@article {pmid41061551,
year = {2025},
author = {Gunasekaran, K and Mghili, B and Sompongchaiyakul, P and De-la-Torre, GE and Machendiranathan, M and Bottari, T and Mancuso, M and Charoenpong, C and Chinfak, N},
title = {Potential of marine litter for range expansion of the invasive mussel Mytella strigata (Hanley, 1843) along the Indian coast.},
journal = {Marine pollution bulletin},
volume = {222},
number = {Pt 2},
pages = {118812},
doi = {10.1016/j.marpolbul.2025.118812},
pmid = {41061551},
issn = {1879-3363},
abstract = {Marine litter is a key vector of dispersing invasive species in the marine environment. However, our knowledge of the ecological interactions between these species and litter is still incomplete. Here, we investigated the substrate preferences and physical characteristics of marine litter colonized by the invasive mussel Mytella strigata, and explored the role of litter in the population expansion of this species along the Tamil Nadu coast, India. A total of 72 fouled debris were observed along the study areas. The majority of the fouling litter was composed of plastic (87.5 %), followed by rubber (4.2 %), wood (4.2 %), glass (2.8 %) and metal (1.4 %). A total of 2637 individuals of M. strigata were recorded on the marine litter, with recruitment on plastic substrates. Particularly, M. strigata were most common on large marine litter with irregular or cylindrical shapes, rough surfaces and transparent, blue or green colours. Our work provides evidence that marine litter can play a role in the reproduction of this invasive mussel. Consequently, M. strigata benefits from the litter substrates and the habitat complexity created by anthropogenic materials along the Tamil Nadu coast, enhancing its survival and reproduction. This could promote the expansion of the M. strigata population and thus affect the composition and structure of the marine ecosystem.},
}

@article {pmid41061534,
year = {2025},
author = {Anas, M and Huang, ZY and Xiong, H and Imran, M and Yan, MT and Javed, Q and Ren, GQ and Qi, SS and Li, J and Dai, ZC and Du, DL},
title = {Response of invasive Solidago canadensis to foliar application of natural herbicide and glyphosate.},
journal = {Journal of environmental management},
volume = {394},
number = {},
pages = {127522},
doi = {10.1016/j.jenvman.2025.127522},
pmid = {41061534},
issn = {1095-8630},
abstract = {Biological invasion changes the ecological and physiological functions of invaded ecosystems. Various control methods, including tillage, digging, burning, and chemical treatments, have been tested to manage invasive plant species. The commonly used broad-spectrum herbicide glyphosate is often applied for unwanted plant control. However, it has a significant residual impact on underground water, sediments, and drinking water, reaching levels of up to 70 μg/L. This poses risks to aquatic species, microflora, and human health. In this study, a natural herbicide derived from Sorghum bicolor root extract was foliar sprayed at different concentrations (0, 20, 40, 60, 80, and 100 %) along with low and high concentrations of glyphosate to control the growth of Solidago canadensis. The natural herbicide demonstrated significant potential to change the morphology, physiology, and biochemistry of S. canadensis under high concentrations, reducing the reliance on glyphosate by up to 60 %. It led to a decrease in root biomass ranging from 26 % to 81 %, leaf area reduction of 11 %-60 %, and a decrease in photosystem II efficiency. Catalase and ascorbate peroxidase activities were also significantly affected, showing a decrease of 49 %-77 %, and stomatal pore size was reduced from 58 % to 91 %. This may impede the gaseous exchange between the plant and its surroundings. The use of the natural herbicide, in combination with low concentrations of glyphosate, holds the potential to manage S. canadensis, control biological invasion, and mitigate the residual effects of glyphosate by inhibiting the shikimate pathway.},
}

@article {pmid41060262,
year = {2025},
author = {Ogburn, EC and Schoof, SC and Reisig, DD and Kennedy, GG and Walgenbach, JF},
title = {Validation of phenology models for Halyomorpha halys (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) using field data from climatically different ecoregions.},
journal = {Environmental entomology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/ee/nvaf097},
pmid = {41060262},
issn = {1938-2936},
support = {2016-51181-25409//Specialty Crop Research Initiative program/ ; NCO-02887//Research Capacity Funds (Hatch)/ ; NCO-02778//Research Capacity Funds (Hatch)/ ; NCO-02015//Research Capacity Funds (Hatch)/ ; //U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Institute of Food and Agriculture/ ; },
abstract = {Halyomorpha halys (Stål), an invasive species of Asian origin, has become a key pest of tree fruit in areas of the Eastern and Pacific Northwest United States. This study used a 5-yr dataset of pheromone trap captures from 4 ecoregions (Mountains, Piedmont, Southeastern Plains, and Atlantic Coastal Plain) of North Carolina to validate temperature-driven phenology models previously reported for oviposition by overwintering adults and eclosion of F1 adults using semi-field cage studies. Cumulative proportion of pheromone trap captures of F1 adults and nymphs over cumulative degree days was compared to predictions based on the previously reported models' quadratic equation curves for adult eclosion (y = -0.0000015x2 + 0.004736x - 2.664) and oviposition (y = 0.0000032x2 - 0.010853x + 9.050). The oviposition model was validated using projected oviposition curves to predict nymphal populations over time by using life stage-specific development and mortality rates. Analysis of coefficients of determination (R2) for all regressions showed that F1 adult model predictions varied by region and year. Mean R2 values in the Mountain, Piedmont, and Southeastern Plains ecoregions for F1 adults were 0.88, 0.93, and 0.93, respectively. Nymphal regressions also varied by ecoregion, with mean R2 values of 0.95, 0.86, and 0.88 in the Mountains, Piedmont, and Southeastern Plains, respectively. Differences among regions were mostly associated with lower R2 values at sites with low population densities. Results are discussed in relation to the value of these models in studying the ecology of invasive species and in informing pest management decisions.},
}

@article {pmid41059537,
year = {2025},
author = {Moore, C and Aukema, BH and Leone, JB and Jetton, RM and Petrice, TR and Ambourn, A and Venette, RC},
title = {Survival of elongate hemlock scale (Hemiptera: Diaspididae) with prolonged cold exposure: overwintering mortality risk across North America.},
journal = {Environmental entomology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/ee/nvaf096},
pmid = {41059537},
issn = {1938-2936},
abstract = {Elongate hemlock scale, Fiorinia externa Ferris (Hemiptera: Diaspididae), is an invasive pest of eastern hemlock, Tsuga canadensis, and other Pinaceae such as Fraser fir, Abies fraseri. Cut Fraser firs (ie for Christmas trees and other holiday greenery) with F. externa have been intercepted in US states beyond where the insect is known to be established and, in some cases, where exposure to freezing temperatures might be prolonged. This study measures the effect of constant low temperatures (3, -10, or -20 °C) on survival of overwintering F. externa females from eastern hemlock in Michigan and from eastern hemlock and Fraser fir in North Carolina. Survival was determined with biochemical viability testing, which assesses the presence of metabolically active cells, and changes in survivorship through time were quantified with Kaplan-Meier methods and beta regression. Collection date and host occasionally affected survival rate but not in a consistent pattern. Survival rates generally decreased as temperature decreased. At 3 °C, F. externa maintained high survival (>75%). At -10 °C, survival was projected to fall to 50% within 22 to 92 d and 10% by 45 to 195 d. At -20 °C, survival typically declined to 50% by 1 to 27 d and 10% by 6 to 52 d. We used survival durations at -20 °C to map how often F. externa might experience 50 or 90% mortality from prolonged cold exposure. Temperatures in recent winters have not been below -20 °C for long enough to stop F. externa from spreading throughout the ranges of eastern hemlock or other hosts in Canada and the continental United States.},
}

@article {pmid41058313,
year = {2025},
author = {McKee, SC and Koppes, P and Miller, RS and Selleck, M and Shwiff, SA},
title = {Wild pigs, wild costs: the economic consequences of wild pig invasions in the United States.},
journal = {Pest management science},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/ps.70247},
pmid = {41058313},
issn = {1526-4998},
support = {//National Feral Swine Damage Management Program/ ; //Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Wild pigs (Sus scrofa), an invasive species in the United States, cause extensive ecological and economic harm, impacting agriculture, forests, ecosystems, water quality, property, and human health and safety. Despite the substantial economic impacts, existing nationwide monetary assessments of wild pig damage are outdated and lack modern scientific rigor.

RESULTS: By synthesizing data from scientific journals, this study inventories the scope of wild pig damage, highlights gaps in our understanding of the associated costs, and introduces a novel composite approach to visualizing them. Additionally, it provides an updated conservative estimate of the economic costs associated with wild pig damage in the U.S. by combining known costs with reasonable extrapolations. While our analysis indicates a minimum annual cost of US$3.4 billion associated with wild pig invasions in the U.S. - considering agriculture, health, the environment and property - the true economic impact is likely to be far greater and remains largely unknown.

CONCLUSION: The study underscores the urgent need for standardized damage assessment protocols and increased research investment to accurately quantify the full economic burden of wild pig invasion. These data are critical for informed policy decisions and optimized resource allocation in wild pig management. © 2025 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry. This article has been contributed to by U.S. Government employees and their work is in the public domain in the USA.},
}

@article {pmid40866180,
year = {2025},
author = {Tian, B and Ding, J and Huang, W and Siemann, E},
title = {Escaping enemies enhances invader mutualisms: role of metabolites.},
journal = {Trends in ecology & evolution},
volume = {40},
number = {10},
pages = {945-948},
doi = {10.1016/j.tree.2025.08.001},
pmid = {40866180},
issn = {1872-8383},
mesh = {*Symbiosis ; *Introduced Species ; Biological Evolution ; *Plants/metabolism ; *Plant Physiological Phenomena ; Animals ; },
abstract = {Non-native plants often outperform native plants by escaping natural enemies and forming mutualistic relationships in new ranges. However, the causal relationships and mechanisms linking these interactions remain largely unclear. Metabolite reallocation may play a crucial role in linking ecological and evolutionary shifts between antagonistic and mutualistic interactions of non-native plants.},
}

*Symbiosis
*Introduced Species
Biological Evolution
*Plants/metabolism
*Plant Physiological Phenomena
Animals

@article {pmid40583797,
year = {2025},
author = {Alto, BW and Kizgin, AD and Toroslu, AM and Arslanhan, BA and Diop, SD and Pekmezci, GZ and Sanchez, Y and İbiş, O and Inci, A and Yildirim, A},
title = {Larval competition between invasive Aedes albopictus and resident Culex pipiens mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) from Türkiye in the presence of an insect growth regulator.},
journal = {Journal of medical entomology},
volume = {62},
number = {5},
pages = {1146-1161},
doi = {10.1093/jme/tjaf079},
pmid = {40583797},
issn = {1938-2928},
support = {//University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agriculture Sciences/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Aedes/growth & development/physiology/drug effects ; *Culex/growth & development/physiology/drug effects ; Larva/growth & development/physiology/drug effects ; Female ; *Pyridines/pharmacology ; *Juvenile Hormones/pharmacology ; *Competitive Behavior/drug effects ; Introduced Species ; *Mosquito Vectors/growth & development/physiology ; *Insecticides/pharmacology ; },
abstract = {The spread of the invasive mosquito Aedes albopictus in Türkiye may influence other vectors and traits related to their ability to transmit arboviruses. Interspecific competition between Ae. albopictus and the resident vector of West Nile virus (WNV), Culex pipiens can influence WNV transmission through changes in the abundance of Cx. pipiens and the phenotypic traits of adults. Furthermore, environmental factors can modify interspecific competition, especially if the factor differentially impinges upon the superior competitor. To improve our understanding of competition's influence on traits of mosquitoes that relate to arbovirus transmission, we tested 2 hypotheses: Exposure to the insecticide pyriproxyfen alters interspecific competition among larval Ae. albopictus and Cx. pipiens, and competitive asymmetry favoring Ae. albopictus over Cx. pipiens alters survival of adult females. Interspecific and intraspecific larval competition were evaluated with 2 detritus types and in the presence or absence of pyriproxyfen. Higher intra- and interspecific competition reduced survivorship to adulthood, lengthened development, and yielded smaller sized adults of Ae. albopictus and Cx. pipiens. The presence of pyriproxyfen had minimal impact on the competitive outcomes. Interspecific interactions exhibited competitive asymmetry with Ae. albopictus being competitively dominant over Cx. pipiens. Survival of adult females was differentially compromised under high competition conditions. Adult survival was lengthened for Ae. albopictus and shortened for Cx. pipiens derived from interspecific conditions relative to intraspecific treatments. These results demonstrate how competitive asymmetry among the larvae of an invasive and resident mosquito can influence recruitment of adults and their survival, factors predicted to be important to transmission of arboviruses.},
}

Animals
*Aedes/growth & development/physiology/drug effects
*Culex/growth & development/physiology/drug effects
Larva/growth & development/physiology/drug effects
Female
*Pyridines/pharmacology
*Juvenile Hormones/pharmacology
*Competitive Behavior/drug effects
Introduced Species
*Mosquito Vectors/growth & development/physiology
*Insecticides/pharmacology

@article {pmid41057774,
year = {2025},
author = {Almojil, D and Manikandan, V and Drou, N and Measey, J and Boissinot, S},
title = {The two sub-genomes of the allotetraploid frog Xenopus laevis are evolving under similar selective pressure in extant populations.},
journal = {BMC genomics},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {887},
pmid = {41057774},
issn = {1471-2164},
support = {AD180//NYUAD Grant AD180 and Tamkeen under the NYU Abu Dhabi Research Institute/ ; },
abstract = {The model species Xenopus laevis is an allotetraploid species, whose genome consists of two sub-genomes (the L and S sub-genomes) that were inherited from its parental species. Previous studies comparing the genome of X. laevis with other species of the genus revealed that the L sub-genome was more conserved than the S sub-genome suggesting it has been evolving under stronger purifying selection. However, it remains unclear if this difference reflects evolutionary processes that are still at play in extant populations. To answer this question, we conducted the first genome-wide survey of variation in this species by re-sequencing 44 individuals from its native South African range at ~ 10 × coverage. We generated a dataset of ~ 260M SNPs, which constitutes a valuable resource for the Xenopus community. We found that the South African populations of X. laevis are highly structured and differentiated, reflecting ancient divergence followed by more recent admixture at contact zones. We also determined that the landscapes of variation of the L and S sub-genomes do not show any significant differences suggesting that the two sub-genomes are responding to evolutionary forces in a similar manner. In particular we showed that purifying selection and positive selection are acting identically on the two sub-genomes, suggesting that the sub-genomes of X. laevis are evolving under similar selective pressure. Since 60% of the ancestral homeologous genes have been retained in X. laevis, this result suggests that the function of those genes is conserved on both sub-genomes or that a large number of genes has experienced neo- or sub-functionalization.},
}

@article {pmid41057438,
year = {2025},
author = {Shauer, M and Zangaro, F and Specchia, V and Pinna, M},
title = {Investigating invasion patterns of Callinectes sapidus and the relation with research effort and climate change in the Mediterranean Sea.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {34967},
pmid = {41057438},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {CN_00000033//National Biodiversity Future Center (NBFC-Italy)/ ; CN_00000033//National Biodiversity Future Center (NBFC-Italy)/ ; BlueDiversity//Interreg Italy-Croatia 2021- 2027, First Call/ ; CL6-2022-BIODIV-01//EU HORIZON, Pro-Coast/ ; },
mesh = {Mediterranean Sea ; *Climate Change ; *Introduced Species ; Animals ; Ecosystem ; Temperature ; },
abstract = {The ecological stability of Mediterranean marine ecosystems is increasingly threatened by invasive alien species (IAS). This study examines the invasion dynamics of Callinectes sapidus, a high-risk and readily identifiable IAS across the Adriatic, Ionian, and Central Mediterranean subregions. A comprehensive dataset of published scientific and local ecological knowledge (LEK) records was compiled to analyze spatial and temporal patterns of diffusion. An increase in reported occurrences was found across the entire study area, spreading from south to north. Heterogeneous sampling methods hinder direct comparisons across regions, underscoring the need for standardized reporting protocols. LEK supported the clarification of overall patterns of C. sapidus diffusion and enhanced the resolution of temporal and spatial distribution data. The temporal progression of the invasion aligns with phases of arrival, establishment, and expansion. A close association was observed with both research effort and rising sea surface temperatures (SST). This study highlights the importance of integrating climate data and community-based knowledge in IAS monitoring and demonstrates a methodology for assessing climate-linked biological invasions in marine environments.},
}

Mediterranean Sea
*Climate Change
*Introduced Species
Animals
Ecosystem
Temperature

@article {pmid41057409,
year = {2025},
author = {Kędra, K and Jagodziński, AM},
title = {Predicting the co-invasion of two Asteraceae plant genera in post-mining landscapes using satellite remote sensing and airborne LiDAR.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {34877},
pmid = {41057409},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {OPUS 2019/35/B/ST10/04141//Narodowe Centrum Nauki/ ; OPUS 2019/35/B/ST10/04141//Narodowe Centrum Nauki/ ; },
mesh = {*Remote Sensing Technology/methods ; *Asteraceae/physiology/growth & development ; Ecosystem ; *Introduced Species ; *Mining ; Poland ; Machine Learning ; Satellite Imagery ; },
abstract = {The Asteraceae plant family includes the most widespread weedy invaders in Europe, which may jointly inhibit natural succession in degraded land under restoration. The complex local drivers of co-invasions hinder remote sensing (RS) monitoring efforts, as the links between the ecological and the spectral habitat properties are largely unknown. We proposed a comprehensive framework for machine learning modeling of the co-invasion of two Erigeron spp. and two Solidago spp. in post-mining landscapes of S Poland, using both field data and a combination of Sentinel-2, Landsat 7 and airborne LiDAR RS predictors. Stochastic Gradient Boosting best captured the non-linear dependencies (Accuracy = 0.670-0.886, AUC = 0.675-0.923), and generally outcompeted two other classifiers (Random Forest and Support Vector Machines with a Radial Basis Function Kernel). The field-based functional diversity metrics were the strongest predictors, corroborating improved resistance to invasions by native plant functional richness. In terms of RS data, the most favorable conditions for co-invasion were identified by a narrow range of reflectance in the red-edge interval of a Sentinel-2 image, and constrained by LiDAR-derived vegetation height (for Erigeron spp.) and by high land surface temperatures (for Solidago spp.). The highest share of patches suitable for co-invasion was consistently found in the low vegetation land cover class, between 36% and 64% cover. We therefore advise considering particular management actions, such as increasing the supply of native seed, thus improving local community resistance to invasions. The proposed methods and openly available RS predictors may facilitate targeted monitoring and cost-effective management interventions.},
}

*Remote Sensing Technology/methods
*Asteraceae/physiology/growth & development
Ecosystem
*Introduced Species
*Mining
Poland
Machine Learning
Satellite Imagery

@article {pmid41055980,
year = {2025},
author = {Heinen, JH and Drake, DR and McConkey, K and Hume, JP and Albert, S and Ando, H and Baider, C and Bellingham, PJ and Case, SB and Chimera, CG and Florens, FBV and Fricke, EC and Gawel, AM and González-Castro, A and Heleno, R and Hervias-Parejo, S and Hruska, A and Imada, CT and de Lima, RF and Nogales, M and Rogers, HS and Rumeu, B and Strasberg, D and Traveset, A and Valido, A and Watanabe, K and Wotton, D and Yoshikawa, T and Rahbek, C and Borregaard, MK},
title = {Species introductions shift seed dispersal potential more than extinctions across 120 island plant-frugivore communities.},
journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America},
volume = {122},
number = {41},
pages = {e2423438122},
doi = {10.1073/pnas.2423438122},
pmid = {41055980},
issn = {1091-6490},
support = {DNRF96//Danmarks Grundforskningsfond (DNRF)/ ; CF19-0695//Carlsbergfondet (Carlsberg Foundation)/ ; CF23-0890//Carlsbergfondet (Carlsberg Foundation)/ ; CF23-0890//Linacre College, University of Oxford/ ; 25925//Villum Fonden (Villum Foundation)/ ; 0//New Zealand Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Employment Endeavour Fund programme Te Mana o Rangitāhua/ ; 0//Gerrit Parmile Wilder Endowed Chair in Botany at the University of Hawai'i/ ; CE3C CHANGE CFE TERRA//Fundação para a Ciencia e Tecnologica/ ; PGC2018-099772-B-I00//Spanish Ministry of Science, Innovation, and Universities/ ; PID2023-152357NB-I00//Spanish Ministry of Science, Innovation, and Universities/ ; PID2022-137906NB-I00//Spanish Ministry of Science, Innovation, and Universities/ ; },
mesh = {*Seed Dispersal/physiology ; Animals ; Islands ; *Extinction, Biological ; *Introduced Species ; Ecosystem ; Birds/physiology ; Mammals/physiology ; Seeds ; Plants ; Herbivory ; Fruit ; Reptiles/physiology ; },
abstract = {Oceanic islands are hotspots of both species extinctions and introductions, which led to marked changes in species composition. This may disrupt key ecological interactions, such as animal-mediated seed dispersal, with potential long-term impacts on ecosystem structure and functioning. While some recent studies on individual taxa and islands report functional shifts, there has been no globally comprehensive study of how these changes vary in intensity and direction across islands. Importantly, it remains unclear how changes in traits of animal communities actually translate to ecologically relevant mismatches with native plant species. We report widespread functional remodeling of frugivore communities based on frugivory-specific traits of all native, extinct, and introduced vertebrate frugivores (birds, mammals, reptiles) from 120 islands in 22 archipelagos. There is a trend for taxonomic and functional substitution, mainly of nonvolant terrestrial mammalian omnivores replacing large-gaped flying frugivores, which caused a mismatch between gape size and seed size. This shift in seed dispersal potential risks underestimation in single-taxon studies. Overall, vertebrate introductions outnumbered extinctions both in terms of species (44 vs. 23%) and islands affected (92 vs. 76%). Moreover, introductions have driven stronger shifts in frugivore trait space compared to extinctions. However, the general patterns are modulated by substantial spatial variation and idiosyncratic functional shifts within frugivore communities on some islands. This, coupled with differences in plant seed size distributions, leads to variability in realized functional mismatches among islands. These results emphasize challenges with predicting functional responses to anthropogenic activities, while highlighting that remodeling of ecosystem interactions is a global concern.},
}

*Seed Dispersal/physiology
Animals
Islands
*Extinction, Biological
*Introduced Species
Ecosystem
Birds/physiology
Mammals/physiology
Seeds
Plants
Herbivory
Fruit
Reptiles/physiology

@article {pmid41054928,
year = {2025},
author = {Shi, X and Yu, M and Fu, Y and Wang, J and Qin, F and Wang, X},
title = {Potential distribution prediction of two destructive rice weevils in China based on an ensemble model.},
journal = {Bulletin of entomological research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-12},
doi = {10.1017/S0007485325100515},
pmid = {41054928},
issn = {1475-2670},
abstract = {Rice water weevils (RWWs) (Lissorhoptrus oryzophilus) and rice weevils (RW) (Echinocnemus squameus) (both Coleoptera: Curculionidae) are major rice pests that cause significant economic losses in China. Understanding their potential distribution areas is crucial for effective management. This study used the Biomod2 package in R to simulate and predict the current and future potential distributions, changes in suitable areas, shifts in distribution centres, and overlaps under climate change for both pests under three greenhouse gas emission scenarios. By 2023, the suitable areas for RWWs and RWs were 538.52 × 104 km[2] and 376.05 × 104 km[2], respectively. The suitable area for the former pest expanded southwestward and northeastward across China, whereas the latter spread mainly into Northeast China. The suitable area for RWWs is projected to remain stable, whereas that for RWs is expected to decline. The distribution centroid of RWWs is anticipated to shift toward southeastern or southwestern Shaanxi, whereas RWs are likely to migrate toward central-eastern or northeastern Shaanxi. The niche overlap between the two pests is high (Schoener's D = 0.658, I = 0.816), with overlap concentrated in central, eastern, and southern China. The key factors influencing their distributions include precipitation of the wettest month (Bio13), mean temperature of the warmest quarter (Bio10), and precipitation of the driest month (Bio14). This study provides a theoretical basis for the prediction of the potential distribution of both pests, which offers valuable insights for the development of effective pest control strategies in China.},
}

@article {pmid41054612,
year = {2025},
author = {Liu, J and Chen, M and Wang, L and Liu, T and Jin, X and Yu, FH and Zhang, Y},
title = {Habitat fragmentation differentially affects invasive and native plant diversity in a human-dominated wetland island system.},
journal = {Plant diversity},
volume = {47},
number = {5},
pages = {824-832},
pmid = {41054612},
issn = {2468-2659},
abstract = {Managing invasive species requires identifying the factors that determine alien species invasion success. This study investigates how anthropogenic and biogeographical factors influence alien plant invasion in the Sanyang Wetlands, a human-dominated island system in Wenzhou City, China. Specifically, we analyzed whether human activities (e.g., habitat heterogeneity, proportion of road area, and cultivation) and island characteristics (e.g., island area, isolation) affect the diversity of native and invasive plant species similarly. We also assessed the applicability of the equilibrium theory of island biogeography to invasive plant species diversity and examined how these factors affect invasive plant species with different dispersal syndromes (anemochore, zoochore, and autochore). We found that both invasive and native species richness positively correlate with island area, habitat heterogeneity, and proportion of road area. However, although native species richness was negatively correlated with isolation, invasive species richness was not. The diversity and composition of invasive species with different dispersal syndromes were determined by different variables; for example, the composition and diversity of zoochores was increased by habitat heterogeneity, while anemochore species richness was increased by the proportion of road area, whereas anemochore species composition was influenced by distance to the nearest island. We conclude that habitat fragmentation differentially affects invasive and native plant diversity, aligning with the predictions of the equilibrium theory of island biogeography only for native species but not for invasive species. Our findings indicate that tailoring habitat attributes and regulating human activities could be effective strategies for mitigating the spread of invasive species in fragmented landscapes.},
}

@article {pmid41054603,
year = {2025},
author = {Song, XJ and Liu, G and Li, XD and Chen, Y and Wang, J and Zhang, CL and Ye, XP and Zhu, ZH},
title = {Phylogenetically close alien Asteraceae species with minimal niche overlap are more likely to invade.},
journal = {Plant diversity},
volume = {47},
number = {5},
pages = {804-813},
pmid = {41054603},
issn = {2468-2659},
abstract = {Predicting whether alien species will invade a native community is a key challenge in invasion ecology. One factor that may help predict invasion success is phylogenetic relatedness. Darwin proposed that closely related species tend to share similar niches, although this relationship may be influenced by various ecological and evolutionary factors. To test this, we classified alien Asteraceae species in China into three categories based on their invasion status and the extent of ecological damage: introduced, naturalized, and invasive. We then compared the genetic relationships and niche overlap between alien and native Asteraceae species. We found that invasive Asteraceae species are more closely related to native Asteraceae species than are introduced and naturalized species. However, alien Asteraceae species (including introduced, naturalized, and invasive species) exhibited relatively low niche overlap with native Asteraceae species. These findings suggest that the main premise underlying Darwin's naturalization conundrum, namely, the universality of phylogenetic niche conservatism, may not hold true. Instead, our findings indicate that alien species are more likely to invade successfully when they are more closely related to native plants, exhibit less niche overlap, and maintain conservative niches during the invasion process. These findings provide new insights into the mechanisms of alien plant invasions, highlight the relationship between alien species invasions and native community vulnerability, and offer important insights into the development of effective biological invasion management strategies.},
}

@article {pmid41053066,
year = {2025},
author = {Sühs, RB and Ziller, SR and da Rosa, CA and Puechagut, PB and Marterer, BTP and Giehl, ELH and Asth, MS and Targino, CH and Legracie-Jr, JR and Chapla, TE and Zenni, RD},
title = {Georeferenced database of invasive non-native species occurrences in Brazil.},
journal = {Scientific data},
volume = {12},
number = {1},
pages = {1619},
pmid = {41053066},
issn = {2052-4463},
mesh = {*Introduced Species ; Brazil ; Animals ; *Biodiversity ; Databases, Factual ; Conservation of Natural Resources ; },
abstract = {This dataset presents a comprehensive and validated compilation of 187,160 georeferenced records of 489 invasive species of fauna (Animalia), flora (Plantae), and algae (Chromista) across Brazilian terrestrial, freshwater and marine territories, including islands. The data were obtained through consultations with federal environmental agencies, national and international databases, and scientific publications. All records were reviewed and validated by experts through national and state-level consultations conducted between 2021 and 2024. This effort was carried out within the framework of the project Pró-Espécies: Estratégia Nacional para a Conservação de Espécies Ameaçadas, which aimed to support the conservation of biodiversity and the management of invasive non-native species.},
}

*Introduced Species
Brazil
Animals
*Biodiversity
Databases, Factual
Conservation of Natural Resources

@article {pmid41052085,
year = {2025},
author = {Winter, JM and Moorhead, K and Grochowski-Grum, K and Anchor, C and Landolfi, JA and Adamovicz, LA and Allender, MC},
title = {Health assessment of non-native red-eared sliders (Trachemys scripta elegans) and their impact potential on native species.},
journal = {PloS one},
volume = {20},
number = {10},
pages = {e0333786},
doi = {10.1371/journal.pone.0333786},
pmid = {41052085},
issn = {1932-6203},
mesh = {Animals ; *Turtles/microbiology/virology ; *Introduced Species ; Illinois ; Seasons ; Female ; },
abstract = {Red-eared sliders (RES; Trachemys scripta elegans) are a globally invasive species that can impact native chelonian populations through resource competition and disease introduction. In Cook County, Illinois, invasive RES co-occur with, and greatly outnumber, a species of conservation priority in the Great Lakes region: the Blanding's turtle (Emydoidea blandingii). This study sampled free-ranging RES in Cook County during spring, summer, and fall in four unique locations to characterize the possible effect of this non-native species on the health of regional, sympatric, aquatic chelonians. RES (n = 242) were captured and sampled for qPCR pathogen detection, clinical pathology, and necropsy from 2018 to 2022. Multiple pathogens were detected, including Mycoplasma spp., multiple adenoviruses, Trachemys herpesvirus 1 (TrHV-1), frog virus 3, human-pathogenic Leptospira spp., Emydomyces testavorans, and Salmonella typhimurium. Mycoplasma spp. prevalence was significantly higher (p < 0.05) at one isolated site with a suspected greater density of turtles. Detection of TrHV-1 was significantly associated with season (p < 0.001), with detections occurring only in spring and fall. For the 28 hematology, plasma biochemistry, and protein electrophoresis analytes assayed, significant and variable associations occurred based on sample year, season, pathogen detection, age, and sex. Population-based reference intervals were created for hematologic, plasma biochemistry, and plasma protein electrophoresis analytes. Common necropsy findings included mild endoparasitism and related vascular lesions such as endarteritis. Notably, qPCR detection of above pathogens was not associated with any gross or histologic lesions indicative of clinically relevant disease. This study indicates that invasive RES in Cook County may be infected with pathogens of concern for co-occurring turtle species, and absence of associated lesions in the RES suggests they likely serve as carrier species for these pathogens. Continued health monitoring of this species is important as interactions with chelonians of conservation priority increase.},
}

Animals
*Turtles/microbiology/virology
*Introduced Species
Illinois
Seasons
Female

@article {pmid41050722,
year = {2025},
author = {Pfau, MJ and Weber, S and Kennedy, S and Krehenwinkel, H and Roderick, G and Gillespie, R},
title = {Invasive Spiders and Their Microbiomes: Patterns of Microbial Variation in Native and Invasive Species in Hawai'i.},
journal = {Ecology and evolution},
volume = {15},
number = {10},
pages = {e72175},
pmid = {41050722},
issn = {2045-7758},
abstract = {Invasive species can have detrimental impacts on the community structure and native species persistence, causing cascading impacts on ecosystem function. These effects are amplified in remote island ecosystems that are characterized by non-representative and often diverse biota. The mechanisms behind successful invasions, particularly of arthropods, are varied, but growing evidence suggests that invasive species escape from their native predators and competitors. Recent research has suggested that gut microbiota can play an important role in arthropod fitness, with vertically transmitted endosymbionts and horizontally acquired microbes performing different functions. Here, we explored the extent to which the microbiome may facilitate the ability of spiders to exploit and ultimately adapt to novel environments. We examined co-occurring pairs of native and invasive spiders across three locations in the Hawaiian Islands and compared them with mainland counterparts to test two core predictions: (1) gut microbiota would be shaped primarily by local environmental filters rather than invasion status, and (2) vertically transmitted endosymbionts would show stronger host-specificity and reduced diversity in invasives. Using 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing, we found that the site explained 11.7% of gut-microbial compositional variance compared to 6.5% for host species. These results suggest that each spider maintains a species-specific level of α-diversity but reassembles taxonomic composition according to local microbial pools, thus indicating high context dependence in environmental filtering. Invasive species were found to have a lower relative abundance of gut endosymbiont taxa, with one species, Badumna longinqua, showing little to no endosymbiont presence across sites, and the other, Steatoda grossa, exhibiting low but site-specific abundance. We observed a strong localization effect, suggesting that these endosymbionts are also being acquired from local environments, not carried from ancestral ranges. These results suggest host-symbiont interactions have differential impacts on native and invasive species and that microbiota may facilitate the success of spiders in novel environments.},
}

@article {pmid41048186,
year = {2025},
author = {Lucetti, G and Abbà, S and Pesavento, G and Fanelli, E and De Luca, F and Battagini, E and Cazzaniga, S and Ballottari, M and Frizzon, D and Mori, N and Galetto, L},
title = {RNAi-mediated gene silencing of a 26S proteasome subunit increases mortality of the Japanese beetle Popillia japonica.},
journal = {Pest management science},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/ps.70265},
pmid = {41048186},
issn = {1526-4998},
support = {//Ministero dell'Università e della Ricerca/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The Japanese beetle Popillia japonica (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) is a highly polyphagous quarantine invasive species causing severe crop damages. Its management is based on broad-spectrum insecticides and sustainable alternatives are needed. Strategies based on RNA interference (RNAi) emerged in crop protection and we aimed to explore its use to control P. japonica.

RESULTS: Nine genes of P. japonica were selected as lethal candidates, based on previous wide-genome screenings on other coleopterans. To avoid off-target effects, genes showing over 80% identity with pollinator homologues were excluded and P. japonica double-stranded RNAs (dsRNAs) were designed in the least conserved portions according to alignments with Apis mellifera. When incubated in P. japonica midgut juice, dsRNAs were not degraded. Injection and plant-mediated feeding were used to deliver dsRNAs to larvae and adults. Five targets were tested, and two genes were selected as the most effective in increasing mortality, namely regulatory particle non-ATPase 6 subunit (RPN) and shibire_dynamin-like protein (SHI). A significant transcript reduction up to 21 days (RPN: 3-5 fold-change silencing) after dsRNA injection indicated that effective gene silencing occurred, as also supported by sequencing of small RNA libraries. In adults, RNAi-mediated depletion of RPN transcript reduced survival, either when insects were injected or mass-fed on vine leaves dsRNA-treated.

CONCLUSION: A subunit of the 26S proteasome was indicated as promising RNAi target for dsRNA-based insecticide against the Japanese beetle. The data pave the way for the possible use of RNAi approaches to control this pest, proactively waiting for the European Union approval of exogenously applied dsRNAs. © 2025 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.},
}

@article {pmid41045828,
year = {2025},
author = {Fouet, MPA and Massé, C and Bonnissant, L and Blanchet, H and Maire, O and Bernard, G},
title = {Combined atmospheric and marine heatwaves exacerbate the impacts of a non-indigenous species, the Asian date mussel Arcuatula senhousia, on benthic ecosystem functioning.},
journal = {Marine environmental research},
volume = {212},
number = {},
pages = {107560},
doi = {10.1016/j.marenvres.2025.107560},
pmid = {41045828},
issn = {1879-0291},
abstract = {Climate change is predicted to increase the frequency, severity, and duration of extreme climatic events such as heatwaves. Benthic organisms inhabiting intertidal flats are subjected to both marine and atmospheric heatwaves and can experience extreme temperature variations over relatively short periods of time. Non-indigenous species are generally capable to cope with extreme events more efficiently that native species. The Arcachon bay, a lagoon located along the French Atlantic coast is currently colonised by the invasive mussel, Arcuatula senhousia. In this study, we investigated how these two stressors (non-indigenous species colonisation and heatwaves) affect soft-bottom ecosystem functioning. We conducted two seasonal laboratory experiments to investigate the effects of combined marine and atmospheric heatwaves on the biogeochemical dynamics of sediments colonised by A. senhousia at different densities. More precisely, we assessed the community scale responses by measuring nutrients (NOx, NH4[+], PO4[3-]) and oxygen fluxes across the sediment-water interface. The results highlight that (1) heatwaves affect oxygen and nutrient exchanges across the sediment-water interface, with an increase of oxygen consumption and NH4[+], PO4[3-] fluxes, (2) the magnitude of these effects can be strongly enhanced by increasing densities of A. senhousia, and (3) a marked seasonal-dependence, with more effects during the spring experiment. These results emphasise that the interaction between the seasonality of heatwave occurrence, its intensity and the level of colonisation by non-indigenous ecosystem engineers likely shape their consequences for ecosystem functioning in tidal flats. Our results thus reinforce previous findings suggesting that climate change may profoundly exacerbate the effects of biological invasions.},
}

@article {pmid41045564,
year = {2025},
author = {Gammon, M and Floerl, O and Happy, S and Leonard, K and Lass, H and Walls, K and Floerl, L and Casanovas, P and Goodwin, E and Hucker, S and Davidson, I},
title = {Policy, management, and the 'Level of Fouling' scale to transform marine invasion risk reduction from recreational boats.},
journal = {Journal of environmental management},
volume = {394},
number = {},
pages = {127493},
doi = {10.1016/j.jenvman.2025.127493},
pmid = {41045564},
issn = {1095-8630},
abstract = {Categorical scales have a rich history in environmental management, providing pragmatic means to assess ecological phenomena when full quantification is not feasible or necessary. The Level of Fouling (LOF) scale was developed 20 years ago to facilitate biosecurity policies that reduce the spread of marine invasive species by recreational boats. Applications of the six-category scale have since varied, and divergent implementation practices may undermine its value for marine biosecurity. To support researchers and practitioners to maintain accuracy and precision when applying the scale, we provide a review of LOF-based research and management and updated guidance on its implementation. Focussing on underwater observations and percentage cover metrics (rather than above water observation and species richness) can reduce uncertainty and error. To support users when applying the scale we provide an online application - LOFeR - which features: (i) thousands of underwater vessel images for training and self-assessment, and (ii) an LOF Calculator that can be used in the field to automatically calculate whole-vessel LOF ranks from multiple ranks applied to different underwater surfaces. The LOF scale has been used most extensively in New Zealand to establish biological thresholds and underpin regulations and monitoring for biosecure boating. New Zealand's three-tiered approach to managing boat biofouling addresses boats arriving at the border from overseas, travelling within and between different regions, and visiting marine protected areas. Over 47,000 LOF-based vessel surveys in recent years support New Zealand's approach, which provides a roadmap for other jurisdictions toward managing this large and unwieldy transfer mechanism.},
}

@article {pmid41045563,
year = {2025},
author = {Roeleke, M and Scholz, C and Arce Guillen, R and Pufelski, J and Jeltsch, F},
title = {Towards individual-based conservation strategies - the case of invasive raccoons in an agricultural pond-rich landscape.},
journal = {Journal of environmental management},
volume = {394},
number = {},
pages = {127511},
doi = {10.1016/j.jenvman.2025.127511},
pmid = {41045563},
issn = {1095-8630},
abstract = {Raccoons have recently been declared alien species of special concern by the European Union. However, high densities in high-quality habitats such as wetlands make it almost impossible or at least extremely laborious to control raccoon populations with comprehensive and undifferentiated brute force approaches. Here, we asked if individual-based analysis may hint at more applicable conservation approaches that account for individual space use patterns. We used GPS collars to record the space use of 20 raccoons in their invasive range in northern Germany, a landscape dominated by intensive agriculture, including numerous small ponds. These ponds are biodiversity hotspots that act as source habitats and offer shelter and food for local wildlife, including vulnerable species like birds and amphibians. Half of the tracked raccoon individuals showed a weak preference for ponds as foraging grounds, yet the preference for larger waterbodies on the population scale masked this pattern. A detailed look at the intensity of pond use revealed that only a comparably small but highly mobile fraction of the local raccoon population used ponds intensively. These few individuals may thus have a disproportionate large negative effect on native wildlife, leading to a landscape-scale effect by disturbing the most vulnerable yet important habitat islands. Our results suggest that removing few specialized individuals might be an effective and economical strategy to reduce the impact of invasive species on local animal communities. Individual-based conservation and management strategies could be most effective in landscapes characterized by island-like biodiversity hotspots embedded in a low quality matrix.},
}

@article {pmid41045548,
year = {2025},
author = {Grange, SK and Girardi, JP and Mendoza-Lera, C and Dyckmans, J and Muñoz, K and Brunn, M and Jungkunst, HF},
title = {Stable isotopes as a tool towards a better understanding of the biogeochemical traits of invasive Fallopia japonica.},
journal = {Isotopes in environmental and health studies},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-15},
doi = {10.1080/10256016.2025.2567068},
pmid = {41045548},
issn = {1477-2639},
abstract = {Invasive plants pose a significant threat to ecosystems by disrupting the ecological balance, which includes the alteration of biogeochemical processes. Among the most aggressive invaders is Fallopia japonica, a species that thrives in riparian zones - critical interfaces between aquatic and terrestrial environments - where it significantly impacts biodiversity and ecosystem functions. Despite its success as an invader, the mechanisms that drive both the impact and success of F. japonica upon ecosystem processes remain poorly understood. Prior studies have suggested that F. japonica may exhibit traits such as a unique preference for ammonium over nitrate, potentially altering nitrogen availability for native plants like Urtica dioica. Additionally, it has been proposed that the species leverages phenolic compounds to influence soil biogeochemistry and nitrogen cycling. However, these processes lack comprehensive investigation. Using stable isotope labelling ([15]N and [13]C), we found that, contrary to prior assumptions, F. japonica showed an overall lower uptake of both ammonium and nitrate relative to the native competitor, U. dioica. Although we expected a preference for ammonium, F. japonica instead exhibited a slight preference for nitrate. In addition, F. japonica demonstrated higher nitrogen-use efficiency and allocated more freshly assimilated carbon and nitrogen to root growth than U. dioica. These findings suggest that traits such as efficient nitrogen use and strategic root allocation may contribute to F. japonica's ability to establish itself in nitrogen-variable environments like riparian zones. By prioritising belowground biomass during early development, F. japonica may gain a competitive advantage that enables it to disrupt native plant communities and alter ecosystem dynamics. This study underscores the value of stable isotopes in understanding plant-soil interactions and informs strategies for managing invasive species in sensitive ecosystems.},
}

@article {pmid41044279,
year = {2025},
author = {Singh, G and Rosman, B and Byrne, MJ and Reynolds, C},
title = {An earth observation and explainable machine learning approach for determining the drivers of invasive species - a water hyacinth case study.},
journal = {Environmental monitoring and assessment},
volume = {197},
number = {11},
pages = {1172},
pmid = {41044279},
issn = {1573-2959},
support = {40470//FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, University of Cape Town/ ; },
abstract = {Invasive species management is often constrained by limited resources and complicated by ecological and socio-economic variability across landscapes, leading to inconsistent outcomes. We use water hyacinth (Pontederia crassipes) in South Africa as a case study to demonstrate how combining earth observation (EO) data, species distribution models (SDMs), and explainable artificial intelligence (xAI) can support more spatially explicit and context-sensitive management strategies. Despite decades of control efforts, water hyacinth remains widespread, with its proliferation shaped by ecological and socio-economic contexts in which the weed proliferates. Using SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP), we studied the environmental and socio-economic contexts impacting water hyacinth prevalence across multiple spatial scales in South Africa. Consistent patterns emerged with known physiological constraints, such as minimum temperature, while novel spatial trends were revealed-highlighting temperature effects along the coast and the role of vegetation type in inland regions. These insights offer opportunities for targeted fieldwork to investigate emergent non-linear relationships and interaction effects between covariates. The spatially explicit outputs, covering all South African water bodies, provide a low-cost, scalable tool to guide the prioritization of risk, inform monitoring and early detection efforts, and support the selection of locally appropriate management strategies. While focused on water hyacinth, our approach is generalizable to other invasive species, illustrating the value of integrating EO data and xAI to enhance understanding of species-environment dynamics and enable adaptive, data-driven intervention planning.},
}

@article {pmid41042760,
year = {2025},
author = {Klimova, A and Gutiérrez Rivera, JN and Aguirre-Planter, E and Eguiarte, LE},
title = {How social and economic policies have affected the genome of mezcal agaves: The contrasting stories of Bacanora and Espadín.},
journal = {PloS one},
volume = {20},
number = {10},
pages = {e0324581},
doi = {10.1371/journal.pone.0324581},
pmid = {41042760},
issn = {1932-6203},
mesh = {*Agave/genetics ; *Genome, Plant ; Mexico ; Domestication ; Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide ; Crops, Agricultural/genetics ; Agriculture/economics ; },
abstract = {Plant domestication in Mesoamerica gave the world crops of global significance, such as maize, beans, squashes, cocoa, and cotton. Additionally, it has introduced species of regional economic importance, which still display intermediate levels of domestication, including Agave, Opuntia, columnar cacti, Amaranthus, and various ornamental species. Agaves, in particular, hold immense cultural and economic significance in Mexico and play a crucial ecological role in wild plant communities. However, current agricultural practices have negatively impacted both wild populations of agave through overexploitation and habitat destruction, as well as cultivated plants by reducing available landraces and promoting the use of homogeneous plant material. Using genomic data (RADseq) and over 50,000 SNPs, we aimed to assess how local social and political decisions may have influenced genomic diversity and differentiation in intensively managed, clonally propagated Agave angustifolia (Espadín) in the state of Oaxaca, the cultivated A. angustifolia used to produce mezcal known as Bacanora in the state of Sonora, and their wild counterparts from both regions. We found evidence suggesting that Espadín recently arose through farmer selection of a clonal lineage with desirable mezcal production attributes (i.e., hybrid vigor), apparently from an unsampled cultivated variety, a cross between genetically distinct wild populations, or by hybridization between wild and cultivated plants. Espadín samples were represented by closely related heterozygous genotypes, with considerable genetic differentiation from wild plants. On the other hand, the genomic composition of cultivated Bacanora agave appears to have been influenced by a recently lifted ban (in 1992) on its cultivation and distillation, which, along with the relatively lower popularity of this beverage, allowed cultivated Bacanora agave to maintain the genetic diversity found in wild populations of the region. We found that social and political decisions may have important impacts on crop genomic diversity and differentiation.},
}

*Agave/genetics
*Genome, Plant
Mexico
Domestication
Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide
Crops, Agricultural/genetics
Agriculture/economics

@article {pmid41042102,
year = {2025},
author = {Glendening, AM and Stephens, C and Vuruputoor, VS and Chaganti, T and Myles, MN and Stern, DL and Abdelalim, M and Juang, YP and Hogenhout, SA and Mathers, TC and Pauloski, N and Cernak, TA and Wegrzyn, JL and Fetter, KC},
title = {Chromosome scale genomes of two invasive Adelges species enable virtual screening for selective adelgicides.},
journal = {G3 (Bethesda, Md.)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/g3journal/jkaf232},
pmid = {41042102},
issn = {2160-1836},
abstract = {Two invasive adelgids are associated with widespread damage to several North American conifer species. Adelges tsugae, hemlock woolly adelgid, was introduced from Japan and reproduces parthenogenetically in North America, where it has rapidly decimated Tsuga canadensis and Tsuga caroliniana (eastern and Carolina hemlocks, respectively). Adelges abietis, eastern spruce gall adelgid, introduced from Europe, forms distinctive pineapple-shaped galls on several native spruce species. While not considered a major forest pest, it weakens trees and increases susceptibility to additional stressors. Broad-spectrum insecticides that are often used to control adelgid populations can have off-target impacts on beneficial insects. Whole genome sequencing was performed on both species to aid in development of targeted solutions that may minimize ecological impact. Adelges abietis was sequenced using barcoded linked-reads from 30 pooled individuals, with Hi-C scaffolding performed using data from a single individual collected from the same host plant. Adelges tsugae used long-read sequencing from pooled nymphs. The assembled A. tsugae and A. abietis genomes, pooled from several parthenogenetic females, are 220.75 Mbp and 253.16 Mbp, respectively. Each consists of eight autosomal chromosomes, as well as two sex chromosomes (X1/X2), supporting the XX-XO sex determination system. The genomes are over 96% complete based on BUSCO assessment. Genome annotation identified 11,424 and 12,060 protein-coding genes in A. tsugae and A. abietis, respectively. Comparative analysis of proteins across 29 hemipteran species and 14 arthropod outgroups identified 31,666 putative gene families. Gene family evolution analysis with CAFE revealed lineage-specific expansions in immune-related aminopeptidases (ERAP1) and juvenile hormone binding proteins (JHBP), contractions in juvenile hormone acid methyltransferases (JHAMT), and conservation of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChR). These genes were explored as candidate families towards a long-term objective of developing adelgid-selective insecticides. Structural comparisons of proteins across seven focal species (Adelges tsugae, Adelges abietis, Adelges cooleyi, Rhopalosiphum maidis, Apis mellifera, Danaus plexippus, and Drosophila melanogaster) revealed high conservation of nAChR and ERAP1, while JHAMT exhibited species-specific structural divergence. The potential of JHAMT as a lineage-specific target for pest control was explored through virtual screening of drugs and pesticides.},
}

@article {pmid41041714,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhan, A and Bock, D and Briski, E and Colautti, R and Hu, J and MacIsaac, H},
title = {Ecological and Evolutionary Dynamics of Invasive Species Under Global Change.},
journal = {Global change biology},
volume = {31},
number = {10},
pages = {e70530},
doi = {10.1111/gcb.70530},
pmid = {41041714},
issn = {1365-2486},
}

@article {pmid41041654,
year = {2025},
author = {Nakahama, N and Hirasawa, K and Kato, M and Watanabe, K and Kurata, S and Hayashi, M},
title = {Mitochondrial DNA 16S region and voucher specimen collection of Japanese aquatic Coleoptera and Hemiptera for environmental DNA metabarcoding analyses.},
journal = {ZooKeys},
volume = {1253},
number = {},
pages = {103-119},
pmid = {41041654},
issn = {1313-2989},
abstract = {Aquatic coleopteran and hemipteran insects primarily inhabit lentic waters, many of which are at risk of extinction due to development, agriculture, and invasive alien species. Environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis has recently emerged as a powerful tool for conducting comprehensive distribution surveys. The cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) universal primers are conventionally used for DNA barcoding but they often result in non-specific amplification and frequent amplication failures. Primers in the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) 16S rRNA region that alleviate these issues have been developed and are considered helpful for eDNA analysis. It is necessary to accumulate reference sequences of the mtDNA 16S rRNA region in aquatic coleopteran and hemipteran insects. However, molecular identification at the genus or species level remains challenging, as only a few of these insect groups in Japan have registered reference DNA sequences for both the mtDNACOI and 16S rRNA. Therefore, we constructed a comprehensive dataset of the mtDNA 16S rRNA region for these insects distributed in Japan. As a result of this study, we were able to obtain partial sequences of the mtDNA 16S rRNA region from 140 coleopteran taxa (35.5% of Japanese aquatic species or subspecies) and 58 hemipteran taxa (45.3% of Japanese aquatic species or subspecies). These voucher specimens were deposited in four research institutions. The DNA sequence datasets are expected to significantly contribute as an essential database for eDNA analysis and other DNA metabarcoding studies.},
}

@article {pmid41041021,
year = {2026},
author = {Sanders, RD and Obaza, AK and Ginsburg, DW and Carmack, OC and Grime, BC and Burdick, H and Ford, TK and Leichter, JJ},
title = {Open-Coast Eelgrass (Zostera marina) Transplant Catalyzes Rapid Mirroring of Structure and Function of Extant Eelgrasses.},
journal = {Estuaries and coasts : journal of the Estuarine Research Federation},
volume = {49},
number = {1},
pages = {2},
pmid = {41041021},
issn = {1559-2723},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: Seagrasses are marine angiosperms that function as ecosystem engineers, forming complex structure that enhance nearshore environments. Globally, seagrass habitats are threatened by intensifying impacts from climate change, which exacerbate non-climatic stressors such as coastal development, invasive species, and overfishing. Advances in the methodological efficacy of active seagrass restoration efforts have sought to mitigate substantial anthropogenic-induced losses. Restoration efforts along the U.S. West Coast have primarily focused on Zostera marina (common eelgrass) in shallow, sheltered estuarine environments, where most coastal development occurs. However, within the Southern California Bight, Zostera spp. also occurs along the exposed coastlines of the California Channel Islands archipelago. Despite their unique location and the ecosystem services they provide, a paucity of information persists on open-coast seagrass systems and restoration efforts. In this study, we conducted a novel transplant of Z. marina on Catalina Island and tracked temporal and spatial performance metrics (i.e., areal coverage, morphometrics, and fish assemblages) at the restoration site and seven extant Z. marina reference beds on the island from 2021 to 2024. The transplant activities successfully established over 0.18 hectares of Z. marina habitat. The transplant site paralleled or exceeded extant reference beds morphometrically (shoot density and blade length) and functionally (fish composition and fish diversity), while concomitantly providing habitat for the occupancy of, and utilization by, federally listed endangered and managed species. Our results provide a model for broadening the scope of, and augmenting strategies for, seagrass habitat recovery beyond conventional restoration spaces by underscoring the role of open-coast seagrasses in enhancing nearshore ecosystem function and resilience.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12237-025-01609-x.},
}

@article {pmid41040479,
year = {2025},
author = {Plakkhina, E and Sozontov, A and Esyunin, S and Ivanova, N and Shumigay, D},
title = {Spiders (Arachnida: Araneae) of PSU's Botanical Garden (Perm, Russia).},
journal = {Biodiversity data journal},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {e163152},
pmid = {41040479},
issn = {1314-2828},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The Botanical Garden of Perm State University was founded in 1916 and has a suitable site for studying urban invertebrate fauna. However, despite this, very few studies have been conducted on this topic over the past 100 years. Only a few individual works on greenhouse pests have been done. The first studies of the spider fauna on the territory of the botanical garden began in 2012. Studies of the seasonal activity of individual species, the composition of spider communities in uncultivated areas and alien species living in greenhouses have been conducted over the past 10 years.

NEW INFORMATION: This paper summarises primary field data from studies on the fauna of ground-dwelling spiders in open areas and greenhouses of PSU's Botanical Garden, collected in 2012 and during the period 2021-2024. The dataset "Spiders (Arachnida: Araneae) of PSU's Botanical Garden (Perm, Russia)" describes the assemblage structure of spiders (list of species and their abundance), age-sex composition and seasonal dynamics. The dataset includes 714 events and 3468 corresponding occurrences. In total, 9088 specimens were collected, representing 114 species from 78 genera and 17 families. About 8400 individuals were identified to the species level. The dataset is complemented by a detailed description of the vegetation coverage at the study sites. This dataset considerably expands the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) data on the distribution of spiders in the Urals. It provides new important information about urban fauna in general, as well as data on greenhouse and agrocenosis populations. Occurrences from both outdoor and indoor areas add a unique survey of microhabitats to the regional spider records available through GBIF.},
}

@article {pmid41038911,
year = {2025},
author = {Kozioł, A and Brysiewicz, A and Czerniejewski, P and Plust, D},
title = {Nutritional quality and heavy metal in invasive stone moroko (Pseudorasbora parva) from natural waters and aquaculture ponds.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {34385},
pmid = {41038911},
issn = {2045-2322},
mesh = {Animals ; *Metals, Heavy/analysis ; Ponds ; Aquaculture ; *Nutritive Value ; *Water Pollutants, Chemical/analysis ; Introduced Species ; Fresh Water ; *Fishes ; },
abstract = {One of the most invasive freshwater fish in Europe is the stone moroko (Pseudorasbora parva), but its potential for food use remains largely unexplored. Fish were collected from ponds (Raszyn, Stare Kurowo) and a natural river (Wardynka). The study measured fish weight and length, calculated the Fulton coefficient, determined the chemical composition of the meat, energy value plus yield. Heavy metal content was determined after HNO3 digestion using GFAAS method. Health risk was assessed using EDI, THQ, HI, CR. The data were statistically analyzed. No differences in length were found. Individuals from Stare Kurowo and Wardynka had significantly higher body weights than those from Raszyn. Wardynka fish had the highest water content (74.83%), the lowest dry matter, protein, and fat levels. All samples contained low concentrations of heavy metals, with the lowest levels in Wardynka and the highest in Raszyn. Estimated daily intake (EDI) values ranged from 0.28% to 3.03% of the reference dose, remaining under 1% in most cases. Nutrient levels matched typical European freshwater fish. Differences among sites likely stemmed from food availability and competition. The low metal content and favourable meat quality indicate potential for food production, helping control this invasive species and protect native fish.},
}

Animals
*Metals, Heavy/analysis
Ponds
Aquaculture
*Nutritive Value
*Water Pollutants, Chemical/analysis
Introduced Species
Fresh Water
*Fishes

@article {pmid41035940,
year = {2025},
author = {Villar, DA and Yanes, E and Gutiérrez Tito, ER and Gosler, AG},
title = {Diets of Three Sympatric Grebe Species in Lake Titicaca Indicate Possible Dietary Niche Partitioning.},
journal = {Ecology and evolution},
volume = {15},
number = {10},
pages = {e72123},
pmid = {41035940},
issn = {2045-7758},
abstract = {Dietary niche partitioning is a fundamental process in community ecology, of interest to both conservationists and ecologists. We present data on the dietary niches of three sympatric grebes from Lake Titicaca: the endangered endemic Titicaca Grebe Rollandia microptera, Rolland's Grebe Rollandia rolland, and the Silvery Grebe Podiceps occipitalis. This is the first study comparing the diets of these three species since 1981. We conducted stomach content analysis on 45 Titicaca Grebes, 30 Rolland's Grebes, and 15 Silvery Grebes, and quantified the degree of niche overlap among individuals and what prey classes were driving variation between species. Rolland's Grebe and the Silvery Grebe have a more invertebrate-based diet than the Titicaca Grebe. The use of presence-absence methodologies and numeric methodologies for counting prey items leads to different results regarding dietary differences between these species. While our dietary categories are too coarse to definitively prove it is a case of dietary niche partitioning, it is indicative of it. We suggest future avenues to prove dietary niche partitioning in these species, and how dietary studies could answer questions regarding this ecosystem's response to invasive species.},
}

@article {pmid41035926,
year = {2025},
author = {Rentería-Solís, Z and Flores, L and Langner, T and Gawlowska, S and Grochow, T and Fietz, S and Birka, S and Król, N and Obiegala, A},
title = {The conquest of the north continues: Baylisascaris procyonis in free-ranging invasive raccoons (Procyon lotor) from Germany, including a first report in the northeastern state of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania.},
journal = {International journal for parasitology. Parasites and wildlife},
volume = {28},
number = {},
pages = {101139},
pmid = {41035926},
issn = {2213-2244},
abstract = {With exception of the Northeast, the raccoon roundworm (Baylisascaris procyonis) is widespread in Germany. This zoonotic parasite can cause neurological disease in paratenic and aberrant hosts, like humans. As the name indicates, raccoons are the definitive host of B. procyonis. However, and despite the successful expansion of the raccoon population, parasite and host ranges do not always overlap. B. procyonis has been largely absent from the northeastern part of the country, notwithstanding the stable presence of raccoons in this area. In this study, faecal and intestinal samples were opportunistically collected from 166 free-ranging raccoons from 9 federal states in Germany. In 68 animals (41.0 %), B. procyonis was identified either through PCR or morphological identification of adult worms. The positive raccoons originated from 6 federal states, including for the first time animals from the northern state of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. The results of this study highlight the dissemination of the parasite in the north of the country, while maintaining its presence in the rest of Germany.},
}

@article {pmid41035176,
year = {2025},
author = {Chikodza, T and Cuthbert, RN and Schrama, M and Coetzee, J and Wasserman, R and Veldhuis, MP and Strange, EF},
title = {Double Trouble: Aquatic Invasive Plants Can Promote Mosquitoes.},
journal = {Ecology letters},
volume = {28},
number = {10},
pages = {e70199},
doi = {10.1111/ele.70199},
pmid = {41035176},
issn = {1461-0248},
support = {//This work has been supported by the CML Impact Funds of Leiden University/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Introduced Species ; *Culicidae/physiology ; *Plants ; Population Dynamics ; Aquatic Organisms ; Ecosystem ; *Mosquito Vectors/physiology ; },
abstract = {Human activities continue to facilitate biological invasions, profoundly impacting our environment and economy. Plants and insects constitute the majority of invasions to date, with facilitative links established between them, particularly in terrestrial habitats. These relationships remain understudied in aquatic environments, including potential associations between aquatic invasive plants and disease vectors such as mosquitoes. Here, we synthesise current knowledge on the co-occurrence of aquatic invasive plants and mosquitoes, identify key research gaps and present a conceptual framework underpinned by testable hypotheses on how aquatic invasive plants may influence immature and adult mosquito populations. We provide evidence suggesting that these plant-mosquito relationships could pose previously unrecognised risks and highlight priority areas for future research to better understand the potential public health implications of aquatic plant invasions. We call for targeted in situ and ex situ investigations to test the proposed hypotheses and increase our understanding of the interactions between aquatic invasive plants and mosquito population dynamics. Testing these hypotheses will inform adaptive, evidence-based management strategies to simultaneously control aquatic invasive species and vector mosquitoes.},
}

Animals
*Introduced Species
*Culicidae/physiology
*Plants
Population Dynamics
Aquatic Organisms
Ecosystem
*Mosquito Vectors/physiology

@article {pmid41034284,
year = {2025},
author = {Tamoikin, I and Kutsyn, D and Gavruseva, T and Vdodovich, I and Donchik, P},
title = {Expansion and biological traits of the non-indigenous Korean rockfish Sebastes schlegelii in the black sea.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {34173},
pmid = {41034284},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {124022400148-4//This work was carried out within the framework of IBSS state research assignment "Biodiversity as the basis for the sustainable functioning of marine ecosystems, criteria and scientific principles for its conservation" (No. 124022400148-4)./ ; 124022400148-4//This work was carried out within the framework of IBSS state research assignment "Biodiversity as the basis for the sustainable functioning of marine ecosystems, criteria and scientific principles for its conservation" (No. 124022400148-4)./ ; 124022400148-4//This work was carried out within the framework of IBSS state research assignment "Biodiversity as the basis for the sustainable functioning of marine ecosystems, criteria and scientific principles for its conservation" (No. 124022400148-4)./ ; 124022400148-4//This work was carried out within the framework of IBSS state research assignment "Biodiversity as the basis for the sustainable functioning of marine ecosystems, criteria and scientific principles for its conservation" (No. 124022400148-4)./ ; 124022400148-4//This work was carried out within the framework of IBSS state research assignment "Biodiversity as the basis for the sustainable functioning of marine ecosystems, criteria and scientific principles for its conservation" (No. 124022400148-4)./ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; Female ; Black Sea ; *Fishes/physiology/growth & development ; Male ; *Introduced Species ; Ecosystem ; Feeding Behavior ; *Perciformes/physiology/growth & development ; Sexual Maturation ; },
abstract = {The Korean rockfish (Sebastes schlegelii Hilgendorf, 1880) - a newly established invasive species in the Black Sea - is native to the northwestern Pacific Ocean. This study presents findings on the discovery, feeding habits, age, growth, and sexual maturation of this species in its new environment. A total of 18 specimens collected from the Black Sea were examined. It was determined that the Korean rockfish is now present along all Black Sea coasts, except for the brackish northwestern region, and has also been observed in the Sea of Marmara. The largest recorded specimen in the Black Sea was a female measuring 40.4 cm in total length (TL) and aged 3 years. The length-at-age of all examined specimens was greater than that observed in its native range. The diet of the Korean rockfish in the Black Sea primarily consisted of fish and shrimp. The sample included both immature and mature individuals; however, no evidence of successful reproduction in the Black Sea has been documented to date. The prospects for further colonization and population growth of the Korean rockfish in the Black Sea are considered favorable, which could pose a significant threat to the local ecosystem.},
}

Animals
Female
Black Sea
*Fishes/physiology/growth & development
Male
*Introduced Species
Ecosystem
Feeding Behavior
*Perciformes/physiology/growth & development
Sexual Maturation

@article {pmid41032979,
year = {2025},
author = {Impellitteri, F and Mossotto, C and Cotugno, A and Maganza, A and Provenza, F and Gabetti, A and Esposito, G and Renzi, M and Matozzo, V and Elia, AC and Faggio, C and Prearo, M and Pastorino, P},
title = {When crayfish face painkillers: Tissue-specific cytotoxic and oxidative responses to indomethacin exposure in Procambarus clarkii.},
journal = {Ecotoxicology and environmental safety},
volume = {304},
number = {},
pages = {119138},
doi = {10.1016/j.ecoenv.2025.119138},
pmid = {41032979},
issn = {1090-2414},
abstract = {Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are increasingly recognized as emerging contaminants in freshwater ecosystems. However, their effects on aquatic invertebrates remain poorly investigated. This study evaluated for the first time both cellular and biochemical responses of the red swamp crayfish (Procambarus clarkii) following a long-term exposure to indomethacin, a widely used NSAID. Specimens were exposed for 28 days to 2.5, 5, and 10 mg/L, and biomarkers indicative of cytotoxicity and oxidative stress were evaluated. Viability of both hemolymph and hepatopancreas cells was assessed using Trypan Blue and Neutral Red assays, while oxidative stress biomarkers, including superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione S-transferase (GST), and malondialdehyde (MDA), were analyzed in hepatopancreas, gill, and muscle tissues. The results showed that indomethacin exposure induced significant, tissue-specific cytotoxic and oxidative responses. Notably, hepatopancreas cell viability decreased significantly at lower concentrations, with partial recovery at the highest dose, suggesting a possible hormetic effect of the contaminant. Oxidative stress biomarkers exhibited concentration-dependent changes: SOD and MDA levels were significantly altered in the hepatopancreas; GST activity was affected in the gills, and GPx activity increased in muscle at higher concentrations. Haemocyte viability remained unaffected, indicating resilience of circulating cells. The Integrative Biomarker Response-Threshold (IBR-T) index highlighted both hormetic and classical dose-response trends, depending on tissue type. From an ecological perspective, these findings suggest that P. clarkii may tolerate relatively high indomethacin concentrations without systemic oxidative collapse, potentially supporting its persistence and competitive advantage in contaminated habitats. However, the hepatopancreas sensitivity indicates possible sublethal metabolic impairment, which could affect long-term fitness and population dynamics. Overall, this study provides novel insights into the ecotoxicological effects of indomethacin in a keystone invasive species and underscore the importance of tissue-specific biomarker analysis for environmental risk assessment.},
}

@article {pmid41032390,
year = {2025},
author = {Knight, IA and Bingham, FE and Harlow, MM and Huang, AH and Bohaty, C and Harms, NE},
title = {A proposed method for estimating habitat suitability of weed biological control agents with experimentally derived thermal injury and weather data.},
journal = {Environmental entomology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/ee/nvaf099},
pmid = {41032390},
issn = {1938-2936},
support = {//Engineer Research and Development Center Aquatic Plant Control Research/ ; },
abstract = {Ecological niche modelling provides a tool for making a priori predictions of habitat suitability for biological control agents. Current approaches may be limited by available data but improved by the incorporation of physiological data. Alligatorweed, Alternanthera philoxeroides (Mart.) Griseb. (Caryophyllales: Ameranthaceae), is controlled across much of its introduced range in the United States of America by the alligatorweed flea beetle, Agasicles hygrophila Selman and Vogt (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae); however, insufficient control is observed at temperate latitudes. Investigations into alligatorweed thrips, Amynothrips andersoni O'Neill (Thysanoptera: Phlaeothripidae), indicate that they are more cold-tolerant with a broader predicted range. The upper limit of the chill injury zone (ULCIZ) and the sum of injurious temperatures (SIT) are measures that can be used to compare relative cold tolerance among biocontrol agents. Here we propose a method for integrating these parameters with weather data to predict overwintering mortality. The ULCIZ and SIT of Am. andersoni and Ag. hygrophila were experimentally determined, then habitat suitability for each species was modeled using the proposed method and 20 yr of weather data. ULCIZ was -2.94 and 4.52 °C, and SIT was 307.19 and 251.27 for Am. andersoni and Ag. hygrophila, respectively, indicating that Am. andersoni begins accumulating chill injury at a lower temperature than Ag. hygrophila and does so at a slower rate. Using this method, 91.8% of Al. philoxeroides's range in the USA was predicted to fall within highly or moderately suitable habitat for Am. andersoni, compared to 15.9% for Ag. hygrophila. Ranges predicted by the proposed method are similar to previous correlative ENMs.},
}

@article {pmid41032144,
year = {2025},
author = {Schneider, IE and Weber, MM and Khadka, A and Bahlmann, B},
title = {Influencing Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Behaviors: An Exploration and Experiment with Augmented Reality.},
journal = {Environmental management},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41032144},
issn = {1432-1009},
abstract = {Despite significant resource allocations to thwart invasive species introduction and spread, they remain a significant issue for environments and economies alike. Aquatic invasive species (AIS) are of particular interest given the value of water within and across societies. AIS prevention activities typically include outreach and education campaigns reliant on static signage which leave opportunities for greater engagement. Addressing a primary pathway for AIS spread, this project compared the impact of static and dynamic message mediums on boating anglers' intentions to perform AIS prevention behaviors and assessed the impact of various variables on the likelihood to perform AIS prevention behaviors. Survey results of boating anglers in one U.S. Midwestern state revealed very high self-reported intentions for prevention behaviors and no significant differences across message mediums (sign, augmented reality or simple AIS definitions). Therefore, judicious evaluation of decisions about management communication efforts remains essential across new and existing mediums.},
}

@article {pmid41029229,
year = {2025},
author = {Nagy, KN and Károlyi, CE and Bakacsy, L},
title = {Multiscale assessment of conservation management for Amorpha fruticosa invasion in a marsh meadow.},
journal = {BMC ecology and evolution},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {97},
pmid = {41029229},
issn = {2730-7182},
support = {7616//University of Szeged Open Access Found/ ; 7616//University of Szeged Open Access Found/ ; 7616//University of Szeged Open Access Found/ ; },
mesh = {*Introduced Species ; *Wetlands ; *Conservation of Natural Resources/methods ; Biodiversity ; Animals ; Cattle ; *Fabaceae/physiology ; },
abstract = {This study examined the ecological impact of the invasive shrub Amorpha fruticosa in marsh meadows and assessed the effectiveness of combined conservation management practices, i.e., mowing and cattle grazing, in on restoring native vegetation. Conducted in the Mártély Landscape Protection Area (Hungary), the research used a multiscale approach to compare treated non-invaded and treated invaded wetland vegetation. Information theory-based diversity metrics were employed to evaluate the impact of A. fruticosa on structural complexity and species composition. Results revealed that although A. fruticosa can significantly altered plant community structure, the implemented management strategies effectively reduced its impact. The treated invaded vegetation exhibited diversity levels compareable to native marshland communities, suggesting that mowing and grazing contributed to decreasing A. fruticose dominance. However, in the absence of untreated control stands, this pattern must be interpreted cautiously, as the observed similarity could be conclusively attributed to the applied management alone. A slight, but non-significant shift in structural diversity was also observed, implying a residual effect of invasion. This study underscores the value of active, combined conservation strategies in maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem resilience in wetland habitats. The results contribute to broader discussions on invasive species control, emphasizing the role of traditional land-use practices in mitigating the ecological effects of biological invasions.},
}

*Introduced Species
*Wetlands
*Conservation of Natural Resources/methods
Biodiversity
Animals
Cattle
*Fabaceae/physiology

@article {pmid41029028,
year = {2025},
author = {Li, Y and Pootakham, W and Ingsriswang, S and Dela Cueva, F and Cordez, BW and Gafforov, Y and Unartngam, J and Liu, L and Bi, G and Zhao, P and Clement, KMT and Liang, J and Cai, L},
title = {Biosurveillance of Invasive Southern Corn Rust: Insights Into Recent Migration Patterns and Virulence Variation.},
journal = {Molecular plant pathology},
volume = {26},
number = {10},
pages = {e70159},
doi = {10.1111/mpp.70159},
pmid = {41029028},
issn = {1364-3703},
support = {ANSO-CR-KP-202207//Alliance of National and International Science Organizations for the Belt and Road Regions/ ; 32472506//National Sciences Foundation of China/ ; 32330002//National Sciences Foundation of China/ ; XDB0830000//Strategic Priority Research Program of Chinese Academy of Sciences/ ; XZ202201ZY0011N//Key R&D Programs of Xizang Autonomous Region in China/ ; },
mesh = {*Plant Diseases/microbiology ; Virulence/genetics ; *Zea mays/microbiology ; *Puccinia/pathogenicity/genetics ; China ; Thailand ; Phylogeny ; Genetic Variation ; Introduced Species ; Philippines ; },
abstract = {Emerging pathogen races spreading via long-distance migration increasingly threaten global agricultural ecosystems. Understanding how pathogens migrate and adapt to new hosts via virulence evolution is crucial for developing strategies to mitigate future crop damage. Here we performed biosurveillance of Puccinia polysora, a global fungal pathogen causing southern corn rust (SCR), across China, Thailand and the Philippines. By analysing 193 field transcriptomic data, we detected both epidemic and endemic lineages co-circulating in each country and elucidated the crucial role of host selection in driving the diversification of endemic lineages. Gene flow assessments and trajectory tracking indicated that the SCR infection source in northern China is likely of domestic origin and pathogen migration from the Philippines/Thailand into China is restricted to Hainan, coastal Guangdong and southern Yunnan. We detected country-specific variants in 32 effector genes, with AvrRppC exhibiting the strongest positive selection. A phylogenetically distinct Luzon Island lineage (Philippines), carrying a novel AvrRppC allele capable of overcoming RppC-mediated resistance and represents a potentially invasive threat. Finally, we reviewed the global migration history of P. polysora in light of our findings. Our work represents the first step toward establishing an international surveillance network for P. polysora and emphasised a comprehensive control strategy integrating local governance and invasion prevention of international races.},
}

*Plant Diseases/microbiology
Virulence/genetics
*Zea mays/microbiology
*Puccinia/pathogenicity/genetics
China
Thailand
Phylogeny
Genetic Variation
Introduced Species
Philippines

@article {pmid41028690,
year = {2025},
author = {Dowarah, B and Laskar, RA and Dutta, C and Mili, C and Kashyap, A and Neog, B},
title = {Unraveling the chemical communication of root exudates and allelopathy for sustainable ecology and agriculture.},
journal = {Antonie van Leeuwenhoek},
volume = {118},
number = {11},
pages = {160},
pmid = {41028690},
issn = {1572-9699},
mesh = {*Plant Roots/chemistry/metabolism/microbiology ; *Allelopathy ; *Plant Exudates/chemistry/metabolism ; *Agriculture/methods ; Rhizosphere ; Ecology ; Pheromones/metabolism ; Mycorrhizae ; },
abstract = {Root exudates, a complex mixture of organic and inorganic compounds secreted by healthy plant roots, play a central role in belowground chemical interactions, particularly through the phenomenon of allelopathy. These exudates, which include phenolic acids, flavonoids, amino acids, terpenoids, phytohormones, and fatty acids, do more than support nutrient mobilization and microbial associations. They act as allelochemicals that affect the germination, growth, and physiology of neighboring plants. Allelopathy influences key ecological processes such as plant succession, species dominance, and the establishment of invasive species, while also shaping microbial communities and nutrient cycles in the rhizosphere. Major allelopathic mechanisms include interference with photosynthesis, hormonal disruption, and growth suppression caused by certain amino acids, often producing species-specific and concentration-dependent responses. Autotoxicity, in which a plant inhibits its growth, is now understood as a genetically regulated process. Recent studies show that allelopathic interactions are influenced by plant developmental stages, environmental conditions, and associations with microbes such as mycorrhizal fungi and rhizobacteria. These microbial partners alter both the composition and biological effects of root exudates. Beyond suppression, root exudates also serve as signaling molecules that affect root system architecture and spatial behavior in neighboring plants, allowing donor species to gain a competitive edge. In agriculture, allelopathy offers sustainable options for weed control, organic crop production, and soil health improvement. Invasive species often exploit unfamiliar allelochemicals to displace native flora, supporting the novel weapons theory. This review compiles recent advances and calls for integrated research to apply allelopathy for ecofriendly agriculture.},
}

*Plant Roots/chemistry/metabolism/microbiology
*Allelopathy
*Plant Exudates/chemistry/metabolism
*Agriculture/methods
Rhizosphere
Ecology
Pheromones/metabolism
Mycorrhizae

@article {pmid41028197,
year = {2025},
author = {Marambio, M and Pascual-Torner, M and Tilves, U and Pérez, A and Ballesteros, A and Gili, JM},
title = {The Westernmost Record of the Scyphomedusa Cassiopea andromeda (Forskål, 1775) in the Mediterranean: Marine Citizen Science Contributions to Invasive Species Detection and Monitoring.},
journal = {Environmental management},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41028197},
issn = {1432-1009},
abstract = {The Mediterranean Sea, although a biodiversity hotspot, is one of the most affected seas by non-indigenous species (NIS). This problem is worsened by rising sea temperatures due to climate change, which promotes the spread of thermophilic species. Among the NIS scyphozoan jellyfish species recorded in the Mediterranean, Cassiopea andromeda - commonly known as the "upside-down jellyfish"- is a notable example. Observadores del Mar (OdM) is the leading platform for marine citizen science in Spain and works towards ocean conservation and health. It is a well-established tool for generating knowledge in marine research and has successfully provided early warning of NIS reports in the Mediterranean, while also serving as an effective network for the monitoring of NIS and other indicators. Three reports of C. andromeda from Almeria, southern Spain, have been reported in OdM and thanks to the involvement of its community, 12 samples were collected for phylogenetic analysis and monitoring was done for 15 months in the study area. The results confirmed the first record of C. andromeda in Spanish Mediterranean waters representing the westernmost record in the basin. Monitoring also suggests the species establishment in the area. This study contributes to the knowledge of C. andromeda invasiveness and highlights the importance of marine citizen science in the detection and monitoring of NIS. It also underscores the collaboration and commitment already established between scientists and citizens, which will allow further progress in the fields of biological invasions, management, and policy.},
}

@article {pmid41027087,
year = {2025},
author = {Duarte, LN and Marchante, H and López-Núñez, FA and Impson, F and Moreira, FM and Marchante, E},
title = {Biocontrol in action: Assessing the impact of a biocontrol agent on invasive plant seed dynamics.},
journal = {Journal of environmental management},
volume = {394},
number = {},
pages = {127196},
doi = {10.1016/j.jenvman.2025.127196},
pmid = {41027087},
issn = {1095-8630},
abstract = {The management of extensive areas invaded by alien plants using only physical and chemical control methods is challenging as it frequently only provides short-term suppression. Additionally, success depends on thorough follow-up, which can be prohibitively expensive and, as such, neglected. More successful and sustainable management of widespread invasive alien plants may be achieved with biological control (biocontrol), either alone or integrated with other methods. Acacia longifolia was introduced into Portugal in the late 19th and early 20th centuries for dune stabilization and has become one of the most widespread invasive alien plants in the coastal areas, promoting significant negative impacts. To decrease A. longifolia seed production, the Australian bud-galling wasp Trichilogaster acaciaelongifoliae was introduced as a biocontrol agent in 2015. This study reports the effect of T. acaciaelongifoliae on A. longifolia seed production for over five to six years and seed bank replenishment since its introduction. Galls have significantly increased five years after the biocontrol agent release, followed by major pod reduction and consequently seed rain decline. By monitoring the same trees for several years, we have confirmed that seed rain is higher in non-galled A. longifolia stands, peaking in mid-summer. Our results further support that both the number of pods and seeds progressively decline to zero, demonstrating a 98,1 % reduction in seed rain. Additionally, the increase of the biocontrol agent induces stress on galled plants leading to phyllode abscission and, eventually, plant mortality. On the other hand, the A. longifolia seed bank continued to increase gradually between 2015 and 2024, except at one dune site, where a major wildfire in 2017, followed by tree planting, contributed to its depletion. Mechanical control reduced seed bank numbers, and this result was enhanced in areas where T. acaciaelongifoliae helped to maintain low seed input. Where the biocontrol agent has been established for more than six years, and/or has a high establishment rate, seed banks are now stabilizing. These results are encouraging for the recovery of coastal dunes invaded by A. longifolia, emphasizing the pressing need for establishing an integrated strategy and increasing investment in biocontrol to enhance invasive plant management in Europe.},
}

@article {pmid41027086,
year = {2025},
author = {Bostal, F and Scorolli, AL and Zalba, SM},
title = {Horseback opinions: what do visitors see when they see the wild horses that concern conservation biologists?.},
journal = {Journal of environmental management},
volume = {394},
number = {},
pages = {127455},
doi = {10.1016/j.jenvman.2025.127455},
pmid = {41027086},
issn = {1095-8630},
abstract = {Social conflicts surrounding invasive alien species can hinder their management, which makes studying the human dimension increasingly important. This approach is particularly relevant in natural reserves, where assessing visitors' perceptions of invasive alien species can help guide the design of more effective outreach and engagement strategies. This study examines visitors' knowledge of feral horses, their perceptions of these animals' value and ecological impact, and their acceptance of different management alternatives in a protected grassland area in the Argentine Pampas. We expect that public perceptions of feral horses and acceptance of the proposed actions will be closely related, and that both will be influenced by knowledge, prior access to information, and demographic factors. We designed a questionnaire to evaluate visitors' knowledge and perceptions about the feral horses in the area, as well as their acceptance of various management options. Our results indicate that many park visitors are unaware of the feral horse issue, often emphasize the cultural significance of these animals, and generally do not recognize them as non-native. However, there is awareness of their ecological impacts on grasslands and broad acceptance of the need to manage the population. Visitorś knowledge and information received from park staff or guides increase support for management, underscoring the importance of providing effective information before and during visits. These findings highlight the need of targeted communication and education strategies to foster broader public support for invasive alien species management.},
}

@article {pmid41026245,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, VM and Kotanen, PM},
title = {Low temperatures reduce establishment of new populations of invasive plants in a subarctic treeline environment.},
journal = {Oecologia},
volume = {207},
number = {10},
pages = {167},
pmid = {41026245},
issn = {1432-1939},
support = {RGPIN-2022-03579//Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada/ ; CGS D - 569276 - 2022//Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada/ ; },
mesh = {*Introduced Species ; Ecosystem ; *Cold Temperature ; Temperature ; },
abstract = {Biological invasions are a serious global issue, but invasions are relatively less common at high latitudes, likely due to harsh environmental conditions and limited accessibility. An exception to this is human-settled and disturbed towns that may promote invasions and risk acting as sources of non-native species into the surrounding natural areas. For instance, Churchill, Manitoba, Canada (58ºN), is a treeline subarctic town and port connected by a railway to temperate North America. More than a hundred non-native plant species have been recorded within the town footprint and associated areas. While some have persisted for decades in these areas, none has spread into nearby tundra or boreal forest ecosystems. We used a greenhouse warming experiment to investigate the importance of increased growing season temperatures on three perennial non-native species (Linaria vulgaris, Plantago major, Taraxacum officinale), and used a transplant experiment to investigate non-native survival and growth after manual translocation to tundra and boreal forest roadside over several full years. We found that non-native plants were able to survive temporarily after manual translocation to roadsides adjacent to natural areas, with higher survival in warmer boreal forest roadsides. When we experimentally increased temperature, non-native seed germination increased, and non-native transplants trended toward increased survival and growth, again suggesting that temperature is a limiting factor. However, survival and growth of these non-native species consistently declined over time. Future global and climate change that results in increased warming therefore may shift these non-native species from invasion failure to success.},
}

*Introduced Species
Ecosystem
*Cold Temperature
Temperature

@article {pmid40883959,
year = {2025},
author = {Junod, MF and Cordero, I and Chinn, N and Firn, J and Holmes, J and Klein, M and Lebbink, G and Nielsen, UN and Schütz, M and Zimmermann, S and Risch, AC},
title = {Herbivory mediates the response of below-ground food webs to invasive grasses.},
journal = {The Journal of animal ecology},
volume = {94},
number = {10},
pages = {2103-2117},
doi = {10.1111/1365-2656.70113},
pmid = {40883959},
issn = {1365-2656},
support = {DP190100500//Australian Research Council Discovery Grant/ ; },
mesh = {*Herbivory ; *Introduced Species ; Animals ; *Food Chain ; *Poaceae/physiology ; *Grassland ; Soil Microbiology ; Soil/chemistry ; },
abstract = {Below-ground food webs in grasslands are affected by both above-ground herbivory and invasive plant species. However, the combined effects of these factors on soil organisms and their interactions with plant communities remain poorly understood. We investigated how the invasive African lovegrass (ALG) influenced below-ground food webs in south-eastern Australian grasslands under different herbivory regimes. Using experimental exclosures, we established four treatments varying in herbivore presence (all animals present, non-native mammals excluded, all mammals excluded, all above-ground dwelling animals excluded) across sites dominated either by native kangaroo grass (KG; native sites) or co-dominated by KG and ALG (invaded sites). After 4 years, our results revealed that invasive grasses significantly altered the abundance and structure of soil bacteria, fungi, nematodes, arthropods and earthworms. These effects intensified along the gradient of herbivore exclusion. In parallel with herbivore exclusion, accumulated plant litter shifted decomposition from bacterial to fungal-dominated, driven by changes in soil temperature, moisture and substrate, ultimately reshaping the soil biota assemblages. Herbivory, particularly by both native and non-native mammals, mitigated many of the adverse impacts of grass species invasion, with native and non-native mammals acting additively. These findings underscore the intricate interplay between invasive grasses and herbivory, emphasising the importance of integrated management strategies to maintain the ecological balance of grassland ecosystems.},
}

*Herbivory
*Introduced Species
Animals
*Food Chain
*Poaceae/physiology
*Grassland
Soil Microbiology
Soil/chemistry

@article {pmid40727957,
year = {2025},
author = {McKnight, DT and Bower, DS and Ariel, E and Beatty, S and Clulow, S and Connell, M and Deppe, AR and Doody, S and Freeman, A and Georges, A and Hannabass, SL and Hollender, EC and Howell, H and Krochmal, A and Ligon, DB and Munscher, E and Nordberg, EJ and Roth, TC and Santoro, A and Schaffer, J and Simms, A and Spencer, RJ and Stone, P and Voves, KC and Walde, AD and Wassens, S and Welsh, MA and Whiterod, NS and Wirth, W and Van Dyke, JU},
title = {Does a lack of juveniles indicate a threat? Understanding body size distributions in a group of long-lived vertebrates.},
journal = {The Journal of animal ecology},
volume = {94},
number = {10},
pages = {1962-1982},
doi = {10.1111/1365-2656.70093},
pmid = {40727957},
issn = {1365-2656},
support = {//ARC Linkage/ ; //Arizona Game & Fish Department/ ; //Commonwealth Environmental Water Office/ ; //Department of Florida Fish and Wildlife/ ; //Felburn Foundation/ ; //Florida Department of Environmental Protection/ ; //Jane Fenwick Foundation/ ; //Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks/ ; //National Science Foundation/ ; //New Mexico Department of Game and Fish/ ; //Office of Biological and Environmental Research/ ; //U.S. Department of Energy: Financial Assistant/ ; //Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation/ ; //Texas Parks and Wildlife Department/ ; //Turtle Survival Alliance/ ; //United States Forest Service/ ; //University of New England Faculty of Science/ ; //Agriculture, Business and Law and the Commonwealth Environmental Water Office/ ; //Tiverton Agricultural Impact Fund/ ; //Winton Wetlands/ ; //Wodonga Council/ ; //Greening Australia/ ; //North East Water/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Turtles/physiology/growth & development ; *Body Size ; Australia ; *Foxes/physiology ; United States ; Predatory Behavior ; Introduced Species ; Population Dynamics ; },
abstract = {Turtles are declining globally, and absences of juveniles during surveys are often interpreted as evidence of threats to early life stages. In Australia, for example, it is widely argued that a low number of juveniles is likely due to nest predation by introduced red foxes (Vulpes vulpes). However, small sample sizes within populations, low detectability of juveniles and turtles' long lifespans often confound the conclusion that a paucity of juveniles indicates a declining population. Because turtles have long reproductive lifespans, we might intuitively expect most turtle populations to be heavily weighted towards large individuals, but a 'typical' or 'healthy' size distribution for turtle populations has not been well established. Therefore, we collated data on 41,021 freshwater turtles from 38 species and 428 populations located in parts of Australia both with and without introduced foxes, as well as populations in the United States of America, which naturally have raccoons (Procyon lotor), foxes and other nest predators. We examined population-level body size distributions to establish a baseline for 'typical' turtle populations and test whether populations that are exposed to introduced foxes have proportionately fewer juveniles compared to both AU populations that lack introduced foxes and USA populations that are naturally exposed to nest predators. We found that most turtle populations in AU and the United States were heavily skewed towards adults and had few juveniles, regardless of the presence of foxes or other nest predators. There were, however, clear differences among population survey methods: those that target shallow areas (e.g. crawfish traps) tended to capture proportionately more juveniles, and small sample sizes (∼<50) often produced inaccurate representations of size distributions. Additionally, we used a simulation to demonstrate that, given common turtle life history parameters, even stable populations should generally have low proportions of juveniles. Based on our results, we encourage caution when interpreting turtle size distributions. A small number of juveniles does not inherently suggest that a population is declining due to high egg and/or juvenile mortality, and researchers should pay careful attention to the biases in their methods and strive to capture a minimum of 50-100 turtles before drawing inferences.},
}

Animals
*Turtles/physiology/growth & development
*Body Size
Australia
*Foxes/physiology
United States
Predatory Behavior
Introduced Species
Population Dynamics

@article {pmid40709484,
year = {2025},
author = {O'Connor, M and Lancaster, LT},
title = {Guild diversity impacts demographic outcomes of novel species interactions following range shifts.},
journal = {The Journal of animal ecology},
volume = {94},
number = {10},
pages = {2062-2078},
doi = {10.1111/1365-2656.70108},
pmid = {40709484},
issn = {1365-2656},
support = {NE/S007377/1//UKRI/NERC QUADRAT Training/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Odonata/physiology/growth & development ; Scotland ; Larva/growth & development/physiology ; Introduced Species ; *Biodiversity ; Temperature ; Climate Change ; Competitive Behavior ; *Animal Distribution ; Population Dynamics ; },
abstract = {Novel competitive interactions between native and range shifting species can precipitate local extinction of native species. However, increased biological complexity within recipient communities may prevent native species loss by decreasing the strength of novel competition experienced by any one species. This phenomenon, termed 'biotic resistance', is commonly applied in invasion ecology, but has received little attention in the context of climate induced range shifts. Here we investigate the effects of biotic resistance in competition between resident native and range-shifting damselflies in a region of Scotland newly colonised by the range-shifter, using competitive mesocosm treatments across multiple life stages and experimental temperatures. Our focal native species (Lestes sponsa) was unaffected by increasing competitive complexity as larvae, showing no fitness benefits in multispecies treatments compared to intraspecific or even interspecific scenarios in the presence of the range shifter. However, multispecies competition with both native and range-shifting species improved adult survival of our focal native species at higher temperatures, compared to interspecific competition with just the range shifter. For our focal range-shifting species (Ischnura elegans), larval growth rate was significantly reduced in multispecies treatments compared to intraspecific or two-species interspecific scenarios, yet adult range shifter survival showed no decrease in multispecies treatments. Furthermore, range shifter larvae displayed improved survival and growth in colder temperatures, compared to a lack of any temperature effects on adult survival. These results suggest that biotic resistance may alleviate the competitive impacts of range shifters on native communities by providing a life stage-dependent benefit to native species while simultaneously decreasing the fitness of range shifters. However, shifting temperatures can cause this interaction to swap between competition and facilitation, creating an environmentally dependent scenario that may benefit both range shifters and resident species, promoting the maintenance of diversity in high latitude communities.},
}

Animals
*Odonata/physiology/growth & development
Scotland
Larva/growth & development/physiology
Introduced Species
*Biodiversity
Temperature
Climate Change
Competitive Behavior
*Animal Distribution
Population Dynamics

@article {pmid41024993,
year = {2025},
author = {Nhlengethwa, N and Stewart, RD and Emami-Khoyi, A and Teske, PR and Csányi, S and Heltai, M and van der Bank, M},
title = {An eDNA Survey of Plant Biodiversity in a Local Dam Within South Africa's Largest City.},
journal = {Ecology and evolution},
volume = {15},
number = {10},
pages = {e72196},
doi = {10.1002/ece3.72196},
pmid = {41024993},
issn = {2045-7758},
abstract = {Ecosystems within cities can play a crucial role in conserving local biodiversity amid rapidly expanding urban sprawl, but they face significant threats from anthropogenic activities and the introduction of alien invasive species (AIS). A comprehensive management plan is required to effectively preserve the biodiversity supported by urban ecosystems. However, the ecological information needed to establish, implement and monitor such plans is often incomplete. In this study, we assessed the application of eDNA metabarcoding in surveying plant biodiversity in an aquatic habitat by collecting water samples at five sites in an urban dam in the City of Johannesburg. Out of 1001 reconstructed Amplicon Sample Variants (ASVs), plant taxa were assigned to 47 unique taxonomic ranks at the family level, 42 unique ranks at the generic level and only 13 unique ranks at the species level (including three AIS). The remaining ASVs could only be identified at higher taxonomic ranks, indicating that no DNA barcodes have yet been generated for the putative species in question. Although this study provides a good overview of plant community structure, it also highlights a gap in the taxonomic coverage of South African plants on public DNA databases. To address this shortcoming, increased national DNA barcoding efforts are needed to expand current reference databases. This will be indispensable for the effective application of eDNA metabarcoding in studying South Africa's unique biodiversity.},
}

@article {pmid41024497,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhu, X and Song, B and Zhang, H and Long, Y and Dan, Y and Liao, G and Chen, M and Qin, L and Chen, X and Zhu, F},
title = {Field-realistic exposure to pesticide residues in beehive pollen and honey and the associated risk to honeybees.},
journal = {Pest management science},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/ps.70264},
pmid = {41024497},
issn = {1526-4998},
support = {Qian KH-YQK[2023]026, Qiankehe Foundation ZK [2023] General 181//Guizhou Provincial Science and Technology Projects/ ; 32360693//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; [2024]07//Qian Agricultural Science Doctoral Fund of Guizhou Academy of Agricultural Sciences/ ; QianKeHefuQi [2023] 011//Innovative capabilities Buildup of green prevention and control for Invasive Species in Agriculture/ ; [2025]38//Qian Agricultural Science General Fund of Guizhou Academy of Agricultural Sciences/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Honeybees, as the most important pollinators, can be affected by pesticides while foraging for nectar and pollen. Previous studies have shown that some pesticides can be found in pollen and nectar in realistic samples. However, the actual exposure characteristics of bees and the core sources of pesticides in the karst landform of Guizhou remain unknown at present. In this study, environmental DNA analysis was performed on bee pollen to examine its plant sources. Furthermore, the types and concentrations of pesticides in honey and bee pollen to which the associated bees were exposed were determined using the optimized QuEChERS extraction method combined with ultraperformance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. In addition, the risks posed by the detected pesticides to the bees were assessed.

RESULTS: Results showed that spring beehive pollen mainly originated from agricultural crops, while autumn beehive pollen primarily originated from wild plants. Among the 427 samples of honey and bee pollen. Twenty-five types of pesticides were identified, including thiamethoxam, difenoconazole, and chlorantraniliprole, which were the most frequently detected pesticides in the samples. The overall pesticide detection rate for the samples was 54.8%. The HQ and ΣHQ values of the detected pesticides for bees were less than 1.0.

CONCLUSION: A higher number of pesticides was detected in the spring samples (24 pesticides) than in the autumn samples (seven pesticides), implying that the bees encounter greater challenges in spring and summer than in autumn and winter. The residual levels of these pesticides posed acceptable exposure risk levels to the bees. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.},
}

@article {pmid41023068,
year = {2025},
author = {Flitcroft, RL and Penaluna, BE and Hauck, LL and Munyon, JW and Capurso, JM},
title = {Multi-species eDNA as a screening tool to facilitate early detection and eradication of aquatic invasive species in large water bodies.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {33615},
pmid = {41023068},
issn = {2045-2322},
mesh = {*Introduced Species ; *DNA, Environmental/analysis/genetics ; Animals ; *Aquatic Organisms/genetics ; *Environmental Monitoring/methods ; Biodiversity ; Fishes/genetics ; Plants/genetics ; },
abstract = {Aquatic invasive species can devastate native biodiversity and human water infrastructure. Effective eradication relies on early detection. However, commonly used visual surveys are ineffective for detection of small populations of submerged invasive species in large water bodies. Here, we explored detection of invasive aquatic plants, animals (vertebrate and invertebrate), and pathogens using 10 environmental DNA (eDNA) water sampling events every two weeks between June and October, 2018, informing ideal sampling times for long-term early-detection monitoring. The highest number of species detections across taxa were found using 6 replicates in late August and early September. Detections varied by taxon, with the most detections for fishes, followed by invertebrates, amphibians, and submerged plants. All expected species were detected with eDNA except for three terrestrial and emergent riparian plants. Reservoirs had the most consistent presence of AIS, suggesting that those systems and aquatic communities may be susceptible to new invasions. AIS detections occurred across more sites and water bodies than had been previously documented which provided evidence of silent invasions by species such as crayfishes, mollusks, and plants. We offer a framework for interpreting management response to low-read counts from multispecies eDNA sampling that balances interpretation of results with the cost of management responses.},
}

*Introduced Species
*DNA, Environmental/analysis/genetics
Animals
*Aquatic Organisms/genetics
*Environmental Monitoring/methods
Biodiversity
Fishes/genetics
Plants/genetics

@article {pmid41022991,
year = {2025},
author = {Cesarini, G and Orlandi, M and Sbarberi, R and Sabatino, R and Magni, S and Binelli, A and Santi, N and Schiavetta, D and Kamburska, L and Zanini, M and Zaupa, S and Boggero, A},
title = {Microplastics and invasive crayfish: emerging interactions and ecological implications from three coexisting species in a subalpine lake.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {33395},
pmid = {41022991},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {CUPB83C22002930006//National Biodiversity Future Center - NBFC/ ; CUPB83C22002930006//National Biodiversity Future Center - NBFC/ ; Cooperation agreement 769/2019, 812/2021//International Commission for the Protection of Italian-Swiss Waters (CIPAIS)/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Astacoidea/metabolism/physiology ; *Lakes/chemistry ; *Microplastics/analysis/toxicity ; *Introduced Species ; Environmental Monitoring ; Ecosystem ; *Water Pollutants, Chemical/analysis ; },
abstract = {Microplastics (MPs) and invasive species are two of the most pressing threats to freshwater ecosystems, yet their interactions remain underexplored. This study presents the first comparative analysis of MP uptake among three coexisting invasive crayfish species (Faxonius limosus, Pacifastacus leniusculus, and Procambarus clarkii) from Lake Maggiore, a large subalpine lake subjected to intense anthropogenic pressure. A total of 90 individuals were analyzed for biometric traits and MP occurrence in intestinal content, with species identification confirmed via molecular analysis. No significant interspecific differences or correlations with biometric traits were found, though F. limosus showed the highest average concentration. Most MPs were < 1 mm polyester or polyacrylate fibers, suggesting a dominant domestic source. Additionally, this work provides the first evidence of MP uptake in F. limosus, filling a key knowledge gap. Beyond documenting MP ingestion, our findings support the potential of invasive crayfish as agents of MP removal, suggesting an ecological role with important implications for environmental monitoring and ecosystem management. These results also highlight the need for further research on trophic transfer and organ-level accumulation of MPs, especially in widely distributed invasive species that are increasingly relevant for environmental risk assessment.},
}

Animals
*Astacoidea/metabolism/physiology
*Lakes/chemistry
*Microplastics/analysis/toxicity
*Introduced Species
Environmental Monitoring
Ecosystem
*Water Pollutants, Chemical/analysis

@article {pmid41022942,
year = {2025},
author = {Halifu, S and Deng, X and Yang, L and Qian, L and Yang, L},
title = {Metagenomic analysis of pathogenicity of puccinia xanthii on invasive plant xanthium italicum.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {33530},
pmid = {41022942},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {KX031042//PhD research startup foundation of Shihezi University/ ; KX6107//a program of Shihezi University/ ; },
mesh = {*Plant Diseases/microbiology ; Plant Leaves/microbiology ; *Xanthium/microbiology ; *Metagenomics/methods ; *Puccinia/genetics/pathogenicity ; Introduced Species ; Photosynthesis ; China ; },
abstract = {Biological invasion refers to the establishment and proliferation of non-indigenous species in previously unoccupied areas, where they form wild populations. Xanthium italicum, an invasive species in Xinjiang, China, negatively affects local ecosystems, agriculture, and animal husbandry. In this study, we investigated the pathogenicity of Puccinia xanthii on the leaves of X. italicum by exploring the morphological characteristics of the pathogenic fungi, leaf enzyme activity measurement, photosynthesis measurement, and metagenomic sequencing. This study showed that P. xanthii infects the leaves of X. italicum, significantly reducing the activities of lyase, oxidoreductase, and antioxidant enzymes, including phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL), superoxide dismutase (SOD), polyphenol oxidase (PPO), and catalase (CAT), as well as impairing photosynthesis. Furthermore, metagenomic analysis indicated that P. xanthii infection reduced the homogeneity and richness of phyllosphere microorganisms and increased the abundance of P. xanthii in the phyllosphere. Functional analysis also revealed that P. xanthii infection altered the diversity of microbial functions and eventually led to the development of disease symptoms and the demise of leaves through activated oxidative phosphorylation.},
}

*Plant Diseases/microbiology
Plant Leaves/microbiology
*Xanthium/microbiology
*Metagenomics/methods
*Puccinia/genetics/pathogenicity
Introduced Species
Photosynthesis
China

@article {pmid41022864,
year = {2025},
author = {S Barbosa, MD and Okasaki, FB and de Liz, NTP and Trindade, SG and Dos Santos, A and De A Umbuzeiro, G and de Messano, LVR and Altvater, L and de S Oliveira, EA and Gonçalves, JEA and Messano, HF and Kassuga, AD and Coutinho, R and Speglich, C and Sabadini, E},
title = {An environmentally friendly bio-based approach to control invasive sun corals (Tubastrea spp.).},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {33355},
pmid = {41022864},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {2018/00204-9//Petrobras/ ; 2021/00015-4//Petrobras/ ; 2015/25406-5//Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo/ ; 141957/2021-2//Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Anthozoa/drug effects ; *Introduced Species ; *Hydrogels/chemistry ; Acetic Acid/chemistry ; Alginates/chemistry ; },
abstract = {The rapid spread of the invasive sun coral species (Tubastraea spp.) in the South Atlantic, Caribbean region, and Gulf of Mexico urges for an immediate control tool. This study presents an environmentally friendly method to control invasive sun coral species, based on a hydrogel composed of alginate and acetic acid, offering a promising alternative to mechanical removal by divers. The biodegradable hydrogel can be remotely applied using underwater drones, reducing diver exposure. Minimal ecotoxicological effects of the hydrogel were observed using Parhyale hawaiensis as a non-target species.},
}

Animals
*Anthozoa/drug effects
*Introduced Species
*Hydrogels/chemistry
Acetic Acid/chemistry
Alginates/chemistry

@article {pmid41022775,
year = {2025},
author = {Chiappi, M and Di Muri, C and Azzurro, E and Luzi, F and Rosati, I and Despalatović, M and Cvitković, I and Scarcella, G},
title = {A spatiotemporal dataset of invasive Anadara kagoshimensis and Anadara transversa in the Adriatic Sea.},
journal = {Scientific data},
volume = {12},
number = {1},
pages = {1588},
pmid = {41022775},
issn = {2052-4463},
mesh = {*Introduced Species ; Animals ; Italy ; Oceans and Seas ; Ecosystem ; *Bivalvia ; Spatio-Temporal Analysis ; },
abstract = {In response to the growing demand for accurate spatial and temporal information on the abundance and distribution of invasive species as required by EU regulations, data on two invasive bivalves have been collected annually through beam trawl surveys in the Adriatic Sea, as part of an international, fishery-independent monitoring programme. The compiled dataset comprises 1,998 records of Anadara kagoshimensis and Anadara transversa located in the Italian and international waters of the Northern and Central Adriatic Sea, and collected from 2008 to 2023. The records from this dataset represent georeferenced information on detections/non-detections including abundance and biomass information per sampled sites. This initiative highlights the potential of leveraging existing spatiotemporal data on invasive species to support their commercial harvesting and inform sustainable management practices, ultimately helping to mitigate their impact on native ecosystems.},
}

*Introduced Species
Animals
Italy
Oceans and Seas
Ecosystem
*Bivalvia
Spatio-Temporal Analysis

@article {pmid41022005,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhu, W and Liu, H and Zhang, Q and Gao, N and Hui, M and Sun, Y and Zhang, X and Feng, Y},
title = {Genome-wide identification of cytochrome b5 gene family reveals their potential roles in nitrate response in Xanthium strumarium.},
journal = {Plant physiology and biochemistry : PPB},
volume = {229},
number = {Pt C},
pages = {110544},
doi = {10.1016/j.plaphy.2025.110544},
pmid = {41022005},
issn = {1873-2690},
abstract = {Cytochrome b5 protein (CB5) is a key physiological component in electron transport, playing a significant role in oxidative reactions, plant growth, and stress response mechanisms. In invasive plants, the CB5 gene family may potentiate invasion competitiveness by orchestrating oxidative stress homeostasis, thereby conferring adaptive advantages under novel environmental regimes. This study focused on the CB5 gene family in Xanthium strumarium, an invasive species. We conducted RNA-sequencing following treatments with 0.5 mM nitrate, 5 mM nitrate, and Gibberellins (GA), as these concentrations mimic varying nitrogen availability and hormonal responses that the plant may encounter in novel environments. 27 putative XstCB5 proteins were isolated and clustered them into four clades in X. strumarium. The 27 XstCB5 genes exhibited distinct gene structures encoding a wide range of physiological traits through their corresponding proteins. All the XstCB5s promoters harbored numerous cis-elements related to stress and phytohormones. RNA-sequencing results revealed significant upregulation of 26, 24, and 24 CB5 genes in response to the respective treatments. Real-time quantitative PCR and nitrate reductase (NR) activity further demonstrated that XstNR1 and XstNR2, the key nitrogen assimilation-related CB5 genes, exhibited distinct functions when subjected to conditions of low nitrate stress. The overexpression of XstNR2 in Arabidopsis thaliana resulted in an increased biomass following treatment with 0.5 mM nitrate. Our results provide a systematic overview of the XstCB5 gene family and emphasize their roles in varying nitrate conditions.},
}

@article {pmid41020141,
year = {2025},
author = {Honasoge, KS and Vincent, TLS and McNickle, GG and Dobbe, R and Staňková, K and Brown, JS and Apaloo, J},
title = {Hyper Diversity, Species Richness, and Community Structure in ESS and Non-ESS Communities.},
journal = {Dynamic games and applications},
volume = {15},
number = {4},
pages = {1424-1444},
pmid = {41020141},
issn = {2153-0785},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: In mathematical models of eco-evolutionary dynamics with a quantitative trait, two species with different strategies can coexist only if they are separated by a valley or peak of the adaptive landscape. A community is ecologically and evolutionarily stable if each species' trait sits on global, equal fitness peaks, forming a saturated ESS community. However, the adaptive landscape may allow communities with fewer (undersaturated) or more (hypersaturated) species than the ESS. Non-ESS communities at ecological equilibrium exhibit invasion windows of strategies that can successfully invade. Hypersaturated communities can arise through mutual invasibility where each non-ESS species' strategy lies in another's invasion window. Hypersaturation in ESS communities with more than 1 species remains poorly understood. We use the G-function approach to model niche coevolution and Darwinian dynamics in a Lotka-Volterra competition model. We confirm that up to 2 species can coexist in a hypersaturated community with a single-species ESS if the strategy is scalar-valued, or 3 species if the strategy is bivariate. We conjecture that at most n · s + 1 species can form a hypersaturated community, where n is the number of ESS species at the strategy's dimension s . For a scalar-valued 2-species ESS, 4 species coexist by "straddling" the would-be ESS traits. When our model has a 5-species ESS, we can get 7 or 8, but not 9 or 10, species coexisting in the hypersaturated community. In a bivariate model with a single-species ESS, an infinite number of 3-species hypersaturated communities can exist. We offer conjectures and discuss their relevance to ecosystems that may be non-ESS due to invasive species, climate change, and human-altered landscapes.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13235-025-00646-2.},
}

@article {pmid41014393,
year = {2025},
author = {Schreiber, SJ},
title = {Coexistence and extinction in flow-kick systems: An invasion growth rate approach.},
journal = {Journal of mathematical biology},
volume = {91},
number = {5},
pages = {50},
pmid = {41014393},
issn = {1432-1416},
mesh = {*Models, Biological ; *Extinction, Biological ; *Ecosystem ; Population Dynamics/statistics & numerical data ; Mathematical Concepts ; *Introduced Species/statistics & numerical data ; Animals ; Computer Simulation ; },
abstract = {Natural populations experience a complex interplay of continuous and discrete processes: continuous growth and interactions are punctuated by discrete reproduction events, dispersal, and external disturbances. These dynamics can be modeled by impulsive or flow-kick systems, where continuous flows alternate with instantaneous discrete changes. To study species persistence in these systems, an invasion growth rate theory is developed for flow-kick models with state-dependent timing of kicks and auxiliary variables that can represent stage structure, trait evolution, or environmental forcing. The invasion growth rates correspond to Lyapunov exponents that characterize the average per-capita growth of species when rare. Two theorems are proven that use invasion growth rates to characterize permanence, a form of robust coexistence where populations remain bounded away from extinction. The first theorem uses Morse decompositions of the extinction set and requires that there exists a species with a positive invasion growth rate for every invariant measure supported on a component of the Morse decomposition. The second theorem uses invasion growth rates to define invasion graphs whose vertices correspond to communities and directed edges to potential invasions. Provided the invasion graph is acyclic, permanence and extinction are fully characterized by the signs of the invasion growth rates. Invasion growth rates are also used to identify the existence of extinction-bound trajectories and attractors that lie on the extinction set. To demonstrate the framework's utility, these results are applied to three ecological systems: (i) a microbial serial transfer model where state-dependent timing enables coexistence through a storage effect, (ii) a spatially structured consumer-resource model showing intermediate reproductive delays can maximize persistence, and (iii) an empirically parameterized Lotka-Volterra model demonstrating how disturbance can lead to extinction by disrupting facilitation. Mathematical challenges, particularly for systems with cyclic invasion graphs, and promising biological applications are discussed. These results reveal how the interplay between continuous and discrete dynamics creates ecological outcomes not found in purely continuous or discrete systems, providing a foundation for predicting population persistence and species coexistence in natural communities subject to gradual and sudden changes.},
}

*Models, Biological
*Extinction, Biological
*Ecosystem
Population Dynamics/statistics & numerical data
Mathematical Concepts
*Introduced Species/statistics & numerical data
Animals
Computer Simulation

@article {pmid41013189,
year = {2025},
author = {Liu, PY and Chiu, WC and Lim, SL and Chen, HJ and Chen, YH and Wang, HI and Yang, CY and Chen, CC and Nozawa, Y and Yamashiro, H and Sakai, K and Tang, SL},
title = {Genomic analysis reveals broad adaptability of coral-killing sponge (Terpios hoshinota) under environmental stress.},
journal = {BMC genomics},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {830},
pmid = {41013189},
issn = {1471-2164},
support = {NSTC 112-2313-B-110-003//National Science and Technology Council/ ; NSTC 111-2621-B-001-002-MY3//National Science and Technology Council/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Porifera/genetics/physiology ; *Genomics ; *Stress, Physiological/genetics ; Phylogeny ; *Adaptation, Physiological/genetics ; *Genome ; Transcriptome ; Anthozoa ; Gene Expression Profiling ; Coral Reefs ; },
abstract = {The coral-killing sponge, Terpios hoshinota, poses a significant ecological threat to coral reefs, exhibiting rapid expansion and competitive overgrowth. Despite its invasiveness, the genomic basis underlying its adaptability and resilience remains largely unexplored. Here, we present a high-quality genome assembly of T. hoshinota, comprising 169.4 Mb with 40,945 predicted genes. Phylogenomic analysis estimated its divergence from other demosponges during the Ordovician (~ 471 million years ago), even though its simple morphology suggests a more ancient evolutionary origin. Comparative genomic analyses revealed enrichment of genes related to substrate adhesion, innate immunity, and developmental pathways, including expansions of Wnt signaling, homeobox genes, and cell migration gene ontologies which may contribute to its aggressive growth and resilience. Transcriptomic responses under simulated climate stress conditions (heat stress at 31 °C and acidification at 700 ppm pCO2) indicated dynamic gene regulation, with upregulation of neurotransmitter metabolism, cellular maintenance, and ion homeostasis responses. Despite these stressors, it remained stable. This suggests that T. hoshinota exhibits strong adaptability and resilience through rapid gene regulation. In conclusion, these findings provide molecular insights into T. hoshinota's ecological success, its potential expansion under climate change, and its broader impact on coral reef ecosystems.},
}

Animals
*Porifera/genetics/physiology
*Genomics
*Stress, Physiological/genetics
Phylogeny
*Adaptation, Physiological/genetics
*Genome
Transcriptome
Anthozoa
Gene Expression Profiling
Coral Reefs

@article {pmid41012084,
year = {2025},
author = {Xu, B and Huang, C and Cheng, S and Romeis, J and Collatz, J and Zhang, G and Zhang, Y and Zhang, G and Wan, F},
title = {Screening of Highly Virulent Beauveria bassiana Strains Against Tuta absoluta Larvae and Evaluation of Their Endophytic Colonization-Mediated Suppression in Tomato Plants.},
journal = {Plants (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {18},
pages = {},
pmid = {41012084},
issn = {2223-7747},
support = {2021YFD1400200//the National Key Research and Development Project of China/ ; 2022YFC2601000//the National Key Research and Development Project of China/ ; No. S2025XM32//the Central Public-interest Scientific Institution Basal Research Fund/ ; KFG202421//the Project of the Engineering Research Center of Ecology and Agricultural Use of Wetland, Minis-try of Education/ ; },
abstract = {To identify highly virulent Beauveria bassiana strains against Tuta absoluta and evaluate their biocontrol potential, four strains were phylogenetically characterized via ITS sequence analysis of rDNA and assessed for virulence against second-instar T. absoluta larvae. Foliar spray and root irrigation methods were used to establish B. bassiana endophytic colonization in tomato plants, with untreated plants serving as controls. A population life table was constructed to quantify the impact of colonized plants on larval development, fecundity, and key demographic parameters. Results showed variation in virulence among the four B. bassiana strains Bb1Bm, Bb2Bm, Bb1M, and BbC with Bb1Bm exhibiting the highest pathogenicity (85.00% corrected mortality at 1 × 10[8] spores/mL). Maximum endophytic colonization in tomato leaves was observed 14 days post-inoculation with both foliar spray and root irrigation treatments. Life table analyses revealed that T. absoluta feeding on colonized plants exhibited significantly reduced survival rates, shorter adult lifespans, and lower female fecundity compared to controls. Key population parameters, including net reproductive rate (R0), intrinsic rate of increase (r), and finite rate of increase (λ), were significantly reduced, while mean generation time (T) was significantly prolonged. These findings highlight the dual role of B. bassiana in T. absoluta management, demonstrating its potential as both a direct pathogen and an endophytic biocontrol agent capable of disrupting pest population dynamics.},
}

@article {pmid41012052,
year = {2025},
author = {Domijan, AM and Bival Štefan, M and Duka, I and Marić, T and Friščić, M and Maleš, Ž and Mitić, B and Hruševar, D},
title = {Mechanism of Impatiens glandulifera Royle Allelopathy to Sinapis alba L. and Raphanus sativus L. Germination Is Through Oxidative Stress.},
journal = {Plants (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {18},
pages = {},
pmid = {41012052},
issn = {2223-7747},
support = {Z264//University of Zagreb/ ; },
abstract = {Impatiens glandulifera Royle (I. glandulifera) in the EU presents a threat to the ecosystem, and is thus on the list of invasive alien species. The aim of this study was to clarify if an allelopathic effect of I. glandulifera involves the activation of oxidative stress in target plants. First, I. glandulifera leaf extract was prepared and levels of 2-hydroxy-1,4-naphtoquinone (2-HNQ) and 2-methoxy-1,4-naphthoquinone (2-MNQ), as main allelochemicals of I. glandulifera, determined by HPLC. Next, seeds of white mustard (Sinapis alba) or radish (Raphanus sativus) were exposed to the extract or to 2-MNQ (in the concentration range of 1-30 µg/mL) for 3 days and parameters of germination and oxidative stress were assessed. Both the leaf extract and 2-MNQ inhibited germination of white mustard and radish; however, the effect of 2-MNQ was more pronounced. Furthermore, the extract and 2-MNQ induced activation of antioxidative defense and caused oxidative damage to lipids and proteins in white mustard and radish seedlings. It was observed that radish seedlings were less susceptible to negative effect of I. glandulifera extract and 2-MNQ. This study's obtained results demonstrated that 2-MNQ is the main allelochemical of I. glandulifera and that the mechanism by which I. glandulifera and 2-MNQ induce negative effects to target plants involves oxidative stress. In addition, species-dependent susceptibility to I. glandulifera and 2-MNQ was shown.},
}

@article {pmid41011806,
year = {2025},
author = {Kubacki, J and Klich, D and Bełcik, A and Korpysa-Dzirba, W and Cencek, T and Karamon, J and Sroka, J and Samorek-Pieróg, M and Gondek, M and Bilska-Zając, E},
title = {Forest Density and Invasive Carnivores Are Related to Trichinella Infection in Wild Boars in Poland.},
journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {41011806},
issn = {2076-0817},
mesh = {Animals ; Poland/epidemiology ; *Trichinellosis/epidemiology/veterinary/transmission/parasitology ; *Sus scrofa/parasitology ; *Trichinella/isolation & purification ; Introduced Species ; Forests ; Raccoon Dogs/parasitology ; Population Density ; Swine ; *Swine Diseases/epidemiology/parasitology/transmission ; *Carnivora/parasitology ; Foxes/parasitology ; Prevalence ; Mustelidae/parasitology ; },
abstract = {The purpose of this study was to investigate and update the spatial distribution of Trichinella spp. in wild boars tested between 2015 and 2022 and to test the correlation of the population density of chosen animals (wild boars, red foxes (Vulpes vulpes), raccoon dogs (Nyctereutes procyonoides), and European badgers (Meles meles)) with the prevalence of Trichinella spp. in wild boars in Poland. In addition, to understand the distribution of infected animals, we sought to see if there were a correlation of Trichinella spp. infections in wild boars with land cover type. Among the wild carnivore species analyzed, only the population density of the raccoon dog (Nyctereutes procyonoides)-an invasive alien species-was significantly associated with infection rates in wild boars, particularly at the regional scale. As scavengers and competent reservoir hosts for all four European Trichinella species, raccoon dogs are likely to play a key role in the sylvatic transmission cycle. The positive rate of Trichinella spp. infection in wild boars during 2015-2022 was 0.22%, compared to 0.3% in 2009-2016. Moreover, forest density was positively correlated with infection rates, underlining the role of forest habitats in sustaining Trichinella transmission.},
}

Animals
Poland/epidemiology
*Trichinellosis/epidemiology/veterinary/transmission/parasitology
*Sus scrofa/parasitology
*Trichinella/isolation & purification
Introduced Species
Forests
Raccoon Dogs/parasitology
Population Density
Swine
*Swine Diseases/epidemiology/parasitology/transmission
*Carnivora/parasitology
Foxes/parasitology
Prevalence
Mustelidae/parasitology

@article {pmid41011680,
year = {2025},
author = {Ložienė, K and Chochlovaitė, I},
title = {Effect of Phenological Stage and Leaf Age on Changes of Chlorophyll and Carotenoid Contents in Some Weeds and Invasive Species.},
journal = {Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {30},
number = {18},
pages = {},
pmid = {41011680},
issn = {1420-3049},
mesh = {*Plant Leaves/chemistry/metabolism/growth & development ; *Carotenoids/metabolism/analysis ; *Chlorophyll/metabolism/analysis ; *Plant Weeds/metabolism/chemistry/growth & development ; *Introduced Species ; },
abstract = {Potential sources of chlorophyll, widely used in the pharmaceutical and food industries, could be invasive species and weeds. The aim of the study was to estimate the effect of vegetation period and leaf age on changes of chlorophyll and carotenoid contents in leaves of six widespread plant species of four different families, as well as in the weed Urtica dioica as a "comparative" species. Plants were growing under the same environmental conditions, and chlorophylls and carotenoids were analyzed spectrophotometrically every two weeks from May to September. Average total chlorophyll (a + b) content only in leaves of Lamium album and Aegopodium podagraria was lower than in Urtica dioica and significantly differed from their content in Leonurus cardiaca and Agrimonia eupatoria. Total chlorophyll (a + b) content in leaves of common native Pastinaca sativa and very invasive Solidago canadensis was also higher or very similar to that of Urtica dioica. The highest amount of green pigments in all species was found at the budding and/or flowering period. Unlike other species, variation of total chlorophyll (a + b) in Leonurus cardiaca was little, and chlorophyll a/b ratio was lower than 2:1 during the vegetation period. In contrast to total chlorophyll (a + b), total carotenoid was higher in young leaves.},
}

*Plant Leaves/chemistry/metabolism/growth & development
*Carotenoids/metabolism/analysis
*Chlorophyll/metabolism/analysis
*Plant Weeds/metabolism/chemistry/growth & development
*Introduced Species

@article {pmid41009154,
year = {2025},
author = {Yang, K and Li, H and Guo, D and Sun, Z and Li, F and Chu, D},
title = {Spatiotemporal Population Genomics of the Invasive Whitefly Bemisia tabaci MED in China: Implications for Surveillance and Sustainable Control.},
journal = {Insects},
volume = {16},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {41009154},
issn = {2075-4450},
support = {2022YFD1401204//National Key R&D Program of China/ ; tstp20221135//Taishan Scholar Foundation of Shandong Province of China/ ; ZR2024QC128//Shandong Provincial Natural Science Foundation/ ; 663-1121025//Qingdao Agricultural University High-level Talent Fund/ ; },
abstract = {Bemisia tabaci MED is one of the most invasive and destructive agricultural pests worldwide, posing a serious threat to crop production and biosecurity. Understanding its spatiotemporal population dynamics and genetic structure is critical for early detection, effective surveillance, and sustainable management. Previous studies have shown that B. tabaci MED in China has a high genetic structure and an unstable genetic composition. The annual genetic dynamics of the B. tabaci MED population have not been investigated throughout the outbreak phase that began in 2008. Here, we report the use of 2b-RAD sequencing to estimate the spatial and temporal genetic structure of B. tabaci MED in Shandong Province over several years. We examined 198 individuals from five sites over four years (2008, 2013, 2015, and 2017). Although populations showed generally low within-population diversity (Shannon I ≤ 0.407) and a high gene flow, clear temporal differentiation emerged between the early invasion phase (2008) and later outbreak years (2013-2017). Furthermore, specific populations, notably 2017 Liaocheng and Zaozhuang, retained distinct genetic signatures compared with other regions, suggesting localized founder effects or adaptation. Our study underscores the importance of integrating high-resolution genomic tools into invasive pest surveillance programs, and understanding this heterogeneity is critical for targeted surveillance, quarantine prioritization, and sustainable management strategies.},
}

@article {pmid41009148,
year = {2025},
author = {Wijekoon, CD and Duarte, A and Neto, L},
title = {The Potential Risk of Bactrocera dorsalis (Tephritidae) Invasion into the Fruit Industry in the Iberian Peninsula: A Review.},
journal = {Insects},
volume = {16},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {41009148},
issn = {2075-4450},
support = {SEA-EU 2.0 - 101089757//European Union/ ; MED UIDB/05183/2020//Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia/ ; UIDP/05183/2020//Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia/ ; },
abstract = {Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel, 1912) (Diptera: Tephritidae) is considered a highly invasive fruit fly species already widespread in Indo-Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. In recent years, this species has extended its range into new regions previously considered unsuitable, posing an alarming new risk for the subtropical regions of Europe. This review aimed to assess the potential risk of B. dorsalis invasion into the fruit industry in the Iberian Peninsula, the southwesternmost tip of Europe. With the collected information from published scientific knowledge on B. dorsalis's distribution, biology, climatic tolerance, host plant diversity, and recent invasion pathways, we have provided an assessment of the possibilities of introducing this alarming fruit fly species to the Iberian Peninsula. In this review, we found that B. dorsalis has been recently reported in several adjacent European countries such as France, Italy, and Austria, and it serves as a warning signal to the Iberian Peninsula for the possible risks that this species poses in the future. Considering this persistent threat posed by B. dorsalis, we reviewed its potential future threat by considering the status of the fruit industry and Mediterranean climate in the Iberian Peninsula. We also considered the findings of recent climatic forecasting models. This review provides a theoretical basis for the prospective intrusion of B. dorsalis into the Iberian Peninsula's fruit industry, as well as the potential impact following its establishment, together with recommendations for restricting the introduction and spread.},
}

@article {pmid41009145,
year = {2025},
author = {Esquivel, IL and Bryant, T and Malone, S and Jacobson, AL and Graham, SH and Gimenez-Cremonez, PS and Roberts, P and Paula-Moreas, S and Reisig, D and Huseth, A and Greene, J and Reay-Jones, FPF and Taylor, S},
title = {First Report of Two-Spot Cotton Leafhopper (Amrasca biguttula Ishida) (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae) on Commercial Cotton in the Southeastern United States.},
journal = {Insects},
volume = {16},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {41009145},
issn = {2075-4450},
abstract = {The two-spot cotton leafhopper, Amrasca biguttula (Ishida, 1913) (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae), is a polyphagous pest native to the Indian subcontinent, where it is a significant pest of cotton (Gossypium spp.), okra (Abelmoschus esculentus, Moench), and other crops. At adult and immature stages, they feed on leaf cell contents, causing characteristic "hopperburn" symptoms and yield losses of up to 40% in cotton in its native range. In July 2025, A. biguttula was detected for the first time during the cotton growing season in commercial and experimental fields across multiple counties in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina. Identification was confirmed through morphological examination of diagnostic external features and male genitalia. Within four weeks, the pest was found in 101 counties, with injury symptoms ranging from mild chlorosis to severe necrosis and defoliation. Given the southeastern United States' average of 979,339 hectares of cotton valued at USD 1.7-USD 2.8 billion annually, the potential for economic impact is considerable. Rapid symptom development, broad host range, and multiple generations per year underscore the need for coordinated monitoring and research to determine preliminary control measures and to identify potential alternative hosts. This report documents the first confirmed occurrence of A. biguttula in U.S. cotton and highlights its potential as an established recurring pest threat in the region.},
}

@article {pmid41009087,
year = {2025},
author = {Eritja, R and Sanpera-Calbet, I and Delacour-Estrella, S and Ruiz-Arrondo, I and Puig, MÀ and Bengoa-Paulís, M and Alarcón-Elbal, PM and Barceló, C and Mariani, S and Martínez-Barciela, Y and Bravo-Barriga, D and Polina, A and Pereira-Martínez, JM and González, MA and Escartin, S and Melero-Alcíbar, R and Blanco-Sierra, L and Magallanes, S and Collantes, F and Ferraguti, M and González-Pérez, MI and Gutiérrez-López, R and Silva-Torres, MI and San Sebastián-Mendoza, O and Calvo-Reyes, MC and Mendoza-García, M and Macías-Magro, D and Cisneros, P and Cevidanes, A and Frontera, E and Mato, I and Fúster-Lorán, F and Domench-Guembe, M and Rodríguez-Regadera, ME and Casanovas-Urgell, R and Montalvo, T and Miranda, MÁ and Figuerola, J and Lucientes-Curdi, J and Garriga, J and Palmer, JRB and Bartumeus, F},
title = {Integrating Citizen Science and Field Sampling into Next-Generation Early-Warning Systems for Vector Surveillance: Twenty Years of Municipal Detections of Aedes Invasive Mosquito Species in Spain.},
journal = {Insects},
volume = {16},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {41009087},
issn = {2075-4450},
support = {HR 18-00336//Fundació Bancària La Caixa/ ; HR22-00123//Fundació Bancària La Caixa/ ; },
abstract = {The spread of the invasive mosquitoes Aedes albopictus, Aedes aegypti, and Aedes japonicus in Spain represents an increasing public health risk due to their capacity to transmit arboviruses such as dengue, Zika, and chikungunya, among others. Traditional field entomological surveillance remains essential for tracking their spread, but it faces limitations in terms of cost, scalability, and labor intensity. Since 2014, the Mosquito Alert citizen-science project has enabled public participation in surveillance through the submission of geolocated images via a mobile app, which are identified using AI in combination with expert validation. While field surveillance provides high accuracy, citizen science offers low-cost, large-scale, real-time data collection aligned with open data management principles. It is particularly useful for detecting long-distance dispersal events and has contributed up to one-third of the municipal detections of invasive mosquito species since 2014. This study assesses the value of integrating both surveillance systems to capitalize on their complementary strengths while compensating for their weaknesses in the areas of taxonomic accuracy, scalability, spatial detection patterns, data curation and validation systems, geographic precision, interoperability, and real-time output. We present the listing of municipal detections of these species from 2004 to 2024, integrating data from both sources. Spain's integrated approach demonstrates a pioneering model for cost-effective, scalable vector surveillance tailored to the dynamics of invasive species and emerging epidemiological threats.},
}

@article {pmid41009076,
year = {2025},
author = {Melone, G and Andretta, L and Pica, F and Donnarumma, FP and Ascolese, R and Nugnes, F and Laudonia, S},
title = {First Detection of Encarsia smithi in Italy and Co-Occurrence with Eretmocerus iulii: A Case of Unintentional Introductions and New Associations with the Invasive Species Aleurocanthus spiniferus.},
journal = {Insects},
volume = {16},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {41009076},
issn = {2075-4450},
support = {no number//URCoFi project (Unità Regionale di Coordinamento Fitosani- tario - Strengthening of the supervision activities and control of pests)/ ; no number//Agritech National Research Center for Technology in Agriculture and received funding from the European Union Next-Generation EU (PIANO NAZIONALE DI RIPRESA E RESILIENZA (PNRR)- MISSIONE 4 COMPONENTE 2, INVESTIMENTO 1.4-D.D. 1032 17/06/2022, CN00000022)/ ; },
abstract = {The occurrence of the invasive Orange Spiny Whitefly (Aleurocanthus spiniferus) has expanded rapidly in Italy, prompting responses from both native and unintentionally introduced natural enemies. Through field monitoring, morpho-molecular identification, and phenological analysis, a multi-species parasitoid complex acting on this pest was revealed. In addition to the predominant activity of Eretmocerus iulii, this study reports the first European detection of Encarsia smithi, genetically confirmed as belonging to haplogroup I, a lineage previously associated with A. spiniferus in Asia. Occasional parasitization by Cales noacki was also observed. Seasonal patterns suggest a possible ecological complementarity between Er. iulii and E. smithi, which may contribute to the suppression of A. spiniferus populations. Although climatic variables showed weak correlations with infestation or parasitism rates, a slight positive relationship was observed between rainfall and whitefly abundance. The increasing biocenotic complexity, reflected by the diversity and interactions among parasitoid species, indicates an emerging ecological balance. These findings underscore the potential role of unintentional biological control in supporting agroecosystem resilience.},
}

@article {pmid41008181,
year = {2025},
author = {Iveša, N and Kovačić, I and Buršić, M and Major, N and Palčić, I and Goreta Ban, S and Užila, Z and Millotti, G},
title = {Caulerpa cylindracea: First Insight into Its Nutritional Potential.},
journal = {Foods (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {18},
pages = {},
pmid = {41008181},
issn = {2304-8158},
support = {(dr. Gioconda Millotti)//Adris Foundation/ ; HORIZON-MSCA-2022-CITIZENS-01//RECONNECT SCIENCE WITH THE BLUE SOCIETY - Blue-connect/ ; },
abstract = {The invasive seaweed Caulerpa cylindracea is widespread in the Mediterranean and has notable ecological impacts, yet its nutritional potential remains underexplored. This study aimed to characterize the nutritional composition of C. cylindracea comprehensively. Samples were collected from the Northern Adriatic and analyzed for proximate composition, amino acids, minerals, vitamins, and fatty acids using standardized laboratory methods. The results revealed a balanced proximate profile with notable protein (11.8 g/100 g DW) and fiber (24.4 g/100 g DW) levels and relatively low carbohydrates (11.6 g/100 g DW). The seaweed exhibited a rich mineral content, including high levels of iron, magnesium, manganese, and potassium, while toxic heavy metals were absent. Vitamins B12 and E were present at elevated concentrations compared to related species. Amino acid analysis showed a well-balanced essential amino acid profile supporting its nutritional value. The high salt content (33.8 g/100 g DW) suggests the need for desalination prior to consumption to reduce sodium intake risks. These results indicate the potential of this invasive species as a novel dietary component, particularly for populations who may benefit from plant-based marine sources of essential nutrients in the Mediterranean region. This is the first comprehensive nutritional characterization of C. cylindracea from the Adriatic Sea, highlighting its potential for valorization as both an environmental management strategy and a novel dietary resource.},
}

@article {pmid41007957,
year = {2025},
author = {Badziukiewicz, J and Bors, M and Maciaszek, R and Świderek, W},
title = {Turtles for Sale: Species Prevalence in the Pet Trade in Poland and Potential Introduction Risks.},
journal = {Animals : an open access journal from MDPI},
volume = {15},
number = {18},
pages = {},
pmid = {41007957},
issn = {2076-2615},
abstract = {The popularity of exotic animals, including turtles, kept as pets, has grown steadily in recent decades. Limited awareness of the biological and ecological requirements of these species, combined with insufficient regulation in the pet trade, has contributed to frequent cases of release into the wild. Consequently, the risk of the introduction of non-native turtle species has increased; while not all introduced species establish viable populations or compete with native fauna, some compete for habitat and food resources, transmit pathogens and parasites, or disrupt ecosystem functioning. This study assessed the availability and prevalence of problematic turtle species in the Polish pet trade. Data were collected in 2024 from three main distribution channels: zoological fairs, pet shops, and online platforms, resulting in 1001 recorded observations. A total of 15 freshwater and 11 terrestrial turtle species were identified. The most frequently offered were members of the genus Pseudemys (49.5%) and Mauremys reevesii (13.84%)-both potentially invasive taxa already recorded in natural environments of several European countries. Additionally, species prohibited from trade in Poland, such as the pond slider Trachemys scripta and the false map turtle Graptemys pseudogeographica, were found among online listings, constituting a total of 3.03% of all observations. These results highlight a significant risk of further introduction of alien turtles into Poland's natural environments, posing a serious threat to biodiversity, including the endangered native European pond turtle Emys orbicularis. Urgent public education and additional legal regulations are needed for the pet trade to prevent the further spread of invasive turtle species in Poland and across Europe.},
}

@article {pmid41007945,
year = {2025},
author = {Kaine, G and Wright, V},
title = {The Illegal Catch-and-Release of Wallabies.},
journal = {Animals : an open access journal from MDPI},
volume = {15},
number = {18},
pages = {},
pmid = {41007945},
issn = {2076-2615},
support = {C0035222//Ministry for Primary Industries/ ; },
abstract = {Internationally, introduced invasive species inflict incalculable damage on native species and primary production. In New Zealand, wallabies, which were introduced from Australia, are damaging the native and agricultural environments, and their range is spreading. As a first step towards the long-term goal of eradicating wallabies from New Zealand, the Tipu Mātoro National Wallaby Eradication Programme has the immediate goal of restricting wallabies to containment areas designated in regional pest management plans and to eliminate outlier populations by 2025. The success of this strategy is put at risk if people catch wallabies and release them outside the containment areas. We sought to characterise the motivations, beliefs, and attitudes of members of the public who might engage in this illegal behaviour by surveying members of the New Zealand public. We discovered that a very small proportion of the public supported the illegal catch-and-release of wallabies. Respondents, including hunters, that supported catch-and-release believed that wallabies create economic benefits and do not severely damage the environment. They also believed that hunting helps control wallaby numbers. These results yielded a variety of specific policy implications required to reduce catch-and-release behaviour.},
}

@article {pmid41007928,
year = {2025},
author = {Cassinello, J and Albanell, E and Eguía, S and Roverso, A and San Miguel, A and Bartolomé, J},
title = {When the Evidence Points to the Non-Invasive Nature of an Allegedly Invasive Alien Species: The Case of the Aoudad in Mainland Spain.},
journal = {Animals : an open access journal from MDPI},
volume = {15},
number = {18},
pages = {},
pmid = {41007928},
issn = {2076-2615},
support = {000//Comunidad Autónoma de la Región de Murcia/ ; },
abstract = {Here we reveal a first comparative analysis of the use of food resources of wild populations of the aoudad Ammotragus lervia and the Iberian ibex Capra pyrenaica, both in sympatric and allopatric conditions. The study was carried out in the southeastern mountains of the Iberian Peninsula, in the Murcia region. Our results show that the aoudad preferentially behaves as a grazer herbivore, the herbaceous component being present in its diet by 57%. The ibex, on the contrary, shows a 63% preference for shrubs. When in sympatry, the ibex shows a comparatively higher incidence on the herbaceous stratum. In summer, the aoudad's consumption of woody species increases. The differences observed in the feeding behavior of ibexes and aoudads most probably make their joint presence in the study mountainous ecosystems compatible, provided sufficient resources are available. Ecological implications and management proposals are discussed in the context of alien species management.},
}

@article {pmid41007426,
year = {2025},
author = {Cosentino, C and Caruso, A},
title = {The Progressive Colonization of the Invasive Species Amphistegina lobifera on Pantelleria Island (Central Mediterranean, Sicily Channel).},
journal = {Biology},
volume = {14},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {41007426},
issn = {2079-7737},
support = {FFR 2024 (Fondo Finalizzato Ricerca di Ateneo, UNIPA)//University of Palermo/ ; PRJ 0686//Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV/ ; },
abstract = {Amphistegina lobifera, a symbiont-bearing benthic foraminifera native to the Indo-Pacific, is expanding its distribution range in the Mediterranean Sea due to ysian migration through the Suez Canal. This study investigates the colonization dynamics and ecological impact of A. lobifera on Pantelleria Island, which is located in the Central Mediterranean. Nine samples were collected from various substrates at different depths (-4 to -20 m) and analysed for composition, abundance, and ecological diversity. Results reveal a significant dominance of A. lobifera, especially in shallow unvegetated substrates, with relative abundances exceeding 50%. Conversely, more vegetated substrates host more diverse and balanced assemblages. Diversity indices are consistently lower where A. lobifera is dominant, indicating reduced biodiversity. Comparison with similar studies in Malta, Linosa, and Corfu confirms a 20% relative abundance threshold for A. lobifera as indicative of potential ecological imbalance. The results suggest that it represents a growing threat to native microbenthic biodiversity and reinforce its usefulness as a bioindicator species. Pantelleria represents a key transition zone for monitoring the dynamics of invasive species in the Mediterranean, and this study highlights the urgent need for long-term surveillance of benthic biodiversity.},
}

@article {pmid41007408,
year = {2025},
author = {Saensouk, P and Saensouk, S and Boonma, T and Zhang, Y and Lv, L and Jitpromma, T},
title = {Ethnobotanical Heritage of Edible Plants Species in Mueang District, Yasothon Province, Northeastern Thailand.},
journal = {Biology},
volume = {14},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {41007408},
issn = {2079-7737},
support = {No Grant Number//Mahasarakham University/ ; },
abstract = {Traditional knowledge of edible plants is essential for food security, nutrition, and cultural identity in rural communities, yet many regions, including Mueang District, Yasothon Province (MY), remain underexplored in ethnobotanical studies. The lack of systematic documentation of local plant diversity and uses in MY presents a significant gap in understanding how these resources contribute to the sustainability of local food systems. This study addresses this gap by providing a comprehensive ethnobotanical survey of edible plants in Mueang District, Northeastern Thailand. Documenting 170 species across 60 families, the study reveals a rich plant diversity reflecting a dynamic interplay of native and introduced species, as well as cultivated and wild-harvested resources that sustain local food security, nutrition, and cultural traditions. Fabaceae emerged as the most species-rich family, while staple cereals such as Oryza sativa L. and Zea mays L. dominate use-value rankings. Quantitative indices, including Species Use Value (SUV), Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC), Cultural Food Significance Index (CFSI), and Fidelity Level (%FL), elucidate nuanced patterns of plant utilization, highlighting multifunctional species that bridge food and medicine. High cultural consensus on key medicinal plants underscores the deep integration of traditional healthcare within local food systems. The diversity of edible plant uses-from beverages and condiments to medicinal foods-illustrates adaptive strategies that enhance dietary diversity and ecological resilience. These findings contribute to the understanding of biocultural diversity and underscore the importance of conserving both plant biodiversity and indigenous knowledge to promote sustainable, locally adapted food systems. The study also identifies priority species for future pharmacological and agronomic research to support climate-resilient food sovereignty.},
}

@article {pmid41007336,
year = {2025},
author = {Ali, G and Abbas, S and Nagai, S and Mohd Arshad, N and Bhassu, S},
title = {Threats of Climate Change to Freshwater Ecosystems in Pakistan: eDNA Monitoring Will Be the Next-Generation Tool Used in Biodiversity, Conservation, and Management.},
journal = {Biology},
volume = {14},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {41007336},
issn = {2079-7737},
support = {GA006-2021//Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment/ ; },
abstract = {Freshwater ecosystems are a significant entity that govern the livelihood of people and are an important source of food, employment, and recreation. However, climate change is impacting freshwater ecosystems by altering their natural habitats. The purpose of this review is to highlight the vulnerability of freshwater fish to climate change. Climate change is invariably affecting natural ecosystems everywhere and in every part of the world, but these threats are more severe in Pakistan. Freshwater fish are important biotic drivers of freshwater ecosystems. Unfortunately, uncertain climate changes and anthropogenic activities have led to a decline in the diversity of these fishes. Rising temperatures, melting glaciers, changes in seasonal patterns, disturbances in the natural flow of rivers, pollution, and invasive species are major threats to native freshwater fish fauna, leading to a decline in fish diversity and population. Tor putitora, Glyptothorax kashmirensis, and Triplophysa kashmirensis are some of the species that are critically endangered in Pakistan due to these factors. In recent decades, insufficient attention has been paid to the freshwater ecosystem. This review of threats to the endemic fish species in this region is presented so that the government and policymakers can use this information as part of their management and conservation policy, thus safeguarding Pakistan's fish industry. Environmental DNA (eDNA) biomonitoring is a new technique for assessing biodiversity and species distribution and can be useful for conserving biodiversity in this region. Another purpose of this review is to introduce this new conservation strategy to Pakistan.},
}

@article {pmid41007274,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, R and Gao, Y and Wang, R and Liu, S and Yang, Q and Li, Y and Lin, L},
title = {Analyzing Possible Shifts in the Climatic Niche of Pomacea canaliculata Between Native and Chinese Ranges.},
journal = {Biology},
volume = {14},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {41007274},
issn = {2079-7737},
support = {2022YFC2601303//National Key Research and Development Program of China/ ; },
abstract = {The impact of invasive alien species (IAS) is one of the direct factors causing global biodiversity decline and economic losses, and predicting the potential invasion risks of invasive species is crucial for developing prevention and control strategies. In recent years, an increasing number of studies have shown that invasive species undergo rapid shifts in climate niche in invaded areas. Accurately quantifying the dynamic shifts in the climate niche of invasive species in invaded areas is crucial for developing a more accurate framework for early warning of invasive species risks. Pomacea canaliculata is a freshwater snail found in South America and has become one of the most aggressive aquatic species in the world. Since its introduction to China in 1981, it has rapidly spread and caused multiple serious damages to agriculture, ecology, and public health. Therefore, based on multi-source distribution data of P. canaliculata, this study calculated the climate niche overlap by Schoener' s D, quantified the niche shifts between the P. canaliculata in native and invaded areas (China) via the COUE scheme (a unified terminology representing niche centroid shift, overlap, unfilling, and expansion), and analyzed their changes on a time scale. The results revealed that there have been significant climate niche shifts (Schoener's D < 0.2, niche similarity tests p > 0.01, niche equivalence tests p < 0.01) between the native and invaded areas (China) of P. canaliculata, which does not support the climate niche conservation hypothesis. The minimum temperature of the coldest month (Bio 6) and precipitation seasonality (Bio 15) were the key climate variables driving the climatic niche shift, and P. canaliculata can survive in colder and more arid regions than their native counterparts. The changes in the niche shifts in P. canaliculata on a time scale show significant temporal heterogeneity, and its invasion behavior in China presents a discontinuous and phased expansion pattern, with strong adaptability to new environments. The results are of great significance for the future development of more accurate ecological niche model (ENM), the formulation of more targeted prevention and control strategies, and the study of adaptive evolution mechanisms of invasive species.},
}

@article {pmid41006908,
year = {2025},
author = {Petrovskiy, AB and Pelgunova, LA and Ksenofontov, DA and Tyshchenko, AM and Reshetnikov, AN},
title = {Macro- and microelement composition of muscles of the invasive fish rotan Perccottus glenii (Odontobutidae): assessment of pollution in metropolitan water bodies.},
journal = {Environmental monitoring and assessment},
volume = {197},
number = {10},
pages = {1153},
pmid = {41006908},
issn = {1573-2959},
support = {1022040700480-0-1.6.15//State assignment/ ; project # 2-SG/24//Grant by the Department of Nature Management and Environmental Protection of Moscow/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Environmental Monitoring ; *Water Pollutants, Chemical/metabolism/analysis ; *Muscles/chemistry/metabolism ; *Trace Elements/metabolism/analysis ; Russia ; Introduced Species ; Cities ; },
abstract = {Urban water bodies are at high risk of anthropogenic pollution. The content of 5 macroelements (P, S, Cl, K, and Ca) and 17 microelements (Ti, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Br, Rb, Sr, Cd, Sn, Ba, Pb, and Hg) in the muscle tissue of the invasive fish rotan (Perccottus glenii) from 10 water bodies located in different districts of Moscow (Russia) was studied. In general, the level of elements content in the muscle tissue of rotan did not depend on the location of the water body: residential areas, areas near major roadways, or specially protected green areas. Correlations of the content of individual chemical elements with the sex and size of fish were revealed, as well as correlations of concentrations of individual elements among themselves. Concentrations of trace elements, regulated by the legislation of the Russian Federation (Pb, As, Cd, and Hg), as well as those recommended for monitoring (Cu, Zn), do not exceed permissible values, which indicates a relatively favorable condition of the studied water bodies in terms of pollution by chemical elements.},
}

Animals
*Environmental Monitoring
*Water Pollutants, Chemical/metabolism/analysis
*Muscles/chemistry/metabolism
*Trace Elements/metabolism/analysis
Russia
Introduced Species
Cities

@article {pmid41006768,
year = {2025},
author = {Kucherov, NB and Hefley, T and Kim, TN},
title = {Climate and human-modified landscapes influence spread of invasive agricultural pest Popillia japonica Newman in American Midwest and Great Plains.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {33013},
pmid = {41006768},
issn = {2045-2322},
mesh = {Animals ; *Introduced Species ; *Coleoptera/physiology ; Agriculture ; *Climate ; Humans ; Ecosystem ; Biodiversity ; Midwestern United States ; Population Dynamics ; United States ; },
abstract = {Japanese beetle (Popillia japonica) is an invasive agricultural pest throughout the eastern United States and its distribution is expanding westward. Understanding how climate and land use intensification interact to affect Japanese beetle population dynamics and spread is essential to predict which areas are vulnerable to increased pest pressure. In this study, we combine data from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) with data from local state agricultural agencies and University extension offices to model how land cover and climate affect Japanese beetle occurrences at the leading edge of an invasion front in the central United States over 5 years. We found that beetle occurrences were positively correlated with proportion of developed areas, proportion of corn and soybean, minimum temperature, and precipitation within counties, and negatively correlated with the proportion of grassland and pasture, and maximum temperature. We modeled Japanese beetle occurrences in the near future and for future climate scenarios and found high probability of occurrence for Japanese beetles across the entire region. Our study highlights the importance of supplementing community science data in rural areas and including a time variable when assessing habitat associations for invasive species in novel areas.},
}

Animals
*Introduced Species
*Coleoptera/physiology
Agriculture
*Climate
Humans
Ecosystem
Biodiversity
Midwestern United States
Population Dynamics
United States

@article {pmid41006581,
year = {2025},
author = {Wu, LH and Zou, J and Jiang, YT and Lu, L and Jiang, K and Zhang, KJ and Liu, WC and Xiang, WM and Wang, G and Segar, ST and van Noort, S and Li, YY and Zhang, YY and Chen, XY and Compton, SG and Wang, R},
title = {Demography and adaptation of a species specific pollinator associated with an invasive fig tree.},
journal = {Communications biology},
volume = {8},
number = {1},
pages = {1363},
pmid = {41006581},
issn = {2399-3642},
support = {32071667 and 32261123001//National Natural Science Foundation of China (National Science Foundation of China)/ ; },
mesh = {*Pollination ; Animals ; *Ficus/parasitology/physiology ; *Introduced Species ; *Wasps/physiology/genetics ; *Adaptation, Physiological ; Species Specificity ; },
abstract = {Some fig species introduced outside of their native range have become invasive when colonized by their obligate pollinating wasps, but how these pollinators migrated and adapted to novel environments are less studied. Here, we focus on Eupristina verticillata, the obligate pollinating wasp of an invasive fig tree species (Ficus microcarpa), to uncover its demography and the molecular basis for adaptations to novel environments. We find that only one of the three cryptic species colonized in the sampling locations outside of its native range. This dominant cryptic species migrated simultaneously from the native range to the Americas and to the Mediterranean c. 130 years ago. Moreover, selective sweep analyses reveal several positively selected genes associated with adaptations to the nonnative range. Genome-wide association detect a nonsynonymous substitution in a dopamine N-acetyltransferase gene significantly linked with brood size. Our study outlines the route to colonization and genetic adaptations of an invasive mutualism.},
}

*Pollination
Animals
*Ficus/parasitology/physiology
*Introduced Species
*Wasps/physiology/genetics
*Adaptation, Physiological
Species Specificity

@article {pmid41004490,
year = {2025},
author = {Rosario, CA and Otis, GW and Miller, RH and Groover-Landis, AA and Stanley, ES and Mattila, HR},
title = {Predatory behavior, nesting habits, and impacts on honey bees (Apis mellifera) of an invasive hornet (Vespa tropica) on the island of Guam.},
journal = {PloS one},
volume = {20},
number = {9},
pages = {e0332986},
pmid = {41004490},
issn = {1932-6203},
mesh = {Animals ; Bees/physiology ; *Predatory Behavior/physiology ; *Wasps/physiology ; *Nesting Behavior/physiology ; *Introduced Species ; Islands ; Ecosystem ; },
abstract = {Hornets (genus Vespa) are a conspicuous taxon of large eusocial wasps that are predators of other insects. Increasingly, hornets are gaining notoriety as damaging invaders after repeated introductions into novel habitats. Most hornets are highly effective predators, so they have the potential to greatly impact local entomofauna, including economically important pollinators. In 2016, Vespa tropica, a hornet with a broad natural range throughout subtropical and tropical Asia, was detected on Guam, although few details have been published since the initial alert. We provide the first comprehensive update on the status and impact of V. tropica hornets on Guam based on nine years of beekeeper and public reports, as well as field collections of nests, hornets, and videos of hunting behavior in managed apiaries. We show that the population of non-native V. tropica is established and thriving on Guam. Nests were found in a diversity of sites: below and above ground, sheltered and exposed, and in urban and greenspaces. V. tropica was a year-round predator in apiaries, with up to 12% of colony losses per year attributed to hornet attacks. Notably, hornets often attacked single honey bee (Apis mellifera) colonies in groups, similar to the hunting strategy of their close relatives, the giant hornets Vespa mandarinia and Vespa soror. Hornets killed defending workers, eventually weakening colonies and entering hives to consume bee brood. Bees mounted defenses that included alarm piping, bee 'carpets', and attempts to ball hornets. Hornets were active all year, but were significantly more active during the wet season (July‒December). Preliminary analysis of color forms suggested that the source of V. tropica on Guam is likely continental southeast Asia, although genetic analyses are required. Our study reveals that Guam is facing a fierce invader in V. tropica, which is placing strong predatory pressure on pre-established honey bees.},
}

Animals
Bees/physiology
*Predatory Behavior/physiology
*Wasps/physiology
*Nesting Behavior/physiology
*Introduced Species
Islands
Ecosystem

@article {pmid41003511,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, F and Kim, J and Costa, OS and Liang, S and Lee, J},
title = {Potential Linkage Between Zebra Mussel Establishment, Cyanobacterial Community Composition, and Microcystin Levels in United States Lakes.},
journal = {Toxins},
volume = {17},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {41003511},
issn = {2072-6651},
mesh = {Animals ; *Microcystins/analysis ; *Cyanobacteria/growth & development ; *Lakes/microbiology/chemistry ; *Dreissena ; United States ; Phosphorus/analysis ; Environmental Monitoring ; Introduced Species ; },
abstract = {Zebra mussel invasion of North American lakes during the last century may play an important role in the occurrence of toxic cyanobacterial blooms. However, empirical evidence quantifying their influence on cyanobacterial community dynamics at broad spatial scales remains limited. Here, we analyzed data from the U.S. EPA National Lakes Assessment (>1000 lakes) to examine potential linkages among zebra mussels, cyanobacterial community composition, and cyanotoxin levels. The analysis results showed significant differences in cyanobacterial communities between lakes located in areas with and without established zebra mussel populations. The lakes with established zebra mussels exhibited significantly higher microcystin levels and cyanobacterial abundance, but lower phosphorus concentrations. Structural equation modeling was used to confirm and estimate the effect of zebra mussels on microcystin concentrations via different pathways. The results suggest three potential pathways whereby zebra mussels influence microcystin production: (1) altering phosphorus concentration; (2) increasing cyanobacterial abundance; and (3) shifting cyanobacteria community structure. The total effect of zebra mussel establishment resulted in an overall 1.40-fold net increase in microcystin level, which presumably resulted from three contributing factors: (1) a 1.06-fold increase through an increased cyanobacterial abundance; (2) a 1.53-fold increase through a selective force, resulting in increased cyanobacteria toxicity; and (3) a 0.86-fold decrease in microcystin level through total phosphorus decrease. The study highlights the potential role of zebra mussel invasion in altering cyanobacterial composition and influencing microcystin levels in U.S. lakes.},
}

Animals
*Microcystins/analysis
*Cyanobacteria/growth & development
*Lakes/microbiology/chemistry
*Dreissena
United States
Phosphorus/analysis
Environmental Monitoring
Introduced Species

@article {pmid41003336,
year = {2025},
author = {Gourari, K and Mabrouki, Y and Taybi, AF and Essadek, A and Tanduo, V and Crocetta, F and Rahhou, I and Belbachir, C and Rizzo, L and Legssyer, B},
title = {Meat Nutritional Value and Exoskeleton Valorisation of Callinectes sapidus from Three Sites of Biological and Ecological Interest in Morocco: Scientific Insights Toward a Management Strategy in the Mediterranean Sea.},
journal = {Marine drugs},
volume = {23},
number = {9},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/md23090367},
pmid = {41003336},
issn = {1660-3397},
support = {Laboratory for the Improvement of Agricultural Production, Biotechnologies and the Environment, Mohamed Premier University, Oujda, Morocco, and the Laboratory of Biotechnology, Conservation and Valorization of Bioresources, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah Unive//Laboratory for the Improvement of Agricultural Production, Biotechnologies and the Environment, Mohamed Premier University, Oujda, Morocco, and the Laboratory of Biotechnology, Conservation and Valorization of Bioresources, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah Unive/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; Morocco ; *Nutritive Value ; Mediterranean Sea ; *Brachyura/chemistry ; *Meat/analysis ; *Animal Shells/chemistry ; },
abstract = {Biological invasions threaten biodiversity worldwide. The American blue crab Callinectes sapidus Rathbun, 1896, among the Mediterranean's most damaging invaders, takes up the challenge to transform this threat into gain. To turn its impact into economic value and guide control efforts, we analysed separately the meat composition and exoskeleton biopolymers of adult crabs from three Moroccan protected Sites of Biological and Ecological Interest: Marchica Lagoon (S1), Moulouya Estuary (S2), and Al Hoceima National Park (S3). Marchica specimens exhibited the highest protein content (21.87 ± 1.15 g 100 g[-1], p < 0.001) and an elevated lipid fraction, yielding nutrient-dense meat suitable for premium markets. Moulouya crabs were noted for their taste potential, with a higher concentration of fat (1.73 ± 0.09%) and carbohydrates (0.91 ± 0.1%). Al Hoceima individuals displayed markedly mineralised exoskeletons producing lean and low-fat meat, valued in dietary applications. Exoskeleton organic-to-mineral (OM/MM) ratios and proximate composition revealed three adaptive profiles, opportunistic (S1), acclimatory (S2), and conservative (S3), presumably correlated to local salinity, productivity, and substrate conditions, underscoring the species' phenotypic plasticity. X-ray diffraction confirmed the α-chitin polymorph, while FTIR analysis indicated degrees of deacetylation consistent with high-purity chitosan. These findings support the development of a site-specific circular economy framework and may contribute to the ecological resilience of Morocco's protected coastal areas.},
}

Animals
Morocco
*Nutritive Value
Mediterranean Sea
*Brachyura/chemistry
*Meat/analysis
*Animal Shells/chemistry

@article {pmid41003321,
year = {2025},
author = {García-Cervantes, AM and Prates, JAM and Guil-Guerrero, JL},
title = {Overview of Primary and Secondary Metabolites of Rugulopteryx okamurae Seaweed: Assessing Bioactivity, Scalability, and Molecular Mechanisms.},
journal = {Marine drugs},
volume = {23},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {41003321},
issn = {1660-3397},
support = {UIDB/00276/2020 to CIISA//Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia grants (Lisbon, Portugal)/ ; AL4AnimalS//LA/P/0059/2020/ ; },
mesh = {*Phaeophyceae/metabolism/chemistry ; *Seaweed/metabolism/chemistry ; Animals ; Humans ; Anti-Inflammatory Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; Polysaccharides/pharmacology/chemistry ; Structure-Activity Relationship ; Antioxidants/pharmacology/chemistry ; Antineoplastic Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; },
abstract = {Rugulopteryx okamurae is an invasive brown alga that has colonised Mediterranean and northeastern Atlantic coastlines, posing significant ecological and economic challenges. Its biomass is rich in structurally diverse metabolites-including polysaccharides (alginate, fucoidan, laminaran), phlorotannins, diterpenoids, fatty acids, and peptides-many of which exhibit notable antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer activities. Comparative assessment of extraction yields, structural features, and bioactivity data highlights phlorotannins and diterpenoids as particularly promising, demonstrating low-micromolar potencies and favourable predicted interactions with key inflammatory and apoptotic targets. Algal polysaccharides exhibit various bioactivities but hold strong potential for scalable and sustainable industrial applications. Emerging compound classes such as fatty acids and peptides display niche bioactivities; however, their structural diversity and mechanisms of action remain insufficiently explored. Insights from in vitro and in silico studies suggest that phlorotannins may modulate NF-κB and MAPK signalling pathways, while diterpenoids are implicated in the induction of mitochondrial apoptosis. Despite these findings, inconsistent extraction methodologies and a lack of in vivo pharmacokinetic and efficacy data limit translational potential. To overcome these limitations, standardized extraction protocols, detailed structure-activity relationship (SAR) and pharmacokinetic studies, and robust in vivo models are urgently needed. Bioactivity-guided valorisation strategies, aligned with ecological management, could transform R. okamurae biomass into a sustainable source for functional foods, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals applications.},
}

*Phaeophyceae/metabolism/chemistry
*Seaweed/metabolism/chemistry
Animals
Humans
Anti-Inflammatory Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
Polysaccharides/pharmacology/chemistry
Structure-Activity Relationship
Antioxidants/pharmacology/chemistry
Antineoplastic Agents/pharmacology/chemistry

@article {pmid41003225,
year = {2025},
author = {Wu, Y and Zhou, F and Chen, Q and He, L and Zang, Y and Wang, Z and Lin, C and Miao, W and Li, Z},
title = {Comparative Mitogenome Analysis of Colletotrichum Species Causing Anthracnose of Rubber Trees Unveils Distinct Species Complex-Specific Evolution Trajectories Within the Genus.},
journal = {Journal of fungi (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {11},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {41003225},
issn = {2309-608X},
support = {323RC420//Hainan Provincial Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 32460651//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; ZDYF2025XDNY094//Hainan ProvinceScience and Technology SpecialFund/ ; KRJC2023B14//Hainan Province Science and Technology Talent Innovation Project/ ; XTCX2022NYA01//Collaborative Innovation Center of Nanfan and High Efficiency Tropical Agriculture of Hainan University/ ; },
abstract = {Colletotrichum spp. are the causative agents of anthracnose of rubber trees, one of the most destructive diseases, resulting in substantial economic losses. To investigate the evolutionary characteristics of these pathogenic species, we first assembled the complete mitogenomes of four dominant pathogens, i.e., C. siamense, C. fructicola, C. wanningense and C. bannaense. Comparative analyses revealed that variations in their mitogenome size were primarily driven by intron expansion and expansion/contraction within the cox1, cob and nad genes. Moreover, we observed the strong conservation of gene content, mitochondrial DNA copy number, gene order and intron features within species complexes, but a clear divergence between them. Notably, further studies indicated that patterns such as genomic organization, selective pressures and codon usage were consistent across the genus, suggesting that Colletotrichum species complexes had followed distinct evolutionary trajectories, particularly in the arrangement of protein-coding genes. Therefore, this study systematically characterized the mitogenomes of the four major Colletotrichum species associated with rubber tree anthracnose and provided novel insights into the broad evolutionary mechanisms shaping Colletotrichum species complexes.},
}

@article {pmid41002041,
year = {2025},
author = {Clark, MB and Funk, AT and Paporakis, A and Brown, GP and Beach, SJ and Tay, A and Deering, S and Cooper, C and Tizard, M and Jolly, CJ and Ward-Fear, G and Waddle, AW and Shine, R and Maselko, M},
title = {Efficient CRISPR-Cas9-Mediated Genome Editing of the Cane Toad (Rhinella marina).},
journal = {The CRISPR journal},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1177/25731599251382427},
pmid = {41002041},
issn = {2573-1602},
abstract = {Invasive species inflict major ecological, economic, and cultural harm worldwide, highlighting the urgent need for innovative control strategies. Genome editing offers exciting possibilities for targeted control methods for invasive species. Here, we demonstrate CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing in the cane toad (Rhinella marina), one of Australia's most notorious invasive species, by targeting the tyrosinase gene to produce albino phenotypes as visual markers for assessing editing efficiency. Microinjection of Cas9 protein and guide RNAs into one-cell zygotes resulted in 87.6% of mosaic larvae displaying nearly complete albinism, with 2.3% exhibiting complete albinism. For completely albino individuals, genomic analysis confirmed predominantly frameshift mutations or large deletions at the target site, with no wild-type alleles detected. Germline transmission rates reflected the extent of albinism in the mosaic adult, with maternal transmission approaching 100%. This first application of CRISPR-Cas9 in the Bufonidae family opens possibilities for exploring basic research questions and population control strategies.},
}

@article {pmid41001521,
year = {2025},
author = {Abel, L and Kahindi, S and Ekai, D and Kirwa, E and Lokwang, R and Amunga, M and Omollo, E and Kimachas, E and Cherono, M and Maraga, L and Menya, D and Obala, A and O'Meara, WP},
title = {What is the potential impact of insecticide treated nets in a semi-arid region of northern Kenya? An investigation of vector populations prior to ITN roll-out in Turkana, Kenya.},
journal = {Research square},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.21203/rs.3.rs-7478426/v1},
pmid = {41001521},
issn = {2693-5015},
abstract = {The malaria ecology of northern Kenya differs from the rest of the country. Transmission is highly seasonal and intense, despite the arid environment and low population density. The region faces several threats to malaria control including identification of significant P. vivax infection and an emerging invasive species, An. stephensi . Turkana County implemented its first mass bednet distribution in late 2024. Prior to this, we established a surveillance program to understand mosquito density, vector diversity, host preference and contribution to malaria transmission. We captured mosquitoes in rural and peri-urban areas, indoors and outdoots, over one year. Twenty-percent of female anophelines were captured outdoors but P. falciparum infection was higher in outdoor collections. An. coluzzi , a vector commonly found in West Africa, was the second most abundant species and had the highest P. falciparum infection rates. These data will be useful in predicting the impact of ITN distribution in this unique context.},
}

@article {pmid41001113,
year = {2025},
author = {Stadnicka-Futoma, A and Jaźwa, M and Kata, K and Klichowska, E},
title = {Erechtites hieracifolia: an invasive plant species in peatland habitats of southeastern Poland (Central Europe).},
journal = {Frontiers in plant science},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1615073},
pmid = {41001113},
issn = {1664-462X},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Erechtites hieracifolia is an invasive plant species increasingly colonizing peatland plant communities in Central Europe. Invasive plant species are a growing global concern, as they colonize a wide range of habitats, contributing to biodiversity loss. Anthropogenic activity and climate change intensify this process. Mires are among the most vulnerable ecosystems, as lowering groundwater levels and habitat changes facilitate the penetration of invasive species. The aim of this study was to analyze the floristic composition of peatland plant communities with the presence of E. hieracifolia, including an assessment of potential differences between plots with and without the species. In addition, changes in population size over a 3-year period were evaluated, and new localities of E. hieracifolia in Poland were identified.

METHODS: In 2019, a total of 60 phytosociological relevés were taken in 12 peatland patches (six with the presence of E. hieracifolia and six without it). The study was repeated in 2022 on the same patches. A syntaxonomic classification of the plant communities was established. The PERMANOVA method was used to analyze differences in species composition between patches with and without E. hieracifolia. Biodiversity indices (Shannon-Wiener and Simpson) were also compared between these two groups.

RESULTS: E. hieracifolia most frequently occurred in raised bogs with low groundwater levels within the Sphagno recurvi-Eriophoretum vaginati association. Maximum species cover was recorded in patch 11 (25%). Within 3 years, the number of patches with E. hieracifolia increased from six to eight. In some of these patches, an increase in both the species cover and range was observed, indicating ongoing expansion. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences in species composition between patches with and without the presence of E. hieracifolia. A clear association of the species with patches characterized by a more abundant occurrence of Eriophorum vaginatum tussocks was also observed. The Shannon-Wiener and Simpson diversity indices showed slightly lower species diversity in communities with E. hieracifolia, suggesting that habitat changes associated with peatland drying favor its colonization.

DISCUSSION/CONCLUSIONS: The results indicate that E. hieracifolia preferentially colonizes degraded habitats characterized by reduced biodiversity. These findings suggest that E. hieracifolia may act as an indicator of peatland degradation, with its expansion facilitated by hydrological changes. The study highlights the need for continuous monitoring of invasive species in peatland ecosystems, as their spread may further accelerate biodiversity loss in these vulnerable habitats.},
}

@article {pmid40999773,
year = {2025},
author = {Bean, MS and Trotter, RT and Ritger, R and Barrett, K and Pfister, SE and Coyle, DR},
title = {Distribution of Anoplophora glabripennis (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) damage in tree canopies: implications for survey efficacy.},
journal = {Environmental entomology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/ee/nvaf095},
pmid = {40999773},
issn = {1938-2936},
support = {AP21PPQS&T00C002//Cooperative Agreements/ ; AP22PPQS&T00C002//Cooperative Agreements/ ; //United States Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)/ ; },
abstract = {Anoplophora glabripennis Motschulsky is an invasive woodboring beetle in North America and Europe that threatens a broad range of tree genera. Eradication is a costly and time-consuming process that requires visual surveys to detect beetle damage on host trees. Knowing the distribution of beetle damage within trees could directly benefit survey efforts by focusing surveys on high-risk areas and indirectly by identifying habitat factors that structure beetle populations. In the A. glabripennis infestation in South Carolina, we identified an isolated and actively growing subpopulation on an island that had not fully occupied the available host trees. With host resources still abundant for the beetle, the distribution of oviposition pits and exit holes is expected to be the result of habitat preference and (in the case of exit holes) larval performance. We examined the distribution of eggs and emerging adults by cataloging the >14,000 oviposition sites and >1,400 exit holes distributed among the 33 infested and uninfested host trees on the island, documenting the stem height, diameter, surface area, and bark thickness for all damage. Oviposition pits and exit holes were neither randomly nor evenly distributed within tree canopies; however, the distribution of available habitat (ie stem space within the canopy) seemed to drive most of the distribution, and the presence of damage was biased toward larger/taller trees. These results suggest some preference in egg placement with regard to canopy height, stem diameter, and bark thickness within canopies, but the responses are subtle and may have limited utility in guiding visual surveys.},
}

@article {pmid40997258,
year = {2025},
author = {Prati, S and Reyes Camargo, AC and Jamonneau, T and Halima, IB and Sures, B},
title = {Seasonal exchange of microsporidian parasites between native and non-native pet-traded freshwater crustaceans: Is parasite spillover favored over spillback?.},
journal = {Parasite (Paris, France)},
volume = {32},
number = {},
pages = {61},
pmid = {40997258},
issn = {1776-1042},
support = {426547801//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Seasons ; *Microsporidia/isolation & purification/physiology/classification ; France ; Fresh Water ; *Introduced Species ; *Decapoda/microbiology/parasitology ; Ecosystem ; Pets/parasitology ; *Crustacea/microbiology/parasitology ; Rivers ; *Microsporidiosis/epidemiology/veterinary/transmission ; Biodiversity ; },
abstract = {The introduction of non-native pet-traded species poses potential threats to global biodiversity, particularly in freshwater ecosystems. This study investigated the seasonal dynamics of microsporidian infections in an established feral population of cherry shrimp (Neocaridina davidi) and the coexisting populations of crustaceans, comprising both native and non-native species, inhabiting the thermal waters of the Fontcaude Park and the nearby Mosson River in southern France. Our aim was to assess the potential occurrence of spillover and/or spillback events between N. davidi and co-occurring crustaceans, as well as the influence of seasonal dynamics on these interactions. The prevalence and diversity of microsporidian parasites exhibited strong seasonal variations. Although parasites associated with the pet trade were not detected, we highlight the acquisition of native parasites by feral N. davidi, which seems to be a suitable alternative host for native host-generalist microsporidians. Our findings indicate that all prerogatives for spillback events to occur are met. Feral N. davidi may establish and survive year-round in European rivers with natural thermal regimes. Thus, human-mediated introductions can potentially alter parasite transmission dynamics in these ecosystems.},
}

Animals
*Seasons
*Microsporidia/isolation & purification/physiology/classification
France
Fresh Water
*Introduced Species
*Decapoda/microbiology/parasitology
Ecosystem
Pets/parasitology
*Crustacea/microbiology/parasitology
Rivers
*Microsporidiosis/epidemiology/veterinary/transmission
Biodiversity

@article {pmid40996792,
year = {2025},
author = {Pelosi, JA and Davenport, R and Kuo, LY and Gray, LN and Dant, AJ and Kim, EH and Li, FW and Dlugosch, KM and Krabbenhoft, TJ and Barbazuk, WB and Sessa, EB},
title = {The genome of the vining fern Lygodium microphyllum highlights genomic and functional differences between life phases of an invasive plant.},
journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America},
volume = {122},
number = {39},
pages = {e2504773122},
doi = {10.1073/pnas.2504773122},
pmid = {40996792},
issn = {1091-6490},
support = {2024-67012-43394//USDA | National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA)/ ; #1754911/2310485//National Science Foundation (NSF)/ ; #2024-67011-43011//USDA | National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA)/ ; #2023-67013-40169//USDA | National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA)/ ; },
mesh = {*Genome, Plant ; *Ferns/genetics/growth & development ; Germ Cells, Plant/growth & development ; *Introduced Species ; Gene Expression Regulation, Plant ; Transcriptome ; DNA Methylation ; Genomics ; },
abstract = {Functional and genomic studies on the differences between the gametophyte and sporophyte life phases of plants remain scarce, yet unraveling these dynamics is crucial to understanding the biology of plants and the success of each phase under different conditions. Here, we provide a reference genome for the highly invasive fern Lygodium microphyllum and compare the transcriptomic and epigenomic landscapes of its gametophyte and sporophyte life phases. Under ambient conditions, we found differential regulation and splicing of developmental genes (homeobox and MADS-box clades) may play a role in the genomic determination of the haploid and diploid life stages. We generated a base pair-resolution methylome of a fern gametophyte, and determined that methylation patterns are remarkably similar between vegetative tissues despite their morphological and functional differences. We further explored the physiological and transcriptomic responses of gametophytes and sporophytes to freezing stress, the most likely abiotic factor limiting further range expansion of this invasive species. While controlled by the same genome, we show that life phases and tissues use alternative molecular pathways in response to freezing and greater physiological resilience in the gametophyte life stage to this stressor. Our results underscore the need to incorporate both life phases when developing effective mitigation strategies, as differential responses to environmental stressors between phases reveal opportunities for management approaches (e.g., targeting gametophytes in addition to sporophytes). These genomic resources fill a gap in our understanding of fundamental plant biology and inform invasive species research.},
}

*Genome, Plant
*Ferns/genetics/growth & development
Germ Cells, Plant/growth & development
*Introduced Species
Gene Expression Regulation, Plant
Transcriptome
DNA Methylation
Genomics

@article {pmid40993198,
year = {2025},
author = {Chen, X and Lei, Q and Liang, C and Wang, J and Jiang, H},
title = {A case study on the γ-octalactone induced expression of Obp83g-2 in Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel) revealed the transcriptional regulation of insect odorant binding protein.},
journal = {Communications biology},
volume = {8},
number = {1},
pages = {1355},
pmid = {40993198},
issn = {2399-3642},
mesh = {Animals ; *Receptors, Odorant/genetics/metabolism ; *Tephritidae/genetics/metabolism/drug effects ; *Insect Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; *Lactones/pharmacology ; Female ; *Gene Expression Regulation/drug effects ; },
abstract = {As crucial components of the insect olfactory system, odorant binding proteins (OBPs) are involved in detecting environmental chemical cues. Expression alterations of OBPs induced by odorants are conserved in many species. It presents an intriguing initial screening tool when searching for novel OBP-odorant interaction. However, the transcriptional regulation mechanism that causes this expression alteration of OBPs still remains unclear. Here, we reported a case study on the transcriptional regulation of OBP in an invasive species, Bactrocera dorsalis, upon γ-octalactone (a host volatile that strongly attracts its females to lay eggs) induction. We identified OBP83g-2 as a key OBP was involved in γ-octalactone perception through in vitro and in vivo functional assay. In addition, we found transcription factor ADF-1-like positively regulated the expression of Obp83g-2 upon γ-octalactone induction through expression pattern analysis, dual-luciferase reporter system, electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) and RNAi. Based on this, we proposed a model for the transcriptional regulatory mechanism of OBP gene in B. dorsalis. Our data not only highlights the significant role of OBP83g-2 in γ-octalactone mediated oviposition behavior, but also provides a theoretical foundation for a deeper understanding of the transcriptional regulation of OBPs triggered by external odorants in insects.},
}

Animals
*Receptors, Odorant/genetics/metabolism
*Tephritidae/genetics/metabolism/drug effects
*Insect Proteins/genetics/metabolism
*Lactones/pharmacology
Female
*Gene Expression Regulation/drug effects

@article {pmid40992420,
year = {2025},
author = {Clifton, EH and van Nouhuys, SD and Harris, DC and Hajek, AE},
title = {Epizootiology of infections by Batkoa major (Entomophthorales: Batkoaceae) and Beauveria bassiana (Hypocreales: Cordycipitaceae) in spotted lanternfly (Hemiptera: Fulgoridae) populations.},
journal = {Environmental entomology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/ee/nvaf091},
pmid = {40992420},
issn = {1938-2936},
support = {NIFA 2019-51181-30014//USDA/ ; },
abstract = {The planthopper Lycorma delicatula (White) (spotted lanternfly; SLF) was introduced to North America from Asia. It was first found in southeastern Pennsylvania in 2014 and now, a decade later, has increased in abundance and spread into 18 eastern US states. To study naturally occurring fungal pathogens infecting SLF, eastern Pennsylvania sites were sampled every 1 to 2 wk in 2020 and 2021 during the adult life stage of L. delicatula to detect prevalence of infections by the fungi Batkoa major (Thaxt.) Humber (Entomophthorales: Batkoaceae) and Beauveria bassiana (Bals.-Criv.) Vuill. (Hypocreales: Cordycipitaceae). To sample, living adult SLF were collected and reared and cause of death was diagnosed. In 2020, at the site hosting a co-epizootic of these 2 generalist pathogens in 2018, an epizootic caused by B. major was documented from 30 September to 21 October. Low levels of infection by both pathogens were detected at an additional 2020 site and both 2021 sites. Overall, there was a negative association of B. major infection with SLF density and no association with density for B. bassiana. Co-infections in individual SLF by both fungi were never documented, and there was an inverse relationship between prevalence of B. major and B. bassiana infections in the sampled populations. At the time that SLF for rearing were sampled, adult cadavers were also sampled. For B. major, infection rates of sampled cadavers and reared individuals were positively correlated, but higher infection rates were observed in cadavers than among reared SLF. For B. bassiana, no such pattern occurred.},
}

@article {pmid40991553,
year = {2025},
author = {Gim, JS and Hong, D and Kim, DK and Lineman, MJM and Jeong, KS and Lee, JY and Joo, GJ and Jo, H},
title = {Changes in prey selection and fitness of non-native Erythroculter erythropterus following estuarine restoration in the Nakdong River, South Korea.},
journal = {PloS one},
volume = {20},
number = {9},
pages = {e0328372},
pmid = {40991553},
issn = {1932-6203},
mesh = {Animals ; Republic of Korea ; *Estuaries ; Rivers ; *Cyprinidae/physiology ; *Predatory Behavior/physiology ; Ecosystem ; Food Chain ; Zooplankton ; Biodiversity ; Introduced Species ; },
abstract = {Estuarine ecosystems globally are being restored through re-naturalization efforts, including the Nakdong River Estuary (NRE) in South Korea, which partially re-opened in 2019 after decades of disconnection. We investigated how this restoration affected the feeding ecology and fitness of Erythroculter erythropterus (Skygager), a non-native cyprinid that became dominant in the upper NRE following barrage construction. We surveyed fish populations, analyzed stomach contents using Next Generation Sequencing, and assessed morphological changes from May 2018 to June 2022. Following NRE opening, zooplankton and fish diversity indices increased, while phytoplankton and benthic invertebrate diversity decreased. E. erythropterus showed altered prey selection patterns, shifting from diverse prey items to predominantly zooplankton after NRE opening, coinciding with altered vertical migration patterns of plankton communities. While length distribution did not change significantly, the condition factor K decreased significantly, indicating reduced fitness. Body shape parameters also shifted toward more elongated forms, suggesting morphological responses to changed hydraulic conditions and feeding ecology. Our findings demonstrate that controlled estuarine reconnection can affect non-native species through cascading trophic effects, potentially serving both restoration and non-native species management objectives. This study highlights the complex ecological consequences of partial estuarine restoration and the importance of considering multiple trophic levels when evaluating restoration outcomes.},
}

Animals
Republic of Korea
*Estuaries
Rivers
*Cyprinidae/physiology
*Predatory Behavior/physiology
Ecosystem
Food Chain
Zooplankton
Biodiversity
Introduced Species

@article {pmid40991032,
year = {2025},
author = {Lou, Y and Tao, W and Wang, ZA},
title = {Effects and biological consequences of the predator-mediated apparent competition I: ODE models.},
journal = {Journal of mathematical biology},
volume = {91},
number = {5},
pages = {47},
pmid = {40991032},
issn = {1432-1416},
support = {12261160366 and 12250710674//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; PolyU509/22//University Grants Committee/ ; 12201082//Innovative Research Group Project of the National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Predatory Behavior ; *Models, Biological ; Population Dynamics/statistics & numerical data ; Competitive Behavior ; Food Chain ; Introduced Species/statistics & numerical data ; Computer Simulation ; Ecosystem ; Mathematical Concepts ; },
abstract = {Predator-mediated apparent competition is an indirect negative interaction between two prey species mediated by a shared predator, which can lead to changes in population dynamics, competition outcomes and community structures. This paper is devoted to investigating the effects and biological consequences of the predator-mediated apparent competition based on a two prey species (one is native and the other is invasive) and one predator model with Holling type I and II functional responses. Through the analytical results and case studies alongside numerical simulations, we find that the initial mass of the invasive prey species, capture rates of prey species, and the predator mortality rate are all important factors determining the success/failure of invasions and the species coexistence/extinction. The global dynamics can be completely classified for the Holling type I functional response, but can only be partially determined for the Holling type II functional response. For the Holling type I functional response, we find that whether the invasive prey species can successfully invade to induce the predator-mediated apparent competition is entirely determined by the capture rates of prey species. For the Holling type II functional response, the dynamics are more complicated. First, if two prey species have the same ecological characteristics, then the initial mass of the invasive prey species is the key factor determining the success/failure of the invasion and hence the effect of the predator-mediated apparent competition. Whereas if two prey species have different ecological characteristics, say different capture rates, then the success of the invasion no longer depends on the initial mass of the invasive prey species, but on the capture rates. In all cases, if the invasion succeeds, then the predator-mediated apparent competition's effectiveness essentially depends on the predator mortality rate. Precisely we show that the native prey species will die out (resp. persist) if the predator has a low (resp. moderate) mortality rate, while the predator will go extinct if it has a large mortality rate. Our study reveals that predator-mediated apparent competition is a complicated ecological process, and its effects and biological consequences depend upon many possible factors.},
}

Animals
*Predatory Behavior
*Models, Biological
Population Dynamics/statistics & numerical data
Competitive Behavior
Food Chain
Introduced Species/statistics & numerical data
Computer Simulation
Ecosystem
Mathematical Concepts

@article {pmid40989950,
year = {2025},
author = {Mariacher, A and Di Nicola, MR and Senese, M and Mariottini, F and Maestrini, M and Bellagamba, F and Donnini, C and Capecci, A and Salomoni, A and Varotto, M and Terregino, C and Cersini, A and Scicluna, MT},
title = {Detection of avian influenza virus in the alien invasive African sacred ibis (Threskiornis aethiopicus) in Italy.},
journal = {Frontiers in veterinary science},
volume = {12},
number = {},
pages = {1661089},
pmid = {40989950},
issn = {2297-1769},
abstract = {The African sacred ibis (Threskiornis aethiopicus), a non-native bird species in Europe, has rapidly expanded its range in Italy, prompting the adoption of national control measures due to ecological and epidemiological concerns. As part of this management plan, 20 ibises were culled in February 2025 in Tuscany (Central Italy), and tested for pathogens relevant to wildlife and public health. RT-PCR and molecular analyses on tracheal and cloacal swabs, revealed the presence of low pathogenic avian influenza virus (LPAIV) subtype H5N2 in 1 out of 20 specimens. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the virus was closely related to recent European LPAIV strains, with the PA gene segment clustered with Asian and Russian isolates from 2021-2022. Two mammalian adaptation markers (S155N and T156A) were identified in the HA protein. Although the detected strain poses minimal zoonotic risk, its presence in a highly adaptable invasive species, raises concerns about the potential role of T. aethiopicus as a bridge host in avian influenza transmission cycles. Given the increasing overlap between this species and poultry farming areas, and its scavenging behavior, continued surveillance is essential to assess its epidemiological role. Targeted control actions may be crucial in preventing the establishment of novel wildlife reservoirs and limiting viral evolution towards highly pathogenic forms. Surveillance of alien invasive species should be integrated into broader avian influenza monitoring strategies to protect public health and agricultural biosecurity.},
}

@article {pmid40988878,
year = {2025},
author = {Hoddle, MS and Hoddle, CD and Milosavljević, I and Estrada-Venegas, EG and Equihua-Martínez, A},
title = {Does larval diet prior to Hass avocado seed consumption and seed size impact the fitness of adult Heilipus lauri (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)?.},
journal = {Annals of the Entomological Society of America},
volume = {118},
number = {5},
pages = {429-438},
pmid = {40988878},
issn = {0013-8746},
abstract = {Heilipus lauri Boheman (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) is a specialist avocado seed feeder and a pest of economic importance in native (México) and invaded (Colombia) regions. Despite being a well-recognized pest of avocados, relatively little is known about factors affecting the developmental biology of weevil larvae infesting fruit. Laboratory studies investigated the effects of 4 pre-seed diets, 0, 1, and 3 d of feeding on avocado pulp, and consumption of conspecific first instar larvae on adult weevil fitness (ie size). Following these pre-seed diets, larvae were artificially inoculated into pre-weighed Hass avocado seeds. The effects of pre-seed diet and the size (ie weight) of inoculated seeds were analyzed for effects on the estimated mean amount of avocado seed consumed by larvae to complete development, mean time to complete development and emerge as adult weevils, and the mean weight (ie size) of adult male and female weevils. Pre-seed diet and seed size had no significant effects on seed consumption, development times, and size of adult weevils. Avocado seed size, which greatly exceeds amounts consumed to complete larval-to-adult development, may explain, in part, these observed outcomes, including purported fitness benefits that arise from consumption of conspecifics by herbivorous insects. This is the first study to confirm cannibalism by first instar H. lauri.},
}

@article {pmid40987414,
year = {2025},
author = {Sokolova, AS and Frolova, TV and Izvekov, EI and Izvekova, GI},
title = {Infection with trematodes Apophallus sp. affects the growth and activity of hydrolytic enzymes in the invasive gravel snail Lithoglyphus naticoides.},
journal = {Journal of invertebrate pathology},
volume = {214},
number = {},
pages = {108461},
doi = {10.1016/j.jip.2025.108461},
pmid = {40987414},
issn = {1096-0805},
abstract = {Currently, the alien freshwater gastropod Lithoglyphus naticoides is rapidly expanding its range and promoting the spread of parasitic trematodes Apophallus sp. These flatworms use the snail as intermediate host and may cause the dangerous black-spotted disease in fish juveniles. However, despite the obvious importance of knowing the physiological bases of this host-parasite interplay, studies in this area remain scanty. Therefore we focused on the size-weight and physiological parameters of L.naticoides and their changes in response to Apophallus infection. It was found that the shell height and total body weight significantly increase in the infected molluscs. In contrast, protease activities were significantly lower in infected than in naïve snails over a wide pH range. Inhibitor analysis showed the presence of serine-, cysteine- and metalloproteinase activity in L.naticoides. Trematode infection most strongly affected the serine proteinases, reducing their activity levels. At the same time, the infection did not cause a decrease in α-amylase activity in the gravel snails. Moreover, at certain pH values, α-amylase activity was significantly higher in parasitized than in non-parasitized specimens. These metabolic features may contribute to growth acceleration in parasitized hosts, thereby affecting their survival and spread, which eventually may have far-reaching consequences for the reservoir ecosystems.},
}

@article {pmid40987264,
year = {2025},
author = {Ricou-Dreneuc, S and Ah-Peng, C and Coudert, Y},
title = {Architectural shift to epiphytism fuels exotic bryophyte invasiveness.},
journal = {Current biology : CB},
volume = {35},
number = {18},
pages = {R876-R877},
doi = {10.1016/j.cub.2025.07.068},
pmid = {40987264},
issn = {1879-0445},
mesh = {*Introduced Species ; *Bryophyta/physiology ; *Ecosystem ; },
abstract = {Anthropogenic activities reshape ecosystems globally, creating conditions that facilitate the establishment of alien species. Disruption of ecological balance enables alien species to become invasive - a property characterized by a species' capacity to spread and become dominant in its introduced range, outcompeting indigenous species, and leading to their displacement or extinction[1]. Beyond its biological relevance, understanding the mechanisms promoting invasiveness is crucial for predicting and mitigating ecological and socioeconomic impacts. Over 2,840 invasive vascular land plant species have been reported[2][,][3], whereas fewer than 100 bryophyte species have been documented as alien, with only a small fraction exhibiting invasive characteristics[4].},
}

*Introduced Species
*Bryophyta/physiology
*Ecosystem

@article {pmid40986536,
year = {2025},
author = {Gawrońska, B and Marszałek, M and Kosiński, P and Zeyland, J and Bednorz, L},
title = {Morphological differences in populations of Jacobaea erucifolia: Genetic differentiation, phenotypic plasticity or ecotypes?.},
journal = {PloS one},
volume = {20},
number = {9},
pages = {e0332808},
pmid = {40986536},
issn = {1932-6203},
mesh = {*Genetic Variation ; *Ecotype ; Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism Analysis ; Poland ; Phenotype ; DNA, Chloroplast/genetics ; Phylogeny ; },
abstract = {Accurate taxonomic classification is essential for effective conservation strategies, especially for rare and endangered species. Traditionally based on morphology, such classifications may be challenged by recent advances in molecular tools that reveal hidden genetic structure or lack thereof. Jacobaea erucifolia is a declining species in Poland, primarily threatened by habitat loss, fragmentation, and competition with invasive species. Although two subspecies-erucifolia and tenuifolia-have been identified in Poland based on leaf morphology and ecological preferences, the taxonomic status of these forms remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the genetic variation within ten Polish populations of J. erucifolia and assess whether the observed morphological differences correspond to genetic divergence. Based on morphology, four populations were classified as subsp. erucifolia and six as subsp. tenuifolia. Reference populations of confirmed subspecies tenuifolia were included from Slovakia, Hungary, and the Netherlands. Genetic analyses were conducted using amplified fragment length polymorphisms (AFLPs), chloroplast DNA restriction fragments (RFLP), cpDNA, and nuclear internal transcribed spacer (ITS) ribosomal DNA sequences. The results revealed a high level of admixture and no significant genetic differentiation among Polish populations, regardless of their initial morphological classification. All Polish populations formed a single genetic group, distinct from foreign tenuifolia samples, although no diagnostic genetic markers were identified to separate these two groups (subspecies) of J. erucifolia definitively. Moreover, sequence data showed no differences among all analyzed individuals, further challenging the validity of subspecies differentiation. These findings suggest that the morphological variation observed within Polish populations likely reflects phenotypic plasticity rather than subspecies-level divergence. Consequently, subspecies tenuifolia does not appear to occur in Poland, and observed differences between Polish populations and those from neighboring countries may represent ecotypic variation. Our study underscores the necessity of integrating genetic and morphological data when resolving taxonomic ambiguities, especially in the context of conservation planning. Future research involving broader geographic sampling and deeper analysis of hybridization patterns will help clarify the evolutionary history and and population dynamics of J. erucifolia.},
}

*Genetic Variation
*Ecotype
Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism Analysis
Poland
Phenotype
DNA, Chloroplast/genetics
Phylogeny

@article {pmid40985727,
year = {2025},
author = {Moran, R and Leroux, SJ and Wiersma, YF and Whitaker, DM},
title = {Effects of forest disturbances and an introduced ungulate on carbon storage in boreal forests.},
journal = {Ecological applications : a publication of the Ecological Society of America},
volume = {35},
number = {6},
pages = {e70092},
doi = {10.1002/eap.70092},
pmid = {40985727},
issn = {1051-0761},
support = {//Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada/ ; //Gros Morne National Park/ ; //Terra Nova National Park/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Deer/physiology ; *Carbon/metabolism/chemistry ; *Forests ; *Introduced Species ; Herbivory ; Taiga ; *Trees/physiology ; *Carbon Sequestration ; },
abstract = {Selective browsing by ungulates alters forest structure and composition, with research suggesting that these effects may be amplified in recently disturbed forests and in novel environments (i.e., introduced ungulates). Though the net effects of herbivory following disturbances on carbon storage in boreal forests are not well understood, they are likely important to inform climate-smart ecosystem management. We conducted observational and experimental (i.e., 24- to 27-year-old paired exclosure-control plots) field studies to determine the effects of non-native moose and common boreal forest disturbances (i.e., fires and insect outbreaks) on total, aboveground, and belowground carbon storage in Newfoundland, Canada. We measured carbon stocks at 46 plots in the field and used published allometric equations to estimate the carbon stored in trees, deadwood, woody shrubs, saplings, herbaceous plants, ground vegetation, and roots. We also collected samples of forest litter and organic soil layers for analysis of carbon content. We then fit a suite of generalized linear models to assess the effects of disturbances and moose herbivory on carbon storage. Using our observational data, we found that total carbon stored was highest in mature forests (198.18 ± 136.77 kg C/9 m[2]; mean ± SD), compared to insect-disturbed (57.47 ± 30.72 kg C/9 m[2]) and previously burned (42.57 ± 34.28 kg C/9 m[2]) areas. We found further evidence of this using our experimental data, as aboveground carbon storage was reduced in disturbed forests. Although, on average, exclosures stored more carbon (133.54 ± 134.69 kg C/9 m[2]; mean ± SD) than their paired controls (95.23 ± 66.94 kg C/9 m[2]), we did not detect a statistically significant effect of moose presence on carbon storage after 24-27 years of exclusion. We also did not find a relationship between moose density and carbon storage in our observational data. Overall, we demonstrated that forest disturbances are a key driver of carbon storage and that moose effects on carbon storage are highly variable across the landscape. We recommend that future research be done in areas having consistent ungulate management and long-term population data and that detailed plant community data be collected to better understand the roles of ungulate density and plant palatability on carbon storage.},
}

Animals
*Deer/physiology
*Carbon/metabolism/chemistry
*Forests
*Introduced Species
Herbivory
Taiga
*Trees/physiology
*Carbon Sequestration

@article {pmid40985547,
year = {2025},
author = {Lopez, MLD and Acharya-Patel, N and Allison, MJ and Migneault, A and Trilesky, S and Helbing, CC},
title = {From Environmental DNA into Actionable Biodiversity Data: Towards the Implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.},
journal = {The Journal of heredity},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/jhered/esaf068},
pmid = {40985547},
issn = {1465-7333},
abstract = {Biodiversity is declining at an alarming rate due to ongoing habitat destruction, climate change, pollution, the spread of invasive species, and unsustainable use of natural resources. In response, the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF), adopted in 2022, outlines a transformative goal to reverse biodiversity loss by 2030. The framework focuses on three main pillars: mitigating biodiversity threats, advancing implementation, and ensuring fair and sustainable use of biological resources. Meeting these objectives requires the adoption of innovative, adaptable, and inclusive monitoring strategies. Among these, environmental DNA (eDNA) has gained recognition as a non-invasive biodiversity assessment method that detects trace genetic material in environmental samples like sediment, soil, water, and air. Compared to conventional survey techniques, eDNA offers improved accuracy, sampling flexibility, and a non-destructive approach to monitoring ecosystems. Herein, we examine eDNA's role in achieving KMGBF goals to enable fulfilment of the Convention on Biological Diversity's vision of living in harmony with nature by 2050. We discuss its use in meeting several KMGBF targets including early detection of invasive species, enhancing biosecurity, monitoring species recovery, assessing pollution impacts, and supporting climate resilience. The standardization of eDNA protocols and alignment with FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) data principles ensure that results are transparent and interoperable across regions and platforms. Integrating eDNA into existing biodiversity monitoring networks enhances conservation planning, restoration efforts, and the management of protected areas. Additionally, eDNA facilitates inclusive conservation by supporting Indigenous-led and community-based monitoring, promoting stewardship, and enabling equitable access to biodiversity data worldwide.},
}