Species Distribution Patterns Research Articles

Species delimitation and phylogenetic relationships of the Prionospio complex (Annelida, Spionidae) in the Northeast Atlantic

AbstractThe Prionospio complex comprises the most diverse and complex group within the polychaete family Spionidae. The phylogenetic relationships within the group are still poorly understood, and the generic breakdown is unstable. In this study, we assessed the diversity, relationships, and distribution of species of the Prionospio complex occurring in Norwegian waters. We analysed mitochondrial genomes and nuclear ribosomal DNA assembled via whole‐genome shotgun sequencing, and Sanger sequenced fragments of COI and 16S rDNA. Sanger sequencing proved challenging in the group, where COI was only amplified successfully in 14% of specimens. By molecular species delimitation algorithms, our study revealed the presence of four well‐supported but currently undescribed species of Prionospio in Norwegian waters. We observed a novel distribution pattern of polychaetes in coastal waters, where certain species demonstrated distribution ranges spanning over 7000 km. Such wide distribution parallels patterns of deep‐sea Prionospio species, suggesting that factors beyond recent anthropogenic translocations are involved. Our analysis of 38 mitochondrial genomes and ribosomal nuclear DNA enabled us to hypothesise on the phylogenetic relationships of 14 species of the Prionospio complex. The analysis suggested that two characters previously used to designate genera: the beginning of the branchiae from chaetiger 3 and the presence of pinnules on the branchiae, might have evolved more than one time within the complex. We return Aurospio banyulensis to the genus Prionospio according to the diagnosis of Aurospio resulting tree where this species was nested among Prionospio species. Our findings provide new insights into the diversity and distribution patterns of Prionospio species and contribute to a better understanding of marine benthic biodiversity and the importance of taxonomic accuracy in conservation and management practices.

Distribution and Regeneration Status of Albizia gummifera and Prunus africana along Agroecology in Agroforestry: The Case of Gombora District, Southern Ethiopia

Empirical evidence on the patterns of the multipurpose trees distribution and regeneration status, which are under threats pressure is necessary for the proper management and conservation of the species. Prunus africana is listed as vulnerable while Albizia gummifera is listed as least concern amongst the multipurpose trees. This study was aimed to investigate the distribution, abundance, density, and regeneration status of Prunus africana and Albizia gummifera along agroecology and farmers’ wealth status in agroforestry. Stratification sampling and equal sampling techniques were employed. A total of 162 quadrats were laid within the randomly selected 54 households’ farms. A nested quadrat size was 20 m × 20 m for enset tree-based homegarden and parklands. For live fencing, a quadrat size was 4 m × 10 m. Abundance, diameter (cm), height (m), and growth habits of both trees were recorded. Density (stems per ha), diameter class (cm), height (m) class of both trees, and mean of growth habit were analyzed and considered. One-way ANOVA analysis and independent t-test were employed for means comparison by using SPSS V. 23.0. A total of 132 individual A. gummifera was recorded along agroecology while a total of 55 individual P. africana was recorded along agroecology. Mean density (stem/ha) of A. gummifera and P. africana showed significant difference between agroecology and farmers’ wealth groups (P<0.05). A. gummifera and P. africana were sparsely distributed in the enset tree-based homegarden, parklands, and live fencing along agroecology. The overall diameter (cm) class and height (m) class distribution pattern of these tree species were observed as a J-shaped curve. The regeneration status of A. gummifera and P. africana was poor. In conclusion, distribution, abundance, and regeneration status of A. gummifera and P. africana were influenced by agroecology and farmers’ wealth status needing appropriate conservation measures.

A Preliminary Survey on Geospatial Distribution of Aedes albopictusand Aedes aegyptiMosquitoes Found in Different Urban and Rural Locationsof Southern West Bengal, India

Aedes mosquitoes are globally known to transmit various arboviral diseases including Dengue fever. Historically considered an urban disease, Dengue fever has been reported in rural areas of different countries also. Two important species, Aedes aegypti, and Aedes albopictus, are rapidly spreading and invading new locations in India and risking human health more frequently each year. Since vector control has been proven to be the most effective measure to prevent such disease, knowing the vectors more, would help design successful methods to fight against the disease. In this survey, a cross-sectional inspection was conducted to look for the existence of Aedes spp. at 420 locations including urban and rural areas of 15 districts in Southern West Bengal, India, Morphological identification of collected specimens, comparative analyses of vector distribution and their breeding habitats, between districts, rural and urban locations as well as between different physiographic regions in this area were performed. The study revealed that sixty-four percent of the urban locations inspected and 22% of the rural locations inspected were positive for Aedes spp. Despite the region’s physiographic, climatic, and anthropogenic diversity, the districts shared a similar pattern of species distribution - A. albopictus was found in both rural and urban locations of all the districts while A. aegypti was observed in only urban locations of thirteen districts. In some locations, both species were found to be co-existing in the same habitat containers. Mean larval density and mean container index were both higher in urban habitats than in rural areas though few rural locations showed significantly high density of larval population. The current findings of this survey thus provide a comprehensive picture of Aedes distribution in the said area and may in turn act as a foundation for more effective surveillance to characterize these vectors and to identify potential dengue outbreak hotspots in Southern West Bengal.

Analysis of the Spatial Distribution of Leguminosae Species in the State of Maranhão, Brazil

Thousands of plant species are described in the planet. However, little is known about how these organisms are distributed, which is worrying, as species distribution data provide support for the development of conservation strategies. This study aimed to analyze the pattern of distribution of collections of Leguminosae species in Maranhão, determining the priority areas for collection and conservation of species. A database of Leguminosae from Maranhão was built with geo-referencing and taxonomic corrections. Then, the distribution pattern of species, collections and areas of endemism was analyzed, pointing out the main vectors of spatial pressure on this family. The South, East and fragments of the North region of Maranhão had the higher number of collections and species. The Gurupi, North and South regions of Maranhão are suggested as priority for conservation actions because they have high rates of endemism and are subjected to anthropogenic actions, and the domain Cerrado is suggested as priority due to the accelerated advance of agribusiness. This research is relevant to the knowledge of the flora of Maranhão, as it is the first to assess the distribution of Leguminosae collections in the state and suggest key areas for conservation.

Distribution Pattern of Avian Species in Sultanpur National Park, Haryana, India with Special Reference to Residential and Migratory

From September 2021 to March 2023, we embarked on a journey to document the avian wealth of Sultanpur National Park in Haryana, India. Our survey revealed a stunning tapestry of 105 bird species, representing 16 orders and 40 families. While 108 species held Least Concern status, two precious residents, the Saras Crane (Grus antigone) and White-necked Stork (Ciconia episcopus), teetered on the edge of vulnerability, facing mounting threats. The Indian Silverbill, Scaly-breasted Munia, Plain Martin, Wire-Tailled Swallow, and Bay-backed Shrike joined their ranks, listed as vulnerable in the IUCN Red Data Book. Our research suggests that Sultanpur National Park holds the potential to become a haven for these at-risk species. With dedicated efforts to ensure year-round water availability and the strategic planting of native trees like Ficus religiosa, Ficus bengalensis, Azadirachta indica, Acasia nilotica, and Mangifera indica, we can create a sanctuary for Painted Storks, White-necked Storks, and Black-necked Storks. Additional platforms could further encourage the proliferation of Saras Cranes and White-necked Storks, giving them the perfect stage to raise their young.
 This study serves as a call to action, both for the public and the state government to up their game in the area of conservation of wildlife species. By understanding the park's rich avian tapestry and the dangers it faces, we can mobilize support for its conservation. Protecting Sultanpur National Park and its irreplaceable birdlife is not just a responsibility, but a privilege. Let us join hands to ensure the skies above this national treasure remain forever filled with the songs and wings of its feathered residents.

OccupancyTuts: Occupancy modelling tutorials with RPresence

Abstract The occupancy modelling framework offers tremendous flexibility in estimating species abundance and distribution patterns while accounting for imperfect detection, and has seen rapid growth and adoption since its introduction at the beginning of the century. At the same time, in an era of big data, there are increasing demands on developing quantitative skills and proficiency in young ecologists, many of whom lack the quantitative training needed to conduct research professionally. We introduce occupancyTuts, an R package that features 28 learnr tutorials that teach the statistical underpinnings of several occupancy models. The tutorials include written content, instructional videos, R exercises, and quiz elements, covering a range of topics including statistical underpinnings, single‐ and dynamic‐occupancy models, study design and several of the ‘spin‐off’ models that extend the basic framework. We plan for development of new tutorials that use RPresence as the analysis engine, and welcome new tutorial contributions that use other R packages as the analysis engine as well.

The distribution and conservation of areas with microendemic species in a biodiversity hotspot: a multi-taxa approach.

Microendemic species are species with very small geographic distributions (ranges). Their presence delimitates areas with microendemic species (AMs), denoting a spatial unit comprising at least one population of at least one microendemic species. AMs are assumed to be distributed distinctively and associated with specific ecological, historical, and anthropogenic attributes. However, the level of influence of these factors remains unclear. Thus, we studied the distribution patterns of microendemic species within the Brazilian Atlantic Forest to (a) identify the region's AMs; (b) evaluate whether ecological (latitude, altitude, distance from the coastline), historical (climate stability), and anthropogenic (ecological integrity) attributes distinguish AMs from non-AMs; and (c) assess the conservation status of the Atlantic Forest's AMs. We mapped the ranges of 1,362 microendemic species of angiosperms, freshwater fishes, and terrestrial vertebrates (snakes, passerine birds, and small mammals) to identify the region's AMs. Further, spatial autoregressive logit regression models were used to evaluate whether latitude, altitude, distance from the coastline, Climate Stability Index, and ecological integrity can be used to discern AMs from non-AMs. Moreover, the AMs' conservation status was assessed by evaluating the region's ecological integrity and conservation efforts (measured as the proportion of AMs in protected areas). We identified 261 AMs for angiosperm, 205 AMs for freshwater fishes, and 102 AMs for terrestrial vertebrates in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest, totaling 474 AMs covering 23.8% of the region. The Brazilian Atlantic Forest is a large and complex biogeographic mosaic where AMs represent islands or archipelagoes surrounded by transition areas with no microendemic species. All local attributes help to distinguish AMs from non-AMs, but their impacts vary across taxonomic groups. Around 69% of AMs have low ecological integrity and poor conservation efforts, indicating that most microendemic species are under threat. This study provides insights into the biogeography of one of the most important global biodiversity hotspots, creating a foundation for comparative studies using other tropical forest regions.

Species distribution and antifungal susceptibility profiles of clinical and environmental Fusarium isolates from Mexico: A multicenter study

ABSTRACT Fusarium spp. has emerged as an opportunistic etiological agent with clinical manifestations varying from localized infections to deep-seated systemic disease. It is also a phytopathogen of economic impact. There are few reports on the species diversity of this genus, and no comprehensive studies on the epidemiology nor the antifungal susceptibility of Fusarium in Mexico. The present multicentric study aims to shed light on the species distribution and antifungal susceptibility patterns of 116 strains of Fusarium isolated from clinical and environmental samples. Isolates were identified by standard phenotypic characteristics and by sequencing of the ITS (internal transcribed spacer), TEF1 (translation elongation factor 1-α), RPB2 (RNA polymerase II core subunit), and/or CAM1 (calmodulin) regions. Susceptibility tests were carried out against 15 antifungals of clinical and agricultural use. Regarding Fusarium distribution, we identified 27 species belonging to eight different species complexes. The most frequently isolated species for both clinical and environmental samples were F. falciforme (34%), F. oxysporum sensu stricto (12%), F. keratoplasticum (8%), and F. solani sensu stricto (8%). All Fusarium isolates showed minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) equal to or above the maximum concentration evaluated for fluconazole, 5-fluocytosine, caspofungin, micafungin, and anidulafungin. All isolates had a MIC of ≤16 µg/mL for voriconazole, with a mode of 4 µg/mL. F. verticillioides appeared to be the most susceptible to all antifungals tested.

Functional traits and phylogeny jointly regulate the effects of environmental filtering and dispersal limitation on species spatial distribution

IntroductionRevealing the spatial distribution pattern and formation mechanism of species in a community can provide important clues for community renewal, succession, and diversity maintenance mechanisms.MethodsIn this study, we employed spatial point process modeling to identify and quantify the processes contributing to the spatial distribution of species. Simultaneously, we explored the relationship between functional traits and species spatial distribution characteristics in conjunction with phylogenetic studies.ResultsThe results revealed that the LGCP model effectively described all species, indicating that the spatial pattern of species may be influenced by a combination of environmental filtering and dispersal limitation. Disparities in species spatial distribution were elucidated by characterizing functional traits, such as body size and resource conservation. Incorporating phylogenetic information enhanced the predictive capacity of functional traits in explaining species spatial distribution.DiscussionThis study underscores the significance of the joint effects of environmental filtering and dispersal limitation in generating species spatial distribution patterns. Integrating spatial point process models with considerations of functional traits and phylogeny proves to be an effective approach for comprehending the mechanisms governing species combinations.

Ecological status and spatial extent of non-native shrubs Lantana camara L. and Ageratina adenophora Sprengel in the forest communities of western Himalaya

This research elucidates the ecological status and spatial extent of two non-native invasive species, Lantana camara L. and Ageratina adenophorum Sprengel, within dominant forest communities across an altitude gradient in the western Himalayan region. The study, conducted from 2017 to 2019 in the Nainital district of Kumaun Himalaya, focused on four forest communities; Sal, Chir-pine, Banj-oak, and Mixed-oak, spanning an altitudinal range from 300 to 2250 meters. Environmental predictors encompassing topographic, physiographic, and climatic factors, along with species occurrence records, were employed to determine spatial extent. The MaxEnt statistical model, a machine learning algorithm, facilitated the assessment of the spatial distribution of invasives. Results indicate that L. camara has invaded Sal, Chir-pine, and Banj oak forests but has not established in high-elevation mixed-oak stands. Conversely, A. adenophora has invaded Chir-pine, Banj-oak, and Mixed-oak stands but has not been observed in low-altitude Sal forests. No significant variation in species number, diversity, or distribution pattern along the elevation gradient was observed for either species. Spatial assessment using MaxEnt revealed an estimated area of 380 km² for A. adenophora and 285 km² for L. camara. The study highlights the mid-altitude zone as the most vulnerable to species invasion. This scientific inquiry contributes valuable insights for the conservation of non-native shrubs, offering guidance for effective, species-specific conservation and management strategies in the Himalayan region.

Anomaly Detection in Species Distribution Patterns: A Spatio-Temporal Approach for Biodiversity Conservation

Monitoring and maintaining biodiversity are crucial for the ecological balance and overall health of ecosystems. Detecting anomalies in species distribution patterns is essential for identifying areas of concern and implementing timely conservation measures. This paper introduces an approach to detect anomalies in spatiotemporal species activity data by integrating time series analysis, machine learning techniques, and spatial statistics. Our method identifies distribution patterns of various species and groups regions with similar patterns, enabling the segmentation of the study area into distinct categories. Within these categorized regions, we apply a combination of clustering algorithms and outlier detection techniques to pinpoint anomalous behaviors in species distribution. In order to confirm the reliability of our findings, we cross-reference them with verified data acquired through field observations or other credible data sources. These corroborations indicate that anomalies are frequently indicative of sudden variations in species numbers or unexpected alterations in spatial distribution at certain places and times. To gain a more robust understanding of how species are distributed, we curate a data set that excludes these anomalous observations and use it to develop a predictive algorithm. Our analysis shows that a predictive model trained on this refined, anomaly-free dataset achieves a lower normalized mean square error (NMSE), which suggests a higher level of predictive accuracy as compared to a model trained on data containing anomalies. Utilizing this methodology can facilitate the creation of effective conservation plans and contribute to more sustainable ecosystem management.

A Mini Review on Diversity and Distribution of Ixodidae Tick among Cattle and Wild Fauna of West Bengal Region, India

Indian subtropical climates provide a suitable niche for the diversity of Ixodidae ticks on various host. Very limited taxonomic information exists in literature about the diversity and distribution of tick both within and outside of West Bengal. In the current review, species and hosts diversity and geographical distribution of ticks present in the state have been reviewed based on taxonomic data in the literature from 1926-2022. More than 109 tick species were recorded in India, among which 88 genera belongs to the Ixodidae group. West Bengal's hot and humid environment makes it a hotspot for tick diversity, accounting for 30% of the overall Indian tick fauna. According to this study, 9 genera and 32 species were detected in West Bengal, with Rhipicephalus sp. being the most infectious in cattle, followed by Hyalomma and Haemaphysalis species. While, Haemaphysalis with 13 species is the most diverse genus reported in West Bengal, the most prevalent species detected in all seventeen districts were H. bispinosa and Boophilus microplus. To understand the variety and distribution pattern of tick species, the study reveals their presence and infestation in different classes and orders of their conspecific host.

Impact of water supply on the restoration of the severely damaged riparian plants along the Tarim River in Xinjiang, Northwest China

Restoring degraded ecosystems in drylands is challenging because of low precipitation and high evapotranspiration. Water availability determines the existence and spatiotemporal distribution patterns of key endangered species struggling to survive in the severely damaged desert riparian ecosystem of the lower Tarim River (LTR) in NW China. Ecological water flow restoration measures with high costs and uncertainties have been implemented since 2000. The key task for scientists is to assess the success and drawbacks of this restoration project and propose specific recommendations for stakeholders to optimize the ecological benefits of the project in a cost-effective manner. In this study, Landsat time-series data from 1990 to 2020 were used to extract vegetation index values from river corridors along the LTR and explore the spatiotemporal patterns of desert riparian forest (DRF) vegetation. Based on land use and surface water data, we extracted the interannual spatial distribution range of vegetation and surface water, and selected several sample plots to demonstrate the influence of surface water and groundwater on vegetation change trends. The study results showed the following. 1) From 1990 to 1999, the vegetation slowly degraded; from 2000 to 2012, the extent of vegetation restoration was approximately 1 km from the river; and from 2013 to 2020, the extent of vegetation restoration at the Yingsu and Karday sections increased to 4.5–6.0 km, while that at the Arghan and Yiganbujima sections remained within 1 km from the river. 2) The vegetation growth rate increased substantially and was spatially heterogeneous when the groundwater level reached 4.0–5.0 m and was influenced by surface water divergence; the average vegetation expansion rates per square km for P1–P4 were 0.017 km2/a, 0.011 km2/a, 0.005 km2/a, and 0.002 km2/a, respectively. 3) Flooding by surface water was the main driver of vegetation expansion when groundwater was stable and elevations in surface vegetation area were often accompanied by the spreading of surface water. Surface water was significantly correlated with vegetation cover and normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) (Water pixels–Vegetation cover [P1: R2 = 0.57, P < 0.001; P2: R2 = 0.45, P < 0.01]; Water pixels–NDVI [P1: R2 = 0.22, P < 0.05; P2: R2 = 0.40, P < 0.01]). The increase in surface vegetation has alleviated the desertification process in the LTR, and the survival of the poplar has been mitigated. The results of this paper can help decision makers to formulate reasonable ecological water conveyance strategies and realize sustainable management of DRF ecosystems in arid zones.

Spatiotemporal variations in migratory bird diversity and abundance along the coast of Gochang getbol.

Tidal flats provide critical habitat for migratory waterbird species; however, populations of migratory waterbirds have significantly declined due to tidal flat loss and degradation caused by human activities, particularly in Asia. Gochang getbol is one of tidal flats located on the southwest coast of South Korea and a center of clam production. Using bird monitoring data collected at five zones (zone1 to zone5) established across Gochang getbol and near coastal area, we examined distribution patterns of migratory bird diversity and conservation-related species along the coast of Gochang getbol. The intensity of human activity ‒ mudflat culture (mostly bivalve) and aquaculture was relatively high at zone2 and zone3, occupying > 30% of 2km circular area surrounding most sample points of these zones. Zone1 and particularly zone4 contained more natural/semi-natural habitats (less disturbed mudflats and wetlands) and zone5 had smallest mudflat than others. Shannon diversity, species richness, and abundance of migratory birds differed between zones (Anova test, P ≤ 0.02) except Shannon diversity in winter. In fall, all values were higher at zone4 than zone3 and zone5. In winter, zone1 showed greatest species richness and higher abundance than zone2, zone3, and zone5. In spring, while most differences were found between zone4 and zone5, abundance at zone4 was somewhat higher than zone2. The results from the fourth corner analysis indicated that abundance of species foraging at mudflat level was positively associated with zone1 (winter) but negatively with zone3 (fall). Sandpipers were positively associated with zone4. Abundance distribution maps of conservation-related species, created by inverse distance-weighted interpolation modeling, also showed high abundance of most conservation-related species at zone4 and 1. The findings of our study suggest the importance of natural/semi-natural habitat, and the possible link between human activity and distribution patterns of migratory birds in Gochang getbol. While we need further investigation on direct response of migratory birds to human activity, areas with low human activity with more natural/semi-natural habitat, e.g., zone4 and zone1 may be crucial for the conservation of migratory birds.

Climber Species Composition and Distribution Pattern along the Elevation Gradient of Courtallam Hills, Southern Western Ghats of India

Climber Species Composition and Distribution Pattern along the Elevation Gradient of Courtallam Hills, Southern Western Ghats of India

Polypore funga and species diversity in tropical forest ecosystems of Africa, America and Asia, and a comparison with temperate and boreal regions of the Northern Hemisphere

Polypores play a crucial role in energy recycling and forest regeneration in forest ecosystems. The majority of them are wood degraders; some are forest pathogens and others are ectomycorrhizal symbionts. The basidiocarps provide food and shelter for many organisms, mostly invertebrates, but also some vertebrates, as well as food and medicine for humans. Despite extensive research on the species diversity and phylogenetic relationships of polypores in recent years, there remains a lack of comprehensive understanding of their distribution patterns and species composition at the large scale. Checklists of polypores from the tropical zone, including tropical Africa, tropical America, and tropical Asia, were analyzed for species diversity, distribution patterns, major taxa, and nutritional modes. A total of 1,902 polypore species was found in the three regions, representing 8 orders, 46 families, and 250 genera of Agaricomycetes. The orders Polyporales (especially the family Polyporaceae) and Hymenochaetales (especially the family Hymenochaetaceae) had the most prolific taxa, with their species accounting for 93.4% of the total polypores listed. Each of 1,565 (or 82.3%) of the total 1,902 species were found in only one of the three regions studied, and we treat them temporarily as “regional endemic species”. Only 141 species were shared among all three regions, accounting for a mere 7.4%. Tropical Africa and tropical America had the greatest number of shared species and the highest Sørensen similarity index (SC) value. Tropical forests had a higher species richness compared with temperate to boreal forests of the Northern Hemisphere, and in addition, also a higher proportion of white rot polypores compared to brown rot and ectomycorrhizal species. This study outlines the distribution patterns and species diversity of polypores in the world, shedding light on their ecological significance in diverse ecosystems.

Diversity and Distribution of Avifauna in the Northeast of Addis Ababa, Central Ethiopia.

Exploring avian species diversity and distribution patterns is vigorous for conservation efforts in biodiversity-rich countries such as Ethiopia. Compared to other species, birds are relatively well-known and easily observed, making them great markers of productivity or biodiversity. Although bird species are found all across the world, their survival and range have been negatively impacted by habitat loss, fragmentation, and destruction. Thus, the goal of this study is to provide baseline data on avifaunal diversity in the Northeast of Addis Ababa, including species richness, distribution, and relative abundance in various habitats conducted from January 2023 to September 2023 using a stratified sampling design into three habitat types: settlement, farmland, and abattoir. A fixed-width line transect sampling method was used at the farmland and settlement, and a point transect was employed at the abattoir site to collect the bird data. The data were compared using Mann-Whitney and Kruskal-Wallis statistical tests in both seasons and habitat types. A total of 42 bird species belonging to twenty-three families, and nine orders were recorded during the study period. Of these, blue-winged goose and wattled ibis are endemic to Ethiopia. Hooded vultures and White-backed vultures are critically endangered species. The mean abundance of bird species significantly varied in the three habitat types (χ2 = 13.6, df = 2, p=0.001). The abundance of bird species was nonsignificant difference between wet and dry seasons (U = -0.874, p=0.381). The highest diversity (H' = 2.74) was recorded at settlement, and the lowest diversity index (H' = 1.09) was recorded at the abattoir in the dry season. In the wet season, the highest diversity (H' = 2.66) was recorded in the farmland, and the lowest (H' = 1.08) was recorded at the abattoir. The highest evenness (J = 0.94 and J = 0.93) was recorded on the farmland in the wet and dry seasons, respectively. In the study area, urbanization is extremely impacting the environment and altering ecosystem services upon which human civilization depends. Most of the avian species observed in the study area are capable and tolerant of human-induced habitats in the city. Therefore, city planners must consider conserving urban bird species' habitats and feeding sites.

Species diversity and distribution pattern of venerable trees in tropical Jianfengling National Forest Park (Hainan, China)

Venerable trees are precious natural-cum-cultural heritage and an important component of regional biodiversity, with significant social, cultural and ecological values. A thorough understanding of their spatial patterns in relation to environmental factors can foster co-management for conservation and sustainable resource use. The Jianfengling National Forest Park in tropical China is a unique and rare primary tropical forest protected area with exceptionally high biodiversity and a rich endowment of venerable trees. This study evaluated the venerable tree stock regarding botanical makeup and factors shaping spatial patterns. We collected detailed tree data (species, age, dimensions, location, etc.) and environmental variables (elevation, slope and soil). The environmental variations were analyzed concerning tree abundance, species richness and tree age. The results identified 2134 venerable trees from 72 species, 55 genera and 30 families. Lithocarpus fenzelianus dominated with maximum importance value, followed by Cyclobalanopsis patelliformis, Madhuca hainanensis, Altingia obovata and Castanopsis tonkinensis. The top-ranking species were predominantly Fagaceae members. The age pattern demonstrated an inverted J-shape, with mainly 100-299 years trees and a few >500 years. DBH, tree height, and crown width displayed an approximately normal distribution. Spatial distributions by age tiers were uneven, with more in the northeast part. The altitudinal gradient significantly influenced the spatial patterns of tree abundance and species richness. The unimodal distribution marked tree and species concentration at circa 600 m mid-elevation. The findings have implications for venerable-tree conservation and management in tropical protected areas with similar threatened and remnant-tree status.

Species distribution and antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of coagulase-negative staphylococci isolated from clinical specimens at a tertiary care hospital

Background and objectives: Coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) are considered important causative agents of hospital acquired infection. These organisms are found in various clinical specimens from hospitalized patients. Present study was carried out to determine the species distribution and antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of CoNS isolated from clinical specimens at a tertiary care hospital. Materials and methods: CoNS isolated from various clinical samples were included in this study. The isolates were identified by colony morphology, Gram’s staining, catalase and coagulase tests. Further differentiation of species was performed by susceptibility to novobiocin, urease activity and ornithine decarboxylase test. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed according to the Clinical and Laboratory Standard Institute (CLSI) guidelines. Results: Total 108 isolates of CoNS were included and analysed. Out of 108 CoNS, S. epidermidis was the most common species (36.1%) followed by S. saprophyticus (23.1%), S. hemolyticus (17.6%), S. hominis (13%) and S. lugdunensis (10.2%). Most of the isolates showed resistance to penicillin, oxacillin, amoxycillin, erythromycin, ciprofloxacin and ofloxacin. All the isolates were sensitive to vancomycin. Conclusions: CoNS emerged as an important nosocomial pathogen and should not be neglected as contaminant. High rate of antimicrobial resistance warrants susceptibility testing prior to the treatment of CoNS. IMC J Med Sci. 2024; 18(1):010. DOI: https://doi.org/10.55010/imcjms.18.010 *Correspondence: Sabiha S Tamboli, Department of Microbiology, Parbhani Medical College and RP Hospital Research Institute, Pathri Road, Parbhani, Maharashtra, India. Email: sabihatamboli77@gmail.com

New records and distribution data of stoneflies (Insecta: Plecoptera) from the Western Balkans

The knowledge about stoneflies of the Balkan Peninsula is still not complete, with many areas poorly investigated. During this investigation, we collected adult stonefly specimens from Kosovo, Albania, North Macedonia, Serbia and Montenegro during the period 2014-2018. In total, we found 42 species belonging to 14 genera and 7 families. Five species are recorded for the first time for Kosovo (Leuctra cingulata Kempny, 1899, Leuctra cf. olympia Aubert, 1956 Nemoura cf. lucana Nicolai &amp; Fochetti, 1991, Nemoura uncinata Despax, 1934 and Brachyptera macedonica Ikonomov, 1983), one is recorded for the first time for Serbia (Nemoura asceta Murányi, 2007) and one for Albania (Leuctra major Brinck, 1949). This investigation contributes to the knowledge of distribution patterns of stoneflies species in the Balkan Peninsula.