@article {pmid41130060,
year = {2025},
author = {de Araújo, FV and Amaral, WG and Barroso, GM and Pinheiro, AC and Dos Santos, JB and Pereira, IM},
title = {Overcoming barriers to invasive grasses: strategies for restoring native vegetation in the Atlantic forest with direct seeding.},
journal = {Journal of environmental management},
volume = {395},
number = {},
pages = {127737},
doi = {10.1016/j.jenvman.2025.127737},
pmid = {41130060},
issn = {1095-8630},
abstract = {Invasive grasses such as Urochloa decumbens pose a significant obstacle to forest restoration by preventing the establishment of native species. Direct seeding offers a cost-effective, biodiversity-enhancing alternative to conventional restoration methods. However, this technique depends on the effective suppression of invasive grasses to create favorable conditions for germination and growth. The objective of this work was to evaluate the effectiveness of herbicides (glyphosate, haloxyfop, and trifluralin) and mechanical methods (Harrowing and Mowing) in controlling U. decumbens and facilitating native species establishment through direct seeding. Glyphosate achieved the highest reduction in U. decumbens cover (up to 90 %), followed by trifluralin (45 %), while haloxyfop and mechanical methods showed limited effectiveness, due to rapid regrowth within 30 days. Glyphosate and trifluralin increased herbaceous cover and exposed soil, whereas mechanical treatments promoted the presence of invasive plants. All treatments improved native seedling emergence and survival compared to the untreated control. Glyphosate also enhanced plant height and crown diameter. These findings show that herbicide use, when adjusted to restoration goals, effectively controls U. decumbens. In contrast, mechanical methods face limitations due to the rapid regrowth of the invasive grass. This study underscores the need for restoration-specific guidelines that balance invasive species control with ecological sustainability to improve forest recovery outcomes.},
}

@article {pmid41130058,
year = {2025},
author = {Yang, J and Cui, L and Zhuo, Z and Tian, J and Li, P and Min, Y and Ke, Y},
title = {Rapid change in structural stability of tidal flats in response to large-scale eradication of Spartina alterniflora: evidence from dense time-series PlanetScope satellite imagery.},
journal = {Journal of environmental management},
volume = {395},
number = {},
pages = {127652},
doi = {10.1016/j.jenvman.2025.127652},
pmid = {41130058},
issn = {1095-8630},
abstract = {The invasion of Spartina alterniflora (S. alterniflora) has significantly affected coastal wetland ecosystems globally. In China, a nationwide eradication campaign has been launched, aiming to remove 90 % of the species by 2025. While S. alterniflora enhances sedimentation and prevents tidal flats from erosion, how these stabilizing effects may alter and what geomorphic impacts may arise following its large-scale removal remain unclear. This study investigates the impacts of S. alterniflora removal on the structural stability of tidal flats in the Yellow River Delta (YRD), where ∼5500 ha had been invaded since 2008 and over 90 % was removed by 2021. Using dense time-series, high-resolution PlanetScope imagery from 2019 to 2023, we developed a Tidal Flat Structural Stability Index (TFSSI) that integrates multiple indicators, including tidal inundation frequency (IF), land-to-water conversion frequency (CF), tidal channel morphology, and shoreline change. By comparing these indicators before and after removal across three zones with different invasion histories, we found that Zones A and B-both heavily invaded-exhibited rapid and pronounced changes following removal. These included significant increases in IF and CF, substantial expansion in channel number, length, and width in Zone B, artificial ditch excavation in Zone A, accelerated shoreline retreat, and marked declines in TFSSI in both zones. In contrast, Zone C, which experienced minimal invasion, remained relatively stable throughout the study period. The results demonstrate that large-scale S. alterniflora removal can rapidly disrupt hydrological regimes and intensify geomorphic processes, potentially reducing tidal flat resilience. This study provides critical insights for balancing invasive species management with the long-term structural stability and restoration of coastal wetlands.},
}

@article {pmid41129653,
year = {2025},
author = {Thakur, MP and Gu, Z and van Kleunen, M and Zhou, X},
title = {Invasion impacts in terrestrial ecosystems: Global patterns and predictors.},
journal = {Science (New York, N.Y.)},
volume = {390},
number = {6771},
pages = {381-385},
doi = {10.1126/science.adq3101},
pmid = {41129653},
issn = {1095-9203},
mesh = {*Introduced Species ; *Biodiversity ; Animals ; *Ecosystem ; Soil ; Plants ; Greenhouse Gases ; },
abstract = {Biological invasions can alter ecosystems, yet their impacts vary across ecological contexts. Using a global meta-analysis of 775 studies (2223 effect sizes) in terrestrial systems, we show that the most consistent negative impacts are reductions in native plant diversity caused by invasive plants and increases in greenhouse gas emissions driven by both invasive plants and animals. However, evidence of publication bias suggests the latter should be interpreted with caution. Invader residence time emerged as a key predictor: Longer residence times intensified the negative effects of invasive plants on native diversity, whereas impacts on soil abiotic properties tended to weaken over time. Our synthesis reveals that some properties, such as native plant diversity, remain persistently sensitive to invasion, whereas others are more variable as invasions persist.},
}

*Introduced Species
*Biodiversity
Animals
*Ecosystem
Soil
Plants
Greenhouse Gases

@article {pmid41129360,
year = {2025},
author = {Guillén, YG and Vences-Blanco, MO and Meraz-Medina, T and Antillón-Navarro, MDS and Martínez-Ibarra, JA},
title = {Feeding and defecation behavior of two populations of Triatoma longipennis (Hemiptera: Reduviidae: Triatominae) from Central Mexico.},
journal = {Journal of medical entomology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/jme/tjaf151},
pmid = {41129360},
issn = {1938-2928},
abstract = {Chagas disease is one of the most important vector-borne diseases in Mexico. Triatoma longipennis (Usinger. 1939) is one of the most epidemiologically important vector species of Trypanosoma cruzi (Chagas, 1909), the etiological agent of Chagas disease. This study reports the third collection of T. longipennis from the state of Hidalgo, Mexico. This paper evaluates and compares feeding and defecation behaviors for each instar of two populations of T. longipennis recently detected in Hidalgo, Mexico. No significant differences were noted between the two populations in the mean time to initiate feeding (immediate "attack"), feeding times (> 10 min), and defecation delay (when feeding or immediately after feeding: 77% to 99% vs 84.5% to 100%). These observed behaviors in the two populations of T. longipennis from Hidalgo align with the characteristics of an effective transmitter of T. cruzi. Given these results, the recently detected populations of T. longipennis could be considered significant potential vectors of T. cruzi to human populations and may replace key triatomine species within their new distribution area.},
}

@article {pmid41127958,
year = {2025},
author = {Ayi, Q and Zhang, X and Pedersen, O and van Bodegom, PM and Xia, F and Wang, Q and He, B and Zeng, B and Cornelissen, JHC},
title = {High-density nodal diaphragms in stems slow down, but do not obstruct, longitudinal oxygen diffusion during partial submergence.},
journal = {Journal of experimental botany},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/jxb/eraf468},
pmid = {41127958},
issn = {1460-2431},
abstract = {The species Alternanthera philoxeroides is a flood-tolerant species, which has to cope with the hypoxic stress under submergence. However, the pith cavity in stem of this species is interrupted and partitioned by low-porosity nodal diaphragms at nodes. To date little knowledge is available about whether discontinuous pith cavities are functional for internal gas transport in plants. To disclose the role of stem discontinuous pith cavities in internal gas transport, the diffusive transport capacity of O2, tissue O2 status of intact plants and the influence of restricting longitudinal O2 supply on whole-plant growth during partial submergence were assessed. We found that stem pith cavity was the main pathway for diffusional supply of molecular O2, blocking only one internode significantly decreased the O2 flux to lower internodes, and the reduced O2 flux translated into reduced growth in partially submerged plants. A major output component of the study is a model that uses normalized tissue dimensions and concentration gradients to establish a fair foundation for comparison of contrasting species under different experimental conditions. We therefore predict that future studies will use this approach to further broaden the scope and value of resistance and flux measurement in target species.},
}

@article {pmid41126002,
year = {2025},
author = {Tzuc-Dzul, JC and Garcia-Rejon, JE and Cigarroa-Toledo, N and Chi-Chim, WA and Baak-Baak, CM},
title = {The First National Record of the Invasive Mosquito Aedes vittatus (Diptera: Culicidae) in Mexico, a Threat to Public Health in Continental America.},
journal = {Neotropical entomology},
volume = {54},
number = {1},
pages = {112},
pmid = {41126002},
issn = {1678-8052},
support = {CF-2023-I-678//Consejo Nacional de Humanidades, Ciencias y Tecnología/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Aedes/classification ; Mexico ; *Introduced Species ; Female ; *Mosquito Vectors ; Public Health ; *Animal Distribution ; },
abstract = {Aedes (Fredwardsius) vittatus (Bigot) has a native geographical distribution that encompasses tropical areas of Asia, Africa, and the Mediterranean region of Europe. In its native range, this mosquito species is a potential vector of the dengue, chikungunya, Zika, and yellow fever viruses. Currently, Ae. vittatus is reported in the Caribbean countries of Cuba, Jamaica, and the Dominican Republic. We report the discovery of one female Ae. vittatus captured on September 11, 2024, in X-Calakoop, located near a major tourist site in Yucatán. Additionally, 11 mosquito species were found: Aedes aegypti (Linnaeus), Aedes albopictus (Skuse), Aedes bimaculatus Coquillett, Aedes cozumelensis Díaz Nájera, Aedes podographicus Dyar & Knab, Aedes taeniorhynchus (Wiedemann), Culex coronator Dyar & Knab, Culex nigripalpus Theobald, Haemagogus mesodentatus Komp & Kumm, Limatus durhamii Theobald, and Toxorhynchites moctezuma (Dyar & Knab). Notably, Ae. albopictus was the most abundant mosquito in the collection, accounting for 77.5% of the adults and 78.66% of the immature stages. The identification of Ae. vittatus in Mexico represents the first record of this species for continental America. The discovery represents the 252nd species in the country and 49th in Yucatán. The increase in the distribution pattern may have implications for public health in tropical America.},
}

Animals
*Aedes/classification
Mexico
*Introduced Species
Female
*Mosquito Vectors
Public Health
*Animal Distribution

@article {pmid41125977,
year = {2025},
author = {Johnson, AE and Cornell, A and Zhu, F and Shay, AE and Davis, G and Hoover, K},
title = {Sequestration of plant defenses by spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) and effects on avian predators.},
journal = {Journal of chemical ecology},
volume = {51},
number = {6},
pages = {102},
pmid = {41125977},
issn = {1573-1561},
support = {PEN04755//USDA NIFA McIntire-Stennis Grant/ ; PEN04755//USDA NIFA McIntire-Stennis Grant/ ; 2019-51181-30014//USDA NIFA SCRI Grant CAP Award/ ; 2019-51181-30014//USDA NIFA SCRI Grant CAP Award/ ; C940001077//Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture Grant/ ; C940001077//Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture Grant/ ; },
abstract = {Lycorma delicatula is a polyphagous phloem feeder, which is spreading rapidly in the U.S., and is a major threat to grapes, hops, and ornamentals. Among its hosts, L. delicatula prefers Ailanthus altissima, an invasive tree from which it sequesters toxins, including several quassinoid compounds. We tested how these defenses affected predation by birds of nymphal and adult L. delicatula. Freeze-killed nymphs of each instar were reared with or without access to A. altissima and placed into cups on top of nest boxes occupied by house wrens (Troglodytes aedon). House wrens ate or fed their chicks a greater proportion of L. delicatula nymphs that had not had access to A. altissima than the nymphs that had access to this host plant. Adult L. delicatula reared with or without access to A. altissima were ground up and incorporated into separate batches of suet that were placed into double sided feeders set up at different sites during the winter. Trail camera video was reviewed to record how many times birds pecked each suet cake. Birds pecked the suet containing L. delicatula reared without access to A. altissima significantly more frequently than the suet containing adults that had fed on A. altissima. Of the quassinoids sequestered by L. delicatula from phloem sap of A. altissima, ailanthone and four other quassinoids were identified and quantified in different tissues, with the highest concentrations in the salivary glands. Results suggest that sequestration of toxic chemicals from A. altissima provides some protection to L. delicatula from avian predators.},
}

@article {pmid41125914,
year = {2025},
author = {Al-Bakre, DA},
title = {Modeling the invasive potential of the opuntia cactus in arid ecosystems by assessing current and future distribution trends.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {36991},
pmid = {41125914},
issn = {2045-2322},
abstract = {Invasive plant species threaten biodiversity, ecosystem stability, and agricultural productivity by outcompeting native flora and altering ecological processes. Opuntia ficus-indica is a highly invasive species that has established itself across arid and semi-arid regions due to its resilience to extreme environmental conditions and rapid vegetative propagation. This study employs ecological niche modeling (ENM) with MaxEnt to assess the current and future distribution of O. ficus-indica in Saudi Arabia. Occurrence records were compiled from field surveys, literature, and biodiversity databases. Occurrence records were compiled from field surveys, literature, and global biodiversity databases. Nineteen bioclimatic, ten soil, and three topographic variables were initially selected, and six key predictors were retained after multicollinearity reduction and Jackknife testing. Model performance was validated using the area under the curve (AUC) and partial ROC to ensure predictive accuracy. The most influential environmental predictors shaping its distribution were maximum temperature of the warmest month (bio5), NDVI, precipitation of the wettest month (bio14), mean temperature of the warmest quarter (bio10), soil organic carbon (SOC), and soil pH. The results indicate that the current distribution of O. ficus-indica is concentrated in southwestern Saudi Arabia, particularly in regions with moderate precipitation and temperature. Future climate projections (SSP245 and SSP585) suggest a northward and inland expansion, with increasing habitat suitability in Najran, Al Qassim, and central Riyadh, while certain highly suitable areas in the southwest may decline due to extreme warming. These findings highlight the potential ecological risks posed by climate-driven invasion and underscore the need for proactive management strategies. Integrated control measures, including mechanical removal, biological control, habitat restoration, and policy interventions, are recommended to mitigate its spread. This study provides a scientific basis for policymakers and conservationists to develop effective invasion management plans, ensuring the protection of native ecosystems in the face of climate change.},
}

@article {pmid41125600,
year = {2025},
author = {Pabst, R and Sousa, CA and Essl, F and García-Rodríguez, A and Liu, D and Lenzner, B and Schertler, A and Zêzere, JL and Capinha, C},
title = {Global invasion patterns and dynamics of disease vector mosquitoes.},
journal = {Nature communications},
volume = {16},
number = {1},
pages = {9127},
pmid = {41125600},
issn = {2041-1723},
mesh = {Animals ; *Mosquito Vectors/physiology ; Humans ; *Introduced Species ; *Culicidae/physiology/classification ; Animal Distribution ; },
abstract = {Mosquitoes are major vectors of human diseases, and their geographic expansion is primarily driven by the unintentional, human mediated introduction beyond their native ranges. Despite the substantial public health implications and rising numbers of disease outbreaks, a global picture of the introduction trends and the resulting range expansions of mosquitoes is missing. Here, we present a comprehensive and up-to-date compilation and analysis of reported first records of human disease vector mosquitoes worldwide. We show that 45 mosquito species (~25% of those known to transmit human pathogens) have been introduced worldwide, with 28 species having established in at least one region. From the 1950's onwards, the introduction of new species has increased sharply, with 12 species recorded for the first time outside their native range since 2000 alone. Initially, most introduced species were native to Africa, but over time, Asian species have become more dominant. North America, Australia and Europe remain the main recipients. Our results highlight the role of global trade and transportation in mosquito spread and emphasizes the need for international cooperation to control their spread and potential threat to public health.},
}

Animals
*Mosquito Vectors/physiology
Humans
*Introduced Species
*Culicidae/physiology/classification
Animal Distribution

@article {pmid41124535,
year = {2025},
author = {Pinto, HA and Melo, AL and Mati, VLT},
title = {Crossing the health misinformation crisis: Lessons from the giant hammerhead flatworm.},
journal = {Revista da Sociedade Brasileira de Medicina Tropical},
volume = {58},
number = {},
pages = {e02122025},
doi = {10.1590/0037-8682-0212-2025},
pmid = {41124535},
issn = {1678-9849},
mesh = {Animals ; Humans ; Brazil ; *Platyhelminths/classification ; *Communication ; Mass Media ; Introduced Species ; },
abstract = {We examined the recent surge in misinformation surrounding giant hammerhead flatworms (Bipaliinae, primarily Bipalium kewense), which has generated widespread confusion across multiple countries regarding their risks to human health. Prompted by a routine taxonomic identification, this study aims to restore scientific accuracy and address the growing disconnect between science and the public concerning these worms, which have become an Internet sensation. In late 2023, we were asked to identify specimens collected in Pedro Leopoldo, Minas Gerais, Brazil, that had already attracted considerable online and regional media attention, warning of a "new, invasive, and dangerous worm" and its supposed threats. After confirming the species was B. kewense, we reviewed the literature, constructed a timeline of scientific and media reports, and compared information retrieved from Google News and Google Scholar. Our findings indicate that while academic research on invasive species has steadily increased, sensationalized and often inaccurate content on hammerhead worms proliferated in the general media, particularly between 2017 and 2018. Notably, claims (2023-2024) regarding the toxicity of Bipalium spp. lack scientific support. This case illustrates the broader challenges of health misinformation in the digital age, where misleading narratives rapidly transcend countries and languages. We discuss potential drivers, including communication gaps between academia and the public, the influence of media and social networks, and behavioral factors underlying misinformation. Finally, we highlight the urgent need for innovative strategies and coordinated efforts to strengthen online science communication and ensure the dissemination of accurate information.},
}

Animals
Humans
Brazil
*Platyhelminths/classification
*Communication
Mass Media
Introduced Species

@article {pmid41124138,
year = {2025},
author = {Bennett, JA and Elshamy, O and Trefiak, M and Wasan, JP},
title = {Fertilizer and fungicide reduce herbicide efficacy and enhance growth of invasive common tansy (Tanacetum vulgare).},
journal = {PloS one},
volume = {20},
number = {10},
pages = {e0333818},
doi = {10.1371/journal.pone.0333818},
pmid = {41124138},
issn = {1932-6203},
mesh = {*Herbicides/pharmacology ; *Fertilizers ; *Introduced Species ; *Fungicides, Industrial/pharmacology ; *Tanacetum/growth & development/drug effects/microbiology ; Mycorrhizae/drug effects ; Biomass ; },
abstract = {Common tansy (Tanacetum vulgare; Asteraceae) is a widespread invasive species in North America that threatens biodiversity and agricultural productivity by displacing resident vegetation. Combined with being unpalatable, it can be toxic and thus poses significant challenges for the livestock industry. Current tansy control strategies are largely chemical and rely on a suite of synthetic auxin herbicides. The need for reapplication may lead to resistance development in addition to significant biodiversity losses. Recent work suggests that invasive Asteraceae may rely on symbiotic arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) to give them a competitive advantage. We hypothesized that suppressing AMF would reduce tansy growth and reduce reliance on more damaging herbicides. Fungicides and fertilizers, known to suppress AMF, may be potential tools for tansy suppression by reducing its competitive ability; however, both may also enhance invader growth and represent a significant risk. We conducted a two-year experiment crossing three herbicides, with varying degrees of residual control, with fungicide and fertilizer treatments to explore their effects on tansy. Despite initially reducing AMF abundances, both fertilizer and fungicide unexpectedly improved tansy growth, especially when applied with the non-residual herbicide (2,4-D), where strong control was eliminated by either treatment. This suggests that, at least at our study site, any suppression of AMF did not affect tansy strongly enough to overcome the benefits of increased nutrients and pathogen suppression. Independent of fungicide or fertilizer, all three herbicides reduced tansy biomass and increased community biomass by year two, driven by increases in grasses. The most effective herbicide (picloram), however, also caused the greatest declines in broadleaf plants, leading to significant species losses. Conversely, 2,4-D was only slightly less effective after two years, while having limited non-target effects. Non-residual herbicides, like 2-4D, may offer a better balance between tansy control and biodiversity conservation.},
}

*Herbicides/pharmacology
*Fertilizers
*Introduced Species
*Fungicides, Industrial/pharmacology
*Tanacetum/growth & development/drug effects/microbiology
Mycorrhizae/drug effects
Biomass

@article {pmid41123665,
year = {2025},
author = {Rivera-Estay, V and N Moreno-Gómez, F and Córdova-Lepe, F and Gutiérrez, R and Benítez, H},
title = {Studying the role of phenotypic change in biological invasion success through mathematical modeling.},
journal = {Journal of mathematical biology},
volume = {91},
number = {5},
pages = {61},
pmid = {41123665},
issn = {1432-1416},
mesh = {Animals ; *Introduced Species/statistics & numerical data ; Phenotype ; *Models, Biological ; Predatory Behavior ; Mink/physiology ; Biological Evolution ; Mathematical Concepts ; Population Dynamics ; Ecosystem ; Algorithms ; Food Chain ; },
abstract = {When an exotic species is introduced outside its natural range, new interspecific interactions with native species may arise. These interactions can induce phenotypic changes, which may originate from phenotypic plasticity or adaptive processes. Phenotypic change may play an important role in biological invasions, either by promoting or by preventing its success. In this work, a mathematical modeling approach is used to study a native predator-prey system exposed to an exotic species that predates on the native species and that also competes by interference with the native predator. This proposed approach allows to describe the eco-evolutionary dynamics involving the inducible defense of the prey and the inducible offense of both predators. The model is represented by a system of ordinary differential equations (ODEs), analyzed using advanced analytical and numerical methods. Specifically, we applied the qualitative theory of ODEs and developed numerical algorithms for parameter sweeps. Parameter values for the numerical experiments were based on the American mink, one of the most harmful invasive species in Europe and South America. The results show that the role of phenotypic change in invasion success depends on three components: the efficiency of the new trait values, the associated costs, and the speed of trait change. The specific conditions that lead to an unsuccessful invasion are: the prey's defense efficiency against the exotic predator is higher than its defense efficiency against the native predator. The cost imposed by the exotic predator is greater than the cost imposed by the native predator. Lastly, the speed of phenotypic change is faster in the native predator than in the exotic predator.},
}

Animals
*Introduced Species/statistics & numerical data
Phenotype
*Models, Biological
Predatory Behavior
Mink/physiology
Biological Evolution
Mathematical Concepts
Population Dynamics
Ecosystem
Algorithms
Food Chain

@article {pmid41123560,
year = {2025},
author = {Brons, JK and Hackl, T and Iacovelli, R and Haslinger, K and Lequime, S and van der Meij, SET},
title = {De novo whole genome assembly of the globally invasive green shore crab Carcinus maenas (Linnaeus, 1758) via long-read Oxford Nanopore MinION sequencing.},
journal = {The Journal of heredity},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/jhered/esaf085},
pmid = {41123560},
issn = {1465-7333},
abstract = {Invasive species are reshaping aquatic ecosystems worldwide at an accelerating pace, with profound ecological and economic impacts. Many crustacean species have demonstrated invasive potential or are already well-established invaders. The green shore crab, Carcinus maenas, native to Europe and North Africa, is one of the most successful global marine invaders and is now present on six continents. Although the role of genomics in invasion science is increasingly recognized, genomic resources for brachyuran crabs remain limited, including the notable absence of a reference genome for C. maenas. Here we report on a de novo whole genome assembly of C. maenas via long-read Oxford Nanopore Technology sequencing. The assembly spans 1.09 Gbp across 21,887 scaffolds (NG50 = 13 Mbp) with a BUSCO completeness of 98.4%, providing a high-quality resource for future genomic analyses. We provide a detailed protocol for obtaining high-quality DNA to successfully sequence brachyuran crabs using a long-read approach. This new resource expands available genomic data for the species-rich infraorder Brachyura, and provides a valuable foundation for understanding the genetic factors underlying the global invasion success of C. maenas, supporting future research in marine invasion genomics.},
}

@article {pmid41123172,
year = {2025},
author = {Chuang, A and Nelsen, DR and Sitvarin, MI and Bailey, JB and Bergmann, HE and Bertagnolli, VE and De Araujo, EP and Donohoe, B and Geitner, WA and Hunter, SR and Ing, JK and Park, JJ and Vasquez, KA and Wang, AS and Coyle, DR},
title = {Chemical management strategies for the invasive Jorō spider, Trichonephila clavata (Araneae: Araneidae).},
journal = {Journal of economic entomology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/jee/toaf225},
pmid = {41123172},
issn = {1938-291X},
abstract = {Historically, spider management has received relatively little attention in the literature compared to insect pests, and few studies have examined the efficacy of chemical management strategies on orb weaver mortality and web site fidelity. However, the introduction and rapid spread of the Jorō spider, Trichonephila clavata (L. Koch, 1878; Araneae: Araneidae), in North America has created a wave of media and public awareness. Characterized by its large size, bright coloration, dense aggregations, and durable webs, this species has garnered concern from residents who wish to manage this pest. Internet-based advice ranges from using products labeled for arthropod control to common products around the home. Our study evaluated spider mortality from eleven separate products and two control treatments (water and no treatment at all). High doses of pyrethroid pesticides or essential oil and detergent-based pesticides were highly effective in killing T. clavata. Although spraying foaming dish soap and machine lubricant also led to high mortality rates, we do not condone the use of products outside of their registered label use. We also evaluated several products that did not cause high mortality for their potential to cause T. clavata to abandon their webs-a result that may be just as desirable for residents-though none of these products led to high rates of web abandonment. We strongly recommend that property managers carefully weigh the pros and cons and safety aspects of different management strategies (including mechanical management) and assess whether T. clavata management is warranted in the first place.},
}

@article {pmid41123166,
year = {2025},
author = {Nelsen, DR and Chuang, A and Corbit, AG and Sitvarin, MI and Bergmann, HE and De Araujo, EP and Hunter, SR and Ing, JK and Park, JJ and Vasquez, KA and Wang, AS and Coyle, DR},
title = {Keep calm and carry on: bites from Trichonephila clavata are unlikely and cause minimal discomfort.},
journal = {Journal of medical entomology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/jme/tjaf103},
pmid = {41123166},
issn = {1938-2928},
support = {//American Arachnological Society/ ; RPNELSEN7//Clemson University/ ; },
abstract = {Arachnophobia is a widespread phenomenon, despite the fact that the vast majority of spiders pose no meaningful threat to people. The introduction and spread of an invasive spider (Trichonephila clavata L. Koch, 1878) to the United States has prompted questions about whether it should be considered dangerous. These questions are particularly relevant because the spider is large, builds webs on and near human structures, and has been documented to consume small vertebrate prey. To understand the realistic threat this species represents, we examined spider-human interactions in the field with escalating levels of contact intensity. During these interactions, spiders primarily moved to avoid human contact, and bites were incredibly rare, mainly occurring when spiders were forcibly restrained. To assess the medical significance of a bite by T. clavata, we conducted what we believe to be the first controlled study of spider bites. Spiders were induced to bite volunteers under controlled laboratory conditions while supervised by medical staff. Subjects who were bitten reported reliably low levels of pain and only localized physical symptoms (eg redness and swelling) that attenuated quickly. It is clear that this spider is unlikely to bite someone who encounters it in nature, and the symptoms are minor and fleeting in the event of a bite. Although T. clavata is spreading quickly in the United States, the risk of its bite or resulting symptoms should not be cause for fear.},
}

@article {pmid41122908,
year = {2025},
author = {Du, Z},
title = {Dynamic microRNA Responses Contribute to Phenotypic Plasticity and Stress Memory in Invasive Species.},
journal = {Molecular ecology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e70160},
doi = {10.1111/mec.70160},
pmid = {41122908},
issn = {1365-294X},
}

@article {pmid41121443,
year = {2025},
author = {Vogrinec, L and Bačnik, K and Bačič, M and Mehle, N and Fowkes, AR and Lengar, Ž and Harju, V and Adams, IP and Fox, A and Kutnjak, D},
title = {Wild and globally traded ornamental aquatic plants harbor diverse plant viruses, including notable crop pathogens.},
journal = {Environmental microbiome},
volume = {20},
number = {1},
pages = {133},
pmid = {41121443},
issn = {2524-6372},
support = {J4-4553//The Slovenian Research and Innovation Agency/ ; J4-4553//The Slovenian Research and Innovation Agency/ ; P1-0212//The Slovenian Research and Innovation Agency/ ; J4-4553//The Slovenian Research and Innovation Agency/ ; J4-4553//The Slovenian Research and Innovation Agency/ ; J4-4553//The Slovenian Research and Innovation Agency/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Aquatic plants play key roles in ecosystems, serving as primary producers and providing habitat for other aquatic life. While many are ecologically important, some invasive species, often introduced through the ornamental plant trade, pose threats to various aquatic ecosystems. Although viral infections have been documented to some extent in aquatic crops, the viral diversity in wild and ornamental aquatic plants remains largely unexplored. Investigating the viral communities of aquatic plants is important, as their direct contact with water allows for the potential long-distance transmission of stable viruses released from infected individuals. Invasive aquatic plants exacerbate this issue by introducing novel microbes, including viruses, to new regions, increasing the potential threat to native plant populations.

RESULTS: Here, we investigated the viral communities of diverse aquatic plants by mining publicly available transcriptome data of 79 wild aquatic species and sequencing the RNA from 14 plant species (some of them of different ornamental varieties), sourced from hobby aquascaping stores. Plant viruses from various families were detected in taxonomically diverse aquatic plants, ranging from algae to angiosperms. Alongside sequences of known crop pathogens, such as turnip yellows virus, cucumber mosaic virus, and lettuce chlorosis virus, we identified contigs of putative novel viral species belonging to several plant-infecting viral families. Most notably, we discovered sequences of known and novel begomoviruses, which may be causing observed ornamental phenotypes in two different aquatic plants. Further, we identified a novel potyvirus that appears to be globally present in multiple ornamental plants from the genus Sagittaria. We detected it in three plants sourced from online stores in Slovenia, as well as six plants intercepted during the import process into the UK.

CONCLUSIONS: Our findings expand on the so far limited knowledge of aquatic plant viruses, revealing known and putative novel plant viral species across diverse aquatic plant taxa. The detection of crop viruses, including regulated pathogens, in ornamental aquatic plants highlights the risks associated with their unregulated global trade. Further research into viruses of aquatic plants may provide insights into their role in ecosystems as well as their potential impact on agriculture.},
}

@article {pmid41121675,
year = {2024},
author = {Smith, L and Long, RA and Cannizzaro, AG and Sawicki, TR},
title = {Vicariance and cryptic diversity revealed by molecular phylogenetic analyses of estuarine Gammarus species (Crustacea: Amphipoda) due to formation of the Labrador Current.},
journal = {Invertebrate systematics},
volume = {38},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1071/IS24003},
pmid = {41121675},
issn = {1447-2600},
abstract = {The metapopulation of the estuarine species Gammarus tigrinus along the east coast of the United States has been hypothesised to represent two cryptic species divided biogeographically off the coast of North Carolina, USA. This divergence has been attributed to a strong temperature gradient created by the formation of the cold Labrador Current c. 3.0 million years ago. In addition, the northern phylogeographic clade of G. tigrinus has been demonstrated to be invasive in estuarine habitats across a large portion of northern Europe. Recent collections of G. tigrinus from Florida and Maryland, USA, allow for new approaches to test this hypothesis. Using the nuclear 18S and 28S rRNA, and mitochondrial 16S rRNA and cytochrome c oxidase subunit I genes, species delimitation models provide support that the genetic divergence of the northern and southern clades is equivalent to species level. In addition, molecular clock data demonstrate that this phylogeographic divergence coincides with the formation of the Labrador Current. Furthermore, the collections of G. daiberi from Florida, a species with biogeographical and ecological characteristics similar to those of G. tigrinus, provide independent support for the hypothesis. The potential for invasive species to be cryptic highlights the need for accurate identification of taxa to ensure that appropriate biogeographical assessment of potential source populations and mechanisms of dispersal can be made.},
}

@article {pmid41119991,
year = {2025},
author = {Zitoun, JL and Rousseau, R and Gourbière, S},
title = {Source-sink dynamics explains the coexistence of the invasive pest Dryocosmus kuriphilus and its biological control agent Torymus sinensis across French Eastern Pyrenees.},
journal = {Journal of the Royal Society, Interface},
volume = {22},
number = {231},
pages = {20250283},
doi = {10.1098/rsif.2025.0283},
pmid = {41119991},
issn = {1742-5662},
support = {//Agence Nationale de la Recherche/ ; //MITI CNRS/ ; //Région Occitanie Pyrénées-Méditerranée/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Introduced Species ; France ; *Models, Biological ; *Pest Control, Biological ; *Fagaceae/parasitology ; },
abstract = {Integrating factors affecting the success of invasive insect pests into dynamical models can help assessing their invasion risks and control. Here, we model the spread of a gall-forming hymenopteran parasite of chestnut trees, Dryocosmus kuriphilus, and its control agent, Torymus sinensis, across 23 natural forest sites located in the French Eastern Pyrenees. The integration of field estimates of the levels of bottom-up (frequency, density and genetic susceptibility of chestnut trees) and top-down (hyperparasitism by native insects and fungi) control of the pest in a Nicholson-Bailey model allowed to identify source and sink sites for the invasive species and its control agent. Comparisons with the observed levels of hyperparasitism by T. sinensis showed that it was found in 7/23 sink sites. The extension of our modelling into a two-site model showed that dispersal rates as low as 1‰ can be responsible for the persistence of T. sinensis in sinks, regardless of the precise dynamical regime of D. kuriphilus-T. sinensis coexistence in the source. Although dispersal promotes the persistence of the control agent and tends to homogenize its effectiveness in both sites, it was also shown to reduce the global biological control effectiveness at high rates of coupling.},
}

Animals
*Introduced Species
France
*Models, Biological
*Pest Control, Biological
*Fagaceae/parasitology

@article {pmid41119705,
year = {2025},
author = {Golovatch, SI and Enghoff, H and Efeykin, BD},
title = {Chondrodesmus riparius Carl, 1914, a millipede species new to the fauna of Costa Rica, originally described from Colombia, and introduced to and presently widespread across Europe (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Chelodesmidae).},
journal = {Zootaxa},
volume = {5692},
number = {1},
pages = {161-174},
doi = {10.11646/zootaxa.5692.1.8},
pmid = {41119705},
issn = {1175-5334},
mesh = {Animals ; Costa Rica ; Male ; Female ; Colombia ; *Arthropods/classification/anatomy & histology/growth & development/genetics ; Europe ; Animal Distribution ; Animal Structures/anatomy & histology/growth & development ; Body Size ; Organ Size ; Introduced Species ; Ecosystem ; },
abstract = {The fairly large-bodied Neotropical millipede genus Chondrodesmus Silvestri, 1897, includes 23 species described from Central America, to Costa Rica in the north, and 25 more from South America, to Colombia, Venezuela, Peru and central-western Amazonia of Brazil in the south. Among them, seven species have hitherto been described or recorded from Costa Rica, including Chondrodesmus hoffmanni (Peters, 1865), from an unknown place, and here revised based on the holotype. Unexpectedly, it appears to differ markedly from all Costa Rican congeners, and instead it shows profound similarities to Chondrodesmus riparius Carl, 1914, from Colombia. The status of the European introduction heretofore provisionally referred to either as C. cf. riparius or C. riparius is confirmed here, since morphologically the European and Tropical American C. riparius populations represent the same species. To support this, comparative molecular studies using COI barcoding data, freshly obtained from a population from Costa Rica, with a European population of C. riparius show a congruence of 99.2%. This not only indicates the conspecificity of C. riparius from South America and Europe, but it also suggests the source area whence its introduction to Europe could have occurred.},
}

Animals
Costa Rica
Male
Female
Colombia
*Arthropods/classification/anatomy & histology/growth & development/genetics
Europe
Animal Distribution
Animal Structures/anatomy & histology/growth & development
Body Size
Organ Size
Introduced Species
Ecosystem

@article {pmid41119496,
year = {2025},
author = {Pereira, SE and Azevedo, F and Hajdu, E and Cavalcanti, FF and Klautau, M},
title = {Calcareous sponges (Porifera, Calcarea) from So Sebastio, So Paulo: new species and new records in two marine protected areas of Southeastern Brazil Ecoregion.},
journal = {Zootaxa},
volume = {5688},
number = {1},
pages = {1-107},
doi = {10.11646/zootaxa.5688.1.1},
pmid = {41119496},
issn = {1175-5334},
mesh = {Animals ; *Porifera/classification/anatomy & histology/genetics/growth & development ; Brazil ; Animal Distribution ; Ecosystem ; Animal Structures/anatomy & histology/growth & development ; Organ Size ; Body Size ; Phylogeny ; },
abstract = {In Southeastern Brazil ecoregion, the assessment of calcareous sponges diversity has been particularly focused on Rio de Janeiro State, with 26 species recorded, while So Paulo State remains relatively unexplored, with only 11 species known up to date. So Sebastio, located on the northern coast of So Paulo, encompassing the Alcatrazes Archipelago, is an area of high ecological relevance. This study investigates the diversity of calcareous sponges within two Marine Protected Areas in So Sebastio region, integrating morphological and molecular approaches. A total of 18 species were identified, including two of the subclass Calcinea and 16 of the subclass Calcaronea. Among them, six are new to science: Ascandra arenaria sp. nov., Amphoriscus tenax sp. nov., Leucandra anoducta sp. nov., Leucosolenia sebastianensis sp. nov., Sycon caissarum sp. nov., and Sycon crassapicale sp. nov. Additionally, other eight species represent new records for So Paulo, with Leucandra caribea being reported for the first time in Brazil, extending their distribution ranges. The remaining four species had previously been recorded in the region. Furthermore, as an important additional morphological character, we are originally reporting the presence of a few tetractines, alongside triactines, in the atrial skeleton of the invasive species Paraleucilla magna. Our findings provide a comprehensive baseline inventory of calcareous sponge species from the So Sebastio area (Ilhabela and So Sebastio, including the Alcatrazes Archipelago) and contribute to understanding the biogeographical affinities of the calcarean fauna of Southeastern Brazil with regions within and beyond the Atlantic Ocean.},
}

Animals
*Porifera/classification/anatomy & histology/genetics/growth & development
Brazil
Animal Distribution
Ecosystem
Animal Structures/anatomy & histology/growth & development
Organ Size
Body Size
Phylogeny

@article {pmid41119281,
year = {2025},
author = {Pritchard, ZA and Ivie, MA and Oneill, KM and Delphia, CM},
title = {A faunal treatment of the Megachile (Hymenoptera: Megachilidae) of Montana with a key for their identification.},
journal = {Zootaxa},
volume = {5683},
number = {1},
pages = {1-51},
doi = {10.11646/zootaxa.5683.1.1},
pmid = {41119281},
issn = {1175-5334},
mesh = {Animals ; Montana ; Animal Distribution ; Female ; Male ; Animal Structures/anatomy & histology/growth & development ; Bees/classification/anatomy & histology/growth & development ; Body Size ; Organ Size ; Ecosystem ; },
abstract = {We provide the first statewide inventory of the species of Megachile in Montana from 5,406 records, based on collecting efforts in 20192021 and physical specimen data from publications, natural history museums, private collections, and online data aggregators. We documented 35 species within the state, six of which are new state records: Megachile casadae Cockerell, Megachile centuncularis (Linnaeus), Megachile gentilis Cresson, Megachile mellitarsis Cresson, Megachile mendica Cresson, and Megachile snowi Mitchell. These were predicted to occur in Montana based on existing range data but had not been previously sampled due to limited prior collecting. We also confirmed Megachile dakotensis Mitchell and Megachile nevadensis Cresson to occur in eastern Montana, which had not been recorded in the state for 85 and 84 years respectively, most likely from a lack of collecting in their ranges. Based on published distributional data, we identified eight native species that might be found in the state with further collecting, as well as two introduced species that could reach Montana in the future. This work adds important Megachile species range data in North America, articulates several taxonomic challenges within the group, and will aid future identifications of Montana Megachile through a taxonomic key provided here.},
}

Animals
Montana
Animal Distribution
Female
Male
Animal Structures/anatomy & histology/growth & development
Bees/classification/anatomy & histology/growth & development
Body Size
Organ Size
Ecosystem

@article {pmid41120002,
year = {2025},
author = {Ligocki, IY and Brand, JA and Thoré, ESJ and Aich, U and Brodin, T and Camacho-Cervantes, M and Martin, JM and Munson, A and Polverino, G and Wong, BBM and Bertram, MG},
title = {Uncovering the role of chemical pollutants in shaping biological invasions.},
journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences},
volume = {292},
number = {2057},
pages = {20251232},
doi = {10.1098/rspb.2025.1232},
pmid = {41120002},
issn = {1471-2954},
support = {//Australian Research Council/ ; //Svenska Forskningsrådet Formas/ ; //Kempestiftelserna/ ; //Forrest Research Foundation Fellowship/ ; //Italian Ministry of University and Research/ ; },
mesh = {*Introduced Species ; Animals ; *Environmental Pollutants/adverse effects ; Ecosystem ; *Environmental Pollution ; },
abstract = {Ecosystems around the globe are under unprecedented pressure from human activities. Chemical pollution and biological invasions are two leading drivers of environmental change, each of which causes substantial harm to wildlife and the ecosystems they inhabit. However, despite their individual impacts being well-documented, the combined effects of these pervasive environmental pressures are seldom studied. Here, we address this critical gap by first examining the potential interactions between chemical pollution and biological invasions in animals. We then discuss possible impacts of chemical pollution on animals-both invasive and native-across the distinct stages of the invasion process. Further, we examine gaps in our current understanding of the potential interactions between chemical pollution and biological invasions, including the role of pollutants in mediating interactions between native and non-native species, how pollutants may influence the potential for the invasion process to act as a selective filter, and the relevance of phenotypic plasticity and behavioural syndromes in this context. By synthesizing current knowledge and identifying key research gaps, this review underscores the importance of considering chemical pollution and biological invasions in combination in ecological research. Understanding the combined impacts of these widespread and frequently co-occurring phenomena is essential for developing effective conservation and restoration measures in an increasingly human-modified world.},
}

*Introduced Species
Animals
*Environmental Pollutants/adverse effects
Ecosystem
*Environmental Pollution

@article {pmid41119941,
year = {2025},
author = {Iftime, A and Oel, V},
title = {An annotated systematical checklist of the Romanian ichthyofauna.},
journal = {Zootaxa},
volume = {5654},
number = {1},
pages = {1-64},
doi = {10.11646/zootaxa.5654.1.1},
pmid = {41119941},
issn = {1175-5334},
mesh = {Romania ; Animals ; Checklist ; Animal Distribution ; Male ; Female ; },
abstract = {The ichthyofauna of Romania has long constituted the object of scientific studies; however, rapid changes in both taxonomy and the composition of local fauna require constant updating of the country species list. We attempt here to give a complete checklist of Romanian ichthyofauna, including recently extinct and introduced species, and discussing doubtful records. A discussion of the taxonomical status of recorded species is also included. We discuss 272 species (plus 2 introduced hybrids) recorded for Romania, belonging to 79 families and 31 orders. The distribution and status of treated species are also briefly delineated.},
}

Romania
Animals
Checklist
Animal Distribution
Male
Female

@article {pmid41119448,
year = {2025},
author = {Gallego, D and Dios, MNG and Riba-Flinch, JM and Garca-Reina, A and Galin, J and Mas, H and Lencina, JL and Zafra, M and Henares, I and Rodrguez, F and Alczar, MD and Knek, M and Gmez, DF},
title = {Euwallacea similis (Ferrari), a new ambrosia beetle (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae) for the Iberian Peninsula, and new records on Euwallacea fornicatus (Eichhoff), Xyleborus bispinatus Eichhoff and Amasa parviseta Knek & Smith.},
journal = {Zootaxa},
volume = {5673},
number = {1},
pages = {63-78},
doi = {10.11646/zootaxa.5673.1.4},
pmid = {41119448},
issn = {1175-5334},
mesh = {Animals ; Spain ; *Weevils/classification/anatomy & histology/growth & development/physiology ; Animal Distribution ; Male ; Female ; Introduced Species ; Ecosystem ; Animal Structures/anatomy & histology/growth & development ; Body Size ; Organ Size ; },
abstract = {The rise of invasive species is a global concern, increasingly driven by international trade and climate change. Ambrosia beetles (Xyleborini) are particularly successful invaders due to their ability of asexual reproduction and symbiotic relationship with fungi. Here we report and map the distribution of Xyleborini alien species in the Iberian Peninsula, expanding knowledge about the distribution of already established species and identifying a new host plant for Xyleborus bispinatus. Some populations have been detected through early detection trapping networks. The presence of Euwallacea fornicatus and E. similis is confirmed for the first time in the Iberian Peninsula, with E. similis establishing populations in Southeastern Spain, while E. fornicatus is confirmed in the South, affecting avocado crops. Additionally, the distribution of X. bispinatus has been expanded. Amasa parviseta was also recorded, suggesting a broader distribution than previously known. The study highlights the increasing arrival and establishment of invasive Xyleborini in Spain, likely driven by trade, climate change, and urban development. This work underscores the urgent need for monitoring and early detection programs to manage and mitigate potential impacts.},
}

Animals
Spain
*Weevils/classification/anatomy & histology/growth & development/physiology
Animal Distribution
Male
Female
Introduced Species
Ecosystem
Animal Structures/anatomy & histology/growth & development
Body Size
Organ Size

@article {pmid41119215,
year = {2025},
author = {Evcen, A and Inar, ME},
title = {Sponge fauna of the Aegean coast of Trkiye with new records for the eastern Mediterranean Sea.},
journal = {Zootaxa},
volume = {5631},
number = {2},
pages = {201-244},
doi = {10.11646/zootaxa.5631.2.1},
pmid = {41119215},
issn = {1175-5334},
mesh = {Animals ; *Porifera/classification/growth & development/anatomy & histology ; Mediterranean Sea ; Animal Distribution ; Ecosystem ; Animal Structures/growth & development/anatomy & histology ; Body Size ; Organ Size ; Turkey ; },
abstract = {This study was conducted to determine the taxonomic, ecological and distributional characteristics of sponge species distributed along the Aegean Sea coast of Trkiye. Samples were collected from 36 coastal and 7 offshore stations of different depths (35400 m) and biotopes. Benthic sampling was performed by diving at coastal stations and by bottom-trawling at offshore stations. As a result of the faunistic analysis of the samples, a total of 114 species belonging to 3 classes, 17 orders and 44 families were identified, of which 9 species were new to the eastern Mediterranean, 10 species were new to the Aegean Sea, and 13 species were new to the coasts of Trkiye. Among the biotopes, rocky shores were characterized by the highest number of sponge species (85 species), while the stony coral Cladocora caespitosa was represented by the lowest number of species (3 species). The majority of sponge species (73 species) were found in the depth interval 1020 m. Among the sponges identified, only one invasive alien species, namely Paraleucilla magna, was found on artificial substrata at one station in the inner part of zmir Bay. The majority of the species (71% of the total number of species) found in the study area have the Atlanto-Mediterranean distribution pattern.},
}

Animals
*Porifera/classification/growth & development/anatomy & histology
Mediterranean Sea
Animal Distribution
Ecosystem
Animal Structures/growth & development/anatomy & histology
Body Size
Organ Size
Turkey

@article {pmid41119157,
year = {2025},
author = {Masunari, S and Lopes, OL and Ahyong, ST},
title = {Introduction of the Indo-West Pacific mantis shrimp, Oratosquillina interrupta (Kemp, 1911) (Stomatopoda, Squillidae), to Brazil.},
journal = {Zootaxa},
volume = {5637},
number = {1},
pages = {180-184},
doi = {10.11646/zootaxa.5637.1.10},
pmid = {41119157},
issn = {1175-5334},
mesh = {Animals ; Brazil ; Male ; Female ; Animal Distribution ; Animal Structures/growth & development/anatomy & histology ; Body Size ; *Decapoda/anatomy & histology/classification/growth & development ; Organ Size ; Atlantic Ocean ; Introduced Species ; Pacific Ocean ; },
abstract = {The Indo-West Pacific mantis shrimp, Oratosquillina interrupta (Kemp, 1911), is recorded for the first time from the Brazilian coast and Atlantic Ocean. A total of 39 specimens (4 males and 35 females) of O. interrupta were obtained during trawls for white shrimp fishing along Paran State coast, southern Brazil in 2023 and 2024. Oratosquillina interrupta, now known from Brazilian waters, is the fourth species of the family Squillidae to become established outside of its native range.},
}

Animals
Brazil
Male
Female
Animal Distribution
Animal Structures/growth & development/anatomy & histology
Body Size
*Decapoda/anatomy & histology/classification/growth & development
Organ Size
Atlantic Ocean
Introduced Species
Pacific Ocean

@article {pmid41119037,
year = {2025},
author = {Hauptman, T and Capuder, L and Devetak, Z and Groot, M and Faccoli, M and Pikur, B},
title = {First record of the non-native Cnestus mutilatus (Blandford) and further findings of other Xyleborini (Curculionidae, Scolytinae) recently recorded in Slovenia.},
journal = {Zootaxa},
volume = {5653},
number = {1},
pages = {143-150},
doi = {10.11646/zootaxa.5653.1.9},
pmid = {41119037},
issn = {1175-5334},
mesh = {Animals ; Slovenia ; Male ; Female ; Animal Distribution ; *Weevils/classification/anatomy & histology/growth & development ; Animal Structures/anatomy & histology/growth & development ; Organ Size ; Introduced Species ; Body Size ; },
abstract = {Ambrosia beetles of the subfamily Scolytinae (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) have successfully invaded many parts of the world and are increasingly being introduced to new areas, primarily through international trade. The number of non-native species recorded in Slovenia is also increasing. During the national survey of quarantine species in 2024, a new non-native scolytine beetle, Cnestus mutilatus, was recorded for the first time in Slovenia. Two specimens were trapped at Radmoanci, a location in northeastern Slovenia. New data on two other species recently recorded in Slovenia, Anisandrus maiche and Xylosandrus compactus, are also presented.},
}

Animals
Slovenia
Male
Female
Animal Distribution
*Weevils/classification/anatomy & histology/growth & development
Animal Structures/anatomy & histology/growth & development
Organ Size
Introduced Species
Body Size

@article {pmid41118965,
year = {2025},
author = {Boll, PK and Luna, M},
title = {Diversity of land planarians (Platyhelminthes: Tricladida: Geoplanidae) in Central America: annotated checklist with new records of native and introduced species from citizen science.},
journal = {Zootaxa},
volume = {5695},
number = {1},
pages = {1-70},
doi = {10.11646/zootaxa.5695.1.1},
pmid = {41118965},
issn = {1175-5334},
mesh = {Animals ; *Planarians/classification/anatomy & histology/growth & development ; Central America ; Animal Distribution ; *Biodiversity ; Citizen Science ; Introduced Species ; Checklist ; Female ; Ecosystem ; Male ; },
abstract = {The Neotropical ecozone is the most diverse region on the planet regarding land planarians. However, its northern part, especially Central America, has been only occasionally sampled, so its land planarian fauna remains mostly unknown. We compiled a list of records of land planarians in Central America, including both formally described species and records of undescribed species from literature and the citizen science platform iNaturalist. The compiled data includes at least 112 morphospecies, with 23 comparable to described species and 89 potentially new species. Four described and exotic species are recorded in Central America for the first time. Our survey demonstrates the high land planarian diversity across Central America, of which most species are yet to be described. We recommend joint efforts of local researchers with land planarian taxonomists to promote the study of this important invertebrate community.},
}

Animals
*Planarians/classification/anatomy & histology/growth & development
Central America
Animal Distribution
*Biodiversity
Citizen Science
Introduced Species
Checklist
Female
Ecosystem
Male

@article {pmid41118114,
year = {2025},
author = {Jeon, K and Suk, HY and Hwang, UW},
title = {A new Korean genotype of bluegill Lepomis macrochirus (Centrarchidae) covering the Korean Peninsula: insights for management of an introduced freshwater fish.},
journal = {Genes & genomics},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41118114},
issn = {2092-9293},
support = {NNIBR20251202//Nakdonggang National Institute of Biological Resources/ ; Ministry of Education//Ministry of Education/ ; },
}

@article {pmid41117369,
year = {2025},
author = {Baird, SJE and Daley, N},
title = {The Shapes of Clines and Wavefronts.},
journal = {Molecular ecology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e70109},
doi = {10.1111/mec.70109},
pmid = {41117369},
issn = {1365-294X},
support = {22-32394S//Grantová Agentura České Republiky/ ; //Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports of the Czech Republic through the e-INFRA CZ/ ; //RECETOX Research Infrastructure (ID LM2023069, MEYS CR, 2023-2026/ ; },
abstract = {Cline theory has a central place in speciation studies. Cline locations delimit taxon boundaries, cline widths scale with barrier strength, and the shapes of clines (smooth or stepped) suggest whether species barriers are mono- or polygenic. How cline shapes vary along chromosomes therefore forms part of the genome's species barrier landscape. Further, asymmetric moving clines (wave fronts) can mark adaptive introgression puncturing species barriers, potentially leading to their collapse or decay. Here we review the development of cline and wavefront models and relate this to the use of dispersal kernels in epidemiology and ecology. We contrast classical results to those for a thick-tailed kernel, showing how cline shape affects the speed of spatial processes, including the widening of neutral clines and the spatial coalescent. We critique current cline models used for inference (both spatial and genomic clines) and address Barton's question: Why (after decades of cline fitting) is there so little evidence of stepped clines? We suggest evidence is weak because stepped cline models are over-parameterised, while current genomic cline models are under-parameterised. We explore goldilocks cline parameterisations and discuss non-parametric approaches that may help resolve these issues. This broadens to a discussion of the future of, and alternatives to, cline fitting.},
}

@article {pmid41116737,
year = {2025},
author = {Hiatt, D and Dillon, WW and Gardner, A and Cabrera, S and Dietze, M and Allan, BF and Flory, SL},
title = {Mechanistic pathways of tick exposure risk in native and invaded plant communities.},
journal = {Ecology},
volume = {106},
number = {10},
pages = {e70233},
doi = {10.1002/ecy.70233},
pmid = {41116737},
issn = {1939-9170},
support = {RC-2636//Strategic Environmental Research and Development Program/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Introduced Species ; *Deer/parasitology ; Ecosystem ; *Tick Infestations/veterinary/epidemiology/parasitology ; *Ixodidae/physiology ; },
abstract = {Plant invasions may alter disease vector abundance by several mechanistic pathways, including modifying microclimates that influence vector survival or changing habitats to influence host use. Here, we used a field experiment and observational data to evaluate multiple mechanistic pathways (tick survival and host abundance) by which plant invasions may alter vector-borne disease risk using the common disease vector lone star tick (Amblyomma americanum), its preeminent host white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), and the widespread invasive cogongrass (Imperata cylindrica) in the southeastern United States. In the field experiment, ticks survived over 50% longer in areas dominated by the invasive plant compared to those with only native plant species. Invaded areas had lower temperatures and higher relative humidity, yielding a lower vapor pressure deficit (VPD) that likely reduced tick desiccation. The observational study showed similar average tick abundance in native and invaded plant communities and no difference in wildlife host (white-tailed deer) activity between plant communities. However, there was a positive relationship between tick abundance and white-tailed deer activity, but only in native areas. Together, these results suggest that more favorable microclimate conditions resulting in greater tick longevity are the dominant driver of tick abundance in invaded areas, while tick abundance in native-dominated areas may be promoted, at least in part, by white-tailed deer activity. Our results demonstrate that plant invasions can affect multiple, potentially counteracting mechanistic pathways that contribute to tick exposure risk. The complexity of these relationships highlights the need for a better understanding of how invasive species and other global change drivers influence disease vectors and, ultimately, disease transmission.},
}

Animals
*Introduced Species
*Deer/parasitology
Ecosystem
*Tick Infestations/veterinary/epidemiology/parasitology
*Ixodidae/physiology

@article {pmid40815303,
year = {2025},
author = {R, M and Das, B and Kumar, P},
title = {Predicting the global invasion risk of ambrosia beetle Euplatypus parallelus under climate change based on CMIP6 projections.},
journal = {International journal of biometeorology},
volume = {69},
number = {11},
pages = {3035-3048},
pmid = {40815303},
issn = {1432-1254},
mesh = {Animals ; *Climate Change ; *Introduced Species ; *Coleoptera/physiology ; *Models, Theoretical ; },
abstract = {Euplatypus parallelus (Fabricius, 1801) is a highly destructive invasive insect pest endemic to the Neotropics, causing economic and ecological damage to natural forests, plantations, and fruit trees. We employed the MaxEnt model to predict the global suitability of E. parallelus under current and future scenarios based on the shared socioeconomic pathways (SSPs) 126 and SSP585 in 2050 and 2070, utilizing the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project phase 6 (CMIP6) dataset. The model demonstrated remarkable performance achieving AUC values of 0.964 and 0.957, TSS of 0.841 and 0.796, and CBI of 0.967 and 0.928 during model calibration and validation, respectively. The temperature seasonality BIO4 (43.8%), annual precipitation BIO12 (31.2%), and minimum temperature of the coldest month BIO6 (14.7) were the most significant bioclimatic variables affecting the distribution of E. parallelus. The model shows that the maximum suitability of E. parallelus is primarily concentrated in Asia, Africa, and South America. Future climate change predicts a 12.85% expansion in suitable habitat areas for E. parallelus. Our predictions demonstrate that the biological suitability and global potential spread of E. parallelus would increase under the SSP126 and SSP585 scenarios in 2050 and 2070. The study findings will help the researchers, policymakers, and academicians to plan, develop, and implement effective preventive strategies to combat the spread and infestation of E. parallelus.},
}

Animals
*Climate Change
*Introduced Species
*Coleoptera/physiology
*Models, Theoretical

@article {pmid41115821,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, Y and Wan, W and Yang, T and Cao, F and Cai, B and Francis, F and Xian, X and Liu, W},
title = {Multiple drivers synergistically shape the genetic differentiation pattern and invasion potential of Bactrocera umbrosa.},
journal = {Pest management science},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/ps.70288},
pmid = {41115821},
issn = {1526-4998},
support = {//the National Key R&D Program of China (Grant No. 2023YFC2605200)/ ; //the Agricultural Science and Technology Innovation Program (ASTIP) (Grant No. CAAS-ZDRW202505)/ ; //the Central Public-interest Scientific Institution Basal Research Fund (Grant no. S2025XM07)/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: As an oligophagous pest of Artocarpus fruits, especially breadfruit and jackfruit, Bactrocera umbrosa poses a growing threat to global agriculture through trade-facilitated invasion. This study integrates population genetic analysis (321 COI sequences) and ecological niche modeling to elucidate its population structure, historical dynamics, and invasion potential.

RESULTS: Genetic analyses revealed three phylogeographic groups: genetically diverse Southwest Pacific (SWP), Mainland Southeast Asia (MSEA), and Island Southeast Asia (ISEA). Subregional differentiation in Southeast Asia was likely driven by geographical barriers (e.g., the Isthmus of Kra) and human activities. Neutrality tests and mismatch distributions indicated recent demographic expansions across all populations, most pronounced in MSEA. Ecological niche analyses showed SWP populations with broad climatic tolerance, while MSEA and ISEA exhibited niche contractions, reflecting environmental filtering or founder effects during colonization. Projections under the SSP1-2.6 and SSP5-8.5 climate scenarios suggested range expansion to tropical Africa, the Amazon Basin, and Southeast Asia by the 2030s and 2050s. Notably, the potential geographical distribution of this pest significantly overlapped with suitable cultivation zones of Artocarpus altilis and Artocarpus heterophyllus. Regions such as the Caribbean, West Africa, and South Asia were identified as areas facing a heightened invasion risk.

CONCLUSIONS: This study highlights synergistic roles of geographic factors, human activity, and climate change in shaping population genetic structure and invasion potential of B. umbrosa. These insights can facilitate preemptive management of this pest under accelerating globalization and climate change. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.},
}

@article {pmid41115719,
year = {2025},
author = {Nelson, A and Downey, M and Murry, M and Weber, B and Aguirre, E and McCrea, RS and Mims, J and Vigilant, M and Standlee, C and Murray, KO and Kneubehl, A and Brown, EL and Essigmann, HT and Gunter, SM},
title = {Emerging Tick-Borne Disease Risk in an Urban Center of Harris County, Texas.},
journal = {Vector borne and zoonotic diseases (Larchmont, N.Y.)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1177/15303667251386209},
pmid = {41115719},
issn = {1557-7759},
abstract = {Background: Tick-borne diseases are an endemic and emerging public health concern in the United States. Ongoing tick range expansion, invasive species, and newly identified pathogens are rapidly altering disease epidemiology. Surveillance is critical to understanding vector ecology and disease risk. Harris County, Texas, with nearly five million residents and diverse ecological zones, offers a unique setting to study local tick dynamics. Methods: From January 2021 to December 2022, we conducted weekly tick surveillance across 63 sites in Harris County (City of Houston), Texas. Ticks were morphologically identified and tested for Rickettsia, Borrelia, Ehrlichia, and Anaplasma via real-time PCR. Samples positive by initial screening were confirmed to the species level using endpoint PCR and sequencing. Results: We collected 1,219 ticks-primarily Ixodes scapularis and Amblyomma maculatum-with distinct seasonal and spatial patterns. Of 1,195 tested ticks, 61% were positive for Rickettsia, with multiple species identified. Notably, Rickettsia parkeri was detected in 23.1% of Rickettsia-positive A. maculatum ticks. Conclusion: Our findings reveal significant tick-borne pathogen activity in Harris County, highlighting the need for continued surveillance and public health efforts in urban and peri-urban Texas.},
}

@article {pmid41114853,
year = {2025},
author = {de Scally, SZ and McDonald, MJ},
title = {Evolution of One Species Increases Resistance to Invasion in a Simple Synthetic Community.},
journal = {Microbial ecology},
volume = {88},
number = {1},
pages = {110},
pmid = {41114853},
issn = {1432-184X},
support = {CE230100001//Australian Research Council/ ; },
mesh = {*Escherichia coli/genetics/growth & development/physiology ; *Saccharomyces cerevisiae/genetics/growth & development/physiology ; *Biological Evolution ; Models, Biological ; Ecosystem ; Introduced Species ; },
abstract = {The species that make up a microbial community determine its potential function. A major goal of microbial ecology is to make assemblages of microbes - synthetic communities - with targeted applications. Replacing a dysfunctional community with a synthetic microbial community can have transformative impacts upon a host or ecosystem, yet the introduced community may be outcompeted by local species or communities, resulting in transient effects. Here, we study a simple synthetic community comprised of two species - E. coli and S. cerevisiae - that have coevolved for either 0, 1000 or 4000 generations, and evaluate the potential for 12 bacterial strains, from five species, to invade. We find that the dominant species (E. coli) in the community protects the less dominant species from being outcompeted during an invasion, and that this effect is strengthened by longer periods of coevolution. Using a mathematical model, we show how prolonged co-evolution leads to protective effects for a community member sensitive to displacement.},
}

*Escherichia coli/genetics/growth & development/physiology
*Saccharomyces cerevisiae/genetics/growth & development/physiology
*Biological Evolution
Models, Biological
Ecosystem
Introduced Species

@article {pmid41113824,
year = {2025},
author = {Nsabatien, V and Zanga, J and Mvuama, N and Bokulu, A and Lukoki, H and Diza, G and Kantin, D and Mbashi, L and Bosulu, C and Basosila, N and Bukaka, E and Agossa, F and Nagahuedi, J and Palata, JC and Metelo, E},
title = {Aedes mosquito distribution across urban and peri-urban areas of Kinshasa city, Democratic Republic of Congo.},
journal = {GigaByte (Hong Kong, China)},
volume = {2025},
number = {},
pages = {gigabyte166},
pmid = {41113824},
issn = {2709-4715},
abstract = {In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Aedes mosquitoes are vectors of medically important arboviruses, mediating the transmission of yellow fever, dengue, and chikungunya. However, systematic surveillance of these species remains limited, preventing the rapid detection of changes in distribution, abundance, and behaviour. Here, we present a geo-referenced dataset of 6,577 entomological occurrence records collected in 2024 throughout urban and peri-urban areas of Kinshasa city, DRC, using Larval dipping, Human landing catches, Prokopack aspirator, and BG-Sentinel traps. Our records include Aedes albopictus (n = 2,694), Aedes aegypti (n = 1,939), Aedes vittatus (n = 2), and Aedes spp. (n = 1,942), annotated with species, sex, life stage, reproductive status, and spatial coordinates. Our dataset is published as a Darwin Core archive in the Global Biodiversity Information Facility. This dataset, the most detailed spatial record of Aedes mosquitoes in Kinshasa to date, provides a robust foundation for entomological research and data-driven arbovirus vector control in DRC.},
}

@article {pmid41112160,
year = {2025},
author = {Žele Vengušt, D and Kušar, D and Vengušt, G and Bandelj, P},
title = {First report of the giant liver fluke (Fascioloides magna) in Slovenia and molecular species confirmation based on the ITS2 marker.},
journal = {Frontiers in veterinary science},
volume = {12},
number = {},
pages = {1673629},
pmid = {41112160},
issn = {2297-1769},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The giant liver fluke, Fascioloides magna, is a parasite that primarily infects wild and domestic ruminants. Originally from North America, it has been an invasive species in Europe since the nineteenth century. Of the three natural foci that have become established in Europe, the Danube floodplain forest is the one that is still spreading. The first outbreak of fascioloidosis in Slovenia described in this report indicates that red deer (Cervus elaphus), fallow deer (Dama dama), and roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) are the three wild ruminants affected by the parasite.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 22 frozen deer livers (14 red deer, five fallow deer, and three roe deer) were subjected to necropsy, parasitological and molecular examinations. Molecular detection of the extracted parasites was performed using species-specific PCR and Sanger sequencing techniques.

RESULTS: The presence of F. magna was confirmed in all liver samples. The infected livers of red deer and fallow deer were characterized by marked enlargement and the development of pseudocysts and distinct black pigmented lines within the parenchyma, whereas the livers of roe deer were of normal size and contained only migratory paths.

DISCUSSION: The first report and molecular confirmation of F. magna in red deer, fallow deer, and roe deer in Slovenia indicate a northward spread of the trematode along the eastern side of the Mura River. Hunters, veterinarians, and farmers should be made aware of the existence of F. magna in north-east Slovenia and encouraged to report any liver abnormalities in ruminants. Future research should aim to investigate the spread of F. magna, its origins and economic impact.},
}

@article {pmid41112150,
year = {2025},
author = {Scholz, T and Kuchta, R},
title = {Tapeworms of freshwater fishes in North America: an integrative review of taxonomy, phylogeny, host specificity, and research priorities.},
journal = {Frontiers in veterinary science},
volume = {12},
number = {},
pages = {1661118},
pmid = {41112150},
issn = {2297-1769},
abstract = {Tapeworms (Cestoda) are a diverse group of parasitic flatworms that are highly specialized in a parasitic lifestyle. The freshwater fish tapeworms of North America have been relatively well studied since 1855, although their diversity is limited compared to other regions. Most knowledge was gained in the 20th century, with research declining in recent decades, although some groups have recently been revised based on morphological and molecular data. This review updates the current understanding of species diversity, phylogenetic relationships and host-parasite interactions based on a critical re-evaluation of the earlier records. The new data can also inform fisheries management, invasive species control and public health surveillance. Currently, 130 valid adult species are known in six orders, most of which are native to the Nearctic, with the USA having the greatest diversity (121 species). The vast majority of North American fish tapeworms exhibit narrow host specificity, with almost three quarters specializing in a single host species or host genus. Larval stages (metacestodes) from four orders also occur in fish, but are difficult to identify morphologically. Future work should focus primarily on little-studied fish groups and regions with probably undescribed diversity (e.g., the southern USA), combined with integrative taxonomic approaches.},
}

@article {pmid41112100,
year = {2025},
author = {Nhhala, N and Kchikich, A and Ennoury, A and Roussi, Z and García-Angulo, P and Nhiri, M and Nhiri, N},
title = {Ulva lactuca extract as biostimulant for reducing salt stress effect in common bean crops.},
journal = {Physiology and molecular biology of plants : an international journal of functional plant biology},
volume = {31},
number = {9},
pages = {1557-1574},
pmid = {41112100},
issn = {0971-5894},
abstract = {The massive proliferation of Ulva lactuca in the Nador lagoon has become a major environmental concern due to its accumulation, stranding, and decomposition along the coast, leading to ecological disturbances and social discomfort. Yet, seaweed extracts are increasingly recognized for their ability to stimulate plant growth and enhance resilience to both abiotic and biotic stresses, owing to their rich and diverse content of bioactive compounds. In a sustainable valorization approach aimed at mitigating the ecological impact of this invasive species, Ulva lactuca was investigated as a promising natural biostimulant, tested experimentally on common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) under salt stress conditions. Controlled trials were conducted using common bean plants exposed to two levels of salt stress (moderate: 34.2 mM NaCl; high: 68.4 mM NaCl), with or without treatment with Ulva lactuca extract (ULE) applied at three concentrations (1%, 3%, and 6%). Results showed that ULE significantly enhanced plant growth under both non-stress and saline conditions, particularly at 1% and 3%. This positive effect was associated with improved morphological traits, chlorophyll content, antioxidant enzyme activities, and carbon-nitrogen metabolism, along with increased accumulation of key osmolytes. Additionally, ULE treatments reduced lipid peroxidation and suppressed reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. These findings highlight the potential of Ulva lactuca extract as an effective, eco-friendly biostimulant capable of alleviating salt stress in crops, especially in regions facing salinized irrigation water challenges. At the same time, this work offers an innovative and sustainable strategy to valorize an overabundant marine resource while addressing environmental concerns.},
}

@article {pmid41109684,
year = {2025},
author = {Campbell, MA and Silver, LW and Balachandran, N and Pathirana, E and Jeffrey, C and Lal, M and O'Connor, WA and Hogg, CJ and Becker, JA},
title = {A long-reads based de-novo assembly of Magallana bilineata for improved tropical oyster aquaculture.},
journal = {G3 (Bethesda, Md.)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/g3journal/jkaf242},
pmid = {41109684},
issn = {2160-1836},
abstract = {True oysters, molluscs in the family Ostreidae, are important species in fisheries and aquaculture. As such, genome enabled research can improve these industries and the conservation of these species. The tropical rock oyster Magallana bilineata (known as the black scar oyster or Indian backwater oyster) is naturally distributed in the tropical Indo-Pacific Ocean excluding Australia and is intensively cultured in India and the Philippines. It is also an aquaculture species in Sri Lanka with potential for much greater cultivation. We present the first reference genome for M. bilineata sourced from a Sri Lankan individual along with genetic variants that can be used in tool development for questions of molecular ecology and evolution as well as applications in breeding and commercial applications. Long-read PacBio data from a single M. bilineata were assembled following the Vertebrate Genomes Project workflow on the Galaxy Australia platform. A primary assembly composed of 105 contigs that is 551.94 Mbp in size was produced. The assembly N50 is 13.42 Mb and has a BUSCO completeness score of 98.1%. As collection and transport conditions challenged transcriptomic as well as scaffolding data generation, these approaches were undertaken computationally. Genetic variants in the form of SNPs from 90 individuals representing three naturally occurring populations in Sri Lanka and a fourth introduced population in Fiji was generated through DArTseq and a set of 3,115 SNPs produced after filtering. Combined we present the first known genome assembly and the first genome-wide SNP data from M. bilineata, both of which have diverse applications for conservation and aquaculture.},
}

@article {pmid41109494,
year = {2025},
author = {Meraz-Medina, T and Vences-Blanco, MO and Ramírez-Cervantes, AG and Nogueda-Torres, B and Martínez-Ibarra, JA},
title = {First record and vital statistics of Triatoma longipennis (Heteroptera, Reduviidae, Triatominae) from Southern Mexico.},
journal = {Acta tropica},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {107873},
doi = {10.1016/j.actatropica.2025.107873},
pmid = {41109494},
issn = {1873-6254},
abstract = {Several insect species exist beyond their native habitats, some classified as invasive alien species (IAS), which can affect human health by carrying parasites and causing disease. These include vectors of vector-borne diseases, such as American trypanosomiasis, caused by the protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi, a major vector-borne disease primarily affecting the Americas. Mexico ranks third in the number of individuals infected with T. cruzi. Among the 35 Mexican triatomine species, Triatoma longipennis is notably significant. The presence of T. longipennis is reported for the first time in Southern Mexico, specifically in the state of Guerrero, outside its usual distribution areas. To assess the potential impact of these T. longipennis populations, several biological parameters were evaluated, including egg-to-adult development time, mortality rates, and feeding and defecation behaviors for each instar. No significant (p > 0.05) differences were noted in the primary parameters studied across both populations. Four parameters (the number of blood meals at each nymphal instar (8 vs 9 meals), the median time-lapse for beginning of feeding (immediate "attack"), feeding times (durations exceeding 15 min), and defecation timing (during or immediately after feeding; more than 50%) - align with those of an effective T. cruzi transmitter. These findings suggest that the T. longipennis populations could serve as significant potential vectors of T. cruzi to human populations. As T. longipennis appears to be undergoing range expansion in Mexico, increased surveillance is necessary, particularly in regions susceptible to invasion and successful establishment due to favorable ecological conditions.},
}

@article {pmid41105848,
year = {2025},
author = {Gastineau, R and Murchie, AK and Winsor, L and Justine, JL},
title = {An Irish cocktail of flatworm, earthworm and parasite DNAs: genomics of invasive land flatworms (Geoplanidae) reveal infestations by two new Mitosporidium species (Microsporidia).},
journal = {Parasite (Paris, France)},
volume = {32},
number = {},
pages = {67},
doi = {10.1051/parasite/2025060},
pmid = {41105848},
issn = {1776-1042},
support = {"Regional Excellence Initiative" Program for 2024-2027//Minister of Science/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Oligochaeta/genetics/parasitology/microbiology ; Introduced Species ; *Microsporidia/genetics/classification/isolation & purification ; Phylogeny ; *Platyhelminths/genetics/microbiology/parasitology ; Genomics ; Northern Ireland ; DNA, Helminth/genetics/isolation & purification ; Genome, Mitochondrial ; },
abstract = {According to the classical Enemy Release Hypothesis, one reason for the success of invasive species is that they have escaped their predators and parasites during migration to newly invaded territories. In this context, the discovery of any parasite of an invasive species is of particular interest. Here, we report the results of genomic investigations performed on two invasive species of land flatworms (Geoplanidae) collected in Northern Ireland, Kontikia andersoni Jones, 1981, and Australoplana sanguinea (Moseley, 1877). We describe the mitogenomes and paralogous RNA genes of both species. Prey DNA was detected in both flatworm species, providing molecular evidence that their diet includes earthworms. Unexpectedly, we detected sequences assigned to the microsporidian genus Mitosporidium Haag et al., 2015, which, prior to this study, included a single species. Each land flatworm species harboured its own species of Mitosporidium. For nomenclatural reasons, we could not assign binomial names to these species; instead, we designate them as Mitosporidium sp. JL467 (in K. andersoni) and Mitosporidium sp. JL472 (in A. sanguinea). For each new Mitosporidium species, we describe the gene content of the mitogenome and the complete cluster of nuclear ribosomal RNA genes. In the absence of direct evidence of host-parasite relationships, we discuss the possible hosts of these Microsporidia, which could be the flatworms themselves or their prey; the most likely hypothesis is that they are parasites of land flatworms. Other Mitosporidium species should be sought for in native land flatworms from the Australasian region, where the two invasive flatworm species originated. Investigations on the possible pathogenic role of these parasites are needed.},
}

Animals
*Oligochaeta/genetics/parasitology/microbiology
Introduced Species
*Microsporidia/genetics/classification/isolation & purification
Phylogeny
*Platyhelminths/genetics/microbiology/parasitology
Genomics
Northern Ireland
DNA, Helminth/genetics/isolation & purification
Genome, Mitochondrial

@article {pmid41104462,
year = {2025},
author = {Pinto, AF and Gómez, MI and Dai, B and Kwon, EH and Loeb, GM and Riggs, DM and Callahan, CW and Lane, DE and Wallis, A},
title = {Economic analysis of using exclusion netting for spotted-wing drosophila (Drosophila suzukii) management in organic blueberry production systems.},
journal = {Pest management science},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/ps.70280},
pmid = {41104462},
issn = {1526-4998},
support = {//National Institute of Food and Agriculture/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Spotted-wing drosophila (SWD) (Drosophila suzukii) is a devastating invasive species that affects soft and stone fruit crops. The SWD poses significant challenges to high-value fruit industries, especially organic production. Organic growers primarily rely on frequent applications of organic pesticides, but these are expensive, have limited residual activity, and require rotation with less effective alternatives to manage resistance. Exclusion netting has emerged as a promising alternative for organic growers. This study assesses the economic performance of exclusion netting compared to organic insecticide applications for managing SWD on New York blueberry farms.

RESULTS: In the baseline scenario, organic blueberry growers could increase their income by $1856 per acre and achieve a benefit-cost ratio (BCR) of 1.115 by using exclusion netting in netting trellis structures instead of organic insecticides. This indicates that for every dollar invested in netting, growers gain $1.115 in return, making it a marginally profitable option. Both strategies generate positive profits from year 1, but netting surpasses insecticides in cumulative cash flow by year 3. Sensitivity analyses, considering different marketing channels and blueberry prices, show that BCR remains above 1 in all scenarios, with the highest BCR achieved when selling through indirect markets at $12.12 per kilogram.

CONCLUSION: Our results offer critical insights into SWD management for organic growers who face production challenges due to limited pesticide options and resistance risks. These findings provide clear information on the economic viability of using exclusion netting in organic blueberry production. Consistent with previous research, the costs of insecticide applications can outweigh the benefits under low pest pressure. Despite concerns over high initial investments, exclusion netting proves to be a cost-effective and profit-maximizing alternative, generating positive profits as early as year 1. © 2025 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.},
}

@article {pmid41103566,
year = {2025},
author = {van Steenderen, CJM and Sandenbergh, E and Brookes, D and Moran, PJ and Cristofaro, M and Hoyer, WF and Paterson, ID},
title = {Population Genetics Reveals the Invasion Pathways of Mesembryanthemum nodiflorum in North America.},
journal = {Ecology and evolution},
volume = {15},
number = {10},
pages = {e72262},
pmid = {41103566},
issn = {2045-7758},
abstract = {Invasive populations of the slenderleaf iceplant, Mesembryanthemum nodiflorum L., are problematic along the west coast of North America. The plant is hypothesised to originate from southern Africa, though it has established populations in North Africa and the Mediterranean. There is interest in initiating a biological control programme for the weed in its invaded range, but a clearer understanding of its invasion pathways and sources of origin is required in order to prioritise potential biological control agents. This study used both NextGen RADseq and fragment analysis ISSR techniques to uncover the population structure and genetic diversity of M. nodiflorum in its native, introduced and invaded ranges. The results supported a South African origin of the species based on a higher number of private alleles and overall genetic diversity. Our results suggest a bridgehead effect, where a secondary invasion to North America from Mediterranean populations took place, rather than a direct invasion from the native range in South Africa. The present results indicated that surveys for potential biocontrol agents for M. nodiflorum should be conducted in the native South African distribution, where the greatest diversity of specialist natural enemies is likely to be present.},
}

@article {pmid41103545,
year = {2025},
author = {Comte, S and Bengsen, AJ and Parker, L and Forsyth, DM},
title = {Annual, seasonal, and daily space-use of Common Fallow Deer (Dama dama) in Australian agricultural landscapes.},
journal = {Journal of mammalogy},
volume = {106},
number = {5},
pages = {1261-1272},
pmid = {41103545},
issn = {0022-2372},
abstract = {The Common Fallow Deer (Dama dama; hereafter "fallow deer") has been widely translocated from its native Mediterranean range and is now present on all continents except Antarctica. In some countries-such as Australia-introduced populations of fallow deer have increased in range and abundance, negatively affecting agricultural production. However, little is known about how this species uses these agricultural landscapes annually, seasonally, or daily. We used GPS collars to track the hourly movements of 68 adult fallow deer (25 males, 43 females) at 3 sites in mixed pastoral farmland (a mosaic of open eucalypt woodland and pasture) in eastern Australia between 2020 and 2024. We estimated annual and monthly home ranges, daily distance moved, and diel movement cycles. As expected, annual home ranges (using the biased random bridge method) were larger for males (median = 1,848.1 ha, 95% CrI: 929.2 to 3,584.0 ha) than females (median = 646.3 ha, 95% CrI: 368.1 to 1,068.5 ha), and home ranges and core areas were similar across the 3 sites. Both sexes had a strong crepuscular movement pattern that was consistent across sites. Male fallow deer increased their movement rates in April-May (i.e., during the mating season), and their movement patterns were most restricted during summer. Female fallow deer movements were more consistent across the year than those of males, but movement patterns were also most restricted during summer. There was substantial individual variation in daily movement patterns between and within sites, especially during the mating season. Most individuals exhibited strong site fidelity, but some males and females made short excursions (up to a week and 10 km) from their home range. The strong site fidelity of fallow deer suggests that management strategies utilizing repeated culling will be most effective at reducing overabundant fallow deer populations in Australian agricultural landscapes.},
}

@article {pmid40925042,
year = {2025},
author = {Menouillard, M and Blanchet, A and Desurmont, GA},
title = {Olfactory preferences of the allium leafminer, an emerging pest in North America: comparison of three experimental bioassays.},
journal = {Journal of economic entomology},
volume = {118},
number = {5},
pages = {2301-2308},
doi = {10.1093/jee/toaf218},
pmid = {40925042},
issn = {1938-291X},
support = {0212-22000-030-000D//ARS/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Diptera/physiology ; Biological Assay ; Smell ; Female ; *Allium ; Odorants ; Male ; Introduced Species ; },
abstract = {Evaluating the olfactory preferences of emerging insect pests is critical to develop monitoring tools and improve early detection and management strategies. Here the chemical ecology and olfactory preferences of the allium leafminer Phytomyza gymnostoma Loew (Diptera: Agromyzidae), an invasive pest in North America affecting allium crops such as leeks and onions, were investigated. Three bioassay methods were assessed under laboratory conditions: wind tunnel, Y-tube olfactometer, and arena bioassay. All bioassays measured the responses of P. gymnostoma adults to odors of host and non-host plants. Two common allium crops, leek and chive, were used as host plants. Results of the wind tunnel bioassays showed a clear preference for host plants compared to non-host plants, with leek being twice as attractive as chive. Leek plants already infested by P. gymnostoma were half as attractive as healthy plants. Olfactometer and arena bioassays failed to show any significant response of adult flies toward host plant volatiles. This study is the first to compare multiple bioassays for behavioral investigations of P. gymnostoma, providing novel insights into the pest's host-finding behavior and highlighting methodological considerations for future work. Overall, these results suggest that both visual and chemical cues play a role in P. gymnostoma's foraging behavior and are a promising first step toward the development of monitoring tools against this invasive pest.},
}

Animals
*Diptera/physiology
Biological Assay
Smell
Female
*Allium
Odorants
Male
Introduced Species

@article {pmid40853335,
year = {2025},
author = {Wallsten, C},
title = {Digest: Rapid evolution of an annual invader, the African fig fly Zaprionus indianus.},
journal = {Evolution; international journal of organic evolution},
volume = {79},
number = {10},
pages = {2338-2340},
doi = {10.1093/evolut/qpaf162},
pmid = {40853335},
issn = {1558-5646},
mesh = {Animals ; *Introduced Species ; *Biological Evolution ; Wings, Animal/anatomy & histology ; },
abstract = {Little is known about evolutionary dynamics shortly after species introduction. Gray et al. (2025) found that the African fig fly (Zaprionus indianus) evolved smaller wings and a decreased wing:thorax ratio within one season of colonizing a temperate region of the United States, but did not differ along a latitudinal cline. This demonstrates the species' capability for rapid adaptation and potential for enhanced invasiveness.},
}

Animals
*Introduced Species
*Biological Evolution
Wings, Animal/anatomy & histology

@article {pmid40848306,
year = {2025},
author = {Wang, X and Hamby, K and Demchak, K and Stout, A and Biddinger, D and Regan, K and Lue, CH and Hoelmer, KA},
title = {Establishment of key Asian larval parasitoids of Drosophila suzukii (Diptera: Drosophilidae) in the US Mid-Atlantic states.},
journal = {Journal of economic entomology},
volume = {118},
number = {5},
pages = {2042-2053},
doi = {10.1093/jee/toaf188},
pmid = {40848306},
issn = {1938-291X},
support = {//USDA/ ; 60-8010-4-001//APHIS Farm Bill/ ; 60-8010-5-009//APHIS Farm Bill/ ; #8010-22000-031D//USDA/ ; #2020-5118-32140//NIFA/ ; #C940001078//Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture/ ; #PEN04743//National Institute of Food and Agriculture and Hatch Appropriations/ ; #1023221//National Institute of Food and Agriculture and Hatch Appropriations/ ; #8010-22000-031D//ARS/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Wasps/physiology/growth & development ; Larva/parasitology/growth & development ; *Drosophila/parasitology/growth & development ; *Pest Control, Biological ; Fruit/growth & development ; Introduced Species ; Mid-Atlantic Region ; },
abstract = {The widespread establishment of Drosophila suzukii (Matsumura) has instigated a classical biological program in the United States and Europe for this invasive pest of soft-skinned fruits. This study reports the first release of an introduced key Asian larval parasitoid, Ganaspis kimorum Buffington (Hymenoptera: Figitidae), in 3 Mid-Atlantic states (Delaware, Maryland, and Pennsylvania), where a total of 26,950 wasps were released in 6 counties during the 2022 and 2023 fruit seasons. Pre-release monitoring in 2023 and 2024 recovered G. kimorum individuals, indicating successful overwintering of parasitoids released in 2022 and 2023. A total of 617 pre- and post-release fruit collections were conducted in a temporal sequence of ripening fruits of 30 different fruit species throughout the 2022 and 2023 fruit seasons at all release locations. G. kimorum were recovered in 40 post-release samples from 9 different host plants at all release locations. However, the overall levels of mean parasitism by G. kimorum were <2% at this early stage of release. At the same time, adventive populations of an unreleased key Asian larval parasitoid, Leptopilina japonica Novković & Kimura (Hymenoptera: Figitidae) were found from 16 sampled host plants throughout the fruit season. Mean parasitism of D. suzukii (primarily by L. japonica) ranged from 0% to 20.0%, which varied by season and host plant but peaked with fruiting of the most D. suzukii-infested wild hosts. We discuss potential ecological mechanisms that may affect the establishment and impacts of these key parasitoids on D. suzukii in this region and future release strategies for G. kimorum.},
}

Animals
*Wasps/physiology/growth & development
Larva/parasitology/growth & development
*Drosophila/parasitology/growth & development
*Pest Control, Biological
Fruit/growth & development
Introduced Species
Mid-Atlantic Region

@article {pmid40635500,
year = {2025},
author = {Beckwith, KM and Burrack, HJ and Flanagan, M and Wiggins, G and Levenson, HK},
title = {Temporal fluctuations and geographic distributions of Leptopilina (Hymenoptera: Figitidae) species in North Carolina: implications for biological control of Drosophila suzukii (Diptera: Drosophilidae).},
journal = {Journal of economic entomology},
volume = {118},
number = {5},
pages = {2032-2041},
doi = {10.1093/jee/toaf152},
pmid = {40635500},
issn = {1938-291X},
mesh = {Animals ; North Carolina ; *Wasps/physiology ; *Pest Control, Biological ; *Drosophila/parasitology ; *Animal Distribution ; Introduced Species ; Female ; Seasons ; },
abstract = {Biological control is an important component of integrated pest management programs. This can include classical biological control agents, but also adventive biological control agents that naturally established. Here, we provide details of the presence and seasonal biology of potential biological control agents for the invasive Drosophila suzukii Matsumura in Southeastern USA blackberry production systems, including a recently established adventive parasitoid wasp species, Leptopilina japonica Novković & Kimura. To better understand the populations of this new species, we compare detection methods and report on temporal fluctuations and geographic distributions in North Carolina blackberry fields. In total, we collected 1,142 specimens from 6 sites including 5 different Leptopilina species: Leptopilina boulardi Barbotin, Carton & Kelner-Pillault, Leptopilina clavipes Hartig, Leptopilina heterotoma Thomson, Leptopilina japonica, and Leptopilina leipsi Lue & Buffington. We confirm previous reports of L. japonica, L. boulardi, and L. heterotoma in North Carolina, but report L. clavipes and L. leipsi in the state for the first time. While several Leptopilina species have now been documented in North Carolina, L. japonica shows the most promise as a biological control agent for D. suzukii. Understanding the when and where each of these parasitoid species is present in crop fields is an important first step in improving D. suzukii management efforts. These data will aid in understanding how best to protect these species and how best to incorporate them into on-farm management plans.},
}

Animals
North Carolina
*Wasps/physiology
*Pest Control, Biological
*Drosophila/parasitology
*Animal Distribution
Introduced Species
Female
Seasons

@article {pmid41101766,
year = {2025},
author = {Hogg, BN and Daane, KM},
title = {Semi-natural habitat as a source of Drosophila suzukii (Diptera: Drosophilidae) and its parasitoids in California cane berry fields.},
journal = {Journal of economic entomology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/jee/toaf267},
pmid = {41101766},
issn = {1938-291X},
support = {2030-22000-029-000D//USDA CRIS/ ; 2030-22000-033-000D//USDA CRIS/ ; 2020-51181-32140//USDA NIFA/ ; 18-0001-058-SC//California Specialty Crop Grant Program/ ; },
abstract = {The invasive pest spotted wing drosophila, Drosophila suzukii (Matsumura), attacks many wild and ornamental hosts and may persist in semi-natural habitats when fruit is unavailable in the crop. Semi-natural habitat or non-crop habitat (NCH) may also provide shelter for D. suzukii or refuge from insecticide applications. We examined population dynamics of D. suzukii in berry fields and adjacent NCH over 3 growing seasons and sampled at different distances from NCH to determine whether NCH is a source for D. suzukii and its parasitoids in adjacent crop fields. Numbers of D. suzukii adults were higher in NCH on most sample dates and increased in berry fields with proximity to NCH in spring and fall, indicating that NCH was a refuge and source for D. suzukii. Proportions of female D. suzukii were higher in berry fields in spring and fall and increased with distance from NCH along transects, suggesting that females dispersed more widely in berry fields than males. NCH did not appear to be a significant source of D. suzukii in summer, when D. suzukii numbers tended to be similar between habitats and did not change along transects within berry fields. Parasitism of sentinel D. suzukii pupae by the dominant naturally occurring parasitoid Trichopria drosophilae (Perkins) did not differ between NCH and berry fields, indicating that T. drosophilae dispersed easily between habitats.},
}

@article {pmid41099278,
year = {2025},
author = {Fumarola, LM and Leoni, V and Marchessaux, G and Sarà, G and Piraino, S and Bosch-Belmar, M},
title = {Global Warming and the Spread of the Introduced Jellyfish Cassiopea andromeda: Thermal Niche and Habitat Suitability in the Mediterranean Sea.},
journal = {Global change biology},
volume = {31},
number = {10},
pages = {e70548},
doi = {10.1111/gcb.70548},
pmid = {41099278},
issn = {1365-2486},
support = {B73C22000790001//National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP), Mission 4 Component 2 Investment 1.4 - Call for tender No. 3138 of 16 December 2021, rectified by Decree No. 3175 of 18 December 2021 of Italian Ministry of University and Research funded by the European Union - NextGenerationEU; Project code CN_00000033, Concession Decree No. 1034 of 17 June 2022 adopted by the Italian Ministry of University and Research, Project title "National Biodiversity Future Center - NBFC"/ ; G.A.n°101060072//European Union's Horizon Europe Research and Innovation Programme ACTNOW project "Advancing understanding of Cumulative Impacts on European marine biodiversity, ecosystem functions and services for human wellbeing"/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; Mediterranean Sea ; *Scyphozoa/physiology ; *Global Warming ; *Ecosystem ; *Introduced Species ; *Animal Distribution ; Temperature ; Climate Change ; },
abstract = {Climate change affects marine ecosystems in multiple ways, including sea warming and changes in biological community structure and diversity. The Mediterranean Sea has emerged as one of the most vulnerable regions, also because of the diverse patterns of introduction of non-native species. First recorded in the coastal waters of Cyprus in 1903, the Red Sea jellyfish Cassiopea andromeda (Forskål, 1775) is spreading its distribution and local abundance, posing questions on its potential ecological implications. Here we identified the thermal tolerance, habitat suitability, and potential distribution range of the C. andromeda polyps, a key life cycle stage responsible for asexual reproduction and population persistence. By laboratory-controlled respirometric measurements, we assessed that the polyps of C. andromeda exhibit their optimal metabolic performances at high water temperatures, but they are tolerant to winter conditions across the Mediterranean basin. Combining experimental respiration measurements with modelling approaches enabled the definition of the species' fundamental thermal niche, with an optimal seawater temperature at 35.7°C and critical limits at 6.4°C (minimum) and 39°C (maximum). Trait-based thermal habitat suitability maps indicated a future increase of favourable habitats for the species under warming conditions according to the Representative Concentration Pathways (RCP 4.5 and 8.5 for 2050) in Mediterranean coastal areas. In the context of climate change scenarios, the rise of seawater temperature may enable polyps to thrive across a wider geographic range, predicting a westward and northward enlargement of C. andromeda populations in the Mediterranean Sea.},
}

Animals
Mediterranean Sea
*Scyphozoa/physiology
*Global Warming
*Ecosystem
*Introduced Species
*Animal Distribution
Temperature
Climate Change

@article {pmid41098972,
year = {2025},
author = {Kirova, N and Kirova, V and Kotov, A},
title = {Diversity of the cladocerans (Crustacea, Branchiopoda) in the Republic of Tyva, Russian Federation.},
journal = {Biodiversity data journal},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {e163656},
pmid = {41098972},
issn = {1314-2828},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The cladoceran fauna is well studied across the Palaearctic, but remains poorly known in the Republic of Tyva, Russia. Our database represents the results of the faunistic survey of the cladocerans in this region performed during almost 30 years (1993-2022). A total of 902 sites were investigated, most of them being located in mountain areas (49°45' - 53°46' North latitude and 88°49' - 98°56' East longitude). The dataset includes the cladocerans sampled from permanent and temporary waterbodies with varying depths, altitudes and salinity levels. Sampling was conducted using plankton nets and then samples were transported to the Tuvinian Institute for Exploration of Natural Resources of the Siberian Branch of RAS for identification and further examined at the A.N. Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Ecology RAS. Species were identified, based on recent monographs and juvenile specimens (sometimes indeterminable, based on morphological methods) were excluded from the dataset. The dataset was published as a Darwin Core Archive in GBIF. For each sampling event, the coordinates of the location, date and collector are recorded.

NEW INFORMATION: The dataset contains information on zooplankton and microzoobenthos from numerous permanent and temporary waterbodies in the Republic of Tyva, Russian Federation. Previously, the region's cladoceran fauna was poorly studied.Our core data table includes 3,599 records representing 76 species from 902 locations. The most species-rich families are Chydoridae (30 species from 17 genera) and Daphniidae (26 species from 5 genera). No invasive species were detected.The results of this study contribute to a deeper understanding of the plankton and microzoobenthos communities in the Central Asian mountain regions.},
}

@article {pmid41098891,
year = {2025},
author = {Li, H and Jia, H and Peng, J and Peng, X and Ren, Z and Zhang, H},
title = {Monitoring Alien Species Diversity in Ballast Water Based on Environmental DNA Metabarcoding.},
journal = {Ecology and evolution},
volume = {15},
number = {10},
pages = {e72320},
pmid = {41098891},
issn = {2045-7758},
abstract = {Invasive alien species pose serious threats to ecosystems, public health, and socio-economic systems, with ballast water discharge serving as a major pathway for their introduction. Organisms that survive the harsh conditions inside ballast tanks may establish populations in recipient ports, where they can disrupt native biodiversity. Therefore, effective monitoring of ballast water is essential for reducing the risk of biological invasions. This study applied environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding to investigate the biological communities in ballast water from ships arriving at Dongjiakou Port, Qingdao, with a particular focus on alien species. Three universal primer sets targeting the 18S V4, 18S V9, and 12S regions were used to amplify and sequence DNA from phytoplankton, invertebrates, and fish. In total, nine ballast water samples were collected from six ships originating from the South China Sea, Seto Inland Sea, Taiwan Strait, and the Yellow Sea. Bioinformatic analysis revealed 16 alien phytoplankton species, 13 alien invertebrate species, and 12 alien fish species, including three invasive species: Styela clava, Lates calcarifer, and Anguilla anguilla. Species composition varied considerably among tanks on the same ship, whereas ballast water location and age had no significant effect on composition across different ships. These results demonstrate the potential of eDNA metabarcoding as an efficient, noninvasive approach for monitoring ballast water biodiversity and alien species. Such insights are valuable for informing policy and management strategies to curb the spread of invasive species through shipping networks.},
}

@article {pmid41096878,
year = {2025},
author = {Huang, K and Liu, T and Xu, A and Yu, J and Yang, Y and Liu, J and Li, F and Zhu, D and Gong, L and Liu, L and Lü, Z},
title = {Genomic Signatures of Adaptive Evolution in Taenioides sp. During Northward Invasion.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {26},
number = {19},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms26199613},
pmid = {41096878},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {42171069 and 41976121//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Introduced Species ; *Adaptation, Physiological/genetics ; China ; Genetic Variation ; Genomics/methods ; Genetics, Population ; *Perciformes/genetics ; Evolution, Molecular ; Genome ; Gene Flow ; Selection, Genetic ; },
abstract = {The success and impact of biological invasions depend on adaptations to novel abiotic and biotic selective pressures. However, the genetic mechanisms underlying adaptations in invasive species are inadequately understood. Taenioides sp. is an invasive worm goby, originally endemic to brackish waters in the estuaries of Southeastern China, and now colonizes multiple inland freshwaters of North China within decades as a byproduct of the East Route of South-to-North Water Transfer (ESNT) project. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying their adaptations to the climate of North China, especially the temperature regime, are unknown. Here, we performed genomic resequencing analysis to assess genetic diversity and population genetic structure, and further investigated the genomic signatures of local adaptation in the invasive population of Taenioides sp. during their northward invasion. We revealed that all invasive populations exhibited no genetic differentiation but low gene flow and an obvious signal of population bottleneck. Yangtze River estuary may serve as the source population, while Gaoyou Lake serves as a potential bridgehead of the invasion. Selective sweep analyses revealed 117 genomic regions, containing 673 candidate genes, under positive selection in populations at the invasive front. Redundancy analysis suggested that local temperature variables, particularly the monthly minimum temperature, represent critical evolutionary forces in driving adaptive divergence. Functional enrichment analyses revealed that multiple biological processes, including metabolism and energy production, substance transmembrane transport, and neural development and synaptic transmission, may play important roles in adaptation to regional temperature conditions. Our findings revealed a scenario of adaptive evolution in teleost species that underpins their regional climate adaptation and successful establishment of invasive populations in a human-facilitated invasion context. Proper management strategies should be established to manage Taenioides sp invasion as soon as possible.},
}

Animals
*Introduced Species
*Adaptation, Physiological/genetics
China
Genetic Variation
Genomics/methods
Genetics, Population
*Perciformes/genetics
Evolution, Molecular
Genome
Gene Flow
Selection, Genetic

@article {pmid41095148,
year = {2025},
author = {Wang, DZ and Wang, CJ and Zhang, FX and Li, HL},
title = {Risk Assessment of Alien Woody Plants in China's National Nature Reserves Under Climate Change.},
journal = {Plants (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {19},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/plants14193006},
pmid = {41095148},
issn = {2223-7747},
support = {QNTD202510//the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities/ ; No.202302//the emergency response project of the National Forestry and Grassland Administration of China/ ; 2021YFC2600400//the National Key Research and Development Program of China/ ; },
abstract = {Alien woody plants (AWPs) increasingly threaten biodiversity in China's national nature reserves, with climate change expected to intensify these risks. We used species distribution modeling (MaxEnt) and spatial prioritization (Zonation) to assess invasion risk for 251 AWP species across 479 national nature reserves under current and future climate scenarios (SSP245 and SSP585). Spatial prioritization revealed current hotspots in southern tropical-subtropical national nature reserves (e.g., Hainan, Fujian, Yunnan provinces), with significant northward and westward expansion projected under warming. A total of 71 species-such as Quercus robur, Salix alba, and Robinia pseudoacacia-pose consistently high risks, while some others (e.g., Ficus benghalensis) may become emerging threats under future conditions. These range shifts are driven by thermal constraint relaxation and longer growing seasons. To mitigate future impacts, we recommend region-specific strategies: containment and seed-source control in southern national nature reserves, and early detection and monitoring in northern and western regions. Our findings provide a spatially explicit framework for climate-informed invasive species management in protected areas.},
}

@article {pmid41095107,
year = {2025},
author = {Nădășan, I and Babotă, M and Rusu, A and Tanase, C},
title = {Potential Therapeutic and Medicinal Applications of Four Invasive Non-Native Plant Species: A PRISMA-Guided Systematic Review of PubMed Studies.},
journal = {Plants (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {19},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/plants14192966},
pmid = {41095107},
issn = {2223-7747},
abstract = {Invasive non-native plant species are of ecological concern globally, as they may negatively affect biodiversity, the economy, and human health. At the same time, invasive non-native plants comprise an underutilised biomass that contains valuable natural bioactive compounds, which could find various biomedical applications and potential medicinal uses. In this paper, we aimed to systematically review the published data surrounding four selected invasive non-native plant species in a medical and therapeutic context. The search was conducted using PubMed and PRISMA guidelines, and strict criteria were employed to provide a thorough framework for the study selection process. After rigorous screening of the 53 selected articles, we were able to summarise the main findings and current knowledge regarding the valorisation opportunities for the selected plants in a medical context and to identify research gaps and highlight further research opportunities. Finally, we concluded that the selected invasive non-native plant species may provide valuable services in the biomedical field if the focus of future research is concentrated on their potential applicability in clinical settings. Furthermore, the valorisation of invasive non-native plant species may prove to be a viable strategy for controlling their spread.},
}

@article {pmid41092659,
year = {2025},
author = {Diniz, LGR and Cappelini, LTD and Boas, ASCAV and Mansano, AS and de Almeida Oliveira, TM and Franco, TCRS and Quinete, N and Vieira, EM},
title = {Antifouling booster biocides diuron and irgarol at Brazilian ports.},
journal = {Marine pollution bulletin},
volume = {222},
number = {Pt 3},
pages = {118755},
doi = {10.1016/j.marpolbul.2025.118755},
pmid = {41092659},
issn = {1879-3363},
abstract = {Biofouling, the natural buildup of organisms on submerged surfaces like ship hulls, is usually controlled using antifouling paints containing biocides such as diuron and irgarol, which are widely detected in marine environments. While these paints help reduce maintenance costs and ecological risks like invasive species, their use in port areas can still contribute to environmental pollution and impact coastal ecosystems. In this study, the presence of diuron and irgarol was investigated in water samples collected from the port complex of São Luís and the estuarine systems of Santos and São Vicente in Brazil. A method employing solid phase extraction (SPE) in combination with high performance liquid chromatography equipped with a diode array detector (HPLC-DAD) was validated and applied for the determination of the biocides in surface water. The method demonstrated satisfactory recovery ranging from 72 to 115 % and relative standard deviations below 10 %, with adequate quantification limit of 0.07 ng mL[-1] and 0.50 ng mL[-1] for diuron and irgarol, respectively. Concentrations ranged from 0.30 to 7.39 μgL[-1] for diuron and 1.98 to 5.70 μg L[-1] for irgarol in the studied area, reflecting their current widespread use as primary antifouling agents. Higher concentrations were detected at sites near docking berths, with particularly elevated levels of diuron in anchorage zones. An ecotoxicological risk assessment using the species sensitivity distribution (SSD) approach was performed, indicating that the observed water concentrations of biocides may adversely affect several sensitive species and disrupt key ecological functions in the region, with potential impacts on fisheries and livelihoods.},
}

@article {pmid40820650,
year = {2025},
author = {Dickie, IA and Allen, WJ and Waller, LP},
title = {When the novelty wears off: enemy spillover drives plant invasion success.},
journal = {The New phytologist},
volume = {248},
number = {4},
pages = {1686-1691},
doi = {10.1111/nph.70486},
pmid = {40820650},
issn = {1469-8137},
support = {//Tertiary Education Commission CORE funding to Bioprotection Aotearoa/ ; },
mesh = {*Introduced Species ; Herbivory ; *Plants/microbiology ; *Plant Physiological Phenomena ; Animals ; },
abstract = {Integrating plant physiological traits (ideal weed hypothesis) and interactions with enemies (enemy release hypothesis) may be key to understanding plant invasions. Contrary to enemy release, recent evidence suggests that invasive plants often accumulate generalist enemies due to the same r-selected physiological traits that often drive invasive success. Despite high enemy loads, successful invasive plants can remain dominant due to high growth rates rather than due to lack of damage. Consequently, generalist herbivore and pathogen populations may be amplified by invaders and can spillover onto native plants, with these indirect interactions disproportionately affecting native rather than invasive plant species via apparent competition. Where this occurs, the generalist enemies of invasive plants may instead be hidden allies that amplify invader success and impacts.},
}

*Introduced Species
Herbivory
*Plants/microbiology
*Plant Physiological Phenomena
Animals

@article {pmid40674063,
year = {2025},
author = {Venkataraman, YR and Kelso, JC and Payne, C and Freitas, HL and Kohler, J and Tepolt, CK},
title = {Plasticity, not Genetics, Shapes Individual Responses to Thermal Stress in Non-Native Populations of the European Green Crab (Carcinus maenas).},
journal = {Integrative and comparative biology},
volume = {65},
number = {4},
pages = {1148-1165},
doi = {10.1093/icb/icaf131},
pmid = {40674063},
issn = {1557-7023},
support = {2209018//National Science Foundation/ ; 2150401//National Science Foundation/ ; ICER-2023192//National Science Foundation/ ; OCE-1850996//National Science Foundation/ ; //Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Brachyura/physiology/genetics ; Introduced Species ; *Thermotolerance ; Hot Temperature ; Acclimatization ; Genetic Variation ; Stress, Physiological ; Male ; Phenotype ; *Heat-Shock Response ; Adaptation, Physiological ; },
abstract = {Temperature is a major driver of individual performance in ectotherms, with this impact depending on stressor intensity and duration. Differences in individual response across temperature, time, and populations are shaped by the interplay between evolutionary adaptation and phenotypic plasticity. Some populations are able to thrive in novel and changing environments despite limited genetic diversity, raising the question of how plasticity and adaptation interact after significant genetic diversity loss. The European green crab (Carcinus maenas) is a textbook example of this phenomenon: invasive populations boast a broad thermal tolerance and exceptional thermal flexibility even after repeated genetic bottlenecks. Despite this loss of diversity overall, prior work has found a strong population-level association between variation at a specific extended genomic region (supergene), cold tolerance, and sea surface temperature. We conducted a series of three experiments using righting response to characterize sublethal thermal tolerance and plasticity in introduced green crab populations, then determined if these factors were associated with supergene genotype for individual adult crabs. Crabs showed signs of stress after exposure to a 30°C heat shock in one experiment. Interestingly, a second experiment exposing C. maenas to repeated 24-h heat shocks showed that prior heat shock conferred beneficial plasticity during a subsequent event. The third experiment examined cold acclimation over multiple timepoints up to 94 h. At 5°C, certain crabs exhibited an acclimatory response where righting slowed dramatically at first, and then gradually sped up after a longer period of cold exposure. Several crabs failed to right at 1.5°C, which could be indicative of dormancy employed to reduce energy consumption in colder conditions. There were no significant relationships between individual plasticity and supergene genotype in any experiment. Linking population-level genetic associations with individual-level physiology is complex, and reflects the impact of environmental conditions such as temperature throughout life history in shaping adult phenotype. Our results highlight the robust thermal tolerance and plasticity that adult green crabs maintain despite a substantial reduction in genetic diversity, and underscore the importance of probing population-level genotype-phenotype associations at the individual level.},
}

Animals
*Brachyura/physiology/genetics
Introduced Species
*Thermotolerance
Hot Temperature
Acclimatization
Genetic Variation
Stress, Physiological
Male
Phenotype
*Heat-Shock Response
Adaptation, Physiological

@article {pmid40130427,
year = {2025},
author = {Yan, W and Fu, R and Huang, X and Zhan, A},
title = {Dynamic and Functional miRNA-Mediated Gene Regulations in Response to Recurrent Environmental Challenges During Biological Invasions.},
journal = {Molecular ecology},
volume = {34},
number = {20},
pages = {e17749},
doi = {10.1111/mec.17749},
pmid = {40130427},
issn = {1365-294X},
support = {32471740//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 32061143012//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 32101352//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
mesh = {*MicroRNAs/genetics ; Animals ; *Introduced Species ; *Gene Expression Regulation ; Gene Regulatory Networks ; *Ciona intestinalis/genetics ; Salinity ; Stress, Physiological/genetics ; Gene Expression Profiling ; },
abstract = {Biological invasions offer a valuable 'natural experiment' to investigate survival mechanisms, as invaders successfully endure substantial environmental changes during their geographical spread and settlement. Phenotypic plasticity enhances fitness by enabling rapid responses without requiring new genetic variations. Among numerous mechanisms involved in phenotypic plasticity, microRNAs (miRNAs) and their regulatory networks are believed to enable rapid responses by fine-tuning gene expression, though their roles remain poorly understood. By integrating miRNAomic and transcriptomic analyses in the model invasive ascidian Ciona robusta, we simulated recurring salinity stresses encountered during invasions to investigate the molecular mechanisms of miRNA-mediated gene regulation in response to recurrent environmental challenges. Multiple analyses demonstrated that miRNAs exhibited rapid, dynamic and reversible responses to recurrent stresses, displaying duration-dependent and stage-specific profiles. The upregulation of genes in the miRNA biogenesis process, rather than the decay pathway, primarily accounted for the increased expression abundance of miRNAs. Responsive miRNAs regulated target genes through an intricate regulatory network, demonstrated by both up and downregulatory relationships and diverse binding sites. Interestingly, miRNAs and their target genes exhibited a 'stress memory' effect, where miRNAs 'remembered' previous challenges and further mediated the enhanced response of target genes at later stresses. Functionally, miRNA-mediated salinity coping strategies and associated genes exhibited temporal variations depending on challenge duration and stage, and these strategies primarily involved the modulation and alternation of free amino acid metabolism and ion transport to maintain osmotic homeostasis. These findings highlight the importance of miRNA-mediated regulatory networks in shaping short-term phenotypic plasticity in response to environmental changes.},
}

*MicroRNAs/genetics
Animals
*Introduced Species
*Gene Expression Regulation
Gene Regulatory Networks
*Ciona intestinalis/genetics
Salinity
Stress, Physiological/genetics
Gene Expression Profiling

@article {pmid40108861,
year = {2025},
author = {Talukder, P and Dasgupta, M and Hazra, A and Adhikari, A and Dutta, A and Sengupta, S and Karmakar, M},
title = {Impact of Invasive Weeds Lantana camara L. and Parthenium hysterophorus L. on the Secondary Metabolite Profiles of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.).},
journal = {Biotechnology and applied biochemistry},
volume = {72},
number = {5},
pages = {1405-1427},
doi = {10.1002/bab.2751},
pmid = {40108861},
issn = {1470-8744},
mesh = {*Abelmoschus/metabolism/growth & development ; *Plant Weeds/metabolism ; *Lantana/metabolism ; *Asteraceae/metabolism ; Antioxidants/metabolism ; *Introduced Species ; Flavonoids/metabolism ; *Secondary Metabolism ; Parthenium hysterophorus ; },
abstract = {The impact of two invasive weed species, Lantana camara and Parthenium hysterophorus, on the development and secondary metabolism of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) is the focus of this study. We explored the potential role of secondary metabolites as antioxidants to mitigate the stress induced by these common weeds on okra plants with special emphasis on chlorogenic acid (CGA). The study has been done with six experimental setups. One setup includes okra grown alone, and another set consists of okra co-cultivation with L. camara, P. hysterophorus, and a combination of both. Each setup consisted of 30 plants of each species. After these, biochemical assays were done to measure the production of secondary metabolites, which include polyphenols, flavonoids, and antioxidants. They are all measured in response to weed-induced stress. Total polyphenols, flavonoids, and antioxidants displayed a significant increment in okra when co-cultivated with Lantana or Parthenium. Co-cultivation with both weeds presented synergistic negative effects, like that interaction is characterized by elevated markers of stress, such as reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, indicating the compounded adverse effect on the okra plants. Moreover, it points out the effect of the weed's presence on secondary metabolism in okra. Gene expression analysis of two genes, phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL) and hydroxycinnamoyl-CoA quinate hydroxycinnamoyl transferase (HQT), which are critical in the phenylpropanoid pathway, validated the role of secondary metabolites in weed-induced stress alleviation. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis shows that CGA has increased significantly in okra plants co-cultivated with weeds. It suggests a plant response to counteract weed-induced stress by enhancing CGA production. Therefore, the study shows the impact of weeds on stress indicators, such as ROS, RNS, and MDA. So, it is observed that stress levels are increased in okra in the weed's presence, as indicated by high lipid and proline content. These findings suggest practical strategies for weed management by enhancing secondary metabolism in crops to improve resilience and productivity under stress conditions caused by invasive weeds.},
}

*Abelmoschus/metabolism/growth & development
*Plant Weeds/metabolism
*Lantana/metabolism
*Asteraceae/metabolism
Antioxidants/metabolism
*Introduced Species
Flavonoids/metabolism
*Secondary Metabolism
Parthenium hysterophorus

@article {pmid41092440,
year = {2025},
author = {Wilson, S and Thorne, MS and Peck, DC and Wright, MG},
title = {Susceptibility of different forage grasses to feeding damage by Prosapia bicincta (Hemiptera: Cercopidae) adults in Hawai'i.},
journal = {Journal of economic entomology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/jee/toaf266},
pmid = {41092440},
issn = {1938-291X},
support = {65973//Hawai'i Department of Agriculture/ ; 68126//Hawai'i Department of Agriculture/ ; //Hawai'i Department of Land and Natural Resources/ ; C81112//Hawai'i Invasive Species Council/ ; C20556//Hawai'i Invasive Species Council/ ; C30930//Hawai'i Invasive Species Council/ ; 58-2040-9-010//United States Department of Agriculture Agricultural Research Service/ ; C006362//Hawai'i County Office of Research and Development/ ; },
abstract = {The twolined spittlebug, Prosapia bicincta (Say), is a pest of forage and turfgrasses causing economic and ecological damage to rangelands in Hawai'i. First detected in 2016, this pest now infests >143,000 ha on Hawai'i Island. Host plant resistance is a key strategy for management of grass-feeding spittlebugs in pastures. The susceptibility of 12 different grass species and cultivars to adult P. bicincta feeding was evaluated in greenhouse trials. Grasses were arranged in a randomized complete block design and after 12 d of adult feeding, damage to the foliage was quantified and above- and below-ground dry biomass were measured. Three species/cultivars were moderately susceptible (foliar damage 28 to 41%) and 2 were extremely susceptible (foliar damage ≥80%). Kikuyu (Cenchrus clandestinus (Hochst. ex Chiov.) Morrone), a key pasture grass used for livestock forage in Hawai'i, exhibited the highest level of susceptibility (≥85% mean foliar damage) and significant reductions in above- (38 to 50%) and below-ground (51 to 71%) biomass compared to non-infested control plants. Seven grasses demonstrated resistance, with ≤15% mean foliar damage. Among the resistant grasses, 5 were Urochloa (P. Beauv.) cultivars (Cayana, Cayman, Marandú, Mulato II, Sabiá) and the remaining 2 were Bahia T9 (Paspalum notatum (Flugge) var. saurae (Parodi) cv. 'Tifton-9') and fountain grass (Cenchrus setaceus (Forssk.) Morrone). This study is the first to identify resistance in these grasses to P. bicincta. The underlying mechanisms of resistance were not identified and necessitates further research. Hawai'i's existing Kikuyu grass pastures are severely threatened, but the incorporation of resistant grasses is a promising management strategy.},
}

@article {pmid41089890,
year = {2025},
author = {van Koppenhagen, N and Gossner, MM and Eisenring, M and Mathis, DS and Haller, J and Bolliger, J},
title = {Artificial Light at Night Affects Larval Growth Without Altering Survival or Pupation in Spongy Moth (Lymantria dispar dispar).},
journal = {Ecology and evolution},
volume = {15},
number = {10},
pages = {e72311},
pmid = {41089890},
issn = {2045-7758},
abstract = {Artificial light at night (ALAN) can disrupt circadian rhythms in nocturnal insects, but its effects on immature stages remain understudied. However, this knowledge is crucial, as a change in the development of insects can have ecological and economic consequences. For example, the spongy moth (Lymantria dispar dispar), native to Europe and Asia, has become an invasive species in North America, causing extensive defoliation of trees in forests and urban landscapes. Therefore, we investigated how LED light color influences larval development and pupation in the spongy moth. Larvae were reared under three light conditions simulating outdoor lighting: (1) neutral white LED (3700 K), (2) amber LED (2200 K), and (3) a dark control (no light). Results showed no significant differences in larval survival, growth patterns, or pupal stage outcomes between treatments. However, larvae exposed to 3700 K light reached significantly higher body masses at the eighth instar than those exposed to 2200 K and tended to be heavier than the control caterpillars. This is accompanied by a consistently higher weight gain at 3700 K in all larval stages. These results suggest that ALAN can influence larval growth-a crucial factor for fitness and population dynamics. Understanding the effects of ALAN on fitness-related traits-especially in pest species like the spongy moth-is critical given the increasing prevalence of nighttime illumination.},
}

@article {pmid41088751,
year = {2025},
author = {Jiao, Z and Ren, Z and Hu, C and Ma, X and Zhang, GQ and Chen, LJ and Wei, G and Peng, DH and Lan, S and Luo, YB and Liu, ZJ},
title = {Unidirectional genomic introgression facilitates the colonization of invasive orchid in arid metal-enriched sedimental habitats.},
journal = {Plant communications},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {101561},
doi = {10.1016/j.xplc.2025.101561},
pmid = {41088751},
issn = {2590-3462},
abstract = {Genes that introgress between species can influence the evolutionary and ecological fate of recipients exposed to novel environments. However, key questions on the patterns and molecular mechanisms of introgression in perennial herbaceous plants, which enable distantly related invasive species to thrive in extreme habitats, remain largely unanswered. Here, we report unidirectional introgression from the local species Dendrobium huoshanense to the distantly related invasive species D. catenatum (D. officinale) in the lithophytic habitats of eastern China. The introgressed regions, which comprise approximately 1% of the genome, contain genes that regulate responses to drought, cold, and metal ion stresses. Notably, introgressed loci like CDPK, HHP, PIF, BRI1, and FY show distinct selection signatures and differential expression compared to their paralogs, each playing a distinct role in drought and cold stress responses. Additionally, CIPK23, PDR9, and HAM demonstrate differential expression in relation to their paralogous genes and alleles within introgressed loci, indicating their potential involvement in responses to metal ion stress. The introgression facilitates the colonization of D. catenatum in arid, metal-enriched sedimental habitats. Our findings enhance the understanding of Orchidaceae evolution and elucidate the evolutionary roles of unidirectional introgression in the extreme environmental adaptation of perennial herbaceous plants.},
}

@article {pmid41088498,
year = {2025},
author = {Desai, C and Nariani, D and Dave, R and Ghosal, R},
title = {Fission or fusion: shoaling adaptations in green chromides (Etroplus suratensis) across multiple manipulations.},
journal = {Journal of fish biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/jfb.70253},
pmid = {41088498},
issn = {1095-8649},
support = {AU/SUG/SAS/BLS/2018-19/20//Ahmedabad University/ ; },
abstract = {Collective behaviour contributes towards increased fitness. However, in fission-fusion societies, the decision to participate in a group is based on the cost-benefit ratio derived under a given condition. In today's world, this ratio dramatically changes due to increased challenges in degraded habitats, impacting behavioural decisions towards social grouping. In this paper, we used fish shoal as a unit of collective behaviour and investigated variations in shoaling adaptations across a range of manipulations, mimicking challenges faced by the species under natural conditions. We used green chromides (Etroplus suratensis), a cichlid fish species, and characterized their shoaling behaviour under laboratory conditions for two group sizes, 4 and 8. We then examined the effects of different manipulations, for example food-deprivation and reduced space (both mimicking resource constrained conditions), and the presence of hetero species, including tilapia (Oreochromis spp., an alien species widespread within the habitats of E. suratensis), on their shoaling behaviour. Our results showed that E. suratensis formed shoals in both group sizes, 4 and 8. In subsequent analyses, we used group size 8 as a control and demonstrated that space reduction and food deprivation significantly impacted shoaling, reducing shoal splits and occurrences of solitary fish, while increasing incidences of single, cohesive shoals comprising all individuals. E. suratensis also formed mixed-species shoals with alien Oreochromis spp., but exhibited a large percentage (in absolute terms) of shoal splits. Overall, E. suratensis exhibited plasticity in their shoaling behaviour and increased fusion of shoals under challenging conditions, which was in contrast to showing more fission in the presence of the alien species.},
}

@article {pmid41088429,
year = {2025},
author = {Wen, X and Liu, Q and Tang, X and Yu, F and Chen, J},
title = {A lightweight convolutional neural network for tea leaf disease and pest recognition.},
journal = {Plant methods},
volume = {21},
number = {1},
pages = {129},
pmid = {41088429},
issn = {1746-4811},
support = {2024A02006-2//Major Science and Technology Projects of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region/ ; },
abstract = {The tea industry plays a vital role in China's green economy. Tea trees (Melaleuca alternifolia) are susceptible to numerous diseases and pest threats, making timely pathogen detection and precise pest identification critical requirements for agricultural productivity. Current diagnostic limitations primarily arise from data scarcity and insufficient discriminative feature representation in existing datasets. This study presents a new tea disease and pest dataset (TDPD, 23-class taxonomy). Five lightweight convolutional neural networks (LCNNs) were systematically evaluated through two optimizers, three learning rate configurations and six distinct scheduling strategies. Additionally, an enhanced MnasNet variant was developed through the integration of SimAM attention mechanisms, which improved feature discriminability and increased the accuracy of tea leaf disease and pest classification. Model validation employs both our proprietary TDPD dataset and an open-access dataset, with performance evaluation metrics including average accuracy, F1 score, recall, and parameter size. The experimental results demonstrated the superior classification performance of the model, which achieved accuracies of 98.03% based on TDPD and 84.58% based on the public dataset. This research outlines an effective paradigm for automated tea disease and pest detection, with direct applications in precision agriculture through integration with UAV-mounted imaging systems and mobile diagnostic platforms. This study provides practical implementation pathways for intelligent tea plantation management.},
}

@article {pmid41086849,
year = {2025},
author = {Saban, KE and Wiens, JJ},
title = {Unpacking the extinction crisis: rates, patterns and causes of recent extinctions in plants and animals.},
journal = {Proceedings. Biological sciences},
volume = {292},
number = {2057},
pages = {20251717},
doi = {10.1098/rspb.2025.1717},
pmid = {41086849},
issn = {1471-2954},
support = {//National Science Foundation, U.S.A./ ; },
mesh = {*Extinction, Biological ; Animals ; *Plants ; *Biodiversity ; Ecosystem ; Introduced Species ; },
abstract = {Biodiversity loss is one of the greatest challenges facing Earth today. The most direct information on species losses comes from recent extinctions. However, our understanding of these recent, human-related extinctions is incomplete across life, especially their causes and their rates and patterns among clades, across habitats and over time. Furthermore, prominent studies have extrapolated from these extinctions to suggest a current mass extinction event. Such extrapolations assume that recent extinctions predict current extinction risk and are homogeneous among groups, over time and among environments. Here, we analyse rates and patterns of recent extinctions (last 500 years). Surprisingly, past extinctions did not strongly predict current risk among groups. Extinctions varied strongly among groups, and were most frequent among molluscs and some tetrapods, and relatively rare in plants and arthropods. Extinction rates have increased over the last five centuries, but generally declined in the last 100 years. Recent extinctions were predominantly on islands, whereas the majority of non-island extinctions were in freshwater. Island extinctions were most frequently related to invasive species, but habitat loss was the most important cause (and current threat) in continental regions. Overall, we identify the major patterns in recent extinctions but caution against extrapolating them into the future.},
}

*Extinction, Biological
Animals
*Plants
*Biodiversity
Ecosystem
Introduced Species

@article {pmid41016143,
year = {2025},
author = {Chen, X and Pan, Z and Li, N and Chen, J and Du, N and Xu, Y and Wang, Y},
title = {From invasion to remediation: Phytolacca americana outcompetes congeners through superior cadmium hyperaccumulation and stress resilience in contaminated soils.},
journal = {Ecotoxicology and environmental safety},
volume = {304},
number = {},
pages = {119135},
doi = {10.1016/j.ecoenv.2025.119135},
pmid = {41016143},
issn = {1090-2414},
mesh = {*Cadmium/toxicity/metabolism ; *Soil Pollutants/metabolism/toxicity ; *Phytolacca americana/physiology/metabolism/growth & development/drug effects ; Introduced Species ; Biodegradation, Environmental ; Stress, Physiological ; Soil/chemistry ; Bioaccumulation ; Environmental Restoration and Remediation ; Proline/metabolism ; Antioxidants/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Soil heavy metal (HM) pollution and biological invasions synergistically threaten ecosystem stability by impairing plant growth and reproduction. This study investigates the differential adaptability of the invasive Phytolacca americana and its congeneric relatives (P. icosandra and native P. acinosa) under cadmium (Cd) stress. Plants were cultivated in soils with Cd concentrations of 0, 2, 8, and 32 mg kg[-1], and their growth, physiological traits, antioxidant responses, and Cd accumulation were analyzed. Results demonstrated that P. americana exhibited enhanced morphological traits (plant height, leaf area), photosynthetic efficiency, and reproductive output (fruit weight and biomass) under Cd stress, whereas P. icosandra and P. acinosa displayed significant declines. Antioxidant enzyme activities (superoxide dismutase, catalase) and proline content in P. americana increased markedly (e.g., 77.72 % proline elevation under high Cd), mitigating oxidative damage. Additionally, P. americana showed superior Cd bioaccumulation, with translocation factor (TF) 1.25- and 2.08-fold higher than P. icosandra and P. acinosa, respectively, alongside stable bioconcentration factors (BCF) under high Cd. In contrast, P. icosandra exhibited concentration-dependent Cd tolerance, while P. acinosa prioritized root Cd sequestration. Notably, P. americana maintained growth-reproduction equilibrium without trade-offs, a trait absent in its congeners. These findings highlight P. americana's robust Cd adaptability and hyperaccumulation potential, offering insights for ecological restoration of contaminated soils. However, molecular mechanisms and multi-metal interactions warrant further exploration.},
}

*Cadmium/toxicity/metabolism
*Soil Pollutants/metabolism/toxicity
*Phytolacca americana/physiology/metabolism/growth & development/drug effects
Introduced Species
Biodegradation, Environmental
Stress, Physiological
Soil/chemistry
Bioaccumulation
Environmental Restoration and Remediation
Proline/metabolism
Antioxidants/metabolism

@article {pmid41085929,
year = {2025},
author = {Rubio Corona, CG and Rangel Negrín, A and Dias, PAD},
title = {Spatial organization of mantled howler monkeys in relation to dog disturbance.},
journal = {Primates; journal of primatology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41085929},
issn = {1610-7365},
abstract = {Predation risk fundamentally shapes primate social structure by influencing cooperation, competition, and spatial organization within groups. Although domestic dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) represent one of the world's most impactful invasive species affecting wildlife, their influence on primate social structure remains largely understudied. We examined how dog presence and barks influence interindividual proximity among group members in mantled howler monkeys (Alouatta palliata). We studied two habituated groups (10 and 8 adults, respectively) in Veracruz, Mexico, combining 242 h of observational data with experimental playbacks of dog barks at different intensities (40 and 80 dB). We calculated proximity indices from instantaneous sampling of interindividual proximity. Howler monkeys were closer immediately following exposure to dogs, partially supporting our hypothesis that interindividual proximity would change in response to dogs. Contrary to predictions, individuals were farther from each other as bark intensity increased and as proximity to dog stimuli decreased. During longer timeframes, individuals were closer when exposed to low-intensity barks compared to periods without dog stimuli. These findings demonstrate that dogs influence howler monkey spatial organization through context-dependent effects that vary with stimulus characteristics and temporal scale. Despite the short-term nature of this study, the consistency between observational and experimental results suggests these patterns are reliable. Therefore, these results contribute to our understanding of how invasive predators affect primate social structure and highlight the importance of managing free-ranging dogs in areas where they overlap with wildlife populations.},
}

@article {pmid41082708,
year = {2025},
author = {Hoque, MB and Hannan, MA and Haque, P and Tappo, S},
title = {Multi-solvent extraction, quantification and characterisation of tannin from Neltuma juliflora bark: a pathway to sustainable utilisation.},
journal = {Natural product research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-9},
doi = {10.1080/14786419.2025.2572037},
pmid = {41082708},
issn = {1478-6427},
abstract = {This research investigates the extraction, quantification and characterisation of tannin from the bark of Neltuma juliflora (Sw.) Raf. (N. juliflora, formerly known as Prosopis juliflora (Sw.) DC.), an invasive species that is widely available but underutilised. Various solvent extraction techniques, including single-phase, combined and sequential extractions, were evaluated. The highest tannin yield (85%) was obtained with 4% NaOH in single-phase extraction, while combined extraction resulted in the highest tannin purity (85.91%). Sequential extraction demonstrated solvent selectivity, with methanol producing the highest extract (93.6%) and acetone yielding a highly purified fraction (83.14%). The presence of essential tannin functional groups was validated by Fourier Transform Infra-red (FTIR) spectroscopy. The analysis of band gap energy indicated values between 4.00 and 5.09 eV, varying with the extraction method. These findings underscore N. juliflora as a promising sustainable tannin source, which offers an eco-friendly alternative to conventional sources and supports invasive species control efforts.},
}

@article {pmid41081885,
year = {2025},
author = {Lou, Y and Tao, W and Wang, ZA},
title = {Effects and biological consequences of the predator-mediated apparent competition II: PDE models.},
journal = {Journal of mathematical biology},
volume = {91},
number = {5},
pages = {55},
pmid = {41081885},
issn = {1432-1416},
mesh = {*Predatory Behavior ; Animals ; *Models, Biological ; Population Dynamics/statistics & numerical data ; *Food Chain ; Mathematical Concepts ; Competitive Behavior ; Computer Simulation ; Ecosystem ; Introduced Species/statistics & numerical data ; },
abstract = {In Lou et al. (Lou Y, Tao W, Wang Z-A. Effects and biological consequences of the predator-mediated apparent competition I: ODE models. J. Math. Biol. 91 (2025), 47, 37 pages), the authors investigated the effects and biological consequences of the predator-mediated apparent competition using a temporal (ODE) system consisting of one predator and two prey species (one is native and the other is invasive) with Holling type I and II functional responses. This paper is a sequel to Lou et al. (Lou Y, Tao W, Wang Z-A. Effects and biological consequences of the predator-mediated apparent competition I: ODE models. J. Math. Biol. 91 (2025), 47, 37 pages.), by including spatial movements (diffusion and prey-taxis) into the ODE system and examining the spatial effects on the population dynamics under the predator-mediated apparent competition. We establish the global boundedness of solutions in a two-dimensional bounded domain with Neumann boundary conditions and the global stability of constant steady states in certain parameter regimes, by which we find a threshold dynamics in terms of the predator's death rate. For the parameters outside the global stability regimes, we conduct a linear stability analysis to show that diffusion and/or prey-taxis can induce instability by both steady-state and Hopf bifurcations. We further use numerical simulations to illustrate that various spatial patterns are all possible, including stable spatial aggregation patterns, spatially homogeneous but time-periodic patterns, and spatially inhomogeneous and time-oscillatory patterns. It comes with a surprise that either of diffusion and prey-taxis can induce steady-state or Hopf bifurcations to generate intricate spatial patterns in the one predator-two prey system, which is sharply different from the one predator-one prey system for which neither diffusion nor prey-taxis can induce spatial patterns. These results show that spatial movements play profound roles in the emerging properties for predator-prey systems with multiple prey species. We also find that prey-taxis may play dual roles (stabilization and destabilization) and facilitate the predator-mediated apparent competition to eliminate the native prey species under the moderate initial mass of invasive prey species.},
}

*Predatory Behavior
Animals
*Models, Biological
Population Dynamics/statistics & numerical data
*Food Chain
Mathematical Concepts
Competitive Behavior
Computer Simulation
Ecosystem
Introduced Species/statistics & numerical data

@article {pmid41080488,
year = {2025},
author = {Sánchez, O and Quiñonero-Salgado, S and Nagel, KO and López-Soriano, J and Arias, A},
title = {What Are We Protecting? On the Silent Arrival of Anodonta cygnea to Spain.},
journal = {Ecology and evolution},
volume = {15},
number = {10},
pages = {e71600},
pmid = {41080488},
issn = {2045-7758},
abstract = {Freshwater mussels play essential roles in ecosystem processes, such as water filtration and nutrient cycling, but, in the last decades, they have become increasingly threatened by habitat destruction, pollution, and the arrival of invasive species. In this study, a living population of the bivalve Anodonta cygnea is reported in Catalonia, Spain, based on molecular and morphological analyses. A comparison with A. anatina from a nearby population in southern France highlights the importance of using genetic tools to accurately distinguish between closely related freshwater mussel species. The introduction of A. cygnea likely reflects a recent range expansion, facilitated by human activities and environmental changes in the region. Its establishment in local ecosystems raises concerns about potential ecological impacts, including competition with native species and alteration of freshwater habitats. These findings underscore the critical need for effective monitoring and management strategies to mitigate the ecological risks associated with invasive species. This study emphasizes the importance of integrating molecular methods into conservation efforts to improve the understanding of species distributions and address the challenges posed by biodiversity loss in aquatic ecosystems.},
}

@article {pmid41080473,
year = {2025},
author = {Roberts, JJ and Wignall, A and Brunton, DH},
title = {Movement Ecology of Adult Male Threatened Katipō (Latrodectus katipo) and Invasive False Katipō (Steatoda capensis).},
journal = {Ecology and evolution},
volume = {15},
number = {10},
pages = {e72232},
pmid = {41080473},
issn = {2045-7758},
abstract = {Studies in movement ecology are crucial for understanding how physical performance affects an animal's ability to find resources, including new ranges or mating opportunities. Invasive species frequently exhibit high levels of boldness and exploratory behaviour, enhancing their ability to establish and spread in new environments. Our study compared the locomotor performance and exploration behaviour of adult male endemic katipō (Latrodectus katipo) and adult male invasive false katipō (Steatoda capensis) spiders collected from a sympatric population. We compared the locomotory and exploration behaviour of these two spider species within the context of differences in their distribution patterns and conservation classification. We conducted three laboratory assays (maze, pole and track) to compare exploration, climbing and running behaviours, respectively. We found that male false katipō are more exploratory than katipō. This aligns with the false katipō's broader habitat range. Male katipō and false katipō had similar pole climbing behaviours, which may reflect the similar use of vertical space within refuges of the two species. False katipō completed the running track faster and more often without stopping when compared to katipō. In contrast, katipō would occasionally freeze while being followed down the track with a paintbrush. Our study provides insight into the comparative locomotor performance of katipō and false katipō, highlighting the potential impacts of physical and behavioural traits on invasive species success and native species decline.},
}

@article {pmid41070939,
year = {2025},
author = {Cochrane, MM and Cline, TJ and Schmidt, TS and Dunnigan, JL and Warnock, WG and Muhlfeld, CC},
title = {Non-native prey availability and over-compensatory density dependence drive population dynamics of a native fish predator.},
journal = {Ecological applications : a publication of the Ecological Society of America},
volume = {35},
number = {7},
pages = {e70103},
pmid = {41070939},
issn = {1939-5582},
support = {//Bonneville Power Administration/ ; //U.S. Geological Survey/ ; //USGS Wyoming-Montana Water Science Center/ ; //USGS Northern Rocky Mountain Science Center/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; Population Dynamics ; *Trout/physiology ; *Introduced Species ; *Predatory Behavior ; Population Density ; *Food Chain ; Models, Biological ; *Oncorhynchus/physiology ; },
abstract = {Understanding the factors that regulate population dynamics is crucial for conserving imperiled species. Bull trout (Salvelinus confluentus), a piscivorous salmonid and one of North America's most threatened cold-water species, has declined significantly due to habitat loss, overfishing, invasive species, and climate change. While recovery efforts have primarily targeted these threats, the role of prey availability in influencing bull trout population dynamics under multiple stressors remains poorly understood. Using a stage-based integrated population model, we quantified the effects of non-native prey availability (kokanee; Oncorhynchus nerka), angling pressure, climatic variation, and density-dependent processes on bull trout population dynamics in Lake Koocanusa, a transboundary reservoir and river system (United States and Canada), over a 40-year period (1980-2023). Our results show that bull trout populations are regulated by density-dependent processes, including over-compensation in sub-adult recruitment and reduced adult survival at high densities. Increased kokanee biomass and restricted harvest significantly enhanced bull trout survival and abundance, whereas reduced water availability had a limited negative effect on sub-adult production. Model simulations indicate that as kokanee biomass availability increases, the number of bull trout that can be sustainably harvested also increases. In fact, a modest annual fishery (300 individuals) can be sustained, especially under moderate to high kokanee biomass conditions. These results underscore the importance of prey availability, including non-native species, in supporting bull trout populations. Effective management of threatened apex fish predators like bull trout requires addressing the complex interplay between environmental threats, prey dynamics, and density-dependent mechanisms across all life stages.},
}

Animals
Population Dynamics
*Trout/physiology
*Introduced Species
*Predatory Behavior
Population Density
*Food Chain
Models, Biological
*Oncorhynchus/physiology

@article {pmid40818505,
year = {2025},
author = {Kim, KS and Chetty, D and Chouvenc, T and Velenovsky, JF and Lee, SB and Rana, S and Vargo, EL},
title = {Transgressive gene expression disrupts the molting process in hybrids of two invasive termites.},
journal = {Insect biochemistry and molecular biology},
volume = {184},
number = {},
pages = {104383},
doi = {10.1016/j.ibmb.2025.104383},
pmid = {40818505},
issn = {1879-0240},
mesh = {Animals ; *Isoptera/genetics/growth & development/metabolism ; *Molting/genetics ; *Hybridization, Genetic ; Introduced Species ; Gene Expression ; },
abstract = {The Formosan subterranean termite (Coptotermes formosanus) and the Asian subterranean termite (Coptotermes gestroi) are among the most destructive termite pests in the world. Both species have spread to various regions worldwide with overlapping distributions in a few areas where they can potentially hybridize. Observations suggest that workers in hybrid colonies are slower to molt than those of the parental species, suggesting a disruption in the molting process as a form of hybrid incompatibility. Our goal was to identify misexpressed genes in hybrids during the molting process to help uncover the molecular mechanisms underlying molting disruption. We conducted RNA-seq and identified molting-related genes by performing a time course analysis on differentially expressed transcripts. We identified molting-related genes during each stage of the molting cycle (pre-, post- and inter-molt) in the parental species. We then compared expression levels of these genes in the hybrids to identify genes that were transgressively expressed (either over- or under-expressed) compared to the parental species. We identified several genes related to the molting cycle, muscle contraction, response to stress, and ecdysone metabolism that were under-expressed in hybrids relative to their parents. These differences may help explain the disruption of molting in hybrids and provide insights into the effects of hybridization on misexpression of genes during critical periods of growth and development. Moreover, identification of molting related genes in subterranean termites highlights the molecular pathways involved in the molting process in this group of insects with high developmental plasticity.},
}

Animals
*Isoptera/genetics/growth & development/metabolism
*Molting/genetics
*Hybridization, Genetic
Introduced Species
Gene Expression

@article {pmid41069111,
year = {2025},
author = {Austin, MW and Kaul, AD and Smith, AB and Rothendler, M and Primack, RB},
title = {Herbarium specimens reveal regional patterns of tallgrass prairie invasion and changing species abundance across 130 years.},
journal = {The New phytologist},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/nph.70632},
pmid = {41069111},
issn = {1469-8137},
abstract = {The spread of non-native species is an acute threat to global biodiversity. However, a lack of long-term, spatially widespread occurrence data has prevented investigation of how multispecies invasions affect native assemblages. We harnessed > 65 000 digitized herbarium specimens across 522 species to study how relative abundances of native and non-native species in the tallgrass prairie flora have changed since the 1890s across three ecoregions of Missouri, USA. To validate specimen-based relative abundances against standardized field surveys, we compiled 65 paired field-herbarium datasets and tested whether native percent cover positively correlates with the relative abundance of native specimens. Non-natives were more likely to have increased in the Interior Plain and Interior Highland, while species that changed abundance in the Atlantic Plain were more likely to have decreased regardless of native status. Native percent cover and relative abundance of native specimens were positively correlated (R[2] = 0.175), and trends were robust to overall sample size through time. Our results support using herbarium specimens for investigating relative abundance shifts of native and non-native species. Specimen-based relative abundance shifts have scientific value for providing quick, taxonomically and spatially broad overviews of how non-natives have affected native assemblages, which can guide more precise, fine-scale investigations.},
}

@article {pmid41065491,
year = {2025},
author = {Sensui, N and Hirose, E},
title = {Ascidian Larvae Prefer Hydrophobic Substrates for Settlement.},
journal = {Zoological science},
volume = {42},
number = {5},
pages = {478-483},
doi = {10.2108/zs250022},
pmid = {41065491},
issn = {0289-0003},
mesh = {Animals ; Larva/physiology ; *Urochordata/physiology/growth & development ; Hydrophobic and Hydrophilic Interactions ; Wettability ; },
abstract = {The selection of settlement sites by larvae is a crucial event in the life cycle of sessile animals, as they are usually unable to migrate after settlement and metamorphosis into sessile forms. For example, some species prefer hydrophilic substrates, whereas others prefer hydrophobic substrates. Understanding larval preferences for substrates will provide an essential basis for controlling biofouling. In this study, we focused on the water wettability of substrates for settlement and investigated larval substrate preference in three ascidian species, Phallusia philipinennsis, Ascidia sydneiensis, and Ciona robusta (= C. intestinalis type A), using a four-choice assay with substrates of different water wettability (contact angle of a water droplet): silicone rubber (115°), polyvinyl chloride (80°), glass (31°), and hydrophilic film SH2CLHF (14°). In some regions of the world, A. sydneiensis and C. robusta are often noted as invasive species and are serious biofoulants. In all three species, larvae showed a significant preference for more hydrophobic substrates, and none settled on the most hydrophilic substrate, that is, SH2CLHF. It is difficult to explain why ascidian larvae prefer a more hydrophobic substrate, since hydrophobic materials, such as silicon, are often used as antifouling measures. This inconsistent substrate preference can be applied to mitigate biofouling.},
}

Animals
Larva/physiology
*Urochordata/physiology/growth & development
Hydrophobic and Hydrophilic Interactions
Wettability

@article {pmid41064847,
year = {2025},
author = {Putra, DF and Abbas, MA and Siregar, TN and Wowor, D},
title = {Diversity, distribution, and conservation status of Macrobrachium shrimp in freshwater ecosystems of Aceh, Indonesia.},
journal = {Veterinary world},
volume = {18},
number = {8},
pages = {2377-2394},
pmid = {41064847},
issn = {0972-8988},
abstract = {BACKGROUND AND AIM: Freshwater shrimps of the genus Macrobrachium play key ecological and socioeconomic roles in tropical freshwater ecosystems. However, their diversity, habitat associations, and conservation status remain understudied in Aceh Province, Indonesia. This study aimed to (1) assess the diversity and morphometric variation of Macrobrachium species, (2) map their distribution across lotic and lentic habitats in Aceh, (3) Assess the impact of environment variable on species composition and richness and (4) evaluate their conservation status based on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) criteria and local environmental threats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Field sampling was conducted from September 2022 to December 2023 across 24 sites spanning 13 districts. Specimens were collected using hand nets and traps, and identified using morphological and morphometric criteria. Environmental parameters (temperature, pH, velocity, and substrate) were recorded, and biodiversity indices were calculated. Species distribution and conservation status were analyzed using local distribution (LD) indices and IUCN Red List categories.

RESULTS: A total of 1,303 Macrobrachium specimens representing 13 species were recorded. Macrobrachium lanchesteri was the most abundant and widely distributed species (LD = 50%), particularly in lentic habitats. Species such as Macrobrachium pilimanus and Macrobrachium lar showed narrow distributions. Lotic habitats supported higher species diversity (H' = 1.28) compared to lentic ones. Environmental variables significantly influenced species presence. While 10 species were categorized as least concern, three species (Macrobrachium australe, Macrobrachium esculentum, Macrobrachium mammillodactylus) were unlisted by the IUCN, indicating data deficiency. Evidence of invasive species presence and habitat degradation was observed in several sites.

CONCLUSION: Aceh hosts a diverse assemblage of Macrobrachium species, but they are vulnerable to anthropogenic disturbances and invasive species. The findings underscore the need for habitat conservation, sustainable fisheries management, and expanded monitoring-particularly for data-deficient species and those with narrow distributions. Molecular tools and long-term ecological monitoring are recommended for future research to better support regional conservation planning.},
}

@article {pmid41062781,
year = {2025},
author = {de Souza, MBN and Campelo, BRM and Monteiro, AJD and de Lima, DB and Melo, JWDS},
title = {Predictive Modeling of the Distribution of the Red Palm Weevil Rhynchophorus ferrugineus Olivier (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) in Brazil: Identifying Vulnerable Areas and Potential Impacts.},
journal = {Neotropical entomology},
volume = {54},
number = {1},
pages = {106},
pmid = {41062781},
issn = {1678-8052},
support = {312560/2023-0//CNPq/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; Brazil ; *Weevils/physiology ; *Arecaceae ; *Animal Distribution ; Models, Theoretical ; Biodiversity ; Introduced Species ; },
abstract = {Rhynchophorus ferrugineus (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), commonly known as the red palm weevil, is one of the most destructive invasive pests threatening palm species worldwide. Its rapid global spread has been facilitated by the international trade of infested plant material and its cryptic life cycle. In Brazil, a country with one of the highest palm species diversities and significant coconut production along its coastline, the introduction and establishment of R. ferrugineus pose a serious threat to native biodiversity and the agricultural economy. In this study, we used the MaxEnt modeling approach to predict the potential distribution of R. ferrugineus in Brazil, based on 79 occurrence records and nine selected bioclimatic variables. The consensus model exhibited excellent predictive performance (AUC = 0.95, TSS = 0.84). Our results indicate that coastal areas of the Northeast, Southeast, and South regions present high environmental suitability for the species, with low uncertainty, while portions of the Amazon show moderate suitability coupled with higher uncertainty. The mean temperature of the driest quarter (BIO9) was identified as the most influential variable, aligning with the species' thermal preferences. The presence of highly suitable areas overlapping regions of dense palm diversity and economically important crops underscores the urgent need for early detection and integrated management strategies. Our findings provide critical insights for biosecurity planning and highlight Brazil's vulnerability to R. ferrugineus invasion.},
}

Animals
Brazil
*Weevils/physiology
*Arecaceae
*Animal Distribution
Models, Theoretical
Biodiversity
Introduced Species

@article {pmid41062602,
year = {2025},
author = {Bernardo, U and Nugnes, F and Ascolese, R and Carbone, C and Miele, F and Innangi, M and Di Febbraro, M},
title = {Predicting the invasion risk of Bactrocera dorsalis in Italy under climate and land cover change.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {35096},
pmid = {41062602},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {URCoFi project (Unità Regionale Coordinamento Fitosanitario)//Regione Campania/ ; Agritech National Research Center (Piano Nazionale di Ripresa e Resilienza (PNRR) - missione 4 componente 2, investimento 1.4 - d.d. 1032 17/06/2022, cn00000022)//European Union Next-GenerationEU/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; Italy ; *Tephritidae/physiology ; *Introduced Species ; Ecosystem ; *Climate Change ; },
abstract = {Bactrocera dorsalis, the oriental fruit fly (OFF), is a highly polyphagous and multivoltine invasive insect threatening over 600 fruit crop species globally. Originating in Asia, OFF has spread to Africa, Europe, and the United States. This study assessed the current and future potential distribution of OFF in Italy, a likely entry point for its invasion into Europe. Climate and land cover changes projected for 2070 and 2100 were considered. Potential connectivity corridors were identified, and habitat suitability was evaluated within orchards and vineyards. Ecological Niche Models (ENMs) and connectivity analyses revealed a dramatic increase in suitable habitats for OFF under future scenarios. The potential distribution is projected to expand on average by over 1600% under mild conditions and over 7000% under severe conditions, up to 2100. Key environmental factors include mean temperature of the driest quarter, isothermality, precipitation during the driest months, and proximity to forests, urban areas, and roads. Our findings suggest a significant rise in OFF suitability within agricultural areas, particularly vineyards and orchards, posing increased risks to these sectors. Effective management strategies - possibly supported by ecological modelling such as this study - should focus on mass trapping, habitat management, and public awareness to mitigate and contain this pest's spread. These predictions are based on the working assumption that B. dorsalis is locally acclimatized in inland Campania, southern Italy. Although definitive evidence of establishment is still pending, repeated detections in the same area over four consecutive years support the use of Italian records in risk modelling as an early warning strategy.},
}

Animals
Italy
*Tephritidae/physiology
*Introduced Species
Ecosystem
*Climate Change

@article {pmid41061551,
year = {2025},
author = {Gunasekaran, K and Mghili, B and Sompongchaiyakul, P and De-la-Torre, GE and Machendiranathan, M and Bottari, T and Mancuso, M and Charoenpong, C and Chinfak, N},
title = {Potential of marine litter for range expansion of the invasive mussel Mytella strigata (Hanley, 1843) along the Indian coast.},
journal = {Marine pollution bulletin},
volume = {222},
number = {Pt 2},
pages = {118812},
doi = {10.1016/j.marpolbul.2025.118812},
pmid = {41061551},
issn = {1879-3363},
abstract = {Marine litter is a key vector of dispersing invasive species in the marine environment. However, our knowledge of the ecological interactions between these species and litter is still incomplete. Here, we investigated the substrate preferences and physical characteristics of marine litter colonized by the invasive mussel Mytella strigata, and explored the role of litter in the population expansion of this species along the Tamil Nadu coast, India. A total of 72 fouled debris were observed along the study areas. The majority of the fouling litter was composed of plastic (87.5 %), followed by rubber (4.2 %), wood (4.2 %), glass (2.8 %) and metal (1.4 %). A total of 2637 individuals of M. strigata were recorded on the marine litter, with recruitment on plastic substrates. Particularly, M. strigata were most common on large marine litter with irregular or cylindrical shapes, rough surfaces and transparent, blue or green colours. Our work provides evidence that marine litter can play a role in the reproduction of this invasive mussel. Consequently, M. strigata benefits from the litter substrates and the habitat complexity created by anthropogenic materials along the Tamil Nadu coast, enhancing its survival and reproduction. This could promote the expansion of the M. strigata population and thus affect the composition and structure of the marine ecosystem.},
}

@article {pmid41061534,
year = {2025},
author = {Anas, M and Huang, ZY and Xiong, H and Imran, M and Yan, MT and Javed, Q and Ren, GQ and Qi, SS and Li, J and Dai, ZC and Du, DL},
title = {Response of invasive Solidago canadensis to foliar application of natural herbicide and glyphosate.},
journal = {Journal of environmental management},
volume = {394},
number = {},
pages = {127522},
doi = {10.1016/j.jenvman.2025.127522},
pmid = {41061534},
issn = {1095-8630},
abstract = {Biological invasion changes the ecological and physiological functions of invaded ecosystems. Various control methods, including tillage, digging, burning, and chemical treatments, have been tested to manage invasive plant species. The commonly used broad-spectrum herbicide glyphosate is often applied for unwanted plant control. However, it has a significant residual impact on underground water, sediments, and drinking water, reaching levels of up to 70 μg/L. This poses risks to aquatic species, microflora, and human health. In this study, a natural herbicide derived from Sorghum bicolor root extract was foliar sprayed at different concentrations (0, 20, 40, 60, 80, and 100 %) along with low and high concentrations of glyphosate to control the growth of Solidago canadensis. The natural herbicide demonstrated significant potential to change the morphology, physiology, and biochemistry of S. canadensis under high concentrations, reducing the reliance on glyphosate by up to 60 %. It led to a decrease in root biomass ranging from 26 % to 81 %, leaf area reduction of 11 %-60 %, and a decrease in photosystem II efficiency. Catalase and ascorbate peroxidase activities were also significantly affected, showing a decrease of 49 %-77 %, and stomatal pore size was reduced from 58 % to 91 %. This may impede the gaseous exchange between the plant and its surroundings. The use of the natural herbicide, in combination with low concentrations of glyphosate, holds the potential to manage S. canadensis, control biological invasion, and mitigate the residual effects of glyphosate by inhibiting the shikimate pathway.},
}

@article {pmid41060262,
year = {2025},
author = {Ogburn, EC and Schoof, SC and Reisig, DD and Kennedy, GG and Walgenbach, JF},
title = {Validation of phenology models for Halyomorpha halys (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) using field data from climatically different ecoregions.},
journal = {Environmental entomology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/ee/nvaf097},
pmid = {41060262},
issn = {1938-2936},
support = {2016-51181-25409//Specialty Crop Research Initiative program/ ; NCO-02887//Research Capacity Funds (Hatch)/ ; NCO-02778//Research Capacity Funds (Hatch)/ ; NCO-02015//Research Capacity Funds (Hatch)/ ; //U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Institute of Food and Agriculture/ ; },
abstract = {Halyomorpha halys (Stål), an invasive species of Asian origin, has become a key pest of tree fruit in areas of the Eastern and Pacific Northwest United States. This study used a 5-yr dataset of pheromone trap captures from 4 ecoregions (Mountains, Piedmont, Southeastern Plains, and Atlantic Coastal Plain) of North Carolina to validate temperature-driven phenology models previously reported for oviposition by overwintering adults and eclosion of F1 adults using semi-field cage studies. Cumulative proportion of pheromone trap captures of F1 adults and nymphs over cumulative degree days was compared to predictions based on the previously reported models' quadratic equation curves for adult eclosion (y = -0.0000015x2 + 0.004736x - 2.664) and oviposition (y = 0.0000032x2 - 0.010853x + 9.050). The oviposition model was validated using projected oviposition curves to predict nymphal populations over time by using life stage-specific development and mortality rates. Analysis of coefficients of determination (R2) for all regressions showed that F1 adult model predictions varied by region and year. Mean R2 values in the Mountain, Piedmont, and Southeastern Plains ecoregions for F1 adults were 0.88, 0.93, and 0.93, respectively. Nymphal regressions also varied by ecoregion, with mean R2 values of 0.95, 0.86, and 0.88 in the Mountains, Piedmont, and Southeastern Plains, respectively. Differences among regions were mostly associated with lower R2 values at sites with low population densities. Results are discussed in relation to the value of these models in studying the ecology of invasive species and in informing pest management decisions.},
}

@article {pmid41059537,
year = {2025},
author = {Moore, C and Aukema, BH and Leone, JB and Jetton, RM and Petrice, TR and Ambourn, A and Venette, RC},
title = {Survival of elongate hemlock scale (Hemiptera: Diaspididae) with prolonged cold exposure: overwintering mortality risk across North America.},
journal = {Environmental entomology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/ee/nvaf096},
pmid = {41059537},
issn = {1938-2936},
abstract = {Elongate hemlock scale, Fiorinia externa Ferris (Hemiptera: Diaspididae), is an invasive pest of eastern hemlock, Tsuga canadensis, and other Pinaceae such as Fraser fir, Abies fraseri. Cut Fraser firs (ie for Christmas trees and other holiday greenery) with F. externa have been intercepted in US states beyond where the insect is known to be established and, in some cases, where exposure to freezing temperatures might be prolonged. This study measures the effect of constant low temperatures (3, -10, or -20 °C) on survival of overwintering F. externa females from eastern hemlock in Michigan and from eastern hemlock and Fraser fir in North Carolina. Survival was determined with biochemical viability testing, which assesses the presence of metabolically active cells, and changes in survivorship through time were quantified with Kaplan-Meier methods and beta regression. Collection date and host occasionally affected survival rate but not in a consistent pattern. Survival rates generally decreased as temperature decreased. At 3 °C, F. externa maintained high survival (>75%). At -10 °C, survival was projected to fall to 50% within 22 to 92 d and 10% by 45 to 195 d. At -20 °C, survival typically declined to 50% by 1 to 27 d and 10% by 6 to 52 d. We used survival durations at -20 °C to map how often F. externa might experience 50 or 90% mortality from prolonged cold exposure. Temperatures in recent winters have not been below -20 °C for long enough to stop F. externa from spreading throughout the ranges of eastern hemlock or other hosts in Canada and the continental United States.},
}

@article {pmid41058313,
year = {2025},
author = {McKee, SC and Koppes, P and Miller, RS and Selleck, M and Shwiff, SA},
title = {Wild pigs, wild costs: the economic consequences of wild pig invasions in the United States.},
journal = {Pest management science},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/ps.70247},
pmid = {41058313},
issn = {1526-4998},
support = {//National Feral Swine Damage Management Program/ ; //Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Wild pigs (Sus scrofa), an invasive species in the United States, cause extensive ecological and economic harm, impacting agriculture, forests, ecosystems, water quality, property, and human health and safety. Despite the substantial economic impacts, existing nationwide monetary assessments of wild pig damage are outdated and lack modern scientific rigor.

RESULTS: By synthesizing data from scientific journals, this study inventories the scope of wild pig damage, highlights gaps in our understanding of the associated costs, and introduces a novel composite approach to visualizing them. Additionally, it provides an updated conservative estimate of the economic costs associated with wild pig damage in the U.S. by combining known costs with reasonable extrapolations. While our analysis indicates a minimum annual cost of US$3.4 billion associated with wild pig invasions in the U.S. - considering agriculture, health, the environment and property - the true economic impact is likely to be far greater and remains largely unknown.

CONCLUSION: The study underscores the urgent need for standardized damage assessment protocols and increased research investment to accurately quantify the full economic burden of wild pig invasion. These data are critical for informed policy decisions and optimized resource allocation in wild pig management. © 2025 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry. This article has been contributed to by U.S. Government employees and their work is in the public domain in the USA.},
}

@article {pmid40866180,
year = {2025},
author = {Tian, B and Ding, J and Huang, W and Siemann, E},
title = {Escaping enemies enhances invader mutualisms: role of metabolites.},
journal = {Trends in ecology & evolution},
volume = {40},
number = {10},
pages = {945-948},
doi = {10.1016/j.tree.2025.08.001},
pmid = {40866180},
issn = {1872-8383},
mesh = {*Symbiosis ; *Introduced Species ; Biological Evolution ; *Plants/metabolism ; *Plant Physiological Phenomena ; Animals ; },
abstract = {Non-native plants often outperform native plants by escaping natural enemies and forming mutualistic relationships in new ranges. However, the causal relationships and mechanisms linking these interactions remain largely unclear. Metabolite reallocation may play a crucial role in linking ecological and evolutionary shifts between antagonistic and mutualistic interactions of non-native plants.},
}

*Symbiosis
*Introduced Species
Biological Evolution
*Plants/metabolism
*Plant Physiological Phenomena
Animals

@article {pmid40583797,
year = {2025},
author = {Alto, BW and Kizgin, AD and Toroslu, AM and Arslanhan, BA and Diop, SD and Pekmezci, GZ and Sanchez, Y and İbiş, O and Inci, A and Yildirim, A},
title = {Larval competition between invasive Aedes albopictus and resident Culex pipiens mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) from Türkiye in the presence of an insect growth regulator.},
journal = {Journal of medical entomology},
volume = {62},
number = {5},
pages = {1146-1161},
doi = {10.1093/jme/tjaf079},
pmid = {40583797},
issn = {1938-2928},
support = {//University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agriculture Sciences/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Aedes/growth & development/physiology/drug effects ; *Culex/growth & development/physiology/drug effects ; Larva/growth & development/physiology/drug effects ; Female ; *Pyridines/pharmacology ; *Juvenile Hormones/pharmacology ; *Competitive Behavior/drug effects ; Introduced Species ; *Mosquito Vectors/growth & development/physiology ; *Insecticides/pharmacology ; },
abstract = {The spread of the invasive mosquito Aedes albopictus in Türkiye may influence other vectors and traits related to their ability to transmit arboviruses. Interspecific competition between Ae. albopictus and the resident vector of West Nile virus (WNV), Culex pipiens can influence WNV transmission through changes in the abundance of Cx. pipiens and the phenotypic traits of adults. Furthermore, environmental factors can modify interspecific competition, especially if the factor differentially impinges upon the superior competitor. To improve our understanding of competition's influence on traits of mosquitoes that relate to arbovirus transmission, we tested 2 hypotheses: Exposure to the insecticide pyriproxyfen alters interspecific competition among larval Ae. albopictus and Cx. pipiens, and competitive asymmetry favoring Ae. albopictus over Cx. pipiens alters survival of adult females. Interspecific and intraspecific larval competition were evaluated with 2 detritus types and in the presence or absence of pyriproxyfen. Higher intra- and interspecific competition reduced survivorship to adulthood, lengthened development, and yielded smaller sized adults of Ae. albopictus and Cx. pipiens. The presence of pyriproxyfen had minimal impact on the competitive outcomes. Interspecific interactions exhibited competitive asymmetry with Ae. albopictus being competitively dominant over Cx. pipiens. Survival of adult females was differentially compromised under high competition conditions. Adult survival was lengthened for Ae. albopictus and shortened for Cx. pipiens derived from interspecific conditions relative to intraspecific treatments. These results demonstrate how competitive asymmetry among the larvae of an invasive and resident mosquito can influence recruitment of adults and their survival, factors predicted to be important to transmission of arboviruses.},
}

Animals
*Aedes/growth & development/physiology/drug effects
*Culex/growth & development/physiology/drug effects
Larva/growth & development/physiology/drug effects
Female
*Pyridines/pharmacology
*Juvenile Hormones/pharmacology
*Competitive Behavior/drug effects
Introduced Species
*Mosquito Vectors/growth & development/physiology
*Insecticides/pharmacology

@article {pmid41057774,
year = {2025},
author = {Almojil, D and Manikandan, V and Drou, N and Measey, J and Boissinot, S},
title = {The two sub-genomes of the allotetraploid frog Xenopus laevis are evolving under similar selective pressure in extant populations.},
journal = {BMC genomics},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {887},
pmid = {41057774},
issn = {1471-2164},
support = {AD180//NYUAD Grant AD180 and Tamkeen under the NYU Abu Dhabi Research Institute/ ; },
abstract = {The model species Xenopus laevis is an allotetraploid species, whose genome consists of two sub-genomes (the L and S sub-genomes) that were inherited from its parental species. Previous studies comparing the genome of X. laevis with other species of the genus revealed that the L sub-genome was more conserved than the S sub-genome suggesting it has been evolving under stronger purifying selection. However, it remains unclear if this difference reflects evolutionary processes that are still at play in extant populations. To answer this question, we conducted the first genome-wide survey of variation in this species by re-sequencing 44 individuals from its native South African range at ~ 10 × coverage. We generated a dataset of ~ 260M SNPs, which constitutes a valuable resource for the Xenopus community. We found that the South African populations of X. laevis are highly structured and differentiated, reflecting ancient divergence followed by more recent admixture at contact zones. We also determined that the landscapes of variation of the L and S sub-genomes do not show any significant differences suggesting that the two sub-genomes are responding to evolutionary forces in a similar manner. In particular we showed that purifying selection and positive selection are acting identically on the two sub-genomes, suggesting that the sub-genomes of X. laevis are evolving under similar selective pressure. Since 60% of the ancestral homeologous genes have been retained in X. laevis, this result suggests that the function of those genes is conserved on both sub-genomes or that a large number of genes has experienced neo- or sub-functionalization.},
}

@article {pmid41057438,
year = {2025},
author = {Shauer, M and Zangaro, F and Specchia, V and Pinna, M},
title = {Investigating invasion patterns of Callinectes sapidus and the relation with research effort and climate change in the Mediterranean Sea.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {34967},
pmid = {41057438},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {CN_00000033//National Biodiversity Future Center (NBFC-Italy)/ ; CN_00000033//National Biodiversity Future Center (NBFC-Italy)/ ; BlueDiversity//Interreg Italy-Croatia 2021- 2027, First Call/ ; CL6-2022-BIODIV-01//EU HORIZON, Pro-Coast/ ; },
mesh = {Mediterranean Sea ; *Climate Change ; *Introduced Species ; Animals ; Ecosystem ; Temperature ; },
abstract = {The ecological stability of Mediterranean marine ecosystems is increasingly threatened by invasive alien species (IAS). This study examines the invasion dynamics of Callinectes sapidus, a high-risk and readily identifiable IAS across the Adriatic, Ionian, and Central Mediterranean subregions. A comprehensive dataset of published scientific and local ecological knowledge (LEK) records was compiled to analyze spatial and temporal patterns of diffusion. An increase in reported occurrences was found across the entire study area, spreading from south to north. Heterogeneous sampling methods hinder direct comparisons across regions, underscoring the need for standardized reporting protocols. LEK supported the clarification of overall patterns of C. sapidus diffusion and enhanced the resolution of temporal and spatial distribution data. The temporal progression of the invasion aligns with phases of arrival, establishment, and expansion. A close association was observed with both research effort and rising sea surface temperatures (SST). This study highlights the importance of integrating climate data and community-based knowledge in IAS monitoring and demonstrates a methodology for assessing climate-linked biological invasions in marine environments.},
}

Mediterranean Sea
*Climate Change
*Introduced Species
Animals
Ecosystem
Temperature

@article {pmid41057409,
year = {2025},
author = {Kędra, K and Jagodziński, AM},
title = {Predicting the co-invasion of two Asteraceae plant genera in post-mining landscapes using satellite remote sensing and airborne LiDAR.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {34877},
pmid = {41057409},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {OPUS 2019/35/B/ST10/04141//Narodowe Centrum Nauki/ ; OPUS 2019/35/B/ST10/04141//Narodowe Centrum Nauki/ ; },
mesh = {*Remote Sensing Technology/methods ; *Asteraceae/physiology/growth & development ; Ecosystem ; *Introduced Species ; *Mining ; Poland ; Machine Learning ; Satellite Imagery ; },
abstract = {The Asteraceae plant family includes the most widespread weedy invaders in Europe, which may jointly inhibit natural succession in degraded land under restoration. The complex local drivers of co-invasions hinder remote sensing (RS) monitoring efforts, as the links between the ecological and the spectral habitat properties are largely unknown. We proposed a comprehensive framework for machine learning modeling of the co-invasion of two Erigeron spp. and two Solidago spp. in post-mining landscapes of S Poland, using both field data and a combination of Sentinel-2, Landsat 7 and airborne LiDAR RS predictors. Stochastic Gradient Boosting best captured the non-linear dependencies (Accuracy = 0.670-0.886, AUC = 0.675-0.923), and generally outcompeted two other classifiers (Random Forest and Support Vector Machines with a Radial Basis Function Kernel). The field-based functional diversity metrics were the strongest predictors, corroborating improved resistance to invasions by native plant functional richness. In terms of RS data, the most favorable conditions for co-invasion were identified by a narrow range of reflectance in the red-edge interval of a Sentinel-2 image, and constrained by LiDAR-derived vegetation height (for Erigeron spp.) and by high land surface temperatures (for Solidago spp.). The highest share of patches suitable for co-invasion was consistently found in the low vegetation land cover class, between 36% and 64% cover. We therefore advise considering particular management actions, such as increasing the supply of native seed, thus improving local community resistance to invasions. The proposed methods and openly available RS predictors may facilitate targeted monitoring and cost-effective management interventions.},
}

*Remote Sensing Technology/methods
*Asteraceae/physiology/growth & development
Ecosystem
*Introduced Species
*Mining
Poland
Machine Learning
Satellite Imagery

@article {pmid41055980,
year = {2025},
author = {Heinen, JH and Drake, DR and McConkey, K and Hume, JP and Albert, S and Ando, H and Baider, C and Bellingham, PJ and Case, SB and Chimera, CG and Florens, FBV and Fricke, EC and Gawel, AM and González-Castro, A and Heleno, R and Hervias-Parejo, S and Hruska, A and Imada, CT and de Lima, RF and Nogales, M and Rogers, HS and Rumeu, B and Strasberg, D and Traveset, A and Valido, A and Watanabe, K and Wotton, D and Yoshikawa, T and Rahbek, C and Borregaard, MK},
title = {Species introductions shift seed dispersal potential more than extinctions across 120 island plant-frugivore communities.},
journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America},
volume = {122},
number = {41},
pages = {e2423438122},
doi = {10.1073/pnas.2423438122},
pmid = {41055980},
issn = {1091-6490},
support = {DNRF96//Danmarks Grundforskningsfond (DNRF)/ ; CF19-0695//Carlsbergfondet (Carlsberg Foundation)/ ; CF23-0890//Carlsbergfondet (Carlsberg Foundation)/ ; CF23-0890//Linacre College, University of Oxford/ ; 25925//Villum Fonden (Villum Foundation)/ ; 0//New Zealand Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Employment Endeavour Fund programme Te Mana o Rangitāhua/ ; 0//Gerrit Parmile Wilder Endowed Chair in Botany at the University of Hawai'i/ ; CE3C CHANGE CFE TERRA//Fundação para a Ciencia e Tecnologica/ ; PGC2018-099772-B-I00//Spanish Ministry of Science, Innovation, and Universities/ ; PID2023-152357NB-I00//Spanish Ministry of Science, Innovation, and Universities/ ; PID2022-137906NB-I00//Spanish Ministry of Science, Innovation, and Universities/ ; },
mesh = {*Seed Dispersal/physiology ; Animals ; Islands ; *Extinction, Biological ; *Introduced Species ; Ecosystem ; Birds/physiology ; Mammals/physiology ; Seeds ; Plants ; Herbivory ; Fruit ; Reptiles/physiology ; },
abstract = {Oceanic islands are hotspots of both species extinctions and introductions, which led to marked changes in species composition. This may disrupt key ecological interactions, such as animal-mediated seed dispersal, with potential long-term impacts on ecosystem structure and functioning. While some recent studies on individual taxa and islands report functional shifts, there has been no globally comprehensive study of how these changes vary in intensity and direction across islands. Importantly, it remains unclear how changes in traits of animal communities actually translate to ecologically relevant mismatches with native plant species. We report widespread functional remodeling of frugivore communities based on frugivory-specific traits of all native, extinct, and introduced vertebrate frugivores (birds, mammals, reptiles) from 120 islands in 22 archipelagos. There is a trend for taxonomic and functional substitution, mainly of nonvolant terrestrial mammalian omnivores replacing large-gaped flying frugivores, which caused a mismatch between gape size and seed size. This shift in seed dispersal potential risks underestimation in single-taxon studies. Overall, vertebrate introductions outnumbered extinctions both in terms of species (44 vs. 23%) and islands affected (92 vs. 76%). Moreover, introductions have driven stronger shifts in frugivore trait space compared to extinctions. However, the general patterns are modulated by substantial spatial variation and idiosyncratic functional shifts within frugivore communities on some islands. This, coupled with differences in plant seed size distributions, leads to variability in realized functional mismatches among islands. These results emphasize challenges with predicting functional responses to anthropogenic activities, while highlighting that remodeling of ecosystem interactions is a global concern.},
}

*Seed Dispersal/physiology
Animals
Islands
*Extinction, Biological
*Introduced Species
Ecosystem
Birds/physiology
Mammals/physiology
Seeds
Plants
Herbivory
Fruit
Reptiles/physiology

@article {pmid41054928,
year = {2025},
author = {Shi, X and Yu, M and Fu, Y and Wang, J and Qin, F and Wang, X},
title = {Potential distribution prediction of two destructive rice weevils in China based on an ensemble model.},
journal = {Bulletin of entomological research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-12},
doi = {10.1017/S0007485325100515},
pmid = {41054928},
issn = {1475-2670},
abstract = {Rice water weevils (RWWs) (Lissorhoptrus oryzophilus) and rice weevils (RW) (Echinocnemus squameus) (both Coleoptera: Curculionidae) are major rice pests that cause significant economic losses in China. Understanding their potential distribution areas is crucial for effective management. This study used the Biomod2 package in R to simulate and predict the current and future potential distributions, changes in suitable areas, shifts in distribution centres, and overlaps under climate change for both pests under three greenhouse gas emission scenarios. By 2023, the suitable areas for RWWs and RWs were 538.52 × 104 km[2] and 376.05 × 104 km[2], respectively. The suitable area for the former pest expanded southwestward and northeastward across China, whereas the latter spread mainly into Northeast China. The suitable area for RWWs is projected to remain stable, whereas that for RWs is expected to decline. The distribution centroid of RWWs is anticipated to shift toward southeastern or southwestern Shaanxi, whereas RWs are likely to migrate toward central-eastern or northeastern Shaanxi. The niche overlap between the two pests is high (Schoener's D = 0.658, I = 0.816), with overlap concentrated in central, eastern, and southern China. The key factors influencing their distributions include precipitation of the wettest month (Bio13), mean temperature of the warmest quarter (Bio10), and precipitation of the driest month (Bio14). This study provides a theoretical basis for the prediction of the potential distribution of both pests, which offers valuable insights for the development of effective pest control strategies in China.},
}

@article {pmid41054612,
year = {2025},
author = {Liu, J and Chen, M and Wang, L and Liu, T and Jin, X and Yu, FH and Zhang, Y},
title = {Habitat fragmentation differentially affects invasive and native plant diversity in a human-dominated wetland island system.},
journal = {Plant diversity},
volume = {47},
number = {5},
pages = {824-832},
pmid = {41054612},
issn = {2468-2659},
abstract = {Managing invasive species requires identifying the factors that determine alien species invasion success. This study investigates how anthropogenic and biogeographical factors influence alien plant invasion in the Sanyang Wetlands, a human-dominated island system in Wenzhou City, China. Specifically, we analyzed whether human activities (e.g., habitat heterogeneity, proportion of road area, and cultivation) and island characteristics (e.g., island area, isolation) affect the diversity of native and invasive plant species similarly. We also assessed the applicability of the equilibrium theory of island biogeography to invasive plant species diversity and examined how these factors affect invasive plant species with different dispersal syndromes (anemochore, zoochore, and autochore). We found that both invasive and native species richness positively correlate with island area, habitat heterogeneity, and proportion of road area. However, although native species richness was negatively correlated with isolation, invasive species richness was not. The diversity and composition of invasive species with different dispersal syndromes were determined by different variables; for example, the composition and diversity of zoochores was increased by habitat heterogeneity, while anemochore species richness was increased by the proportion of road area, whereas anemochore species composition was influenced by distance to the nearest island. We conclude that habitat fragmentation differentially affects invasive and native plant diversity, aligning with the predictions of the equilibrium theory of island biogeography only for native species but not for invasive species. Our findings indicate that tailoring habitat attributes and regulating human activities could be effective strategies for mitigating the spread of invasive species in fragmented landscapes.},
}

@article {pmid41054603,
year = {2025},
author = {Song, XJ and Liu, G and Li, XD and Chen, Y and Wang, J and Zhang, CL and Ye, XP and Zhu, ZH},
title = {Phylogenetically close alien Asteraceae species with minimal niche overlap are more likely to invade.},
journal = {Plant diversity},
volume = {47},
number = {5},
pages = {804-813},
pmid = {41054603},
issn = {2468-2659},
abstract = {Predicting whether alien species will invade a native community is a key challenge in invasion ecology. One factor that may help predict invasion success is phylogenetic relatedness. Darwin proposed that closely related species tend to share similar niches, although this relationship may be influenced by various ecological and evolutionary factors. To test this, we classified alien Asteraceae species in China into three categories based on their invasion status and the extent of ecological damage: introduced, naturalized, and invasive. We then compared the genetic relationships and niche overlap between alien and native Asteraceae species. We found that invasive Asteraceae species are more closely related to native Asteraceae species than are introduced and naturalized species. However, alien Asteraceae species (including introduced, naturalized, and invasive species) exhibited relatively low niche overlap with native Asteraceae species. These findings suggest that the main premise underlying Darwin's naturalization conundrum, namely, the universality of phylogenetic niche conservatism, may not hold true. Instead, our findings indicate that alien species are more likely to invade successfully when they are more closely related to native plants, exhibit less niche overlap, and maintain conservative niches during the invasion process. These findings provide new insights into the mechanisms of alien plant invasions, highlight the relationship between alien species invasions and native community vulnerability, and offer important insights into the development of effective biological invasion management strategies.},
}

@article {pmid41053066,
year = {2025},
author = {Sühs, RB and Ziller, SR and da Rosa, CA and Puechagut, PB and Marterer, BTP and Giehl, ELH and Asth, MS and Targino, CH and Legracie-Jr, JR and Chapla, TE and Zenni, RD},
title = {Georeferenced database of invasive non-native species occurrences in Brazil.},
journal = {Scientific data},
volume = {12},
number = {1},
pages = {1619},
pmid = {41053066},
issn = {2052-4463},
mesh = {*Introduced Species ; Brazil ; Animals ; *Biodiversity ; Databases, Factual ; Conservation of Natural Resources ; },
abstract = {This dataset presents a comprehensive and validated compilation of 187,160 georeferenced records of 489 invasive species of fauna (Animalia), flora (Plantae), and algae (Chromista) across Brazilian terrestrial, freshwater and marine territories, including islands. The data were obtained through consultations with federal environmental agencies, national and international databases, and scientific publications. All records were reviewed and validated by experts through national and state-level consultations conducted between 2021 and 2024. This effort was carried out within the framework of the project Pró-Espécies: Estratégia Nacional para a Conservação de Espécies Ameaçadas, which aimed to support the conservation of biodiversity and the management of invasive non-native species.},
}

*Introduced Species
Brazil
Animals
*Biodiversity
Databases, Factual
Conservation of Natural Resources

@article {pmid41052085,
year = {2025},
author = {Winter, JM and Moorhead, K and Grochowski-Grum, K and Anchor, C and Landolfi, JA and Adamovicz, LA and Allender, MC},
title = {Health assessment of non-native red-eared sliders (Trachemys scripta elegans) and their impact potential on native species.},
journal = {PloS one},
volume = {20},
number = {10},
pages = {e0333786},
doi = {10.1371/journal.pone.0333786},
pmid = {41052085},
issn = {1932-6203},
mesh = {Animals ; *Turtles/microbiology/virology ; *Introduced Species ; Illinois ; Seasons ; Female ; },
abstract = {Red-eared sliders (RES; Trachemys scripta elegans) are a globally invasive species that can impact native chelonian populations through resource competition and disease introduction. In Cook County, Illinois, invasive RES co-occur with, and greatly outnumber, a species of conservation priority in the Great Lakes region: the Blanding's turtle (Emydoidea blandingii). This study sampled free-ranging RES in Cook County during spring, summer, and fall in four unique locations to characterize the possible effect of this non-native species on the health of regional, sympatric, aquatic chelonians. RES (n = 242) were captured and sampled for qPCR pathogen detection, clinical pathology, and necropsy from 2018 to 2022. Multiple pathogens were detected, including Mycoplasma spp., multiple adenoviruses, Trachemys herpesvirus 1 (TrHV-1), frog virus 3, human-pathogenic Leptospira spp., Emydomyces testavorans, and Salmonella typhimurium. Mycoplasma spp. prevalence was significantly higher (p < 0.05) at one isolated site with a suspected greater density of turtles. Detection of TrHV-1 was significantly associated with season (p < 0.001), with detections occurring only in spring and fall. For the 28 hematology, plasma biochemistry, and protein electrophoresis analytes assayed, significant and variable associations occurred based on sample year, season, pathogen detection, age, and sex. Population-based reference intervals were created for hematologic, plasma biochemistry, and plasma protein electrophoresis analytes. Common necropsy findings included mild endoparasitism and related vascular lesions such as endarteritis. Notably, qPCR detection of above pathogens was not associated with any gross or histologic lesions indicative of clinically relevant disease. This study indicates that invasive RES in Cook County may be infected with pathogens of concern for co-occurring turtle species, and absence of associated lesions in the RES suggests they likely serve as carrier species for these pathogens. Continued health monitoring of this species is important as interactions with chelonians of conservation priority increase.},
}

Animals
*Turtles/microbiology/virology
*Introduced Species
Illinois
Seasons
Female

@article {pmid41050722,
year = {2025},
author = {Pfau, MJ and Weber, S and Kennedy, S and Krehenwinkel, H and Roderick, G and Gillespie, R},
title = {Invasive Spiders and Their Microbiomes: Patterns of Microbial Variation in Native and Invasive Species in Hawai'i.},
journal = {Ecology and evolution},
volume = {15},
number = {10},
pages = {e72175},
pmid = {41050722},
issn = {2045-7758},
abstract = {Invasive species can have detrimental impacts on the community structure and native species persistence, causing cascading impacts on ecosystem function. These effects are amplified in remote island ecosystems that are characterized by non-representative and often diverse biota. The mechanisms behind successful invasions, particularly of arthropods, are varied, but growing evidence suggests that invasive species escape from their native predators and competitors. Recent research has suggested that gut microbiota can play an important role in arthropod fitness, with vertically transmitted endosymbionts and horizontally acquired microbes performing different functions. Here, we explored the extent to which the microbiome may facilitate the ability of spiders to exploit and ultimately adapt to novel environments. We examined co-occurring pairs of native and invasive spiders across three locations in the Hawaiian Islands and compared them with mainland counterparts to test two core predictions: (1) gut microbiota would be shaped primarily by local environmental filters rather than invasion status, and (2) vertically transmitted endosymbionts would show stronger host-specificity and reduced diversity in invasives. Using 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing, we found that the site explained 11.7% of gut-microbial compositional variance compared to 6.5% for host species. These results suggest that each spider maintains a species-specific level of α-diversity but reassembles taxonomic composition according to local microbial pools, thus indicating high context dependence in environmental filtering. Invasive species were found to have a lower relative abundance of gut endosymbiont taxa, with one species, Badumna longinqua, showing little to no endosymbiont presence across sites, and the other, Steatoda grossa, exhibiting low but site-specific abundance. We observed a strong localization effect, suggesting that these endosymbionts are also being acquired from local environments, not carried from ancestral ranges. These results suggest host-symbiont interactions have differential impacts on native and invasive species and that microbiota may facilitate the success of spiders in novel environments.},
}

@article {pmid41048186,
year = {2025},
author = {Lucetti, G and Abbà, S and Pesavento, G and Fanelli, E and De Luca, F and Battagini, E and Cazzaniga, S and Ballottari, M and Frizzon, D and Mori, N and Galetto, L},
title = {RNAi-mediated gene silencing of a 26S proteasome subunit increases mortality of the Japanese beetle Popillia japonica.},
journal = {Pest management science},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/ps.70265},
pmid = {41048186},
issn = {1526-4998},
support = {//Ministero dell'Università e della Ricerca/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The Japanese beetle Popillia japonica (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) is a highly polyphagous quarantine invasive species causing severe crop damages. Its management is based on broad-spectrum insecticides and sustainable alternatives are needed. Strategies based on RNA interference (RNAi) emerged in crop protection and we aimed to explore its use to control P. japonica.

RESULTS: Nine genes of P. japonica were selected as lethal candidates, based on previous wide-genome screenings on other coleopterans. To avoid off-target effects, genes showing over 80% identity with pollinator homologues were excluded and P. japonica double-stranded RNAs (dsRNAs) were designed in the least conserved portions according to alignments with Apis mellifera. When incubated in P. japonica midgut juice, dsRNAs were not degraded. Injection and plant-mediated feeding were used to deliver dsRNAs to larvae and adults. Five targets were tested, and two genes were selected as the most effective in increasing mortality, namely regulatory particle non-ATPase 6 subunit (RPN) and shibire_dynamin-like protein (SHI). A significant transcript reduction up to 21 days (RPN: 3-5 fold-change silencing) after dsRNA injection indicated that effective gene silencing occurred, as also supported by sequencing of small RNA libraries. In adults, RNAi-mediated depletion of RPN transcript reduced survival, either when insects were injected or mass-fed on vine leaves dsRNA-treated.

CONCLUSION: A subunit of the 26S proteasome was indicated as promising RNAi target for dsRNA-based insecticide against the Japanese beetle. The data pave the way for the possible use of RNAi approaches to control this pest, proactively waiting for the European Union approval of exogenously applied dsRNAs. © 2025 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.},
}

@article {pmid41045828,
year = {2025},
author = {Fouet, MPA and Massé, C and Bonnissant, L and Blanchet, H and Maire, O and Bernard, G},
title = {Combined atmospheric and marine heatwaves exacerbate the impacts of a non-indigenous species, the Asian date mussel Arcuatula senhousia, on benthic ecosystem functioning.},
journal = {Marine environmental research},
volume = {212},
number = {},
pages = {107560},
doi = {10.1016/j.marenvres.2025.107560},
pmid = {41045828},
issn = {1879-0291},
abstract = {Climate change is predicted to increase the frequency, severity, and duration of extreme climatic events such as heatwaves. Benthic organisms inhabiting intertidal flats are subjected to both marine and atmospheric heatwaves and can experience extreme temperature variations over relatively short periods of time. Non-indigenous species are generally capable to cope with extreme events more efficiently that native species. The Arcachon bay, a lagoon located along the French Atlantic coast is currently colonised by the invasive mussel, Arcuatula senhousia. In this study, we investigated how these two stressors (non-indigenous species colonisation and heatwaves) affect soft-bottom ecosystem functioning. We conducted two seasonal laboratory experiments to investigate the effects of combined marine and atmospheric heatwaves on the biogeochemical dynamics of sediments colonised by A. senhousia at different densities. More precisely, we assessed the community scale responses by measuring nutrients (NOx, NH4[+], PO4[3-]) and oxygen fluxes across the sediment-water interface. The results highlight that (1) heatwaves affect oxygen and nutrient exchanges across the sediment-water interface, with an increase of oxygen consumption and NH4[+], PO4[3-] fluxes, (2) the magnitude of these effects can be strongly enhanced by increasing densities of A. senhousia, and (3) a marked seasonal-dependence, with more effects during the spring experiment. These results emphasise that the interaction between the seasonality of heatwave occurrence, its intensity and the level of colonisation by non-indigenous ecosystem engineers likely shape their consequences for ecosystem functioning in tidal flats. Our results thus reinforce previous findings suggesting that climate change may profoundly exacerbate the effects of biological invasions.},
}