Artículos (Biología Vegetal y Ecología)

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The genus Andrena Fabricius, 1775 (Hymenoptera, Andrenidae) in a Mediterranean biodiversity hotspot: community-wide relationships with plants and description of three new species
(Pensoft Publishers, 2025-11-11) Herrera, Carlos M.; Alonso, Conchita; Valverde Morillas, Francisco Javier; Núñez, Alejandro; Wood, Thomas J.; Biología Vegetal y Ecología; Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación; European Union (UE)
Evolutionary and ecological factors underlying the extensive, fast diversification of the species-rich bee genus Andrena (Andrenidae Latreille, 1802) are of general interest and require elucidation. Progress in evolutionary and ecological understanding of hyperdiverse Andrena assemblages, however, has been hindered in parts of the world where the genus reaches its highest species richness. The lack of well-established taxonomic resources has precluded studies on resource use and patterns of reciprocal relationships with plants which could potentially shed light on drivers of Andrena diversification. This paper presents an analysis of community-wide relationships between plants and Andrena bees in a western Mediterranean biodiversity hotspot (Cazorla mountain range, southeastern Spain). By combining information on pollinator composition of the regional community of entomophilous plants (292 species) with a state-of-the-art taxonomic treatment of the regional assemblage of Andrena (89 species), we assess here the distribution across the plant phylogeny of floral resources utilized by Andrena; the quantitative patterns of mutual dependence between species of plants and Andrena; and the completeness of our regional sampling of Andrena species. Three new species of Andrena from the study region, which were discovered in the course of the field study, are also described and illustrated: A. officinalis Wood, sp. nov., A. rostro Wood, sp. nov., and A. cazorlae Wood, sp. nov.
Carex huancabambica (Cyperaceae), a new species from the Peruvian and Ecuadorian Andes
(Pensoft Publishers, 2025-10-31) González-Gallego, Luis; Benítez Benítez, Carmen; Reznicek, Anton A.; Cano, Asunción; Oleas, Nora H.; Martín Bravo, Santiago; Jiménez Mejías, Pedro; Biología Vegetal y Ecología; Agencia Española de Investigación del Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación
The Huancabamba Depression in Neotropical South America, a natural barrier between the Northern and Central Andes, serves as a refuge for high levels of angiosperm diversity. However, this biodiversity remains understudied, especially in complex and species-rich genera, such as Carex L. (Cyperaceae). This genus is notably underrepresented in taxonomic and systematic research on the Neotropics. In this study, we employed an integrative systematic approach combining molecular and morphological data to elucidate the taxonomic status of several Carex populations from Ecuador and northern Peru, which exhibit morphological affinities with the sect. Porocystis Dumort. (Castanea Clade). We conducted a phylogenetic analysis using two nuclear (ITS and ETS) and one plastid (matK) DNA regions and carried out a detailed morphological comparison with Neotropical relatives within the section. Both phylogenetic and morphological results supported the systematic distinctiveness of the focal populations. As a result, we describe a new species, Carex huancabambica Gonz.Gallego & Jim.Mejías, sp. nov. and provide its taxonomic treatment. This study contributes to disentangling the biodiversity of the genus Carex in the Neotropics.
Genome origin and phylogenetic relationships of Campeiostachys (Triticeae: Poaceae) based on nuclear and chloroplast DNA regions
(Royal Botanical Society of Belgium, 2025-09-12) Tan, Lu; Hu, Meng; Wu, Dan Dan; Cheng, Yi Ran; Sha, Li Na; Fan, Xing; Valdés Florido, Ana; Zhou, Yong Hong; Biología Vegetal y Ecología; National Natural Science Foundation of China; Science and Technology Bureau of Sichuan Province
Background and aims – Campeiostachys is an allohexaploid perennial genus of the Triticeae tribe (Poaceae). The allopolyploids of Triticeae are produced by interspecific hybridization of different genera. In this study, we investigate the genome origin of Campeiostachys and the relationships of some species based on phylogenetic analyses. Material and methods – Two nuclear (Acc1 and DMC1) and two chloroplast (matK and rps16) DNA regions of the species of Campeiostachys and its related genera were used for phylogenetic analyses. Key results – The Acc1 and DMC1 sequences revealed that the genome composition of all Campeiostachys species in our study is StYH, suggesting that Campeiostachys may have originated by the natural hybridization between species with StY and H genomes, as no species with Y or HY genomes have been found in the wild. The results from the chloroplast regions indicated that the maternal donor of the Campeiostachys species contains the St subgenome. In addition, phylogenetic analysis of the nuclear sequences showed that C. purpuraristata always groups with the species of the C. dahurica complex in the St, Y, or H clade, distinct from other species in the genus. Also, C. calcicola, C. kamoji, and C. tsukushiensis var. transiens are distinct yet closely related species. Conclusion – Campeiostachys species originated from the natural hybridization of the tetraploid species of Roegneria (StY) with the diploid species of Hordeum (H), with Roegneria (StY) acting as the maternal donor. Campeiostachys purpuraristata should be classified into the C. dahurica complex and treated as C. dahurica var. purpuraristata.
Functional trait responses of emergent and free-floating Alternanthera philoxeroides to increasing salinity with sea level rise: stress tolerance, avoidance, and escape strategies
(Pensoft Publishers, 2025-10-07) Grewell, Brenda J.; Gallego Tevar, Blanca; Castillo Segura, Jesús Manuel; Futrell, Caryn J.; Drenovsky, Rebecca E.; Harms, Nathan E.; Pratt, Paul D.; Biología Vegetal y Ecología; Universidad de Sevilla; Agricultural Research Service (ARS). United States
Sea level rise is having major impacts on estuaries due to salinity intrusion. These changes in stress profiles have ripple effects in ecosystems, including altering the invasibility of these wetlands depending on the salt tolerance of the invading species. Alternanthera philoxeroides Mart. (Griseb.) (alligator weed), native to South America and long recognized as one of the world’s worst freshwater aquatic weeds, recently invaded tidal wetlands in California’s San Francisco Bay–Delta Estuary. Generally considered a freshwater-limited glycophyte, observations suggested this invasive macrophyte may have some degree of salinity tolerance, though its degree of tolerance and capacity to spread with increased salinity intrusion were unknown. In two full-factorial greenhouse experiments, we assessed responses of emergent (soil-rooted) and free-floating growth forms of A. philoxeroides to four salinity concentrations (freshwater to euhaline) at the whole-plant (growth, biomass production and allocation, fitness), physiological, and biochemical levels. We also conducted a third experiment exploring the recovery po¬tential of free-floating A. philoxeroides in freshwater following extended exposure to mesohaline to eu¬haline aqueous salinity. Although sensitivity of A. philoxeroides to increasing salinity was documented, the survival of both growth forms in the full range of salinity treatments was notable and unexpected. Our results indicate A. philoxeroides is a facultative halophyte well adapted to oligohaline–mesohaline salinity levels. Results also revealed the invasive weed’s multiple strategies to survive salinity-induced physiological stress, supporting its survival even at elevated polyhaline to euhaline conditions. The macrophyte expressed functional trait responses spanning stress tolerance, avoidance, and escape strategies that may sustain its spread as estuarine salinity intrusion increases with sea level rise.
Increasing aridity threatens the long-term resilience of a Mediterranean oak
(Elsevier, 2026) Borreguero Vázquez, Ismael Joaquín; Sánchez Miranda Moreno, Ángela; Martínez-Sancho, E.; Rubio Casal, Alfredo Emilio; Sánchez-Salguero, R.; Matías Resina, Luis; Biología Vegetal y Ecología; Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades (MICIU). España; Agencia Estatal de Investigación
Recent changes in climate have triggered widespread mortality events in oak forests worldwide. Despite the ecological importance of these ecosystems, limited information exists on the long-term resilience of oak forests in response to extreme climate events. Quercus canariensis, a semi-deciduous oak species sensitive to the typical summer drought, it is currently showing defoliation and mortality episodes in the drier areas of its natural range. Here, we investigated the long-term impacts of climate on the radial growth of Q. canariensis and assessed changes in resilience to extreme droughts across seven populations in Southern Spain. We observed increase in aridity in the study site since 1984, which coincide a decline in growth performance in most of the populations. Moreover, Q. canariensis resilience index was independent of drought intensity and tree size, although recovery and resistance indices drought intensity plays a crucial role. Additionally, we found divergent trends in recovery (increasing) and resistance (declining) over the last five extreme drought events. This pattern indicates a diminished capacity to maintain pre-drought growth levels, suggesting increased vulnerability to more frequent extreme climatic events. Our growth analyses identified early-warning signals of forest decline in this Mediterranean oak species, identifying the most sensitive populations and highlighting its susceptibility to the impacts of extreme droughts.
Spatial phylogenetic and phenotypic patterns reveal ontogenetic shifts in ecological processes of plant community assembly
(Wiley, 2022-09-13) Perea, Antonio; Wiegand, Thorsten; Garrido, José L.; Rey, Pedro J.; Alcántara, Julio M.; Biología Vegetal y Ecología; Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación (MICIN). España
The analysis of the spatial phylogenetic and phenotypic structure of plant communities can provide insight into the underlying processes and interactions governing their assembly, and how these may change during plant ontogeny. We used point pattern analysis to find out if saplings and adult plants are surrounded by phylogenetically and phenotypically more similar or more dissimilar neighbours than expected by chance, and whether these associations change from the sapling to the adult stage. To this end, we combined information on the phylogenetic structure and eight phenotypic traits of 15 woody plant species in two Mediterranean mixed forests of southeastern Spain. At the community level, we found that the sapling bank at both sites did not show phylogenetic or phenotypic spatial patterns, but adults showed phylogenetic clustering (i.e. heterospecific neighbours were more similar than expected). At the species level, we found frequently repulsive patterns in the sapling bank of less abundant species (i.e. heterospecific sapling or adult neighbours were more dissimilar than expected) in both, phylogenetic and phenotypic analyses. For the adult stage, we found phylogenetic attraction (i.e. more similar neighbours) in just one species and phenotypic clustering in four species. The processes driving the assembly of the communities of saplings and adults leave detectable signals in the spatial phylogenetic and phenotypic structure of our two forest communities. Our findings reinforce the existence of ontogenetic shifts in the mechanisms involved in plant community assembly. Facilitation between phylogenetically distant and phenotypically divergent species favours the recruitment of less abundant species. However, processes acting later in the ontogeny ameliorate the competition between close relatives and determine the spatial structure of adult plants. Nevertheless, the role of phenotype in shaping the interactions between adult plants was context- and trait-dependent. The use of spatial point pattern analysis allowed a nuanced interpretation of the phylogenetic and phenotypic structures of plant communities.
Climatic niche conservatism in non-native plants is largely dependent on their climatic niche breadth in the native range
(Wiley, 2025-07-10) Riera, Marc; Vilà, Montserrat; Melero, Yolanda; Sáez, Llorenç; Pino, Joan; Biología Vegetal y Ecología; Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades (MICIU). España; Generalitat de Catalunya
1. Confidence in predictions of non-native species' spread relies on the niche conservatism hypothesis, which poses that climatic niches are preserved over time and space. Because plants introduced through the same introduction pathway (gardening, unintentional) tend to share some features of the introduction process and biological attributes, the extent of niche conservatism might be influenced by how and when species of particular attributes have been introduced. 2. We compared the realized climatic niches between the native (global) and invaded ranges (mainland Spain), through ordination and kernel smoothers. We calculated niche conservatism metrics (i.e. overlap, unfilling, stability, expansion and pioneering), for a set of 158 plant species. Niche conservatism metrics were then related to a plant's introduction pathway, minimum residence time, growth form and native climatic niche breadth. 3. On average, niche stability accounted for 75% of niche occupancy, while around 61% of species showed some degree of niche shift, which were mostly of small magnitude. The climatic niche was most conserved for annual and perennial herbs, plants introduced a long time ago, and those with broad climatic niches in their native range. Introduction pathways had a non-significant effect. Niche conservatism metrics were neither explained by interactions of minimum residence time with introduction pathways nor with growth form. Native climatic niche breadth was the most important correlate of niche conservatism metrics. 4. Synthesis. Non-native plants largely occupy similar climatic conditions in their invaded and native range, a pattern that co-occurred with frequent and mostly small niche shifts. These results largely support the niche conservatism hypothesis. This boosts confidence in predictive models of non-native plants' spread. This study highlights that niche conservatism is better explained by a plant's ability to cope with broad climatic conditions, rather than by its introduction history or growth form.
Biochar enhances nitrogen use efficiency in lettuce by promoting its metabolic assimilation
(Springer, 2025-10-31) García-Rodríguez, Álvaro F.; Moreno-Racero, Francisco J.; Álvarez Morales, Rosario; Colmenero-Flores, José M.; Knicker, Heike; Rosales, Miguel A.; Biología Vegetal y Ecología; European Union (UE)
Background and aims Peat replacement with biochar (BC) offers a sustainable strategy in horticultural substrates but its effects on plant nitrogen (N) metabolism and N use efficiency (NUE) remain unclear. This study tested whether vineyard-pruning-derived BC can boost NUE and metabolic activity in lettuce, providing a pathway toward more productive and sustainable horticulture. Methods Plant substrates (BC, peat and vermiculite) were prepared in the following proportions (v:v:v): B0 (0:70:30), B15 (15:55:30) and B30 (30:40:30) for growing lettuce (Lactuca sativa L. var. Batavia) under greenhouse conditions for 31 days. We assessed plant growth and physiological traits, quantified N species and calculated NUE parameters and the activities of key N assimilation enzymes. Results B30 plants produced 44.2% more biomass and 23.2% larger leaf area than B0, resulting in lower specific leaf area and greater succulence. BC addition decreased available NO₃⁻ and NH₄⁺ in substrate and roots without causing any plant stress symptoms, as chlorophyll content and PSII efficiency remained stable. B30 increased N uptake flux, N utilization efficiency, partial N balance, and N productivity by 31.8%, 34.8%, 27.8%, and 13.8%, respectively, relative to B0, coinciding with enhanced N-assimilation enzymatic activity. Despite lower total N in roots and shoots, protein accumulation increased, indicating more efficient N conversion into organic compounds. Conclusion These findings demonstrate the potential of BC-based substrates (especially 30% BC) to enhance lettuce productivity by improving NUE through the stimulation of N assimilation pathway, offering a promising strategy to optimize N-fertilizer needs to support more sustainable agriculture and soil management practices.
Realized niche and spatial pattern of native and exotic halophyte hybrids
(Springer, 2018-08-25) Gallego Tévar, Blanca; Curado, Guillermo; Grewell, Brenda J.; Figueroa Clemente, Manuel Enrique; Castillo Segura, Jesús Manuel; Biología Vegetal y Ecología; Department of Agriculture. United States
Interspecific hybridization is an important and common evolutionary mechanism, but field-based evaluations of changes in realized niches and zonation patterns of native and exotic hybrids relative to those of their parental plant species are rare. Would native hybrids forming hybrid zones between their parental species show realized niches similar to that of their parents, whereas would exotic hybrids show larger realized niches than their parents, and alter zonation patterns of native species? To address these questions, we examined key sediment characteristics in plots representing realized niches of native Sarcocornia hybrids, invasive Spartina hybrids and parental species in 14 salt marshes from four estuaries in the Gulf of Cadiz, Southwest Iberian Peninsula. In one representative marsh, the presence of plant taxa relative to intertidal plant zonation was recorded. Results documented that native and fertile hybrids of Sarcocornia had similar realized niche dimensions as their parental species and co-occurred with other plant species, supporting community diversity. However, exotic sterile hybrids of Spartina had realized niche dimensions lower than those of their parental species and occurred in monocultures. The native hybrids played a community structuring role, whereas the exotic Spartina hybrids were a disruptive influence that changed native halophyte zonation pattern and decreased diversity. This negative functional role could intensify if the sterile hybrids evolve and become fertile. Our study suggests the ecological niche dimension concept is an important tool for understanding species roles in ecosystems, incorporating many ideas from the individual to ecosystem levels.
The role of exotic and native hybrids during ecological succession in salt marshes
(Elsevier, 2020-02) Gallego Tévar, Blanca; Grewell, Brenda J.; Figueroa Clemente, Manuel Enrique; Castillo Segura, Jesús Manuel; Biología Vegetal y Ecología
Knowledge of factors that influence species colonization and abundance during ecological succession is key for conservation and restoration efforts. The tolerance of species to environmental stresses and interspecific interactions influence stages of ecological succession. Species with high tolerance to stress or high competitive ability, such as invasive species or transgressive hybrids, may acquire a relevant role in the succession, inhibiting its development. We studied the role of native Sarcocornia and exotic Spartina hybrids on vegetation succession in salt marshes. In a time span of ca. 12 years, halophyte community structure and key sedimentary characteristics were recorded in marshes that differ in geomorphology, physiography, and successional status. We evaluated vegetation change in a young marsh undergoing rapid primary succession, and in a mature marsh undergoing slow changes in composition within established vegetation. Native hybrids increased their abundance in both types of marshes over time. Their presence and persistence was concurrent with colonization by other native halophytes. While they did not dominate the community and impede native succession, it is interesting to note their colonization coincided with a decrease in cover of invasive Spartina densiflora. In contrast, exotic hybrids formed from S. densiflora changed successional trajectories through competitive displacement of native halophytes in the mature marsh. However, these hybrids were not yet present in the young marsh where S. densiflora had just started to invade. This study reveals contrasting roles of invasive and native hybrids during ecological succession, providing valuable new knowledge for the management and conservation of salt marshes.
Burial effects on seed germination and seedling emergence of two halophytes of contrasting seed size
(Taylor & Francis, 2020-11-17) Abbas, Ahmed M.; Rubio Casal, Alfredo Emilio; Cires Segura, Alfonso de; Figueroa Clemente, Manuel Enrique; Pickart, Andrea J.; Castillo Segura, Jesús Manuel; Biología Vegetal y Ecología
Background: Germination and especially emergence can decrease significantly with depth. Aim: Our main goal was to examine the effects of sand burial depth on seed germination and seedling establishment of two halophytes, Spartina densiflora and Atriplex portulacoides, with contrasted fruit traits. Methods: The effects of sand burial to depths of 0 to 6 cm on seed germination and seedling establishment were studied in a greenhouse experiment. Sediment erosion/accretion dynamics were also recorded at a salt marsh colonised recently by both species. Results: Germination percentage for both halophytes was higher at a depth of 1 cm than at the surface, and decreased gradually with increasing depth below 1 cm. Emergence of seedlings was similar between 1 and 3 cm (ca. 20–60 %) for both species. The highest seedling survival rates (ca. 100 %) were recorded for seeds sown at a depth of 2 cm for S. densiflora and between 1 and 3 cm for A. portulacoides. Recorded erosion and accretion rates was large enough to modify germination and establishment patterns in both halophytes. Conclusions: Spartina densiflora showed higher germination rates than A. portulacoides at greater depths, which seemed to be related to its growth form.
Reconstruction of the spatio-temporal diversification and ecological niche evolution of Helianthemum (Cistaceae) in the Canary Islands using genotyping-by-sequencing data
(Oxford Academic, 2021) González Albaladejo, Rafael; Martín Hernanz, Sara; Reyes Betancort, J. Alfredo; Santos-Guerra, Arnoldo; Olangua Corral, María; Aparicio Martínez, Abelardo; Biología Vegetal y Ecología; Ministerio de Economía y Competitividad (MINECO). España
Background and Aims Several biogeographical models have been proposed to explain the colonization and diversification patterns of Macaronesian lineages. In this study, we calculated the diversification rates and explored what model best explains the current distribution of the 15 species endemic to the Canary Islands belonging to Helianthemum sect. Helianthemum (Cistaceae). Methods We performed robust phylogenetic reconstructions based on genotyping-by-sequencing data and analysed the timing, biogeographical history and ecological niche conservatism of this endemic Canarian clade. Key Results Our phylogenetic analyses provided strong support for the monophyly of this clade, and retrieved five lineages not currently restricted to a single island. The pristine colonization event took place in the Pleistocene (~1.82 Ma) via dispersal to Tenerife by a Mediterranean ancestor. Conclusions The rapid and abundant diversification (0.75–1.85 species per million years) undergone by this Canarian clade seems the result of complex inter-island dispersal events followed by allopatric speciation driven mostly by niche conservatism, i.e. inter-island dispersal towards niches featuring similar environmental conditions. Nevertheless, significant instances of ecological niche shifts have also been observed in some lineages, making an important contribution to the overall diversification history of this clade.
Halophytes as holobionts: disentangling the contribution of plant genotype and environmental factors to the associated microbiome of hydro- and xerohalophytes
(2025-11) Pajuelo Domínguez, Eloísa; Romano Rodríguez, Elena; Mateos Naranjo, Enrique; Flores Duarte, Noris J.; Rodríguez Llorente, Ignacio David; Redondo Gómez, Susana; Microbiología y Parasitología; Biología Vegetal y Ecología; Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades (MICIU). España; Agencia Estatal de Investigación. España; European Union (UE)
Halophytes are of great interest for their ecosystemic beneﬁts and valuable secondary metabolites. However, they are threatened by factors such as heat waves, drought, increased salinity and pollution, associated with climate change and human activity. In this context, their associated microbial communities are crucial for their survival. Despite that, there are no comparative studies on microbial communities associated with two types of halophytes: hydrohalophytes (plants from humid saline environments) and xerohalophytes (plants from saline arid environments). This study aimed to investigate the factors that determine the structure of microbial com-munities of three hydrohalophytes of the Southwest Spain (Atlantic coastal), in particular Atriplex portulacoides, Salicornia perennis and Suaeda vera; and three xerohalophytes of Southeast Spain (Mediterranean coast and inland saltmarshes), namely, Atriplex glauca, Anabasis articulata and Halocnemum strobilaceum. Samples were collected in three locations and two seasons (autumn and spring) to analyze how plant genetics and environmental factors inﬂuence their microbiota. The analysis was done by sequencing the 16S V3-V4 region in samples of different plant compartments: endophytes, rhizosphere soils and bare soils. The results showed strong attraction of bac-teria and archaea to the rhizosphere, although further tight selection limits the number of endophytes. A "core" of endophytes common to both functional halophytes was identiﬁed, including the genera Kushneria, Halomonas, Pseudoalteromonas and Zunongwangia, which were considered generalists. In addition, speciﬁc genera considered as specialists were found: hydrohalophytes showed afﬁnity for Vibrio, Pseudomonas and Marinomonas, while xerohalophytes harbored Marinilactobacillus, Alkalicoccus, Alkalibacterium and Arthrobacter. Although most en-dophytes persist across seasons, their relative abundances can change for better adaptation. Clear differences were also encountered among the rhizosphere inhabitants in both functional halophytes: whereas halophilic ammonia oxidizing archaea were prevalent in the rhizosphere of hydrohalophytes, versatile adaptive bacteria were predominant in that of xerohalophytes. These microorganisms play vital roles, including promoting plant growth, participating in the carbon and nitrogen metabolisms, and recycling organic matter. In conclusion, the study determined that the main factors shaping the microbial populations associated to halophytes were: halophyte type > halophyte species > soil characteristics > seasonality.
A Comprehensive Database of Expert-Curated Occurrences for the Genus Carex L. (Cyperaceae)
(Wiley, 2025-09-23) Sanz Arnal, María; García Moro, Pablo; Benítez Benítez, Carmen; Iglesia Coca, Marina de la; Gallego Narbón, Angélica; Escudero Lirio, Marcial; Jiménez Mejías, Pedro; Biología Vegetal y Ecología; Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación (MICIN). España; Comunidad Autónoma de Madrid; Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades (MICIU). España
Motivation: Geographic occurrences are essential for biodiversity studies, but publicly available repositories like GBIF often contain errors and biases, especially for taxonomically complex groups like Carex L. (Cyperaceae). This work provides an expert-curated global dataset of occurrences compiled from different sources to enhance data accuracy and usability. The final dataset includes 384,067 occurrences of 1790 Carex species. Main Types of Variables Contained: The dataset includes species occurrence records with geographic coordinates, taxonomic identifications, and curation flags (e.g., introduced, erroneous records). Spatial Location and Grain: The dataset covers a global scale, using the WGS84 projection. Spatial resolution is standardised to a minimum of three decimal degrees (~1 km, if possible). Time Period and Grain: Online records span from 1950 to 2020, but some manually georeferenced records are earlier (1850). There is also fieldwork data after 2020, specifically up to 2023. Major Taxa and Level of Measurement: Cyperaceae: Carex. Most records have species-level identification, and some of them are identified at subspecies or variety levels. Software Format: Data are supplied as comma-separated values files with UTF-8 encoding.
Changes in gut microbiota signatures associated with the epidemiological dynamics of wild European rabbits facing haemorrhagic disease outbreaks
(Elsevier, 2025-11) Rouco Zufiaurre, Carlos; Triado Margarit, Xavier; Abrantes, Joana; Lopes, Ana M.; Almeida, Tereza; Isla, Julio; Casamayor, Emilio O.; Biología Vegetal y Ecología; European Union (UE); Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades (MICIU). España; Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación (MICIN). España; Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia (FCT). Portugal
The new variant of rabbit haemorrhagic disease virus (RHDV2 or RHDVb) is responsible for a lethal, emerging infectious disease in several species of lagomorphs, and is globally threatening wild rabbit populations. It is known that the gut microbiota plays a crucial role in modulating host health, including immune responses and disease susceptibility. We hypothesize potential association of gut microbiota with the epidemiological dynamics of RHDV2 outbreaks that may provide key insights into how this lethal, emerging pathogen impacts wild rabbit populations. We report on changes in the gut microbiota signatures associated with the epidemiological status of a wild population of European rabbits before, during, and after an RHD outbreak in NW Morocco. Two populations were also studied in NE Spain after an independent RHD outbreak. From each individual, we sampled liver, blood, and fresh hard faecal pellets to determine the presence of antigen (i.e. presence of RHDV RNA), antibodies against RHDV, and changes in gut microbiota composition after massive 16S rRNA gene analysis, respectively. Correlational analysis and differential abundance tests were carried out to unveil significant differences in the gut microbiota among the different serological and antigen profiles. A B/F ratio based on several selected taxa within the order Bacteroidales vs. several taxa within the phylum Firmicutes showed a threshold value of 1 that split susceptible (B/F <1) and non-susceptible individuals (B/F >1) both in Morocco and in Spain. The highest proportion of individuals B/F < 1 was found in juveniles, and 100 % of the juveniles RHD dead and 75 % of the adults RHD dead scored B/F < 1. Although the exact nature of this association remains to be determined, this work shows an interesting potential take-off to both explore RHDV2's ecological dynamics with regards to intestinal microbiota and developing potential targeted treatments or management strategies for conservation and pest control.
Bridging the gap between individual specialization and species persistence in mutualistic communities
(Wiley, 2025-10-01) Arroyo Correa, Blanca; Bartomeus, Ignasi; Jordano Barbudo, Pedro D.; Cagua, E. Fernando; Stouffer, Daniel B.; Biología Vegetal y Ecología; Junta de Andalucía; Ministerio de Ciencia, Tecnología e Innovación; European Union (UE); Royal Society Te Apārangi. New Zealand
Mutualistic interactions among organisms are fundamental to the origin and maintenance of biodiversity. Yet, the study of community dynamics often relies on values averaged at the species level, ignoring how intraspecific variation can affect those dynamics. We developed a theoretical approach to evaluate the extent to which variation within populations, in terms of interactions, can influence structural stability, a robust measure of species' likelihood of persistence in mutualistic systems. Next, we examine how intraspecific variation in mutualistic interactions affects species' persistence theoretically in a simplified community, which provides a solid foundation for contextualizing empirical results. This theoretical exploration revealed that differences in the benefits received by different individual types by mutualistic partners, as driven by the way interactions are distributed among those types due to individual specialization, strongly influence species persistence. Building on these insights, we move beyond the theoretical framework and work through an empirical case study involving three co-occurring plant species. Drawing from detailed field data on plant–pollinator interactions and plant fitness, we quantify intraspecific variation in the mutualistic benefits received by plants and incorporate this variation into estimations of structural stability. Through explicit consideration of this facet of intraspecific variation, we found that, for all three focal plant species, populations composed of individuals specialized in pollinator use promote the persistence of the plant species they belong to and their associated pollinator community, only in the absence of heterospecific plant competitors. However, more importantly, these positive effects do not hold when plant species compete with a broader, diverse plant community. In this case, two of the focal plant populations are more vulnerable when they comprise more specialized individuals and therefore are less likely to persist. By integrating the proposed theoretical approach with empirical data, this study highlights the importance of individual variation in promoting species persistence in mutualistic systems. In doing so, it not only advances our understanding of basic mechanisms that foster biodiversity maintenance but also provides practical insights for biodiversity conservation in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Bridging micro and macroevolution: insights from chromosomal dynamics in plants
(Frontiers, 2025-08-22) Benítez Benítez, Carmen; Mohan, Ashwini V.; Gómez Ramos, Inés; Valdés Florido, Ana; Maguilla Salado, Enrique; Montero Ramírez, Alegría; Escudero Lirio, Marcial; Biología Vegetal y Ecología; European Commission (EC). Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional (FEDER); Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades (MICIU). España; National Science Foundation. Switzerland
Understanding the relationship between macro- and microevolutionary processes and their delimitation remains a challenge. This review focuses on the role of chromosomal rearrangements in plant population differentiation and lineage diversification resulting in speciation, helping bridge the gap between macro- and microevolution through chromosomal evolution. We focus on angiosperms, a group that comprises the majority of extant plant species diversity and exhibits the largest chromosomal and genomic variations. Here, we address the following questions: Are macroevolutionary patterns of chromosome evolution the result of accumulated microevolutionary changes, or do chromosomal dynamics drive larger shifts along the speciation continuum? At the macroevolutionary level, we investigated the association between karyotype diversity and diversification rates using evidence from comparative genomics, chromosomal evolution modelling across phylogenies, and the association with several traits across different angiosperm lineages. At the microevolutionary level, we explore if different karyotypes are linked to morphological changes and population genetic differentiation in the same lineages. Polyploidy (autopolyploidy and allopolyploidy) and dysploidy are known drivers of speciation, with karyotypic differences often leading to reproductive barriers. We found that dysploidy, involving gains and losses of single chromosomes with no significant change in overall content of the genome, appears to be relatively more frequent and persistent across macroevolutionary histories than polyploidy. Additionally, chromosomal rearrangements that do not entail change in chromosome number, such as insertions, deletions, inversions, and duplications of chromosome fragments, as well as translocations between chromosomes, are increasingly recognized for their role in local adaptation and speciation. We argue that there is more evidence linking chromosomal rearrangements with genetic and morphological trait differentiation at microevolutionary scales than at macroevolutionary ones. Our findings highlight the importance of selection across evolutionary scales, where certain chromosomal dynamics become fixed over macroevolutionary time. Consequently, at microevolutionary scales, chromosome rearrangements are frequent and diverse, serving as key drivers of plant diversification and adaptation by providing a pool of variation from which beneficial chromosomal changes can be selected and fixed by evolutionary forces.
Freshwater turtle (Reptilia: Testudines) assemblage from an urban protected Atlantic Forest remnant: population density, movement and habitat preference
(Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO), 2025-01-27) Rocha, Sabine B.; Rouco Zufiaurre, Carlos; Grou, Carlos Eduardo V.; Ferreira, Vanda Lúcia; Biología Vegetal y Ecología
Urbanization may significantly impact wild population dynamics, even in protected green spaces. From 2016 to 2018, we accessed an assemblage of freshwater turtles isolated in an urban remnant of the Atlantic Forest, southern Brazil. We captured turtles by active search, hookless fishing, and funnel trap, and we marked them individually. Using a capture-mark-recapture method, we estimated population density, and movement, including home range size and habitat selection. Home ranges were estimated using the 100% minimum convex polygon method and habitat selections through eigenanalysis. We captured 41 specimens of Phrynops geoffroanus (Schweigger, 1812), 35 Trachemys dorbigni (Duméril & Bibron, 1835), and 20 Trachemys scripta elegans (Wied-Neuwied, 1839). The invasive T. dorbigni showed the highest density (1.72 individual/ha), followed by the native P. geoffroanus (1.36 individual/ha) and the invasive T. scripta elegans (0.87 individual/ha). Home range sizes for P. geoffroanus and T. dorbigni ranged between 0.04-0.48 ha, with the latter species covering the longest distance (525.8 m). All three species showed a preference for habitats influenced by human presence (walkways). Our findings highlight the anthropic influence on the movement of the freshwater turtle assemblage and underscore the need for enhanced protection of native species and control of invasive turtles. This study provides essential baseline data for future researches and management of urban areas.
Heat drastically alters floral color and pigment composition without affecting flower conspicuousness
(Wiley, 2025-09-09) Narbona, Eduardo; Perfectti, Francisco; González Megías, Adela; Navarro, Luis; Valle García, José Carlos del; Armas, Cristina; Gómez, José M.; Biología Vegetal y Ecología; Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades (MICIU). España; Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación (MICIN). España; Junta de Andalucía
Premise: Floral pigments primarily serve to attract pollinators through color display and also contribute to protection against environmental stress. Although pigment composition can be plastically altered under stress, its impact on pollinator color perception remains poorly understood. Moricandia arvensis (Brassicaceae) exhibits seasonal floral dimorphism, with lilac spring flowers and white summer flowers. This study examines how heat-driven shifts in floral pigments alter flower color and its perception by pollinators. Methods: We conducted a comparative analysis of spring and summer floral morphs in a natural population by measuring petal spectral reflectance, analyzing absorption spectra of petal extracts, and modeling floral color in the visual systems of major pollinator functional groups. Additionally, UHPLC-ESI-MS/MS analysis was conducted under controlled conditions to characterize differences in phenolic profiles. Results: Spring flowers exhibited strong UV reflectance and a reduction in reflectance in the green spectrum, whereas summer flowers showed no UV reflectance and high reflectance in the visible range. Anthocyanins were detected only in spring flowers, while summer flowers accumulated high levels of UV-absorbing flavonoids. Despite these differences, both floral morphs remained visually conspicuous to hymenopterans, dipterans, lepidopterans, and coleopterans. Summer flowers produced twice as many phenolic compounds and accumulated higher concentrations, with ferulic acid and kaempferol derivatives the most prominent. Conclusions: White summer flowers of Moricandia arvensis are not merely anthocyanin-deficient but exhibit a distinct profile of UV-absorbing phenolics that may confer heat tolerance while preserving floral conspicuousness to pollinators. These findings highlight the role of multifunctional traits in the evolution of flower color.
Leech Infestation Patterns between Native and Invasive Freshwater Turtles: Implications for Invasion Success
(Academia Sinica, 2025-08-20) Rocha, Sabine B.; Rouco Zufiaurre, Carlos; Louback-Franco, Nayara; Grou, Carlos Eduardo V.; akemoto, Ricardo M.; Biología Vegetal y Ecología
The increasing global introduction of alien species in recent decades underscores the need to understand the factors driving their establishment and spread in order to mitigate their ecological impacts. As alien species often thrive due to the absence of natural enemies (e.g., parasites), we investigated leech parasitism in freshwater turtles, focusing on an assemblage with over 10 years of co-occurrence between native species (Phrynops geoffroanus, Hydromedusa tectifera) and invasive sliders (Trachemys dorbigni, Trachemys scripta elegans). We used traps to capture 62 turtles to assess host characteristics (species, sex, body size, and body region) that influence leech prevalence and infestation intensity in southern Brazil. Our findings revealed that native turtles exhibited an 18-fold higher prevalence of hematophagous leech than invasive species, with T. dorbigni being the only species in which no leech infestation was observed. Infestation intensity also varied among species, with native turtles harboring more leeches. Probability of leech infestation increased with body size, and the hind limbs were significantly more infested. The diminished presence of ectoparasites on invasive Trachemys throughout this coexistence period supports the enemy release hypothesis, suggesting that the lack of natural enemies may be a potential driver facilitating their invasion success. These results provide baseline data for future studies exploring key factors in the success of the slider invasions.

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