Rare Species Research Articles

Rare Pleurotus species with veiled basidiomata from the Neotropics: neotypification of Pleurotus magnificus and epityfication of Pleurotus rickii

Knowledge of Pleurotus in Brazil dates back to the 19th century, when European mycologists studied and described numerous Neotropical taxa. Some of these long-described species remain poorly known, mostly due to the lack of recent records, detailed morphological descriptions, and molecular data. During field surveys in Southeast and Southern Brazil, specimens of two rare Pleurotus species with veiled basidiomata, i.e. P. magnificus and P. rickii, were collected. These species are recorded for the first time in the state of Santa Catarina, Brazil, and P. magnificus for the first time in the states of Minas Gerais, Paraná and São Paulo. Updated and detailed morphological descriptions are provided. DNA sequences of the ITS and nLSU molecular markers were obtained for both species, and phylogenetic analyses were conducted to explore their relationships within Pleurotus. A neotype is designated for P. magnificus, and a lectotype and epitype are designated for P. rickii.

Implementation of augmented reality herbarium malangensis website tour to enhance conservation literacy

The biodiversity of Indonesia showed by the numerous of plant species, including one of the 89,326 species of spore plants. Along with the high diversity of various threat factors that will affect the status of a plant, knowledge about plants can be enhanced through conservation literacy using modern technology-based learning media, such as 3D modeling and augmented reality (AR) websites. AR acts as an interactive window that opens the view of conservation reality. The aim of this research is to produce a rare plant learning media product in the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park that exists on the Malangensis Herbarium with the integration of 3D modeling websites. The method used is R&D, referring to the ADDIE model. The practicality test results obtained 91.54%, while the media effectiveness test showed with n-gain scores obtaining a result of 0.66 that media can improve conservation literacy skills in biology students of the State University of Malang. This research could provide a benchmark and literature for advanced media development on plant divisions other than Pteridophyte.

Novel records of Charophyta species for the south of West Siberia from Kolyvanskoe Lake

Nitella hyalina and Coleochaete nitellarum were found for the first time in the Siberia. Nitella wahlbergiana, a new species record for Altai Territory, was spotted in one of the southernmost localities of the species distribution range. All species were growing together with Chara braunii, C. virgata and Nitella syncarpa, rare species in Siberia. This association of rare species allowed recognition of Kolyvanskoe Lake as one of important plant areas for charophytes in North Asia.

Morphological variability and vitality of Rindera tetraspis (Boraginaceae) in the South Urals and Western Kazakhstan

Population studies of Rindera tetraspis Pall., a rare endemic species of the steppe zone of the European part of Russia and Kazakhstan, were carried out. The study of the habitats of 11 populations in the Orenburg Region and the Republic of Kazakhstan has shown that the species is confined to various variants of calciphyte steppes on chalk substrates or sandstones. In terms of most morphometric indicators, the northern coenopopulation “Rodnichny” is the leader; the minimum values are noted in the coenopopulation “Verkhnechebendinskie Chalk Mountains, northern extremity”. The discriminant analysis has revealed morphostructural differences between individuals from the majority of coenopopulations. In terms of vitality, four coenopopulations are prosperous, seven ones are depressed. The optimal conditions for the species growth are in the northern part of its range, in more favorable climatic conditions in terms of temperature and humidity, mainly on soils of sand origin. When moving southward, a decrease in size parameters of individuals is observed, associated with insufficient moisture, while their morphological diversity increases. The state of R. tetraspis coenopopulations is stable, but the species is not provided with proper protection measures, so further monitoring of its habitats and improvement of conservation measures are necessary.

<i>Najas tenuissima</i> (Hydrocharitaceae), a new species to the flora of Tyva

For the first time, information is provided about the presence of Najas tenuissima in the northeast of Tyva (Todzha District, Azas Lake), which significantly expands the knowledge on the species distribution in Russia. Najas tenuissima is a rare species listed in the “Red Data Book of the Russian Federation”. In Russia, its range is disjunctive; a few localities are known in the European part, the south of Central Siberia (Eastern Sayan: Tiberkul and Spasskoye Lakes) and in the Far East (Amur Region and Primorye Territory).

How Do We Identify Anthropogenic Allee Effects in the Wildlife Trade?

ABSTRACTThe harvest and sale of wildlife can drive species to extinction when consumers are willing to pay high prices for the last harvested individuals of a very rare species, a phenomenon known as the anthropogenic Allee effect (AAE). Because demand for rarity is an inherent human desire, the AAE has the potential to affect a wide range of exploited species across several geographic regions. Here, we assess the current extent of empirical evidence for the AAE, how such evidence has been measured, and how this evidence interfaces with existing models of the AAE. We find substantial gaps in the empirical evidence base for the AAE and suggest that this deficit prevents assessment of the AAE in species extinctions. We provide a framework for generating empirical evidence that can identify when the AAE is likely occurring or has the potential to occur in the future, and recommend directions for both empirical and theoretical modeling research designed to strengthen our ability to forecast the ecological and market conditions that result in an AAE.

Diverse and larger tree islands promote native tree diversity in oil palm landscapes.

In monoculture-dominated landscapes, recovering biodiversity is a priority, but effective restoration strategies have yet to be identified. In this study, we experimentally tested passive and active restoration strategies to recover taxonomic, phylogenetic, and functional diversity of woody plants within 52 tree islands established in an oil palm landscape. Large tree islands and higher initial planted diversity catalyzed diversity recovery, particularly functional diversity at the landscape level. At the local scale, results demonstrated that greater initial planting diversity begets greater diversity of native recruits, overcoming limitations of natural recruitment in highly modified landscapes. Establishing large and diverse tree islands is crucial for safeguarding rare, endemic, and forest-associated species in oil palm landscapes.

Dilodia sapinea as the pathogen causing trunk canker on Pinus bungeana trees in China

Pinus bungeana belonging to the genus Pinus is a pine tree species endemic to China. It plays vital roles in afforestation, forest regeneration, landscaping, forest ecosystems, and environmental protection. However, P. bungeana has been listed as a rare and endangered species in recent years due to population fragmentation. The occurrence of lethal diseases on the trees has made the situation even worse. This study aimed to identify the pathogen causing the trunk canker on P. bungeana trees in Qingdao, China. The morphological identification of the pathogen relied primarily on the morphology of conidia. Molecular identification was performed using the combined sequences of ITS, Tef and Tub2 genes. The eight isolates were all identified as Diplodia sapinea. The pathogenicity of the eight isolates was examined both in vitro and in vivo. The results showed that all the fungal isolates caused severe canker symptoms on the inoculated P. bungeana branches. Moreover, D. sapinea was re-isolated from the inoculated branches. This study is novel in reporting D. sapinea causing trunk canker on P. bungeana trees in China.

New data and threat status of two rare North African species of the subgenus Bolognaia (Coleoptera: Meloidae: Meloini: Eurymeloe)

This study updates the distribution and conservation status of two poorly documented blister beetle species in Morocco: Eurymeloe (Bolognaia) pallidicolor (Martínez de la Escalera, 1909) and E. (B.) saharensis (Chobaut, 1898). A new locality for E. pallidicolor is added, which represents the southernmost known occurrence for the species, along with a total of seven new localities for E. saharensis in both the southwest and southeast of Morocco, significantly expanding its known area of occupancy in the country. A preliminary assessment of the threat status for both species is conducted based on IUCN criteria. Additionally, the habitat characteristics of both species in Morocco are described. While E. saharensis faces no immediate threats, E. pallidicolor appears to be a stenotopic species confined to low-altitude coastal and subcoastal areas. Its extent of occurrence and area of occupancy are very limited, which would place E. pallidicolor in an unfavorable conservation status. However, due to the limited available information, it would qualify as “Data Deficient” species according to the IUCN criteria. These findings emphasize the crucial role of natural protected areas, such as Souss-Massa National Park, in supporting populations of species affected by habitat destruction in the region. Lastly, a brief comment on the internal taxonomy of the genus Eurymeloe is provided, and a new combination is established: Eurymeloe (Bolognaia) digiuliorum (Bologna, Riccieri & Spagoni, 2024) comb. nov.

The State of Thermophylic Ichthyofauna in the Water Bodies of Arkhangelsk Oblast: Report 1. Formation and Distribution

Materials determining the possible pathways of Arctic zone colonization by representatives of thermophilic ichthyofauna are presented. The previously proposed hypothesis that the fish of the thermophilic complex that lived in the White Sea basin during the Subboreal period (sterlet, blue bream, common rudd, white-eye bream, and asp) and were considered extinct during the subsequent cooling in the Subatlantic period, adapted to changed conditions, stayed in particular areas of their range, and became part of the modern ichthyofauna in limited numbers have been elaborated and confirmed. The possible pathways of spontaneous introduction of the Caspian thermophilic species, white-eye bream, and asp to the Northern Dvina basin are considered. Populations of rudd and blue bream, rare thermophilic species for the region, have been detected and studied in the lakes of the Kenozersky National Park. Rudd, a relict species of the Holocene thermal maximum, was previously recorded only in several floodplain lakes of the middle reaches of the Northern Dvina River. The Kenozero population of rudd is the first case of finding epresentatives of this species in the Onega River basin. Blue bream can be also considered a relict found in the territory of the region only in one lake system of the Kenozersky National Park and several small lakes of the Siysky State Nature Reserve.

Tomagnostella tullbergi n. sp. (Agnostidae) from the middle Cambrian Lejopyge laevigata Zone of Scandinavia.

A rare new agnostoid species, Tomagnostella tullbergi n. sp., is described from the lower part of the middle Cambrian Lejopyge laevigata Zone in Scandinavia, corresponding to the lower part of the Guzhangian global Stage. The species is currently known only from the Andrarum Limestone Bed of Skåne, southernmost Sweden, and coeval strata in the Oslo Region, Norway; it has also been recorded from ice-rafted Andrarum Limestone found in Germany. The material assigned to T. tullbergi n. sp. has previously been confused with Tomagnostella exsculpta. The new species is characterized by a cephalon with a moderately angular glabellar front (distinctly angular in T. exsculpta) and a pygidium with a narrow, pointed axis showing a depressed tip; a small secondary node is located within this depression close to the tip of the axis (in T. exsculpta the axis is broad and rounded posteriorly and without a posterior depression; a minute terminal node may or may not be present). Tomagnostella tullbergi n. sp. is also comparatively large-sized whereas T. exsculpta attains smaller maximum sizes.

Large changes in vegetation composition seen over the last 50 years in British limestone pavements

Abstract Limestone pavements contain a unique flora, dominated by ferns with a mix of herbaceous species more often found in woodlands, heathlands and grasslands. The crevices between the rocks are known as grikes, they provide a shaded habitat which, depending on pavement structure, can protect plants from grazing. Despite being of conservation importance and supporting a number of rare and scarce plant species there has been very little research into vegetation change in limestone pavements. This study repeated a survey originally conducted between 1972 and 1975. The Ward and Evans survey visited 535 limestone pavement units spread across England, Scotland and Wales and recorded grike vegetation. This study was able to resurvey 516 of those pavements and repeat the survey using the original methods. Expansion of tree and shrub cover has been observed in some pavements but not previously quantified so tree cover was assessed using historic aerial photographs and satellite imagery. On average species richness per pavement increased but there was a very wide range of change in species richness across individual pavement units ranging from a loss of 56 species to an increase of 38. Dissimilarity averaged 0.41. The area of pavement covered by trees or large shrubs increased by 62% between the two surveys but the number of pavements with zero tree cover also increased. Breaking down pavement units into those with low (<5%), medium (5%–30%) and high (>30%) current tree cover shows that species richness increased in open pavements but was reduced in pavements with high tree cover. Pavement units with high tree cover also showed higher dissimilarity and lower levels of indicators of disturbance. In pavements with high tree cover Ellenberg light (L) values were significantly lower than in open pavements. Open pavements showed higher levels of competitive species (based on Grime CSR values) but no change difference in Ellenberg nutrient (N) values. Vegetation in limestone pavements has changed considerably in the period between the two surveys with negative effects of high tree and shrub cover particularly problematic. There is an urgent need for investigation to support management decisions in this habitat. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.

Bridging Knowledge and Data Gaps in Odonata Rarity: A South Korean Case Study Using Multispecies Occupancy Models and the Rabinowitz Framework

Accurate assessment of species rarity and conservation status requires an approach that integrates data-driven models with established ecological knowledge. In this study, we applied multispecies occupancy (MSO) and latent factor multispecies occupancy (LFMSO) models to estimate the occurrence of 133 Odonata species in South Korea. Using the model outputs, we implemented the Rabinowitz rarity framework to conduct data-based rarity assessments, which were then compared with known ecological information, including geographic ranges, habitat preferences, regional Red List statuses, and citizen science observations. Our findings reveal both alignments and discrepancies between these data-driven rarity assessments and traditional ecological knowledge. For example, species classified as near threatened (NT) or vulnerable (VU) on the regional Red List generally corresponded with high-rarity classifications based on the Rabinowitz framework. However, significant inconsistencies were identified, particularly for certain lentic Odonata species traditionally considered common. These results suggest that spatial biases in field surveys, combined with limited access to data on legally protected species, can impede accurate rarity assessments. These findings underscore the need for standardized survey protocols and improved data-sharing policies for sensitive species to reduce biases and enhance the reliability of rarity assessments. This is essential for effective conservation planning and biodiversity management in freshwater ecosystems.

Identification of Picea mongolica LEA Gene Family Implicates PmLEA25 in Drought Resistance

Picea mongolica is a rare and valuable tree species in China, having high tolerance for drought, cold, and sand burial. The late embryogenesis abundant protein (LEA protein) is a crucial transcription factor that plays a key role in both plant embryonic development and stress response. LEA genes have, however, not yet been reported in P. mongolica. In this study, through the analysis of genome data from Picea abies and transcriptome data from P. mongolica, a total of 49 PmLEAs were discovered and categorized into eight subfamilies based on their Pfam domain and phylogenetic relationship. RNA-Seq research revealed that 37 PmLEAs were differentially expressed at various stages of embryonic development. Using qRT-PCR, we found that most PmLEAs responded strongly to drought stress, with genes in the same subfamily exhibiting identical expression patterns. In particular, PmLEA25 is the most highly induced by drought treatment. Furthermore, we heterologously transformed PmLEA25 into Arabidopsis. The overexpression of PmLEA25 remarkably increased the germination rate, root length, and antioxidant capacity in Arabidopsis under drought treatment, compared with WT. The results serve as a point of reference for gaining a deeper comprehension of the function of PmLEA25 in the molecular process of stress resistance in P. mongolica. Additionally, they offer significant genetic materials for the purpose of breeding stress-resistant spruce species.

Special Protection of Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic Natural Areas

The presented article provides information on specially protected natural areas of Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic. The environmental strategy implemented under the leadership of Heydar Aliyev since the 70s of the last centuries is successfully continuing in Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic today. The article also pays special attention to the beauty of the nature of Nakhchivan and the potential of ecotourism. As a result of the research, it was found that in the past period, in order to improve the environmental situation and protect biodiversity, the negative impact on the environment was minimized, and modern technologies were used in economic development. Specially protected natural territories have been created to protect the flora and fauna species of the territories that fascinate with aesthetic beauty, ecological balance, protection and restoration of biodiversity, the uniqueness of the natural environment, rare and endangered species. The article also contains detailed information about the territories of the Ordubad State Nature Reserve, Ordubad National Park, Shahbuz State Nature Reserve, Arpachay State Nature Reserve and Arazboyu State Nature Reserve, their geographical position, flora and fauna species listed in the Red Book. also reflected. Created and protected reserves, reserves and parks are also of particular importance in terms of visibility when conducting production experiments for high school students.

A new species of Apatenia Pascoe (Coleoptera: Anthribidae) from central Madagascar, with a key to species, additions to the distribution of rare species of the genus, and general notes about threats to anthribid diversity

A new species Apatenia kuntei Trýzna & Rakotonirina sp. nov. (Anthribidae: Anthribinae: Platyrhinini) from the Ambohitantely Special Reserve in central Madagascar is described. Male and female genitalia are studied and illustrated. A key to all Malagasy Apatenia species is provided. Colour photographs, notes on the distribution and ecological notes on another four rare Malagasy Apatenia species are added. The decrease of the anthribid diversity due to fires and the spreading of expansive plants in the Ambohitantely Special Reserve is discussed.

Non-Random Distribution of Boreus hyemalis Among Bryophyte Hosts: Evidence from Field and Laboratory Tests

Our understanding of herbivorous insect’s host selection is often based on observed associations with host plants, which can be biased by relative plant abundance, leading to inaccurate assumptions of preference. These biases may be particularly pronounced for insects associated with bryophytes, where dominance patterns are less evident. Estimating selection tendencies is also challenging for rare species with unique ecologies. Boreus hyemalis, a winter-active insect, associates with a range of bryophyte species, yet its specificity in moss-host selection remains unclear. This study investigates whether B. hyemalis shows non-random distribution among bryophyte species in natural habitats and laboratory settings. Field surveys revealed associations with 21 moss species, with significant selection tendencies toward Dicranella heteromalla and Hypnum cupressiforme, with moss species richness being a key factor for boreid inhabitance. Laboratory tests assessed selection among 14 moss species, including H. cupressiforme morphotypes, under controlled conditions. Results indicated Polytrichum formosum was the most frequently selected in the lab. Despite some discrepancies between field and lab findings, B. hyemalis shows specific selection tendencies for particular moss species. These results provide new insights into the ecological interactions between bryophytes and this winter-active insect, emphasizing the importance of moss structure and species richness in shaping B. hyemalis distribution.

In Vitro Propagation, Evaluation of Antioxidant Activities, and Phytochemical Profiling of Wild and In Vitro-Cultured Plants of Curcuma larsenii Maknoi & Jenjitikul—A Rare Plant Species in Thailand

In Vitro Propagation, Evaluation of Antioxidant Activities, and Phytochemical Profiling of Wild and In Vitro-Cultured Plants of Curcuma larsenii Maknoi & Jenjitikul—A Rare Plant Species in Thailand

Japonolirion osense, a close relative of the mycoheterotrophic genus Petrosavia, exhibits complete autotrophic capabilities

The plant kingdom exhibits a diversity of nutritional strategies, extending beyond complete autotrophy. In addition to full mycoheterotrophs and holoparasites, it is now recognized that a greater number of green plants than previously assumed use partly of fungal carbon. These are termed partial mycoheterotrophs or mixotrophs. Notably, some species exhibit a dependency on fungi exclusively during early ontogenetic stages, referred to as initial mycoheterotrophy. Japonolirion osense, a rare plant thriving in serpentinite soils, emerges as a potential candidate for initial mycoheterotrophy or mixotrophy. Several factors support this hypothesis, including its diminutive sizes of shoot and and seeds, the establishment of Paris-type arbuscular mycorrhizal associations, its placement within the Petrosaviales—largely composed of fully mycoheterotrophic species—and its ability to face the challenging conditions of its environment. To explore these possibilities, our study adopts a multidisciplinary approach, encompassing stable isotope abundance analyses, in vitro experiments, anatomical analyses, and comparative plastome analyses. Our study aims to (1) determine whether J. osense relies on fungal carbon during germination, indicating initial mycoheterotrophy, (2) determine if it employs a dual carbon acquisition strategy as an adult, and (3) investigate potential genomic reductions in photosynthetic capabilities. Contrary to expectations, our comprehensive findings strongly indicate that J. osense maintains complete autotrophy throughout its life cycle. This underscores the contrasting nutritional strategies evolved by species within the Petrosaviales.

Environmental DNA reveals a presence of Anser fabalis (Bean Goose) and an absence of A. erythropus (Lesser White-fronted Goose) in Finnish Northern Lapland

Abstract Detecting rare and elusive species from vast wilderness areas poses significant challenges. The Fennoscandian population of Anser erythropus (Lesser White-fronted Goose) is among the most endangered bird populations in Europe, with only 25–30 breeding pairs remaining in Northern Norway. Historically, its former breeding range extended across the mountainous regions of Fennoscandia. Thanks to targeted conservation efforts during the 21st century, A. erythropus has started to recolonize some of its former breeding areas in Norway and possibly also in Finland. Anser serrirostris rossicus (Tundra Bean Goose) is classified as Endangered (EN) in Finland, with just a few breeding pairs in northernmost Finnish Lapland with a poorly known breeding range. It breeds in higher numbers in Finnmark Norway and is listed as Vulnerable (VU) in Norway. Anser fabalis fabalis (Taiga Bean Goose), classified as Endangered in Norway, can also breed in the same area in low numbers. To locate individuals of these elusive goose species during breeding seasons, we used environmental DNA (eDNA) extracted from filtered lake water from selected lakes in northern Finland. We amplified and sequenced a short region of the mitochondrial control region to identify the species. Additionally, for positive controls, we sampled eDNA from the water of a Finnish spring staging site and known Norwegian breeding sites of the A. erythropus, from which eDNA of the A. erythropus was identified. eDNA of the A. erythropus was not detected within the former Finnish breeding range. Based on this, the A. erythropus has either not recolonized its former breeding habitats in Finland, the correct lakes were not sampled, the eDNA concentration was below detection limits, or due to other methodological issues. Anser serrirostris rossicus was detected in 3 lakes and A. fabalis fabalis in 10 lakes, providing new information about the breeding distribution of Bean Geese in Finnish Lapland.