@article {pmid38674461,
year = {2024},
author = {Udugamasuriyage, D and Kahandawa, G and Tennakoon, KU},
title = {Nonchemical Aquatic Weed Control Methods: Exploring the Efficacy of UV-C Radiation as a Novel Weed Control Tool.},
journal = {Plants (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {13},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/plants13081052},
pmid = {38674461},
issn = {2223-7747},
support = {//Federation University/ ; //Australian Government/ ; },
abstract = {Aquatic weeds, including invasive species, are a worldwide problem. The presence of aquatic weeds poses several critical issues, such as hindering the continuous flow of water in irrigation channels and preventing the proper distribution of adequate water quantities. Therefore, effective control measures are vital for agriculture and numerous downstream industries. Numerous methods for controlling aquatic weeds have emerged over time, with herbicide application being a widely used established method of weed management, although it imposes significant environmental risks. Therefore, it is important to explore nonchemical alternative methods to control existing and emerging aquatic weeds, potentially posing fewer environmental hazards compared with conventional chemical methods. In this review, we focus on nonchemical methods, encompassing mechanical, physical, biological, and other alternative approaches. We primarily evaluated the different nonchemical control methods discussed in this review based on two main criteria: (1) efficiency in alleviating aquatic weed problems in location-specified scenarios and (2) impacts on the environment, as well as potential health and safety risks. We compared the nonchemical treatments with the UV-C-radiation-mediated aquatic weed control method, which is considered a potential novel technique. Since there is limited published literature available on the application of UV-C radiation used exclusively for aquatic weed control, our review is based on previous reports of UV-C radiation used to successfully control terrestrial weeds and algal populations. In order to compare the mechanisms involved with nonchemical weed control methods, we reviewed respective pathways leading to plant cell death, plant growth inhibition, and diminishing reemergence to justify the potential use of UV-C treatment in aquatic habitats as a viable novel source for aquatic weed control.},
}

@article {pmid38674438,
year = {2024},
author = {Almeida, L and Colmonero-Costeira, I and Silva, MJFD and Veracini, C and Vasconcelos, R},
title = {Insights into the Geographical Origins of the Cabo Verde Green Monkey.},
journal = {Genes},
volume = {15},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/genes15040504},
pmid = {38674438},
issn = {2073-4425},
support = {(_2024 to RV)//Cabeólica S.A./ ; LA was supported by a PhD grant (PRT/BD/154373/2022) funded by the Portuguese 'Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia (FCT), financed by the CEBiCNa Programme. This research was also funded by Portuguese funds through the FCT project (DOI 10.54499/EXPL//Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *DNA, Mitochondrial/genetics ; Chlorocebus aethiops/genetics ; Cabo Verde ; Phylogeny ; Cytochromes b/genetics ; Haplotypes ; Introduced Species ; Phylogeography ; Feces/chemistry ; },
abstract = {The green monkey Chlorocebus sabaeus, L. 1766, native to West Africa, was introduced to the Cabo Verde Archipelago in the 16th century. Historical sources suggest that, due to the importance of Cabo Verde as a commercial entrepôt in the Atlantic slave trade, establishing the precise place of origin of this introduced species is challenging. Non-invasive fecal samples were collected from feral and captive green monkey individuals in Cabo Verde. Two mitochondrial fragments, HVRI and cyt b, were used to confirm the taxonomic identification of the species and to tentatively determine the geographic origin of introduction to the archipelago from the African continent. By comparing the new sequences of this study to previously published ones, it was shown that Cabo Verde individuals have unique haplotypes in the HVRI, while also showing affinities to several populations from north-western coastal Africa in the cyt b, suggesting probable multiple sources of introduction and an undetermined most probable origin. The latter is consistent with historical information, but may also have resulted from solely using mtDNA as a genetic marker and the dispersal characteristics of the species. The limitations of the methodology are discussed and future directions of research are suggested.},
}

Animals
*DNA, Mitochondrial/genetics
Chlorocebus aethiops/genetics
Cabo Verde
Phylogeny
Cytochromes b/genetics
Haplotypes
Introduced Species
Phylogeography
Feces/chemistry

@article {pmid38672746,
year = {2024},
author = {Bakacsy, L and Kardos, LV and Szepesi, Á and Nagy, KN and Vasas, A and Feigl, G},
title = {Investigation of the Allelopathic Effect of Two Invasive Plant Species in Rhizotron System.},
journal = {Life (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/life14040475},
pmid = {38672746},
issn = {2075-1729},
support = {FK129061//National Research, Development and Innovation Office (Hungary)/ ; },
abstract = {A key question in plant invasion biology is why invasive plants are more competitive in their introduced habitat than in their native habitat. Studies show that invasive species exhibit allelopathy, influencing other plants by releasing chemicals. Research on allelopathy uses in vitro tests, investigating effects on seed germination and seedling development. Although soil plays a role in modifying allelopathic effects, observations with soil are rare and almost nothing is known about the root development of test plants developing in soil and the effects of allelopathic compounds on root architecture. Our study evaluates the allelopathic effects of false indigo-bush (Amorpha fruticosa L.) and common milkweed (Asclepias syriaca L.) on oilseed rape growth as a model plant. The rhizotron system was used to study the effect of morphology and root architecture. Leaf-soil mixtures at 0.5%, 1%, and 5% concentrations were used. Shoot and root development was strongly inhibited at 5%. But there was no difference between the allelopathy of the two species, and the application of lower concentrations did not show any effect, demonstrating that soil has a significant modifying effect on their allelopathy. Our results highlight that the development of roots growing in the soil is also worth investigating in connection with allelopathy, which can strengthen the ecological importance of allelochemicals during successful invasions.},
}

@article {pmid38672340,
year = {2024},
author = {Martinez, LE and Gilardoni, C and Medina, CD and Cremonte, F and Etchegoin, JA},
title = {Histopathological Lesions Caused by a Digenean Trematode in a Pest Apple Snail, Pomacea canaliculata, in Its Native Geographic Distribution Area.},
journal = {Animals : an open access journal from MDPI},
volume = {14},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ani14081191},
pmid = {38672340},
issn = {2076-2615},
support = {J.A.E., PIP number 11220210100935CO//Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas/ ; C.G., PICT 2019-0837//Agencia Nacional de Promoción de la Investigación, el Desarrollo Tecnológico y la Innovación/ ; FC 2020-2120//Agencia Nacional de Promoción de la Investigación, el Desarrollo Tecnológico y la Innovación/ ; J.A.E., grant number 15/E1032 EXA 1074/22//National University of Mar del Plata/ ; },
abstract = {Pomacea canaliculata is one of the most dangerous invasive species. Morphological and molecular analyses have revealed that a digenean species belonging to the family Echinostomatidae parasitizes this snail at two sites in Buenos Aires Province, Argentina, South America. Molecular results confirmed that the species belongs to a genus closely related to Patagifer. Analysis of the 28S rDNA showed that the sequences of the rediae and metacercariae are identical, indicating that the apple snail acts as the first and second intermediate host. The cercariae may encyst as metacercaria inside the redia and also emerge and re-infect the same snail or another snail. The prevalence of digeneans was higher in one of the sampling locations (15.1% vs. 0.72%), probably because the bird species that acts as the definitive host is more abundant in that area. Histopathological examination showed that the parasite quickly invades multiple host organs (gills, intestines, albumen gland, lung, kidney, and mantle border) besides the gonad and digestive gland, as is usual in digeneans. In addition, the partial or total castration of snails was observed in cases of moderate and high infection intensity. In males, there was loss of integrity in testicular tubules, while in females, the replacement of ovarian tissue by rediae was found.},
}

@article {pmid38669881,
year = {2024},
author = {Brancatelli, GIE and Amodeo, MR and Zalba, SM},
title = {Modeling population dynamics of invasive pines to optimize their control in native grasslands of Argentina.},
journal = {Journal of environmental management},
volume = {359},
number = {},
pages = {120897},
doi = {10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.120897},
pmid = {38669881},
issn = {1095-8630},
abstract = {The spread of invasive alien species over natural environments has become one of the most serious threats to biodiversity and the functioning of ecosystems worldwide. Understanding the population attributes that allow a given species to become invasive is crucial for improving prevention and control interventions. Pampas grasslands are particularly sensitive to the invasion of exotic woody plants. In particular, the Ventania Mountains undergo the advance of alien woody plants; among which the Aleppo pine (Pinus halepensis) stands out due to the extension of the area it covers and the magnitude of the ecological changes associated to its presence. Using a model that describes the population dynamics of the species in the area, we evaluated the expected behavior of the population under different environmental conditions and different management scenarios. When the effect of stochastic fires was simulated, the growth rate was greater than 1 for all the frequencies considered, peaking under fires every nine years, on average. When evaluating the effect of periodic mechanical control of the adult population, the reduction in growth rate was insufficient, except for cutting intensities that significantly exceeded the current operational capacity of the area. Under prescribed fire scenarios, on the other hand, burning frequencies greater than seven years resulted in population reductions. The results highlight the importance of fire in regulating the population of P. halepensis in the Ventania Mountains, with contrasting effects depending on the frequency with which it occurs, which allows considering it as an effective environmental management option for the control of the species.},
}

@article {pmid38669461,
year = {2024},
author = {Zia, A and Gulzar, S and Ruban, AV},
title = {Enhanced photochemical efficiency of PSII in Prosopis juliflora suggests contribution to invasion advantage over native C3 xero-halophytes under salt stress.},
journal = {Functional plant biology : FPB},
volume = {51},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1071/FP23272},
pmid = {38669461},
issn = {1445-4416},
mesh = {*Prosopis/drug effects/chemistry ; *Photosystem II Protein Complex/metabolism ; *Chlorophyll/metabolism ; *Chlorophyll A/metabolism ; Salt Stress/drug effects ; Salt-Tolerant Plants/drug effects ; Photosynthesis/drug effects ; Introduced Species ; Fluorescence ; },
abstract = {Chlorophyll a fluorescence parameters related to PSII photochemistry, photoprotection and photoinhibition were investigated in four C3 plant species growing in their natural habitat: Prosopis juliflora ; Abutilon indicum ; Salvadora persica ; and Phragmites karka . This study compared the light reaction responses of P. juliflora , an invasive species, with three native co-existing species, which adapt to varying water deficit and high salt stress. Chlorophyll a fluorescence quenching analyses revealed that P. juliflora had the highest photochemical quantum efficiency and yield, regulated by higher fraction of open reaction centres and reduced photoprotective energy dissipation without compromising the integrity of photosynthetic apparatus due to photoinhibition. Moreover, the elevated values of parameters obtained through polyphasic chlorophyll a fluorescence induction kinetics, which characterise the photochemistry of PSII and electron transport, highlighted the superior performance index of energy conservation in the transition from excitation to the reduction of intersystem electron carriers for P. juliflora compared to other species. Enhanced pigment contents and their stoichiometry in P. juliflora apparently contributed to upregulating fluxes and yields of energy absorbance, trapping and transport. This enhanced photochemistry, along with reduced non-photochemical processes, could explain the proclivity for invasion advantage in P. juliflora across diverse stress conditions.},
}

*Prosopis/drug effects/chemistry
*Photosystem II Protein Complex/metabolism
*Chlorophyll/metabolism
*Chlorophyll A/metabolism
Salt Stress/drug effects
Salt-Tolerant Plants/drug effects
Photosynthesis/drug effects
Introduced Species
Fluorescence

@article {pmid38548188,
year = {2024},
author = {He, X and Qian, Z and Gichira, AW and Chen, J and Li, Z},
title = {Assembly and comparative analysis of the first complete mitochondrial genome of the invasive water hyacinth, Eichhornia crassipes.},
journal = {Gene},
volume = {914},
number = {},
pages = {148416},
doi = {10.1016/j.gene.2024.148416},
pmid = {38548188},
issn = {1879-0038},
mesh = {*Genome, Mitochondrial ; *Eichhornia/genetics ; *Phylogeny ; Introduced Species ; RNA, Transfer/genetics ; Base Composition ; RNA Editing ; Genome, Plant ; },
abstract = {Eichhornia crassipes is an aquatic plant in tropical and subtropical regions, renowned for its notorious invasive tendencies. In this study, we assembled the complete mitogenome of E. crassipes into a single circle molecule of 397,361 bp. The mitogenome has 58 unique genes, including 37 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 18 tRNA genes, three rRNA genes, and 47 % GC content. Sixteen (6.93 %) homologous fragments, ranging from 31 bp to 8548 bp, were identified, indicating the transfer of genetic material from chloroplasts to mitochondria. In addition, we detected positive selection in six PCGs (ccmB, ccmC, ccmFC, nad3, nad4 and sdh4), along with the identification of 782 RNA editing sites across 37 mt-PCGs. These findings suggest a potential contribution to the robust adaptation of this invasive plant to the stressful environment. Lastly, we inferred that phylogenetic conflicts of E. crassipes between the plastome and mitogenome may be attributed to the difference in nucleotide substitution rates between the two organelle genomes. In conclusion, our study provided vital genomic resources for further understanding the invasive mechanism of this species and exploring the dynamic evolution of mitogenomes within the monocot clade.},
}

*Genome, Mitochondrial
*Eichhornia/genetics
*Phylogeny
Introduced Species
RNA, Transfer/genetics
Base Composition
RNA Editing
Genome, Plant

@article {pmid38669254,
year = {2024},
author = {Seehausen, ML and Rimmer, A and Wiesner, A and Kenis, M and Scott-Dupree, C and Smith, SM},
title = {Modelling potential distribution of the invasive box tree moth across Asia, Europe, and North America.},
journal = {PloS one},
volume = {19},
number = {4},
pages = {e0302259},
doi = {10.1371/journal.pone.0302259},
pmid = {38669254},
issn = {1932-6203},
mesh = {Animals ; *Moths/physiology ; Europe ; *Introduced Species ; North America ; Asia ; Models, Biological ; Animal Distribution ; },
abstract = {The box tree moth Cydalima perspectalis (Walker) (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) (BTM) is a native moth throughout eastern Asia, having recently become invasive in Europe (2007) where it feeds on boxwood (= box tree), Buxus spp. The moth rapidly spread across Europe and the Caucasus causing damage to both ornamental and wild Buxus. In 2018, C. perspectalis was found in Toronto, ON, Canada, and has since spread south into the US. To better predict where the moth will establish and have significant impact on ornamental trade in North America, we used most recent scientific literature and distribution points to update the temperature and diapause indices of an existing ecoclimatic CLIMEX model. The model parameters provided a good fit for the potential distribution of BTM compared to its known distribution across eastern Asia and in Europe. Interestingly, our results suggest that the current native distribution in Asia is incomplete and that further expansion is also possible in its introduced range, especially in northern Europe, along the Mediterranean coast of Africa, and eastward to central Russia. In North America, the model predicts that most of North America should be climatically suitable for the moth's establishment, with the exception of Alaska and the northern territories of Canada, as well as higher elevations in the Rocky Mountains and southern hot and dry areas. Our study highlights the importance of the CLIMEX model to assess the risk of BTM spreading in its newly invaded areas, especially North America, and its use to help make decisions in terms of regulatory dispersal restrictions and choice of management options.},
}

Animals
*Moths/physiology
Europe
*Introduced Species
North America
Asia
Models, Biological
Animal Distribution

@article {pmid38668530,
year = {2024},
author = {Lopez, DJ and Winkel, KD and Wanandy, T and van Nunen, S and Perrett, KP and Lowe, AJ},
title = {The Human Health Impacts of the Red Imported Fire Ant in the Western Pacific Region Context: A Narrative Review.},
journal = {Tropical medicine and infectious disease},
volume = {9},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/tropicalmed9040069},
pmid = {38668530},
issn = {2414-6366},
support = {no number//The Invasive Species Council/ ; no number//the National Farmers Federation/ ; no number//CANEGROWERS/ ; no number//Greenlife Industry Australia/ ; no number//The Nursery and Garden Industry Association (Qld)/ ; GNT2008911//National Health and Medical Research Council/ ; },
abstract = {Background: The red imported fire ant (RIFA) is one of the world's most destructive invasive species. RIFA stings are painful and can lead to allergic reactions, including life-threatening anaphylaxis, yet health impacts remain inadequately defined. Methods: We searched MEDLINE (Ovid) and Google Scholar (grey literature) from inception until 20 September 2023 for articles in English using search terms related to red imported fire ants and allergies, including anaphylaxis. Results: Approximately a third of the population in RIFA-infested areas are stung each year. The most frequent reaction is a sterile 1-2 mm pseudo pustule on the skin. Approximately 20% of stings cause a large local reaction and between about 0.5% and 2% stings cause a systemic allergic reaction which can range from skin symptoms to life-threatening anaphylaxis. Local biodiversity is also significantly disrupted by invading RIFA and may lead to complex adverse effects on human health, from agriculture losses to expanded ranges for pathogen vectors. Conclusions: The potential for red imported fire ants to establish themselves as an invasive species in the Western Pacific presents a substantial and costly health issue. Successful eradication and surveillance programs, to identify and eradicate new incursions, would avoid substantial health impacts and costs.},
}

@article {pmid38668258,
year = {2024},
author = {Perin, PP and Turmina, T and Arias-Pacheco, CA and Gomes, JS and Andrade, LO and Zolla, NO and Mendonça, TO and Oliveira, WJ and Fahl, WO and Scheffer, KC and Cunha Neto, RDS and Chierato, MER and Mori, E and Felicio, ALA and Haga, GSI and Guido, MC and Barrochelo, LH and Marcos, ADS and Lux Hoppe, EG},
title = {Rabies Virus-Neutralizing Antibodies in Free-Ranging Invasive Wild Boars (Sus scrofa) from Brazil.},
journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {13},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/pathogens13040303},
pmid = {38668258},
issn = {2076-0817},
support = {311063/2022-5//National Council for Scientific and Technological Development/ ; },
abstract = {Rabies, one of the most lethal global zoonoses, affects all mammals. It remains circulating worldwide in sylvatic cycles through terrestrial and airborne reservoirs, and in Brazil, bats are currently the main reservoirs and source of transmission. Wild boars, an important invasive alien species in Brazil, are a proven food source for hematophagous bats and may participate in the Brazilian sylvatic cycle of rabies. We evaluated the presence of this pathogen in hunted wild boars from the São Paulo state using histopathology, the direct fluorescent antibody test (DFA), viral isolation in cell culture (VICC), the rapid fluorescent focus inhibition test (RFFIT), and quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). The results of histopathological, DFA, VICC, and RT-qPCR analysis were negative for all samples; seven serum samples tested positive in the RFFIT, and titers ranged from 0.13 IU/mL to 0.5 IU/mL. The presence of rabies virus-neutralizing antibodies in the studied wild boars suggests the circulation of the virus in these animals. Educative actions directed at hunters should include information on the prevention of this important zoonosis.},
}

@article {pmid38666891,
year = {2024},
author = {Castriota, L and Falautano, M and Perzia, P},
title = {When Nature Requires a Resource to Be Used-The Case of Callinectes sapidus: Distribution, Aggregation Patterns, and Spatial Structure in Northwest Europe, the Mediterranean Sea, and Adjacent Waters.},
journal = {Biology},
volume = {13},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/biology13040279},
pmid = {38666891},
issn = {2079-7737},
abstract = {The Atlantic blue crab Callinectes sapidus, which is native to the western Atlantic coast and listed among the 100 most invasive alien species in the Mediterranean Sea, is attracting a great deal of interest because of its rapid colonisation of new areas, the significant increase in its population, and the impacts it may have on ecosystems and ecosystem services. Outside its natural distribution range, the species was first found on European Atlantic coasts in the early 1900s and was introduced into the Mediterranean Sea a few decades later, probably through ballast water. Currently, it is found in almost the entire Mediterranean Basin and is also expanding into the Black Sea and along the north African and Iberian Atlantic coasts. Based on a systematic review of C. sapidus occurrences, this study describes its distribution, aggregation patterns, and spatial structure in Northwest Europe, the Mediterranean Sea, and adjacent waters through a series of ecological indicators elaborated using GIS spatial-temporal statistics. The main results highlight that the species is expanding in the Mediterranean and adjacent waters, while in northern Europe, the population remains confined in some areas. Furthermore, the main species detection methods are analysed, finding that traps and nets are the most frequently used methods, and management suggestions are provided.},
}

@article {pmid38666887,
year = {2024},
author = {DeBerry, DA and Hunter, DM},
title = {Impacts of Invasive Plants on Native Vegetation Communities in Wetland and Stream Mitigation.},
journal = {Biology},
volume = {13},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/biology13040275},
pmid = {38666887},
issn = {2079-7737},
support = {RFP E08//The Resource Protection Group/ ; },
abstract = {We sampled vegetation communities across plant invasion gradients at multiple wetland and stream mitigation sites in the Coastal Plain and Piedmont physiographic provinces of Virginia, USA. Impacts of invasion were evaluated by tracking changes in species composition and native vegetation community properties along the abundance gradients of multiple plant invaders. We found that native species richness, diversity, and floristic quality were consistently highest at moderate levels of invasion (ca. 5-10% relative abundance of invader), regardless of the identity of the invasive species or the type of mitigation (wetland or stream). Likewise, native species composition was similar between uninvaded and moderately invaded areas, and only diminished when invaders were present at higher abundance values. Currently, low thresholds for invasive species performance standards (e.g., below 5% relative abundance of invader) compel mitigation managers to use non-selective control methods such as herbicides to reduce invasive plant cover. Our results suggest that this could cause indiscriminate mortality of desirable native species at much higher levels of richness, diversity, and floristic quality than previously thought. From our data, we recommend an invasive species performance standard of 10% relative invader(s) abundance on wetland and stream mitigation sites, in combination with vigilant invasive plant mapping strategies. Based on our results, this slightly higher standard would strike a balance between proactive management and unnecessary loss of plant community functions at the hands of compulsory invasive species management.},
}

@article {pmid38666820,
year = {2024},
author = {Ulman, A and Abd Rabou, AFN and Al Mabruk, S and Bariche, M and Bilecenoğlu, M and Demirel, N and Galil, BS and Hüseyinoğlu, MF and Jimenez, C and Hadjioannou, L and Kosker, AR and Peristeraki, P and Saad, A and Samaha, Z and Stoumboudi, MT and Temraz, TA and Karachle, PK},
title = {Assessment of Human Health Impacts from Invasive Pufferfish (Attacks, Poisonings and Fatalities) across the Eastern Mediterranean.},
journal = {Biology},
volume = {13},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/biology13040208},
pmid = {38666820},
issn = {2079-7737},
abstract = {The silver-cheeked toadfish Lagocephalus sceleratus (Gmelin 1789), and to a lesser degree the orange spotted toadfish Torquigener hypselogeneion (Bleeker, 1852), pose threats to human health from physical attacks and poisonings in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea. This study reviewed human health-related impacts resulting from these pufferfish, compiling and assessing records from online sources, the peer-reviewed literature, medical records, personal interviews, and observations across the Eastern Mediterranean in the years 2004 to 2023. A total of 198 events impacting human health were documented: 28 records of physical attacks, at least 144 non-lethal poisoning episodes, and 27 human fatalities resulting from consumption. The majority of the reported incidences occurred in Syria, Türkiye, and Lebanon. Most physical attacks occurred in summer, while most poisoning events occurred during winter. The number of recorded incidents greatly increased after 2019, especially with regard to poisonings, yet whether this is related to greater media attention, or to increased fish abundance is unclear. This is the first comprehensive study to collate findings on attacks, poisonings and fatalities caused by these pufferfish in the Mediterranean Sea, and may help in improving national health policies. We urge the continuation of national campaigns to caution residents and tourists of these species' high toxicities and potential aggressiveness.},
}

@article {pmid38666814,
year = {2024},
author = {Morpurgo, M and Marrone, F and Ciutti, F and Cappelletti, C and Vorhauser, S and Alber, R and Dossena, M and Salmaso, N and Fontaneto, D and Caputo, L and Vecchioni, L},
title = {Distribution and Genetic Lineages of the Craspedacusta sowerbii Species Complex (Cnidaria, Olindiidae) in Italy.},
journal = {Biology},
volume = {13},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/biology13040202},
pmid = {38666814},
issn = {2079-7737},
support = {CUP H96C18000130005//Betrieb Landesmuseen / Azienda Provinciale dei Musei Altoatesini/ ; D.M. 737/2021-CUP B79J21038330001//NextGenerationEU of the European Union/ ; EAW, grant number ASP569//European Regional Development Fund through the Interreg Alpine Space program, project Eco-AlpsWater/ ; Award Number: CN_00000033, Concession Decree No. 1034 of 17 June 2022//the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP), Mission 4 Component 2 Investment 1.4 - Call for tender No. 3138 of 16 December 2021, rectified by Decree n.3175 of 18 December 2021 of the Italian Ministry of University and Research/ ; },
abstract = {Olindiid freshwater jellyfishes of the genus Craspedacusta Lankester, 1880 are native to eastern Asia; however, some species within the genus have been introduced worldwide and are nowadays present in all continents except Antarctica. To date, there is no consensus regarding the taxonomy within the genus Craspedacusta due to the morphological plasticity of the medusa stages. The species Craspedacusta sowerbii Lankester, 1880 was first recorded in Italy in 1946, and until 2017, sightings of the jellyfish Craspedacusta were reported for 40 water bodies. Here, we shed new light on the presence of the freshwater jellyfishes belonging to the genus Craspedacusta across the Italian peninsula, Sardinia, and Sicily. First, we report 21 new observations of this non-native taxon, of which eighteen refer to medusae sightings, two to environmental DNA sequencing, and one to the finding of polyps. Then, we investigate the molecular diversity of collected Craspedacusta specimens, using a Bayesian analysis of sequences of the mitochondrial gene encoding for Cytochrome c Oxidase Subunit I (mtDNA COI). Our molecular analysis shows the presence of two distinctive genetic lineages: (i) a group that comprises sequences obtained from populations ranging from central to northern Italy; (ii) a group that comprises three populations from northern Italy-i.e., those from the Lake Levico, the Lake Santo of Monte Terlago, and the Lake Endine-and the single known Sicilian population. We also report for the first time a mtDNA COI sequence obtained from a Craspedacusta medusa collected in Spain.},
}

@article {pmid38666292,
year = {2024},
author = {Zhao, C and Bian, C and Mu, X and Zhang, X and Shi, Q},
title = {Gonadal transcriptome sequencing reveals sexual dimorphism in expression profiling of sex-related genes in Asian arowana (Scleropages formosus).},
journal = {Frontiers in genetics},
volume = {15},
number = {},
pages = {1381832},
doi = {10.3389/fgene.2024.1381832},
pmid = {38666292},
issn = {1664-8021},
abstract = {Asia arowana (Scleropages formosus) is an ornamental fish with high economic value, while its sex determination mechanism is still poorly understood. By far, no morphological evidence or molecular marker has been developed for effective distinguishment of genders, which poses a critical challenge to our captive breeding efforts. In this study, we sequenced gonadal transcriptomes of adult Asian arowanas and revealed differential expression profiling of sex-related genes. Based on the comparative transcriptomics analysis of testes (n = 3) and ovaries (n = 3), we identified a total of 8,872 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and 18,490 differentially expressed transposable elements (TEs) between male and female individuals. Interestingly, the expression of TEs usually has been more significantly testis-biased than related coding genes. As expected, several genes related to females (such as foxl2 and cyp19a1a) are significantly transcribed in the ovary, and some genes related to male gonad development (such as dmrt1, gsdf and amh) are highly expressed in the testis. This sexual dimorphism is valuable for ascertaining the differential expression patterns of sex-related genes and enriching the genetic resources of this economically important species. These valuable genetic materials thereby provide instructive references for gender identification and one-to-one breeding practices so as to expand fish numbers for a rapid elevation of economic value.},
}

@article {pmid38664465,
year = {2024},
author = {Xu, R and Chapman, DC and Elliott, CM and Call, BC and Jacobson, RB and Wang, B},
title = {Ecological inferences on invasive carp survival using hydrodynamics and egg drift models.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {14},
number = {1},
pages = {9556},
pmid = {38664465},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {G21AP10172//United States Geological Survey (USGS) Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Competitive Grants Program/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Carps/physiology ; *Hydrodynamics ; *Rivers ; Introduced Species ; Ovum/physiology ; Models, Biological ; Models, Theoretical ; },
abstract = {Bighead carp (Hypophthalmichthys nobilis), silver carp (H. molitrix), black carp (Mylopharyngodon piceus), and grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella), are invasive species in North America. However, they hold significant economic importance as food sources in China. The drifting stage of carp eggs has received great attention because egg survival rate is strongly affected by river hydrodynamics. In this study, we explored egg-drift dynamics using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) models to infer potential egg settling zones based on mechanistic criteria from simulated turbulence in the Lower Missouri River. Using an 8-km reach, we simulated flow characteristics with four different discharges, representing 45-3% daily flow exceedance. The CFD results elucidate the highly heterogeneous spatial distribution of flow velocity, flow depth, turbulence kinetic energy (TKE), and the dissipation rate of TKE. The river hydrodynamics were used to determine potential egg settling zones using criteria based on shear velocity, vertical turbulence intensity, and Rouse number. Importantly, we examined the difference between hydrodynamic-inferred settling zones and settling zones predicted using an egg-drift transport model. The results indicate that hydrodynamic inference is useful in determining the 'potential' of egg settling, however, egg drifting paths should be taken into account to improve prediction. Our simulation results also indicate that the river turbulence does not surpass the laboratory-identified threshold to pose a threat to carp eggs.},
}

Animals
*Carps/physiology
*Hydrodynamics
*Rivers
Introduced Species
Ovum/physiology
Models, Biological
Models, Theoretical

@article {pmid38664274,
year = {2024},
author = {Kaswa, M and Kumar, A and Prasad, M and Upadhyay, D and Mahawer, SK and Washnik, VK and Tamboli, P},
title = {Exploring the influence of invasive weed biochar on the sorption and dissipation dynamics of imazethapyr in sandy loam soil.},
journal = {Environmental monitoring and assessment},
volume = {196},
number = {5},
pages = {478},
pmid = {38664274},
issn = {1573-2959},
mesh = {*Charcoal/chemistry ; *Soil Pollutants/analysis ; *Herbicides/analysis/chemistry ; *Soil/chemistry ; *Plant Weeds ; Adsorption ; *Nicotinic Acids/chemistry ; Lantana/chemistry ; Introduced Species ; Kinetics ; Asteraceae/chemistry ; },
abstract = {The management of invasive weeds on both arable and non-arable land is a vast challenge. Converting these invasive weeds into biochar and using them to control the fate of herbicides in soil could be an effective strategy within the concept of turning waste into a wealth product. In this study, the fate of imazethapyr (IMZ), a commonly used herbicide in various crops, was investigated by introducing such weeds as biochar, i.e., Parthenium hysterophorus (PB) and Lantana camara (LB) in sandy loam soil. In terms of kinetics, the pseudo-second order (PSO) model provided the best fit for both biochar-mixed soils. More IMZ was sorbed onto LB-mixed soil compared to PB-mixed soil. When compared to the control (no biochar), both PB and LB biochars (at concentrations of 0.2% and 0.5%) increased IMZ adsorption, although the extent of this effect varied depending on the dosage and type of biochar. The Freundlich adsorption isotherm provided a satisfactory explanation for IMZ adsorption in soil/soil mixed with biochar, with the adsorption process exhibiting high nonlinearity. The values of Gibb's free energy change (ΔG) were negative for both adsorption and desorption in soil/soil mixed with biochar, indicating that sorption was exothermic and spontaneous. Both types of biochar significantly affect IMZ dissipation, with higher degradation observed in LB-amended soil compared to PB-amended soil. Hence, the findings suggest that the preparation of biochar from invasive weeds and its utilization for managing the fate of herbicides can effectively reduce the residual toxicity of IMZ in treated agroecosystems in tropical and subtropical regions.},
}

*Charcoal/chemistry
*Soil Pollutants/analysis
*Herbicides/analysis/chemistry
*Soil/chemistry
*Plant Weeds
Adsorption
*Nicotinic Acids/chemistry
Lantana/chemistry
Introduced Species
Kinetics
Asteraceae/chemistry

@article {pmid38662833,
year = {2024},
author = {Langhammer, PF and Bull, JW and Bicknell, JE and Oakley, JL and Brown, MH and Bruford, MW and Butchart, SHM and Carr, JA and Church, D and Cooney, R and Cutajar, S and Foden, W and Foster, MN and Gascon, C and Geldmann, J and Genovesi, P and Hoffmann, M and Howard-McCombe, J and Lewis, T and Macfarlane, NBW and Melvin, ZE and Merizalde, RS and Morehouse, MG and Pagad, S and Polidoro, B and Sechrest, W and Segelbacher, G and Smith, KG and Steadman, J and Strongin, K and Williams, J and Woodley, S and Brooks, TM},
title = {The positive impact of conservation action.},
journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)},
volume = {384},
number = {6694},
pages = {453-458},
doi = {10.1126/science.adj6598},
pmid = {38662833},
issn = {1095-9203},
mesh = {*Conservation of Natural Resources ; *Biodiversity ; *Introduced Species ; Ecosystem ; Animals ; },
abstract = {Governments recently adopted new global targets to halt and reverse the loss of biodiversity. It is therefore crucial to understand the outcomes of conservation actions. We conducted a global meta-analysis of 186 studies (including 665 trials) that measured biodiversity over time and compared outcomes under conservation action with a suitable counterfactual of no action. We find that in two-thirds of cases, conservation either improved the state of biodiversity or at least slowed declines. Specifically, we find that interventions targeted at species and ecosystems, such as invasive species control, habitat loss reduction and restoration, protected areas, and sustainable management, are highly effective and have large effect sizes. This provides the strongest evidence to date that conservation actions are successful but require transformational scaling up to meet global targets.},
}

*Conservation of Natural Resources
*Biodiversity
*Introduced Species
Ecosystem
Animals

@article {pmid38662180,
year = {2024},
author = {Anderson, EB},
title = {Invasion on So Grand a Scale: Darwin, Lyell, and Invasive Species.},
journal = {Journal of the history of biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {38662180},
issn = {1573-0387},
abstract = {The importance of naturalization-the establishment of species introduced into foreign places-to the early development of Darwin's theory of evolution deserves historical attention. Introduced and invasive European species presented Darwin with interpretive challenges during his service as naturalist on the HMS Beagle. Species naturalization and invasive species strained the geologist Charles Lyell's creationist view of the organic world, a view which Darwin adopted during the voyage of the Beagle but came to question afterward. I suggest that these phenomena primed Darwin to question the "stability of species." I then examine the role of introduced and invasive species in Darwin's early theorizing and negotiation with Lyell's ideas, recorded in his post-voyage "transmutation notebooks." Therein, the subject was an inflection point in his contention with Lyell's views and moreover, his theorizing on invasive species occasioned some of his earliest inklings of natural selection. Finally, I examine how naturalization was crucial to Lyell's own eventual conversion to evolutionism. I conclude with brief reflections on the implications of this narrative for our understanding of Darwin's reasoning, his intellectual relationship to Lyell, and the historical context that shaped his theory.},
}

@article {pmid38660818,
year = {2024},
author = {Chen, X and Evans, TG and Jeschke, JM and Jähnig, SC and He, F},
title = {Global introductions and environmental impacts of freshwater megafish.},
journal = {Global change biology},
volume = {30},
number = {4},
pages = {e17289},
doi = {10.1111/gcb.17289},
pmid = {38660818},
issn = {1365-2486},
support = {//Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst/ ; //Leibniz-Gemeinschaft/ ; //China Scholarship Council/ ; E355S122//Chinese Academy of Sciences/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Fresh Water ; *Introduced Species ; *Fishes ; Environment ; },
abstract = {Freshwater megafish species, such as sturgeons, salmonids, carps, and catfishes, have a maximum reported weight ≥30 kg. Due to their charisma and economic value, they have been widely introduced outside of their native ranges. Here, we provide a comprehensive overview of the introduction of freshwater megafish and an assessment of their environmental impacts. Of the 134 extant freshwater megafish species, 46% have been introduced to new environments, and of these, 69% have established self-sustaining alien populations. These introductions affect 59% of the world's main basins, with the USA and western Europe being particular hotspots of megafish introductions. The common carp (Cyprinus carpio) is the most widely introduced species. Using the Environmental Impact Classification for Alien Taxa (EICAT and EICAT+) frameworks, we assessed the severity and type of negative and positive impacts posed by alien megafish on native species. Alien megafish caused negative impacts through nine different mechanisms, with predation being the most frequently reported mechanism, followed by herbivory and competition. Moreover, 58% of the alien megafish species with sufficient data to evaluate the severity of their impacts caused declining populations of native species, or worse, extirpations of native species populations. The positive environmental impacts of alien megafish were far less frequently documented. They include biotic interactions that benefit native species, and the provision of trophic resources or habitats. Widely introduced or extensively studied species are more likely to have documented severe impacts on native species. There is a clear trade-off between the economic benefits associated with megafish introductions and the severe adverse impacts they have on native biodiversity. Our study highlights the need for comprehensive risk assessments to evaluate the potential environmental impacts of megafish. More research and long-term monitoring schemes are required to inform management actions to protect biodiversity, particularly in the Global South.},
}

Animals
*Fresh Water
*Introduced Species
*Fishes
Environment

@article {pmid38660810,
year = {2024},
author = {Dickie, M and Serrouya, R and Becker, M and DeMars, C and Noonan, MJ and Steenweg, R and Boutin, S and Ford, AT},
title = {Habitat alteration or climate: What drives the densities of an invading ungulate?.},
journal = {Global change biology},
volume = {30},
number = {4},
pages = {e17286},
doi = {10.1111/gcb.17286},
pmid = {38660810},
issn = {1365-2486},
support = {//Canadian Society of Zoologists Anne Innis Dagg Research Grant/ ; //Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada/ ; //Government of Alberta/ ; //Regional Industry Caribou Collaboration/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Deer/physiology ; *Climate Change ; *Ecosystem ; Population Density ; Seasons ; Canada ; Introduced Species ; },
abstract = {Anthropogenic habitat alteration and climate change are two well-known contributors to biodiversity loss through changes to species distribution and abundance; yet, disentangling the effects of these two factors is often hindered by their inherent confound across both space and time. We leveraged a contrast in habitat alteration associated with the jurisdictional boundary between two Canadian provinces to evaluate the relative effects of spatial variation in habitat alteration and climate on white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) densities. White-tailed deer are an invading ungulate across much of North America, whose expansion into Canada's boreal forest is implicated in the decline of boreal caribou (Rangifer tarandus caribou), a species listed as Threatened in Canada. We estimated white-tailed deer densities using 300 remote cameras across 12 replicated 50 km[2] landscapes over 5 years. White-tailed deer densities were significantly lower in areas where winter severity was higher. For example, predicted deer densities declined from 1.83 to 0.35 deer/km[2] when winter severity increased from the lowest value to the median value. There was a tendency for densities to increase with increasing habitat alteration; however, the magnitude of this effect was approximately half that of climate. Our findings suggest that climate is the primary driver of white-tailed deer populations; however, understanding the mechanisms underpinning this relationship requires further study of over-winter survival and fecundity. Long-term monitoring at the invasion front is needed to evaluate the drivers of abundance over time, particularly given the unpredictability of climate change and increasing prevalence of extreme weather events.},
}

Animals
*Deer/physiology
*Climate Change
*Ecosystem
Population Density
Seasons
Canada
Introduced Species

@article {pmid38658454,
year = {2024},
author = {Cerri, J and Sciandra, C and Contardo, T and Bertolino, S},
title = {Local Economic Conditions Affect Aedes albopictus Management.},
journal = {EcoHealth},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {38658454},
issn = {1612-9210},
abstract = {Invasive mosquitoes are an emerging public health issue, as many species are competent vectors for pathogens. We assessed how multiple environmental and socio-economic factors affected the engagement of municipalities in Italy (n = 7679) in actions against Aedes albopictus, an invasive mosquito affecting human health and well-being, between 2000 and 2020. We collected information about mosquito control from official documents and municipal websites and modeled the role played by multiple environmental and socioeconomic factors characterizing each municipality through the random forest algorithm. Municipalities are more prone to manage A. albopictus if more urbanized, in lowlands and with long infestation periods. Moreover, these variables are more predictive of management in municipalities with a high median income and thus more economic resources. Only 25.5% of Italian municipalities approved regulations for managing A. albopictus, and very few of them were in Southern Italy, the most deprived area of the country. Our findings indicate that local economic conditions moderate the effect of other drivers of mosquito control and ultimately can lead to better management of A. albopictus. If the management of invasive mosquitoes, or other forms of global change, is subjected to local economic conditions, economic inequalities will jeopardize the success of large-scale policies, also raising issues of environmental and climate justice.},
}

@article {pmid38657609,
year = {2024},
author = {Farooq, H and Harfoot, M and Rahbek, C and Geldmann, J},
title = {Threats to reptiles at global and regional scales.},
journal = {Current biology : CB},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2024.04.007},
pmid = {38657609},
issn = {1879-0445},
abstract = {Reptiles are an important, yet often understudied, taxon in nature conservation. They play a significant role in ecosystems[1] and can serve as indicators of environmental health, often responding more rapidly to human pressures than other vertebrate groups.[2] At least 21% of reptiles are currently assessed as threatened with extinction by the IUCN.[3] However, due to the lack of comprehensive global assessments until recently, they have been omitted from spatial studies addressing conservation or spatial prioritization (e.g., Rosauer et al.,[4][,][5][,][6][,][7][,][8] Fritz and Rahbek,[4][,][5][,][6][,][7][,][8] Farooq et al.,[4][,][5][,][6][,][7][,][8] Meyer et al., [4][,][5][,][6][,][7][,][8] and Farooq et al.[4][,][5][,][6][,][7][,][8]). One important knowledge gap in conservation is the lack of spatially explicit information on the main threats to biodiversity,[9] which significantly hampers our ability to respond effectively to the current biodiversity crisis.[10][,][11] In this study, we calculate the probability of a reptile species in a specific location being affected by one of seven biodiversity threats-agriculture, climate change, hunting, invasive species, logging, pollution, and urbanization. We conducted the analysis at a global scale, using a 50 km × 50 km grid, and evaluated the impact of these threats by studying their relationship with the risk of extinction. We find that climate change, logging, pollution, and invasive species are most linked to extinction risk. However, we also show that there is considerable geographical variation in these results. Our study highlights the importance of going beyond measuring the intensity of threats to measuring the impact of these separately for various biogeographical regions of the world, with different historical contingencies, as opposed to a single global analysis treating all regions the same.},
}

@article {pmid38655010,
year = {2024},
author = {Suzuki, Y and Hisasue, Y},
title = {Discovery of presumably introduced spiders, Oedignathascrobiculata Thorell, 1881 (Araneae, Liocranidae) and Boagriusqiong Lin & Li, 2022 (Araneae, Palpimanidae) on Chichi-jima Island, the Ogasawara Islands, Japan.},
journal = {Biodiversity data journal},
volume = {12},
number = {},
pages = {e121421},
pmid = {38655010},
issn = {1314-2828},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The spider fauna of the Ogasawara Islands, oceanic islands located 1,000 km south of mainland Japan was comprehensively examined by the National Museum of Nature and Science in 2011, which revealed that approximately 70% of the spider fauna was composed of non-native species. Following the preceding study, however, only descriptions of several new species have been added and no major updates have been made for the overall spider fauna of the Islands.

NEW INFORMATION: The faunistic survey of spiders conducted on Chichi-jima Island, the largest island in the Ogasawara Islands in 2023 revealed the presence of two ground-dwelling spider species, Oedignathascrobiculata Thorell, 1881 (Araneae, Liocranidae) and Boagriusqiong Lin & Li, 2022 (Araneae, Palpimanidae) on the Island. This represents the first record of the two species from Japan, the first record of palpimaid spiders from Japan and the initial documentation of liocranid spiders in the Ogasawara Islands.},
}

@article {pmid38583606,
year = {2024},
author = {Wang, Q and Zhang, H and Yan, Z and Wang, J and Yu, H and Yu, D and Liu, C},
title = {Decomposition of exotic versus native aquatic plant litter in a lake littoral zone: Stoichiometry and life form analyses.},
journal = {The Science of the total environment},
volume = {927},
number = {},
pages = {172271},
doi = {10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172271},
pmid = {38583606},
issn = {1879-1026},
mesh = {*Lakes/chemistry ; *Plants ; *Phosphorus/analysis ; *Nitrogen/analysis ; *Introduced Species ; Carbon/analysis ; Ecosystem ; Plant Leaves/chemistry ; China ; },
abstract = {The decomposition rates and stoichiometric characteristics of many aquatic plants remain unclear, and our understanding of material flow and nutrient cycles within freshwater ecosystems is limited. In this study, an in-situ experiment involving 23 aquatic plants (16 native and 7 exotic species) was carried out via the litter bag method for 63 days, during which time the mass loss and nutrient content (carbon (C), nitrogen (N), and phosphorus (P)) of plants were measured. Floating-leaved plants exhibited the highest decomposition rate (0.038 ± 0.002 day[-1]), followed by submerged plants and free-floating plants (0.029 ± 0.002 day[-1]), and emergent plants had the lowest decomposition rate (0.019 ± 0.001 day[-1]). Mass loss by aquatic plants correlated with stoichiometric characteristics; the decomposition rate increased with an increasing P content and with a decreasing C content, C:N ratio, and C:P ratio. Notably, the decomposition rate of submerged exotic plants (0.044 ± 0.002 day[-1]) significantly exceeded that of native plants (0.026 ± 0.004 day[-1]), while the decomposition rate of emergent exotic plants was 55 ± 4 % higher than that of native plants. The decomposition rates of floating-leaved and free-floating plants did not significantly differ between the native and exotic species. During decomposition, emergent plants displayed an increase in C content and a decrease in N content, contrary to patterns observed in other life forms. The P content decreased for submerged (128 ± 7 %), emergent (90 ± 5 %), floating-leaved (104 ± 6 %), and free-floating plants (32 ± 6 %). Exotic plants released more C and P but accumulated more N than did native plants. In conclusion, the decomposition of aquatic plants is closely linked to litter quality and influences nutrient cycling in freshwater ecosystems. Given these findings, the invasion of the littoral zone by submerged and emergent exotic plants deserves further attention.},
}

*Lakes/chemistry
*Plants
*Phosphorus/analysis
*Nitrogen/analysis
*Introduced Species
Carbon/analysis
Ecosystem
Plant Leaves/chemistry
China

@article {pmid38654007,
year = {2024},
author = {Wang, Y and Luo, Y and Ge, Y and Liu, S and Liang, W and Wu, C and Wei, S and Zhu, J},
title = {Chromosome-level genome assembly of the predatory stink bug Arma custos.},
journal = {Scientific data},
volume = {11},
number = {1},
pages = {417},
pmid = {38654007},
issn = {2052-4463},
abstract = {The stink bug Arma custos (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) is a predatory enemy successfully used for biocontrol of lepidopteran and coleopteran pests in notorious invasive species. In this study, a high-quality chromosome-scale genome assembly of A. custos was achieved through a combination of Illumina sequencing, PacBio HiFi sequencing, and Hi-C scaffolding techniques. The final assembled genome was 969.02 Mb in size, with 935.94 Mb anchored to seven chromosomes, and a scaffold N50 length of 135.75 Mb. This genome comprised 52.78% repetitive elements. The detected complete BUSCO score was 99.34%, indicating its completeness. A total of 13,708 protein-coding genes were predicted in the genome, and 13219 of them were annotated. This genome provides an invaluable resource for further research on various aspects of predatory bugs, such as biology, genetics, and functional genomics.},
}

@article {pmid38651163,
year = {2024},
author = {Kharel, N and Dangol, A and Shrestha, A and Airi, H and Devkota, A and Thapa, LB and Shrestha, BB},
title = {Germination patterns and seedling growth of congeneric native and invasive Mimosa species: Implications for risk assessment.},
journal = {Ecology and evolution},
volume = {14},
number = {4},
pages = {e11312},
pmid = {38651163},
issn = {2045-7758},
abstract = {Comparisons of plant traits between native and invasive congeners are useful approaches for identifying characteristics that promote invasiveness. We compared germination patterns and seedling growth of locally sympatric populations of native Mimosa himalayana and two varieties of invasive M. diplotricha (var. diplotricha and var. inermis) growing in southeastern Nepal. Seeds were germinated under a 12-h photoperiod or complete dark, low (25/15°C day/night) and high (30/20°C) temperatures, different water stress levels (0, -0.1, -0.25, -0.5, -0.75 and -1.0 MPa), and soil depths (0, 2, and 4 cm). Plant height, biomass allocations, and relative growth rate (RGR) of seedlings were measured. Invasive M. diplotricha had higher germination percentage, rate, and shorter germination time compared with the native species. Germination of both congeners declined as water stress increased, but the decline was more pronounced in native species. Seedling emergence declined with increasing depth in all taxa. The seedlings of invasive species were taller with higher leaf number and allocated greater proportion of biomass to shoot, whereas the native congener allocated greater biomass to root. The RGR was nearly twice as high in invasive species as it was in the native congener. Seedling height and number of leaves were always higher in invasive than in native species, and the native-invasive differences increased over time. Better germination and higher growth performance of invasive species than the congeneric native one suggests that seed germination and seedling growth can be useful traits for the prediction of species' invasiveness in their introduced range during risk assessment process.},
}

@article {pmid38650871,
year = {2024},
author = {Han, J and Dong, Z and Ji, W and Lv, W and Luo, M and Fu, B},
title = {From predator to protector: Myxococcus fulvus WCH05 emerges as a potent biocontrol agent for fire blight.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {15},
number = {},
pages = {1378288},
pmid = {38650871},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {Fire blight, caused by the Gram-negative bacterium Erwinia amylovora, poses a substantial threat to pome fruit production worldwide. Despite existing control strategies, a pressing need remains for sustainable and environmentally friendly fire blight management. Myxobacteria, renowned for their predatory behavior and potent enzymes, emerge as a groundbreaking biocontrol approach with significant potential. Here, we report the biocontrol potential of a novel Myxococcus fulvus WCH05, against E. amylovora. Using various in vitro and planta assays, we demonstrated the multifaceted biocontrol abilities of strain WCH05. In plate predation assays, strain WCH05 exhibited not only strong predation against E. amylovora but also broad-spectrum activities against other plant pathogenic bacteria. Pre-treatment with strain WCH05 significantly decreased pear blossom blight incidence in detached inflorescence assays, achieving a controlled efficacy of 76.02% that rivaled the antibiotic streptomycin (79.79%). In greenhouse trials, strain WCH05 effectively reduced the wilting rate and disease index in young pear seedlings, exhibiting both protective (73.68%) and curative (68.66%) control. Further investigation revealed that the biocontrol activity of strain WCH05 relies on both direct contact and extracellular enzyme secretion. While cell extracts lacked inhibitory activity, ammonium sulfate-precipitated secreted proteins displayed potent lytic activity against E. amylovora. Substrate spectrum analysis identified peptidases, lipases, and glycosidases among the secreted enzymes, suggesting their potential roles in pathogen degradation and biocontrol efficacy. This study presents the first evidence of Myxococcus fulvus WCH05 as a biocontrol agent against fire blight. Its potent predatory abilities and enzymatic arsenal highlight its potential for sustainable disease management in pome fruit production. Future research will focus on identifying and characterizing specific lytic enzymes and optimizing strain WCH05 application strategies for field efficacy.},
}

@article {pmid38649047,
year = {2024},
author = {Mai, Y and Wang, Y and Geng, T and Peng, S and Lai, Z and Wang, X and Li, H},
title = {A systematic toxicologic study of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons on aquatic organisms via food-web bioaccumulation.},
journal = {The Science of the total environment},
volume = {929},
number = {},
pages = {172362},
doi = {10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172362},
pmid = {38649047},
issn = {1879-1026},
abstract = {Pollution-induced declines in fishery resources restrict the sustainable development of fishery. As a kind of typical environmental pollutant, the mechanism of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) facilitating fishery resources declines needs to be fully illustrated. To determine how PAHs have led to declines in fishery resources, a systematic toxicologic analysis of the effects of PAHs on aquatic organisms via food-web bioaccumulation was performed in the Pearl River and its estuary. Overall, PAH bioaccumulation in aquatic organisms was correlated with the trophic levels along food-web, exhibiting as significant positive correlations were observed between PAHs concentration and the trophic levels of fishes in the Pearl River Estuary. Additionally, waterborne PAHs exerted significant direct effects on dietary organisms (P < 0.05), and diet-borne PAHs subsequently exhibited significant direct effects on fish (P < 0.05). However, an apparent block effect was found in dietary organisms (e.g., zooplankton) where 33.49 % of the total system throughput (TST) was retained at trophic level II, exhibiting as the highest PAHs concentration, bioaccumulation factor (BAF), and biomagnification factor (BMF) of ∑15PAHs in zooplankton were at least eight-fold greater than those in fishes in both the Pearl River and its estuary, thereby waterborne PAHs exerted either direct or indirect effects on fishes that ultimately led to food-web simplification. Regardless of the block effect of dietary organisms, a general toxic effect of PAHs on aquatic organisms was observed, e.g., Phe and BaP exerted lethal effects on phytoplankton Chlorella pyrenoidosa and zooplankton Daphnia magna, and decreased reproduction in fishes Danio rerio and Megalobrama hoffmanni via activating the NOD-like receptors (NLRs) signaling pathway. Consequently, an assembled aggregate exposure pathway for PAHs revealed that increases in waterborne PAHs led to bioaccumulation of PAHs in aquatic organisms along food-web, and this in turn decreased the reproductive ability of fishes, thus causing decline in fishery resources.},
}

@article {pmid38646489,
year = {2024},
author = {Sugiura, S and Hayashi, M},
title = {Defenses of whirligig beetles against native and invasive frogs.},
journal = {PeerJ},
volume = {12},
number = {},
pages = {e17214},
pmid = {38646489},
issn = {2167-8359},
mesh = {Animals ; *Coleoptera/physiology ; *Introduced Species ; *Predatory Behavior/physiology ; Japan ; Ranidae ; Rana catesbeiana ; },
abstract = {Many native insects have evolved defenses against native predators. However, their defenses may not protect them from non-native predators due to a limited shared history. The American bullfrog, Aquarana catesbeiana (Anura: Ranidae), which has been intentionally introduced to many countries, is believed to impact native aquatic animals through direct predation. Adults of whirligig beetles (Coleoptera: Gyrinidae), known for swimming and foraging on the water surface of ponds and streams, reportedly possess chemical defenses against aquatic predators, such as fish. Although whirligig beetles potentially encounter both bullfrogs and other frogs in ponds and lakes, the effectiveness of their defenses against frogs has been rarely studied. To assess whether whirligig beetles can defend against native and non-native frogs, we observed the behavioral responses of the native pond frog, Pelophylax nigromaculatus (Anura: Ranidae), and the invasive non-native bullfrog, A. catesbeiana, to native whirligig beetles, Gyrinus japonicus and Dineutus orientalis, in Japan. Adults of whirligig beetles were provided to frogs under laboratory conditions. Forty percent of G. japonicus and D.orientalis were rejected by P. nigromaculatus, while all whirligig beetles were easily consumed by A. catesbeiana. Chemical and other secondary defenses of G. japonicus and D. orientalis were effective for some individuals of P. nigromaculatus but not for any individuals of A. catesbeiana. These results suggest that native whirligig beetles suffer predation by invasive non-native bullfrogs in local ponds and lakes in Japan.},
}

Animals
*Coleoptera/physiology
*Introduced Species
*Predatory Behavior/physiology
Japan
Ranidae
Rana catesbeiana

@article {pmid38646477,
year = {2024},
author = {Xia, Y and Feng, J and Zhang, H and Xiong, D and Kong, L and Seviour, R and Kong, Y},
title = {Effects of soil pH on the growth, soil nutrient composition, and rhizosphere microbiome of Ageratina adenophora.},
journal = {PeerJ},
volume = {12},
number = {},
pages = {e17231},
pmid = {38646477},
issn = {2167-8359},
mesh = {*Ageratina ; Antioxidants ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S ; Rhizosphere ; *Microbiota ; Glutathione ; Introduced Species ; *Marijuana Abuse ; Nutrients ; Soil ; Hydrogen-Ion Concentration ; },
abstract = {Ageratina adenophora is an invasive weed species found in many countries. Methods to control the spread of this weed have been largely unsuccessful. Soil pH is the most important soil factor affecting the availability of nutrients for plant and impacting its growth. Understanding the mechanisms of the influence of soil pH on the growth of A. adenophora may help to develop effective control measures. In this study, we artificially changed the soil pH in pot experiments for A. adenophora. We studied the effects of acidic (pH 5.5), weakly acidic (pH 6.5), neutral (pH 7.2), and alkaline (pH 9.0) soils on the growth, availability of soil nutrients, activity of antioxidant enzymes, levels of redox markers in the leaves, and the structure and diversity of the rhizosphere microbiome. Soil with a pH 7.2 had a higher (47.8%) below-ground height versus soils of pH 5.5 at day 10; plant had a higher (11.3%) above-ground height in pH 7.2 soils than pH 9.0 soils at day 90; no differences in the fresh and dry weights of its above- and belowground parts, plant heights, and root lengths were observed in plants growing in acid, alkaline, or neutral pH soil were observed at day 180. Correspondingly, the antioxidant enzymes SOD (superoxide dismutase), POD (peroxidase), CAT (catalase) and redox markers GSH (glutathione) and MDA (malondialdehyde) were measured in the leaves. Significant differences existed in the activities of CAT and the levels of GSH between those growing in acidic and alkaline soils and those in neutral pH soil at day 90; however, only lower (36.8%) CAT activities in those grown at pH 5.5 than those grown at pH 7.2 were found at day 180. Similarly, significant differences in available P (16.89 vs 3.04 mg Kg[-1]) and total K (3.67 vs 0.96 mg Kg[-1]), total P (0.37 vs 0.25 g Kg[-1]) and total N (0.45 vs 1.09 g Kg[-1]) concentrations were found between the rhizosphere soils of A. adenophora grown at pH 9.0 and 7.2 at day 90; no such differences were seen at day 180. High throughput analyses of the 16S rRNA and ITS fragments showed that the rhizosphere microbiome diversity and composition under different soil pH conditions changed over 180 days. The rhizosphere microbiomes differed in diversity, phylum, and generic composition and population interactions under acid and alkaline conditions versus those grown in neutral soils. Soil pH had a greater impact on the diversity and composition of the prokaryotic rhizosphere communities than those of the fungal communities. A. adenophora responded successfully to pH stress by changing the diversity and composition of the rhizosphere microbiome to maintain a balanced nutrient supply to support its normal growth. The unusual pH tolerance of A. adenophora may be one crucial reason for its successful invasion. Our results suggest that attempts use soil pH to control its invasion by changing the soil pH (for example, using lime) will fail.},
}

*Ageratina
Antioxidants
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S
Rhizosphere
*Microbiota
Glutathione
Introduced Species
*Marijuana Abuse
Nutrients
Soil
Hydrogen-Ion Concentration

@article {pmid38598547,
year = {2024},
author = {Willoughby, JR and McKenzie, BA and Ahn, J and Steury, TD and Lepzcyk, CA and Zohdy, S},
title = {Assessing and managing the risk of Aedes mosquito introductions via the global maritime trade network.},
journal = {PLoS neglected tropical diseases},
volume = {18},
number = {4},
pages = {e0012110},
pmid = {38598547},
issn = {1935-2735},
mesh = {*Aedes/physiology ; Animals ; *Ships ; Mosquito Vectors/physiology ; Mosquito Control/methods ; Commerce ; United States ; Introduced Species ; },
abstract = {The global shipping network (GSN) has been suggested as a pathway for the establishment and reintroduction of Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus primarily via the tire trade. We used historical maritime movement data in combination with an agent-based model to understand invasion risk in the United States Gulf Coast and how the risk of these invasions could be reduced. We found a strong correlation between the total number of cargo ship arrivals at each port and likelihood of arrival by both Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus. Additionally, in 2012, 99.2% of the arrivals into target ports had most recently visited ports likely occupied by both Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus, increasing risk of Aedes invasion. Our model results indicated that detection and removal of mosquitoes from containers when they are unloaded effectively reduced the probability of mosquito populations establishment even when the connectivity of ports increased. To reduce the risk of invasion and reintroduction of Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus, surveillance and control efforts should be employed when containers leave high risk locations and when they arrive in ports at high risk of establishment.},
}

*Aedes/physiology
Animals
*Ships
Mosquito Vectors/physiology
Mosquito Control/methods
Commerce
United States
Introduced Species

@article {pmid38646794,
year = {2024},
author = {Howerton, E and Langkilde, T and Shea, K},
title = {Misapplied management makes matters worse: Spatially explicit control leverages biotic interactions to slow invasion.},
journal = {Ecological applications : a publication of the Ecological Society of America},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e2974},
doi = {10.1002/eap.2974},
pmid = {38646794},
issn = {1051-0761},
support = {//Eberly College of Science Barbara McClintock Science Achievement Graduate Scholarship in Biology at the Pennsylvania State University/ ; },
abstract = {A wide range of approaches has been used to manage the spread of invasive species, yet invaders continue to be a challenge to control. In some cases, management actions have no effect or may even inadvertently benefit the targeted invader. Here, we use the mid-20th century management of the Red Imported Fire Ant, Solenopsis invicta, in the US as a motivating case study to explore the conditions under which such wasted management effort may occur. Introduced in approximately 1940, the fire ant spread widely through the southeast US and became a problematic pest. Historically, fire ants were managed with broad-spectrum pesticides; unfortunately, these efforts were largely unsuccessful. One hypothesis suggests that, by also killing native ants, mass pesticide application reduced competitive burdens thereby enabling fire ants to invade more quickly than they would in the absence of management. We use a mechanistic competition model to demonstrate the landscape-level effects of such management. We explicitly model the extent and location of pesticide applications, showing that the same pesticide application can have a positive, neutral, or negative effect on the progress of an invasion, depending on where it is applied on the landscape with respect to the invasion front. When designing management, the target species is often considered alone; however, this work suggests that leveraging existing biotic interactions, specifically competition with native species, can increase the efficacy of management. Our model not only highlights the potential unintended consequences of ignoring biotic interactions, but also provides a framework for developing spatially explicit management strategies that take advantage of these biotic interactions to work smarter, not harder.},
}

@article {pmid38646768,
year = {2024},
author = {Wang, LL and Yang, CQ and Wang, Y and Li, XH and Wan, FH and Zhang, AB},
title = {Ecological niche shift and suitable area expansion of a globally invasive species Phthorimaea operculella.},
journal = {Ying yong sheng tai xue bao = The journal of applied ecology},
volume = {35},
number = {3},
pages = {797-805},
doi = {10.13287/j.1001-9332.202403.013},
pmid = {38646768},
issn = {1001-9332},
abstract = {Phthorimaea operculella is a major potato pest of global importance, early warning and detection of which are of significance. In this study, we analyzed the climate niche conservation of P. operculella during its invasion by comparing the overall climate niche from three dimensions, including the differences between native range (South America) and entire invaded region (excluding South America), the differences bwtween native range (South America) and five invaded continents (North America, Oceania, Asia, Africa, and Europe), as well as the differences between native region (South America) and an invaded region (China). We constructed ecological niche models for its native range (South America) and invaded region (China). The results showed that the climatic niche of the pest has expanded to varying degrees in different regions, indicating that the pest could well adapt to new environments during the invasion. Almost all areas of South America are suitable for P. operculella. In China, its suitable area is mainly concentrated in Shandong, Hebei, Tianjin, Beijing, Henan, Hubei, Yunnan, Guizhou, Sichuan, Hainan, northern Guangxi, southern Hunan, Anhui, Guangdong, Jiangsu, southern Shanxi, and southern Shaanxi. With increasing greenhouse gas emissions and global temperature, its suitable area will decrease at low latitude and increase gradually at high latitude. Specifically, the northern boundary will extend to Liaoning, Jilin, and the southeastern region of Inner Mongolia, while the western boundary extends to Sichuan and the southeast Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. The suitable area in the southeast Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau, Hainan Island, and the south of Yangtze River, will gradually decrease. The total suitable habitat area for P. operculella in China is projected to increase under future climate condition. From 2081 to 2100, under the three greenhouse gas emissions scenarios of ssp126, ssp370, and ssp585, the suitable area is expected to increase by 27.78, 165.54, and 140.41 hm[2], respectively. Therefore, it is crucial to strengtehen vigilance and implement strict measures to prevent the further expansion of P. operculella.},
}

@article {pmid38646754,
year = {2024},
author = {Hu, AL and Yang, J and Liu, BL and Zou, Y},
title = {Prediction on the changes in potential suitable areas for mangroves along the coast of Guangxi and the threat from Spartina alterniflora invasion.},
journal = {Ying yong sheng tai xue bao = The journal of applied ecology},
volume = {35},
number = {3},
pages = {669-677},
doi = {10.13287/j.1001-9332.202403.024},
pmid = {38646754},
issn = {1001-9332},
abstract = {As one of the important blue carbon pools in tropical and subtropical intertidal zones, mangroves are widely distributed along the coast of Guangxi in China. To deeply explore the variations of potential suitable habitats for mangroves in China under the background of climate change, based on remote sensing interpretation data of coastal wetlands in Guangxi, global marine environment and bioclimatic environment data in 2021, we constructed a maximum entropy habitat distribution model to simulate the spatial distribution of potential suitable areas for mangroves and the invasive species, Spartina alterniflora, along the coast of Guangxi, and predicted the patterns under extreme climate change scenarios (SSP5-8.5). The results showed that the interpreted area of mangrove forests along the coastline of Guangxi was 9136.7 hm[2] in 2021, while the predicted area of potential suitable habitat area was 55955.9 hm[2]. Current distribution area of mangroves had basically covered its potential high suitability area and nearly 10% of the moderate suitability area. The current area of S. alterniflora was 1320.4 hm[2], and the predicted area of potential high suitability area was twice of current area, indicating that there was still a large proportion of high suitability area that was not occupied by S. alterniflora. The most important environmental factors driving the distribution of potential habitats in mangroves were offshore Euclidean distance (62.2%), terrain deviation index (8.7%), average sea surface temperature in the hottest season (6.1%), and seabed terrain elevation (5.6%). The contribution of geographical conditions on mangrove distribution was predominant. Under the climate change scenario (SSP5-8.5), potential suitable area for mangroves would increase by 5.3%, while that for S. alterniflora would decrease by 3.1%. The overlapping proportion of the potential suitable area for mangroves and S. alterniflora was similar under current and SSP5-8.5 scenarios, being 15.2% and 14.5%, respectively. In the future, it is necessary to strengthen the protection and ecological restoration of mangroves along the coast of Guangxi and there is great challenge for preventing further invasion of S. alterniflora.},
}

@article {pmid38646006,
year = {2024},
author = {Banerjee, P and Dey, G and Maity, JP and Stewart, KA and Sharma, RK and Chan, MWY and Lee, K and Chen, CY},
title = {The unseen invaders: Tracking phylogeographic dynamics and genetic diversity of cryptic Pomacea canaliculata and P. maculata (Golden apple snails) across Taiwan.},
journal = {Ecology and evolution},
volume = {14},
number = {4},
pages = {e11268},
pmid = {38646006},
issn = {2045-7758},
abstract = {The cryptic invasion of golden apple snails (Pomacea canaliculata and P. maculata) in Taiwan has caused significant ecological and economical damage over the last few decades, however, their management remains difficult due to inadequate taxonomic identification, complex phylogeny, and limited population genetic information. We aim to understand the current distribution, putative population of origin, genetic diversity, and potential path of cryptic invasion of Pomacea canaliculata and P. maculata across Taiwan to aid in improved mitigation approaches. The present investigation conducted a nationwide survey with 254 samples collected from 41 locations in 14 counties or cities across Taiwan. We identified P. canaliculata and P. maculata based on mitochondrial COI and compared their genetic diversity across Taiwan, as well as other introduced and native countries (based on publicly available COI data) to understand the possible paths of invasion to Taiwan. Based on mitochondrial COI barcoding, sympatric and heterogeneous distributions of invasive P. canaliculata and P. maculata were noted. Our haplotype analysis and mismatch distribution results suggested multiple introductions of P. canaliculata in Taiwan was likely originated directly from Argentina, whereas P. maculata was probably introduced from a single, or a few, introduction event(s) from Argentina and Brazil. Our population genetic data further demonstrated a higher haplotype and genetic diversity for P. canaliculata and P. maculata in Taiwan compared to other introduced regions. Based on our current understanding, the establishment of P. canaliculata and P. maculata is alarming and widespread beyond geopolitical borders, requiring a concerted and expedited national and international invasive species mitigation program.},
}

@article {pmid38645393,
year = {2024},
author = {Kormann, JM and van der Maaten, E and Liesebach, M and Liepe, KJ and van der Maaten-Theunissen, M},
title = {High risk, high gain? Trade-offs between growth and resistance to extreme events differ in northern red oak (Quercus rubra L.).},
journal = {Frontiers in plant science},
volume = {15},
number = {},
pages = {1374498},
pmid = {38645393},
issn = {1664-462X},
abstract = {Information about the resistance and adaptive potential of tree species and provenances is needed to select suitable planting material in times of rapidly changing climate conditions. In this study, we evaluate growth responses to climatic fluctuations and extreme events for 12 provenances of northern red oak (Quercus rubra L.) that were tested across three trial sites with distinct environmental conditions in Germany. Six provenances each were sourced from the natural distribution in North America and from introduced stands in Germany. We collected increment cores of 16 trees per provenance and site. Dendroecological methods were used to compare provenance performance and establish climate-growth relationships to identify the main growth limiting factors. To evaluate the provenance response to extreme drought and frost events, three site-specific drought years were selected according to the Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI) and 2010 as a year with an extreme late frost event. Resistance indices for these years were calculated and assessed in relation to overall growth performance. We observed a high variation in growth and in the climate sensitivity between sites depending on the prevailing climatic conditions, as well as a high intra-specific variation. Overall, summer drought and low temperatures in the early growing season appear to constrain the growth of red oak. The resistance of provenances within sites and extreme years showed considerable rank changes and interaction effects. We did not find a trade-off between growth and resistance to late frost, namely, fast growing provenances had a high frost hardiness. Further, there was no evidence for a trade-off between growth and drought hardiness. Still, responses to drought or late frost differ between provenances, pointing to dissimilar adaptive strategies. Provenances from introduced (i.e. German) stands represent suitable seed sources, as they combine a higher growth and frost hardiness compared to their North American counterparts. Drought hardiness was slightly higher in the slow-growing provenances. The results provide a better understanding of the variable adaptive strategies between provenances and help to select suitable planting material for adaptive forest management.},
}

@article {pmid38637667,
year = {2024},
author = {Lortie, CJ and Brown, C and Haas-Desmarais, S and Lucero, J and Callaway, R and Braun, J and Filazzola, A},
title = {Plant networks are more connected by invasive brome and native shrub facilitation in Central California drylands.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {14},
number = {1},
pages = {8958},
pmid = {38637667},
issn = {2045-2322},
mesh = {*Bromus ; *Ecosystem ; Plants ; Biodiversity ; Introduced Species ; California ; },
abstract = {Dominant vegetation in many ecosystems is an integral component of structure and habitat. In many drylands, native shrubs function as foundation species that benefit other plants and animals. However, invasive exotic plant species can comprise a significant proportion of the vegetation. In Central California drylands, the facilitative shrub Ephedra californica and the invasive Bromus rubens are widely dispersed and common. Using comprehensive survey data structured by shrub and open gaps for the region, we compared network structure with and without this native shrub canopy and with and without the invasive brome. The presence of the invasive brome profoundly shifted the network measure of centrality in the microsites structured by a shrub canopy (centrality scores increased from 4.3 under shrubs without brome to 6.3, i.e. a relative increase of 42%). This strongly suggests that plant species such as brome can undermine the positive and stabilizing effects of native foundation plant species provided by shrubs in drylands by changing the frequency that the remaining species connect to one another. The net proportion of positive and negative associations was consistent across all microsites (approximately 50% with a total of 14% non-random co-occurrences on average) suggesting that these plant-plant networks are rewired but not more negative. Maintaining resilience in biodiversity thus needs to capitalize on protecting native shrubs whilst also controlling invasive grass species particularly when associated with shrubs.},
}

*Bromus
*Ecosystem
Plants
Biodiversity
Introduced Species
California

@article {pmid38635703,
year = {2024},
author = {Pennisi, E},
title = {Native lizards taught to avoid toxic toads by released toadlets.},
journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)},
volume = {384},
number = {6693},
pages = {256-257},
doi = {10.1126/science.adp8887},
pmid = {38635703},
issn = {1095-9203},
mesh = {Animals ; *Lizards ; Bufo marinus ; Introduced Species ; },
abstract = {Exposing monitor lizards to thousands of young cane toads helped them survive once the adult toads invaded.},
}

Animals
*Lizards
Bufo marinus
Introduced Species

@article {pmid38642719,
year = {2024},
author = {Mallick, S and Sundaray, JK and Ghosal, R},
title = {Understanding feeding competition under laboratory conditions: Rohu (Labeo rohita) versus Amazon sailfin catfish (Pterygoplichthys spp.).},
journal = {Behavioural processes},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {105029},
doi = {10.1016/j.beproc.2024.105029},
pmid = {38642719},
issn = {1872-8308},
abstract = {Competitive interactions between species is widely prevalent within the animal world. In this manuscript, we attempted to understand feeding competitions between the Amazon sailfin catfish, an invasive species introduced globally, and rohu, a keystone species native to several countries within southeast Asia. We used two different size classes of each species, large-size having total length (TL, from snout tip to caudal fin) of 15-20cm and fingerling having TL<6cm, and feeding duration was used as a proxy to understand competition. Our results demonstrated that feeding durations of large-size rohu were either similar or significantly (P<0.05) higher in presence of catfish when compared to trials in presence of conspecifics, indicating that large-size rohu is not a weak competitor. However, feeding durations of fingerling rohu was significantly (P<0.05) reduced in presence of both large-size and fingerling catfish, when compared to trials in presence of conspecifics. Moreover, fingerling rohu also displayed freeze (alarm) behavior in presence of the catfish. Interestingly, presence of rohu had no significant (P>0.05) impact on feeding durations of catfish. Overall, the study demonstrated that invasive catfish may behaviorally outcompete fingerling rohu, thus, threatening the sustenance of a species that is native to several freshwaters around the globe.},
}

@article {pmid38642477,
year = {2024},
author = {Gönülal, O and Dalyan, C and Kesici, NB and Aytan, Ü},
title = {Distribution and composition of seafloor litter and associated macrofouling organisms in the Northeastern Mediterranean Sea.},
journal = {Marine pollution bulletin},
volume = {202},
number = {},
pages = {116328},
doi = {10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116328},
pmid = {38642477},
issn = {1879-3363},
abstract = {Composition, and density of marine litter and associated macrofouling organisms was assessed in the continental shelf of the Northeastern Mediterranean Sea. A total of 943 litter items weighing 388 kg were collected during 34 hauls. Plastic comprised 72 % of the total litter found on the seafloor. The mean number and weight of ML was 4241 ± 1333 items/km[2] and 368 ± 87 kg/km[2]. Depth and distance from the shore were not identified as a significant factor affecting both the number and weight of litter. A total of 20 fouling species and eggs belonging to Mollusca, Porifera, Cnidaria, Bryozoa, Annelida, Arthropoda, and Chordata were found on marine litter. An alien Mollusca species Pinctada imbricate was also found on plastic litter. Our results confirmed that marine litter is a vector transporting a variety of organisms including alien species and being a threat for the biodiversity and human health in the Mediterranean Sea.},
}

@article {pmid38641562,
year = {2024},
author = {Covre, LS and Atkinson, TH and Johnson, AJ and Flechtmann, CAH},
title = {Introduction and establishment of Euwallacea fornicatus (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae) in Brazil.},
journal = {Journal of economic entomology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/jee/toae081},
pmid = {38641562},
issn = {1938-291X},
support = {//National Science Foundation/ ; //US Forest Service/ ; //USDA Aphis/ ; //FDACS-Division of Plant Industry/ ; },
abstract = {Euwallacea fornicatus is an invasive tree pest able to infest healthy plants and cause damage to many host plants. This beetle has become established in several countries where it was introduced. It has now become established in Brazil, and while the original introduction site remains uncertain, there is a possibility of multiple introductions. We report the first evidence for the establishment of E. fornicatus with molecular confirmation, as well as its distribution, and host plants in Brazil. Euwallacea fornicatus has spread to main commercial avocado groves, other monocultures, and native vegetation in the country, and its pest status puts it as a threat, mainly to Brazilian avocado producers.},
}

@article {pmid38638363,
year = {2024},
author = {Peter, N and Schantz, AV and Dörge, DD and Steinhoff, A and Cunze, S and Skaljic, A and Klimpel, S},
title = {Evidence of predation pressure on sensitive species by raccoons based on parasitological studies.},
journal = {International journal for parasitology. Parasites and wildlife},
volume = {24},
number = {},
pages = {100935},
pmid = {38638363},
issn = {2213-2244},
abstract = {To demonstrate predation and potential impacts of raccoons on various species, a total of 108 raccoons from aquatic-associated nature reserves and natural areas in three federal states of Germany, Hesse (n = 36), Saxony-Anhalt (n = 36) and Brandenburg (n = 36), were investigated from a dietary ecological perspective in the present study. Fecal analyses and stomach content examinations were conducted for this purpose. Additionally, as a supplementary method for analyzing the dietary spectrum of raccoons, the parasite fauna was considered, as metazoan parasites, in particular, can serve as indicators for the species and origin of food organisms. While stomach content analyses allow for a detailed recording of trophic relationships solely at the time of sampling, parasitological examinations enable inferences about more distant interaction processes. With their different developmental stages and heteroxenous life cycles involving specific, sometimes obligate, intermediate hosts, they utilize the food web to reach their definitive host. The results of this study clearly demonstrate that spawning areas of amphibians and reptiles were predominantly utilized as food resources by raccoons in the study areas. Thus, common toad (Bufo bufo), common newt (Lissotriton vulgaris), grass frog (Rana temporaria), and grass snake (Natrix natrix) were identified as food organisms for raccoons. The detection of the parasite species Euryhelmis squamula, Isthmiophora melis, and Physocephalus sexalatus with partially high infestation rates also suggests that both amphibians and reptiles belong to the established dietary components of raccoons from an ecological perspective, as amphibians and reptiles are obligate intermediate hosts in the respective parasitic life cycles of the detected parasites. The study clearly demonstrates that raccoons have a significant impact on occurrence-sensitive animal species in certain areas and, as an invasive species, can exert a negative influence on native species and ecosystems.},
}

@article {pmid38638064,
year = {2024},
author = {Kinsley, AC and Kao, SZ and Enns, EA and Escobar, LE and Qiao, H and Snellgrove, N and Muellner, U and Muellner, P and Muthukrishnan, R and Craft, ME and Larkin, DJ and Phelps, NBD},
title = {Modeling the risk of aquatic species invasion spread through boater movements and river connections.},
journal = {Conservation biology : the journal of the Society for Conservation Biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e14260},
doi = {10.1111/cobi.14260},
pmid = {38638064},
issn = {1523-1739},
support = {//Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources/ ; },
abstract = {Aquatic invasive species (AIS) are one of the greatest threats to the functioning of aquatic ecosystems worldwide. Once an invasive species has been introduced to a new region, many governments develop management strategies to reduce further spread. Nevertheless, managing AIS in a new region is challenging because of the vast areas that need protection and limited resources. Spatial heterogeneity in invasion risk is driven by environmental suitability and propagule pressure, which can be used to prioritize locations for surveillance and intervention activities. To better understand invasion risk across aquatic landscapes, we developed a simulation model to estimate the likelihood of a waterbody becoming invaded with an AIS. The model included waterbodies connected via a multilayer network that included boater movements and hydrological connections. In a case study of Minnesota, we used zebra mussels (Dreissena polymorpha) and starry stonewort (Nitellopsis obtusa) as model species. We simulated the impacts of management scenarios developed by stakeholders and created a decision-support tool available through an online application provided as part of the AIS Explorer dashboard. Our baseline model revealed that 89% of new zebra mussel invasions and 84% of new starry stonewort invasions occurred through boater movements, establishing it as a primary pathway of spread and offering insights beyond risk estimates generated by traditional environmental suitability models alone. Our results highlight the critical role of interventions applied to boater movements to reduce AIS dispersal.},
}

@article {pmid38632991,
year = {2024},
author = {Banerjee, AK and Feng, H and Bhowmick, AR and Peng, H and Liang, X and Yin, M and Duan, F and Yan, Y and Huang, Y},
title = {Alien flora are accumulating steadily in China over the last 80 years.},
journal = {iScience},
volume = {27},
number = {4},
pages = {109552},
pmid = {38632991},
issn = {2589-0042},
abstract = {New alien species are increasingly introduced and established outside their native range. The knowledge of the spatiotemporal dynamics of their accumulation and the factors determining their residence time in the introduced range is critical for proactive management, especially in emerging economies. Based on a comprehensive time series dataset of 721 alien angiosperms in China, we show that new alien flora has been accumulating steadily in China, particularly in the coastal regions, for the last 80 years without saturation. The ability to occupy a large number of habitats facilitates the early introduction of alien flora, whereas a large naturalized range, greater number of uses, and multiple introduction pathways directly contribute to their naturalization and invasion. The temporal pattern is predicted to remain consistent in the foreseeable future. We propose upgrading the country's biosecurity infrastructure based on a standardized risk assessment framework to safeguard the country from ongoing and future invasions.},
}

@article {pmid38629795,
year = {2024},
author = {Zhang, X and Li, Z and Ren, L and Liu, X and Zeng, T and Tao, J},
title = {Detection and Recognition of the Invasive species, Hylurgus ligniperda, in Traps, Based on a Cascaded Convolution Neural Network.},
journal = {Pest management science},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/ps.8126},
pmid = {38629795},
issn = {1526-4998},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Hylurgus ligniperda, an invasive species originating from Eurasia, is now a major forestry quarantine pest worldwide. In recent years, it has caused significant damage in China. While traps have been effective in monitoring and controlling pests, manual inspections are labor-intensive and require expertise in insect classification. To address this, we applied a two-stage cascade convolutional neural network, YOLOX-MobileNetV2 (YOLOX-Mnet), for identifying H. ligniperda and other pests captured in traps. This method streamlines target and non-target insect detection from trap images, offering a more efficient alternative to manual inspections.

RESULTS: Two cascade convolutional neural network models were employed in two stages to detect both target and non-target insects from images captured in the same forest. Initially, You Only Look Once X (YOLOX) served as the target detection model, identifying insects and non-insects from the collected images, with non-insect targets subsequently filtered out. In the second stage, MobileNetV2, a classification network, classified the captured insects. This approach effectively reduced false positives from non-insect objects, enabled the inclusion of additional classification terms for multi-class insect classification models, and utilized sample control strategies to enhance classification performance.

CONCLUSION: Application of the cascade convolutional neural network model accurately identified H. ligniperda, and Mean F1-score of all kinds of insects in the trap was 0.98. Compared to traditional insect classification, this method offers great improvement in the identification and early warning of forest pests, as well as provide technical support for the early prevention and control of forest pests. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.},
}

@article {pmid38629131,
year = {2024},
author = {Reginato, M and Ordónez-Parra, CA and Messeder, JVS and Brito, VLG and Dellinger, A and Kriebel, R and Marra, C and Melo, L and Cornelissen, T and Fuzessy, L and Sperotto, P and Calderón-Hernández, M and Guerra, TJ and Kopper, C and Mancipe-Murillo, C and Pizo, MA and Posada-Herrera, JM and Hasui, É and Silva, WR and Silveira, FAO},
title = {MelastomaTRAITs 1.0: A database of functional traits in Melastomataceae, a large pantropical angiosperm family.},
journal = {Ecology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e4308},
doi = {10.1002/ecy.4308},
pmid = {38629131},
issn = {1939-9170},
support = {//Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico/ ; FWF P-30669 T-1186//Austrian Science Fund/ ; //Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de Minas Gerais/ ; //Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior/ ; //Fulbright Association/ ; },
abstract = {The recent availability of open-access repositories of functional traits has revolutionized trait-based approaches in ecology and evolution. Nevertheless, the underrepresentation of tropical regions and lineages remains a pervasive bias in plant functional trait databases, which constrains large-scale assessments of plant ecology, evolution, and biogeography. Here, we present MelastomaTRAITs 1.0, a comprehensive and updatable database of functional traits for the pantropical Melastomataceae, the ninth-largest angiosperm family with 177 genera and more than 5800 species. Melastomataceae encompass species with a wide diversity of growth forms (herbs, shrubs, trees, epiphytes, and woody climbers), habitats (including tropical forests, savannas, grasslands, and wetlands from sea level to montane areas above the treeline), ecological strategies (from pioneer, edge-adapted and invasive species to shade-tolerant understory species), geographic distribution (from microendemic to continental-wide distribution), reproductive, pollination, and seed dispersal systems. MelastomaTRAITs builds on 581 references, such as taxonomic monographs, ecological research, and unpublished data, and includes four whole-plant traits, six leaf traits, 11 flower traits, 18 fruit traits, and 27 seed traits for 2520 species distributed in 144 genera across all 21 tribes. Most data come from the Neotropics where the family is most species-rich. Miconieae (the largest tribe) contains the highest number of trait records (49.6%) and species (41.1%) records. The trait types with the most information in the database were whole-plant traits, flowers, and leaf traits. With the breadth of functional traits recorded, our database helps to fill a gap in information for tropical plants and will significantly improve our capacity for large-scale trait-based syntheses across levels of organization, plant-animal interactions, regeneration ecology, and thereby support conservation and restoration programs. There are no copyright restrictions on the dataset; please cite this data paper when reusing the data.},
}

@article {pmid38628870,
year = {2024},
author = {Jeevannavar, A and Narwani, A and Matthews, B and Spaak, P and Brantschen, J and Mächler, E and Altermatt, F and Tamminen, M},
title = {Foundation species stabilize an alternative eutrophic state in nutrient-disturbed ponds via selection on microbial community.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {15},
number = {},
pages = {1310374},
pmid = {38628870},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {Eutrophication due to nutrient addition can result in major alterations in aquatic ecosystem productivity. Foundation species, individually and interactively, whether present as invasive species or as instruments of ecosystem management and restoration, can have unwanted effects like stabilizing turbid eutrophic states. In this study, we used whole-pond experimental manipulations to investigate the impacts of disturbance by nutrient additions in the presence and absence of two foundation species: Dreissena polymorpha (a freshwater mussel) and Myriophyllum spicatum (a macrophyte). We tracked how nutrient additions to ponds changed the prokaryotic and eukaryotic communities, using 16S, 18S, and COI amplicon sequencing. The nutrient disturbance and foundation species imposed strong selection on the prokaryotic communities, but not on the microbial eukaryotic communities. The prokaryotic communities changed increasingly over time as the nutrient disturbance intensified. Post-disturbance, the foundation species stabilized the prokaryotic communities as observed by the reduced rate of change in community composition. Our analysis suggests that prokaryotic community change contributed both directly and indirectly to major changes in ecosystem properties, including pH and dissolved oxygen. Our work shows that nutrient disturbance and foundation species strongly affect the prokaryotic community composition and stability, and that the presence of foundation species can, in some cases, promote the emergence and persistence of a turbid eutrophic ecosystem state.},
}

@article {pmid38628453,
year = {2024},
author = {Sousa, MA and Lamelas-López, L and Elias, RB and Gabriel, R and Borges, PAV},
title = {A multitaxa approach to biodiversity inventory in Matela protected area (Terceira, Azores, Portugal).},
journal = {Biodiversity data journal},
volume = {12},
number = {},
pages = {e121884},
pmid = {38628453},
issn = {1314-2828},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: This manuscript is the first contribution of the project, "Matela - uma ilha de biodiversidade" ("Matela - an island of biodiversity"), that aims to restore the native vegetation within the Azorean Protected Area of the Terceira Island Nature Park known as the "Protected Area for the Management of Habitats or Species of Matela" (TER08), situated on Terceira Island, the Azores Archipelago, Portugal. This small fragment of native forest, positioned at a low-medium altitude (300-400 m a.s.l.), is facing some conservation impacts as a consequence of the spread of different invasive exotic plant species, mainly Pittosporumundulatum, Rubusulmifolius and Hedychiumgardnerianum. The database we present encompasses diverse taxonomic groups, including bryophytes, vascular plants, arthropods, birds and mammals. It is derived from intensive sampling campaigns conducted in 2022, but some data from a previous vascular plant survey in 2015 were also included. The objective of this study was to provide an updated inventory of bryophytes, vascular plants, arthropods, birds and mammals within this protected area. In this way we are providing the reference conditions necessary for the monitoring of the impacts of the current ongoing restoration efforts within the project "Matela - an island of biodiversity". Whenever feasible, the present inventory is juxtaposed with historical data from previous surveys conducted in Matela.

NEW INFORMATION: In the realm of bryophytes, our analysis revealed the presence of 75 taxa, comprising 44 mosses and 32 liverworts. Amongst these, 71 were indigenous, while three remained indeterminate and one, Campylopusintroflexus, was identified as invasive. A comparison with previous historical data revealed a decrease in species richness, which was partially counterbalanced by the discovery of 23 new recorded species in the area.Regarding vascular plants, we distinguished 54 species, comprising 28 indigenous and 26 introduced taxa. Almost 80% of the inventoried species (n = 43) were newly documented in Matela.The study of arthropods encompassed a total of 103 taxa. Within the realm of soil arthropods, we documented eight indigenous and 25 introduced taxa, witnessing the disappearance of endemic species alongside a substantial increase in introduced ones between 2002 and 2022. Canopy arthropods, totalling 36 indigenous and 18 introduced taxa, exhibited few changes when compared with data from 2002. SLAM traps captured 24 indigenous and 15 introduced arthropod taxa and no historical data are available for comparison.As for avian species, we noted 12 indigenous birds and one introduced species, confirming the presence of most of the historical recorded native species.The mammalian census revealed eight introduced species, setting new precedents for Matela, alongside the identification of one endemic species: the Azorean endemic bat Nyctalusazoreum.},
}

@article {pmid38628146,
year = {2024},
author = {Lundgren, EJ and Wallach, AD and Svenning, JC and Schlaepfer, MA and Andersson, ALA and Ramp, D},
title = {Preventing extinction in an age of species migration and planetary change.},
journal = {Conservation biology : the journal of the Society for Conservation Biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e14270},
doi = {10.1111/cobi.14270},
pmid = {38628146},
issn = {1523-1739},
support = {16549//Daniel National Research Foundation/ ; 16549//Villum Funden/ ; FT210100243//Australian Research Council/ ; },
abstract = {International and national conservation policies almost exclusively focus on conserving species in their historic native ranges, thus excluding species that have been introduced by people and some of those that have extended their ranges on their own accord. Given that many of such migrants are threatened in their native ranges, conservation goals that explicitly exclude these populations may overlook opportunities to prevent extinctions and respond dynamically to rapidly changing environmental and climatic conditions. Focusing on terrestrial mammals, we quantified the number of threatened mammals that have established new populations through assisted migration (i.e., introduction). We devised 4 alternative scenarios for the inclusion of assisted-migrant populations in mainstream conservation policy with the aim of preventing global species extinctions. We then used spatial prioritization algorithms to simulate how these scenarios could change global spatial conservation priorities. We found that 22% (70 species out of 265) of all identified assisted-migrant mammals were threatened in their native ranges, mirroring the 25% of all mammals that are threatened. Reassessing global threat statuses by combining native and migrant ranges reduced the threat status of 23 species (∼33% of threatened assisted migrants). Thus, including migrant populations in threat assessments provides a more accurate assessment of actual global extinction risk among species. Spatial prioritization simulations showed that reimagining the role of assisted-migrant populations in preventing species extinction could increase the importance of overlooked landscapes, particularly in central Australia, Europe, and the southwestern United States. Our results indicated that these various and nonexhaustive ways to consider assisted-migrant populations, with due consideration of potential conservation conflicts with resident taxa, may provide unprecedented opportunities to prevent species extinctions.},
}

@article {pmid38467214,
year = {2024},
author = {Tang, YH and Bi, SY and Wang, XD and Ji, SX and Huang, C and Zhang, GF and Guo, JY and Yang, NW and Ma, DF and Wan, FH and Lü, ZC and Liu, WX},
title = {Opsin mutants alter host plant selection by color vision in the nocturnal invasive pest Tuta absoluta.},
journal = {International journal of biological macromolecules},
volume = {265},
number = {Pt 1},
pages = {130636},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.130636},
pmid = {38467214},
issn = {1879-0003},
mesh = {Animals ; Opsins/genetics/metabolism ; *Color Vision ; Introduced Species ; *Moths/genetics/metabolism ; Insecta/metabolism ; },
abstract = {In insects, vision is crucial in finding host plants, but its role in nocturnal insects is largely unknown. Vision involves responses to specific spectra of photon wavelengths and opsins plays an important role in this process. Long-wavelength sensitive opsin (LW opsin) and blue-sensitive opsin (BL opsin) are main visual opsin proteins and play important in behavior regulation.We used CRISPR/Cas9 technology to mutate the long-wavelength-sensitive and blue wavelength-sensitive genes and explored the role of vision in the nocturnal invasive pest Tuta absoluta. Light wave experiments revealed that LW2[(-/-)] and BL[(-/-)] mutants showed abnormal wavelength tropism. Both LW2 and BL mutations affected the preference of T. absoluta for the green environment. Mutations in LW2 and BL are necessary to inhibit visual attraction. The elimination of LW2 and BL affected the preference of leaf moths for green plants, and mutations in both induced a preference in moths for white plants. Behavioral changes resulting from LW2[(-/-)] and BL[(-/-)] mutants were not affected by sense of smell, further supporting the regulatory role of vision in insect behavior. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to reveal that vision, not smell, plays an important role in the host-seeking behavior of nocturnal insects at night, of which LW2 and BL opsins are key regulatory factors. These study findings will drive the development of the "vision-ecology" theory.},
}

Animals
Opsins/genetics/metabolism
*Color Vision
Introduced Species
*Moths/genetics/metabolism
Insecta/metabolism

@article {pmid38461991,
year = {2024},
author = {Chen, W and Zhang, W and Qiu, Y and Shu, Z and Liu, JE and Zhang, X and Waqas, K and Song, G},
title = {How does exotic Spartina alterniflora affect the contribution of iron-bound organic carbon to soil organic carbon in salt marshes?.},
journal = {The Science of the total environment},
volume = {926},
number = {},
pages = {171605},
doi = {10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171605},
pmid = {38461991},
issn = {1879-1026},
mesh = {*Soil/chemistry ; *Wetlands ; Ecosystem ; Carbon/analysis ; Iron ; Introduced Species ; Poaceae/physiology ; Oxides ; China ; *Ferric Compounds ; },
abstract = {Iron-bound organic carbon (OC-FeR) is important for the stability of soil organic carbon (SOC) in salt marshes, and the Spartina alterniflora invasion reshaped local salt marshes and changed the SOC pool. To evaluate the effects of S. alterniflora invasion on the contribution of OC-FeR to SOC, we determined the OC-FeR content and soil characteristics in the 0-50 cm soil profile along the vegetation sequence, including mudflats (MF), S. alterniflora marshes established in 2003 (SA03) and 1989 (SA89), the ecotone of S. alterniflora and Phragmites australis (SE), S. salsa marsh (SS), and P. australis marsh (PA). The SOC content was 6.55-17.5 mg g[-1] in the S. alterniflora marshes. Reactive iron oxides (Fed, Feo, Fep) accumulated significantly in the S. alterniflora and P. australis salt marshes. PA and S. alterniflora marshes had higher DOC contents of 0.28-0.77 mg g[-1]. The OC-FeR content in the 0-50 cm soil profile in these ecosystems ranged from 0.3 to 3.29 mg g[-1], with a contribution to the SOC content (fOC-FeR) of approximately 11 %, which was highest in SA03 (16.3 % ~ 18.8 %), followed by SA89, SE, and PA. In addition, the molar ratios of OC-FeR to Fed were <1, indicating that the iron oxides were associated with SOC through sorption more than coprecipitation. According to the structural equation model, SOC, DOC and iron oxides were the direct driving factors of OC-FeR formation, while the vegetation zone indirectly functioned by regulating organic C inputs, iron oxide formation, and pH. This study suggested that S. alterniflora invasion promotes iron-bound organic carbon accumulation by increasing organic C inputs and regulating iron oxide formation in salt marshes, but such promotion will degenerate with development duration.},
}

*Soil/chemistry
*Wetlands
Ecosystem
Carbon/analysis
Iron
Introduced Species
Poaceae/physiology
Oxides
China
*Ferric Compounds

@article {pmid38236322,
year = {2024},
author = {Lantschner, V and Gomez, DF and Vilardo, G and Stazione, L and Ramos, S and Eskiviski, E and Fachinetti, R and Schiappacassi, M and Vallejos, N and Germano, M and Villacide, J and Grilli, MP and Martinez, G and Ahumada, R and Estay, SA and Dumois, I and Corley, J},
title = {Distribution, Invasion History, and Ecology of Non-native Pine Bark Beetles (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae) in Southern South America.},
journal = {Neotropical entomology},
volume = {53},
number = {2},
pages = {351-363},
pmid = {38236322},
issn = {1678-8052},
support = {PICT 2019-235//Foncyt/ ; PIP 11220200100764CO//CONICET/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Weevils ; *Coleoptera ; Commerce ; Plant Bark ; Internationality ; *Pinus ; Introduced Species ; Chile ; },
abstract = {The growth of international trade, coupled with an expansion of large-scale pine plantations in South America during the second half of the twentieth century, has significantly increased the opportunities for the invasion of forest insects. Bark beetles (Coleoptera: Curculionidae, Scolytinae) are a large and diverse group of insects, commonly recognized as one of the most important tree mortality agents in coniferous forests worldwide and an important group among invasive forest species. In this study, we combined data from field sampling with published records of established non-native pine bark beetles, to describe their distribution and invasion history in pine plantations across southern South America, reviewing the available information on their phenology and host range. We obtained records of established populations of six Eurasian species distributed in two major regions: the southwest region comprises plantations in Chile and the Argentine Patagonia, with four bark beetle species: Hylastes ater, Hylastes linearis, Hylurgus ligniperda, and Orthotomicus laricis; the northeastern zone includes northeastern Argentina, Uruguay, and southern Brazil, and includes three bark beetle species: Cyrtogenius luteus, H. ligniperda, and O. erosus. The establishment of non-native populations across the study area began in the 1950s, and from the 1980s onwards, there has been an exponential increase in introductions. We predict that several of these species will continue spreading across South America and that new species will continue arriving. We highlight the importance of international collaboration for early detection and management of non-native pine bark beetles.},
}

Animals
*Weevils
*Coleoptera
Commerce
Plant Bark
Internationality
*Pinus
Introduced Species
Chile

@article {pmid38228819,
year = {2024},
author = {Reche, VA and Buonocore Biancheri, MJ and Cao, LM and Del Carmen Suárez, L and Ovruski, SM and Kirschbaum, DS and Garcia, FRM and Gallardo, FE},
title = {Survey on Drosophila suzukii and Ceratitis capitata (Diptera: Drosophilidae, Tephritidae) and Associated Eucoilinae Species (Hymenoptera: Figitidae) in Northwestern Argentina. First Record of Dicerataspis grenadensis and Leptopilina boulardi as Parasitoids of D. suzukii.},
journal = {Neotropical entomology},
volume = {53},
number = {2},
pages = {200-215},
pmid = {38228819},
issn = {1678-8052},
support = {PICT 2020-01050//Fondo para la Investigación Científica y Tecnológica/ ; PICT 2017-0512//Fondo para la Investigación Científica y Tecnológica/ ; #311896/2021-9//Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; Animals ; Drosophila ; *Tephritidae ; *Hymenoptera/physiology ; *Ceratitis capitata ; Argentina ; Introduced Species ; },
abstract = {The Southeast Asian-native Drosophila suzukii (Matsumura) (Diptera: Drosophilidae), also known as "spotted-wing Drosophila," is one of the most globally invasive agricultural species. Although D. suzukii is a pest spread throughout all the Argentinian fruit-growing regions, few information has been published on its impact on local fruit production. Parasitoid species associated with D. suzukii in Argentina belong to Pteromalidae (Chalcidoidea), Diapriidae (Diaprioidea), both attacking host pupae, and Figitidae (Cynipoidea), which attack host larvae. Nine Eucoilinae (Figitidae) species, belonging to Dicerataspis, Dieucoila, Euxestophaga, Ganaspis, Hexacola, and Leptopilina genera, have been associated with D. suzukii in Argentina. Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann), commonly known as "medfly," is native to Africa and has a worldwide distribution, covering many tropical, subtropical, and temperate regions. In Argentina, C. capitata has been associated with several native hymenopterous parasitoids belonging to Braconidae (Ichneumonioidea), Eulophidae (Chalcidoidea), Pteromalidae, Diapriidae, and Figitidae families. Only two eucoline species, Ganaspis pelleranoi (Brèthes) and Leptopilina haywardi (Blanchard) have been related to medfly in Argentina. We report new trophic associations between the parasitoids Dicerataspis grenadensis Ashmead and Leptopilina boulardi (Barbotin, Carton and Kelner-Pillault) and D. suzukii, and between the parasitoid Odontosema albinerve Kieffer and C. capitata, after surveys conducted in Tucumán, northwestern Argentina. An annotated checklist and a taxonomic key of Eucoilinae associated with both invasive pests, in Argentina, are also provided.},
}

Humans
Animals
Drosophila
*Tephritidae
*Hymenoptera/physiology
*Ceratitis capitata
Argentina
Introduced Species

@article {pmid38625892,
year = {2024},
author = {Baek, S and Lee, G and Park, CG},
title = {Damage analysis of Pochazia shantungensis (Hemiptera: Ricaniidae) in persimmons.},
journal = {PloS one},
volume = {19},
number = {4},
pages = {e0301471},
doi = {10.1371/journal.pone.0301471},
pmid = {38625892},
issn = {1932-6203},
abstract = {An invasive species, Pochazia shantungensis (Hemiptera: Ricaniidae), causes serious economic damage to fruit trees. In Korea, this pest is mainly managed using chemical insecticides. However, the management timing and insecticides for P. shantungensis negatively affect honeybee populations. Thus, this study estimated the decision-making level for P. shantungensis in persimmons to decrease insecticide application and increase management efficiency. We determined which developmental stage (i.e., egg, nymph, and adult) affected the damage-related factors (numbers of new shoots and fruit formations, and harvest amount) of persimmons using both spatial analyses and linear relationships. The distribution of P. shantungensis eggs was spatially correlated with the one of persimmon fruit number. However, we did not find any linear relationships between the densities of P. shantungensis eggs and damage-related factors of persimmons. Instead, we found that the density of P. shantungensis correlated with the death of oviposited branches. From the developed model of branch death possibility based on egg mass density, 5.75 egg masses per newly developed branch were proposed as the decision-making level. The findings would help increase the efficiency of P. shantungensis management in persimmon orchards and develop decision-making levels for other insects.},
}

@article {pmid38624075,
year = {2024},
author = {Dondina, O and Orioli, V and Tirozzi, P and Bani, L},
title = {Estimating risk to prevent damage: predicting and preventing coypu (Myocastor coypus) damage to transport infrastructure.},
journal = {Pest management science},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/ps.8128},
pmid = {38624075},
issn = {1526-4998},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: A major impact of the invasive Myocastor coypus in the introduction range is the collapse of riverbanks and nearby infrastructure, such as railway lines, due to the species' burrowing activities. As the ubiquitous implementation of preventive measures along watercourses is unfeasible, identifying susceptible areas is key to guide targeted management actions. This study used species-habitat models to (i) identify the local environmental features of the railway line/watercourse intersections (RLWIs) that make them particularly susceptible to coypu damage, and (ii) predict species occurrence probability in a wide lowland-hilly area of northern Italy (Lombardy) to identify priority areas for monitoring.

RESULTS: The local scale models stressed that the RLWIs most susceptible to burrowing were those surrounded by arable lands with interspersed hedgerows locally characterized by high herbaceous vegetation and clay soil. In urbanized and intensive agricultural areas coypu dens were generally located significantly closer to the railway, increasing the collapse risk. The landscape-scale species distribution model showed that lowland areas located along major rivers and lake shores, but also agricultural areas with a dense minor hydrographic network especially in the southeast of the study area, are more likely occupied by the species.

CONCLUSION: The local scale models shown that specific environmental characteristics increase the risk of burrowing near RLWIs. The landscape scale model allowed predicting which areas require thorough monitoring of RLWIs in search of such local characteristics to implement preventive management measures. The proposed model-based framework can be applied to any geographical context to predict and prevent coypu damages. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.},
}

@article {pmid38623521,
year = {2024},
author = {Čuda, J and Pyšková, K and Hejda, M and Foxcroft, LC and MacFadyen, S and Storch, D and Tropek, R and Zambatis, G and Pyšek, P},
title = {Habitat modifies the relationship between grass and herbivore species richness in a South African savanna.},
journal = {Ecology and evolution},
volume = {14},
number = {4},
pages = {e11167},
doi = {10.1002/ece3.11167},
pmid = {38623521},
issn = {2045-7758},
abstract = {The savanna ecosystem is dominated by grasses, which are a key food source for many species of grazing animals. This relationship creates a diverse mosaic of habitats and contributes to the high grass species richness of savannas. However, how grazing interacts with environmental conditions in determining grass species richness and abundance in savannas is still insufficiently understood. In the Kruger National Park, South Africa, we recorded grass species and estimated their covers in 60 plots 50 × 50 m in size, accounting for varying proximity to water and different bedrocks. To achieve this, we located plots (i) near perennial rivers, near seasonal rivers, and on crests that are distant from all water sources and (ii) on nutrient-rich basaltic and nutrient-poor granitic bedrock. The presence and abundance of large herbivores were recorded by 60 camera traps located in the same plots. Grass cover was higher at crests and seasonal rivers than at perennial rivers and on basalts than on granites. The relationship between grass species richness and herbivore abundance or species richness was positive at crests, while that between grass species richness and herbivore species richness was negative at seasonal rivers. We found no support for controlling the dominance of grasses by herbivores in crests, but herbivore-induced microsite heterogeneity may account for high grass species richness there. In contrast, the decrease in grass species richness with herbivore species richness at seasonal rivers indicates that the strong grazing pressure over-rides the resistance of some species to grazing and trampling. We suggest that the relationships between grasses and herbivores may work in both directions, but the relationship is habitat-dependent, so that in less productive environments, the effect of herbivores on vegetation prevails, while in more productive environments along rivers the effect of vegetation and water supply on herbivores is more important.},
}

@article {pmid38616044,
year = {2024},
author = {Hernández-Teixidor, D and Duarte, S and Taheri, A and Borges, PAV and Nunes, L},
title = {Molecular identification of the invasive subterranean termite Reticulitermes grassei (Blattodea: Rhinotermitidae) outside its known distribution: introduction routes and implications for pest management strategies.},
journal = {Journal of economic entomology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/jee/toae071},
pmid = {38616044},
issn = {1938-291X},
support = {FCT-PTDC/BIABIC/0054/2014//Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia/ ; M1.1.A/FUNC.UI&D/010/2021-2024//DRCT Pluriannual Funding/ ; //Portal da Biodiversidade dos Açores - PO Azores Project/ ; //M1.1.A/INFRAEST CIENT/001/2022 (2022-2023)/ ; //Cabildo de Tenerife/ ; },
abstract = {Despite providing important ecosystem services, termites are also serious pests of wooden structures. Termites are highly adaptive organisms that cause concern as an invasive species. Predictions of the future spread of their distribution range due to factors such as climate change, urban growth, and global trade present new challenges to our capacity to protect our wood and wood-based materials and structures effectively. Reticulitermes grassei Clément, 1978 (Blattodea: Rhinotermitidae) is a subterranean termite native to the Iberian Peninsula and France, whose global distribution has widened over recent years. This article updates the distribution range of this species, confirming its identification in the Azores, Madeira, and Morocco through molecular analysis. The origin and consequences of these putative invasive populations are discussed in light of previously available data. The resulting network showed a highly structured base consisting of many haplotypes from the southern and southwestern Iberian Peninsula (Spain and Portugal), including those from Morocco (in natural landscapes) and Switzerland (in infrastructures). The more derived part of the network includes the haplotypes from southwest France, the northwest Iberian Peninsula, the United Kingdom, Azores, and Madeira, the last 3 being linked probably to human-mediated transportation events. The potential impacts of invasive subterranean termite populations expanding into new regions are concerning, especially in urban environments, and remain uncertain in natural areas. The challenges posed by these termites could be especially worrying in island ecosystems. Hence, it is crucial to implement early warning systems and monitoring programs in regions susceptible to subterranean termite invasions.},
}

@article {pmid38615656,
year = {2024},
author = {Peš, T and Straková, B and Kratochvíl, L},
title = {Environmental (and random?) sex determination in endangered and invasive Phelsuma geckos.},
journal = {Sexual development : genetics, molecular biology, evolution, endocrinology, embryology, and pathology of sex determination and differentiation},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1159/000538906},
pmid = {38615656},
issn = {1661-5433},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Sex is a fundamental characteristic of an individual. It is therefore puzzling why in some systems sex is precisely determined by a genotype, while in others it is influenced by the environment or even subtle, not to say random, factors. Some stochasticity in sex determination would be expected if environmental conditions did not have a large sex-specific effect on fitness. Although data are only available for a small fraction of species, geckos show exceptional variability in sex determination.

METHODS: We tested the effects of three incubation temperatures on sex ratio and adult body size in the invasive gecko Phelsuma laticauda and the vulnerable gecko Phelsuma nigristriata.

RESULTS: We document temperature-dependent sex determination (TSD) in both species. Only females hatched at a low temperature (24 °C), whereas male production peaked at an intermediate temperature (29 °C) and declined, at least in P. laticauda, again at the highest temperature (31 °C). Interestingly, full siblings hatched from eggs glued together during the incubation at temperatures producing both sexes are often of the opposite sex. We found no significant effect of incubation temperature on adult body length.

CONCLUSIONS: Documentation of TSD in the day geckos has implications for conservation practice in environmental management of endangered species or eradication of invasive species. However, it appears that a very subtle (random?) factor may also be involved in their sex determination. In line with this, we found no significant effect of incubation temperature on adult body length, suggesting that, at least in this trait, there is no strong selection against producing females at "male" temperatures.},
}

@article {pmid38614293,
year = {2024},
author = {Salti, B and Atkinson, SD and Brekhman, V and Smirnov, M and Lotan, T},
title = {Exotic myxozoan parasites establish complex life cycles in farm pond aquaculture.},
journal = {Journal of invertebrate pathology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {108105},
doi = {10.1016/j.jip.2024.108105},
pmid = {38614293},
issn = {1096-0805},
abstract = {Myxozoans are obligate parasites with complex life cycles, typically infecting fish and annelids. Here, we examined annelids from fish farm pond sediments in the Beit Shean Valley, in the Syrian-African Rift Valley, Israel, for myxozoan infections. We examined 1486 oligochaetes, and found 74 (5 %) were infected with actinospore stages. We used mitochondrial 16S sequencing to infer identity of 25 infected annelids as species of Potamothrix, Psammoryctides, Tubifex and Dero. We identified 7 myxozoan types from collective groups Neoactinomyxum and Sphaeractinomyxon, and characterized them by small subunit ribosomal DNA sequencing. The Neoactinomyxum type was genetically most similar (∼93 %) to cyprinid fish-infecting Myxobolus spp. The six Sphaeractinomyxon types were genetically similar (93-100 %) to Mugilid-infecting Myxobolus spp.; with one being the previously unknown actinospore stage of a myxospore that infects mullet from aquaculture from the Israeli coast of the Mediterranean Sea. As the farm pond system is artificial and geographically isolated from the Mediterranean, the presence of at least seven myxozoans in their annelid hosts demonstrates introduction and establishment of these parasites in a novel, brackish environment.},
}

@article {pmid38613235,
year = {2024},
author = {Thomas, SM and Verhoeven, MR and Walsh, JR and Larkin, DJ and Hansen, GJA},
title = {Improving species distribution forecasts by measuring and communicating uncertainty: An invasive species case study.},
journal = {Ecology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e4297},
doi = {10.1002/ecy.4297},
pmid = {38613235},
issn = {1939-9170},
support = {//Minnesota Aquatic Invasive Species Research Center and the State of Minnesota (MAISRC)/ ; //Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR)/ ; },
abstract = {Forecasting invasion risk under future climate conditions is critical for the effective management of invasive species, and species distribution models (SDMs) are key tools for doing so. However, SDM-based forecasts are uncertain, especially when correlative statistical models extrapolate to nonanalog environmental domains, such as future climate conditions. Different assumptions about the functional form of the temperature-suitability relationship can impact predicted habitat suitability under novel conditions. Hence, methods to understand the sources of uncertainty are critical when applying SDMs. Here, we use high-resolution predictions of lake water temperatures to project changes in habitat suitability under future climate conditions for an invasive macrophyte (Myriophyllym spicatum). Future suitability was predicted using five global circulation models and three statistical models that assumed different species-temperature functional responses. The suitability of lakes for M. spicatum was overall predicted to increase under future climate conditions, but the magnitude and direction of change in suitability varied greatly among lakes. Variability was most pronounced for lakes under nonanalog temperature conditions, indicating that predictions for these lakes remained highly uncertain. Integrating predictions from SDMs that differ in their species-environment response function, while explicitly quantifying uncertainty across analog and nonanalog domains, can provide a more robust and useful approach to forecasting invasive species distribution under climate change.},
}

@article {pmid38611543,
year = {2024},
author = {Van der Cruysse, L and De Cock, A and Lock, K and Boets, P and Goethals, PLM},
title = {Introduction of Native Submerged Macrophytes to Restore Biodiversity in Streams.},
journal = {Plants (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {13},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/plants13071014},
pmid = {38611543},
issn = {2223-7747},
abstract = {Streams are biodiversity hotspots that provide numerous ecosystem services. Safeguarding this biodiversity is crucial to uphold sustainable ecosystem functioning and to ensure the continuation of these ecosystem services in the future. However, in recent decades, streams have witnessed a disproportionate decline in biodiversity compared to other ecosystems, and are currently considered among the most threatened ecosystems worldwide. This is the result of the combined effect of a multitude of stressors. For freshwater systems in general, these have been classified into five main pressures: water pollution, overexploitation, habitat degradation and destruction, alien invasive species, and hydromorphological pressures. On top of these direct stressors, the effects of global processes like environmental and climate change must be considered. The intricate and interconnected nature of various stressors affecting streams has made it challenging to formulate effective policies and management strategies. As a result, restoration efforts have not always been successful in creating a large-scale shift towards a better ecological status. In order to achieve an improved status in these systems, situation-specific management strategies tailored to specific stressor combinations may be needed. In this paper, we examine the potential of introducing native submerged macrophyte species to advance the restoration of stream ecosystems. Through successful introductions, we anticipate positive ecological outcomes, including enhanced water quality and increased biodiversity. This research is significant, as the potential success in restoring stream biodiversity not only represents progress in ecological understanding but also offers valuable insights for future restoration and management strategies for these vital ecosystems.},
}

@article {pmid38609398,
year = {2024},
author = {Mowery, MA and Rosenwald, LC and Chapman, E and Lubin, Y and Segoli, M and Khoza, T and Lyle, R and White, JA},
title = {Endosymbiont diversity across native and invasive brown widow spider populations.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {14},
number = {1},
pages = {8556},
pmid = {38609398},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {1953223//National Science Foundation/ ; 1020740//National Institute of Food and Agriculture/ ; },
abstract = {The invasive brown widow spider, Latrodectus geometricus (Araneae: Theridiidae), has spread in multiple locations around the world and, along with it, brought associated organisms such as endosymbionts. We investigated endosymbiont diversity and prevalence across putative native and invasive populations of this spider, predicting lower endosymbiont diversity across the invasive range compared to the native range. First, we characterized the microbial community in the putative native (South Africa) and invasive (Israel and the United States) ranges via high throughput 16S sequencing of 103 adult females. All specimens were dominated by reads from only 1-3 amplicon sequence variants (ASV), and most individuals were infected with an apparently uniform strain of Rhabdochlamydia. We also found Rhabdochlamydia in spider eggs, indicating that it is a maternally-inherited endosymbiont. Relatively few other ASV were detected, but included two variant Rhabdochlamydia strains and several Wolbachia, Spiroplasma and Enterobacteriaceae strains. We then diagnostically screened 118 adult female spiders from native and invasive populations specifically for Rhabdochlamydia and Wolbachia. We found Rhabdochlamydia in 86% of individuals and represented in all populations, which suggests that it is a consistent and potentially important associate of L. geometricus. Wolbachia was found at lower overall prevalence (14%) and was represented in all countries, but not all populations. In addition, we found evidence for geographic variation in endosymbiont prevalence: spiders from Israel were more likely to carry Rhabdochlamydia than those from the US and South Africa, and Wolbachia was geographically clustered in both Israel and South Africa. Characterizing endosymbiont prevalence and diversity is a first step in understanding their function inside the host and may shed light on the process of spread and population variability in cosmopolitan invasive species.},
}

@article {pmid38608990,
year = {2024},
author = {Aparna, and Kumar, V and Nautiyal, R},
title = {Box-Behnken design-based isolation and chemical characterization of lignocellulosic fiber from Pueraria montana for weed management.},
journal = {International journal of biological macromolecules},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {131479},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.131479},
pmid = {38608990},
issn = {1879-0003},
abstract = {The huge demand for natural fibers necessitates the search for non-traditional bioresources including invasive species which are deteriorating the ecosystem and biodiversity. The study aims to utilize Pueraria montana weed for the extraction of lignocellulosic fiber using both traditional (water retting) and chemical extraction methods to determine the better extraction method. Chemically extracted fiber showed 17.09 g/tex bundle strength whereas water-extracted fiber showed 11.7 g/tex bundle strength. Therefore, chemical extraction method was chosen for fiber isolation by optimization of reaction conditions using Box Behnken Design. Based on the design, optimal conditions obtained were 1 % w/v NaOH, 0.75 % v/v H2O2, and 3 days retting time. Solid-state NMR illustrated the breakdown of hemicellulose linkages at 25.89 ppm. FTIR revealed the disappearance of CO groups of hemicellulose at 1742 cm[-1]. TGA demonstrated thermal stability of chemically treated fiber up to 220 °C and activation energy of 60.122 KJ/mol. XRD evidenced that chemically extracted fiber has a crystallinity index of 71.1 % and a crystal size of 2 nm. Thus P. montana weed holds potential for the isolation of natural fiber as its chemical composition and properties are comparable to commercial lignocellulosic fibers. The study exemplifies the transformation of weed to a bioresource of natural fibers.},
}

@article {pmid38605078,
year = {2024},
author = {Guerin, AJ and Weise, AM and Chu, JWF and Wilcox, MA and Greene, ES and Therriault, TW},
title = {High-resolution freshwater dissolved calcium and pH data layers for Canada and the United States.},
journal = {Scientific data},
volume = {11},
number = {1},
pages = {370},
pmid = {38605078},
issn = {2052-4463},
abstract = {Freshwater ecosystems are biologically important habitats that provide many ecosystem services. Calcium concentration and pH are two key variables that are linked to multiple chemical processes in these environments, influence the biology of organisms from diverse taxa, and can be important factors affecting the distribution of native and non-native species. However, it can be challenging to obtain high-resolution data for these variables at regional and national scales. To address this data gap, water quality data for lakes and rivers in Canada and the continental USA were compiled and used to generate high-resolution (10 × 10 km) interpolated raster layers, after comparing multiple spatial interpolation approaches. This is the first time that such data have been made available at this scale and resolution, providing a valuable resource for research, including projects evaluating risks from environmental change, pollution, and invasive species. This will aid the development of conservation and management strategies for these vital habitats.},
}

@article {pmid38604171,
year = {2024},
author = {Hong, Y and Bie, L and Zhang, T and Yan, X and Jin, G and Chen, Z and Wang, Y and Li, X and Pei, G and Zhang, Y and Hong, Y and Gong, L and Li, P and Xie, W and Zhu, Y and Shen, X and Liu, N},
title = {SAFB restricts contact domain boundaries associated with L1 chimeric transcription.},
journal = {Molecular cell},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.molcel.2024.03.021},
pmid = {38604171},
issn = {1097-4164},
abstract = {Long interspersed element-1 (LINE-1 or L1) comprises 17% of the human genome, continuously generates genetic variations, and causes disease in certain cases. However, the regulation and function of L1 remain poorly understood. Here, we uncover that L1 can enrich RNA polymerase IIs (RNA Pol IIs), express L1 chimeric transcripts, and create contact domain boundaries in human cells. This impact of L1 is restricted by a nuclear matrix protein scaffold attachment factor B (SAFB) that recognizes transcriptionally active L1s by binding L1 transcripts to inhibit RNA Pol II enrichment. Acute inhibition of RNA Pol II transcription abolishes the domain boundaries associated with L1 chimeric transcripts, indicating a transcription-dependent mechanism. Deleting L1 impairs domain boundary formation, and L1 insertions during evolution have introduced species-specific domain boundaries. Our data show that L1 can create RNA Pol II-enriched regions that alter genome organization and that SAFB regulates L1 and RNA Pol II activity to preserve gene regulation.},
}

@article {pmid38604116,
year = {2024},
author = {Padilla, P and Herrel, A and Denoël, M},
title = {Invading new climates at what cost? Ontogenetic differences in the thermal dependence of metabolic rate in an invasive amphibian.},
journal = {Journal of thermal biology},
volume = {121},
number = {},
pages = {103836},
doi = {10.1016/j.jtherbio.2024.103836},
pmid = {38604116},
issn = {0306-4565},
abstract = {Global warming can either promote or constrain the invasive potential of alien species. In ectotherm invaders that exhibit a complex life cycle, success is inherently dependent on the capacity of each developmental stage to cope with environmental change. This is particularly relevant for invasive anurans, which disperse on land while requiring water for reproduction. However, it remains unknown how the different life stages respond in terms of energy expenditure under different climate change scenarios. We here quantified the oxygen uptake of frogs at rest (a proxy of the standard metabolic rate) in the aquatic phase (at the tadpole and climax, i.e. during metamorphosis, stages) and in the terrestrial phase (metamorphosed stage) at three environmental temperatures. To do so, we used marsh frogs (Pelophylax ridibundus), an amphibian with the largest invasive range within the palearctic realm and for which their adaptation to global warming might be key to their invasion success. Beyond an increase of metabolic rate with temperature, our data show variation in thermal adaptation across life stages and a higher metabolic cost during metamorphosis. These results suggest that the cost to shift habitat and face changes in temperature may be a constraint on the invasive potential of species with a complex life cycle which may be particularly vulnerable during metamorphosis.},
}

@article {pmid38605058,
year = {2024},
author = {Pozsgai, G and Lhoumeau, S and Amorim, IR and Boieiro, M and Cardoso, P and Costa, R and Ferreira, MT and Leite, A and Malumbres-Olarte, J and Oyarzabal, G and Rigal, F and Ros-Prieto, A and Santos, AMC and Gabriel, R and Borges, PAV},
title = {The BALA project: A pioneering monitoring of Azorean forest invertebrates over two decades (1999-2022).},
journal = {Scientific data},
volume = {11},
number = {1},
pages = {368},
pmid = {38605058},
issn = {2052-4463},
abstract = {Globally, there is a concerning decline in many insect populations, and this trend likely extends to all arthropods, potentially impacting unique island biota. Native non-endemic and endemic species on islands are under threat due to habitat destruction, with the introduction of exotic, and potentially invasive, species, further contributing to this decline. While long-term studies of plants and vertebrate fauna are available, long-term arthropod datasets are limited, hindering comparisons with better-studied taxa. The Biodiversity of Arthropods of the Laurisilva of the Azores (BALA) project has allowed gathering comprehensive data since 1997 in the Azorean Islands (Portugal), using standardised sampling methods across islands. The dataset includes arthropod counts from epigean (pitfall traps) and canopy-dwelling (beating samples) communities, enriched with species information, biogeographic origins, and IUCN categories. Metadata associated with the sample protocol and events, like sample identifier, archive number, sampled tree species, and trap type are also recorded. The database is available in multiple formats, including Darwin Core, which facilitates the ecological analysis of pressing environmental concerns, such as arthropod population declines and biological invasions.},
}

@article {pmid38601057,
year = {2024},
author = {Musese, LJ and Kitegile, AS and Kilawe, CJ},
title = {Ectoparasites of wild rodents in forest sites invaded and uninvaded by Maesopsis eminii in Amani nature forest reserve, Tanzania.},
journal = {International journal for parasitology. Parasites and wildlife},
volume = {24},
number = {},
pages = {100932},
pmid = {38601057},
issn = {2213-2244},
abstract = {Parasites are important component of communities in a forest ecosystem with profound effects on trophic interactions such as food web. Modification of the forest structure (e.g. changes in species composition and abundance of key species) can have a strong impact on the occurrence, diversity, and abundance of parasites, with subsequent repercussions for ecosystem functioning. In this study, we compared the occurrence and abundance of wild rodents' ectoparasites from forest sites invaded and uninvaded by an invasive tree, Maesopsis eminii in Amani Nature Forest Reserve, Tanzania. Three large plots (40 m × 100 m) were randomly established in each forest sites invaded and uninvaded by M. eminii. In each plot, 50 Sherman traps were systematically placed at 10 m interval for capturing wild rodents through a capture-mark-recapture technique. Wilcox rank sum test was used to compare for differences in the abundance of infested rodents and ectoparasites between the invaded and uninvaded forest sites. A total of 297 individual rodents were captured and screened for ectoparasites, including 174 rodents from uninvaded forest site and 123 rodents from invaded forest site. The number of infested rodents were significantly (W = 8592, P < 0.001) greater in uninvaded forest site (66.27%) than in the invaded forest site (36.2%). Furthermore, a significant greater number of Echinolaelaps echidninus (W = 1849, P < 0.01) and Dinopsyllus ellobius (W = 2800.5, P < 0.05) ectoparasites were found in uninvaded as compared to the invaded forest sites. The results of this study suggest that the invasion and dominance by, M. eminii in Amani Nature Reserve has created unfavorable conditions for rodents and ectoparasites and therefore impacting the diversity and function of the forest ecosystem. We recommend prevention of further introduction of the M. eminii outside their natural range and mitigating the impact of the established M. eminii in Amani Forest Nature Reserve.},
}

@article {pmid38600958,
year = {2024},
author = {Visagie, CM and Yilmaz, N and Kocsubé, S and Frisvad, JC and Hubka, V and Samson, RA and Houbraken, J},
title = {A review of recently introduced Aspergillus, Penicillium, Talaromyces and other Eurotiales species.},
journal = {Studies in mycology},
volume = {107},
number = {},
pages = {1-66},
pmid = {38600958},
issn = {0166-0616},
abstract = {The order Eurotiales is diverse and includes species that impact our daily lives in many ways. In the past, its taxonomy was difficult due to morphological similarities, which made accurate identification of species difficult. This situation improved and stabilised with recent taxonomic and nomenclatural revisions that modernised Aspergillus, Penicillium and Talaromyces. This was mainly due to the availability of curated accepted species lists and the publication of comprehensive DNA sequence reference datasets. This has also led to a sharp increase in the number of new species described each year with the accepted species lists in turn also needing regular updates. The focus of this study was to review the 160 species described between the last list of accepted species published in 2020 until 31 December 2022. To review these species, single-gene phylogenies were constructed and GCPSR (Genealogical Concordance Phylogenetic Species Recognition) was applied. Multi-gene phylogenetic analyses were performed to further determine the relationships of the newly introduced species. As a result, we accepted 133 species (37 Aspergillus, two Paecilomyces, 59 Penicillium, two Rasamsonia, 32 Talaromyces and one Xerochrysium), synonymised 22, classified four as doubtful and created a new combination for Paraxerochrysium coryli, which is classified in Xerochrysium. This brings the number of accepted species to 453 for Aspergillus, 12 for Paecilomyces, 535 for Penicillium, 14 for Rasamsonia, 203 for Talaromyces and four for Xerochrysium. We accept the newly introduced section Tenues (in Talaromyces), and series Hainanici (in Aspergillus sect. Cavernicolarum) and Vascosobrinhoana (in Penicillium sect. Citrina). In addition, we validate the invalidly described species Aspergillus annui and A. saccharicola, and series Annuorum (in Aspergillus sect. Flavi), introduce a new combination for Dichlaena lentisci (type of the genus) and place it in a new section in Aspergillus subgenus Circumdati, provide an updated description for Rasamsonia oblata, and list excluded and recently synonymised species that were previously accepted. This study represents an important update of the accepted species lists in Eurotiales. Taxonomic novelties: New sections: Aspergillus section Dichlaena Visagie, Kocsubé & Houbraken. New series: Aspergillus series Annuorum J.J. Silva, B.T. Iamanaka, Frisvad. New species: Aspergillus annui J.J. Silva, M.H.P. Fungaro, Frisvad, M.H. Taniwaki & B.T. Iamanaka; Aspergillus saccharicola J.J. Silva, Frisvad, M.H.P. Fungaro, M.H. Taniwaki & B.T. Iamanaka. New combinations: Aspergillus lentisci (Durieu & Mont.) Visagie, Malloch, L. Kriegsteiner, Samson & Houbraken; Xerochrysium coryli (Crous & Decock) Visagie & Houbraken. Citation: Visagie CM, Yilmaz N, Kocsubé S, Frisvad JC, Hubka V, Samson RA, Houbraken J (2024). A review of recently introduced Aspergillus, Penicillium, Talaromyces and other Eurotiales species. Studies in Mycology 107: 1-66. doi: 10.3114/sim.2024.107.01.},
}

@article {pmid38593850,
year = {2024},
author = {Brett, MF and Strauss, P and van Wyk, K and Vaughan, IP and Memmott, J},
title = {Spillover effects from invasive Acacia alter the plant-pollinator networks and seed production of native plants.},
journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences},
volume = {291},
number = {2020},
pages = {20232941},
pmid = {38593850},
issn = {1471-2954},
mesh = {Animals ; *Pollination ; *Acacia ; Australia ; Plants ; Seeds ; Insecta ; Flowers ; Introduced Species ; },
abstract = {Invasive flowering plants can disrupt plant-pollinator networks. This is well documented where invasives occur amongst native plants; however, the potential for 'spillover' effects of invasives that form stands in adjacent habitats are less well understood. Here we quantify the impact of two invasive Australian species, Acacia saligna and Acacia longifolia, on the plant-pollinator networks in fynbos habitats in South Africa. We compared networks from replicate 1 ha plots of native vegetation (n = 21) that were subjected to three treatments: (1) at least 400 m from flowering Acacia; (2) adjacent to flowering Acacia, or (3) adjacent to flowering Acacia where all Acacia flowers were manually removed. We found that native flowers adjacent to stands of flowering Acacia received significantly more insect visits, especially from beetles and Apis mellifera capensis, and that visitation was more generalized. We also recorded visitation to, and the seed set of, three native flowering species and found that two received more insect visits, but produced fewer seeds, when adjacent to flowering Acacia. Our research shows that 'spillover' effects of invasive Acacia can lead to significant changes in visitation and seed production of native co-flowering species in neighbouring habitats-a factor to be considered when managing invaded landscapes.},
}

Animals
*Pollination
*Acacia
Australia
Plants
Seeds
Insecta
Flowers
Introduced Species

@article {pmid38600085,
year = {2024},
author = {Gallardo, B and Bacher, S and Barbosa, AM and Gallien, L and González-Moreno, P and Martínez-Bolea, V and Sorte, C and Vimercati, G and Vilà, M},
title = {Risks posed by invasive species to the provision of ecosystem services in Europe.},
journal = {Nature communications},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {2631},
pmid = {38600085},
issn = {2041-1723},
support = {PCI2018-092986//Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness | Agencia Estatal de Investigación (Spanish Agencia Estatal de Investigación)/ ; PCI2018-092939//Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness | Agencia Estatal de Investigación (Spanish Agencia Estatal de Investigación)/ ; 31003A_179491//Schweizerischer Nationalfonds zur Förderung der Wissenschaftlichen Forschung (Swiss National Science Foundation)/ ; 31BD30_184114//Schweizerischer Nationalfonds zur Förderung der Wissenschaftlichen Forschung (Swiss National Science Foundation)/ ; 31003A_179491//Schweizerischer Nationalfonds zur Förderung der Wissenschaftlichen Forschung (Swiss National Science Foundation)/ ; 31BD30_184114//Schweizerischer Nationalfonds zur Förderung der Wissenschaftlichen Forschung (Swiss National Science Foundation)/ ; ANR-18-EBI4-0001-06//Agence Nationale de la Recherche (French National Research Agency)/ ; IJCI-2017-31733//Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness | Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (Spanish National Research Council)/ ; (ICER-1852060//National Science Foundation (NSF)/ ; },
abstract = {Invasive species significantly impact biodiversity and ecosystem services, yet understanding these effects at large spatial scales remains a challenge. Our study addresses this gap by assessing the current and potential future risks posed by 94 invasive species to seven key ecosystem services in Europe. We demonstrate widespread potential impacts, particularly on outdoor recreation, habitat maintenance, crop provisioning, and soil and nitrogen retention. Exposure to invasive species was higher in areas with lower provision of ecosystem services, particularly for regulating and cultural services. Exposure was also high in areas where ecosystem contributions to crop provision and nitrogen retention were at their highest. Notably, regions vital for ecosystem services currently have low invasion suitability, but face an average 77% increase in potential invasion area. Here we show that, while high-value ecosystem service areas at the highest risk represent a small fraction of Europe (0-13%), they are disproportionally important for service conservation. Our study underscores the importance of monitoring and protecting these hotspots to align management strategies with international biodiversity targets, considering both invasion vulnerability and ecosystem service sustainability.},
}

@article {pmid38599083,
year = {2024},
author = {Tarkan, AS and Bayçelebi, E and Giannetto, D and Özden, ED and Yazlık, A and Emiroğlu, Ö and Aksu, S and Uludağ, A and Aksoy, N and Baytaşoğlu, H and Kaya, C and Mutlu, T and Kırankaya, ŞG and Ergüden, D and Per, E and Üremiş, İ and Candan, O and Kekillioğlu, A and Yoğurtçuoğlu, B and Ekmekçi, FG and Başak, E and Özkan, H and Kurtul, I and Innal, D and Killi, N and Yapıcı, S and Ayaz, D and Çiçek, K and Mol, O and Çınar, E and Yeğen, V and Angulo, E and Cuthbert, RN and Soto, I and Courchamp, F and Haubrock, PJ},
title = {Economic costs of non-native species in Türkiye: A first national synthesis.},
journal = {Journal of environmental management},
volume = {358},
number = {},
pages = {120779},
doi = {10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.120779},
pmid = {38599083},
issn = {1095-8630},
abstract = {Biological invasions are increasingly recognised as a major global change that erodes ecosystems, societal well-being, and economies. However, comprehensive analyses of their economic ramifications are missing for most national economies, despite rapidly escalating costs globally. Türkiye is highly vulnerable to biological invasions owing to its extensive transport network and trade connections as well as its unique transcontinental position at the interface of Europe and Asia. This study presents the first analysis of the reported economic costs caused by biological invasions in Türkiye. The InvaCost database which compiles invasive non-native species' monetary costs was used, complemented with cost searches specific to Türkiye, to describe the spatial and taxonomic attributes of costly invasive non-native species, the types of costs, and their temporal trends. The total economic cost attributed to invasive non-native species in Türkiye (from 202 cost reporting documents) amounted to US$ 4.1 billion from 1960 to 2022. However, cost data were only available for 87 out of 872 (10%) non-native species known for Türkiye. Costs were biased towards a few hyper-costly non-native taxa, such as jellyfish, stink bugs, and locusts. Among impacted sectors, agriculture bore the highest total cost, reaching US$ 2.85 billion, followed by the fishery sector with a total cost of US$ 1.20 billion. Management (i.e., control and eradication) costs were, against expectations, substantially higher than reported damage costs (US$ 2.89 billion vs. US$ 28.4 million). Yearly costs incurred by non-native species rose exponentially over time, reaching US$ 504 million per year in 2020-2022 and are predicted to increase further in the next 10 years. A large deficit of cost records compared to other countries was also shown, suggesting a larger monetary underestimate than is typically observed. These findings underscore the need for improved cost recording as well as preventative management strategies to reduce future post-invasion management costs and help inform decisions to manage the economic burdens posed by invasive non-native species. These insights further emphasise the crucial role of standardised data in accurately estimating the costs associated with invasive non-native species for prioritisation and communication purposes.},
}

@article {pmid38597960,
year = {2024},
author = {Espíndola, WD and Carlo, TA},
title = {Seabird guano inputs increase impacts from introduced mammals on the native plants and animals of an oceanic island.},
journal = {Oecologia},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {38597960},
issn = {1432-1939},
abstract = {Seabirds create fluxes of nutrients from marine to terrestrial ecosystems that influence the food webs of small islands. We investigated how guano inputs shape terrestrial food webs by comparing species of selected plant and animal species in a red-footed booby colony in Mona Island (Puerto Rico, Caribbean Sea), to sites of the island lacking guano inputs. We quantified guano deposition and its relationship to plant biomass production, fecundity and density, as well as the activity of native and introduced animal species. In general, guano inputs increased the gross primary plant productivity, size, and fecundity by twofold. Guano inputs were also associated with twofold increases in density of Anole lizards, but also to increases in the activity of introduced pigs (> 500%), goats (> 30%), and cats (> 500%), which negatively impact native species. In particular, elevated pig and cat activity within the booby colony was correlated with lower activity of endemic ground lizards and of introduced rats. Our results also suggest that severe droughts associated with climate change exacerbate the negative effects that introduced species have on vegetation and reduce the positive effects of seabird guano inputs. Our findings underscore the importance of allochthonous guano inputs in subsidizing plant productivity and native and endemic species in small oceanic islands, but also in increasing the negative impacts of introduced mammals. Management and conservation efforts should focus on the exclusion (or eradication) of introduced mammals, particularly pigs and goats, from remnant seabird colonies in Mona Island.},
}

@article {pmid38597570,
year = {2024},
author = {Assis, JCA and Pinto, HA},
title = {Infection of guppies (Poecilia reticulata) with the Asian fish tapeworm Schyzocotyle acheilognathi in an urban stream in Brazil.},
journal = {Revista brasileira de parasitologia veterinaria = Brazilian journal of veterinary parasitology : Orgao Oficial do Colegio Brasileiro de Parasitologia Veterinaria},
volume = {33},
number = {1},
pages = {e020323},
doi = {10.1590/S1984-29612024018},
pmid = {38597570},
issn = {1984-2961},
abstract = {Schyzocotyle acheilognathi is a fish tapeworm native to Asia but has been reported as an alien species on practically all other continents. Its invasive potential is due to its low host specificity and high adaptability to different environments, and its spread to new areas can result in economic and ecological impacts. Studies reporting this species in South America are still scarce, indicating the need to monitor its dispersion to new areas. Herein, tapeworms found in guppies, Poecilia reticulata, from an urban stream located in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil, in April 2021 were subjected to morphological and molecular characterization. As a result, 5/13 (38.5%) of the P. reticulata specimens evaluated were infected with intestinal tapeworms. It was verified a mean intensity of infection of 7.8 (1-25) and a mean abundance of infection of 3 (0-25). The morphology of the cestodes obtained was compatible with that of S. acheilognathi. Moreover, genetic analysis based on cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 gene (Cox-1) revealed 97.89-99.77% similarity to isolates of this species from different localities. The possibility that S. acheilognathi is expanding to new regions of South America is discussed.},
}

@article {pmid38597328,
year = {2024},
author = {Feng, X and Peterson, AT and Aguirre-López, LJ and Burger, JR and Chen, X and Papeş, M},
title = {Rethinking ecological niches and geographic distributions in face of pervasive human influence in the Anthropocene.},
journal = {Biological reviews of the Cambridge Philosophical Society},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/brv.13077},
pmid = {38597328},
issn = {1469-185X},
abstract = {Species are distributed in predictable ways in geographic spaces. The three principal factors that determine geographic distributions of species are biotic interactions (B), abiotic conditions (A), and dispersal ability or mobility (M). A species is expected to be present in areas that are accessible to it and that contain suitable sets of abiotic and biotic conditions for it to persist. A species' probability of presence can be quantified as a combination of responses to B, A, and M via ecological niche modeling (ENM; also frequently referred to as species distribution modeling or SDM). This analytical approach has been used broadly in ecology and biogeography, as well as in conservation planning and decision-making, but commonly in the context of 'natural' settings. However, it is increasingly recognized that human impacts, including changes in climate, land cover, and ecosystem function, greatly influence species' geographic ranges. In this light, historical distinctions between natural and anthropogenic factors have become blurred, and a coupled human-natural landscape is recognized as the new norm. Therefore, B, A, and M (BAM) factors need to be reconsidered to understand and quantify species' distributions in a world with a pervasive signature of human impacts. Here, we present a framework, termed human-influenced BAM (Hi-BAM, for distributional ecology that (i) conceptualizes human impacts in the form of six drivers, and (ii) synthesizes previous studies to show how each driver modifies the natural BAM and species' distributions. Given the importance and prevalence of human impacts on species distributions globally, we also discuss implications of this framework for ENM/SDM methods, and explore strategies by which to incorporate increasing human impacts in the methodology. Human impacts are redefining biogeographic patterns; as such, future studies should incorporate signals of human impacts integrally in modeling and forecasting species' distributions.},
}

@article {pmid38592890,
year = {2024},
author = {de Groot, M and Kozamernik, E and Kermavnar, J and Kolšek, M and Marinšek, A and Nève Repe, A and Kutnar, L},
title = {Importance of Habitat Context in Modelling Risk Maps for Two Established Invasive Alien Plant Species: The Case of Ailanthus altissima and Phytolacca americana in Slovenia (Europe).},
journal = {Plants (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {13},
number = {6},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/plants13060883},
pmid = {38592890},
issn = {2223-7747},
support = {//Ministry of Environment and Spatial Planning/ ; //Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Food/ ; P4-0107//Slovenian research and innovation agency/ ; },
abstract = {Forests are important ecosystems that face threats from climate change and global environmental shifts, with invasive alien plant species being a significant concern. Some of these invasive species have already become established, while others are in the process of naturalisation. Although forests are a relatively stable ecosystem, extreme weather events increase their vulnerability to change, and clearings left after natural disturbances are particularly susceptible to invasion by alien plant species (IAPS). We created risk maps of two species that have spread rapidly in the last decade: American pokeweed (Phytolacca americana) and the tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima). We prepared a generalised linear model based on the occurrence data collected within the LIFE ARTEMIS project. Eleven environmental variables were used to determine habitat characteristics. We constructed two models for each species: one covering the entirety of Slovenia and the other specifically for the forested areas in Slovenia, with the latter incorporating forest-specific variables (such as forest sanitation felling and monocultures). We observed the presence of both species at lower altitudes and in close proximity to water sources. American pokeweed tends to occur nearer to railways, while the presence of the tree of heaven is associated with areas lacking carbonate parent material and influenced by land use patterns. In forested areas, the occurrence of American pokeweed is influenced by forest habitat characteristics, such as disturbances caused by extreme weather events or the prevalence of Norway spruce monocultures. In contrast, the occurrence of the tree of heaven is influenced by more general environmental variables, such as altitude and proximity to railways. Consequently, we have generated risk maps for the entirety of Slovenia and separately for forested areas, both of which indicate similar levels of risk, particularly for the tree of heaven. The risk map for American pokeweed highlights numerous vulnerable areas, especially forest edges, which are highly susceptible to invasion. Furthermore, there is a higher likelihood of this species occurring in areas that have undergone sanitation felling. This study suggests that the production of risk maps of IAPS could be improved by focussing on habitat types and taking into account habitat-specific variables. This approach could enhance the early detection and management of these invasive species.},
}

@article {pmid38592858,
year = {2024},
author = {Nelufule, T and Shivambu, TC and Shivambu, N and Moshobane, MC and Seoraj-Pillai, N and Nangammbi, T},
title = {Assessing Alien Plant Invasions in Urban Environments: A Case Study of Tshwane University of Technology and Implications for Biodiversity Conservation.},
journal = {Plants (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {13},
number = {6},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/plants13060872},
pmid = {38592858},
issn = {2223-7747},
support = {NA//Tshwane University of Technology/ ; },
abstract = {Preserving the dwindling native biodiversity in urban settings poses escalating challenges due to the confinement of remaining natural areas to isolated and diminutive patches. Remarkably scarce research has scrutinised the involvement of institutions, particularly universities, in introducing alien plant species in South Africa, thus creating a significant gap in effective monitoring and management. In this study, the Tshwane University of Technology in Tshwane Metropole, South Africa serves as a focal point, where we conducted a comprehensive survey of alien plants both within the university premises and beyond its confines. The investigation involved the classification of invasion status and a meticulous assessment of donor and recipient dynamics. Our findings encompass 876 occurrence records, revealing the presence of 94 alien plant species spanning 44 distinct families. Noteworthy occurrences among the dominant plant families are Asteraceae and Solanaceae. Herbaceous and woody plants emerged as the most prevalent alien species, with common representation across both sampling sites. A substantial majority of recorded species were initially introduced for horticultural purposes (51%) before escaping and establishing self-sustaining populations (62%). Furthermore, 43 species identified are listed in South African invasive species legislation, with some manifesting invasive tendencies and altering the distribution of native species in the remaining natural areas. The notable overlap in species observed between the university premises and adjacent areas provides crucial insights into the influence of institutions on the dynamics of plant invasions within the urban landscape. This underscores the prevailing gaps in the management of invasive alien plants in urban zones and accentuates the imperative of an integrated approach involving collaboration between municipalities and diverse institutions for effective invasive species management in urban environments.},
}

@article {pmid38592125,
year = {2024},
author = {Yang, X and Wang, M and Gu, Y and Han, W and Li, X and Li, X and Zhong, Y and Gao, J},
title = {The oviposition preference and offspring performance of Aethina tumida (Coleoptera: Nitidulidae).},
journal = {Journal of economic entomology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/jee/toae051},
pmid = {38592125},
issn = {1938-291X},
support = {ZDYF2021XDNY282//Hainan Province Science and Technology Special Fund/ ; },
abstract = {Given the rapid spread and potential harm caused by the small hive beetle, Aethina tumida (Coleoptera: Nitidulidae) in China, it has become imperative to comprehend the developmental biology of this invasive species. Currently, there is limited knowledge regarding the impact of A. tumida female oviposition site preference on larval growth and development. To examine this, we investigated the ovipositional preference of adult female A. tumida on bee pupae, beebread, banana, and honey through a free choice test. Furthermore, we assessed the impact of these food resources on offspring performance, which included larval development time, survival, wandering larvae weight, emerged adult body mass, reproduction, and juvenile hormone titer. Our results showed that A. tumida females exhibited a strong preference for ovipositing on bee pupae compared to other diets, while showing reluctance toward honey. Moreover, A. tumida larvae that were fed on bee pupae displayed accelerated growth compared to those fed on other diets. Furthermore, A. tumida fed on bee pupae exhibited higher weights for wandering larvae, and emerged adult, increased pupation rates, enhanced fecundity and fertility, as well as a larger number of unilateral ovarioles during the larval stage when compared to those fed on other diets. Overall, the results indicate that the oviposition preferences of A. tumida females are adaptive, as their choices can enhance the fitness of their offspring. This finding aligns broadly with the hypothesis of oviposition preference and larval performance. This study can provide a foundation for the development of attractants aimed at promoting the oviposition of the A. tumida adults.},
}

@article {pmid38588741,
year = {2024},
author = {Chen, Y and Wang, X and Li, M and Liu, L and Xiang, C and Li, H and Sun, Y and Wang, T and Guo, X},
title = {Impact of trace element on invasive plants: Attenuated competitiveness yet sustained dominance over native counterparts.},
journal = {The Science of the total environment},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {172292},
doi = {10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172292},
pmid = {38588741},
issn = {1879-1026},
abstract = {Trace element pollution has emerged as an increasingly severe environmental challenge owing to human activities, particularly in urban ecosystems. In farmlands, invasive species commonly outcompete native species when subjected to trace element treatments, as demonstrated in experiments with individual invader-native pairs. However, it is uncertain if these findings apply to a wider range of species in urban soils with trace elements. Thus, we designed a greenhouse experiment to simulate the current copper and zinc levels in urban soils (102.29 mg kg[-1] and 148.32 mg kg[-1], respectively). The experiment involved four pairs of invasive alien species and their natural co-existing native species to investigate the effects of essential trace elements in urban soil on the growth and functional traits of invasive and native species, as well as their interspecific relationship. The results showed that adding trace elements weakened the competitiveness of invasive species. Nonetheless, trace element addition did not change the outcome of competition, consistently favoring invasion successfully. Under trace element addition treatment, invasive species and native species still maintained functional differentiation trend. Furthermore, the crown area, average leaf area and leaf area per plant of invasive species were higher than those of native species by 157 %, 177 % and 178 % under copper treatment, and 194 %, 169 % and 188 % under zinc treatment, respectively. Additionally, interspecific competition enhanced the root growth of invasive species by 21 % with copper treatment and 14 % with zinc treatment. The ability of invasive species to obtain light energy and absorb water and nutrients might be the key to their successful invasion.},
}

@article {pmid38586581,
year = {2024},
author = {Ash, LV and Campião, KM and Teixeira, CP and Gotelli, NJ},
title = {Ranavirus and helminth parasite co-infection in invasive American bullfrogs in the Atlantic forest, Brazil.},
journal = {International journal for parasitology. Parasites and wildlife},
volume = {23},
number = {},
pages = {100924},
pmid = {38586581},
issn = {2213-2244},
abstract = {Emerging infectious diseases threaten amphibian species across the globe. In Brazil, the American bullfrog (Aquarana catesbeiana) is a highly invasive species that can potentially transmit parasites and pathogens to native amphibians. This is the first assessment of co-infection of Ranavirus and helminth macroparasites in invasive populations of bullfrogs in South America. We collected, measured, and euthanized 65 specimens of A. catesbeiana sampled from 9 sites across three states of Brazil in the Atlantic Forest biome. We collected and identified helminth macroparasites and sampled host liver tissue to test for the presence and load of Ranavirus with quantitative PCR. We documented patterns of prevalence, parasite load, and co-infection with generalized linear mixed models, generalized logistic regressions, and randomization tests. Most individual bullfrogs did not exhibit clinical signs of infection, but the overall Ranavirus prevalence was 27% (95% confidence interval, [CI 17-38]). Bullfrogs were infected with helminth macroparasites from 5 taxa. Co-infection of helminth macroparasites and Ranavirus was also common (21% CI [12-31]). Bullfrog size was positively correlated with total macroparasite abundance and richness, and the best-fitting model included a significant interaction between bullfrog size and Ranavirus infection status. We observed a negative correlation between Ranavirus viral load and nematode abundance (slope = -0.22, P = 0.03). Invasive bullfrogs (A. catesbeiana) in Brazil were frequently infected with both Ranavirus and helminth macroparasites, so adult bullfrogs could serve as reservoir hosts for both pathogens and parasites. However, many macroparasites collected were encysted and not developing. Coinfection patterns suggest a potential interaction between Ranavirus and macroparasites because helminth abundance increased with bullfrog size but was lower in Ranavirus infected individuals. Future studies of bullfrogs in the Atlantic Forest should investigate their potential role in pathogen and parasite transmission to native anurans.},
}

@article {pmid38586529,
year = {2024},
author = {Crespo, LCF and Cardoso, P and Malumbres-Olarte, J and Pereira, F and Romeiras, M and Ros-Prieto, A and Rigal, F and Borges, PAV},
title = {Standardised inventories of spiders (Arachnida, Araneae) of Macaronesia III: dry habitats of Cabo Verde Archipelago (São Vicente and Santo Antão).},
journal = {Biodiversity data journal},
volume = {12},
number = {},
pages = {e115464},
pmid = {38586529},
issn = {1314-2828},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: With this publication, we contribute to the knowledge of the arachnofauna of Cabo Verde, focusing specifically on the Islands of Santo Antão and São Vicente. Data were obtained from samples collected as part of the project "Macaronesian Islands as a testing ground to assess biodiversity drivers at multiple scales" (FCT - MACDIV, 2015-2018). This project aimed to identify the factors influencing community assembly in Macaronesian islands. For the Cabo Verde Islands, we focused on dry habitats with the additional aim to revise the aracnofauna of this poorly-known fauna. We applied the COBRA (Conservation Oriented Biodiversity Rapid Assessment) sampling protocol in ten 50 m x 50 m dry shrub plots, with five on each of the two islands, using pitfall traps, sweep-netting and active search. Additional ad-hoc samples were also collected and reported.

NEW INFORMATION: Our sampling of spiders from Cabo Verde (Santo Antão and São Vicente) yielded a total of 3,368 specimens, of which 1300 (39%) were adults. The samples include 21 families, 87 species, 18 of which are morphospecies awaiting formal identification or description at species level. Species in the families Oxyopidae (2 spp.) and Araneidae (8 spp.) were the most abundant, making up 49% of the specimens. From the 68 named species, 14 are endemic to Cabo Verde, 40 are native non-endemic and 14 are introduced. The colonisation status of Cithaeronreimoseri Platnick, 1991 is unknown. Endemic species accounted for 24% (n = 818) of the specimens and native non-endemic for 63% (n = 2122). A total of 29 species were new records for Cabo Verde, with 15 for Santo Antão, seven for São Vicente and seven for both Islands.},
}

@article {pmid38583473,
year = {2024},
author = {McGeoch, MA and Clarke, DA and Mungi, NA and Ordonez, A},
title = {A nature-positive future with biological invasions: theory, decision support and research needs.},
journal = {Philosophical transactions of the Royal Society of London. Series B, Biological sciences},
volume = {379},
number = {1902},
pages = {20230014},
doi = {10.1098/rstb.2023.0014},
pmid = {38583473},
issn = {1471-2970},
abstract = {In 2050, most areas of biodiversity significance will be heavily influenced by multiple drivers of environmental change. This includes overlap with the introduced ranges of many alien species that negatively impact biodiversity. With the decline in biodiversity and increase in all forms of global change, the need to envision the desired qualities of natural systems in the Anthropocene is growing, as is the need to actively maintain their natural values. Here, we draw on community ecology and invasion biology to (i) better understand trajectories of change in communities with a mix of native and alien populations, and (ii) to frame approaches to the stewardship of these mixed-species communities. We provide a set of premises and actions upon which a nature-positive future with biological invasions (NPF-BI) could be based, and a decision framework for dealing with uncertain species movements under climate change. A series of alternative management approaches become apparent when framed by scale-sensitive, spatially explicit, context relevant and risk-consequence considerations. Evidence of the properties of mixed-species communities together with predictive frameworks for the relative importance of the ecological processes at play provide actionable pathways to a NPF in which the reality of mixed-species communities are accommodated and managed. This article is part of the theme issue 'Ecological novelty and planetary stewardship: biodiversity dynamics in a transforming biosphere'.},
}

@article {pmid38583467,
year = {2024},
author = {Henriksen, MV and Arlé, E and Pili, A and Clarke, DA and García-Berthou, E and Groom, Q and Lenzner, B and Meyer, C and Seebens, H and Tingley, R and Winter, M and McGeoch, MA},
title = {Global indicators of the environmental impacts of invasive alien species and their information adequacy.},
journal = {Philosophical transactions of the Royal Society of London. Series B, Biological sciences},
volume = {379},
number = {1902},
pages = {20230323},
doi = {10.1098/rstb.2023.0323},
pmid = {38583467},
issn = {1471-2970},
abstract = {Monitoring the extent to which invasive alien species (IAS) negatively impact the environment is crucial for understanding and mitigating biological invasions. Indeed, such information is vital for achieving Target 6 of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. However, to-date indicators for tracking the environmental impacts of IAS have been either lacking or insufficient. Capitalizing on advances in data availability and impact assessment protocols, we developed environmental impact indicators to track realized and potential impacts of IAS. We also developed an information status indicator to assess the adequacy of the data underlying the impact indicators. We used data on 75 naturalized amphibians from 82 countries to demonstrate the indicators at a global scale. The information status indicator shows variation in the reliability of the data and highlights areas where absence of impact should be interpreted with caution. Impact indicators show that growth in potential impacts are dominated by predatory species, while potential impacts from both predation and disease transmission are distributed worldwide. Using open access data, the indicators are reproducible and adaptable across scales and taxa and can be used to assess global trends and distributions of IAS, assisting authorities in prioritizing control efforts and identifying areas at risk of future invasions. This article is part of the theme issue 'Ecological novelty and planetary stewardship: biodiversity dynamics in a transforming biosphere'.},
}

@article {pmid38582574,
year = {2024},
author = {Tan, SY and Liu, CL and Han, HL and Zhai, XD and Jiang, H and Wang, BJ and Wang, JJ and Wei, D},
title = {Two heat shock cognate 70 genes involved in spermatogenesis regulate the male fertility of Zeugodacus cucurbitae, as potential targets for pest control.},
journal = {Pesticide biochemistry and physiology},
volume = {200},
number = {},
pages = {105816},
doi = {10.1016/j.pestbp.2024.105816},
pmid = {38582574},
issn = {1095-9939},
abstract = {The melon fly Zeugodacus cucurbitae Coquillett (Diptera: Tephritidae) is an agricultural quarantine pest threatening fruit and vegetable production. Heat shock cognate 70 (Hsc70), which is a homolog of the heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70), was first discovered in mice testes and plays an important role in spermatogenesis. In this study, we identified and cloned five Hsc70 genes from melon fly, namely ZcHsc70_1/2/3/4/5. Phylogenetic analysis showed that these proteins are closely related to Hsc70s from other Diptera insects. Spatiotemporal expression analysis showed that ZcHsc70_1 and ZcHsc70_2 are highly expressed in Z. cucurbitae testes. Fluorescence in situ hybridization further demonstrated that ZcHsc70_1 and ZcHsc70_2 are expressed in the transformation and maturation regions of testes, respectively. Moreover, RNA interference-based suppression of ZcHsc70_1 or ZcHsc70_2 resulted in a significant decrease of 74.61% and 63.28% in egg hatchability, respectively. Suppression of ZcHsc70_1 expression delayed the transformation of sperm cells to mature sperms. Meanwhile, suppression of ZcHsc70_2 expression decreased both sperm cells and mature sperms by inhibiting the meiosis of spermatocytes. Our findings show that ZcHsc70_1/2 regulates spermatogenesis and further affects the male fertility in the melon fly, showing potential as targets for pest control in sterile insect technique by genetic manipulation of males.},
}

@article {pmid38578198,
year = {2024},
author = {Barbour, MT and Meulemans, MJ and Severson, TJ and Wise, JK and Waller, DL},
title = {Carbon Dioxide Toxicity to Zebra Mussels (Dreissena polymorpha) is Dependent on Water Chemistry.},
journal = {Environmental toxicology and chemistry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/etc.5864},
pmid = {38578198},
issn = {1552-8618},
support = {//U.S. Geological Survey/ ; },
abstract = {Carbon dioxide (CO2) is gaining interest as a tool to combat aquatic invasive species, including zebra mussels (Dreissena polymorpha). However, the effects of water chemistry on CO2 efficacy are not well described. We conducted five trials in which we exposed adult zebra mussels to a range of CO2 in water with adjusted total hardness and specific conductance. We compared dose-responses and found differences in lethal concentration to 50% of organisms (LC50) estimates ranging from 108.3 to 179.3 mg/L CO2 and lethal concentration to 90% of organisms (LC90) estimates ranging from 163.7 to 216.6 mg/L CO2. We modeled LC50 and LC90 estimates with measured water chemistry variables from the trials. We found sodium (Na[+]) concentration to have the strongest correlation to changes in the LC50 and specific conductance to have the strongest correlation to changes in the LC90. Our results identify water chemistry as an important factor in considering efficacious CO2 concentrations for zebra mussel control. Additional research into the physiological responses of zebra mussels exposed to CO2 may be warranted to further explain mode of action and reported selectivity. Further study could likely develop a robust and relevant model to refine CO2 applications for a wider range of water chemistries. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;00:1-8. Published 2024. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.},
}

@article {pmid38570722,
year = {2024},
author = {O'Shea-Wheller, TA and Corbett, A and Osborne, JL and Recker, M and Kennedy, PJ},
title = {VespAI: a deep learning-based system for the detection of invasive hornets.},
journal = {Communications biology},
volume = {7},
number = {1},
pages = {354},
pmid = {38570722},
issn = {2399-3642},
support = {BB/S015523/1//RCUK | Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC)/ ; IDSAI Research Award Round 5//University of Exeter/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Wasps ; *Deep Learning ; Introduced Species ; Europe ; Asia, Eastern ; },
abstract = {The invasive hornet Vespa velutina nigrithorax is a rapidly proliferating threat to pollinators in Europe and East Asia. To effectively limit its spread, colonies must be detected and destroyed early in the invasion curve, however the current reliance upon visual alerts by the public yields low accuracy. Advances in deep learning offer a potential solution to this, but the application of such technology remains challenging. Here we present VespAI, an automated system for the rapid detection of V. velutina. We leverage a hardware-assisted AI approach, combining a standardised monitoring station with deep YOLOv5s architecture and a ResNet backbone, trained on a bespoke end-to-end pipeline. This enables the system to detect hornets in real-time-achieving a mean precision-recall score of ≥0.99-and send associated image alerts via a compact remote processor. We demonstrate the successful operation of a prototype system in the field, and confirm its suitability for large-scale deployment in future use cases. As such, VespAI has the potential to transform the way that invasive hornets are managed, providing a robust early warning system to prevent ingressions into new regions.},
}

Animals
*Wasps
*Deep Learning
Introduced Species
Europe
Asia, Eastern

@article {pmid38572713,
year = {2024},
author = {Wesselmann, M and Hendriks, IE and Johnson, M and Jordà, G and Mineur, F and Marbà, N},
title = {Increasing spread rates of tropical non-native macrophytes in the Mediterranean Sea.},
journal = {Global change biology},
volume = {30},
number = {4},
pages = {e17249},
doi = {10.1111/gcb.17249},
pmid = {38572713},
issn = {1365-2486},
support = {SuMaEco RTI2018-095441-B-C21//Spanish Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities/ ; BES-2016-078241//Spanish Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities/ ; },
abstract = {Warming as well as species introductions have increased over the past centuries, however a link between cause and effect of these two phenomena is still unclear. Here we use distribution records (1813-2023) to reconstruct the invasion histories of marine non-native macrophytes, macroalgae and seagrasses, in the Mediterranean Sea. We defined expansion as the maximum linear rate of spread (km year[-1]) and the accumulation of occupied grid cells (50 km[2]) over time and analyzed the relation between expansion rates and the species' thermal conditions at its native distribution range. Our database revealed a marked increase in the introductions and spread rates of non-native macrophytes in the Mediterranean Sea since the 1960s, notably intensifying after the 1990s. During the beginning of this century species velocity of invasion has increased to 26 ± 9 km[2] year[-1], with an acceleration in the velocity of invasion of tropical/subtropical species, exceeding those of temperate and cosmopolitan macrophytes. The highest spread rates since then were observed in macrophytes coming from native regions with minimum SSTs two to three degrees warmer than in the Mediterranean Sea. In addition, most non-native macrophytes in the Mediterranean (>80%) do not exceed the maximum temperature of their range of origin, whereas approximately half of the species are exposed to lower minimum SST in the Mediterranean than in their native range. This indicates that tropical/subtropical macrophytes might be able to expand as they are not limited by the colder Mediterranean SST due to the plasticity of their lower thermal limit. These results suggest that future warming will increase the thermal habitat available for thermophilic species in the Mediterranean Sea and continue to favor their expansion.},
}

@article {pmid38571798,
year = {2024},
author = {Rani, V and Horváth, Z and Nejstgaard, JC and Fierpasz, Á and Pálffy, K and Vad, CF},
title = {Food density drives diet shift of the invasive mysid shrimp, Limnomysis benedeni.},
journal = {Ecology and evolution},
volume = {14},
number = {4},
pages = {e11202},
pmid = {38571798},
issn = {2045-7758},
abstract = {Understanding the diet preferences and food selection of invasive species is crucial to better predict their impact on community structure and ecosystem functioning. Limnomysis benedeni, a Ponto-Caspian invasive mysid shrimp, is one of the most successful invaders in numerous European river and lake ecosystems. While existing studies suggest potentially strong trophic impact due to high predation pressure on native plankton communities, little is known of its food selectivity between phyto- and zooplankton, under different food concentrations. Here, we therefore investigated the feeding selectivity of L. benedeni on two commonly occurring prey organisms in freshwaters, the small rotifer zooplankton Brachionus calyciflorus together with the microphytoplankton Cryptomonas sp. present in increasing densities. Our results demonstrated a clear shift in food selection, with L. benedeni switching from B. calyciflorus to Cryptomonas sp. already when the two prey species were provided in equal biomasses. Different functional responses were observed for the two food types, indicating somewhat different foraging mechanisms for each food type. These findings provide experimental evidence on the feeding flexibility of invasive mysid shrimps and potential implications for trophic interactions in invaded ecosystems.},
}

@article {pmid38571792,
year = {2024},
author = {Baudry, T and Millet, L and Jarne, P and David, P and Grandjean, F},
title = {Multiple invasions and predation: The impact of the crayfish Cherax quadricarinatus on invasive and native snails.},
journal = {Ecology and evolution},
volume = {14},
number = {4},
pages = {e11191},
pmid = {38571792},
issn = {2045-7758},
abstract = {The pace of biological invasions has increased in recent decades, leading to multiple invasions and the potential dominance of invasive species, destabilizing local ecological networks. This provides opportunities to study new ecological species interactions, including predation. Tropical freshwaters have been particularly concerned by aquatic invasions and we focused here on the Martinique island (Lesser Antilles). We examined the predator-prey relationships involving invasive Thiarid snails (Tarebia granifera and Melanoides tuberculata) and the native Neritina punctulata, both confronted with a newcomer predator, the redclaw crayfish (Cherax quadricarinatus). We conducted several mesocosm experiments to assess the impact of crayfish predation on snail survival and the passive and active antipredator responses of snails. A first experiment indicated snail survival rates between 50% and 80%, depending on crayfish size and sex. Notably, there was a negative correlation between snail survival and male crayfish size and the predation method (shell crushing vs. "body sucking") varied with crayfish size. The second experiment suggested no refuge size for snails, with both very small (<5 mm) and very large (>5 mm) unable to escape predation, regardless of crayfish size (from 77 to 138 mm) or sex. Finally, we investigated the escape behavior of Thiarids regarding three crayfish cues. Melanoides tuberculata tend to bury in the substrate and T. granifera to climb up aquarium walls, what was expected from their shell morphologies, and both responding to crayfish cues within minutes. Overall, C. quadricarinatus proves to be an efficient snail predator with limited escape options for snails, potentially contributing to the decline of certain snail populations in Martinique. This omnivorous predator might impact other native species across different groups, including shrimps and fish. Our study underscores the urgent need for monitoring efforts, solidifying the redclaw crayfish reputation as a dangerous invasive species for freshwater macrobenthic faunas worldwide.},
}

@article {pmid38571283,
year = {2024},
author = {Burlakova, LE and Karatayev, AY and Hrycik, AR and Daniel, SE and Mehler, K and Hinchey, EK and Dermott, R and Griffiths, R and Denecke, LE},
title = {Density data for Lake Erie benthic invertebrate assemblages from 1930 to 2019.},
journal = {Ecology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e4301},
doi = {10.1002/ecy.4301},
pmid = {38571283},
issn = {1939-9170},
support = {00E02259//U.S. Environmental Protection Agency/ ; },
abstract = {Benthic invertebrates are important trophic links in food webs and useful bioindicators of environmental conditions, but long-term benthic organism abundance data across broad geographic areas are rare and historic datasets are often not readily accessible. This dataset provides densities of benthic macroinvertebrates collected from 1930 to 2019 during surveys in Lake Erie, a Laurentian Great Lake. The surveys were funded by the governments of the United States and Canada to investigate the status and changes in the benthic community. From the total of 21 lake-wide and basin-wide benthic surveys conducted in Lake Erie from 1929 to 2019, we were able to acquire data for 17 surveys, including species-level data for 10 surveys and data by higher taxonomic groups for seven surveys. Our amassed Lake Erie dataset includes data from 11 surveys (including five with species-level data) conducted in the western basin in 1930-2019, seven surveys (six with species-level data) in the central basin, and eight surveys (seven with species-level data) in the eastern basin (1973-2019). This Lake Erie dataset represents the most extensive temporal dataset of benthic invertebrates available for any of the Laurentian Great Lakes. Benthic samples were collected using Ponar or Shipek bottom dredges and taxa densities were calculated as individuals per square meter using the area of the dredge. Density data are provided for taxa in the Annelida, Arthropoda, Mollusca, Cnidaria, Nemertea, and Platyhelminthes phyla. Current taxonomy was used for most groups but, in a few cases, older taxonomic names were used for consistency with historical data. Analysis of this dataset indicates that eutrophication, water quality improvement, and dreissenid introduction were the major drivers of changes in the benthic community in the western basin, while hypoxia was a major factor in the central basin, and dreissenid introduction was the most important driver in the eastern basin. Considering the rarity of high taxonomic resolution long-term benthic data for lake ecosystems, this dataset could be useful to explore broader aspects of ecological theory, including effects of eutrophication, hypoxia, invasive species, and other factors on community organization, phylogenetic and functional diversity, and spatial and temporal scales of variation in community structure. In addition, the dataset could be useful for studies on individual species, including abundance and distribution, species co-occurrence, and how the patterns of dominance and rarity change over space and time. Use of this dataset for academic or educational purposes is encouraged as long as this data paper is properly cited.},
}

@article {pmid38570743,
year = {2024},
author = {Deng, Y and Ren, S and Liu, Q and Zhou, D and Zhong, C and Jin, Y and Xie, L and Gu, J and Xiao, C},
title = {A high heterozygosity genome assembly of Aedes albopictus enables the discovery of the association of PGANT3 with blood-feeding behavior.},
journal = {BMC genomics},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {336},
pmid = {38570743},
issn = {1471-2164},
support = {2022A1515140091//Basic and Applied Basic Research Foundation of GuangDong Province/ ; 2021A1515220032//Natural Science Foundation of Guangdong Province/ ; },
abstract = {The Asian tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus, is a global invasive species, notorious for its role in transmitting dangerous human arboviruses such as dengue and Chikungunya. Although hematophagous behavior is repulsive, it is an effective strategy for mosquitoes like Aedes albopictus to transmit viruses, posing a significant risk to human health. However, the fragmented nature of the Ae. albopictus genome assembly has been a significant challenge, hindering in-depth biological and genetic studies of this mosquito. In this research, we have harnessed a variety of technologies and implemented a novel strategy to create a significantly improved genome assembly for Ae. albopictus, designated as AealbF3. This assembly boasts a completeness rate of up to 98.1%, and the duplication rate has been minimized to 1.2%. Furthermore, the fragmented contigs or scaffolds of AealbF3 have been organized into three distinct chromosomes, an arrangement corroborated through syntenic plot analysis, which compared the genetic structure of Ae. albopictus with that of Ae. aegypti. Additionally, the study has revealed a phylogenetic relationship suggesting that the PGANT3 gene is implicated in the hematophagous behavior of Ae. albopictus. This involvement was preliminarily substantiated through RNA interference (RNAi) techniques and behavioral experiment. In summary, the AealbF3 genome assembly will facilitate new biological insights and intervention strategies for combating this formidable vector of disease. The innovative assembly process employed in this study could also serve as a valuable template for the assembly of genomes in other insects characterized by high levels of heterozygosity.},
}

@article {pmid38569003,
year = {2024},
author = {Lampert, A},
title = {Optimizing strategies for slowing the spread of invasive species.},
journal = {PLoS computational biology},
volume = {20},
number = {4},
pages = {e1011996},
doi = {10.1371/journal.pcbi.1011996},
pmid = {38569003},
issn = {1553-7358},
abstract = {Invasive species are spreading worldwide, causing damage to ecosystems, biodiversity, agriculture, and human health. A major question is, therefore, how to distribute treatment efforts cost-effectively across space and time to prevent or slow the spread of invasive species. However, finding optimal control strategies for the complex spatial-temporal dynamics of populations is complicated and requires novel methodologies. Here, we develop a novel algorithm that can be applied to various population models. The algorithm finds the optimal spatial distribution of treatment efforts and the optimal propagation speed of the target species. We apply the algorithm to examine how the results depend on the species' demography and response to the treatment method. In particular, we analyze (1) a generic model and (2) a detailed model for the management of the spongy moth in North America to slow its spread via mating disruption. We show that, when utilizing optimization approaches to contain invasive species, significant improvements can be made in terms of cost-efficiency. The methodology developed here offers a much-needed tool for further examination of optimal strategies for additional cases of interest.},
}

@article {pmid38567802,
year = {2024},
author = {Eleftheriou, A and Zeiger, B and Jennings, J and Pesapane, R},
title = {Phenology and habitat associations of the invasive Asian longhorned tick from Ohio, USA.},
journal = {Medical and veterinary entomology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/mve.12719},
pmid = {38567802},
issn = {1365-2915},
support = {2018-70006-28883//U.S. Department of Agriculture/ ; },
abstract = {Geographically expanding and invading ticks are a global concern. The Asian longhorned tick (ALT, Haemaphysalis longicornis) was introduced to the mid-Atlantic US between 2010 and 2017 and recently invaded Ohio, an inland state. To date, ALTs in the US have been associated with livestock exsanguination and transmission of the agent of bovine theileriosis. To inform management, studies describing tick ecology and epidemiology of associated disease agents are critical. In this study, we described phenology, habitat and host associations, and tested for agents of medical and veterinary concern at the site of the first known established ALT population in Ohio, where pesticide treatment was applied in early fall 2021. In spring-fall 2022, we sampled wildlife (small mammals) and collected ticks from forest, edge, and grassland habitats. We also opportunistically sampled harvested white-tailed deer at nearby processing stations and fresh wildlife carcasses found near roads. Field-collected ALTs were tested for five agents using real-time PCR. We found that ALT nymphs emerged in June, followed by adults, and concluded with larvae in the fall. ALTs were detected in all habitats but not in wildlife. We also found a 4.88% (2/41) prevalence of Anaplasma phagocytophilum across ALT adults and nymphs. Host and habitat associations were similar to other studies in the eastern United States, but two potential differences in phenology were identified. Whether ALTs will acquire more endemic disease agents requires further investigations. Our findings provide the first evidence regarding ALT life history from the Midwest region of the United States and can inform exposure risk and guide integrated management.},
}

@article {pmid38453070,
year = {2024},
author = {Wu, H and Zhang, Z and Zhao, W and Jin, H and Sang, L and Wu, H},
title = {Spartina alterniflora invasion decouples multiple elements in coastal wetland soils.},
journal = {The Science of the total environment},
volume = {924},
number = {},
pages = {171502},
doi = {10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171502},
pmid = {38453070},
issn = {1879-1026},
mesh = {*Wetlands ; *Ecosystem ; Soil ; Carbon/analysis ; Introduced Species ; Poaceae/physiology ; China ; },
abstract = {Deciphering the biogeochemical coupling of multiple elements in soils could better mechanistic understanding of ecosystem stability response to the alien invasion. The coupling of 45 elements in soils from wetlands covered by Spartina alterniflora (Sa) was compared with that in soils covered by native Phragmites australis (Pa) in coastal regions of China. Results showed that S. alterniflora invasion not only significantly reshaped geochemical enrichment and dispersion states, but also decoupled the coupling of multiple elements in soils compared with Pa. Atomic mass emerged as the primary factor governing the coupling of multiple elements, of which a significantly positive correlation exhibited between atomic mass with elemental coupling in Pa, but no such relation was observed in SaThe coupling of lighter elements was more susceptible to and generally enhanced by the invasion of S. alterniflora compared to the heavier, of which carbon, iron (Fe), and cadmium (Cd) had the highest susceptibility. Besides atomic mass, biological processes (represented by soil organic carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, and sulfur), interactions between sea and land (represented by salinity and pH), and their combination explained 17 %, 10 %, and 13 % variation in the coupling of multiple elements, respectively. The present work confirmed that S. alterniflora invasion was the important factor driving soil multi-element cycling and covariation in coastal wetlands.},
}

*Wetlands
*Ecosystem
Soil
Carbon/analysis
Introduced Species
Poaceae/physiology
China

@article {pmid38565327,
year = {2024},
author = {Tang, B and Hu, S and Luo, Y and Shi, D and Liu, X and Zhong, F and Jiang, X and Hu, G and Li, C and Duan, H and Wu, Y},
title = {Impact of Three Thiazolidinone Compounds with Piperine Skeletons on Trehalase Activity and Development of Spodoptera frugiperda Larvae.},
journal = {Journal of agricultural and food chemistry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acs.jafc.3c08898},
pmid = {38565327},
issn = {1520-5118},
abstract = {Trehalases (TREs) are pivotal enzymes involved in insect development and reproduction, making them prime targets for pest control. We investigated the inhibitory effect of three thiazolidinones with piperine skeletons (6a, 7b, and 7e) on TRE activity and assessed their impact on the growth and development of the fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda. The compounds were injected into FAW larvae, while the control group was treated with 2% DMSO solvent. All three compounds effectively inhibited TRE activity, resulting in a significant extension of the pupal development stage. Moreover, the treated larvae exhibited significantly decreased survival rates and a higher incidence of abnormal phenotypes related to growth and development compared to the control group. These results suggest that these TRE inhibitors affect the molting of larvae by regulating the chitin metabolism pathway, ultimately reducing their survival rates. Consequently, these compounds hold potential as environmentally friendly insecticides.},
}

@article {pmid38564572,
year = {2024},
author = {Hughes, EH and Moyers-Gonzalez, M and Murray, R and Wilson, PL},
title = {Partial differential equation models for invasive species spread in the presence of spatial heterogeneity.},
journal = {PloS one},
volume = {19},
number = {4},
pages = {e0300968},
doi = {10.1371/journal.pone.0300968},
pmid = {38564572},
issn = {1932-6203},
abstract = {Models of invasive species spread often assume that landscapes are spatially homogeneous; thus simplifying analysis but potentially reducing accuracy. We extend a recently developed partial differential equation model for invasive conifer spread to account for spatial heterogeneity in parameter values and introduce a method to obtain key outputs (e.g. spread rates) from computational simulations. Simulations produce patterns of spatial spread which appear qualitatively similar to observed patterns in grassland ecosystems invaded by exotic conifers, validating our spatially explicit strategy. We find that incorporating spatial variation in different parameters does not significantly affect the evolution of invasions (which are characterised by a long quiescent period followed by rapid evolution towards to a constant rate of invasion) but that distributional assumptions can have a significant impact on the spread rate of invasions. Our work demonstrates that spatial variation in site-suitability or other parameters can have a significant impact on invasions and must be considered when designing models of invasive species spread.},
}

@article {pmid38564408,
year = {2024},
author = {Madalinska, K and Nielsen, AL},
title = {Effects of host plants on spotted lanternfly (Hemiptera: Fulgoridae) nymphal survival and development.},
journal = {Environmental entomology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/ee/nvae026},
pmid = {38564408},
issn = {1938-2936},
support = {SCRI 2019 2019-51181-30014//USDA/ ; PPA 7721//APHIS/ ; },
abstract = {Spotted lanternfly, Lycorma delicatula (White), is an invasive planthopper from China, which was first detected in Berks County, PA, in 2014 and has since spread to adjacent states including New Jersey in 2018. Lycorma delicatula is a polyphagous species that gregariously feeds on over 172 known hosts. We investigated development on key host plants Ailanthus altissima (Miller) (Sapindales: Simaroubaceae), Juglans nigra (L.) (Fagales: Juglandaceae), Acer rubrum (L.) (Sapindales: Sapindaceae), and Vitis vinifera (L.) (Vitales: Vitaceae) for each instar to elucidate potential host use throughout the season and target monitoring efforts. Our study indicated significant differences in survivorship and time spent in each nymphal life stage between host plants. We applied a host suitability index as a function of survivorship and development for each host plant and instar, which indicated A. altissima and J. nigra as suitable hosts for all 4 nymphal instars. Vitis vinifera was highly suitable for first and second instars but had low indices for the third and fourth instars, although suitability of V. vinifera may have varied based on variety and age of the vine. Lycorma delicatula nymphs had the lowest survivorship and longest development time on A. rubrum across all 4 life stages, despite this being a preferred oviposition host. Host had a significant effect on the morphometrics we measured within the first and second instars.},
}

@article {pmid38563512,
year = {2024},
author = {Yang, LF and Liu, YG and Tao, YL and Zhang, WM and Li, JY and Chi, SQ and Zhang, GF and Chu, D},
title = {Development of an on-site diagnostic LAMP assay for rapid differentiation of the invasive pest Phthorimaea absoluta (Meyrick) using insect tissues.},
journal = {Pest management science},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/ps.8114},
pmid = {38563512},
issn = {1526-4998},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The tomato leafminer, Phthorimaea absoluta (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae), is a destructive invasive pest that originated in South America and has spread within China since 2017. A rapid method for on-site identification of P. absoluta is urgently needed for interception of this pest across China.

RESULTS: We developed a loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) technique to differentiate P. absoluta from L. sativae, C. horticola, and P. operculella using extracted genomic DNA, which was then refined to create an on-site LAMP diagnostic method that can be performed under field conditions without the need for laboratory equipment.

CONCLUSION: In the present research, we developed an on-site diagnostic method for rapid differentiation of P. absoluta from other insects with similar morphology or damage characteristics in China. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.},
}

@article {pmid38562660,
year = {2024},
author = {Sambaraju, KR and Srivastava, V and Barker, BS and Keena, MA and Ormsby, MD and Carroll, AL},
title = {Editorial: Forest insect invasions - risk mapping approaches and applications.},
journal = {Frontiers in insect science},
volume = {4},
number = {},
pages = {1378061},
pmid = {38562660},
issn = {2673-8600},
}