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The North American freshwater genus Forbesichthys is composed of facultative cave-dwelling fishes restricted to springs and caves in southern Illinois, southeastern Missouri, southwestern Kentucky, and central Tennessee. These fishes were previously considered a single species, the Spring Cavefish (F. agassizii), but recent molecular evidence led to the recognition of the Shawnee Hills Cavefish (F. papilliferus). The Shawnee Hills Cavefish is hypothesized to be restricted to Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky and north-central Tennessee, whereas the Spring Cavefish is restricted to the Eastern Highland Rim of central Tennessee. However, the distributions of Forbesichthys are difficult to ascertain due to their intermittent appearance in surface springs, making sampling challenging. We assessed the species status, distribution, connectivity, and population sizes of the Forbesichthys spp. using Restriction-site Associated DNA sequencing (RADseq) and the mitochondrial NADH dehydrogenase 2 locus. Our results corroborate the recognition and hypothesized distributions of the Shawnee Hills Cavefish and Spring Cavefish. Furthermore, we suggest the recognition of three Evolutionary Significant Units (ESUs) and two Management Units (MUs) within the Shawnee Hills Cavefish. Although all populations analyzed appear to have reasonable genetic diversity and population stability over time, this regionalization has implications for both groundwater policy and management. Our study provides important information relevant to understanding potential population distributions and the identification of unique lineages that may deserve additional protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Determining the genetic diversity and source rookeries of sea turtles collected from feeding grounds can facilitate effective conservation initiatives. To ascertain the genetic composition and source rookery, we examined a partial sequence of the mitochondrial control region (CR, 796 bp) of 40 green turtles (Chelonia mydas) collected from feeding grounds around the Korean Peninsula between 2014 and 2022. We conducted genetic and mixed-stock analyses (MSA) and identified 10 CR haplotypes previously reported in Japanese populations. In the haplotype network, six, three, and one haplotype(s) grouped with the Japan, Indo-Pacific, and Central South Pacific clades, respectively. The primary rookeries of the green turtles were two distantly remote sites, Ogasawara (OGA) and Central Ryukyu Island (CRI), approximately 1,300 km apart from each other. Comparing three parameters (season, maturity, and specific feeding ground), we noted that OGA was mainly associated with summer and the Jeju Sea, whereas CRI was with fall and the East (Japan) Sea ground. The maturity did not show a distinct pattern. Our results indicate that green turtles in the feeding grounds around the Korean Peninsula originate mainly from the Japan MU and have genetic origins in the Japan, Indo-Pacific, and Central South Pacific clades. Our results provide crucial insights into rookeries and MUs, which are the focus of conservation efforts of the Republic of Korea and potential parties to collaborate for green turtle conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amphibians are one of the most threatened groups of vertebrates globally. For effective conservation, understanding the patterns and processes underlying amphibian diversity is essential. Studies of genetic diversity and structure among conspecific populations and closely related species can provide crucial insights for their conservation; however, such studies are limited in South Asian tropical areas with high anuran diversity. In this study, we investigated the genetic diversity and structure in a widespread endemic frog, Nyctibatrachus kempholeyensis from the Western Ghats, India. Both mitochondrial and nuclear markers were used to analyse the phylogeographical and population genetic structure at multiple geographic scales. At a broader scale, river basins appeared to be weak barriers and genetic variation was more influenced by geographic distance. At a regional scale, headwater specialization and poor dispersal capability of N. kempholeyensis influenced the apportionment of genetic variation. The conservation planning for this species should consider the increased divergence of peripheral populations as well as develop measures at the stream scale to improve the gene-flow among the populations. This is the first population genetics study on freshwater amphibians from the Western Ghats, India and the results of our study will provide important baseline data for the conservation and management of freshwater dependent amphibians from this region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Determining the genetic diversity and source rookeries of sea turtles collected from feeding grounds can facilitate effective conservation initiatives. To ascertain the genetic composition and source rookery, we examined a partial sequence of the mitochondrial control region (CR, 796 bp) of 40 green turtles (Chelonia mydas) collected from feeding grounds around the Korean Peninsula between 2014 and 2022. We conducted genetic and mixed-stock analyses (MSA) and identified 10 CR haplotypes previously reported in Japanese populations. In the haplotype network, six, three, and one haplotype(s) grouped with the Japan, Indo-Pacific, and Central South Pacific clades, respectively. The primary rookeries of the green turtles were two distantly remote sites, Ogasawara (OGA) and Central Ryukyu Island (CRI), approximately 1,300 km apart from each other. Comparing three parameters (season, maturity, and specific feeding ground), we noted that OGA was mainly associated with summer and the Jeju Sea, whereas CRI was with fall and the East (Japan) Sea ground. The maturity did not show a distinct pattern. Our results indicate that green turtles in the feeding grounds around the Korean Peninsula originate mainly from the Japan MU and have genetic origins in the Japan, Indo-Pacific, and Central South Pacific clades. Our results provide crucial insights into rookeries and MUs, which are the focus of conservation efforts of the Republic of Korea and potential parties to collaborate for green turtle conservation.

Photographic and genetic studies have revealed the complex population structure of migratory large whales. Most research and management are geographically based, focusing on either wintering or summering areas, which in most cases fails to capture this complexity. We use examples from humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) and gray whales (Eschrichtius robustus) to illustrate the concept of migratory herds, defined here as conspecific whales that migrate between the same wintering and feeding ground. In cases where individuals show strong fidelity to both feeding and wintering grounds, and therefore to a herd, dispersal between herds can be low enough to render them as demographically independent populations, where population dynamics are determined more by net internal recruitment (births minus deaths) than by immigration from outside sources. In these cases, the migratory whale herd is the appropriate unit to conserve under the ecological paradigm that focuses on groups united by demographic forces. We suggest that when addressing questions focused on ecological timescales for whale species with strong fidelity to migratory destinations, the migratory whale herd is a better initial working hypothesis rather than one based on geographically defined strata. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurate knowledge of spatial population structure is crucial for species conservation and management, but low genetic diversity of endangered species makes it difficult to ascertain this information. In the Japanese lates or akame, Lates japonicus, an endangered fish known to have extremely low genetic diversity among vertebrates, mtDNA and AFLP marker analyses failed to clearly partition individuals into the two main distribution areas (Kochi and Miyazaki prefectures), although a weak but significant genetic difference between these regions was detected. Here, we conducted individual-based clustering analysis and sibship reconstruction to evaluate the species' population genetic structure by using 282 yearlings collected from four sites in Kochi and Miyazaki prefectures. We used single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers from double-digest restriction-site-associated DNA sequencing (ddRAD-seq). Although our data revealed extremely low genome-wide nucleotide diversity (π = 0.00006) in akame, the clustering analysis showed a clear genetic difference between the two regions, with a small number of migrants and individuals with admixed ancestry. Sibship analysis estimated that the only full-sib pairs of individuals were from the same prefecture and no pairs were from different prefectures. From these results, we conclude that the akame population of Kochi and Miyazaki prefectures are different management units, and for revealing detailed population genetic structure of endangered species which has low genetic diversity, it is effective to conduct individual-based analysis and sibship reconstruction by using juvenile samples and many SNPs from ddRAD-seq. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the increasing demand for energy storage with large capacity and high power density， liquid-cooling energy storage has become the development trend of the industry. Featuring large capacity， large number of electrodes， and high system voltage， the liquid-cooling battery module makes higher demands on the battery management system in terms of battery data acquisition， system control management， and system operation and maintenance functions. This paper presents a battery management system based on a liquid-cooling integrated energy storage system. It introduces the communication architecture of the system and the design of management units at all levels and expounds the functional configuration of each unit. Four passive equalization schemes in the market are compared concerning their limitations. A passive equalization circuit is developed based on the external MOS to realize the equalization control and reduce the manual power supply. The proposed scheme has been applied to practical engineering. A complete data curve of the charging and discharging cycle has been obtained to verify the practicability of the system.

The Spotted sardinella Amblygaster sirm are small pelagic fish that are important protein source to coastal communities in the Indo-West Pacific. In this study, a cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (COI) gene of A. sirm from Tanzania was amplified to assess the species’ genetic structure and demographic history. All individuals collected were identified using both morphological examination and genetic barcoding as A. sirm. A total of 19 haplotypes were found in the dataset, with low overall nucleotide (π = 0.13 ± 0.001) and moderate haplotype diversities (h = 0.45 ± 0.07). AMOVA revealed a very low and non-significant genetic differentiation in the dataset (Fst = 0.002, Фst = −0.004, p > 0.05), indicating a lack of population structure. The minimum spanning haplotype network revealed additional evidence for the lack of population structure, which grouped all the sampled haplotypes into one cluster, regardless of their geographical regions. The Tajima’s D, Fu’s Fs tests, and mismatch distribution analyses supported a hypothesis of recent demographic expansion. The lack of population structure identified suggests that the fishery should be treated as a single-stock management unit, consistent with the existing management regime for the species in Mainland Tanzania that currently does not consider genetic structure in managing the fishery. The lack of population structure suggests that populations with low genetic diversity, such as Dar es Salaam, can rebuild by recruiting from other sites if regulations against unsustainable fishing are strictly enforced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Morphologically variable species complexes can present significant challenges to conservation when taxonomic boundaries, and therefore conservation units, are ambiguous. In such cases, the definition of Evolutionarily Significant Units (ESUs) based on high-resolution genomic data can be an effective method to clarify genetic divergence and inform conservation actions. Here, we employ a population genomic approach using SNP data to delineate conservation units in a morphologically ambiguous plant species complex (Conospermum caeruleum; Proteaceae) from a global biodiversity hotspot. Over 200 individuals representing five subspecies and three informal morphological forms were sampled across a wide geographic range. Phylogenomic (ML tree and SplitsTree network) and population genomic (STRUCTURE, PCoA, FST) analyses resolved three divergent genetic groups that were incongruent with the current taxonomy, but consistent with geographic distribution. One ESU was comprised of three genetic subgroups, and these can be considered Management Units (MUs) to conserve population genetic structure and diversity. These MUs were surprisingly incongruent with the current subspecies-level taxonomy, but one MU was consistent with a recently documented morphological form, and all were consistent with ecogeographic distribution. We recommend a full taxonomic revision of the Conospermum genus based on a phylogenomic approach to assess any wider incongruence with morphology, and that conservation strategies should be informed by genetic data. Our study exemplifies the application of genomics to the conservation of a morphologically ambiguous species complex, enabling and enhancing the practical conservation of appropriate units of biodiversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present article, an analysis of the genetic diversity and differentiation of the Belarusian capercaillie subpopulations from the range of two subspecies—Tetrao urogallus major and Tetrao urogallus pleskei—distinguished on the basis of morphological and behavioural (mating vocalization) criteria was carried out. The microsatellites were chosen as genetic markers. A total of 53 specimens were used for genetic analysis (23 specimens from the range of T. u. major and 30 specimens from the range of T. u. pleskei). In this study, we aimed at resolving the following questions: (1) Does the capercaillie subpopulation from the range of T. u. major in Belarus exhibit genetic isolation from the rest of the population in the country? (2) Should we consider the western subpopulation of the capercaillie in Belarus a management unit? Our data allows concluding that the genetic diversity of the studied capercaillie subpopulations is sufficiently high. The eastern subpopulation of the capercaillie is characterised by slightly higher values of all estimates of genetic diversity. A total of 35 unique alleles were detected in the studied capercaillie population. Of them, 10 alleles (29%) were discovered among the specimens sampled from the western subpopulation of the capercaillie. Genetic analysis for the presence of bottleneck events did not reveal any evidence of those in the demographic history of the studied Belarusian capercaillie subpopulations. Bayesian analysis of genetic structure has indicated the presence of two clusters, corresponding to the eastern and western capercaillie subpopulations in Belarus. The obtained genetic structure of the capercaillie population is also supported by the results of the factorial correspondence analysis. The results of genetic structure and diversity analysis indicate that the capercaillie population in Belarus possesses a degree of genetic differentiation on subpopulation level and a lack of clear isolation between the studied subpopulations. As recommendations for the conservation of the western subpopulation of the capercaillie in Belarus we propose to conduct genetic monitoring of the newly created population, as well as genetic analysis of the specimens used for breeding.

Having parts of three freshwater ecoregions, i.e., Oman Mountains, Southwestern Arabian Coast, and Arabian Interior, Oman is considered to have the greatest freshwater biodiversity among the Arabian Peninsula countries. Freshwater habitats and biodiversity of Oman are unique and greatly valued for the crucial role they play in people's survival, as well as that of its native/endemic biota. An obvious starting point and fundamental step to conserve biodiversity and implementing planning management strategies is correct identification and delineating of the taxonomic and conservation units, and their distribution ranges especially endemic and native faunal elements including small, colorful, and mosquito-eating fish species of the genus Aphaniops. Five species of Aphaniops are present in the northern marginal basins of the Indian Ocean, however, there is still a lack of distributional and taxonomic data in many parts, and the species have not been studied yet for their phylogeographic and population structures, which are essential in designing habitat management and conservation plans. This study analyses mitochondrial COI data of Aphaniops samples collected from numerous widespread localities in Oman, a rarely studied area for this group, using a phylogenetic and phylogeographic framework. Our results confirm the presence of two species in Oman, A. kruppi and A. stoliczkanus, revise and suggest wider distributional ranges for both species, and suggest that A. kruppi is represented by two northern and one southern management units, while A. stoliczkanus is divided into two evolutionary units worthy of additional taxonomic evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The identification of discrete intraspecific units, such as genetically informed management units (MUs), is important to effectively develop and implement conservation strategies for protected species. Harbour seals (Phoca vitulina) occurring in Irish waters are currently viewed as a single nationwide panmictic population (and hence MU), although this assumption is not based on any knowledge of population structure because of the lack of available genetic data.Thus, the present study used mitochondrial control region sequences and between nine and 11 microsatellite loci from harbour seals from Ireland and Northern Ireland (up to n = 123) and adjacent UK/European waters (up to n = 289) to provide insights into the genetic population structure and diversity of harbour seals in the areas studied.Within the island of Ireland, genetic analyses revealed the presence of three genetically distinct local populations, characterized by high genetic diversity, hereby defined as: East Ireland (EI), North‐west & Northern Ireland (NWNI), and South‐west Ireland (SWI).Using previously published and newly generated data, a subsequent wider scale analysis revealed that the EI and SWI local populations were genetically distinct from neighbouring UK/European areas, whereas seals from the NWNI area could not be distinguished from a previously identified Northern UK metapopulation. Migration rate estimates showed that NWNI receives migrants from North‐west Scotland, with NWNI acting as a genetic source for both SWI and EI.The present study provides the most comprehensive genetic assessment of harbour seals in European waters to date, with findings indicating that conservation strategies for harbour seals in Irish waters should be amended to accommodate at least three genetically distinct local populations/MUs. The use of approaches considering both ecological and genetic parameters is recommended for future assessments and delineation of units of ecological relevance for conservation management purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The American Horseshoe crab, Limulus polyphemus, a species considered a phylogenetic relict, has been widely studied in its distribution in the United States due to its relevance in the fishing and biomedical industry. However, there is little information on the genetic status of the Mexican population which is relevant for the conservation of this endangered species. Here, using nuclear microsatellites markers, we evaluate the genetic diversity and structure of L. polyphemus in different localities of its Mexican distribution in the Yucatán Peninsula. A total of 103 individuals from four Mexican localities from the Gulf of Mexico (Champotón and Ría Celestún), northern coast of Yucatán (Yum Balam), to Caribbean coast (Sian Ka'an), were analyzed. Our results show low to moderately low values of different genetic diversity parameters and possible inbreeding processes for the two localities situated at the disttibution extremities (Champotón and Sian Ka'an). Also, we detected a strong genetic structure with two clusters, one pooling the Ría Celestún, Yum Balam and Sian Ka'an samples, and the other corresponding to Champotón, the most isolated population in the southern Gulf of Mexico. These patterns of genetic diversity could be related to anthropogenic activities (contamination, illegal fishing) that have impacted these populations for decades, resulting in a decrease in their populations.The observed genetic structure seems to be related to the dispersal behavior of the species and the circulation pattern on the Yucatán Shelf and the Campeche Bank. Our results highlighted the existence of two management units that should be considered in proposing management and conservation strategies for this species, especially focused on localities at critical risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forest plantations mitigate environmental problems and favor low-carbon economies, but the growing demand for wood is driving the accelerated expansion of monocultures that are potentially harmful to biological diversity. In this research, the compatibility between taxonomic diversity of vascular plants and timber production of Pinus ponderosa was evaluated in stands with three levels of canopy cover, located in the steppe and the forest-steppe ecotone of Northwestern Patagonia from Argentina (40°5' S - 71°12' W). Soil moisture, diversity and site index were higher in the ecotone. The P. ponderosa cover was negatively correlated with the light intensity and diversity, and positively with the amount of litter and bare soil on the forest floor. After a 45-year rotation, the projected timber production was maximum for IDR>800, but the diversity decreased dramatically. The best option to conserve diversity was to maintain IDR<400 throughout the stand management cycle. However, the profitability of the production of quality wood would be negative with IDR<500, regardless the site quality, area, initial density, management scheme and distance to the market for goods and services of the plantation. The negative correlation between the environmental and productive indicators would imply that there is no a silvicultural regime that simultaneously maximizes these objectives. This spatial incompatibility does not imply a priori discouraging the productive initiatives based on tree plantations. Forestry contributes to solving deep environmental, social and economic problems, particularly in the current scenario characterized by the increase in human population, the consumption of resources and the degradation and destruction of natural forests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Island-endemic columbid species are particularly vulnerable to environmental degradation, extreme climatic events, and interactions with exotic species. The situation might be even more critical in the case of exploited species, where legal hunting and poaching can severely affect population dynamics. Here we document for the first time the genetic structure of the Scaly-naped Pigeon, Patagioenas squamosa, a Caribbean-endemic columbid species of cynegetic interest, over a large part of its range. Using both mitochondrial DNA and nuclear markers (microsatellites), we investigated gene flow, genetic diversity, and genetic structure among four islands populations originating from Puerto-Rico, Guadeloupe, Martinique and Barbados. We found evidence for a significant genetic differentiation only between the Barbados and the three other populations, consistent with the fact that the Barbados population originated from a few captive individuals escaped from a rooftop aviary in Bridgetown about 100 years ago. Given the absence of genetic differentiation between Puerto Rico and the French Antilles, our results suggest that, apart from Barbados, the species may mainly consist of a single large, homogeneous population. We discuss the relevance of our findings in relation to management and conservation issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ecological restoration and conservation efforts are increasing worldwide and the management of intraspecific genetic variation in plants and animals, an important component of biodiversity, is increasingly valued. As a result, tailorable, spatially explicit approaches to map genetic variation are needed to support decision‐making and management frameworks related to the recovery of threatened and endangered species and the maintenance of genetic resources in species utilized by humans, such as for restoration or agricultural purposes.Here, we describe and demonstrate a workflow to spatially interpolate patterns of genetic differentiation using novel functions in the r package popmaps (Population Management using Ancestry Probability Surfaces). Our approach uses empirical genetic data to estimate ancestry coefficients across a user‐defined landscape correlated with patterns of differentiation in the focal species. The resulting surface, which we term the ancestry probability surface, includes two components: hard population boundaries and estimations of uncertainty that represent confidence in population assignments (i.e. ancestry probabilities).An ancestry probability surface developed for Hilaria jamesii, an important graminoid utilized in restoration across the western United States, demonstrates the functionality of popmaps. Genetic distances among empirical sites correlated better with least‐cost distances across suitable habitat than with geographical distances, informing the surface over which the interpolation was conducted (i.e. a model indicating habitat suitability). A jackknifing procedure identified parameter values resulting in robust population assignments across the species' range, which were utilized in downstream analyses to estimate ancestry coefficients from empirical data. Ancestry coefficients were translated into ancestry probabilities, which tended to be low for cells that were intermediate in distance between empirical sampling locations representing different populations or when influenced by empirical sampling locations with mixed genetic ancestry.popmaps allows users to tailor parameter values and analytical approaches and thereby incorporate species‐specific biological characteristics and desired levels of uncertainty into maps illustrating patterns of genetic differentiation. Ancestry probability surfaces may be used to guide management or investigate further ecological or evolutionary hypotheses. We discuss how maps produced by popmaps can inform multiple management challenges including species recovery planning and the utilization of commonly used species in restoration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Classification of fields into management units based on soil variability and fertility is important for spatial crop planning. The present study was conducted in Chukanagallu subwatershed (97 km2), Koppal district of Northern Karnataka Plateau, India to map the soil fertility management units and to analyse the suitability of soil for different crops. Random forest regression and classification algorithms were used to map the differentiating characteristics of soil series (soil depth, coarse fragments and soil colour), physicochemical properties (pH, EC and OC) and fertility parameters (P2O5, K2O, S, Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, B). Random forest model performed well for the prediction of fertility parameters (R2 = 44–73%) and physicochemical properties (R2 = 39–83%) compared to soil depth and coarse fragments (R2 = 17–18%). Predicted soil fertility parameters and physicochemical properties were used for the delineation of different homogenous fertility management units. Soil series characteristics and fertility parameters were also evaluated using a multi-criteria approach for suitability of soil for cotton, groundnut and rice cultivation and the results showed that major area of subwatershed is moderately suitable for the cultivation of cotton, rice and groundnut. The management units derived from DSM approach were symmetrical in production potential and requires similar management aspects which are useful for appropriate planning of management strategies such as crop selections and nutrient management to achieve sustainable production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Camellia nitidissima Chi, is a rare and endangered plant that is narrowly distributed in South China and North Vietnam. In this study, seven polymorphic microsatellite markers were used to investigate the genetic diversity, recent population bottlenecks as well as population structure of twelve remnant populations of the plant. Our results indicated that, despite their severely fragmented natural range, C. nitidissima remnants maintained a moderate level of genetic variability, and only a bottlenecked population was detected by the clear evidences. No significant correlation was found between genetic diversity and population size. Significantly high genetic differences among populations were found, and the twelve populations could be classified into two distinct genetic groups. AMOVA indicated that 16.14% (16.73%, after one suspected artificial population was excluded) of the molecular variation was attributable to regional divergences (between Nanning and Fangcheng), and the majority of genetic variation existed within populations which were 69.24% (70.63%, after one suspected artificial population was excluded). For conservation management plans, the genetic resources of the two distinct groups are of equal importance for conservation, separate management unit for each of them should be considered. Given that all remnant populations are small and isolated, and many plants are illegally dug out for commercial purposes, management efforts in terms of habitat protection and legal protection, as well as transplantations and reintroductions, would be necessary for this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Characterizing the genetic diversity and structure of populations is essential for understanding their evolutionary history and planning species conservation. The lesser spotted eagle (Clanga pomarina) is a large migratory raptor with a relatively small breeding range concentrated in Eastern Europe. We evaluated the level of genetic diversity and population structuring by estimating the length diversity of 23 microsatellite markers in 306 individuals and sequencing 473 nucleotides from the mitochondrial pseudo-control region in 265 individuals across the distribution range. The microsatellite data suggested shallow differentiation between geographical regions and moderate genetic diversity across the range; no recent population bottlenecks were detected. Mitochondrial diversity was relatively low; however, high values were recorded at the southern edge of the distribution range. This, in combination with the star-like distribution of mitochondrial haplotypes, suggests the expansion of the European population from a single (Balkan) refugium during the late Pleistocene or early Holocene after the glacial population bottleneck. However, the Caucasian population may have survived in a separate refugium. We conclude that the lack of clear population structuring and ongoing gene flow across Europe support the treatment of the geographically restricted global population of the lesser spotted eagle as a single evolutionary and conservation unit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The middle part of the Sava River in Slovenia provides one of the longest free‐flowing habitats for huchen, a threatened species that is also protected by the European Habitats Directive. However, there are plans for the construction of a chain of hydropower plants along this stretch of river. It has previously been assumed that huchen is no longer self‐sustainable here, but dependent upon stocking with hatchery‐reared fish.Using microsatellite and mitochondrial DNA, the genetic structure of huchen in its entire range in Slovenia was analysed with the particular aim of assessing the self‐sustainability of the species in the middle Sava.Using factorial correspondence analysis and assignment tests, a distinct genetic cluster was identified for each of the three main river systems in the country (Sava, Kolpa and Mura–Drava). In the middle Sava, a genetic admixture between stocked and local individuals, observed beyond F1, and a unique genetic substructure not corresponding to the stocking sources, were found.These results indicate the self‐sustainability of the middle Sava population and justify its protection. The estimated effective population size in the middle Sava is below the accepted minimum, and additional fragmentation arising from dam construction would cause the genetic breakdown of this huchen population.To preserve local genetic pools and possible inter‐population adaptive differentiation, we recommend that the three, historically isolated, river system‐bound populations (from the Sava, Kolpa and Mura–Drava) are managed separately. However, separate management of the small, isolated populations in the once free‐flowing Sava river system is not encouraged as it may cause their genetic impoverishment.The potential impact of this study on the conservation management of huchen more widely is discussed, with emphasis on the Balkans, where large populations still exist and their management is just beginning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Six ecogeographic units are verified in chum salmon Oncorhynchus keta (Walbaum, 1792) that spawns in the rivers of Iturup and Kunashir islands based on the zoogeographical zoning: of the physical-geographical regions of their spawning, certain ecological forms (ecotypes), and genetic differences between them. These are lake chum salmon of Lake Sopochnoe, river chum salmon from the basins of the Reidovaya and Kurilka rivers (Iturup Island), and river and lake forms of chum salmon of the Kunashir Island. The river chum salmon of Rybatskaya River (Iturup Island), eligible for protection due to its genetic uniqueness, is defined as a special (sixth) ecogeographic unit. These ecogeographic units are finally verified via assessment of their differentiation on the basis of DNA markers. In addition, the chum salmon of the Kuibyshevka River basin, water bodies north of Vetrovoe Isthmus, and those in the southern portion of the island should possibly be classified as additional ecogeographic units; however, their genetic features are understudied, which hinders their reliable verification. All listed ecogeographic units as a whole can be viewed as basic management units for the chum salmon of the southern Kuril Islands. The lake ecotype of Kuril Islands is liable for protection and careful approach to fishery and reproduction as a unique form of chum salmon of the Far East. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The chum salmon, Oncorhynchus keta Walbaum, spawning in rivers and lakes of the Far East, is divided into ecogeographic units (EGUs) based on zoogeographic zoning of the species range, biological features of groups that take into account spawning areas and ecological forms (ecotypes), and genetic differences between them. Each EGU has definite geographical boundaries and can include several spawning populations of chum salmon from different water bodies within these boundaries. Populations of chum salmon from different EGUs have significant genetic differences between each other. Ecogeographic units are important elements of the intraspecific structure. They can also be considered as basic management units of chum salmon, which should be taken into account when developing a strategy for managing stocks of aquatic biological resources. In particular, in the process of artificial reproduction of this species, transfer of fertilized eggs between populations from different EGUs is highly undesirable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paracentrotus lividus is a sea urchin with an important ecological role in the Cantabrian Sea ecosystem, where its populations are in severe decline and the regional government has implemented a population restoration strategy with the aim of preserving this valuable marine resource.In this study, genetic monitoring was conducted for the first time in the central area of the southern Bay of Biscay to describe the genetic diversity patterns of P. lividus and to assess the potential impacts of conservation and mitigation actions on the wild gene pool. Genetic analyses were performed using the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene and microsatellite loci.Asturian localities showed significant genetic heterogeneity, possibly due to genetic drift, and seemed to constitute a differentiated management unit with regard to other areas of the species' distribution. The genetic diversity analyses comparing wild samples with those subjected to restoration experiments did not show significant negative effects on restored localities.Sea urchins from hatcheries represented 3.5% of the total recaptured individuals (95% accuracy). Even when low hatchery contributions were detected in this work, the results pointed to the necessity of improving the initial autochthonous breeder genetic pool and the aquaculture strategies applied when restoring wild populations to avoid future unwanted negative effects on wild gene pools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fishery of inshore hagfish (Eptatretus burgeri) is particularly important from the perspective of the eel-skin leather industry in the northwest Pacific. In order to reveal the genetic diversity and population structure of E. burgeri in the northwest Pacific, we analyzed partial nucleotide sequences of three mitochondrial DNA regions (523 bp in COI, 712 bp in ND4 and 617 bp in Cytb) based on specimens collected from six locations in Korea and Japan. The genetic diversities of E. burgeri were higher in Korean locations compared to Japanese ones. AMOVA showed that E. burgeri was completely separated into two groups (group A: southern coast of Korea and western coast of Japan vs. group B: eastern coast of Japan). Furthermore, groups A and B were divided into each two lineages (lineage I: west southern coast of Korea, lineage II: east southern coast of Korea and western coast of Japan, lineage III and IV: eastern coast of Japan). Our molecular results suggest that these two groups and lineages of E. burgeri may be different evolutionary significant unit and management unit, respectively.

The relative importance of gene flow, genetic drift, and natural selection in driving genetic divergence of local populations, as well as the factors that disrupt gene flow in natural populations, are uncertain. Comparative analyses enable us to test explicit hypotheses regarding the roles of these factors. Gannets (Morus spp.) include three morphologically and ecologically similar seabird species: the Cape Gannet M. capensis, which breeds in southern Africa; the Australasian Gannet M. serrator, which breeds in southeastern Australia and New Zealand; and the Northern Gannet M. bassanus, which breeds in the North Atlantic. We assessed the extent of differentiation in mitochondrial control region sequences and morphometrics among colonies of each species to test mechanisms of divergence. No evidence was found for introgression of mitochondrial DNA between Cape and Australasian gannets, despite the existence of mixed-species pairs, consistent with their taxonomic status as biological species. Significant population differentiation, both in control region sequences and in morphology, was found within both Australasian and Northern gannets. Analyses based on coalescent theory indicated that little to no female-mediated gene flow occurs either between Australasian Gannets in Australia versus New Zealand, or between Northern Gannets in Canada versus Europe. Divergence of these regional populations, as well as Cape versus Australasian gannets, appears to pre-date the Pleistocene glaciations and corresponds to differences in non-breeding distributions. Northern and Australasian gannets may each represent at least two management units for conservation, but additional data are needed on nuclear DNA variation in individuals sampled from more colonies to confirm this result. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Assessing a species’ threatened status and then developing specific conservation strategies accordingly rely heavily on knowing that species’ complete and accurate spatial distribution. In this study, we used the Asiatic black bear (Ursus thibetanus) in China to represent a large threatened species for which distribution information is limited and spatially biased. We grouped the two main sources of black bear occurrence data into two different resolutions: (1) coarse resolution data corresponding specific management units (e.g., nature reserves) that cover large areas, and (2) fine resolution data composed of longitude and latitude records that were bias in their geographic range. Our distribution mapping approach integrated those two data types to examine black bear spatial patterns across the country. We used both presence and absence data in the Random Forest algorithm to predict black bear distribution at coarse (30 km) and fine (3 km) resolutions, and then refined the coarse-scale prediction with the fine-scale prediction using a map fusion technique based on the Bayes theorem. We thus generated an integrated high-resolution range map that was both more accurate than the coarse-scale map and more representative of the black bear geographic range than was the fine-scale map. Our results showed that the total estimated range of Asiatic black bears in China was 462.3 × 103 km2, 77.50% less than the most recent IUCN range map and 70.90% less than the area of habitat (AOH) estimation. Using those results, we identified two island and six mainland management units in China and, based on the predicted habitat conditions, proposed specific conservation strategies for each unit. Our study results provide practical knowledge and pragmatic guidance for future conservation planning and action for this species, and our framework provides an example and template for range estimations of species with similar types of occurrence records.

Using the example of chum salmon Oncorhynchus keta in the Amur zoogeographic province, we review the principle of subdividing the species into population groups. On the basis of zoogeographic zoning and biological boundaries of chum salmon groups defined by the spawning areas, taking into account the distribution, migration, and reproduction, as well as estimates of their differentiation using microsatellite DNA markers, we identified eight ecogeographic units in the Amur province. In the Amur zoogeographic region of this province, these included the summer chum salmon of the Amur-Amgun ecoregion and the autumn chum salmon of the Lower Amur (Amur-Amgun and Amur-Ussuri ecoregions); in the Shantar zoogeographic region of the province, the Uda-Tugur and Ulban groups; in the Sakhalin part of the Amur province, groups from the northwestern and northeastern Sakhalin, as well as summer and autumn chum salmon from the Poronai River. These ecogeographic units can be considered as basic spawning management units of chum salmon for this part of the species distribution range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study's objective was to update, according to the applied technologies, the working time and production norms for the forest management practice regarding the project drafting phase. Observations were conducted in multiple working setups focusing on the differences related to technologies, infrastructure, the working method during the forest management plan's (FMP's) development to analyze and optimize the whole process. At first, layouts/working models of the process were developed for each of the eight distinct identified operations within the frame of project drafting phase for the FMP: a) graphical representation (to the scale of the cartographic base) of the topographic surveys, b) calculation of volumes, c) transposing of forest compartments and sub-compartments/ forest management units (FMUs) boundaries and indicatives onto Topographic Base Plans (TBSs) – within a process of change and/or create a cartographic base, d) assembling the graphical representations derived from the topographic surveys and updating planimetric details onto the topographic base, e) automatic data processing, f) preparation of the Second Forest Planning Conference (SFPC), g) Drafting the Forest Management Plan (FMP) at Yield Management Unit (YMU) level, h) guidance and control of the workflow during the phase of drafting the FMPs. Also, working time norms were obtained for the management/leading positions, considering all the tasks within its responsibility area. Observations were made on a set of 19 Forest Districts (FDs), which were comprised of 21 YMUs geomorphologically distributed to categories: plains, wetlands areas, hilly areas, mountainous areas. The data set included multiple elements of variation to consider the diversity of influence factors on the output (the norms of time and production). All mentioned working setups confer unitary character at the state level to the obtained time and production norms for the FMP's drafting. Data analysis, data processing and statistical analysis were conducted with the SPSS software package (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences). The study includes relevant result-based conclusions and recommendations to continue the recordings for all identified operations referring to FMP development leading to new norms of time and production for all the forest management workflow. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT The ancient catfish family Diplomystidae, with seven species endemic to rivers of southern South America, represents one of the oldest branches of the diverse order Siluriformes. With most species endangered, new reports of these species become extremely valuable for conservation. Currently, it is assumed that Diplomystes species inhabit only Andean (large) basins, and that they are extinct from coastal (small) basins from which their presence have not been recorded since 1919. Here, we document new records of the family Diplomystidae in the Laraquete and Carampangue basins, two coastal basins from the Nahuelbuta Coast Range, Chile, with no previous reports. This finding represents the rediscovery of the genus in coastal basins in more than a Century. Based on analysis of mitochondrial DNA sequences, the collected specimens were found to be closely related to Diplomystes nahuelbutaensis from the Andean Biobío Basin, but sufficiently differentiated to suggest that coastal basin populations are a different management unit. These populations are important because, contrary to previous thoughts, they prove these catfish can survive in small river networks, providing unique opportunities for research and conservation. The conservation category of Critically Endangered (CE) is recommended for the populations from the Laraquete and Carampangue basins.

The author of the paper has analyzed the general theoretical approaches to determining the content and characteristics of the organizational structures of state agencies; has formulated the key principles for the formation of organizational structures. Based on the research of scientific works on the theory of public administration, administrative law, management, public management, the author has formulated own definition of the concept of “organizational structure of the National Police of Ukraine”. The author has offered to understand it as a set of interrelated positions, structural and separate units of the National Police, which constitutes a single system of units and levels of management, and is formed in order to accomplish the assigned tasks for the provision of police services and implementation of assigned powers. It is established by regulatory acts adopted by the authorized agencies (individuals) within their own competence in compliance with a specific procedure. The routine activities of the National Police of Ukraine are carried out in strict order determined by the regulatory acts, are characterized by a high formality of management procedures, constant organizational relations, and therefore its organizational structure belongs to rigid (bureaucratic) type structures according to its characteristics. If we consider the system of the National Police of Ukraine on the national scale, its organizational structure refers to the divisional type, since it contains relatively separate territorial and interterritorial units that have certain autonomy in exercising their activities and management decisions. If we consider organizational structures of the central apparatus, territorial and interterritorial agencies, then their structures belong to the linear and functional type. The results obtained by the author are an integral part of the author’s research on the topic “Public management within the National Police of Ukraine” and can be used in carrying out similar fundamental and applied research in the field of optimization of management activities of state and law enforcement agencies.

Abstract Background The scalloped spiny lobster (Panulirus homarus) is a popular seafood commodity worldwide and an important export item from Oman. Annual catches in commercial fisheries are in serious decline, which has resulted in calls for the development of an integrated stock management approach. In Oman, the scalloped spiny lobster is currently treated as a single management unit (MU) or stock and there is an absence of information on the genetic population structure of the species that can inform management decisions, particularly at a fine-scale level. This work is the first to identify genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) for P. homarus using Diversity Arrays Technology sequencing (DArT-seq) and to elucidate any stock structure in the species. Results After stringent filtering, 7988 high utility SNPs were discovered and used to assess the genetic diversity, connectivity and structure of P. homarus populations from Al Ashkharah, Masirah Island, Duqm, Ras Madrakah, Haitam, Ashuwaymiyah, Mirbat and Dhalkut landing sites. Pairwise F ST estimates revealed low differentiation among populations (pairwise F ST range = − 0.0008 - 0.0021). Analysis of genetic variation using putatively directional F ST outliers (504 SNPs) revealed higher and significant pairwise differentiation (p

The ancient catfish family Diplomystidae, with seven species endemic to rivers of southern South America, represents one of the oldest branches of the diverse order Siluriformes. With most species endangered, new reports of these species become extremely valuable for conservation. Currently, it is assumed that Diplomystes species inhabit only Andean (large) basins, and that they are extinct from coastal (small) basins from which their presence have not been recorded since 1919. Here, we document new records of the family Diplomystidae in the Laraquete and Carampangue basins, two coastal basins from the Nahuelbuta Coast Range, Chile, with no previous reports. This finding represents the rediscovery of the genus in coastal basins in more than a Century. Based on analysis of mitochondrial DNA sequences, the collected specimens were found to be closely related to Diplomystes nahuelbutaensis from the Andean Biobío Basin, but sufficiently differentiated to suggest that coastal basin populations are a different management unit. These populations are important because, contrary to previous thoughts, they prove these catfish can survive in small river networks, providing unique opportunities for research and conservation. The conservation category of Critically Endangered (CE) is recommended for the populations from the Laraquete and Carampangue basins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The morphometric analysis of hydrographic basin provides data that allow the hydrological regime understanding, as well as vulnerabilities to flooding, inundation, erosion and drainage network maintenance. In this context, this article aims to analyze the Paraguai/Jauquara basin morphometry, in Mato Grosso. The data for the calculations of 14 morphometric parameters were generated, stored and processed through geotechnologies. The results indicated that the basin is vulnerable to the drainage network maintenance, causing concern because it can affect its water dynamics, the multiple use of waters and influence on the inundation pulse of Pantanal, Mato Grosso [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The Morato's Digger Toad, Proceratophrys moratoi, is a critically endangered toad species with a marked population decline in southern Brazilian Cerrado. Despite this, new populations are being discovered, primarily in the northern part of the distribution range, which raises a number of questions with regard to the conservation status of the species. The present study analyzed the genetic diversity of the species based on microsatellite markers. Our findings permitted the identification of two distinct management units. We found profound genetic structuring between the southern populations, on the left margin of the Tietê River, and all other populations. A marked reduction was observed in the contemporary gene flow among the central populations that are most affected by anthropogenic impacts, such as extensive sugar cane plantations, which presumably decreases habitat connectivity. The results indicated reduced diversity in the southern populations which, combined with a smaller effective population size, may make these populations more susceptible to extinction. We recommend the reclassification of P. moratoi as vulnerable and the establishment of a special protection program for the southern populations. Our results provide important insights about the local extinction of southern populations of this toad.

Development of a strategy for a new approach to the management of the most important road network of Azerbaijan, the main road network, required to carefully examine all the aspects concerning delivery of operation and maintenance services and functions. Guiding principles and objectives for the future management of the Azeri main road network were defined, and according to them a set of possible options has been proposed. The options were compared on the basis of a SWOT analysis in order to shortlist those that may best fit the current and the near future Azeri scenario.

Populations from different parts of a species range may vary in their genetic structure, variation and dynamics. Geographically isolated populations or those located at the periphery of the range may differ from those located in the core of the range. Such peripheral populations may harbour genetic variation important for the adaptive potential of the species. We studied the distribution‐wide population genetic structure of the Terek Sandpiper Xenus cinereus using 13 microsatellite loci and the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) control region. In addition, we estimated whether genetic variation changes from the core towards the edge of the breeding range. We used the results to evaluate the management needs of the sampled populations. Distribution‐wide genetic structure was negligible; the only population that showed significant genetic differentiation was the geographically isolated Dnieper River basin population in Eastern Europe. The genetic variation of microsatellites decreased towards the edge of the distribution, supporting the abundant‐centre hypotheses in which the core area of the distribution preserves the most genetic variation; however, no such trend could be seen with mtDNA. Overall genetic variation was low and there were signs of past population contractions followed by expansion; this pattern is found in most northern waders. The current effective population size (Ne) is large, and therefore global conservation measures are not necessary. However, the marginal Dnieper River population needs to be considered its own management unit. In addition, the Finnish population warrants conservation actions due to its extremely small size and degree of isolation from the main range, which makes it vulnerable to genetic depletion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Sacramento Mountain salamander (Aneides hardii) is a fully terrestrial plethodontid endemic to mountains in south-central New Mexico. This species is of conservation concern but there is scant knowledge regarding the degree of genetic divergence among populations. This information is vital for developing an appropriate species management strategy. To address this issue, we generated sequence data from the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene and four nuclear loci to explore population demographic history. Cytochrome b data revealed three deeply divergent (2.3–2.8%) mitochondrial lineages corresponding to distinct mountains (Capitan, White, and Sacramento). Divergence dates suggest separation since the early Pleistocene, and signatures of population expansion in the mid to late Pleistocene. Of 25 haplotypes identified, none were shared among mountains, but genetic diversity differed among mitochondrial lineages and suggested different demographic histories within lineages. A single microsatellite locus identified private alleles in each of the three lineages. Other nuclear loci screened were invariant within and among populations, which corresponds to a lower mutation rate compared with mtDNA. Together these results indicate that each mountain population of A. hardii represents a demographically and genetically distinct management unit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We developed 10 microsatellite markers for Plagiogyria koidzumii, a critically endangered fern species found on Iriomotejima Island in the Ryukyu Archipelago, Japan and in Taiwan. These markers showed polymorphism among 65 wild individuals from Iriomotejima Island; the number of alleles per locus was 2-14, and mean observed and expected heterozygosity in the largest population were 0.276 and 0.277, respectively. A genetic structure analysis using these markers indicated clear genetic differentiation even within the narrow geographic range (ca. 10 × 8 km) on Iriomotejima Island. These microsatellite markers should be valuable for measuring genetic diversity and comparing genetic structure within and between populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The shimofuri gobies Tridentiger bifasciatus (Gobiidae: Gobionellinae), are small, benthic fish indigenous to the coastal waters of the West Pacific Ocean. In this study, 582-bp mitochondrial cytochrome C subunit I (COI) and 789-bp nuclear ryanodine receptor 3 (Ryr3) DNA sequence data were employed to evaluate population genetic structure of T. bifasciatus. A total of 14 distinct COI haplotypes and 14 distinct Ryr3 alleles were recovered for 140 samples collected from eight intertidal localities in the Zhejiang Coastal Sea, China. The indices of haplotype and nucleotide diversity within populations are 0.42–0.87 (Hd) and 0.13–0.54% (π) for COI and 0.26–0.59 (Hd) and 0.05–0.09% (π) for Ryr3. FST distances between population pairs are − 0.007–0.768 (COI) and − 0.030–0.311 (Ryr3). The south population of Cangnan exhibits significant divergence from all the north populations (p < 0.01). The median-joining (MJ) network indicates that one COI haplotype and one Ryr3 allele found in Cangnan are absent in all the north populations. This observation of phylogeographic break can be interpreted: (1) the dispersal of T. bifasciatus is driven more by small-scale local currents, including inflows of local rivers than by large-scale oceanographic currents; (2) the recruitment is frequently shared among the geographically proximate populations in the northern areas of Zhejiang Coastal Sea, whereas infrequently shared between Cangnan and geographically distant north populations. Tajima's D statistics, star-like pattern observed on the MJ network, and mismatch distribution analysis present compelling evidence for pronounced demographic fluctuations for the overall population of T. bifasciatus, and infer that the species along the Zhejiang Coastal Sea has undergone a sudden expansion following bottleneck in the past, probably during the quaternary glaciations. The central components for management efforts should occur with preserving ecological diversity and integrity, especially in areas with strong rates of economic growth and high degrees of artificial disturbance, as well as acknowledging separate management units for Cangnan and the other north populations of T. bifasciatus in the Coastal Sea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The geographic distribution of mitochondrial DNA haplotypes from Japanese river sculpin Cottus pollux large‐egg type (LE), collected from 55 locations in 22 rivers over most of the species' range in Japan, was examined to assess for patterns of population genetic structure. The 87 haplotypes observed from C. pollux LE were distinguishable from C. pollux middle‐egg type and small‐egg type haplotypes from previously published research. Cottus pollux LE from each river were largely represented by diagnostic mtDNA haplotypes, with limited geographical associations of haplotypes, suggesting that each river must be treated as a separate management unit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]