Rich Biodiversity Research Articles

Possible effects of shipping routes on coral reef degradation and diversity in Karimunjawa Marine National Park, Java Sea

The Karimunjawa Marine National Park, situated in the Java Sea, Indonesia, is renowned for its rich biodiversity and lively coral reefs. However, amidst the backdrop of this natural beauty, concerns have been raised regarding the potential impacts of shipping activities on the health and diversity of these fragile ecosystems. The increase in maritime traffic, including commercial vessels, tourist boats, and fishing vessels, traversing through the Karimunjawa Marine National Park, raises significant environmental concerns. The movement of these vessels, especially along specific shipping routes, has the potential to disturb and damage coral reefs through various mechanisms. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the possible impacts of shipping routes on the coral abundance and diversity and the coral health in the Karimunjawa Islands, Java Sea, Indonesia. This study categorized ship routes into West Route, East Route, and Non-Route and assessed coral health and diversity across 15 islands. Key metrics analyzed included coral disease prevalence, coral cover, diversity index, species richness, relative abundance, and evenness, using 15 × 2 m belt transects at 3 and 8 m depths with three repetitions each. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences in coral abundance and species richness among ship-route groups, but no significant depth-related differences. These results suggest that while shipping routes affect certain aspects of coral health and diversity, other factors may be more influential in shaping coral disease prevalence and overall diversity in Karimunjawa reefs.

Ganga, GAP, and lockdown: potential threats to the biodiversity of the river

ABSTRACT The Ganges River holds a vital status within India as a cornerstone of the nation's ecological and socio-economic fabric. Flowing through diverse terrains like the Himalayas, Gangetic plains, and coastal regions, it fosters an incredibly rich biodiversity, supporting a myriad of life forms ranging from microorganisms to mammals. Beyond its ecological significance, the river sustains the livelihoods of millions, contributing significantly to the economy of northern India. However, rampant human development over recent decades has posed grave threats to its well-being. Pollution from sewage and industrial waste has tainted its waters with heavy metals, posing risks of bioaccumulation and magnification within aquatic life. Infrastructure projects like dams and bridges disrupt natural habitats and impede the migration of aquatic species, further jeopardising the river's ecological balance. Despite these challenges, there have been glimmers of hope, particularly noted during the COVID-19 lockdown when industrial activities ceased, offering the river a temporary reprieve. Moving forward, effective measures are imperative, including reducing industrial and domestic effluent discharge, scrutinising sources of heavy metal contamination, and prioritising the restoration of the river's natural flow. Preserving the Ganges’ ecological integrity is paramount, necessitating concerted efforts to ensure its health and vitality for future generations.

Among the world's smallest vertebrates: a new miniaturized flea-toad (Brachycephalidae) from the Atlantic rainforest.

The genus Brachycephalus includes miniaturized toadlets with two distinct morphotypes: brightly colored species with a bufoniform phenotype and smaller, cryptic species with a leptodactyliform phenotype. The diversity of leptodactyliform species is still underappreciated, and we generally lack fundamental information about their biology. Recent sampling efforts, including DNA analyses and recordings of advertisement calls, have improved our understanding of this group. In the present study, we describe a new species of Brachycephalus, one of the smallest vertebrates known. This new species is distinguished from its congeners by a combination of morphological, bioacoustic, and genetic data. Despite being among the smallest frogs globally (the second smallest amphibian species), it exhibits skeletal traits typical of larger frogs, such as the presence of cranial bones that are lost or fused in other miniature frogs, including other Brachycephalus. Our description underscores how new discoveries within the megadiverse fauna of the Atlantic Forest-a rich biodiversity hotspot-can provide insights into phenotypic variation, including vertebrate body size. By describing this new species, we also aim to revisit the hypothesis that the type series of B. hermogenesi includes two species, potentially including individuals of the species described here.

Distribution characteristics of soil active organic carbon at different elevations and its effects on microbial communities in southeast Tibet

Global mountain ecosystems have garnered significant attention due to their rich biodiversity and crucial ecological functions; however, there is a dearth of research on the variations in soil active organic carbon across altitudinal gradients and their impacts on microbial communities. In this study, soil samples at an altitude of 3,800 m to 4,400 m were collected from Sejira Mountain in the southeast Tibet, and soil active organic carbon components, soil microbial community diversity, composition and structure distribution and their relationships were systematically analyzed. The results revealed a non-linear relationship between the elevation and the contents of soil organic carbon (SOC) and easily oxidized organic carbon (ROC), with an initial increase followed by a subsequent decrease, reaching their peak at an altitude of 4,200 m. The Shannon diversity of bacteria exhibited a significant decrease with increasing altitude, whereas no significant change was observed in the diversity of fungi. The bacterial community primarily comprised Acidobacteria, Proteobacteria, Chloroflexi, and Actinobacteriota. Among them, the relative abundance of Proteobacteria exhibited a negative correlation with increasing altitude, whereas Actinobacteriota demonstrated a positive correlation with elevation. The fungal communities primarily consisted of Basidiomycota, Ascomycota, and Mortierellomycota, with Ascomycota prevailing at lower altitudes and Basidiomycota dominating at higher altitudes. The diversity and composition of bacterial communities were primarily influenced by altitude, SOC, ROC, and POC (particulate organic carbon). Soil carbon-to-nitrogen ratio (C/N), dissolved organic carbon (DOC), and available phosphorus (AP) emerged as key factors influencing fungal community diversity, while POC played a pivotal role in shaping the composition and structure of the fungal community. In conclusion, we believe that soil active organic carbon components had a greater impact on the bacterial community in the primary forest ecosystem in southeast Tibet with the elevation gradient increasing, which provided a theoretical basis for further understanding of the relationship between the microbial community and soil carbon cycle in the plateau mountain ecosystem under the background of climate change.

Diversity and Antifungal Susceptibilities of Yeasts from Mangroves in Hong Kong, China-A One Health Aspect.

While mangrove ecosystems are rich in biodiversity, they are increasingly impacted by climate change and urban pollutants. The current study provides first insights into the emergence of potentially pathogenic yeasts in Hong Kong's mangroves. Sediment and water samples were collected from ten urban and rural mangroves sites. Initial CHROMagarTM Candida Plus screening, representing the first application of this differential medium for water and soil samples collected from a non-clinical environment, enabled the rapid, preliminary phenotypic identification of yeast isolates from mangroves. Subsequent molecular profiling (ITS and/or 28S nrDNA sequencing) and antifungal drug susceptibility tests were conducted to further elucidate yeast diversity and drug resistance. A diversity of yeasts, including 45 isolates of 18 distinct species across 13 genera/clades, was isolated from sediments and waters from Hong Kong mangroves. Molecular profiling revealed a dominance of the Candida/Lodderomyces clade (44.4%), a group of notorious opportunistic pathogens. The findings also reveal a rich biodiversity of non-Candida/Lodderomyces yeasts in mangroves, including the first reported presence of Apiotrichum domesticum and Crinitomyces flavificans. A potentially novel Yamadazyma species was also discovered. Remarkably, 14.3% of the ubiquitous Candida parapsilosis isolates displayed resistance to multiple antifungal drugs, suggesting that mangroves may be reservoirs of multi-drug resistance. Wildlife, especially migratory birds, may disseminate these hidden threats. With significant knowledge gaps regarding the environmental origins, drug resistance, and public health impacts of pathogenic yeasts, urgent surveillance is needed from a One Health perspective. This study provides an early warning that unrestrained urbanization can unleash resistant pathogens from coastal ecosystems globally. It underscores the necessity for enhanced surveillance studies and interdisciplinary collaboration between clinicians, ornithologists, and environmental microbiologists to effectively monitor and manage this environmental health risk, ensuring the maintenance of 'One Health'.

Temporal Range Dynamics of the Lataste's Viper (Vipera latastei Boscá, 1878) in Doñana (Spain): Insights into Anthropogenically Driven Factors.

Doñana (southern Spain), a region of notable biodiversity richness, is highly threatened by ongoing landscape transformation and climate change. We investigated the local effect of these anthropogenic factors on the temporal range dynamics of Lataste's viper (Vipera latastei), an Iberian endemic Mediterranean reptile that has apparently become rare over the years in Doñana. Using ecological niche-based models, based on climatic and remote sensing variables, we analyzed historical (1959-1999) and contemporary (2000-2022) records of the species to assess range shifts and identify environmental factors that may influence them. Our results show that V. latastei is mostly restricted to the coastal region of Doñana and that one temperature variable is the most important factor explaining this distribution pattern in both periods. Additional climatic and vegetation variables play a role in its historical distribution, but they become less important in contemporary times, suggesting a niche simplification over time. We found 30.5% of reduction in the species suitable area from historical to contemporary conditions, a reduction that would be even greater (83.37%) in the absence of niche shift. These findings underscore the species' heightened vulnerability to ongoing environmental changes and highlight the urgent need for targeted conservation strategies.

Habitat quality assessment on the Qinghai-Tibet plateau across vegetation ecoregions using InVEST and Geodetector models

IntroductionThe Qinghai-Tibet Plateau holds a significant position in the global ecosystem, with its unique high altitude and complex geographical features fostering rich biodiversity. The plateau’s high-altitude environment and distinctive climate system significantly influence the Asian monsoon and regional hydrological cycles. Its vast glaciers and snow reserves are crucial in regulating the Asian climate. While previous studies have analyzed the habitat quality of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, significant variations exist across different vegetation ecoregions, warranting further investigation into these variations and their influencing factors.MethodsThis study conducted a comprehensive assessment of habitat quality on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau by analyzing the impacts of human activities, climate change, and grazing intensity. Using the InVEST Model and Geodetector Model, we evaluated habitat quality across the plateau’s six vegetation ecoregions from 2000 to 2020. The efficacy of ecological red-line policies in actual conservation efforts was also examined.ResultsThe results indicate that habitat quality among vegetation ecoregions is shaped by a complex interaction of geographical and human-induced factors, leading to notable spatiotemporal variations. From 2000 to 2020, the quality of habitats was significantly impacted by human activities, climate change, grazing intensity, and land-use changes. These effects were especially prominent during the period from 2005 to 2010.DiscussionThe changes in habitat quality on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau are influenced by multiple driving factors, with significant differences in the drivers across various vegetation ecoregions. The ecological redline policy has played an important role in protecting the ecological environment in key areas, particularly in regions with high human intervention, where its effectiveness is more pronounced. In future ecological management, it is essential to strengthen conservation measures based on regional specificity. By comprehensively considering the impact of human activities and natural factors, developing more targeted management strategies is crucial for improving habitat quality.

A Review on Endangered Medicinal Plants of Melghat Forest in Amravati District

The Melghat Forest, located in the Western Ghats region of Maharashtra, is known for its rich biodiversity including a variety of plant and animal species. However, like many other forested area, the Melghat Forest is facing threats from various anthropogenic activities, such as deforestation, habitat destruction, and the introduction of exotic species. (Sharma, 2015) To address these challenges, the state government has implemented various conservation measures, including the establishment of a threatened fauna management framework. Some of these endangered medicinal plants are Saussaureea lappa, Picorrhiza kurroa, Ginkgo Biloba, Swertia chirata,Gymnema sylvestre,Tinospora cordifolia,Salaca oblonga,Holostemma,Celastrus paniculata,Oroxylum indicum, Glycyrrhiza glabra,Typophora indica,Bacopa monnieri,Rauwolfia serpentine. The most important species in these forests is Teak(Tectona Grandis).Teak forests occupy over 11500 sq.km.area which is about 1/5 of the area under forest department.The present investigation of some of the plants which are more important to human healthcare and may be extinct in future.

Comprehensive biodiversity assessment of flora and fauna along the Kedah coastline: Implications for conservation and sustainable management

Preserving the unique ecosystems of specific coastal areas is crucial for environmental health and the welfare of local communities. This study explores the rich biodiversity of flora and fauna along the Kedah state coastline, a 440 km stretch along the Strait of Malacca. Through meticulous site surveys and comprehensive data collection across multiple locations, followed by laboratory analyses, this research reveals a vibrant tapestry of life. The Kedah coastal area boasts a remarkable diversity, with 60 fish species identified, predominantly from the Carangidae (12 %) and Mugilidae (10 %) families. Additionally, five marine mammal species were documented, though turtles and terrapins were notably absent. The condition of coral reefs varied, with "fair" conditions observed at stations St-1 and St-2 (31.67 % and 35.67 % live coral, respectively), and "poor" conditions at St-3 (10.67 % live coral). High densities of phytoplankton, zooplankton, macrobenthos, and seaweed were recorded, whereas seagrass vegetation was absent. The study on Kedah’s coastal flora and fauna revealed a diverse range of species, including fish, marine mammals, corals, phytoplankton, zooplankton, macrobenthos, and seaweed. Coral reefs were found to be in varying conditions, with some needing restoration. The study recommends long-term monitoring, seasonal surveys, and focused research on key species. Habitat protection, community awareness, and sustainable practices are also emphasized to preserve the ecological balance of these marine environments. Moreover, the findings of this study provide a critical understanding of the Kedah coastal ecosystem and offer valuable insights for local authorities to develop effective conservation strategies. This research underscores the importance of preserving biodiversity to maintain ecological balance and support sustainable development in coastal regions.

Profiling Geoguides at Stong Geopark: Enhancing Local Expertise for Sustainable Ecotourism

Stong Geopark is a prominent natural attraction site in Kelantan, characterized by its rich biodiversity and variety of species, catering to diverse visitor interests such as wildlife enthusiasts and tourists. Geoguides play a vital role in helping visitors comprehend the significance of the geopark's geological features, the interconnectedness of the ecosystem, and the knowledge of indigenous communities. However, the tourism industry faces challenges in meeting the requirements for various forms of tourism services, including geoguiding. This study aims to profile the geoguides at Stong Geopark and better understand their areas of expertise. The research employs a quantitative approach, surveying 39 geoguides, to provide a comprehensive profile. The findings reveal three distinct clusters of geoguides' areas of expertise: Cluster 1 - Nature and Adventure, Cluster 2 - Nature, and Cluster 3 - Adventure. The study also highlights the need for the majority of geoguides to receive additional training in English communication skills and continuous professional development courses. Overall, this study offers valuable insights into the profiles of geoguides at Stong Geopark, emphasizing the importance of supporting and developing local geoguides' expertise to enhance the effectiveness of geopark management and visitor satisfaction. Furthermore, the study provides a spatial understanding of Stong Geopark by highlighting the locations of active geoguides in relation to the distribution of geosites. The findings can inform policymakers, tourism authorities, and geopark management in developing targeted strategies for capacity building and professionalization of geoguides, ultimately contributing to the sustainable development of Stong Geopark as a thriving ecotourism destination.

Caatinga Microbiome Initiative: disentangling the soil microbiome across areas under desertification and restoration in the Brazilian drylands

The Caatinga biome in Brazil is renowned for its rich aboveground biodiversity. However, approximately 19% of this biome has experienced desertification, severely affecting the soil microbiome. Monitoring these microbial communities is essential to understanding the impacts of desertification and the potential outcomes of restoration efforts. The Caatinga Microbiome Initiative aims to assess the soil microbiome in areas undergoing desertification and those under restoration in the Brazilian drylands. This initiative seeks to explore the core microbial communities and their functions, including overlooked groups such as protists, nematodes, and viruses across native, desertified, and restored areas. We believe that two approaches should be used simultaneously in the study of microbiomes in areas undergoing desertification. First, the use of the soil microbiome as a bioindicator of soil quality in both desertified and restored lands. Second, the manipulation of the microbiome to facilitate soil restoration. By understanding soil microbiome responses to desertification and restoration, we can develop targeted restoration strategies to enhance biodiversity and promote functional recovery in desertified areas.

Assessment of Migratory Bird Diversity in Key Wetlands and Forest Reserves of Lakhimpur District, Assam, India

Lakhimpur district of Assam has a rich biodiversity and is home to many birds and has good breeding, resting and feeding grounds for migratory birds as well. However, there is little information available regarding the diversity of migratory birds in the district's various locales. A study was conducted in different locations to document the diversity of migratory birds visiting the district. To better understand the diversity of migrating birds in the district, six locations were selected- Kakoi RF, Ranga RF, Pabha RF, Satajan wetland, Bordoibam-Bilmukh Bird Sanctuary and Ghagor Ghat. Data were gathered through surveys, conducted for 218 days from January 2022 – May 2024. A total of 80 migratory bird species were recorded under 26 families of which Anatidae was most diverse. Out of the 80 species, 56 were winter visitor, 18 were local migrants and 6 were summer visitors. Among the migratory birds, Palla’s Fish Eagle (Haliaeetus leucoryphus) is listed as endangered species in IUCN Red List. Three species viz. Ferruginous duck (Aythya nyroca), Falcated duck (Mareca falcata) and Greater Adjutant (Leptoptilos dubius) are listed as near threatened species in IUCN Red List. Out of all the recorded species, insectivorous species are found to be highest (39%) as compared to species with other feeding habits. The Shannon diversity index was highest for Satajan wetland (H′ = 3.86) and lowest for Bordoibam-Bilmukh BS (H′ = 2.79). Jaccard similarity index showed highest similarity between Ranga RF and Kakoi RF (0.312) and the lowest value between Ranga RF and Bordoibam-Bilmukh BS (0.069). The Satajan wetland, Ranga RF, Kakoi RF, Pabha RF, Bordoibam-Bilmukh BS, and Ghagor Ghat are vital habitats that require conservation to continue supporting diverse resident and migratory birds, as well as other wildlife.

The Futuristic Entrepreneurial Actions for Tribal Farmers of North-east India

The North-East region of India, with its rich cultural diversity and biodiversity, is especially well-suited for agricultural growth. Given its potential, one would expect this region to be at the forefront of agri-entrepreneurial activities. Additionally, with the last few years, agriculture and its supplementary sectors became crucial components of entrepreneurial projects buoyed up by the existing need for sustainable food production, appropriate management of resources, and improving the living standards in rural areas. However, this expectation contrasts with findings from Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) studies for North-East region of India. Therefore, the study aimed to identify future entrepreneurial actions in the Mishmi Hills of Arunachal Pradesh. Using an open-ended questionnaire, the researchers employed a triangulation approach to analyse potential ventures in the region. The study identified ten key entrepreneurial actions. Agro-tourism emerged as the top choice among local tribal farmers, while the commercialization of Mishmi teeta (a traditional medicinal plant) was ranked highest by experts in the region. These findings offer valuable insights for stakeholders in the region. The study highlights the entrepreneurial interests of tribal farmers and suggest areas for entrepreneurial policy development in the region. Additionally, the findings also offer actionable insights for designing training programs or policy initiatives aiming to empower tribal farmers through entrepreneurship in agricultural and allied sector.

Assessing Present and Future Ecological Status of Ria de Aveiro: A Modeling Study

Coastal lagoons hold significant ecological value due to their rich biodiversity and essential roles in supporting ecosystems. However, they are increasingly threatened by accelerated climate change, and it is crucial to assess these environments’ ecological status for present and future conditions resulting from the impacts of climate change. In this context, the present work aims to evaluate the present and future ecological status of Ria de Aveiro through the application of the numerical model Delft3D. The model was validated, and the results demonstrate that it effectively captures the main characteristics of the lagoon dynamics, although achieving accurate water quality representation poses challenges due to interdependencies in solutions and the inherent complexity of associated processes. The model was explored to characterize the environmental factors of the lagoon and evaluate its ecological status through the computation of several indexes. According to the model results, the main environmental factors present seasonal variations consistent with temperate climates. Regarding the ecological status of Ria de Aveiro, the central channels of the lagoon mostly hold a Good/Moderate status, while regions near river inflows tend to exhibit Moderate to Poor conditions. In future conditions, water quality is expected to improve in winter and autumn due to reductions in river-borne pollutants resulting from the projected decrease in river flow. For spring and summer, a decline in water quality is projected mainly due to the increase in phosphate concentrations in the lagoon. This study provides valuable insights into the ecological dynamics of coastal lagoons under changing climatic conditions, contributing to improved management and mitigation strategies. The findings can guide future conservation efforts and help mitigate the adverse effects of climate change on these vital ecosystems.

Assessment of climate change effect on environmental flows for macroinvertebrates using an integrated hydrological-hydraulic-habitat modelling

Study regionA short reach of the Jeziorka river and its upstream catchment in central Poland Study focusClimate change is expected to have significant impacts on freshwater ecosystems, particularly on temperate region streams resulting often in changes to spatiotemporal distribution of macroinvertebrate species, as well as losses in richness and aquatic biodiversity due to the loss of suitable habitat. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of climate change on the habitat suitability and environmental flow violations for the filter feeder functional group of macroinvertebrate communities in a temperate lowland river in central Poland. To achieve this, we have successfully integrated hydrological (SWAT+), hydraulic (HEC-RAS 1D and SRH-2D), and habitat (CASiMiR) models. We have forced the model cascade with GCM/RCM projections to determine changes in future habitat conditions for a selected reach of the Jeziorka river. New hydrological insights for the regionFuture habitat conditions may deteriorate, as reflected in overwhelmingly negative trends in the hydraulic habitat suitability (HHS) index. According to the projections, there will be fewer days with the necessary environmental flows for filter feeders in the future. The frequency and duration of environmental flow violations, caused by too low or too high flows, depend on the climate model scenarios and timeframes. Our findings will aid water resource planners in achieving sustainable water resource management and meeting environmental flow requirements in the face of a changing climate.

Characteristics of forest understory herbaceous vegetation and its influencing factors in biodiversity hotspots in China

Forest ecosystems, especially within biodiversity hotspots, heavily rely on the often-overlooked understory herbaceous communities (USHC) for their structural integrity and ecological functions. Because of their modest stature, these communities have garnered insufficient attention from researchers. Therefore, in this study attention is focused on USHC, which attempts to fill this research gap. To achieve this, we established 105 sample plots in 2022 within forest ecosystems situated in the biodiversity hotspot of southwest China. Our investigation unveiled a rich biodiversity tapestry, identifying 424 plant species from 108 families and 284 genera. Notable were the 217 herbaceous species identified in the understory layer, representing 67 families and 163 genera. These understory herbaceous species accounted for 51.2 % of the overall species count. Through a detailed analysis, the sample plots were categorized into eight distinct communities using a two-way indicator species analysis. These communities exhibited diverse variations in species composition, diversity, biomass, and nutrient characteristics. Notably, community I (Eucalyptus robusta Smith + Rubus corchorifolius L. f. + Alternanthera philoxeroides (Mart.) Griseb.), V (Camptotheca acuminata Decne + Rubus parkeri Hance + Iris tectorum Maxim), VIII (Platycladus orientalis (L.) Franco + Viburnum dilatatum Thunb. + Cyclosorus interruptus (Willd.) H. Ito) stood out for their exceptional species diversity and productivity. Moreover, correlation analyses highlighted the substantial impact of topographic and soil factors on USHC. Altitude, soil water content, and total carbon content emerged as the primary determinants of species diversity. Biomass demonstrated close associations with total soil carbon and nitrogen. Furthermore, the nutrient characteristics displayed significant correlations with soil nutrient contents. These findings underscore the critical importance of prioritizing USHC attention in forest conservation and management strategies within biodiversity hotspots. The implications strongly advocate for the inclusion of these communities in planning and decision-making processes, emphasizing their pivotal role in maintaining structural and functional diversity in ecosystems.

Testate amoebae from the wetlands of the Phobjikha Valley of Bhutan, the Eastern Himalaya

The Kingdom of Bhutan in the Eastern Himalayas harbors a rich biodiversity. However, its detailed documentation still needs to be created, including not only macroorganisms but also protists. In the present study, as many as 105 taxa of testate amoebae were identified and directly counted in soil suspensions, samples from the wetlands of the Gangtey-Phobji Valley (generally Phobjikha), Wangdphodrang district. The most dominant were cosmopolitan species, e.g., Euglypha rotunda, Trinema lineare, T. complanatum, T. enchelys, Phryganella acropodia, and Plagiopyxis declivis. However, some taxa such as Centropyxis deflandriana, C. stenodeflandriana, Hoogenraadia cf. humicola, Pareuglypha reticulata, and Sphenoderia chardezi have a geographically restricted distribution and/or are considered rare. Some specimens could not be assigned to already described species (Centropyxis dentata sp. nov. and Difflugia fusiforma sp. nov.) or were highly similar to known species but differed in size or other taxonomically important characteristics (e.g., Hoogenraadia cf. humicola and Planhoogenraadia sp.). To our knowledge, this study is the first to present a comprehensive list of testate amoebae from Bhutan, including some new and rare species. The discovery of a remarkable diversity of testate amoebae taxa from only a few soil samples suggests that this remote and largely unexplored region likely harbors many more intriguing species.

Clitoria Ternatea: A Comprehensive Study on Extraction, Phytochemical Characterization, Antioxidant & Antimicrobial Properties, and Inorganic Elemental Analysis

North-eastern India is having rich biodiversity. Phytochemical are non-nutritive, chemical compounds occurs naturally on plants during metabolic processes and they have diverse proactive properties or disease preventive properties. Plants are known to produce these chemicals to protect them. While recent research demonstrates that they can also play an important role in protecting humans against diseases. Even some of these plants are in use as traditional medicine for centuries. Methanol extract showed the presence of most phytochemicals. Distilled water and acidified water extracts showed moderate phytochemical diversity. Ether extract showed presence of lipophilic phytochemicals like lipids, steroids, terpenoids, and triterpenoids. The TPC values for Clitoria ternatea range from 50-350 mg GAE/g. The methanolic extract of Clitoria ternatea showed higher total phenolic content of 209.2 mg GAE/g compared to the aqueous extract, which shows 122.1 mg GAE/g. The results indicate that methanol is a more efficient solvent for extracting phenolic compounds from Clitoria ternatea. The inorganic composition of plants, in a solid state, was determined using ED-XRF. The amount of silver, barium, cadmium, chromium, iron, nickel, lead, zinc, calcium, potassium, sodium, magnesium in plants were determined using ICP-OES. The most significant findings in this section include high concentrations of Potassium (K) in Asian pigeonwings followed by Calcium (Ca). According to the toxicity level, Cadmium (Cd) and Lead (Pb) levels are within safe limits. Hence, further research should be carried out to identify the active biomolecules or Phyto-molecules from the plants and determine the effects of them in vitro as well as in vivo.

Environmental Assessment in Panguil and Iligan Bay, Philippines: Review and Future Perspectives

Northern Mindanao, in the southern Philippines, is known for its rich biodiversity and vital coastal ecosystems. Rapid economic growth in the region, marked by industrialization and urban expansion, raises concerns about pollution and its impact on water quality and marine life. This review deals with environmental assessments conducted in Panguil and Iligan Bay, focusing on pollutant levels and their effects on marine life. By analyzing data from sediments, phytoplankton, benthic foraminifera, seagrasses and macroinvertebrates, key contaminants affecting the region’s environmental health and biodiversity were identified. Findings across various studies were integrated to provide a comprehensive understanding of contamination trends and biodiversity responses. This work emphasizes the interconnected environmental challenges in Iligan and Panguil Bay, along with the surrounding areas, urging a multifaceted approach that promotes sustainability, fills research gaps, and informs effective conservation and management strategies.

Diversity of bacterial communities in wetlands of Calakmul Biosphere Reserve: a comparative analysis between conserved and semi-urbanized zones in pre-Mayan Train era

BackgroundThe Calakmul Biosphere Reserve (CBR) is known for its rich animal and plant biodiversity, yet its microbial communities remain largely unknown. The reserve does not possess permanent bodies of water; nevertheless, seasonal depressions associated with fractures create wetlands, known locally as aguadas. Given the recent construction of the Maya train that crosses the CRB, it is essential to assess the biodiversity of its microorganisms and recognize their potential as a valuable source of goods. This evaluation is pivotal in mitigating potential mismanagement of the forest ecosystem. To enhance comprehension of microbial communities, we characterized the microbiota in three different wetlands. Ag-UD1 and Ag-UD2 wetlands are located in a zone without human disturbances, while the third, Ag-SU3, is in a semi-urbanized zone. Sampling was carried out over three years (2017, 2018, and 2019), enabling the monitoring of spatiotemporal variations in bacterial community diversity. The characterization of microbiome composition was conducted using 16S rRNA metabarcoding. Concurrently, the genomic potential of select samples was examined through shotgun metagenomics.ResultsStatistical analysis of alpha and beta diversity indices showed significant differences among the bacterial communities found in undisturbed sites Ag-UD1 and Ag-UD2 compared to Ag-SU3. However, no significant differences were observed among sites belonging to the undisturbed area. Furthermore, a comparative analysis at the zone level reveals substantial divergence among the communities, indicating that the geographic location of the samples significantly influences these patterns. The bacterial communities in the CBR wetlands predominantly consist of genera from phyla Actinobacteria, Acidobacteria, and Proteobacteria.ConclusionThis characterization has identified the composition of microbial communities and provided the initial overview of the metabolic capacities of the microbiomes inhabiting the aguadas across diverse conservation zones. The three sites exhibit distinct microbial compositions, suggesting that variables such as chemical composition, natural and anthropogenic disturbances, vegetation, and fauna may play a pivotal role in determining the microbial structure of the aguadas. This study establishes a foundational baseline for evaluating the impact of climatic factors and human interventions on critical environments such as wetlands.