Ecological Significance Research Articles

The biotechnological potential of the Chloroflexota phylum.

In the next decades, the increasing material and energetic demand to support population growth and higher standards of living will amplify the current pressures on ecosystems and will call for greater investments in infrastructures and modern technologies. A valid approach to overcome such future challenges is the employment of sustainable bio-based technologies that explore the metabolic richness of microorganisms. Collectively, the metabolic capabilities of Chloroflexota, spanning aerobic and anaerobic conditions, thermophilic adaptability, anoxygenic photosynthesis, and utilization of toxic compounds as electron acceptors, underscore the phylum's resilience and ecological significance. These diverse metabolic strategies, driven by the interplay between temperature, oxygen availability, and energy metabolism, exemplify the complex adaptations that enabled Chloroflexota to colonize a wide range of ecological niches. In demonstrating the metabolic richness of the Chloroflexota phylum, specific members exemplify the diverse capabilities of these microorganisms: Chloroflexus aurantiacus showcases adaptability through its thermophilic and phototrophic growth, whereas members of the Anaerolineae class are known for their role in the degradation of complex organic compounds, contributing significantly to the carbon cycle in anaerobic environments, highlighting the phylum's potential for biotechnological exploitation in varying environmental conditions. In this context, the metabolic diversity of Chloroflexota must be considered a promising asset for a large range of applications. Currently, this bacterial phylum is organized into eight classes possessing different metabolic strategies to survive and thrive in a wide variety of extreme environments. This review correlates the ecological role of Chloroflexota in such environments with the potential application of their metabolisms in biotechnological approaches.

Exploring Indigenous Entomopathogenic Fungi: Ecological Significance and Potential Applications in Rangareddy District, Telangana, India

Exploring Indigenous Entomopathogenic Fungi: Ecological Significance and Potential Applications in Rangareddy District, Telangana, India

Macroalgal virosphere assists with host-microbiome equilibrium regulation and affects prokaryotes in surrounding marine environments.

The microbiomes in macroalgal holobionts play vital roles in regulating macroalgal growth and ocean carbon cycling. However, the virospheres in macroalgal holobionts remain largely underexplored, representing a critical knowledge gap. Here we unveil that the holobiont of kelp (Saccharina japonica) harbors highly specific and unique epiphytic/endophytic viral species, with novelty (99.7% unknown) surpassing even extreme marine habitats (e.g., deep-sea and hadal zones), indicating that macroalgal virospheres, despite being closest to us, are among the least understood. These viruses potentially maintain microbiome equilibrium critical for kelp health via lytic-lysogenic infections and the expression of folate biosynthesis genes. In-situ kelp mesocosm cultivation and metagenomic mining revealed that kelp holobiont profoundly reshaped surrounding seawater and sediment virus-prokaryote pairings through changing surrounding environmental conditions and virus-host migrations. Some kelp epiphytic viruses could even infect sediment autochthonous bacteria after deposition. Moreover, the presence of ample viral auxiliary metabolic genes for kelp polysaccharide (e.g., laminarin) degradation underscores the underappreciated viral metabolic influence on macroalgal carbon cycling. This study provides key insights into understanding the previously overlooked ecological significance of viruses within macroalgal holobionts and the macroalgae-prokaryotes-virus tripartite relationship.

Plasmid-Borne Biosynthetic Gene Clusters within a Permanently Stratified Marine Water Column

Plasmids are mobile genetic elements known to carry secondary metabolic genes that affect the fitness and survival of microbes in the environment. Well-studied cases of plasmid-encoded secondary metabolic genes in marine habitats include toxin/antitoxin and antibiotic biosynthesis/resistance genes. Here, we examine metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) from the permanently-stratified water column of the Cariaco Basin for integrated plasmids that encode biosynthetic gene clusters of secondary metabolites (smBGCs). We identify 16 plasmid-borne smBGCs in MAGs associated primarily with Planctomycetota and Pseudomonadota that encode terpene-synthesizing genes, and genes for production of ribosomal and non-ribosomal peptides. These identified genes encode for secondary metabolites that are mainly antimicrobial agents, and hence, their uptake via plasmids may increase the competitive advantage of those host taxa that acquire them. The ecological and evolutionary significance of smBGCs carried by prokaryotes in oxygen-depleted water columns is yet to be fully elucidated.

ASSESSING THE WILLINGNESS TO PAY FOR CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT OF WETLANDS AT JAGDISPUR RESERVOIR IN KAPILVASTU DISTRICT OF NEPAL

Wetlands are one of the world's most productive ecosystems. They have significant ecological, economic, cultural, and recreational significance. However, wetlands are being misused and degraded; therefore, wise and sustainable use of wetlands, conservation and management of wetlands resources are critical at the local level. Community-based conservation is a method of managing wetlands near settlements sustainably. The objective of this study was to determine local people's willingness to pay (WTP) for community-based conservation and management activities, as well as the factors which influence it, at the Jagdispur Reservoir in Nepal's Kapilvastu district. A total of 62 households were surveyed. Household surveys and key informant interviews were conducted. Contingent valuation was used to elicit WTP, while regression analysis identified significant determinants. Thirteen provisioning, regulating, cultural and supporting services were identified, including irrigation, fisheries, tourism and biodiversity. Of 62 households, 67% expressed WTP averaging NRs 3,351 (US $ 25.38) annually. WTP was higher for proximal households, reflecting greater dependence. Cash payments dominated, but labor contributions were also substantial. Age, income, participation in conservation, and distance from wetlands positively and significantly influenced WTP. Whereas education, gender, ethnicity and number of family members did not. The findings indicate a high value placed on sustaining wetland services, justifying investment in conservation and wise use. Follow-up research on governance, benefit sharing and sustainable financing is recommended to translate WTP into effective action. Overall, the results provide important baseline data to guide policies and collective action for wetland stewardship.

Editorial: Plant natural resins: from formation mechanism to ecological significance

Editorial: Plant natural resins: from formation mechanism to ecological significance

Exploring children’s perception of environmental change in the Mexican mediterranean

Exploring children’s perception of environmental change in the Mexican mediterranean

Exploring the Metatranscriptome of Bacterial Communities of Two Moss Species Thriving in Different Environments—Terrestrial and Aquatic

Mosses host diverse bacterial communities essential for their fitness, nutrient acquisition, stress tolerance, and pathogen defense. Understanding the microbiome’s taxonomic composition is the first step, but unraveling their functional capabilities is crucial for grasping their ecological significance. Metagenomics characterizes microbial communities by composition, while metatranscriptomics explores gene expression, providing insights into microbiome functionality beyond the structure. Here, we present for the first time a metatranscriptomic study of two moss species, Hypnum cupressiforme (Hedw.) and Platyhypnidium riparioides (Hedw.) Dixon., renowned as key biomonitors of atmospheric and water pollution. Our investigation extends beyond taxonomic profiling and offers a profound exploration of moss bacterial communities. Pseudomonadota and Actinobacteria are the dominant bacterial phyla in both moss species, but their proportions differ. In H. cupressiforme, Actinobacteria make up 62.45% and Pseudomonadota 32.48%, while in P. riparioides, Actinobacteria account for only 25.67% and Pseudomonadota 69.08%. This phylum-level contrast is reflected in genus-level differences. Our study also shows the expression of most genes related to nitrogen cycling across both microbiomes. Additionally, functional annotation highlights disparities in pathway prevalence, including carbon dioxide fixation, photosynthesis, and fatty acid biosynthesis, among others. These findings hint at potential metabolic distinctions between microbial communities associated with different moss species, influenced by their specific genotypes and habitats. The integration of metatranscriptomic data holds promise for enhancing our understanding of bryophyte–microbe partnerships, opening avenues for novel applications in conservation, bioremediation, and sustainable agriculture.

Unveiling the ecological resilience and industrial potential of Skeletonema marinoi through mixotrophic cultivation in Nordic winter condition.

Mixotrophy, the concurrent use of inorganic and organic carbon in the presence of light for microalgal growth, holds ecological and industrial significance. However, it is poorly explored in diatoms, especially in ecologically relevant species like Skeletonema marinoi. This study strategically employed mixotrophic metabolism to optimize the growth of a strain of Skeletonema marinoi (Sm142), which was found potentially important for biomass production on the west coast of Sweden in winter conditions. The aim of this study was to discern the most effective organic carbon sources by closely monitoring microalgal growth through the assessment of optical density, chlorophyll a fluorescence, and biomass concentration. The impact of various carbon sources on the physiology of Sm142 was investigated using photosynthetic and respiratory parameters. The findings revealed that glycerol exhibited the highest potential for enhancing the biomass concentration of Sm142 in a multi-cultivator under the specified experimental conditions, thanks to the increase in respiration activity. Furthermore, the stimulatory effect of glycerol was confirmed at a larger scale using environmental photobioreactors simulating the winter conditions on the west coast of Sweden; it was found comparable to the stimulation by CO2-enriched air versus normal air. These results were the first evidence of the ability of Skeletonema marinoi to perform mixotrophic metabolism during the winter and could explain the ecological success of this diatom on the Swedish west coast. These findings also highlight the importance of both organic and inorganic carbon sources for enhancing biomass productivity in harsh winter conditions.

Ecological values of Ourkiss wetland (Oum El Bouaghi province - Algeria), an overview of waterbirds diversity and richness

The monitoring of waterbirds’ abundance and richness serves as the primary method for scientists to characterize the ecological values and diversity profile of wetlands. This survey was specifically conducted in Ourkiss wetland, situated in the Oum El Bouaghi province of East Algeria, spanning from January to May 2013. The study aimed to elucidate the ecological significance of Ourkiss wetland by analyzing various parameters, including the abundance, richness, diversity profile, and conservation status of its waterbird population. A total of 23 species, representing 11 families, were documented during the survey period, with Anatidae and Rallidae emerging as the most prevalent taxa. Notably, Ourkiss wetland exhibited two distinct populations: the “wintering population” and the “breeding population,” with significant waterbird activity observed during migration between the northern and southern regions. The presence of the endangered species Oxyura leucocephala further underscores the ecological importance of this wetland. Noteworthy peaks in waterbird diversity were particularly observed in April, as indicated by richness and Shannon indices. To safeguard the ecological integrity of Ourkiss wetland, it is strongly recommended to intensify conservation efforts and implement effective management plans.

Unlocking the Secrets of Soil: Exploring the Microbiome and Its Applications—Part 2

AbstractThe term “microbiome” refers to a collective assembly of microorganisms within a specific environment, including fungi, bacteria, and viruses, influencing dynamic functions within the system. Microbes play a pivotal role in the production of various food items, wines, and medicinal compounds. Their significance in agriculture and ecology is monumental, which will be explored in this two‐part article. In this second part part, we’ll discuss the microbiome’s role in plant adaptation and driving the biogeochemical processes in soil across scales, mathematical and statistical modeling of plant–soil–microbe interactions, and areas of future research.

Combining acoustic telemetry with archival tagging to investigate the spatial dynamic of the understudied pollack, Pollachius pollachius.

Combining fish tracking methods is a promising way of leveraging the strengths of each approach while mitigating their individual weaknesses. Acoustic telemetry provides presence information as the fish move within receiver range, eliminating the need for tag recovery. Archival tags, on the other hand, record environmental variables on tag retrieval, enabling continuous path reconstruction of a fish beyond coastal regions. This study capitalizes on the combination of both methods for geolocating pollack, Pollachius pollachius, an understudied species of the northeast Atlantic, where declining stocks are raising concern. Essential knowledge of population structure and connectivity between essential habitats is critically lacking and could help inform stock assessment and management. The aims of the study were (1) to evaluate the feasibility of double-tagging pollack, known for being challenging to tag, and (2) to track seasonal movements across the Channel to gain first insights into pollack spatial ecology. In 2022, an extensive network of acoustic receivers was been deployed in the Channel along the French, English, and Belgian coasts as part of the Fish Intel project. We tagged 83 pollack with acoustic transmitters, among which 48 were double-tagged with data storage tags. Post-tagging survival assessment, conducted on a subset of 35 individuals, revealed a successful procedure with a 97% short-term survival rate. By October 2023, the acoustic telemetry network detected 30 out of 83 pollack at least once, with no large-scale movements observed across the Channel. Presence in the network fluctuates seasonally, peaking in summer, particularly among immature fish. Integrating acoustic detections with temperature and depth time series in a geolocation model enabled trajectory reconstruction of 10 recaptured pollack, seven of which were detected by the network. This combined tracking approach revealed coastal movements along the coast of Brittany in France, highlighting the ecological significance of the Iroise Sea for pollack throughout the year, particularly in summer. The geolocation model also suggested movements towards the entrance of the western Channel. This study highlights the complementarity of acoustic telemetry and archival tagging in reconstructing fish movements in their natural environment. As data accumulate, these innovative tracking methods promise to continually unveil new insights into the spatial ecology of the understudied pollack, which is essential for the species' management.

Quorum sensing bacteria improve microbial networks stability and complexity in wastewater treatment plants

Quorum-sensing bacteria (QSB) are crucial factors for microbial communication, yet their ecological role in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) remains unclear. Here, we developed a method to identify QSB by comparing 16S rRNA gene sequences. QSB in 388 activated sludge samples collected from 130 WWTPs across China primarily were identified as rare taxa and conditionally rare taxa. A co-occurrence network shared by all sludge communities revealed that QSB exhibited higher average clustering coefficient (0.46) than non-QSB (0.15). Individual sludge networks demonstrated that quorum sensing microbiomes were positively correlated with network robustness and network complexity, including average clustering coefficient and link density. We confirmed that QSB keystones and QSB nodes have a positive impact on network complexity by influencing network modularity through a structural equation model. Meanwhile, QSB communities directly contributed to maintaining network robustness (r = 0.29, P < 0.05). Hence, QSB play an important role in promoting network complexity and stability. Furthermore, QSB communities were positively associated with the functional composition of activated sludge communities (r = 0.33, P < 0.01), especially the denitrification capacity (r = 0.45, P < 0.001). Overall, we elucidated the ecological significance of QSB and provided support for QS-based regulation of activated sludge microbial communities.

Mapping artificial drains in peatlands—A national‐scale assessment of Irish raised bogs using sub‐meter aerial imagery and deep learning methods

AbstractPeatlands, constituting over half of terrestrial wetland ecosystems across the globe, hold critical ecological significance and are large stores of carbon (C). Irish oceanic raised bogs are a rare peatland ecosystem offering numerous ecosystem services, including C storage, biodiversity support and water regulation. However, they have been degraded over the centuries due to artificial drainage, followed by peat extraction, afforestation and agriculture. This has an overall negative impact on the functioning of peatlands, shifting them from a moderate C sink to a large C source. Recognizing the importance of these ecosystems, efforts are underway for conservation (rewetting and rehabilitation), while accurately accounting for C stock and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. However, the implementation of these efforts requires accurate identification and mapping of artificial drainage ditches. This study utilized very high‐resolution (25 cm) aerial imagery, and a deep learning (U‐Net) approach to map the visible artificial drainage (unobstructed by vegetation or infill) in raised bogs at a national scale. The results show that artificial drainage is widespread, with ~20 000 km of drains mapped. The overall accuracy of the model was 80% on an independent testing dataset. The data were also used to derive the Fracditch which was 0.03 (fraction of artificial drainage on industrial peat extraction sites). This is lower than IPCC Tier 1 Fracditch and can aid in IPCC Tier 2 reporting for Ireland. This is the first study to map drains with diverse sizes and patterns on Irish‐raised bogs using optical aerial imagery and deep learning methods. The map will serve as an important baseline dataset for evaluating the artificial drainage ditch conditions. It will prove useful for sustainable management, conservation and refined estimations of GHG emissions. The model's capacity for generalization implies its potential in mapping artificial drains in peatlands at a regional and global scale, thereby enhancing the comprehension of the global effects of artificial drainage ditches on peatlands.

Bradyrhizobium ontarionense sp. nov., a novel bacterial symbiont isolated from Aeschynomene indica (Indian jointvetch), harbours photosynthesis, nitrogen fixation and nitrous oxide (N2O) reductase genes

A novel bacterial symbiont, strain A19T, was previously isolated from a root-nodule of Aeschynomene indica and assigned to a new lineage in the photosynthetic clade of the genus Bradyrhizobium. Here data are presented for the detailed genomic and taxonomic analyses of novel strain A19T. Emphasis is placed on the analysis of genes of practical or ecological significance (photosynthesis, nitrous oxide reductase and nitrogen fixation genes). Phylogenomic analysis of whole genome sequences as well as 50 single-copy core gene sequences placed A19T in a highly supported lineage distinct from described Bradyrhizobium species with B. oligotrophicum as the closest relative. The digital DNA-DNA hybridization and average nucleotide identity values for A19T in pair-wise comparisons with close relatives were far lower than the respective threshold values of 70% and ~ 96% for definition of species boundaries. The complete genome of A19T consists of a single 8.44 Mbp chromosome and contains a photosynthesis gene cluster, nitrogen-fixation genes and genes encoding a complete denitrifying enzyme system including nitrous oxide reductase implicated in the reduction of N2O, a potent greenhouse gas, to inert dinitrogen. Nodulation and type III secretion system genes, needed for nodulation by most rhizobia, were not detected. Data for multiple phenotypic tests complemented the sequence-based analyses. Strain A19T elicits nitrogen-fixing nodules on stems and roots of A. indica plants but not on soybeans or Macroptilium atropurpureum. Based on the data presented, a new species named Bradyrhizobium ontarionense sp. nov. is proposed with strain A19T (= LMG 32638T = HAMBI 3761T) as the type strain.

Macromorphological and foliar epidermal anatomical characteristics of Lilium rosthornii (Liliaceae): Implications for morphological adaptations and taxonomic significance.

This research is to examine the macromorphological and foliar epidermal anatomical features of Lilium rosthornii Diels and its ability to plastically adapt to environmental forces, which is crucial for its taxonomic classification. L. rosthornii has macromorphological characteristics such as linear to lanceolate leaves of up to 20 cm in length and 2-3 cm in breadth, grouped in a whorled pattern. The blooms are voluminous and conspicuous, measuring up to 15 cm in diameter and are supported by a towering stalk that grows up to 1 m in height. The foliar epidermal structure of L. rosthornii exhibits a stomatal length of 82.02 ± 5.77 μm and a width of 29.19 ± 1.39 μm. These measurements suggest that the plant's stomata are influenced by its ploidy levels and may serve as adaptive mechanisms to enhance water consumption efficiency. The leaf structure shows a significant thickness of 398.74 ± 97.96 μm, which might potentially contribute to its ability to withstand environmental challenges. Additionally, the presence of defensive adaptations in the top and lower epidermal layers further supports this observation. The palisade tissue measurement (58.87 ± 9.56 m) and spongy tissue measurement (32.42 ± 12.72 μm) indicate a potential for photosynthetic optimization. Furthermore, there is a possible correlation between the vascular bundle width (28.15 ± 6.52 °m) and the efficiency of nutrition delivery. The results of this study emphasize the notable diversity in the foliar structures of L. rosthornii, offering valuable understanding of its morphological adaptations that have ecological and taxonomic significance. The findings provide a deeper comprehension of the potential impact of anatomical characteristics on plant function and categorization, hence providing significant insights to the domain of plant morphology and systematics. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Examines Lilium rosthornii's anatomical features and environmental adaptability for taxonomic relevance. Leaf thickness and epidermal defenses indicate resilience to environmental stress. Highlights the diversity in L. rosthornii's foliar structures, with implications for ecological and taxonomic significance Offers insights into the impact of anatomical characteristics on plant function and classification.

The effect of environmental variation on the relationship between survival and risk-taking behaviour in a migratory songbird.

Temporal changes in environmental conditions may play a major role in the year-to-year variation in fitness consequences of behaviours. Identifying environmental drivers of such variation is crucial to understand the evolutionary trajectories of behaviours in natural contexts. However, our understanding of how environmental variation influences behaviours in the wild remains limited. Using data collected over 14 breeding seasons from a collared flycatcher (Ficedula albicollis) population, we examined the effect of environmental variation on the relationship between survival and risk-taking behaviour, a highly variable behavioural trait with great evolutionary and ecological significance. Specifically, using annual recapture probability as a proxy of survival, we evaluated the specific effect of predation pressure, food availability and mean temperature on the relationship between annual recapture probability and risk-taking behaviour (measured as flight initiation distance, FID). We found a negative trend, as the relationship between annual recapture probability and FID decreased over the study years, and changed from positive to negative. Specifically, in the early years of the study, risk-avoiding individuals exhibited a higher annual recapture probability, whereas in the later years, risk-avoiders had a lower annual recapture probability. However, we did not find evidence that any of the considered environmental factors mediated the variation in the relationship between survival and risk-taking behaviour.

Anthropogenic pressure limits the recovery of a postwar leopard population in central Mozambique

AbstractThe population size and conservation status of wildlife in post‐conflict areas is often uncertain. In Mozambique, decades of armed conflict resulted in large‐scale wildlife population depletion with limited conservation and research opportunities. The African leopard (Panthera pardus) is a large carnivore with great ecological and economic significance, yet their population status is largely unknown within Mozambique. Using camera trapping in conjunction with robust spatially explicit capture‐recapture modeling, we estimated leopard density in 2021 for Coutada 11, a wildlife management area in the postwar Zambezi Delta landscape of central Mozambique. Leopard density was relatively low (1.57 ± 0.37 SE [latent‐mixture‐model] and 1.84 ± 0.41 [sex‐mixture‐model] leopards/100 km2), occurring in the bottom fourth of 161 range‐wide leopard densities, and similar to those from semiarid and human‐dominated landscapes. Prey‐based carrying capacity estimates suggested that leopard density should be at least twice as large. Despite a recent and substantial reduction in poaching activity, evidence of snared leopards indicates that sustained bushmeat poaching, combined with sustainable, but additional legal offtake is suppressing leopard population recovery. This study provides important baseline insight into leopard population density in Mozambique and joins mounting evidence indicating that anthropogenic pressures limit large carnivore populations which is of major national and global concern. We suggest long‐term monitoring of this leopard population to determine trends over time and implement effective conservation interventions in response to population changes. This population clearly has the capacity to recover if hunting quotas are reduced to account for illegal offtake and, more importantly, if anti‐poaching efforts are redoubled to reduce unsustainable anthropogenic mortality of leopards.

Exploring the Ecological Significance of Endemic Wildlife: A Critical Analysis of Their Role in Ecosystem Dynamics

Exploring the Ecological Significance of Endemic Wildlife: A Critical Analysis of Their Role in Ecosystem Dynamics

Ecological Implications of Non-Standardized Crude Oil Refining Operation on Blue Carbon Resources in the Niger Delta

This study, through a review of existing literature, investigates the implications of non-standardized refineries on the mangrove ecosystem in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria. The Niger Delta region is home to one of the largest blue carbon sinks and mangrove ecosystems in the world, providing important habitat for a diverse range of species and playing a crucial role in carbon sequestration. However, the presence of non-standardized refineries in the area has raised concerns about the potential environmental impacts on the delicate ecosystem. These refineries often operate without regulations or oversight, leading to pollution of waterways, destruction of habitat for various species, and disruption of the natural food chain. This study examines the specific ways in which these non-standardized refineries are affecting the mangrove ecosystem and explores potential solutions to mitigate their negative effects. Findings from this study show that non-standardized refineries in the region are significant sources of pollution, leading to mangrove destruction. The study revealed the environmental issues, risks, and ecological significance of mangroves in the Niger Delta. The study emphasized the urgent need for better regulation and enforcement to protect these important mangrove habitats from further destruction. Finally, the study concluded that protecting the mangroves of the Niger Delta is essential for the overall health of the region.