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Bibliography on: Invasive Species

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ESP: PubMed Auto Bibliography 02 Oct 2025 at 01:52 Created: 

Invasive Species

Standard Definition: Invasive species are plants, animals, or pathogens that are non-native (or alien) to the ecosystem under consideration and whose introduction causes or is likely to cause harm. Although that definition allows a logical possibility that some species might be non-native and harmless, most of time it seems that invasive species and really bad critter (or weed) that should be eradicated are seen as equivalent phrases. But, there is a big conceptual problem with that notion: every species in every ecosystem started out in that ecosystem as an invader. If there were no invasive species, all of Hawaii would be nothing but bare volcanic rock. Without an invasion of species onto land, there would be no terrestrial ecosystems at all. For the entire history of life on Earth, the biosphere has responded to perturbation and to opportunity with evolutionary innovation and with physical movement. While one may raise economic or aesthetic arguments against invasive species, it is impossible to make such an argument on scientific grounds. Species movement — the occurrence of invasive species — is the way the biosphere responds to perturbation. One might even argue that species movement is the primary, short-term "healing" mechanism employed by the biosphere to respond to perturbation — to "damage." As with any healing process, the short-term effect may be aesthetically unappealing (who thinks scabs are appealing?), but the long-term effects can be glorious.

Created with PubMed® Query: ("invasive species" OR "invasion biology" OR "alien species" OR "introduced species" ) NOT pmcbook NOT ispreviousversion

Citations The Papers (from PubMed®)

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RevDate: 2025-10-01
CmpDate: 2025-10-01

Tamoikin I, Kutsyn D, Gavruseva T, et al (2025)

Expansion and biological traits of the non-indigenous Korean rockfish Sebastes schlegelii in the black sea.

Scientific reports, 15(1):34173.

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.

RevDate: 2025-10-01

Impellitteri F, Mossotto C, Cotugno A, et al (2025)

When crayfish face painkillers: Tissue-specific cytotoxic and oxidative responses to indomethacin exposure in Procambarus clarkii.

Ecotoxicology and environmental safety, 304:119138 pii:S0147-6513(25)01483-6 [Epub ahead of print].

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.

RevDate: 2025-10-01

Knight IA, Bingham FE, Harlow MM, et al (2025)

A proposed method for estimating habitat suitability of weed biological control agents with experimentally derived thermal injury and weather data.

Environmental entomology pii:8270738 [Epub ahead of print].

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.

RevDate: 2025-10-01

Schneider IE, Weber MM, Khadka A, et al (2025)

Influencing Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Behaviors: An Exploration and Experiment with Augmented Reality.

Environmental management [Epub ahead of print].

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.

RevDate: 2025-10-01
CmpDate: 2025-10-01

Nagy KN, Károlyi CE, L Bakacsy (2025)

Multiscale assessment of conservation management for Amorpha fruticosa invasion in a marsh meadow.

BMC ecology and evolution, 25(1):97.

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.

RevDate: 2025-10-01
CmpDate: 2025-10-01

Li Y, Pootakham W, Ingsriswang S, et al (2025)

Biosurveillance of Invasive Southern Corn Rust: Insights Into Recent Migration Patterns and Virulence Variation.

Molecular plant pathology, 26(10):e70159.

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.

RevDate: 2025-10-01
CmpDate: 2025-10-01

Dowarah B, Laskar RA, Dutta C, et al (2025)

Unraveling the chemical communication of root exudates and allelopathy for sustainable ecology and agriculture.

Antonie van Leeuwenhoek, 118(11):160.

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-30

Marambio M, Pascual-Torner M, Tilves U, et al (2025)

The Westernmost Record of the Scyphomedusa Cassiopea andromeda (Forskål, 1775) in the Mediterranean: Marine Citizen Science Contributions to Invasive Species Detection and Monitoring.

Environmental management [Epub ahead of print].

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-30

Duarte LN, Marchante H, López-Núñez FA, et al (2025)

Biocontrol in action: Assessing the impact of a biocontrol agent on invasive plant seed dynamics.

Journal of environmental management, 394:127196 pii:S0301-4797(25)03172-X [Epub ahead of print].

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-30

Bostal F, Scorolli AL, SM Zalba (2025)

Horseback opinions: what do visitors see when they see the wild horses that concern conservation biologists?.

Journal of environmental management, 394:127455 pii:S0301-4797(25)03431-0 [Epub ahead of print].

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-30
CmpDate: 2025-09-30

Zhang VM, PM Kotanen (2025)

Low temperatures reduce establishment of new populations of invasive plants in a subarctic treeline environment.

Oecologia, 207(10):167.

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.

RevDate: 2025-10-01
CmpDate: 2025-10-01

Junod MF, Cordero I, Chinn N, et al (2025)

Herbivory mediates the response of below-ground food webs to invasive grasses.

The Journal of animal ecology, 94(10):2103-2117.

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.

RevDate: 2025-10-01
CmpDate: 2025-10-01

McKnight DT, Bower DS, Ariel E, et al (2025)

Does a lack of juveniles indicate a threat? Understanding body size distributions in a group of long-lived vertebrates.

The Journal of animal ecology, 94(10):1962-1982.

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.

RevDate: 2025-10-01
CmpDate: 2025-10-01

O'Connor M, LT Lancaster (2025)

Guild diversity impacts demographic outcomes of novel species interactions following range shifts.

The Journal of animal ecology, 94(10):2062-2078.

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-30
CmpDate: 2025-09-30

Nhlengethwa N, Stewart RD, Emami-Khoyi A, et al (2025)

An eDNA Survey of Plant Biodiversity in a Local Dam Within South Africa's Largest City.

Ecology and evolution, 15(10):e72196 pii:ECE372196.

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-30

Zhu X, Song B, Zhang H, et al (2025)

Field-realistic exposure to pesticide residues in beehive pollen and honey and the associated risk to honeybees.

Pest management science [Epub ahead of print].

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-29

Flitcroft RL, Penaluna BE, Hauck LL, et al (2025)

Multi-species eDNA as a screening tool to facilitate early detection and eradication of aquatic invasive species in large water bodies.

Scientific reports, 15(1):33615.

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-29

Cesarini G, Orlandi M, Sbarberi R, et al (2025)

Microplastics and invasive crayfish: emerging interactions and ecological implications from three coexisting species in a subalpine lake.

Scientific reports, 15(1):33395.

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-29

Halifu S, Deng X, Yang L, et al (2025)

Metagenomic analysis of pathogenicity of puccinia xanthii on invasive plant xanthium italicum.

Scientific reports, 15(1):33530.

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-29

S Barbosa MD, Okasaki FB, de Liz NTP, et al (2025)

An environmentally friendly bio-based approach to control invasive sun corals (Tubastrea spp.).

Scientific reports, 15(1):33355.

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-29

Chiappi M, Di Muri C, Azzurro E, et al (2025)

A spatiotemporal dataset of invasive Anadara kagoshimensis and Anadara transversa in the Adriatic Sea.

Scientific data, 12(1):1588.

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-29

Zhu W, Liu H, Zhang Q, et al (2025)

Genome-wide identification of cytochrome b5 gene family reveals their potential roles in nitrate response in Xanthium strumarium.

Plant physiology and biochemistry : PPB, 229(Pt C):110544 pii:S0981-9428(25)01072-1 [Epub ahead of print].

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-29

Honasoge KS, Vincent TLS, McNickle GG, et al (2025)

Hyper Diversity, Species Richness, and Community Structure in ESS and Non-ESS Communities.

Dynamic games and applications, 15(4):1424-1444.

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-27
CmpDate: 2025-09-27

Schreiber SJ (2025)

Coexistence and extinction in flow-kick systems: An invasion growth rate approach.

Journal of mathematical biology, 91(5):50.

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-27

Liu PY, Chiu WC, Lim SL, et al (2025)

Genomic analysis reveals broad adaptability of coral-killing sponge (Terpios hoshinota) under environmental stress.

BMC genomics, 26(1):830.

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-27

Xu B, Huang C, Cheng S, et al (2025)

Screening of Highly Virulent Beauveria bassiana Strains Against Tuta absoluta Larvae and Evaluation of Their Endophytic Colonization-Mediated Suppression in Tomato Plants.

Plants (Basel, Switzerland), 14(18):.

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-27

Domijan AM, Bival Štefan M, Duka I, et al (2025)

Mechanism of Impatiens glandulifera Royle Allelopathy to Sinapis alba L. and Raphanus sativus L. Germination Is Through Oxidative Stress.

Plants (Basel, Switzerland), 14(18):.

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-27

Kubacki J, Klich D, Bełcik A, et al (2025)

Forest Density and Invasive Carnivores Are Related to Trichinella Infection in Wild Boars in Poland.

Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland), 14(9):.

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-27

Ložienė K, I Chochlovaitė (2025)

Effect of Phenological Stage and Leaf Age on Changes of Chlorophyll and Carotenoid Contents in Some Weeds and Invasive Species.

Molecules (Basel, Switzerland), 30(18):.

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-27

Yang K, Li H, Guo D, et al (2025)

Spatiotemporal Population Genomics of the Invasive Whitefly Bemisia tabaci MED in China: Implications for Surveillance and Sustainable Control.

Insects, 16(9):.

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-27

Wijekoon CD, Duarte A, L Neto (2025)

The Potential Risk of Bactrocera dorsalis (Tephritidae) Invasion into the Fruit Industry in the Iberian Peninsula: A Review.

Insects, 16(9):.

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-27

Esquivel IL, Bryant T, Malone S, et al (2025)

First Report of Two-Spot Cotton Leafhopper (Amrasca biguttula Ishida) (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae) on Commercial Cotton in the Southeastern United States.

Insects, 16(9):.

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-27

Eritja R, Sanpera-Calbet I, Delacour-Estrella S, et al (2025)

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.

Insects, 16(9):.

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-27

Melone G, Andretta L, Pica F, et al (2025)

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.

Insects, 16(9):.

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-27

Iveša N, Kovačić I, Buršić M, et al (2025)

Caulerpa cylindracea: First Insight into Its Nutritional Potential.

Foods (Basel, Switzerland), 14(18):.

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-27

Badziukiewicz J, Bors M, Maciaszek R, et al (2025)

Turtles for Sale: Species Prevalence in the Pet Trade in Poland and Potential Introduction Risks.

Animals : an open access journal from MDPI, 15(18):.

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-27

Kaine G, V Wright (2025)

The Illegal Catch-and-Release of Wallabies.

Animals : an open access journal from MDPI, 15(18):.

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-27

Cassinello J, Albanell E, Eguía S, et al (2025)

When the Evidence Points to the Non-Invasive Nature of an Allegedly Invasive Alien Species: The Case of the Aoudad in Mainland Spain.

Animals : an open access journal from MDPI, 15(18):.

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-27

Cosentino C, A Caruso (2025)

The Progressive Colonization of the Invasive Species Amphistegina lobifera on Pantelleria Island (Central Mediterranean, Sicily Channel).

Biology, 14(9):.

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-27

Saensouk P, Saensouk S, Boonma T, et al (2025)

Ethnobotanical Heritage of Edible Plants Species in Mueang District, Yasothon Province, Northeastern Thailand.

Biology, 14(9):.

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-27

Ali G, Abbas S, Nagai S, et al (2025)

Threats of Climate Change to Freshwater Ecosystems in Pakistan: eDNA Monitoring Will Be the Next-Generation Tool Used in Biodiversity, Conservation, and Management.

Biology, 14(9):.

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-27

Zhang R, Gao Y, Wang R, et al (2025)

Analyzing Possible Shifts in the Climatic Niche of Pomacea canaliculata Between Native and Chinese Ranges.

Biology, 14(9):.

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-27
CmpDate: 2025-09-27

Petrovskiy AB, Pelgunova LA, Ksenofontov DA, et al (2025)

Macro- and microelement composition of muscles of the invasive fish rotan Perccottus glenii (Odontobutidae): assessment of pollution in metropolitan water bodies.

Environmental monitoring and assessment, 197(10):1153.

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-27

Kucherov NB, Hefley T, TN Kim (2025)

Climate and human-modified landscapes influence spread of invasive agricultural pest Popillia japonica Newman in American Midwest and Great Plains.

Scientific reports, 15(1):33013.

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-27

Wu LH, Zou J, Jiang YT, et al (2025)

Demography and adaptation of a species specific pollinator associated with an invasive fig tree.

Communications biology, 8(1):1363.

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-26

Rosario CA, Otis GW, Miller RH, et al (2025)

Predatory behavior, nesting habits, and impacts on honey bees (Apis mellifera) of an invasive hornet (Vespa tropica) on the island of Guam.

PloS one, 20(9):e0332986.

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-26

Zhang F, Kim J, Costa OS, et al (2025)

Potential Linkage Between Zebra Mussel Establishment, Cyanobacterial Community Composition, and Microcystin Levels in United States Lakes.

Toxins, 17(9):.

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-26
CmpDate: 2025-09-26

Gourari K, Mabrouki Y, Taybi AF, et al (2025)

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.

Marine drugs, 23(9): pii:md23090367.

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-28
CmpDate: 2025-09-26

García-Cervantes AM, Prates JAM, JL Guil-Guerrero (2025)

Overview of Primary and Secondary Metabolites of Rugulopteryx okamurae Seaweed: Assessing Bioactivity, Scalability, and Molecular Mechanisms.

Marine drugs, 23(9):.

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-28
CmpDate: 2025-09-26

Wu Y, Zhou F, Chen Q, et al (2025)

Comparative Mitogenome Analysis of Colletotrichum Species Causing Anthracnose of Rubber Trees Unveils Distinct Species Complex-Specific Evolution Trajectories Within the Genus.

Journal of fungi (Basel, Switzerland), 11(9):.

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-26

Clark MB, Funk AT, Paporakis A, et al (2025)

Efficient CRISPR-Cas9-Mediated Genome Editing of the Cane Toad (Rhinella marina).

The CRISPR journal [Epub ahead of print].

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-26
CmpDate: 2025-09-26

Abel L, Kahindi S, Ekai D, et al (2025)

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.

Research square pii:rs.3.rs-7478426.

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-28
CmpDate: 2025-09-26

Stadnicka-Futoma A, Jaźwa M, Kata K, et al (2025)

Erechtites hieracifolia: an invasive plant species in peatland habitats of southeastern Poland (Central Europe).

Frontiers in plant science, 16:1615073.

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-26

Bean MS, Trotter RT, Ritger R, et al (2025)

Distribution of Anoplophora glabripennis (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) damage in tree canopies: implications for survey efficacy.

Environmental entomology pii:8264331 [Epub ahead of print].

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-29
CmpDate: 2025-09-25

Prati S, Reyes Camargo AC, Jamonneau T, et al (2025)

Seasonal exchange of microsporidian parasites between native and non-native pet-traded freshwater crustaceans: Is parasite spillover favored over spillback?.

Parasite (Paris, France), 32:61.

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-25
CmpDate: 2025-09-25

Pelosi JA, Davenport R, Kuo LY, et al (2025)

The genome of the vining fern Lygodium microphyllum highlights genomic and functional differences between life phases of an invasive plant.

Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, 122(39):e2504773122.

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-27
CmpDate: 2025-09-24

Chen X, Lei Q, Liang C, et al (2025)

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.

Communications biology, 8(1):1355.

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-24

Clifton EH, van Nouhuys SD, Harris DC, et al (2025)

Epizootiology of infections by Batkoa major (Entomophthorales: Batkoaceae) and Beauveria bassiana (Hypocreales: Cordycipitaceae) in spotted lanternfly (Hemiptera: Fulgoridae) populations.

Environmental entomology pii:8263189 [Epub ahead of print].

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-27
CmpDate: 2025-09-24

Gim JS, Hong D, Kim DK, et al (2025)

Changes in prey selection and fitness of non-native Erythroculter erythropterus following estuarine restoration in the Nakdong River, South Korea.

PloS one, 20(9):e0328372.

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-27
CmpDate: 2025-09-24

Lou Y, Tao W, ZA Wang (2025)

Effects and biological consequences of the predator-mediated apparent competition I: ODE models.

Journal of mathematical biology, 91(5):47.

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-26
CmpDate: 2025-09-24

Mariacher A, Di Nicola MR, Senese M, et al (2025)

Detection of avian influenza virus in the alien invasive African sacred ibis (Threskiornis aethiopicus) in Italy.

Frontiers in veterinary science, 12:1661089.

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-26
CmpDate: 2025-09-24

Hoddle MS, Hoddle CD, Milosavljević I, et al (2025)

Does larval diet prior to Hass avocado seed consumption and seed size impact the fitness of adult Heilipus lauri (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)?.

Annals of the Entomological Society of America, 118(5):429-438.

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-27

Sokolova AS, Frolova TV, Izvekov EI, et al (2025)

Infection with trematodes Apophallus sp. affects the growth and activity of hydrolytic enzymes in the invasive gravel snail Lithoglyphus naticoides.

Journal of invertebrate pathology, 214:108461 pii:S0022-2011(25)00195-8 [Epub ahead of print].

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-23
CmpDate: 2025-09-23

Ricou-Dreneuc S, Ah-Peng C, Y Coudert (2025)

Architectural shift to epiphytism fuels exotic bryophyte invasiveness.

Current biology : CB, 35(18):R876-R877.

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].

RevDate: 2025-09-26
CmpDate: 2025-09-23

Gawrońska B, Marszałek M, Kosiński P, et al (2025)

Morphological differences in populations of Jacobaea erucifolia: Genetic differentiation, phenotypic plasticity or ecotypes?.

PloS one, 20(9):e0332808.

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-23
CmpDate: 2025-09-23

Moran R, Leroux SJ, Wiersma YF, et al (2025)

Effects of forest disturbances and an introduced ungulate on carbon storage in boreal forests.

Ecological applications : a publication of the Ecological Society of America, 35(6):e70092.

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-23

Lopez MLD, Acharya-Patel N, Allison MJ, et al (2025)

From Environmental DNA into Actionable Biodiversity Data: Towards the Implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.

The Journal of heredity pii:8262221 [Epub ahead of print].

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.

RevDate: 2025-09-25
CmpDate: 2025-09-23

Kim P, S Bae (2025)

In situ study of environmental factors (temperature and salinity) affecting cohort patterns and growth rates in Ciona robusta.

PeerJ, 13:e20034.

Assessing and understanding the ecological impacts of marine invasive species is important for managing marine ecosystems, especially since their rapid growth, short reproductive cycles, and wide range of water temperature adaptability pose major challenges. In this study, conducted in Mokpo, South Korea, we explored the cohort dynamics and environmental influences on the ascidian Ciona robusta, which is considered a widespread invasive species. Through biweekly field surveys and quantitative measurements (dry weight, wet weight and body length) conducted from June to October 2022, we identified five distinct cohorts, challenging existing assumptions about lifespan and cohort patterns. All separation index value (which quantify differences between cohorts) exceeded 2, indicating clear separation of cohorts during the study period. The cohorts had a lifespan of between 4 and 10 weeks, much shorter than the previously reported maximum of 2 years. These differences suggest that local climatic conditions can have a significant impact on lifespan parameters. In addition, growth rates were significantly positively correlated with environmental conditions, particularly temperature. This highlights that while C. robusta growth rates are particularly sensitive to temperature changes, they showed relative tolerance to the salinity variations observed in this study. Therefore, this study contributes to the understanding of the population ecology of C. robusta in temperate marine ecosystems. In particular, it provides valuable insights for developing management strategies to mitigate the impacts of C. robusta due to climate change.

RevDate: 2025-09-22
CmpDate: 2025-09-22

Wang R, Su Y, Sun X, et al (2025)

Rapid and automated mapping method of Spartina alterniflora combines tidal imagery and phenological characteristics.

Environmental monitoring and assessment, 197(10):1136.

Spartina alterniflora exhibits vigorous growth and remarkable adaptability, enabling its rapid expansion throughout the intertidal zones of Shandong Province. As an invasive species, it not only disrupts native coastal ecosystems but also incurs significant economic burdens. Although substantial resources have been allocated by local authorities for its control, a comprehensive evaluation of these management efforts remains lacking. In particular, the influence of tidal dynamics on the spatial distribution of S. alterniflora has been largely overlooked, underscoring the need for advanced remote sensing approaches to accurately monitor. In this study, we propose a method to monitor S. alterniflora by combining low-tide imagery with phenological features. By utilizing low-tide images, we effectively overcome the impact of tidal fluctuations on monitoring accuracy. Using the Maximum Spectral Index Synthesis and Otsu algorithms, we achieved efficient, automated classification and change detection of S. alterniflora in Shandong Province, with an overall accuracy of 90.55%. In 2019, the total area of S. alterniflora was 11,386.05 ha, which decreased to 1787.13 ha by 2023. The distribution of S. alterniflora in Shandong followed a trend of initial increase followed by a decrease from 2019 to 2023. By 2023, the eradication rate had reached 91.10%, demonstrating the outstanding success of the province's management efforts. Although the management efforts have been somewhat effective, they have also led to significant carbon storage loss. These results validate the effectiveness of combining low-tide imagery with phenological features, offering a reference for similar studies in other coastal regions. Future S. alterniflora management should incorporate more scientific approaches, including the consideration of carbon emissions, to promote the sustainable development of coastal ecosystems.

RevDate: 2025-09-24
CmpDate: 2025-09-22

Szita É, Gerő K, Simon J, et al (2025)

Integrative method to detect invasive mealybug (Hemiptera, Coccomorpha, Pseudococcidae) species on highways in Hungary: evidence for northward spread of Comstock mealybug.

Biodiversity data journal, 13:e163732.

Climate change, coupled with the intensification of road transport and global trade, has contributed to a significant increase in the number of newly introduced scale insect species into new regions. Invasive alien pests represent a significant threat to agriculture and forestry, resulting in considerable economic losses globally. In this study, three potentially invasive mealybug species (Hemiptera, Coccomorpha, Pseudococcidae): Pseudococcus comstocki (Kuwana), Planococcus citri (Risso) and Planococcus ficus (Signoret) were monitored using a pheromone trap network along highways in Hungary during 2020-2021. Prior to this survey, none of these species had been detected under open-field conditions in Hungary. Specimens captured were identified through analysis of cytochrome oxidase I (COI) gene fragments. The presence of Ps. comstocki was confirmed for the first time in outdoor environments at six localities in Hungary using both pheromone trapping and molecular techniques. It is currently the northernmost documented outdoor occurrence of Ps. comstocki in Europe. In contrast, Pl. citri and Pl. ficus were not detected in open-air conditions during the survey.

RevDate: 2025-09-22

Czokajlo R, Looney C, Nottingham L, et al (2025)

Distribution of three figitid parasitoids of Drosophilidae in Washington State: a tale of 2 ecozones.

Journal of economic entomology pii:8261132 [Epub ahead of print].

The geographic distribution and relative abundance of 2 adventive Asian parasitoids (Ganaspis kimorum Buffington and Leptopilina japonica Novković & Kimura) (Hymenoptera: Figitidae) of spotted-wing drosophila, Drosophila suzukii Matsumura (Diptera: Drosophilidae) in Washington state were surveyed from 2020 to 2024 using bait or lure traps. G. kimorum and L. japonica were first detected in 2020 to 2021 in western Washington. However, their distribution in eastern Washington, which produces the majority Washington's vulnerable specialty crops, was of interest for establishing a baseline for future biological control efforts. A clear picture emerged regarding the current distribution of the 2 Asian species, and a cosmopolitan figitid, Leptopilina heterotoma (Thompson), which attacks other Drosophila spp. Adventive populations of G. kimorum were only found west of the Cascade Mountains; the few specimens recovered in eastern Washington were found near release sites. Conversely, L. heterotoma was rarely detected using jar traps in western Washington, but was the most abundant of the figitid species found in eastern Washington. L. japonica was common and abundant in both regions, but more so in western Washington. The unaided establishment of L. japonica in eastern Washington may presage its future impact as a biological control agent in this region.

RevDate: 2025-09-21

Russell JC (2025)

Invasive species eradication standards.

Trends in ecology & evolution pii:S0169-5347(25)00248-4 [Epub ahead of print].

Invasive species management traditionally distinguishes states of eradication from suppression but an intermediary 'elimination' also exists. Whereas eradication is removal of both residents and reinvaders, elimination removes residents but non-breeding reinvaders remain. By contrast, suppression is only a reduction in the number of residents and does not distinguish reinvaders.

RevDate: 2025-09-21

Zaada DSY, Papathanos PA, E Marois (2025)

Reprogramming Sex for Vector Control: Maleness-Associated Transgenes in Aedes albopictus.

Current opinion in insect science pii:S2214-5745(25)00108-7 [Epub ahead of print].

Among other challenges, the world currently faces the expansion of pest insects such as the tiger mosquito Aedes albopictus, a growing threat to public health due to the pathogens it can transmit. Current control approaches based on insecticides or elimination of mosquito larval breeding sites are insufficient to suppress this highly invasive species. The discovery of Nix, a gene necessary and sufficient to determine the male sex in this mosquito, opens new prospects for genetic control strategies, in particular those based on transgenes that convert females into males, or that reduce female fitness. Such forms of genetic control could be effective on larger spatial and time scales compared to classical control approaches. This overview of current and emerging genetic control strategies targeting Aedes mosquitoes emphasizes the unique characteristics of Ae. albopictus, that make it particularly amenable to masculinization-based genetic control.

RevDate: 2025-09-21

Bakhshalizadeh S, Abbasi K, Rostamzade Liafuie A, et al (2025)

Evidence for reducing fitness and competition of the native fish with invasive fish species in the south Caspian Sea.

Marine environmental research, 212:107566 pii:S0141-1136(25)00623-3 [Epub ahead of print].

Invasive alien species are an increasing socioeconomic and ecological concern worldwide. Climate change may amplify the impact of non-native species, particularly in enclosed ecosystems such as the Caspian Sea. To assess the ecological impact of invasive alien species on native fish, the length-weight relationships and condition factor (CF) of 47 fish species were compared. The Scheirer-Ray-Hare test was used to examine CF differences between native and non-native species concerning their feeding ecology. Additionally, the Kruskal-Wallis test and Tukey's post hoc analysis were applied to identify significant differences among groups. The results indicate that CF was highest in carnivorous and non-native species, followed by groups with relatively high CF values, including native zooplanktivores, non-native benthivores, and native carnivores. Lower CF values were observed in omnivorous and native benthivores species, with the lowest CF recorded in non-native zooplanktivores. These findings suggest that CF can serve as a predictor of which introduced species may establish successfully. However, it remains unclear whether environmental changes driven by climate warming may enhance habitat suitability for invasive species in the southern Caspian Sea, promoting their further spread and invasiveness.

RevDate: 2025-09-21

Lee C, Kim DU, Lee J, et al (2025)

Effects of litter decomposition on sedimentary organic carbon sequestration in invasive and native halophyte marshes of Ganghwa, Korea.

Marine pollution bulletin, 222(Pt 2):118727 pii:S0025-326X(25)01203-2 [Epub ahead of print].

Litter decomposition is a critical driver of carbon cycling in tidal flats, yet the extent to which decomposed organic carbon is sequestered in sediments remains unclear. We studied the effects of invasive Spartina alterniflora and native Phragmites australis litter decomposition on sedimentary organic carbon sequestration. Litterbag experiments were conducted over 360 days in tidal flats. Decomposition patterns were classified as rapid, moderate, and slow. Over 60 % of the litter carbon decomposed within the first 60 days in salt marsh (vegetated). In the bare tidal flat (unvegetated), S. alterniflora litter decomposed faster than P. australis litter. Bacterial composition shifted over time, being dominated sequentially by Bacteroidales, Bacillales, and then Pseudomonadales. Habitats with low Bacteroidales abundances showed lower initial decomposition rates. The decomposed carbon showed limited mobility and remained near the litter. These findings provide insights into the effects of litter decomposition on sedimentary organic carbon and its dynamics within sediments.

RevDate: 2025-09-20

Calabrese C, Giangrande A, Quarta E, et al (2025)

The Mediterranean introduced pearl oyster Pinctada radiata: can an invasion be changed into a gain in a climate change scenario?.

Marine pollution bulletin, 222(Pt 2):118736 pii:S0025-326X(25)01212-3 [Epub ahead of print].

The pearl oyster Pinctada radiata is considered among the 100 most invasive species in the Mediterranean Sea. Recently, a dramatic increase in P. radiata abundance has been recorded in the Mar Grande of Taranto (Ionian Sea) due to recurring heatwaves. This study investigated the structure and recruitment dynamics of P. radiata obtained in collectors made of plastic nets or coconut fibers within an Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) system in the Mar Grande of Taranto. Furthermore, its nutritional value in terms of fatty acids and its chemical and microbiological quality were analysed in light of its potential commercial exploitation. The results revealed that the best growth performance was achieved with plastic nets. Reproduction occurred throughout the year with a peak in summer. The fatty acid profile of P. radiata at all sampling times revealed the predominance of PUFAs and SFAs over MUFAs. The pearl oyster was found to be a valuable source of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, as also evidenced by the high ∑ω3/ω6 ratios (range 2.81-4.51). Finally, the oyster quality was good from a microbiological and chemical point of view (PCB ICES-6 concentrations were below established European limits). In this scenario, the exploitation of this species is recommended for several reasons, including its decline in the area of origin and the creation of a market for human consumption and pearl production in the Mediterranean areas, where the species is finding an improved environmental situation due to global warming.

RevDate: 2025-09-20

Li D, Ye J, Tang Y, et al (2025)

Endophytic bacterial engineering: a novel approach for pine wilt disease management in Pinus massoniana.

Pest management science [Epub ahead of print].

BACKGROUND: Pine wilt disease (PWD) is a globally devastating forest disease caused by the pine wood nematode (Bursaphelenchus xylophilus). Chemical control plays a role in the prevention and control of PWD, but it also raises concerns regarding environmental safety and drug resistance. Seeking novel strategies and technologies to manage PWD has long been a matter of concern. The aim of this study was to increase the resistance of pine trees to PWD through the application of the transgenic engineered bacterium Pseudomonas koreensis BM06-P60.

RESULTS: A dominant endophytic bacterium, P. koreensis BM06, was isolated from healthy stems of Pinus massoniana. This strain was capable of efficiently and stably colonizing P. massoniana and significantly promoted the growth of its seedlings. The purified peptidase P60 protein was able to disintegrate the nematode cuticle, damage the intestinal tissues, and exert adverse effects on the nematodes. The engineered strain BM06-P60, which expresses peptidase P60, exhibited significantly enhanced nematicidal activity. Greenhouse disease control tests demonstrated that the engineered strain BM06-P60 exhibited 70% efficacy against PWD. Preliminary ecological safety evaluations indicated that BM06-P60 is a promising and safe candidate for biocontrol engineering.

CONCLUSION: The application of the engineered strain BM06-P60 effectively controls PWD. This study provides a novel microbial resource for the prevention and control of PWD. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.

RevDate: 2025-09-20

Sun C, Cheng C, Zhang Z, et al (2025)

Phylogenetic relatedness drives litter-mediated diversity-invasibility relationships.

The New phytologist [Epub ahead of print].

Native plant diversity typically enhances community resistance to biological invasions by reducing resource availability and by accumulating natural enemies. However, after senescence, litter-mediated processes may either strengthen resistance through pathogen spillover or promote invasion through nutrient enrichment. We experimentally partitioned nutrient and pathogen effects to test how litter diversity and phylogenetic relatedness between native and invasive species shape invasion outcomes. Three invasive Asteraceae species were exposed to diseased litter from native plants that were either closely or distantly related, while manipulating litter diversity (1, 2, or 6 species) and pathogen presence (with or without fungicide). Higher litter diversity from closely related natives suppressed invader biomass. Fungicide treatment eliminated this effect, demonstrating that pathogen spillover mediated diversity-driven invasion resistance. Conversely, litter from distantly related natives enhanced invader biomass with increasing diversity due to nutrient enrichment. Our results show that phylogenetic relatedness structures the balance between pathogen spillover and nutrient enrichment, determining whether native diversity reinforces or undermines invasion resistance through litter pathways.

RevDate: 2025-09-30
CmpDate: 2025-09-30

Wang Y, Luo X, Yue M, et al (2025)

Rhizosphere Keystone Microbiomes Promote Invasive Plant Growth under PLA and PVC Microplastic Stress: A Comparative Study with Native Species.

Environmental science & technology, 59(38):20201-20215.

Global ecosystems are increasingly threatened by the synergistic pressures of invasive plant species and soil microplastic contamination, yet the mechanisms by which microplastics enhance invasive species establishment remain unclear. In this study, we employ a mesocosm experiment using two types of microplastics, biodegradable polylactide (PLA), and nonbiodegradable polyvinyl chloride (PVC), to compare the responses of invasive and native plant species. We measured plant biomass, nutrient fluxes, soil enzyme activities, and microbial communities in the rhizosphere using soil zymography and 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Invasive plants experienced less growth inhibition than native plants under microplastic exposure, accompanied by the selective enrichment of bacterial genera in the rhizosphere such as Arthrobacter, Sphingomonas, Microvirga, and Azospirillum. These microbes were associated with more interconnected and stable microbial networks, which may have enhanced invasive plant tolerance to microplastic-induced stress. Our results suggest that microplastics can reshape rhizosphere microbial communities in ways that have profound implications for ecological restoration and invasive species management. Future research should experimentally validate the functional roles of these enriched microbial taxa in promoting plant resilience under environmental stress.

RevDate: 2025-09-20

Millar A, H Chapman (2025)

Adaptive nutrient responses vary with growing environment but not altitudinal origin in an invasive plant.

Journal of evolutionary biology pii:8258962 [Epub ahead of print].

Invasive plants often thrive in nutrient rich environments because of their superior ability to capture and efficiently exploit nutrients. This fitness advantage is commonly explained by invasive species being more plastic than their non-invasive counterparts. However, the extent to which individual traits vary in their plastic responses to nutrient availability-and how these responses translate into fitness gains- remains poorly understood. We conducted a nutrient addition experiment in invasive Erythranthe guttata to determine how plasticity to nutrient levels varied among traits, among populations, and with growing conditions. Populations from both upland and lowland New Zealand were grown under "normal" and excessive soil nutrient levels, in an upland and a lowland common garden. We found no evidence of evolution in plastic responses between altitudinal groups. Common garden (growing environment) had a small but significant maladaptive interaction with nutrient responses; in the upland garden plants growing under excess nutrients showed stunted growth, in contrast to the expected adaptive plastic response of larger leaves under high soil nutrients. The strength of nutrient responses among traits corresponded to their importance in the selection analysis, suggesting an adaptive plastic response. Additionally, in contrast to recent findings for other species we found no relaxation of seed size and number trade-offs with nutrient addition, which suggests that this is not a consistent driver of invasive success. Overall, our findings increase our understanding of how invasive plants exploit high resource conditions through adaptive plasticity at the trait level, despite limitations in challenging environments.

RevDate: 2025-09-22
CmpDate: 2025-09-20

Vukeya LR, Mokotjomela TM, N Pillay (2025)

Seed dispersal by vertebrates promotes invasion risk in the southern African grassland biome.

Environmental monitoring and assessment, 197(10):1125.

Vertebrate-mediated seed dispersal plays a crucial role in enabling the spread of invasive alien plants that threaten biodiversity in ecosystems such as the southern African grassland biome. Understanding the dynamics of the seed dispersal process by animals is important for assessing invasion risk and designing management interventions. This study investigated whether the southern African grassland biome is vulnerable to future plant invasions facilitated by frugivorous vertebrates in two known plant invasion hotspots in the Free State province: Boshof, dominated by Opuntia engelmannii (Cactaceae), and Fouriesburg, invaded by Pyracantha angustifolia (Rosaceae). We (1) monitored, documented, and compared the diversity of dispersal vector species in sites invaded by non-native woody and cactus species with non-invaded sites; (2) quantified the seed rain from vertebrates' faecal samples and classified seeds and disperser species into functional groups to identify drivers of plant invasion of the grassland biome; and (3) assessed the effectiveness of vertebrate-mediated seed dispersal by measuring their post-ingestion viability. We predicted that frugivorous vertebrates are key drivers of fleshy-fruited plant invasions in this biome. We found taxonomically diverse dispersers (i.e. 27 families), with Bovidae and Numididae being dominant. Overall vector species diversity was high (H > 3.0), assuring effective population recruitment, although moderate in invaded sites (H > 2.5), and lower in non-invaded sites (H < 2.5). Over 9 months (March-November 2024), mammals dominated dispersal services (74%; N = 328 visits), followed by birds (26%), supporting our study prediction. We noted a high seed rain (i.e. 107,031 seeds) collected from 11,295 faecal samples associated with 43 vertebrate species. Invaded sites experienced significantly higher seed rain than non-invaded sites (P < 0.001) and were dominantly comprised of non-native species. Many seeds were medium-sized (1-5 mm), typical for successful invaders, and had a hard seed coat. Germination trials showed that ingested P. angustifolia seeds retained viability (46.7 ± 8.61%), similar to de-pulped controls (P = 0.53), while O. engelmannii seeds significantly lost viability (P = 0.002). The predicted seed dispersal distances were greater than 15.7 km for birds and ranged between 1.7 km and 8.6 km for mammals. We concluded that the grassland biome is vulnerable to further invasion by non-native plants dispersed by vertebrates, coupled with their long dispersal distances, and that integrating management of dispersal pathways into control plans is essential to optimise control efforts.

RevDate: 2025-09-19

Wheeler GS, S Ripsom (2025)

The defoliating biological control agent, Lygomusotima stria (Lepidoptera: Crambidae), reduces rachis and fiddlehead production in Lygodium microphyllum (Schizaeales: Lygodiaceae).

Environmental entomology pii:8256384 [Epub ahead of print].

Old World climbing fern, Lygodium microphyllum (Cav.) R. Br., is one of the worst invasive weeds of natural areas of southern and central Florida, United States. The climbing fern forms thick mats that shade native shrubs and trees. Old World climbing fern invades the southern peninsula of Florida, where cost-effective, sustainable control methods are needed. Here, we report the results of greenhouse studies that examined the performance of Lygomusotima stria Solis & Yen larvae, a potential biological control agent of L. microphyllum. We examined the impact of larval feeding on the target weed when grown at a range of fertilizer and herbivore levels. Furthermore, we applied these treatments to guide post-release mass rearing protocols. The results indicate that larvae had greater survival when fed plants at the highest fertilizer level. Two generations of feeding by L. stria larvae decreased rachis weights at the lowest fertilizer levels and fiddlehead numbers. At higher fertilizer conditions, the plants were able to tolerate L. stria herbivory, resulting in no significant changes in plant tissue allocations. The increased larval survival when fed plants grown at high fertilizer levels will benefit both laboratory and field mass production of agents. By impacting rachises and fiddleheads, these results suggest this insect will impede the ability of L. microphyllum to climb substrates, especially in lower resource conditions.

RevDate: 2025-09-19
CmpDate: 2025-09-19

Wang J, Hanley BJ, Thompson NE, et al (2025)

Strategic planning of prevention and surveillance for emerging diseases and invasive species.

Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, 122(39):e2507202122.

Emerging infectious diseases and biological invasions pose increasing threats to public and ecosystems health. Proactive measures-such as prevention and surveillance taken before initial detection of the pathogen or species-are essential to ensure minimal spread prior to first detection. We developed an optimization model to determine where, when, and how much effort should be allocated to prevention versus surveillance. The model accounts for imperfect detection, system dynamics, spatial heterogeneity in risk and costs and is scalable to large landscapes. We found that the most cost-effective strategy is to maintain the prevention and surveillance efforts at stable equilibrium for the majority of the time, with deviations occurring only initially to steer the system toward the equilibrium. The equilibrium effort is jointly determined by the introduction risk, management costs, and total budget. Application of this model to chronic wasting disease in New York State suggests that the optimal strategy could reduce the cumulative disease cases before initial detection by an average of 22% compared to current practice. The optimal surveillance strategy could detect the disease on average over 8 mo earlier than the current strategy.

RevDate: 2025-09-19
CmpDate: 2025-09-19

Wang J, Tao J, Brosse S, et al (2025)

Translocated Species Exceed Alien Species in Homogenizing Freshwater Fish Assemblages.

Global change biology, 31(9):e70506.

Human-driven introductions of nonnative species are accelerating biotic homogenization, threatening the distinctiveness of biota worldwide. However, the patterns and drivers of homogenization caused by nonnatives originating from other ecoregions (alien species) and those originating from the same ecoregion as natives (translocated species) remain highly uncertain across taxonomic, phylogenetic, and functional biodiversity dimensions. This study compared the contributions of alien versus translocated fishes to the homogenization of freshwater fish assemblages, as well as the underlying drivers, in a biodiversity hotspot (Yunnan, China). We first quantified the cumulative beta-diversity changes caused by alien and translocated species across biodiversity dimensions prior to 1960 (P1960), 1980 (P1980), 2000 (P2000), and 2022 (P2022), respectively. We then assessed the influence of anthropogenic disturbance intensity, habitat variability, and the biotic resistance of native fauna on beta-diversity changes. We found an asynchronous pattern of homogenization and differentiation caused by alien and translocated fishes. Alien fishes initially contributed to differentiation, which then shifted to homogenization over time in the taxonomic and functional dimensions, whereas phylogenetic differentiation remained consistent through time. In contrast, translocated fishes consistently drove homogenization across all biodiversity dimensions over time. The cumulative intensity of homogenization caused by translocated fishes was up to four times greater than that induced by alien fishes. Anthropogenic disturbance intensity and habitat variability, along with native biotic resistance, positively contributed to fish assemblage homogenization through both direct and indirect pathways. Our findings reveal that translocated species have caused more pronounced homogenization effects in freshwater fish assemblages. Conservation and management strategies should prioritize the prevention of intra-regional species translocations and the mitigation of anthropogenic disturbances to preserve ecological distinctiveness and integrity.

RevDate: 2025-09-21
CmpDate: 2025-09-19

Zhao C, Suthisut D, Bai C, et al (2025)

Modeling the Potential Distribution of the Invasive Pest Trogoderma granarium (Coleoptera: Dermestidae) Under CMIP6 Future Climate Projections.

Ecology and evolution, 15(9):e72159.

The Khapra beetle (Trogoderma granarium Everts) is a well-known storage pest, and it is listed as one of the 100 most invasive species in the world. This study predicted the potential geographic distribution of the pest based on the MaxEnt model and assessed the impact of environmental factors on distribution patterns. Results indicate that under current climate conditions, central and southern China, the southern United States, North Africa, southern Australia, and Argentina are highly suitable regions for T. granarium. The minimum temperature of the coldest month and elevation are the primary influencing factors, contributing over 95% to the model. Projections for the future under SSP126 and SSP585 scenarios suggest no significant expansion in total suitable habitat. However, binary mapping and centroid analysis indicate a northward shift in the species' suitable range, with new suitable areas emerging primarily in the northern United States, westernmost Russia, southern Kazakhstan, and northern China. These findings offer crucial data that can support the development of pest monitoring systems, early warning protocols, and quarantine strategies in countries at high risk.

RevDate: 2025-09-18

Rej JE, AR Gunderson (2025)

High temperatures amplify aggressiveness of an invasive lizard toward a native congener.

Journal of thermal biology, 133:104257 pii:S0306-4565(25)00214-1 [Epub ahead of print].

Invasive species cause major disturbances to endemic wildlife and often displace native species. Behavioral aggression can contribute to invasive species success, but little is known about how temperature and aggression interact. We tested for effects of temperature on interspecific aggression between the invasive brown anole lizard (Anolis sagrei) and a native congener, the green anole (A. carolinensis). Anolis sagrei displaces A. carolinensis from perch sites in sympatry, which is hypothesized to result at least in part from higher levels of aggression. We tested hypotheses about the temperature-dependence of interspecific aggression across five ecologically relevant temperature regimes that span cool spring to hot summer conditions. Additionally, we tested whether the presence of A. sagrei disrupts A. carolinensis thermoregulation. The invasive Anolis sagrei was more aggressive than A. carolinensis in all temperature regimes. In addition, the difference in aggression between the species was greatest at high temperatures. In contrast, we found little evidence that A. carolinensis thermoregulation is affected by A. sagrei. Our results indicate that the effects of an invasive lizard on a native competitor may be facilitated by high levels of aggression that could be amplified with rising temperatures. Overall, our results are consistent with aggression facilitating invasive species success, and that the effect can be amplified under climate change.

RevDate: 2025-09-25
CmpDate: 2025-09-18

Crawford JE, Balcazar D, Redmond S, et al (2025)

1206 genomes reveal origin and movement of Aedes aegypti driving increased dengue risk.

Science (New York, N.Y.), 389(6766):eads3732.

The emergence and global expansion of Aedes aegypti puts more than half of all humans at risk of arbovirus infection, but the origin of this mosquito and the impact of contemporary gene flow on arbovirus control are unclear. We sequenced 1206 genomes from 73 globally distributed locations. After evolving a preference for humans in Sahelian West Africa, the invasive subspecies Ae. aegypti aegypti (Aaa) emerged in the Americas after the Atlantic slave trade era and expanded globally. Recent back-to-Africa Aaa migration introduced insecticide resistance and anthropophily into regions with recent dengue outbreaks, raising concern that Aaa movement could increase arbovirus risk in urban Africa. These data underscore developing complexity in the fight against dengue, Zika, and chikungunya and provide a platform to further study this important mosquito vector.

RevDate: 2025-09-18

Fisher TA, Coker SM, Francisco R, et al (2025)

Prevalence of Trypanosoma cruzi Antibodies in Wild Pigs (Sus scrofa) in the USA.

Journal of wildlife diseases pii:507883 [Epub ahead of print].

Wild pig (Sus scrofa) populations are expanding across the US, raising concerns about the ecologic impacts and role as reservoirs for pathogens of significance to human and animal health. Trypanosoma cruzi, the causative agent of Chagas disease, is a recognized risk for humans and domestic dogs in the southern US. Common wildlife reservoirs of T. cruzi include rodents (e.g., Neotoma spp.), raccoons (Procyon lotor), and Virginia opossums (Didelphus virginiana); however, there have been reports of T. cruzi infection in suids, including a domestic pig (Sus scrofa domesticus) in Mexico and three wild pigs in Texas, US. Our study aimed to better understand the prevalence and distribution of T. cruzi antibodies in wild pigs in the US. We collected 1,093 serum samples from wild pigs across 12 states in the southern, midwestern, and western regions of the US, all of which have populations of T. cruzi triatomine vectors. We tested sera for antibodies against T. cruzi using an indirect ELISA and detected an overall apparent prevalence of 14.6% (160/1,093; 95% confidence interval, 12.6-16.9%). Pig sex, age class, month of sampling, and region were not significantly associated with seroprevalence; however, state of origin explained some variation in the data. We demonstrated that wild pigs in the US were exposed to T. cruzi, highlighting the need for further research elucidating their role in T. cruzi transmission.

RevDate: 2025-09-26
CmpDate: 2025-09-25

Owusu FA, Owusu-Asenso CM, Abdulai A, et al (2025)

Invasion of the Dengue Vector Aedes albopictus in the Port City of Takoradi, Southwestern Ghana.

Research square.

In mid-2023, Aedes albopictus, a key dengue vector, was unexpectedly identified during Anopheles surveillance in Takoradi, southwestern Ghana. Ae. albopictus is not known to be breeding in Ghana until this encounter. By mid-2024, the Ghana Health Service reported several outbreaks of dengue for the first time, with confirmed cases in several regions, including Takoradi. This study investigated the bionomics and insecticide susceptibility of Ae. albopictus through larval and adult surveys near the initial detection sites, including the seaport. Among 2,666 Aedes larvae collected, car tyres were the most productive habitat (66.4%). Ae. aegypti (87.2%) were the most abundant vector, followed by Ae. albopictus (12.2%). Ae. albopictus was fully susceptible to pyrethroids and pirimiphos-methyl, while Ae. aegypti was resistant to pyrethroids. PBO synergist assays restored susceptibility in Ae. aegypti. kdr mutations were detected in both species: Ae. albopictus had low frequencies of F1534C (0.18), V410L (0.02), V1016I (0.00) whilst Ae. aegypti showed high F1534C (0.72), V1016I (0.50), and V410L (0.06). These findings provide essential baseline data for public health action and necessitate the urgent need for enhanced vector surveillance and resistance monitoring in Ghana.

RevDate: 2025-09-17

Brasileiro Silvério SL, Vital OV, Massara RL, et al (2025)

Greater occupancy of invasive hybrid marmosets compared to a threatened native species in the fragmented Atlantic Forest: implications for conservation.

Primates; journal of primatology [Epub ahead of print].

Endemic to the Atlantic Forest, Callithrix aurita faces endangerment due to habitat loss, fragmentation, and yellow fever epidemics, exacerbated by the introduction of non-native marmoset species, which heightens the risk of competition, hybridization, and genetic erosion. In this study, we employed playback methods and occupancy models to investigate habitat use by C. aurita and hybrid marmoset groups (Callithrix spp.) across 15 forest fragments in Guidoval, state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. We examined the influence of forest connectivity and distance from Guidoval's urban center on the occupancy of both C. aurita and Callithrix spp. We also assessed the influence of fragment size on their detection probability. Our findings revealed a mean occupancy probability of 0.65 for C. aurita and 0.83 for Callithrix spp. Interestingly, C. aurita occupancy correlated negatively with distance from Guidoval's urban center, possibly due to historical fragmentation processes that provided protection to certain groups in closer, less invaded fragments. Conversely, Callithrix spp. occupancy showed no correlation with any variable, highlighting their adaptability and raising concerns about their potential to threaten native species through hybridization and substitution. Additionally, fragment size did not influence detection probability of both taxa, this implies that the sampled areas may not be large enough for this variable to have an effect. Overall, our results underscore the urgent need for conservation efforts to mitigate the impacts of habitat fragmentation and invasive species on endangered marmoset populations in the Atlantic Forest.

RevDate: 2025-09-19
CmpDate: 2025-09-16

Bescond-Michel Z, Bacher S, G Vimercati (2025)

Harms of introduced large herbivores outweigh benefits to native biodiversity.

Nature communications, 16(1):8260.

Introduced species significantly impact native biodiversity worldwide, with extensive research on harms but relatively less focus on benefits. Here, using the IUCN Environmental Impact Classification for Alien Taxa (EICAT) and EICAT+ frameworks, we assess 2021 negative and positive impacts of introduced large mammalian herbivores globally. We show that negative impacts are more common, and of higher magnitude than positive impacts, i.e. affect populations, not only the performance of individuals. Native species on islands and at higher trophic level experience greater impacts. Reported impact magnitudes decline over time only for positive impacts. Most positive impacts are caused indirectly through changes in species interactions and ecosystem properties, often following negative impacts on native plants through herbivory and disturbance. We therefore advise caution regarding the intentional introduction of large mammalian herbivores for conservation purposes (rewilding, assisted colonization) without rigorous assessment of their impacts on native communities.

RevDate: 2025-09-16

Falkenberg LJ, PWS Joyce (2025)

Tracking the coastal bioinvasion by mussels in Hong Kong.

Marine pollution bulletin, 222(Pt 1):118678 pii:S0025-326X(25)01154-3 [Epub ahead of print].

Invasive species are key drivers of global biodiversity decline and threats to marine conservation. Hong Kong, being a trade and transport hub with large volumes of shipping traffic, is particularly susceptible to marine bioinvasions and the subsequent ecological and economic consequences. While invasive bivalves have been recorded in Hong Kong, notably the mussel Xenostrobus securis, their distribution and population characteristics have not been recently documented. Here, we used field surveys to update occurrence records of this mussel and found it persists at sites in Tolo Harbour where it was previously recorded, and also occurs at multiple sites within Tolo Harbour where it was previously absent, and in Victoria Harbour where previous records did not exist. Population characteristics of X. securis were similar to those quantified at survey sites where it was recorded previously, indicating the species has reached a relatively stable equilibrium. We also found that the similar native species, Brachidontes spp., had increased in abundance, and the abundance of another significant invader, Mytilopsis sallei, had reduced. Notably, we documented the occurrence of another invasive bivalve, Mytella strigata, which was previously unreported in Hong Kong, highlighting the persistent risk of the arrival of novel species. With the increasingly widespread documentation of X. securis and record of yet another invasive species within the region, we suggest more research is required for monitoring and management of these species, and efforts should be made to quantify their ecological and economic effects.

RevDate: 2025-09-16
CmpDate: 2025-09-16

Liang Z, Jackson DA, Liu J, et al (2025)

Functional Dimension Reveal Impacts of Non-Native Fishes on Native Fishes and Ecosystem Functionality.

Global change biology, 31(9):e70501.

Anthropogenic-mediated invasions of non-native species are leading to biodiversity loss in many trophic groups, with specific impacts on a wide range of ecosystem functions and services. However, the impacts of non-native species on native species and ecosystem multifunctionality are not well understood, particularly due to the lack of long-term studies that focus on the analysis of functional and phylogenetic diversities. Using a comprehensive dataset spanning nearly 80 years from Lake Erhai, China, we assessed the impact of non-native fishes on the multidimensional diversity of native fishes, as well as the cascading effects on the multifunctional components of the ecosystem, including productivity, decomposition, and average multifunctionality. Over time, the multidimensional diversity of non-native fishes steadily increased, whereas that of native species declined markedly. Concurrently, both ecosystem productivity and average multifunctionality exhibited significant upward trends. Long-term invasion by non-native fishes was significantly negatively correlated with the multidimensional diversity of native fishes. A consistent convergence-divergence-convergence pattern was observed in trait spaces and in functional and phylogenetic community patterns of overall fish communities. Ecosystem multifunctionality increased with non-native fish functional diversity, though this positive relationship became negative at higher diversity levels. In contrast, native fish functional diversity and environmental factors-including average water level, Secchi depth, and annual precipitation-were consistently negatively associated with multifunctionality. These findings underscore the importance of integrating a functional perspective in biodiversity monitoring and management to enhance our understanding of, and foster more effective strategies for addressing, the long-term impacts of non-native species on native species and ecosystem multifunctionality.

RevDate: 2025-09-17
CmpDate: 2025-09-15

Cheng YC, Yang YJ, YH Chen (2025)

Development and characterization of novel microsatellite loci in the native tree frog species, Polypedates braueri and cross-species amplification in the alien species, P. megacephalus, in Taiwan.

Biodiversity data journal, 13:e160332.

Polypedates megacephalus is an alien species first recorded in 2006 in Taiwan. The expanding population of P. megacephalus poses potential threats to the native frog species, especially to the closely-related species P. braueri. To detect genetic diversity and analyse population structures of both native and alien Polypedates species in Taiwan, this study aimed to isolate microsatellite markers in P. braueri and test their cross-species amplification in the alien species P. megacephalus. We successfully amplified and characterised 10 polymorphic microsatellite loci in P. braueri. The number of alleles per locus ranged from 2 to 19 and no locus showed evidence of a null allele. The observed and expected heterozygosity ranged from 0.200 to 1.000 and 0.180 to 0.916, respectively and each locus was detected in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. Cross-amplification in P. megacephalus was successfully performed in seven out of 10 loci. Amongst these seven loci, five exhibited polymorphism and two showed no variation. These microsatellite markers will be helpful for further population genetics research on Polypedates species in Taiwan.

RevDate: 2025-09-14

Kobeletskaya MA, EN Temereva (2025)

First Description of Typhlosole in Ascidian Styela clava: Structure and Putative Function.

Doklady biological sciences : proceedings of the Academy of Sciences of the USSR, Biological sciences sections [Epub ahead of print].

The ascidian Styela clava is an invasive species that easily colonizes new water areas and has a wide distribution. A previously undescribed typhlosole was discovered in S. clava and studied using histological techniques, transmission electron microscopy and computer microtomography. The typhlosole is a large fold of the dorsal intestinal wall that starts in the lower quarter of the stomach and continues to the rectum. Its shape varies greatly: from a rounded protrusion to a spirally twisted fold. The typhlosole is formed by the intestinal epithelium and a thick connective tissue layer, in which pyloric tubules and blood vessels are extended. The epithelium consists of glandular, ciliated, and nonciliated cells demonstrating apocrine secretion. The typhlosole intensifies the food digestion and absorption of nutrients. The features observed in the typhlosole may contribute to a high digestion efficiency even in low-productive waters, determining the biological success of this species.

RevDate: 2025-09-16
CmpDate: 2025-09-16

Wieczorek K, Chłond D, Durak R, et al (2025)

Tracing the Invasion of Takecallis nigroantennatus (Hemiptera, Aphididae) on Cold-Hardy Bamboo Fargesia Using Mitochondrial COI Data.

International journal of molecular sciences, 26(17):.

The introduction of alien insect species is increasingly facilitated by global plant trade, particularly through the movement of ornamental plants. Takecallis nigroantennatus, a host-specific aphid associated with cold-hardy Fargesia bamboo, has recently expanded its range in Europe. To examine its invasion dynamics, we conducted a population-level survey across 13 locations in six countries, sampling individuals from botanic and private gardens, specialized bamboo nurseries, garden centers, and urban horticultural environments in the UK, Belgium, The Netherlands, Germany, Poland, and Norway. A total of 117 specimens were analyzed using mitochondrial COI sequences, revealing a single dominant haplotype without geographic structure based on Bayesian and Maximum Likelihood phylogenetic analyses. This striking genetic uniformity indicates a narrow introduction bottleneck, suggesting a single or highly restricted introduction event followed by clonal spread. Despite the species' ability for sexual reproduction, the data support a founder effect and rapid recent expansion closely linked to the introduction history of Fargesia in Europe. The results are also consistent with a possible time lag between the arrival of ornamental bamboo and the subsequent establishment of its associated herbivore, a scenario that warrants further investigation. Importantly, our study provides a practical framework for applied monitoring and early detection in bamboo nurseries, botanical gardens, and other high-risk introduction sites, illustrating how molecular tools can inform biosecurity and the management of emerging invasive species.

RevDate: 2025-09-16
CmpDate: 2025-09-16

Stafiniak M, Makowski W, Matkowski A, et al (2025)

Stabilizing the Baseline: Reference Gene Evaluation in Three Invasive Reynoutria Species.

International journal of molecular sciences, 26(17):.

Accurate normalization is crucial for reliable gene expression quantification and depends on stably expressed housekeeping genes (HKGs) as internal controls. However, HKGs expression varies with developmental stage, tissue type, and treatments, potentially introducing bias and compromising data accuracy. Thus, validating candidate reference genes under defined conditions is essential. Reynoutria, also known as giant Asian knotweeds, is a Polygonaceae family genus of several medicinal plants producing a diverse array of specialized metabolites of pharmacological interest. Outside their native range, these plants are also noxious invasive weeds, causing significant environmental and economic threats. Research on stable reference genes in these species is limited, with a primary focus on R. japonica. To enable accurate gene expression analysis related to specialized metabolism and natural product biosynthesis, we aimed to identify the most stable reference genes across the most common species: R. japonica Houtt., R. sachalinensis (F. Schmidt) Nakai, and their hybrid-R. × bohemica Chrtek & Chrtková. In this study, we evaluated twelve candidate HKGs (ACT, TUA, TUB, GAPDH, EF-1γ, UBQ, UBC, 60SrRNA, eIF6A, SKD1, YLS8, and NDUFA13) across three tissue types (rhizomes, leaves, and flowers) from three Reynoutria species sampled at peak flowering. Primer specificity and amplification efficiency were confirmed through standard-curve analysis. We assessed expression stability using ΔCt, geNorm, NormFinder, and BestKeeper, and generated comprehensive rankings with RefFinder. Our integrated analysis revealed organ- and species-dependent stability differences, yet identified up to three reference genes suitable for interspecific normalization in Reynoutria. This represents the first systematic, comparative validation of HKGs across closely related knotweed species, providing a robust foundation for future transcriptomic and functional studies of their specialized metabolism and other biological processes.

RevDate: 2025-09-16
CmpDate: 2025-09-16

Cao JJ, Wang HW, Fu JG, et al (2025)

Dynamic Genetic Changes Reveal: Intra-Lineage Diversity, Not Admixture, Explains Amaranthus palmeri's Success in China.

International journal of molecular sciences, 26(17):.

Global trade facilitates multiple introductions of alien species, yet the role of genetic admixture between divergent lineages in driving invasion success remains debated. Here, we address this question by analyzing dynamic genetic changes across invasion stages in the dioecious weed Amaranthus palmeri, introduced to China from North and South America. Combining chloroplast phylogeography with nuclear genetic analyses, we systematically investigated genetic changes in populations at casual, naturalized, invasive, and dispersal stages. Initial casual populations originated from distinct North and South American lineages, but all established populations (naturalized, invasive, dispersal) retained only North American haplotypes. South American genetic introgression decreased progressively during invasion (from 34% in naturalized to 3% in dispersal populations), accompanied by declining inbreeding coefficients. Established populations exhibited high inter-population crosses within the North American lineage (54-60%), maintaining genetic diversity and overcoming bottlenecks. Our findings demonstrate that invasion success in A. palmeri may be driven by gene flow within the North American lineage, rather than admixture between divergent lineages. These findings enhance our understanding of the genetic mechanisms underpinning plant invasions, highlighting lineage-specific management as a critical strategy for controlling invasive populations.

RevDate: 2025-09-16
CmpDate: 2025-09-16

Vo HV, Satyal P, Vo TT, et al (2025)

Chemical Composition and Biological Activities of Chromolaena odorata (L.) R.M.King & H.Rob. Essential Oils from Central Vietnam.

Molecules (Basel, Switzerland), 30(17):.

The chemical composition of leaf essential oil of the harmful invasive species Chromolaena odorata collected in Vietnam was analyzed by GC/MS and chiral GC. All three essential oil samples (O1, O2 and O3) in this study fell into chemotype I characterized by α-pinene/geigerene/germacrene D/(E)-β-caryophyllene from a total of six different chemotypes. Chemotype I demonstrated larvicidal effects against Aedes aegypti (Linnaeus, 1762), Aedes albopictus Aedes albopictus (Skuse, 1894), Culex fuscocephala (Theobald, 1907) and Culex quinquefasciatus (Say, 1823), with 24 h LC50 values ranging from 11.73 to 69.87 µg/mL. In contrast, its microemulsion formulation exhibited enhanced toxicity, yielding 24 h LC50 values between 11.16 and 32.43 µg/mL. This chemotype also showed repellent efficacy against Ae. aegypti, with protection times ranging from 70.75 to 122.7 min. Fumigant toxicity was observed against Aedes aegypti, with LC50 values of 40.27% at 0.5 h and 0.34% at 24 h. Molluscicidal activity was recorded with 48 h LC50 values between 3.82 and 54.38 µg/mL against Indoplanorbis exustus (Deshayes, 1833), Pomacea canaliculate (Lamarck, 1822), Physa acuta (Draparnaud, 1805). Additionally, the chemotype exhibited acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity, with an IC50 value of 70.85 µg/mL. Antimicrobial potential was also demonstrated, with MIC values ranging from 2.0 to 128.0 µg/mL against Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, Escherichia coli, Salmonella enterica, and Candida albicans. The C. odorata essential oil can be considered as a potential bioresource for human health protection strategies.

RevDate: 2025-09-16
CmpDate: 2025-09-15

Wang J, Zhao J, Jiang L, et al (2025)

Predicting the Potential Suitable Habitat of Solanum rostratum in China Using the Biomod2 Ensemble Modeling Framework.

Plants (Basel, Switzerland), 14(17):.

Solanum rostratum Dunal is a highly invasive species with strong environmental adaptability and reproductive capacity, posing serious threats to agroforestry ecosystems and human health. In this study, we compiled occurrence records of S. rostratum in China from online databases and sources in the literature. We employed the Biomod2 ensemble modeling framework to predict the potential distribution of the species under current climatic conditions and four future climate scenarios (SSP126, SSP245, SSP370, and SSP585), and to identify the key environmental variables influencing its distribution. The ensemble model based on the committee averaging (EMca) approach achieved the highest predictive accuracy, with a true skill statistic (TSS) of 0.932 and an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.990. Under present climatic conditions, S. rostratum is predominantly distributed across northern China, particularly in Xinjiang, Inner Mongolia, and the northeastern provinces, covering a total suitable area of 1,191,586.55 km[2], with highly suitable habitats accounting for 50.37% of this range. Under future climate scenarios, the species' suitable range is projected to expand significantly, particularly under the high-emissions SSP585 scenario, with the distribution centroid expected to shift significantly toward high-altitude regions in Gansu Province. Precipitation and temperature emerged as the most influential environmental factors affecting habitat suitability. These findings indicate that ongoing global warming may facilitate the survival, reproduction, and rapid spread of S. rostratum across China in the coming decades.

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Usage of the site grew rapidly and has remained high. Faculty began to use the site for their assigned readings. Other on-line publishers, ranging from The New York Times to Nature referenced ESP materials in their own publications. Nobel laureates (e.g., Joshua Lederberg) regularly used the site and even wrote to suggest changes and improvements.

ESP Content

When the site began, no journals were making their early content available in digital format. As a result, ESP was obliged to digitize classic literature before it could be made available. For many important papers — such as Mendel's original paper or the first genetic map — ESP had to produce entirely new typeset versions of the works, if they were to be available in a high-quality format.

ESP Help

Early support from the DOE component of the Human Genome Project was critically important for getting the ESP project on a firm foundation. Since that funding ended (nearly 20 years ago), the project has been operated as a purely volunteer effort. Anyone wishing to assist in these efforts should send an email to Robbins.

ESP Plans

With the development of methods for adding typeset side notes to PDF files, the ESP project now plans to add annotated versions of some classical papers to its holdings. We also plan to add new reference and pedagogical material. We have already started providing regularly updated, comprehensive bibliographies to the ESP.ORG site.

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This is a must read book for anyone with an interest in invasion biology. The full title of the book lays out the author's premise — The New Wild: Why Invasive Species Will Be Nature's Salvation. Not only is species movement not bad for ecosystems, it is the way that ecosystems respond to perturbation — it is the way ecosystems heal. Even if you are one of those who is absolutely convinced that invasive species are actually "a blight, pollution, an epidemic, or a cancer on nature", you should read this book to clarify your own thinking. True scientific understanding never comes from just interacting with those with whom you already agree. R. Robbins

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E-mail: RJR8222 @ gmail.com

Papers in Classical Genetics

The ESP began as an effort to share a handful of key papers from the early days of classical genetics. Now the collection has grown to include hundreds of papers, in full-text format.

Digital Books

Along with papers on classical genetics, ESP offers a collection of full-text digital books, including many works by Darwin and even a collection of poetry — Chicago Poems by Carl Sandburg.

Timelines

ESP now offers a large collection of user-selected side-by-side timelines (e.g., all science vs. all other categories, or arts and culture vs. world history), designed to provide a comparative context for appreciating world events.

Biographies

Biographical information about many key scientists (e.g., Walter Sutton).

Selected Bibliographies

Bibliographies on several topics of potential interest to the ESP community are automatically maintained and generated on the ESP site.

ESP Picks from Around the Web (updated 28 JUL 2024 )