Female Specimens Research Articles

Does a gender of Welwitschia mirabilis plants influence their photosynthetic activity?

Welwitschia mirabilis Hook.f. (Welwitschiaceae, Gnetales) is a gymnosperm plant unique in its habit with an isolated taxonomic position. This species is dioecious, but no studies of its photosynthetic activity were conducted with examination of differences among male and female plants. To fill this gap, the day and night photosynthetic activity of male and female specimens of Welwitschia mirabilis cultivated in the botanical garden was studied in controlled conditions. Photosynthetic activity was studied using net photosynthetic rate (PN), stomatal conductance (gs) and intercellular CO2 concentration (Ci) parameters. Additionally, a normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) was used to assess the condition among male and female plants in full sunlight. The studied Welwitschia plants revealed variability in photosynthetic activity both during the day and the night. The photosynthetic activity was low in the morning hours and higher in the afternoon. There is a difference in the photosynthetic activity during the night between sexes, being higher in female specimens. Stomatal density was evaluated separately for adaxial and abaxial leaf surfaces. Statistically significant differences in the stomatal density on abaxial and adaxial leaf surfaces were observed in both sexes, especially distinctive in female specimens. NDVI has revealed that there were weak differences between male and female plants.

Sex-Related Differences of Ginkgo biloba in Growth Traits and Wood Properties

Ginkgo biloba is one of the most widely cultivated dioecious timber trees in China. Understanding sex-related differences and how they affect growth traits and wood properties is crucial for informed management and optimal utilization of ginkgoes. In the present study, we collected 42 ginkgo samples and conducted DNA molecular identification to determine their sex. The result was a 1:1 ratio of male to female specimens. In addition, we measured 16 growth-trait and wood-property indices for these samples using advanced equipment, such as X-ray diffraction (XRD) and the Hitman ST300 standing tree tool. For growth traits, significant differences were observed between male and female ginkgoes in terms of the diameter at breast height (DBH), clear bole height (CBH), height, and volume. Significant differences were identified in wood properties between male and female ginkgoes in terms of the degree of cellulose crystallinity (DCC), cell length, cell wall thickness, and wall-to-lumen ratio. Tracheids from female trees were found to be wider, with thicker cell walls, than those from male trees. Principal component analysis (PCA) showed that there was a slight separation between the sexes in terms of all growth traits, whereas there was no separation in wood properties. The membership function value (MFV) also showed that male ginkgo exhibited a more robust phenotype than female ginkgo. The selection of male ginkgo for breeding and utilization offers distinct advantages for practical production.

The quantum of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon in <em>Pyxicephalus edulis</em> and sediments in Oluwa river, Igbekebo area, Ondo state, Nigeria

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are organic compounds composed of two or more fused aromatic rings. PAHs can be found in a variety of foods and beverages, including drinking water, vegetables, fruits, cereals, oils, seafood, and meats. The current study investigated the pollution levels of the quantum of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon in Pyxicephalus edulis and river sediments. Twenty-five sediment samples and male and female specimens of Pyxicephalus edulis were collected from Oluwa River near Igbekebo, Ondo State Nigeria. The sediment samples were then dried in the open air for three days while the identified frog species were dried separately for 6 hours at 105°C before being powdered. The physicochemical parameters of sediment samples examined using standard physical and chemical analytical techniques and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in frog and sediment samples were examined using gas chromatographyflame ionization analysis (GC-FID). The toxicity equivalent(TEQ) values of PAHs in sediment samples were determined by comparing the findings of this study to the Sediment Quality Guideline (SQG) with effects range from viz., low (ERL), median(ERM) and threshold-effects level (TEL)/probable-effects level (PEL) to assess the toxicity of PAHs to aquatic organisms living in sediments. Male frogs had significantly higher concentrations of Acenaphthylene, Phenanthrene, Anthracene, Pyrene, and total PAHs than females, and lower concentrations of Naphthalene, Acenaphthylene, Fluorene, and Fluoranthene. BaAnt, Benzo(b) fluoranthene, Benzo(k)fluoranthrene, Benzo(a)pyrene, Indeno(1,2,3-cd) pyrene, Dibenz(a,h)anthracene, Benzo(g,h,i)perylene were reported only among males. The cause of this variation is unknown, but it could be due to differences in the genetic make-up of male and female frogs.

Diaphlebia richteri Bota-Sierra, 2015 is a junior synonym of Zonophora nobilis Belle, 1983 (Gomphidae: Odonata)

Diaphlebia richteri is shown to be a junior synonym of Zonophora nobilis. The confusion started by a generic misplacement due to the failure to observe the subalar carina spine which is present in Zonophora but not in Diaphlebia. Therefore, Z. nobilis is officially recorded for the first time in Colombia; we present a distribution map with the known localities for this rare Amazon species. Also, we made a comparison between our female specimens and the original description of the female from Cerro de la Neblina (Venezuela), including the first photographs of diagnostic characters of a female specimen.

The first water treader (Heteroptera: Mesoveliidae) from the mid-Cretaceous Kachin amber

Myanmarvelia pankowskiorum gen. et sp. nov., is the first occurrence of the aquatic bug family Mesoveliidae in the mid-Cretaceous Kachin amber. This new taxon is described and illustrated based on a well-preserved female specimen. Although numerous morphological characters confirm its placement in the Mesoveliidae its position within the family is unclear. The presence of claws inserted pre-apically and head extended in front of eyes would suggest a placement in the Mesoveliinae but we consider it putative. The fossil record of this family is very poor, ranging between the late Jurassic and the Miocene.

Mantispa indica Westwood, 1852 (Neuroptera: Mantispidae), a rare species with some morphological notes from Assam, India

Mantispa indica (Westwood) is an insufficiently explored species under the family Mantispidae (Neuroptera) with limited understanding. Its presence has been documented in various regions of India and Nepal over time. Nevertheless, a comprehensive examination of its morphometric characteristics has been lacking. This research presents a novel morphological comparison of male and female specimens, accompanied by appropriate illustrations, from two distinct protected areas in Assam, India.

The taxonomy of the genus Asclepios Distant (Heteroptera, Gerromorpha, Gerridae), with description of a new species from Vietnam

The taxonomy of Asclepios species is revised. Asclepios shiranui (Esaki, 1924), A. coreanusEsaki, 1930, and A. coreanus miyamotoiEsaki, 1937 are all determined to be junior synonyms of Asclepios apicalis (Esaki, 1924). A new species, Asclepios esakii sp. nov. from northern Vietnam, is described. Because Ascleopios apicalis and A. esakii sp. nov. co-exist in some localities, comparative characters for separating female specimens of two species are established. The revised key to species of Asclepios is also provided. Asclepios annandaleiDistant, 1915 is reported from Vietnam for the first time; and the occurrence of A. apicalis (Esaki, 1924) is also updated.LSID:https://zoobank.org/urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:3A2BBFBA-4509-4DDE-A7AB-E3A65AE82E3F.

Two new species of the genus Cryptopimpla Taschenberg (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae, Banchinae) with an updated key to African species

A revised illustrated key to Afrotropical species of the genus Cryptopimpla Taschenberg is provided, with the inclusion of two new South African species, C. orenji Reynolds & van Noort, sp. nov. and C. hoerikwagga Reynolds & van Noort, sp. nov., which are described and illustrated. The recovery of the first female specimens of Cryptopimpla goci Reynolds & van Noort in samples from Fernkloof and Grootbos nature reserves, and subsequent morphological reassessment of generic affinity based on female characters, no longer supports the placement of this species in Cryptopimpla. The transfer of C. goci to Lissonota Gravenhorst is proposed here: Lissonota goci (Reynolds & van Noort), comb. nov., and the female is described. New Afrotropical distributional records for the previously described Cryptopimpla species are presented and notes on the distribution and diversification of the species are also provided. Online interactive Lucid keys to the 11 Afrotropical Cryptopimpla species are available at: http://www.waspweb.org.

Estimation of Fecundity and Gonadosomatic Index (GSI) of Somileptes gongota (Hamilton, 1822) from the River Padma in Rajshahi District, Bangladesh

The study focused on assessing the fecundity and gonadosomatic index (GSI) of the Gongota Loach species, scientifically known as Somileptes gongota, during the period spanning from April 2019 to March 2020. The fecundity of S. gongota exhibited a range of values, spanning from 3375 to 73459.75. Out of a total of 36 specimens, 16 were identified as male while 20 were identified as female. The typical length of female specimens varies between 5.4 cm and 12.5 cm, with a corresponding body weight range of 3.72g to 19.52g. The recorded mean GSI values for the twelve-month period from April to March were as follows: 0.158, 0.231, 0.225, 0.242, 0.176, 0.00, 0.00, 0.13, 0.00, 0.00, 0.00, and 0.134. The lowest mean GSI value of 0.00 was observed during the months of September, October, December, January, and February. Conversely, the highest mean GSI value of 0.242 was recorded in the month of July. According to the monthly mean GSI of female individuals, the observed spawning season for this species spanned from April to July throughout the duration of the study, with the peak season occurring in July. The highest recorded level of fecundity was observed in the month of July, reaching a value of 73459.75. Conversely, the lowest level of fecundity was recorded in August, with a value of 3375. The study revealed a significant correlation between fecundity and body weight, as represented by the equation F=4.51BW-40115, with a coefficient of determination (r2) of 0.835. The observed fecundity values varied between 3375 and 73459.75, while the corresponding body weights ranged from 3.72g to 19.52g. The correlation between fecundity and standard length was determined to be F=0.012 SL3.628 (r2=0.794). The results of the regression analysis revealed a cubic relationship between fecundity and standard length, as well as a linear relationship between fecundity and body weight. A comprehensive understanding of fecundity and gonadosomatic index (GSI) is imperative for effective fish management.

The genome sequence of the Skin Moth, Monopis laevigella (Denis & Schiffermüller, 1775)

We present a genome assembly from two female Monopis laevigella specimens (the Skin Moth; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Tineidae). The genome sequences are 632.6 and 625.5 megabases in span. For both genomes, most of the assembly is scaffolded into 25 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genomes were also assembled and are 18.9 and 18.89 kilobases in length.

Notes on two species of Massuria Thorell, 1887 (Arachnida, Araneae, Thomisidae) from China with description of a new species.

Two species assigned to Massuria Thorell, 1887 are reviewed. The female of Massuriabandian Tang & Li, 2010 is described for the first time from Jianfengling National Natural Reserve, Hainan Province, China. The species Diaeasimplex Xu, Han & Li, 2008 is described as a synonym of Massuriabellula Xu, Han & Li, 2008 based on female and male specimens from Guangdong Province, China. Massuriaminsp. nov. described as a new species (female, Fujian Province, China). Detailed illustrations and a distribution map are provided for these three species of Massuria.

A new species of Aulacaspis and a revived combination of Diaspididae (Hemiptera, Coccomorpha) from China.

A new species of armored scale insect, Aulacaspisfanjingshanensissp. nov. is described and illustrated based on adult female specimens collected on Rosaceae plants in China. A key to the Aulacaspis species known from Guizhou Province of China is provided. Our molecular study suggests that Aulacaspisschizosoma (Takagi, 1970) is not a true member of the genus Aulacaspis; the genus Superturmaspis Chen, 1983 is revived and A.schizosoma is transferred to it as Superturmaspisschizosoma (Takagi, 1970), revived combination, based on a molecular phylogeny.

Description of Eretmocera hafeetensis sp. nov. from UAE (Lepidoptera, Scythrididae)

Eretmocera hafeetensissp. nov., a moth in the family Scythrididae, is described and illustrated based on the examination of three male and 13 female specimens collected at the foot of Jebel Hafeet, an isolated 1,140 metres-high massif just south of Al Ain, after which the new species is named. The new species is distinct from congeners in details of its male and female genitalia and is also readily separated in the field from other Eretmocera species. The new addition brings the number of confirmed species in this genus represented in the UAE to three. The discovery of this species at Ain Al Waal, Jebel Hafeet highlights the conservation importance of this and similar nearby locations, which are beginning to reveal unique species among its already species-rich fauna at a time of huge human encroachment into the area.

A new species of Chaetopelma Ausserer, 1871 (Araneae, Theraphosidae) from Iran.

New data on the tarantula genus Chaetopelma Ausserer, 1871 are provided. A new species, Ch.persianumsp. nov., is described based on a single female specimen collected in northwestern Iran, which represents the easternmost record of the genus within its entire known range. Additionally, the correct publication date of Ch.olivaceum C.L. Koch, 1842 is discussed, and the known distribution records of all Chaetopelma species are mapped.

Ovarian changes and development of the branchial placenta occurring in Jenynsia lineata (Cyprinodontiformes, Anablepidae).

In viviparous teleosts, intraovarian gestation occurs intrafollicularly, as in poeciliids, or intraluminally, as in goodeids and anablepids. Furthermore, there are two different forms of embryonic nutrition: lecithotrophy and matrotrophy; depending on the species, these can be exclusive or coexist during gestation. In matrotrophic species, nutrients are transmitted from the mother to the embryo and are especially important in species with intraluminal gestation. Jenynsia lineata is a South American viviparous teleost with intraluminal gestation, characterized by eggs with scarce yolk, which is resorbed when embryos are 6 mm long, thus developing a branchial placenta. Using histological, histochemical, and immunohistochemical techniques, the present study describes the characteristics and changes of the ovarian mucosa in J. lineata during gestational and nongestational phases, and analyzes the embryonic pharyngeal epithelium in the branchial placenta. The ovaries of 30 adult female specimens were processed using histological techniques and stained with hematoxylin-eosin, Masson's trichrome, and Alcian Blue pH 2.5/periodic acid Schiff reagent. To detect cell proliferation, we used antiproliferating cell nuclear antigen antibody. In nonpregnant females, eosinophilic granular cells (EGCs) and lymphocytes were identified in the lamina propria of the tunica mucosa, and melanomacrophage centers (MMCs) and fibroblasts were identified adjacent to tissue debris in the ovarian folds'. In the cellular debris, an embryo in resorption was observed. In pregnant females, the ovarian mucosa has thin vascularization branches entering the opercular chamber of the embryos, in close contact with the forming gill processes, thereby establishing a branchial placenta. Active cell replacement was observed in these ovarian branches. The identification of fibroblasts, lymphocytes,EGCs, and MMCs adjacent to tissue debris could indicate that these cell types are involved in the embryonic resorption process. Considering the new data obtained in this study on the branchial placenta of J. lineata, we conclude that cell proliferation could be involved in the development of maternal-embryonic interaction.

A new species of Pseudopyrochroa Pic, 1906 from Southwest China (Coleoptera: Pyrochroidae: Pyrochroinae) based on the last instar larva and adults, with natural history observations.

A new species of the fire-colored beetle genus Pseudopyrochroa Pic, 1906, P. euryfoveata Zhan & Young, sp. n., is described and illustrated from Sichuan Province, Southwest China, based on the last larval instar (exuviae) as well as adult male and female specimens. Observations relating to the larval macro- and microhabitats and natural history notes are provided.

A new species of the genus Dentatissus Chen, Zhang & Chang (Hemiptera, Fulgoroidea, Issidae) from the Korean Peninsula, with a key to the genus.

A new species of the family Issidae (Hemiptera, Auchenorrhyncha, Fulgoroidea), Dentatissuslongispinosussp. nov., is described from the Korean Peninsula. Morphological information is presented with photographs based on male and female specimens. A key to species of the genus Dentatissus is also provided.

Primer registro de Cyphonotida rostrata rostrata (Bates, 1872) (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae: Lepturinae: Lepturini) en Perú

We present the first record of Cyphonotida rostrata rostrata from Peru, based on a female specimen collected in a disturbed locality of a seasonally dry forest of the Lambayeque region in northwestern Peru. A diagnosis for recognition of the subspecies and data about its distribution and ecology are provided.

A new Cardiophorinae-like click-beetle from mid-Cretaceous amber of northern Myanmar (Coleoptera: Elateridae)

A new click-beetle, Cretocardiophorus laminatus gen. et sp. nov., is described and illustrated based on a well-preserved female specimen from the mid-Cretaceous amber of northern Myanmar. Two potential male specimens of this new species are also reported and illustrated. Cretocardiophorus gen. nov. may be related to the morden subfamily Cardiophorinae by its typical habitus, especially the heart-shaped scutellar shield. This new genus is also notable by the flat and slightly enlarged pedicel of antenna, the presence of styli in ovipositor, as well as the shape of aedeagus, which distinguish it from the modern Cardiophorinae. In addition, its leg has elongated tarsi covered with extremely long bristles, which is rare in Elateridae and similar to those beetles that inhabit sandy environments. This is the eighth Elateridae known from mid-Cretaceous of Northern Myanmar amber.

Helminths of the Bluntnose Sixgill Shark, Hexanchus griseus (Bonnaterre, 1788), from the Strait of Messina (Sicily, Southern Italy).

Bluntnose sixgill shark, Hexanchus griseus (Bonnaterre, 1788), is a little-known elasmobranch in the Mediterranean Sea. Given the lack of information about H. griseus, the aim of our study was to describe the helminth fauna of this species. In March 2023, one H. griseus juvenile female specimen was found off the coast of Messina (Italy) and referred by the Italian Coast Guard to our laboratory for necropsy and parasitological evaluation. After necropsy, the specimen's gills, stomach and spiral valve were investigated for parasite presence. All collected parasites were stored in 70% ethanol for routine parasitological analysis. No lesions due to parasites were found in the gills or skin. Three species of helminths were found in one studied female specimen of Hexanchus griseus, namely, two cestode species (Phyllobothrium sinuosiceps and Nybelinia sp., larvae) and one trematode (Otodistomum veliporum). Among them, five Trypanorhyncha plerocercoid larvae were found attached to the stomach mucosa, and six adult cestodes and one digenean trematode were collected from the spiral valve. No other parasite taxa were found in the celomic organs. This study reports new information regarding the parasitic fauna of H. griseus from the central Mediterranean Sea.