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Blowflies and beetles are among the invertebrate species that are attracted to dead bodies and can provide valid evidence in cases of murder or suspicious death investigation. An important consideration is the quality of the evidence which partly depends on the accurate identification of invertebrates. The morphological identification of blowflies has some limitations, especially in relation to damaged samples, or immature stages of the flies. DNA-based techniques such as the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequence analysis have been applied to overcome the shortfalls of the classical identification methods. The present study combined the use of classical and PCR methods to identify invertebrates associated with pig carrions in Nigeria. Adult invertebrates were collected on and around pig carcasses in Nigeria. A total of 416 invertebrates belonging to Diptera; Calliphoridae (n = 160), Sarcophagidae (n = 26) and Muscidae (n = 72) while Coleopterans; Dermestidae (n = 52), Histeridae (n = 63), Cleridae (n = 25) and Silphidae (n = 18) families collected from pig carrions in Nigeria were identified. The cytochrome oxidase 1 (cox1) gene from selected specimens was amplified and sequenced. Nucleotide sequence analysis and phylogenetic trees confirmed the presence of dipterans and coleopterans of forensic importance in Nigeria. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report to use the mitochondrial cox1 gene coupled with sequence analysis to identify and characterize arthropods of forensic importance in Nigeria. This study provides reliable baseline data for further use in forensic entomology within the country and other regions where these arthropod species exist. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, fluorescence microscopy has revitalized the study of invertebrate comparative morphology. Here we explore the usefulness of combining confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) and cuticular autofluorescence to examine the taxonomically challenging marine planktonic "y-larvae" (Pancrustacea: Facetotecta). To gauge the effectiveness of CLSM with autofluorescence in producing taxonomically useful images, we applied it to seven distinct y-naupliar species or morphospecies that had previously undergone scrutiny by other techniques. The specimens were part of a museum collection of glycerin-jelly slides of exuviae of last-stage y-nauplii, a key instar for studying the taxonomy of y-larvae. For Hansenocaris demodex, the level of detail obtained from a single specimen was comparable to that previously obtained by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). For Hansenocaris aquila, revisiting the original holotype specimen resulted in a dramatic increase in our understanding of the species' morphology, including taxonomically pivotal information about its spinose labrum and a digitally rotated lateral view. CLSM analyses of the other five specimens, which represented a broad spectrum of y-naupliar morphology, efficiently generated more such information. Novel observations were made concerning putative external rudiments of both the first and second maxillae in late nauplii as well as the extreme dorso-ventral flattening of some naupliar types. CLSM observation of museum slides of naupliar exuviae using cuticular autofluorescence thus shows great promise of becoming an excellent tool for studying the morphology and taxonomy of y-larvae, and we suggest that this technique might also profitably be applied to other forms of larval exuviae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hox genes encode for evolutionary conserved transcription factors that have long fascinated biologists since the observation of the first homeotic transformations in flies. Hox genes are developmental architects that instruct the formation of various and precise morphologies along the body axes in cnidarian and bilaterian species. In contrast to these highly specific developmental functions, Hox genes encode for proteins that display poorly selective DNA-binding properties in vitro. This "Hox paradox" has been partially solved with the discovery of the TALE-class cofactors, which interact with all Hox members and form versatile Hox/TALE protein complexes on DNA. Here, we describe the role of the Hox dosage as an additional molecular strategy contributing to further resolve the Hox paradox. We present several cases where the Hox dosage is involved in the formation of different morphologies in invertebrates and vertebrates, with a particular emphasis on flight appendages in insects. We also discuss how the Hox dosage could be interpreted in different types of target enhancers within the nuclear environment in vivo. Altogether our survey underlines the Hox dosage as a key mechanism for shaping Hox molecular function during development and evolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leech internal morphology has historically been examined through dissection, serial sectioning, or whole mounts, techniques that are irreversibly destructive to the specimen. Micro-computed tomography (microCT) is a powerful tool for studying the internal morphology of soft-bodied invertebrates, such as leeches, and has advantages over destructive techniques. Here, we examined the reproductive morphology of two morphologically similar and closely related species of macrobdellid leech, Macrobdella decora (n = 6) and Macrobdella mimicus (n = 7). We found the oviducts external and internal to the vagina to be longer and more convoluted in specimens of M. decora than in specimens of M. mimicus and the junction of the oviducts into the common oviduct was outside the vaginal tissue of specimens of M. decora rather than inside as in M. mimicus specimens. The ejaculatory ducts external and internal to the male terminal organ were longer and more convoluted in specimens of M. decora than in M. mimicus specimens. Measurements of the accessory organ using 2D images and volume measurements of the 3D reconstructions of the ovaries and epididymes were compared using a Student t-test to estimate significant differences between the species, although none were found. A new character, the maximum diameter of the ejaculatory duct, was measured using 2D images and was found to be significantly different between the two species (p = 0.038). Although the sample size here was low, this character could potentially be taxonomically informative at the species level for macrobdellid leeches and other arhynchobdellid leeches with similar morphology (e.g. Hirudinidae, Praobdellidae, Semiscolecidae). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hottentotta Birula, 1908 is one of the most widely distributed buthid scorpions, with more than 40 described species from Africa, across the Middle East, to India. Currently, this genus is represented by ten morphological species in Iran (H. akbarii, H. jayakari, H. juliae, H. khoozestanus, H. lorestanus, H. navidpouri, H. saulcyi, H. schach, H. sistanensis and H. zagrosensis), all of which are endemic or subendemic in Iran. The members of this genus have not been properly studied from the taxonomic point of view. A tool that could contribute to scorpions' taxonomic studies is geometric morphometry, which is defined as the fusion between geometry and biology. In this study, the size and shape variations in sternocoxal structure in Hottentotta populations have been examined using the geometric morphometric method. The goal was to analyze the isometric size and conformation in nine species of Hottentotta. 100 individuals of Hottentotta, collected from different parts of Iran during 2018-2020, were photographed. Coordinate (x, y) configurations from landmarks were registered in sternocoxal structures. Geometric morphometric analyses were performed using R language. The results clearly showed divergence in the shape and size of sternocoxal structure among the studied taxa. However, the major shape changes were associated with H. akbarii which has a larger size of sternocoxal structure and a narrower sternum, shorter coxa II-III, and longer coxa IV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Iran is a large country with diverse and unique climate and ecology; therefore, it is expected to discover an exceptional fauna with high species diversity by carefully examining the unknown areas. A few taxonomic studies have been so far conducted on the genus Pholcus in Iran. Taxonomic and preliminary phylogenetic evaluation of widespread species of the genus Pholcus from Iran is considered in the present study, based on specimens collected from northern and southwestern parts of the country. A molecular study was undertaken on some representatives of species of the Pholcus phalangioides species-group (cellar spiders) using newly designed primers with 350 bp of partial fragments of mtDNA gene, cytochrome oxidase subunit 1 (COI). These preliminary molecular data in line with morphological identifications using characters related to the copulatory organs presented a total of five distinct clades of Pholcus that four clades were contributed with formerly identified species and one represented a distinct lineage unknown for science. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A species list of spiders of the European Türkiye region based on unpublished new faunistic information and available literature is presented in this study. As a result of the studies conducted since 1875, a total of 297 species belonging to 34 families were listed from European Türkiye. Part of the list includes new species localities based on specimens collected in the region between 2013 and 2015. With the data of this study, 77 species were recorded for the first time for European Türkiye (Turkish Thrace). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The agelenid spider species Pireneitega spasskyi (Charitonav, 1946) is reported for the first time from Türkiye. The morphological characters and genital organ of the species were photographed. The locality record where the species was collected is indicated on a map. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The oribatid mite of the family Oppiidae, Graptoppia (Stenoppia) italica (Bernini, 1973) (syn.: Oppia heterotricha Bernini, 1969) is redescribed based on females collected from soil in Sistan-o Baluchestan (Southeastern Iran) and South Khorasan (Central-Eastern Iran) provinces. Detailed descriptions of the gnathosoma and legs are also provided for the first time. The original description does not reflect the characters of the pubescence of the setae (cilia), characters on the lateral side of the ano-adanal region, as well as the true length of anal and adanal setae. Through the new finding of Graptoppia italica in Iran, the number of Oribatids in the family Opiidae raised to 81 species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three species of the free-floating, colonial hydrozoans namely Physalia physalis L., Porpita porpita L. and Velella velella L., found along the coastal belt of Sri Lanka are reported here with their morphological descriptions and respective abundance. The study was conducted from March 2017 to April 2018, implementing monthly coastal surveys at 26 sampling stations along the coastal belt of Sri Lanka. The abundance of stranded colonies of those species was assessed using line transects and the specimens were identified taxonomically. Of the porpitids found in this study, V. velella was reported for the first time in Sri Lankan waters while P. porpita was re-reported trustworthy as its initial record was just a sighting. The siphonophore P. physalis was also re-reported and it always represented the lowest abundance among the stranded colonies of the three species. The highest abundance of all the species was from May to August on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka, and from November to February on the northeast coast. There was a significant size difference in colonies of each species between the two coasts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new record of genus Lasaeola Simon, 1881, Lasaeola dbari Kovblyuk, Marusik & Omelko, 2012, is identified as a new record for the Turkish araneofauna. Its morphology is briefly described and illustrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The linyphiid spider species Walckenaeria stylifrons (O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1875) is recorded for the first time from Türkiye. In this short paper, the characteristic features and photographs of Walckenaeria stylifrons from Türkiye are presented. This increases the total number of Linyphiidae recorded in Türkiye to 154 species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The gnaphosid spider species Leptopilos manolisi (Chatzaki, 2002) is reported for the first time from Türkiye. Hitherto, there is no other known species of the genus Leptopilos Levy, 2009 in the fauna of Türkiye. The new record in this study constitutes the first species of Leptopilos known from Türkiye. Morphological and genital organs of the species were photographed. The locality record where the species was collected is indicated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Clubionid spider species Clubiona golovatchi Mikhailov, 1990 is reported for the first time from Türkiye. The morphological characters and genital organ of the species were photographed. The locality record where the species was collected is indicated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species of marine Gastrotricha from the north coast of São Paulo state, Brazil, is described. Adults of Ptychostomella sebastiana sp. nov. are unique in that they possess a pair of dorsolateral "rod-like" cephalic sensory organs and subrectangular scales covering the lateral body surfaces. A cladistic analysis was performed to investigate the internal relationship of the representatives of the taxa based on morphological data. Our analysis supported the monophyly of the taxon Ptychostomella, but its internal phylogenetic relationships are not well established due to the low phylogenetic signal of morphological characters used in the present study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presence of cryptic species is fairly frequent in many invertebrate groups and even more so among invertebrates with simple morphology, such as nemerteans. Consequently, the use of molecular methods for species delimitation has become a needed tool to complement morphological analyses to better recognise such species. Nemertopsis bivittata is one example of species with subtle morphological variation, but ample geographic distribution, being a good candidate for a species complex study. Here we applied two mitochondrial genes, and 2903 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) variants in addition to morphological characters to investigate the presence of cryptic species among specimens previously identified as N. bivittata along the Brazilian Coast. To do so, specimens were collected at 15 different sites in the north-east, south-east and southern regions. Three new species of Nemertopsis are described based on morphological and molecular analyses: Nemertopsis caete sp. nov., Nemertopsis pamelaroeae sp. nov. and Nemertopsis berthalutzae sp. nov. The species N. pamelaroeae and N. berthalutzae present broad distributions from north-east to south-east; N. caete , however, is restricted to the north-east coast. This is the first study to use this combined approach in nemerteans and shows the advantages of integrating genomic markers with classical taxonomy, and applying objective approaches to delimiting species as independently evolving entities. Nemertopsis bivittata is a nemertean with subtle morphological variation resulting in an unsettled taxonomic history.We use morphology, two mitochondrial genes and Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNPs) markers to investigate this complex in Brazil, revealing that it comprises three species. The species N. pamelaroeae and N. berthalutzae present broad distribution from north-east to south-east; N. caete , however, is restricted to the north-east coast. This study shows the advantages of integrating genomic markers with classical taxonomy to better resolve intricate species complexes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Claus Nielsen, a renowned zoologist, recently passed away at the age of 85. He was a highly respected expert in marine invertebrates, particularly ciliary larvae and their evolutionary origins. Nielsen's book, "Animal Evolution: Interrelationships of the Living Phyla," published in 1995, was a widely influential textbook in the field. He received numerous honors and served on various academic committees. Nielsen was also known for his inspiring teaching and his love for marine organisms. His contributions to the field will be greatly missed. [Extracted from the article]

Aging is characterized by a decline in neuronal function in all animal species investigated so far. Functional changes are accompanied by and may be in part caused by, structurally visible degenerative changes in neurons. In the mammalian brain, normal aging shows abnormalities in dendrites and axons, as well as ultrastructural changes in synapses, rather than global neuron loss. The analysis of the structural features of aging neurons, as well as their causal link to molecular mechanisms on the one hand, and the functional decline on the other hand is crucial in order to understand the aging process in the brain. Invertebrate model organisms like Drosophila and C. elegans offer the opportunity to apply a forward genetic approach to the analysis of aging. In the present review, we aim to summarize findings concerning abnormalities in morphology and ultrastructure in invertebrate brains during normal aging and compare them to what is known for the mammalian brain. It becomes clear that despite of their considerably shorter life span, invertebrates display several age-related changes very similar to the mammalian condition, including the retraction of dendritic and axonal branches at specific locations, changes in synaptic density and increased accumulation of presynaptic protein complexes. We anticipate that continued research efforts in invertebrate systems will significantly contribute to reveal (and possibly manipulate) the molecular/cellular pathways leading to neuronal aging in the mammalian brain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kristianstads Vattenrike Biosphere Reserve [KVBR] is a UNESCO designated area of Sweden possessing high biological value. Although several studies on tardigrades inhabiting Sweden have been performed, the KVBR area has been neglected. The current study investigates the tardigrade fauna of five areas of the biosphere reserve and includes 34 samples of different substrates analysed quantitatively and qualitatively. In total, 33 species of tardigrades were found in the samples, including 22 new records for the Skåne region, 15 new records for Sweden, and four species new to science. Mesobiotus emiliae sp. nov., Xerobiotus gretae sp. nov., Itaquascon magnussoni sp. nov., and Thulinius gustavi sp. nov. were described with an integrative approach (when possible) using morphological characters (light, electron scanning, and confocal laser scanning microscopies) and molecular markers (ITS2, 18S, 28S, cox1). A new protocol to increase morphological data was developed recovering mounted specimens within old slides for SEM analysis. Emended diagnoses for the genus Itaquascon and the transfer of Platicrista itaquasconoide to the genus Meplitumen are proposed. This study enriches the knowledge of the tardigrade biodiversity both within the KVBR and in Sweden and contributes to the rapidly increasing number of tardigrade species reported worldwide. The 33 species identified in the KVBR area represents 28% of all water bear species found in Sweden so far. The restricted study areas and limited number of samples collected suggests that the KVBR is very rich of tardigrades. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although species delimitation is often controversial, emerging DNA-based and classical morphology-based methods are rarely compared using large-scale samplings, even less in the case of widely distributed species that have distant, allopatric populations. In the current study, we examined species boundaries within two wolf spider species of the genus Pardosa (Araneae, Lycosidae), P. riparia and P. palustris. Wolf spiders constitute an excellent model for testing the relevance of traditional vs. modern methods in species and population delimitation because several closely related species are distributed over cross-continental geographic ranges. Allopatric populations of the two Pardosa species were sampled across Europe to Far East Russia (latitudinal range > 150°) and several dozen individuals were studied using morphological characters (morphometry of three measures for both sexes, plus five in males only and two in females only), DNA barcoding (COI sequencing) and double-digest restriction site associated DNA sequencing (ddRADseq). The results obtained allow for changing the taxonomic status of two Far East Russian populations to subspecies and ddRADseq proved to be a powerful tool for taxonomic research despite scarce sampling and inherent subjectivity of species delimitation in allopatry. Overall, this study pleads for both multi-criteria and more population-based studies in taxonomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although aquatic macroinvertebrates and freshwater fishes are important indicators for freshwater quality assessments, the morphological identification to species-level is often impossible and thus especially in many invertebrate taxa not mandatory during Water Framework Directive monitoring, a pragmatism that potentially leads to information loss. Here, we focus on the freshwater fauna of the River Sieg (Germany) to test congruence and additional value in taxa detection and taxonomic resolution of DNA barcoding vs. morphology-based identification in monitoring routines. Prior generated morphological identifications of juvenile fishes and aquatic macroinvertebrates were directly compared to species assignments using the identification engine of the Barcode of Life Data System. In 18% of the invertebrates morphology allowed only assignments to higher systematic entities, but DNA barcoding lead to species-level assignment. Dissimilarities between the two approaches occurred in 7% of the invertebrates and in 1% of the fishes. The 18 fish species were assigned to 20 molecular barcode index numbers, the 104 aquatic invertebrate taxa to 113 molecular entities. Although the cost-benefit analysis of both methods showed that DNA barcoding is still more expensive (5.30–8.60€ per sample) and time consuming (12.5h), the results emphasize the potential to increase taxonomic resolution and gain a more complete profile of biodiversity, especially in invertebrates. The provided reference DNA barcodes help building the foundation for metabarcoding approaches, which provide faster sample processing and more cost-efficient ecological status determination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reproductive traits are some of the fastest diverging characters and can serve as reproductive barriers. The free-living flatworm Macrostomum lignano, and its congener M. janickei are closely related, but differ substantially in their male intromittent organ (stylet) morphology. Here, we examine whether these morphological differences are accompanied by differences in behavioural traits, and whether these could represent barriers to successful mating and hybridization between the two species. Our data shows that the two species differ in many aspects of their mating behaviour. Despite these differences, the species mate readily with each other in heterospecific pairings. Although both species have similar fecundity in conspecific pairings, the heterospecific pairings revealed clear postmating barriers, as few heterospecific pairings produced F1 hybrids. These hybrids had a stylet morphology that was intermediate between that of the parental species, and they were fertile. Finally, using a mate choice experiment, we show that the nearly two-fold higher mating rate of M. lignano caused it to mate more with conspecifics, leading to assortative mating, while M. janickei ended up mating more with heterospecifics. Thus, while the two species can hybridize, the mating rate differences could possibly lead to higher fitness costs for M. janickei compared to M. lignano. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Otesiopsis Habe, 1946 is a land snail genus, which is known so far from Japan and Taiwan. Individuals of this genus were collected from Gageodo Island, South Korea. This is the first record of the genus Otesiopsis from this country. The individuals from Gageodo Island appear to be a new species because of their unique shell morphologies, while the details of their anatomy are still lacking. Further studies are encouraged to investigate the taxonomic and conservation status of the genus Otesiopsis in South Korea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Asian earthworms in the pheretimoid group are currently invading hardwood forests in the northeastern USA. Population studies of these earthworms typically focus on life stages after hatching. However, the more cryptic part of these populations, cocoons, has largely been ignored. This paper is concentrating on cocoon abundance of two pheretimoid species through the year, and on identifying their readiness to hatch as determined by the presence of embryos that were well-advanced in their development. We wanted to know when viable cocoons were present and what their embryonic development was. We found that unhatched cocoons and ready-to-hatch embryos were present all year round. At the Horticultural Research Center of the University of Vermont, A. tokioensis cocoon abundance (mean ± standard error) varied between 1203 ± 167 m−2 in the winter and 498 ± 79 m−2 in the summer. Here A. agrestis varied between 439 ± 62 m−2 in the spring and 722 ± 70 m−2 in the fall. At another site dominated by A. agrestis , cocoon abundance varied between 753 ± 150 m−2 in the spring and 1386 ± 167 m−2 in the winter. Cocoon production was estimated at about 0.6 cocoons per worm per day. We raise the question whether cocoons have a longer-term survival function beyond overwintering of the population, akin to the function of the seed bank of annual plants. • High abundance of cocoons with ready-to-hatch embryos are found all year round, suggesting presence of a cocoon bank. • Ready-to-hatch embryos may hatch even in the winter during warming episodes. • Amynthas tokioensis cocoon abundance was greatest in the winter and lowest in summer. • Amynthas agrestis cocoon abundance was lowest in spring and greatest in fall and winter. • Cocoon development and hatching phenology may be linked to accumulation of growing degree days. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • DNA metabarcoding identified stream macroinvertebrates mostly at the species level. • Sequence read and sample abundance were significantly correlated. • Most taxa missed by DNA metabarcoding had low representation in the community sample. • Predicting variables showed significant variability for DNA metabarcoding. Abstract Conventional morphology-based identification is commonly used for routine assessment of freshwater ecosystems. However, cost and time efficient techniques such as high-throughput sequencing (HTS) based approaches may resolve the constraints encountered in conducting morphology-based surveys. Here, we characterized stream macroinvertebrate species diversity and community composition via metabarcoding and morphological analysis from environmental samples collected from the Shigenobu River Basin in Ehime Prefecture, Japan. We compared diversity metrics and assessed both approaches' ability to evaluate the relationship between macroinvertebrate community and environmental variables. In total, we morphologically identified 45 taxa (3 families, six subfamilies, 31 genera, and five species) from 8,276 collected individuals from ten study sites. We detected 44 species by metabarcoding, with 35 species collapsed into 11 groups matching the morphologically identified taxa. A significant positive correlation between logged depth (number of HTS reads) and abundance of morphological taxa was observed, which implied that quantitative data could be used for subsequent analyses. We recovered a considerably high rate of relative abundance detection of the morphologically identified samples. Recovery of samples by incidence or presence/absence count were considerably low, with a high rate of false-negative detection specifically for species with scarce representation in the community sample. Given the low taxonomic resolution of the morphological assignment in this study, we report that metabarcoding does not reflect the majority of the species naturally occurring in our site, which could further be proven by performing refined morphological assessment of the samples. However, abundance-based detection proved to be efficient with 92% of the individuals correctly demonstrated. We conclude that DNA metabarcoding provides a practical and cost-effective approach especially for rapid biological monitoring of freshwater macroinvertebrate communities, but further improvements in the detection of scarce samples should be considered to increase the sensitivity of detecting most, if not all, of the species present in the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The larvicidal property of sea cucumbers collected from Pointes aux Feuilles, Mauritius was assessed. The sea cucumbers were morphologically identified as Holothuria atra (Halodeima) Jaeger 1833, Bohadschia vitiensis Semper 1868, and Holothuria sp. In this study, water and methanol were used for the extraction of the sea cucumber body wall. All extracts showed larvicidal potential against 3rd intar wild Aedes larvae with the highest toxicity observed in Holothuria atra extract. Chemical screening of the extracts revealed the presence of saponins, steroids and terpenoids. The biological activity of the extracts could certainly be attributed to the presence of saponins and glycosides. This study indicates the need for further exploration of the marine organisms as a source of new molecules with larvicidal/insecticidal properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • The effect of morphological alterations to lake littoral zones was investigated. • Macroinvertebrate communities differed among shore types and habitats. • Morphological alteration had a negative effect on macroinvertebrate biodiversity. • Regional indicator taxa were identified for different shore types and habitats. • We validated the use of macroinvertebrates to assess morphological alterations. Abstract Human lake shore alterations often result in a substantial decrease of littoral and riparian habitat diversity and physical complexity, but the intensity at which shore alterations affect biodiversity may differ among European geographical regions. We tested if the response of littoral macroinvertebrate communities to human shoreline alterations is consistent among geographical regions. We compared community composition and diversity of human altered with those of unmodified littoral zones from 51 lakes across seven European countries in four geographical regions based on pooled composite as well as habitat-specific macroinvertebrate samples. Taxon richness and community composition differed among shore types and different habitats in all geographic regions, with morphological alteration having an overall negative effect on macroinvertebrate taxon richness. In addition, habitat heterogeneity also had a strong effect on littoral communities, with highest taxon richness found in the structurally complex macrophyte habitats in all regions. Average proportional densities of Diptera and Oligochaeta taxa generally increased in morphologically altered shores in all geographical regions, while Bivalvia, Crustacea, Ephemeroptera, Gastropoda and Trichoptera showed comparatively lower numbers in many anthropogenically altered sites. Furthermore, taxon richness was positively correlated with habitat diversity. We were able to relate changes in littoral communities to anthropogenic shoreline alterations, and linked the effect to the loss of habitats and habitat complexity. The results of our study demonstrate that littoral macroinvertebrates respond consistently negative to the influence of morphological alterations across European geographical regions in terms of biodiversity. While macroinvertebrates have previously been identified to be useful descriptors of morphological change in single countries/regions, we can now validate that they can be used to assess the ecological status of lakes in terms of morphological alterations across European regions. Our results can be used to further improve ealready existing WFD-compliant multimetric indices, for example by including taxa groups, which show a strong reaction to shoreline alterations. This could be supported by the inclusion of a suit of indicator taxa reflecting the loss of complex habitats such as macrophytes in the lake littoral. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Providing accurate animals' phylogenies rely on increasing knowledge of neglected phyla. Tardigrada diversity evaluated in broad phylogenies (among phyla) is biased towards eutardigrades. A comprehensive phylogeny is demanded to establish the representative diversity and propose a more natural classification of the phylum. So, we have performed multilocus (18S rRNA and 28S rRNA) phylogenies with Bayesian inference and maximum likelihood. We propose the creation of a new class within Tardigrada, erecting the order Apochela (Eutardigrada) as a new Tardigrada class, named Apotardigrada comb. n. Two groups of evidence support its creation: (a) morphological, presence of cephalic appendages, unique morphology for claws (separated branches) and wide‐elongated buccopharyngeal apparatus without placoids, and (b) phylogenetic support based on molecular data. Consequently, order Parachela is suppressed and its superfamilies erected as orders within Eutardigrada, maintaining their current names. We propose a new classification within the family Echiniscidae (Echiniscoidea, Heterotardigrada) with morphological and phylogenetic support: (a) subfamily Echiniscinae subfam. n., with two tribes Echiniscini tribe n. and Bryodelphaxini tribe n.; (b) subfamily Pseudechiniscinae subfam. n., with three tribes Cornechiniscini tribe n., Pseudechiniscini tribe n. and Anthechiniscini tribe n.; and (c) subfamily Parechiniscinae subfam. n., with two tribes Parechiniscini tribe n. and Novechiniscini tribe n. Reliable biodiversity selection for tardigrades in broad phylogenies is proposed due to biased analyses performed up to now. We use our comprehensive molecular phylogeny to evaluate the evolution of claws in the clawless genus Apodibius and claw reduction across the Tardigrada tree of life. Evolutionary consequences are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 1832, Darwin discovered two 'elegantly coloured true Planaria' in Rio de Janeiro, one of which he later formally named as Planaria vaginuloides (Darwin, 1844). Currently named Geoplana vaginuloides (Darwin, 1844), it is the type species of the genus and of the subfamily Geoplaninae. Many chromatic patterns of the body were recorded for the species, but its polyphyletic status was recently pointed out. Herein we revise the three-species-rich genus by combining morphological and molecular data within an integrative taxonomic framework. Our results support the monophyly of the genus, but also reveal that there are at least four nominal species recorded in the literature under the name of G. vaginuloides. This number increases to ten if the diagnostic features used by former authors are applied, i.e. the eye-catching dorsal colour pattern and the typical, extraordinarily long penis papilla. Our results also indicate that Geoplana chita Froehlich, 1956 is a complex of species and that Geoplana pulchella Schultze & Müller, 1857 is monophyletic. We describe herein 13 species of the genus. Surprisingly, the number of species of Geoplana was overshadowed by their beauty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oarfish are rarely seen and seldom studied, which makes their parasite fauna even more enigmatic. Necropsy of 12 oarfish, Regalecus russelii (Regalecidae) (Cuvier, 1816), from Japan yielded 2 species of acanthocephalans. One species was found in 2 oarfish and a total of 76 specimens was collected, but only a single, immature specimen of the second species was found. The former represents an undescribed species from the order Echinorhynchida and is described here. Morphological and phylogenetic analyses of the small subunit (SSU) rDNA place this species in the family Gymnorhadinorhynchidae, and genus Gymnorhadinorhynchus which is characterized by a cylindrical proboscis with longitudinal rows of hooks, basal circle of enlarged hooks, asymmetry of hook shape, 4 cement glands, and a spineless trunk. Diagnostic characters of this species within the genus are the number of longitudinal rows of hooks (14), smaller body size (males: 4.8–6.6 mm and females: 5.3–6.3 mm) and a number of molecular autapomorphies including a number of long insertions in both the SSU and large subunit rDNA (LSU). A single immature female of Bolbosoma sp. (Palaeacanthocephala: Plagiorhynchidae) was also found with its anterior end embedded in the mucosa of the pyloric ceca. The characters of this specimen are not consistent with any other known species of Bolbosoma; however, because only 1 immature specimen with a partially invaginated proboscis was recovered, it was not designated as a new species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ecological implications of body size extend from the biology of individual organisms to ecosystem‐level processes. Measuring body mass for high numbers of invertebrates can be logistically challenging, making length–mass regressions useful for predicting body mass with minimal effort. However, standardized sets of scaling relationships covering a large range in body length, taxonomic groups, and multiple geographical regions are scarce. We collected 6,212 arthropods from 19 higher‐level taxa in both temperate and tropical locations to compile a comprehensive set of linear models relating live body mass to a range of predictor variables. We measured live weight (hereafter, body mass), body length and width of each individual and conducted linear regressions to predict body mass using body length, body width, taxonomic group, and geographic region. Additionally, we quantified prediction discrepancy when using parameters from arthropods of a different geographic region. Incorporating body width into taxon‐ and region‐specific length–mass regressions yielded the highest prediction accuracy for body mass. Using regression parameters from a different geographic region increased prediction discrepancy, causing over‐ or underestimation of body mass depending on geographical origin and whether body width was included. We present a comprehensive range of parameters for predicting arthropod body mass and provide guidance for selecting optimal scaling relationships. Given the importance of body mass for functional invertebrate ecology and the paucity of adequate regressions to predict arthropod body mass from different geographical regions, our study provides a long‐needed resource for quantifying live body mass in invertebrate ecology research. The ecological implications of body size extend from the biology of individual organisms to ecosystem‐level processes. Length–mass regressions are a powerful tool to predict body mass based on morphological traits of organisms. We present a comprehensive range of parameters for predicting arthropod body mass based on body length, width, taxonomy, and geographic origin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Discord between molecular and morphological datasets was observed in two pairs of species of Australian millipedes in the family Paradoxosomatidae using morphological and molecular phylogenetic analysis (mitochondrial COI rDNA and 16 rRNA, and nuclear 28S rRNA). Close to the presumed distributional boundary between Pogonosternum nigrovirgatum (Carl, 1912) and Pogonosternum jeekeli Decker, 2017, near Dargo in Central Gippsland, Victoria, Pogonosternum specimens were collected which are phylogenetically closer to P. jeekeli in COI and 16S sequences, but are morphologically closer to P. nigrovirgatum. At Mount Osmond, Adelaide, South Australia, eight morphologically typical Somethus castaneus (Attems, 1944) specimens were collected are phylogenetically closer to S. castaneus in 28S genealogy, but three of the eight are closer to S. lancearius Jeekel, 2002 in COI genealogy. These two cases are discussed in terms of hybridisation, past introgressive hybridisation events and aberrant morphology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The harvestman genus Propachylus Roewer, 1913 is herein revalidated from the synonymy of Discocyrtus Holmberg, 1878. Its type species, Propachylus singularis Roewer, 1913 has a convoluted taxonomic history, connected to Discocyrtus fornicatus Sørensen, 1884 (currently known as Metadiscocyrtus fornicatus). The monotypic genus Metadiscocyrtus Roewer, 1929 is herein considered a junior subjective synonym of Propachylus. Propachylus singularis (known only from males) is herein considered a junior subjective synonym of M. fornicatus (Sørensen, 1884) (known only from a single female). Accordingly, this species is herein newly combined as Propachylus fornicatus (Sørensen, 1884) comb. nov. The males and females of this species are considered congeneric for the first time. As this species does not possess diagnostic characteristics of the concept of Pachylinae stricto sensu, it is here removed from Pachylinae but is left unplaced. The geographical distribution of this species is updated to the Brazilian state of Bahia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a need for reliable and standardized methods to measure functional species traits. Body mass is just one dimension of body size, a most important morphological trait, because it is directly linked with metabolic rate and affected by environmental conditions. However, it is still not widely used due to the difficulties and constraints of direct measures. Weighing many (small) animals (i.e., arthropods) is laborious, time consuming and biased when using preserved material. Therefore, the applicability of general equations for estimating mass from body size of spiders was tested. We calculated linear regressions to estimate fresh and dry mass of spiders from different body measures (i.e., body length, carapace length and width) of 189 spiders sampled in southern Germany. We compared these regressions with each other and with equations from the literature and tested the impact of taxa, sex and habitat on the accuracy of biomass estimates using an independent test dataset of 166 spiders. All size-fresh mass regressions were highly significant with R2 values between 0.81 and 0.98. The slope of the ln-transformed body mass - body size relationship ranged between 2.51 and 2.95. The regressions including total body length always showed higher R2 values, i.e., they provide better predictions of body mass than carapace measures. The body length-dry mass regression was also highly significant and the mean ratio dry mass/fresh mass was 0.22. Taxon-, sex- or microhabitat-specific regressions did not produce better estimates than general regressions. Therefore, we strongly recommend the use of general regressions in the context of biomass estimation of assemblages and propose parameters from our regressions to be used for European spiders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A comprehensive re-description of the monogonont rotifer Synchaeta oblonga Ehrenberg, 1832 is presented with the aim of creating a specific and robust suite of characters to identify this species that takes account of its morphological intraspecific variability. To accomplish this, we used an integrative approach that combined morphological data of the habitus and trophi (light and scanning electron microscopy) together with ecological and molecular data to generate a data set that clearly delineates S. oblonga from the morphologically similar Synchaeta tremula (Müller, 1786) with which it is often confused. In addition, by comparing S. oblonga to all remaining members of the genus Synchaeta, we found that the literature descriptions of Synchaeta rufina Kutikova and Vasiljeva, 1982, a Lake Baikal endemic species, and Synchaeta littoralis Rousselet, 1902, a species whose taxonomic status with respect to S. oblonga had already been called into question, to both lie entirely within the range of intraspecific morphological variability present in S. oblonga. Thus, we conclude that S. oblonga can be clearly demarcated from S. tremula, but that no unambiguous morphological differences exist to delineate it from either S. rufina or S. littoralis. Because our molecular data indicate S. oblonga to be a single species despite the morphological intraspecific variability that is present, we recommend that thorough re-examinations of the taxonomic statuses of both S. rufina and S. littoralis should be performed on topotypes sampled from their type localities (Lake Baikal, Russia and Dundee, Scotland, respectively). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The morphology of Tantulocarida, a group of minutely sized ectoparasitic Crustacea, is described here using for the first time transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). This enabled a detailed analysis of their internal anatomy to a level of detail not possible with previous light microscopic investigations. We studied the infective stage, the tantulus larva, attached on the crustacean host in two species, Arcticotantulus pertzovi and Microdajus tchesunovi, and put special emphasis on cuticular structures, muscles, adhesive glands used in attachment, sensory and nervous systems, and on the organs used in obtaining nutrients from the host. This allowed description of structures that have remained enigmatic or unknown until now. A doubly folded cuticular attachment disc is located at the anterior-ventral part of the cephalon and used for gluing the larva to the host surface with a cement substance released under the disc. Four cuticular canals run from a cement gland, located ventrally in the cephalon, and enter an unpaired, cuticular proboscis. The proboscis can be protruded outside through a separate opening above the mouth and is used for releasing cement. An unpaired and anteriorly completely solid cuticular stylet is located centrally in the cephalon and is used only for making a 1-μm-diameter hole in the host cuticle, through which passes a rootlet system used for obtaining nutrients. The rootlet system is a direct extension of the anterior gut of the tantulus, but inside the host, it consists of cuticle only. Several muscular systems seem to degenerate very quickly after the tantulus has settled on the host. The central nervous system is reduced to an absolute minimum in terms of both cell size and number. We discuss the morphology of the tantulus in light of the Tantulocarida being a sister group to the Thecostraca or even nested within that taxon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Jumping spiders perform multi-modal displays during courtship and this has been used to study sexual selection and mate choice. However, studies have focused on only a few groups of spiders. Here we describe for the first time the breeding behavior of the tropical jumping spider Hasarius adansoni (Audouin, 1826). Animals were collected in the field and reared in the laboratory until adulthood. We took male body measurements, paired couples in mating trials, and then collected subsequent clutches. We confirmed the presence of a multi-modal display with visual and vibratory signals (tremulations) by the males. Females responded with their own tremulations and occasionally a receptive posture. Otherwise, they avoid mating by attacking or running away from the male. No measured male morphological attributes were important for male mating success and future studies should focus on other morphological measurements to understand how the mate choice process functions in this species. Multiple matings were common and females laid numerous clutches while enclosed in silk cocoons. Number of young per clutch decreased over the course of laying bouts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sponges play a vital role in the world’s most complex and vulnerable marine ecosystems. Various in situ studies have suggested that sponge morphologies (developed from exposure to a range of biophysical factors) can be considered as ecological indicators to current detrimental environmental changes such as climate change, overfishing, pollution and dredging for coastal development. Regional and long-term taxonomic data on sponges within each geographic range is not always available, especially from the Great Barrier Reef (GBR), due to dearth of sponge research. In this study, to understand large-scale variation and advance sponge research and knowledge, morphological characteristics were adopted as a rapid practical way to identify sponges from photo-transect images of a long-term dataset from the GBR. Biennial surveys were carried out in 2008–2014 from 28 pairs of take and no-take zones of the GBR. To evaluate the temporal changes in sponge morphology and correlation between abiotic factors, remote-sensed data such as chlorophyll a , current, wave height and sea surface temperature (SST) during the survey period were analyzed. Results showed sponges were ubiquitous in all six surveyed locations and their distribution was spatially heterogeneous. Encrusting forms were dominant followed by upright, massive, cups and tabular growth forms. Sponges were more prevalent in Innisfail, Pompey and Townsville compared to Cairns, Swain and Capricorn Bunker. Biennial observations showed greater sponge coverage in 2010 and 2014, especially in the central GBR, which may be related to the geomorphology and habitat of reefs along with its influence by wind and wave action. Also, the aftermath of Cyclone Hamish (2009) and Yasi (2011) would have triggered suspended particulate matter that are beneficial to sponge growth. Geostrophic current showed a weak relationship on encrusting, upright and massive forms, whereas, chl- a , wave height and SST appeared to have no effect on sponge morphology, suggesting sponges may be resilient to adverse conditions in the GBR. Whilst selected sponge morphologies can act as environmental proxies to monitor adverse conditions, further in situ research on other environmental parameters such as turbidity, sedimentation, cyclone, tides are required to bring substantial conclusions on sponge morphologies as ecological indicators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antennoseius (Antennoseius) gwiazdowiczi Kavianpour & Nemati was described based on morphological characters of adult females and published in Iranian Journal of Entomology. This journal was published in electronic form only without permanent archiving and is not available now. Also, the work is not registered in ZooBank. To be considered validly published, according to the ICZN rules a work that has been issued and distributed electronically, must possess several conditions such as registration in ZooBank. Due to the absence of such a condition, this species is not available now. For this reason, the description of this species based on morphological characters of adult females is presented here. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a new species of the genus Laelaspis Berlese, L. angustiseta sp. nov. is described based on morphological characters of the adult female specimens collected in association with Tapinoma erraticum (Latreille) and Tapinoma simrothi Krausse (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) in Chaharmahal va Bakhtiari Province, Iran. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Galápagos Islands, positioned in the confluence of warm and coldwater currents in the Eastern Pacific, is well known for the high degree of endemism of its marine invertebrate fauna. This fauna has been studied extensively in recent years: the echinoderms, corals and other benthic cnidarians, but little is known about the deep- and shallow-water sponge faunas. To date, only 70 sponge species have been described from the Galápagos Islands, 37 of which are endemic. Of these 70 species, only one shallow-water species of desma-bearing Tetractinellida (Demospongiae), Corallistes isabela, has been reported. In 1995, Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institution, Florida, led an expedition around the Galápagos archipelago, focussed on the collection of deep-water Porifera. Here, we describe seven new species and provide DNA barcodes for the tetractinellids from these collections. Phylogenetic relationships of these new species are discussed and compared with other material from the Caribbean, the Central and West Pacific Oceans. The new species represent five genera (Craniella, and desma-bearing Tetractinellida Neophrissospongia, Corallistes, Racodiscula and Scleritoderma). Phylogenetic reconstructions combining independent markers (mtDNA and rDNA) support the generic affiliation of these new species and confirm the separation of Eastern Pacific species from Caribbean and Central to West Pacific species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the advent of molecular phylogenetics, the morphology-based classification of Porifera has been cardinally changed. However, the relationships between some clusters of Demospongiae, the most diverse sponge class, remain uncertain. An analysis of sponge cell ultrastructures, in particular the flagellar apparatus (kinetid) of choanocytes, may help clarify the evolutionary links in Demospongiae. We studied the kinetid structure of the sponges Spongilla lacustris, Ephydatia fluviatilis and Lubomirskia baikalensis, which belong to the recently established order Spongillida (Heteroscleromorpha). In these sponges, the kinetid of the choanocytes have a uniform structure, consisting of a single kinetosome (without centriole) encircled with a ring of electron-dense bodies producing lateral microtubules. The flagellar transition zone contains a transverse plate with an axosome and a coiled filament. This type of kinetid is similar to that of Haplosclerida representatives, whose morphologic similarities with Spongillida representatives were still not explained. We also discussed the nuclear location in the choanocyte (basal or apical), which correlates to the kinetid structure in Demospongiae. Only three types of flagellar apparatus have been found in Demospongiae up to now, implying that the kinetid is one of the most conservative structures in sponge evolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays things are going smoother with secure lab funding and several students in the lab. GRAPH Felipe Aguilera was a BECAS CHILE-CONICYT recipient in 2010 to conduct his PhD studies in Australia. I started my lab in March 2018, and at that time I spent a considerable piece of time writing grants to secure lab funding. [Extracted from the article]

Appendicularia comprises 70 marine, invertebrate, chordate species. Appendicularians play important ecological and evolutionary roles, yet their morphological disparity remains understudied. Most appendicularians are small, develop rapidly, and with a stereotyped cell lineage, leading to the hypothesis that Appendicularia derived progenetically from an ascidian-like ancestor. Here, we describe the detailed anatomy of the central nervous system of Bathochordaeus stygius, a giant appendicularian from the mesopelagic. We show that the brain consists of a forebrain with on average smaller and more uniform cells and a hindbrain, in which cell shapes and sizes vary to a greater extent. Cell count for the brain was 102. We demonstrate the presence of three paired brain nerves. Brain nerve 1 traces into the epidermis of the upper lip region and consists of several fibers with some supportive bulb cells in its course. Brain nerve 2 innervates oral sensory organs and brain nerve 3 innervates the ciliary ring of the gill slits and lateral epidermis. Brain nerve 3 is asymmetric, with the right nerve consisting of two neurites originating posterior to the left one that contains three neurites. Similarities and differences to the anatomy of the brain of the model species Oikopleura dioica are discussed. We interpret the small number of cells in the brain of B. stygius as an evolutionary trace of miniaturization and conclude that giant appendicularians evolved from a small, progenetic ancestor that secondarily increased in size within Appendicularia., (© 2023 The Authors. Journal of Morphology published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Pocillopora verrucosa is a widely distributed depth-generalist coral that presents plasticity in its skeletal macro- and microstructure in response to environmental gradients. Light and water movement, which covary with depth, are the main environmental drivers of morphological plasticity in this genus; however, assessing environmentally-induced plasticity may be confounded by the extent of interspecific variation in Pocillopora. We examine the morphology of 8 typed P. verrucosa specimens collected along a depth gradient ranging from 7 to 45 meters and comprising 3 sites throughout Ludao, Taiwan. We measured 36 morphological characters, 14 which are novel, in 3 regions on the corallum—the apex, branch and base—in order to quantify their relationship to site and depth. We found significant correlation between depth and 19 morphological characters, notably branch verruca area, branch verruca height, base verruca spacing, base spinule length, and branch corallite area. 60% of microstructural characters and 25% of macrostructural characters showed a correlative relation to depth, suggesting that depth acclimatization is manifested primarily at the microstructural level. Canonical discriminant analysis of all morphometric characters by depth supports clustering into 3 groups: an overlapping 7m and 15m group, a 23-30m group, and a 38-45m group. Canonical discriminant analysis by site supports clustering into low- and high-current sites, differentiated primarily by branch septa width, base septa width, pre-terminal branch width, terminal branch maximum length, and terminal branch minimum length. We conclude that distinctive patterns of morphological variation in mesophotic specimens of P. verrucosa could reflect the effects of abiotic parameters such as light and water flow. Elucidating the mechanisms behind the morphological changes that occur in response to environmental gradients can help clarify the role that physiological plasticity plays in the acclimatization of corals to the unique environmental settings of mesophotic coral ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Allocosa senex (Mello-Leitão, 1945) is a sex role-reversed wolf spider that inhabits sandy water-margin environments of southern South America. Males are larger than females and dig deeper burrows. Females are the courting sex and they prefer to mate with males that build deep burrows, suggesting high selective pressures on male digging behavior. Our aim was to investigate the external morphology and histological constitution of the spinning apparatus of males, females and juveniles of A. senex. Our results showed that A. senex adult males possess more piriform glands and spigots than adult females and juveniles. These glands produce silk for attachment discs that are crucial for the stability of the burrows. The differences according to the sex could be related to females' and males' digging strategies and strong selection on male burrow length in this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Even if we have written testimony that the ancient Greek intellectuals were already aware of the existence of woodlice, the history of scientific research on this group of animals starts 2000 years later. Beginning with Linnaeus, this survey portrays the more important researchers in this field, trying to outline the development from descriptive taxonomy into a broad field of biological science. Today isopodological research includes studies on ecology, behavior, nutritional biology, anatomy, functional morphology, neurology, physiology, biogeography, systematics, and phylogenetic analyses based on morphological and molecular data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Otobius megnini is a tick species which it's larvae and nymphs feed deep in the external ear canal of a variety of ungulates. In this study, twelve adult and four nymph specimens were collected from cattle hosts in Sistan and Baluchestan, and Hamedan Provinces. The specimens were identified using morphological key and the datawas confirmed by molecular assays. In the present study, we could find O. megnini in tick fauna of Iran with new hosts for this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]