Article
Ecology
Sergio Timoteo, Jorg Albrecht, Beatriz Rumeu, Ana C. Norte, Anna Traveset, Carol M. Frost, Elizabete Marchante, Francisco A. Lopez-Nunez, Guadalupe Peralta, Jane Memmott, Jens M. Olesen, Jose M. Costa, Luis P. da Silva, Luisa G. Carvalheiro, Marta Correia, Michael Staab, Nico Bluthgen, Nina Farwig, Sandra Hervias-Parejo, Sergei Mironov, Susana Rodriguez-Echeverria, Ruben Heleno
Summary: Keystone species play a disproportionately important role in ecosystem functioning. This study examines whether their importance extends across different types of interactions and ecological niche dimensions. The results show that keystone species importance is positively associated across multiple niche dimensions and is independent of abundance. This has important implications for ecosystem resilience and conservation.
FUNCTIONAL ECOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Forestry
Ariel Isaias Ayma-Romay, Horacio E. Bown, Natalia Perez-Harguindeguy, Lucas Enrico
Summary: This study assessed the impact of biodiversity on forest productivity in a semi-arid Mediterranean-type climate matorral of Chile. The results showed that similarity of plant trait values was related to forest productivity, with greater trait similarity among highly competitive species potentially favored by mesic conditions at middle altitudes.
FOREST ECOLOGY AND MANAGEMENT
(2021)
Article
Plant Sciences
Vera Margreiter, Francesco Porro, Andrea Mondoni, Brigitta Erschbamer
Summary: The distributional differences between Saxifraga species cannot be solely attributed to habitat specialization, but recruitment traits may play a role. Early life stages are critical to population dynamics and widespread species show wider responses to climatic conditions. All Saxifraga species are threatened by climate warming.
FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE
(2022)
Article
Biodiversity Conservation
Juan Antonio Hernandez-Aguero, Ildefonso Ruiz-Tapiador, Luis Cayuela
Summary: The study found that 605 species feed on seven different parts of the holm oak, with over 90% lacking a conservation status assessment, and eight being threatened by human activities. Additionally, a significant phylogenetic relationship was observed between taxonomic relatedness and groups of arthropods that feed on the same part of the plant, indicating potential high host dependence.
DIVERSITY AND DISTRIBUTIONS
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Luping Zeng, Yunv Dai, Xiaomeng Zhang, Ying Man, Yiping Tai, Yang Yang, Ran Tao
Summary: The co-occurrence network of bacteria in HSSF CW was complex, while both VF and SF CW had simple functional topological structures. The VF CW reduced functional redundancy by niche differentiation, while the SF CW had bacterial niche overlap protecting a single function.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Ecology
Brandon D. Hoenig, Brian K. Trevelline, Tim Nuttle, Brady A. Porter
Summary: Providing taxonomically precise dietary characterisations for freshwater fish species is crucial for understanding trophic dynamics in freshwater ecosystems. Recent advancements in DNA-based prey identification have provided a new method for studying freshwater fish diets, overcoming limitations of traditional morphological identification. This study found that brook trout, brown trout, and rainbow trout are generalist predators with high seasonal dietary flexibility, with variation in prey composition across sampling periods.
FRESHWATER BIOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Jorge Castro-Bedrinana, Doris Chirinos-Peinado, Elva Rios-Rios, Maria Machuca-Campuzano, Elvis Gomez-Ventura
Summary: This study revealed the impact of mining-metallurgical industry in the central Andes of Peru on lead and cadmium contamination in milk, and the potential health risks associated with consuming such contaminated milk. Through quantification and assessment, it was found that this pollution may pose potential risks to children under the age of 19.
ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY
(2021)
Article
Biodiversity Conservation
Suzana M. Thomas, Geofrey E. Soka, Loth S. Mulungu, Fortunatus B. S. Makonda
Summary: Understanding resource partitioning and diet of sympatric species is crucial for conservation. A study conducted on Mount Kilimanjaro found that Rhabdomys dilectus and Lophuromys acquilus primarily consumed different food sources across habitats and seasons. Despite some dietary overlap, spatial-temporal variations allowed for their coexistence.
Article
Ecology
Joaquin Calatayud, Joaquin Hortal, Jorge Ari Noriega, Angel Arcones, Veronica R. Espinoza, Noemi Guil, Jorge M. Lobo
Summary: This study found that dung beetle species exhibit multidimensional thermal niches, with thermal responses varying significantly across different spatiotemporal scales. The trade-offs in adjusting to temperature requirements for one biological aspect may have detrimental effects on other elements, reducing population performance. Interestingly, although the effects of temperature were weak, they could have severe consequences for species' responses to warming if temperature regulates essential aspects of their biology differently.
JOURNAL OF BIOGEOGRAPHY
(2021)
Article
Marine & Freshwater Biology
Juhee Min, Kwang Young Kim
Summary: Some members of the Alexandrium genus produce toxins that cause shellfish poisoning, causing global environmental impacts and economic losses. The OMI and WitOMI indices were used to examine the ecological niches of three Alexandrium species in the Korea Strait, identifying factors affecting their population dynamics. Species niches were divided into seasonal subniches, with shifts in abundance likely due to habitat preferences, resource availability, and biological constraints. A species distribution model predicted the phenology and biogeography of the species, indicating potential differences in response to water temperature. However, the predicted phenology did not align with measured species abundance. Overall, the WitOMI analysis and species distribution model provide valuable insights into the interplay of biotic and abiotic processes in population dynamics.
Review
Nutrition & Dietetics
Xin Gen Lei, Gerald F. Combs, Roger A. Sunde, Joel S. Caton, John D. Arthington, Marko Z. Vatamaniuk
Summary: This review article discusses the discovery of selenium as an essential nutrient and provides a comprehensive analysis of its dietary sources, metabolic functions, and requirements across various species. It also addresses the metabolic impacts of high dietary selenium intakes and the cycling of selenium in food systems and ecosystems.
ANNUAL REVIEW OF NUTRITION
(2022)
Article
Plant Sciences
Leticia B. Zimback, Paulo I. Prado, Marcelo P. Pansonato, Geraldo A. D. C. Franco, Adriana M. Z. Martini
Summary: Spatial limitation in seed arrival is widespread in tropical forests and plays a significant role in species coexistence. Additionally, temporal seed limitation, especially when associated with a non-synchronous pattern of seed arrival, can further contribute to species coexistence by reducing encounter chances among species with different competitive abilities.
Article
Entomology
Anna F. Probert, Darren F. Ward, Jacqueline R. Beggs, Sarah J. Bury, Syrie M. Hermans, Gavin Lear, Margaret C. Stanley
Summary: Ants are a highly diverse and ecologically important group of insects found in almost all terrestrial ecosystems. Some non-native ant species have been widely transported around the globe and invade many natural ecosystems, often out-competing native counterparts. Through stable isotope analysis and metabarcoding techniques, researchers discovered high dietary overlap among ant species in New Zealand, with most feeding mainly across two trophic levels. Negative co-occurrence patterns between dominant non-native and ubiquitous native ant species suggests negative impacts on native ecosystems.
ENVIRONMENTAL ENTOMOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Ecology
Oscar Godoy, Noelia Gonzalez-Munoz, Simon P. Hart
Summary: This study demonstrates through field experiments that intraspecific trait variation in plant species has significant effects on their coexistence with other species, especially in terms of their competitive relationships.
Article
Zoology
A. Juan C. Jordan, H. Alejandro Mendoza, C. Alfredo Guzman, Z. Jose Perez
Summary: Saurians use different dimensions of the ecological niche to minimize competition. Two saurian species studied showed high overlap in spatial and temporal niches, but lower overlap in the trophic niche. They had similar activity patterns and body temperatures despite facing different thermal environments and selecting different microhabitats.
RUSSIAN JOURNAL OF HERPETOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Biodiversity Conservation
Bruktawit A. Mahamued, Paul F. Donald, Nigel J. Collar, Stuart J. Marsden, Paul Kariuki Ndang'ang'a, Mengistu Wondafrash, Yilma Dellelegn Abebe, James Bennett, Simon R. Wotton, Daniel Gornall, Huw Lloyd
Summary: The Liben Lark, classified as 'Critically Endangered' by the IUCN, is facing a drastic decline in population due to grassland degradation and conversion to farmland in the Liben Plain of southern Ethiopia. Urgent actions are needed to improve grassland management and restore the grassland ecosystem to prevent the extinction of the species.
BIRD CONSERVATION INTERNATIONAL
(2022)
Correction
Biodiversity Conservation
Christian Devenish, Achmad Ridha Junaid, Andriansyah, Ria Saryanthi, S. (Bas) van Balen, Fajar Kaprawi, Ganjar Cahyo Aprianto, Richard C. Stanley, Oliver Poole, Andrew Owen, N. J. Collar, Stuart J. Marsden
Article
Biodiversity Conservation
Christian Devenish, Achmad Ridha Junaid, Andriansyah, Ria Saryanthi, S. (Bas) van Balen, Fajar Kaprawi, Ganjar Cahyo Aprianto, Richard C. Stanley, Oliver Poole, Andrew Owen, N. J. Collar, Stuart J. Marsden
Summary: Designating protected areas is crucial for biodiversity conservation, and the montane biodiversity of Gunung Slamet in Central Java, Indonesia, is documented in this study. Important areas for protection have been identified on the upper slopes of the mountain, although the region is facing threats from trappers and hunters. Forest habitats in the area are in good condition, but recent forest loss is a concern.
Article
Ecology
Robert W. Martin, Nigel J. Collar, Panji Fauzen, Hanom Bashari, Adi Widyanto, John S. Tasirin, Stuart J. Marsden
Summary: The remnant forests on the small island of Sangihe north of Sulawesi are of great importance for conserving critically endangered bird species. The study identifies specific habitat features and areas where habitat is slightly unsuitable for these species. The findings highlight the importance of the Sahendaruman crater area for the conservation of these species and suggest measures for enhancing the habitat.
RESTORATION ECOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Forestry
D. C. Alder, B. Edwards, A. Poore, J. Norrey, S. J. Marsden
Summary: Traditional coppice management has a significant impact on the structure and composition of plant communities. This study compares the effects of three different management treatments on habitat structure and flora richness in an ancient woodland in southern England. The results show that the introduction of irregular silviculture can help conserve ancient woodland and coppice plants associated with traditional coppicing practices.
FOREST ECOLOGY AND MANAGEMENT
(2023)
Article
Biodiversity Conservation
James Richardson, Alexander C. Lees, Stuart Marsden
Summary: Urban expansion is a major cause of biodiversity loss, and while some species can adapt to urban areas, the Stock Dove is rarely found in cities. This study explores the habitat requirements of Stock Doves in Greater Manchester, UK, finding that large trees, environmental greenness, and canopy cover are key factors for predicting their presence.
Article
Ecology
James Richardson, Alexander C. Lees, Eliot T. Miller, Stuart J. Marsden
Summary: Understanding the composition of urban wildlife communities is crucial for promoting biodiversity and ecosystem function. This study used crowdsourced data to examine the influence of urban characteristics on avian richness and function in global cities. The results show that habitat availability and phylogenetic diversity play important roles in shaping urban avian communities.
Article
Agriculture, Multidisciplinary
Alan Tristram Kenneth Lee, Gillian McGregor, Anina Coetzee
Summary: In this study, the harvest methods of Cyclopia intermedia were observed, and the yield was estimated based on height and stem number. The results showed that plants in valleys or with high surrounding vegetation had higher yield values and potential fecundity. Additionally, plant size was correlated with mortality rate after harvesting, with smaller plants having higher mortality. However, after two years of drought, high mortality was not influenced by harvesting category or environmental variables, indicating that drought leads to high plant mortality regardless of harvest history.
AGROECOLOGY AND SUSTAINABLE FOOD SYSTEMS
(2023)
Article
Ornithology
Philipp H. Boersch-Supan, Alan Tristram Kenneth Lee, Hans-Dieter Oschadleus
Summary: The Underhill-Zucchini model has played an important role in the study of moult in birds' annual cycles, but the inferences are susceptible to imperfect moult data and violations of model assumptions. Recent extensions to the Underhill-Zucchini framework have been demonstrated to aid in the robust estimation of moult parameters, particularly when within-season recapture data is available.
Biographical-Item
Ornithology
Alan T. K. Lee, Sandi Willows-Munro, David A. Ehlers Smith, Preshnee Singh
Article
Biodiversity Conservation
Stuart J. Marsden, Achmad Ridha Junaid, Fajar Kaprawi, Faris Muladi, Ganjar Cahyo Aprianto, S. (Bas) van Balen, Ria Saryanthi, Nigel J. Collar, Christian Devenish
Summary: There is serious concern for the future of birds in Java and Indonesia due to habitat loss and trapping for the cagebird trade. We provide data on 184 bird species from biodiversity surveys in West and Central Java, revealing both the presence and abundance of threatened endemics. Some species remain fairly widespread while others, such as the Javan Blue-flycatcher, are now extremely rare. These encounter rates serve as an important baseline for future abundance monitoring.
BIRD CONSERVATION INTERNATIONAL
(2023)
Review
Biodiversity Conservation
Alan Tristram Kenneth Lee, Melissa A. Whitecross, Hanneline A. Smit-Robinson, David G. Allan, Linda van den Heever, Andrew Jenkins, Ernst F. Retief, Robin B. Colyn, Warwick Tarboton, Kishaylin Chetty, Christiaan Willem Brink
Summary: Long-term citizen science atlas data has shown concerning declines in the population of Black Stork in South Africa, Lesotho, and Eswatini. Recent surveys revealed evidence of nest site abandonment and limited evidence of breeding in northern South Africa. Population declines indicate limited breeding success and a non-breeding population in wildlife refuges.
BIRD CONSERVATION INTERNATIONAL
(2023)
Article
Ornithology
Sanjo Rose, Robert Leslie Thomson, Alan Tristam Kenneth Lee, Peter Geoffrey Ryan
Summary: The Agulhas Long-billed Lark is a species restricted to the transformed Agulhas Plain, South Africa. This study provides new information on its nesting behavior, parental care, and breeding success. The lark prefers to nest in Renosterveld and faces threats such as nest predation, habitat loss, and exposure to pesticides.
JOURNAL OF ORNITHOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Ornithology
Anna Reuleaux, Benny A. Siregar, Nigel J. Collar, Ani Mardiastuti, Stuart J. Marsden
Summary: Understanding breeding success and limitations is vital for species conservation. The Citron-crested Cockatoo on Sumba Island faces the challenge of coexisting with a rich nesting bird community in a heavily degraded forest. Intense competition for nesting cavities is observed, with other species frequently visiting active cockatoo nests. Conserving old trees with cavities and providing artificial nest-sites can help mitigate the shortage of suitable nest-sites. Local awareness-raising and law enforcement, along with long-term forest restoration, are necessary for the species' conservation.
Review
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Alan T. K. Lee, Michael Brooks, Les G. Underhill
SOUTH AFRICAN JOURNAL OF SCIENCE
(2022)
