Naeim Moradi, Soheila Shafiei Bafti, Mohammad Ebrahim Sehhatisabet, Behzad Zadhoush, Eskandar Rastegar-Pouyani,
Volume 5, Issue 4 (10-2023)
Abstract
The genus Lytorhynchus, spanning from the Sahara’s western fringes to the Middle East, eastern Pakistan, and northwestern India, has seen numerous species and subspecies classifications over the years. Many of these have been deemed synonymous due to overlapping morphological traits, a problem compounded by the absence of a comprehensive phylogenetic study. The taxa residing in Iran exhibit morphological variations attributable to their broad distribution and disjunct populations. Of the seven recognized species, three have been confirmed in Iran, although some populations display pholidosis distinct from initial descriptions. Species identification has also been fraught with ambiguities. This study aims to elucidate the diagnostic characteristics of taxa and furnish an updated identification key by revisiting past studies and examining new voucher specimens. The biogeography of Iranian taxa is also explored.
Laxmi Sagar, Dhan Bdr Gurung, Karma Wangchuk, Karma L. Wangmo, Rinchen Dorji, Tshering Zangmo, Rupesh Subedi,
Volume 5, Issue 4 (10-2023)
Abstract
Cyprinidae (Teleostei: Cypriniformes) is the predominate family among Bhutan's freshwater fishes, yet significant gaps exist in the knowledge of their diversity and assemblage. Cyprinids were sampled from 54 plots across four river basins (Aiechhu, Jaldakachhu, Mangdechhu, and Punatsangchhu) using systematic sampling at an interval of 5 km. A total of 850 individuals belonging to 22 species and 13 genera were recorded. Aiechhu had the highest diversity and evenness (H’= 1.66±0.28, J’= 0.95±0.03), followed by Punatsangchhu (H’= 1.58±0.34, J’= 0.94±0.04). Meanwhile, Jaldakachhu and Mangdechhu exhibited the lowest diversity and evenness (H’= 0.90±0.66, J’= 0.84±0.54 and H’= 0.54±0.70, J’= 0.38±0.49, respectively). There was a significant difference in diversity among river basins (χ2 (3)= 20.98, p < 0.001) with specific variation between Mangdechhu and Punatsangchhu (Z= 3.80, p= 0.00), Mangdechhu and Aiechhu (Z= 3.35, p= 0.01), and Jaldakachhu and Punatsangchhu (Z= 2.83, p= 0.03). Canonical correspondence analysis indicated that cyprinid assemblage was significantly correlated with environmental variables (r= 0.94, p= 0.001 in axis 1 and r= 0.82, p= 0.001 in axis 2) explaining 77% of variance. Axis 1 was positively correlated with temperature (r= 0.92), total dissolved solids (r= 0.53), conductivity (r= 0.51), and salinity (r= 0.39) and negatively correlated with elevation (r= −0.69). Axis 2 was negatively correlated with total hardness (r= −0.82) and dissolved oxygen (r= −0.65). Cluster analysis identified three clusters based on dominant species. Further studies exploring other river basins of Bhutan are needed to better understand the ecological dynamics of cyprinids in Bhutan.
Abdullah Atabey, Recep Karakaş,
Volume 6, Issue 1 (3-2024)
Abstract
Birds have a special importance in the exceptionally rich biodiversity of Türkiye; nevertheless, the ornithological importance of some parts of the country is inadequately known. The bird diversity of Mount Zülküf (MZ) was studied together with recommendations for conservation proposals. In total, 26 field surveys were conducted on MZ, which is located 6 km from Ergani district of Diyarbakır province, south-eastern Türkiye. During the field observations, transect line and point count methodologies were used, accompanied by the use of standard ornithological equipment, between April 2017 and April 2018. It was aimed at determining the seasonal status, breeding status, and threatened categories of bird species, together with suggesting conservation proposals. Within the scope of the studies conducted in the limited area over one year, 73 bird species, belonging to 25 families and nine orders were determined. Among the bird species identified, 19 are possible, 16 are probable, and 14 are certainly breeding species for the area; which means that 67% of them have breeding potential in the study area. Among the recorded bird species, there is one globally threatened species, while seven are threatened within Türkiye with many more least concern or data deficient species. Recording the bird diversity of the mountain, together with the existing cultural importance of the area in terms of religious tourism, will help to bring to light the ecotourism potential of the area, and could be used for monitoring the area for conservation plans. Raising awareness of the region's bird diversity, among the local people, will offer nature-based tourism opportunities via ornithology in the region.
Farangis Ghasemi, Mohammad Miri,
Volume 6, Issue 2 (6-2024)
Abstract
This study aimed to document the significance of parasites in transmitting zoonotic pathogens from bats to domestic animals and humans. To achieve this, we performed an examination of ten large caves in Fars Province (Iran), which served as bat roosts. Bats were captured using a mist net and identified based on morphological characteristics. The ectoparasites were collected using brushes and preserved in separate vials containing 70% ethyl alcohol. Bats were released after collecting all ectoparasites from their bodies, except 3 bats. The collected ectoparasites were then prepared as slides and identified using a taxonomic key. The results revealed that out of 66 bats examined, 56 individuals were infested by a total of 113 ectoparasites. These included bat flies [Nycteribia kolenatii (22.1%), Paratrichobius sp. (10.6%) and Penicillidia sp. (11.5%)], mites [Macronyssus flavus (55.0%)], and ticks [Ixodes sp. (0.8%)]. Among the bat species, Myotis blythii and Rousettus aegyptiacus exhibited the highest levels of ectoparasite infestation. Three bats from different species were transferred to the lab, dissected, and their feces were centrifuged using the Formalin Detergent method. Several worms, including nematodes [Seuratum sp.] and Cestoda [Hymenolepis rhinopomae], were isolated from their intestines and feces. The identified specimens were properly deposited in the Iranian National Parasitology Museum (University of Tehran). Some of these findings represent new records in Iran. The results indicate a high infestation rate with bat flies showing a wide distribution and high density in the research region. Therefore, further research is recommended to expand our knowledge of bat parasites.
Shraddha Kumari Krishnanagara,
Volume 6, Issue 2 (6-2024)
Abstract
Spiders are ecologically important indicators of biodiversity, exhibiting diverse distributions influenced by habitat types. This study investigated spider species richness across five habitats in Bannur Village, Dakshina Kannada District, Karnataka, India, amidst rapid urbanization and habitat transformations. Field surveys conducted from April to June 2020 revealed a total of 73 spider species across 18 families. Notably, the highest species richness was found in native forest (59) followed by home gardens (44), Areca plantation land (15), buildings (9), and acacia forest (6). Results also emphasize the habitat-specific adaptation and influence of urbanization on spider diversity. The diverse native forest supported most species while low-diversity acacia forest and regularly checked buildings hosted fewer spider species. This highlights impact of habitat changes on spider diversity. Further long-term research considering variables like climate change, vegetation density, and prey availability would yield a comprehensive understanding of the intricate interplay between environmental factors and spider populations.
Bayarlkhagva Damdingiin, Bolortuya Ulziibat, Bayarmaa Gun-Aajav, Davaa Bazarsad, Munkhjargal Bayarlkhagva, Enkhbaatar Batmagnai,
Volume 6, Issue 2 (6-2024)
Abstract
Siberian ibex or Altain yangir, Capra sibirica Pallas from Central Asia is believed to be the most ancient species of the genus Capra. In Mongolia, it is distributed in the areas of the Mongolian Altai, Gobi-Altai, Dzungaria, Altai, Khan Khuhii, Khoridal Saridag, and Ulaan Taiga as well as in the desert and semi-desert steppe zones of Dundgobi and Dornogobi provinces. Capra sibirica, a near-threatened species, is affected by illegal hunting for meat and sport. The mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 gene (cox-1) is used as a DNA marker to distinguish mammalian species for the investigation of illegal hunting. In this study, we sequenced a part of the cox-1 of eight Mongolian Capra sibirica individuals. Our DNA sequences were clustered in a clade of Capra which is distinct from other clades of mammalian species in the phylogenetic tree. Our findings suggest that the DNA sequences can be utilized for the investigation of illegal hunting.
Jannat Un Naim Tuli, Md. Manzoorul Kibria, Afia Khanam Beli, Shah Mohammad Kaisar, Jadab Kumar Biswas,
Volume 6, Issue 2 (6-2024)
Abstract
We conducted a study on the morphology of the forelimb long bones and ribs in the Ganges River dolphin, Platanista gangetica (Lebeck, 1801) using traditional morphometric methods. A total of 17 morphometric measurements of six specimens of P. gangetica were taken. The humerus was the longest bone in the forelimb morphology, with its length ranging from 41.75 to 52.78 mm (mean: 45.57, SD: ± 5.07) in juveniles/subadults and 60.56 to 90.92 mm (mean: 76.75, SD: ± 22.90) in adults. The length of the scapula was 85.84 to 135.46 mm (mean: 102.18, SD: ± 23.00) in juveniles/subadults and 171.79 to 251.95 mm (mean: 211.87, SD: ± 56.68) in adults. Of 10 ribs, the sixth rib was the longest (mean: 133.55, SD: ± 24.12) in juveniles/subadults and the seventh (mean: 240.62, SD: ± 54.24) in adults. All measurements (except the two variables of the scapula) were significantly correlated (P < 0.05) with specific bone length. The allometric coefficients of all correlated variables of the humerus, radius, ulna, scapula, and the depths of ribs exhibited isometry against the length of the particular bone, respectively. We discussed the morphological patterns of the forelimb long bones and ribs in P. gangetica along with the structural and functional aspects of the aquatic lifestyles.
Aastha Sharma, Kamal Adhikari, Kamal Regmi,
Volume 6, Issue 3 (9-2024)
Abstract
The Red panda is an Endangered species in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. It is also listed as a protected mammal by Nepal's National Park and Wildlife Conservation Act of 1973. The present study was conducted in the Rara National Park (RNP), in mid-western Nepal (the Himalayas of Karnali Region), to explore the current distributional status and conservation of the red panda between September to December, 2023, we conducted visual surveys along line transects (n= 13) to record species presence, measured habitat variables (vegetation types, waterholes, slopes/aspects, etc.) in 10x10 m2 quadrate around the species sign to characterize habitat associations, and interviewed 13 key informants to assess the conservation threats. We recorded 5 red panda signs, mostly fecal pellets, within an encounter rate of 1 sign per km. The majority of signs were associated with upper temperate mixed broad-leaf forest with bamboo cover >20%, tree stump presence, fallen logs of birch trees. The Himalayan Birch Betula utilis and Oak Quercus semecarpifolia are the two most common tree species near red panda signs. The distribution ranged from 2988 m to 3291 meters above mean sea level. The interview with key informants revealed that the main conservation threats to red pandas include excessive livestock grazing and the unsustainable extraction of bamboo by local communities. Overall, our results corroborate the presence of red pandas in this national park and highlight the immediate need for further research on its population abundance and conservation actions to conserve its prime habitat.
Rajendra Singh,
Volume 6, Issue 3 (9-2024)
Abstract
The present study summarizes the predators and parasitoids of two species, the mustard aphid Lipaphis erysimi (Kaltenbach, 1843) and the turnip aphid Lipaphis pseudobrassicae (Davis, 1914) infesting various food plants distributed in various states and union territories of India. These predators belong to four orders of the class Insecta: Coleoptera (Coccinellidae), Diptera (Chamaemyiidae, Syrphidae), Hemiptera (Anthocoridae, Geocoridae, Reduviidae) and Neuroptera (Chrysopidae, Hemerobiidae), and one order of class Arachnida, the order Araneae (spiders) (6 families). A total of 100 species of predators were observed to feed on the mustard aphid on 23 food plant species distributed in 26 states/union territory of India. The greatest numbers of predators of both species belong to the families Coccinellidae (47 species) and Syrphidae (27 species). Four species of predatory bugs (Hemiptera), seven species of lacewings (Neuroptera) and fourteen species of spiders are reported to prey on Lipaphis erysimi in India. Most of the tritrophic associations (triplets, predators–preys–host plants) of these predators are reported from Uttar Pradesh (98 triplets) followed by West Bengal (58 triplets), Punjab (53 triplets), Manipur (48 triplets), Tripura (40 triplets) and other states/union territories (less than 40 triplets). A total of 16 species of predators belonging to Coccinellidae, Syrphidae and Chrysopidae are reported to prey on Lipaphis pseudobrassicae only in seven states/union territory of India, mostly in Jammu and Kashmir. Two families of the parasitoids, Aphelinidae and Braconidae (subfamily Aphidiinae) parasitize L. erysimi in India. Aphelinidae is represented by 5 species distributed in seven states/union territory and Braconidae by 17 species on 20 host plants in 24 states/union territory of India. Most of the tritrophic associations (triplets, parasitoids–hosts–host plants) of these parasitoids are reported from Manipur (15 triplets) followed by Uttar Pradesh (11 triplets) and less than 10 triplets in other states/union territories. Only two identified species of Braconidae were observed to parasitize L. pseudobrassicae in India on two host plant species distributed only in Jammu and Kashmir, Karnataka and Punjab.
Bach Pham Son, Quy Le Hoang, Vu Nguyen Dang Hoang, Quang Ngo Xuan, Liem Nguyen Duy, Quyen Le Khac,
Volume 7, Issue 1 (3-2025)
Abstract
Vietnam is renowned for its exceptional biodiversity with birds representing the most diverse group of vertebrates in the country. Despite this richness, data on bird species composition, distribution, and populations in Vietnam remain limited, necessitating enhanced research efforts. This study addresses the research gap in Ba Ria Vung Tau (BRVT) Province, where existing studies have predominantly focused on the Binh Chau Phuoc Buu (BCPB) Nature Reserve and Con Dao National Park. Our research provides a comprehensive avian checklist and distribution data for BRVT resulting from surveys of six key ecosystems: urban areas, agricultural lands, coastal mangrove forests, tropical evergreen forests, inland freshwater bodies, and rivers and canals. Excluding BCPB and Con Dao, we conducted surveys from October 2022 to October 2023 at 52 sites using the Point Transect method. This study recorded 142 bird species, including 6 newly documented species for the province, expanding the provincial checklist to 375 species across 78 families and 21 orders. Among these, 146 species are migratory and 229 are resident. Additionally, 40 species had updated taxonomic classifications and 15 species were identified as endangered. Our findings emphasize the critical need for conservation efforts in tropical evergreen forests, inland freshwater bodies, rivers and canals, and coastal mangrove forests. Effective biodiversity management in BRVT will require increased collaboration with local communities to ensure successful conservation outcomes.
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