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- Cymbidium kanran can deceptively attract Apis cerana for free pollination
by releasing specialized volatile compounds Abstract: Nature Conservation 56: 83-100 DOI : 10.3897/natureconservation.56.126919 Authors : Huolin Luo, Hanwen Xiao, Xinchen Wu, Nannan Liu, Xinghui Chen, Dongjin Xiong, Weichang Huang, Boyun Yang : Cymbidium kanran is classified as a second-level protected plant in China and is also listed in the World Genetic Conservation Plant Registry. Pollen flow is an important factor influencing the genetic structure of plant populations, holding significant relevance in the conservation of endangered plants. In this study, we present a comprehensive exploration of the pollination biology of Cymbidium kanran, encompassing investigations into its flowering phenology, breeding system, floral volatile components, and interactions with pollinating insects. The results showed that: 1) C. kanran exclusively relies on external pollination mechanisms, as automatic self-pollination or apomixis mechanisms are conspicuously absent. Consequently, the natural fruit set rate is significantly lower compared to artificial pollination, highlighting a pronounced pollination limitation. 2) Apis cerana emerges as the primary effective pollinating insect for C. kanran, adeptly carrying both pollinia and anther caps during the pollination process. Notably, C. kanran does not provide any rewards, such as nectar or edible pollen, to entice the pollinators. 3) Contrary to expectations, our glass cylinder experiment demonstrates that the flower color of C. kanran lacks significant attractiveness to pollinators (p=0.1341>0.05). However, the scent emitted by the flowers exhibits considerable allure (p=0.0004 PubDate: Thu, 22 Aug 2024 16:11:53 +000
- Eight years after the Fundão tailings dam collapse: chaos on the
muddy banks Abstract: Nature Conservation 56: 77-82 DOI : 10.3897/natureconservation.56.133441 Authors : Cássio Cardoso Pereira, Stephannie Fernandes, Geraldo Wilson Fernandes, Fernando Figueiredo Goulart : Not applicable HTML XML PDF PubDate: Tue, 20 Aug 2024 14:22:50 +000
- Amphibians and reptiles of the Transvolcanic Belt biogeographic province
of Mexico: diversity, similarities, and conservation Abstract: Nature Conservation 56: 37-76 DOI : 10.3897/natureconservation.56.125561 Authors : Julio A. Lemos-Espinal, Geoffrey R. Smith : The Transvolcanic Belt (TVB) of Mexico is a biogeographic province of significant biodiversity, acting as a transition zone between eastern and western Mexico. Using available literature, we collected species lists for amphibians and reptiles in Mexican states within the TVB biogeographic province, updating them with additional literature. The TVB is home to 427 native species of amphibians and reptiles, 154 amphibians and 273 reptiles, which represent 30.5% of the species of amphibians and reptiles in Mexico. The TVB also houses 50 endemic species, with 84 species listed by the IUCN. Threats include habitat destruction and pollution. The TVB shares a significant portion of its amphibian and reptile species with neighboring provinces, particularly the Sierra Madre Oriental and the Sierra Madre del Sur, suggesting a mixture of species from both eastern and western Mexico. Cluster analyses based on species composition reveal distinct groupings of provinces, with the TVB forming a cluster with the Sierra Madre Oriental, Veracruzan, and Sierra Madre del Sur for both amphibians and reptiles. Conservation assessments indicate that a significant proportion of the amphibian and reptile species in the TVB are at risk, primarily due to habitat loss from urbanization, agriculture, and pollution. Urgent conservation actions are needed to protect the unique herpetofauna of the TVB from further decline. HTML XML PDF PubDate: Thu, 8 Aug 2024 15:55:03 +0300
- Phylogeography and genetic population structure of the endangered
bitterling Acheilognathus tabira tabira Jordan & Thompson, 1914 (Cyprinidae) in western Honshu, Japan, inferred from mitochondrial DNA sequences Abstract: Nature Conservation 56: 19-36 DOI : 10.3897/natureconservation.56.111745 Authors : Gen Ito, Naoto Koyama, Ryota Noguchi, Ryoichi Tabata, Seigo Kawase, Jyun-ichi Kitamura, Yasunori Koya : We examined the genetic population structure of the endangered freshwater cyprinid Acheilognathus tabira tabira in the Japanese archipelago, which has only been analyzed in limited sampling in previous studies, based on cytochrome b region of the mitochondrial gene. We confirmed the existence of the same three lineages determined in the previous study, the natural distribution area of Lineage I and II+III were considered to be the Seto Inland Sea and Ise Bay regions, respectively. Furthermore, the Seto Inland Sea region population was divided into five groups inhabiting neighboring water systems using the spatial analysis of molecular variance (SAMOVA). We estimated that populations in the Seto Inland Sea region migrated through a single paleowater system during the last glacial period and were then separated and genetically differentiated due to marine transgression. The Yoshino River system population was estimated to be a non-native population because it belonged to the same group as the Lake Biwa-Yodo River system, which is the only separate water system across the Seto Inland Sea. This study provides new evidence of genetic differentiation in A. t. tabira populations within the Seto Inland Sea region, where genetic differentiation has not been detected in previous studies, corresponding to five different groups by significantly increasing the number of individuals and sites compared with previous studies. Therefore, we propose these five groups as conservation units in the Seto Inland Sea region. HTML XML PDF PubDate: Thu, 8 Aug 2024 15:55:02 +0300
- Under the lion’s paw: lion farming in South Africa and the illegal
international bone trade Abstract: Nature Conservation 56: 1-17 DOI : 10.3897/natureconservation.56.124555 Authors : Angie Elwin, Eyob Asfaw, Neil D’Cruze : The African lion Panthera leo is subject to numerous anthropogenic pressures across its natural range. In South Africa, although free ranging populations are increasing, the number of lions in captivity in private commercial facilities far outnumber those in the wild. South Africa’s captive lion industry was reportedly created primarily to generate income and take pressure off wild populations through the supply of captive-bred lions for trophy hunting. However, the industry has become a highly contentious topic under ongoing international scrutiny and debate. Here, we present new information from direct interviews with workers at two closed-access lion facilities located in North West Province, on how some facilities continue to use legal activities, such as captive breeding and hunting, to facilitate their involvement in the illegal international felid bone trade. The sources also report other illegal and unethical activities including animal welfare violations, unsafe conditions for workers, potential shifts to the commercial exploitation of other felid species such as tigers Panthera tigris and incidents involving poaching of captive lions and tigers by non-affiliated actors. Sources described how some facilities use various tools and tactics, such as security cameras, patrols and messaging apps to avoid detection during inspections. If the South African Government is to be successful in meeting its publicly stated goal of ending the captive lion industry, a comprehensive well-managed plan to transition away from current practices is required. To aid enforcement, the industry should also be fully audited, with all facilities officially registered, a moratorium on the breeding of lions and plans put in place to prevent the stockpiling of lion bones. HTML XML PDF PubDate: Thu, 8 Aug 2024 15:55:01 +0300
- Building a global-oriented ecological civilization: Huzhou’s actions
and practice, China Abstract: Nature Conservation 55: 343-362 DOI : 10.3897/natureconservation.55.121941 Authors : Pengcheng Ye, Xiao Zhao, Jianyong Wu : Biodiversity, ecosystems and the services they provide are crucial to the sustainable development of cities, the health and well-being of residents and the maintenance of urban ecological security. The continued decline of global species biodiversity and ecosystem service function has seriously affected the sustainable development of regional social economy. The core of ecological civilization thought is sustainable development, and promoting sustainable development is also the path and means to achieve ecological civilization. As the significant birthplace of ecological civilization thought of “Lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets”, Huzhou has always been committed to creating an “important window” for building an ecological civilization and actively integrating biodiversity conservation into ecological conservation. Through unremitting efforts in recent decades, Huzhou has successfully achieved green sustainable development and reversed the trend of biodiversity loss. Thus, there is a need for a systematic review of successful initiatives in this region and identify the experiences and methods that can advance the sustainable development also in other parts of the world. HTML XML PDF PubDate: Fri, 12 Jul 2024 21:15:15 +030
- Rubus plicatus Weihe & Nees: resilience to pollution caused by stone
quarries Abstract: Nature Conservation 55: 321-341 DOI : 10.3897/natureconservation.55.124893 Authors : Adriana Petruș-Vancea, Daniela Nicoleta Pop, Felicia Nicoleta Sucea, Amalia-Raluca Dumbravă, Simona Ioana Vicaș, Oana Stănășel, Traian Octavian Costea, Diana Cupșa : This study aimed to analyze the effect of pollution caused by stone quarries on the morpho-anatomy, biochemistry, and physiology of a medicinal wild bramble Rubus plicatus Weihe & Nees. Samples were collected from two natural protected areas: Iron Gates Natural Park and Jiu Gorge National Park, both located in the southwestern part of Romania, and two unpolluted areas from these parks as background sites. We carried out the following analyses on the collected leaves of this taxon: morphology, micromorphology, anatomy, assimilating pigments, heavy metals (Pb, Ni, Cr, Fe), dry mass, bioactive compounds (total phenols and flavonoids), and antioxidant capacity. The results showed more stomata, higher amounts of assimilating pigments, higher amounts of heavy metals (especially lead), less dry mass, less phenols, and more flavonoids in Rubus plicatus leaves from polluted areas compared to areas without sources of pollution. The increased number of stomata and the amounts of assimilator pigments revealed the mechanisms developed by this species in order to survive in polluted conditions. HTML XML PDF PubDate: Mon, 8 Jul 2024 20:15:11 +0300
- Applying landscape ecological principles in comprehensive landscape
protection: Šumava National Park as a case study Abstract: Nature Conservation 55: 297-320 DOI : 10.3897/natureconservation.55.119797 Authors : Tomáš Janík, Dušan Romportl, Zdenka Křenová : In the face of ongoing anthropogenic pressure and biodiversity loss, there is a need to protect nature more effectively. Therefore, we propose a comprehensive and consecutive approach utilising landscape ecological principles and methods for effective landscape protection and spatial nature conservation. Methods applicable in various conditions are exemplified through case studies from the Šumava National Park, the largest NP in Czechia. Using a set of spatial environmental, landscape ecological and geographical data we can: Characterise the area of interest from the physical-geographical, socioeconomic, and management point of view to create the concept´s framework and review important background information for analysis of the area. Therefore, the key factors for landscape protection and biodiversity conservation are defined. Analyse trends and processes of landscape dynamics in terms of land cover, landscape structure and habitat fragmentation and connectivity, which helps us to set main objectives of landscape protection and nature conservation. Use data about environment conditions and key species and habitat occurrence to model habitat suitability, identify their suitable areas, and thus improve their protection. As a result, areas of high conservation value are distinguished. Synthetize outputs of the above-mentioned steps and prioritise the target goals of landscape protection and biodiversity conservation in the area of interest. This leads to the effective zonation, which is a necessary condition for the application of appropriate management measures. HTML XML PDF PubDate: Mon, 1 Jul 2024 17:47:56 +0300
- Spatial distribution models and biodiversity of phytoplankton cysts in the
Black Sea Abstract: Nature Conservation 55: 269-296 DOI : 10.3897/natureconservation.55.121181 Authors : Nina Dzhembekova, Ivelina Zlateva, Fernando Rubino, Manuela Belmonte, Valentina Doncheva, Ivan Popov, Snejana Moncheva : The current study employed diverse statistical and machine learning techniques to investigate the biodiversity and spatial distribution of phytoplankton cysts in the Black Sea. The MaxEnt distribution modeling technique was used to forecast the habitat suitability for the cysts of three potentially toxic microalgal taxa (Lingulodinium polyedra, Polykrikos hartmannii, and Alexandrium spp.). The key variables controlling the habitat suitability of Alexandrium spp. and L. polyedra were nitrates and temperature, while for the P. hartmannii cysts, nitrates and salinity. The region with the highest likelihood of L. polyedra cyst occurrence appears to be in the western coastal and shelf waters, which coincides with the areas where L. polyedra red tides have been documented. The projected habitat suitability of the examined species partially overlapped, perhaps as a result of their cohabitation within the phytoplankton community and shared preferences for specific environmental conditions, demonstrating similar survival strategies. The north-western region of the Black Sea was found to be the most suitable environment for the studied potentially toxic species, presumably posing a greater risk for the onset of blooming events. Two distinct aspects of cysts’ ecology and settlement were observed: the dispersal of cysts concerns their movement within the water column from one place to another prior to settling, while habitat suitability pertains to the particular environment required for their survival, growth, and germination. Therefore, it is crucial to validate the model in order to accurately determine a suitable habitat as well as understand the transportation patterns linked to the particular hydrodynamic properties of the water column and the distinct features of the local environment. HTML XML PDF PubDate: Tue, 4 Jun 2024 10:23:58 +0300
- Unveiling prey preferences of endangered wild Malayan tiger, Panthera
tigris jacksoni, in Peninsular Malaysia through scat analysis via COI DNA metabarcoding Abstract: Nature Conservation 55: 249-268 DOI : 10.3897/natureconservation.55.114211 Authors : Millawati Gani, Frankie Thomas Sitam, Zubaidah Kamarudin, Siti Suzana Selamat, Nik Mohd Zamani Awang, Hani Nabilia Muhd-Sahimi, Michael Wong, Baharim Selat, Nur Fatin Khairunnisa Abdullah-Halim, Lim Shu Yong, Ling Fong Yoke, Salmah Yaakop, Abd Rahman Mohd-Ridwan, Badrul Munir Md-Zain : Understanding the prey preference of Malayan tiger (Panthera tigris jacksoni) in Malaysia is important to guide conservation planning initiatives. The utilisation of DNA metabarcoding provides valuable insights, particularly in the field of carnivora diet research. This technique has been proven to be effective for identifying various species within complex mixtures such as scat materials, where visual identification is challenging. The Cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) locus has been selected as it is a widely used as an effective non-invasive approach for diet studies. Hence, given this advance approach, Malayan tiger scats were collected on the basis of existing records of their presence in two types of habitats, namely, protected areas (PA) and human–tiger conflict (HTC) areas. This study aimed to identify prey species in Peninsular Malaysia, based on Malayan tiger scat samples using DNA metabarcoding. Based on the partial mitochondrial COI region, DNA metabarcoding led to the taxonomic resolution of prey DNA remnants in scats and the identification of prey species consumed by Malayan tiger, which were predominately small-to-medium-sized prey, including livestock. The dominant DNA prey detected belongs to the family Canidae, followed by Bovidae, Vespertilionidae, Homonidae, Felidae, Phasianidae and Muridae. A significant difference (p < 0.05) was observed in alpha and beta diversity using the Shannon index and PERMANOVA with regard to prey richness and evenness in two different habitat groups, namely, PA and HTC. Our finding provides insights into Malayan tiger dietary requirements, which can be used to develop conservation plans and strategies for Malayan tiger, particularly for habitat priorities. HTML XML PDF PubDate: Wed, 22 May 2024 10:08:45 +030
- Paleoclimate changes and ecosystem responses of the Bulgarian Black Sea
zone during the last 26000 years Abstract: Nature Conservation 55: 201-248 DOI : 10.3897/natureconservation.55.121842 Authors : Mariana Filipova-Marinova, Danail Pavlov, Krasimira Slavova : Multi-proxy analysis (spore-pollen, dinoflagellate cysts, other non-pollen palynomorphs (NPPs), radiocarbon dating and lithology) was performed on marine sediments from three new cores retrieved during the two cruise expeditions on board the Research Vessel “Akademik” in 2009 and 2011. The Varna transect comprises three cores extending from the outer shelf, continental slope and deep-water zone. The record spans the last 26000 years (all ages obtained in this study are given in calendar years BP (cal. yrs BP)). The pollen record reveals the spreading of steppe vegetation dominated by Artemisia and Chenopodiaceae, suggesting cold and dry environments during the Late Pleniglacial – Oldest Dryas (25903–15612 cal. yrs BP). Stands of Pinus and Quercus reflect warming/humidity increase during the melting pulses (19.2–14.5 cal. ka BP) and the Late Glacial interstadials Bølling and Allerød. The Younger Dryas (13257–11788 cal. yrs BP) coldest and driest environments are clearly demonstrated by the maximum relative abundance of Artemisia and Chenopodiaceae. During the Early Holocene (Preboreal and Boreal chronozones, 11788–8004 cal. yrs BP), Quercus appeared as a pioneer species and, along with other temperate deciduous arboreal taxa, formed open deciduous forests as a response to the increased temperature. The rapid expansion of these taxa indicates that they survived in Glacial refugia in the coastal mountains. During the Atlantic chronozone (8004–5483 cal. yrs BP), optimal climate conditions (high humidity and increased mean annual temperatures) stimulated the establishment of species-rich mixed temperate deciduous forests. During the Subboreal chronozone (5483–2837 cal. yrs BP), Carpinus betulus and Fagus expanded simultaneously and became more important components of mixed oak forests and probably also formed separate communities. During the Subatlantic chronozone (2837 cal. yrs BP to pre-industrial time), climate-driven changes (an increase of humidity and a cooling of the climate) appear to be the main drivers of the specific vegetation succession expressed by increased abundance of Alnus, Fraxinus excelsior and Salix along with lianas, suggesting formation of flooded riparian forests (so called ‘Longoz’) lining the river valleys along the Black Sea coast. The first indicators of farming and other human activities have been recorded since 7074 cal. yrs BP. The dinoflagellate cyst (dinocyst) assemblages have been analysed to assess the changes in the Black Sea environment over the last 26000 years in terms of fluctuation in paleoproduction and surface water conditions related to changes in climate, freshwater input and Mediterranean water intrusion. Two major dinocyst assemblages were distinguished: one dominated by stenohaline freshwater/brackish-water species and a successive one dominated by euryhaline marine species. The changes in the composition of the assemblages occurred at 7668 cal. yrs BP. The abrupt decrease of stenohaline freshwater/brackish-water species Pyxidinopsis psilata and Spiniferites cruciformis was followed upwards by a gradual increase in euryhaline marine species, such as Lingulodinium machaerophorum, Spiniferites belerius, S. bentorii and acritarch Cymatiosphaera globulosa. The first occurrence of euryhaline marine species took place synchronously with the onset of sapropel deposition. Modern marine conditions were established after 6417 cal yrs BP when an abundance of Mediterranean-related species, such as Operculodinium centrocarpum and Spiniferites mirabilis, along with other heterotrophic species, occurred. After the stable cold and dry environment during the Last Glacial Maximum, the phytoplankton record of core AKAD 11-17 shows that Pediastrum boryanum var. boryanum has a cyclical abundance associated with the deposition of four red-brown clay layers between 19.2 and 14.5 cal. ka BP. This event is associated with the major melting phase of European Ice drained by the Danube and Dnieper Rivers in response to climate warming observed after the end of the Last Glacial Maximum. During the Early Holocene, P. psilata, characterised by a preference to warmer temperatures, demonstrates its ecological optimum for growth concerning SST reaching maximum relative abundance of 94% between 11072 and 8638 cal. yrs BP. This maximum was interrupted by an abrupt significant short-term decrease in the relative abundance of P. psilata centred between 8500 and 8300 cal. yrs BP reflecting cold conditions similar to those of Younger Dryas. This finding, also confirmed by the rapid significant decrease of arboreal pollen, particularly of Quercus in the same studied core, is considered a regional expression of the well-known ‘8.2 ka cold event’ which is commonly linked to a meltwater-related perturbation of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) and associated collapse of oceanic northward heat transport. Our fossil pollen and dinocyst data confirm that the high amplitude temperature anomaly associated with ‘the 8.2 ka cold event’ may have also occurred in south-eastern Europe, at lower latitudes of the western Black Sea coastal area, most probably due to atmospheric transition and/or river discharge. HTML XML PDF PubDate: Tue, 21 May 2024 16:30:24 +030
- Recent changes in tropical-dry-forest connectivity within the Balsas Basin
Biogeographic Province: potential effects on endemic-bird distributions Abstract: Nature Conservation 55: 177-199 DOI : 10.3897/natureconservation.55.120594 Authors : Alejandra Galindo-Cruz, Francisco Javier Sahagún-Sánchez, Fabiola López-Barrera, Octavio Rojas-Soto : Maintaining landscape connectivity is a conservation priority for biodiversity as it may mitigate the adverse effects of forest degradation, fragmentation, and climate change by facilitating species dispersal. Despite their importance for biodiversity conservation, Mexican tropical dry forests (TDFs) face high fragmentation rates due to anthropogenic activities. In this study, we analyzed the connectivity dynamics of TDFs in the Balsas Basin Biogeographic Province (BBBP) between 2013 and 2018, focusing on old-growth and secondary TDF covers, including Protected Areas and Important Bird Areas. We evaluated the effects of connectivity loss and gain on the distribution areas of 30 endemic bird species with ecological associations with TDFs in the BBBP. We found expansion in TDFs accounting for a total increase of 227,905 ha due to secondary forest increase (12%). In contrast, old-growth forests experienced a reduction of 66,576 ha in the study area (8%). We also found a decrease in areas with high and very-high connectivity, coupled with an increase in low connectivity, except for TDFs inside Protected Areas, which increased by 3,000 ha, leading to higher connectivity. There was an increase in total forest cover in 27 species’ potential distribution, highlighting the possible role of secondary forests in promoting connectivity between old-growth forest patches. Our results reveal the complex dynamics between forest types, connectivity, and bird-species distributions. Despite an overall increase in forested areas, most TDFs continue to have low connectivity, likely impacting biodiversity, particularly for species that rely on highly conserved ecosystems. This study underscores the importance of integrated conservation strategies considering connectivity, forest recovery, and the dynamics of species-ecosystem interactions. HTML XML PDF PubDate: Thu, 16 May 2024 21:36:38 +030
- Prioritising areas for conservation within Tropical Important Plant Areas
of the British Virgin Islands, Caribbean Abstract: Nature Conservation 55: 153-176 DOI : 10.3897/natureconservation.55.116844 Authors : Michalla Alicja Dolata, Nancy Woodfield-Pascoe, Thomas Heller, Michele Dani Sanchez, Sara Bárrios, Steven R. Schill, Patrik Karlsson Nyed, Martin Allen Hamilton, Keith Grant, Colin Clubbe, Bo Dalsgaard : Oceanic islands are particularly vulnerable to the global decline of biological diversity, suffering disproportionally large losses of endemic species. A primary tool for mitigating species loss is the establishment of protected area networks. The 2030 Global Biodiversity Framework target calls for the protection of 30% of Earth’s land surface by 2030. This study identifies areas within the Tropical Important Plant Areas network of the British Virgin Islands (BVI), to better inform the expansion of the current protected area network with the objective of conserving the BVI’s unique flora. We identified and applied conservation targets for five threatened habitats and 34 species of conservation concern, including four endemic to the BVI. A total of 5,248 georeferenced plant records for the 34 species collected through decades of collaborative work between the National Parks Trust of the Virgin Islands and the Royal Botanical Gardens, Kew, along with the distribution of five threatened habitats were used within the decision support system MARXAN to identify four spatial portfolios to guide the expansion of the BVI’s current protected area network. Highlighting the need to expand the current (2007–2017) Protected Areas System Plan in the BVI, we found that the current Plan only covers 15% of terrestrial land and does not meet the conservation targets for plants and habitats. The portfolios identified in our analysis efficiently expand the current Protected Areas System Plan to strategically expand coverage for all conservation features, with two main portfolios reaching all defined conservation targets for protection. Notably, to evaluate options not requiring land purchase, we extracted areas within state-owned Crown land from two main identified portfolios and found that the two Crown land-portfolios could protect 28% and 23% of the BVI, respectively, while meeting the targets for most plants of conservation concern. However, to reach 30% land protection and meet the conservation targets for all plant species, including endemics, private land would need to be considered for this inclusion within the protected area network. Our results provide science-based guidance for the selection of candidate protected area expansion sites that include threatened plants and habitats for reaching the 2030 Biodiversity Framework targets. While systematic conservation planning can provide guidance on protected area expansion, it is important to evaluate and prioritise conservation actions, based on multiple solutions and available resources. We recommend similar approaches are applied more broadly throughout the Caribbean and other archipelagos across the world. HTML XML PDF PubDate: Tue, 30 Apr 2024 10:08:40 +030
- The greater the proportion of Robinia pseudoacacia in a stand the greater
its effect on the population characteristics of Erythronium dens-canis Abstract: Nature Conservation 55: 135-151 DOI : 10.3897/natureconservation.55.112272 Authors : Bálint Pacsai, Emese Anna Bognár, Bence Fülöp, Vivien Lábadi, Judit Bódis : Management of invasive alien plants is an increasing problem throughout the world. In some cases native rare or protected species can appear or even prefer habitats dominated by invasive alien plants, which raises questions about the optimal treatment of such areas. Erythronium dens-canis in Hungary is a protected species which only have several occurrences in the country and a number of these populations situated in Robinia pseudoacacia stands developed after harvesting native forests. In this study a total of five populations of E. dens-canis were surveyed between 2020 and 2022 in southwestern Hungary examining and comparing the ongoing demographic changes under native and Robinia stands by monitoring individual plants. Two populations were situated in forests composed of native tree species, two in Robinia pseudoacacia-dominated stands and one in a Robinia-native tree species mixed stand. We categorized the plants into five age-state categories: dormant, seedling, juvenile, vegetative adult, and reproductive adult. We found some considerable differences (e.g. leaf size, reproduction rate) between the populations situated in native and in Robinia stands, whereas the population in mixed forest showed intermediate character in most examined factors. Based on our results, R. pseudoacacia have a significant effect on the phenology and life history of E. dens-canis, and this effect is greater with higher proportion of R. pseudoacacia in a forest stand where the E. dens-canis occurs. HTML XML PDF PubDate: Mon, 8 Apr 2024 11:27:38 +0300
- Effects of management, habitat and landscape characteristics on
biodiversity of orchard meadows in Central Europe: A brief review Abstract: Nature Conservation 55: 103-134 DOI : 10.3897/natureconservation.55.108688 Authors : Cornelia Sattler, Julian Schrader, Marie-Luise Hüttner, Klaus Henle : Increasing agricultural intensification, combined with land transformation and fragmentation, poses significant threats to biodiversity. While extensively cultivated landscapes serve as vital refuges against biodiversity loss, they are modified by land abandonment and intensification. Orchard meadows in Central Europe represent traditional extensive land management systems, exhibiting high biodiversity. Comprising cultivated grasslands and scattered fruit trees, orchard meadows feature structures rich in different habitats supporting a diverse flora and fauna. However, their decreasing economic importance in recent decades has resulted in severe degradation or abandonment. Despite their importance for biodiversity conservation, there remains no comprehensive overview of orchard meadow biodiversity and management in Central Europe. This review aims to summarize existing knowledge on orchard meadows’ role in biodiversity conservation and the effects of management practices on habitat diversity and quality at both smaller (structure and microhabitats, local scale) and larger scales (surrounding landscape, regional scale). The first part focuses on orchard meadow biodiversity, including both plants and animals and their link to landscape-scale factors. Biodiversity in orchard meadows is predominantly affected by patch size, determining species richness and composition, and connectivity to neighbouring orchard meadows, influencing species migration and recolonization success. The second part evaluates management impacts, illustrating differences in the benefits of mowing versus grazing across taxonomic groups. An intermediate management intensity for orchard meadows determines their conservation value in terms of species composition, varying among different taxonomic groups. To prevent area loss and abandonment of orchard meadows, we advocate for political and public support, along with incentives for farmers to maintain their biodiversity. HTML XML PDF PubDate: Thu, 28 Mar 2024 18:11:51 +020
- Linking sufficiency and the protection of biodiversity: An issue of
Abstract: Nature Conservation 55: 83-102 DOI : 10.3897/natureconservation.55.118243 Authors : Marianne Hachtmann : The dramatic loss of biodiversity is caused by the use of resources and land. One strategy aiming at reducing the use of resources and land is sufficiency, which consequently could be a strategy for protecting biodiversity. This article therefore examines the extent to which sufficiency in the context of biodiversity conservation is already being addressed by nature conservation associations and the scientific community. To this end, publications were analysed firstly with regards to the understanding of sufficiency, secondly with regards to the considered links between sufficiency and biodiversity as well as thirdly with regards to the considered fields of action. The systematic identification and evaluation of scientific publications (for the years 2017–2021) and publications by German and international nature conservation associations shows that few publications address the link between sufficiency and biodiversity. And when they do, the link often remains unspecific. Possible reasons are that sufficiency potentially has broader political implications, that the term is not descriptive and that other terms are used to describe similar strategies. Other potential explanations are that several framings for the need for sufficiency are possible and that linking sufficiency and biodiversity requires interdisciplinarity. Drawing on the results and the discussion, an argument in favour of using the term ‘sufficiency’ and further research is presented. Moreover, a sufficiency typology is developed and questions are raised that could form the basis for future research on linking biodiversity conservation and the various aspects of sufficiency. HTML XML PDF PubDate: Thu, 28 Mar 2024 18:06:23 +020
- Climatic niche modelling and genetic analyses highlight conservation
priorities for the Spotted Softshell Turtle (Pelodiscus variegatus) Abstract: Nature Conservation 55: 67-82 DOI : 10.3897/natureconservation.55.114746 Authors : Minh Duc Le, Dennis Rödder, Tao Thien Nguyen, Cuong The Pham, Truong Quang Nguyen, An Vinh Ong, Timothy E. M. McCormack, Thang Tai Nguyen, Mai Huyen Le, Hanh Thi Ngo, Thomas Ziegler : The Spotted Softshell Turtle (Pelodiscus variegatus) has been recognised since 2019 from Vietnam and Hainan Island, China, but little information about its population status and distribution range is currently available. The species has been provisionally listed as Critically Endangered by the Turtle and Tortoise Working Group, although the status has not been officially accepted by the IUCN, due to the threats the species is facing, including habitat loss and degradation, overexploitation for food, competition with other non-native softshell turtles and pollution. To identify conservation priority sites for P. variegatus in mainland Indochina, this study combines molecular analyses and species distribution modelling. Our results show that, in Vietnam, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park has the largest suitable area and high probability of species occurrence, followed by Vu Quang National Park and Song Thanh and Ke Go Nature Reserves. In addition, the central provinces, from Thanh Hoa to Thua Thien Hue in Vietnam, constitute a key part of the species distribution and should be prioritised for conservation actions. According to the study’s findings, although P. variegatus is possibly found in Laos, the probability decreases sharply at the border between both countries and there is also a gap in the occurrence of wetlands, arguing for strong natural barriers. Unfortunately, to date, only part of the species potential distribution is protected, while no records are known from protected areas, highlighting the need for extended or even new reserves. To recover natural populations of the species and following the IUCN’s One Plan Approach to Conservation, breeding programmes have been established in Vietnam with a potential to expand to other facilities in the country and abroad. Once suitable sites are identified, offspring can be released into the protected areas to improve the current conservation status of this highly-threatened softshell turtle. HTML XML PDF PubDate: Mon, 26 Feb 2024 16:51:02 +020
- A detailed assessment of the land cover development in a territory with
dispersed settlement area (case study Hriňová – Snohy, Slovakia) Abstract: Nature Conservation 55: 41-65 DOI : 10.3897/natureconservation.55.111246 Authors : Katarína Švoňavová, Vladimír Falťan, Veronika Piscová, Vladimír Šagát, František Petrovič : This study focuses on the development of the landscape during a period of significant social changes in Central Europe from the middle of the 20th century, and evaluates the impact of the selected natural factors on landscape dynamics in the Snohy dispersed settlement area (cadaster of Hriňová, Slovakia). During the periods of feudalism and the democratic Czechoslovak Republic after 1918, private ownership of land prevailed on the territory of Slovakia. After 1948, in the period of the socialist establishment, the municipality was one of the few localities without collectivisation. We focused on the state and changes to the landscape structure based on remote sensing data analysis (1949, 2003, and 2018), as well as field research and archive photographs inspection. The study area is a part of the proposed Special Area of Conservation SKUEV4026 Meadows of Poľana and is situated near the border between the transition and buffer zones of the Poľana Biosphere Reserve. The state of land cover and its changes have been evaluated using a CORINE Land Cover modification at the 5th level. Results showed that the influence of the slope on agricultural extensification, deforestation, and afforestation, was the most pronounced. Since 1949, more than half of the land cover has changed across the study area. The most extensive changes were recorded in the spatial structure and composition of forest communities. HTML XML PDF PubDate: Wed, 14 Feb 2024 12:08:07 +020
- Environmental characteristics, including soil and vegetation composition,
in relation to the occurrence patterns of an endangered lizard, Eremias argus, in a fluvial island, South Korea Abstract: Nature Conservation 55: 21-39 DOI : 10.3897/natureconservation.55.113483 Authors : Eunhee Cho, Deokjoo Son : Eremias argus, known as the Mongolian racerunner, is a reptile that has been designated as a level II endangered species in South Korea since 2005 despite being listed as “Least Concern” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. Particular vegetation and soil characteristics are critical components of the habitat of E. argus, which is an ectotherm. However, research on the environmental characteristics of E. argus living on a fluvial island is lacking. This study sought to characterize the soil environmental factors and vegetation composition of E. argus habitats on Doriseom Island, South Korea by dividing the island into an area in which E. argus occurred frequently (F zone) and an area in which E. argus occurred rarely (R zone). Both soil hardness and cobble cover were significantly higher in the R zone (soil hardness: 1.6 ± 0.2 kg‧cm-2, mean ± standard error; cobble cover: 40 ± 5%) than in the F zone (soil hardness: 0.9 ± 0.1 kg‧cm-2; cobble cover: 18 ± 3%). Plant litter cover did not differ significantly based on E. argus occurrence. The vegetation composition within F and R zones appeared distinct, though Coreopsis lanceolata dominated both zones. A sand dune sedge, Carex pumila, thrived in F zone sites, where soil hardness was low, while the endemic Aster danyangensis, which prefers cobble areas, was found largely in the R zone. In conclusion, E. argus was most commonly found in areas with low soil hardness dominated by dune vegetation. Understanding endangered species’ habitat requirements can provide important clues for establishing conservation plans and restoration measures. HTML XML PDF PubDate: Tue, 30 Jan 2024 16:40:45 +020
- Effects of management complexity on the composition, plant functional
dominance relationships and physiognomy of high nature value grasslands Abstract: Nature Conservation 55: 1-19 DOI : 10.3897/natureconservation.55.114385 Authors : Róbert Kun, Dániel Babai, András István Csathó, Arnold Erdélyi, Judit Hartdégen, Attila Lengyel, Nikoletta Kálmán, András Mártonffy, Alida Anna Hábenczyus, Zsófia Szegleti, Ákos Vig, András Máté, Ákos Malatinszky, Tímea Tóth, Csaba Vadász : A significant proportion of Europe’s species-rich grasslands are semi-natural habitats. They have a long history of traditional management. Several studies have been carried out to conserve them, resulting in the establishment of subsidised conservation management schemes. On the other hand, many of these conservation management schemes have failed to provide locally adaptive solutions to maintain the diversity and functional status of species-rich grasslands. In addition, few studies have compared the conservation effectiveness of different levels of management complexity. The levels of management complexity in our study are based on how different management types (e.g. grazing and mowing etc.) and how different herbage removal intensities (e.g. lower and higher grazing intensities) are combined within and between years. To investigate this, we compared the overall effects of management complexity, herbage removal intensity and management type on plant diversity, plant functional type dominance relationships and plant physiognomy. Our field sampling was carried out in the sandy meso-xeric grasslands of the Turján Region of the Great Hungarian Plain (Central Hungary). We sampled nine 2 m × 2 m plots per grassland site (n = 12), recorded all the rooted plant species and estimated their percentage cover in each plot. High level of management complexity had significant positive effects on plant diversity, grazing had positive effects on plant diversity and phanerophyte density, while the studied levels of herbage removal intensity had no effect on diversity, plant functional types or plant physiognomy. In parallel, mowing and/or low levels of management complexity had some negative effects on conservation value (e.g. lower Shannon and Simpson diversity). In this landscape, the dominance of grazing and the more complex management is more optimal than relatively homogeneous mechanical mowing. The choice of management type and intensity is an important tool in the conservation management system of this landscape, but so too is its appropriate application in space and time. Through a detailed analysis of the effects of management complexity levels compared to management types and herbage removal intensity levels, we provide a new opportunity to make grassland management practices more effective for conserving biodiversity in this region, but it would be important to investigate these in different landscapes and conditions. HTML XML PDF PubDate: Tue, 9 Jan 2024 09:42:05 +0200
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