Morpho-physiological Indicators Research Articles

Effect of Adaptations on Morphophysiological Indicators of High-Producing Dairy Cows

In this article, we conduct a study of the impact of adaptation of dairy cows. The aim is to study the influence of the morphological basis of adaptation. Health is one of the main indicators of the degree of adaptation of animals. The state of the body, in which all its organs, systems and functions interact with each other in an optimal mode and are harmoniously balanced with environmental factors, indicates a high degree of adaptability of animals. Currently, highly effective methods have been developed in physiology to determine the level of life support of the body and the compliance of the external environment with the needs of animals. The ability of biological systems to withstand changes and maintain dynamic constancy of composition, function and properties is the essence of homeostasis, the body and the population as a whole.

Физиологическое состояние стерляди в условиях садковых и бассейновых хозяйств

The growing conditions of sturgeon fish affect the growth and physiological state, their morphological characteristics. The study of changes in physiological processes under the influence of a complex of factors in the conditions of cage complexes and closed water supply systems will allow for timely adjustment of technology and reduce risks when growing commercial products. The repair and breeding herds of fish breeding enterprises contain sterlet individuals of different ages, which annually, upon reaching puberty, enter the fish breeding process as producers. In this regard, we have studied the main morphophysiological indicators of two-year-olds kept in cages and in closed water supply installations (CWSI). The influence of environmental factors was noted not only on growth indicators, but also on the size of the internal organs of fish and their condition. The unstable temperature regime in the cages, dependence on unpredictable changes in the hydrochemical parameters of the aquatic environment contributes to deep physiological transformations of an adaptive nature, which slows down the growth rate and accumulation of reserve substances. Changes in morphometric parameters were also evident. In sturgeon, there is an increase in the relative weight of the heart, spleen and gonads, a decrease in the weight of the kidneys and liver. The influence of optimal temperature and trophic conditions on the index of the gastrointestinal tract was noted, which was slightly lower in fish from the CWSI than in individuals exposed to negative factors in cages. Sterlet blood counts, regardless of the conditions of detention, corresponded to physiologically healthy individuals. The creation of optimal hydrological and trophic conditions in CWSI contribute to the accumulation of phospholipids and linolenic fatty acids in tissues, which play an important role in the adaptation of the body to negative environmental factors.

Evaluation of different bermudagrass germplasm at physiological and molecular level under shade along longitudinal and latitudinal gradients

Responses of turfgrass to shade vary in individual species, and the degree and quality of low light; therefore, the selection of low light tolerant cultivars of turfgrass is important and beneficial for turf management rather than other practices. The stolons of thirteen bermudagrass genotypes were planted with two treatments and three replications of each treatment to establish for one month in the Yangzhou University Jiangsu China greenhouse. The established plants were transferred outside of the greenhouse, and 50% shading was applied to them with a black net. After 30 days of stress treatment, the morpho-physiological and biochemical analyses were performed. The expression of genes such as HEMA, HY5, PIF4, and Cu/ZnSOD was assessed. Cynodon dactylon is a C4, and perennial that grows as lawn grass and is used as forage. Based on different indicator measurements, the most shade-tolerant germplasm was L01 and L06 along the longitudes and L09 and L10 along the latitudes. At the same time, L02 and L08 were more susceptible, respectively. However, germplasm showed greater tolerance in higher latitudes while longitudinal plants showed less stress response. The current study aimed (1) to screen out the most shade-tolerant Cynodon dactylon genotype among 13 along longitudinal and latitudinal gradients in China. (2) to examine morpho-physiological indicators of different bermudagrassgenotypes; (3) to evaluate if and how differences in various indicators of bermudagrass correlated with geographic region. This study will significantly advance the use of Cynodon germplasm in breeding, genomics, management, nomenclature, and phylogeographical study. It will decisively define whether natural selection and migration can drive evolutionary responses for populations to adapt to their new environments effectively.

Prospects for Enhanced Growth and Yield of Blueberry (Vaccinium angustifolium Ait.) Using Organomineral Fertilizers for Reclamation of Disturbed Forest Lands in European Part of Russia

This article presents the results of research on the use of a new granular organomineral fertilizer for growing plants of half-highbush cultivars of the lowbush blueberry (Vaccinium angustifolium Ait.). The purpose of the research is studying the effect of a new granular organomineral fertilizer on the agrobiological characteristics of V. angustifolium plants on a peatland in the conditions of the north of the European part of Russia. The developed composition of organomineral fertilizer (NPK 8:8:8, Fe 0.5%, Zn 0.2%, Cu 0.4%) differs from existing fertilizers in a more balanced ratio of micro- and macroelements and the content of vermicompost containing spore forms of bacteria Bacillus subtilis H-13, B. mucilaginosus, and Azotobacter chroococcum. The use of a new organomineral fertilizer on high-moor peat (pH 2.9) contributed to the highest yield of V. angustifolium fruits (190.2 g/bush), which is 1.2 times more than other mineral fertilizers (NPK, etc.). The best morphophysiological indicators of V. angustifolium plants (leaf area, total and working surface of the roots, root weight) when using the developed organomineral fertilizer were noted in September. An increase of 1.2–1.3 times in the collection of dry matter and sugars in fruits was revealed, compared with other fertilizer options, while the vitamin C content practically did not change. New organomineral fertilizer contributes to the optimal supply of the necessary micro- and macroelements throughout the growing season and increases the productivity of V. angustifolium plants when growing depleted peat deposits in the natural and climatic conditions of the European part of Russia.

Morphophysiological indicators, phenophase and cutting time in an irrigated forage cactus–sorghum intercropping system under strategies of agricultural resilience and agriculture biosaline

AbstractThe objective of this study was to evaluate growth and development in an irrigated forage cactus–sorghum intercropping system under different strategies for improving agricultural resilience. The research was carried out from 2018 to 2020 in Serra Talhada, Pernambuco, Brazil, in four experiments in a randomized block design, each with four replications. The first experiment consisted of different configurations for the cactus–sorghum intercropping system (Orelha de Elefante Mexicana [OEM]‐single crop [SNG], IPA Sertânia [IPA]‐SNG, Miúda [MIU]‐SNG, OEM–SF11, OEM–Progenitor 288 [P.288], OEM–467, IPA–SF11, IPA–P.288, IPA–467, MIU–SF11, MIU–P.288 and MIU–467); in the second and third experiments, the cactus–sorghum system was planted under different planting densities (100,000; 50,000; 33,333; 25,000 and 20,000 plants ha−1 for forage cactus and 200,000 plants ha−1 for sorghum) in east–west and north–south orientations, respectively; and the fourth experiment consisted of different planting densities for the cactus and sorghum (50,000; 40,000; 33,333; and 28,571 plants ha−1 and 200,000; 160,000; 133,333; and 114,285 plants ha−1, respectively). The maximum values of the dry matter accumulation rate were observed in the cultivation configurations that contained the OEM clone and at the highest densities. The different cultivation configurations affected the duration and number of phenophases. The cutting time increases as the planting density increases (50,000 and 100,000 plants ha−1) and when the OEM clone is used.

Influence of the Light Spectral Composition on Photosynthetic, Electro- and Morphophysiological Indicators of Small Radish in Conditions of Light Culture

Influence of the Light Spectral Composition on Photosynthetic, Electro- and Morphophysiological Indicators of Small Radish in Conditions of Light Culture

Изменение содержания тяжелых металлов в печени Perca fluviatilis

An assessment of the impact of emissions from the activities of coal mines on the morphology and physiology of perch (Perca fluviatilis) of the Bolshoe and Stolbovoye lakes of the Sorokaozerki tract in the Altai region of the Republic of Khakassia was carried out. Common perch, along with silver carp, are the predominant species in most fishing lakes of Khakassia. The catch of fish was carried out in 2019, 2021 and 2022, the absence of common perch in the catches of 2022 led to the need to analyze this phenomenon. 20 specimens from each reservoir were examined. The regularities of the correlative growth of their internal organs of fish were taken into account, since the living conditions of animals closely correlate with some of their morphological features. Morphophysiological indicators were studied, namely the liver index of perch (Perca fluviatilis), a comparison of this indicator by age and time of capture was carried out. The average index for each age group was calculated taking into account the arithmetic mean error. It was found that the value of the liver index tends to increase over the period from 2019 to 2021 for all age groups, which may indicate the problem of accumulation of heavy metals in the liver. Samples of the liver of the common perch were examined for the content of heavy metals (Pb, Cd, Zn, Cu, Fe, Co, Mn, etc.). The content of lead, arsenic, mercury in the liver of fish does not exceed the MPC. For individual metals (zinc, copper, chromium, iron), there is a large significant excess of MPC: 82% zinc, up to 40% copper, more than 90% chromium, exceeding the MPC of iron by more than 2.4 times.

Drought resistance and index screening of domestic selection oat varieties

The determination of drought-resistant oat varieties is based on the selection of identification indicators and the creation of a comprehensive assessment system that effectively identifies the most promising genotypes for breeding work. During three-year model experiments, 40 varieties of oats of Russian breeding were studied by measuring morphophysiological indicators and calculating the corresponding indices under stress caused by soil drought during tillering and flowering. The research was carried out in an unheated summer-type greenhouse located on the territory of the Research Institute of Agriculture of the Northern Trans-Urals. As a control, the same varieties that grew with regular watering and did not experience moisture deficiency were used. Plant height and crop structure elements were studied. The values of the protein content in the leaves, the chlorophyll index, the relative water content in the leaves and the membrane stability index were determined. It is established that the use of each indicator separately as a criterion of drought resistance does not make it possible to fully assess the drought resistance of oats. Assessment of genotypes by indices of susceptibility to drought (DSI) and tolerance to it (DTI) allows us to identify groups of drought-resistant varieties of oats and assess the degree of influence of soil drought on the elements of the crop structure. In the course of research, it was found that the varieties Privet, Peredovik, Sig, Faust, Novosibirsk 5, Barguzin, Assol are resistant to soil droughts during tillering and flowering. Their DSI was less than 0.83 and 0.78 units. accordingly. Such varieties as CROSS, Vilensky and Horizont also had high resistance to drought during tillering. The drought in the later period led to very severe stress, which negatively affected their productivity. The group of genotypes most susceptible to drought was: Dedal, Narymsky 943, Pesec, Lgovsky, Tigrovy, Express, Tayoschnik, Bulany, Borec and Desant. Their drought susceptibility index was more than 1.2 units.

MORPHOLOGICAL INDICATORS OF THE NARROW-CRUSTED VOLE OF THE ANTHROPOGENIC TERRITORY OF NORTH-EASTERN KAZAKHSTAN

This study delves into the intricate relationships between ecological factors, adaptation, and the effects of anthropogenic activities on small mammals in the Northeastern region of Kazakhstan. External traits, including body mass, length, tail length, ear height, and hind foot length, provide valuable insights into adaptive adjustments in response to various climatic and ecological conditions. Industrial areas reveal a reduction in average body mass, attributed to patchy vegetation and proximity to factories and roads. Size variations are closely tied to food availability, with a reduction in body size and growth rates observed in technogenic zones. Tail sizes differ by age and sex, while foot sizes tend to even out as animals mature. Notably, anthropogenic pollution has minimal impact on ear length. The heart index reflects an individual’s mobility and thermoregulation, while the liver index is influenced by food availability and energy resources. Notably, the analysis extends beyond average differences, considering the range of variability to identify increased diversity, even in ecologically challenging areas. Small mammals exhibit a high metabolic rate and limited physiological stress adaptability, yet the population demonstrates remarkable adaptation. Enlarged heart indices suggest increased locomotor activity associated with overcoming anthropogenic barriers, such as railways and highways. In addition to heart indices, liver mass calculations reflect the accumulation of energy reserves and materials for growth. The study highlights that the liver mass index of field mice in industrial zones exceeds that of the control group, indicating the impact of anthropogenic activities on these organisms. This research provides valuable insights into the intricate relationships between ecological factors, adaptation, and human influence on small mammal populations in the Northeastern region of Kazakhstan. Keywords: small mammals, narrow-crusted vole, morphophysiological indicators method, exterior signs, interior signs.

Morphophysiological indicators applied for the selection of different genotypes of Hevea spp. during germination and post-germination

We investigate and characterize the morphophysiological changes related to germination and the initial growth and development of seedlings of wild and cultivated genotypes of the genus Hevea spp. in finding to add value to new clones. Seeds from six genotypes ( H. brasiliensis (Willd. Ex A. Juss) Müll. Arg, H. guianensis Aubl., H. spruceana (Benth.) Müll. Arg., RRIM 600, Fx 3844, and IAN 873) were sterilized, and their imbibition curve, germination parameters, and initial seedling growth were characterized. In parallel, the morphology of the germination and post-germination stages was monitored from seeds germinated in washed sand. Morphological differences in the seeds/embryos, different strategies in the imbibition process, emergence, and initial seedling growth were observed. The species H. guianensis and H. spruceana showed the greatest differences in size, shape, and color of the seeds/embryos and initial seedling growth. The characteristics of the seed coat patterns, the seedling imbibition, growth, and development processes can serve as morphophysiological markers for genotype identification and selection. This is the first morphophysiological study of seeds and seedlings of wild and cultivated genotypes of species of the genus Hevea. We conclude that there is considerable phenotypic variability among species of the Hevea genus regarding seed and seedling morphophysiology, which can be explored in the rubber tree breeding programs.

Improving Morpho-Physiological Indicators, Yield, and Water Productivity of Wheat through an Optimal Combination of Mulching and Planting Patterns in Arid Farming Systems

Mulching practices (M), which conserve soil water and improve water productivity (WP), are receiving increasing attention worldwide However, so far, little attention has been given to investigating the effects of the integrations of mulching and planting patterns (IMPPs) on spring wheat performance under arid regions conditions. A two-year field study was conducted to compare the effects of eight IMPPs on growth parameters at 80 and 100 days after sowing (DAS), growth indicators, physiological attributes, grain yield (GY), and WP of wheat under adequate (1.00 ET) and limited (0.50 ET) irrigation conditions. The IMPPs included three planting patterns (PPs), that is, flat (F), raised-bed (RB), and ridge–furrow (RF), in combination with three M, that is, no-mulch (NM), plastic film mulch (PFM), and crop residues mulch (CRM). The results indicated that PPs mulched with PFM and CRM significantly increased growth indicators, different growth parameters, physiological attributes, GY, and WP by 6.9–39.3%, 8.2–29.2%, 5.2–24.9%, 9.9, and 11.2%, respectively, compared to non-mulched PPs. The F and RB patterns mulched with CRM were more effective in improving growth parameters at 100 DAS (2.7–13.6%), physiological attributes (0.2–20.0%), GY, and WP (9.7%) than were the F and RB patterns mulched with PFM under 1.00 ET, while the opposite was true under 0.50 ET conditions. Although the RFPFM failed to compete with other IMPPs under 1.00 ET, the values of different parameters in this PP were comparable to those in F and RB patterns mulched with PFM, and were 1.3–24.5% higher than those in F and RB patterns mulched with CRM under 0.50 ET conditions. Although the RFNM did not use mulch, the values of different parameters for this PP were significantly higher than those of F and RB patterns without mulch. Irrespective of irrigation treatments, the heatmap analysis based on different stress tolerance indices identified the different PPs mulched with PFM as the best IMPPs for the optimal performance of wheat under arid conditions, followed by PPs mulched with CRM. The different growth indicators exhibited second-order and strong relationships with GY (R2 = 0.78 to 0.85) and moderate relationships with WP (R2 = 0.59 to 0.79). Collectively, we concluded that using PPs mulched with CRM is the recommended practice for achieving good performance and production for wheat under adequate irrigation, whereas using PPS mulched with PFM is recommended as a viable management option for sustainable production of wheat and improving WP under limited irrigation in arid countries.

Effect of Chloride Salinization on Barley Seedlings

The influence of moderate and strong chloride salinity on seedlings of barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) Nur variety was studied under controlled environment conditions. Exposure of seedlings to both moderate (100 mM) and high concentrations (200 mM) of NaCl for 7 days led to a slowdown in the growth of their roots and shoots. At the same time, in the variant using NaCl in moderate concentration, an increase in the content of pigments was noted in the leaves of seedlings (chlorophylls and carotenoids by 25 and 22%, respectively). Also the photosynthesis rate decreased by 25% (relative to the control). In contrast, under the influence of a high concentration of NaCl, the content of pigments, as well as stomatal conductance, decreased markedly, which was accompanied by an almost twofold slowdown in the rate of photosynthesis. At the same time, transpiration was inhibited and tissue hydration decreased. It was concluded that the resistance of barley to NaCl can be judged already in the early phases of plant development. It is also noted that the most sensitive to the presence of NaCl in the root environment are easily recorded morpho-physiological indicators – the linear size of the shoot and its raw biomass.

Long-term variations in nutritional condition of Panulirus argus (Decapoda: Palinuridae) in Cuba: analytical and morphological approaches

Nutritional condition indices have been frequently used as morphophysiological indicators to study variations on lobster's physiology and energy reserves. This study was aimed to determine long-term spatio-temporal variations in nutritional conditions of Panulirus argus (hereinafter – lobster), considering two indices, namely the analytic Blood Refractive Index (BRI) and the morphometric Kcl (total weight / carapace length relationship). Information from eleven sites in the Caibarién region, sampled in 2010–2015, and twelve sites in the Batabanó region, sampled in 2011–2017, were named as the Current Period. Morphometric data for Kcl estimation, including 1987–1988 in the Caibarién region, and 1981–1993 in the Batabanó region, were grouped as the Past Period. Temporary variations were determined comparing Past and Current periods at each region. Spatial variations were determined by comparing the data between the two regions. For analysed lobsters in the Current period, we determined BRI = 14.3, Kcl = 7.0 in the Caibarién region, and BRI = 15.2. Kcl = 7.0 in the Batabanó region. For the Past period, the Kcl value was 5.8 and 6.3 in the Caibarién and Batabanó region, respectively. Both Kcl and BRI indices were higher for male individuals. This could be associated with the reproductive process, and intrinsic morphometric differences between sexes could influence though. Morphometric parameters were higher for the Current Period. Spatial variations of morphometric parameters were significantly different for the Past Period, which were attributed to different environmental conditions in each region. The BRI index was higher in the Batabanó region, which was possibly associated with the better status of the benthic communities and the better water quality. Present results contribute to understanding lobster's nutritional condition in natural habitats, mainly in the Caibarién region, where few studies have been carried out to date.

Assessment of morphophysiological indicators of sturgeon breeders

Studies were conducted to assess the morphophysiological indicators of sturgeon breeders in the conditions of the cage complex. It was found that a common feature for first–time mature beluga females raised in artificial conditions are relatively low values of eggs’ fertilization — 65,3±1,3%, with the number of eggs in 1 g — 46,0 pieces, in contrast to domesticated females where the indicators of eggs’ fertilization were higher by 27,1%. The yield of eggs from the body weight of domesticated beluga females was 2 times higher, unlike females raised on the principle of “from eggs to eggs”. It was noted that for beluga females raised in artificial conditions, the hemoglobin concentration values were 15,7% higher, in contrast to the indicators obtained from domesticated females. It was found that for beluga females raised in artificial conditions, the total protein indicators were 1,4 times higher. For domesticated Russian sturgeon females, there is a tendency for higher indicators of working fertility, for which significant differences were obtained (p < 0.05). In Russian sturgeon females raised in industrial conditions, hemoglobin concentration indicators were higher by 14,5%, unlike adapted females, as a result, a similar trend is observed as with beluga females, it was found that for more productive fish, hemoglobin is lower, but within the reference values. The cholesterol level in the blood of domesticated and industrially raised Russian sturgeon females was slightly higher than the physiological norm. According to the statistical processing of the data obtained, the best indicators of total protein and glucose were noted for females raised in artificial conditions, however, these indicators of domesticated females were not critically low and were within the reference values.

Debaryomyces hansenii CBS 8339 promotes larval development in Seriola rivoliana

The present study aimed to know the effect of the administration of Debaryomyces hansenii yeast on growth, development and skeletal deformities, through the quantification of molecular and morphophysiological indicators in longfin yellowtail larvae. Larvae from the yeast group were fed with the rotifers and Artemia metanaupli half enriched with D. hansenii (50% of live prey) and half enriched with Origreen® (50% of live prey) and were compared to control (100% Origreen®) from 5 to 30 days post-hatching (DPH). Each treatment had two methodological replicates. Studies on bone mineralization, skeletal deformities, intestinal histological analysis, digestive enzyme activity, differential gene expression (RT-qPCR) and transcriptome analysis (RNA-Seq) were performed in whole larvae. Results showed that larvae fed D. hansenii encapsulated within enriched live preys had higher survival and growth, higher intestinal mucin secretion, as well as higher activity of alkaline phosphatase, pepsin and α-amylase. The degree of bone mineralization in the cranial and caudal fin complex was higher in larvae fed D. hansenii and a lower incidence of deformities at the vertebral column was also observed. In general, the gene expression throughout the development fluctuated between the control group and the yeast treatment; however, at 30 DPH, a higher expression of the bone morphogenetic protein type 2 (bmp2), collagen type 1α1 (col1α1) and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (pcna) genes was detected in larvae fed with yeast. The transcriptomic analyses using RNA-Seq revealed that the main genes related to bone mineralization degree and digestive tract maturation, were overrepresented in the D. hansenii treatment, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (3) 24-hydroxylase (cyp24), cytochrome P450 family 27 subfamily A (cyp27a), protein 5 related to the low-density lipoprotein receptor (lrp5), myocyte-specific enhancing factor 2C (mef2), enterokinase (entk), pepsin and alkaline phosphatase. Based on the results, S. rivoliana larvae supplemented with the yeast D. hansenii presented higher growth and survival, a higher degree of maturation of the digestive tract, a higher degree of bone mineralization and a reduction in skeletal deformities, for which the continuous use of yeast is recommended as a food supplement to larvae from 5 days post-hatching onwards.

Morphophysiological indicators of the glyphosate action on Brazilian savanna plants: a multivariate analysis

Morphophysiological indicators of the glyphosate action on Brazilian savanna plants: a multivariate analysis

Исследование морфофизиологических показателей ремонтной группы белуги, культивируемой в искусственных условиях среды

The sturgeon fish populations in the main reservoirs of the country are in a crisis. Efficiency of natural reproduction of these fish species is extremely low and currently the replenishment of populations is mainly achieved due to artificial breeding. Beluga, one of the sturgeon fish species living in the Caspian basin, is classified as endangered, being in particularly difficult circumstances. Over the past hundred years its abundance has undergone fluctuations due to the natural and anthropogenic factors. Due to the sharp reduction in the volume of artificial reproduction by fish hatcheries of the Lower Volga and the threat of species extinction there was carried out the research of the quality of beluga juveniles of different ages cultivated in artificial environment. Morphophysiological parameters of beluga juveniles of different ages cultivated in cages and ponds are investigated. The concentration of hemoglobin in the studied groups ranged from 56.3 to 70.3 mg/l (the data were within the reference values), which indicates an increased level of metabolism. Low values of the erythrocyte sedimentation rate in different growing conditions (from 4.5 – 6.4 mm/h) were noted, which indicates the absence of inflammatory or pathological processes in the body of hydrobionts. Concentration of total whey protein in the studied groups was also within the physiological norm. As a result of the studies, it can be concluded that such parameters as total protein, cholesterol, glucose and β-lipoproteins are not affected by age, but mainly depend on fish nutrition. The obtained analysis of sturgeon morphophysiological indicators (grown in different conditions) complements the missing information for monitoring the physiological state of these valuable representatives of aquaculture, adjusting biological standards of cultivation and the technological processes in the ponds and industrial complexes.

Morphophysiological features of producers of carp cultivated in the pond of the UOKH KSTU

The purpose of this study was to study morphophysiological signs in fish from the brood stock of carp grown in the educational and experimental farm of KSTU. The object of the study was fish from the senior repair group entering the breeding stock for the first time. The research was carried out during the spring fishing of winter repair ponds. Clinically healthy individuals with no abnormalities in the development of the body, fins and head were selected for the representativeness of the studies. Morphophysiological indicators of fish were evaluated using the method of morphophysiological indicators. After determining the exterior and meristic features of the fish, they were opened, determining the mass of internal organs and the length of the intestine. Based on these studies, the indices of internal organs and intestines were calculated according to standard methods. The value of the index of intestinal length in female carp averaged 158.77, and in males 198.75%. The ratio of the anterior part of the swim bladder to the posterior is 1.13 in females, and 1.12 in males. The study of organ indices showed that for females the spleen index was 0.76, for males 0.75%; the gill index was 4.34% for females, 4.13% for males; the liver index is 4.76 and 3.05%, respectively. The gonadosomatic index (GSI) for female carp averaged 50.32%, for males 26.59%. Thus, when analyzing morphophysiological indicators in the first-time spawning males and females of carp, it was found that in terms of the index of intestinal length and the relative length of the intestine, as well as the ratio of the chambers of the swim bladder, the producers of carp grown at the KSTU g are close to “wild” carp or carp. This is probably the result of the specific growing conditions at this enterprise. All values of other morphophysiological indicators in the studied carp producers can be considered satisfactory.

The Influence of Urbanization on Mammal Diversity and their Population Patterns: A Case Study of Tashkent, Uzbekistan

Abstract The article provides a survey of the mammalian fauna and ecology in different habitats across the city of Tashkent that vary in the degree of urbanization. The current mammalian fauna of Tashkent is represented by 32 species; during the city’s development, 9 species have disappeared from the place, either through an anthropogenic impact or having been forced out by alien species. The urban mammalian fauna has increased through arrival of five new invasive species. With the ongoing urbanization, the species diversity of small-sized mammals is decreasing, while their numbers are growing, resulting in simplification of the structure of small mammals’ urban communities and lowering of their biodiversity. The urbanization does not impact the age and sex structure of the house mouse population noticeably. The urban population shows a productivity 1.7 times higher than the wild populations, which is a compensatory response to the relatively high embryonic mortality that is almost totally absent in natural populations. Differences in the morphophysiological indicators of the house mouse synanthropic population and those of populations in the wild are an adaptive response to anthropogenic impact, which appears in the form of more rapid growth, a higher metabolism, exchange of energies, and overall stress load on the rodents in urban biocoenoses. The study showed that the skulls of urban animals grow more rapidly than those of wild mice, while their proportions change following the development pattern of juvenile mice, which suggests that individuals from the Tashkent population can be referred to as rapidly growing animals, with outdoor individuals showing greater relative cranial parameters.

Salt stress responses and SNP-based phylogenetic analysis of Thai rice cultivars.

Genetic diversity is important for developing salt-tolerant rice (Oryza sativa L.) cultivars. Certain Thai rice accessions display salt tolerance at the adult or reproductive stage, but their response to salinity at the seedling stage is unknown. In this study, a total of 10 rice cultivars/line, including eight Thai cultivars and standard salt-tolerant cultivar and susceptible line, were screened using a hydroponic system to identify salt-tolerant genotypes at the seedling stage. Different morphophysiological indicators were used to classify tolerant and susceptible genotypes. Phylogenetic analyses were performed to determine the evolutionary relationships between the cultivars. Results showed that 'Lai Mahk', 'Jao Khao', 'Luang Pratahn', and 'Ma Gawk' exhibited salt stress tolerance comparable with the standard salt-tolerance check 'Pokkali'. Whole-exome single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)-based phylogenetic analysis showed that the Thai rice cultivars were monophyletic and distantly related to Pokkali and IR29. Lai Mahk and Luang Pratahn were found closely related when using the whole-exome SNPs for the analysis. This is also the case for the analysis of SNPs from 164 salt-tolerance genes and transcription regulatory genes. The tolerant cultivars shared the same haplotype for 16 genes. Overall, the findings of this study identified four salt-stress-tolerant Thai rice cultivars, which could be used in rice breeding programs for salinity tolerance.