@article {pmid42779219,
year = {2026},
author = {Yu, J and Qu, Y and Du, Y and Gu, S and Liu, X},
title = {Climatic Niche Shifts During Biological Invasions Decrease With Genetic Diversity Loss.},
journal = {Global change biology},
volume = {32},
number = {9},
pages = {e71122},
doi = {10.1111/gcb.71122},
pmid = {42779219},
issn = {1365-2486},
support = {32171657//National Science Foundation of China/ ; 2022xjkk080//Third Xinjiang Scientific Expedition Program/ ; Y201920//Youth Innovation Promotion Association of Chinese Academy of Science/ ; 2023IOZ0104//Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Genetic Variation ; *Introduced Species ; *Climate Change ; *Ecosystem ; *Vertebrates/genetics/physiology ; },
abstract = {Climate niche conservatism is a fundamental assumption for predicting biological invasion risks and species range expansion under climate change. However, increasing evidence across taxa has revealed climatic niche shifts in species within new ranges. Although considerable effort has been made to identify ecological predictors of climatic niche shifts, the genetic process underlying species adaptation to novel climate niches is largely unknown. Here, on the basis of 84 introduction events with specific native population ranges for 38 non-native terrestrial vertebrates worldwide, we found that although invaders tend to show reduced genetic diversity after invasion, climate niche shifts are prone to occur when species have a relatively low reduction in genetic diversity in the non-native range. Interestingly, this effect of genetic diversity change on niche shifts did not occur through propagule pressure or residence time, which are traditionally speculated to influence niche shifts. Our study highlights the importance of incorporating ecological adaptation factors in the development of predictive models to evaluate the risks of biological invasion and species range expansion in the context of sustained global change.},
}

Animals
*Genetic Variation
*Introduced Species
*Climate Change
*Ecosystem
*Vertebrates/genetics/physiology

@article {pmid42779976,
year = {2026},
author = {Nota, A and Hesselberg, T},
title = {Anthropogenic Disturbance Shapes Native-Alien Community Patterns Across Urban-Rural Gradients in a Neglected Invertebrate Model System.},
journal = {Ecology and evolution},
volume = {16},
number = {9},
pages = {e74369},
pmid = {42779976},
issn = {2045-7758},
abstract = {Land snails represent a diverse yet understudied group of organisms, with new species continuously being described. However, numerous extinctions have recently occurred, largely due to the introduction of alien counterparts. Urbanisation and habitat disturbance are well-known to promote the spread of opportunistic and alien species, but their effect on alien land snails has seldom been investigated. This research aimed to test whether alien snails' presence and abundance can be influenced by proximity to roads, water sources and human structures, as well as the site size and the presence of native species. Snail populations were surveyed in eight woodland sites across Oxfordshire, U.K., using systematic quadrat sampling. Species identification was based on morphological characteristics, complemented by molecular analyses for taxonomically ambiguous taxa. A total of 24 species (grouped in 23 taxa) were identified, including five aliens. The results indicate that alien snails are more prevalent in smaller and disturbed areas, with their abundance decreasing with increasing distance from roads. The presence of native species appears to exert biotic resistance against invasions, particularly in larger and less disturbed sites. These results highlight the critical role of human activities in shaping land snail communities, evidencing that roadsides can act as important corridors for alien species dispersal. In contrast, larger rural sites, with richer native communities, provide biological resistance against invasions. Given the growing trends of urbanisation and habitat alteration, future conservation strategies should focus on mitigating anthropogenic disturbances and preserving larger, interconnected natural areas to support native biodiversity and limit biological invasions.},
}

@article {pmid42783273,
year = {2026},
author = {Sun, H and Zhang, J and Mo, X and Zhang, C and Wang, Z and Huang, J},
title = {Occurrence Dynamics and Prediction of Coleoptera and Lepidoptera in China Using Multiple Machine Learning Models.},
journal = {Insects},
volume = {17},
number = {9},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/insects17090906},
pmid = {42783273},
issn = {2075-4450},
support = {L251049//Beijing Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2026-06//Forestry Science and Technology Innovation Project of Jiangxi Forestry Bureau/ ; KJXM-SQ2025-00093//Longjiang Forest Group Science and Technology Project/ ; },
abstract = {The temporal dynamics of forest-associated insects are closely associated with climatic variability, and identifying their temporal patterns and climatic associations is important for understanding insect population dynamics. In this study, automatically recorded Coleoptera and Lepidoptera in Rui'an City, Zhejiang Province, China, were selected as the target insect groups. Based on automatic insect monitoring and meteorological data, the temporal characteristics of recorded insect abundance and their associations with climatic factors were analyzed. Five machine learning models, including Multiple Linear Regression, K-Nearest Neighbors, Random Forest, Support Vector Regression, and Generalized Additive Model, were then developed and compared for predicting recorded insect abundance. The results showed that Coleoptera exhibited periodic fluctuations with cycles of approximately 6-20 days, whereas Lepidoptera displayed persistent seasonal variation. Air temperature, specific humidity, and shortwave radiation were significantly and positively correlated with recorded insect abundance, while wind speed showed a weak negative correlation. Among the five models, Random Forest achieved the best prediction performance, with MAE, RMSE, and R[2] values of 1.37, 4.85, and 0.82 for Coleoptera and 0.57, 1.16, and 0.84 for Lepidoptera, respectively. Independent-year validation using 2023 data showed reduced predictive performance compared with random validation, indicating limited temporal generalization under the available observation period. These findings demonstrate that integrating temporal characteristics with climatic factors can support the prediction of automatically recorded insect abundance, while longer-term monitoring data are needed to further evaluate model robustness and temporal transferability.},
}

@article {pmid42783281,
year = {2026},
author = {Brugger, MB and Valero, MA and Llopis-Gonzalez, A and Morales-Suárez-Varela, M},
title = {Detection and Surveillance of Invasive Aedes Mosquitoes in Spain: Implications for Arbovirus Risk and Public Health Preparedness.},
journal = {Insects},
volume = {17},
number = {9},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/insects17090914},
pmid = {42783281},
issn = {2075-4450},
support = {CB06/02/0045//Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Ministry of Science and Innovation and European Union-NextGenerationEU/ ; CB21/13/00056//Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Ministry of Science and Innovation and European Union-NextGenerationEU/ ; CIPROM/2024/88//ROMETEO Program, Programa de Ayudas para Grupos de Investigación de Excelencia/ ; },
abstract = {The expansion of invasive mosquito species of the genus Aedes has become a growing public health concern in Europe due to their role in the transmission of arboviruses such as dengue, Zika, and chikungunya. Early detection and surveillance of these vectors are essential to prevent the establishment of local transmission cycles. This study presents a review of surveillance reports and rapid risk assessments issued by the Health Alerts and Emergencies Coordination Centre of the Spanish Ministry of Health, complemented by relevant scientific literature on the presence and spread of Aedes albopictus, Aedes aegypti, and Aedes japonicus in Spain. The analysis describes the evolution of vector detection between 2004 and 2026, identifies geographical patterns of expansion, and examines the surveillance and response mechanisms implemented by Spanish health authorities. Particular attention is given to environmental, climatic, and socioeconomic factors that may facilitate the establishment of these invasive species. The results highlight the importance of strengthening entomological surveillance systems, improving coordination between national and regional health authorities, and enhancing early warning mechanisms to reduce the risk of arbovirus transmission in Spain. Unlike previous European reviews, this study integrates surveillance reports, grey literature, citizen science contributions, and scientific evidence to provide a comprehensive assessment of invasive Aedes surveillance in Spain and identify priority actions for strengthening arbovirus preparedness.},
}

@article {pmid42783299,
year = {2026},
author = {Çınar, YU and Balcı, MA and Obut, O and Öğretici, T and Çay, SB and Dural, HY and Dikmen, F and Bakır, Y and Eldem, V},
title = {A Comparative Genomic Assessment of Invasive Potential in the Planthopper Orosanga japonica (Hemiptera: Ricaniidae).},
journal = {Insects},
volume = {17},
number = {9},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/insects17090932},
pmid = {42783299},
issn = {2075-4450},
support = {38710//Scientific Research Projects Coordination Unit of Istanbul University/ ; 122Z707//The Scientific and Technological Research Council of Türkiye/ ; },
abstract = {Orosanga japonica (Hemiptera: Ricaniidae) is an invasive, polyphagous planthopper established in Türkiye since 2007 that threatens economically important perennial and field crops across the Black Sea region. Although its establishment and rapid spread suggest considerable adaptive capacity, the genomic basis of this potential remains unexplored. We combined whole-genome sequencing with RNA-Seq data to generate a functionally annotated genome, recovering 92.5% of conserved single-copy orthologs. Utilizing these resources, we performed comparative genomic analyses across 20 additional hemipteran and thysanopteran species, investigating gene family dynamics and genome-wide positive selection. These analyses revealed 52 gene families with statistically significant, lineage-specific size changes (24 expansions and 28 contractions): expanded families were enriched for C2H2 zinc-finger transcription factors, α/β-hydrolases, major facilitator transporters, serpins, and chemosensory proteins, whereas contracted families included a cytochrome P450 family. Additionally, branch site tests identified 122 candidate genes under lineage-specific positive selection. These loci fall into three functional categories potentially associated with invasion-related traits: host detection and neuronal excitability, stress tolerance (xenobiotic, oxidative, and proteostatic), and barrier remodeling. Together, these genomic signatures highlight candidate molecular mechanisms that may contribute to host detection, xenobiotic tolerance, and ecological plasticity, providing a framework for evolutionary analysis and the targeted management of this emerging agricultural pest.},
}

@article {pmid42783344,
year = {2026},
author = {Mshora, A and Mng'ong'o, M and Santos, L and Chiconela, T},
title = {Multi-Plant Screening and Controlled Evaluation of Two Selected Plant Species Against Tuta absoluta (Meyrick).},
journal = {Insects},
volume = {17},
number = {9},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/insects17090977},
pmid = {42783344},
issn = {2075-4450},
support = {E089-MZ//World Bank Group/ ; },
abstract = {Tuta absoluta is an invasive species that has managed to expand beyond its native geographical area and causes severe yield losses in tomato. Despite the application of synthetic insecticides in getting rid of the pest, farmers have reported reduced efficacy over the course of time due to resistance. With regard to ecological pest management approaches, studies regarding the use of companion plants in the management of T. absoluta are scarce. Therefore, we screened fourteen potential companion plants for repellency using a Y-tube olfactometer followed by cage and screenhouse experiments. Data were analyzed using R software (version 4.6.0; R Core Team, 2026). The screening results showed that Allium schoenoprasum and Aeollanthus fruticosus significantly repelled T. absoluta compared to other potential companion plants at p < 0.001. In a dual-choice cage experiment, tomato plants placed with A. schoenopraum and A. fruticosus were recorded to have lower leaf damage percentages of 47.27% and 33.94%, respectively, compared to the negative control (66.34%). Similarly, tomato plants intercropped with A. schoenopraum and A. fruticosus showed lower leaf damage percentages of 13.92% and 25.00%, respectively, compared to the negative control (63.38%) under the screenhouse experiment. Therefore, A. schoenopraum and A. fruticosus exhibit significant potential in the management of T. absoluta in tomato.},
}

@article {pmid42784511,
year = {2026},
author = {Kontou, D and Ascough, PL and Favot, EJ and Grooms, C and Paterson, AM and Smol, JP and Tanentzap, AJ},
title = {Rewriting the history of the invasive spiny water flea in North America.},
journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America},
volume = {123},
number = {39},
pages = {e2622864123},
doi = {10.1073/pnas.2622864123},
pmid = {42784511},
issn = {1091-6490},
support = {NE/S011587/1//UKRI | Natural Environment Research Council (NERC)/ ; NA//Peterhouse, University of Cambridge/ ; NA//Department of Plant Sciences, University of Cambridge/ ; Discovery Grants//Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC)/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Introduced Species ; *Siphonaptera/physiology/genetics ; North America ; Lakes ; Ontario ; },
abstract = {Introduced species cause significant environmental impacts, making timely detection key for mitigation. The spiny water flea, Bythotrephes longimanus, is considered one of the most ecologically and economically destructive species in North American freshwaters. For decades, management focused on limiting its spread from the Laurentian Great Lakes, where it is believed to have been released via ballast water from trans-Atlantic ships entering the St. Lawrence Seaway in the 1980s. Combining microfossil analysis from [210]Pb-dated sediments, radiocarbon dating of chitinous remains, and sediment DNA, we show Bythotrephes was present at low densities in inland lakes in Ontario, Canada, at least 100 years earlier than initially reported. We then consider how its recent proliferation coincided with widespread environmental change and shifts in other processes influencing its establishment and population growth. These results challenge widely accepted assumptions about the history of Bythotrephes in North America and highlight the importance of temporal perspectives for managing species introductions and their impacts.},
}

Animals
*Introduced Species
*Siphonaptera/physiology/genetics
North America
Lakes
Ontario

@article {pmid42786433,
year = {2026},
author = {Gorshkova, E and Winkler, DE and Guenther, A and Böhmer, C},
title = {Behavioural, morphological and life-history adjustments in the early steps of colonising restricted semi-natural environments in wild house mice.},
journal = {BMC ecology and evolution},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42786433},
issn = {2730-7182},
mesh = {Animals ; Mice/physiology/anatomy & histology ; Male ; *Diet ; *Life History Traits ; Female ; *Behavior, Animal ; Ecosystem ; Environment ; Body Weight ; Adaptation, Physiological ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Invasive species often exhibit rapid adjustment and establishment in novel environments. However, the mechanisms underlying this process remain poorly understood, particularly during the early stages of invasion. Understanding how behavioural, morphological, and life-history traits vary across generations under different environmental conditions is important for identifying the factors that contribute to invasion success. We investigated how different diet compositions influence these traits across multiple generations (F0-F3) of wild house mice in semi-natural enclosures, with one enclosure assigned to each dietary regime. By experimentally altering the composition of the diet, we aimed to determine the role of diet as one of the specific components of the Island syndrome, which is associated with rapid adjustment to a novel habitat.

RESULTS: Our results showed that stress-coping behaviour did not differ significantly across diets or generations. However, the F0 generation exhibited lower body weight than subsequent generations, sperm count was higher in this generation as well, suggesting an immediate physiological response to altered dietary conditions to help with population establishment. Survival rates remained stable across generations for mice on Hard and Soft but decreased for animals on Veggie diet.

CONCLUSIONS: Overall, the findings suggest that early responses to invasion are driven more by phenotypic plasticity and life-history shifts, albeit not necessarily in an adaptive way.},
}

Animals
Mice/physiology/anatomy & histology
Male
*Diet
*Life History Traits
Female
*Behavior, Animal
Ecosystem
Environment
Body Weight
Adaptation, Physiological

@article {pmid42786992,
year = {2026},
author = {Rato, J and Matthys, S and Brandão, P and Hartmann, O and Canessa, S and Anastácio, P and Banha, F},
title = {After All, Size Does Matter: Size and Trachemys Scripta Reproduction Traits at the Western Limit of Its European Distribution.},
journal = {Integrative zoology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/1749-4877.70193},
pmid = {42786992},
issn = {1749-4877},
support = {2024.01395.BD//Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT, Portugal)/ ; CEEC/01896/2021//Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT, Portugal)/ ; UID/04292/2025//Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT, Portugal)/ ; LA/P/0069/2020//Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT, Portugal)/ ; 215308/SNSF_/Swiss National Science Foundation/Switzerland ; //Fundo Ambiental of the Portuguese Ministry of the Environment/ ; },
abstract = {In invasive species, reproductive success may determine invasion outcomes and influence the choice of appropriate control and eradication. Trachemys scripta (Schoepff, 1792) is one of the world's most widespread invasive turtle species. Although some previous studies have focused on T. scripta reproduction, both in native and in non-native ranges, only one study has been carried out in Portugal, which reported clutch sizes. The aim of this study is to determine which morphological traits affect reproductive traits of T. scripta in Algarve, Portugal. We used shell measurements and body condition to explain reproductive organ morphometrics, fecundity, and clutch size, using both generalized linear models and a Bayesian framework. Overall, in females, reproductive variables were only explained by plastron length, except for the number of stage IV follicles, which was also explained by body condition. In males, only the gonadosomatic index was explained by plastron length and plastron width as well as body condition index. Female T. scripta in Portugal showed a strong size-dependent reproductive relationship, with plastron length positively influencing all major reproductive traits. Our Bayesian analysis indicated that females reach sexual maturity at 15-18 cm. In males, morphology was poorly related to reproductive traits variation, although lower body condition was associated with larger gonads. These results show that environmental conditions in southern Portugal support successful reproduction, reinforcing the species' potential for long-term establishment. These findings highlight the importance of large reproductive females in driving population growth and provide essential demographic parameters for modeling and managing invasive T. scripta populations in Europe.},
}

@article {pmid42787247,
year = {2026},
author = {Cheung, K and Edwards, RJ and DeVore, JL and Ducatez, S and Hudson, CM and Shine, R and Rollins, LA},
title = {Similar Habitat Gradients Across Native and Invasive Ranges Elicit Divergent Evolutionary Responses.},
journal = {Ecology and evolution},
volume = {16},
number = {9},
pages = {e74407},
pmid = {42787247},
issn = {2045-7758},
abstract = {Knowledge about an invasive species' biology within its native range illuminates the underlying evolutionary processes that occur following introduction. Cane toads (Rhinella marina) were introduced to coastal Queensland in 1935 and continue to expand their range across Australia. Despite low genetic diversity, they have accelerated their expansion across novel, arid environments as they travelled westward, differing from their eastern Australian conspecifics in morphology, physiology, and behaviour. The recent discovery of two ecotypes (from wetter 'rainforest' and drier 'coastal' areas) in the native range raises the question of how much of this geographical variation in Australia is due to (a) selection following introduction as toads encountered environmental variation, or (b) sorting of native range alleles into the environments similar to those in the native range. We used morphological data of 296 native range toads to demonstrate body-size differences between ecotypes. Then we used genetic data of 93 native and invasive toads to investigate whether native-range ecotypes are genetically distinct and whether patterns of selection for wetter versus drier environments in native and invasive populations were similar. We found moderate population structure within the native range across space and environments. When contrasting environmental gradients in the native versus invasive ranges, we identified distinct, non-overlapping sets of outlier SNPs. Nearly 80% of outlier SNPs detected in the invasive range were polymorphic in the native range, suggesting that genetic patterns in invasive toads have been primarily driven by standing variation from the native range. This study provides insights into evolutionary patterns occurring during biological invasion, demonstrating distinct evolutionary responses to similar environments.},
}

@article {pmid42448939,
year = {2026},
author = {Lee, SR and Choi, TY},
title = {Genomic evidence for widespread hybridization and demographic history in invasive saltcedar.},
journal = {Heredity},
volume = {135},
number = {9},
pages = {712-726},
pmid = {42448939},
issn = {1365-2540},
mesh = {*Hybridization, Genetic ; *Introduced Species ; *Genetics, Population ; Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide ; *Tamaricaceae/genetics ; Phylogeny ; Genetic Variation ; Genome, Plant ; Ecosystem ; Southwestern United States ; },
abstract = {Biological invasions provide opportunities for previously isolated lineages to come into secondary contact, often resulting in hybridization. This process can generate admixed genomes and novel phenotypes, potentially contributing to invasion success. Here, we investigated invasive saltcedar (Tamarix spp.) in the southwestern United States using genome-wide SNP data from 319 individuals, including the parental lineages Tamarix chinensis and T. ramosissima. By integrating population genomics, ecological niche modeling, and demographic inference, we reconstructed the origins of invasive populations and characterized admixture across major river basins. Our results reveal that introduced populations are predominantly admixed, with varying ancestry contributions from both parental lineages. Multiple lines of evidence, including hybrid indices, f3-statistics, and phylogenetic network analyses, support extensive admixture among US populations. Demographic inference indicates a recent origin consistent with historical introduction records and suggests that admixed propagules were likely introduced and subsequently expanded. Furthermore, ecological niche analyses suggest significant differentiation and niche expansion in the introduced populations compared to their native parental counterparts. Together, these results demonstrate that hybridization, together with multiple introductions and demographic processes, contributed to the maintenance of neutral genetic diversity and may have facilitated the successful establishment of these invasive populations. More broadly, this study highlights how integrating genomic data with ecological niche analyses clarifies the evolutionary dynamics during biological invasions.},
}

*Hybridization, Genetic
*Introduced Species
*Genetics, Population
Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide
*Tamaricaceae/genetics
Phylogeny
Genetic Variation
Genome, Plant
Ecosystem
Southwestern United States

@article {pmid42769326,
year = {2026},
author = {Xing, W and Feng, Z and Huang, W and Li, X},
title = {Managing global risks of invasive aquatic plants under climate change: ensemble species distribution modeling and economic cost projections.},
journal = {Frontiers in plant science},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1895896},
pmid = {42769326},
issn = {1664-462X},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Invasive aquatic plants obstruct waterways, disrupt fisheries, and cause significant economic, social, and ecological impacts. Predicting their potential distribution and associated economic losses under climate change is critical for global risk management.

METHODS: This study aimed to predict the global potential distribution of four major invasive aquatic plants (Pontederia crassipes, Pistia stratiotes, Cabomba caroliniana, Alternanthera philoxeroides) and assess associated economic losses under current and future climates using species distribution modeling (Biomod2) and the Invacost database.

RESULTS: Current high‑suitability habitats for P. crassipes and P. stratiotes span South Asia, Africa, Europe, Oceania, and the Americas; A. philoxeroides concentrates in South Asia, the southeastern US, South America, and parts of Europe/Africa; C. caroliniana suitability is more limited to South/Southeast Asia and southeastern Americas. Future projections indicate significant northward expansion for all species, with P. crassipes and P. stratiotes experiencing the largest habitat increases (9.99% and 10.21%, respectively). Key environmental drivers include mean annual temperature, population density, and coldest season temperature. Global economic losses from 1990-2025 are estimated at $7,380.30 million (average $205.01 million/year), showing a rising trend.

DISCUSSION: This work provides critical insights for global monitoring, early detection, rapid response, and strategic management of invasive aquatic plants, offering theoretical support for invasion biology under climate change and informing policy decisions and public awareness efforts.},
}

@article {pmid42770172,
year = {2026},
author = {D'Ombrain, TH and Harrisson, KA and Pacioni, C and Hill, E and Murphy, NP},
title = {Development of a SNP Amplicon Panel for Invasive Deer Faecal Pellets and the Effects of Environmental Exposure on Genotyping Success.},
journal = {Ecology and evolution},
volume = {16},
number = {9},
pages = {e74388},
pmid = {42770172},
issn = {2045-7758},
abstract = {Non-invasive genetic sampling techniques hold great promise for wildlife monitoring but pose considerable challenges for obtaining genetic data. For faecal samples, mixed DNA from many organisms, low concentration, reaction inhibitors, and DNA degradation over time often hinder success. We aimed to develop a high-throughput, cost-effective faecal genotyping technique for monitoring invasive sambar deer (Cervus unicolor). We developed a multiplexed amplicon panel targeting 371 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers previously genotyped using restriction-site associated DNA sequencing, and three sex markers. To evaluate panel performance in faecal samples, we undertook a degradation trial assessing the effects of time (0, 2, 4, 7, and 14 days) on genotyping success under three conditions (outdoors on exposed ground, outdoors protected from rain and UV, and indoors). Fresh faecal samples performed equally to tissue, but environmental exposure rapidly degraded DNA. On average, exposed pellets were viable up to 4 days, with ~200 SNPs successfully genotyped, while protected samples were still viable after 14 days. In the field, we recommend sampling when there has been no rain for several days. We demonstrate that our method reliably ascertains individuals, sex, and species, with sufficient concordance among sample types and genotyping methods to support integration of faecal-derived genotypes with existing datasets. Using existing reduced-representation tissue sample data, we further demonstrate that the 200 SNPs reliably genotyped can resolve population structure and first-order kinship, aiding informed management. More broadly, the insights for cost-effective faecal DNA genotyping with optimised sample collection will benefit monitoring of both native wildlife and invasive species.},
}

@article {pmid42771110,
year = {2026},
author = {Dos-Reis, C and Delabie, JHC and Escobar, F},
title = {The Invasive African Dung Beetle Digitonthophagus gazella Dominates Pastures in the Threatened Caatinga Biome, Harming Native Dung Beetles.},
journal = {Neotropical entomology},
volume = {55},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42771110},
issn = {1678-8052},
support = {36296-1//Rufford Foundation/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Coleoptera ; Cattle ; Brazil ; *Introduced Species ; Biodiversity ; Ecosystem ; },
abstract = {The invasive African dung beetle Digitonthophagus gazella (Fabricius, 1787) has been introduced into South American cattle pastures, raising growing concerns regarding its ecological effects on native dung beetle communities. In this study, we evaluated the effects of D. gazella dominance on the native dung beetle fauna in 21 cattle pastures within the threatened Caatinga biome (Raso da Catarina ecoregion, Brazil). We examined how increasing D. gazella dominance affects native species richness, abundance, diversity, evenness, community composition, and the structure of different functional groups. Our results reveal strong negative effects of D. gazella predominance, including declines in species richness and abundance, significant losses in diversity of common and abundant species, and marked changes in species composition. Large-bodied and paracoprid functional groups were especially affected. Although D. gazella is efficient at removing cattle dung, its dominance in Neotropical pastures may drive biotic homogenization by suppressing native species, eroding functional diversity and creating potential environmental and economic impacts. These findings underscore the importance of long-term monitoring of D. gazella populations and native dung beetle-focused management in ecosystems across tropical America.},
}

Animals
*Coleoptera
Cattle
Brazil
*Introduced Species
Biodiversity
Ecosystem

@article {pmid42772766,
year = {2026},
author = {Hixon, S and Phelps, L and Rakotozafy, L and Crossland, Z and Prendergast, ME and Radimilahy, C and Wright, H and Amano, N and Boivin, N and Crowther, A and Douglass, K and Garbaras, A and George, R and Hüsges, SW and Janzen, A and Kennett, DJ and Randrianatoandro, H and Schirmer, S and Steinhof, A and Fernandes, R},
title = {Past rapid spread of introduced livestock coincided with vegetation clearance on Madagascar.},
journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences},
volume = {293},
number = {2079},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1098/rspb.2026.0668},
pmid = {42772766},
issn = {1471-2954},
support = {//Max Planck Society/ ; 206148/ERC_/European Research Council/International ; GRFP 2015213455//National Science Foundation/ ; DDRI 1838393//National Science Foundation/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; Madagascar ; *Diet ; *Introduced Species ; Ecosystem ; *Livestock/physiology ; Cattle ; Goats/physiology ; Carbon Isotopes/analysis ; Sheep/physiology ; Bone and Bones/chemistry ; Nitrogen Isotopes/analysis ; },
abstract = {Debates persist around the past and present effects of introduced livestock on the native biodiversity of Madagascar. Indeed, the variable habitat and past rate of spread of livestock across the island's distinct ecoregions are poorly known. Sets of 14C and stable isotope data from bovid bone collagen give a direct approach to estimating past introduction events and animal diet. We sampled more than 100 bovid bones collected at 23 sites across the island and present a compiled dataset of stable carbon and nitrogen isotope data from 126 specimens (94 of which are directly 14C-dated) belonging to Bos (cattle), Ovis (sheep) and Capra (goat). The earliest documented presence of bovids in the island's interior approximately 1200 years ago probably reflects a rapid spread of livestock across the island before the start of the past millennium. Isotopic data suggest that, since cattle introduction, these livestock have come to rely more on plants in increasingly wet habitat and approximately 10% more on carbon from some combination of C4 grasses or succulents that use crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM). We argue that a potential variety of causal mechanisms connect past changes in livestock diet with changes in climate, vegetation and endemic large herbivore abundance, and we highlight productive areas for future research.},
}

Animals
Madagascar
*Diet
*Introduced Species
Ecosystem
*Livestock/physiology
Cattle
Goats/physiology
Carbon Isotopes/analysis
Sheep/physiology
Bone and Bones/chemistry
Nitrogen Isotopes/analysis

@article {pmid42773634,
year = {2026},
author = {Reimer, A and O'Shaughnessy, KA and Sullivan, E and Vrolijk, S and Martin, CW},
title = {Short-term evaluation of "Cajun coating," a capsaicin-enhanced copper antifouling coating for reducing marine biofouling.},
journal = {Biofouling},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-12},
doi = {10.1080/08927014.2026.2734112},
pmid = {42773634},
issn = {1029-2454},
abstract = {Marine biofouling imposes significant operational and ecological costs for the maritime industry, including increased hydrodynamic drag, material degradation, and the spread of non-native species. This study investigated the use of cayenne pepper to reduce fouling on submerged hard substrate - a method sometimes used by recreational boat owners for anti-fouling and referred to as "Cajun coating." We ran a preliminary short-term efficacy study to evaluate whether capsaicin, the active ingredient in cayenne pepper, enhances the effectiveness of traditional copper-based antifouling coatings under in-situ conditions. Fiberglass-coated tiles were assigned six treatments (copper only, copper with 0.5%, 1%, or 2% capsaicin, copper plus methylated seed oil, and an uncoated tile control) and were deployed in the marine environment for six weeks in coastal Alabama. Nine taxa were recorded, with taxa richness highest on controls and lowest on 2% capsaicin tiles. Community composition differed significantly among treatments, with soft-bodied taxa (e.g. soft tube-dwelling polychaetes, hydroids) declining in response to capsaicin, whereas barnacles showed minimal response. Detritus and bare space generally increased with capsaicin concentration. Notably, bare space - perhaps the most relevant indicator of antifouling efficacy - was significantly greater in the 2% capsaicin treatment than in the copper treatments, indicating enhanced antifouling performance with incorporation of capsaicin. Largest differences were also seen between 1% and 2% capsaicin treatments, particularly in total mean taxa abundance and percent detritus. Overall, capsaicin enhanced antifouling performance in a concentration-dependent manner, particularly against soft-bodied taxa and increasing bare space, suggesting this approach has potential as an environmentally benign antifouling option. Our results provide preliminary in-situ research-based evidence for this low-technology and cost-effective approach to reduce marine biofouling on infrastructure and recreational vessels.},
}

@article {pmid42774626,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, H and Cheng, G and Niu, L and Shao, Y and Liu, F and Chen, Y and Tian, X and Yuan, Z},
title = {Spatiotemporal Dynamics and Climate Change Impacts on Massive Invasive Plants in Henan Province, China.},
journal = {Ecology and evolution},
volume = {16},
number = {9},
pages = {e73870},
pmid = {42774626},
issn = {2045-7758},
abstract = {Invasive alien plant species have attracted significant global attention due to their profound ecological disruptions and substantial economic losses. As a critical ecological barrier in the middle and lower reaches of the Yellow River, Henan Province has experienced increasing pressure from biological invasions that jeopardize local biodiversity and ecosystem integrity. In this study, we utilized the species distribution modeling framework to predict the potential geographic distributions of 17 massive invasive plant species under current and future climatic conditions. Our findings indicate that suitable habitats for these massive invasive plants are mainly concentrated in the western and southern regions of Henan. Currently, the high-risk areas, which are highly suitable for these 17 massive invasive plants, encompass 18.42% of the province's total land area. Under future climate scenarios for 2050, this area is projected to decrease to between 17.27% and 15.99%, with a maximum relative reduction of 13.17% occurring under the highest greenhouse gas emission scenario (SSP585). Furthermore, the results suggest an elevational shift from low to high altitudes in the future among these invasive species, accompanied by a southwestward migration. This research provides a scientific basis for risk assessment and the management of invasive species and offers valuable guidance for biodiversity conservation and ecosystem resilience in the context of global environmental change.},
}

@article {pmid42774751,
year = {2026},
author = {Schantz, AV and Stutz, R and Steinhoff, A and Peter, N and Thomas, A and Dörge, DD and Klimpel, S},
title = {Multi-year dietary and parasitological investigations of invasive Egyptian geese (Alopochen aegyptiaca) in central Germany.},
journal = {International journal for parasitology. Parasites and wildlife},
volume = {31},
number = {},
pages = {101288},
pmid = {42774751},
issn = {2213-2244},
abstract = {The Egyptian goose Alopochen aegyptiaca, native to Africa, was introduced to Europe between the 17th and 20th centuries as an ornamental and park bird. Since then, it has spread widely and has reached very high population densities in several countries, including Germany. In 2017, it was listed as an invasive alien species of Union concern, because its continued spread may have ecological impacts. To investigate its feeding ecology and parasite fauna, 100 Egyptian geese from the Wetterau region in Hesse, Germany, were examined over four years. Their diet consisted mainly of plant material, particularly corn, grasses and grains, but also included animal components such as mussel fragments and annelids. Parasitological analyses identified six ectoparasite and eleven endoparasite species. Anaticola asymmetricus, Anatoecus dentatus, Echinostoma revolutum, Notocotylus attenuatus and Polymorphus minutus occurred in all study years and were classified as key species. The dietary results indicate opportunistic use of abundant and easily accessible resources, with temporary preferences for certain resources in the study area. The parasite fauna was highly diverse and substantially expands the known parasite spectrum of the Egyptian goose, including seven first records for Europe. Combining dietary and parasitological analyses demonstrated that animal components constitute a certain proportion of the diet and enables inferences about earlier feeding events. Food availability and parasite occurrence are likely influenced by ecosystem conditions, the presence of potential intermediate and definitive hosts and climatic conditions. Overall, this study provides a comprehensive overview of the feeding ecology and parasite fauna of Egyptian geese in the study area and broadens current knowledge of their parasites in Germany and Europe.},
}

@article {pmid42776570,
year = {2026},
author = {Grady, BR and Dupuis, JR and Blasing, MT and DeVries, ZC},
title = {Turkestan cockroaches: History, invasion, and future threats.},
journal = {Journal of economic entomology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/jee/toag284},
pmid = {42776570},
issn = {1938-291X},
support = {//The Bill Gatton Foundation/ ; 7010213//Kentucky Agricultural Experiment Station/ ; //US Department of Agriculture's (USDA) National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA)/ ; //Pest Management Foundation/ ; },
abstract = {Turkestan cockroaches (Periplaneta lateralis Walker) have achieved a cosmopolitan distribution since the 1970s, rapidly spreading across the globe. Despite this rapid spread, there remains limited information on their biology, expansion, and the new threats they pose to society. Therefore, it is necessary to synthesize the information gathered thus far to obtain a complete view of the dangers posed by this invasive cockroach. Drawing on information synthesized across a century of research, we find that the Turkestan cockroach poses a substantial hazard to humans for several key reasons: (i) the cockroach has a recognized but understudied ability to transmit pathogens; (ii) these cockroaches are commonly traded in the pet industry with little to no regulation; and (iii) there is evidence suggesting that these cockroaches are moving into areas outside of their current habitat, necessitating new mitigation strategies for new environments. Therefore, this article seeks to broaden understanding of the basic biology, best pest management practices, and potential for disease transmission of the Turkestan cockroach, in order to more effectively address this emerging threat.},
}

@article {pmid42778797,
year = {2026},
author = {Khanna, S and Gaeta, JW and Hoffmann, K and Ustin, SL},
title = {Multi-Year Regional-Scale Efficacy Assessment of Two Herbicides for Treatment of Invasive Floating Aquatic Vegetation in a California Estuary.},
journal = {Environmental management},
volume = {76},
number = {10},
pages = {},
pmid = {42778797},
issn = {1432-1009},
mesh = {*Herbicides ; Glyphosate ; California ; *Glycine/analogs & derivatives ; *Estuaries ; *2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic Acid ; Ecosystem ; *Introduced Species ; Environmental Monitoring ; },
abstract = {Invasive aquatic macrophytes are a major threat to estuarine ecosystems globally. This study examined the efficacy of a program for treating invasive Floating Aquatic Vegetation (FAV) using two herbicides, glyphosate and 2,4- Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D), over two five-year periods. The efficacy of both these herbicides has rarely been studied in tidal aquatic environments that are much more challenging to treat. This study combined multi-year image datasets, spray location and herbicide application data to examine the efficacy of the treatment program at the scale of the full ecosystem in a tidally dynamic estuary. The objectives of the study were 1) to determine if the herbicides type, application rate and frequency had an impact on efficacy, 2) if efficacy depended on the kind of habitat that was treated and the treatment history of the site, and finally, 3) if the impact lasted years after treatment. The results show that within the year of application, probability of FAV presence reduced as herbicide application rate increased. Both herbicide treatments were most effective in slow-flow shallow open-water habitats, and least effective in fast-flowing channel habitats. Treating with glyphosate had legacy effects that were detectable even three years after treatment but only in some habitats. For either herbicide, treating at a higher concentration in fewer visits was more effective than treating at a lower concentration over multiple visits to the same site.},
}

*Herbicides
Glyphosate
California
*Glycine/analogs & derivatives
*Estuaries
*2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic Acid
Ecosystem
*Introduced Species
Environmental Monitoring

@article {pmid42762483,
year = {2026},
author = {Muller, JA and López, K and Reinhold, JM and Tanelus, M and Lahondère, C and Paulson, SE and Mire, CE and Auguste, AJ},
title = {Mosquito diversity, range-expanding species, and host-feeding patterns across Virginia's heterogeneous landscapes.},
journal = {Journal of medical entomology},
volume = {63},
number = {5},
pages = {},
pmid = {42762483},
issn = {1938-2928},
support = {//Center for Emerging Zoonotic and Arthropod-borne Pathogens at Virginia Tech/ ; 7009229//United States Department of Agriculture National Institute of Food and Agriculture/ ; # 58-3022-4-044//the United States Department of Agriculture Agricultural Research Service/ ; R01 AI153433/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; //College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Virginia Tech/ ; /HHMI/Howard Hughes Medical Institute/United States ; R01AI153433/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; },
mesh = {Animals ; Virginia ; *Culicidae/physiology ; Feeding Behavior ; *Biodiversity ; *Animal Distribution ; *Mosquito Vectors/physiology ; },
abstract = {Understanding how mosquito community, host use, and environmental drivers vary across landscapes is critical for predicting vector‑borne disease risk. Virginia spans multiple ecoregions and broad elevational gradient, yet statewide surveillance remains limited and concentrated near urban centers. To address surveillance gaps, we surveyed mosquitoes across four ecologically distinct sites in Virginia during 2022 to evaluate species diversity, bloodfeeding patterns, and environmental predictors of occurrence. Using CDC light traps, gravid traps, and supplemental aspiration, we collected 7,781 mosquitoes representing 34 species. Community composition varied significantly among sites: the Coastal Plain exhibited the greatest abundance and richness, while montane and urban sites supported lower but distinct assemblages. Several medically important and invasive species-including Aedes albopictus (Skuse), Aedes japonicus (Theobald), Culex pipiens/quinquefasciatus, Culiseta inornata (Williston), and the range-expanding Culex coronator (Dyar & Knab) and Culex nigripalpus (Theobald) were detected, providing new regional records beyond previously documented localities. Bloodmeal analysis from 18 specimens revealed predominantly mammalian feeding, with white‑tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus [Zimmermann]) comprising over 80% of identified hosts across taxa. Avian and amphibian hosts occurred at lower frequencies, indicating diverse host-vector interactions relevant to enzootic transmission. Random forest models identified elevation and trap type as the strongest predictors of species-specific occurrence, with climatic factors exerting secondary effects. Together, these findings show that mosquito distribution and host selection in Virginia are shaped by interacting ecological and environmental drivers, underscoring the need for expanded, ecologically informed surveillance to improve assessments of vector‑borne disease risk in the region.},
}

Animals
Virginia
*Culicidae/physiology
Feeding Behavior
*Biodiversity
*Animal Distribution
*Mosquito Vectors/physiology

@article {pmid42762485,
year = {2026},
author = {Puertas, M and Allerdice, MEJ and Bezjian, M and Paddock, CD and Goddard, J and Nicholson, WL and Snellgrove, AN},
title = {Ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) and tickborne pathogens (Rickettsiales) associated with hosts at Zoo Miami.},
journal = {Journal of medical entomology},
volume = {63},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/jme/tjag147},
pmid = {42762485},
issn = {1938-2928},
support = {//National Science Foundation/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; Florida ; *Ixodidae/microbiology/physiology ; *Animals, Zoo ; *Rickettsiales/isolation & purification ; Amblyomma/microbiology ; Female ; Rickettsia/isolation & purification ; },
abstract = {Incidence of tickborne diseases is increasing in the United States, with nearly half a million cases estimated to occur annually. The rising burden of tickborne disease in the United States underscores the need to investigate the presence and prevalence of tick species and associated pathogens. Southern Florida serves as an introductory point for non-native invasive reptiles, amphibians, and ectoparasites due to the region's international ports and tropical climate. At Zoo Miami, visitors are near exhibit animals and free-living invasive species, including cane toads and green iguanas. This study identified ticks removed from reptiles and amphibians at Zoo Miami and analyzed these ticks for bacteria in the order Rickettsiales. 309 ticks were collected over a 2-year period (October 2022 to November 2024; Amblyomma dissimile Koch, 1844 (266/309), Amblyomma rotundatum Koch, 1844 (41/309), and A. tuberculatum Marx, 1894 (2/309). Rickettsia spp. DNA (Rickettsiales: Rickettsiaceae) was identified in A. dissimile (4.14%) and A. rotundatum (4.88%), including a Rickettsia species similar to several strains of R. parkeri based on a portion of the ompA gene. Three ticks contained Anaplasmataceae DNA (Rickettsiales: Anaplasmataceae), including 1 Ehrlichia chaffeensis-positive A. rotundatum, and 1 A. dissimile containing E. canis-like DNA. This study represents the first report to jointly describe ticks and their rickettsial bacteria from Zoo Miami, including novel host records for A. dissimile and A. rotundatum. Paired with identification of an ehrlichial pathogen, these novel host associations highlight the importance of tick surveillance for pathogens of public health concern in zoos and other animal facilities in southern Florida.},
}

Animals
Florida
*Ixodidae/microbiology/physiology
*Animals, Zoo
*Rickettsiales/isolation & purification
Amblyomma/microbiology
Female
Rickettsia/isolation & purification

@article {pmid42764477,
year = {2026},
author = {Wells, CD and Smith, SR and Kardos, M and Amish, SJ and Lodmell, A and Painter, S and Stephens, B and Dunnigan, J and Relyea, S and Nachtmann, J and Hohenlohe, PA and Boyer, MC and Kovach, RP and Whiteley, AR},
title = {Inversion Polymorphisms Carried by Introduced Rainbow Trout Disrupt Hybrid Zones Between Native Species.},
journal = {Molecular ecology},
volume = {35},
number = {18},
pages = {e70556},
pmid = {42764477},
issn = {1365-294X},
support = {199500400//Bonneville Power Administration/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Oncorhynchus mykiss/genetics ; *Hybridization, Genetic ; Genotype ; Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide ; *Introduced Species ; Haplotypes ; *Genetics, Population ; Montana ; *Chromosome Inversion ; },
abstract = {Genomic mechanisms explaining why some hybrid zones remain stable while others collapse into hybrid swarms are poorly understood. In Montana's Kootenai River Basin, native interior redband trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss gairdneri; IRT) and westslope cutthroat trout (O. lewisi; WCT) are naturally sympatric and historically exhibited limited hybridization. However, the introduction of allopatric coastal rainbow trout (O. m. ssp.; CRT) has coincided with hybrid swarm formation. Using novel IRT linkage maps and 3489 individuals genotyped at 189,984 SNPs, we characterized the role of genome structure in hybridization among native and invasive taxa. Native IRT were fixed for the derived arrangement of a double inversion complex on chromosome 5 (Chr05), whereas introduced CRT and intraspecific hybrids retained the ancestral polymorphism associated with migratory behaviour. Widespread hybridization was primarily driven by intraspecific admixture among rainbow trout (RBT) taxa, rather than with other species, likely mediated by genomic structural variants introduced into IRT populations via CRT admixture. Specifically, Chr05 genotypes exhibited strong habitat stratification; migratory-associated haplotypes occurred primarily in migration-associated habitats, implicating dispersal as a key mechanism promoting introgression. We found evidence of selection against interspecific hybrids, possibly tied to interspecific inversions. Notably, WCT carried a distinct form of Chr05 that is colinear with the ancestral RBT form. Interspecific hybrids carrying both the WCT and ancestral RBT forms (WCTA/RBTA), despite being structurally homozygous, were rare (1.59%), suggesting selection or stronger genomic incompatibility. Ultimately, introduced intraspecific variation may facilitate introgression via dispersal while distinct interspecific structural arrangements maintain genomic barriers, restricting gene flow.},
}

Animals
*Oncorhynchus mykiss/genetics
*Hybridization, Genetic
Genotype
Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide
*Introduced Species
Haplotypes
*Genetics, Population
Montana
*Chromosome Inversion

@article {pmid42764641,
year = {2026},
author = {Feuka, AB and Raymond, WS and Guerrant, T and Angerer, C and Farrar, R and Jump, B and Dykstra, A and Pepin, KM},
title = {Estimating invasive species elimination probability and abundance trends using multiple operational data streams.},
journal = {Ecological applications : a publication of the Ecological Society of America},
volume = {36},
number = {6},
pages = {e70310},
doi = {10.1002/eap.70310},
pmid = {42764641},
issn = {1051-0761},
support = {//United States Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Introduced Species ; Missouri ; Models, Biological ; *Sus scrofa ; Population Dynamics ; *Environmental Monitoring/methods ; *Conservation of Natural Resources ; Population Density ; Swine ; },
abstract = {Models of species distribution and abundance are important for evaluating and planning regional management of species with heterogeneous densities. Feral swine (Sus scrofa) are a widespread and destructive invasive species in many countries, causing damage to ecosystems, agricultural resources, and property, as well as being a vector of numerous diseases that pose risk to human, livestock, and wildlife health. In the United States, the state of Missouri has a spatially heterogeneous distribution of feral swine, with some regions of moderate to high density and some regions at or near elimination. Thus evaluating management progress requires methods that can track changes in species abundance and distribution concurrently across the landscape. To address this need, we developed a joint occupancy-removal model to estimate elimination probability at a watershed scale and abundance trends at an aggregated, elimination area scale. We fit operational data collected from southern Missouri's feral swine monitoring program in conjunction with removal data from October of 2020 to December 2024. The spatial extent of feral swine elimination remained relatively constant over the study period (24%-29% of the study area having an elimination probability >0.95), and elimination areas with high amounts of feral swine removed exhibited trends in feral swine density ranging from -19.2% to 40.9% population changes within watersheds per year. Posterior mean population growth rate, excluding removals, was negatively influenced by oak tree cover and northing. Running systematic baiting stations at densities of one trap per mi[2] for 45 days could determine a 95% probability of feral swine elimination at the watershed level within a season, but densities of one station per two or four mi[2] for 45 days could not. We created a web application that allows interactive exploration of our model inference for understanding trends in occupancy and abundance and planning ongoing management. Our approach leverages multiple data types to evaluate efficacy of invasive species management across the continuum from abundance to elimination and provides a tool for prioritizing monitoring and removal efforts.},
}

Animals
*Introduced Species
Missouri
Models, Biological
*Sus scrofa
Population Dynamics
*Environmental Monitoring/methods
*Conservation of Natural Resources
Population Density
Swine

@article {pmid42765192,
year = {2026},
author = {Pelosi, JA and Yañez, A and Veldhuisen, LN and Dant, AJ and Northing, PC and Bland, RGW and Testo, WL and Dlugosch, KM},
title = {Testing fundamental hypotheses of colonization success in the ferns.},
journal = {Annals of botany},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/aob/mcag299},
pmid = {42765192},
issn = {1095-8290},
abstract = {BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Non-native species are now ubiquitous members of regional floras. The factors that lead to establishment and dominance of non-native species are continuously debated. Fundamental hypotheses about drivers of invasion success include the role of phylogeny, polyploidy, genome size, and rapid niche evolution. These hypotheses have been tested in the seed plants, but ferns, the second largest group of vascular plants, have rarely been considered in these analyses, despite making up a non-trivial portion of non-native floras.

METHODS: We compiled a dataset of global non-native ferns and categorized them along the invasion spectrum using descriptions from the literature and natural history collections. Using this dataset, we assessed I) the taxonomic diversity and phylogenetic clustering of non-native ferns, II) the geographic distribution of fern introductions, testing for shifts in climatic niches, and III) test for the association of 'invader' traits across the invasion continuum, including smaller genome sizes and higher ploidal levels.

KEY RESULTS: We generated a dataset that includes 93 taxa; of these, we classified 19 as casual, 43 as naturalized (but not invasive), and 31 as invasive. Using this dataset, we found I) weak or no phylogenetic clustering of non-native ferns, II) some regions are overrepresented as sources and recipients of documented introductions, III) in a set of well-documented invasive taxa, climatic niches are often conserved between native and introduced ranges, but can differ between introductions, IV) naturalized ferns may have smaller genomes, and V) invaders may have higher ploidal levels, though the analyses in IV and V are sensitive to cytotype treatment.

CONCLUSIONS: We integrated regional floras, occurrence and climate data, phylogeny, and cytology to test fundamental hypotheses regarding the colonization success of ferns. This study provides insights into the ecological, genomic, and phylogenetic features associated with the colonization of new habitats by non-native ferns, a largely overlooked portion of non-native plant taxa.},
}

@article {pmid42767653,
year = {2026},
author = {Romer, AS and Miller, MA and Balaguera-Reina, SA and Bassis, MC and Welty, B and Kirkland, M and Peters, A and Metzger, EF and Cole, J and Rodgers, L and Mazzotti, FJ},
title = {Prioritizing removals of a highly cryptic invasive species using machine learning and demographic weighting.},
journal = {Ecological applications : a publication of the Ecological Society of America},
volume = {36},
number = {6},
pages = {e70317},
pmid = {42767653},
issn = {1939-5582},
support = {4600004071//South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD)/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Introduced Species ; *Machine Learning ; Florida ; *Boidae/physiology ; *Conservation of Natural Resources/methods ; Models, Biological ; Predictive Learning Models ; Demography ; },
abstract = {Invasive species present substantial challenges to biodiversity conservation, particularly when low detectability and demographic heterogeneity obscure the population-level consequences of management actions. Invasive Burmese pythons (Python bivittatus) in South Florida exemplify this challenge, as metrics based on raw removals or body size alone may not reflect demographic impacts. To address this, we introduce the Weighted Removal Index (WRI), a demographic weighting framework that prioritizes removals based on expected contributions to survival and reproduction. Using survey data from the South Florida Water Management District's Python Elimination Program, we quantified operational and environmental conditions associated with higher survey WRI, defined as the summed WRI of all pythons captured on a single survey, and evaluated three forecasting approaches: Generalized Additive Models (GAMs), Boosted Regression Trees (BRT), and Neural Networks (NN). Survey WRI was highest under waning lunar phases, when surveys were assisted, and under warmer and more humid conditions. Additionally, survey WRI was elevated on warm days early in the wet season and cool dry-season days. In held-out test evaluation, the NN achieved the highest balanced accuracy for predicting survey success (0.703), and the lowest error for predicting survey WRI (root mean squared error [RMSE] = 5.50). Contractor performance was highly heterogeneous, with contractor-specific effects positively associated with mean survey WRI (R[2] = 0.589) and capture rate (R[2] = 0.596). Notably, model-based predictions of survey success fell within the upper tail of the contractor capture-rate distribution, indicating that near-term forecasting can match the performance of the highest performing contractors. Together, demographic weighting and near-term forecasting provide a practical decision-support framework for guiding effort toward high-impact removals in cryptic invader management.},
}

Animals
*Introduced Species
*Machine Learning
Florida
*Boidae/physiology
*Conservation of Natural Resources/methods
Models, Biological
Predictive Learning Models
Demography

@article {pmid42767708,
year = {2026},
author = {Baker, MS and Trussell, GC},
title = {Regional variation in within- and transgenerational responses to an invasive predator.},
journal = {Ecology},
volume = {107},
number = {9},
pages = {e70523},
pmid = {42767708},
issn = {1939-9170},
support = {//Henry L. and Grace Doherty Charitable Foundation/ ; //Ruth D. Turner Foundation/ ; OCE-2017626//National Science Foundation/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Predatory Behavior/physiology ; *Introduced Species ; *Brachyura/physiology ; *Snails/physiology ; Food Chain ; },
abstract = {When confronted with environmental stress, individuals may enhance their fitness by altering their phenotype via within-generation plasticity (WGP) or their offspring's phenotype via transgenerational plasticity (TGP). Despite growing appreciation of TGP in adapting to environmental change, our understanding of how it may vary geographically among populations having different eco-evolutionary histories remains limited. In the Gulf of Maine, the carnivorous snail, Nucella lapillus, must solve the foraging-predation risk trade-off by reducing their vulnerability to invasive predatory green crabs while also acquiring the food necessary to survive. Nucella populations in the southern Gulf have been in contact with green crabs for ~125 years and are able to forage on an abundant supply of food. By contrast, populations in the northern Gulf have had limited contact with green crabs until ~25 years ago and must persist on a very limited food supply. In the southern Gulf, Nucella are known to exhibit TGP in response to green crab risk cues, but how these responses may vary along a spatiotemporal gradient in invasion history and food availability is unknown. We collected Nucella from six populations (three northern, three southern) and evaluated WGP and TGP in response to green crab predation risk in an 18-month laboratory experiment. We detected regional variation in Nucella life history traits, the expression of both forms of plasticity in response to predation risk, and Nucella foraging on key basal resources. Our results support the hypothesis that low food availability in the northern Gulf may reduce the sensitivity of northern Nucella to predation risk. Hence, geographic variation in TGP in response to predation risk may be shaped by regional differences in other factors such as food availability, thereby yielding outcomes not well predicted by current TGP theory.},
}

Animals
*Predatory Behavior/physiology
*Introduced Species
*Brachyura/physiology
*Snails/physiology
Food Chain

@article {pmid42768054,
year = {2026},
author = {Lundgren, EJ and Nakagawa, S and Trepel, J and Raymond, S and le Roux, E and Wooster, EIF and Svenning, JC},
title = {Native and introduced megafauna have convergent effects on animals and ecosystems: a meta-analysis.},
journal = {Nature communications},
volume = {17},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42768054},
issn = {2041-1723},
support = {DNRF173//Danmarks Grundforskningsfond (Danish National Research Foundation)/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Ecosystem ; Soil/chemistry ; *Herbivory/physiology ; *Introduced Species ; Africa ; },
abstract = {Introduced large herbivores (henceforth megafauna) are thought to have 'harmful' effects on ecosystems by disrupting coevolutionary dynamics. If this is the case, their effects should be distinct from those of native megafauna. We use a systematic meta-analytic dataset of 3,532 observations from 235 articles to test whether there is any difference between the effects of native, introduced, and invasive megafauna on animals, soil, and a variety of ecosystem processes. Among 32 ecological responses, we only find moderate evidence that invasive megafauna have more neutral effects on soil compaction than native megafauna. We then compare the effects of introduced megafauna to intact African megafauna assemblages, the closest proxies for the communities that dominated Earth's continents for millions of years. We find moderate evidence that introduced megafauna reduces soil magnesium more than African megafauna, but no differences among the other responses. Our results suggest that nativeness is unlikely to be a biological attribute of megafauna. While the effects of introduced megafauna may seem unusual in reference to modern defaunated baselines, we suggest that broader lenses-and objective research across the cascading indirect effects of megafauna-will help us better understand the role of introduced megafauna in a time of rising global novelty.},
}

Animals
*Ecosystem
Soil/chemistry
*Herbivory/physiology
*Introduced Species
Africa

@article {pmid42754581,
year = {2026},
author = {Nagy, DU and Callaway, RM and Luke Flory, S and Barratt, CD and Durka, W and Lekberg, Y and Lucas, MS and Michalski, SG and Onstein, RE and Pal, RW and Selke, J and Thoma, AE and Al-Gharaibeh, MM and Al-Namazi, AA and Andraca-Gómez, G and Olsson, PA and Baasanmunkh, S and Babaei, S and Bastida, F and Bennett, JA and Brunharo, C and Cullen, DA and Donnelly, RC and Ennis, A and Ensing, DJ and Eren, Ö and Fazlioglu, F and Filep, R and Flessner, M and Frazee, LJ and González, L and Gudžinskas, Z and Matt Guilliams, C and Hajdari, A and Haramoto, ER and Haughian, SR and Mason Heberling, J and Hensen, I and Holden, EM and Jandová, K and Jhala, A and Jia, X and Jun, L and Kaproth, MA and Kassem, H and Khabbach, A and Khasa, DP and Koski, MH and Kožić, K and Krigas, N and La Bella, G and Lasky, JR and Lee, B and Leger, E and Lemly, JM and Libiad, M and Lorenzo, P and Lozano, V and Lucero, JE and Makhkamov, T and Marchante, E and Marchante, H and Marshall, V and Moffat, CE and Moore, AJ and Nagy, S and Nersesyan, A and Novikov, A and Okada, M and Oprea, A and Otfinowski, R and Papikyan, A and Proctor, CA and Ramula, S and Rauschert, ESJ and Reatini, B and Rixen, C and Rush, S and Rutten, G and Sadeghpour, A and Samartza, I and Sarmati, S and Scheepens, JF and Shah, MA and Sheng, M and Sikkema, P and Silliman, C and Slate, ML and St Clair, SB and Stein, C and Stevermer, K and Suzuki, SN and Tashpulatov, Y and Tsunoda, T and Turginov, O and Vakhlamova, T and van Dam, NM and Wagner, V and Westberg, L and Xiao, S and Zhang, Z and Rosche, C},
title = {Rapid and repeated evolution of increased competitive ability in a global invader.},
journal = {Nature communications},
volume = {17},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42754581},
issn = {2041-1723},
support = {324775//National Natural Science Foundation of China (National Science Foundation of China)/ ; RO 648//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (German Research Foundation)/ ; DFG-FZT 8, 20254886//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (German Research Foundation)/ ; },
mesh = {*Biological Evolution ; *Introduced Species ; Droughts ; Genotype ; Adaptation, Physiological ; },
abstract = {Rapid adaptive evolution can increase the competitive ability of invasive species in their non-native ranges. However, whether this increase is a general response and what drives it remain uncertain because the evidence is largely based on studies with limited sampling, inadequate consideration of population co-ancestry, and oversimplified estimates of competitive ability. We conduct a large-scale glasshouse experiment testing the effects of competition and drought on 100 native and 165 non-native populations of Erigeron canadensis, all genotyped to account for co-ancestry. Plants from non-native populations are significantly more competitive against other species than the conspecifics from native populations under both mesic and dry conditions. Genetic clustering indicates that the rapid evolution of competitive ability occurs independently in two out of four clusters in the non-native range. This advantage is present only during interspecific interactions and is absent during intraspecific competition. Repeated evolution of increased competitive ability suggests that adaptation following introduction can reshape species interactions and promote invasion success, even under future drought conditions, highlighting the importance of rapid evolution in determining the ecological impacts of invasive plants.},
}

*Biological Evolution
*Introduced Species
Droughts
Genotype
Adaptation, Physiological

@article {pmid42755066,
year = {2026},
author = {Kupferman, CA and DeNicola, A and Sumrall, A and Beasley, JC},
title = {Efficacy of deterrents in minimizing nontarget species consumption of bait used for attracting wild pigs (Sus scrofa).},
journal = {Pest management science},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/ps.71316},
pmid = {42755066},
issn = {1526-4998},
support = {//University of Georgia/ ; //White Buffalo, Inc./ ; //U.S. Department of Energy/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Wild pigs (Sus scrofa) are an invasive species that cause environmental and agricultural damage. Trapping is a common management tool, but baits often attract nontarget species, reducing bait availability and trap effectiveness. Using remote cameras, we compared untreated corn with corn treated with egg-garlic repellent (EGR), blood meal, synthetic capsaicin and natural capsaicin to evaluate whether deterrents could reduce nontarget bait consumption while maintaining wild pig visits.

RESULTS: Generalized linear mixed models revealed white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) consumed corn less frequently at all treatments except low concentration synthetic capsaicin and spent less time consuming moderate-concentration EGR bait. Wild pig and raccoon (Procyon lotor) bait consumption frequency did not differ among treatments, although wild pigs spent more time consuming blood meal bait and less time consuming high concentration synthetic capsaicin than untreated corn.

CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that white-tailed deer visitations can be reduced at bait sites treated with deterrents without significantly reducing wild pig visitations, but none consistently reduced raccoon or wild turkey consumption. Thus, deterrents can improve wild pig baiting effectiveness by deterring some nontarget species to minimize bait loss and improve trapping efficiency for wild pig management. © 2026 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.},
}

@article {pmid42757405,
year = {2026},
author = {Rana, SK and Davenport, GL and Awad, S and Webb, DJ and Esposito, SG and Nguyen, CD and Renne, IJ},
title = {Native and Introduced Plants in a Managed Campus Landscape: Habitat Associations, Functional Overlap, and Taxonomic Patterns.},
journal = {Ecology and evolution},
volume = {16},
number = {9},
pages = {e74348},
pmid = {42757405},
issn = {2045-7758},
abstract = {Managed landscapes support diverse vascular plant assemblages, with composition shaped by both regional species pools and human planting and maintenance. This study assessed floristic composition, habitat associations, growth forms, and taxonomic structure of vascular plants across managed landscapes on the Youngstown State University (YSU) campus, Ohio. In total, 112 species from 56 families were recorded, comprising 77 introduced and 35 native taxa. Introduced species were disproportionately associated with managed habitats, particularly flowerbeds and beds, while native species occurred more frequently than expected in lawns. Life-form composition also differed between nativity groups, with native assemblages dominated by woody species (~63%) and introduced assemblages enriched in herbaceous and shrubby taxa (~61%). Trait-based clustering revealed substantial overlap between native and introduced species in functional-taxonomic space, although introduced taxa were concentrated within a limited number of species-rich families. These findings demonstrate clear association among species origin, habitat type, growth form, and taxonomic composition within this managed campus landscape. The observed patterns suggest a strong influence of horticultural selection and landscape management on campus floristic composition. However, the observational, single-season design does not allow for the distinction of demographic processes, propagule pressure, competitive interactions, or invasion dynamics. Managed campuses therefore provide valuable case-study systems for documenting the distribution of native and introduced floras under intensive human management and for developing hypotheses that can be tested through longitudinal and demographic research.},
}

@article {pmid42759590,
year = {2026},
author = {Ceballos-Vázquez, DM and Nightingale, J and Yebra-Montes, C and South, J and Landa-Cansigno, O and Lugo-Melchor, OY and Coronado-Apodaca, KG and Barrios-Pina, H and Díaz-Torres, O},
title = {Pesticides and metal contaminants in Lake Chapala, Mexico: Differences in bioaccumulation and associated health risks.},
journal = {Environmental research},
volume = {308},
number = {Pt 2},
pages = {125693},
doi = {10.1016/j.envres.2026.125693},
pmid = {42759590},
issn = {1096-0953},
abstract = {Lake Chapala, Mexico's largest freshwater lake and primary drinking water source for approximately 5 million people, lacks comprehensive pesticide and metal contamination assessment across compartments. Unlike previous single-matrix or single-class studies, this is the first seasonal multi-matrix assessment of 17 pesticides and 8 heavy metals in water, sediment, and fish across eight stations over four hydroclimatic periods (2024-2025). The study targets the Poncitlán CKD hotspot and compares bioaccumulation patterns between native (Ictalurus dugesii) and invasive (Oreochromis aureus, Cyprinus carpio, Micropterus salmoides) fish species. Pesticide concentrations peaked at rainy season onset, with diuron (2824 ng/L), atrazine (1649 ng/L), and DDT/DDD detected at all sites. Glyphosate peaked during rain cessation (234,358.62 ng/L), suggesting erosion-dependent transport. These first multi-matrix seasonal patterns show that rainfall timing drives chemical mobilization and risk. Cadmium and lead exceeded Mexican regulatory limits in interstitial water at the Santiago-Zula confluence. Benthic-feeding fish accumulated significantly higher zinc (26.6 mg/kg) than pelagic species, irrespective of invasion status. A statistical correlation was observed between glyphosate and zinc in fish tissue, suggesting a possible co-occurrence pattern warranting further mechanistic validation. Ecological risk (ΣRQ) peaked during the rainy season (ΣRQ = 935.9), driven by DDD and diuron, with persistent year-round risk (ΣRQ 3.2-10.2). Although fish consumption hazard quotients were <1, multi-pathway community burden requires future study. These findings provide the first integrated baseline for this CKD-affected region and underscore the need for seasonal, multi-matrix surveillance that includes invasive species and co-contaminant interactions.},
}

@article {pmid42747169,
year = {2026},
author = {Karrenberg, S and Barni, E and Bossdorf, O and Danko, H and Giaccone, E and Parepa, M and Richards, CL and Sebesta, N and Irimia, R},
title = {Failure to invest below-ground may limit the northern expansion of invasive knotweed: lessons from a two-phase transplant experiment.},
journal = {Journal of evolutionary biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/jeb/voag087},
pmid = {42747169},
issn = {1420-9101},
abstract = {The ecological and evolutionary processes determining species distributions and range limits remain poorly understood. Ultimately, range limits depend on the species' abilities to persist under heterogeneous conditions, by adaptive differentiation and phenotypic plasticity, including transgenerational effects. To investigate ecological differentiation and transgenerational effects in the clonal invasive knotweed, Reynoutria japonica, in its introduced range in Europe, we analyzed biomass production in a two-phase transplant experiment: plants sampled along a latitudinal gradient were planted in three sites located at the northern range margin, mid-range and near the southern range margin, and then re-transplanted among all three sites after two years. Biomass production and allocation in the second transplant phase were generally not associated with latitude of origin, and previous growth at the same site did not promote performance. We therefore found no evidence that adaptive differentiation or adaptive transgenerational effects contribute to the wide distribution of R. japonica in Europe. However, at the northern site, with a 25% shorter season, knotweed plants invested much less biomass below-ground, even though overwintering below-ground rhizomes are essential for the species' survival and spread. The pattern was further strengthened in plants that had grown in the northern site in the previous generation. We further explored limiting climate conditions in a species distribution model for the European range and found that mean annual temperature and temperature annual range are the main predictors of the European distribution of R. japonica. Taken together, our study suggests that low temperatures and associated short growing seasons may pose a limit to the broad environmental tolerance of R. japonica and restrict its northward spread by reducing below-ground biomass accumulation.},
}

@article {pmid42748185,
year = {2026},
author = {Puri, R and Levers, LR and Pradhananga, AK},
title = {Economic benefits of aquatic invasive species management in freshwater systems: A contingent valuation study.},
journal = {PloS one},
volume = {21},
number = {9},
pages = {e0346515},
pmid = {42748185},
issn = {1932-6203},
mesh = {*Fresh Water ; Minnesota ; *Introduced Species/economics ; Humans ; *Conservation of Natural Resources/economics ; Ecosystem ; Animals ; Lakes ; },
abstract = {Aquatic invasive species (AIS) cause significant ecological and economic impacts, including habitat damage, degradation of water quality, and reduced recreational opportunities. While many of these effects are well documented, less is known about how the general public perceives and engages with AIS in regions with significant freshwater infestations. To this end, we conducted surveys of general residents and lake association members, a self-selected stakeholder sample drawn from a lake advocacy organization in Minnesota, USA, a state where over half of its waters (by area) are affected by AIS, with the objective of estimating households' willingness to pay (WTP) for managing AIS populations. Using a single-bounded trichotomous-choice question, we asked respondents whether they would support an annual increase in property tax or rent, with the generated revenue earmarked for AIS prevention, control, and containment. We conservatively estimate that general households are willing to pay $35-$40 per year, while lake association members are willing to pay $64-$75 per year. These results indicate broad public support across both samples, with higher WTP among those with direct connections to the affected systems, including recreational users and those who trust resource managers. From a policy perspective, our findings have two implications. First, they can help policymakers and resource managers more effectively target financial and outreach strategies. Second, the WTP estimates provide a foundation for incorporating public preferences into conservation funding decisions.},
}

*Fresh Water
Minnesota
*Introduced Species/economics
Humans
*Conservation of Natural Resources/economics
Ecosystem
Animals
Lakes

@article {pmid42749836,
year = {2026},
author = {Dahlberg, AD and Barbour, MT and Luoma, JA and Severson, TJ and Wise, JK and Meulemans, M and Hammond, D and Phelps, NBD and Waller, DL},
title = {Assessing Low-Dose Copper Treatment for Dreissenid Mussels: Effects on Nontarget Organisms.},
journal = {Environmental management},
volume = {76},
number = {10},
pages = {},
pmid = {42749836},
issn = {1432-1009},
mesh = {Animals ; *Copper/toxicity ; *Dreissena/drug effects ; *Water Pollutants, Chemical/toxicity ; Zooplankton/drug effects ; Chlorophyll A ; Ecosystem ; Pesticides/toxicity ; },
abstract = {Zebra mussels (Dreissena polymorpha), an invasive dreissenid mussel, have been established and caused considerable effects in many North American aquatic ecosystems. In response, copper-based pesticides have been used to manage zebra mussel populations. We evaluated the effects of a low-dose (60 µg Cu/L for 10 d) copper-based molluscicide for zebra mussel suppression on nontarget species in Lake Minnetonka (Minnesota, USA). Specifically, we assessed changes in four fish species, a native mussel species, adult zebra mussels, chlorophyll-a concentrations (as a proxy for phytoplankton productivity), the zooplankton community, and the benthic invertebrate community before and after treatment. Chlorophyll-a concentration increased in both the treated and reference bays 1 and 4 d posttreatment. Non-target zooplankton community composition changed in both bays over the course of this study; zooplankton abundance and diversity initially decreased in the treated bay but gradually recovered and was back to pretreatment and reference bay levels after one year. We observed no significant differences in non-target benthic invertebrate abundance or diversity between the treated and reference bays, although abundance and diversity estimates were dynamic and uncertain. Among caged non-target organisms, copper bioaccumulation was higher in both mussel species than in fish, and among fish, was highest in fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas). These findings contribute to our understanding of the potential effects of copper-based pesticides on aquatic ecosystems and provide insights for zebra mussel management.},
}

Animals
*Copper/toxicity
*Dreissena/drug effects
*Water Pollutants, Chemical/toxicity
Zooplankton/drug effects
Chlorophyll A
Ecosystem
Pesticides/toxicity

@article {pmid42749923,
year = {2026},
author = {Barbour, MT and Luoma, JA and Dahlburg, A and Severson, TJ and Wise, JK and Meulemans, MJ and Bennie, B and Hammond, D and Waller, D},
title = {Assessing a low-dose copper treatment for dreissenid mussels: Effects on zebra mussel (Dreissena polymorpha) population.},
journal = {Environmental management},
volume = {76},
number = {10},
pages = {},
pmid = {42749923},
issn = {1432-1009},
mesh = {Animals ; *Dreissena/drug effects ; *Copper/toxicity ; *Water Pollutants, Chemical/toxicity ; Lakes ; },
abstract = {We conducted and evaluated a low-dose copper treatment (applied as EarthTec QZ) to suppress zebra mussel (Dreissena polymorpha Pallas 1771) veliger abundance and settlement in a 66.3 ha bay in Lake Minnetonka (Hennepin County, MN) over a 3-y period. We maintained a mean (standard deviation [SD]) concentration of 83.0 (10.3) µg/L as copper over the 10-d treatment period, much lower than the maximum allowable 1 mg/L as copper. Veliger density was reduced from 6.0 veligers/L before treatment to 0.3 veligers/L following the treatment period. Posttreatment zebra mussel settlement was 1900 times lower in the treated bay compared to an untreated bay days after the treatment despite similar pretreatment veliger densities. Veliger density and settlement remained suppressed nearly 2 y following the treatment. Sampling for adult zebra mussels within the treated bay returned variable results but survival of caged adult zebra mussels indicated ~30% treatment-related mortality. Copper in surface waters returned to near pretreatment concentrations 90 d after treatment. Our study demonstrates that low-dose applications of a copper molluscicide can effectively reduce zebra mussel veliger densities and settlement.},
}

Animals
*Dreissena/drug effects
*Copper/toxicity
*Water Pollutants, Chemical/toxicity
Lakes

@article {pmid42749994,
year = {2026},
author = {Wilson, CJ and York, ZK},
title = {Influence of anthranilic diamide insecticides on emerald ash borer (Coleoptera: Buprestidae) larvae and establishment of introduced parasitoids in central Kentucky.},
journal = {Journal of insect science (Online)},
volume = {26},
number = {5},
pages = {},
pmid = {42749994},
issn = {1536-2442},
mesh = {Animals ; *Coleoptera/parasitology/drug effects/growth & development ; *Insecticides ; *ortho-Aminobenzoates ; Larva/parasitology/drug effects/growth & development ; *Wasps/physiology ; Kentucky ; *Pyrazoles ; Fraxinus/growth & development ; Insect Control ; Introduced Species ; },
abstract = {Emerald ash borer (EAB) (Agrilus planipennis Fairmaire) (Coleoptera: Buprestidae) is an invasive pest of ash trees (Fraxinus spp.) in the United States. EAB is best managed via insecticides and biological control by wasps and woodpeckers. Neonicotinoids are often used for EAB due to cost and ease of use but are becoming restricted worldwide and are toxic to beneficial insects. Anthranilic diamides, a newer insecticide class, can manage beetle larvae with limited off-target effects. If diamides control EAB, they could replace neonicotinoids. We tested if drenches of chlorantraniliprole and cyantraniliprole at 3 rates controlled EAB larvae without affecting parasitoids in 41 recruit-sized white ash, Fraxinus americana L. (mean ± SE = 11.0 ± 0.7 cm diameter at breast height (DBH)) in central Kentucky 6 months after application. Only the high chlorantraniliprole rate (0.157 g a.i./L per cm DBH) significantly reduced EAB densities (1.3 ± 0.5 larvae per m2) relative to controls (9.5 ± 4.2 larvae per m2). Three treatments reduced parasitism by Phasgonophora sulcata Westwood relative to controls while no treatment affected nonnative parasitism or woodpecker predation. Thirty-six percent of larvae were parasitized even though the nearest parasitoid releases were over 20 km away and occurred 7 years prior. Spathius galinae Belokobylskij & Strazanac parasitism, never released in Kentucky at the time of this project, averaged 7.8 ± 2.9 % and is the furthest south this species has established in the United States. Chlorantraniliprole may control EAB in small diameter ash and reduce parasitism by P. sulcata but not introduced parasitoids.},
}

Animals
*Coleoptera/parasitology/drug effects/growth & development
*Insecticides
*ortho-Aminobenzoates
Larva/parasitology/drug effects/growth & development
*Wasps/physiology
Kentucky
*Pyrazoles
Fraxinus/growth & development
Insect Control
Introduced Species

@article {pmid42737926,
year = {2026},
author = {Klemann, C and Liu, J},
title = {Integrated Analysis of Species Invasion Under the Telecoupling Framework: Burmese Python Across Southeast Asia, the USA, and Beyond.},
journal = {Biology},
volume = {15},
number = {17},
pages = {},
pmid = {42737926},
issn = {2079-7737},
support = {2033507//U.S. National Science Foundation/ ; 2118329//U.S. National Science Foundation/ ; //Michigan AgBioResearch/ ; },
abstract = {In an increasingly globalizing world, invasive species have become a serious concern worldwide. Numerous studies have focused on the biology of different invasive species, but few have systematically integrated socioeconomic and environmental factors. The framework of telecoupling (socioeconomic-environmental interactions over distances) can help address this challenge by allowing researchers to integrate human-nature interactions across distances. To demonstrate this potential, the framework was applied to the invasion of the Burmese python (Python bivittatus) from Southeast Asia. This species is a large constrictor currently invading the Greater Everglades ecosystem in South Florida, USA, through the pet trade. Results show many causes and effects of the invasion. The analysis also exposes several research gaps. The most prevalent is a lack of published research about the species' native range, including biology in the wild as well as a socioeconomic understanding of the people involved in and affected by the invasion. The telecoupling framework connects scattered information, providing insights into flow-centered management approaches that could lead to more effective population control. This analysis shows the telecoupling framework's potential to improve understanding of the complexities of invasive species, their causes, effects, future research directions, and management strategies.},
}

@article {pmid42739373,
year = {2026},
author = {Manorin, W and Pisuttimarn, P and Suparman, S and Balslev, H and Saisorn, W},
title = {Diversity, Leaf Anatomy, and Conservation of Fabaceae in a Thai Limestone Area.},
journal = {Plants (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {17},
pages = {},
pmid = {42739373},
issn = {2223-7747},
support = {//The Development and Promotion of Science and Technology Talents Project (DPST)/ ; CF14-0245//Carlsberg Foundation/ ; },
abstract = {Fabaceae, the third-largest family of angiosperms, occurs in diverse habitats, including limestone areas characterized by karst landscapes, and in Thailand, by frequent human disturbance due to activities such as agriculture and mining. These disturbances affect plant species, which highlights the importance of diversity studies and the use of morphology and anatomy for identification. A study of Fabaceae diversity in a limestone area in Thung Song District, southern Thailand, were conducted along three survey routes. A total of 23 genera and 30 species were encountered, including 2 vulnerable, 1 rare, and 8 introduced species. Morphological, phenological, ecological, and conservation status data were recorded. The leaf epidermis of 23 species was observed under a light microscope. Stomatal size and stomatal index were measured. Phanera tubicalyx, an endemic and vulnerable species restricted to limestone habitats, had multiple papillae on its epidermal cells, which may reduce water loss and enhance photosynthetic efficiency. Both hypostomatic and amphistomatic leaves were observed. Stomatal size ranged from 114.63 ± 17.57 μm[2] to 608.88 ± 16.42 μm[2], while the stomatal index varied from 0.85 ± 0.78 to 23.86 ± 0.16. Peculiar paired crystals and multiple papillae were found in Canavalia cathartica and P. tubicalyx, respectively. These and other morphological and leaf epidermal characteristics were useful for species identification. Human disturbances from agriculture and mining were common in the study area. In conclusion, this study documented 30 Fabaceae species and demonstrated the usefulness of morphological and leaf epidermal characteristics for species identification and conservation.},
}

@article {pmid42740972,
year = {2026},
author = {Nasser, M and Sharaf, MR and AlKhalaf, AA and Hita-Garcia, F and Radchenko, A and Judd, S and Alqaydi, MS and Alteneiji, MM and AlAshaal, S},
title = {Climate Change Impact on the Potential Distribution and Invasion Risk of Tetramorium caldarium (Roger, 1857): A Species Distribution Modeling Approach Using MaxEnt.},
journal = {Ecology and evolution},
volume = {16},
number = {9},
pages = {e74319},
pmid = {42740972},
issn = {2045-7758},
abstract = {Climate change is reshaping global species distributions and altering invasion dynamics, yet our understanding of how thermophilic invasive species will respond to future climatic conditions remains incomplete. We employed Maximum Entropy (MaxEnt) species distribution modeling to evaluate current and future suitable habitat for Tetramorium caldarium (Roger, 1857), a pantropical tramp ant species with established exotic populations across six continents. Three hundred and forty-six filtered occurrence records and five bioclimatic variables (bio_1, bio_4, bio_7, bio_11, bio_12) were selected through correlation analysis. Models were projected onto future climate surfaces using MRI-CGCM3 outputs for two Representative Concentration Pathways (RCP 2.6 and RCP 8.5) at 2050 and 2070. The model demonstrated excellent predictive performance (AUC = 0.942, TSS = 0.68), revealing that T. caldarium currently occupies extensive suitable habitat across tropical and subtropical regions between 30° N and 30° S. Three-dimensional niche analysis demonstrated remarkable climatic breadth, with the species occurring across temperature gradients from 14°C to 29°C and precipitation regimes from 500 to 3500+ mm annually. Jackknife analysis revealed that temperature seasonality (43.7%) and coldest quarter temperature (25.9%) were primary limiting factors, while precipitation contributed minimally (4.5%). Future projections indicated relatively stable core distributions through 2070, with net habitat gains ranging from 275,000 km[2] (RCP 2.6, 2050) to 630,000 km[2] (RCP 8.5, 2070). Southern China, southeastern United States, Mediterranean Basin, and northern Argentina were identified as high-risk regions for future spread. T. caldarium possesses sufficient climatic niche breadth to maintain its spread potential despite climate change, with warming temperatures creating new opportunities in temperate regions. These findings emphasize that preventing human-mediated dispersal remains more critical than managing climate-driven range shifts for this globally significant invasive species.},
}

@article {pmid42744190,
year = {2026},
author = {Kikuchi, H and Tokiwa, T and Toma, H},
title = {Angiostrongylus cantonensis infection in the introduced horntail snail (Tanychlamys indica) from northern Okinawa Island, Japan.},
journal = {Parasitology international},
volume = {117},
number = {},
pages = {103391},
doi = {10.1016/j.parint.2026.103391},
pmid = {42744190},
issn = {1873-0329},
abstract = {From September 2023 to September 2024, the potential intermediate hosts of Angiostrongylus cantonensis (Nematoda: Angiostrongylidae) were investigated on northern Okinawa Island, Japan, where infection of endangered rodent species is a conservation concern. Third-stage larvae of A. cantonensis were detected in Tanychlamys indica (Stylommatophora: Ariophantidae), a globally invasive terrestrial snail species recently established on Okinawa Island. Notably, infected T. indica were primarily collected from forest edges, indicating a potential ecological interface between this invasive host and native forest ecosystems. These findings highlight the necessity to monitor the spread of T. indica from both the conservation and public health perspectives.},
}

@article {pmid42744330,
year = {2026},
author = {Traylor, CR and Ulyshen, MD and Horn, S and Coyle, DR},
title = {Native and non-native ambrosia beetles compete for deadwood resources.},
journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences},
volume = {293},
number = {2079},
pages = {},
pmid = {42744330},
issn = {1471-2954},
support = {//USDA Forest Service Southern Research Station/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Introduced Species ; *Weevils/physiology ; *Wood ; Competitive Behavior ; },
abstract = {A consequence of biological invasion is competition between native and non-native species. Ambrosia beetles (Curculionidae: Scolytinae, Platypodinae) are among the most successful insect invaders, but their impact in natural settings is poorly understood. Across the United States, non-native ambrosia beetles numerically dominate their native counterparts, creating concern of competitive displacement. We compile one new and three published datasets to test for competition between native and non-native ambrosia beetles within their breeding resources. For each dataset, deadwood objects were created in the field, left to be naturally colonized by insects and then sampled for emergent insects using identical methods. Within 356 objects, native and non-native ambrosia beetles preferentially inhabited the same resources in space and time. Within 141 inhabited objects, native ambrosia beetle abundance declined with increasing abundance of non-natives (and vice versa). Furthermore, the probability of an emerging beetle being native was impacted by wood properties. Thus, we find that native and non-native ambrosia beetles compete, most likely in an exploitative manner, and that certain conditions provide competitive advantages for both groups. Given the importance of ambrosia beetles in forest ecosystem processes, further research is needed to understand the consequences of ambrosia beetle invasion in natural settings.},
}

Animals
*Introduced Species
*Weevils/physiology
*Wood
Competitive Behavior

@article {pmid42735524,
year = {2026},
author = {Baumgartner, J and Dodd, A and Stoeckl, N and Kompas, T and Arndt, E and Wang, LY and Polak, J and Li, C and Camac, J and Cantele, M and Robinson, A},
title = {Estimating the value of a nation's terrestrial border biosecurity system.},
journal = {Journal of environmental management},
volume = {417},
number = {},
pages = {130915},
doi = {10.1016/j.jenvman.2026.130915},
pmid = {42735524},
issn = {1095-8630},
abstract = {Estimating the economic damages of invasive species and the value of their management is critical for informing policymakers and developing effective biosecurity strategies. However, traditional assessments often double-count damages and fail to account for ecological complexity. Here, we introduce a new asset-based modelling approach, the Value of Biosecurity Model, which simultaneously models the invasion of multiple co-occurring focal species to deliver more accurate predictions. This model offers a holistic framework for assessing the damages of invasive species and enables the value of a biosecurity system to be conceptualised and estimated in terms of the damages that it avoids or mitigates. Using Australia's terrestrial border biosecurity system as a case study, we demonstrate the Value of Biosecurity Model's application at the national level by simulating the establishment, spread, and damage of 40 high-risk invasive species for up to a 50-year period on a 2.5 km national grid impacting 16 asset layers, and highlight the model's flexibility to generate results for specific regions or timeframes as well as specific threats and assets/industries. Results indicate that, with the terrestrial border biosecurity system in place (at a cost of AUD$10.45 billion), Australia can avoid approximately AUD$314 billion in present value damages over 50 years, reflecting a significant return on investment. In addition, the model can contextualise the economic damage caused by individual invasive species within a species-co-occurring framework, providing estimates of economic damages for specific species across different time steps. Given the advantages of the Value of Biosecurity Model, we recommend integrating it into biosecurity risk management to inform future investment decisions and support more effective resource allocation.},
}

@article {pmid42735907,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, G and Liu, Y and Oduor, AMO and Zhang, L and Liu, Y},
title = {Growing- and nongrowing-season warming affect invasive plant growth via soil legacy effects.},
journal = {Ecology},
volume = {107},
number = {9},
pages = {e70446},
doi = {10.1002/ecy.70446},
pmid = {42735907},
issn = {1939-9170},
support = {32130066//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 32371666//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 31670477//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2026PVB0077//the Chinese Academy of Sciences President's International Fellowship Initiative/ ; },
mesh = {*Introduced Species ; *Seasons ; *Soil/chemistry ; *Soil Microbiology ; *Climate Change ; *Plant Development ; Nitrogen/chemistry ; Temperature ; *Plants ; },
abstract = {Climate warming is seasonally asymmetric, yet its impact on plant invasions is typically studied using uniform year-round warming, which may obscure season-specific mechanisms. In a pristine grassland, we used a four-year 2 × 2 factorial field-warming experiment coupled with a greenhouse bioassay to test how growing- and nongrowing-season warming influence soil nitrogen, fungal communities, and subsequent invasive plant performance. Growing-season warming increased soil NH4 [+]-N, NO3 [-]-N, and available nitrogen, and elevated the effective species number of pathogenic fungi. Nongrowing-season warming increased soil NO3 [-]-N and generated soil legacies that enhanced invasive plant biomass and root allocation. Conversely, year-round warming reduced soil NO3 [-]-N and suppressed invasive biomass relative to nongrowing-season warming. Moreover, invasive plant biomass was positively related to soil NO3 [-]-N but showed no correlation with the effective species number of pathogenic fungi. Our findings show that warming produces seasonally contingent soil legacies mediated by specific nitrogen pathways. Predicting invasion dynamics under climate change requires seasonally explicit frameworks, rather than relying on annual mean temperature increases alone.},
}

*Introduced Species
*Seasons
*Soil/chemistry
*Soil Microbiology
*Climate Change
*Plant Development
Nitrogen/chemistry
Temperature
*Plants

@article {pmid42730642,
year = {2026},
author = {Akbar, R and Fan, J and Khan, AA and Ahmad, K and Sun, J and Iqbal, B},
title = {From ecological threats to environmental solutions: a critical review of invasive plant species for heavy metal phytoremediation.},
journal = {International journal of phytoremediation},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-26},
doi = {10.1080/15226514.2026.2729111},
pmid = {42730642},
issn = {1549-7879},
abstract = {Heavy metal contamination represents a persistent environmental challenge threatening ecosystem stability, agricultural productivity, and human health. Therefore, the development of sustainable and cost-effective remediation strategies is essential. Phytoremediation, an environmentally compatible approach that utilizes plants and their associated biological processes to reduce contaminant mobility, bioavailability, and toxicity, has gained increasing attention as an alternative to conventional remediation techniques. Among potential phytoremediation candidates, invasive plant species (IPS) have attracted interest due to their rapid growth, high biomass production, extensive root systems, physiological plasticity, and tolerance to stressful environments, including heavy metal contamination. Species such as Alternanthera philoxeroides, Arundo donax, Eichhornia crassipes, and Pistia stratiotes have demonstrated potential for metal uptake, accumulation, immobilization, or tolerance in contaminated ecosystems. This review critically examines the role of invasive plants in heavy metal phytoremediation by evaluating the physiological, biochemical, and ecological traits that influence remediation outcomes. Key mechanisms, including phytoextraction, phytostabilization, rhizosphere-mediated processes, and plant-microbe interactions, are discussed using evidence from contaminated soil and aquatic environments. The potential advantages of invasive plants, particularly their high biomass production and environmental adaptability, are evaluated alongside ecological concerns associated with their utilization. Importantly, invasion success does not necessarily translate into remediation success, and the effectiveness of invasive plants depends on contaminant characteristics, ecosystem conditions, and management practices. Major challenges, including uncontrolled spread, ecosystem disruption, contaminated biomass management, and limited field-scale validation, are critically assessed. Overall, invasive plants represent context-dependent remediation resources rather than universal solutions. Their application requires integrated risk assessment, containment strategies, long-term monitoring, and evidence-based management frameworks to maximize remediation benefits while minimizing ecological risks.},
}

@article {pmid42732059,
year = {2026},
author = {Wahl, C and Lautenbach, S and Tokatlian Rodríguez, A and Becker, N},
title = {Effects of urban building structures on the distribution of breeding sites and ovitrap egg counts of Aedes albopictus in Pfaffengrund, Heidelberg, Germany.},
journal = {Parasites & vectors},
volume = {19},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42732059},
issn = {1756-3305},
mesh = {Animals ; *Aedes/physiology ; Germany ; *Mosquito Control/methods ; Female ; Oviposition ; Breeding ; Mosquito Vectors/physiology ; Cities ; Reproduction ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: In recent years, the increased abundance and expansion of the invasive species Aedes albopictus has become a nuisance and health threat in urban areas of Germany. While intensive control and monitoring measures have shown promising results to reduce populations in urban areas, the growing challenges of these measures in newly affected areas have raised concerns regarding cost effectiveness and optimization in efficiency.

METHODS: We have used a suburban area (121 ha) with active control measurements in Heidelberg, Germany to study factors that influence the abundance of breeding sites and the number of eggs for Aedes albopictus. As part of control measurements, breeding sites at 1455 land parcels were recorded repeatedly between May and September 2023. In addition, egg counts in 39 ovitraps were recorded. We studied how strongly the effect of control measures on breeding sites was moderated by building type (single-family, terraced, multi-family house). In addition, we analyzed the importance of breeding site availability, proportions of parcels with different building type and the presence of uncontrolled parcels on Aedes albopictus egg laying activity in ovitraps within 100-300 m radius from the trap. Statistical analysis was based on generalized linear models and generalized linear mixed models. We fitted individual models for each buffer size and compared the model performance.

RESULTS: Terraced building plots contained the largest number of breeding sites and multi-family house plots the least. A higher share of terraced building plots in the surrounding area was associated with a higher maximum egg count in the ovitraps. In contrast, ovitrap maximum egg counts for Aedes albopictus were lower if the share of uncontrolled building plots in the buffer was higher and if more large breeding sites were present. The best model performance was observed for a buffer size of 200 m. If the temporal variability of the ovitrap egg count data was taken into account, no optimal buffer size could be derived and the effect of breeding site abundance became insignificant.

CONCLUSIONS: Our results indicate that terraced house plots are positively associated with breeding site abundance and egg counts of Aedes albopictus in ovitraps. Control measures could be targeted on areas with this building type to increase the efficiency to reduce local breeding opportunities and consequently suppress local Aedes albopictus populations.},
}

Animals
*Aedes/physiology
Germany
*Mosquito Control/methods
Female
Oviposition
Breeding
Mosquito Vectors/physiology
Cities
Reproduction

@article {pmid42732912,
year = {2026},
author = {Xue, J and Oduor, AMO and Li, HL and Li, F and Liu, Y},
title = {Artificial light at night and an invasive snail synergistically enhance the invasion of a nonnative macrophyte.},
journal = {Ecology},
volume = {107},
number = {9},
pages = {e70458},
doi = {10.1002/ecy.70458},
pmid = {42732912},
issn = {1939-9170},
support = {2026PVB0077//PIFI fellowship from Chinese Academy of Science/ ; W2411021//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 42171062//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2021YFC2600400//National Key Research and Development Program of China/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Snails/physiology ; *Introduced Species ; *Light ; *Hydrocharitaceae/physiology ; *Magnoliopsida/physiology ; },
abstract = {Herbivory shapes plant invasion outcomes, yet its role in aquatic plant invasions under artificial light at night (ALAN) remains poorly understood. We conducted three experiments using an invasive macrophyte Myriophyllum aquaticum, a native macrophyte community comprising Vallisneria natans, Hydrilla verticillata, Myriophyllum spicatum, as well as an invasive snail Pomacea canaliculata, and a native snail Cipangopaludina chinensis, in our study area, to test the combined effects of ALAN and herbivory on nonnative macrophyte invasions. In the absence of grazing, ALAN increased M. aquaticum height and total biomass, but had no effect on native species. In 4-day feeding assays, P. canaliculata consumed all native species but consistently avoided M. aquaticum under both light treatments. In community mesocosms, the invasive snail reduced native macrophyte biomass by 48.0% under No-ALAN and by 87.2% under ALAN without affecting M. aquaticum, thereby increasing proportional biomass of M. aquaticum within the community, with a stronger effect under ALAN. Therefore, ALAN may indirectly facilitate nonnative macrophyte invasions by amplifying their relative biomass within native communities, particularly in the presence of invasive herbivores, and may promote invasional meltdown through selective herbivory.},
}

Animals
*Snails/physiology
*Introduced Species
*Light
*Hydrocharitaceae/physiology
*Magnoliopsida/physiology

@article {pmid42734095,
year = {2026},
author = {Al-Shayeb, SMA and Aguilar, C and Yousefi, M and George, Z and Pfadenhauer, WG and Nunez-Mir, GC},
title = {Invasive Flora Repository: Traits, environmental tolerances, and invasion history of invasive plant species in the United States.},
journal = {Ecology},
volume = {107},
number = {9},
pages = {e70492},
pmid = {42734095},
issn = {1939-9170},
support = {23-01443//Walder Foundation/ ; },
mesh = {*Introduced Species ; United States ; *Plants/classification ; Databases, Factual ; },
abstract = {Species traits may serve as proxies for ecological mechanisms that drive invasion success and, therefore, are a promising framework for investigating invasion processes and predicting future outcomes of species that have been recently introduced. However, although many efforts exist to document species traits of plants, a centralized database of invasive plant species in the United States is not currently available. We have compiled traits data for 1024 invasive plants in the United States across 28 species characteristics, including functional morphological, reproductive, and dispersal traits, as well as characteristics related to the invasion history of the species, such as origin and invasion pathways. We identified our list of invasive plant species from EDDMapS, a web-based national network that aggregates observation records and distribution data of invasive species and pests in the United States and Canada, and the U.S. Register of Introduced and Invasive Species (US-RIIS). Traits data were collected from various online factsheet databases, including the CABI Compendium: Invasive Species, the USDA Plants Database, the North Carolina State Extension Plant Toolbox, the UC-Berkeley Jepson Herbarium, the USFS-Fire Effects Information System, and University of Michigan's CLIMBERS. We aimed to create a comprehensive database on traits of invasive species that can be utilized by researchers and conservationists and serve as a reference for those involved in the monitoring and control of invasive species. These data are available for reuse under CC BY 4.0 (Attribution) licensing.},
}

*Introduced Species
United States
*Plants/classification
Databases, Factual

@article {pmid42636626,
year = {2026},
author = {Hu, B and Huang, W and Hao, Z and Guo, J and Fang, G and Jiao, Q and Cheng, X and Zhang, B},
title = {Biological invasions Erode China's forest carbon stocks: Spatiotemporal expansion and edge preferences of Pine Wilt Disease.},
journal = {Journal of environmental management},
volume = {416},
number = {},
pages = {130755},
doi = {10.1016/j.jenvman.2026.130755},
pmid = {42636626},
issn = {1095-8630},
mesh = {China ; *Forests ; *Plant Diseases ; *Carbon ; *Pinus ; Trees ; Ecosystem ; *Introduced Species ; Biomass ; },
abstract = {Pine Wilt Disease (PWD), a devastating epidemic, poses a severe threat to the carbon sink function and stability of China's forest ecosystems. However, accurate long-term quantification of carbon loss remains challenging due to historical data gaps and scale mismatches between macro-statistics and micro-ecological processes. To accurately quantify the forest carbon loss caused by PWD, this study integrates multi-source remote sensing products with national monitoring data across China. Methodologically, we proposed an innovative ensemble learning-based "stand-to-tree" scale conversion strategy to reconstruct mean biomass per tree (MBT) from macroscopic remote sensing observations, and designed a bottom-up approach to aggregate carbon loss from local outbreak patches to the national level. Results indicate that: (1) From 1998 to 2022, PWD caused a cumulative carbon loss of 12.06 Tg C (95% scenario envelope: 9.88-15.79 Tg C). The spatiotemporal evolution exhibited a "latent accumulation-diffusion-explosive growth" pattern, with 2017 as a critical tipping point, where hotspots shifted from the southeast coast to the Yangtze River basin and northern suitable habitats. (2) Landscape analysis revealed that PWD outbreaks were predominantly distributed near forest edges and were spatiotemporally associated with subsequent forest-boundary retreat. This study provides a detailed national carbon loss inventory and a scientific basis for understanding the spatial association between disease outbreaks and landscape patterns, facilitating the formulation of ecosystem-based control strategies.},
}

China
*Forests
*Plant Diseases
*Carbon
*Pinus
Trees
Ecosystem
*Introduced Species
Biomass

@article {pmid42638283,
year = {2026},
author = {Schertler, A and Lenzner, B and Dullinger, S and Moser, D and García-Rodríguez, A and Krisai-Greilhuber, I and Voglmayr, H and Bufford, JL and Santini, A and Ghelardini, L and Capinha, C and Reino, L and Wingfield, MJ and Thines, M and Talhinhas, P and Dawson, W and van Kleunen, M and Kreft, H and Pergl, J and Pyšek, P and Weigelt, P and Winter, M and Essl, F},
title = {Are novel and co-xenic associations common in alien fungal and fungus-like plant pathogens?.},
journal = {The New phytologist},
volume = {252},
number = {2},
pages = {843-860},
pmid = {42638283},
issn = {1469-8137},
support = {//Strategic Science Investment Funding for Crown Research Institutes; New Zealand Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment/ ; 202548816//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft/ ; 264740629//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft/ ; RVO 67985939//Akademie Věd České Republiky/ ; 10.55776/I5825//Austrian Science Fund/ ; 10.55776/P34688//Austrian Science Fund/ ; //LOEWE Centre for Translational Biodiversity Genomics (TBG)/ ; CN_00000033//European Union - NextGenerationEU/ ; },
mesh = {*Fungi/physiology ; *Plants/microbiology ; Phylogeny ; *Host-Pathogen Interactions ; *Introduced Species ; Host Specificity ; Plant Diseases/microbiology ; },
abstract = {Impacts of alien fungal and fungus-like plant pathogens depend on host interactions, including novel associations with native plants and co-xenic associations with alien plants that do not share the same area of origin, both largely unquantified globally. Combining global distribution and association data, we characterised associations across pathogens' introduced regions, calculated host species richness (SR) and phylogenetic divergence, and examined predictors of novel/co-xenic associations. Novel/co-xenic alien pathogen-plant association records were common (53%) and dominated by widespread generalists. They were found in about one-third of alien pathogens examined, mostly within their known phylogenetic host range. However, 46% of associations remained unclassified due to limited knowledge of pathogen biogeography. Novel/co-xenic associations were more likely for pathogens with larger introduced ranges, wider phylogenetic host range, economically used hosts co-occurring in the region, and host communities phylogenetically similar to the recipient regions' plant community. They were also more likely for host plants with no economic use and restricted native ranges, and in regions with higher plant SR. Novel/co-xenic associations are common and shaped by contact opportunity, phylogenetic host range, and regional community composition. Unravelling fungal and fungus-like pathogen biogeography is key to assessing their full magnitude.},
}

*Fungi/physiology
*Plants/microbiology
Phylogeny
*Host-Pathogen Interactions
*Introduced Species
Host Specificity
Plant Diseases/microbiology

@article {pmid42665872,
year = {2026},
author = {Nongthongbam, B and Battlay, P and Maunder, KG and Fournier-Level, A and Martin, MD and Stinchcombe, JR and Hodgins, KA},
title = {Selection shapes the evolution of genome size in a globally invasive plant.},
journal = {The New phytologist},
volume = {252},
number = {2},
pages = {875-891},
pmid = {42665872},
issn = {1469-8137},
support = {DP220102362//Australian Research Council/ ; //Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada/ ; },
mesh = {*Genome Size ; *Genome, Plant ; *Introduced Species ; *Selection, Genetic ; *Ambrosia/genetics ; DNA Transposable Elements/genetics ; *Evolution, Molecular ; Australia ; Climate ; North America ; Temperature ; },
abstract = {Biological invasions provide powerful natural experiments for understanding how genome architecture responds to novel climatic environments. Transposable elements (TEs) can rapidly restructure genomes, yet their role in adaptive genome size evolution during invasion remains poorly understood. Here, we examined genome size and TE abundance in 439 individuals of globally invasive common ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia L.) across native (North American) and invasive (European, Australian) ranges. By integrating whole-genome resequencing, flow cytometry and trait vs genetic differentiation comparison (QST-FST), we tested whether genome size evolution is shaped by selection, climate and life-history traits. Genome size was significantly larger in Australian genotypes, driven by increased TE and rRNA (ribosomal RNA) abundance. Crucially, trait vs genetic differentiation comparison provided evidence of divergent selection on genome size in North American and European populations, but not in Australia. Genome size was correlated with mean annual temperature (MAT) across all ranges, linking genomic traits to environmental variables. Genome size evolution during invasion can be rapid, adaptive and range-specific, with TE-driven genome expansion emerging as a potential genomic response to the demographic and environmental pressures accompanying colonisation of novel environments.},
}

*Genome Size
*Genome, Plant
*Introduced Species
*Selection, Genetic
*Ambrosia/genetics
DNA Transposable Elements/genetics
*Evolution, Molecular
Australia
Climate
North America
Temperature

@article {pmid42667914,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, Z and Pang, J and Ge, J and Wang, Y and Shao, M and Li, B and Feng, Y},
title = {Effects of aridity and plant invasion on soil nematode food webs.},
journal = {Journal of environmental management},
volume = {416},
number = {},
pages = {130834},
doi = {10.1016/j.jenvman.2026.130834},
pmid = {42667914},
issn = {1095-8630},
mesh = {Animals ; *Nematoda/physiology ; *Soil/chemistry ; *Introduced Species ; *Food Chain ; Nitrogen/analysis ; Carbon/analysis ; Biodiversity ; },
abstract = {Climatic drying and plant invasions are intensifying globally, yet their combined effects on soil fauna remain poorly understood. Soil nematodes are key components of belowground food webs, contributing to nutrient cycling, organic matter decomposition, and trophic energy transfer. Here, we used paired invaded and non-invaded plots across a natural dry-to-humid climatic gradient to examine how Xanthium strumarium L. invasion was associated with changes in soil nematode communities. Soil moisture and soil organic carbon were greater at more humid sites but were lower in invaded soils. Extractable organic carbon (EOC) increased toward more humid conditions in non-invaded soils, whereas this relationship was weakened in invaded soils. Invaded soils, however, exhibited higher microbial biomass carbon and nitrogen and elevated inorganic nitrogen concentrations. Both drier conditions and invasion were associated with lower total nematode abundance. Nematode diversity and species richness were higher at more humid sites but lower in invaded than in non-invaded plots, with greater invasion-associated declines in both metrics observed at humid sites. The maturity index and functional metabolic footprint of nematode communities were reduced under drier conditions and in invaded soils. Redundancy analysis suggested that EOC was related to variation in nematode community structure. Structural equation modeling indicated negative statistical relationships between X. strumarium invasion and soil nematode communities, including direct relationships and additional relationships involving lower EOC. Overall, these findings highlight the importance of evaluating variation in belowground faunal communities in relation to plant invasion across environmental gradients, especially under ongoing climatic drying.},
}

Animals
*Nematoda/physiology
*Soil/chemistry
*Introduced Species
*Food Chain
Nitrogen/analysis
Carbon/analysis
Biodiversity

@article {pmid42724430,
year = {2026},
author = {Blomqvist, EL and Andersson, JO and Eckstein, RL and Haas, J},
title = {Mapping Lupinus polyphyllus density and distribution along road verges using unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)-based remote sensing.},
journal = {Applications in plant sciences},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e70080},
pmid = {42724430},
issn = {2168-0450},
abstract = {PREMISE: Road verges function as refuges for semi-natural species, but they can also facilitate the spread of non-native plants such as Lupinus polyphyllus. Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)-based remote sensing is a promising tool for mapping these species; however, its application in roadside contexts remains limited.

METHODS: We developed and evaluated a UAV-based workflow to detect and map lupine presence and density along roads. Red-green-blue (RGB) imagery was processed into orthomosaics and classified using object-based and pixel-based approaches with support vector machines and random forest algorithms under multiple classification schemes.

RESULTS: The highest accuracy (88.8%) was achieved using pixel-based random forest classification and a simplified scheme. Flowering purple lupine showed strong classification performance (F1 score = 96.3%), while early-stage greenish individuals were harder to detect (74.5%). Spatial heatmap comparison revealed low overestimation (1.79%) and underestimation (1.47%).

DISCUSSION: Assuming optimal phenological conditions, UAV-based mapping provides a scalable and cost-efficient complement to ground surveys for the management of L. polyphyllus within infrastructure areas.},
}

@article {pmid42725329,
year = {2026},
author = {Nunn, D and Butterworth, NJ and McGaughran, A},
title = {Density Underpins Shifts From Competition to Facilitation in Co-Invading Blowflies.},
journal = {Ecology and evolution},
volume = {16},
number = {9},
pages = {e74251},
pmid = {42725329},
issn = {2045-7758},
abstract = {The success of an invasive species is driven by its interactions with both native species and co-occurring invaders. These interactions can range from competitive exclusion to mutual facilitation. However, the factors that govern the direction of species interaction outcomes remain poorly understood in invasive systems, including their environmental dependency. We performed species interactions experiments between two co-occurring invasive blow flies: Calliphora stygia and Lucilia sericata. We varied both total larval density (n = 10, 20, 30, 50) and relative species ratios (100%, 70%, 50%, 30%) and measured outcomes in the form of adult emergence success and adult body size. We found that interaction outcomes varied by species. For intraspecific experiments, C. stygia experienced more pronounced effects of competition, with a more than 2.4-fold greater reduction in body size between low (n = 10) and high (n = 50) densities than experienced by L. sericata between the same densities. Calliphora stygia also experienced reduced adult emergence at n = 30 and n = 50, while L. sericata emergence was not affected. However, interspecific competition drove contrasting density-dependent species-specific responses. At low density interspecific ratios of 70% and 50%, female C. stygia performance reflected facilitation (i.e., increased body size relative to intraspecific competition), with no effect for L. sericata, while increasing density shifted interaction dynamics towards competition (i.e., interspecific and intraspecific effects became comparable) for both body size and adult emergence under all species ratios except 50C:50 L for males, where C. stygia body size decreased. In contrast, L. sericata performed worse under all high density interspecific conditions relative to intraspecific competition when measuring body size, suggesting stronger interspecific effects, regardless of species ratios. The asymmetric response of these two co-occurring blow flies highlights the nuance of co-invader interactions: competition outcomes between invaders are not fixed but rather strongly shaped by both density and species balance.},
}

@article {pmid42730531,
year = {2026},
author = {Romero-Velázquez, ME and Field, CL and Gálvez, C and Norris, T and Moncayo-Estrada, R and Moreno-Sánchez, XG and Elorriaga-Verplancken, FR},
title = {Serologic Investigation of Leptospira spp., Sarcocystis neurona, and Toxoplasma gondii in Guadalupe Fur Seals (Arctocephalus townsendi) from Guadalupe Island, Mexico.},
journal = {Journal of wildlife diseases},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.7589/JWD-D-25-00167},
pmid = {42730531},
issn = {1943-3700},
abstract = {The Guadalupe fur seal (GFS; Arctocephalus townsendi) is susceptible to the ecologic impacts of anomalous ocean warming events, which have led to prey scarcity that, in turn, affects its feeding habits, nutritional condition, and survival at Guadalupe Island, Mexico. Concurrently, ocean warming has also caused increased outbreaks of zoonotic diseases in North Pacific pinnipeds. This study assessed the exposure to zoonotic disease agents (Leptospira spp., Sarcocystis neurona, and Toxoplasma gondii) in GFS on Guadalupe Island (2016, 2017, and 2020), during a period of persistent ocean warming and unusual strandings in Mexico and the USA. Blood samples were collected from 129 GFS (82 females and 47 males) at Guadalupe Island. All tested GFS were seronegative for Leptospira spp. and S. neurona, whereas 17/129 (13%) tested seropositive for T. gondii, predominantly pups (1 yr) of both sexes. Although T. gondii was only detected in a relatively small proportion of GFS at Guadalupe Island, the parasite is frequently reported in pinniped populations inhabiting coastal ecosystems worldwide. Currently, the GFS population is increasing, which may promote range expansion and increase interaction with other marine mammals that may carry zoonotic pathogens along the coastal ecosystems of the northeastern Pacific Ocean. Only GFS pups were seropositive for T. gondii, which may reflect a passive transfer of maternal antibodies during lactation. However, the low prevalence observed may also indicate limited environmental exposure or other ecologic factors. As on other islands, exotic invasive species are reported in Guadalupe Island, which cannot be discounted as a possible source of exposure of GFS to pathogens and parasites such as T. gondii.},
}

@article {pmid42722109,
year = {2026},
author = {Laureano, G and Fonseca, B and Carreiras, JA and Felix, C and Lemos, MFL and Figueiredo, A and Duarte, B},
title = {From sea to farm: Repurposing invasive macroalgae into biocidal and defense-enhancing tools against tomato late blight (Phytophthora infestans).},
journal = {Plant science : an international journal of experimental plant biology},
volume = {373},
number = {},
pages = {113445},
doi = {10.1016/j.plantsci.2026.113445},
pmid = {42722109},
issn = {1873-2259},
abstract = {Marine seaweeds are increasingly recognized as sources of bioactive compounds with potential applications in sustainable agriculture, including as biocontrol agents. The selection of invasive species such as Asparagopsis armata and Sargassum muticum offers a dual benefit: obtaining bioactive metabolites from a low-cost resource while simultaneously mitigating their ecological impacts using this harmful biomass. In the present study, crude extracts from A. armata and S. muticum were applied to tomato plants and were effective as biocontrol agents against Phytophthora infestans. Treatments modulated key physiological and metabolic processes, including photochemical energy distribution, membrane lipid composition, redox balance, and secondary metabolism, effectively eliciting plants for enhanced defense. Asparagopsis armata elicited particularly strong responses, whereas S. muticum induced moderate but consistent effects across multiple pathways. These changes were correlated with the pathogen inoculation outcome and improved plant resilience during infection. These findings provide physiological insights into how these macroalgae can suppress pathogen activity while enhancing host defenses, highlighting their potential as sustainable biocontrol agents. Exploiting A. armata and S. muticum in this context presents a resource-efficient biocontrol strategy that links plant adjuvant defense enhancer effect with the valorization of underexploited marine biomass, reinforcing their potential within sustainable agricultural systems.},
}

@article {pmid42723060,
year = {2026},
author = {Bakran-Lebl, K and Kopacka, I and Seebacher, B and Bartel, H and Catau, J and Eigner, B and Falk, S and Gunczy, J and Hafner, G and Hauer-Lienhart, K and Hufnagl, P and Jerrentrup, H and Paill, W and Petermann, JS and Rauchwarter, B and Reichl, J and Schwerte, T and Shahi-Barogh, B and Unterköfler, MS and Vesely, K and Walder, G and Wieser, C and Zechmeister, T and Zimmermann, K and Zittra, C and Zezula, D and Fuehrer, HP and , },
title = {Tracking the Asian tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus) in Austria: benefits of combining expert-based monitoring with citizen science data.},
journal = {Parasites & vectors},
volume = {19},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42723060},
issn = {1756-3305},
mesh = {Animals ; Austria ; *Citizen Science/methods ; *Aedes/physiology ; *Mosquito Control/methods ; *Mosquito Vectors/physiology ; Introduced Species ; Mosquito-Borne Diseases ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The Asian tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus) is an invasive species and a competent vector of numerous pathogens. Its establishment in Austria represents a growing public health concern, underscoring the need for effective surveillance strategies. In Austria, two complementary monitoring systems are implemented, an expert-based ovitrap monitoring programme and a citizen science-based monitoring approach. This study investigates whether combining structured expert monitoring with citizen science reporting provides measurable benefits and identifies which advantages are most relevant.

METHODS: We analysed data from Austria's nationwide ovitrap monitoring programme (following AIM-SURV protocol) and the citizen science project "Mosquito Alert" between 2020 and 2024. Both systems were evaluated at two spatial resolutions (5 × 5 km[2] and 20 × 20 km[2] grids) to quantify detection coverage, timing, and contribution to tracking spatial spread.

RESULTS: Combining ovitrap monitoring with the citizen science-based approach significantly improved detection coverage and spatiotemporal resolution. At fine scale (5 × 5 km[2]), the integrated approach increased positive grid cells by up to 70% compared to ovitraps alone, particularly in later years when citizen science reports dominated new detections. On the coarse scale (20 × 20 km[2]), ovitraps remained the primary source of early detections, while Mosquito Alert provided complementary signals in certain regions. Citizen science data were especially valuable for documenting local clustering, whereas ovitraps were more effective for identifying isolated new detections.

CONCLUSIONS: Integrating structured expert surveillance with validated citizen science creates a more comprehensive and responsive monitoring framework for Ae. albopictus. This multi-source approach enhances early warning, spatial coverage, and operational decision-making, offering a scalable model for invasive vector surveillance in Europe.},
}

Animals
Austria
*Citizen Science/methods
*Aedes/physiology
*Mosquito Control/methods
*Mosquito Vectors/physiology
Introduced Species
Mosquito-Borne Diseases

@article {pmid42320312,
year = {2026},
author = {Piazzi, L and Castriota, L and Livi, S and Cinti, MF and De Biasi, AM and Pacciardi, L and Pertusati, M and Pretti, C and Gennaro, P},
title = {Large-scale assessment of non-indigenous macroalgae in Mediterranean sensitive habitats: Toward a standardized procedure.},
journal = {Marine pollution bulletin},
volume = {232},
number = {},
pages = {119997},
doi = {10.1016/j.marpolbul.2026.119997},
pmid = {42320312},
issn = {1879-3363},
mesh = {*Seaweed ; *Ecosystem ; Mediterranean Sea ; *Environmental Monitoring/methods ; Coral Reefs ; *Introduced Species ; Alismatales ; },
abstract = {A standardized procedure for assessing the ecological quality of sensitive habitats in relation to biological invasions by macroalgae, based on the ALien Biotic IndEX, has recently been proposed. This study aims to test the procedure on a large spatial scale and to optimize the methodology for its application in monitoring programs across different biogeographical areas. The procedure was tested on coralligenous reefs and Posidonia oceanica seagrass meadows at different spatial scales, both in protected and unprotected areas. The results highlighted no significant effect of protection regime on the presence and abundance of non-indigenous species (NIS). Furthermore, NIS spread was found to be strongly dependent on the habitat type and species involved. Additionally, the findings suggest latitudinal difference in the seasonal dynamics of Caulerpa cylindracea. Overall, the study confirmed the robustness and applicability of the method under different conditions tested, indicating its suitability as an effective monitoring tool for standardizing sampling and data required to optimize NIS management.},
}

*Seaweed
*Ecosystem
Mediterranean Sea
*Environmental Monitoring/methods
Coral Reefs
*Introduced Species
Alismatales

@article {pmid42341455,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, J and Wang, Z},
title = {Managing shipborne species introduction requires global coordination: Evidence from robustness thresholds in maritime networks.},
journal = {Marine pollution bulletin},
volume = {232},
number = {},
pages = {120019},
doi = {10.1016/j.marpolbul.2026.120019},
pmid = {42341455},
issn = {1879-3363},
mesh = {*Ships ; *Introduced Species ; Animals ; Environmental Monitoring ; },
abstract = {Global maritime shipping is a major pathway for the introduction of non-indigenous species via ballast water discharge and hull fouling. Understanding the structure of global shipping networks can help identify where interventions may most effectively reduce propagule pressure. In this study, U.S. related global shipping networks were constructed from terrestrial Automatic Identification System (AIS) records and decomposed into vessel-type subnetworks. Network robustness under progressive node and edge removal scenarios were assessed using connectivity- and efficiency-based indicators, and a log-binned network disintegration model was proposed to better capture uneven traffic intensity. Management thresholds were defined at which network connectivity or efficiency declined sharply, and the results revealed marked vessel-type differences in pathway robustness. Fragmentation tipping points, identified from changes in the giant connected component, occurred at node-removal fractions of 0.39 for bulkers, 0.23 for tankers, and 0.28 for containerships, whereas passenger networks fragmented almost immediately under targeted intervention. Generally, global efficiency declined earlier than visible structural fragmentation across subnetworks, indicating that shipping-mediated introduction pathways may lose transport efficiency before pronounced topological breakdown. Although different targeting strategies identified only partially overlapping sets of priority bioregions, they produced comparable reductions in robustness, suggesting flexibility in intervention design. Notably, many priority bioregions were located outside the United States, indicating that effective risk reduction cannot rely on domestic port management alone. These findings support vessel-type-specific and internationally coordinated management, with broader intervention required for bulker networks and more targeted control likely sufficient for passenger networks.},
}

*Ships
*Introduced Species
Animals
Environmental Monitoring

@article {pmid42708387,
year = {2026},
author = {Tsai, YJ and Ellison, L and Finger, AJ and Carson, EW and Fangue, NA and Hung, TC},
title = {Spawning behaviour between endemic delta smelt (Hypomesus transpacificus) and non-native Wakasagi (H. nipponensis) in the San Francisco estuary.},
journal = {Journal of fish biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/jfb.70626},
pmid = {42708387},
issn = {1095-8649},
support = {R20AC00027//Bureau of Reclamation/ ; },
abstract = {In the San Francisco Estuary, non-native Wakasagi Hypomesus nipponensis hybridize with endemic and endangered Delta Smelt H. transpacificus, and all wild-caught hybrids have a maternal Wakasagi parent. However, the mechanisms that facilitate or impede hybridization and explain sex-biased hybrid asymmetry between these two species remain unclear. We conducted a no-choice spawning experiment, in which wild-caught Wakasagi (WK) and cultured Delta Smelt (DS) spawned naturally in different species-sex combinations: five Delta Smelt females with five Wakasagi males (DS × WK), five Wakasagi females with five Delta Smelt males (WK × DS) and five Wakasagi females with five Wakasagi males (WK × WK). We compared these data to those from a previous study testing DS × DS using the same methods. We quantified the frequency of spawns and attempts, sex ratio of participants and diel timing of behaviours, as well as the fertilization success of resulting eggs. Wakasagi engaged in five times more spawns than Delta Smelt in same-species trials, and spawns were more frequent in WK × DS than in DS × WK trials. Whereas fish in WK × WK trials exhibited mostly diurnal spawns, those in all other crosses exhibited predominantly nocturnal spawns. Eggs resulting from WK × DS trials had lower fertilization success than those in all other crosses. These results did not clearly explain the hybrid asymmetry observed in nature. Nevertheless, our study demonstrated that: 1) Wakasagi exhibited a very high propensity to spawn, which may provide a reproductive advantage over Delta Smelt, 2) Wakasagi showed great plasticity in spawning behaviour, which may facilitate interspecific spawning and 3) all crosses produced fertilized eggs, demonstrating that there are no complete pre-zygotic barriers to hybridization. Ultimately, any level of Delta Smelt spawning activity that includes Wakasagi is wasted reproductive potential, and our study highlights the mechanisms by and degree to which this may occur.},
}

@article {pmid42709414,
year = {2026},
author = {Schmidt, TL and Bierman, A and Huisamen, EJ and Terblanche, JS and Hoffmann, AA},
title = {Ambrosia beetle invasions are structured by inbreeding, intraspecific hybridisation, and bridgeheads.},
journal = {Molecular biology and evolution},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/molbev/msag231},
pmid = {42709414},
issn = {1537-1719},
abstract = {When invasive populations establish in regions far from their origin, they may accumulate deleterious mutations that limit population viability and later expansion. Invasions stemming from such bridgehead populations may experience further sequential bottlenecks. However, deleterious mutations can be masked or eliminated when populations outbreed with other lineages. Here, we analyse global invasions of a species complex of persistently inbreeding ambrosia beetles, using genomic data (N=247) from invasive populations in Africa, North America and Australia, and from native populations in Asia. We mostly focus on one species of this complex (Euwallacea fornicatus) which poses a severe threat to tree species worldwide and is rapidly expanding its global range. We uncover a single lineage of this species across California, South Africa, and Western Australia, involving an invasive bridgehead and containing almost no nuclear genetic variation. In South Africa we identify a second lineage that has repeatedly hybridised with the first lineage. Genetic patterns in the native range indicate that such opportunistic outbreeding may be common. Despite lacking nuclear variation, the first lineage contained two CO1 haplotypes that were also observed in every hybrid lineage, pointing to heteroplasmy and possible hybrid origins of this lineage. Native populations had fewer missense mutations than invasive populations, indicating that opportunistic outbreeding may help purge fixed deleterious mutations when local lineage diversity is high. These findings highlight the importance of outbreeding even when inbreeding is common, and they demonstrate the biosecurity threat posed by subsequent gene flow into invasive populations.},
}

@article {pmid42710851,
year = {2026},
author = {Cheeke, TE and Bryant, RL and Davies, G and Koziol, L and Bever, JD},
title = {Inoculation with old-growth microbes improves restoration quality and reduces non-native encroachment after seven years.},
journal = {Ecological applications : a publication of the Ecological Society of America},
volume = {36},
number = {6},
pages = {e70295},
pmid = {42710851},
issn = {1939-5582},
support = {2024-67011-4301//National Institute of Food and Agriculture/ ; 2027458//National Science Foundation/ ; DEB 1556664//National Science Foundation/ ; DBI-1401729//National Science Foundation/ ; 2302053//University of Kansas General Research Fund/ ; //Washington State University/ ; },
mesh = {*Mycorrhizae/physiology ; *Soil Microbiology ; *Grassland ; *Environmental Restoration and Remediation/methods ; *Introduced Species ; *Bromus/microbiology ; *Conservation of Natural Resources/methods ; Seedlings ; Time Factors ; },
abstract = {Understanding the mechanisms that promote native seedling establishment in disturbed ecosystems is key to improving the biodiversity and function of landscape restorations. Over seven growing seasons, we examined the effects of site preparation technique, soil microbial inoculations, and their interactions on native plant establishment in the restoration of an invaded grassland. Prior to restoration, field plots were either (a) solarized to clear the non-native grass Bromus inermis or (b) mowed, and one of three soil microbial treatments was introduced into each plot using native tallgrass prairie seedlings as "nurse" plants, inoculated with (1) arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi isolated from old-growth prairie remnants, (2) remnant prairie soil, or (3) autoclaved inocula. Uninoculated phytometer seedlings were planted at different distances from the nurse plant row to test for plant-soil feedbacks and spread of microbes into the restoration site. A diverse native seed mix was applied to test whether site preparation technique and/or microbial inoculations impacted the composition of the plant community. We found that site preparation technique and microbial inoculation were strong drivers of plant community composition, and saw evidence of plant-soil feedbacks in the first year of the study. By the seventh growing season, there was greater cover of late successional native plant species and increased floristic quality index scores in solarized plots and inoculated plots compared to mowed and uninoculated plots. Overseeding without solarization was mostly effective for establishing native grasses, which comprised 66% of plot abundance after three overseeding attempts. By considering belowground communities at the same time as revegetation efforts, this study demonstrates how soil microbial inoculations can be used in conjunction with site preparation technique as a nature-based tool to accelerate the recovery of invaded grasslands.},
}

*Mycorrhizae/physiology
*Soil Microbiology
*Grassland
*Environmental Restoration and Remediation/methods
*Introduced Species
*Bromus/microbiology
*Conservation of Natural Resources/methods
Seedlings
Time Factors

@article {pmid42714251,
year = {2026},
author = {Middleton, EG and Lee, N},
title = {Detecting Thrips parvispinus (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) in retail plant stores in Southern California.},
journal = {Journal of insect science (Online)},
volume = {26},
number = {5},
pages = {},
pmid = {42714251},
issn = {1536-2442},
support = {//Kee Kitayama Research Foundation/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Thysanoptera/physiology ; California ; *Introduced Species ; Commerce ; },
abstract = {Thrips parvispinus (Thysanoptera: Thripidae: Karny) is an invasive pest that harms peppers and ornamentals. It has not been reported as present in Southern California but has a history of establishing in regions prior to official detection. We surveyed retail garden stores in San Diego and Orange Counties to determine if T. parvispinus was present in California but undetected, and found it on Capsicum, Dipladenia, Mandevilla, and Gardenia species across a year-long period. Our work demonstrates that T. parvispinus can spread to new areas undetected on nursery stock and validates sampling retail stores as a low-effort early detection method that can be used by researchers and regulators to find T. parvispinus on nursery stock.},
}

Animals
*Thysanoptera/physiology
California
*Introduced Species
Commerce

@article {pmid42714588,
year = {2026},
author = {Cogălniceanu, D and Stănescu, F and Tănase, TL and Vlad, SE and Snethlage, M and Ranipeta, A and Urbach, D},
title = {Introduced Fish in Mountains: State of Published Research on their Removal from Lentic Ecosystems.},
journal = {Environmental management},
volume = {76},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {42714588},
issn = {1432-1009},
support = {UEFISCDI 276/2022, Biodiversa FishMe//Unitatea Executiva pentru Finantarea Invatamantului Superior, a Cercetarii, Dezvoltarii si Inovarii/ ; PN-IV-P6-6.1-CoEx-2024-0124, RECOVER//Unitatea Executiva pentru Finantarea Invatamantului Superior, a Cercetarii, Dezvoltarii si Inovarii/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Introduced Species ; *Ecosystem ; *Fishes ; *Conservation of Natural Resources/methods ; Fresh Water ; },
abstract = {The introduction of alien fish in freshwater ecosystems has become an increasing concern over the last decades and a considerable amount of literature exists on their ecological consequences. However, less is known about their management and eradication, particularly in mountain ecosystems, where fish introductions have been carried out over decades. Here, we systematically mapped and reviewed peer-reviewed literature on fish removal in mountain ecosystems, with a focus on standing waters. The results of our work indicate important spatial and taxonomic biases, with most published studies performed in North America and on salmonids. The removal methods were primarily physical (57%) and chemical (31%), with variable success rates depending on which approach or combination of approaches were used, the species targeted, and ecosystem characteristics. Based on the 35 publications we reviewed, there is no "silver bullet" for fish removal from mountain standing waters. Prevention, early detection, and rapid intervention remain the best approach in halting the spread of or eradicating invasive species before the establishment phase. Making use of the available data and learning from past interventions remains the most affordable approach to guide and adapt management options. To share the knowledge we collected, inform management, and raise awareness, we developed the "FishME Toolbox" as an online open access infrastructure offering tailored resources for both expert and non-expert users.},
}

Animals
*Introduced Species
*Ecosystem
*Fishes
*Conservation of Natural Resources/methods
Fresh Water

@article {pmid42715961,
year = {2026},
author = {Ren, YH and Wu, PQ and Gao, Y and Liu, QF and Zhou, B and Yue, JM},
title = {Capitalizing on an Invasive Species: Micurane Sesquiterpenoids from Micrococca mercurialis with Stage-Specific Antiplasmodial Activity.},
journal = {Journal of agricultural and food chemistry},
volume = {74},
number = {35},
pages = {27563-27579},
doi = {10.1021/acs.jafc.6c06163},
pmid = {42715961},
issn = {1520-5118},
support = {22494691//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 82322064//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 24QA2711300//Shanghai Rising-Star Program/ ; },
mesh = {*Antimalarials/chemistry/pharmacology/isolation & purification ; *Plasmodium falciparum/drug effects/growth & development ; *Sesquiterpenes/chemistry/pharmacology/isolation & purification ; Molecular Structure ; Plant Roots/chemistry ; Animals ; *Plant Extracts/chemistry/pharmacology ; },
abstract = {Invasive plants pose threats to ecosystems and agriculture but can also serve as reservoirs of bioactive natural products. In an in-house antimalarial screening campaign, the invasive species Micrococca mercurialis was prioritized, leading to the isolation of 19 new sesquiterpenoids (micmeroids A-S, 1-19). Notably, these metabolites were the predominant constituents in the roots, with a substantial total isolation yield of approximately 0.1% (w/w). Their structures, elucidated by extensive spectroscopic analyses, quantum-chemical calculations, chemical derivatization, and single-crystal X-ray diffraction, feature a rare sesquiterpene skeleton named "micurane". Biological evaluation established micurane-type sesquiterpenoids as a new class of antimalarial agents, with micmeroid L (12) exhibiting the most potent antiplasmodial activity (IC50 = 1.47 μM) against the chloroquine-resistant Plasmodium falciparum Dd2 strain. Stage-specific inhibition assays revealed that micmeroid L likely selectively targeted the early ring-to-trophozoite transition of P. falciparum, which may induce irreversible developmental arrest and sustained parasite clearance.},
}

*Antimalarials/chemistry/pharmacology/isolation & purification
*Plasmodium falciparum/drug effects/growth & development
*Sesquiterpenes/chemistry/pharmacology/isolation & purification
Molecular Structure
Plant Roots/chemistry
Animals
*Plant Extracts/chemistry/pharmacology

@article {pmid42719027,
year = {2026},
author = {Gauche, M and Fontanié, N and Grangaud, E and Wilding, N and Rougerie, R and Lapègue, M and Ah-Peng, C},
title = {Contribution to the DNA barcode reference library for Réunion Pteridophyta.},
journal = {Biodiversity data journal},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {e199400},
pmid = {42719027},
issn = {1314-2828},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Expanding DNA barcode reference libraries is essential to support ecological surveys, conservation assessments and future metabarcoding applications. Réunion Island (Mascarene's Archipelago) hosts a rich diversity of pteridophytes despite its small surface area. Although the chloroplastic rbcL sequences are available for several fern taxa in public databases, additional regions with high variability such as trnH-psbA are still under-represented for the Réunion pteridoflora. This dataset has been produced in the framework of the FRBOL (FRench Barcode Of Life) network.

NEW INFORMATION: The current curated DNA barcode dataset contains 84 pteridophyte species from Réunion Island, representing approximately 25% of the pteridophyte species present on the Island. All specimens were morphologically identified by a specialist and are preserved as vouchers in the public herbarium of the University of Réunion (REU). A total of 163 sequences of rbcLa (86) and trnH-psbA (77) were generated and deposited in the Barcode of Life Data System (BOLD) with complete associated metadata and photos. While numerous rbcLa sequences were already available on GenBank, our dataset provides newlygenerated sequences linked to curated vouchers on BOLD and substantially increases the representation of trnH-psbA for the Island's pteridophytes. Additionally, this work documents the first record of Pteris ensiformis Burm.f., an exotic species for Réunion. Morphological examination allowed the identification of this newly-recorded species, which was corroborated by molecular analyses.},
}

@article {pmid42703694,
year = {2026},
author = {Heine, C and Plewnia, A and Strand, D and Gupta, S and Krehenwinkel, H and McFarlane, GR},
title = {A CRISPR-Based Rapid Detection Assay for Crayfish Plague (Aphanomyces astaci) From Environmental Samples.},
journal = {Journal of fish diseases},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e70278},
doi = {10.1111/jfd.70278},
pmid = {42703694},
issn = {1365-2761},
support = {N1104226N//Fonds Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek/ ; A-023//Centre for Invasive Species Solutions/ ; //New South Wales Government/ ; //Veterinærinstituttets/ ; //Norwegian Food Safety Authority/ ; },
abstract = {Crayfish plague, caused by Aphanomyces astaci (Aa), is an infectious disease invasive in Europe, where its rapid spread has resulted in sharp declines of native crayfish species. Monitoring currently relies on a highly sensitive, but costly and time-consuming qPCR approach. Here, we designed a simplified, rapid and cost-efficient molecular assay for on-site detection of Aa. The novel rapid assay employs a combination of isothermal recombinase polymerase amplification and CRISPR-Cas12a-based detection that can be coupled with fluorescence or lateral flow visualisation. We demonstrate that the novel assay can detect A. astaci from tissue and environmental DNA with higher sensitivity than the available qPCR assay and readily distinguishes Aa from its non-pathogenic sister taxon A. fennicus. We tested two genomic marker sites for Aa that discriminate closely related oomycetes and incorporate field-deployable lateral flow and fluorescence readouts. Our work will make crayfish plague monitoring broadly accessible to practitioners and non-academic stakeholders as a tool to curb further Aa-driven loss of Europe's imperilled freshwater crustaceans and strengthen preparedness against future incursions of the pathogen in other regions.},
}

@article {pmid42699283,
year = {2026},
author = {Hillyard, LB and Bunbury, N and Kaiser-Bunbury, CN and Hodgson, D and A'Bear, L and Sanchez, CL and Jones, CW and Burt, A and Fleischer-Dogley, F and Hudson, DW},
title = {Inferring the Abundance of an Island Megaherbivore From Semi-Structured Distance Sampling.},
journal = {Ecology and evolution},
volume = {16},
number = {9},
pages = {e74282},
pmid = {42699283},
issn = {2045-7758},
abstract = {A core component of conservation management projects is the estimation and monitoring of abundance of target species, in space and through time. Monitoring wildlife is complicated and relies on detection, which itself depends on environmental conditions, phenotypes and behaviours of the species being monitored. Aldabra giant tortoises (Aldabrachelys gigantea) have great importance as ecosystem engineers, keystone species and ecological replacements. Accurate monitoring is vital to understanding both the size and dynamics of their native and translocated populations, and the species' influence on the wider ecosystem. Despite a long history of organised research and population surveys in their native range on Aldabra Atoll in the Seychelles, to date no rigorous, atoll-wide estimation of giant tortoise population size has been attempted. The complexity of irregular transect surveys, through a variety of habitats, in several areas of the atoll, necessitates the use of state-space statistical models that capture heterogeneities in both abundance and detection. Here we develop a Bayesian Hierarchical Distance Sampling (HDS) model to infer habitat- and season-dependent detectability and abundance of the Aldabra giant tortoise population on Aldabra. Between 2018 and 2021 the population was apparently relatively stable and numbered approximately 180,000 individuals, the highest estimate so far made for this population. We attribute this stability and high abundance to the extended history of conservation efforts on Aldabra, including invasive alien species eradication which should be maintained and expanded. We provide a reproducible workflow for Bayesian distance sampling methods using data-augmentation and habitat-dependent detectability and recommend its use on legacy datasets and future abundance surveys for similar species. These methods enable robust inference of abundance and detectability even when data are irregular or inconsistently collected, providing a framework for integrating legacy datasets with modern conservation workflows.},
}

@article {pmid42699769,
year = {2026},
author = {S R, R and G M, V and Pujari, A and Asundi, VS and M, CP and Shivanna, R},
title = {An inventory of weed diversity data including invasive alien species as emerging threats to agro-ecosystem.},
journal = {Data in brief},
volume = {68},
number = {},
pages = {113179},
pmid = {42699769},
issn = {2352-3409},
abstract = {Weed invasion has emerged as one of the foremost ecological and agricultural challenges, undermining crop productivity and threatening native biodiversity. Agricultural landscapes, particularly in regions of high cultivation intensity, provide ideal conditions for establishing and spreading invasive alien plants. Weed flora was surveyed across ten cultivated fields at six sites in Mysore district, Karnataka, India with monthly visits over 12 months; 1-hectare focal fields; 4 quadrats per field to document species diversity and assess invasive potential. About 51 species was recorded (42 genera, 22 families); Asteraceae (n = 11) and Poaceae (n = 10) were dominant. Parthenium hysterophorus L. was the most widespread (present in 9/10 fields). Using authoritative databases, we classified 15 species as invasive (29.41%). Ethnobotanical interviews indicated mixed local perceptions: several species have medicinal uses that complicate management. Ecological traits that facilitate invasion and recommend targeted early detection, community-based monitoring, and integrated weed management tailored to smallholder cropping systems.},
}

@article {pmid42698215,
year = {2026},
author = {Kroboth, PT and Herndon, AM and Carlson, CL and Williams, F and Alvarez, RN and George, AE},
title = {Black Carp Mylopharyngodon piceus reproductive development and maturation in the Mississippi River basin.},
journal = {Journal of fish biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/jfb.70628},
pmid = {42698215},
issn = {1095-8649},
support = {//Great Lakes Restoration Initiative/ ; //U.S. Geological Survey Biological Threats and Invasive Species Program/ ; },
abstract = {Black Carp Mylopharyngodon piceus are native to most major east Asian drainages and are internationally cultured for use as a food-fish or a biological control for molluscs. We describe the reproductive biology of Black Carp from the growing invasive population in the Mississippi River basin through examination of incidental commercial fisheries and biologist captures. Our objectives were to assess (1) reproductive development by combined macroscopic and histological staging to compare reproductive maturation by total length, estimated age, and latitude; (2) population functions of gonadosomatic index, length and age, and weight and length relationships; and (3) absolute fecundity. We identified length as a better predictor of reproductive maturation than age, with variation among individuals, and between males and females, with higher probability of maturation anticipated for larger and older individuals predicted around 1050 mm total length (TL; 6 years) for females and 950 mm TL (5 years) for males (n = 548). Proposed sizes and ages are representative minimum and should be interpreted with the understanding that spawning and recruitment success increase for older, more mature fish than in early stages. Observed growth rates were rapid relative to both native and introduced ranges. We confirmed that Black Carp are developmentally indeterminate batch spawners due to the simultaneous presence of advanced growth oocytes via histology and egg measurements, with preserved egg average diameters ranging from 0.395 to 3.215 mm (n = 23). Absolute fecundity estimates ranged from 72,748 to 3,542,789 eggs across the 966 to 1412 mm TL size range of individuals, with substantial variability among individuals attributed to poor relative fecundity estimates. These results represent the first step in assessing the reproductive rates of Mississippi River Black Carp via the size of reproductive development and potential contributions through fecundity. The results and population rates presented here may be used or adapted for future studies on regional spawning phenology and reproductive development, or in population growth models for control.},
}

@article {pmid42698735,
year = {2026},
author = {Bienias, J and Trębicki, Ł and Karlik, G and Grabowski, M},
title = {First Taxonomically Curated DNA Barcode Reference Library for Polish Myriapods Fills an Important Knowledge Gap for Soil Invertebrates in Central Europe, Part I: Millipedes (Myriapoda: Diplopoda).},
journal = {Ecology and evolution},
volume = {16},
number = {9},
pages = {e74268},
pmid = {42698735},
issn = {2045-7758},
abstract = {DNA barcoding is a highly effective tool for species identification, complementing taxonomic and phylogenetic studies while also playing a key role in biomonitoring and uncovering cryptic diversity. Techniques such as DNA barcoding, metabarcoding and environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis are widely applied in biodiversity conservation, tracking invasive species and studying trophic interactions. To carry out this type of research effectively, a robust DNA barcode library is essential, built upon high-quality genetic sequences and accurate taxonomic identification. Here, we present the results of a large-scale DNA barcoding study of Polish diplopod species (Myriapoda: Diplopoda), providing an up-to-date checklist of species recorded in Poland and a reference DNA barcode library. We deliver data on 981 individuals identified to species level, of which 468 have COI sequence data. 58 out of 93 species recorded for Poland were successfully barcoded, representing 62% of the national fauna. Additionally, we explore future research directions, potential cryptic diversity and shifts in the national fauna, including newly recorded species for Poland-Melogona broelemanni (Verhoeff, 1897). Our findings highlight the significance of ongoing monitoring and molecular methods in tracking biodiversity changes.},
}

@article {pmid42696061,
year = {2026},
author = {Engel, LD and Smith, A and Cardenas, I and Abdulkarem, D and Vasquez, CC and Hekkala, E and Herstoff, EM and Tessler, M},
title = {The impact of non-native trees on galling and herbivory in New York City across space and time.},
journal = {Oecologia},
volume = {208},
number = {10},
pages = {},
pmid = {42696061},
issn = {1432-1939},
support = {Green-Wood Research Fellowship Award in Urban Environmental Science//Green-Wood Cemetery/ ; 0537252016//CSTEP Program of NYSED/ ; 0537231071//CSTEP Program of NYSED/ ; P120A210054//DoEd MSEIP Program/ ; },
mesh = {*Trees ; *Herbivory ; Animals ; New York City ; Introduced Species ; },
abstract = {Cities and suburbs frequently plant native and non-native trees as foundation species, with non-natives cultivated in these areas for centuries while remaining non-invasive. Although previous research has found that native trees often host more arthropods, studies have not simultaneously looked across space and time to determine the consistency of tree origin on urban arthropods. We combined varied methods across spatial and temporal scales in New York City to test if native tree leaves consistently have more insect and mite interactions than long-established non-native trees, predicting stronger effect sizes for specialists (galling arthropods) than generalists (herbivory). We examined (1) congeneric species pairs, controlled for growing conditions and stoichiometry in an arboretum, (2) diverse oaks at a botanical garden, (3) community science records across Brooklyn, and (4) herbarium specimens from 1883 through present across the city. Across spatiotemporal scales, we found consistent results. Specialist interactions were striking: contemporary native trees supported numerous galling species, while only one congeneric non-native species hosted any galls. For generalists, contemporary native trees had equivalent to slightly greater herbivory. Over the last century, herbarium records showed that herbivory increased on non-native trees to nearly the level of natives, whereas native trees increased in gall abundance while non-native trees remained rarely galled. Our results demonstrate the impact of tree origin on tree-arthropod interactions in a real-world urban setting, with far fewer galls even when non-native tree species have been cultivated locally for centuries. Our findings will help city planners and property owners confidently choose native trees to promote arthropod biodiversity.},
}

*Trees
*Herbivory
Animals
New York City
Introduced Species

@article {pmid42696625,
year = {2026},
author = {Stone, LA and Scheper, FW and Davis, CM and Talbot Trotter, R and Coyle, DR},
title = {Oviposition and early survival of Anoplophora glabripennis (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) in common garden and natural field environments in South Carolina.},
journal = {Environmental entomology},
volume = {55},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/ee/nvag093},
pmid = {42696625},
issn = {1938-2936},
support = {AP24PPQS&T00C002//Cooperative Agreements/ ; AP25PPQS&T00C002//Cooperative Agreements/ ; //USDA APHIS/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Coleoptera/physiology/growth & development ; *Oviposition ; *Acer/growth & development/physiology ; Female ; South Carolina ; Larva/physiology/growth & development ; Gardens ; Longevity ; },
abstract = {Anoplophora glabripennis Motschulsky (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) is an invasive wood-boring beetle that primarily infests Acer rubrum L. (Sapindales: Sapindaceae) in North America. The first signs of infestation in a host tree are oviposition pits indicating female beetles have attempted to place eggs in the phloem; however, the presence of oviposition pits does not always guarantee the presence and survival of eggs or larvae, and little is known about the relative success of beetle oviposition. To better understand A. glabripennis oviposition and early larval survival, we infested A. rubrum in a common garden environment. We conducted daily observations and destructively harvested these trees to analyze oviposition pit occupation, egg viability, and early larval survival, and compared patterns of oviposition success and survival with field-collected material from naturally infested host trees in the surrounding environment. Oviposition pits on field-collected material were also examined to explore potential links between host tree characteristics and A. glabripennis oviposition success. Our results support previous findings that fecundity is highly variable among individuals, that A. glabripennis oviposition pits were most commonly observed on host material with intermediate sized diameters (6 to 15 cm) and textured bark, and oviposition pits were often chewed without depositing an egg. Oviposition pit occupation, egg viability, and early larval survival were significantly lower on host trees in the common garden environment relative to naturally infested field material. Understanding oviposition and early survival and how host tree characteristics can impact fecundity can help improve detection and more efficiently utilize resources dedicated to invasive species management.},
}

Animals
*Coleoptera/physiology/growth & development
*Oviposition
*Acer/growth & development/physiology
Female
South Carolina
Larva/physiology/growth & development
Gardens
Longevity

@article {pmid42697638,
year = {2026},
author = {Yao, J and Shi, H and Qin, S and Yang, H and Xu, X and Luo, H},
title = {Repellent and insecticidal activities of secondary metabolites from Praxelis clematidea against Solenopsis invicta (Hymenoptera: Formicidae).},
journal = {Pesticide biochemistry and physiology},
volume = {223},
number = {},
pages = {107260},
doi = {10.1016/j.pestbp.2026.107260},
pmid = {42697638},
issn = {1095-9939},
mesh = {*Asteraceae/chemistry/metabolism ; *Introduced Species ; Animals ; *Fire Ants ; Secondary Metabolism ; *Insecticides/isolation & purification ; *Insect Repellents/isolation & purification ; Polycyclic Sesquiterpenes/isolation & purification/pharmacology ; Nesting Behavior/drug effects ; Cholinesterase Inhibitors/isolation & purification ; },
abstract = {Praxelis clematidea is a high-risk invasive species with potent insecticidal and repellent properties. This study isolated and identified its bioactive constituents against the red imported fire ant, Solenopsis invicta. Through bioassay-guided fractionation using a digging-based repellency assay, an active oily mixture (I2-[3]) was obtained, with a minimum repellent effective dose (MRED) of 0.0125 mg/g. Notably, caryophyllene oxide, a major component (22.3%), showed stronger repellency (MRED = 0.00156 mg/g) than DEET (MRED = 0.00625 mg/g). Friedelin (MRED = 0.0625 mg/g), stigmasterol, and 4',5,6,7-tetramethoxyflavone (each MRED = 0.125 mg/g), from moderately active fractions, exhibited only moderate activity. Caryophyllene oxide was selected for further evaluation. In behavioral bioassays, it significantly reduced S. invicta nesting activity for at least 15 days, reduced foraging ants within 1 h, and prolonged food transport time throughout the experiment. Moreover, in field tests, its repellency was comparable to DEET. In addition to its repellent effects, caryophyllene oxide also showed rapid contact toxicity (LT50 = 1.19 h at 0.1 mg/cm[2]), albeit slightly less potent than DEET (LT50 = 0.558 h). Enzyme assays revealed that caryophyllene oxide exhibited concentration- and time-dependent effects: at low concentrations, acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and carboxylesterase (CarE) showed initial activation followed by inhibition, unlike glutathione S-transferase (GST), which remained consistently activated; at high concentrations, both were rapidly inhibited, with GST inhibition likely due to exceeded detoxification capacity. Overall, these results indicate that P. clematidea contains active compounds against S. invicta, with caryophyllene oxide emerging as a promising dual-action (repellent and contact insecticidal) agent for S. invicta management.},
}

*Asteraceae/chemistry/metabolism
*Introduced Species
Animals
*Fire Ants
Secondary Metabolism
*Insecticides/isolation & purification
*Insect Repellents/isolation & purification
Polycyclic Sesquiterpenes/isolation & purification/pharmacology
Nesting Behavior/drug effects
Cholinesterase Inhibitors/isolation & purification

@article {pmid42693154,
year = {2026},
author = {Matsala, M and Zadorozhniuk, R and Miskova, O and Bondarenko, H and Bilous, A},
title = {War fires promote short-term alien plant colonization in eastern Ukraine's pine forests.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {16},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42693154},
issn = {2045-2322},
mesh = {*Forests ; Ukraine ; *Fires ; Biodiversity ; Ecosystem ; *Introduced Species ; *Pinus sylvestris/growth & development ; *Pinus ; Trees ; },
abstract = {Russian full-scale military invasion has driven multiple ecosystem disturbances in the arid zone of eastern Ukraine, including fires of varying severity. Local forests, largely dominated by Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.), were planted as uniform monocultures in a region where low-density woodlands had historically prevailed. However, little is known about how military-related fires affect successional trajectories in disturbed pine forests. We conducted fully digital surveys of vascular plant composition using under-canopy imagery collected by an unmanned aerial vehicle. Transects were established in 29 pine stands with low to medium soil moisture content that had burned three years before the survey. We constructed linear models to examine short-term effects of fire severity on the proportion of alien flora, vascular plant diversity, and the success of tree regeneration. In line with our expectations, higher levels of stand damage were positively correlated with an increasing proportion of non-native plant species. However, this pattern was largely driven by Canadian horseweed (Erigeron canadensis L.), a widespread ruderal species that commonly appears as a short-term colonizer of disturbed forest sites. By contrast, we found no significant effects of burn severity on tree regeneration, which was poor across most transects, or on overall vascular plant diversity. We therefore discuss how war-altered disturbance regimes, including the potential for repeated fires, may interact with short-term ruderal colonization in artificial pine forests, particularly in relation to landscape-level fire risks and future successional pathways.},
}

*Forests
Ukraine
*Fires
Biodiversity
Ecosystem
*Introduced Species
*Pinus sylvestris/growth & development
*Pinus
Trees

@article {pmid42695926,
year = {2026},
author = {Moreno-Spiegelberg, P and Aguilar, J},
title = {Noise-induced excitability: Bloom, bust, and extirpation in autotoxic population dynamics.},
journal = {Chaos (Woodbury, N.Y.)},
volume = {36},
number = {9},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1063/5.0330931},
pmid = {42695926},
issn = {1089-7682},
mesh = {*Population Dynamics ; *Models, Biological ; Stochastic Processes ; Computer Simulation ; Animals ; },
abstract = {Species populations often modify their environment as they grow. When environmental feedback operates more slowly than population growth, the system can undergo boom-bust dynamics, where the population overshoots its carrying capacity and subsequently collapses. In extreme cases, this collapse leads to total extinction. While deterministic models typically fail to capture these finite-time extinction events, we propose a stochastic framework, derived from an individual-based model, to describe boom-bust-extirpation dynamics. We identify a noise-driven, threshold-like behavior where, depending on initial conditions, the population either undergoes a "boom" or is extirpated before the expansion occurs. Furthermore, we characterize a transition between an excitable regime, where most trajectories are captured by the absorbing state immediately after the first bust, and a persistent regime, where most populations reach a metastable state. We show that this transition is governed by the noise strength and the ratio of environmental-to-population timescales. This framework provides a theoretical basis for understanding irreversible transitions in invasive species, plant succession, microbial dynamics, and the elimination of cancerous tumors.},
}

*Population Dynamics
*Models, Biological
Stochastic Processes
Computer Simulation
Animals

@article {pmid42688443,
year = {2026},
author = {Falletti, P and Barrera Vázquez, MF and Mendoza Ocampo, ES and Páez, PL and Martini, RE and Lema, P and Comini, LR},
title = {Sustainable and integrated cascade valorization of the biomass generated by the invasive plant Flaveria bidentis: optimization of ultrasound-assisted phenols extraction coupled to the green synthesis of biogenic antimicrobial silver nanoparticles.},
journal = {Frontiers in bioengineering and biotechnology},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {1872480},
pmid = {42688443},
issn = {2296-4185},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: This study addresses the integrated valorization of residual biomass from Flaveria bidentis, an invasive species native to the Americas through the recovery of phenolic compounds (phenolic acids and flavonoids, mainly glycosylated and sulfated - the latter being rare in nature -) and their subsequent use in the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles. The optimization of ultrasound-assisted aqueous extraction of phenolic compounds from F. bidentis biomass and the direct use of the resulting extracts as reducing and stabilizing agents for the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles remain largely unexplored.

METHODS: The phenolic compounds were extracted by ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) using water as extraction solvent. Extraction time, temperature, and solvent/sample ratio were optimized within the investigated experimental domain using response surface methodology based on a three-variable Doehlert experimental design (R2 ≥ 0.96). The optimized aqueous extracts were then used directly, without purification, as reducing and stabilizing agents in the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles. These nanoparticles were characterized in terms of size and morphology, and their antibacterial activity against Gram- positive and Gram-negative bacteria was subsequently evaluated using the diffusion assay.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Optimal conditions for phenols extraction were established from leaves (68 min, 59 °C, 20 mL/ g) and from flowers (65 min, 75 °C, 20 mL/g). Under these conditions, the results revealed a key finding: the high yield of phenolic compounds from F. bidentis, particularly from the leaves (250.86 mg/g), using water as the sole solvent. Spherical biogenic silver nanoparticles (∼30-31 nm; PDI: 0.26-0.46; ζ-potential: -15.0 to -12.1 mV) were successfully synthesized and exhibited significant antimicrobial activity. The results demonstrate the feasibility of integrating phenolic extraction and nanoparticle synthesis into a single process, in which the aqueous extracts obtained under optimized conditions can be directly employed to produce functional nanomaterials without intermediate purification steps. Thus, the proposed cascade valorization strategy enabled the sustainable transformation of F. bidentis biomass into bioactive compounds and antimicrobial nanomaterials, adding value to this plant waste.},
}

@article {pmid42689961,
year = {2026},
author = {Akbar, R and Bo, Y and Jin, C and Aslam, T and Ahmad, K and Liu, Z and Sun, J and Fan, J},
title = {Comparative Responses of Invasive and Native Plant Species to Combined Cd and Microplastic Pollution.},
journal = {Physiologia plantarum},
volume = {178},
number = {5},
pages = {e71089},
pmid = {42689961},
issn = {1399-3054},
support = {31702165//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 31971427//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; //Priority Academic Program Development of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions (PAPD)/ ; RDZH2019003//Key Laboratory of Tropical Medicinal Resource Chemistry of the Ministry of Education/ ; //Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Technology and Material of Water Treatment/ ; },
mesh = {*Cadmium/toxicity ; *Microplastics/toxicity ; *Bidens/drug effects/physiology ; *Solanum nigrum/drug effects/physiology/metabolism ; Rhizosphere ; *Introduced Species ; *Soil Pollutants/toxicity ; Plant Roots/drug effects/physiology/metabolism ; Photosynthesis/drug effects ; Chlorophyll/metabolism ; Reactive Oxygen Species/metabolism ; Antioxidants/metabolism ; Lipid Peroxidation/drug effects ; Oxidative Stress/drug effects ; Biomass ; Stress, Physiological ; },
abstract = {The co-occurrence of heavy metal contamination and biodegradable microplastic (polylactic acid, PLA) pollution poses increasing risks to terrestrial plant communities and soil functioning, yet species-specific responses to combined stress remain poorly understood. Cd and microplastics frequently co-occur in agricultural soils, where microplastics can alter cadmium mobility, bioavailability, and transport pathways, potentially modifying metal toxicity and plant stress responses compared with single-pollutant exposure. We investigated the responses of the invasive Bidens pilosa and the native Solanum nigrum grown in monoculture and mixed culture under combined cadmium (Cd) and biodegradable microplastic (PLA) stress by integrating plant growth, photosynthetic performance, oxidative physiology, and rhizosphere biochemical processes. Combined Cd-MP exposure markedly reduced plant growth, chlorophyll content (SPAD), photosystem II efficiency (Fv/Fm), nitrogen accumulation, biomass production, and rhizosphere enzyme activities associated with carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus cycling. However, B. pilosa maintained greater physiological stability under stress, characterized by higher antioxidant enzyme activities (SOD, CAT, POD), lower reactive oxygen species (H2O2, O2˙[-]) accumulation, and reduced lipid peroxidation (MDA), whereas S. nigrum exhibited stronger oxidative damage and functional impairment. Multivariate analyses further revealed that root antioxidant capacity was closely associated with rhizosphere microbial enzyme activity, suggesting a root-centered regulatory mechanism linking plant stress tolerance to soil functioning. Overall, the invasive species showed greater tolerance to combined contamination and maintained relatively higher rhizosphere functional activity than the native species, indicating that multi-pollutant stress may alter competitive interactions between invasive and native plants in contaminated environments.},
}

*Cadmium/toxicity
*Microplastics/toxicity
*Bidens/drug effects/physiology
*Solanum nigrum/drug effects/physiology/metabolism
Rhizosphere
*Introduced Species
*Soil Pollutants/toxicity
Plant Roots/drug effects/physiology/metabolism
Photosynthesis/drug effects
Chlorophyll/metabolism
Reactive Oxygen Species/metabolism
Antioxidants/metabolism
Lipid Peroxidation/drug effects
Oxidative Stress/drug effects
Biomass
Stress, Physiological

@article {pmid42691164,
year = {2026},
author = {Stokstad, E},
title = {Supermale fish become new tactic for vanquishing invaders.},
journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)},
volume = {393},
number = {6815},
pages = {956-957},
doi = {10.1126/science.aem0438},
pmid = {42691164},
issn = {1095-9203},
mesh = {Animals ; Fisheries ; *Introduced Species ; *Trout/genetics ; *Y Chromosome/genetics ; *Conservation of Natural Resources/methods ; },
abstract = {Hatchery-raised trout with double Y chromosomes can eradicate invasive populations.},
}

Animals
Fisheries
*Introduced Species
*Trout/genetics
*Y Chromosome/genetics
*Conservation of Natural Resources/methods

@article {pmid42612918,
year = {2026},
author = {Han, XM and Wang, JY and Fu, YP and Guo, B and He, W and Wei, YH},
title = {A novel control strategy: Suppressing histone acetyltransferase ClHAC703 with curcumin to prevent germination of the invasive weed Cenchrus longispinus.},
journal = {Plant science : an international journal of experimental plant biology},
volume = {372},
number = {},
pages = {113383},
doi = {10.1016/j.plantsci.2026.113383},
pmid = {42612918},
issn = {1873-2259},
mesh = {*Histone Acetyltransferases/metabolism/antagonists & inhibitors ; *Germination/drug effects ; *Curcumin/pharmacology ; *Plant Weeds/drug effects/enzymology/growth & development ; *Plant Proteins/metabolism ; Introduced Species ; Molecular Docking Simulation ; Seeds/drug effects/growth & development ; },
abstract = {The invasive alien plant Cenchrus longispinus has caused severe ecological and agricultural impacts in China. Taking into consideration its seed germination characteristics, clustered community formation, and localized distribution, the present study proposes reducing population replenishment by inhibiting seed germination in heavily infested soils. This study demonstrated that 1 mM curcumin treatment could completely inhibit the germination of C. longispinus seeds. Curcumin directly binds to histone acetyltransferase ClHAC703 and suppresses the activity of histone acetyltransferases in C. longispinus, potentially through competitive substrate binding. ClHAC703 is shown to directly interact with the transcription factor ClWRKY29, which downregulates the expression of dormancy gene abscisic acid responsive element binding factor 1 (ClABF1). Notably, curcumin treatment upregulates ClABF1 expression. Based on structural modeling and molecular docking, it is predicted that the ClHAC703 may specifically catalyze the acetylation of histone H3 at lysine 18. This study investigates the potential of curcumin to inhibit the germination of the invasive weed C. longispinus and elucidates its underlying mechanism. The findings offer insights for developing effective control strategies against the spread of this species.},
}

*Histone Acetyltransferases/metabolism/antagonists & inhibitors
*Germination/drug effects
*Curcumin/pharmacology
*Plant Weeds/drug effects/enzymology/growth & development
*Plant Proteins/metabolism
Introduced Species
Molecular Docking Simulation
Seeds/drug effects/growth & development

@article {pmid42685845,
year = {2026},
author = {Bursali, F and Touray, M},
title = {No Longer at Ease: Priority Effects and Niche Modification in Larval Interactions of Aedes albopictus, Aedes aegypti, and Culex pipiens.},
journal = {Acta tropica},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {108307},
doi = {10.1016/j.actatropica.2026.108307},
pmid = {42685845},
issn = {1873-6254},
abstract = {Mosquito larvae may compete for resources or space in shared habitats with limited nutrients by resource exploitation or defence or both. In container habitats, the sequence of colonization often dictates community assembly. We examined how arrival order and temporal lags (3 and 7 days) influence the competitive outcomes between invasive Aedes aegypti, Ae. albopictus, and resident Culex pipiens. Studies on the magnitude of priority effects in these systems are lacking. Larvae were added simultaneously and sequentially (after 3 and 7 days) to the dynamics between these mosquito species. Results indicate that simultaneous introduction maximizes competitive stress, resulting in significant mortality and reduced wing length across all species. Conversely, early colonizers gained a distinct fitness advantage; a 3-7-day head start significantly enhanced survival and growth, while late-arriving cohorts were severely suppressed. While Ae. aegypti typically maintained competitive dominance, this advantage diminished when Culex established priority. Results from conditioned-water treatments mirrored live-larval interactions, suggesting that chemical and microbial modifications are primary drivers of these priority effects. Adult behavioural responses of adult mosquitoes to competition was also assessed to determine whether females avoid exposing their offspring to competitive environments when possible. Gravid females exhibited clear discrimination when presented with conspecific-conditioned, heterospecific-conditioned, and dechlorinated water. The general avoidance of heterospecific-conditioned water suggests that chemical cues guide oviposition decisions, potentially functioning as a mechanism to bypass competitive pressures in natural habitats. Understanding these mechanisms is essential for predicting invasion outcomes and for designing vector control strategies that exploit natural competitive asymmetries.},
}

@article {pmid42686900,
year = {2026},
author = {Fajardo, A and Gazol, A and Camarero, JJ and Gundale, MJ and Piper, FI and Brewer, JS and Buxton, R and Cieraad, E and Dezzotti, A and Fernández-Cortés, A and Goedecke, F and González de Andrés, E and Kritzinger-Klopper, S and Laurén, A and Llancabure, JC and McIntosh, ACS and Milani, T and Moyano, J and Núñez, MA and Palviainen, M and Peltzer, D and Reyes-Bahamonde, C and Rinne, L and Sala, A and Skelton, RP and Valeriano, C and Callaway, RM},
title = {Pines grow faster and are more drought resilient in the Southern Hemisphere.},
journal = {Nature},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42686900},
issn = {1476-4687},
abstract = {Drought-induced conifer mortality is a global concern[1], yet conifers native to the Northern Hemisphere that have been planted at massive scales in the Southern Hemisphere do not appear to show the same magnitude of growth decline or mortality as in their native ranges. Using a standardized dendrochronological survey at 192 sites across four continents, we find that Northern Hemisphere conifers grow up to four times faster in the Southern Hemisphere and are also more resistant and resilient to drought than conspecifics in native ranges, suggesting that non-native populations respond fundamentally different to abiotic stress. Conifers in non-native ranges had higher concentrations of non-structural carbohydrates, commonly associated with drought tolerance[2,3], and lower δ[13]C values, consistent with lower stomatal limitations on photosynthesis. In sum, higher concentrations of non-structural carbohydrate, lower δ[13]C values and higher stem growth rates all point towards higher net carbon assimilation by conifers in non-native ranges. This paradoxical combination of high growth rates yet resilience to drought emphasizes the importance of integrating eco-evolutionary history into ecological theory and is relevant for assessing the ultimate role of afforestation as global carbon sinks.},
}

@article {pmid42687934,
year = {2026},
author = {Ryan, M and Korenhof, P},
title = {Something looks fishy! A philosophical exploration of AI for marine conservation.},
journal = {AI and ethics},
volume = {6},
number = {5},
pages = {490},
pmid = {42687934},
issn = {2730-5961},
abstract = {Increased pollution, traffic, overfishing, and climate change threaten fish populations, their habitats, and the sustainability of marine ecosystems. To develop environmental policies that support the conservation of sustainable ocean ecosystems and foster biodiversity, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) is proposed to improve knowledge production on various fish species. These fishial recognition systems (FRS) integrate machine learning, deep learning, convolutional neural networks, computer vision, drones, and robots to identify fish species, monitor endangered populations, track migration patterns, detect illegal fishing, and even track and kill invasive species. While these FRS are employed for biodiversity protection, they may change practices, shift relations, and shape the production of new knowledge and access thereto. The technical community actively adopts FRS, but the ways this technology affects fish, humans, and their shared environments remain underexplored. Therefore, this article conducts philosophically informed, exploratory research into the implications of FRS to address the central research question: how do FRS affect fish in open waters? This paper analyses the technical literature and draws on various bodies of philosophical and social science research to identify the main social and ethical considerations of FRS. It identifies potential (intentional and unintentional) biases found in the data, algorithms, or applications of FRS. It also explores the potential physical and emotional harm to fish caused by underwater FRS. FRS may further exacerbate anthropocentric, quantification, and power asymmetries between humans and fish. In response, this paper develops a fish-centric approach to the development, deployment, and use of FRS.},
}

@article {pmid42276859,
year = {2026},
author = {Everts, T and Dellicour, S and Heeren, S},
title = {Viral tags as keys to advancing invasion genomics.},
journal = {Trends in genetics : TIG},
volume = {42},
number = {9},
pages = {797-807},
doi = {10.1016/j.tig.2026.05.010},
pmid = {42276859},
issn = {0168-9525},
mesh = {*Genomics/methods ; *Genome, Viral ; *Viruses/genetics ; Animals ; Evolution, Molecular ; *Introduced Species ; Genetics, Population ; Phylogeography ; },
abstract = {Invasion genetics and genomics have greatly advanced the study of biological invasions, yet they often fail to resolve population dynamics at the fine spatiotemporal scales characteristic of most invasions. We propose shifting the focus away from the higher-order target species towards their viral symbionts, harnessing these as high-resolution 'genetic tags' to overcome many of these limitations. Owing to their comparably smaller genomes, shorter generation times, and higher mutation rates, most viruses evolve on timescales comparable to the invasion dynamics of their higher-order hosts, potentially better proxying and revealing recent dispersal patterns. We present a conceptual framework outlining how virus evolution may shed light on the contemporary spread of their non-native hosts, opening new avenues for invasion genetics, genomics, and management.},
}

*Genomics/methods
*Genome, Viral
*Viruses/genetics
Animals
Evolution, Molecular
*Introduced Species
Genetics, Population
Phylogeography

@article {pmid42684487,
year = {2026},
author = {Salim, DHC and Mello, CCS and Pereira, G and Maretto, RV and Amorim, CC},
title = {Remote sensing for monitoring and managing Eichhornia crassipes: a review of methods, applications, and decision-support frameworks.},
journal = {Environmental monitoring and assessment},
volume = {198},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {42684487},
issn = {1573-2959},
mesh = {*Eichhornia/growth & development ; *Environmental Monitoring/methods ; *Remote Sensing Technology ; Decision Support Techniques ; Ecosystem ; Conservation of Natural Resources ; Introduced Species ; },
abstract = {Eichhornia crassipes (water hyacinth) is among the world's most aggressive aquatic invasive plants, with severe ecological and socioeconomic impacts on freshwater ecosystems. Over the last two decades, remote sensing has emerged as a critical tool for monitoring its spread and supporting management decisions, offering scalable, repeatable, and increasingly precise assessments. This review synthesizes 56 studies published between 2004 and 2025, examining how different platforms (satellites, UAVs, airborne, proximal), sensor types (multispectral, hyperspectral, SAR), and analytical methods (index thresholding, object-based classification, machine learning, deep learning) have been applied to detect, classify, and quantify E. crassipes. We highlight the evolution from early single-platform approaches to recent multimodal frameworks that integrate optical, radar, and UAV data, enabling both large-scale surveillance and fine-resolution diagnostics. Evidence demonstrates that species-level discrimination, phenological tracking, and biomass estimation are now feasible, with promising developments in linking spectral responses to pollutants and stress indicators. Despite these advances, key challenges remain in harmonizing data across platforms, reducing misclassification in mixed vegetation assemblages, and translating remote sensing outputs into decision-relevant information for adaptive management. We propose a decision-support framework built on five strategic pillars: multi-scale sensor fusion, ecologically interpretable classification schemes, scalable analytical ladders, early-warning indicators, and feedback loops linking monitoring to management actions. Together, these directions show how remote sensing can move beyond detection toward more responsive and decision-oriented approaches that support the sustainable management of E. crassipes invasions across diverse aquatic environments.},
}

*Eichhornia/growth & development
*Environmental Monitoring/methods
*Remote Sensing Technology
Decision Support Techniques
Ecosystem
Conservation of Natural Resources
Introduced Species

@article {pmid42680469,
year = {2026},
author = {Sotorres, D and Diaz, JM and Benitez Vortisch, AD and Zemunich, V and Patzer, J and DeMatteo, KE and Argüelles, CF},
title = {Wildlife forensic DNA evidence links a suspected vehicle to a fatal lowland tapir (Tapirus terrestris) collision in Misiones, Argentina.},
journal = {Science & justice : journal of the Forensic Science Society},
volume = {66},
number = {5},
pages = {101496},
doi = {10.1016/j.scijus.2026.101496},
pmid = {42680469},
issn = {1876-4452},
mesh = {Animals ; Argentina ; *Perissodactyla/genetics ; Microsatellite Repeats ; *DNA Fingerprinting ; *Accidents ; Wildlife Trade ; Animals, Wild/genetics ; Conservation of Natural Resources ; Hair/chemistry ; *DNA/isolation & purification ; DNA, Mitochondrial ; Cytochromes b/genetics ; },
abstract = {Vehicle collisions are recognized as a major driver of biodiversity loss, particularly in road-dense landscapes, exceeding the impact of invasive species and wildlife trafficking. For large-bodied, slow-reproducing, and low-abundance species, such as the lowland tapir (Tapirus terrestris), this threat can have major impacts. Here, we present a wildlife forensic investigation in Misiones, Argentina, involving a tapir, a species afforded the highest level of legal protection as a Provincial Natural Monument. The fatal hit-by-vehicle (HBV) incident occurred in northern Misiones on 31 March 2019 along Provincial Route 19, in a portion that bisects Parque Provincial Urugua-í, with the driver involved in the collision leaving the scene. The suspect was later located and claimed that the damage to the vehicle resulted from a collision with a horse (Equus caballus) rather than a tapir. To legally resolve the incident, DNA (hair and blood) recovered from the suspected vehicle's bumper (evidence) was compared with tissue samples from the tapir carcass (reference). Genetic confirmation of species identity used a 110-bp region of the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene, and individual identity was assessed using 12 species-specific microsatellite loci. These analyses confirmed that all evidence matched the tapir carcass at both species and individual levels, strongly supporting the association between the suspected vehicle and the HBV tapir, and refuting the alternative explanation proposed by the driver. This case demonstrates the value of using wildlife forensic genetics to reconstruct wildlife-vehicle collisions, supporting environmental law enforcement, and strengthening conservation efforts in the Atlantic Forest of Misiones, Argentina.},
}

Animals
Argentina
*Perissodactyla/genetics
Microsatellite Repeats
*DNA Fingerprinting
*Accidents
Wildlife Trade
Animals, Wild/genetics
Conservation of Natural Resources
Hair/chemistry
*DNA/isolation & purification
DNA, Mitochondrial
Cytochromes b/genetics

@article {pmid42681984,
year = {2026},
author = {Foster, R and Ward, GM and Bateman, KS and Clark, PF and Green, MJ and Morritt, D and Stebbing, P and Bass, D},
title = {Freshwater Haplosporidian Diversity Associated With Invasive Non-Native Bivalves in the River Thames, Including Haplosporidium raabei Infecting Dreissena polymorpha.},
journal = {The Journal of eukaryotic microbiology},
volume = {73},
number = {5},
pages = {e70117},
pmid = {42681984},
issn = {1550-7408},
support = {FB002//Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, UK Government/ ; //Natural History Museum/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Haplosporida/genetics/classification/isolation & purification ; *Dreissena/parasitology ; *Rivers/parasitology ; Phylogeny ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; Fresh Water/parasitology ; DNA, Protozoan/genetics ; Introduced Species ; Molecular Sequence Data ; United Kingdom ; Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Biodiversity ; },
abstract = {Haplosporidians are protistan parasites of aquatic invertebrates. Described here is the first report of the zebra mussel (Dreissena polymorpha) parasite Haplosporidium raabei in the River Thames, London, UK. The prevalence of this protist in the upper tidal Thames, Richmond, was higher than previously reported in other studies from the UK and mainland Europe of infected D. polymorpha populations, with molecular detection of H. raabei DNA in all D. polymorpha specimens collected. Also reported is the molecular detection (DNA and RNA) of H. raabei in other invasive Thames bivalves: the Asian clam (Corbicula fluminea) and quagga mussel (Dreissena bugensis). The molecular sequence of a closely related, but genetically distinct H. raabei-like sequence associated with D. polymorpha is also reported. Two new PCR assays are presented for the specific and sensitive detection of H. raabei and H. raabei-like sequences, enabling independent screening of these two lineages and also confirming the molecular presence of H. raabei in native unionid mussel species. A diversity of novel haplosporidian lineages associated with other invasive bivalves C. fluminea and D. bugensis and associated eDNA from the River Thames is also reported, demonstrating haplosporidian diversity associated with freshwater bivalves that is yet to be explored.},
}

Animals
*Haplosporida/genetics/classification/isolation & purification
*Dreissena/parasitology
*Rivers/parasitology
Phylogeny
Sequence Analysis, DNA
Fresh Water/parasitology
DNA, Protozoan/genetics
Introduced Species
Molecular Sequence Data
United Kingdom
Polymerase Chain Reaction
Biodiversity

@article {pmid42682649,
year = {2026},
author = {Sabrine, S and Tarek, B},
title = {Invasive plant species for sustainable security and agricultural biocontrol: integrating allelopathic essential oils and defensive barriers.},
journal = {Frontiers in plant science},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1666824},
pmid = {42682649},
issn = {1664-462X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Invasive plant species (IPS) and herbicide resistance pose a critical threat to biodiversity and food security, particularly in arid agroecosystems. Essential oils (EOs) offer a promising biodegradable alternative, yet their global efficacy and governing factors remain unquantified.

METHODS: Following PRISMA 2020 guidelines and PROSPERO-registered protocol (ID1282253), this systematic review and meta-analysis synthesized data from 47 studies to evaluate the phytotoxic potential of IPS-derived EOs. We calculated pooled effect sizes (Hedges' g), investigated heterogeneity through meta-regression, and established structure-activity relationships.

RESULTS: Meta-analysis of 47 studies revealed a large, highly significant allelopathic efficacy of invasive plant-derived essential oils (EOs) on target species. Our analysis reveals a large, highly significant inhibitory effect on target species (pooled g = -1.85; 95% CI: -2.12, -1.58), corresponding to a mean 72.3% germination inhibition in laboratory conditions. Efficacy was significantly moderated by EO concentration and chemical class, with ketone-rich oils proving most potent (g = -2.34). Critically, we quantified a substantial lab-to-field efficacy gap, with field studies showing a ~32% relative decline in performance. Also demonstrated significant physiological selectivity, with dicot weeds (e.g., Brassicaceae SMD = -2.45) being far more sensitive than monocots (e.g., Fabaceae SMD = -1.23), and a promising crop safety index. These findings were robust to sensitivity analyses and controlled for publication bias.

DISCUSSION: This study provides quantitative evidence supporting a more predictive framework for allelopathic research. We leverage these data to propose the Quantitative Phytotoxicity Framework (QPF), a model integrating EO chemistry, environmental factors, and biological outcomes. As a primary application, we conceptualize the Smart Bio-Defensive Barrier (SBDB), a novel, ecologically-engineered system for proactive, landscape-level weed management. This work contributes a data-driven framework for developing sustainable herbicide alternatives, providing a data-driven blueprint for the next generation of sustainable herbicides that aligns with global climate resilience (modeled under RCP 4.5/8.5 scenarios) and circular bio-economic goals.

CONCLUSIONS: This model leverages invasive plant species (IPS) as a bio-resource, integrating their in-situ allelopathic potential with ex-situ Nano formulated essential oils (EOs) to create dynamic protective zones. Future implementation of SBDBs requires advances in phytochemical consistency, non-target impact studies, and long-term agroecological trials.

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD4201282253, identifier CRD4201282253.},
}

@article {pmid42682835,
year = {2026},
author = {Fanteso, B and Dalu, T and Wasserman, R and Kadye, W and Mpopetsi, P and Jackson, M},
title = {The Individual and Interactive Effects of Climate, Land Use and Nutrient Enrichment on Macroinvertebrate Dynamics in South African Rivers.},
journal = {Ecology and evolution},
volume = {16},
number = {9},
pages = {e74252},
pmid = {42682835},
issn = {2045-7758},
abstract = {Freshwater ecosystems are increasingly degraded by multiple stressors arising from climate change and local anthropogenic pressures. However, the potentially important interactive effects of stressors are not well understood. While there is growing evidence of multiple stressor effects from experimental studies, there is a need for more field-based studies to provide complementary insights where there is high biological variability and context dependencies. We conducted an extensive survey of benthic macroinvertebrate communities across 30 streams in South Africa to examine responses to both the single and interactive effects of climate, human land cover and nutrient enrichment. We sampled macroinvertebrates and physicochemical variables at each site during the cold-dry and hot-wet seasons. Land use was classified using the 2022 South African National Landcover (SANCL) data. We used temperature and rainfall data from the South African Weather Service (SAWS) as climate proxies. Ammonium was the most pervasive stressor, acting both independently and in interaction with climate and human land cover to influence macroinvertebrate community dynamics, including independent effects on Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera (EPT) richness and mean biomass (mg) and in interaction with human land cover to negatively affect overall and EPT abundance. The interaction of human land cover and rainfall, as well as ammonium, rainfall and season interaction showed positive effects on mean body size, indicating that rainfall is an important stressor in modulating the effects. Overall, our study suggests that both the individual and interactive effects of climate and anthropogenic stressors shape freshwater macroinvertebrate community dynamics. Our study highlights that reducing nutrient inputs and effective land use management would go a long way towards conserving freshwater invertebrates.},
}

@article {pmid42608551,
year = {2026},
author = {Cazzaniga, SG and Lauber, T and van den Hoogen, J and Beaury, EM and Bueno, CG and Bever, JD and Damasceno, G and Catford, J and Lenoir, J and Martin, A and Mori, AS and Novakovskiy, A and Gutiérrez, AG and González-Robles, A and de Gasper, AL and Moles, A and Stanisci, A and Csecserits, A and Jentsch, A and Kuzemko, A and Perea, AJ and Nerlekar, A and Munje, A and Güler, B and Jiménez-Alfaro, B and Hérault, B and Pinho, BX and Baraloto, C and Rossi, C and Hending, D and Laughlin, DC and Rogers, D and Schellenberger Costa, D and Thakur, D and Uogintas, D and Chacón-Madrigal, E and Alvarez-Davila, E and Weiher, E and Thomas, E and Gonçalves, F and Rodrigues, F and Sabatini, FM and Schurr, FM and Essl, F and Zizka, G and Bonari, G and Swacha, G and Chen, HYH and Bruelheide, H and Ford, H and Wang, HF and Biurrun, I and Aubin, I and Dembicz, I and Willie, J and Altman, J and Svenning, JC and Lichstein, JW and Moeslund, JE and Dolezal, J and Cornelissen, JHC and Hunter, J and Messier, J and Dengler, J and Homeier, J and Orwin, KH and Korznikov, K and Van Meerbeek, K and Macía, MJ and Schmidt, M and Varricchione, M and Carlucci, MB and Spasojevic, M and Giorgis, MA and Chytrý, M and El-Sheikh, MA and Hatim, MZ and Kraft, NJB and Mohanbabu, N and Phillips, OL and Reich, PB and Pielech, R and Arasa-Gisbert, R and Guarino, R and Testolin, R and Tarifa, R and Mukul, SA and Phartyal, SS and Schmitt, S and Haider, S and Dziuba, T and Domingues, T and Liu, U and Golub, V and Silva, V and Fontana, V and Vandvik, V and Kissling, WD and Stančić, Z and Winter, M and Crowther, TW and Delavaux, CS},
title = {Mycorrhizal strategy of non-native plants varies with biome and disturbance.},
journal = {Nature ecology & evolution},
volume = {10},
number = {9},
pages = {1644-1657},
pmid = {42608551},
issn = {2397-334X},
support = {DFG FZT 118, 202548816//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (German Research Foundation)/ ; DNRF173//Danmarks Grundforskningsfond (Danish National Research Foundation)/ ; TMPFP3_209925//Schweizerischer Nationalfonds zur Förderung der Wissenschaftlichen Forschung (Swiss National Science Foundation)/ ; },
mesh = {*Mycorrhizae/physiology ; *Introduced Species ; *Ecosystem ; *Plants/microbiology ; *Symbiosis ; Biodiversity ; },
abstract = {Predicting which non-native plant species will become established and where is critical for conserving and managing biodiversity. Theory suggests that the mycorrhizal strategy of non-native plants may predict their establishment success. Here we combine a global dataset of 440,788 vegetation plots with data on plant native status and mycorrhizal type to assess mycorrhizal strategy of non-native plants. The mycorrhizal strategy of non-native plants varies strongly across biomes. Across grassland and desert biomes, non-native species are more frequently non-mycorrhizal than native species, whereas in other biomes non-native species are more likely to be mycorrhizal, most commonly arbuscular-mycorrhizal. Disturbance type and intensity are key predictors of mycorrhizal strategy of non-native species, as mycorrhizal species are favoured by landscape modification and non-mycorrhizal species by natural and human-caused disturbance events. Facultatively mycorrhizal species are consistently under-represented among non-native plants compared with natives, suggesting that symbiotic flexibility does not confer an advantage for non-natives as previously expected. Our study shows that non-native mycorrhizal strategy varies across biogeographical contexts and disturbance, highlighting the need for region-specific prevention and management approaches to plant species introductions.},
}

*Mycorrhizae/physiology
*Introduced Species
*Ecosystem
*Plants/microbiology
*Symbiosis
Biodiversity

@article {pmid42668132,
year = {2026},
author = {Ščevková, J and Lafférsová, J and Rybníček, O and Kováč, J},
title = {Operational forecasting of climate-sensitive ragweed pollen exposure events under delayed and simulated real-time monitoring scenarios in Central Europe.},
journal = {Environmental pollution (Barking, Essex : 1987)},
volume = {409},
number = {},
pages = {129060},
doi = {10.1016/j.envpol.2026.129060},
pmid = {42668132},
issn = {1873-6424},
abstract = {Ambrosia artemisiifolia is a climate-sensitive invasive species whose airborne pollen constitutes a major allergenic burden across Central Europe. Operational forecasting is constrained by monitoring system design: conventional Hirst-type samplers involve processing delays that preclude real-time data availability, whereas automated systems provide near-instantaneous data. This study evaluates exceedance-based forecasting under these two paradigms across eight urban sites in Slovakia and the Czech Republic, spanning a gradient from high to minimal ragweed abundance. The real-time scenario was simulated by assuming immediate availability of Hirst-type data rather than using measurements from automated pollen monitors. Four elastic net-penalised logistic regression models incorporating seasonal, meteorological, and Ambrosia pollen history predictors were evaluated across forecast horizons of 1-7 days using an expanding window cross-validation. Exceedance thresholds were 20 pollen/m[3] (Slovak sites) and 5 pollen/m[3] (Czech sites). Forecast performance was strongly governed by exceedance prevalence. At Slovak sites (prevalence 8-17%), the best real-time models generally achieved higher F1 scores at a 1-day horizon (0.67-0.82) than the best delayed-reporting models (0.59-0.72). At Czech sites (prevalence below 3%), F1 scores rarely exceeded 0.30, and sensitivity was a more informative metric under severe class imbalance. The real-time advantage diminished progressively with forecast horizon, converging towards delayed-reporting performance at day 7. Sunshine duration and maximum temperature were the most consistently positive predictors, relative humidity was predominantly positive across most sites, whereas precipitation and wind speed showed weaker, less consistent associations. These findings provide a transferable framework for ragweed pollen early warning systems adaptable to heterogeneous monitoring infrastructure.},
}

@article {pmid42670575,
year = {2026},
author = {Freitas, RS and Cheaib, A and Cardoso, AA and Schwilk, DW and Smith, NG},
title = {Sensitization rather than acclimation to chronic atmospheric aridity in invasive and native dryland C4 grasses.},
journal = {Journal of experimental botany},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/jxb/erag434},
pmid = {42670575},
issn = {1460-2431},
abstract = {Despite extreme heat and limited water availability, invasive plant species are rapidly expanding in arid ecosystems, threatening native biodiversity. To understand the physiological mechanisms underlying invasive success in water-limited ecosystems, we analyzed photosynthetic, hydraulic and morphological traits of the invasive African grass Cenchrus ciliaris and three native North American dryland grasses (Bouteloua gracilis, Schizachyrium scoparium, and Sporobolus cryptandrus) in a full factorial growth chamber experiment combining two vapor pressure deficit (VPD) levels and three soil moisture levels. We hypothesized that C. ciliaris would exhibit greater physiological acclimation and morphological plasticity than native grasses, enabling superior tolerance to atmospheric and soil drought. Our results showed that rather than a simple invasive vs. native dichotomy, species grouped into functional strategies: a risk-prone, anisohydric group (C. ciliaris and S. scoparium) and a conservative, drought-avoidant group (B. gracilis and S. cryptandrus). The invasive C. ciliaris distinguished itself not through superior photosynthetic capacity, but through a unique ability to proactively allocate carbon to roots under high VPD combined with high soil moisture, differing from all native species. Contrary to our hypothesis, none of the species showed stomatal acclimation to sudden increases in VPD; instead, stomatal sensitivity to instantaneous VPD spikes operated as an intrinsic, species-level trait inflexible to prior environmental conditioning. Together, these findings suggest that the dominance of C. ciliaris in water-limited conditions is explained by allocation plasticity and anisohydric tolerance rather than superior carbon gain or stomatal acclimation.},
}

@article {pmid42673653,
year = {2026},
author = {Hu, M and Zhang, C and Chang, T and Huang, Y and Li, X and Li, H and Yan, J and Chen, L},
title = {Genome-wide identification and transcriptomic analysis of putative olfactory genes in Pomacea canaliculata.},
journal = {Comparative biochemistry and physiology. Part D, Genomics & proteomics},
volume = {61},
number = {},
pages = {102004},
doi = {10.1016/j.cbd.2026.102004},
pmid = {42673653},
issn = {1878-0407},
abstract = {Chemosensation plays a pivotal role in foraging, mate recognition, and environmental adaptation for the invasive apple snail Pomacea canaliculata. However, the molecular foundations and ontogenetic dynamics of its olfactory system remain insufficiently characterized. In this study, we identified putative olfactory genes from whole-genome data and profiled their expression in nine different tissues, and also in cephalic tentacle tissues at four developmental stages. A total of 178 candidate olfactory-related genes were identified, including 90 olfactory receptors (ORs), 32 ionotropic receptors/ionotropic glutamate receptors (IRs/iGluRs), 16 lipocalins, 20 Niemann-Pick type C2 proteins (NPC2s), 4 sensory neuron membrane proteins (SNMPs), and 16 degenerin/epithelial sodium channels (DEG/ENaCs). Tissue expression analysis revealed strong chemosensory organ specificity, with the highest number of highly expressed genes detected in the left cephalic tentacle, followed by the osphradium. Notably, pronounced left-right cephalic tentacle asymmetry was observed, with generally lower expression levels in the right cephalic tentacle, suggesting potential functional specialization of bilateral sensory organs. During developmental progression, over half of the ORs and IRs/iGluRs peaked at the fully mature stage, whereas a secondary expression peak was observed in juvenile individuals. An integrated examination of genes demonstrating high expression at the fully mature stage and in the left cephalic tentacle identified ten candidate genes, including five ORs, four IR/iGluRs, and one DEG-ENaC gene. This study systematically profiles putative olfactory genes across tissues and developmental stages in P. canaliculata, providing foundational insights into its chemosensation processes and providing a molecular resource for future studies of chemosensory function in this invasive species.},
}

@article {pmid42674136,
year = {2026},
author = {Teo, EJ and Kwak, ML and Cleary, NG and Low, VL and Soe, BK and von Fricken, ME and Letizia, AG and Matsuno, K and Fornace, KM and Malleret, B and Nakao, R and , },
title = {A review of ticks and tick-borne diseases in Southeast Asia: identifying priorities, hurdles, and opportunities for health and knowledge gain.},
journal = {Acta tropica},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {108305},
doi = {10.1016/j.actatropica.2026.108305},
pmid = {42674136},
issn = {1873-6254},
abstract = {Ticks and tick-borne diseases (TBDs) in Southeast Asia are poorly understood, confounding surveillance, and mitigation opportunities. Herein, we conducted a survey of experts (n = 25) to identify tick species and TBDs of greatest concern to Southeast Asia, 'drivers' which may alter their impacts, and research hurdles. These experts identified Dermacentor auratus, Haemaphysalis longicornis, Rhipicephalus linnaei, Amblyomma testudinarium sensu lato, Ixodes granulatus, Ixodes persulcatus, and Rhipicephalus microplus as ticks of greatest concern; and rickettsioses, severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus, borreliosis, Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever, anaplasmosis, tick-borne encephalitis, and novel tick-borne viruses as TBDs of greatest concern. Land-use change was expected to have the largest impact on ticks and TBDs, followed by climate change, invasive species, and drug resistance. The three biggest research hurdles were lack of funding, lack of awareness, and lack of taxonomic expertise. Addressing these near-term priorities and hurdles while harmonizing research efforts and surveillance within, and between countries may help lay the groundwork for future research and surveillance efforts in the region, and may also enhance the region's preparedness, ultimately leading to better health outcomes for the region.},
}

@article {pmid42680154,
year = {2026},
author = {Mendes, LF and Santos, AP and Souza, TA and Agostinho, LS and Bennemann, ABA and Cortés, J and Toro, MS and Luz, JSS and Silva, CBPE and Alencar, CERD and Lopes, PFM},
title = {Cryptobenthic reef fishes may not be safe from invasive lionfish (Pterois spp. Oken, 1817).},
journal = {Journal of fish biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/jfb.70636},
pmid = {42680154},
issn = {1095-8649},
support = {760054-JUST4MPA//Ministerul Cercetării şi Inovării/ ; 302365/2022-2//Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico/ ; 565054/2010-4//Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico/ ; 8936/201//Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado da Bahia/ ; 001//Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior/ ; },
abstract = {Lionfish (Pterois spp.) are hypothesized to negatively influence cryptobenthic reef fish assemblages through predation. We evaluated these potential effects on Caribbean reefs in Costa Rica and tropical reefs in Brazil. Brazil provided a reference condition for cryptobenthic assemblages prior to lionfish invasion, while the Costa Rica sites enabled comparisons between reefs inside marine protected areas (MPAs), where lionfish removal did not occur for several years, and adjacent fished reefs where removals occurred. Visual censuses (30 m × 2 m transects, 0.5-4 m depth) were complemented by simplified assessments of reef structure and benthic cover. Cryptobenthic fish abundance was consistently higher in Brazil than in Costa Rica. Within Costa Rica, abundance was significantly lower inside MPAs, where higher lionfish densities were recorded, compared to adjacent fished reefs. This pattern indicates differences in cryptobenthic fish abundance across sites with contrasting lionfish presence. Our findings reinforce concerns that MPAs may inadvertently function as refuges for invasive species, highlighting the importance of adaptive management strategies, including targeted removals and monitoring, to mitigate ecological impacts and protect reef biodiversity.},
}

@article {pmid42296197,
year = {2026},
author = {Burgess, TI and Wingfield, MJ},
title = {Unveiling a Hidden Menace: Invasive Tree Pathogens, Less Known but Increasingly Threatening Southern Hemisphere Forests.},
journal = {Annual review of phytopathology},
volume = {64},
number = {1},
pages = {101-126},
doi = {10.1146/annurev-phyto-011325-100959},
pmid = {42296197},
issn = {1545-2107},
mesh = {*Forests ; *Plant Diseases/microbiology/prevention & control ; *Trees/microbiology ; Forestry ; *Introduced Species ; Pinus/microbiology ; Eucalyptus/microbiology ; },
abstract = {Forest pathogens have repeatedly restructured ecosystems in the Northern Hemisphere, where epidemics such as chestnut blight, Dutch elm disease, and sudden oak death eliminated foundation species and reshaped landscapes. In contrast, the Southern Hemisphere, buffered by geographic isolation, unique floras, and historically lower trade volumes, experienced comparatively few incursions until recent decades. These barriers are rapidly eroding due to globalization, climate change, and the expansion of industrial plantation forestry dominated by exotic species of Pinus and Eucalyptus. These vast monocultures with low genetic diversity have created highly susceptible production systems that can amplify epidemic spread and act as sources of novel pathogen emergence. Drawing on lessons from the Northern Hemisphere, this review highlights the escalating risk of forest epidemics in the Southern Hemisphere and calls for proactive, coordinated responses. Stringent phytosanitary standards, advanced diagnostic techniques, and risk-optimized surveillance must be paired with collaborative breeding programs that prioritize resistance in high-risk hosts. At the same time, international cooperation across science, policy, industry, and communities is essential to strengthen prevention, support early detection, and enable rapid response. The resilience of Southern Hemisphere forests, both native and plantations, will depend on shifting from reactive management toward integrated, globally coordinated strategies that recognize the shared nature of pathogen threats.},
}

*Forests
*Plant Diseases/microbiology/prevention & control
*Trees/microbiology
Forestry
*Introduced Species
Pinus/microbiology
Eucalyptus/microbiology

@article {pmid42498982,
year = {2026},
author = {He, F and Yuan, Z and Sun, Y and Zhai, X and Tian, X and Chen, Y and Callaway, RM and Sun, X},
title = {Neutral interactions among non-native plants are common.},
journal = {The New phytologist},
volume = {252},
number = {1},
pages = {292-309},
pmid = {42498982},
issn = {1469-8137},
support = {32371752//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 232300421027//Natural Science Foundation of Henan Province/ ; 2023YFE0122100//National Key Research and Development Program of China/ ; },
mesh = {*Introduced Species ; *Plants ; Phylogeny ; },
abstract = {Globalization has accelerated the establishment of non-native plant species, increasing the prevalence of multispecies co-invasions; yet interactions among co-invaders remain poorly understood. We combined extensive field surveys of 3039 plots with a global meta-analysis of 4415 observations from 122 experiments to quantify co-invasion prevalence, its effects on non-native plant performance, and the frequency of interaction types. Co-invasion was common in the surveys, occurring in 40% of the plots. Meta-analysis showed that co-invasion reduced non-native plant performance by 18% on average, indicating that invasional meltdown among plant species is not the norm. Most interactions were neutral (70%), whereas competition (18%) and facilitation (12%) were relatively uncommon. Thus, the widespread co-occurrence of non-native plants does not necessarily imply pervasive facilitation among co-invaders. Crucially, the mean competitive outcome was context-dependent. Interactions shifted from competition to facilitation with increasing non-native richness and intensified competition with natives. Furthermore, phylogenetic distance among co-invaders did not explain the interaction outcomes, whereas interactions among woody, nitrogen-fixing species, or invaders with greater SLA produced mean neutral effects. These findings expand our understanding of the invasional meltdown hypothesis by showing that co-invasion outcomes are context- and trait-dependent and offer a predictive framework for assessing and mitigating multispecies invasion risks.},
}

*Introduced Species
*Plants
Phylogeny

@article {pmid42664448,
year = {2026},
author = {Peterson, ER and Loudon, AH and Falk, FE and Janes, JK},
title = {High ascomycete diversity and novel fungal associations found in expanding Epipactis helleborine populations outside their native range.},
journal = {Mycologia},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-13},
doi = {10.1080/00275514.2026.2707363},
pmid = {42664448},
issn = {1557-2536},
abstract = {Epipactis helleborine is an orchid species that has been introduced to North America and continues to expand its range. Numerous studies have investigated the mycorrhizal specificity of these orchids in their native range and found broad associations with Ascomycota, particularly Wilcoxina. Similar studies in North America are rare. We assessed the fungal diversity associated with populations of E. helleborine, and the surrounding soil, in mixed habitats on Vancouver Island (Canada) to make comparisons with findings from the species native range. After collecting 45 rhizomes and 36 soil samples, we amplified the nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS2) region to assess alpha and beta diversity. BLAST searches were conducted, and phylogenetic reconstructions of high-matching fungal sequences from other E. helleborine studies were created. We demonstrate that E. helleborine populations continue to associate with a diverse group of Ascomycota fungi, particularly Wilcoxina spp. as they continue to expand their range northward in western North America. However, we also detected a novel association among E. helleborine rhizomes and Rhexocercosporidium, a genus containing known saprophytes and plant pathogens. Our results indicate that this orchid can pair with an extensive range of fungal partners, likely by taking advantage of varying degrees of phylogenetic niche conservatism among different fungal groups, which could have wide-reaching implications in terms of further geographic expansion and introductions to new continents.},
}

@article {pmid42664677,
year = {2026},
author = {Kurt, G and Tan, İ and Çağlar, S and Atabay, H and Mülayim, A and Mutlu, S},
title = {Macrozoobenthic diversity of eutrophication hotspots under anthropogenic pressures in the southern Black Sea: Interactions between environmental factors and community structure.},
journal = {Marine pollution bulletin},
volume = {233},
number = {Pt 2},
pages = {120294},
doi = {10.1016/j.marpolbul.2026.120294},
pmid = {42664677},
issn = {1879-3363},
abstract = {The Black Sea is among the marine systems most affected by eutrophication, but benthic responses along its southern shelf remain poorly documented compared with the intensively studied northwestern shelf. Soft-bottom assemblages at ten stations off the Sakarya and Yeşilırmak river mouths, Samsun Port and the Samsun wastewater treatment plant were examined in July 2019 and January 2020, together with physicochemical conditions and anthropogenic pressures. In total, 118 species and 13,729 individuals were recorded; Polychaeta accounted for 72.8% of individuals, with dominancy of Aricidea claudiae, Prionospio maciolekae and Heteromastus filiformis. The stations formed four clusters, each containing both seasons, so differences between stations exceeded those between seasons. Canonical correspondence analysis on seven non-collinear variables, retained after collinearity screening and forward selection, was significant (F = 2.28, P = 0.002); depth, phosphate and coarse sand showed the strongest conditional effects. Ecological quality was assessed with two biotic indices. TUBI and M-AMBI*(n) ranked the stations concordantly (rs = 0.64, P = 0.002), both placing the outermost river-mouth station highest and the Sakarya and wastewater stations lowest, although M-AMBI*(n) assigned higher classes at several stations. Four alien species occurred at low density, leaving all stations at high ALEX status. Community structure was associated with a coupled depth-salinity-enrichment gradient rather than with nutrient enrichment alone.},
}

@article {pmid42664759,
year = {2026},
author = {Genovese, M and Pretti, C and Di Gloria, L and De Biasi, AM and Casbarra, L and Gabbrielli, B and Giannessi, J and Oliva, M and Ramazzotti, M and Baratti, M},
title = {Environmental DNA reveals spatial and vertical structuring of marine biodiversity in a Mediterranean biogeographic crossroads.},
journal = {Marine environmental research},
volume = {222},
number = {},
pages = {108377},
doi = {10.1016/j.marenvres.2026.108377},
pmid = {42664759},
issn = {1879-0291},
abstract = {The Mediterranean Sea is a biodiversity hotspot that requires frequent monitoring to detect ecological changes and support conservation. Within this context, the Strait of Sicily (SoS), which forms the transition zone between the western and eastern Mediterranean sub-regions, is characterized by high biological diversity and complex oceanographic processes influencing species distribution. Although the area has been the subject of several studies, the available knowledge remains fragmented, as previous investigations have largely focused on limited portions of the territory or on specific taxonomic groups, without providing a comprehensive assessment of the overall metazoan diversity. Here, we used an environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding approach to provide a comprehensive assessment of marine biodiversity across the region. Samples were collected across three distinct coastal areas, at different distances from the coast and at different depths. After taxonomic curation, metabarcoding analyses identified 362 genera and 227 unique species of marine metazoans across both markers (COI: 283 genera, 215 species; 18S: 79 genera, 15 species; 11 phyla, 22 classes, 30 orders and 3 species shared). Nearshore samples showed higher observed species richness (S obs) than offshore samples for both markers, similarly to the COI-based data for different depths. Beta-diversity analyses revealed significant differences in community composition between nearshore and offshore sites (PERMANOVA, p < 0.001). Both markers identified the westernmost site as markedly distinct, whereas central and eastern ones appeared more similar to each other. We also detected six non-indigenous species (NIS), and threatened species, such as the common bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) and the dusky grouper (Epinephelus marginatus). Our study highlights the Strait of Sicily as a biogeographic crossroads with high biodiversity. The eDNA approach identified different communities along spatial and vertical gradients and provided relevant information for the monitoring of vulnerable marine fauna and alien species.},
}