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The methane seeps on the Pacific margin of Costa Rica support extensive animal diversity and offer insights into deep-sea biogeography. During five expeditions between 2009 and 2019, we conducted intensive faunal sampling via 63 submersible dives to 11 localities at depths of 300-3600 m. Based on these expeditions and published literature, we compiled voucher specimens, images, and 274 newly published DNA sequences to present a taxonomic inventory of macrofaunal and megafaunal diversity with a focus on invertebrates. In total 488 morphospecies were identified, representing the highest number of distinct morphospecies published from a single seep or vent region to date. Of these, 131 are described species, at least 58 are undescribed species, and the remainder include some degree of taxonomic uncertainty, likely representing additional undescribed species. Of the described species, 38 are known only from the Costa Rica seeps and their vicinity. Fifteen range extensions are also reported for species known from Mexico, the Galápagos seamounts, Chile, and the western Pacific; as well as 16 new depth records and three new seep records for species known to occur at vents or organic falls. No single evolutionary narrative explains the patterns of biodiversity at these seeps, as even morphologically indistinguishable species can show different biogeographic affinities, biogeographic ranges, or depth ranges. The value of careful molecular taxonomy and comprehensive specimen-based regional inventories is emphasized for biodiversity research and monitoring.

In this study, we conducted a molecular analysis, based on the comparison of mtDNA sequences of cytochrome oxidase I (COI) of the species Tanymastix stagnalis Linnaeus, 1758 from Algeria, with other available sequences. Phylogenetic analysis clarified the status of this species and its phylogenetic links between European and North African populations. This analysis clearly demonstrated that the only two populations from Algeria (Reghaïa and El Frine) are included within European sub-clad comprising northern Spain, France, northern Italy and Germany. We also provided ecological data over a decade of monitoring, which revealed that the population of T. stagnalis from El-Frine is stable and active during winter and spring. It lives in sandy pools and prefers low temperatures and conductivity (11.9 ± 2.2 °C, 0.26 ± 0.15 mS cm−1, respectively). The mean density of its individuals was 1.43 ± 3.44 ind. L−1, with an egg-bank of 0.35 ± 0.14 egg cm−3. The cohabitation of T. stagnalis with the Decapoda Atyaephyra desmaresti (Millet, 1831) in the El-Frine ponds is reported for the first time. Conservation measures should be undertaken to protect this endangered species in North Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Israel’s climate is characterized by hot and dry summers and cool, rainy winters in the northern and coastal regions, whereas the southern and eastern regions are arid. The aquatic macrophyte Chara is a common genus in Israel, and its distribution varies across Israel’s climatic gradient. Although few studies described the abundance and taxonomy of the local Chara species in Israel, only little is known about the molecular taxonomy of this group in the region. We sampled Chara species along Israel’s climatic gradient and identified specimens using the classical taxonomy key and molecular identification methods. We characterized the molecular taxonomy of four Chara species: C. vulgaris, C. contraria, C. gymnophylla, and C. globata. Notably, the latter species, which was found in a hyper-arid area, was last recorded in Israel ~50 years ago on the northern Mediterranean coast and Judaean Mountains. Chara gymnophylla was more abundant in northern Israel, while C. vulgaris and C. contraria were common in southern Israel. We developed Inter Simple Sequence Repeat markers to identify the four species and sequenced their chloroplast gene rbcL. The phylogenetic trees generated using the rbcL sequences and ISSR-based dendrogram were consistent with the classical taxonomy of Chara. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: We report the first detection of Wolbachia in the quill mites parasitizing African birds. The further findings of our study are two new-to-science syringophilid species living on alaudid birds in Namibia, i.e., Syringophilopsis erythrochlamys sp. n. from the dune lark Calendulauda erythrochlamys, (Strickland, HE) and Syringophilopsis christinae sp. n. from the Karoo long-billed lark Certhilauda subcoronata (Smith) and the spike-heeled lark Chersomanes albofasciata (de Lafresnaye, NFAA). In addition, we provide the African reed warbler Acrocephalus baeticatus (Vieillot, LJP) as a new host for S. acrocephali (Skoracki, 1999). Our discovery broadens the understanding of parasite diversity and offers the latest insights into Wolbachia infection among quill mites. Wolbachia is a common intracellular bacterial genus that infects numerous arthropods and filarial nematodes. In arthropods, it typically acts as a reproductive parasite, leading to various phenotypic effects such as cytoplasmic incompatibility, parthenogenesis, feminization, or male-killing. Quill mites (Acariformes: Syringophilidae) are a group of bird parasites that have recently attracted increasing interest due to the detection of unique phylogenetic lineages of endosymbiotic bacteria and potentially pathogenic taxa. Our study used an unbiased 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing approach to examine several populations of Namibian quill mites for the presence of bacteria that could affect their biology. We detected Wolbachia in two mite populations collected from two species of larks. However, we did not find any other endosymbiotic bacteria or any that could be of epidemiological importance. Since the mite taxa we tested were previously unknown to science, we conducted comprehensive morphological and molecular systematic analyses on them. Our research revealed two new quill mite species of the genus Syringophilopsis Kethley, 1970 which parasitize three sub-Saharan alaudids, i.e., Syringophilopsis erythrochlamys sp. n. from the dune lark Calendulauda erythrochlamys (Strickland, HE) and S. christinae sp. n. from the Karoo long-billed lark Certhilauda subcoronata (Smith) and spike-heeled lark Chersomanes albofasciata (de Lafresnaye, NFAA). In addition, we provided the African reed warbler Acrocephalus baeticatus (Vieillot, LJP) as a new host for S. acrocephali Skoracki, 1999. Our study expands the knowledge on parasite diversity and provides new insights into Wolbachia infection among quill mites in Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The methane seeps on the Pacific margin of Costa Rica support extensive animal diversity and offer insights into deep-sea biogeography. During five expeditions between 2009 and 2019, we conducted intensive faunal sampling via 63 submersible dives to 11 localities at depths of 300–3600 m. Based on these expeditions and published literature, we compiled voucher specimens, images, and 274 newly published DNA sequences to present a taxonomic inventory of macrofaunal and megafaunal diversity with a focus on invertebrates. In total 488 morphospecies were identified, representing the highest number of distinct morphospecies published from a single seep or vent region to date. Of these, 131 are described species, at least 58 are undescribed species, and the remainder include some degree of taxonomic uncertainty, likely representing additional undescribed species. Of the described species, 38 are known only from the Costa Rica seeps and their vicinity. Fifteen range extensions are also reported for species known from Mexico, the Galápagos seamounts, Chile, and the western Pacific; as well as 16 new depth records and three new seep records for species known to occur at vents or organic falls. No single evolutionary narrative explains the patterns of biodiversity at these seeps, as even morphologically indistinguishable species can show different biogeographic affinities, biogeographic ranges, or depth ranges. The value of careful molecular taxonomy and comprehensive specimen-based regional inventories is emphasized for biodiversity research and monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We evaluate the evidence of cryptic speciation in Larimus breviceps, a species widely distributed in the western South Atlantic, from the Greater Antilles to Santa Catarina in Brazil. Mitochondrial (COI, Cyt b, and Control Region) and nuclear (IGF1 and Tmo-4C4) sequences were obtained from populations in the western South Atlantic. The analysis revealed two genetically distinct, sympatric lineages with no gene flow, with L. breviceps lineage II (LII) being closer to Larimus pacificus than to the L. breviceps lineage I (LI). The most recent common ancestor (TMRCA) for the L. breviceps LI and L. pacificus/L. breviceps LII clade dates from 12.3 Ma, whereas TMRCA for the L. pacificus and L. breviceps LII dates from 3.4 Ma, indicating that speciation processes may be related to the rise of the Isthmus of Panama. Despite these profound genetic differences, morphometric analyses found only subtle differences between lineages, with specimens of the LI being slightly larger than those of the LII, suggesting the existence of cryptic species. Within each lineage there is a pattern of panmixia within the study area. Therefore, we suggest that it is necessary a taxonomic revision of Larimus from the western Atlantic to validate the species status of such lineages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Marionina (Michaelsen in Pfeffer, 1890) is a worldwide distributed genus of small enchytraeids living in mainly aquatic habitats. The genus is polyphyletic, including about 100 species with diverse morphological characters and cryptic lineages; therefore, taxonomic revisions were performed recently, and further actions are needed in the future. In our study, Marionina individuals were investigated from decaying seagrass debris collected from seashores in Croatia and Italy using morphological characters and molecular markers involving the COI and H3 genes and the ITS region. Descriptions of two new Marionina species, M. puntaalanensis sp. nov. and M. orbifera sp. nov., are presented in this paper, and in addition, the description of a third new Marionina species, M. reicharti sp. nov., from the shore of the freshwater Lake Balaton (Hungary) is provided here. All three new species are small (2–3.5 mm in vivo with less than 30 segments), their clitellum is saddle-shaped, the dorsal anterior blood vessel bifurcation is in III, and the spermatheca is attached to the oesophagus. The main diagnostic features of M. puntaalanensis sp. nov. are: brain incised posteriorly; dorsal vessel from the clitellar region; two chaetae in all bundles; three pairs of preclitellar nephridia; small subneural glands in XIII–XIV; seminal vesicle absent or small; ectal duct of spermatheca surrounded along the length by glands and one larger. The main features of M. orbifera sp. nov. are: brain truncate posteriorly; dorsal vessel from the clitellar region; two chaetae in all bundles; two pairs of preclitellar nephridia; subneural glands in XIII–XIV; seminal vesicle well developed; the lumen of the spermathecal ampulla is characteristically full with many spherical sperm rolls. In M. reicharti sp. nov. : brain incised posteriorly, dorsal vessel origin in XII, maximum five chaetae per bundle, often the middle chaetae slightly smaller than the ental ones, three pairs of preclitellar nephridia, subneural glands absent, spermathecal ampulla globular, ectal duct surrounded along the length by glands, and one large sessile gland at the orifice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The multifunctional catalytic hemoglobin from the terebellid polychaete Amphitrite ornata, also named dehaloperoxidase (AoDHP), utilizes the typical oxygen transport function in addition to four observed activities involved in substrate oxidation. The multifunctional ability of AoDHP is presently a rare observation, and there exists a limitation for how novel dehaloperoxidases can be identified from macrobenthic infauna. In order to discover more infaunal DHP-bearing candidates, we have devised a facilitated method for an accurate taxonomic identification that places visual and molecular taxonomic approaches in parallel. Traditional visual taxonomic species identification by the non-specialist, at least for A. ornata or even for other marine worms, is a very difficult and time-consuming task since a large diversity is present and the method is restricted to adult worm specimens. The work herein aimed to describe a method that simplifies the taxonomic identification of A. ornata in particular through the assessment of its mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene by employing the DNA barcoding technique. Furthermore, whole-worm specimens of A. ornata were used to extract and purify AoDHP followed by an H2O2-dependent peroxidase activity assay evaluation against substrate 2,4,6-trichlorophenol. AoDHP isoenzyme A was also overexpressed as the recombinant protein in Escherichia coli, and its peroxidase activity parameters were compared to AoDHP from the natural source. The activity assay assessment indicated a tight correlation for all Michaelis–Menten parameters evaluated. We conclude that the method described herein exhibits a streamlined approach to identify the polychaete A. ornata, which can be adopted by the non-specialist, and the full procedure is predicted to facilitate the discovery of novel dehaloperoxidases from other marine invertebrates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Marchantiana has been a victim of changeable concepts, partly due to erroneous DNA sequences published with its description. Based on new molecular sequencing, new chemical analyses and additional field work, mainly in Patagonia, Tasmania and New Zealand, we present a new taxonomic classification for the genus and related species. M. michelagoensi s is confirmed to belong to Marchantiana , and the genus Streimanniella , for which this species was the generic type, is synonymized with Marchantiana . We combine Caloplaca haematommona , C. magnetensis , C. tomnashi i and C. phaeocincta into Marchantiana as M. haematommona , M. magnetensis , M. tomnashii and M. phaeocincta , respectively. A new genus Taedigera is described to cater for three previous Marchantiana species and one Caloplaca species, with the new names T. pyramus , T. ramulicola , T. subpyracea and T. epibrya , respectively. Two species, T. flammea and T. gallowayi , both twig epiphytes from New Zealand, and one species, M. tasmanica , from Tasmania, are described as new to science based on molecular and secondary chemical characters. Marchantiana burneyensis , M. kalbiorum and M. seppeltii are excluded from the genus Marchantiana based on newly generated sequences of type material. A key is provided to the species groups in Patagonia, Tasmania and New Zealand.

Scarabaeoidea is a diverse and widely distributed insect group; many are agricultural pests including species within the genus Phyllophaga. Species diversity studies in this taxonomic group are done mainly using morphological identification. However, despite existing taxonomic keys for adults and larvae, identification may be difficult due to their complex morphology. Molecular taxonomy can increase the value and accuracy of morphological species identification of larvae and adults. To test this, larvae collected from soil close to maize plants were identified using molecular taxonomy, and compared with adults captured using light traps. The larvae (2021) and adults (2022) were sampled on maize at the same locations in central Mexico. Molecular identification was achieved using three regions within the Cytochrome oxidase gene (cox), two in the Cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (cox1), Cytochrome b (CytB) and 28S rDNA. Cox gene information was more useful than nuclear information (28S). Combined morphological and molecular taxonomy of adults distinguished between seven Phyllophaga species. Although two closely related species, P. polyphyla and P. ravida , were distinguished using cox gene information, greater resolution was obtained using CytB. All analyses identified cryptic species within P. vetula. Species found amongst sampled adults were similar to those found amongst larvae. However, the number of species was greater in adults than in larvae at the same locations. Larval information showed Phyllophaga community structure changed over time. Our findings will contribute to a better understanding of Phyllophaga's ecology in maize. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sand flies (Diptera, Psychodidae, Phlebotominae) are considered natural vectors of infectious agents, such as viruses, bacteria and protozoa. About 1,060 species are recognized, of which 73 have been recorded in the state of Tocantins, located in the transition of Amazon and Cerrado biomes, Northern Brazil. Here, we surveyed the sand fly fauna in different environments of the municipality of Palmas, including caves. Also, we evaluated a fragment of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (COI) as reliable for species delimitation in this region. The morphological identification of 163 sand flies revealed the presence of 26 species distributed in 13 genera. Of these, Lutzomyia itambe, Deanemyia samueli, Pintomyia gruta, Psathyromyia barretti, and Sciopemyia servulolimai had not yet been recorded in the state of Tocantins, thus, the sand fly fauna of the state is composed of 78 species. The first DNA sequence of Edentomyia sp., were generated, and probably correspond to an undescribed species, and new studies are needed to verify their real taxonomic identity. Also, eight nominal sand fly species were COI-sequenced for the first time, improving the DNA repositories for molecular species identification. The use of COI DNA barcodes proved to be efficient for identifying sand fly species in the state of Tocantins and revealed the existence of cryptic diversity for Nyssomyia whitmani and Psathyromyia aragaoi which need further investigations using an integrative taxonomy approach. However, COI sequences was ineffective in delimiting species of Evandromyia (Aldamyia) and Psychodpygus Chagasi series, and our limited sampling should be evaluated in more robust datasets to check the real usefulness of DNA sequences in identifying sand flies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biological nitrogen fixation by rhizobia-nodulated legumes reduces the dependence on synthetic nitrogen fertilizers. Identification of locally adapted rhizobia may uncover economically valuable strains for sustainable agriculture. This study investigated the diversity and symbiotic potential of rhizobia associated with three Medicago species from Eastern Romania's ecosystems. Phenotypic screening ensured that only rhizobial species were retained for molecular characterization. 16S rDNA sequencing clustered the isolates into four distinct groups: Sinorhizobium meliloti, Sinorhizobium medicae, Rhizobium leguminosarum, and Mesorhizobium spp. The chromosomal genes (atpD, glnII, recA) and nifH phylogenies were congruent, while the nodA phylogeny grouped the Mesorhizobium spp. isolates with R. leguminosarum. Medicago sativa was the most sampled plant species, and only S. meliloti and R. leguminosarum were found in its nodules, while Medicago falcata nodules hosted S. meliloti and Mesorhizobium spp. Medicago lupulina was the only species that hosted all four identified rhizobial groups, including S. medicae. This study provides the first report on the Mesorhizobium spp. associated with M. falcata nodules. Additionally, R. leguminosarum and two Mesorhizobium genospecies were identified as novel symbionts for Medicago spp. Comparative analysis of Medicago-associated rhizobia from other studies revealed that differences in 16S rDNA sequence type composition were influenced by Medicago species identity rather than geographic region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bath sponges, included in the Spongiidae (Demospongiae: Dictyoceratida), are distributed across the oceans of the world, with a greater abundance in temperate, subtropical, and tropical zones. Their harvest started during ancient times in the Mediterranean Sea, which shed light on the whole family. Most of the Mediterranean Spongiidae have been reported repeatedly from the Northeast Atlantic, notably along the Iberian peninsula. The aim of this study was to clarify the taxonomic status of these sponges after a recent sampling effort in the French Pays Basque and the Spanish Cantabria, complemented by several Mediterranean Sea stations, including the Strait of Gibraltar. An integrative taxonomic approach was adopted for the first time on a set of Spongiidae samples from the Northeast Atlantic, assessing the congruence of analyses of: (i) the morphology of the spongin skeleton; (ii) two different parts of the genome (mitochondrial and nuclear); and (iii) metabolomic fingerprints, to delimit the frontiers between species better. A new bath sponge species is described herein, and significant advances and changes are proposed for the systematics of the family. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most of the fire ants alien Solenopsis species, major pests of various horticulture crops. We have reported Solenopsis from crop fields and, through traditional taxonomy, these have been identified as Solenopsis geminata. The present investigation was performed to generate the DNA barcode of this species, for the elucidation of genetic structure collected from the Kalaburagi region. The generated DNA barcode of mitochondrial COI was deposited to the International Barcode of Life Database (BOLD: http://www.boldsystems.org). The barcode, along with its related information, are publicly available on the BOLD website with code MZ669889. It is the first such study from Kalaburagi region. Furthermore, DNA barcoding of fire ant's species accomplished from Maharashtra, Aurangabad (KC685060 & KC685063), Kerala, Malappuram (KP994543), Karnataka, Bangalore (KJ486555, KY000665 & JN886028) is in line with our findings. This study provides a detailed support for further wet lab study in support of traditional taxonomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Identifying marine trematode parasites in host tissue can be complicated when there is limited morphological differentiation between species infecting the same host species. This poses a challenge for regular surveys of the parasite communities in species of socio-economic and ecological importance. Our study focused on identifying digenean trematode species infecting the marine bivalve Cerastoderma edule across Europe by comparing morphological and molecular species identification methods. Cockles were sampled from ten locations to observe the trematode parasites under a stereomicroscope (morphological identification) and to isolate individuals for phylogenetic analyses using two gene markers, the small sub-unit ribosomal (18S) RNA gene (SSU rDNA) and the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (cox1). For the first time, we compared both morphological identification and phylogenetic analyses for each of the 13 originally identified species. First, we identified a group of five species for which morphological identification matched molecular results (Bucephalus minimus, Monorchis parvus, Renicola parvicaudatus, Psilostomum brevicolle, Himasthla interrupta). Second, we identified a group of six species for which molecular results revealed either misidentifications or cryptic diversity (Gymnophallus choledochus, Diphterostomum brusinae, Curtuteria arguinae, Himasthla quissetensis, H. elongata, H. continua). Third, our analyses showed that all sequences of two expected species, Gymnophallus minutus and G. fossarum, matched between the two, strongly suggesting that only G. minutus is present in the studied area. Our study clearly demonstrates that molecular tools are necessary to validate the trematode species composition. However, with 17 distinct genetic lineages detected, some of which are not fully identified, future studies are needed to clarify the identity and status (regular vs. accidental infection) of some of these cryptic trematode species.

Abstract Even though the high plateaus of Qinghai-Tibet and Iran share many faunal elements, the historical biogeography of the species present in this area are not very well understood. We present a complete COI barcode library for Aporia Hübner and a first comprehensive phylogeny for the genus including all known species and majority of subspecies using ten available genes (COI-COII, ND1, ND5, Cytb, EF-1a, Wg, 16S, 28S-D2/D3 and 28S-D8). We then focus on A. leucodice (Eversmann, 1843) and related taxa in order to resolve some long-standing taxonomic issues in this species-group. Based on DNA sequence data as well as morphology, we raise Aporia illumina (Grum-Grshimailo 1890) stat. nov. (= pseudoillumina Tshikolovets 2021 syn. nov.) as a distinct species and designate a lectotype; synonymize Aporia leucodice leucodice Eversmann, 1843 (= A. l. morosevitshae Sheljuzhko, 1908 syn. nov.); and describe a new species, Aporia ahura sp. nov., from the Central Alborz Mountains in northern Iran.

Abstract Background The freshwater prawn Macrobrachium vollenhovenii is one of the largest Macrobrachium species, a biological agent against human schistosomiasis, and a cheap protein source in riverine communities in West Africa. However, its aquaculture development for sustainable utilization is challenged by cryptic identity amidst the presence of morphotypes of unknown size and genetic relatedness. This study aimed to investigate the maximum sizes and evolutionary links of chelae morphotypes in M. vollenhovenii for precise identification and utilization in a 3 × 2 randomized block experimental design. Ninety biggest encountered samples of M. vollenhovenii chelae morphotypes—those possessing equal left and right side chelae, longer left chelae, and shorter left chelae—were obtained from fisherfolks’ catches at each of Asejire Lake and Ogun River during peak seasons (July–September) bimonthly field survey, representing EAAL, LLAL, SLAL—GAALs, and EAOR, LLOR, SLOR—GAORs. These were analyzed for differences (p

Background: The dipteran phlebotominae sandflies are considered a major threat to public health because they are proven vectors of leishmaniasis, phleboviruses, and some species of pathogenic bacteria. Therefore, scientists paid great attention to studying it at the phenotypic and molecular levels. In Iraq, leishmaniasis is considered an endemic disease and exists in its visceral and cutaneous forms (Baghdad boil). Its spread is greater in the southern regions than in the northern regions due to high temperatures, which in turn leads to an increase in the widespread of the sandflies. Given the lack of studies in the northern region of Iraq, this study was conducted and included a survey of all provinces of the Nineveh Governorate (the second governorate in Iraq in terms of population density). Methods: The sandflies collection process was performed during the period from May 2023 to February 2024, and DT150-TUN light traps were used for this purpose. For the initial phenotypic identification, several taxonomic keys of the subfamily phlebotomine were used as male genitalia, pharynx, and female spermatheca. Conventional polymerase chain reaction based on the amplification of the COI gene was performed for the molecular process of 60 captured sandflies from about 34 regions and 89 sites. Before performing a phylogenetic tree, high-quality sequences are matching with the closest global isolates in the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Results: A total of 4861 (2034 males and 2827 females) sandflies were captured in the current study and five species were identified belong to two genera (Phlebotomus and Sergentomyia). Sandflies were found to be more widespread in Mosul province and Phlebotomus papatasi was the most widespread of the rest of the species. Molecular results confirmed the other results of the study, and isolates of the identified species were recorded in NCBI. Conclusion: The current study demonstrated the importance of sandflie identification using molecular methods and was able for the first time from molecular identification of three species in Iraq. It is also the first molecular study of sandflies at the level of the Nineveh Governorate

The nature and extent of diversity in the plankton has fascinated scientists for over a century. Initially, the discovery of many new species in the remarkably uniform and unstructured pelagic environment appeared to challenge the concept of ecological niches. Later, it became obvious that only a fraction of plankton diversity had been formally described, because plankton assemblages are dominated by understudied eukaryotic lineages with small size that lack clearly distinguishable morphological features. The high diversity of the plankton has been confirmed by comprehensive metabarcoding surveys, but interpretation of the underlying molecular taxonomies is hindered by insufficient integration of genetic diversity with morphological taxonomy and ecological observations. Here we use planktonic foraminifera as a study model and reveal the full extent of their genetic diversity and investigate geographical and ecological patterns in their distribution. To this end, we assembled a global data set of ~7600 ribosomal DNA sequences obtained from morphologically characterised individual foraminifera, established a robust molecular taxonomic framework for the observed diversity, and used it to query a global metabarcoding data set covering ~1700 samples with ~2.48 billion reads. This allowed us to extract and assign 1 million reads, enabling characterisation of the structure of the genetic diversity of the group across ~1100 oceanic stations worldwide. Our sampling revealed the existence of, at most, 94 distinct molecular operational taxonomic units (MOTUs) at a level of divergence indicative of biological species. The genetic diversity only doubles the number of formally described species identified by morphological features. Furthermore, we observed that the allocation of genetic diversity to morphospecies is uneven. Only 16 morphospecies disguise evolutionarily significant genetic diversity, and the proportion of morphospecies that show genetic diversity increases poleward. Finally, we observe that MOTUs have a narrower geographic distribution than morphospecies and that in some cases the MOTUs belonging to the same morphospecies (cryptic species) have different environmental preferences. Overall, our analysis reveals that even in the light of global genetic sampling, planktonic foraminifera diversity is modest and finite. However, the extent and structure of the cryptic diversity reveals that genetic diversification is decoupled from morphological diversification, hinting at different mechanisms acting at different levels of divergence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Orthopodomyia Theobald, 1904 (Diptera: Culicidae) comprises 36 wild mosquito species, with distribution largely restricted to tropical and temperate areas, most of which are not recognized as vectors of epidemiological importance due to the lack of information related to their bionomy and involvement in the cycle transmission of infectious agents. Furthermore, their evolutionary relationships are not completely understood, reflecting the scarcity of genetic information about the genus. Therefore, in this study, we report the first complete description of the mitochondrial genome of a Neotropical species representing the genus, Orthopodomyia fascipes Coquillet, 1906, collected in the Brazilian Amazon region. Using High Throughput Sequencing, we obtained a mitochondrial sequence of 15,598 bp, with an average coverage of 418.5×, comprising 37 functional subunits and a final portion rich in A + T, corresponding to the control region. The phylogenetic analysis, using Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian Inference based on the 13 protein-coding genes, corroborated the monophyly of Culicidae and its two subfamilies, supporting the proximity between the tribes Orthopodomyiini and Mansoniini, partially disagreeing with previous studies based on the use of molecular and morphological markers. The information generated in this study contributes to a better understanding of the taxonomy and evolutionary history of the genus and other groups of Culicidae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulaibikhat Bay, a shallow embayment dominated by tides and extensive mud flats along the northern coast of Kuwait Bay, serves as a crucial nursery ground for various commercially important species of finfish and shellfish in the Northwestern Arabian Gulf (NWAG). As the location of Kuwait’s inaugural marine protected area (MPA), Sulaibikhat Bay plays a vital role in fostering numerous fish and marine invertebrate species of commercial importance in the Arabian/Persian Gulf. Accurate identification of larval specimens from this habitat is essential for understanding their spawning dynamics and recruitment process. However, limitations in taxonomic identification hinder scientific understanding of fish larval recruitment. To address this, our baseline study employed an integrated taxonomic approach, combining conventional morphology with molecular techniques. Fish larvae collected from the MPA and surrounding waters in Spring (2022) were identified up to the genus and species levels using partial gene sequencing of 16 S rRNA and mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase (COI) genes. Morphological analysis indicated the prevalence of Sparidae, Sillaginidae, and Dorosomatidae families. Molecular analysis confirmed the presence of these families and identified two species, Crenidens crenidens (Sparidae) and Nematalosa nasus (Dorosomatidae), along with two genera, Diplodus sp. (Sparidae) and Sillago sp. (Sillaginidae), which exhibited maximum similarity to available COI sequences of Diplodus sargus, and Sillago maculata, respectively. This represents the first baseline molecular study on fish larvae from NWAG, laying the groundwork for future in-depth analyses with more larval specimens and spatiotemporal samplings from the entire exclusive economic zone (EEZ) of Kuwait in the Arabian/Persian Gulf. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The freshwater prawn Macrobrachium vollenhovenii is one of the largest Macrobrachium species, a biological agent against human schistosomiasis, and a cheap protein source in riverine communities in West Africa. However, its aquaculture development for sustainable utilization is challenged by cryptic identity amidst the presence of morphotypes of unknown size and genetic relatedness. This study aimed to investigate the maximum sizes and evolutionary links of chelae morphotypes in M. vollenhovenii for precise identification and utilization in a 3 × 2 randomized block experimental design. Ninety biggest encountered samples of M. vollenhovenii chelae morphotypes—those possessing equal left and right side chelae, longer left chelae, and shorter left chelae—were obtained from fisherfolks' catches at each of Asejire Lake and Ogun River during peak seasons (July–September) bimonthly field survey, representing EAAL, LLAL, SLAL—GAALs, and EAOR, LLOR, SLOR—GAORs. These were analyzed for differences (p < 0.05) in size-linked parameters—length (L (cm)), weight (W (g)), and condition factor (K). Specimens' 16S rRNA nucleotide sequences were utilized to infer phylogenetic linkages, single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), and amino acid translations alongside NCBI references (NCBIrefseq). Results: Weight (W) and condition factor (K), among GAALs, for SLAL and LLAL were similar; EAAL was significantly lowest; among GAORs, SLOR and LLOR were similar; and EAOR was significantly lowest. In GAALs, EAAL, LLAL, and SLAL had higher L, W, and K than counterpart GAORs. Sequences formed two polyphyletic groups: EAOR branch from EAAL, in which 100.0%EA rooted 75.0% NCBIrefseqs, forming a clade; and GAOR-SLOR and LLOR branch form GAOR-LLAL rooted SLAL, in which 100.0%LL and SL rooted KJ463387.1 (Badagry), forming another clade. SNP Locus 91 separated 100.0%GAOR from 100.0%GAAL and 100.0%NCBIrefseqs translating to valine; SNP Locus 171 separated 100.0%EA and its co-rooted NCBIrefseqs from 100.0%LL, SL, and their co-rooted NCBIrefseq, translating to glycine/glutamic acid change. Conclusion: The equal left and right side chelae and the unequal left and right side chelae specimens are, respectively, small- and robust-sized, irrespective of habitat. They are divergent size-linked clades having protein translate differences, delineable at 16S rRNA SNP Locus 171; their size variant habitat strains are delineable at SNP Locus 91. These SNP markers will be useful for precision identification and selection of the size variant chelae morph strains for sustainable utilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forest ecosystems play an important role in upholding life on our planet. However, the onslaught of fungal pathogens like Ganoderma lucidum, poses a threat by decimating numerous tree species. G. lucidum identified as a root pathogen, causing root rot in numerous tree species of horticulture and forestry importance. The fungus initiates infection through basidiospores, which germinate and penetrate within roots and start to degrade lignocellulosic components of plant cells. Early‐stage detection of G. lucidum, is challenging, while in advance stages, the wood undergoes softening and a loss of tensile strength, rendering the disease incurable. Hence, effective management of G. lucidum necessitates a pivotal role of disease diagnostic techniques, which are currently underutilized or inadequately accessible. Subsequent implementation of suitable control measures becomes imperative to thwart disease occurrence and mitigate its impact in early stages, thus preserving the vitality of forest ecosystems. This study provides comprehensive overview of G. lucidum, covering taxonomy, pathogenicity, disease cycle, diagnosis and effective control measures, which will be helpful in formulating effective diagnostic techniques for early management of root rot disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Syllis prolifera (Syllidae, Syllinae) is an abundant species of marine annelids commonly found in warm to temperate waters worldwide. Although morphological variability occurs among populations, S. prolifera has long been considered a cosmopolitan species, widely distributed in coastal environments, including acidified and polluted areas. However, the increasing number of cases of cryptic and pseudocryptic speciation in several polychaete families in recent years has led us to question whether S. prolifera represents a single globally distributed taxon or is a species complex. To address this question, we conducted an integrative study, combining morphological, ecological and molecular data of 52 S. prolifera specimens collected in different localities across the western Mediterranean Sea and the Gulf of Cadiz. Our phylogenetic and species delimitation analyses that included two mitochondrial DNA markers (COI and 16S rRNA) were congruent in not considering S. prolifera a unique entity. Five distinct lineages that can also be recognised by certain morphological and ecological traits were identified from these analyses instead. Overall, our study does not support the homogeneity of S. prolifera across the Mediterranean Sea, providing a new example of pseudocrypticism in marine invertebrates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The eggplant fruit and shoot borer (EFSB) is a devastating pest of eggplants (Solanum aethiopicum L. and Solanum melongena L.) in Ghana, causing significant economic losses. Although initially thought to be the Leucinodes orbonalis Guenee species found in Asia, recent European and Mediterranean Plant Protection Organization reports suggest its absence in Africa. However, eight Leucinodes species have been recently described in Africa, including two new species, Leucinodes africensis sp. n. and Leucinodes laisalis Walker, which were intercepted in eggplant fruits exported from Ghana to the United Kingdom. Despite the reported absence of L. orbonalis in Africa, it remains on the pest list of Ghana as a species known to attack eggplants. To accurately determine the identity of the EFSB complex occurring on eggplant in Southern Ghana, molecular and morphological taxonomic tools were employed, and adult male populations were monitored in on-farm conditions. Our results revealed the presence of two EFSB species, L. africensis and L. laisalis , in the shoot and fruits of eggplants, with L. africensis being the dominant species and widely distributed in Southern Ghana. Notably, L. africensis males were attracted to the pheromone lure of L. orbonalis despite the two species being biologically distinct. This study provides crucial information on correctly identifying the EFSB species attacking eggplants in Southern Ghana and has significant implications for developing management interventions against these pests and their effects on international eggplant trade. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The subterranean termite Reticulitermes lucifugus (Rossi 1792) is distributed in Italy and southern France, both in natural and urban environments. It comprises three lineages: i) R. lucifugus lucifugus (Rossi 1792) in the mainland, ii) R. lucifugus corsicus Clement 1977 in Corsica, Provence, Sardinia and a portion of the Tyrrhenian coast of Italy, iii) a third lineage, not yet described, identified based on the genetic analysis of a few samples from Sicily and from an isolated population in northern Italy, where it was most probably introduced by man. In this study, we characterize genetically (COII and 16S mitochondrial genes) and morphometrically (measurements of alates and soldiers) the Sicilian lineage, based on new samples collected all over the island. Our results confirm the existence of a well supported clade comprising all the samples from Sicily, neatly separated from R. lucifugus lucifugus and R. lucifugus corsicus. No other Reticulitermes species or subspecies was found in Sicily, and the Sicilian lineage was not found in peninsular Italy, suggesting that the strait separating Sicily from the mainland is an effective barrier to termite dispersal. Based on these results, we describe the Sicilian lineage of R. lucifugus as Reticulitermes lucifugus siculus ssp. nov. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Obtaining reliable species identification of the legume genus Caragana has been challenging. Until now, species identification was mostly carried out utilizing diagnostic morphological characteristics, in addition to some successful applications of secondary chemical compounds. This study was designed to establish a DNA barcoding protocol enabling unambiguous identification of 238 accessions belonging to 67 species of Caragana. The performance of four DNA barcoding regions nrITS, trnH‐psbA, matK, and rbcL was explored using three analytical approaches, Pairwise Genetic Distance, Sequence Similarity and Phylogenetic Tree method. The chloroplast regions rbcL and matK showed lower discriminatory power compared with the nuclear region internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and the chloroplast region trnH‐psbA. The nrITS outperformed the other regions in the resolution rate. The present study brings forth an efficient barcode locus for Caragana. A barcode based either on a single‐locus nrITS or the combination of nrITS and trnH‐psbA was found to be most suitable for species discrimination with distinctive barcoding gaps. An attempt has also been made to resolve taxonomic issues in the Caragana opulens complex. DNA barcoding tools when complemented with alpha taxonomic evidence can aid in solving complex systematic problems, especially when taxa are characterized by overlapping traits, such as species belonging to the Fabaceae family. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report here for the first time the occurrence of the diogenid hermit crab species Diogenes curvimanus from the Canary Islands, which has been recorded previously from Atlantic European waters and the Mediterranean Sea. The species had been placed under the synonymy of D. pugilator until recently, and is the sole representative of Diogenes known from the islands. The specimens studied were observed between 2019 and 2023, suggesting that these could have recently settled into local habitats and developed a population capable of reproducing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Ethmia (Hübner, 1819) is a medium-sized moth with a global distribution that includes species and species groups with controversial systematics in terms of morphology. In modern systematic studies, determining species boundaries is an important step in revealing biodiversity. DNA barcoding allows testing species boundaries and phylogenetic relationships of controversial morpho-species. The mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene used as a DNA barcode is a universal marker used for species identification and delimitation in the animal kingdom. In this study, the COI genes of Ethmia amasina, Ethmia hakkarica, Ethmia caradjae, Ethmia similis and Ethmia tripunctella species from Türkiye, documented morphologically and recorded in the CESA collection, were sequenced for the first time. Genetic distances between close congeners were determined using the Kimura 2-parameter (K2P) model by adding the barcodes of five Ethmia species. Bayesian inference (BI) and Maximum Likelihood (ML) algorithms were used to reveal the phylogenetic relationships among the members of the genus. According to the genetic distance analysis results, Ethmia caradjae, E. similis, E. tripunctella and E. amasina are distinct taxa with strong species boundaries (>0.02). However, no significant genetic distance (0.01) was detected between Ethmia amasina and Ethmia hakkarica populations. According to the results of phylogenetic analysis, in the clade where the presented species are located, Ethmia caradjae and E. bipunctella are sister and form a clade by branching to these species, respectively, E. similis and E. pyrausta. A clade formed by sister positions of E. amasina and E. hakkarica was connected to this clade, and E. tripunctella was closely related to these species. In addition, while the branch lengths of Ethmia caradjae, E. similis, E. tripunctella and E. amasina were at the species level, it was determined that although a lineage split was seen in the E. amasina and E. hakkarica distinction, it was not at the species level. Therefore, Ethmia hakkarica is a synonym of E. amasina according to the priority rule. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It has been the aim of this study to molecular-taxonomically identify 15 Beauveria isolates collected from different geographical regions and insect hosts in Argentina and to investigate the levels of inter- and intra-specific diversity across this set of isolates. Based on phylogenetic analyses of EF1A-RPB1-RPB2 concatenated genes and BLOC markers, all Beauveria strains were identify as Beauveria bassiana. Within the B. bassiana clades of both phylogenies, isolates from Argentina were not clustered according to geographic origin or host. The 15 fungal isolates were further analyzed by PCR amplification of the intron insertion hot spot region of the nuclear 28S rRNA encoding sequence. By intron sequence and position, seven different group-I intron combinations termed variants A, B1, B2, C, D, E and F were found in the 15 isolates under study. Variants B1/B2 consisting of a single 28Si2 intron were found in ten isolates, whereas variant A occurred twice and variants C through F were unique across the set of isolates under study. The determination of the different introns and intron combinations in the 28S rRNA gene is a powerful tool for achieving infraspecific differentiation of B. bassiana isolates from Argentina. • All Beauveria strains from Argentina were identify as B. bassiana. • Seven group-I intron combinations were found in the 15 B. bassiana isolates. • Introns in 28S rRNA gene is useful for infraspecific differentiation of B. bassiana. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, specimens kept in Fungarium of Van Yüzüncü Yıl University - Türkiye (VANF) were evaluated based on morphological and molecular characters, and identified as Dissingia confusa as a new record from Eastern Türkiye. Ascocarp, hymenium, stipe, ascospores, ascus and paraphyses were considered as diagnostic morphological characters and the nucleotide sequences of the large subunit (LSU) ribosomal DNA and the translation elongation factor 1-alpha (TEF1-α) were referred as molecular data. A phylogenetic analysis was performed with Maximum parsimony and Bayesian inference methods. The DNA sequences of 15 (7 for TEF1-α) Dissingia and 27 (14 for TEF1-α) Helvella specimens downloaded from the GenBank database were included in the analysis to estimate phylogeny between the two close genera. Morphological evaluations and genetic evidences confirmed that Dissingia is phylogenetically separated from Helvella at genus level and helped to identify the studied specimens as D. confusa as a new record in Türkiye. Detailed description, colour images of fresh and dried ascomata, along with photographs of microscopic characters and the obtained phylogenetic trees are given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rhinebothriidean tapeworm family Escherbothriidae has recently been expanded to include the genus Ivanovcestus, species of which parasitise arhynchobatid skates. Similarities in morphology and host associations between Ivanovcestus and Semiorbiseptum - a genus yet to be assigned to one of the families in the order Rhinebothriidea - led us to explore the possibility that Semiorbiseptum might also belong in the Escherbothriidae. Morphological similarities with Scalithrium ivanovae, Scalithrium kirchneri and Rhinebothrium scobinae, all of which also parasitise arhynchobatid skates, raised questions regarding the generic placements of these species. In addition, new collections from the skate Sympterygia brevicaudata revealed two new species that morphologically resemble species of Ivanovcestus. A combination of morphological and molecular data were used to assess the generic placement of the newly discovered species and refine our understanding of the membership of the family Escherbothriidae. Sequence data for the D1-D3 region of the 28S rDNA gene were generated de novo for 14 specimens of 7 rhinebothriidean species and combined with comparable published data to represent all 6 families in the Rhinebothriidea in the analysis. The phylogenetic tree resulting from maximum likelihood analysis strongly supports the inclusion of the genus Semiorbiseptum in the family Escherbothriidae. Our work also suggests that the skate-hosted species previously assigned to Scalithrium and Rhinebothrium are also members of Semiorbiseptum and that Ivanovcestus is a junior synonym of Semiorbiseptum. Six species are transferred to Semiorbiseptum, bringing the total number of species in the genus to ten. The diagnosis of Semiorbiseptum is amended to accommodate the additional species. A second species in the previously monotypic type genus of the family, Escherbothrium, is described. The diagnosis of the Escherbothriidae is amended to include the new and transferred species. This study underscores the importance of integrating morphological and molecular data in bringing resolution to cestode systematics. We believe our findings provide a robust foundation for future research into the evolutionary history and host associations of cestodes within the order Rhinebothriidea and beyond. These also highlight the importance of expanding our understanding of skate-hosted cestodes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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In the last 5 decades, paleontological research has exploded where fossils have enabled robust dating of rocks, improved understanding of origination/extinction rates or mass extinction events, biogeography, adaptive strategies, and many more. New molecular technologies have enabled intensive analyses of vertebrates and invertebrates, plant fossils, fossilized microbes, trace fossils, and fossil molecules, alike. Paleontological research has become interdisciplinary with inputs from geology, chemistry, biology, astronomy, and archaeology. Herein, we review the principles of promising molecular technologies and explore their applications and limitations vis-à-vis paleontological research. This review will attempt to provide a roadmap that can be used for future research directions. Advanced chemical imaging provides the ability to identify and quantify chemical characteristics to evaluate taphonomic damage, original biological structures, or fossils microbes. Molecular methods (e.g., molecular clock, DNA barcode, racemization dating, and biomarkers) offer a unique source of information and provide robust clues into the co-evolution of life in modern and past environments. Two main limitations are noted and include an exceptional preservation of the organic material, which is not always the case, and the complexity and cost of the instruments involved in the analyses. These difficulties are limiting the factual applications in paleontological analysis. Although very little research has been carried out on the aforementioned methods, they however, provide improved answers to highly debated and unsolved biological and climatic issues and a window to better understanding the origin of life. Biomarker proxies will be further developed and refined to answer emerging questions in the Quaternary Period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1) The fungal genus Simplicillium (Cordycipitaceae: Hypocreales) has an extensive distribution and a broad spectrum of hosts and substrates. The species Simplicillium lanosoniveum is a mycoparasite with potential for biological control of coffee leaf rust, Hemileia vastatrix. Morphologically, Simplicillium closely resembles mycoparasitic and entomopathogenic Lecanicillium fungi, often resulting in misidentification. A fungal isolate was obtained from leaf-rust-infested coffee plants from Cienfuegos Province, Cuba. (2) Combined analyses of morphology and molecular markers (ITS, LSU, EF-1alpha) were used for fungal identification. (3) In the NJ, ML, and BI phylogenies which were reconstructed, the isolate LBSim-01 was located in the Simplicillium lanosoniveum clade. This species-level identification was supported by morphological features. (4) The isolate LBSim-01 was assigned to the species Simplicillium lanosoniveum. This is the first description of a Simplicillium fungus associated with coffee leaf rust in Cuba. The presented results hold implications for the biological control of this economically relevant plant disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bird of paradise plants belong to families Strelitziaceae and Heliconiaceae, two close-related families in the Zingiberales order. This study aimed to study the genetic diversity and relationship of species among and within Strelitziaceae and Heliconiaceae using molecular RAPD markers and compare them to morphological characters. Samples used comprised two species from Strelitziaceae and eight species from Heliconiaceae. Twenty OPA primers showed that 17 out of 20 OPA primers were successfully amplified. Primer OPA-10 was the most informative and recommended, followed by OPA-5, OPA-7, OPA-9, OPA-11, OPA-17, OPA-18, OPA-19, and OPA-20. Heliconiaceae and Strelitziaceae were high genetic diversity (P=100%, I=0.388±0.016, He=0.237±0.013) with low similarities (0.09-0.39). Heliconiaceae was more genetically diverse than Strelitziaceae. Heliconiaceae produced P=98.88%, I=0.409±0.017, and He=0.254±0.014. Strelitziaceae produced P=60.53%, I=0.366±0.049, and He=0.251±0.033. The tree topology based on the RAPD marker differs slightly from morphology. However, the morphological characteristics are important to support and complement it. Strelitziaceae was strongly separated from Heliconiaceae, which supports the monophyly of both families. Heliconiaceae was separated into two subclusters and paraphyletic. Subcluster 1 comprises subgenera Heliconia and Stenochlamys. Subcluster 2 comprises subgenera Griggsia and Stenochlamys. In conclusion, the molecular RAPD marker proved the powerful of classification at the family level but moderate at subgenus, section, and species levels. Nonetheless, it is considered a simple and valuable method to provide a primary reference for taxonomic delimitation, conservation and breeding efforts of the bird of paradise plants in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Within the lichen family Teloschistaceae , a high number of genera are restricted to the extreme southern part of the Southern Hemisphere. The taxonomy and phylogeny of the southern genus Gondwania have been analyzed based upon fieldwork in Antarctica, Patagonia, New Zealand and Tasmania and subsequent studies including molecular methods. Five species are accepted in the genus Gondwanea including G. inclinans and G. joannae that are combined into the genus. Two species are included in the neighboring new genus Transdrakea , T. alacalufes , a saxicolous species from Patagonia, which is described as new to science and T. schofieldii . Based on molecular data, Austroplaca imperialis is described as a new species to accommodate Patagonian specimens previously named G. regalis . Even though morphologically very similar, the two species are distinct based on molecular and chemical characters and distribution. Gondwania and Transdrakea are chemically homogenous with parietin as the very dominant compound; Transdrakea has a very reduced thallus, whereas Gondwania includes species with crustose thalli, as well as species with fruticulose growth habits. G. inclinans and G. cribrosa are only known from Australia/New Zealand. G. regalis , G. joannae and T. schofieldii are only known from Antarctica. G. sublobulata is confirmed from Patagonia and the Falkland Islands, but Antarctic specimens previously named G. sublobulata belong to G. joannae . G. sejongensis is shown to be a synonym to G. joannae . A key to Gondwania and Transdrakea species is presented.

Molecular analyses based on the comparison of Chirocephalus species mtDNA cytochrome oxidase I (COI) sequences obtained from Algeria, Morocco and France with other available sequences were performed. The analysis clarified the status of the genus Chirocephalus Prévost, 1803 in Algeria and its phylogenetic links with other populations. Three lineages occur in Algeria representing three different species: Chirocephalus salinus Daday, 1910, C. sanhadjaensis Boumendjel, Rabet and Amarouayache, 2018 and a new species sampled in Reghaïa (Alger, Algeria) near Algiers. All these species, belonging to the "diaphanus" group, seem to be endemic to Algeria except C. salinus also present in France (Corsica). The new species C. algeriensis sp. n. is described and its affinities with other species of the genus are presented. This species is until now restricted to Algiers region and shares several characters with C. diaphanus Prévost, 1803. It is separated from all other species by the shape and size of the second antennal appendages of the male and the female. The resting eggs of C. algeriensis sp. n. are morphologically similar to those of many Chirocephalus but a variation of size of eggs can be used at a specific level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thrips are serious crop pests with a worldwide distribution. The first step in the design of control methods is accurate species identification. However, the morphological identification of thrips can be complex, especially as there is morphological variation amongst individuals of the same species. Analyzing a fragment of cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) has been used successfully in the identification of insects and other arthropods. Citrus is among the most important crops in the world, and Mexico is one of the largest producers. Despite this, formal reports on the species diversity of thrips found in Mexican citrus orchards are scarce. We explored the species diversity of thrips in selected citrus orchards (of Mexican orange, Key lime and Persian lime), based on morphological taxonomy and on partial sequences of COI. We analyzed 111 thrips specimens, distributed in two genera: Frankliniella, including Frankliniella insularis, Frankliniella invasor and Frankliniella occidentalis; and Scirtothrips, including Scirtothrips citri and Scirtothrips dorsalis. Frankliniella insularis and F. invasor were the most abundant species in Mexican orange (Citrus × sinensis) and Persian lime (Citrus × latofolia) orchards. Scirtothrips dorsalis was the most abundant species in Key lime orchards (Citrus × aurantiifolia). Analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) and haplotype analyses performed on F. insularis sequences (the most abundant species) showed no significant effect of geographical origin or plant host on its genetic population structure. DNA barcoding is a valuable method to complement the morphological identification of thrips in citrus orchards, allowing more accurate identification to species level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We provide the incidental necropsy findings associated with anisakid nematode infections of black noddy terns, Anous minutus Boie, 1844 (Charadriiformes: Laridae), from offshore islands in the southern Great Barrier Reef, Queensland, Australia. Specimens collected from the proventriculi were identified morphologically as Contracaecum magnipapillatum Chapin, 1925 (Rhabditida: Anisakidae), using light and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The entire nuclear ribosomal DNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region (ITS1-5.8S-ITS2) was amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequenced to provide reference sequences for morphologically well-identified voucher specimens. Interestingly, after an alignment with closely related taxa using BLAST, sequences of the ITS1 and ITS2 were 100% identical to the sequences assigned to Contracaecum septentrionale Kreis, 1955, from a razorbill, Alca torda Linnaeus, 1758 (Charadriiformes: Alcidae), from Spain. These results either raise questions about the ITS as a genetic marker for some members of Contracaecum, or the identity of the specimens assigned to C. septentrionale, given that no supporting morphological data was associated with them. We highlight the need for a combined morphological and molecular approach to parasite diagnostics and the use of multiple genetic loci to resolve the molecular taxonomy of cryptic species. Morphological identifications should be taxonomically robust, transparent and precede the deposition of molecular barcodes in public repositories. The gross and histopathological findings of our investigation concur with previous reports of widespread Contracaecum infections in black noddies and support the contention that Contracaecum spp. are an unlikely primary cause of mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The phylogeny of field crabs has been under profuse discussion for several decades. At this juncture, this paper reassesses the "decades old" phylogenetic status of an edible field crab, hitherto referred to as Paratelphusa hydrodromous , inhabiting the paddy fields of Chelari village (Kerala, India). After Alcock's (1910) description, there has hardly been any serious attempt at ascertaining its precise taxonomic status. Through an integrated approach, using parsimony analysis and molecular methods, the present study reveals the candidate form's (species') closer affinity to the genus Oziotelphusa. Comparison of morphological and molecular characteristics with its closest phylogenetic neighbours (O. biloba , O. wagrakarowensis , O. kerala and O. aurantia) has shown that the candidate form is a taxonomically distinct entity, qualified to be considered as an unreported species; its suggested revised nomenclature is Oziotelphusa chelarensis , reminiscent of the village Chelari. Further, the paper views the relevance of this taxonomic study from conservational angles as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the quantitative relationships between four fish species from three genera based on molecular analyses (barcoding) of nine species from five genera utilizing the mitochondrial COI gene. Species within the same genus showed more transitional incompatibilities than transversional mismatches. The samples were divided into four main groups by a phylogenetic tree built from the sequencing data (cytochrome COI) of samples from the two populations using the neighbour-joining method. As dissimilar species were clustered under separate nodes and similar species were clustered under the same nodes, the neighbour-joining tree revealed various clusters corresponding to the taxonomic status of the species. In conclusion, the mitochondrial CO1 gene is a useful molecular marker for DNA barcoding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Morphology and barcode data were used to estimate the diversity and genetic variability of fourteen putative species of the genus Syringophiloidus Kethley, 1970. In most cases, both sources of information were consistent. The only exception was S. amazilia Skoracki, 2017, which according to our results is most likely a population of S. stawarczyki Skoracki, 2004, and probably should be treated as its junior synonym. The further findings of our study are six new-to-science species described herein. We indicate that both the host phylogeny and distribution can drive the evolution of quill mites. Our results increase the knowledge of quill mite diversity and provide some premises to formulate and further test evolutionary, ecological, and epidemiological inquiries. Quill mites (Acariformes: Syringophilidae) are poorly explored bird parasites. Syringophiloidus Kethley, 1970, is the most specious and widespread genus in this family. It is believed to contain mono-, steno- and poly-xenous parasites and thus seems to be an exemplary for studies on biodiversity and host associations. In this work, we applied the DNA barcode marker (mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene fragment, COI) to analyze the species composition and host specificity of representatives of fifteen Syringophiloidus populations parasitizing fifteen bird species. The neighbor joining analyses distinguished thirteen monophyletic lineages, almost completely corresponding to seven previously known species recognized based on morphological features, and six new-to-science species. The only exception is S. amazilia Skoracki, 2017, which is most likely conspecific with Syringophiloidus stawarczyki Skoracki, 2004. The intraspecific distances of all species were not higher than 0.9%, whilst the interspecific diversity ranged from 5.9% to 19.2% and 6.3–22.4%, inferred as the distances p and K2P, respectively. Although all putative species (except S. amazilia) are highly supported, the relationships between them have not been fully resolved and only faintly indicate that both host phylogeny and distributions influence the phylogenetic structure of quill mite taxa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]