reproductive attributes of Amblyraja radiata over much of its Canadian range, Grand Banks to Arctic waters. It is distributed widely on the shelf and upper slope between 30 and 1288 m, reaching highest density in 100–400 m and occupying most available temperatures, between −1.0 and 8.8 °C, but concentrating in 1.6–3.5 °C. The maximum (and average) size decreases with increasing latitude in a continuum from 102 cm (55 cm) in the south, to 45 cm (20 cm) in the north. The proportion of mature fish increases with depth (40% at 0–50 m to 80% at 1150–1200 m) and temperature (35% at <0 °C to 55% at 5+ °C). The size at maturity decreases south to north; size at onset of maturity in males—43 (south) to 19 (north) cm, in females—49 to 23 cm; length at 50% maturity in males—74 to 44 cm, in females—66 to 40 cm. A. radiata maturity is also reflected in the rapid increase in the size of secondary sexual characteristics. Some meristics were consistent over the entire study area (spines near the spiracles and shoulders) while others varied with latitude (teeth rows, midline spines, spines near the eyes, % dorsal fins joined, spines between dorsal fins) or by fish length/maturity; the tail length/total length as a proportion of total length decreased during Stage 1 then increased at onset of maturity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Characterization of fungal spider pathogens lags far behind their insect counterparts. In addition, little to nothing is known concerning the ecological reservoir and/or fungal entomopathogen community surrounding infection sites. Five infected spider cadavers were identified in the neo-tropical climate of north-central Florida, USA, from three of which viable cultures were obtained. Multi-locus molecular phylogenetic and morphological characterization identified one isolate as a new Gibellula species, here named, Gibellula floridensis, and the other isolates highly similar to Parengyodontium album. The fungal entomopathogen community surrounding infected spiders was sampled at different habitats/trophic levels, including soil, leaf litter, leaf, and twig, and analyzed using ITS amplicon sequencing. These data revealed broad but differential distribution of insect-pathogenic fungi between habitats and variation between sites, with members of genera belonging to Metarhizium and Metacordyceps from Clavicipitaceae, Purpureocillium and Polycephalomyces from Ophiocordyceps, and Akanthomyces and Simplicillium from Cordycipitaceae predominating. However, no sequences corresponding to Gibellula or Parengyodontium, even at the genera levels, could be detected. Potential explanations for these findings are discussed. These data highlight novel discovery of fungal spider pathogens and open the broader question regarding the environmental distribution and ecological niches of such host-specific pathogens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Gymnopus plays a significant role in ecological systems, with certain species holding potential as food or medicinal resources. However, the species diversity of Gymnopus in China remains unclear. In recent years, more than one thousand Gymnopus specimens have been collected across China. Thus, through the integration of ecological evidence, detailed morphological studies, and phylogenetic analysis using a multiloci dataset of ITS + nLSU + tef1-ɑ, four new species—Gymnopus longistipes, Gymnopus striatipileatus, Gymnopus viridiscus, and Gymnopus spadiceus—have been differentiated from known species. Gymnopus similis has been newly documented from Jiangxi Province, China. Detailed descriptions and vivid illustrations have been provided based on the newly collected specimens, along with comparisons to closely related species. Additionally, a key to the reported species of Gymnopus s.l. from East China has been included. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Female black soldier flies perch on artificial plants much more often than males, especially early in the day and early in their reproductive lives, times when males are competing with one another in aerial swarms. Artificial perches are implemented by many companies that mass-rear the black soldier fly (BSF), to emulate a natural breeding environment or provide additional surface area for flies to rest; however, basic information about perching behavior is lacking. This experiment tested the effect of adding 0.00, 0.04, 0.26, or 0.34 m2 of surface area to 0.93 m3 cages, each supplied with 90 male and 90 female adults. Female thoraxes marked with acrylic paint, and the number of perching flies of each sex were recorded over 6 d. A time-series analysis revealed the following: (a) females utilized perches 1.42 times more often than males across two trials; (b) especially in the morning where the difference could be as high as 2.56 times as great; (c) this decreased to 0.20–1.57 times more females than males by 1600 h; and (d) this cyclical pattern repeated each day throughout the week with a decreasing female-bias, starting from 2.41-times more females on day 1, which fell to 0.88–1.98-times more females than males on day 6. These dynamics are likely due to the presence of male flies engaging in aerial contests near ultraviolet lamps required for mating, especially during the early hours and early adulthood, aligning with and expanding prior knowledge of black soldier fly mating behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knowing the population and habitat conditions of Timor Deer (Rusa timorensis), which is a protected animal, is very important to ensure the survival of this species. One of the most important habitats for Timor Deer is Menipo Nature Park, which must be well managed to support the welfare and sustainability of the species. Good management includes protection of natural habitats, regular population monitoring, and sustainable conservation efforts so that Timor Deer can survive in their natural environment. The purpose of this study was to estimate the population and habitat conditions of Timor deer in Menipo. The method used is a combination of point and path, while the habitat is described descriptively. From the results of research on the 571 ha habitat area, the population of timor deer was estimated to be 399 individuals with a population range of 366 to 432 individuals at the 95% confidence interval with a population density of 1.14 individuals per hectare. The population structure showed an inverted pyramid, indicating less than optimal conditions in terms of population age distribution. The sex ratio was 2:5 for juveniles, 2:3 for adults, and 1:1 for the old age group. This sex ratio is not good for the timor deer population as 1:5 is good. The most common type of grass for deer is timor grass (Ischaemum timorensis). Other grass species are Microlaena stipoides, Paspalum scrobiculatum, Imperata cylindrical, and Desmodium capitulum shrub. However, some areas of this habitat are covered by alien invasive species, Cromolaena odorata, which needs to be eradicated to maintain food availability. Mangrove parts eaten by Timor deer (Rusa timorensis) include young leaves, young stems, and exfoliated bark. Mangrove species commonly found as food for deer include Rhizophora mucronata, Bruguiera parviflora, and Sonneratia alba. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

L'interaction entre une personne avec un trouble du spectre autistique (TSA) et son environnement peut déterminer de nombreux défis physiques, cognitifs et comportementaux. L' evidence-based design ou conception architecturale fondée sur des données probantes représente un moyen d'utiliser la recherche pour examiner la relation entre la conception et les soins de santé et l'utiliser pour obtenir un impact positif sur la santé et le bien-être des patients. Une revue de la littérature a été conduite de manière multidisciplinaire (cliniciens et architectes) et complété par une étude ethnographique ciblé sur les personnes avec TSA et déficience intellectuelle comportements-défis. Nous avons colligé 22 articles dont 11 articles originaux et seulement 5 concernant spécifiquement les personnes avec autismes et comportements-défis. Les troubles du comportement ou comportements-défis sont principalement influencés par la dimension restrictive de l'environnement et ses caractéristiques sensorielles. Pour prendre en compte les besoins spécifiques des personnes avec TSA l'architecture doit distinguer cinq aspects : (1) l'interaction-contact entre la personne avec TSA et son espace de vie ; (2) l'intelligibilité de l'espace de vie (ex. prévisibilité et routine du quotidien) ; (3) les possibilités de modulation entre le besoin et/ou l'évitement des interactions sociales dans ses espaces de vie ; (4) l'équilibre entre bien-être et sécurité ; (5) les difficultés sensorielles et les aménagements adaptés (ex. espaces de retrait ou salles sensorielles, acoustique, éclairage, température). L'architecture, en tant que discipline, utilise les meilleures pratiques de conception pour concevoir des environnements personnalisés, des espaces engageants, répondant aux besoins spécifiques des individus avec autisme, les aidant à faire face à leur environnement, et encourageant leur indépendance, dans l'espoir de prévenir l'apparition de certains troubles graves du comportement pour améliorer la qualité de vie du sujet. Plus de recherche dans le domaine devraient être conduites. The interaction between individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and their environment can result in numerous physical, cognitive and behavioral challenges. Evidence-based design is a means to examine the relationship between design and care and use it to achieve a positive impact on patients' health and well-being. A literature review was conducted in a multidisciplinary manner (clinicians and architects) and complemented by ethnographic doctoral research focused on people with ASD, ID, and challenging behaviours. We found 22 articles including 11 original research but only five specifically on individuals with ASD and challenging behaviours. Behavioural disorders or challenging behaviours are mainly influenced by the restrictive dimension of the environment and its sensory characteristics. To take into account the specific needs of people with ASD, interior architecture must distinguish five aspects: (1) interaction-contact between the person with ASD and his or her living space; (2) the intelligibility of the living space (e.g. predictability and routine of daily life); (3) the possibility of modulation between the need and/or avoidance of social interaction in the living space; (4) the balance between well-being and safety; (5) sensory difficulties and adapted facilities (e.g. retreat areas or sensory rooms, acoustics, lighting, temperature). Architecture, as a discipline, uses best design practices to create individualized environments, engaging spaces that fit the specific needs of individuals with autism, helping them to deal with their environment, and encouraging their independence in the hope of preventing the emergence of some severe behavioral disorders and improving the individual's quality of life. More research should be conducted on this topic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This account presents information on all aspects of the biology of Trapa natans L. (water caltrop and water chestnut) that are relevant to understanding its ecological characteristics and behaviour. The main topics are presented within the standard framework of the International Biological Flora: distribution, habitat, communities, responses to biotic factors, responses to environment, structure and physiology, phenology, floral and seed characters, herbivores and disease, history, conservation and global heterogeneity.The water caltrop is an annual herbaceous hydrophyte rooted in the sediment of water bodies, forming flexuous underwater stems that create a buoyant, light‐capturing leaf rosette at the water surface. The submerged stem nodes additionally bear linear leaves. These are replaced by photosynthetically active, pinnately branched structures and unbranched adventitious roots early on, which complement previously established roots on the hypocotyl, altogether facilitating anchorage, nutrient and water absorption, aeration and capture of subsurface irradiance. Solitary flowers pollinated primarily through autogamy and incidentally through entomophily give rise to a fully developed edible single‐seeded drupe with two to four barbed horns. Fruits are dispersed with the help of hydrochory, epizoochory and anthropochory.Throughout its lowland, global temperate, subtropical and tropical distribution in Eurasia and Africa, the thermophilic macrophyte is found in shallow, sun‐exposed, nutrient‐rich freshwater bodies with low‐velocity flows and steady water levels. These offer slightly acidic to mildly basic conditions. The accompanying soft substrate is usually characterized by a high organic matter content. Regularly co‐occurring with other macrophytes, some of which are also of conservation concern, such as those in rare stands of the association Trapetum natantis in Europe, the water caltrop has at times been outcompeted, though it may form monodominant stands, due to several competitive features.Formerly widespread in Europe, T. natans is today recognized as a rare, strictly protected macrophyte. It has been introduced to Australia and North America; on the latter continent, its naturalization, spread and aggressive overgrowth have led to extensive control efforts. Having been used as a crop since Neolithic times, it is still exploited in Asia for means of food production, phytoremediation, ornamental purposes, medication and alternative uses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

North American bat populations have experienced precipitous declines since the introduction of white-nose syndrome (WNS). Evidence that bats have responded to WNS by altering their winter habitat selection has been used to manipulate underground environments and improve winter survival. However, such management practices must be based on local data, which do not exist for all regions. Our goal was to identify determinants of winter habitat use for 3 bat species with varying susceptibility to WNS. To do so, we conducted 188 surveys of 129 potential hibernacula over 3 winters. We found that the range of winter temperatures and presence of water were important for the Little Brown Myotis (Myotis lucifugus) and Tricolored Bat (Perimyotis subflavus), species that are highly susceptible to WNS. Counts of both species were greater in sites with a narrow (<5 °C) temperature range and where streams or water bodies >25 m2 were present. In addition, we found larger groups of Little Brown Myotis in abandoned railroad tunnels than in caves. Winter counts of these species increased over time at 3 railroad tunnels that were surveyed for 3 consecutive winters, whereas populations were extirpated from historically important caves and mines. Counts of Big Brown Bats (Eptesicus fuscus), which are less susceptible to WNS, were also greater in hibernacula with water bodies. However, average winter temperature also helped predict counts of Big Brown Bats. This species had a curvilinear response to temperature, with most bats found at hibernacula with average winter temperatures of 4 to 6 °C, and fewer bats observed at warmer and colder conditions. These data show that focusing solely on historically important hibernacula may fail to achieve conservation goals for the Little Brown Myotis and Tricolored Bat in our region, and suggest that anthropogenic structures can provide habitat for remnant populations of imperiled bat species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Vegetation classification improve our knowledge and understanding of complex ecosystems. • Vegetation classification, description and mapping method for large areas (> 90 000 hectares). • The use of Sentinel-2 and topo-morphological data in conjunction with limited floristic surveys (new approach) resulted in an accurate classification, description and vegetation map of the Karoo National Park. • A total of 12 major plant communities and two sub-communities that are distinctly linked to various abiotic factors were identified, described and mapped for the Karoo National Park. The higher-lying rocky steep midslopes as well as the valley bottomland areas had the highest diversity and species richness. This study aimed at classifying, mapping and describing the plant communities of the Karoo National Park using floristic surveys in conjunction with Sentinel-2 and topo-morphological data. Karoo National Park, Western Cape, South Africa. The vegetation of the Karoo National Park was delineated into homogenous physiognomic-physiographic units using Sentinel-2 images. A total of 128 survey plots (100 m2 each) were surveyed within the different homogeneous units during the period 2016 to 2020. Within each survey plot, all rooted species were identified and their cover abundance estimated. Each plot was photographed and its geolocation recorded. The floristic data were captured using the Braun Blanquet Personal Computer suite and exported to the JUICE Software programme. A modified TWINSPAN classification was done to derive a first tabled synopsis of the plant communities. The different plant communities were subsequently classified and described according to their diagnostic and dominant species gleaned from the synoptic table. Species richness was determined by counting the number of different species per plant community while the Shannon–Wiener Index and Rich-Gini–Simpson Index of diversity (D) were used to derive indices of species diversity per plant community. 12 major communities and two sub-communities that are distinctly linked to various abiotic factors were identified, described and mapped. The higher-lying rocky steep midslopes as well as the valley bottomland areas had the highest diversity and species richness. This study proves the efficacy of using Sentinel-2 and topo-morphological data in classification, description and mapping vegetation of extensive natural areas. The vegetation map and classification of plant communities provide a baseline to inform management decisions. Taxonomic reference: SA-Plant Checklist-2019–2020, South African National Biodiversity Institute, 2020, Botanical Database of Southern Africa (BODATSA) (http://posa.sanbi.org/) [accessed January 2022]. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

Freshwater habitats and species have been lost because of river constructions, particularly regarding hydropower plants. Such losses may be mitigated, for example, by providing compensatory habitats. We present a case which had the objective to promote reproduction of a key species. Imatra City Brook in Finland was constructed in 2014 at a hydropower dam as a new reproduction area for brown trout (Salmo trutta L.). In the planning phase, the objective was to maximize suitable habitat types and areas with limited discharge. Monitoring shows promising densities of brown trout juveniles within only three years, inspiring hope for high smolt production in the main river. The increase in total macroinvertebrate abundances and taxa numbers in the second year of monitoring showed that species richness was comparable to that in natural rivers, and the brook was in a good ecological state. This case confirms the expected high potential of spawning and rearing channels to improve migratory fish stocks and compensate for lost habitats in constructed rivers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

This study was carried out to elucidate the causes of massive outbreaks of Aurelia coerulea in Geoje Bay, Korea, from November 2022 to October 2023. Adult medusae consistently spawn with planulae, and the populations of A. coerulea in Geoje Bay could be categorized into current-year and overwintering populations. The current-year population began with the emergence of ephyrae in February and grew until October, while the overwintering population comprised a mixture of surviving current-year population and additional individuals that joined during the warm season. The size of the planulae are significantly larger than the annual average during the cold season. These results appear to be the energy accumulation of planulae for polyp formation under low water temperatures. Planulae form polyps within a temperature range of 5–25 °C, suggesting the possibility of year-round polyp recruitment. In Geoje Bay, the highest appearance rate of A. coerulea was in April (8.71 ± 12.5 ind. m−3), with ephyrae experiencing higher growth rates up to the young medusa stage. However, from April, a decline in zooplankton biomass resulted in reduced growth rates in adults, indicating that jellyfish growth was primarily regulated by food availability. Additionally, submersed oyster shells in oyster farms served as the main habitat for jellyfish polyps. A. coerulea populations were also characterized by the continuous spawning of planulae throughout the year. In conclusion, this study suggests that stable polyp habitats, abundant food supply during the initial developmental period of the population, and suitable ranges of water temperature were significant factors inducing the massive outbreak of A. coerulea in Geoje Bay, Korea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global mapping of forest height is an extremely important task for estimating habitat quality and modeling biodiversity. Recently, three global canopy height maps have been released, the global forest canopy height map (GFCH), the high‐resolution canopy height model of the Earth (HRCH), and the global map of tree canopy height (GMTCH). Here, we assessed their accuracy and usability for biodiversity modeling. We examined their accuracy by comparing them with the reference canopy height models derived from airborne laser scanning (ALS). Our results show considerable differences between the evaluated maps. The root mean square error ranged between 10 and 18 m for GFCH, 9–11 m for HRCH, and 10–17 m for GMTCH, respectively. GFCH and GMTCH consistently underestimated the height of all canopies regardless of their height, while HRCH tended to overestimate the height of low canopies and underestimate tall canopies. Biodiversity models using predicted global canopy height maps as input data are sufficient for estimating simple relationships between species occurrence and canopy height, but their use leads to a considerable decrease in the discrimination ability of the models and to mischaracterization of species niches where derived indices (e.g., canopy height heterogeneity) are concerned. We showed that canopy height heterogeneity is considerably underestimated in the evaluated global canopy height maps. We urge that for temperate areas rich in ALS data, activities should concentrate on harmonizing ALS canopy height maps rather than relying on modeled global products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Habitat loss and encroachment lead to conservation challenges such as human-elephant conflicts (HEC). Understanding the patterns and predictors of HEC is crucial to identify priority areas for mitigation efforts. Accordingly, a study was conducted across the forest divisions of Tamil Nadu, India. We collected HEC data for 2016–2021 from the forest department compensation database maintained in forest divisions. Our analysis encompassed division-wise, crop-wise, conflict-wise assessments, temporal analysis and conflict risk modelling (CRM). We divided the forest divisions into 4 different zones based on the variables that likely influence HEC. The results revealed that conflict frequency was higher in the forest range Denkankottai, located in the Hosur division, which falls under Zone 1. HEC was higher from November to January in correspondence with the cropping season. Elephants primarily damaged millet (ragi) (Eleusine coracana), with n = 2,182, particularly during November and December, followed by banana (Musa genus) with n = 1,690. The CRM predicts that the southwest and northwest regions of Tamil Nādu had higher conflict risks and area coverage of medium and high conflict risk zones as 17,025 km2 and 3521 km2, respectively. The CRM revealed that the most significant variables in predicting conflict risk are the annual mean temperature, human modification index, and digital elevation model. Areas with higher conflict risk were closer to forest cover, croplands, roads, and water bodies. These regions typically had lower terrain ruggedness, higher human modification, lower temperatures, and dense vegetation. The present study's findings underscore the need for a comprehensive and multidimensional approach to managing HEC, which is crucial for fostering coexistence between humans and elephants in the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peri-urban landscapes are transitional areas between urban and rural areas that are constantly changing. They are characterised by land use mixes and land cover changes, leading to significant changes in wildlife habitats. These changes, combined with an increasing anthropogenic presence, turn peri-urban landscapes into arenas of intensified human-wildlife interactions. In many scientifically documented cases, scientists are focusing on negative interactions. Furthermore, research about appropriate policy instruments for managing human-wildlife interactions is rare. This study focused on case studies and their characteristics from around the world on positive, neutral, or negative interactions between humans and wildlife at local level. In addition, influencing factors of human-wildlife interactions and policy instruments for managing human-wildlife interactions in peri-urban landscapes were addressed. A survey was conducted with an international group of scientists and practitioners working in this field. The results showed that various species were involved in human-wildlife interactions in peri-urban landscapes worldwide, with mammals as being the most common taxon. Contemporary changes in land use and land cover could be identified as a significant factor for increasing human-wildlife interactions in peri-urban landscapes. It can be highlighted that a policy mix consisting mainly of social and cultural instruments in combination with legal and regulatory instruments could be most suitable to address this situation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background The invasion of non-native species into ecosystems is a growing human-induced problem. To control their spread and population growth, knowledge is needed on the factors that facilitate or impede their invasions. In animals, traits often associated with invasion success are high activity, boldness, and aggression. However, these traits also make individuals susceptible to predation, which could curb population growth. We investigated if a recent invader into the Baltic Sea, the shrimp Palaemon elegans, differs in risk-taking from a native shrimp, P. adspersus. We recorded activity, habitat choice, and response to perceived predation threat of both species. Results We found the invading shrimp to take greater risks than the native one; while the native shrimp adjusted its behaviour to habitat structure and exposure to a perceived predator, the non-native shrimp did not, and it resumed normal activity sooner after a perceived predation threat. Despite the greater risk taking by the non-native shrimp, its population has grown rapidly during the last two decades in the investigated area and is now larger than that of the native shrimp. Conclusions We discuss plausible explanations for the population growth of the invader, including the recent decline in predatory fishes that could have reduced the cost of risk-taking, and anthropogenic eutrophication that has increased food abundance could have allowed the population growth. These results stress the need to assess the optimality of the behaviours of both native and non-native species when investigating the factors that influence invasion success in human-disturbed environments.

The Moroccan High Atlas ecosystems, particularly the Geopark M’goun, face increasing threats from demographic and environmental pressures, necessitating urgent assessment. The habitat mapping is carried out using remote sensing and GIS techniques, along with fieldwork and Google Earth records. Habitat ecology is established using climate data, bioclimatic levels, vegetation levels, substrate types, and elevation data. Additionally, NDVI, change detection, and supervised classification are combined to assess habitat change. As a result, the M’goun Geopark exhibits an outstinding habitat diversity; Quercus ilex (27.53%) dominates up to 3000 m, favoring limestone and dolomites in subhumid zones, while Juniperus phoenicea (14.78%) occupies lower altitudes (up to 2000 m) and semi-arid regions. Pinus halepensis (1.38%) flourishes between 1100 and 2000 m, mainly in detrital formations and limestone, adaptable to semi-arid and subhumid bioclimates. Juniperus thurifera (1.33%) and xerophyte cushions (6.84%) thrive at high elevations in limestone terrains within subhumid cold bioclimate variants. Secondary habitats, including Chamaerops humilis, Buxus, and Euphorbia resinifera, thrive within the primary habitats. Furthermore, Juniperus thurifera and Pinus halepensis forests are severely degraded, while Quercus ilex and Juniperus phoenicea forests, though degraded, are more resilient. This funding supports conservation initiatives in Mediterranean ecosystems, addressing the urgent preservation and restoration policies.

The article is devoted to the analysis of the distribution and features of the ecological and biological confinement of Caragana arborescens Lam. in the forest parks of Yekaterinburg. Caragana plantations have been studied in 14 out of the 15 city forest parks: Kalinovskij, Zheleznodorozhnyj, Karas’ye-Ozerskij, Moskovskij, Nizhne-Isetskij, Sanatornyj, Uktusskij, Shuvakishskij, Yuzhnyj, Shartashskij, named after the Foresters of Russia, Obroshinskij, Central and South-West – on an area of 12,077 hectares based on a standard electronic database. The ontogenesis of the species and its morphological features have been studied in 10 local habitats by the example of 2 forest parks – named after the Foresters of Russia with the largest number of caragana and Uktussky with the minimum. The formation of the secondary area of caragana in the forest parks of Yekaterinburg depends on the presence of generative individuals nearby. The maximum growth area is established in the forest park named after the Foresters of Russia (98.6 ha), the minimum – in the SouthWest (0.4 ha). The area of distribution is determined by the area of plantings that have been carried out in the 1970s and 1980s, which is confirmed by our research in the forest parks. C. arborescens prefers to settle in mixed-herb (67.8 %) and berry (26.8 %) pine forests with a stand density of 0.6–0.7, being a heliosciophyte. The number of caragana trees in the habitats increases with the increase in the density of the stand from 404 to 1359 plants. When the density of the pine stand is 0.3–0.5, the amount of caragana decreases, and at 0.1–0.2 it disappears. The distribution of C. arborescens depends on the age categories and productivity of forest plantations, it grows mainly in mature pine (68.8 %) trees in high-quality (the 2nd quality class – 62.3 %) plantations. In the ontogeneisis of caragana, 2 periods and 6 agerelated conditions have been established, with the pregenirative fraction predominating. The studied habitats are normal, incomplete, but capable of self-maintenance, since under favourable conditions individuals reproduce by self-seeding. The life forms of the caragana tree are formed in open areas as an aeroxylic shrub, and in pine forests as a small tree. The Caragana arborescens introductions in the forest parks of Yekaterinburg are rare and currently pose no biological hazard to forest ecosystems.

BACKGROUND: Water resource development projects are essential for increasing agricultural productivity and ensuring food security. However, these activities require the modification of pre-existing environmental settings, which may alter mosquito larval habitat availability and seasonality. The intensive utilization of current adult vector control tools results in insecticide resistance among the main vectors. When coupled with behavioural resistances, a shift in malaria vector feeding and resting behaviours could compromise the effectiveness of the current adult vector control strategies. Thus, it is important to look for new or alternative vector control interventions for immatures to complement adult control by focusing on different larval habitats and their seasonal availability. Thus, this study investigated larval habitat seasonality and seasonal larval abundance and distribution in irrigated sugar cane plantation settings in Ethiopia. METHODS: Anopheles mosquito larval habitats were surveyed and visited twice a month for a period of 14 months. Anopheline larvae and pupae were collected, reared, and fed finely ground fish food. Adults were provided with sucrose solution and kept under standard conditions. Female Anopheles mosquitoes were identified morphologically and using a species-specific PCR assay. Environmental parameters, which include habitats physico-chemical characteristics, were assessed. Larval habitat diversity and larval abundance and distribution were determined across different seasons. RESULTS: The study revealed that Anopheles gambiae sensu lato (s.l.) was the most predominant 4197(57%) vector species, followed by Anopheles coustani complex 2388 (32.8%). Molecular analysis of sub-samples of An. gambiae s.l. resulted in Anopheles arabiensis (77.9%) and Anopheles amharicus (21.5%), and the remaining 1.1% (n = 7) sub-samples were not amplified. Physico-chemical parameters such as temperature (t = 2.22, p = 0.028), conductivity (t = 3.21, p = 0.002), dissolved oxygen (t = 7.96, p = 0.001), nitrate ion (t = 2.51, p = 0.013), and ammonium ion (t = 2.26, p = 0.025) showed a significant and direct association with mosquito larval abundance. Furthermore, mosquito larval abundance was correlated with distance to the nearest houses (r = - 0.42, p = 0.001), exposure to sunlight (r = 0.34, p = 0.001), during long and short rainy season animal hoof prints, truck tires/road puddles and rain pools were negatively correlated (r = - 0.22, p = 0.01) and types of habitat (r = - 0.20, p = 0.01). Significant habitat type productivity were observed in man-made pools (t = 3.881, P = 0.01163), rain pools, animal hoof prints, (t = - 4.332, P = 0.00749 in both short and long rainy season, whereas, during dry seasons habitat type productivity almost similar and have no significance difference. CONCLUSION: The study found that different larval habitats had variable productivity in different seasons, and that physical and physicochemical features like ammonium and nitrate, as well as the distance between larval habitats and households, are related to larval production. As a result, vector control should take into account the seasonality of Anopheles larval habitat as well as the impact of pesticide application on larval source management.

Changes in land use due to deforestation can affect the diversity, composition, and structure of fauna communities, including termites. This study aims to examine the diversity, composition, and structure of the termite community in several land uses. Land uses include natural forest, secondary forest, plantation of oil palm, and settlements in Dharmasraya District, West Sumatra Province. The research was conducted to determine the distribution of species and termite colonies in Dharmasraya District. The research method used observation on the level of habitat disturbance. The observations were conducted on 50 m x 10 m plots. One plot was split into 5 m x 5 m sub-plots, and there were 20 sub-plots in total. Termite samples collected from each plot were identified in the laboratory. This study found 14 species of termites on different land uses in Dharmasraya Regency West Sumatra Province. The level of disturbance of land use types affects the composition and structure of termites within it, especially from taxon groups and their food groups, and there are similarities in termite species composition in natural forests and secondary forests and and also similarities on termite species composition in oil palm plantations and settlements.

Background and Aim: Lymphatic filariasis (LF) is a vector-borne disease in various regions of Indonesia. The transmission dynamics within a locality are intricately linked to the presence of the pathogen (microfilaria), definitive host (humans), intermediate host (mosquitoes), reservoir, and environmental factors. The geographic landscape of Central Bengkulu Regency, which is characterized by plantations, marshlands, and forests, serves as a suitable habitat for mosquitoes. Understanding species diversity, vector behaviors, habitat characteristics, and microfilarial presence is crucial for devising effective and efficient control strategies. This study aimed to identify species diversity, assess biting patterns, characterize larval habitats, and detect microfilarial presence in mosquitoes. Materials and Methods: Mosquito collection was conducted using human landing collection (HLC) and resting collection indoors and outdoors for 6 months at a frequency of twice monthly from November 2022 to May 2023. The larvae were collected using dippers and pipettes. Adult mosquitoes and larvae were identified at the species level and analyzed using diversity indices. The measured larval bioecological parameters included physical, chemical, and biological conditions. The mosquito density obtained through HLC was calculated using the man-hour density (MHD) and man-biting rate (MBR) formulas. The presence of microfilaria was confirmed using a polymerase chain reaction. Results: A total of 808 adult mosquitoes from five genera and 18 species were captured, along with 485 larvae from four genera and eight species. The mosquito diversity was moderate. The dominant adult species included Armigeres subalbatus (44.8%), whereas Aedes albopictus (25.4%) and Ar. subalbatus (22.3%) were abundant larvae. The highest larval density was observed in natural ponds. The average MBR was three mosquitoes per person per night, with fluctuating nightly activity (mean MHD of 1.8 mosquitoes per person per hour). Larval habitats had temperatures of 25.4°C–28.7°C, illumination of 224–674 lx, and pH of 7.1–7.9, with over half being turbid and nearly two-thirds lacking predators. Microfilariae were not detected in the tested mosquitoes. Conclusion: The presence of mosquitoes, their habitat, and the high density of Ar. subalbatus contributes to the transmission of LF in Central Bengkulu Regency, Indonesia.