Endangered Research Articles

Genomic Insights Into Red Squirrels in Scotland Reveal Loss of Heterozygosity Associated With Extreme Founder Effects.

Remnant populations of endangered species often have complex demographic histories associated with human impact. This can present challenges for conservation as populations modified by human activity may require bespoke management. The Eurasian red squirrel, Sciurus vulgaris (L., 1758), is endangered in the UK. Scotland represents a key stronghold, but Scottish populations have been subjected to intense anthropogenic influence, including widespread extirpations, reintroductions and competition from an invasive species. This study examined the genetic legacy of these events through low coverage whole-genome resequencing of 106 red squirrels. Previously undetected patterns of population structure and gene flow were uncovered. One offshore island, four mainland Scottish populations, and a key east-coast migration corridor were observed. An abrupt historical population bottleneck, related to extreme founder effects, has led to a severe and prolonged depression in genome-wide heterozygosity, which is amongst the lowest reported for any species. Current designated red squirrel conservation stronghold locations do not encompass all existing diversity. These findings highlight the genetic legacies of past anthropogenic influence on long-term diversity in endangered taxa. Continuing management interventions and regular genetic monitoring are recommended to safeguard and improve future diversity.

Captivity Reduces Diversity and Shifts Composition of the Great Bustard (Otis tarda dybowskii) Microbiome.

Captivity offers protection for endangered species, but for bustards, captive individuals face a higher risk of disease and exhibit lower reintroduction success rates. Changes in the diversity of host bacterial and fungal microbiota may be a significant factor influencing reintroduction success. The great bustard (Otis tarda) is a globally recognized endangered bird species. Previous research on the gut microbiota of the great bustard has been limited, hindering effective conservation efforts. Therefore, this study utilized high-throughput sequencing of the 16S rRNA and Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) genes to compare the gut bacterial and fungal microbiota of great bustards in different environments. The results revealed a significant decline in alpha diversity and notable changes in microbial community structure in captive environments. Changes in diet and habitat are likely major factors contributing to these shifts. Consequently, managing rescued wild animals by increasing dietary diversity and exposure to natural environmental reservoirs may enhance the success rate of reintroduction efforts.

Perfluorooctane sulfonate causes DNA damage and apoptosis via oxidative stress in umbilical cord fibroblast cells of Yangtze finless porpoise.

Yangtze finless porpoise (YFP) is a critically endangered species in China. It has been found that YFP is constantly exposed to perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) in aquatic environments, leading to significant bioaccumulation. However, the impacts of PFOS on YFP health and survival are still unknown. To circumvent the limitations in YFP research, this study used YFP umbilical cord fibroblast cell line and exposed the cells to PFOS for 48h, with objectives to uncover the cytotoxicity and mechanisms of PFOS in YFP. A high-throughput proteomics assay showed that PFOS exposure at 50μM for 48h perturbed the proteome structure in YFP umbilical cord fibroblast cells. Functional annotation found the high relevance of oxidative stress, mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation, and DNA damage to PFOS cytotoxic mechanisms. Concordantly, PFOS exposure significantly increased the deposition of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in YFP cells. The potential of mitochondria to produce ATP was also compromised by PFOS, which was accompanied by the higher permeability of mitochondrial membrane. In addition, exposure of YFP umbilical cord fibroblast cells to 50μM PFOS damaged the DNA assembly as evidenced by the increase in the percentage of DNA fragmentation. Gene transcription and enzymatic activity of caspases were up-regulated by PFOS, subsequently favoring the occurrence of early and late apoptosis. It was notable that ROS scavenger could successfully mitigate the cytotoxicity of PFOS on oxidative stress and apoptosis, thus pinpointing ROS as the molecular initiating event in apoptosis endpoints. To our knowledge, this is the first study that investigates the detrimental effects of PFOS using YFP umbilical cord fibroblast cells. The data will support an accurate assessment of ecological risks imposed by environmental pollutants on the health and sustainability of YFP, which is especially important under the context of sharp decline in YFP population and national initiative in YFP conservation.

A longitudinal study on the detection of anti-Leishmania antibodies in a captive European mink (Mustela lutreola) population and their correlation with serum protein electrophoresis.

Leishmaniosis, caused by Leishmania infantum and transmitted by sand flies, is a significant zoonotic disease. Dogs are primary reservoirs, but other domestic animals, such as cats and ferrets, and wild species, including Eurasian otters and European mink, can be hosts. This study focused on European mink, a critically endangered species, investigating the seroprevalence of L.infantum antibodies and its correlation with serum protein profiles over 2021-2024. A total of 68 captive minks in Spain were monitored, yielding 105 serum samples. ELISA tests identified 44 seropositive samples (41.9%), with seroprevalence varying annually. While no significant association was found between seropositivity and age, gender, or body condition, seropositivity correlated significantly with the year of collection. Some animals exhibited fluctuating antibody levels across sampling periods. Serum protein electrophoresis analyzed 96 samples, revealing that L.infantum seropositivity significantly affected total protein concentrations, β-globulins, γ-globulins, and albumin:globulin ratio. Variations were also observed in specific protein fractions among both seropositive and seronegative minks. These findings highlight European mink's potential epidemiological role in L.infantum transmission. Monitoring antibody levels and protein profiles in captive populations can inform conservation strategies and disease management efforts.

Synergistic approaches in forest fire risk mapping using fuzzy AHP and machine learning models in the Chure Tarai Madhesh Landscape (CTML) of Nepal

Forest fires are recurrent natural hazards threatening ecosystems, biodiversity, and nearby communities. The Chure Tarai Madhesh Landscape (CTML) is a biodiversity hotspot harboring endangered species of flora and fauna. The increasing severity of forest fires in this region has raised immediate concerns, yet research remains limited. This study explores synergistic approaches for forest fire risk mapping using a knowledge-based model (Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process (FAHP)) and data-driven models (Random Forest (RF) and Boosted Regression Tree (BRT)). This study utilized eleven conditioning factors and assessed model accuracy using the ROC curve and multiclass error matrix. The results demonstrate low multicollinearity among factors and a robust FAHP consistency ratio of 0.03. The RF model outperformed with an AUC of 0.95 and an overall accuracy of 0.91. The study revealed an increasing seasonal trend in fire incidents, with the western region showing heightened vulnerability. The RF, BRT, and FAHP models classified landscape forest areas as highly susceptible to fires; 47.85%, 33.25%, and 50%, respectively, with fourteen out of thirty-six districts of CTML were at heightened risk of wildfires. This holistic approach to fire risk assessment aids in creating more impactful fire risk management plans and provides a foundation for automated fire risk assessment.

NORTHERN BALD IBIS POPULATION DYNAMICS-TÜRKIYE (2012-2022)

Abstract This research was carried out to determine the reproduction, death and loss numbers of northern bald ibises living in Birecik (Şanlıurfa). The research was continued for 11 years. Northern bald ibises are an endangered species. Northern bald ibises breed freely in nature in Birecik. They are placed in cages at the end of June. They live in a cage for eight months. The reproductive ability of the population is high (2012-2022: 782 offspring). But the total number of the population is increasing very slowly. The number of offspring deaths is high (2012-2022: 267 dead offsprings). Mortality occurs in the first two weeks of the offsprings. Adult deaths and losses occur for different reasons (2012-2022: 246 adult individuals). Measures to be taken can prevent offspring deaths. There is a need for regulation in feeding and cage conditions. A second northern bald ibis breeding station should be established. In order to keep the population alive, it should be aimed to increase the number of northern bald ibises. Allowing northern bald ibises to migrate causes individuals to perish. Scientific methods need to be applied to accustom people to migration. Expert personnel (biologist or veterinarian) should be assigned to the station throughout the year.

Genetic Variation for Wild Populations of the Rare and Endangered Plant Glyptostrobus pensilis Based on Double-Digest Restriction Site-Associated DNA Sequencing.

Glyptostrobus pensilis is an endangered tree species, and detecting its genetic diversity can reveal the mechanisms of endangerment, providing references for the conservation of genetic resources. Samples of 137 trees across seven populations within Fujian Province were collected and sequenced using double-digest restriction site-associated DNA (ddRAD-seq). A total of 3,687,189 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were identified, and 15,158 high-quality SNPs were obtained after filtering. The genetic diversity in the populations was found to be low (Ho = 0.08630, He = 0.03475, π = 0.07239), with a high genetic differentiation coefficient (Fst). When K = 4, the coefficient of variation (CV) error value was minimized, suggesting that the 137 individuals could be divided into four groups, with frequent gene flow between them. Principal component analysis (PCA) divided the seven populations into two major categories based on their north-south geographic location. The clustering was consistent with those obtained from the PCA. The main reasons for the endangerment of G. pensilis are likely to be poor natural regeneration, human disturbances, and climatic factors. It is recommended that methods such as in situ conservation, ex situ conservation, and the establishment of germplasm banks be implemented to maintain the genetic diversity of G. pensilis populations.

Real-time animal monitoring system using pulse, temperature, and GPS sensor

GPS tracking systems utilize the Global Positioning System (GPS) to monitor device movements and determine precise locations. In recent years, GPS technology has been extensively used in navigation applications, providing directions and creating digital maps. This technology has proven indispensable to various professionals, including pilots, surveyors, farmers, boat captains, military personnel, and scientists. Additionally, GPS systems are employed to track animals, offering insights into their behaviors, and locations, and helping to protect endangered species. Various tracking technologies, such as scale clapping, radar, acoustic telemetry, radio tags, Xirgo XT-200, geolocators, GSM mobile phone telemetry, and pop-up satellite archival tags, have been used. This paper focuses on a GPS-based tracking system that collects data through various sensors and processes it using an AVR microcontroller. We measure environmental parameters such as temperature and humidity (using the DTH11 sensor) and monitor pulse rates alongside GPS-derived location data of tracked animals. By scientifically collecting and analyzing this data, we can better understand the condition, movement patterns, and behaviors of wild animals, domestic animals, and pets, enhancing efforts to care for and protect them.

Measuring devices on Wild Animals in Protection Project

Wild animal protection projects are initiatives that seek to protect and conserve wild animals and their habitats from various threats. These projects aim to ensure the survival of endangered species and promote biodiversity in natural ecosystems. The conservation of wild animals is critical because they play an essential role in maintaining the balance of nature and are integral to the functioning of ecosystems. Wild animals face numerous threats, including habitat destruction, climate change, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict. Many of these threats are driven by human activities, such as deforestation, overfishing, and the illegal wildlife trade. Wild animal protection projects, therefore, work towards addressing these issues and mitigating the negative impacts on wild animals and their habitats. Habitat restoration is a crucial aspect of wild animal protection projects. It involves efforts to restore degraded habitats and create new ones that are suitable for wild animals. These efforts can include reforestation, wetland restoration, and the creation of wildlife corridors to link fragmented habitats. Anti-poaching measures are also a crucial part of wild animal protection projects. Poaching is a significant threat to many wild animals, particularly those that are in high demand for their skins, tusks, or other body parts. Anti-poaching measures may include increased law enforcement, education and awareness campaigns, and the use of technology such as drones and camera traps to monitor and deter poachers. Wildlife research and monitoring are other essential components of wild animal protection projects. These efforts help to gather data on wild animals, their habitats, and the threats they face. This information is used to inform conservation strategies, assess the effectiveness of conservation efforts, and identify emerging threats to wild animals. Working with local communities is also a critical aspect of wild animal protection projects. Many of the threats to wild animals are driven by human activities, and therefore, involving local communities in conservation efforts can be very effective. This may involve promoting sustainable livelihoods that reduce human-wildlife conflict, educating communities about the importance of conservation, and working with them to develop alternative solutions that benefit both humans and wild animals. In conclusion, wild animal protection projects are essential initiatives that seek to safeguard wild animals and their habitats from various threats. By protecting wild animals, we help to maintain the balance of nature and ensure the survival of both humans and animals. The commercial wildlife trade is a significant threat to wildlife conservation in China but also its neighboring nations as well as a major source of species endangerment. conserving biodiversity There is a legal system. Wild animal criminal protection is a very important topic. The best place to practise criminal guardianship of wild animals is in developed nations. This article is mainly about biodiversity conservation Investigates wildlife crime protection and issues under the system and proposes reasonable improvement measures. Wildlife trade regulations are very lax, because government agencies exploit wildlife as a natural resource.”

ЛАПЧАТКА МУЛДАШЕВА POTENTILLA MULDASCHEVII KNIAZ. ET SEMERIKOV (ROSACEAE) – НОВЫЙ ЭНДЕМИЧНЫЙ ВИД ФЛОРЫ РЕСПУБЛИКИ БАШКОРТОСТАН

of the Southern Urals, candidate of biological sciences, senior researcher at the laboratory of Geobotany and Plant Resources of the Ufa Institute of biology of the Ufa Federal Research Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences, honored ecologist of the Russian Federation Albert Akramovich Muldashev in connection with his 70th anniversary, which was celebrated on August 25, 2024. The species Potentilla muldaschevii Kniaz. et Semerikov (family Rosaceae) is a narrow-local endemic of the Southern Urals (Uchalinsky Uplands). This species was described in 2006 from the territory of the Republic of Bashkortostan (RB) by famous scientists from Yekaterinburg M.S. Knyazev and V.L. Semerikov [2006]. The species is included in the Red Data Book of the RB 3rd edition [2021] with the regional protection status: 1) rarity status category: 1 – endangered species; 2) endangered status category: endangered species (EN – Endangered); 3) conservation status: II priority (it is necessary to implement one or more special measures to preserve the species in the Southern Urals). This species is very rare. In the RB, the species is known from 3 points in the Uchalinsky district: the Maly Irendyk ridge west of the village Tungatarovo (locus classicus), ridges to the north and south of the village of Polyakovka [Knyazev, Semerikov, 2006; materials of the LE Herbarium and the SVER Herbarium; Red Data Book…, 2021]. In the Chelyabinsk region, the species is found on the limestone Ustinovskie cliffs along the right bank of the Miass River (Miass district) [materials of the CSUH Herbarium; Knyazev, Semerikov, 2006; Red Data Book…, 2017].

Facilitating translocation: an endangered rodent engineer improves outcomes for re-introduced San Joaquin antelope squirrels

Despite the popularity of translocation for conservation, many wildlife translocations fail. Research on translocation failure has most often focused on negative species interactions like competition or predation, but positive interactions such as facilitation may be just as important. Ecosystem engineers, including burrowing rodents, play a key role in maintaining high levels of biodiversity and could be used to improve translocation outcomes. However, ecosystem engineers might simultaneously facilitate and compete with translocated species. We used a natural experiment to assess translocation outcomes with a soft release for the threatened San Joaquin antelope squirrel (Ammospermophilus nelsoni) at a site with and without giant kangaroo rats (Dipodomys ingens)—an endangered species and ecosystem engineer. We further compared these outcomes to a control, non-translocated population of antelope squirrels. Survival was highest at the control site, lower at the site with giant kangaroo rats present, and lowest at the site with no giant kangaroo rats. In the year following translocation, we found evidence of reproduction at all three sites. After four years, the antelope squirrel population re-introduced to the kangaroo rat present site persisted, but the population at the kangaroo rat absent site appears to have failed. Home range sizes were much larger at the translocation sites compared to the control. Antelope squirrels dispersed farther from initial release at the site with giant kangaroo rats than the site without, but these results may have suffered from survivorship bias—that is, squirrels at the kangaroo rat absent site either stayed directly within the release footprint or dispersed so far that we could not find them. Our results suggest that the positive impacts of a burrowing ecosystem engineer outweigh the potential negative impacts from competition.

Growth endangered tree species in forest recomposition areas

In Brazil, there is a large gap in studies related to protected native species, discouraging their use in plantations, and consequently, further favoring the reduction of their conservation. In this sense, this research aimed to analyze the biotic and abiotic factors that influence the initial establishment, in enrichment planting, of five endangered forest species. The planting areas are located in extensions covered by secondary forest in the municipality of Vitória do Xingu/PA. The total perimeter outlined for enrichment with species corresponded to 147.26 ha. To evaluate the seedlings, 147 sample units of 800 m² were installed. The species survival inventory and height measurement were carried out 30 and 180 days after planting. The phytosanitary conditions of the seedlings, fauna vestige, soil fertility, herbaceous layer, and neighboring trees were evaluated. Among the main results obtained, the following stand out: (i) Cedrela odorata was found to have the highest mortality rate; (ii) Apuleia leiocarpa was the species that showed the highest absolute growth rate with a significant difference concerning Bertholletia excelsa; (iii) higher mortality was recorded at 30 days than in the second evaluation; (iv) the presence of animals inside the plots influenced seedling mortality; (v) the variability in the number of soil nutrients among the plots was not sufficient to generate different behavior among species; and (vi) the herbaceous layer and the surrounding trees did not promote any interference in the growth of the plants. It is recommended to use the species evaluated in this study in enrichment plantings.

The Musculoskeletal Anatomy of the Komodo Dragon’s Hindlimb (Varanus komodoensis, Varanidae)

The Komodo dragon (Varanus komodoensis) is the largest extant lizard and is classified as an endangered species. Despite its rarity, anatomical studies on this species remain limited, hindering a comprehensive understanding of its biology and evolutionary traits. This research presents a detailed anatomical and histological examination of the pelvic limb of a female Komodo dragon, providing valuable insights into the musculoskeletal system of this species. A series of measurements and observations were made on the bones of the pelvic limb, including the femur, tibia, fibula, and pes, all of which are essential for supporting the animal’s large body size and facilitating its predatory behavior. This study also highlights the diverse muscle architecture, where large muscle masses are associated with the femoral retractors and ankle plantarflexors. Histological analysis of the muscle fibers revealed significant variability in fiber diameters, supporting the functional adaptation of the Komodo dragon’s limbs for high-speed ambush predation. This research provides important morphological data that could inform clinical practices, including orthopedic procedures and physiotherapy for Komodo dragons in zoological settings. Additionally, these findings shed light on the evolutionary patterns inherited from the species’ ancestors, which contributed to the development of its distinctive biological adaptations.

Seasonal Variations and Sexual Differences in Home Range Sizes and Activity Patterns of Endangered Long-Tailed Gorals in South Korea.

The long-tailed goral (Naemorhedus caudatus) faces significant threats from habitat loss and fragmentation and is classified as a Class I endangered species by the Ministry of Environment in South Korea and vulnerable by the IUCN. Understanding the behavioral ecology of this species is crucial for effective conservation and protective measures. Using GPS collars, this study investigated the home range sizes and activity patterns of nine rehabilitated long-tailed gorals (four males and five females) across three regions (Yanggu, Seoraksan National Park, and Uljin) from 2014 to 2016. The 95% minimum convex polygon (MCP) home range averaged 0.64 ± 0.33 km2, while the 50% MCP home range averaged 0.15 ± 0.05 km2. The male home ranges were larger than the female home ranges. Additionally, the home ranges varied seasonally, with the smallest recorded in winter. The activity pattern of long-tailed gorals was predominantly crepuscular and diurnal, with no significant sexual differences. There were no significant differences in activity during spring, summer, and autumn; however, activity in winter differed significantly from that in the other seasons. The data provided on the home ranges and activity patterns of the species will serve as a basis for developing effective conservation and management strategies to protect this endangered species. By elucidating the spatial and temporal behaviors of long-tailed gorals, this study enhances our understanding of the ecological needs of the species and helps develop precise conservation measures.

Diversity and Conservation of Carnivores in Saudi Arabia

In the present study, we updated the taxonomy and distributional data for 14 carnivore species based on previous records and the recent results of camera trapping (4787 camera nights from 58 locations) and depicted species richness. We then identified threats and the conservation measures that are practiced to ensure the protection of the carnivores of Saudi Arabia. A total of 10 species of carnivores (Canis aureus, Canis lupus, Caracal caracal, Felis lybica, Genetta genetta, Hyaena hyaena, Ichneumia albicauda, Mellivora capensis, Vulpes cana, and Vulpes vulpes) were recorded based on camera trapping efforts. The striped hyena was the most recorded species in 13 locations, with the highest number of observations made at Raydah Protected Area, followed by the red fox and the Arabian wolf. Both Genetta genetta and Mellivora capensis were the least recorded species. Vulpes vulpes was the most distributed species and it was recorded from 15 sites. The southwestern corner of Saudi Arabia covering the Asir, Jazan, and Najran Plateaus extending further into the Al Sarawat Mountains hosts the highest number of carnivore species. Major threats affecting carnivores include killing and animal trade. The status of the critically endangered species, Panthera pardus nimr, was discussed. Threats and the conservation status based on regional assessment according to the IUCN Red List of the carnivores of Saudi Arabia were documented and highlighted.

Phytochemical Screening, HPTLC and FT-IR analysis of methanolic bark extract of Syzygium stocksii (Duthie) Gamble – a critically endangered taxon in Myrtaceae

Syzygium is a large genus with numerous species in the Family Myrtaceae. The genus Syzygium is a treasure trove of phytochemicals with immene therapeutic potential. Syzygium stocksii (Duthie) Gamble syn. Syzygium travancoricum, a critically endangered plant collected from Thrissur District in Kerala, India. The present study aims at the preliminary phytochemical screening, HPTLC and FT-IR analysis of the plant. Qualitative phytochemical studies revealed the presence of alkaloids, phenolics, flavonoids, tannins, and terpenoids. The preliminary phytochemical screening results revealed the presence of more constituents on the methanolic bark extract, and hence, this was further subjected to an HPTLC analysis to determine the number of compounds in the crude extract. FTIR analysis was also conducted to identify the major functional groups in the compounds in the extract. From this study, it can be concluded that Syzygium stocksii contains various bioactive compounds. This study calls for the importance of excavating the phytochemical and pharmacological potential of this relatively unexplored species.

Conservation and threatened status of plant species with extremely small populations in the karst region of southeastern Yunnan, China.

The southeastern Yunnan is one of the most typical areas in China with karst landforms. The rich variety of vegetation types and plant diversity means that threatened status are also synchronized. Over the past 20 years, the comprehensive conservation team for plant species with extremely small populations (PSESP) has conducted in-depth field surveys in the region, combining relevant literature and conservation projects to compile a list of PSESP which including conservation and endangered status, conservation actions, and scientific research. Among all 116 PSESP, relatively abundant families include Cycadaceae (12 species), Magnoliaceae (17species) and Orchidaceae (18 species). Hekou and Malipo are the counties with the highest number, with 44 and 43 species respectively. A total of 81 species are included in the List of National Key Protected Wild Plants in China. For threatened status, 24 critically endangered (CR) species and 41 endangered (EN) species represent levels of severe threat. Up to now, 96 species have taken at least one protective measure from in situ conservation, ex situ conservation, breeding or reintroduction/reinforcement. But there are still 20 species that have not taken any protective measures. Additionally, scientific research has been conducted on 86 species, but 30 species have not had any research initiated. The threat of human interference mainly including overcollection and habitat destruction, and the threats of limitations imposed on PSESP itself and natural disasters cannot be ignored. Our findings underscore the importance of integrated conservation strategies, in addition to the in situ conservation, ex situ conservation, breeding or reintroduction/reinforcement, we should also pay attention to the scientific research, germplasm conservation, environmental education and ethnic culture. We also propose to consider establishing a professional karst botanical garden in southeastern Yunnan, and hope this study can offer valuable insights for the conservation of PSESP and biodiversity in southeastern Yunnan.

Different functional responses in populations of Polylepis quadrijuga (Rosaceae) as a consequence of anthropogenic disturbance

The monodominant forests of Polylepis quadrijuga, endemic to the páramos of the eastern cordillera in the Colombian Andes, are among the most threatened in South America due to fragmentation and anthropogenic degradation. Despite their role in regulating water flow and forming biodiverse, endemic biotic communities, there are few studies on their functional responses to stress caused by anthropogenic disturbance and climate change. In this study, we evaluate how six different populations of P. quadrijuga with distinct levels of anthropogenic disturbance (low and high) change 11 foliar, stem, and root functional traits. Also, the physicochemical properties of the soils were analyzed, and mycorrhizal colonization was quantified to evaluate how each population responds to the stress conditions. The results indicated that populations with lower disturbance levels exhibit a conservative leaf trait configuration, whereas those with higher disturbance levels adopt an acquisitive strategy, potentially making them more vulnerable. Additionally, we found no functional coordination between above- and belowground traits. The results also highlight a lower percentage of arbuscular mycorrhizarl fungi (AMF) colonization in sites with a high level of disturbance. Our findings show P. quadrijuga’s sensitivity to anthropogenic disturbance and its resilience, demonstrated by high plasticity in aboveground traits. Conservation efforts for this endangered species should focus on fragmented populations and those under stress from grazing or agriculture, aiming to create connectivity and promote its establishment

Current Knowledge on Craniodental Anatomy and Dental Pathology in Golden Snub‐Nosed Monkeys (Rhinopithecus roxellana): A Comparative Review

ABSTRACTThe Sichuan golden snub‐nosed monkey (Rhinopithecus roxellana) is a rare and endangered species endemic to China that occupies a particularly important position in the evolutionary history of Rhinopithecus species. Oral health is a crucial aspect of overall well‐being in both humans and nonhuman primates. We review the current limited literature on the dental characteristics and dental pathologies related to the golden snub‐nosed monkey, based on skeleton data and morphological evidence. The results indicated that this species possesses dental characteristics that are remarkably different from that of other primates such as larger‐sized molars with blunt cusp crests, tiny incisor teeth, and strong mandibles with well‐developed masticatory muscles. From limited research, dental diseases include caries, periodontal diseases, tooth loss, tooth wear, and other diseases, which can be found in most primates, including golden snub‐nosed monkeys. In conclusion, these physiological features have gradually adapted to different environments to meet the requirements of their function. Understanding the tooth characteristics and dental health status of R. roxellana can provide valuable insights into their evolutionary history, dietary habits, and overall health, which is of great significance for the conservation of the entire population. An epidemiological survey and safe and effective inspection methods of the dental health of golden snub‐nosed monkeys should be conducted to facilitate conservation behaviors that presented in the future. It is also recommended that zoos link diet and dental health to improve animal welfare.

Characterization of Endofungal Bacteria and Their Role in the Ectomycorrhizal Fungus Helvella bachu.

Helvella bachu, an ectomycorrhizal fungus, forms a symbiotic relationship with Populus euphratica, a rare and endangered species crucial to desert riparian ecosystems. In this study, endofungal bacteria (EFBs) within the fruiting bodies of H. bachu were confirmed by a polyphasic approach, including genomic sequencing, real-time quantitative PCR targeting the 16S rRNA gene, full-length and next-generation sequencing (NGS) of the 16S rRNA gene, and culture methods. The genera Stenotrophomonas, Variovorax, Acidovorax, and Pedobacter were abundant in the EFBs of fruiting bodies associated with three Populus hosts and were consistently present across different developmental stages. Notably, S. maltophilia and V. paradoxus were detected in high abundance, as revealed by full-length 16S rRNA sequencing, with S. maltophilia also isolated by culture methods. KO-pathway analysis indicated that pathways related to primary, secondary, and energy metabolism were predominantly enriched, suggesting these bacteria may promote H. bachu growth by producing essential compounds, including sugars, proteins, and vitamins, and secondary metabolites. This study confirmed the presence of EFBs in H. bachu and provided the first comprehensive overview of their structure, functional potential, and dynamic changes throughout fruiting body maturation, offering valuable insights for advancing the artificial domestication of this species.