@article {pmid40650889,
year = {2025},
author = {Payseur, BA and Jing, P and Howell, EK and Frayer, ME and Jones, EP and Magnussen, E and Jensen, JK and Chan, YF and Searle, JB},
title = {Population Genomics of Giant Mice from the Faroe Islands: Hybridization, Colonization, and a Novel Challenge to Identifying Genomic Targets of Selection.},
journal = {Genome biology and evolution},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/gbe/evaf141},
pmid = {40650889},
issn = {1759-6653},
abstract = {Populations that colonize islands provide unique insights into demography, adaptation, and the spread of invasive species. House mice on the Faroe Islands evolved exceptionally large bodies after colonization, generating longstanding interest from biologists. To reconstruct the evolutionary history of these mice, we sequenced genomes of population samples from three Faroe Islands (Sandoy, Nólsoy, and Mykines) and Norway as a mainland comparison. Mice from the Faroe Islands are hybrids between the subspecies Mus musculus domesticus and M. m. musculus, with ancestry alternating along the genome. Analyses based on the site frequency spectrum of single nucleotide polymorphisms and the ancestral recombination graph (ARG) indicate that mice arrived on the Faroe Islands on a timescale consistent with transport by Norwegian Vikings, with colonization of Sandoy likely preceding colonization of Nólsoy. Substantial reductions in nucleotide diversity and effective population size associated with colonization suggest that mice on the Faroe Islands evolved large body size during periods of heightened genetic drift. Genomic scans for positive selection uncover windows with unusual site frequency spectra, but this pattern is mostly generated by clusters of singletons in individual mice. Three genomic regions show evidence for selection on islands based on the ARG, including variants located in transcription factor binding sites. Our findings reveal a dynamic evolutionary history for the enigmatic mice from Faroe Island and emphasize the challenges that accompany population genomic inferences in island populations.},
}

@article {pmid40648061,
year = {2025},
author = {Kornienko, V and Reuckaya, V and Shkirenko, A and Meskhi, B and Olshevskaya, A and Odabashyan, M and Shevchenko, V and Teplyakova, S},
title = {Silvicultural and Ecological Characteristics of Populus bolleana Lauche as a Key Introduced Species in the Urban Dendroflora of Industrial Cities.},
journal = {Plants (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {13},
pages = {},
pmid = {40648061},
issn = {2223-7747},
abstract = {In this work, we evaluated the silvicultural and ecological parameters of Populus bolleana Lauche trees growing in conditions of anthropogenic pollution, using the example of one of the largest megacities of the Donetsk ridge, the city of Donetsk. The objectives of this study included determining the level of anthropogenic load of the territory; conducting dendrological studies to assess morphometric and allometric parameters, age structure, and condition of P. bolleana stands under the influence of environmental factors; as well as completing biomechanical studies to assess and predict the mechanical stability of stands. A total of 1109 plants growing in areas with increased anthropogenic load and in the control areas were studied. The model territories of the study were located in the city of Donetsk on Fallen Communards Avenue (length of field routes: 2.6 km) and Ilyicha Avenue (length of field routes: 9.7 km). Control plantings grew on the territory of the Donetsk botanical garden and residential (dormitory) districts of the city. The age structure of P. bolleana plantations remained uniform throughout the city for 50-55 years due to the fact that the landscaping was under a single state program. In the steppe zone in the south of the East European Plain, with a high level of anthropogenic load and severe natural climatic factors, the critical age of P. bolleana (55 years) was determined. The condition of plantations and their morphometric indices correlate with the level of anthropogenic load of the city (H, Dbase, DBH). Under control conditions, the plants are in good condition with signs of weakening (2 points). Under conditions of increased anthropogenic load, the plants are in a severely weakened condition (3 points). A total of 25% of the plants in the sample are in critical condition (4-5 points). The main damages to the crowns and trunks of plants include core rot, mechanical damage to bark and tissues, the development of core rot through the affected skeletal branch, crown thinning, and drying. P. bolleana trees are valued for their crown area and ability to retain dust particles from the air. The analysis of experimentally obtained data on the crown area showed that in the initial phases of ontogenesis, the average deviation in the crown area of plants does not depend on the place of growth. Due to artificial narrowing and sanitary pruning of the crown, as well as skeletal branches dying along the busiest highways, the values do not exceed 22-23 m[2] on average, with an allometric coefficient of 0.35-0.37. When comparing this coefficient in the control areas, the crown area in areas with a high level of anthropogenic load is 36 ± 11% lower. For trees growing under the conditions of the anthropogenic load of an industrial city and having reached the critical age, mechanical resistance varied depending on the study area and load level. At sites with a high level of pollution of the territory, a significant decrease in indicators was revealed in comparison with the control (mcr-71%, EI-75%, RRB-43%). Having analyzed all the obtained data, we can conclude that, until the age of 50-55 years, P. bolleana retains good viability, mechanical resistance, and general allometric ratios, upon which the stability of the whole plant depends. Even with modern approaches and tendencies toward landscaping with exotic introductions, it is necessary to keep P. bolleana as the main species in dendrobanocenoses.},
}

@article {pmid40647990,
year = {2025},
author = {Sun, S and Deng, Z},
title = {Analysis of a Potentially Suitable Habitat for Solanum aculeatissimum in Southwest China Under Climate Change Scenarios.},
journal = {Plants (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {13},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/plants14131979},
pmid = {40647990},
issn = {2223-7747},
support = {grant number:32360395//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 202202AD080010//Major scientific and technological projects of Yunnan Province：Research on Key Tech-nologies of ecological environment monitoring and intelligent management of natural re-sources in Yunnan/ ; },
abstract = {Solanum aculeatissimum is a herbaceous to semi-woody perennial plant native to the Brazilian ecosystem. It has naturalized extensively in southwestern China, posing significant threats to local biodiversity. This study systematically screened and integrated 100 distribution records from authoritative databases, including the Chinese Virtual Plant Specimen Database, the Global Biodiversity Information Facility, and Chinese Natural Museums. Additionally, 23 environmental variables were incorporated, comprising 19 bioclimatic factors from the World Climate Dataset, 3 topographic indicators, and the Human Footprint Index. The objectives of this research are as follows: (1) to simulate the plant's current and future distribution (2050s/2070s) under CMIP6 scenarios (SSP1-2.6, SSP2-4.5, and SSP5-8.5); (2) to quantify changes in the distribution range; and (3) to determine the migration trajectory using MaxEnt 3.4.4 software. The findings reveal that human pressure (contributing 79.7%) and isothermality (bioclimatic factor 3: 10.1%) are the primary driving forces shaping its distribution. The core suitable habitats are predominantly concentrated in the provinces of Yunnan, Guizhou, and Sichuan. By 2070, the distribution center shifts northeastward to Qujing City. Under the SSP5-8.5 scenario, the invasion front extends into southern Tibet, while retreat occurs in the lowlands of Honghe Prefecture. This study underscores the synergistic effects of socioeconomic development pathways and bioclimatic thresholds on invasive species' biogeographical patterns, providing a robust predictive framework for adaptive management strategies.},
}

@article {pmid40647980,
year = {2025},
author = {Anas, M and Khan, IU and Zhang, RK and Qi, SS and Dai, ZC and Du, DL},
title = {Interactive Effect of Microplastics and Fungal Pathogen Rhizoctonia solani on Antioxidative Mechanism and Fluorescence Activity of Invasive Species Solidago canadensis.},
journal = {Plants (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {13},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/plants14131972},
pmid = {40647980},
issn = {2223-7747},
support = {2023ZB861//Jiangsu Funding Program for Excellent Post Doctoral Talent/ ; },
abstract = {Microplastics and invasive species, driven by anthropogenic activities, significantly disrupt ecosystems and microbial communities. This study investigated the interactive effects of biodegradable microplastics (polylactic acid, or PLA, and polyhydroxyalkanoates, or PHAs) and the fungal pathogen Rhizoctonia solani on the invasive plant Solidago canadensis. One plant of Solidago canadensis/pot was cultivated in forest soil amended with 1% (w/w) microplastics and/or R. solani. PLA exhibited greater toxicity than PHAs, reducing the plant height, root length, and biomass by 68%, 44%, and 70%, respectively. Microplastics impaired the maximum quantum yield of photosystem II more severely than R. solani. However, S. canadensis demonstrated adaptive antioxidative and extracellular enzymatic mechanisms under combined stresses. A heatmap analysis revealed a positive correlation between PHAs and plant growth traits, while a redundancy analysis explained the 15.96% and 4.19% variability for the first two components (r[2] = 0.95). A structural equation model indicated the negative effects of morphology and physiology on biomass (β = -1.694 and β = -0.932; p < 0.001), countered by positive antioxidant contributions (β = 1.296; p < 0.001). These findings highlight complex interactions among microplastics, pathogens, and invasive species, offering insights into ecological management strategies under dual environmental pressures. Future studies should assess the long-term field effects and microbial mediation of these interactions.},
}

@article {pmid40647104,
year = {2025},
author = {Kotsiri, M and Kogiannou, D and Nikoloudaki, C and Kleidas, I and Dogrammatzi, A and Karachle, PK and Grigorakis, K},
title = {Seasonal Variation in Nutritional Value and Technical Quality of Lionfish (Pterois miles) from the Ionian and Aegean Seas.},
journal = {Foods (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {13},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/foods14132353},
pmid = {40647104},
issn = {2304-8158},
support = {MIS: 5049511//NRSF 2017-2020/ ; },
abstract = {Lionfish (Pterois miles), an invasive species in the Mediterranean, pose ecological and socioeconomic challenges. This study examines the seasonal variation in the nutritional composition and technical quality of lionfish from the Ionian and Aegean Seas, evaluating their potential as a food resource. Fillets were high in protein (19.4%) and low in fat (2.0%), with significant seasonal differences in the Ionian Sea, where winter samples had higher lipid content. The fillet yield (28.4%) was satisfactory given the fish's morphology. Fatty acid analysis confirmed lionfish as a valuable source of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), particularly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), with EPA + DHA levels exceeding the recommended daily intake (119.2%). Seasonal variations in fatty acid composition were observed, including higher EPA in autumn and lower lipid nutritional quality in summer. Arachidonic acid (ARA) was also present at nutritionally significant levels (79.4 mg/100 g). The n3/n6 ratio (2.2) and favourable atherogenic and thrombogenic indices highlight its nutritional benefits. This is the first study to assess seasonal variations in the nutritional value and technical yield of lionfish in the Mediterranean, offering novel insights into its commercial valorisation. These findings support its promotion as a sustainable protein source and as a means of managing its invasive population.},
}

@article {pmid40646685,
year = {2025},
author = {Yiu, SW and Etherington, TR and Russell, JC},
title = {Discriminating footprints to improve identification of congeneric invasive Rattus species.},
journal = {Pest management science},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/ps.70052},
pmid = {40646685},
issn = {1526-4998},
support = {//Royal Society Te Apārangi/ ; //Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Accurate identification of cryptic species is critical for invasive species monitoring. Footprint surveys are often used as an indirect rodent monitoring method, but surveyors can misidentify closely related species. Machine learning techniques can reduce observer errors by enabling species identification through training of statistical algorithms on known footprints and then classifying the footprints of unknown species using the resulting models. Such a tool has important applications for the identification and biosecurity management of invasive rodents.

RESULTS: We conducted a study to test the accuracy of using linear discriminant analyses (LDA) and extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) to distinguish between footprints of two congeneric invasive rat species in New Zealand, the Pacific rat (Rattus exulans) and ship rat (Rattus rattus). We collected footprints using inked tracking tunnels and extracted geometric profiles of the footprints. We built linear discriminant and XGBoost models on known-species footprints, undertook ten-fold cross-validation, and then applied models to classify footprints of unknown species. The predictive accuracies of the models were all ≥ 90%, with the front foot models (99%) slightly outperforming the hind foot models (94%).

CONCLUSION: Footprint models provide a reliable tool to distinguish rat species. We discuss potential shortcomings of the models in distinguishing between adult Pacific rats and juvenile ship rats particularly across different populations. We recommend the use of tracking tunnels and footprint models for assessing invasion and reinvasion of congeneric rat species and advocate the application of this technique for identifying and distinguishing among other rodent species. © 2025 Landcare Research New Zealand Limited and The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.},
}

@article {pmid40646163,
year = {2025},
author = {Höller, P and Lühken, R and Sauer, FG and Villacañas de Castro, C and Becker, N and Jöst, H and Pfitzner, WP and Schmidt-Chanasit, J and Heitmann, A and Jansen, S},
title = {Vector competence of mosquitoes from Europe for Tahyna virus.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {25092},
pmid = {40646163},
issn = {2045-2322},
mesh = {Animals ; *Mosquito Vectors/virology ; Europe ; *Aedes/virology ; *Encephalitis Virus, California ; },
abstract = {Tahyna virus (TAHV) was the first mosquito-borne virus isolated in Europe, and has since been found throughout Eurasia and Africa. Infections are mostly asymptomatic but can cause "Valtice fever", characterized by influenza-like symptoms, mainly in children, with severe cases occasionally causing neurological symptoms. The virus is maintained in an enzootic cycle between small mammals and mosquitoes. Recent and comprehensive studies of vector competence for TAHV are scarce. To fill this gap, and to better understand the transmission cycle of TAHV, we studied ten taxa (Ae. aegypti, Ae. albopictus, Ae. japonicus japonicus, Ae. koreicus, Ae. rusticus, Cx. pipiens biotype pipiens, Cx. torrentium, Cs. morsitans/fumipennis, An. daciae, and An. stephensi) by orally infecting them with TAHV. All taxa were susceptible to TAHV infection. Additionally, the invasive species Ae. albopictus, and Ae. rusticus, a species native to Europe, were able to transmit the virus at 27 ± 5 °C, with transmission efficiencies of 3.3% and 14.3%, respectively. Therefore, it is plausible for TAHV to be transmitted by Ae. albopictus and Ae. rusticus in natural settings in Europe. At a lower temperature of 24 ± 5 °C, infection and transmission decreased in Ae. albopictus. This data will allow future risk models and early warning systems to better predict TAHV transmission.},
}

Animals
*Mosquito Vectors/virology
Europe
*Aedes/virology
*Encephalitis Virus, California

@article {pmid40645886,
year = {2025},
author = {Wilde, ML and Farrell, SN and Goodman, CD and McFadden, GI},
title = {Novel techniques for disrupting malaria transmission.},
journal = {Trends in parasitology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.pt.2025.06.005},
pmid = {40645886},
issn = {1471-5007},
abstract = {Despite significant progress in malaria control over the past two decades, the disease remains a major challenge. This review explores novel mosquito-targeting and transmission-blocking solutions to combat the growing concerns of antimalarial and insecticide resistance. The emergence of drug-resistant Plasmodium spp. parasites and insecticide-resistant mosquitoes, coupled with changes in vector behaviour and the spread of invasive species, necessitates the development of new control strategies. We examine a range of approaches ranging from low-tech repurposing of existing technologies to high-tech genetic engineering solutions. These interventions aim to exploit the parasite population bottleneck in mosquitoes to potentially reduce selective pressure and the risk of resistance development. Although each approach has its advantages and limitations, an integrated strategy that combines current tools with novel technologies may be crucial for malaria eradication.},
}

@article {pmid40643629,
year = {2025},
author = {Whipple, SE and Carter, SK and Rutherford, TK and Jordan, SE and Lehrter, RJ and Domschke, CT and Gilbert, MA and Reyes, J and Samuel, EM and Schank, KM and Tull, JC and Wood, DJA},
title = {Climate Consideration in Environmental Effects Analyses on Federal Public Lands in the United States.},
journal = {Environmental management},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40643629},
issn = {1432-1009},
abstract = {Effects of a changing climate, including drought, wildfire, and invasive species encroachment, are evident on public lands across the United States. Decision making on Federal public lands requires analyses under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), and there are guidelines for considering climate in NEPA analyses. To better understand how climate most recently has been considered, we analyzed a stratified random sample of 130 environmental assessments (EAs) completed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) from 2021 to 2023 across the contiguous United States. We assessed whether EAs considered (1) potential effects of the proposed action on climate (2) potential climate effects on the proposed action, and (3) potential climate effects on resources of concern. We also identified whether EAs included data and science about climate or greenhouse gas emissions, and which datasets and documents were cited. We used two approaches: automated keyword searches and document analysis. Thirty-seven percent of EAs considered the potential effects of the proposed action on climate, 8% considered the potential effects of climate on the proposed action, and 4% of individual resource analyses considered the potential effects of climate on the resource. EAs in the 'oil and gas development,' 'renewable energy,' and 'forestry and timber management' proposed action categories most frequently considered the potential effects of climate and used climate data and science. Our findings suggest an opportunity for scientists to work more closely with public land managers to identify available data and science for considering climate in environmental effects analyses and to provide science delivery mechanisms that can facilitate the consideration and use of climate science in decision making.},
}

@article {pmid40642435,
year = {2025},
author = {Oliver, PG and Garzia, M and Paulay, G and Salvi, D},
title = {On the species identity of a tropical oyster (Bivalvia, Ostreidae, Dendostrea) invading the eastern Mediterranean Sea.},
journal = {ZooKeys},
volume = {1243},
number = {},
pages = {207-224},
pmid = {40642435},
issn = {1313-2989},
abstract = {Molecular and morphological data suggest that the Mediterranean populations of the non-indigenous genus Dendostrea are part of a single clade. This clade includes oysters from Rodrigues but is distinct from oysters from Hawaii and Mauritius. Based on morphology and sequence data, the Hawaiian and Mauritian oysters can be referred to as Dendostreasandvichensis Sowerby, 1871. The Mediterranean/Rodrigues clade, although morphologically very similar to D.sandvichensis, is significantly genetically distant from it and from D.frons and D.folium. As a result, the Mediterranean/Rodrigues clade cannot be assigned to any currently accepted nominal species. However, the statuses of the junior synonyms of D.sandvichensis are based on morphology and are therefore reconsidered with the result that D.crenulifera Sowerby, 1871 is shown to be morphologically very similar to the Mediterranean/Rodrigues clade. Given that the type locality of D.crenulifera is the Red Sea, and that Mediterranean populations are considered tropical invaders, D.crenulifera is a likely candidate name. However, without supporting sequence data from the type locality in the Red Sea, we conservatively conclude that the most appropriate name for the Mediterranean/Rodrigues clade is Dendostreacf.crenulifera (Sowerby, 1871).},
}

@article {pmid38985650,
year = {2025},
author = {Hay, AE and Deborde, C and Dussarrat, T and Moing, A and Millery, A and Hoang, TPT and Touboul, D and Rey, M and Ledru, L and Ibanez, S and Pétriacq, P and Vanhaverbeke, C and Gallet, C},
title = {Comparative metabolomics reveals how the severity of predation by the invasive insect Cydalima perspectalis modulates the metabolism re-orchestration of native Buxus sempervirens.},
journal = {Plant biology (Stuttgart, Germany)},
volume = {27},
number = {5},
pages = {818-833},
doi = {10.1111/plb.13691},
pmid = {38985650},
issn = {1438-8677},
support = {//University Savoie Mont-Blanc/ ; //DIPEE Fed. Research Environment Ecology-Zone Atelier Alpes/ ; ANR-11-INBS-0010//MetaboHUB/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Metabolomics/methods ; *Moths/physiology ; Introduced Species ; Larva/physiology ; Plant Leaves/metabolism ; Metabolome ; Predatory Behavior ; Tandem Mass Spectrometry ; Chromatography, Liquid ; },
abstract = {The recent biological invasion of box tree moth Cydalima perspectalis on Buxus trees has a major impact on European boxwood stands through severe defoliation. This can hinder further regrowth and threaten survival of populations. In a mesocosm approach and controlled larval density over a 2-month period, responses of B. sempervirens essential and specialized metabolites were characterized using metabolomics, combining [1]H-NMR and LC-MS/MS approaches. This is the first metabolome depiction of major Buxus responses to boxwood moth invasion. Under severe predation, remaining green leaves accumulate free amino acids (with the noticeable exception of proline). The leaf trans-4-hydroxystachydrine and stachydrine reached 10-13% and 2-3% (DW), while root content was lower but also modulated by predation level. Larval predation promoted triterpenoid and (steroidal) alkaloid synthesis and diversification, while flavonoids did not seem to have a relevant role in Buxus resistance. Our results reveal the concomitant responses of central and specialized metabolism, in relation to severity of predation. They also confirm the potential of metabolic profiling using [1]H-NMR and LC-MS to detect re-orchestration of metabolism of native boxwood after severe herbivorous predation by the invasive box-tree moth, and thus their relevance for plant-insect relationships and ecometabolomics.},
}

Animals
*Metabolomics/methods
*Moths/physiology
Introduced Species
Larva/physiology
Plant Leaves/metabolism
Metabolome
Predatory Behavior
Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Chromatography, Liquid

@article {pmid40642327,
year = {2025},
author = {Zeng, Z and Liang, Z and Chen, Y and Shu, Q and Li, J and Tso, N and Chen, M and Zhang, S and Tan, X and Qiong, L and Wang, J},
title = {Adaptation analysis of two Asteraceae invasive plants in Lhasa, Tibet.},
journal = {PeerJ},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {e19667},
pmid = {40642327},
issn = {2167-8359},
mesh = {Tibet ; *Introduced Species ; Germination/physiology ; Altitude ; Seeds/growth & development/physiology ; *Asteraceae/growth & development/physiology ; *Adaptation, Physiological ; Seasons ; Climate ; Ecosystem ; },
abstract = {Invasive plants pose a major threat to global ecosystems, especially in ecologically fragile high-altitude regions. Due to its unique geographical and climatic conditions, the Tibetan Plateau is considered highly susceptible to biological invasions. This study investigates the germination capacity and early growth performance of two invasive species, Bidens pilosa and Tagetes minuta, under the natural climatic conditions of Lhasa, Tibet. We assessed how seed burial depth, geographical provenance, and climatic variables affect their establishment potential. The results showed that B. pilosa exhibited the highest germination rate in shallow soil layers, especially for seeds originating from Kunming (KM). However, seeds from the same source that matured in Lhasa following one local growing season (LS), showed a significant reduction in germination capacity, indicating the negative effects of high-altitude stress on maternal seed quality. Seeds from different altitudes displayed varied adaptive performance, with high-altitude provenances showing greater plant height in Lhasa's cold, dry environment. Although T. minuta exhibited generally low germination rates across all burial depths, the individuals that successfully emerged demonstrated vigorous early growth, particularly under deeper burial conditions. This suggests that once established, the species may possess strong potential for rapid population expansion and severe invasion. Climate data over the past three years showed that the growing season from May to October in Lhasa-characterized by increased temperature and precipitation-provided a favorable climate window for both species. Our findings suggest that the ongoing warming and humidification trend on the Tibetan Plateau, driven by global climate change, may further facilitate the expansion and establishment of these invasive species. This study provides essential insights for risk assessment and management of invasive plants in Lhasa and other high-altitude regions, emphasizing the importance of long-term monitoring and targeted early-warning strategies in response to shifting environmental conditions.},
}

Tibet
*Introduced Species
Germination/physiology
Altitude
Seeds/growth & development/physiology
*Asteraceae/growth & development/physiology
*Adaptation, Physiological
Seasons
Climate
Ecosystem

@article {pmid40642030,
year = {2025},
author = {Xuan, JL and Scheffer, SJ and Soghigian, J and Cassel, B and Lewis, ML and Li, SP and Guo, JY and Liu, WX and Wiegmann, BM},
title = {Population Phylogenomics and Genetic Structure of the Polyphagous Leafminer, Liriomyza trifolii (Burgess) (Diptera: Agromyzidae).},
journal = {Evolutionary applications},
volume = {18},
number = {7},
pages = {e70132},
pmid = {40642030},
issn = {1752-4571},
abstract = {The agromyzid leafminer Liriomyza trifolii (Burgess) is an important polyphagous pest of vegetable crops and ornamental plants. It is native to the Americas but has spread throughout the world over the past 50 years. Previous molecular research has indicated that this species contains highly distinct mitochondrial lineages suggestive of cryptic species. To better interpret the mitochondrial divergence, we used anchored hybrid enrichment datasets in order to conduct genome-wide phylogenetic analyses. We found that individuals of L. trifolii from pepper and tomatillo populations form a monophyletic group ("PT group") distinct from the remaining L. trifolii ("non-PT group"). These results corroborate previous mitochondrial and nuclear datasets and indicate an absence of gene flow between the PT and non-PT groups. This is consistent with previous work on reproductive isolation and oviposition preferences, and provides substantial evidence that the PT group represents a distinct and previously unrecognized species. The presence of two species within a nominally single pest species has important implications for management. Although there was only weak genetic differentiation between geographically disparate groups of non-PT L. trifolii, a monophyletic group of Chinese specimens was found in a coalescent-based analysis that is concordant with the history of invasions in Asia. Our study provides important new insight into geographic and host-associated structure in L. trifolii.},
}

@article {pmid40639219,
year = {2025},
author = {Badger, J and Alirigia, R and Ameli, I and Bajer, P and Bartodziej, B and Dalgleish, V and Das, S and Dauphinais, J and Duhr, M and Fairman, K and Forester, J and Frankenberg, S and Gutierrez-Moreno, R and Jacob, NK and Johnson, C and Jonsrud, K and Maselko, M and Mendelsohn, M and Olmanson, O and Pierce, A and Feist, L and Taylor, K and Warden, T and White, R and Wolf, H and Barnhill, SK and Delborne, J and Smanski, MJ},
title = {Coproducing a Technology Readiness Level framework for non-persistent genetic biocontrol of aquatic invasive species.},
journal = {Journal of environmental management},
volume = {391},
number = {},
pages = {126189},
doi = {10.1016/j.jenvman.2025.126189},
pmid = {40639219},
issn = {1095-8630},
abstract = {Developing and implementing novel pest control technologies requires coordination and communication between technology developers, funding agencies, federal and state regulators, and early technology adopters. Efficient communication is particularly important for first-in-class technologies. Misunderstandings or lack of communication may hinder social engagement, jeopardize regulatory approval, decrease utility of the technology, deter public adoption, or compromise risk mitigation approaches. We, a team of diverse stakeholders in aquatic invasive species (AIS) control, here propose a shared language for discussing the development of non-persistent genetic biocontrol methods. Specifically, we adapted the existing Technology Readiness Level framework to apply to the development of non-persistent genetic biocontrol for invasive Cyprinus carpio (common carp) as a model case. The result of this effort is a tool for designing responsible technology development of a promising new class of pest management tools.},
}

@article {pmid40637754,
year = {2025},
author = {Berner, RZ and Zahn, G and Spencer, AA and Chaudhary, VB and Cheeke, TE},
title = {Annual grass invasion is associated with differences in the community structure and abundance of biocrusts and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi.},
journal = {FEMS microbiology letters},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/femsle/fnaf071},
pmid = {40637754},
issn = {1574-6968},
abstract = {Interactions between biocrusts and arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi may increase plant resilience to environmental stress in native grasslands. When non-native plants invade, they may have cascading effects on soil biota and their interactions, destabilizing grassland ecosystems. In a field survey we assessed the % cover and composition of biocrusts in plots varying in % cover of the invasive annual grass, Ventenanta dubia (Native, Transition, Invaded plots). We used field-collected soil as inocula in a glasshouse experiment to test whether the abundance of viable AM fungal propagules differs under biocrusts compared to bare soil, or across invasion levels. We used 18S rRNA gene sequencing on field-collected soil to test whether the structure of the AM fungal community differs under biocrusts versus bare soil across invasion levels. Invasion by V. dubia was associated with lower biocrust cover, distinct biocrust community structure, lower abundance of viable AM fungal propagules below biocrusts, and distinct AM fungal community structure with invasion. Our results support broader United Nations Sustainable Development Goals focused on the protection and restoration of terrestrial ecosystems. A better understanding of the interactions among plants, biocrusts, and AM fungi is important for mitigating the impacts of invasive species and informing grassland restorations.},
}

@article {pmid40635791,
year = {2025},
author = {Wang, P and Zhang, L and Li, J and Yang, C and Xie, G and Wang, W},
title = {Using Ecological Modeling to Study the Response of Distribution Dynamics of Paraglenea fortunei (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) to Human Activities and Climate Change to in Northeast Asia.},
journal = {Ecology and evolution},
volume = {15},
number = {7},
pages = {e71782},
pmid = {40635791},
issn = {2045-7758},
abstract = {Invasive species pose an increasing threat to biodiversity, agriculture, and ecosystem stability, especially under accelerated climate change. Paraglenea fortunei, a longhorn beetle native to East Asia, has emerged as a potential pest, warranting urgent attention to its possible range expansion. This study aims to predict the current and future potential distribution of P. fortunei using an optimized MaxEnt ecological niche model under various climate change scenarios across Northeast Asia. The results indicate that climatic factors, such as temperature stability, precipitation, and human activities are key drivers influencing its distribution. These findings suggest that P. fortunei prefers to live in ecosystems with cooler climates, more consistent changes, and abundant precipitation. Meanwhile, P. fortunei may expand to many countries and regions in the future, including central and western China, Sakhalin in Russia, the Hokkaido Islands in Japan, Vietnam, Myanmar, India, Nepal, and Bangladesh. In addition, P. fortunei may migrate to higher latitudes as climate conditions change. These findings contribute to a better understanding of climate-driven distribution dynamics and offer scientific guidance for pest risk management and regional ecological planning.},
}

@article {pmid40635435,
year = {2025},
author = {Holman, LE and Bohmann, K and Craig, OE and Orton, D and Pedersen, MW and Tange Olsen, M and Thurstan, RH and Scourse, J},
title = {Shifting seas: understanding deep-time human impacts on marine ecosystems.},
journal = {Philosophical transactions of the Royal Society of London. Series B, Biological sciences},
volume = {380},
number = {1930},
pages = {20240026},
pmid = {40635435},
issn = {1471-2970},
support = {/ERC_/European Research Council/International ; },
mesh = {Oceans and Seas ; *Ecosystem ; *Climate Change ; *Conservation of Natural Resources ; Humans ; *Biodiversity ; *Anthropogenic Effects ; },
abstract = {Humans have interacted with, and impacted, marine ecosystems for millennia. During this time, the oceans have experienced ecosystem degradation through harvesting, habitat change, pollution, the introduction of invasive species and climate change. Despite extensive documentation of substantial recent anthropogenic impacts, our understanding of ancient marine biodiversity remains limited for many ocean regions. This theme issue advances our knowledge of past oceans, revealing how diverse perspectives from across disciplines can provide new insights into marine anthropogenic exploitation over thousands of years. Through engaging a range of source materials, including material remains, historical records and palaeoenvironmental archives, the contributions reveal shifting seas responding to both natural climatic changes and human impacts. Collectively, these outputs demonstrate the value of interdisciplinarity and cross-cultural approaches in understanding ocean change. As marine restoration programmes expand globally, combining disciplinary approaches and novel methods across deep time can provide novel baseline data against which to measure recovery and raise ambition for marine conservation. Beyond biodiversity baselines, understanding past ocean changes can provide key insights into the mechanisms through which human impacts alter marine ecosystems, allowing us to learn from our ancestors' effective and ineffective ocean stewardship practices. Just as diverse ecosystems are buffered against change, diverse human-ocean interactions are important for flourishing future seas.This article is part of the theme issue 'Shifting seas: understanding deep-time human impacts on marine ecosystems'.},
}

Oceans and Seas
*Ecosystem
*Climate Change
*Conservation of Natural Resources
Humans
*Biodiversity
*Anthropogenic Effects

@article {pmid40634263,
year = {2025},
author = {Johnson, AJ and Bednar, D and Hulcr, J},
title = {Objective risk assessment of bark and ambrosia beetles non-indigenous to North America.},
journal = {Ecological applications : a publication of the Ecological Society of America},
volume = {35},
number = {5},
pages = {e70072},
pmid = {40634263},
issn = {1939-5582},
support = {AP20PPQS&T00C083//Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service/ ; AP21PPQS&T00C112//Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; Risk Assessment ; *Introduced Species ; Models, Biological ; *Coleoptera/physiology ; *Weevils/physiology ; North America ; United States ; },
abstract = {Pest risk assessment informs regulatory decisions to facilitate safe trade while also protecting a country's agricultural and environmental resources. The first step in pest risk assessment is pest categorization which can help determine whether an in-depth examination is needed. We created a model to predict the potential impact of non-indigenous bark and ambrosia beetles (Curculionidae: Scolytinae). This model uses biological variables derived from extensive assessment of alien species and produces a five-point scale of impact prediction. We accommodate uncertainty and missing data using random decision tree forests with Monte Carlo simulations. Non-indigenous bark beetles include both invasive species with significant ecological impacts, such as widespread tree death, and others that pose little risk. We assembled a comprehensive list of 60 introduced non-native bark beetle species in the continental United States as the training set. Forty-two potentially predictive variables were chosen from reports on behaviors, pestilence, recorded damage/interpretations in literature, biological traits, and interactions with fungi including plant pathogens. The model builds upon strategies used by USDA-APHIS in existing risk assessments, specifically the Objective Prioritization of Exotic Pests (OPEP) model, with changes in the following: (1) a transparent dataset for building and training the model enabling future updates and use in other systems, (2) uncertainty simulations using values derived from an extensive natural history matrix rather than an assumed equal distribution, and (3) predictions made on the probability of multiple impact levels, allowing users to decide based on acceptable risk. The model is designed for pest risk analysis for Scolytinae in the continental United States but can be adapted to other pests or regions. We tested the model's performance by iteratively removing each species from the training set and retraining the model. The retrained models accurately predicted the removed species. To demonstrate the model's application, we predicted the impact of scolytine beetles not yet present in the continental United States, Xylosandrus morigerus and Hypoborus ficus, plus an additional hypothetical species with no known data. Our model predicts that these species are likely to have moderate impacts and unlikely to have high impacts if they were introduced.},
}

Animals
Risk Assessment
*Introduced Species
Models, Biological
*Coleoptera/physiology
*Weevils/physiology
North America
United States

@article {pmid40633519,
year = {2025},
author = {Frizzera, D and Strobl, V and Yañez, O and Seffin, E and Zanni, V and Annoscia, D and Neumann, P and Nazzi, F},
title = {Interactions between agrochemicals and parasites endangering insect populations.},
journal = {Environment international},
volume = {202},
number = {},
pages = {109664},
doi = {10.1016/j.envint.2025.109664},
pmid = {40633519},
issn = {1873-6750},
abstract = {There is clear evidence for declines of wild insects and high losses of managed ones, thereby threatening their key ecosystem services. Interactions among stressors such as agricultural intensification and invasive species have been implicated in these declines. However, both the nature of these interactions as well as the actual outcomes are often poorly understood. This holds true for ubiquitous agrochemicals and ectoparasitic Varroa destructor mites, and losses of managed honey bee, Apis mellifera, colonies. Here, we show that two pesticides (sulfoxaflor and coumaphos) can enhance parasite reproduction, thereby contributing to host colony losses. A gene expression study revealed a consistent effect on key genes in the hormonal pathways regulating honey bee development, thereby suggesting a link with parasite reproduction. Because all animals have parasites and are exposed to such agrochemicals even in nature reserves, this mechanism could be relevant for a wide range of insect species and may represent a serious threat for their conservation.},
}

@article {pmid40632788,
year = {2025},
author = {Wang, L and Wang, T and Zhang, XW and Lin, XF and Li, J and Liao, JB and Wang, RW},
title = {Evolution of foraging behaviour induces variable complexity-stability relationships in mutualist-exploiter-predator communities.},
journal = {PLoS computational biology},
volume = {21},
number = {7},
pages = {e1013245},
pmid = {40632788},
issn = {1553-7358},
mesh = {Animals ; *Predatory Behavior/physiology ; *Models, Biological ; *Biological Evolution ; Population Dynamics ; Ecosystem ; Computational Biology ; *Feeding Behavior/physiology ; *Symbiosis/physiology ; Computer Simulation ; Food Chain ; },
abstract = {Early ecological theory predicts that complex ecological networks are unstable and are unlikely to persist, despite many empirical studies of such complexity in nature. This inconsistency has fascinated ecologists for decades. To resolve the complexity-stability debate, coupling population dynamics and trait dynamics is considered to be an important way to understand the long-term stability of ecological community assemblages. However, we still do not know how eco-evolutionary feedbacks affect the relationship between complexity and stability in ecologically realistic networks with both antagonistic and mutualistic interactions. Here, we explored an adaptive network model to evaluate how the evolution of foraging preference to determine the relationship between network complexity (i.e., connectance) and stability (i.e., community persistence at steady state) in mutualist-exploiter-predator communities (MEST). Our theoretical results showed: (i) adaptive foraging of the top predator contributes to the stability of mutualism and intermediate intensity of foraging adaptations can lead to chaotic dynamics in a four-species MEST community; (ii) the complexity-stability relationship may show positive monotonic, negative monotonic, peaked and double-peaked patterns in general MEST communities, while the double-peaked pattern is only obtained when both the adaptation intensity and interspecific competition are high. Furthermore, model predictions may be consistent with both the negative monotonic pattern revealed in freshwater communities and the peaked pattern revealed in marine communities. Finally, we infer that foraging adaptations of the top predator may alter positive or/and negative feedback loops (trait-mediated indirect effects) to affect the stability of general MEST communities. Our adaptive network framework may provide an effective way to address the complexity-stability debate in real ecosystems.},
}

Animals
*Predatory Behavior/physiology
*Models, Biological
*Biological Evolution
Population Dynamics
Ecosystem
Computational Biology
*Feeding Behavior/physiology
*Symbiosis/physiology
Computer Simulation
Food Chain

@article {pmid39973118,
year = {2025},
author = {Shallow, EE and Glaspie, CN and Polito, MJ and Lovell, MS},
title = {Stomach content and stable isotope analysis of invasive lionfish (Pterois volitans) in the Florida Keys.},
journal = {Journal of fish biology},
volume = {106},
number = {6},
pages = {1863-1875},
doi = {10.1111/jfb.16067},
pmid = {39973118},
issn = {1095-8649},
support = {LEQSF(2019-22)-RD-A-06//Louisiana Board of Regents/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Introduced Species ; Florida ; *Perciformes/physiology ; Nitrogen Isotopes/analysis ; Carbon Isotopes/analysis ; *Gastrointestinal Contents/chemistry ; *Diet ; *Food Chain ; Coral Reefs ; Ecosystem ; },
abstract = {The invasive red lionfish, Pterois volitans, plays a unique role in seagrass and reef ecosystems, where it functions as a top predator and competitor for both food and shelter. Given the ubiquitous distribution of lionfish in the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean basins, their species provides an excellent opportunity to understand how an invasive predator's diet and primary energy pathways change as a function of size and habitat type. To investigate these patterns, we studied lionfish from a mosaic of deep reef, shallow patch reef, and seagrass bed habitats in the Florida Keys using stomach contents and stable isotope analysis (δ[13]C and δ[15]N). In August 2020, lionfish (n = 48) and other native species were collected from coastal habitats in the Florida Keys, including deep (20-30 m), intermediate (12-18 m), and shallow (<8 m) reefs, to obtain representation of the local food web. Lionfish on shallow reefs were found to feed from different basal carbon sources than lionfish on intermediate and deep reefs. Bayesian mixing models predicted reef particulate organic matter to be the greatest source contributor to the primary energy pathways of lionfish and reef fish at similar trophic levels, and a high degree of resource use overlap between lionfish and native reef fish was documented. Over time, niche overlap with native species could lead to a decline in their populations through resource competition and/or direct predation, thus creating the need to further study the impact of lionfish in the Florida Keys ecosystem. With the increasing scientific consensus that lionfish diets and niche overlap are highly location-specific, this study further contributes to our collective understanding of the role that lionfish play in the food web of patch reefs in the Florida Keys.},
}

Animals
*Introduced Species
Florida
*Perciformes/physiology
Nitrogen Isotopes/analysis
Carbon Isotopes/analysis
*Gastrointestinal Contents/chemistry
*Diet
*Food Chain
Coral Reefs
Ecosystem

@article {pmid40630840,
year = {2025},
author = {Ramula, S and Blande, JD and Kalske, A},
title = {Soil microbiota enhance the population growth rate of a nitrogen-fixing herbaceous legume.},
journal = {AoB PLANTS},
volume = {17},
number = {4},
pages = {plaf012},
pmid = {40630840},
issn = {2041-2851},
abstract = {Soil microbiota can modify a plant's growth and chemistry, with consequences for plant population persistence. Therefore, an approach that considers the entire life cycle of a given plant species may be necessary for quantifying the net effect of soil microbiota on longer-lived plants. Here, we investigated the effects of soil microbiota on the fitness-related traits and population growth rate of the nitrogen-fixing legume Lupinus polyphyllus. Using seeds collected from native (North American) and invasive (Finnish) populations of the species, we conducted a greenhouse experiment in which we manipulated the soil microbiota by adding to plants either intact or autoclaved soil inoculum obtained from invasive populations. We grew the plants for two growing seasons and recorded six fitness-related traits (height early and later in life, survival, flowering probability, number of flowering shoots, inflorescence length), characterized floral volatiles, and estimated the asymptotic population growth rate (λ) using a demographic model. With the intact soil inoculum, flowering probability tended to be higher regardless of plant origin, while for early height, the effect of the inoculum treatment depended on plant origin. The other traits and floral volatile composition were not affected by soil inoculum treatment. At the population level, demographic models confirmed the positive effect of the intact soil inoculum, which yielded 130% and 30% greater λ for plants of invasive and native origins, respectively, than the autoclaved soil inoculum treatment. These results demonstrate that, at least under greenhouse conditions, soil microbiota contribute to plant population persistence and may affect species abundance. Moreover, our findings indicate that a demographic approach that considers the entire life cycle is needed to assess the net effect of soil microbiota on plant populations.},
}

@article {pmid40629186,
year = {2025},
author = {Manyweathers, J and Hayes, L and Rampano, B and Higgins, N and Hernandez-Jover, M},
title = {Engagement by New South Wales Marine Estate Users with and Evaluation of Communication Approaches to Strengthen Biosecurity Practices.},
journal = {Environmental management},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40629186},
issn = {1432-1009},
abstract = {Marine environments are susceptible to the impact of human boating activities that facilitate incursions of marine pests and diseases, including invasive alien species (IAS). Movement and maintenance of recreational boats is largely unregulated, and if boats are improperly maintained, movement of IAS on these unmaintained boats can impact livelihoods and food security. This project evaluated the impact of communication and engagement interventions implemented within the New South Wales marine estate that aimed at strengthening biosecurity practices of small to medium permanently moored boat owners/managers. A mixed method approach using a cross-sectional survey and interviews was used to evaluate exposure to and impact of the communication and engagement strategies, including Facebook images and videos on biosecurity practices in the NSW marine estate. Participants expressed a desire for information about marine pests and diseases via electronic newsletters (43.3%, n = 58) and of the survey participants who used Facebook, the majority (90.2%, n = 119) had not seen the communication interventions. Interview participants identified some infrastructural barriers to keeping their boats clear of biofouling despite a desire to do so. Overall, most participants showed awareness of and wanted to help protect waterway health, which supports ongoing efforts by New South Wales Department of Primary Industries Agriculture and Biosecurity Aquatic unit to improve biosecurity practices of all marine estate stakeholders and informs future development of aquatic biosecurity communication and engagement strategies.},
}

@article {pmid40629151,
year = {2025},
author = {Mota, FMM and Lima-Santos, D and Kenedy-Siqueira, W and Oki, Y and Fernandes, GW},
title = {Climate-driven distribution shifts of invasive earthworm species in a river basin affected by mining tailings.},
journal = {Environmental monitoring and assessment},
volume = {197},
number = {8},
pages = {879},
pmid = {40629151},
issn = {1573-2959},
mesh = {Animals ; *Oligochaeta/physiology ; *Introduced Species ; *Climate Change ; Brazil ; Rivers ; *Environmental Monitoring ; *Mining ; Ecosystem ; },
abstract = {Changes in temperature and precipitation patterns, along with extreme weather events, have altered natural habitats, contributing to species extinctions and ecosystem fragmentation worldwide. Climate change can exacerbate disturbances and trigger biological invasions that threaten native species. Here, we used ecological niche models to predict the future distribution of five invasive earthworm species (Amynthas corticis, Amynthas gracilis, Dichogaster bolaui, Polypheretima elongata, and Pontoscolex corethrurus) within the Doce River Basin (DRB), Brazil. We also assessed the potential contribution of the Fundão dam collapse to changes in species distributions by using a vegetation index as a proxy for forest cover. We found that, despite being invasive, most species are expected to experience contractions in climate suitable areas, with losses reaching up to 30.2% for P. elongata. Only D. bolaui is predicted to find climate suitable areas across the entire study area in all climate scenarios. The results also indicated that the Fundão collapse may contribute to greater reductions in the average climate suitable area within forested areas, with post-collapse areas approximately 44% smaller than pre-collapse conditions. Nevertheless, the southwestern portion of the DRB is projected to retain suitable climate conditions for all species, indicating a high invasive potential in this region. These findings highlight the need for targeted management strategies to prevent the dominance of invasive species and restore vegetation to buffer against the impacts of climate change and control invasive earthworms. Ecological restoration efforts, alongside the integration of environmental monitoring and ecological modeling, are crucial for mitigating biodiversity loss and enhancing ecosystem resilience to invasion by alien earthworms in the face of climate change.},
}

Animals
*Oligochaeta/physiology
*Introduced Species
*Climate Change
Brazil
Rivers
*Environmental Monitoring
*Mining
Ecosystem

@article {pmid40629086,
year = {2025},
author = {Battlay, P and Hendrickson, BT and Mendez-Reneau, JI and Santangelo, JS and Albano, LJ and Wilson, J and Caizergues, AE and King, N and Puentes, A and Tudoran, A and Violle, C and Vasseur, F and Patterson, CM and Foster, M and Stamps, C and Innes, SG and Allio, R and Angeoletto, F and Anstett, DN and Anstett, J and Bucharova, A and Comerford, MS and David, S and Falahati-Anbaran, M and Godsoe, W and González-Lagos, C and Gundel, PE and Hood, GR and Lampei, C and Lara, C and Lázaro-Lobo, A and Silva Leandro, D and Merritt, TJS and Mitchell, N and Mohammadi Bazargani, M and Moles, A and Murúa, M and Paule, J and Pfeiffer, V and Raeymaekers, JAM and Rennison, DJ and Rios, RS and Rowntree, JK and Schneider, AC and Stack Whitney, K and Tamburrino, Í and VanWallendael, A and Kim, PY and Ness, RW and Johnson, MTJ and Hodgins, KA and Kooyers, NJ},
title = {Haploblocks contribute to parallel climate adaptation following global invasion of a cosmopolitan plant.},
journal = {Nature ecology & evolution},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40629086},
issn = {2397-334X},
support = {OIA-1920858//National Science Foundation (NSF)/ ; DBI-2244712//National Science Foundation (NSF)/ ; EQPEQ 423691//Gouvernement du Canada | Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (Conseil de Recherches en Sciences Naturelles et en Génie du Canada)/ ; RGPIN 2016 06063//Gouvernement du Canada | Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (Conseil de Recherches en Sciences Naturelles et en Génie du Canada)/ ; RGP0001//Human Frontier Science Program (HFSP)/ ; },
abstract = {The role of rapid adaptation during species invasions has historically been minimized with the assumption that introductions consist of few colonists and limited genetic diversity. While overwhelming evidence suggests that rapid adaptation is more prevalent than originally assumed, the demographic and adaptive processes underlying successful invasions remain unresolved. Here we leverage a large whole-genome sequence dataset to investigate the relative roles of colonization history and adaptation during the worldwide invasion of the forage crop, Trifolium repens (Fabaceae). We show that introduced populations encompass high levels of genetic variation with little evidence of bottlenecks. Independent colonization histories on different continents are evident from genome-wide population structure. Five haploblocks-large haplotypes with limited recombination-on three chromosomes exist as standing genetic variation within the native and introduced ranges and exhibit strong signatures of parallel climate-associated adaptation across continents. Field experiments in the native and introduced ranges demonstrate that three of the haploblocks strongly affect fitness and exhibit patterns of selection consistent with local adaptation across each range. Our results provide strong evidence that large-effect structural variants contribute substantially to rapid and parallel adaptation of an introduced species throughout the world.},
}

@article {pmid40628906,
year = {2025},
author = {Kirczuk, L and Dziewulska, K and Czerniejewski, P and Brysiewicz, A and Rechulicz, J and Ligięza, J},
title = {Annual gonadal cycle of the invasive catfish brown bullhead Ameiurus nebulosus from an oxbow lake of vistula river, Poland.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {24507},
pmid = {40628906},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {RID/SP/0045/2024/01//Co-financed by the Minister of Science under the "Regional Excellence Initiative" Program for 2024-2027/ ; RID/SP/0045/2024/01//Co-financed by the Minister of Science under the "Regional Excellence Initiative" Program for 2024-2027/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; Poland ; Male ; Female ; Rivers ; *Introduced Species ; Lakes ; *Catfishes/physiology ; Reproduction/physiology ; *Gonads/physiology ; Fertility ; Seasons ; },
abstract = {The brown bullhead is a fish native to North America that became an invasive species after being introduced into the waters of Europe and other regions. Studies on its sexual cycle and fecundity were conducted on a population from an oxbow lake of the central Vistula River in Poland. The fish ranged in age from 1 + to 9+. The average body length (SL) was 14.4 ± 3.4 cm. Individuals as young as 1 + were already mature. Females lay eggs multiple times from mid-April to mid-June, with absolute fecundity averaging 3227 oocytes and relative fecundity at 46 oocytes g[-1]. The highest mean GSI of 1.9 during spawning was recorded in June. The reproductive tract of males takes the shape of lobes and consists of a paired cranial region formed by testes and a caudal region of undefined function. In males, semi-cystic spermatogenesis occurs, with secondary spermatocytes leaving cysts. Males overwinter with tubules filled with spermatids and initiate spermatozoa formation. The highest average GSI of 0.49 was recorded in early April. The brown bullhead observed in the new habitat was characterized by multiple egg laying, earlier maturation of individuals, and spawning in the earlier part of the calendar year, i.e. mid-April to mid-June, compared to its native habitat.},
}

Animals
Poland
Male
Female
Rivers
*Introduced Species
Lakes
*Catfishes/physiology
Reproduction/physiology
*Gonads/physiology
Fertility
Seasons

@article {pmid40628719,
year = {2025},
author = {Gencel, M and Cofino, GM and Hui, C and Sahaf, Z and Gauthier, L and Matta, C and Gagné-Leroux, D and Tsang, DKL and Philpott, DP and Ramathan, S and Menendez, A and Bershtein, S and Serohijos, AWR},
title = {Quantifying the intra- and inter-species community interactions in microbiomes by dynamic covariance mapping.},
journal = {Nature communications},
volume = {16},
number = {1},
pages = {6314},
pmid = {40628719},
issn = {2041-1723},
support = {PG-408523//Gouvernement du Canada | Canadian Institutes of Health Research (Instituts de Recherche en Santé du Canada)/ ; RGPIN-2016-06566//Gouvernement du Canada | Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (Conseil de Recherches en Sciences Naturelles et en Génie du Canada)/ ; CRC-2022-00138//Canada Research Chairs (Chaires de recherche du Canada)/ ; 89967//National Research Foundation (NRF)/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Escherichia coli/genetics/physiology/drug effects ; Mice ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome/drug effects/genetics ; *Microbial Interactions ; *Microbiota ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Mice, Inbred C57BL ; },
abstract = {A microbiome's composition, stability, and response to perturbations are governed by its community interaction matrix, typically quantified through pairwise competition. However, in natural environments, microbes encounter multispecies interactions, complex conditions, and unculturable members. Moreover, evolutionary and ecological processes occur on overlapping timescales, making intra-species clonal diversity a critical but poorly understood factor influencing community interactions. Here, we present Dynamic Covariance Mapping (DCM), a general approach to infer microbiome interaction matrices from abundance time-series data. By combining DCM with high-resolution chromosomal barcoding, we quantify inter- and intra-species interactions during E. coli colonization in the mouse gut under three contexts: germ-free, antibiotic-perturbed, and innate microbiota. We identify distinct temporal phases in susceptible communities: (1) destabilization upon E. coli invasion, (2) partial recolonization of native bacteria, and (3) a quasi-steady state where E. coli sub-lineages coexist with resident microbes. These phases are shaped by specific interactions between E. coli clones and community members, emphasizing the dynamic and lineage-specific nature of microbial networks. Our results reveal how ecological and evolutionary dynamics jointly shape microbiome structure over time. The DCM framework provides a scalable method to dissect complex community interactions and is broadly applicable to bacterial ecosystems both in vitro and in situ.},
}

Animals
*Escherichia coli/genetics/physiology/drug effects
Mice
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome/drug effects/genetics
*Microbial Interactions
*Microbiota
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Mice, Inbred C57BL

@article {pmid40628483,
year = {2025},
author = {Moseby, KE and Read, J and Tuft, K and Hayes, G and Crisp, H and Lynch, C and Van der Weyde, L},
title = {Exclusion of invasive predators triggers succession, competition and habitat diversification in a small mammal community.},
journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences},
volume = {292},
number = {2050},
pages = {20250325},
doi = {10.1098/rspb.2025.0325},
pmid = {40628483},
issn = {1471-2954},
support = {//Australian Research Council/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Introduced Species ; *Ecosystem ; Predatory Behavior ; Rabbits ; Foxes ; Population Dynamics ; Cats ; Australia ; *Biodiversity ; *Mammals/physiology ; Male ; *Rodentia/physiology ; Female ; },
abstract = {Invasive species can alter small mammal communities. We examined the abundance and demography of 10 Australian desert small mammals inside and outside a fenced reserve after the exclusion of invasive rabbits, cats and foxes. Over 26 years, we found evidence for a species succession response triggered by the removal of endogenous disturbance (predation), similar to exogenous disturbance caused by fire, mining and deglaciation. Smaller rodents responded within 2 years whereas larger rodents became more abundant within the reserve after 5 years, eventually outcompeting the smaller rodents. The dasyurid response was later and more muted. Captures of rodents inside the reserve reached up to 33 times higher than outside after high rainfall years, suggesting that invasive predators have a significant impact and suppress rainfall-induced population booms. Larger rodents expanded their realized niche into non-preferred habitats, and intraspecific competition and species diversity increased. Minimal differences in breeding, body mass or sex ratios between inside and outside the reserve suggested abundance increases were primarily due to release from predation pressure rather than increased resources. Succession was shaped by competition and differences in predator susceptibility influencing reinvasion timing. Results demonstrate that succession dynamics in small mammals can be triggered by the removal of endogenous disturbance as well as changes in vegetation structure.},
}

Animals
*Introduced Species
*Ecosystem
Predatory Behavior
Rabbits
Foxes
Population Dynamics
Cats
Australia
*Biodiversity
*Mammals/physiology
Male
*Rodentia/physiology
Female

@article {pmid40628201,
year = {2025},
author = {Saberi-Pirooz, R and Aghamir, F and Ahmadzadeh, F},
title = {Assessing the response of two soil engineering groups to reforestation in the Hyrcanian forests.},
journal = {Journal of environmental management},
volume = {391},
number = {},
pages = {126410},
doi = {10.1016/j.jenvman.2025.126410},
pmid = {40628201},
issn = {1095-8630},
abstract = {Many forest ecosystems are becoming more vulnerable due to human activities and the considerable effects of forest exploitation. Furthermore, forest management practices often overlook the importance of biodiversity, focusing primarily on timber production and economic gain. The Hyrcanian forests, in particular, face significant challenges due to a combination of factors such as deforestation, climate change, and invasive species. This study aims to explore the impact of reforestation on the diversity, abundance, and community structure of two key groups of soil engineers: earthworms and ants. These groups were chosen due to findings from a previous study indicating their higher abundance in this region. Additionally, it aims to determine which of these groups is more significantly impacted. The study was conducted in both natural and planted forests across three locations in the central region of these forests. Samples were collected from 72 quadrats and 48 transects. A total of 251 samples were collected for earthworms and 410 samples for ants. Then, the samples were sorted into morphological operational taxonomic units (MorphOTUs) based on morphological characteristics. DNA barcoding studies were performed using the cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (COI) gene to determine the molecular OTUs. After that, the difference in OUT richness, abundance and composition between natural and planted forests was investigated using statistical analysis. In the current research, 16 and 19 OTUs were recognized for earthworms and ants, respectively. The results indicated that ant abundance was significantly higher in natural forests (n = 263) compared to planted forests (n = 147). However, the difference in earthworm numbers was negligible (n = 125 in natural and n = 126 in planted forests). The community compositions of both groups did not show significant differences between these forests. The difference between ants and earthworm abundance indicates that ants play a key role as pioneer species in the colonization process, followed by other groups (earthworms) that have settled in the planted forests. The study emphasizes the significance of a genetic approach to understanding the biodiversity of both groups. We believe that integrating both groups will improve the effectiveness of bioindicators in these areas. It is crucial to recognize the biodiversity of soil invertebrates for monitoring natural forests and developing effective reforestation policies, which are essential for fostering resilient ecosystems.},
}

@article {pmid40625329,
year = {2025},
author = {Chen, Y and Yao, F and Shi, Z and Zhang, C and Liu, J and Zhang, J and Qin, Z},
title = {Integrated Analysis of Survival, Physiological-Biochemical, and Transcriptomic Changes Reveals the Impact of Saline Stress on the Freshwater Snail Pomacea canaliculata.},
journal = {Ecology and evolution},
volume = {15},
number = {7},
pages = {e71581},
pmid = {40625329},
issn = {2045-7758},
abstract = {Salinity is an important abiotic stress that affects metabolic and physiological activities, breeding, development, and growth of mollusks. In this study, we investigated the effects of a range of water salinity on the apple snail Pomacea canaliculata, a highly invasive species and an important pest of rice. To examine the molecular response of P. canaliculata to salinity, we recorded young snails grown in a saline water environment for 4 months and compared their physiological and biochemical parameters with those of freshwater snails. We used RNA-seq analysis to identify genes and biological processes involved in response to salinity. The results showed that saline water stress reduced the survival rate of the snail population, increased their feeding rate and snail weight, and led to an increase in shell strength and thickness, as well as a significant widening of the overall shell morphology. In female snails, the activities of CAT, SOD, and T-AOC were significantly enhanced, while GSH activity, MDA content, and NOS activity showed significant decreases. In male snails, only MDA content exhibited a significant decrease, while ACHE activity showed a significant increase. Based on transcriptome analysis conducted for the liver and gills of the snails, a total of 1,569,678,584 raw reads were obtained from the nine libraries on the Illumina Novaseq 6000 platform. After preprocessing and the removal of low-quality sequences, 1,560,932,792 clean reads were generated. The number of upregulated and downregulated differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in male snails after the saline stress was higher than that in female snails. The DEGs mainly involved oxidative stress, cellular regulation, and response. Saline concentration inhibited the hatching of eggs to a certain extent. Different levels of saline stress significantly affected the contents of free water, bound water, and enzyme activity of their eggs at different hatching stages. These findings provide theoretical support for understanding the saline tolerance of snails.},
}

@article {pmid40625320,
year = {2025},
author = {Haque, S and Gamage, HKAH and Kardum Hjort, C and Ponton, F and Encinas-Viso, F and Paulsen, IT and Dudaniec, RY},
title = {Landscape-Wide Metabarcoding Shows Interactions Among the Gut Microbiome and Pollen Diversity in the Invasive Bumblebee, Bombus terrestris.},
journal = {Ecology and evolution},
volume = {15},
number = {7},
pages = {e71717},
pmid = {40625320},
issn = {2045-7758},
abstract = {Gut microbial communities can facilitate traits that are essential for invasive species survival in novel environments. Despite the global plethora of invasive social insect species, the role of the gut microbiome in colonisation success under novel dietary and environmental conditions is little known. The introduction of the European buff-tailed bumblebee, Bombus terrestris, to the island of Tasmania (Australia) ~30 years ago is of ecological concern due to its negative impacts on native vegetation and endemic bees. Here, we investigate how the gut microbiota of B. terrestris workers is affected by corbicular pollen diversity and environmental variation across diverse landscapes in an invaded island system. B. terrestris female workers were sampled from 19 sites across Tasmania, for which environmental data for seven variables were extracted. Using 16S rRNA and ITS2 metabarcoding on gut samples and foraged pollen, respectively, we examine how the gut microbiota of B. terrestris is influenced by pollen diversity, environmental variables and their interactions. Gut bacterial community composition was significantly predicted by site annual precipitation and the percentage of pasture, which each explained 9% of the variation. Gut bacterial diversity was also explained by precipitation and pasture (40% and 30% of the variation, respectively). Furthermore, a positive interaction between annual precipitation and annual temperature significantly predicted site gut bacterial diversity. The interaction effect of pollen diversity and summer wind velocity was also positively related to gut bacterial diversity. Our findings contribute to understanding how interactions between the local environment and pollen diet affect the bee gut microbiome and thus the health and success of invasive pollinators.},
}

@article {pmid40624608,
year = {2025},
author = {Acs-Szabo, L and Pfliegler, WP and Kovács, S and Adácsi, C and Rácz, HV and Horváth, E and Papp, LA and Murvai, KP and Király, S and Miklós, I and Péter, G and Pusztahelyi, T and Pócsi, I},
title = {Striking mycotoxin tolerance and zearalenone elimination capacity of the decaying wood associated yeast Sugiyamaella novakii (Trichomonascaceae).},
journal = {BMC microbiology},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {422},
pmid = {40624608},
issn = {1471-2180},
mesh = {*Zearalenone/metabolism ; Phylogeny ; *Mycotoxins/metabolism ; Fusarium/growth & development/drug effects ; *Saccharomycetales/metabolism/genetics/classification ; Trichothecenes/metabolism ; Fumonisins/metabolism ; T-2 Toxin/metabolism ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Mycotoxin-producing fungal species and their mycotoxins pose a global threat for crop production and for human and animal health. Given the increasing demand for healthier food and feed, alternative non-pesticide approaches for reducing fungal infections in crops and eliminating mycotoxin contamination in feedstock are becoming more prevalent. For such purposes, yeast species can be good candidates. Thus, the present study examined the mycotoxin tolerance and mycotoxin elimination ability of several yeast strains belonging to the Trichomonascaceae family.

RESULTS: While none of the tested yeasts inhibited the growth of different Fusarium species, several yeast strains exhibited tolerance to Fusarium mycotoxins such as deoxynivalenol, zearalenone, T-2 toxin, and fumonisin B1. Sugiyamaella novakii strains displayed exceptional tolerance for the tested mycotoxins. Besides, phylogenetic analyses suggested that tolerant species clustered more closely to each other than to the sensitive species. Although whole genome sequencing of S. novakii NCAIM Y.00986 revealed several enzyme-coding genes that may have a role in mycotoxin elimination, significant mycotoxin elimination was not achieved in the case of deoxynivalenol, T-2 toxin, and fumonisin B1. However, S. novakii successfully eliminated zearalenone, likely due to cell wall adsorption rather than enzymatic degradation.

CONCLUSIONS: This study highlights the potential of S. novakii for zearalenone detoxification and emphasizes the role of yeast cell walls in mycotoxin mitigation strategies.},
}

*Zearalenone/metabolism
Phylogeny
*Mycotoxins/metabolism
Fusarium/growth & development/drug effects
*Saccharomycetales/metabolism/genetics/classification
Trichothecenes/metabolism
Fumonisins/metabolism
T-2 Toxin/metabolism

@article {pmid40624566,
year = {2025},
author = {Varga, Z and Csiba, R and Ábrahám, Á and Pásztor, D and Németh, C and Kemenesi, G and Bányai, K and Kurucz, K},
title = {Investigating the impact of endemic mosquitoes and invasive Aedes species on the circulation of Dirofilaria nematodes.},
journal = {Parasites & vectors},
volume = {18},
number = {1},
pages = {266},
pmid = {40624566},
issn = {1756-3305},
support = {RRF-2.3.1-21-2022-00006 "National Laboratory for Health Security"//National Research, Development and Innovation Office/ ; RRF-2.3.1-21-2022-00006 "National Laboratory for Health Security"//National Research, Development and Innovation Office/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Aedes/parasitology ; *Mosquito Vectors/parasitology ; Hungary/epidemiology ; *Introduced Species ; *Dirofilariasis/transmission/epidemiology/parasitology ; Humans ; *Dirofilaria/isolation & purification/genetics/classification ; Prevalence ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Mosquito-borne pathogens represent a growing challenge driven by environmental changes and the spread of invasive Aedes mosquitoes. Among pathogens endemic in Europe, Dirofilaria nematodes are of particular concern due to the increasing number of human infections. To understand their zoonotic potential, we aimed to assess the prevalence of filarioid nematodes in mosquitoes and reveal the potential vector species, considering their feeding behavior.

METHODS: Mosquitoes were collected from urban/suburban environments (Pécs, Hungary) in 2022-2023 and tested for the presence of filarioid nematodes using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and DNA sequencing. Estimated infection rates with 95% CI were calculated, and descriptive statistics were applied.

RESULTS: Among 1015 tested mosquito pools (belonging to 21 species), 30 were positive for filarioid nematodes, including D. repens, D. immitis, Setaria tundra, and Setaria labiatopapillosa, with the highest prevalence and widest distribution of S. tundra. We revealed hotspots in the city where multiple filarioid species occurred. The presence of D. repens, relevant for humans, was confirmed in urban and suburban areas and near human infection cases. Among mosquitoes, Aedes vexans showed the highest positivity, harboring all identified parasites, while invasive Aedes albopictus and Aedes koreicus showed minimal/no infections. Moreover, we identified S. labiatopapillosa in urban areas in Hungary for the first time.

CONCLUSIONS: Our findings highlight the potential role of Ae. vexans in transmission dynamics, while no evidence was found for the contribution of invasive mosquitoes, likely due to local environmental and behavioral factors. Our results emphasize the need for targeted vector monitoring and research to understand mosquito-borne parasites' epidemiology and public health implications, particularly in regions affected by invasive mosquitoes.},
}

Animals
*Aedes/parasitology
*Mosquito Vectors/parasitology
Hungary/epidemiology
*Introduced Species
*Dirofilariasis/transmission/epidemiology/parasitology
Humans
*Dirofilaria/isolation & purification/genetics/classification
Prevalence

@article {pmid40621983,
year = {2025},
author = {Xu, B and Meng, R and Zhao, P and Zhao, F and Wang, Y and Deng, W and Yang, X and Liu, J and Tian, H},
title = {Uncovering dominant drivers of Erigeron annuus distribution in Dajiuhu-Shennongjia wetland using multiscale remote sensing data.},
journal = {Pest management science},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/ps.70033},
pmid = {40621983},
issn = {1526-4998},
support = {42471362//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2022ZX01A25//Key Research and Development Program of Heilongjiang, China/ ; JD2023GJ01//Key Research and Development Program of Heilongjiang, China/ ; 2662021JC010//HZAU/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: As a pernicious invasive species, Erigeron annuus (L.) pers. (EAP) poses a significant threat to the biodiversity and ecosystem in Dajiuhu-Shennongjia, China. Predicting potential areas of EAP invasion is essential for improving management efficiency and minimizing resource waste. Thus, we developed a new flowering index called the Erigeron Annuus Index (EAI) and combined it with multisource data fusion to map the EAP distribution, then built a predictive model using EAP occurrence data along with geographic and environmental drivers.

RESULTS: The EAI index performed well with both unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and satellite platforms [UAV: overall accuracy (OA) = 91.8%, Marco-F1 = 0.917; WorldView-2: OA = 65.9%, Marco-F1 = 0.658; PlanetScope: OA = 78.6%, Marco-F1 = 0.781]. Incorporating texture (e.g., vegetation roughness and heterogeneity) and temporal features (e.g., seasonal changes in reflectance) further improved accuracy at the satellite platforms (WorldView-2: OA = 77.6%, Marco-F1 = 0.776; PlanetScope: OA = 82.1%, Marco-F1 = 0.817). The predictive model demonstrated the ability to predict EAP distribution based on mean precipitation in September, distance to roads, elevation and slope aspect (OA = 75.7%, Marco-F1 = 0.761).

CONCLUSION: The framework developed in this study can accurately monitor and predict the EAP distribution, providing crucial support for identifying potential invasion areas. The driver analysis results imply that resource availability and human activity are likely to be the drivers of the EAP dispersal. These findings will provide a scientific basis for the management of invasive species. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.},
}

@article {pmid40577982,
year = {2025},
author = {Oliveira, AGL and Alves, JA and Ramos-de-Souza, J and Saint'Pierre, TD and Mello-Silva, CC and Hauser-Davis, RA and Saggioro, EM},
title = {Metal and metalloid bioaccumulation and oxidative stress in the invasive bivalve Mytilopsis leucophaeata (Bivalvia, Dreissenidae) from a highly anthropogenically-impacted coastal lagoon in Southeastern Brazil.},
journal = {Marine pollution bulletin},
volume = {219},
number = {},
pages = {118336},
doi = {10.1016/j.marpolbul.2025.118336},
pmid = {40577982},
issn = {1879-3363},
mesh = {Animals ; *Oxidative Stress ; Brazil ; *Water Pollutants, Chemical/metabolism ; *Environmental Monitoring ; *Metals/metabolism ; Bioaccumulation ; *Metalloids/metabolism ; *Bivalvia/metabolism ; Introduced Species ; },
abstract = {Bivalves are adequate aquatic pollutant bioindicators due to their sessile and filter-feeding habits. However, not many studies have been carried out on elemental concentrations in the invasive Mytilopsis leucophaeata, despite its wide geographical distribution, and no assessments on biochemical metal and metalloid effects are available for this species. This study investigated elemental contamination associated to oxidative stress in M. leucophaeata for the first time in an anthropically impacted lagoon in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. A total of 240 mussels were sampled between 2022 and 2023, 60 per sampling season. Metals and metalloids were quantified in soft tissues and lagoon surface water by ICP-MS and reduced glutathione (GSH), lipid peroxidation (LPO) and protein carbonylation (PTC) were measured. New COI and ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 sequences for this species are provided. Most elements were higher in spring and summer. Significant strong correlations were observed between several essential and toxic elements, such as Co vs. As, Cu vs. As, Cu vs. Cd and Zn vs. As, with all detected correlations presenting r values over 0.84. The highest PTC and GSH were observed in summer (472.5 μmol g[-1]) and autumn (0.65 μmol g[-1]), while LPO was higher in spring and summer (935.0 and 760.4 μmol g[-1], respectively) alongside higher elemental concentrations. These findings indicate that elemental contamination is significantly associated to oxidative stress profiles and that in M. leucophaeata is an adequate biomonitoring tool concerning metal and metalloid effects. Finally, M. leucophaeata were deemed unsafe for consumption due to high As, Cr, Se, and Zn levels, exceeding national and international safety limits.},
}

Animals
*Oxidative Stress
Brazil
*Water Pollutants, Chemical/metabolism
*Environmental Monitoring
*Metals/metabolism
Bioaccumulation
*Metalloids/metabolism
*Bivalvia/metabolism
Introduced Species

@article {pmid40621896,
year = {2025},
author = {Yue, K and Li, Y and Gao, Z and Liang, Y and Lu, Y and Wang, L},
title = {Advancing biocontrol strategies for red imported fire ants with emerging technologies.},
journal = {Pest management science},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/ps.70038},
pmid = {40621896},
issn = {1526-4998},
support = {//Guangdong Special Support Program-Leading Talents in Science and Technology Innovation/ ; //Key-Area Research and Development Program of Guangdong Province/ ; //Science and Technology Talent and Platform Project of Yunnan/ ; },
abstract = {The red imported fire ant (Solenopsis invicta), ranked among the world's most invasive species, poses severe threats to biodiversity, agriculture, and public health, causing profound economic and ecological damage. Chemical insecticides remain the primary means of control once S. invicta becomes established, but their extensive use has led to environmental degradation and the evolution of resistance, highlighting the urgent need for innovative and sustainable alternatives. This review examines the current state of biological control resources for S. invicta, highlighting their effectiveness, limitations, and critical challenges, including environmental adaptability and non-target effects. To overcome these barriers, we explore advancements in genetic engineering, RNA interference, remote sensing, and artificial intelligence, which hold the potential to revolutionize biocontrol approaches by enhancing precision, efficiency, and sustainability. Building on these innovations, we propose a 'smart biocontrol system' that integrates real-time environmental monitoring with genetically optimized biocontrol agents, potentially supplemented by pest-resistant crops as one of several complementary strategies. This precision-driven framework minimizes ecological disruption while maximizing control efficacy, providing a scalable, long-term solution to S. invicta management. By uniting traditional biocontrol with state-of-the-art technologies, this approach envisions a transformative pathway for managing invasive species globally, aiming to establish a benchmark for future environmentally responsible pest control strategies. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.},
}

@article {pmid40621657,
year = {2025},
author = {Marcolin, F and Mammola, S and Alba, R and Segurado, P and Reino, L and Chamberlain, D},
title = {Socio-Economic Status and Non-Native Species Drive Bird Ecosystem Service Provision in Urban Areas.},
journal = {Global change biology},
volume = {31},
number = {7},
pages = {e70311},
doi = {10.1111/gcb.70311},
pmid = {40621657},
issn = {1365-2486},
support = {2020.06036.BD//Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia/ ; CEECIND/00445/2017//Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia/ ; PTDC/BIA-ECO/0207/2020//Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia/ ; CN_00000033//NextGenerationEU/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Birds/physiology ; Cities ; *Biodiversity ; Spain ; *Ecosystem ; Portugal ; *Introduced Species ; Socioeconomic Factors ; *Conservation of Natural Resources ; },
abstract = {Areas of higher socio-economic status within cities often support greater biodiversity than poorer areas, representing a form of environmental injustice. This inequality may result in lower income areas experiencing both lower cultural (e.g., bird aesthetics) and regulating (e.g., pest control) ecosystem service provision. Urban areas are also hotspots for non-native species, which can alter community functional structure and, consequently, ecosystem service provision. However, the influence of socio-economic status on services provided by both native and non-native urban biodiversity remains underexplored. We assessed how functional diversity related to avian cultural and regulating ecosystem services varied along the socio-economic gradient of functional urban areas (FUAs) in the Iberian Peninsula. Using breeding bird atlases from Spain and Portugal, we characterised bird communities in all FUAs, calculating species richness and functional dispersion based on traits linked to ecosystem services. We used generalised linear mixed models to examine relationships between diversity metrics and median household income. Additionally, we evaluated whether the presence of non-native species moderated community responses along the gradient. Both cultural and regulating ecosystem services were negatively associated with socio-economic status, while species richness increased with income. However, invaded communities supported higher species richness and cultural service provision than non-invaded ones. Our findings reveal a counterintuitive pattern in which ecosystem service provision is higher in lower-income areas, partly due to non-native species. These results underscore the need for urban management strategies that simultaneously address socio-economic and ecological inequalities, while considering the complex roles of non-native species in shaping urban biodiversity and its benefits.},
}

Animals
*Birds/physiology
Cities
*Biodiversity
Spain
*Ecosystem
Portugal
*Introduced Species
Socioeconomic Factors
*Conservation of Natural Resources

@article {pmid40621612,
year = {2025},
author = {Macdonald, KJ and Driscoll, DA and Craig, MD and Davis, RA and Hromada, SJ and Gienger, CM and Fitzgerald, LA and Leavitt, DJ and Walkup, DK and Abom, R and Wayne, AF and Friend, GR and Johnson, B and Stokeld, D and Dickman, CR and Thompson, SA and Thompson, GG and Bohórquez Fandiño, DF and Woolley, CK and Smith, AL and Irvine, C and Jessop, TS and Keehn, JE and Feldman, CR and Santos, X and Belliure, J and Pausas, JG and Weiss, SL and Fleming, PA and Dundas, S and Westaway, DM and Duncan, SE and Doherty, TS},
title = {Cross-Continental Analysis Shows That Disturbance Effects on Reptile Body Condition Do Not Predict Abundance Responses.},
journal = {Global change biology},
volume = {31},
number = {7},
pages = {e70295},
doi = {10.1111/gcb.70295},
pmid = {40621612},
issn = {1365-2486},
support = {//Parks Victoria/ ; //Barrick Kanowna/ ; //Norilsk Nickel/ ; //Northern Australian Environmental Resources Hub/ ; //Northern Territory Department of Lands, Planning and Environment/ ; //Australian Government's National Environmental Science Program/ ; //Charles Darwin University/ ; //OMG Cawse Nickel Operations/ ; AD9031596//Australian Research Council/ ; LP170101134//Australian Research Council/ ; //Edith Cowan University/ ; //Holsworth Wildlife Research Endowment/ ; //Placer Dome Asia Pacific Kalgoorlie West Operations/ ; //M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust/ ; A18615230//Australian Research Grant Scheme/ ; //Threatened Species Recovery Hub/ ; //Minerals Research Institute of Western Australia/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Reptiles/physiology ; *Ecosystem ; New Zealand ; Population Dynamics ; Australia ; Spain ; Population Density ; United States ; },
abstract = {Ecological disturbances are discrete events that alter or transform the physical, chemical, or biological characteristics of ecosystems. Disturbance can cause animal populations to decline and, according to the risk-disturbance hypothesis and population collapse framework, these declines can be predicted by declines in animal body condition. However, no research has empirically examined the general relationship between body condition and abundance, nor their relationship in response to disturbance. We used a combined dataset representing 33 studies and > 42,000 observations of 75 species from Australia, New Zealand, Spain and the United States of America to test predictions relating to the relationship between reptile body condition and abundance. We first investigated the relationship at the site level and then used meta-analytical models to test whether populations showed linked changes in abundance and body condition in response to disturbance. We further tested whether key environmental and species traits influenced this relationship and whether there was a time-lagged effect of body condition responses on abundance. We found a positive relationship between mean reptile body condition and abundance at the site level. However, the relationship was largely lost when investigating population responses to disturbance. As such, our results provided no support for the risk-disturbance hypothesis and limited support for the population collapse framework. Therefore, the impacts of disturbance on reptile body condition cannot be assumed to reflect or predict abundance responses. We provide a new conceptual framework that shows how disturbances can modify or uncouple the relationship between abundance and body condition by influencing underlying drivers, such as predation, competition and resource availability. Monitoring programs that infer population impacts based on changes in body condition should first confirm the relationship between these two variables in the relevant study system.},
}

Animals
*Reptiles/physiology
*Ecosystem
New Zealand
Population Dynamics
Australia
Spain
Population Density
United States

@article {pmid40620582,
year = {2025},
author = {Soto, KM and Edmonds, D and Colton, AL and Britton, MR and Hardin, FO and Fischer, EK},
title = {Fortune may favor the flexible: environment-dependent behavioral shifts in invasive coquí frogs.},
journal = {Current zoology},
volume = {71},
number = {3},
pages = {362-372},
pmid = {40620582},
issn = {1674-5507},
abstract = {Biological invasions are a major driver of global biodiversity loss, impacting endemic species, ecosystems, and economies. Although the influence of life history traits on invasive success is well-established, the role of behavior in the invasive potential of animals is less studied. The common coquí frog, Eleutherodactylus coqui, is a highly successful invader in Hawai'i. We build on previous research characterizing changes in physiology and morphology to explore behavioral variation across the invasive range of coquí in Hawai'i. Coquí have expanded both outward and upward from their initial introduction site, and-by comparing frogs from different densities and elevations-we specifically asked how the physiological challenges of high-elevation living interact with the competitive challenge of high-densities at population centers. To investigate whether differences in the field represent local adaptation or behavioral plasticity, we additionally evaluated behavior following acclimation to a shared laboratory environment. Although we identified only subtle behavioral variation among populations in the field, we found that individuals from all populations became less bold, active, and exploratory in the laboratory, converging on a similar behavioral phenotype. Alongside previous work, our results suggest that coquí adjust their behavior to local environmental conditions across their invasive range and that behavioral flexibility may contribute to invasive success.},
}

@article {pmid40616113,
year = {2025},
author = {Ramdini, C and Calvez, E and Houy, O and Gréaux, C and Dollin, C and Pocquet, N and Almeras, L and Sonor, F and Déliscar-Jourdan, G and Vega-Rúa, A},
title = {First report of Aedes albopictus in Saint Barthélemy (French West Indies) confirmed by morphological, molecular and MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry approaches.},
journal = {Parasites & vectors},
volume = {18},
number = {1},
pages = {258},
pmid = {40616113},
issn = {1756-3305},
support = {"Une santé" 2021-2027//Programme Opérationnel FEDER-Guadeloupe-Conseil Regional/ ; "Une santé" 2021-2027//Programme Opérationnel FEDER-Guadeloupe-Conseil Regional/ ; "Une santé" 2021-2027//Programme Opérationnel FEDER-Guadeloupe-Conseil Regional/ ; ARS/DSS/N°2023-08//Collaboration convention Regional Health Agency and Institut Pasteur Guadeloupe/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Aedes/genetics/anatomy & histology/classification ; Spectrometry, Mass, Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption-Ionization ; *Mosquito Vectors/anatomy & histology/genetics/classification ; Guadeloupe ; Electron Transport Complex IV/genetics ; Introduced Species ; Female ; },
abstract = {Aedes albopictus is a mosquito vector of arboviruses that is native to southeast Asia. However, this invasive species has spread worldwide. It arrived in the Caribbean in 1993, but had never been recorded in the French Territories of the Americas. We report here the first detection of Aedes albopictus in Saint Barthélemy, Guadeloupe confirmed by morphological criteria, matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS), and cytochrome c oxidase 1 (cox1) gene barcoding. The presence of this invasive mosquito species in Saint Barthélemy, an island with daily aerial or maritime connections to the French Departments of the Americas, raises concerns about the risk of its introduction into these territories, as well as into other Caribbean countries. It also emphasizes the urgent need to locally reinforce vector surveillance and control measures to prevent the further spread of this mosquito vector.},
}

Animals
*Aedes/genetics/anatomy & histology/classification
Spectrometry, Mass, Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption-Ionization
*Mosquito Vectors/anatomy & histology/genetics/classification
Guadeloupe
Electron Transport Complex IV/genetics
Introduced Species
Female

@article {pmid40615450,
year = {2025},
author = {Qin, Y and Wang, Z and Li, J},
title = {Chromosome-level genome assembly of Ceroplastes pseudoceriferus Green, 1935 (Hemiptera: Coccidae).},
journal = {Scientific data},
volume = {12},
number = {1},
pages = {1147},
pmid = {40615450},
issn = {2052-4463},
mesh = {Animals ; *Hemiptera/genetics ; *Genome, Insect ; Molecular Sequence Annotation ; *Chromosomes, Insect ; },
abstract = {Soft scales (Hemiptera: Coccidae) are significant polyphagous pests and majority of which are invasive species. The 364.14 Mb chromosome-level genome of Ceroplastes pseudoceriferus was assembled in this work, with a contig N50 length of 6.16 Mb and scafold N50 length of 21.24 Mb. Approximately 99.89% of assembled sequences were anchored into 18 chromosomes with the assistance of Hi-C reads. Furthermore, approximately 53.98% of the genome was composed of repetitive elements. In total, 10,475 protein-coding genes were predicted, of which 9503 (90.72%) genes were functionally annotated. The BUSCO analysis demonstrated the completeness of the genome annotation is 92.54%. This genome represents first high-quality chromosome level assembly of Coccidae, thereby advancing our knowledge of Coccidae insects and developing effective management strategies that protect crops, forests, and natural ecosystems.},
}

Animals
*Hemiptera/genetics
*Genome, Insect
Molecular Sequence Annotation
*Chromosomes, Insect

@article {pmid40159998,
year = {2025},
author = {Iglesias-Carrasco, M and Torres, J and Cruz-Dubon, A and Candolin, U and Wong, BBM and Velo-Antón, G},
title = {Global impacts of exotic eucalypt plantations on wildlife.},
journal = {Biological reviews of the Cambridge Philosophical Society},
volume = {100},
number = {4},
pages = {1734-1753},
doi = {10.1111/brv.70022},
pmid = {40159998},
issn = {1469-185X},
support = {PID2022-137901NB-I00//Spanish Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities/ ; DOC_00453//Junta de Andalucia/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Eucalyptus ; *Animals, Wild/physiology ; *Conservation of Natural Resources ; *Ecosystem ; Forestry ; *Introduced Species ; Biodiversity ; },
abstract = {The establishment of exotic tree plantations poses a pervasive threat to wildlife across the globe. Among the most important tree species used for forestry purposes worldwide are members of the genus Eucalyptus, which have now been established in at least 107 countries outside of their native range. When introduced into non-native areas, eucalypt plantations are associated with myriad novel challenges for native fauna, and have often been associated with reductions in the biodiversity of local communities. However, similar to other anthropogenic habitats, eucalypt plantations can also create novel opportunities for species that can allow them to survive and thrive in these novel environments. In this review, we use eucalypt plantations as a case study for understanding the ecological and evolutionary responses of wildlife to anthropogenic habitat loss and change. We begin by summarising the main avenues of research addressing the study of wildlife responses at the individual, community, and ecosystem levels, and highlight critical research gaps. We also consider the characteristics of different types of eucalypt plantations and how such attributes are linked with the ability of animals to respond appropriately to the establishment of plantations, and summarise important considerations for the conservation of animal communities in these human-altered habitats.},
}

Animals
*Eucalyptus
*Animals, Wild/physiology
*Conservation of Natural Resources
*Ecosystem
Forestry
*Introduced Species
Biodiversity

@article {pmid40611690,
year = {2025},
author = {Liang, Y and Song, Y and Hong, J and Ou, Y and Chen, M and Wu, J and Chen, H and Liang, M and Lu, Y},
title = {Arthropod diversity dynamics in guava and cherimoya plantations affected by Solenopsis invicta invasion.},
journal = {Insect science},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/1744-7917.70119},
pmid = {40611690},
issn = {1744-7917},
support = {2022B1111030002//Key-Area Research and Development Program of Guangdong Province/ ; 2021YFD1000500//National Key Research and Development Program of China/ ; 2025B04J0001//Key Research and Development Program of Guangzhou/ ; 2023TX07A017//Guangdong Special Support Program-Leading Talents in Science and Technology Innovation/ ; 202405AF140082//Science and Technology Talent and Platform Project of Yunnan (Academician and Expert Workstation)/ ; 2023YFN0030//Key Research and Development Program of Science and Technology in Sichuan Province/ ; },
abstract = {The red imported fire ant (Solenopsis invicta, RIFA) is one of the most ecologically disruptive invasive species, yet its impacts on arthropod biodiversity within subtropical orchard agroecosystems-particularly guava (Psidium guajava) and cherimoya (Annona cherimola) plantations-remain insufficiently quantified. This study investigated how RIFA invasion influences arthropod community composition, diversity and trophic group dynamics across these 2 plantation systems in southern China. Results indicated that RIFA invasions significantly reduced both order- and family-level richness and evenness. Arthropod order richness declined markedly in invaded areas, with only 8 orders detected in invaded cherimoya plots compared to 11 in non-invaded plots. At the family level, diversity decreased by 75% in guava plantations (from 8 to 2 families) and by 60% in cherimoya plantations (from 10 to 4 families). In invaded plots, RIFAs constituted over 80% of the total arthropod population. Hedges' g effect sizes further revealed substantial increases in overall arthropod abundance (+277.62%) and RIFA-specific abundance (+357.42%), coupled with significant declines in family richness (-16.29%) and non-RIFA arthropod abundance (-22.78%). Piecewise structural equation modeling indicated that RIFA exerted strong, negative impacts on detritivores and omnivores, while herbivores were less affected, indirectly suppressing predators by reducing their prey base. Collectively, these findings suggested that RIFA invasion drove pronounced taxonomic homogenization, functional simplification and trophic imbalance within agricultural landscapes. Effective, long-term monitoring and biodiversity-focused management strategies are urgently needed to mitigate the ecological degradation driven by RIFA invasions in these critical agroecosystems.},
}

@article {pmid40610560,
year = {2025},
author = {El-Alfy, MA and Abd El-Hamid, HT and Kacem, HA and Keshta, AE},
title = {Assessment of invasive aquatic plant dynamics in the Lake Burullus wetland complex integrating remote sensing techniques.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {23701},
pmid = {40610560},
issn = {2045-2322},
mesh = {*Wetlands ; *Remote Sensing Technology/methods ; *Introduced Species ; *Lakes ; Water Quality ; Egypt ; Environmental Monitoring/methods ; Nitrogen/analysis ; Biodiversity ; Seasons ; },
abstract = {The spread of invasive aquatic species in canals and wetlands poses significant challenges, including reduced water availability, disruption of native biodiversity, and obstruction of irrigation infrastructure. This study examines the distribution and environmental associations of two prominent invasive species Pontederia crassipes and Pistia stratiotes within the Lake Burullus wetland in Egypt. Field surveys were conducted to assess plant morphology and abundance, alongside measurements of water quality parameters including dissolved oxygen (DO), phosphate (PO4-P), ammonium (NH4-N), nitrite (NO2-N), nitrate (NO3-N), total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorus (TP), turbidity, and oxidizable organic matter (OOM). Remote sensing data, particularly the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), were used to monitor the spatial and seasonal dynamics of Pontederia in the Elshaklouba drain. The findings indicated that plant abundance was associated with specific water quality variables; however causality could not be determined due to the observational design of the study. NDVI analysis confirmed increased Pontederia densities during the summer months, consistent with field observations. The study also documented local management practices, primarily mechanical removal and the use of physical barriers, and briefly compared these with biological and integrated control strategies reported in recent literature. Additionally, the potential application of these species in phytoremediation and bioenergy applications is discussed, underscoring their dual role as both ecological threats and potential resources.},
}

*Wetlands
*Remote Sensing Technology/methods
*Introduced Species
*Lakes
Water Quality
Egypt
Environmental Monitoring/methods
Nitrogen/analysis
Biodiversity
Seasons

@article {pmid40609430,
year = {2025},
author = {Shi, X and Li, WT and van Kleunen, M and Li, L and Zheng, YL},
title = {Indirect competitive advantages of invasive over native plants under multiple stressors.},
journal = {Journal of environmental management},
volume = {391},
number = {},
pages = {126422},
doi = {10.1016/j.jenvman.2025.126422},
pmid = {40609430},
issn = {1095-8630},
abstract = {The success of invasive alien plants is often ascribed to competitive advantages they have over native plants. Based on differences in intra- and interspecific competition, we propose three mechanisms: invasive species may alleviate intraspecific competition (self-regulation hypothesis); invasive species exert stronger suppressive effects on native species than other invasive species (competitive suppression hypothesis); invasive species tend to exhibit greater tolerance to native neighbors than native species (competitive tolerance hypothesis). In addition, we consider that competitive advantages can also be dependent on environmental factors, although few studies have tested this. Here, we tested the different mechanisms and their context dependence in a large competition experiment using two aliens and five co-occurring native plants in the presence and absence of an herbivorous snail, under drought and well-watered conditions, and with low and high phosphorus availability. Although intraspecific competition did not significantly differ between the alien and native species, we found that natives had a more negative neighbor effect on other natives than on aliens under well-watered conditions, particularly when there was also phosphorus limitation or herbivory. Similarly, aliens were worse neighbors for natives than for other aliens under well-watered conditions. Overall, these results suggest that conditions of non-limiting water availability, particularly when combined with phosphorus limitation or the presence of herbivores, might result in successful invasion by alien species.},
}

@article {pmid40609146,
year = {2025},
author = {Motloung, RF and Chaisi, ME and Sibiya, MS and Nyangiwe, N and Shivambu, TC},
title = {Predicting tick distributions in a changing climate: An ensemble approach for South Africa.},
journal = {Veterinary parasitology},
volume = {338},
number = {},
pages = {110528},
doi = {10.1016/j.vetpar.2025.110528},
pmid = {40609146},
issn = {1873-2550},
abstract = {Predicting the potential distribution of disease vectors is crucial for vector management and disease transmission surveillance. This study aims to assess changes in the geographic projection of the ecological niche of ticks of veterinary, public health, and economic importance in South Africa, and to predict areas suitable for their establishment under current and future climate scenarios. We used a suite of six algorithms within the ensemble modelling framework of the biomod2 package in R version 4.4.2 to produce species distribution models for current (2021-2040) and future (2041-2060) climate scenarios. Six bioclimatic variables, representing a range of biophysical and anthropogenic factors, were used in combination with tick presence-only occurrence data submitted to SANBI's Integrated Publishing Toolkit by tick species experts. The model outputs indicate that all 10 tick species will likely experience range shifts over time (2021-2060). All species are projected to gain significant portions of suitable ranges in the future. Notably, Rhipicephalus microplus is predicted to gain the most, with a 14 % increase in its suitable range in South Africa. This predicted range expansion could potentially disrupt ecological balances in the ecosystems it is likely to occupy. Native species such as Amblyomma hebraeum and Hyalomma rufipes are predicted to expand their ranges by 10 and 9 %, respectively, while others may gain less than 6 % of their potential ranges The overall predicted range expansion could also introduce new disease dynamics, potentially leading to increased pathogen transmission, host switching and higher incidences of diseases in humans and animals in currently unaffected areas. The study provides baseline information to support ongoing monitoring and adaptive management strategies to mitigate the negative impacts associated with ticks on ecosystems, public health, and agriculture. The results will help inform tick control programs in South Africa and other similar environments. South Africa must adopt a comprehensive One Health approach to tick management to address the challenges posed by invasive species like R. microplus, which threaten livestock health and have significant veterinary and economic impacts.},
}

@article {pmid40607628,
year = {2025},
author = {Jackson, D and McNew, S},
title = {The Invasion History of New Zealand Starlings Revealed by Whole Genome Sequencing and Historical Records.},
journal = {Molecular ecology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e70016},
doi = {10.1111/mec.70016},
pmid = {40607628},
issn = {1365-294X},
}

@article {pmid40607565,
year = {2025},
author = {Zeng, ZY and Yu, HX and Zhou, QM and You, JJ and Li, WH},
title = {The role of ammonia-oxidizing microorganisms in the replacement of Mikania micrantha by Pueraria lobata.},
journal = {Ying yong sheng tai xue bao = The journal of applied ecology},
volume = {36},
number = {6},
pages = {1849-1858},
doi = {10.13287/j.1001-9332.202506.006},
pmid = {40607565},
issn = {1001-9332},
mesh = {*Pueraria/growth & development ; *Ammonia/metabolism ; Oxidation-Reduction ; *Mikania/growth & development ; *Soil Microbiology ; Nitrification ; Nitrogen/metabolism/analysis ; *Introduced Species ; Soil/chemistry ; *Bacteria/metabolism ; Ecosystem ; },
abstract = {We investigated the role of ammonia-oxidizing microorganisms in the process of Pueraria lobata replacement for controlling the invasive plant, Mikania micrantha. We examined the effects of P. lobata replacement on the regeneration of M. micrantha, plant nitrogen absorption, soil nitrogen transformation, and ammonia-oxidizing microbial communities. The results demonstrated that one year after P. lobata replacement, there were significant increases in soil total nitrogen (109.4%), ammonium (78.1%), and nitrate (20.3%), accompanied by a remarkable 213.0% elevation in the net nitrification rate. The ammonia-oxidizing bacteria AOB-amoA gene copy number was significantly increased, which was positively correlated with soil total nitrogen and nitrate nitrogen. Results of random forest model analysis showed that comammox clade A.2 and AOB jointly dominated the nitrification process. The soil net nitrification rate, AOB-amoA gene copy number, and plant tissue total nitrogen content were identified as the primary factors influencing the relative cover of P. lobata. The enhanced activity of ammonia-oxidizing microorganisms improved soil nitrogen conversion efficiency, giving P. lobata a competitive advantage over M. micrantha in nitrogen uptake and accumulation, thereby effectively inhibiting the regeneration of M. micrantha.},
}

*Pueraria/growth & development
*Ammonia/metabolism
Oxidation-Reduction
*Mikania/growth & development
*Soil Microbiology
Nitrification
Nitrogen/metabolism/analysis
*Introduced Species
Soil/chemistry
*Bacteria/metabolism
Ecosystem

@article {pmid40607555,
year = {2025},
author = {Chen, MY and Liang, ZY and Shu, Q and Nao, ZC and Chen, Y and Zeng, ZF and LA, Q and Wang, JW},
title = {Predicting potential distribution and adaptability of the invasive plant Bidens pilosa in China based on the MaxEnt model.},
journal = {Ying yong sheng tai xue bao = The journal of applied ecology},
volume = {36},
number = {6},
pages = {1749-1758},
doi = {10.13287/j.1001-9332.202506.028},
pmid = {40607555},
issn = {1001-9332},
mesh = {China ; *Introduced Species ; *Ecosystem ; *Bidens/growth & development/physiology ; Climate Change ; *Models, Theoretical ; Forecasting ; *Adaptation, Physiological ; Conservation of Natural Resources ; },
abstract = {Bidens pilosa, a globally invasive plant species, poses a significant threat to ecosystems and agricultural production in China. To evaluate its potential expansion in China, particularly its habitat suitability under climate change, we predicted its distribution with natural distribution data and 31 environmental variables (climate, soil, topography, and human activity factors) under the MaxEnt model. Future changes in suitable habitats were simulated under the SSP245 and SSP585 climate scenarios. The results showed that the model exhibited high predictive accuracy, with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.89. Temperature and precipitation were the primary influencing factors, accounting for 82.6% and 12.6% of the contribution, respectively. Currently, suitable habitats were predominantly located in southern and central-eastern China. The suitable habitats were projected to expand toward eastern and northern Tibet, particularly into ecologically fragile regions such as the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. Therefore, climate change would exacerbate invasion risks.},
}

China
*Introduced Species
*Ecosystem
*Bidens/growth & development/physiology
Climate Change
*Models, Theoretical
Forecasting
*Adaptation, Physiological
Conservation of Natural Resources

@article {pmid40607497,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, Y and Li, Y and Shuai, F and Britton, JR and Li, J},
title = {Phylogenetic Relatedness Predicts Extinction Risk of Native Freshwater Fishes From Non-Native Fishes Across a Latitudinal Gradient.},
journal = {Global change biology},
volume = {31},
number = {7},
pages = {e70320},
doi = {10.1111/gcb.70320},
pmid = {40607497},
issn = {1365-2486},
support = {32002391//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; //Pearl River Fishery Resources and Habitat Investigation Project funded by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs/ ; 2023TD10//Pearl River Fisheries Resources Investigation & Evaluation Group Project/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Fishes/genetics/physiology/classification ; *Phylogeny ; *Extinction, Biological ; *Introduced Species ; Fresh Water ; Ecosystem ; },
abstract = {The strength of the interspecific interactions between non-native and native species influences the subsequent invasion impacts, with stronger interactions and thus more severe impacts predicted when the species are phylogenetically close and co-exist at lower latitudes. Although work demonstrates non-native fish are more likely to invade areas which have phylogenetically closely related species present, the impacts of these invaders on the native species remain poorly understood. Accordingly, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of global freshwater fish occurrence data to test the phylogenetic niche conservatism hypothesis in co-occurring native and non-native freshwater fishes, assess whether non-native fishes drive extinctions of phylogenetically closely related native species, and evaluate how this varies with latitude. Phylogenetic niche conservatism was evident in co-occurring non-native and native fishes, with their morphometric trait dissimilarity significantly correlated with their phylogenetic distance. Extinct freshwater fishes were found to be more closely related to co-occurred non-native species than were species of other conservation statuses. However, the relationship between the extinction probability of native freshwater fishes and their phylogenetic relatedness to non-native species was context-dependent, varying with latitude and across biogeographical realms. At higher latitudes, native fishes closely related to non-native species had a higher probability of extinction, whereas at lower latitudes, closely related native species were less likely to become extinct. Thus, the extinction risks posed by non-native fish vary spatially and depend on their phylogenetic relatedness to native species, both of which are recommended for consideration in invasion risk management programmes.},
}

Animals
*Fishes/genetics/physiology/classification
*Phylogeny
*Extinction, Biological
*Introduced Species
Fresh Water
Ecosystem

@article {pmid40605760,
year = {2025},
author = {Lueje, YR and Jácome, A and Fagúndez, J and Servia, MJ},
title = {Trapping is not effective for limiting damage by Vespa velutina in vineyards.},
journal = {Pest management science},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/ps.70031},
pmid = {40605760},
issn = {1526-4998},
support = {//Program LEADER Galicia 2014-2020/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Vespa velutina is an invasive hornet that harms biodiversity, human health and agricultural products such as grapes. The use of baited traps is a popular method among producers to counteract its impact. However, their efficiency in agricultural settings has not been tested systematically. We investigated whether the use of traps is an effective method to reduce damage in vineyards, as well as the influence of trap and vineyard characteristics on the captures of V. velutina and nontarget insects in two areas of Galicia, NW Spain.

RESULTS: We observed significant differences in bunch damage by V. velutina among and within areas, but unrelated to grape sugar content. We found no evidence of any positive effect of trapping in reducing damage, even if the density of traps is doubled or tripled. Commercial traps capture higher numbers of V. velutina and by-catch than homemade traps. Captures of V. velutina peaked in summer, and no significant differences were observed between areas or plots, whereas captures of by-catch were highly variable.

CONCLUSION: The multifactorial nature of V. velutina damage in vineyards, and the high proportion and diversity of by-catch in traps make trap use unadvisable based on the present state of knowledge. Notwithstanding this, trapping before harvesting, when most damage happens, showed the highest selectivity and thus, was the least harmful trapping system to native entomofauna. More sustainable and effective methods of vineyard management and crop protection should be tested to guarantee the future of this productive sector in highly invaded areas. © 2025 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.},
}

@article {pmid40603999,
year = {2025},
author = {Cui, L and Qiu, J and Berger, U and Cao, M and Li, W and Jiang, J},
title = {Comparing and quantifying the ecological niches of the saltmarsh grass Spartina alterniflora and major mangrove species in China.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {23604},
pmid = {40603999},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {Jiangxi Forestry [2022] No.40, [2022] No.382//Wetland Conservation and Restoration Project Subsidy by Central Finance/ ; 41701225//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2022SY06//Zhejiang Forestry Science and Technology Project/ ; },
mesh = {China ; *Poaceae/physiology ; *Wetlands ; Introduced Species ; *Ecosystem ; *Rhizophoraceae/physiology ; Species Specificity ; },
abstract = {The concept of niche similarity is crucial for understanding species invasions. An in-depth understanding of different niches can aid in developing effective control strategies, not only at the community level but also in population interactions. In this study, we investigated the invasion of Spartina alterniflora in China by selecting nine major mangrove species along the Chinese coast. Utilizing an ensemble species distribution model (ESDM), we compared the niche characteristics of these mangroves with S. alterniflora. We found that S. alterniflora has a broad latitudinal adaptability (39.22-21.67˚N), significantly greater than the mangroves. Excoecaria agallocha has the largest potential distribution area (74,729 km[2]), while Kandelia obovata shows the widest climatic adaptability (latitude: 30.85˚N to 18.19˚N). The ecological niches of the mangroves and S. alterniflora overlap (D.overlap: 0.015-0.254, Niche similarity index: 0.044-0.551), driven by different species-specific factors. K. obovata and S. alterniflora have the highest niche similarity due to the similarities in precipitation during the driest month and precipitation seasonality. Overall, mangroves in China are vulnerable to invasion by S. alterniflora. Strengthening mangrove protection is essential for their healthy development, especially under frequent extreme weather conditions, with a focus on protecting K. obovata.},
}

China
*Poaceae/physiology
*Wetlands
Introduced Species
*Ecosystem
*Rhizophoraceae/physiology
Species Specificity

@article {pmid40603756,
year = {2025},
author = {Pesarakloo, A and Mousavizadeh, F and Mirkamali, SJ and Najibzadeh, M and Esmaeilbeigi, M},
title = {Chemical composition of invasive water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) impacts developmental stages of Bufotes sitibundus: threat of an invasive plant to the amphibian species.},
journal = {Ecotoxicology (London, England)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40603756},
issn = {1573-3017},
abstract = {Invasive species threaten biodiversity by disrupting biological interactions. Water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) is recognized as one of the world's top 100 weed species and among the ten worst aquatic weeds. This study examines the impact of extracts from this non-native invasive plant on the survival, growth, and metamorphosis of Bufotes sitibundus larvae, a species of anuran amphibian. Due to the presence of phenolic compounds and heavy metals, invasive plants can significantly affect anuran development, yet these threats remain largely unstudied in amphibians. We observed increased mortality in larvae exposed to water hyacinth extracts, which we attribute to reduced oxygen availability linked to high concentrations of phenolic compounds, such as (E)-23-ethylcholesta-5,22-dien-3.beta.-ol and 3-Hydroxyspirost-8-en-11-one, as well as the terpenoid gibberellin A3. These phenolic compounds may impair gill function, contributing to decreased survival rates. Additionally, the presence of heavy metals in the extracts adversely impacts survival, growth, body length, and metamorphosis. The invasive water hyacinth can lead to significant alterations in pond ecosystems, producing both direct and indirect effects on amphibian survival. Our findings offer crucial insights into the effects of water hyacinth extracts on amphibians, encompassing egg development, growth, mortality, and metamorphosis, potentially impacting the biology and ecology of Bufotes sitibundus during the critical developmental stages.},
}

@article {pmid40541049,
year = {2025},
author = {Lazarus, BE and Mueller, RC and Germino, MJ},
title = {Soil-microbial communities respond less than plant communities to synthetic- or bio-herbicides applied to address the exotic grass-fire cycle in rangelands.},
journal = {The Science of the total environment},
volume = {991},
number = {},
pages = {179831},
doi = {10.1016/j.scitotenv.2025.179831},
pmid = {40541049},
issn = {1879-1026},
mesh = {*Soil Microbiology ; *Herbicides/toxicity ; *Microbiota/drug effects ; Poaceae ; Introduced Species ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S ; Bacteria ; Pseudomonas fluorescens ; *Soil Pollutants ; },
abstract = {The exotic grass-fire cycle is degrading semiarid rangelands, such as the vast areas of shrub-steppe in North America now invaded by fire-promoting cheatgrass. Chemical- or bio-herbicides are sprayed onto soils to inhibit the invaders, but information on chemical- or bio-herbicide impacts to soil microbial communities is limited. We asked how the soil-microbiome responded to the bioherbicide Pseudomonas fluorescens strain ACK55 in comparison to the separate and combined effects of a conventional pre-emergent chemical herbicide, imazapic, in two cheatgrass-invaded sagebrush-steppe sites. First-year microbial responses were evaluated using targeted sequencing of the 16S and LSU rRNA genes for bacteria+archaea and fungi, respectively, and were related to plant-community responses. A strong cheatgrass reduction with imazapic at one site was accompanied by a small shift in bacteria+archaea (16S) community composition with no effect on microbial alpha diversity, and this shift was small in comparison to natural microbiome variation between sites. ACK55 was not detected in soil a year after application, and it caused only transient and marginally significant reductions in annual grass cover accompanied by small reductions in soil fungi species richness. Full-length sequencing of the ACK55 16S rRNA gene and phylogenetic analyses revealed that ACK55 is more likely P. salmonii than P. fluorescens. Knowledge gaps remain on the duration and consequences of microbial-community shifts with imazapic and why molecular analyses showed ACK55 did not persist in soils. Confusion regarding microbial biopesticides can result where isolation, effectiveness testing, commercial release, and regulation are not guided by molecular taxonomic analyses.},
}

*Soil Microbiology
*Herbicides/toxicity
*Microbiota/drug effects
Poaceae
Introduced Species
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S
Bacteria
Pseudomonas fluorescens
*Soil Pollutants

@article {pmid40231438,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, B and Koski, TM and Wang, H and Chen, Z and Li, H and Mogouong, J and Bushley, KE and Xing, L and Sun, J},
title = {The Role of Phenylpropanoids and the Plant Microbiome in Defences of Ash Trees Against Invasive Emerald Ash Borer.},
journal = {Plant, cell & environment},
volume = {48},
number = {8},
pages = {5680-5698},
doi = {10.1111/pce.15534},
pmid = {40231438},
issn = {1365-3040},
support = {//This study was funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (grant nos. 32061123002 and 32088102) and the U.S. National Science Foundation Dimensions of Biodiversity Grant (no. 2030036). We are also grateful to Collaborative Innovation Center for Baiyangdian Basin Ecological Protection and Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei Sustainable Development project, Natural Science Foundation of Hebei Province (C2022201042) and Jenny and Antti Wihuri Foundation (00240157)./ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Fraxinus/microbiology/metabolism/genetics ; *Microbiota ; Introduced Species ; *Coleoptera/physiology ; Metabolomics ; *Plant Defense Against Herbivory ; Transcriptome ; *Propanols/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Plants have coevolved with herbivorous insects for millions of years, resulting in variation in resistance both within and between species. Using a manipulative experiment combined with untargeted metabolomics, microbiome sequencing and transcriptomics approaches, we investigated the roles of plant metabolites and the microbiome in defence mechanisms in native resistant Manchurian ash (Fraxinus mandshurica) trees and non-native susceptible velvet ash (Fraxinus velutina) trees against the highly invasive emerald ash borer (EAB, Agrilus planipennis). Comparative transcriptomics and metabolomics analyses show that the phenylpropanoid pathway, which is enriched in differentially expressed genes and differentially abundant metabolites, may serve as a potential regulator of resistance. Additionally, the microbiome is distinctly shifted in two ash species. Indicator taxa analysis reveals that the distinct genera are dominant in the galleries of two ash species, for example, Pseudomonas in velvet, and Hafnia-Obesumbacterium in Manchurian. The strong correlation between indicator taxa and metabolites suggests that the chemical compounds might impact the microbial community in phloem directly or indirectly, or vice versa. This study significantly enhances our understanding of the variation in resistance between ash species and its contribution to the invasion success of EAB, providing valuable insights for the development of pest management strategies.},
}

Animals
*Fraxinus/microbiology/metabolism/genetics
*Microbiota
Introduced Species
*Coleoptera/physiology
Metabolomics
*Plant Defense Against Herbivory
Transcriptome
*Propanols/metabolism

@article {pmid40603367,
year = {2025},
author = {Gevaert, CM and Aguiar Pedro, A and Ku, O and Cheng, H and Chandramouli, P and Dadrass Javan, F and Nattino, F and Georgievska, S},
title = {Explainable few-shot learning workflow for detecting invasive and exotic tree species.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {23238},
pmid = {40603367},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {18091//Nederlandse Organisatie voor Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek (Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research)/ ; },
mesh = {*Trees/classification ; *Introduced Species ; Workflow ; *Deep Learning ; Brazil ; Algorithms ; Forests ; Unmanned Aerial Devices ; Neural Networks, Computer ; },
abstract = {Deep Learning methods are notorious for relying on extensive labeled datasets to train and assess their performance. This can cause difficulties in practical situations where models should be trained for new applications for which very little data is available. While few-shot learning algorithms can address the first problem, they still lack sufficient explanations for the results. This research presents a workflow that tackles both challenges by proposing an explainable few-shot learning workflow for detecting invasive and exotic tree species in the Atlantic Forest of Brazil using Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) images. By integrating a Siamese network with explainable AI (XAI), the workflow enables the classification of tree species with minimal labeled data while providing visual, case-based explanations for the predictions. Results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed workflow in identifying new tree species, even in data-scarce conditions. With a lightweight backbone, e.g., MobileNet, it achieves an F1-score of 0.86 in 3-shot learning, outperforming a shallow CNN. A set of explanation metrics, i.e., correctness, continuity, and contrastivity, accompanied by visual cases, provide further insights about the prediction results. This approach opens new avenues for using AI and UAVs in forest management and biodiversity conservation, particularly concerning rare or understudied species.},
}

*Trees/classification
*Introduced Species
Workflow
*Deep Learning
Brazil
Algorithms
Forests
Unmanned Aerial Devices
Neural Networks, Computer

@article {pmid40601033,
year = {2025},
author = {Nariman, N and Entling, MH and Krehenwinkel, H and Kennedy, S},
title = {The Microbiome of an Invasive Spider: Reduced Bacterial Richness, but no Indication of Microbial-Mediated Dispersal Behaviour.},
journal = {Microbial ecology},
volume = {88},
number = {1},
pages = {70},
pmid = {40601033},
issn = {1432-184X},
mesh = {Animals ; *Spiders/microbiology/physiology ; *Microbiota ; *Bacteria/classification/genetics/isolation & purification ; Introduced Species ; Symbiosis ; Europe ; Animal Distribution ; },
abstract = {Mermessus trilobatus, an invasive North American linyphiid spider, has expanded its invasion range up to 1400 km in Europe, accelerating its dispersal speed in less than 40 years. The high heritability of dispersal behaviour and the spatial sorting of high and low dispersers indicate a genetic basis of dispersal behaviour. However, microbial endosymbionts can moderate dispersal behaviour in related species (Rickettsia in Erigone atra). Hence, dispersal behaviour in M. trilobatus might also be dictated by the activity of dispersal-mediating endosymbionts. Here, we investigated the microbiome of invasive M. trilobatus spiders extracted from (1) high- and low-dispersive individuals and (2) spiders originating from locations close to the edge and core of the expansion. We examine the microbiomes for the presence of potential dispersal- and reproduction-mediating bacterial strains and compare the microbial assemblages of spiders based on their dispersal behaviour and locations of origin. The composition of microbial assemblages was similar among spiders of different geographic origins and dispersal behaviour. However, microbial richness was lower in high- than in low-dispersive individuals. Surprisingly, none of the known dispersal- or reproduction-altering endosymbionts of arthropods was identified in any tested spider. This contrasts with published results from North America, where M. trilobatus is a known host of Rickettsia and Wolbachia. Thus, the invasive European population appears to have lost its associated endosymbionts. As endosymbionts can reduce spider mobility, it is possible that their absence facilitates the spread of the invasive spider population. The absence of endosymbionts among the analysed individuals substantiates the role of genetic mechanisms behind the variable dispersal behaviour of invasive M. trilobatus in Europe.},
}

Animals
*Spiders/microbiology/physiology
*Microbiota
*Bacteria/classification/genetics/isolation & purification
Introduced Species
Symbiosis
Europe
Animal Distribution

@article {pmid40600780,
year = {2025},
author = {Stewart, PS and Hill, RA and Oduor, AMO and Stephens, PA and Whittingham, MJ and Dawson, W},
title = {Multi-Species Impacts of Invasive Opuntia Cacti on Mammal Habitat Use.},
journal = {Ecology letters},
volume = {28},
number = {7},
pages = {e70163},
doi = {10.1111/ele.70163},
pmid = {40600780},
issn = {1461-0248},
support = {//Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) Iapetus2 Doctoral Training Partnership/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Introduced Species ; Kenya ; *Ecosystem ; *Mammals/physiology ; *Opuntia/physiology ; Biodiversity ; Conservation of Natural Resources ; },
abstract = {Biological invasions impact ecosystems worldwide, including through changing the behaviour of native species. Here, we used camera traps to investigate the effects of invasive Opuntia spp. on the habitat use of 12 mammal species in Laikipia County, Kenya, an internationally important region of mammalian biodiversity. We found that Opuntia impacted mammal occupancy and activity. These effects were evident when Opuntia was considered at both site level and landscape scales; however, some mammal species showed different responses to increasing Opuntia at these two scales. The effects of Opuntia were generally context dependent, with their strength and direction varying among mammal species and between seasons. As well as having important implications for mammal conservation, ecosystem functioning and the future spread of Opuntia, our findings highlight behavioural changes in large mammals as a potentially important pathway through which invasive species impact ecosystems.},
}

Animals
*Introduced Species
Kenya
*Ecosystem
*Mammals/physiology
*Opuntia/physiology
Biodiversity
Conservation of Natural Resources

@article {pmid40600371,
year = {2025},
author = {Funari, R and Parvizi, E and Cucini, C and Boschi, S and Cardaioli, E and Potter, DA and Asano, SI and Toubarro, D and Jelmini, L and Paoli, F and Carapelli, A and McGaughran, A and Frati, F and Nardi, F},
title = {Whole Genome Resequencing Reveals Origins and Global Invasion Pathways of the Japanese Beetle Popillia japonica.},
journal = {Molecular ecology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e70008},
doi = {10.1111/mec.70008},
pmid = {40600371},
issn = {1365-294X},
support = {861852//Horizon 2020 Framework Programme/ ; //Ministero dell'Istruzione, dell'Università e della Ricerca, PNRR, Missione 4 Componente 2, "Dalla ricerca all'impresa", Investimento 1.4, Project CN00000033./ ; },
abstract = {Invasive species are an increasing global threat given their ability to rapidly spread and adapt to novel environments. The adverse ecological and economic impacts of invasive species highlight the critical need to understand the mechanisms that underpin invasion processes and success. The Japanese beetle, Popillia japonica, is an invasive pest of remarkable interest, as it feeds on hundreds of economically valuable plant species. It has been expanding outside of its native range in Japan since the first decades of the 20th century, colonising large areas of North America and, more recently, Europe. Here, we compared whole-genome resequencing data from individuals encompassing the entire species distribution to study the geographic differentiation of P. japonica populations and reconstruct expansion routes from Japan to the USA and Europe. We found six genomically distinguishable clusters, corresponding to the approximate colonisation areas at a continental scale. Our analysis supported an ancestral divergence between South and North/Central Japan, with the latter being the source of the initial invasion to the USA. Coalescent simulations supported independent bridgehead events from the USA to the Azores and Italy. We also investigated possible signals of selection to better understand the adaptive mechanisms that underlie the invasion success of P. japonica. However, the absence of strong selection signatures suggested that the beetle's adaptive ability might be embedded in pre-existing genomic features. Our comprehensive genome-wide dataset allowed a detailed inference of the invasion process and may be useful in determining the origin of P. japonica individuals in future invasion events.},
}

@article {pmid40600057,
year = {2025},
author = {Martin, E and Chanfi, AN and Viginier, B and Raquin, V and Valiente Moro, C and Minard, G},
title = {A major entomoparasite interferes with the chikungunya virus transmission by Aedes albopictus.},
journal = {mLife},
volume = {4},
number = {3},
pages = {337-341},
pmid = {40600057},
issn = {2770-100X},
abstract = {The Asian tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus, is an invasive species that spreads diseases like chikungunya and has caused outbreaks worldwide. Studies show that mosquito-associated microbes can affect disease transmission. One of those microbes, the parasite Ascogregarina taiwanensis, is common in native and settled mosquito populations (>3 years after introduction) but rare in recently introduced ones. We found that this parasite slows down the spread of the chikungunya virus within the mosquito and decreases its transmission rate by half. Unparasitized mosquitoes spread the virus more easily, suggesting that changes in mosquito-associated microbes could impact disease outbreaks and public health.},
}

@article {pmid40596413,
year = {2025},
author = {Wilcken, CF and da Mota, TA and de Oliveira, CH and de Carvalho, VR and Benso, LA and Gabia, JA and Wilcken, SRS and Furtado, EL and Schiff, NM and de Camargo, MB and Ribeiro, MF},
title = {Sirex obesus (Hymenoptera: Siricidae) as invasive pest in pine plantations in Brazil.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {22522},
pmid = {40596413},
issn = {2045-2322},
mesh = {Animals ; Brazil ; *Pinus/parasitology ; *Hymenoptera/genetics/classification/physiology ; *Introduced Species ; Female ; DNA Barcoding, Taxonomic ; Male ; },
abstract = {The genus Sirex (Hymenoptera: Siricidae) consists of 29 species including the Sirex Woodwasp, Sirex noctilio, which is the main insect pest of pine plantations in the Southern Hemisphere including Brazil. In 2023, a species of Sirex similar to S. noctilio was discovered in Southeastern Brazil infesting pine plantations and causing tree mortality of up to 40%. We definitively identified this species as Sirex obesus based on both morphological characters and DNA barcodes. It is a species indigenous to the Southwestern United States and Northern and Central Mexico with little information available regarding its biology and control. This is the first record of S. obesus in Brazil and the first record of the species outside of North America. We document details about S. obesus occurrence in Brazil, describe preliminary damage caused in pine plantations and provide a partial list of natural enemies.},
}

Animals
Brazil
*Pinus/parasitology
*Hymenoptera/genetics/classification/physiology
*Introduced Species
Female
DNA Barcoding, Taxonomic
Male

@article {pmid40596352,
year = {2025},
author = {Barriga-Medina, N and Decker, T and Ramirez-Villacis, DX and León-Reyes, AE and Dong, V and Worley, C and Ruales, C and Pieterse, C and Leon-Reyes, A},
title = {Exploring fungal pathogens to control the plant invasive Rubus niveus on Galapagos Island San Cristobal.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {20358},
pmid = {40596352},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {POA 010//Galapagos Science Center/ ; 001//SPINOZA GRANT/ ; 007//Caja Chica Grant/ ; },
mesh = {*Rubus/microbiology ; *Introduced Species ; *Plant Diseases/microbiology/prevention & control ; *Fungi/pathogenicity/genetics/isolation & purification/classification ; Ecuador ; Plant Leaves/microbiology ; Fruit/microbiology ; },
abstract = {The Galapagos ecosystem faces threats from invasive species displacing native and endemic species. Rubus niveus (Hill raspberry) is particularly problematic invasive plant, covering approximately 30,000 hectares across the archipelago and rapidly outcompeting native vegetation. Current control methods, such as manual removal and herbicide application, have proven ineffective. This research aimed to identify endemic fungi pathogenic to R. niveus for potential population suppression. To achieve this goal, we sampled leaves, fruits, and stems of R. niveus in the agricultural areas of San Cristobal, Galapagos. Microbiome composition analysis of healthy and diseased R. niveus leaves revealed differences in fungal communities, representing a greater abundance of pathogenic genera in diseased tissue. These genera included Alternaria, Septoria, Fusarium, Colletotrichum, and Phanerochaete, representing well-known pathogens. Among 595 fungi isolated from Hill raspberry samples with lesions, 226 were tested for pathogenicity on healthy Hill raspberry leaves, resulting in five possible candidates consistently causing lesions. Further characterization through morphology and DNA analysis confirmed these candidates as Lasiodiplodia theobromae, Colletotrichum gloesporioides, Fusarium concentricum, Phanerochaete chrysosporium, and Penicillium rolfsii. Future research will explore the suitability of these fungal pathogens as biocontrol agents of invasive Hill rapberry.},
}

*Rubus/microbiology
*Introduced Species
*Plant Diseases/microbiology/prevention & control
*Fungi/pathogenicity/genetics/isolation & purification/classification
Ecuador
Plant Leaves/microbiology
Fruit/microbiology

@article {pmid40595666,
year = {2025},
author = {Xia, W and Xu, H and Liu, Y and Jiang, H and Shi, J and Wu, Y and Yu, Y and Li, X and Fan, W and Zhang, Y and Xu, L},
title = {Chromosome-level genome assembly and annotation of Pterygoplichthys pardalis.},
journal = {Scientific data},
volume = {12},
number = {1},
pages = {1091},
pmid = {40595666},
issn = {2052-4463},
mesh = {Animals ; *Genome ; Molecular Sequence Annotation ; *Chromosomes ; *Catfishes/genetics ; },
abstract = {Suckermouth catfishes, with their evolved powerful features, have become notorious invasive species, causing significant damage to aquatic ecosystems. However, the lack of high-quality genomes severely restricts research on this group within the field. In this study, we de novo assembled the chromosome-level genome assembly of Pterygoplichthys pardalis using multiple platforms of sequencing data, including Illumina short reads, Nanopore long reads, and Hi-C sequencing reads, resulting in a 1.51 Gb genome assembly. Multiple evaluations, including read mapping ratio (98.52%), transcript mapping ratio (99.61%), conserved BUSCO gene set (98.8%), and N50 score (49.47 Mb), indicated the high continuity and accuracy of the genome assembly we generated. Genome annotation found that 0.97 Gb of genome sequences are repetitive sequences, accounting for 64.47% of the genome assembly. Further, 23,859 protein-coding genes were successfully predicted, 92.92% of which could be annotated in functional databases. This high-quality genome assembly of P. pardalis provides a valuable resource for understanding the genetic underpinnings of P. pardalis's invasive success and offers critical data for future fisheries research and management.},
}

Animals
*Genome
Molecular Sequence Annotation
*Chromosomes
*Catfishes/genetics

@article {pmid40595436,
year = {2025},
author = {Tossou, E and Tepa-Yotto, GT and Goergen, G and Tchigossou, GM and Tchouakui, M and Nguete, DN and Amadou, L and Noussourou, M and Bokonon-Ganta, AH and Wondji, C and Tamò, M and Djouaka, R},
title = {Genetic variation associated with increased lambda-cyhalothrin resistance in Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in West Africa.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {21812},
pmid = {40595436},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {Grant NER-17-0005//Royal Norwegian Embassy in Niger/ ; Grant MLI-17-0008//Royal Norwegian Embassy in Mali/ ; 81235252 GA//German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ)/ ; 214201/Z/18/Z awarded to Rousseau Djouaka//Wellcome Trust International Intermediate Fellowship/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Spodoptera/genetics/drug effects ; *Insecticide Resistance/genetics ; *Pyrethrins/pharmacology ; *Insecticides/pharmacology ; *Nitriles/pharmacology ; Africa, Western ; *Genetic Variation ; Zea mays/parasitology ; },
abstract = {The fall armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) is a new serious destructive and widespread pest of corn which recently invaded subtropical regions worldwide. As this invasive species is spreading across the continent, it is vital to assess its susceptibility to currently used insecticides and establish the potential underlying resistance mechanism to better inform control programmes. In this study, we characterized the strains from eighteen fall armyworm populations from different countries in West Africa, established their susceptibility profiles to the main insecticides and genotyped the target site resistance alleles. The RFLP-PCR method showed that the majority of the population tested was a corn strain (72.5-100%) compared to the probable rice strain (0-27.5%). Tpi sequencing of the suspected rice strains revealed that almost all the samples analysed were from corn (> 97%). Additionally, the three insecticides tested, λ-cyhalothrin, chlorpyrifos and emamectin benzoate induced susceptible to moderate toxicity against this pest. Synergism tests performed to investigate the biochemical mechanism used by fall armyworm to breakdown λ-cyhalothrin indicated that metabolic enzymes (oxydases, esterase and the glutathion-S-transferase) play moderate roles in the resistance of λ-cyhalothrin observed in western Africa. Target mutation tests (qPCR) combined with previous synergetic tests showed that resistance to organophosphates and pyrethroids could be due to a biochemical mechanism + amino acid mutations (presence of the F290V mutation) or a biochemical mechanism (absence of the T929I mutation), respectively. The results of this study provide valuable information for supporting decisions related to sustainable fall armyworm control and applied resistance management.},
}

Animals
*Spodoptera/genetics/drug effects
*Insecticide Resistance/genetics
*Pyrethrins/pharmacology
*Insecticides/pharmacology
*Nitriles/pharmacology
Africa, Western
*Genetic Variation
Zea mays/parasitology

@article {pmid40595312,
year = {2025},
author = {Acosta, AL and Castro, MC and Laporta, GZ and Conn, JE and Sallum, MAM},
title = {Future global distribution and climatic suitability of Anopheles stephensi.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {22268},
pmid = {40595312},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {R01 AI110112/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AI110112/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AI110112/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AI110112/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; 303382/2022-8//Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico/ ; },
mesh = {*Anopheles/physiology ; Animals ; *Malaria/transmission/epidemiology ; *Mosquito Vectors/physiology ; Climate Change ; Climate ; Humans ; },
abstract = {Anopheles stephensi, an urban malaria vector, is expanding into new regions and poses a growing global health threat. Using a robust multi-model framework with eight algorithms and high-resolution climate data, this study assessed and mapped current and future global climate suitability for the species, incorporating demographic data to estimate populations at risk in different scenarios. Currently, An. stephensi can thrive in 13% of the Earth's surface, affecting nearly 40% of the global population. Projections indicate that suitable areas could exceed 30% by 2100, exposing up to 56% of the world's population, including in previously malaria-free regions such as North America, Europe, and Oceania. Spread may occur via maritime traffic, wind dispersal, and natural range expansion. These findings highlight the urgent need for global monitoring and control strategies, emphasizing the importance of integrating climate change projections into urban malaria prevention efforts to protect vulnerable populations and support global malaria elimination goals.},
}

*Anopheles/physiology
Animals
*Malaria/transmission/epidemiology
*Mosquito Vectors/physiology
Climate Change
Climate
Humans

@article {pmid40595299,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, B and Shen, L and Pan, Z and Pan, C and Zeng, G},
title = {Effects of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and soil substrate on invasive plant Alternanthera philoxeroides.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {21461},
pmid = {40595299},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {mygccrc[2022]051//the Fundamental Research Funds for the high-level talent project of Moutai Institute/ ; },
mesh = {*Mycorrhizae/physiology ; *Introduced Species ; *Soil Microbiology ; *Amaranthaceae/microbiology/growth & development ; Biomass ; *Soil/chemistry ; Plant Roots/microbiology/growth & development ; China ; Plant Leaves/growth & development/microbiology ; Symbiosis ; Ecosystem ; },
abstract = {Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi form symbiotic relationships with plants, using their hyphae to enhance nutrient uptake and promote plant growth. Alternanthera philoxeroides, an invasive species, poses a significant threat to agriculture, forestry, and urban ecosystems in China. However, there is a lack of research on how AM fungi influence invasive plants under varying environmental conditions. This study explored the effects of two AM fungal strains and four substrate types on A. philoxeroides. The results showed that the mycorrhizal dependency of A. philoxeroides ranged from 6.09% and 37.21%. Plant height and root length of A. philoxeroides were primarily shaped by substrate quality. AM fungi significantly enhanced root and aboveground biomass, especially under nutrient-poor conditions. Leaf area increased in response to fungal inoculation, while leaf number was regulated by substrate nutrients. Overall, AM fungi promoted biomass accumulation, particularly when combined with nutrient-enriched substrates, underscoring their potential application in invasive plant management. Therefore, future management strategies should divide invaded areas into distinct control zones based on gradients of soil nutrient levels, with special attention given to key regions for targeted monitoring and prevention.},
}

*Mycorrhizae/physiology
*Introduced Species
*Soil Microbiology
*Amaranthaceae/microbiology/growth & development
Biomass
*Soil/chemistry
Plant Roots/microbiology/growth & development
China
Plant Leaves/growth & development/microbiology
Symbiosis
Ecosystem

@article {pmid40594579,
year = {2025},
author = {Moustapha, LM and Sanda, AH and Mukhtar, MM and Muhammad, A and Einoi, HK and Aliyu, YY and Adamu, S and Moudalabi, TM and Lawali, IY and Moussa, AD and Soumaila, H and Adehossi, E and Ibrahim, ML and Doutchi, M and Ibrahim, SS},
title = {First detection and entomological characterisation of invasive malaria vector Anopheles stephensi in sympatry with other vectors in Gayi Southern Niger Republic.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {22647},
pmid = {40594579},
issn = {2045-2322},
mesh = {Animals ; *Anopheles/genetics/parasitology/classification ; *Mosquito Vectors/genetics/parasitology ; Niger/epidemiology ; Humans ; *Malaria/transmission/parasitology ; *Sympatry ; Plasmodium falciparum ; Introduced Species ; Malaria, Falciparum/transmission/parasitology ; },
abstract = {Anopheles stephensi, an invasive vector is aggressively expanding its geographic range across Africa, posing significant threat to malaria control. Surveillance of its spread is crucial for mitigating its impact on malaria transmission. Here, we report for the first time incursion of An. stephensi into Gayi, a rural area in southern Niger Republic. A combination of morphological identification, end point PCR and sequencing of fragments of COXI and ITS2 genes confirmed An. stephensi. This species was found resting indoor together with other mosquitoes, including An. coluzzii, An. gambiae s.s., and An. arabiensis. Entomological parameters, including resting densities, human blood index and biting rate, Plasmodium falciparum parasite rate, and entomological inoculation rate were described for the above Anopheles species. The finding of An. stephensi sympatric with the above major malaria vectors in Niger highlights the urgent need for intensified surveillance to develop evidence-based approaches to prevent further spread of this pervasive vector.},
}

Animals
*Anopheles/genetics/parasitology/classification
*Mosquito Vectors/genetics/parasitology
Niger/epidemiology
Humans
*Malaria/transmission/parasitology
*Sympatry
Plasmodium falciparum
Introduced Species
Malaria, Falciparum/transmission/parasitology

@article {pmid40592775,
year = {2025},
author = {Nadolny, H and Oki, Y and Kenedy-Siqueira, W and Santos, MP and Hernández-García, LM and Negreiros, D and Figueiredo, JCG and Goulart, FF and Brown, GG and Fernandes, GW},
title = {Devastating Rio Doce mining disaster sends shockwaves through earthworm populations.},
journal = {Journal of environmental quality},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/jeq2.70056},
pmid = {40592775},
issn = {1537-2537},
support = {APQ-00031-19//Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de Minas Gerais/ ; 316258/2021-0//Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico/ ; 406757/2022-4//Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico/ ; },
abstract = {The Fundão dam breach is considered one of the most severe environmental mining disasters globally, causing widespread changes to the soils of the Rio Doce watershed, one of Brazil's most important catchments. Given the ecological importance of earthworms to soil structure and dynamics, we investigated the richness, abundance, and biomass of both native and invasive earthworm species in riparian zones along the Rio Doce to understand their responses to the altered soil conditions. Sampling was conducted in reference and impacted sites across five municipalities in Minas Gerais: Mariana, Rio Casca, Ipatinga, Conselheiro Pena, and Aimorés. We identified eight species-two invasive (Amynthas gracilis and Pontoscolex corethrurus) and six native (two Rhinodrilus, three Righiodrilus, including at least two undescribed species, and one Ocnerodrilidae species)-with native biomass approximately five times lower in impacted sites compared to reference sites. Furthermore, the new tailings environment altered the relationships between soil properties and earthworm abundance for both native and invasive species. These findings indicate that native earthworms are less tolerant of the disturbed soil conditions than invasive species, which may contribute to shifts in community composition. The disruption of soil-fauna interactions underscores the long-term ecological consequences of mining-related disturbances and highlights the need for restoration efforts that consider belowground biodiversity.},
}

@article {pmid40592461,
year = {2025},
author = {Wang, J and Ge, Y and Bever, J and Kardol, P and Cornelissen, JHC and Gao, S and Chen, T and Yan, QD and Yu, FH},
title = {Shift in relative importance of complementarity and selection drives different effects of community evenness on richness-invasibility relationships.},
journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences},
volume = {292},
number = {2050},
pages = {20250496},
doi = {10.1098/rspb.2025.0496},
pmid = {40592461},
issn = {1471-2954},
support = {//the National Key R&D program/ ; },
mesh = {*Biodiversity ; *Introduced Species ; *Ecosystem ; },
abstract = {How biodiversity affects ecosystem functioning is context-dependent. Species richness of a plant community may influence its resistance to exotic plant invasions. However, it remains unexplored how species evenness affects richness-invasibility relationships and whether this effect is context-dependent. We constructed experimental communities with different richness and evenness levels and let them be invaded by the exotic annual Conyza canadensis or not in both xeric and mesic sites. Community invasibility was negatively correlated with species richness at both high and low evenness in the xeric site, but only at high evenness in the mesic site. In the xeric site, complementary use of soil water resources among native species was the main mechanism driving negative richness-invasibility relationships at both evenness levels. In contrast, in the mesic site, selection for dominant native species superior for light competition was the main driver. Here, changing evenness altered height differences between the dominant native species and the invader, leading to the different richness-invasibility relationships. Therefore, the relative importance of complementarity and selection effects drives different effects of community evenness on richness-invasibility relationships. Our study demonstrates that impacts of community evenness on richness-invasibility relationships depend on how changes in evenness alter the functional traits of communities governing resource utilization.},
}

*Biodiversity
*Introduced Species
*Ecosystem

@article {pmid40592459,
year = {2025},
author = {Renault, D and Rantier, Y and Convey, P and Bergerot, B},
title = {Evolution of dispersal capacities during range expansion: size and behaviour matter in an arthropod invading the sub-Antarctic Kerguelen archipelago.},
journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences},
volume = {292},
number = {2050},
pages = {20251136},
doi = {10.1098/rspb.2025.1136},
pmid = {40592459},
issn = {1471-2954},
support = {//British Antarctic Survey/ ; //Agence Nationale de la Recherche/ ; //Institut écologie et environnement/ ; //Institut Polaire Français Paul Emile Victor/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Coleoptera/physiology/enzymology/anatomy & histology ; *Animal Distribution ; *Biological Evolution ; Introduced Species ; Antarctic Regions ; Body Size ; Locomotion ; Ecosystem ; },
abstract = {The flexibility of movement behaviour was investigated in the non-native carabid beetle, Merizodus soledadinus, by comparing individuals from well-established populations (residents) to those at the invasion front (dispersers) in the sub-Antarctic Kerguelen archipelago. Morphology-dispersal covariation was tested by examining how morphology translates into dispersal efficiency and endurance by implementing in-field measurements of dispersal path, sinuosity and tortuosity. The activities of the enzymes phosphoglucose isomerase and pyruvate kinase were also measured to compare putative physiological changes associated with dispersal and residence. In general, the results obtained confirmed that insects from more recently invaded habitats were characterized by larger body sizes. Furthermore, adults of M. soledadinus sampled at the invasion front were also characterized by higher locomotor performance, as indicated by longer dispersal paths with less directional changes than their relatives from the founder population. Finally, the activity of the enzyme phosphoglucose isomerase, a powerful estimator of individual dispersal capacity, was higher in insects from invasion fronts. Taken together, our findings consistently indicated that beetles collected from populations at invasion front with the shortest residence times were characterized by enhanced dispersal performance, probably explaining the accelerating range expansion of the species.},
}

Animals
*Coleoptera/physiology/enzymology/anatomy & histology
*Animal Distribution
*Biological Evolution
Introduced Species
Antarctic Regions
Body Size
Locomotion
Ecosystem

@article {pmid40592446,
year = {2025},
author = {Sherratt, E and Böhmer, C and Callou, C and Nelson, TJ and Pillai, R and Ruf, I and Sanger, TJ and Schaar, J and Le Verger, K and Kraatz, B and Geiger, M},
title = {From wild to domestic and in between: how domestication and feralization changed the morphology of rabbits.},
journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences},
volume = {292},
number = {2050},
pages = {20251150},
doi = {10.1098/rspb.2025.1150},
pmid = {40592446},
issn = {1471-2954},
support = {//Australian Research Council/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; Rabbits/anatomy & histology ; *Domestication ; *Biological Evolution ; *Skull/anatomy & histology ; Animals, Wild/anatomy & histology ; *Animals, Domestic/anatomy & histology ; Phenotype ; },
abstract = {One of the world's most recognizable domestic animals is the rabbit, domesticated from the European rabbit. Domestication can drive morphospace expansion into novel phenotypes not observed in their wild counterparts; the consequences of feralization are less understood. Through these processes, we examine how humans have inadvertently driven great morphological change in this species. Characterizing skull morphological variation in a global sample of 912 wild, feral and domesticated specimens, we show that both domestication and feralization of rabbits have resulted in novel morphologies that leverage evolutionary patterns ubiquitous in the leporid clade: allometry and facial tilt are the principal axes of variation in rabbits as seen across species of Leporidae. However, rabbits diversified into regions of morphospace not explored by other species of their family. Although feralization of rabbits cannot be regarded as a 'reversal' to the wild form, we found they occupy an intermediate position, as well as their own allometric trajectory. Such insights from human-induced and environmentally driven morphological change of domestics and feral animals, respectively, reveal how novel morphologies can evolve at the macroevolutionary level. Future studies may elucidate the evolutionary, functional and developmental drivers and constraints of the cranial patterns observed in the rabbit.},
}

Animals
Rabbits/anatomy & histology
*Domestication
*Biological Evolution
*Skull/anatomy & histology
Animals, Wild/anatomy & histology
*Animals, Domestic/anatomy & histology
Phenotype

@article {pmid40592378,
year = {2025},
author = {Basak, A and Bairagi, N},
title = {Success, failure and collapse of an ecological system due to the introduction of a generalist super-predator.},
journal = {Journal of theoretical biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {112198},
doi = {10.1016/j.jtbi.2025.112198},
pmid = {40592378},
issn = {1095-8541},
abstract = {Species reintroduction is an effective strategy to save endangered species. New species are also introduced for economic purposes or to control the density of some other species. However, not all species introduction programs are successful. In this article, using mathematical models and the theory of dynamical systems, we explain a species introduction program's success, failure and collapse due to introducing a generalist super-predator in a predator-prey system. Our study reveals that the persistence of the introduced species with the others mainly depends on two factors: the population density of the native species at the time of the third species' introduction and the population density of the introduced species. Further, we show that the introduced species can have significant negative impacts on native species, often leading to their replacement by themselves. In extreme cases, this disruption can result in the extinction of native prey and predators along with the introduced species. This novel study may find applications in conservation biology and species control mechanisms.},
}

@article {pmid40590810,
year = {2025},
author = {Manz, D and Oten, KLF and Sorenson, CE and Whitehill, JGA and Jetton, RM},
title = {Evaluating the post-harvest survival and emergence of elongate hemlock scale from Fraser fir Christmas trees.},
journal = {Journal of economic entomology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/jee/toaf161},
pmid = {40590810},
issn = {1938-291X},
abstract = {The elongate hemlock scale (Fiorinia externa Ferris; Hemiptera: Diaspididae) is an invasive insect that originated in Japan and was first detected in North America in Queens NY in 1908. It has since become a significant post-harvest pest of Fraser fir (Abies fraseri [Pursh] Poir.), posing regulatory problems for the North Carolina Christmas tree industry which produces trees that are sold and moved across the country. Observations by specialists suggest that crawlers, one of two mobile stages of the insect, can emerge from eggs on host material for an extended period, potentially spreading this scale to new areas. However, research into crawler emergence under variable conditions, as well as the duration harvested Fraser fir can sustain live egg-producing adult female elongate hemlock scale (and thus prolong crawler emergence) is lacking. Therefore, we evaluated these insects' post-harvest activity on cut Fraser fir. In our first study, we evaluated weekly crawler emergence from Fraser fir trees and branches between two post-harvest treatments (baled and unbaled) under constant conditions for 7 wk. The second experiment aimed to simulate a Christmas tree's post-harvest lifecycle, over 13 wk, from lot (outdoor) to home (indoor) to discarding (outdoor). Our results show that crawlers continue to emerge from post-harvest Fraser fir for up to 40 and 90 d in our seven- and 13-wk studies, respectively. Moreover, we found live females with eggs present for up to 50 d post-harvest. These findings highlight the potential risk of introducing this scale to new areas via Fraser fir Christmas tree shipments.},
}

@article {pmid40589589,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, RF and Yisilamu, AD and Zhao, CY and Guo, YJ and Zhang, X and Zhang, SS and Yan, ZG and Bai, YF and Wang, YJ},
title = {Plant-Earthworm Interaction Favors Invasive Alien Plants Over Natives in Cd-Contaminated Environments.},
journal = {Ecology and evolution},
volume = {15},
number = {7},
pages = {e71538},
pmid = {40589589},
issn = {2045-7758},
abstract = {Plant-earthworm interaction confers fitness advantages to the plants, including growth promotion, nutrient uptake, tolerance, and resistance to heavy metal (HM) contamination. Plant dominance and plant-soil nutrient cycle processes of plant invasion in contaminated environments can be mediated by plant-earthworm interaction. However, little is known about whether different functional groups of invasive plants can gain an advantage in HM-contaminated soils when regulated by plant-earthworm interaction. We conducted an experiment to examine the effects of Cadmium (Cd) (with or without) and earthworms (with or without) on the growth of both native and invasive species of legume, grass, and forb functional groups. We found that Cd reduced the biomass of native species and changed the root mass fraction and root-shoot ratio, while earthworms increased the aboveground mass of invasive species. When contaminated with Cd, earthworms increased the aboveground mass of invasive nonlegumes (grasses and forbs) while reducing the biomass loss of invasive legumes. In turn, invasive plants had a positive effect on earthworm mass. The mutually beneficial relationship between earthworms and invasive species in Cd-contaminated environments can enhance the competitive edge of invasive species over natives. This may facilitate invasive species spread, potentially risking Cd contamination and food chain transmission, threatening ecosystems biodiversity, environmental health, and human health. Thus, earthworm management may be an important measure to control the spread of invasive species in Cd-contaminated areas, particularly invasive nonlegumes.},
}

@article {pmid40587186,
year = {2025},
author = {Daughtrey, ML and Gray, J and Calabro, J and Hong, C},
title = {Fighting against invasive species through global and stakeholder partnerships - a case study of boxwood blight.},
journal = {Plant disease},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1094/PDIS-01-25-0210-SC},
pmid = {40587186},
issn = {0191-2917},
abstract = {Boxwood blight, caused by the fungus Calonectria pseudonaviculata, is an emerging destructive disease in the United States that has destroyed numerous crops and plantings including many of historic significance. To help the environmental horticulture industry and the public effectively manage this disease, the Boxwood Blight Insight Group organized a series of International Boxwood Seminars (IBS) with invited speakers primarily from Europe and New Zealand, areas where this disease was studied for more than a decade before its 2011 discovery in the United States. These seminars reached all sectors of the industry and other major stakeholder groups in 46 states as well as Washington DC. Within the audience, 69% were 'multipliers,' with educators at 34%, industry leaders at 27%, and Master Gardeners at 8%. These webinars promoted the shift of U.S. boxwood production to more resistant cultivars and the migration of production to blight-free or less-affected states. They also facilitated the adoption of best management practices for nurseries and private and public landscapes. These procedural shifts have helped to improve boxwood health in nursery production and plantings and to sustain growth in boxwood demand. In addition to providing Americans with the perspectives of scientists in countries where the disease was first found, these webinars reached stakeholders in 24 other countries on five continents. The seminars allowed the development of an exemplary, award-winning global partnership. The free exchange of information on an international basis helped to safeguard and promote agricultural biosecurity under the ever-increasing pressure of invasive pathogens and pests.},
}

@article {pmid40586491,
year = {2025},
author = {Komar, K and Gaździński, S and Borecka, A and Maculewicz, E},
title = {Invasive and native mosquitoes in Europe, including Poland, as vectors transmitting pathogens - implications for wellbeing of Armed Forces.},
journal = {Annals of agricultural and environmental medicine : AAEM},
volume = {32},
number = {2},
pages = {167-172},
doi = {10.26444/aaem/193428},
pmid = {40586491},
issn = {1898-2263},
mesh = {Animals ; Poland ; *Mosquito Vectors/physiology/virology/parasitology ; *Culicidae/physiology/classification/growth & development ; Europe ; *Introduced Species ; Humans ; *Military Personnel ; *Vector Borne Diseases/transmission/parasitology ; Climate Change ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: Mosquitoes play a crucial role as vectors transmitting various pathogens, including parasites and viruses, which cause serious diseases worldwide, such as malaria, dengua or West Nile virus. Both invasive and native species are capable of spreading tropical diseases, which endanger troops stationing in areas rich in mosquitos. The aim of the review is to analyze current knowledge about the distribution of mosquito species in Europe, including Poland, and the factors influencing their presence.

REVIEW METHODS: A systematic literature review was conducted using databases such as PubMed and Google Scholar. The search included key words related to mosquitoes, vector-borne diseases, and climate change. Data were supplemented with information from the websites of the World Health Organization (WHO) and European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC).

Invasive mosquitoes, such as Aedes albopictus, have been spreading in Europe since the 1990s. Rising temperatures and global movement of people and goods are the main driving forces of this phenomenon. Even native European mosquito species, like Culex spp., are able to transmit tropical diseases. The European Mosquito Control Association is developing mosquito control programmes but they are not sufficiently implemented.

SUMMARY: Mosquitoes transmit various viral and parasitic diseases. The presence of invasive exotic mosquitoes in Europe is linked to developments in transportation and climate change. Rising temperatures enable mosquitoes to adapt to new regions previously free of them. This issue requires effective protective measures and competent personnel to implement vector control methods.},
}

Animals
Poland
*Mosquito Vectors/physiology/virology/parasitology
*Culicidae/physiology/classification/growth & development
Europe
*Introduced Species
Humans
*Military Personnel
*Vector Borne Diseases/transmission/parasitology
Climate Change

@article {pmid40586238,
year = {2025},
author = {Huang, X and Platin, R and Unger, A and Shenkar, N and Zhan, A},
title = {Interplay of Multilayered Transcriptomic Plasticity in Response to Temperature Fluctuations During Biological Invasions: A Case Study in Invasive Styela plicata.},
journal = {Molecular ecology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e70013},
doi = {10.1111/mec.70013},
pmid = {40586238},
issn = {1365-294X},
support = {32101352//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 32061143012//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 32471740//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
abstract = {Phenotypic plasticity is a crucial responsive strategy for invasive species to colonise new habitats. Rapid plastic responses enable invaders to instantly survive environmental fluctuations during invasion processes; however, the interplay and relative contributions of different plastic mechanisms remain largely unexplored. Here, we exposed the invasive ascidian Styela plicata from the Mediterranean Sea to a time series of high- and low-temperature stress to investigate the multilayered transcriptomic plasticity mechanisms, including gene expression, alternative splicing (AS) and alternative polyadenylation (APA). We observed rapid, pervasive and diverse responsive changes, with more genes exhibiting expression changes than those showing APA and AS changes. Approximately 50% differentially alternatively spliced genes and differentially expressed APA genes also exhibited differential expression under heat stress; however, this proportion declined to 34% under cold stress, suggesting stronger interactions among plastic mechanisms in response to heat stress and greater independence under cold stress. Although a considerable proportion of responsive genes were commonly triggered by both heat and cold stress, we found more pronounced gene expression plasticity and greater flexibility under heat stress, which may help explain S. plicata's preference for tropical and subtropical habitats. Whereas cold stress induced a greater number of AS events and distinct AS profiles, with a consistent trend of exon skipping across all stress durations. Altogether, our findings reveal environment-dependent interactions among distinct plastic response mechanisms and highlight the importance of post-transcriptional regulatory strategies. Our insights into the complex interplay of multilayered transcriptomic plasticity contribute to a deeper understanding of their roles in adaptive evolution.},
}

@article {pmid40583810,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, Y and Jia, K and Guo, X and Li, Y and Zhu, Y and Zhang, R and Wu, Q and Feng, Y},
title = {Novel diamide insecticide, tetraniliprole, inhibits the population growth and development of Tuta absoluta Meyrick (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) with different susceptibility levels, through its lethal and sublethal effects.},
journal = {Journal of economic entomology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/jee/toaf158},
pmid = {40583810},
issn = {1938-291X},
support = {2023YFD1401200//National Key Research and Development Program of China/ ; },
abstract = {The tomato leaf miner, Tuta absoluta Meyrick (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae), is a significant invasive species globally, inflicting considerable damage on tomato industry. Tetraniliprole is a new type of diamide insecticides, which can effectively control lepidoptera insects. In this study, we investigated both the acute toxicity and sublethal effects of tetraniliprole on T. absoluta populations exhibiting varying susceptibility levels. The results indicated that the LC50 of tetraniliprole for the susceptible strains (SX-S) and tetraniliprole-selection strains (Tet-R) were 0.31 and 21.22 mg·L-1, respectively. The Tet-R strain showed 68.45-fold higher resistance than the SX-S strain. Tetraniliprole exposure at LC10 and LC30 significantly prolonged larval duration in F0 generation SX-S and Tet-R strains. The pupal stage, pupal weight, and fecundity of the SX-S strain were significantly decreased, while only pupal weight was significantly reduced in the Tet-R strain. Moreover, LC30 of tetraniliprole significantly affected the r, λ, R0, and T of the Tet-R strain but had no significant impact on the SX-S strain. Additionally, sublethal tetraniliprole concentrations showed transgenerational effects on the F1 generation. The egg stage of the SX-S and Tet-R strains were significantly prolonged. Tetraniliprole significantly affected the R0, T and GRR of the SX-S strain, while only T was significantly affected in the Tet-R strain. In conclusion, tetraniliprole inhibited the growth and development of T. absoluta. Moreover, different susceptibility levels significantly influenced the sublethal effects and transgenerational effects of tetraniliprole on T. absoluta. These findings serve as a reference for the scientific use of tetraniliprole, and the IPM of T. absoluta.},
}

@article {pmid40582195,
year = {2025},
author = {Tang, HB and Li, HD and Si, YX and Gao, JF and Lu, HL},
title = {Herbicide clomazone induced hematotoxicity and hepatic compensatory responses in the invasive turtle, Trachemys scripta elegans.},
journal = {Aquatic toxicology (Amsterdam, Netherlands)},
volume = {286},
number = {},
pages = {107470},
doi = {10.1016/j.aquatox.2025.107470},
pmid = {40582195},
issn = {1879-1514},
abstract = {Invasive species might exhibit a greater potential resistance to environmental stress than native species because they would mitigate and adapt more quickly to stress effects through modulating various physiological and biochemical processes. Here, erythrocytic nuclear abnormality (ENA), serum metabolomic profile, liver histology, antioxidant enzyme activity and related gene expression were determined in Trachemys scripta elegans hatchlings exposed to herbicide clomazone for 7 days to evaluate clomazone-induced toxic effects and potential adaptive responses in this invasive turtle. ENAs were found to increase and some serum metabolic pathways were disrupted clearly in exposed-turtles, potentially indicating clomazone-caused blood damage. Meanwhile, cell proliferation, increased SOD and CAT activities and related gene expression, as well as increased immune-related gene expression, in liver tissue of exposed-turtles might be compensatory responses to clomazone stress. Moreover, altered ABC transporter pathway revealed by serum metabolomic profile might also play a role in blood detoxification. Overall, clomazone exposure would cause tissue toxicity, which might be alleviated to a certain degree through a series of compensatory responses, reflecting great potential resistance to environmental stress in invasive T. scripta elegans.},
}

@article {pmid40580959,
year = {2025},
author = {Zheng, S and Lindenmayer, D and Sreekar, R and Hua, F and Hu, J and Chen, Q and Ma, Z and Li, B and Liu, J},
title = {Effects of long-term intraspecific trait change on bird community functional structure.},
journal = {Current biology : CB},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2025.06.019},
pmid = {40580959},
issn = {1879-0445},
abstract = {There has been rapid intraspecific trait change in many species over the past few centuries. While the impacts of such long-term changes on community functional structure remain unclear, it is vital to evaluate and predict responses of biodiversity and ecosystem function to global change. We examined intraspecific trait changes of 548 bird species from 86,539 specimens collected over the past 140 years and species composition data for 840 bird assemblages surveyed between 1969 and 2021 in North America. We found that rapid intraspecific trait changes have substantially impacted community-level trait composition and functional diversity of communities. Specifically, intraspecific downsizing has reversed the direction of change in community-weighted mean body size that would be expected from species composition change alone. Additionally, intraspecific changes of <3% across four traits have expanded community trait space and accelerated the rate of increase of functional richness across studied assemblages. Our findings highlight that intraspecific trait change is a key driver of community functional reorganization and should be considered alongside species composition change when assessing biodiversity responses to global change.},
}

@article {pmid40580326,
year = {2025},
author = {Griffen, BD and Fletcher, LS and Reese, TC and Repetto, MF and Smith, N and Stancil, CK and Toscano, BJ},
title = {Tissue-specific energetics of the invasive Asian shore crab Hemigrapsus sanguineus throughout its range and through time.},
journal = {Oecologia},
volume = {207},
number = {7},
pages = {116},
pmid = {40580326},
issn = {1432-1939},
support = {2052246//Directorate for Biological Sciences/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Brachyura/metabolism/physiology ; *Introduced Species ; Seasons ; *Energy Metabolism ; },
abstract = {Organisms with broad geographic distributions that inhabit seasonal environments often demonstrate characteristics that differ spatially and temporally. It has been hypothesized that these variable characteristics may play important roles in the success of invasive species. Further, physiological characteristics should be closely linked to individual energetic strategies, which can also vary spatially and temporally. We use tissue-specific energy density and total energy content to examine energy allocation strategies in the invasive Asian shore crab Hemigrapsus sanguineus across seasons and throughout its North American invasive range. We show that tissue energy density and total tissue energy vary considerably with location and season. Energetic strategies are consistent with an expanding northern range edge and a static southern range edge. Our results also provide insight into patterns that occur broadly across phylogeny, including reduced growth rates with body size and seasonal reproductive patterns. This study demonstrates the utility of tissue-specific energetics as an ecophysiological tool for understanding the energetic strategies of invasive (and other) species throughout their ranges and across seasons.},
}

Animals
*Brachyura/metabolism/physiology
*Introduced Species
Seasons
*Energy Metabolism

@article {pmid40579974,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, X and Guan, L and Zhang, Y and Zhong, F and Xie, Y and Zhang, Y and Zhang, X and Zhou, M and Li, C and Tang, B},
title = {TcCYP4C1 in combination with trehalose to cope with high-CO2 stress in Tribolium castaneum (Coleoptera).},
journal = {Insect molecular biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/imb.12997},
pmid = {40579974},
issn = {1365-2583},
support = {31960542//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; QJJ[2023]024//Program for Natural Science Research in Guizhou Education Department/ ; QKZYD[2022]4013//Special Project for Science and Technology Development of Local (Guizhou) under the Guidance of the Central Government/ ; },
abstract = {Cytochrome P450 monooxygenase (CYP), an important detoxifying enzyme in insects, is involved in the metabolism and degradation of both exogenous compounds and endogenous substances. To investigate the involvement of the T. castaneum TcCYP4C1 gene in detoxification metabolism under high CO2 and the protective role of trehalose against hypoxic stress in insects. In the present study, after successfully silencing the TcCYP4C1 gene of T. castaneum by double-stranded RNA(dsRNA), the larvae were exposed to 95% CO2. This exposure resulted in a statistically significant increase in larval mortality and a significant elevation in the activity of the carboxylesterase enzyme (CarE). However, a decrease in mortality from 18.15% to 11.24% was observed when larvae were fed trehalose after dsRNA injection. In addition, the gene expression levels of the trehalose metabolism pathway related genes TRE1-3, TRE1-4 and TPS2 were significantly up-regulated after 95% CO2 treatment. In summary, the TcCYP4C1 gene emerges as a pivotal factor in the adaptive response of T. castaneum to high CO2. Trehalose effectively mitigates the detrimental effects resulting from the silencing of TcCYP4C1 and exposure to high CO2 stress in T. castaneum. Our findings not only establish a theoretical foundation for the development of novel pesticides tailored for low-oxygen grain storage environments but also inspire innovative, environmentally sustainable pest management strategies in the grain storage sector.},
}

@article {pmid40579817,
year = {2025},
author = {Kutza, AD and Hert, ZL and Moyle, LC},
title = {Endemic and invasion dynamics of wild tomato species on the Galápagos Islands, across two centuries of collection records.},
journal = {The New phytologist},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/nph.70321},
pmid = {40579817},
issn = {1469-8137},
abstract = {We aggregated digitized herbarium and other collection records - spanning > 225 yr since 1795 - to assess the biological, geographical, and historical factors shaping distributions of three wild tomato species on the Galápagos Islands, and to infer future threats to the two endemic species (Solanum cheesmaniae and Solanum galapagense) and risks posed by their invasive congener (Solanum pimpinellifolium). Combining > 400 unique geolocated Galápagos records with bioclimate data and species distribution modelling, we quantified the geo-spatial distribution of each species, bracketed the historical timing and location of introductions of the invasive species, characterized species bioclimate envelopes, and projected suitable habitat overlap. We infer that dispersal limitation and alternative selective histories shape current species distributions, and that anthropogenic change has and will continue to have different impacts on the two endemic species - closely associated with their different geographic and environmental distributions. We also identify plausible avenues for, and limits to, future invasive expansion. These data vastly extend the temporal and spatial reach of our direct historical inferences, provide a critical complement to genomic analyses of contemporary Galápagos populations, and demonstrate that scientific collections are especially valuable for interpreting factors shaping species distributions on high-endemism islands with recent rapid environmental change.},
}

@article {pmid40579381,
year = {2025},
author = {Chuong, J and Brown, KW and Gifford, I and Mishler, DM and Barrick, JE},
title = {Engineered Acinetobacter baylyi ADP1-ISx Cells Are Sensitive DNA Biosensors for Antibiotic Resistance Genes and a Fungal Pathogen of Bats.},
journal = {ACS synthetic biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acssynbio.5c00360},
pmid = {40579381},
issn = {2161-5063},
abstract = {Naturally competent bacteria can be engineered into platforms for detecting environmental DNA. This capability could be used to monitor the spread of pathogens, invasive species, and resistance genes, among other applications. Here, we create Acinetobacter baylyi ADP1-ISx biosensors that detect specific target DNA sequences through natural transformation. We tested strains with DNA sensors that consisted of either a mutated antibiotic resistance gene (TEM-1 bla or nptII) or a counterselectable gene flanked by sequences from the fungus Pseudogymnoascus destructans, which causes white-nose syndrome in bats. Upon uptake of homologous DNA, recombination restored antibiotic resistance gene function or removed the counterselectable gene, enabling selection of cells that sensed the target DNA. The antibiotic resistance gene and P. destructans biosensors could detect as few as 3,000 or 5,000,000 molecules of their DNA targets, respectively, and their sensitivity was not affected by excess off-target DNA. These results demonstrate how A. baylyi can be reprogrammed into a modular platform for monitoring environmental DNA.},
}

@article {pmid40579165,
year = {2025},
author = {Daane, KM and Hogg, BN and Stahl, JM and Haviland, DR and Wang, X},
title = {Naturally occurring parasitoids of Drosophila suzukii (Diptera: Drosophilidae) and other drosophilids in California fruit regions.},
journal = {Journal of economic entomology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/jee/toaf132},
pmid = {40579165},
issn = {1938-291X},
abstract = {Drosophila suzukii (Matsumura) (Diptera: Drosophilidae) has become a damaging economic pest of small fruits in the invaded range in the Americas, Europe, and North Africa. This study surveyed naturally occurring parasitoids of D. suzukii and other frugivorous Drosophilidae in California's coastal and interior fruit production regions. Surveys were conducted from 2012 to 2018 through collections of infested fruits and the use of sentinel fruit or host traps. Two pupal parasitoids, Pachycrepoideus vindemiae (Rondani) (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae) and Trichopria drosophilae (Perkins) (Hymenoptera: Diapriidae) were collected from D. suzukii and other drosophilids; the former species dominated in the interior while the latter species dominated in the coastal region. Two larval parasitoids, Leptopilina boulardi Barbotin et al. and L. heterotoma (Thomson) (Hymenoptera: Figitidae) were collected from drosophilid species other than D. suzukii, and were the dominant parasitoids in the interior and coastal regions, respectively. These four common parasitoids were most active during the spring and fall. The levels of parasitism on D. suzukii were < 10% from field-collected fruits but were as high as 74% in sentinel traps. Pupal parasitoids attacked D. suzukii at a higher rate than D. melanogaster in sentinel traps baited with both fly species. These results are discussed in conjunction with ongoing efforts to introduce larval parasitoids from the fly's native range.},
}

@article {pmid40577551,
year = {2025},
author = {Hepler, JR and Morrison, WR and Cullum, JP and Short, BD and Carper, GL and Beers, EH and Leskey, TC},
title = {Evaluation of perimeter-based attract-and-kill strategies for the invasive brown marmorated stink bug, Halyomorpha halys (Stål), in apple and pear orchards in the United States.},
journal = {Journal of economic entomology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/jee/toaf103},
pmid = {40577551},
issn = {1938-291X},
support = {#20 AN014//Washington State Commission on Pesticide Registration/ ; },
abstract = {Management of the brown marmorated stink bug, Halyomorpha halys (Stål), using attract-and-kill (AK) strategies in orchard crops has resulted in reduced pesticide inputs and the reestablishment of integrated pest management programs but also increased labor inputs and damage in pheromone-baited AK trees. Here, we re-tool previously developed AK practices for H. halys management using long-lasting insecticide netting (LLIN) as a low-input, effective killing agent. Simple LLIN AK stations were evaluated for efficacy compared with grower standard practices when hung directly on orchard perimeter fruit trees, hung on posts near, but not touching perimeter trees, and placed outside the orchard perimeter in commercial Mid-Atlantic apple orchards from 2017 to 2019. Treatments in which LLIN stations were attached to or hung near perimeter trees were equivalent to grower standards in terms of H. halys injury. In commercial pear orchards in Washington State in 2018 to 2020, efficacies of several LLIN station designs were evaluated as supplements to grower standard practices. A novel LLIN station design, referred to as the poncho trap, consistently caught nearly 3-fold more H. halys compared to a simple post-deployed "ghost trap" design when installed outside orchard perimeters. However, only LLIN stations mounted directly to perimeter trees provided statistically significant reductions in fruit damage. Our overall findings underscore the importance of positioning the pheromone lure, host plant (fruit tree), and LLIN in close proximity for successful AK H. halys management. Results also indicate that poncho trap LLIN fabric flaps could be integrated into near-mounted LLIN stations to further increase efficacy.},
}

@article {pmid40574896,
year = {2025},
author = {Bitonto, FF and Costantino, R and Barberis, M and Bogo, G and Birtele, D and Cangelmi, G and Dal Cin, M and Devalez, J and Lenzi, L and Magagnoli, S and Minici, A and Sánchez, JM and Zenga, EL and Bortolotti, L and Navarro, L and Petanidou, T and Sgolastra, F and Traveset, A and Galloni, M},
title = {LIFE 4 Pollinators' platform: How citizen science can help monitoring plants and pollinators.},
journal = {AoB PLANTS},
volume = {17},
number = {3},
pages = {plaf023},
pmid = {40574896},
issn = {2041-2851},
abstract = {Plant diversity is critical to ensure the future of humanity, as it provides essential ecosystem services and functioning. As recent estimates showed that animal-mediated pollination is crucial for the reproduction of approximately 90% of flowering plants, playing an essential role in maintaining biodiversity and agricultural productivity, effort to preserve plants cannot be disjoined from pollinator conservation initiatives. Despite their importance, pollinators have experienced alarming declines. The LIFE 4 Pollinators project was launched to involve people protecting wild bees and other pollinators in the Mediterranean. This study presents data collected through the project's web-platform, where users uploaded over 2,000 photographs of plant-pollinator interactions between 2021 and 2024. The dataset focuses on the identification of flower-visiting insects and plants, and the current study gives emphasis to citizen scientists' ability to identify plants and pollinators. 1,407 photo-records were analysed, revealing that bees and beetles were the most frequent pollinators, with plants of the Asteraceae and Cistaceae families being the most recorded. Users correctly identified 93.7% of insect taxonomic aggregations and 74.2% of plant species. The study also highlights the recording of threatened, alien, and invasive species, including the vulnerable Callicera spinolae and the invasive Vespa velutina. The plant-pollinator network analysis supports the floral syndrome concept, with floral morphologies like 'Head' and 'Disk' attracting a wide range of pollinators. The results indicate that citizen science contributes to the identification and monitoring of pollinators, generating knowledge that may be key to the conservation of these organisms and to better understand plant-pollinator interactions. Data collection through citizen-generated photographs allows to significantly expand the geographic area and the magnitude of studies, facilitating large-scale analyses that would be difficult to achieve with traditional monitoring methods. These findings provide a useful basis for future conservation initiatives and the development of policies aimed at mitigating pollinator decline.},
}

@article {pmid40574895,
year = {2025},
author = {Smith, KE and Cowan, L and Flis, P and Moore, C and Heatley, M and Robles-Zazueta, CA and Lee, A and Yant, L},
title = {An ecological, phenotypic, and genomic survey of duckweeds with their associated aquatic environments in the United Kingdom.},
journal = {AoB PLANTS},
volume = {17},
number = {3},
pages = {plaf018},
pmid = {40574895},
issn = {2041-2851},
abstract = {The duckweeds feature global distributions and diverse applications in phytoremediation and nutrition, as well as use in fundamental studies of development. Existing collections have minimal environmental data linked to natural habitats. Thus, there is a lack of understanding of natural variation in the context of native habitats. Here, a novel collection of 124 duckweed accessions from 115 sites across the United Kingdom was characterized by genome sequencing and ionomics. In common nutrient-replete experimental conditions, all accessions hyperaccumulated P, K, Mg and Ca. Local but not large-scale associations were revealed between elemental composition of duckweed in common, replete conditions and native water profiles. Lemna minor was the most prevalent species in the UK, with a closely related hybrid L. japonica frequently found in waters with higher micronutrient concentrations. Invasive L. minuta was common in the southern and midland regions, but restricted in Scotland. Lemna accessions accumulated heavy metal contaminants typically together with macronutrients, suggesting phytoremediation potential, but some limitations as food. Furthermore, monitoring the ecological interactions between native, hybrid and invasive Lemna species should be ongoing in the interest of biodiversity.},
}

@article {pmid40574733,
year = {2025},
author = {Fumo, JT and Nichols, PK and Ely, T and Marko, PB and Moran, AL and Powell, BS and Williams, TM and Kosaki, RK and Smith, CM and Lopes, KH and Smith, JE and Spalding, HL and Krueger-Hadfield, SA and McDermid, KJ and Hauk, BB and Morioka, J and O'Brien, K and Kennedy, B and Leliaert, F and Fujii, MT and Nelson, WA and Draisma, SGA and Sherwood, AR},
title = {A predictive framework for identifying source populations of non-native marine macroalgae: Chondria tumulosa in the Pacific Ocean.},
journal = {PeerJ},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {e19610},
pmid = {40574733},
issn = {2167-8359},
mesh = {Pacific Ocean ; *Seaweed/classification/genetics ; *Rhodophyta/classification/genetics ; Hawaii ; Ecosystem ; *Introduced Species ; },
abstract = {The cryptogenic marine red alga Chondria tumulosa was first observed in 2016 in subtidal habitats at Manawai (Pearl and Hermes Atoll) in the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument (PMNM), Hawai'i. Without molecular or morphological matches to any known species, it was described in 2020 and declared cryptogenic. This alga has substantially increased in benthic cover and has been discovered on two additional atolls in PMNM: Kuaihelani (Midway) and Hōlanikū (Kure). It exhibits several characteristics indicative of non-native origins including putative prior absence in the region, persistence in high densities over nearly a decade, apparent lack of native herbivore pressure, and strong tetrasporophytic bias. Importantly, it is negatively impacting the culturally and ecologically valuable reefs of PMNM. The geographical origin of this putative invasion is unknown, and there are no published reports of the species occurring anywhere other than PMNM. The central Pacific location of Hawai'i allows a broad range of potential sources for the origin of C. tumulosa. Taxonomic ambiguities within the genus Chondria and challenges associated with sampling necessitate the development of a narrowed set of search locations and efficient search strategies to detect the species outside of PMNM. Attachment to floating debris is a potential introduction vector for C. tumulosa into PMNM, and an oceanographic model was used to identify the most likely source locations for this pathway between 2000 and 2015, including Japan in the western Pacific, Johnston Atoll, the Line Islands including Palmyra Atoll in the central Pacific, and Clipperton Atoll and the Galápagos Islands in the eastern Pacific. We used a recently developed and validated eDNA assay for detecting C. tumulosa from three of the regions of interest to screen for C. tumulosa with no samples yielding positive detections. We provide a framework for investigating positive eDNA field detections using in-water surveys, microscopy, and DNA barcoding. A parallel sampling effort targeting preserved specimens stored in global herbaria is also presented, which did not yield any detections. Several Chondria species remain targets for sequencing from global herbaria. Identification of the native range of C. tumulosa is a critical step that will allow for an evaluation of its evolutionary ecology and any shifts that may have occurred that facilitated its putative invasion and subsequent spread, offering insights crucial for the development of mitigation strategies to safeguard PMNM against further risk.},
}

Pacific Ocean
*Seaweed/classification/genetics
*Rhodophyta/classification/genetics
Hawaii
Ecosystem
*Introduced Species

@article {pmid40573761,
year = {2025},
author = {Cozzolino, A and Motti, R and Vitasović-Kosić, I},
title = {Vascular Flora on Croatian Historic Structures: Drivers of Biodeterioration and Conservation Implications.},
journal = {Plants (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {12},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/plants14121773},
pmid = {40573761},
issn = {2223-7747},
abstract = {Biodeterioration, the alteration of materials by living organisms, affects approximately two-thirds of the world's cultural heritage. When organisms colonize the surfaces, they induce physical and chemical changes that can lead to significant damage. Despite its relevance, this phenomenon remains understudied in Croatia. This study aims to assess the deteriogenic vascular flora colonizing Croatian historical structures, including castles, towers, and archaeological remains, in relation to several environmental and anthropogenic factors: distance from the sea (0-1, 1-10, 10-65, and 65-165 km), elevation (0-50, 50-150, 150-300, and 300-600 m a.s.l.), exposure (north, south, east, west), and the state of conservation of the site (absent, low, good, excellent). Vegetation cover and floristic diversity, assessed using the Shannon Index, were primarily influenced by elevation and conservation status. As expected, vegetation cover decreased significantly, by 67.75%, from sites classified as 'Absent' to those with 'Excellent' conservation status (p < 0.001). To explain the observed differences in vegetation cover across the four altitudinal ranges, an analysis of plant life forms was carried out, revealing a wide variability and statistically significant patterns also related to the type and frequency of maintenance interventions. The potential risk posed by vascular plants was evaluated using the Hazard Index (HI), which revealed significant differences only for elevation and distance from the sea. The highest risk levels were recorded at mid-elevations (150-300 m), where the Hazard Index reached its maximum value (HI = 158). Exposure did not show a significant effect on biodeterioration processes. These findings provide new insights into plant-driven biodeterioration in Croatia and highlight the need for targeted conservation strategies to protect the country's cultural heritage.},
}

@article {pmid40573756,
year = {2025},
author = {Feng, WW and Huang, K and Sun, SM and Sun, JK and Guan, M and Qi, FZ and Liu, MC and Qu, B and Feng, YL},
title = {Planting Patterns Affect the Differences in Growth and Its Responses to Nitrogen Forms and Levels Between Three Invasive and Their Respective Related Native Species.},
journal = {Plants (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {12},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/plants14121768},
pmid = {40573756},
issn = {2223-7747},
support = {2023YFC2604500//the National Key R&D Program of China/ ; 32471753, 32171666, 31971557//the National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
abstract = {Global changes, such as atmospheric nitrogen deposition, can facilitate alien plant invasions, which are often attributed to the increase in soil nitrogen availability. However, few studies have considered the effects of global change-driven alterations in soil nitrogen forms, especially under conditions with interspecific competition. In this study, we first determined the differences in growth, biomass allocation, and photosynthesis under different nitrogen forms and addition levels between three noxious invasive species (Xanthium strumarium, Ambrosia trifida, and Bidens frondosa) and their respective related natives grown with and without interspecific competition and then assessed the interspecific difference in nitrogen form preference using the [15]N labeling technique. Interspecific competition significantly decreased the positive responses of growth to nitrogen addition for all three natives, while increasing the responses for all three invaders, particularly under nitrate addition. When grown in competition, all invaders showed significant growth advantages over their related natives in most cases, and responded more positively to the addition of nitrate relative to ammonium, while the natives responded more positively to ammonium addition. These findings indicate that the invaders prefer nitrate, while the natives prefer ammonium. Consistently, the growth advantages are more pronounced for the invaders under nitrate relative to ammonium addition, indicating that nitrate-rich habitats may be more vulnerable to the invaders. When grown in monoculture, however, the growth advantage of the invaders became smaller or even disappeared. Nitrogen form preference also disappeared in Siegesbeckia glabrescens (native) and Bidens frondosa (invasive). Interestingly, the native plant Xanthium sibiricum showed significantly higher total biomass than its invasive congener under ammonium addition in both mixed and monoculture conditions. Our [15]N labeling experiment showed that all six species preferred nitrate over ammonium, although this was not significant for two natives (S. glabrescens and X. sibiricum), which is not completely consistent with the results from our nitrogen addition experiment. Our results indicate that global change-driven alterations in soil nitrogen forms, particularly the shift from ammonium to nitrate, may facilitate alien plant invasions. Planting patterns significantly affect the responses of invasive and native species to nitrogen forms and addition levels, with mixed-culture experiments providing better insights into the invasiveness of alien species.},
}

@article {pmid40572266,
year = {2025},
author = {Šuikaitė, I and Šiurkutė, G and Ptacnik, R and Koreivienė, J},
title = {Halotolerance of Phytoplankton and Invasion Success of Nostocalean Cyanobacteria Under Freshwater Salinization.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {13},
number = {6},
pages = {},
pmid = {40572266},
issn = {2076-2607},
abstract = {Disturbed ecosystems are particularly susceptible to biological invasions. Increasing freshwater salinization, caused by anthropogenic factors, can alter the phytoplankton community and favour newly arrived halotolerant species. This study investigates the halotolerance of four Nostocalean cyanobacterial species-the native to Europe, Aphanizomenon gracile, and alien Chrysosporum bergii, Cuspidothrix issatschenkoi, and Sphaerospermopsis aphanizomenoides-using monoculture experiments under varying NaCl concentrations. Additionally, we performed two microcosm experiments to explore shifts in biodiversity in freshwater phytoplankton communities sourced from artificial reservoirs and assess their susceptibility to cyanobacterial invasion under salinity stress. Results showed that all Nostocalean cyanobacteria were halotolerant under mild salinities (up to 1 g/L NaCl), with Chrysosporum bergii and Sphaerospermopsis aphanizomenoides demonstrating the most salt tolerance. In the microcosm experiment, changes in community composition were driven by the halotolerance of dominant groups. Water body 1, dominated by Bacillariophytina, reduced its biomass of phytoplankton at high salinity (5 g/L NaCl), while water body 2, dominated by Chlorophytina, remained stable regardless of disturbance. Both cyanobacteria successfully invaded both halotolerant and halosensitive communities, increasing their dominance as salinity rose. Our findings suggest that anthropogenic stressors such as freshwater salinization can alter the phytoplankton community and increase a competitive advantage to certain taxa, including widespread alien cyanobacteria, potentially promoting invasions and bloom formation.},
}

@article {pmid40571732,
year = {2025},
author = {Jarić, I and Fernández-Llamazares, Á and Molnár, Z and Arbieu, U and Canavan, S and Correia, RA and Essl, F and Kamelamela, KL and Ladle, RJ and Maurice, AC and Meinard, Y and Novoa, A and Nuñez, MA and Pyšek, P and Roll, U and Sbragaglia, V and Shackleton, RT and Shani, L and Sherren, K and Teff-Seker, Y and Vaz, AS and Wehi, PM and Jeschke, JM},
title = {Cultural integration of invasive species.},
journal = {npj biodiversity},
volume = {4},
number = {1},
pages = {25},
pmid = {40571732},
issn = {2731-4243},
support = {23-07278S//Czech Science Foundation/ ; 23-07278S//Czech Science Foundation/ ; 23-07278S//Czech Science Foundation/ ; RRF-2.3.1-21-2022-00006//National Laboratory for Health Security (NKFIH)/ ; 348352//Research Council of Finland/ ; 202101976//Koneen Säätiö/ ; I 5825-B//Austrian Science Foundation FWF/ ; RYC2022-037905-I//MCIN/AEI/10.13039/ 501100011033 / FSE+/ ; RYC2021-033065-I//MCIN/AEI/10.13039/ 501100011033 / FSE+/ ; RVO 67985939//Akademie Věd České Republiky/ ; 2020.01175.CEECIND/CP1601/CT0009//FCT - Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology through the program Stimulus for Scientific Employment - Individual Support/ ; 101181413//European Union's Horizon Europe HORIZON-CL6-2024-BIODIV-01/ ; },
abstract = {Many invasive non-native species gradually become embedded within local cultures. Such species can increasingly be perceived by society as familiar or even native elements of the social-ecological system and become an integral part of local cultures. Here, we explore this phenomenon and refer to it as the cultural integration of invasive species. Although culturally integrated species can positively contribute to people's lives and well-being, and provide new or lost ecosystem services, their acceptance can also hinder the ability of conservation managers to successfully manage invasive species by reducing public support for their management. Cultural integration can infringe upon social values and cultural identities, and contribute to the erosion and homogenization of biocultural diversity. It can also modify or displace the cultural uses and values of native species, and may disrupt social-ecological legacies and dynamics. We present the main mechanisms of cultural integration, its drivers and major implications, and provide key recommendations for the management and conservation of biological and cultural diversity.},
}

@article {pmid40570650,
year = {2025},
author = {Axworthy, JB and Bates, EH and Grosser, MP and Padilla-Gamiño, JL},
title = {Effects of pollution on ecologically and economically important organisms of the Salish Sea.},
journal = {Marine pollution bulletin},
volume = {219},
number = {},
pages = {118322},
doi = {10.1016/j.marpolbul.2025.118322},
pmid = {40570650},
issn = {1879-3363},
abstract = {Marine pollution threatens ecosystems, biodiversity, and human health, impacting species fitness, disrupting food webs, and degrading essential habitats. This review examines the effects of marine pollution on key species in the Salish Sea, a vital ecosystem supporting diverse wildlife, including endangered species, and local economies reliant on fishing, aquaculture, and tourism. In total, we synthesized 116 studies including chemical pollution (78), biological pollution (15), marine debris (15), and sound pollution (8). Research on marine chemical pollution has primarily focused on pollutants in fish (41), followed by studies on birds (11), mammals (7), and bivalves (7), then invertebrates (2). Future investigations should broaden species coverage, assess various life stages, and evaluate the impact of climate change on pollutant accumulation. Biological pollution, driven mainly by intentionally introduced species like farmed shellfish and salmon, threatens native species and can spread pathogens. There is a pressing need for research on the effects of fecal-borne pathogens on marine organisms and the influence of seagrass beds, fish farms, and sewage outfalls on pathogen dynamics. Marine debris, especially derelict fishing gear, negatively impacts local organisms, while the effects of tire reefs and microplastics remain poorly understood. Research should integrate laboratory and field assessments to analyze microplastic ingestion and improve detection technologies to inform conservation efforts. Noise pollution research has focused on marine mammals like killer whales, highlighting how sound pollution disrupts communication and behavior, which can indirectly alter food webs and community dynamics. Future studies should also encompass other marine species, including fish and invertebrates. Understanding pollution impacts is crucial for developing effective mitigation strategies, protecting marine life, and ensuring sustainable ocean resource management for future generations.},
}

@article {pmid40569811,
year = {2025},
author = {Perroy, RL and Rodriguez, R and Tracy Johnson, M and Jarvis, O},
title = {Scaling up the deployment of Psidium cattleyanum biocontrol in a Tropical Forest.},
journal = {Journal of economic entomology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/jee/toaf147},
pmid = {40569811},
issn = {1938-291X},
support = {21-DG-11052021-216//USDA/ ; 1839095 and 1828799//National Science Foundation/ ; },
abstract = {It can be challenging to deploy and monitor biocontrol for invasive species, particularly in remote forest settings. One of the most abundant and disruptive invasive tree species in Hawai'i and across the Pacific is Psidium cattleyanum Sabine (strawberry guava), which replaces native vegetation and negatively impacts forest structure and ecosystem services. A Brazilian leaf-galling insect named Tectococcus ovatus Hempel (Homoptera: Eriococcidae) is an approved biocontrol for strawberry guava, but its introduction to date has been restricted to areas with established road and trail networks using ground-based methods. The aim of our study was to develop and test aerial methods of deploying T. ovatus within the larger goal of landscape-scale deployment. We also investigated using very high-resolution aerial imagery to detect T. ovatus galls on infected leaves to monitor post-deployment inoculation success and quantify spread. We found drone-based aerial deployment using a small 4-unit system was nearly 5 times faster than a ground-based approach in a heavily invaded lowland tropical forest setting and produced a statistically larger inoculation success rate one year after deployment, likely due to more central and higher placement within the targeted canopies. We found aerial imagery to be a useful tool to determine inoculation success and quantify spatiotemporal spread. We also found that larger-capacity drone platforms and conventional helicopters can successfully deploy T. ovatus onto individual targeted tree canopies and that landscape-scale deployment operations are feasible using these methods. Our findings are relevant to others working to deploy and monitor biocontrol in forested ecosystems worldwide.},
}

@article {pmid40568910,
year = {2025},
author = {Liu, C and Ruan, Z and Xie, J and Jeschke, JM and Comte, L and Olden, JD and Dong, Y and Chu, J and Kang, B and Leung, B},
title = {Dynamic Environmental Niches of Marine Invasive Species Over 200 Years.},
journal = {Ecology letters},
volume = {28},
number = {6},
pages = {e70164},
doi = {10.1111/ele.70164},
pmid = {40568910},
issn = {1461-0248},
support = {42176234//the National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; tsqn202312093//Mount Taishan Scholar Young Expert/ ; 42306133//the Young Scientists Fund of the National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
mesh = {*Introduced Species ; *Ecosystem ; *Aquatic Organisms/physiology ; Animals ; Conservation of Natural Resources ; },
abstract = {Anticipating the risk of species invasions in new geographical regions remains fundamental to conservation. One critical assumption is that species' environmental niches remain stable under changing environments. If native environmental drivers predict introduced distributions, we would expect high overlap in niche space between native and introduced ranges, with introduced niche increasingly resembling their native niche over time. We quantified changes in species' occupied niche space across 200 years of invasion records, for 778 marine invaders at the global scale. For species in introduced ranges, the majority of their native niche space remained unfilled, even after two centuries. As expected, overlap between native and introduced niche spaces increased with time since invasion. However, niche overlap remained low on average, never exceeding 20% across species. Our results suggest that native environmental drivers will largely fail to predict introduced species ranges in marine ecosystems within policy-relevant (decadal) time frames.},
}

*Introduced Species
*Ecosystem
*Aquatic Organisms/physiology
Animals
Conservation of Natural Resources

@article {pmid40566881,
year = {2025},
author = {Ramana, JV and Tylianakis, JM and Allen, WJ and Ridgway, HJ and Waller, LP and Orwin, KH and Dickie, IA},
title = {Invasive plants decrease arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal diversity and promote generalist fungal partners.},
journal = {The New phytologist},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/nph.70342},
pmid = {40566881},
issn = {1469-8137},
support = {//Bio-Protection Research Centre/ ; },
abstract = {Invasion by exotic plants is a major threat to ecosystem biodiversity globally. Although mutualistic belowground associations can play a significant role in successful invasion, studies have shown mixed results regarding the effects of plant invasion on arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF). Here, we tested how exotic dominance (i.e. invasion extent) in plant communities impacts arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal community diversity, composition, and generalism at the scale of individual plants and plant communities, and whether these impacts are explained or moderated by plant root traits (root diameter). We characterized root traits and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal communities in the roots of native and exotic plants growing together in experimental plant communities that ranged in invasion extent (exotic plant dominance from 0% to 100%). Increases in exotic dominance decreased arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal diversity in both individual plant roots and plant communities. Greater relative abundance of generalist AMF was also observed in plant communities with increasing exotic dominance. Although root diameter affected fungal composition, it did not moderate or drive the effect of exotics. Our results highlight the role of invasion extent in understanding how arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal communities respond to exotic plant invasion and the importance of preserving belowground biodiversity.},
}

@article {pmid40564282,
year = {2025},
author = {Esposito, G and Bondavalli, F and Di Nicola, MR and Pastorino, P and Scala, S and Gini, M and Milanese, G and Turolla, E and Maganza, A and Sciuto, S and Meloni, D and Melillo, R and Acutis, P and Bozzetta, E and Virgilio, S and Faggio, C and Colussi, S and Prearo, M},
title = {Blue Crab (Callinectes sapidus) Haemolymph as a Potential Reservoir of Mesophilic Shewanella Species.},
journal = {Animals : an open access journal from MDPI},
volume = {15},
number = {12},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ani15121731},
pmid = {40564282},
issn = {2076-2615},
abstract = {The blue crab (Callinectes sapidus) is an invasive alien species in the Mediterranean Sea, posing threats to biodiversity, fisheries, and aquaculture. Climate change has worsened these challenges, influencing the distribution of bacterial species, including Shewanella species, which are sensitive to changes in temperature and salinity. In this study, 300 blue crabs were sampled between June and October 2024 from the Sacca di Goro (Northern Adriatic Sea, Italy) to investigate the prevalence of Shewanella species in their haemolymph. The prevalence was found to be 7% (21/300), with species such as S. mesophila, S. algae, S. cowelliana, and S. baltica identified, particularly in the months of September and October. Molecular techniques, including MALDI-TOF MS and rpoB gene amplification, were used to identify isolates. Antibiotic susceptibility testing (AST) revealed a trend of resistance to beta-lactam antibiotics. A network analysis was also conducted to examine the global trends of Shewanella research in relation to humans, animals, and the marine environment. While proper cooking eliminates the risk to consumers, handling without personal protective equipment can increase exposure, particularly for vulnerable individuals such as those who are elderly or immunocompromised. Mild symptoms are observed in children. Further studies, particularly with a One Health approach, are crucial to better understand the transmission dynamics and evolving antibiotic resistance of Shewanella species.},
}

@article {pmid40563021,
year = {2025},
author = {Kolics, B and Kolics, É and Ács, Z and Proková, HM and Senková, KB and Senko, D},
title = {Easternmost distribution of Asian hornet (Vespa velutina nigrithorax, du Buysson 1905) in Slovakia: urgent need for advanced detection and interregional monitoring.},
journal = {Biologia futura},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40563021},
issn = {2676-8607},
support = {GINOP2.3.2-15-2016-00054//the Hungarian Government and the European Union, with the co-funding of the European Regional Development Fund in the frame of Széchenyi 2020 Programme/ ; },
abstract = {The invasive Asian hornet (Vespa velutina nigrithorax) continues its spread across Europe, posing a significant threat to biodiversity, viticulture, and apiculture. This study reports the first molecular data of the invasive yellowlegged Asian hornet (Vespa velutina nigrithorax) in Slovakia, confirmed through molecular analysis of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene. Radio telemetry successfully located the nest within inaccessible private property, highlighting the technique's crucial role in early detection. This finding, along with the need for manual tracking techniques, public awareness campaigns, and regional monitoring programs, underscores the urgent need for proactive legal frameworks to facilitate the use of radio telemetry and ensure timely intervention to prevent further spread and mitigate the ecological and economic impacts of this invasive species in Slovakia and neighboring countries. Furthermore, this study emphasizes the importance of continued research and development of radio telemetry techniques, including improved signal range and integration with drone technology, to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of V. velutina detection and control.},
}

@article {pmid40561269,
year = {2025},
author = {Souza, CDS and Marins, G and Camargo, IFLG and Lima, LB and Gomes, AS and Borghetti, F},
title = {Allelopathic hypotheses revisited: the interactions between native and exotic species in the Brazilian savanna.},
journal = {Anais da Academia Brasileira de Ciencias},
volume = {97},
number = {3},
pages = {e20240252},
doi = {10.1590/0001-3765202520240252},
pmid = {40561269},
issn = {1678-2690},
mesh = {*Allelopathy/physiology ; Brazil ; *Introduced Species ; *Grassland ; *Poaceae/growth & development ; Species Specificity ; Plant Leaves ; },
abstract = {We investigated allelopathic interactions between native and exotic species of the Cerrado biome. We studied the effects of the exotic Andropogon gayanus and the native A. bicornis on the initial growth of two native (A. fastigiatus and Lepidaploa aurea) and two exotic species (Melinis minutiflora and Stapfochloa elata). Leaves or roots of the donors were each mixed at ratios of 0.75, 1.5 and 3% (litter/soil) with soil samples collected in the same areas where they spontaneously co-occur with their target species. We found that A. gayanus inhibited the growth of all target species, what agrees with the novel weapon hypothesis. The native A. bicornis stimulated the growth of the two native species and of S. elata but inhibited the growth of the exotic M. minutiflora, in line with the homeland security hypothesis. Our studies suggest that allelopathy may have a part in the invasiveness of A. gayanus and that the inhibitory effect of A. bicornis on the growth of M. minutiflora might help to control the spread of this exotic grass. We conclude that allelopathy may be involved in the interactions between species and be used in controlling the spread of exotic species over many areas of the Cerrado.},
}

*Allelopathy/physiology
Brazil
*Introduced Species
*Grassland
*Poaceae/growth & development
Species Specificity
Plant Leaves