Geographic Range Research Articles

Taxonomic revision of Phoxinus minnows (Leuciscidae) from Caucasus, with description of a new narrow-ranged endemic species

Taxonomic revision of Phoxinus from the Caucasus revealed two distinct species. One species, P. colchicus, was known from eastern drainage of Black Sea, but was recorded also in the middle reach of the Kuban (Sea of Azov basin), for the first time. The Kuban population represents a genetically unique sub-lineage of P. colchicus. Its ancestors might have colonized the Kuban system through the event of ancient river capture. Another species inhabits only the Adagum River basin in the lower Kuban and represents a new narrow-ranged endemic species – Phoxinus adagumicus sp. nov. According to mtDNA phylogeny (COI and cytb), P. adagumicus sp. nov. represents deeply divergent and one of the two early branched lineages of the genus Phoxinus being distant to other species (min. p-distance = 0.074) including geographical neighbors – P. chrysoprasius from Crimean Peninsula and P. colchicus from the Caucasus. The new species differs from most Phoxinus species by frequently occurring single-row pharyngeal teeth (modal formula 5–4). The narrow geographic range (ca. 55 km in length and 15–20 km in width) and high anthropogenic load on local water systems suggests the new species is under threat and needs protection.

Spatiotemporal distribution and population trends of Sindh ibex (Capra aegagrus blythii) in Balochistan during 2019–2022

The increased pressures generated by human activities in form of climate change and habitat fragmentation have caused serious threats for Sindh ibex (Capra aegagrus blythii). Balochistan, recognized as one of the most vulnerable regions to climate change in Pakistan, has limited data on the distribution and population status of this species. To address this gap, our study aims to assess the spatial and temporal distribution and population trend of Sindh ibex in the Khuzdar and Lasbela districts of Balochistan. The study covered an area of approximately 45,123.97 km2. It involved a double-observer survey at ten sites from 2019 to 2022, using the BBRecapture package in the R programming language to estimate ibex population trend and dispersion. We provided a comprehensive update of the species geographic range, along with estimates of its current abundance and population trends. Over the course of four years, the ibex population fluctuated. The ibexes detected dropped from 720 (male to female ratio 1:1.21) and 710 (male to female ratio 1:1.08) in 2019 and 2020, respectively, to 550 (male to female ratio 1:1.35) and 548 (male to female ratio 1:1.09). Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the population trends, gender ratios, habitat preferences, and density of Sindh ibex in Balochistan over the four-year period. These findings contribute significantly to the baseline data on the species ecology and will further help in the conservation of these species at local scale.

Novel insights into hotspots of insect vectors of GLRaV-3: Dynamics and global distribution

Grapevine leafroll-associated virus 3 (GLRaV-3) is the most prevalent and economically damaging virus in grapevines and is found on nearly all continents, except Antarctica. Ten mealybugs act as vector insects transmitting the GLRaV-3. Understanding the potential distribution range of vector insects under climate change is crucial for preventing and managing vector insects and controlling and delaying the spread of GLRaV-3. This study investigated the potential geographical range of insect vectors of GLRaV-3 worldwide using MaxEnt (maximum entropy) based on occurrence data under environmental variables. The potential distributions of these insects were projected for the 2030s, 2050s, 2070s, and 2090s under the three climate change scenarios. The results showed that the potential distribution range of most vector insects is concentrated in Southeastern North America, Europe, Asia, and Southeast Australia. Most vector insects contract their potential distribution ranges under climate-change conditions. The stacked model suggested that potential distribution hotspots of vector insects were present in Southeastern North America, Europe, Southeast Asia, and Southeast Australia. The potential distribution range of hotspots would shrink with climate change. These results provide important information for governmental decision-makers and farmers in developing control and management strategies against vector insects of GLRaV-3. They can also serve as references for studies on other insect vectors.

Relationship between genetic diversity and morpho-functional characteristics of flight-related traits in Triatoma garciabesi (Hemiptera: Reduviidae)

BackgroundTriatoma garciabesi, a potential vector of the parasitic protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi, which is the causative agent of Chagas disease, is common in peridomestic and wild environments and found throughout northwestern and central Argentina, western Paraguay and the Bolivian Chaco. Genetic differentiation of a species across its range can help to understand dispersal patterns and connectivity between habitats. Dispersal by flight is considered to be the main active dispersal strategy used by triatomines. In particular, the morphological structure of the hemelytra is associated with their function. The aim of this study was to understand how genetic diversity is structured, how morphological variation of dispersal-related traits varies with genetic diversity and how the morphological characteristics of dispersal-related traits may explain the current distribution of genetic lineages in this species.MethodsMales from 24 populations of T. garciabesi across its distribution range were examined. The cytochrome c oxidase I gene (coI) was used for genetic diversity analyses. A geometric morphometric method based on landmarks was used for morpho-functional analysis of the hemelytra. Centroid size (CS) and shape of the forewing, and contour of both parts of the forewing, the head and the pronotum were characterised. Length and area of the forewing were measured to estimate the aspect ratio.ResultsThe morphometric and phylogenetic analysis identified two distinct lineages, namely the Eastern and Western lineages, which coincide with different ecological regions. The Eastern lineage is found exclusively in the eastern region of Argentina (Chaco and Formosa provinces), whereas the Western lineage is prevalent in the rest of the geographical range of the species. CS, shape and aspect ratio of the hemelytra differed between lineages. The stiff portion of the forewing was more developed in the Eastern lineage. The shape of both portions of the hemelytra were significantly different between lineages, and the shape of the head and pronotum differed between lineages.ConclusionsThe results provide preliminary insights into the evolution and diversification of T. garciabesi. Variation in the forewing, pronotum and head is congruent with genetic divergence. Consistent with genetic divergence, morphometry variation was clustered according to lineages, with congruent variation in the size and shape of the forewing, pronotum and head.Graphical

Applying best practice to feasibility assessment and strategic planning for great ape translocation: A case study of Grauer's gorilla (Gorilla beringei graueri)

We outline the feasibility and risk assessments that are essential prerequisites to conservation translocation of great apes, while upholding the precautionary principle to avoid harms to conspecifics, sympatric taxa and ecosystems. As part of a strategic planning process, we addressed key questions on the costs and benefits of a translocation of Grauer's gorillas in Democratic Republic of Congo. We reviewed published and gray literature to compile data on Grauer's gorilla ecology and potential release sites in the subspecies' geographic range. Taking into account ecological dimensions of the habitats, impacts on conspecifics, sympatric great apes and other wildlife, and existing threats, we formulated recommendations on whether and where translocation could benefit conservation of this taxon. We concluded that one site assessed is compatible with key IUCN criteria. At Mt. Tshiaberimu in Virunga National Park, the resident Grauer's gorilla population is non-viable, no sympatric great ape species is present and the site is actively protected against poaching and habitat encroachment. Conservation translocations are widely used for species recovery; however, detailed accounts of the analyses and planning required to adhere to IUCN best practice are rare. Our approach enabled evidence-based determination of feasibility despite some initial information gaps. The process is widely applicable and could encourage improved compliance with IUCN guidelines when risks to wild conspecifics might be high, yet ecological knowledge of the target population is limited. The Grauer's Gorilla Conservation and Reinforcement Project is a partnership between the Gorilla Rehabilitation and Conservation Education Center, Virunga National Park and Re:wild.

Phytophthora nicotianae and Ph. mediterranea: A biosecurity threat to Platanus orientalis and P. x acerifolia in urban green areas in Greece

Field surveys conducted in two urban green spaces in Athens (Greece) revealed the presence of Phytophthora-related diseases on Platanus orientalis and P. x acerifolia trees. Declining trees showed a range of disease symptoms including root rot, stem bleeding cankers and extensive canopy dieback. Since there is little information about the etiology of these diseases, a study was conducted from 2016 to 2021 to define the main pathogens involved. A total of 71 Phytophthora isolates were obtained from bark tissues and rhizosphere samples collected from symptomatic plane trees. Based on morphological traits and DNA sequence data, Phytophthora isolates were identified as Ph. mediterranea (11 isolates) and Ph. nicotianae (60). Over a five-year period 41% of P. orientalis trees associated with Phytophthora infections died and were removed from the park. Pathogenicity tests confirmed that all Phytophthora species including Ph. cinnamomi used for comparison, are pathogenic on both P. orientalis and P. x acerifolia trees. Phytophthora cinnamomi was shown to be the most aggressive species on both P. orientalis and P. x acerifolia. Phytophthora nicotianae was the dominant species, whereas Ph. mediterranea was associated with a few trees. Our finding has contributed to expanding knowledge on the host and geographic range of Ph. mediterranea, an invasive pathogen with a high potential for diffusion in Mediterranean regions and highlights the importance of enhancing biosecurity measures to prevent and limit the spread of invasive pathogens in urban and natural ecosystems.

An updated infrageneric classification of the pantropical species-rich genus Garcinia L. (Clusiaceae) and some insights into the systematics of New Caledonian species, based on molecular and morphological evidence.

Garcinia L. is a pantropically distributed genus comprised of at least 250 species of shrubs and trees and has centers of diversity located in Africa/Madagascar, Australasia, and Southeast Asia. The genus is notable due to its extreme diversity of floral form, common presence in lowland tropical rainforests worldwide, and potential pharmacological value. Across its entire geographic range, Garcinia lacks a recent taxonomic revision, with the last genus-level taxonomic treatment of Garcinia conducted over 40 years ago. In order to provide an evolutionary-based framework for a revised infrageneric classification of the genus and to investigate in more detail the systematics of New Caledonian species, we conducted molecular phylogenetic analyses using DNA sequence data for the nuclear ITS region on all samples, and for three chloroplast intergenic spacers (psbM-trnD, trnQ-rps16 and rps16-trnK) on a subset of our overall sampling. Our phylogenetic analyses are the most comprehensive to date for the genus, containing 111 biogeographically and morphologically diverse Garcinia species. The analyses support a broad circumscription of Garcinia, including several previously segregated genera (e.g. Allanblackia, Clusianthemum, Ochrocarpos p.p., Pentaphalangium, Rheedia, and Tripetalum). We recovered nine major clades falling within two major lineages, and we delimit 11 sections. We discuss each of the clades, assign them sectional names, discuss their distinguishing morphological features, compare our taxonomic treatment with the most recent sectional treatment, list representative species, note geographic distribution, and highlight some questions that deserve future investigations. We propose nine new nomenclatural combinations, four new names, and three new lectotypes. In New Caledonia (NC), a total of ten, all endemic, species are recognized and were included in our phylogenetic analyses, with several replicates per species (with the exception of G.virgata and G.urceolata, represented by a single accession each). New Caledonian species were retrieved within three separate clades, respectively including 1) G.balansae; 2) G.comptonii, G.neglecta, G.urceolata, G.virgata; and 3) G.amplexicaulis, G.densiflora, G.pedicellata, G.puat, G.vieillardii. Within NC, the phylogenies did not support the distinction between a putative undescribed species and G.balansae. However, it confirmed the distinction between NC species and both G.vitiensis (found in Fiji and Vanuatu) and G.adinantha (found in Fiji), suggesting that all NC species should be considered as endemics.

Geographical Analysis of Berberidaceae Family Plants Found on the Territory of Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic

It becomes difficult to determine the first historical range of the plant, which moved far from its prehistoric territory. It has been controversial in this aspect to determine the historical geographical range of plants also included in the Berberis L. genus. Genera and species of Berberidaceae family in Nakhchivan AR migrated from the flora of the Caucasus, Central Asia, East Asia, Iran. The territory of Iran is dominant and represented by 4 species in this family. As a result of the analysis, it was found that plants belonging to the Berberidaceae family, found on the Territory of Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic which relate predominantly to xerophilic, Caucasian and boreal geographical types.

Nigropterix cummingi sp. n., an umenocoleid (Insecta: Dictyoptera) from mid-Cretaceous northern Myanmar amber

A new fossil umenocoleid from Burmese amber is described as Nigropterix cummingi sp. n. on the basis of a completely preserved adult female. The genus Nigropterix Sendi in Sendi et al. (2023) was previously only reported in Turonian sediments from Kzyl-Zhar in Kazakhstan. The herein described species differs from the latter in having parallel M, and R area with numerous cross-veins. Furthermore, the triangular shaped pronotum with unreduced paranotalia, and possibly the shortened ovipositor with punctures and minute setae are autapomorphic. The leathery texture consisting of irregular rows of bulges with small pits including setae on the forewings is very similar to Alienopterix Mlynský in Vršanský et al. (2018), Archaeospinapteryx Sendi et Cumming and Poikiloprosopon Sendi et Cumming both in Sendi et al. (2023). The fossil insect expands the temporal and geographic range of its genus and further exemplifies taxonomic and ecological dominance of Umenocoleidae in Burmese amber. The unique wide pronotum without reduced paranotalia (a strong plesiomorphy) also exemplifies disparity of forms among Umenocoleidea.

Diversity of Strains in the Pseudomonas syringae Complex Causing Bacterial Stem Blight of Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) in the United States.

Alfalfa growers in the Intermountain West of the United States have recently seen an increased incidence in bacterial stem blight (BSB), which can result in significant herbage yield losses from the first harvest. BSB has been attributed to Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae and P. viridiflava; however, little is known about the genetic diversity and pathogenicity of these bacteria or their interaction with alfalfa plants. Here, we present a comprehensive phylogenetic and phenotypic analysis of P. syringae and P. viridiflava strains causing BSB on alfalfa. A multilocus sequence analysis found that they grouped exclusively with P. syringae PG2b and P. viridiflava PG7a. Alfalfa symptoms caused by both bacterial groups were indistinguishable, although there was a large range in mean disease scores for individual strains. Overall, PG2b strains incited significantly greater disease scores than those caused by PG7a strains. Inoculated plants showed browning in the xylem and collapse of epidermal and pith parenchyma cells. Inoculation with a mixture of PG2b and PG7a strains did not result in synergistic activity. The populations of PG2b and PG7a strains were genetically diverse within their clades and did not group by location or haplotype. The PG2b strains had genes for production of the phytotoxin coronatine, which is unusual in PG2b strains. The results indicate that both pathogens are well established on alfalfa across a wide geographic range and that a recent introduction or evolution of more aggressive strains as the basis for emergence of the disease is unlikely.

Exploring research trends and priorities of genus Melia

The genus Melia is known for its secondary metabolites and recently, this genus is being explored for its timber. There are vast differences among its species. For instance, Melia azedarach is reported to be invasive and while another species, M. dubia, has diverse utility with complex germination and regeneration characteristics. Researchers globally have been working on various aspects of this genus; In this study, using topic modelling and science mapping approach, we attempted to understand research facets on this genus. The literature corpus of the Web of Science database was explored using a single keyword—“Melia” which yielded 1523 publications (1946–2022) and after scrutiny metadata of 1263 publications were used in the study. Although nine individual species were cited in the publications, only three species are accepted viz., M. dubia, M. azedarach, and M. volkensii. This implies taxonomic uncertainty, with potential confusion in assigning scientific findings to particular species. Thus, a taxonomic relook on this genus is warranted for a better assessment of the economic utility in many countries. More importantly, our results indicate that the research interests have recently shifted from the secondary metabolite constituents towards growth, biomass, wood properties, germination, plantation, and green synthesis. The shift in research focus toward wood properties of Melia sp. can impact the wood demand–supply at a global scale owing to its fast growth and the possibility of cultivation over a wider geographical range.

A cyst-forming coccidian with large geographical range infecting forest and commensal rodents: Sarcocystis muricoelognathis sp. nov.

BackgroundThe geographic distribution and host-parasite interaction networks of Sarcocystis spp. in small mammals in eastern Asia remain incompletely known.MethodsExperimental infections, morphological and molecular characterizations were used for discrimination of a new Sarcocystis species isolated from colubrid snakes and small mammals collected in Thailand, Borneo and China.ResultsWe identified a new species, Sarcocystis muricoelognathis sp. nov., that features a relatively wide geographic distribution and infects both commensal and forest-inhabiting intermediate hosts. Sarcocystis sporocysts collected from rat snakes (Coelognathus radiatus, C. flavolineatus) in Thailand induced development of sarcocysts in experimental SD rats showing a type 10a cyst wall ultrastructure that was identical with those found in Rattus norvegicus from China and the forest rat Maxomys whiteheadi in Borneo. Its cystozoites had equal sizes in all intermediate hosts and locations, while sporocysts and cystozoites were distinct from other Sarcocystis species. Partial 28S rRNA sequences of S. muricoelognathis from M. whiteheadi were largely identical to those from R. norvegicus in China but distinct from newly sequenced Sarcocystiszuoi. The phylogeny of the nuclear 18S rRNA gene placed S. muricoelognathis within the so-called S. zuoi complex, including Sarcocystisattenuati, S. kani, S. scandentiborneensis and S. zuoi, while the latter clustered with the new species. However, the phylogeny of the ITS1-region confirmed the distinction between S. muricoelognathis and S. zuoi. Moreover, all three gene trees suggested that an isolate previously addressed as S. zuoi from Thailand (KU341120) is conspecific with S. muricoelognathis. Partial mitochondrial cox1 sequences of S. muricoelognathis were almost identical with those from other members of the group suggesting a shared, recent ancestry. Additionally, we isolated two partial 28S rRNA Sarcocystis sequences from Low’s squirrel Sundasciurus lowii that clustered with those of S. scandentiborneensis from treeshews.ConclusionsOur results provide strong evidence of broad geographic distributions of rodent-associated Sarcocystis and host shifts between commensal and forest small mammal species, even if the known host associations remain likely only snapshots of the true associations.Graphical

First molecular identification and phylogenetic illustration of Sarcocystis species infection in Red Sea shortfin mako shark (Isurus oxyrinchus Rafinesque, 1810)

Backgroundmembers of the genus Sarcocystis are intracellular obligate protozoan parasites classified within the phylum Apicomplexa and have an obligate heteroxenous life cycle involving two hosts. A more comprehensive understanding of the prevalence and geographic range of different Sarcocystis species in marine ecosystems is needed globally and nationally. Hence, the objective of this study was to document the incidence of Sarcocystis infection in sharks within the aquarium ecosystem of Egypt and to identify the species through the characterization of the SSU rDNA gene.MethodsAll organs of the mako shark specimen underwent macroscopic screening to detect the existence of a Sarcocystis cyst. Ten cysts were collected from the intestine and processed separately to extract the genomic DNA. The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was accomplished by amplifying a specific 18S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene fragment. Subsequently, the resulting amplicons were subjected to purification and sequencing processes.ResultsMacroscopic examination of the mako shark intestinal wall sample revealed the presence of Sarcocystis cysts of various sizes and shapes, and sequencing of the amplicons from Sarcocystis DNA revealed a 100% nucleotide identity with the sequence of Sarcocystis tenella recorded from sheep in Iran; The mako shark sequence has been deposited in the GeneBank with the accession number OQ721979. This study presents the first scientific evidence demonstrating the presence of the Sarcocystis parasite in sharks, thereby documenting this specific marine species as a novel intermediate host in the Sarcocystis life cycle.ConclusionsThis is the first identification of Sarcocystis infection in sharks, and we anticipate it will be an essential study for future screenings and establishing effective management measures for this disease in aquatic ecosystems.

Current status, biology, threats and conservation priorities of the vulnerable Mediterranean monk seal

The Mediterranean monk seal Monachus monachus is one of the most endangered marine mammals on Earth. The species has made a notable recovery during the past 10 yr and is now considered Vulnerable by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature. Its global population comprises 3 subpopulations: 2 in the northeastern Atlantic Ocean and one in the eastern Mediterranean Sea. Global estimated abundance is 815-997 individuals, including 443-599 mature individuals; annual pup production averages 170.5. Over the past decade, increased research efforts have shed new light on various aspects of the species’ biology and life history, including habitat and habitat use, vital rates, communication and genetics. The main threats to the species are (1) terrestrial and marine habitat loss and degradation that has or is resulting in the occupation of unsuitable habitat and limited prey availability, (2) negative interactions with fisheries that result in accidental entanglement or deliberate killings in response to damages to catches and/or fishing gear, (3) unpredictable threats, including cave collapses and mass mortality events and (4) pollution. Priority conservation actions for the species include (1) strengthening the legal framework for the protection of the terrestrial and marine habitat of the species, (2) effective protection of the species and its terrestrial and marine habitat, (3) scientific population and habitat monitoring, (4) rescue and rehabilitation of injured, orphaned and sick pups to increase neonatal survival rates, (5) public awareness and education, (6) monitoring and mitigating negative seal-fishery interactions and (7) expansion of the species’ current geographic range in the Atlantic Ocean.

Genetic variability and population divergence of Rhododendron platypodum Diels in China in the context of conservation

Genetic diversity in endangered species is of special significance in the face of escalating global climate change and alarming biodiversity declines. Rhododendron platypodum Diels, an endangered species endemic to China, is distinguished by its restricted geographical range. This study aimed to explore genetic diversity and differentiation among its populations, gathering samples from all four distribution sites: Jinfo Mountain (JFM), Zhaoyun Mountain (ZYM), Baima Mountain (BMM), and Mao’er Mountain (MEM). We employed 18 pairs of Simple Sequence Repeat (SSR) primers to ascertain the genetic diversity and structural characteristics of these samples and further utilized 19 phenotypic data points to corroborate the differentiation observed among the populations. These primers detected 52 alleles, with the average number of observed alleles (Na) being 2.89, the average number of effective alleles (Ne) being 2.12, the average observed heterozygosity (Ho) being 0.57, and the expected heterozygosity (He) being 0.50. This array of data demonstrates the efficacy of the primers in reflecting R. platypodum’s genetic diversity. SSR-based genetic analysis of the populations yielded Ho, He, and Shannon index (I) values ranging from 0.47 to 0.65, 0.36 to 0.46, and 0.53 to 0.69, respectively. Notably, the ZYM population emerged as the most genetically diverse. Further analysis, incorporating molecular variance, principal component analysis, UPGMA cluster analysis, and structure analysis, highlighted significant genetic differentiation between the Chongqing (BMM, JFM, ZYM) and Guangxi (MEM) populations. Morphological data analysis corroborated these findings. Additionally, marked genetic and morphological distinctions were evident among the three Chongqing populations (BMM, JFM, and ZYM). This suggests that, despite the observed regional differentiation, R. platypodum’s overall genetic diversity is relatively constrained compared to other species within the Rhododendron genus. Consequently, R. platypodum conservation hinges critically on preserving its genetic diversity and protecting its distinct populations.

Impacts of Climate Change on the Biogeography and Ecological Structure of Zelkova schneideriana Hand.-Mazz. in China.

This study utilized the platform for ensemble forecasting of species distributions, biomod2, to predict and quantitatively analyze the distribution changes of Zelkova schneideriana Hand.-Mazz. under different climate scenarios (SSP1-2.6 and SSP5-8.5) based on climate and land-use data. This study evaluated the geographic range changes in future distribution areas and the results indicated that, under both SSP1-2.6 and SSP5-8.5 scenarios, the distribution area of Zelkova schneideriana would be reduced, showing a trend towards migration to higher latitudes and elevations. Particularly, in the more extreme SSP5-8.5 scenario, the contraction of the distribution area was more pronounced, accompanied by more significant migration characteristics. Furthermore, the ecological structure within the distribution area of Zelkova schneideriana also experienced significant changes, with an increasing degree of fragmentation. The variables of Bio6 (minimum temperature of the coldest month), Bio2 (mean diurnal temperature range), Bio15 (precipitation seasonality), and elevation exhibited important influences on the distribution of Zelkova schneideriana, with temperature being particularly significant. Changes in land use, especially the conversion of cropland, had a significant impact on the species' habitat. These research findings highlight the distributional pressures faced by Zelkova schneideriana in the future, emphasizing the crucial need for targeted conservation measures to protect this species and similar organisms.

Tracing histoplasmosis genomic epidemiology and species occurrence across the USA

ABSTRACT Histoplasmosis is an endemic mycosis in North America frequently reported along the Ohio and Mississippi River Valleys, although autochthonous cases occur in non-endemic areas. In the United States, the disease is provoked by two genetically distinct clades of Histoplasma capsulatum sensu lato, Histoplasma mississippiense (Nam1) and H. ohiense (Nam2). To bridge the molecular epidemiological gap, we genotyped 93 Histoplasma isolates (62 novel genomes) including clinical, environmental, and veterinarian samples from a broader geographical range by whole-genome sequencing, followed by evolutionary and species niche modelling analyses. We show that histoplasmosis is caused by two major lineages, H. ohiense and H. mississippiense; with sporadic cases caused by H. suramericanum in California and Texas. While H. ohiense is prevalent in eastern states, H. mississipiense was found to be prevalent in the central and western portions of the United States, but also geographically overlapping in some areas suggesting that these species might co-occur. Species Niche Modelling revealed that H. ohiense thrives in places with warmer and drier conditions, while H. mississippiense is endemic to areas with cooler temperatures and more precipitation. In addition, we predicted multiple areas of secondary contact zones where the two species co-occur, potentially facilitating gene exchange and hybridization. This study provides the most comprehensive understanding of the genomic epidemiology of histoplasmosis in the USA and lays a blueprint for the study of invasive fungal diseases.

Summer solstice orchestrates the subcontinental-scale synchrony of mast seeding.

High interannual variation in seed production in perennial plants can be synchronized at subcontinental scales with wide consequences for ecosystem functioning, but how such synchrony is generated is unclear1-3. We investigated the factors contributing to masting synchrony in European beech (Fagus sylvatica), which extends to a geographic range of 2,000 km. Maximizing masting synchrony via spatial weather coordination, known as the Moran effect, requires a simultaneous response to weather conditions across distant populations. A celestial cue that occurs simultaneously across the entire hemisphere is the longest day (the summer solstice). We show that European beech abruptly opens its temperature-sensing window on the solstice, and hence widely separated populations all start responding to weather signals in the same week. This celestial 'starting gun' generates ecological events with high spatial synchrony across the continent.

Bergbambos tessellata (Poaceae) endemic to southern Africa: new record from the Limpopo Province, South Africa

Bergbambos is a temperate C3 bamboo grass genus, consisting of one species found mainly along southern African mountain ranges (Temperate Afromontane Region). We document here a new record of Bergbambos tessellata found in the Thabazimbi area along Hamerkop Street near the fence of an old nursery (non-functional). The specimen was identified at the National Herbarium (PRE) using a light microscope and compared with other herbarium specimens or materials, collected from other South African provinces. This discovery is accompanied by diagnostic features for precise species differentiation, as well as illustrations facilitating visual distinction. Notably, Bergbambos tessellata exhibits an unusual geographical range in the Waterberg Biosphere region within the valley. This discovery not only enriches our comprehension of bamboo dispersion dynamics but also engenders a heightened impetus for in-depth investigation into the various factors that underlie its restricted presence within this specific ecological niche. The documentation of this species therefore holds considerable importance in formulating effective conservation strategies and promoting sustainable management practices.

Terrestrial reptiles in the diet of rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss (Salmonidae; Walbaum, 1792)

ABSTRACT Documenting the diet of organisms that have been introduced and naturalised outside their native range is a fundamental component of understanding their trophic interrelations in the receiving environment, and for developing holistic management practices for introduced species’ predation impacts in an ecosystem. We describe two accounts of terrestrial reptiles in the diet of an introduced fish, rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss in southern NSW, Australia. Our observations from the Southern Hemisphere together with recently published records from the Northern Hemisphere (e.g. USA, France and Italy) represent the presence of reptiles in the diet of O. mykiss across a broad geographical range and highlight a potential additional consideration of introduced salmonids and their impacts on terrestrial species.