Reproductive Strategies Research Articles

Morphophysiological Assessment of the Cervix during the Reproductive Cycle and Early Pregnancy in Does Using Computed Tomography and Oxytocin Receptor Immunohistochemistry.

This study aimed to elucidate the morphophysiology and oxytocin receptor (OXTR) expression in the cervix of doe goats during various reproductive stages to enhance reproductive management strategies. A total of 40 cervical samples were categorized into follicular (n = 15), luteal (n = 10), and early pregnancy (n = 15) stages. Utilizing advanced imaging based on functional and morphological markers, the study employed computed tomography (CT) scans, histochemical staining (Masson trichrome and alcian blue), immunohistochemistry, Western blotting, and quantitative PCR (qPCR) to assess structural changes in the cervix and in OXTR expression during the estrous cycle and early pregnancy. CT scans revealed consistent cervical folds and a significant reduction in cervical width during pregnancy, suggesting structural adaptations for gestational integrity. Histochemical analyses indicated a well-organized collagen network and presence of mucins, essential for cervical function and integrity. Immunohistochemistry and Western blotting demonstrated elevated OXTR protein levels during the follicular stage, which were markedly reduced during pregnancy, indicating a role in facilitating cervical relaxation and sperm transport during estrus and maintaining cervical closure during gestation. qPCR analysis showed stable OXTR mRNA levels during follicular and luteal stages with a slight, non-significant increase during pregnancy, pointing towards posttranscriptional regulatory mechanisms. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that cervical morphology and OXTR expression in doe goats undergo significant changes across reproductive stages, with elevated OXTR protein levels during the follicular phase and notable reductions in cervical width and OXTR protein levels during pregnancy, indicating structural and functional adaptations for both reproductive processes and gestational integrity.

Investigating the impact of cross-shelf transport and local retention in the Black Sea Rim Current system on small pelagic fishes

Advection of pelagic fish larvae through ocean currents is a source of dispersal that is known to structure marine populations by directly impacting population success and persistence. To be able to understand fish population dynamics and manage existing fisheries it is therefore of importance to assess the extent of exchange between populations and determine the factors that drive it, which is still a challenge in fisheries research today. In this study, the output of a high-resolution basin-scale circulation model is used to calculate the dispersal probability from spawning areas and the remaining Black Sea for a range of commercially important fish such as anchovy, sprat, turbot, red mullet, and bluefish under different environmental conditions. The common trait of many commercially important species in the Black Sea is that they have pelagic larval stages of different time scales which are simulated by tracking virtual drifters in the simulated surface circulation of the Black Sea. Simulation results show that the dynamic current structure of the Black Sea causes low local retention of larvae. During spring and summer lower offshore transport and higher local retention is observed than in fall and winter, which is directly related to the Rim Current strength. The lowest offshore transport is observed on the northern northwestern shelf, the main spawning area for pelagic fish with still 24-32% of larvae transported offshore. Simulations show that pelagic fish species such as anchovy and sprat adopted different reproductive strategies through their species-specific traits. For the summer spawning species anchovy, timing, and location of spawning together with its short pelagic larval stage is shown to enhance retention on the northwestern shelf. Sprat with its long pelagic larval stage and winter spawning is more adapted to high offshore transport, making it unlikely that sprat is recruited to the same area as where it is spawned. This modeling framework provides a basis for investigating recruitment variability of pelagic fish species in the Black Sea specifically considering the impact of climate variability and provides a useful guide to the potential connectivity of marine populations or the spread of invasive pests in the Black Sea.

Kin investment biases of aunts and uncles: associations with phenotypic resemblance and sociodemographic characteristics.

Higher investment in maternal than paternal aunts and uncles is explained by the "paternity uncertainty hypothesis". Regardless of laterality, however, aunts show a greater degree of investment than uncles, which is attributed to sex-specific reproductive strategies. Resemblance cues can be used as indicators of genetic relatedness. The central hypothesis of the current study was that perceived phenotypic resemblance between aunts/uncles and niblings would be associated with aunts' and uncles' investment. The association was predicted to be stronger with respect to patrilateral than matrilateral aunts and uncles and stronger with respect to patrilateral aunts than patrilateral uncles. 243 Iranians aged between 15 and 50 participated in a retrospective analysis and filled out a 52-item questionnaire focusing on the solicitude, emotional closeness, and contact frequency between aunts/uncles and their nephews/nieces. In addition, the participants had to rate their phenotypic resemblance with their aunts and uncles. Aunts' and uncles' solicitude, emotional closeness, and contact frequency were differentially expressed according to sex and laterality. Maternal aunts showed the significantly highest emotional closeness, contact frequency, and investment, while the opposite was true for paternal uncles. Moreover, investment was correlated with phenotypic resemblance. Such association was stronger for patrilateral than matrilateral aunts and uncles, and concerning solicitude it was stronger for patrilateral aunts than patrilateral uncles. The resemblance-based kin recognition mechanism among aunts and uncles was self- rather than family-referent. In conclusion, phenotypic similarity can be used as a cue to genetic kinship and is correlated with the investment of aunts and uncles. However, such associations also depend on the degree of genetic relatedness and the differential kin investment provided by each sex.

Особенности развития генеративных структур некоторых цветковых растений

The paper presents the results of a comparative study of the reproductive biology of a number of Crimean flora species and valuable plants introduced to the south of Russia belonging to various families (Magnoliaceae, Annonaceae, Ericaceae, Campanulaceae, Anacardiaceae, Lamiaceae, Ranunculaceae, Davidiaceae, Nyssaceae, Onagraceae, Papaveraceae), which made it possible to establish some features and regularities in the formation of the generative structures of the reproductive system, consisting in the conjugation of the development of male and female elements, the maturation of sexual gametes and the process of pollination in entomophilous plants. A conclusion was drawn concerning the high reproductive potential of the studied species, which is expressed in the formation of a sufficient number of full-fledged seeds to reproduce. The possibilities of using the knowledge of the reproductive processes of flowering plants in solving certain issues of taxonomy, determining the strategy of reproduction and conservation of phytodiversity, and showing the importance of antecological aspects in plant reproduction, breeding and nature protection were demonstrated. The material is of scientific interest to botanists, ecologists, breeders and other specialists.

Invasion stage and competition intensity co-drive reproductive strategies of native and invasive saltmarsh plants: Evidence from field data

Biological invasion poses a significant threat to biodiversity conservation and also results in substantial economic loss including the excessive cost of management to control it. Still, its impact on plant sexual reproduction strategies remains underexplored in natural settings. We conducted a field experiment on native Phragmites australis and invasive Spartina alterniflora in Bohai Bay and assessed plant size (aboveground biomass and height) and sexual reproduction (ear biomass, reproductive allocation, etc.) in conjunction with water and soil properties. The results showed that during the early stage of invasion, the two species declined in size and sexual reproduction, with S. alterniflora showing a lesser decline than P. australis. However, in the late stage of invasion, S. alterniflora maintained its plant size by reducing its investment in sexual reproduction. Moreover, significant reproductive allometries were demonstrated by S. alterniflora under different competition intensities. P. australis displayed heightened sensitivity to water properties and soil non-resource conditions, while S. alterniflora adapted its inherent traits and environmental tolerance. S. alterniflora allocated more resources to thriving as an individual, while P. australis prioritized reproduction by increasing seed production. Overall, this study revealed the reproductive strategies that invasive and native species employ in response to competition and environmental factors, thereby offering crucial insights for conservation and management efforts.

Latitudinal trends in an invasive plant: genetic differentiation, phenotypic plasticity, and the effects of heavy metals and herbivores on growth, defence, and reproductive characteristics

Abstract Background and Aims Invasive species usually demonstrate remarkable adaptability across diverse environments, successfully inhabiting a wide variety of regions. This adaptability often links to genetic differentiation and phenotypic plasticity, leading to latitudinal trends in phenotypic traits. In this study, we collected seeds of invasive plant Phytolacca americana from different latitudes and planted them in homogeneous gardens to investigate the latitudinal variation of P. americana phenotypic traits and to evaluate the effects of herbivory and heavy metals on plant growth, defence, and reproductive characteristics. Methods P. americana seeds from different latitudes were planted in a homogeneous garden. For the experimental treatment, the seeds were divided into four groups: a heavy metal treatment group and its corresponding control group, and a cover treatment group with its corresponding control group. After the fruits matured, their growth, reproduction, and defence indicators were measured. Key Results Significant latitudinal trends were observed in P. americana’s growth and defence characteristics, including changes in branch number, underground biomass, total biomass, and leaf tannin content. Compared to previous field surveys on P. americana, our study found that the latitude trends in growth structure and defence traits were consistent. But the latitudinal trend of reproductive structure is different. Moreover, heavy metals and herbivory substantially influenced the plant’s growth, reproduction, and defence mechanisms, further shaping its latitudinal patterns. Conclusions The observed phenotypic variations in P. americana across latitudes can be largely attributed to the synergistic effects of phenotypic plasticity and genetic variation. At a broader geographical scale, adaptations to heavy metal stress and herbivory pressure among different P. americana populations involve distinct trade-offs related to growth, reproduction, and defence strategies.

Morph-linked variation in female pheromone signalling and male response in a polymorphic moth.

Understanding the maintenance of genetic variation in reproductive strategies and polymorphisms in the wild requires a comprehensive examination of the complex interactions between genetic basis, behaviour and environmental factors. We tested the association between three colour genotypes and variation in female pheromone signalling and male antennal morphology in the wood tiger moth (Arctia plantaginis). These moths have genetically determined white (WW, Wy) and yellow (yy) hindwings that are linked to mating success and fitness, with heterozygotes (Wy) having an advantage. We hypothesized that attractiveness and reproductive success are correlated, with Wy females being more attractive than the other two genotypes which could contribute to maintaining the polymorphism. Female attractiveness was tested by baiting traps with females of the three colour genotypes both in low- (i.e. field set-up) and in high-population density (i.e. large enclosure set-up). Male's ability to reach females was correlated to their own colour genotype and antennal morphology (length, area and lamellae count). Contrary to our prediction, morph-related reproductive success and attractiveness were not correlated. Heavier Wy females attracted a lower proportion of males compared to WW and yy females. Specifically, an increase in weight corresponded to a decreased Wy but increased yy female attractiveness. yy females were generally more attractive than others likely due to earlier pheromone release. In males, lamellae count and genetic colour morph were linked to the male's ability to locate females. Furthermore, male traits affected their ability to reach females in a context-specific way. Males with denser antennae (i.e. higher lamellae count) and white males reached the females faster than yellows in the enclosure, while yellow males located females faster than whites in the field. Our results indicate that higher yy female attractiveness was likely affected by the combined effect of early pheromone release, female weight and higher population density. Males' searching success was affected by morph-specific behavioural strategies and local population density. Ultimately, the combined effect of genotype-related pheromone signalling strategies of females together with environment-dependent male behaviour affect male response and potentially contribute to maintaining variation in fitness-related traits.

The Biology, Impact, and Management of Xyleborus Beetles: A Comprehensive Review.

Xyleborus beetles, a diverse group of ambrosia beetles, present challenges to forestry and agriculture due to their damaging burrowing behavior and symbiotic relationships with fungi. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the biology, ecology, and management of Xyleborus. We explore the beetles' life cycle, reproductive strategies, habitat preferences, and feeding habits, emphasizing their ecological and economic impacts. Control and management strategies, including preventive measures, chemical and biological control, and integrated pest management (IPM), are critically evaluated. Recent advances in molecular genetics and behavioral studies offer insights into genetic diversity, population structure, and host selection mechanisms. Despite progress, managing Xyleborus effectively remains challenging. This review identifies future research needs and highlights innovative control methods, such as biopesticides and pheromone-based trapping systems.

Thermal constraints and gender-related differences in the activity patterns of the monomorphic rodent Clyomys laticeps

Abstract The daily activity pattern of animals can be classified as diurnal, nocturnal, crepuscular, and cathemeral reflecting strategic decisions to maximize mating and foraging while reducing predation risks and thermal constraints. Among monomorphic mammals, competition for resources and gender-related differences in physiology and reproductive strategies may translate into different activity patterns of males and females. Therefore, to understand the daily activity pattern both aboveground and belowground of the semifossorial rodent Clyomys laticeps, we tested the following hypotheses: (1) males and females differ in their diel activity patterns; (2) males are active for longer periods than females due to a promiscuous mating system and female site fidelity; and (3) higher maximum temperatures restrain C. laticeps activity. The study was carried out in the Serra de Caldas Novas State Park (Goiás, Brazil) in the Cerrado biome. The activity of C. laticeps was recorded using the telemetry technique over 5 days and nights (twice in each season, rainy and dry, between 2019 and 2021). Clyomys laticeps activity was bimodal, with 2 peaks around dawn and dusk, resembling a crepuscular pattern. Temporal segregation in male and female activity patterns was restricted to the dry season, when female activity was more diurnal than males who were mainly nocturnal. Intersexual competition for resources or male-avoidance behavior by females during the dry food scarcity season could contribute to this pattern, although it may also be explained by gender-related differences in thermal tolerances. Overall, males were active for longer periods than females, probably as a strategy to increase mating opportunities among the former and site fidelity in the latter. Finally, temperature imposed major constraints on C. laticeps activities who preferred milder temperatures and avoided being active in temperatures above their thermoneutral zone.

Global patterns of plant functional traits and their relationships to climate

Plant functional traits (FTs) determine growth, reproduction and survival strategies of plants adapted to their growth environment. Exploring global geographic patterns of FTs, their covariation and their relationships to climate are necessary steps towards better-founded predictions of how global environmental change will affect ecosystem composition. We compile an extensive global dataset for 16 FTs and characterise trait-trait and trait-climate relationships separately within non-woody, woody deciduous and woody evergreen plant groups, using multivariate analysis and generalised additive models (GAMs). Among the six major FTs considered, two dominant trait dimensions—representing plant size and the leaf economics spectrum (LES) respectively—are identified within all three groups. Size traits (plant height, diaspore mass) however are generally higher in warmer climates, while LES traits (leaf mass and nitrogen per area) are higher in drier climates. Larger leaves are associated principally with warmer winters in woody evergreens, but with wetter climates in non-woody plants. GAM-simulated global patterns for all 16 FTs explain up to three-quarters of global trait variation. Global maps obtained by upscaling GAMs are broadly in agreement with iNaturalist citizen-science FT data. This analysis contributes to the foundations for global trait-based ecosystem modelling by demonstrating universal relationships between FTs and climate.

452 Data-driven strategic sustainability initiatives of beef and dairy genetics consortiums: A comprehensive landscape analysis for USA, Brazil, and Europe

Abstract The past two decades have witnessed beef and dairy genetic consortiums implementing data-driven germplasm propagation programs in global cattle systems. These programs optimize for multi-dimensional economic, environmental, and animal welfare related sustainability goals and are driven by consumer demands and shifts in supply chains. To summarize these programs and gain insights into the sustainability journey of industry, we did a comprehensive landscape analysis of the strategic initiatives of key global genetics companies, their germplasm offerings, and data platforms offered in three major cattle producing geographies, namely the USA, Brazil, and Europe. Within these locales, they followed selection index-based genomic and reproductive management strategies for both beef, dairy, and beef-on-dairy production, tailored to relevant market and climatic conditions (Figure 1). While individual traits in selection indices ranged between 40 to 90 traits, all traits could be broadly grouped into three: namely production, longevity, health and reproduction. In the USA, companies like ABS Global, Select Sires, Genex Cooperative, STGenetics, Zoetis, Vytelle offer genomic selection programs encompassing germplasm products, and genetic and production data tracking platforms across the beef, dairy, and beef-on-dairy value chains. These companies have implemented reproductive management programs such as in-vitro fertilized embryo transfer, sexed semen, along with genomic selection with a focus on future replacements based on multi-trait sustainability indices. These initiatives are customized for each of the cow-calf, backgrounding, and feedlot sector of beef production. In dairy, these companies have diversified data-driven production programs customizable to conventional and organic production systems. In Europe, companies like CRV, Viking Genetics, and Alta Genetics prioritize traits related to resource efficiency, animal welfare and environmental impact. Semen companies also offer data management tools tailored to European market requirements, alongside services for on-farm semen production and storage to reduce transportation-related emissions. In Brazil, companies such as ABS Pecplan, CRV Brazil, and Semex Brazil, developed herd management solutions focusing on traits like heat tolerance, tropical environmental adaptability, and disease resistance. The landscape analysis revealed a dynamic industry, evolving to meet sustainability goals and market demands. These enterprises collaborate with stakeholders across the value chain, including producers, policymakers, and industry associations, to scale data-driven production systems that balance profitability and environmental footprint of cattle production. As such, they have positioned themselves to capitalize on the growing interest in sustainable livestock production practices worldwide by aligning scientific and technical strategies with evolving regulatory requirements and consumer demands. The global cattle industry is positioned to venture forward by leveraging niche carbon markets and new marketing channels propelled by emerging principles of environmental, social, and corporate governance. Strategic germplasm and data-tracking platform initiatives by these groups thus become an integral part of the livestock sustainability solution palette and will contribute its share to a climate-neutral Earth by 2050.

Exploring the Arsenal of Novel Antifungal Drug Targets for Combating Fungal Infections.

Fungal infections contribute to over 1.5 million fatalities each year, with cutaneous mycoses standing as prominent global infections. The spectrum of these mycoses varies widely, encompassing enduring afflictions like ringworm, localized infections such as tinea capitis, recurrent instances like vaginal candidiasis, and potentially fatal systemic infections impacting multiple organ systems. The escalating recognition of the health and socioeconomic ramifications associated with fungal pathogens underscores their importance in contemporary discourse. On a global scale, projections indicate that over 300 million individuals experience significant fungal infections annually, resulting in a mortality rate exceeding 1.5 million deaths per year. Alarmingly, resistance to commonly used antifungal drugs was on the rise, with some reports suggesting that over 10% of Candida bloodstream isolates worldwide were resistant to fluconazole, a commonly prescribed antifungal medication. Therefore, there is an immediate need to increase the accessibility of new antifungal medications while minimizing their costs and adverse effects. Fungi, as heterotrophic organisms, acquire nutrients through absorption. Their filamentous structure, composed of hyphae, facilitates efficient nutrient uptake by secreting enzymes that break down complex organic matter into simpler compounds. These organisms exhibit remarkable adaptability in responding to environmental cues, adjusting growth rates, and altering morphological features. Fungi regulate their metabolism intricately, undergoing various metabolic pathways for energy production and utilizing diverse substrates for respiration. Additionally, they exhibit distinctive reproductive strategies, employing both sexual and asexual modes of reproduction, contributing to their genetic diversity and resilience in diverse ecosystems. We now have more information than ever on the origins of infection as well as the physiology of fungi cells, giving us the chance to use it to produce new generations of antifungals. This review includes various novel antifungal drug targets showing their possible effects via different mechanisms aiming at vital functions like GPI synthesis, cell wall synthesis, hyphal growth, and other essential pathways responsible for fungal growth.

What do frog calls tell us about males? The advertisement call of Physalaemus albifrons (Amphibia: Leptodactylidae) in the Brazilian semiarid region does not reflect either gonadal investment or energy storage

ABSTRACT Anuran advertisement calls can provide accurate information on the reproductive quality of the male callers, thus providing females with indicators for the selection of mates. Body size is generally correlated with the dominant frequency of male advertisement calls. However, it is unclear whether and to what extent call parameters are associated with gonadal investment and the energy reserves of the males. Given that in tropical seasonally dry environments the wet season is very short, gathering information about gonadal investment and energy reserves of mates should be particularly important. In the present study, we evaluated the relationship between acoustic performance, gonadal condition, and fat storage in the Neotropical frog Physalaemus albifrons from the Brazilian semiarid region, testing the hypothesis that the advertisement call (repetition rate, call duration, and fundamental and dominant frequencies) would be a good predictor of male quality in terms of gonadal investment (testicle length) and energy reserves (mass of fat bodies). Contrary to our predictions, neither testicle length nor the mass of fat bodies was related to any of the acoustic parameters of the advertisement calls of P. albifrons. These results indicate that the advertisement call of P. albifrons does not provide reliable information on gonadal investment or energy storage of males. Possibly, in habitats with little and unpredictable rainfall, males of P. albifrons should present small variation in gonadal and fat storage conditions during its short reproductive window. Our findings contribute to the understanding of anuran reproductive strategies in seasonally dry environments.

The Size-Number Trade-Off and Resource Allocation in Saponaria officinalis Under Continuous Pollination

The size-number trade-off in plant reproduction indicates a necessary balance between producing a few large offspring versus many small ones, each with distinct survival and reproductive implications. This trade-off may be particularly important in species that reproduce continuously throughout the growing season, like Saponaria officinalis. Plants must dynamically adjust their resource allocation strategies to optimize reproductive success across multiple reproductive cycles. Although reproductive strategies in plants have been widely studied, little is known about how continuously reproducing species adjust their resource allocation in response to pollinator availability. This study seeks to clarify how Saponaria officinalis allocates resources under continuous pollination and whether this leads to a trade-off between seed number and seed size throughout the growing season. To explore this, my study used 60 plants that were located within a field of 1600 S. officinalis plants at Queen’s University Biological Station (QUBS). Plants were divided into control (30) and treatment (30) groups, with treatment plants receiving continuous pollination to simulate constant pollinator availability; and control plants receiving natural open-pollination. During my project, seed pods were categorized as empty or filled, and seeds were counted and weighed to assess reproductive output. I expected to find an increase in reproductive success in the treatment group, with steady production of larger seeds due to increased resource availability from continuous pollination. However, contrary to these expectations, there was no significant difference in seed weight between the treatment and control groups. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of the ecological and evolutionary mechanisms driving reproductive strategies in continuously reproducing species. The insights gained can inform broader ecological theories and have practical applications in conservation and agricultural management, where optimizing reproductive success under varying conditions is essential.

Eriophyid mites in fruit crops: Biology, ecology, molecular aspects, and innovative control strategies

Eriophyid mites, minute arachnids within the family Eriophyidae, pose significant threats to fruit crops globally, leading to substantial economic losses in agriculture. This comprehensive review aims to elucidate the intricate biology, ecology, molecular aspects, and innovative control strategies of these pervasive pests. Eriophyid mites exhibit a complex life cycle and reproductive strategy, with their habitat preferences and distribution heavily influenced by environmental factors and host-plant interactions. Advances in molecular biology have provided more profound insights into their genetics and interactions at the molecular level, revealing crucial information for developing targeted pest management strategies. Control strategies for eriophyid mites encompass chemical methods, such as applying acaricides and understanding resistance mechanisms, as well as biological control using natural predators and parasitoids. Cultural and physical control methods, including crop rotation and mechanical removal, play vital roles in integrated pest management (IPM). Emerging approaches like RNA interference (RNAi) and semiochemical-based controls offer promising alternatives for sustainable pest management. This review underscores the importance of a multifaceted approach to effectively manage eriophyid mite infestations, integrating traditional and novel strategies. Future research should focus on overcoming current challenges, enhancing the efficacy of control methods, and further exploring the molecular mechanisms underlying mite-plant interactions

Observation on embryonic development of Gymnodiptychus dybowskii (Kessler, 1874) in Manas River, Xinjiang, China

To protect the germplasm resources of Gymnodiptychus dybowskii (Kessler, 1874), a species endemic to Xinjiang, the key stages of embryonic development of G. dybowskii were studied. From May to July 2021, the artificial breeding of G. dybowskii was carried out at the fish breeding station of the Kenswart Water Conservancy Project. The embryos and early larvae were obtained using temperature promotion, water stimulation, hormone induction, and dry insemination techniques. their development process was observed, and morphological characteristics of each developmental stage were recorded. The results showed that the mature oocyte was round, heavy, and light yellow, with an egg diameter of (2.32 ± 0.21) mm. The fertilized egg was slightly viscous, and the viscosity disappeared after water absorption. Under the temperature of 15.6-17.7 ℃ (16.23 ± 0.52) ℃, the embryonic development of G. dybowskii lasted for 142 h and 33 min and went through 7 stages of fertilization, cleavage, blastula, gastrula, neurula embryo, organ formation, and membrane hatching, with a total of 26 periods. The membrane broke after 2376.724 ℃·h. The embryonic development of G. dybowskii follows the rule of freshwater bony fish, but it differs from other Schizothorax species in the muscular effect period and membrane emergence mode. In addition, differences in hatching water temperature among different geographic populations lead to differences in embryo development duration and accumulated temperature, which further proves that G. dybowskii is highly adaptive to the ecological environment of its habitat water, and these characteristics together constitute its survival and reproduction strategy in the natural environment. In this study, through the artificial breeding experiment of G. dybowskii, the characteristics of its embryonic development were explored, which laid the foundation for the cultivation of unique fish seedlings, enriched the early life history data of G. dybowskii, and further provided basic data for its resource protection.

The stony coral Fimbriaphyllia (Euphyllia) ancora’s reproductive strategy involves a sex change every year

A sex change phenomenon was reported in some free-living, non-sessile coral species of the Family Fungiidae. However, there are no reports describing sex change in sessile colonial species. Timing and cellular processes of sex change are also unclear in corals. Here, we report sex change of the colonial coral, Fimbriaphyllia ancora, and its cellular process. Of 26 colonies monitored at Nanwan Bay, southern Taiwan, about 70% changed their sex every year after annual spawning for least 3-4 consecutive years, i.e., colonies that were male two years ago became female last year, and male again this year. The remaining 30% were permanently male or female. Sex-change and non-sex-change colonies grew in close proximity or even side-by-side. No significant differences were found in colony size between sex-change and non-sex-change colonies. Histological analysis showed that, in female-to-male sex change, small oocytes were present up to 3 months in some gonads after spawning and disappeared by 5 months. This suggests that sex change occurred 4-5 months after spawning. In contrast, in male-to-female sex change, oocytes appeared weeks after sperm release and in most gonads by 3 months, suggesting that male-to-female sex change occurred 0–3 months after sperm release.

African students consuming the Chinese higher education market: the role of pre-mobility capital(s) in transnational social reproduction strategies

ABSTRACT Despite the sharp growth in numbers and geopolitical significance of African students in China, studies focusing on Sino-African student mobility remain relatively limited. Drawing on semi-structured interviews with 15 self-financed students from five different African countries, we employ Bourdieu’s central concept of capital(s) to explore the decision-making process of student migrants studying at a vocational college in southeast China. Though traditionally elite and upper-ranked universities are endowed with a high level of symbolic value, our study shows that the motivation to study abroad is significantly mediated by access to pre-mobility capitals(s). In considering students as consumers of the Chinese higher education market, the research broadens the mobilities optic within the Global South by documenting the transnational reproduction strategies of the African middle – and working-classes in contemporary times.

Tip extension and simultaneous multiple fission in a filamentous bacterium

Organisms display an immense variety of shapes, sizes, and reproductive strategies. At microscopic scales, bacterial cell morphology and growth dynamics are adaptive traits that influence the spatial organization of microbial communities. In one such community-the human dental plaque biofilm-a network of filamentous Corynebacterium matruchotii cells forms the core of bacterial consortia known as hedgehogs, but the processes that generate these structures are unclear. Here, using live-cell time-lapse microscopy and fluorescent D-amino acids to track peptidoglycan biosynthesis, we report an extraordinary example of simultaneous multiple division within the domain Bacteria. We show that C. matruchotii cells elongate at one pole through tip extension, similar to the growth strategy of soil-dwelling Streptomyces bacteria. Filaments elongate rapidly, at rates more than five times greater than other closely related bacterial species. Following elongation, many septa form simultaneously, and each cell divides into 3 to 14 daughter cells, depending on the length of the mother filament. The daughter cells then nucleate outgrowth of new thinner vegetative filaments, generating the classic "whip handle" morphology of this taxon. Our results expand the known diversity of bacterial cell cycles and help explain how this filamentous bacterium can compete for space, access nutrients, and form important interspecies interactions within dental plaque.

Phenotypic Plasticity in Locusts: Trade-Off Between Migration and Reproduction.

Locusts exhibit phenotypic plasticity in response to population density changes, with distinct phenotypes in the solitary and gregarious phases. In the past decade, many studies have revealed the molecular mechanisms underlying phase changes, which include the change of body coloration, pheromones, behavior, flight, fecundity, immunity, and aging. Our understanding of the molecular mechanisms related to these phenotypic differences has expanded in breadth and depth with the decoding of the locust genome, involving transcriptional, post-transcriptional, translational, and epigenetic regulation. Large-scale regulation networks composed of genes and noncoding RNAs reflect the systematic modifications of the locust phase transition in response to environmental changes. Gene manipulation techniques have verified the functions of specific genes and related pathways in phase changes. This review highlights the latest advances in studies of locust phase changes and suggests that the divergence of energy and metabolism allocation in gregarious and solitary locusts is an adaptive strategy for long-distance migration and local reproduction, respectively. Finally, we propose future research directions and discuss emerging questions in the area of phenotypic plasticity of locusts.