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DeBruyn JM, Keenan SW, Taylor LS. From carrion to soil: microbial recycling of animal carcasses. Trends Microbiol 2024:S0966-842X(24)00229-4. [PMID: 39358066 DOI: 10.1016/j.tim.2024.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2024] [Revised: 08/30/2024] [Accepted: 09/06/2024] [Indexed: 10/04/2024]
Abstract
Decomposer microbial communities are gatekeepers in the redistribution of carbon and nutrients from dead animals (carrion) to terrestrial ecosystems. The flush of decomposition products from a carcass creates a hot spot of microbial activity in the soil below, and the animal's microbiome is released into the environment, mixing with soil communities. Changes in soil physicochemistry, especially reduced oxygen, temporarily constrain microbial nutrient cycling, and influence the timing of these processes and the fate of carrion resources. Carcass-related factors, such as mass, tissue composition, or even microbiome composition may also influence the functional assembly and succession of decomposer communities. Understanding these local scale microbially mediated processes is important for predicting consequences of carrion decomposition beyond the hot spot and hot moment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer M DeBruyn
- Department of Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA.
| | - Sarah W Keenan
- Department of Geology and Geological Engineering, South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, Rapid City, SD, USA
| | - Lois S Taylor
- Department of Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
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2
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Wenting E, Jansen PA, Burggraeve S, Delsman DF, Siepel H, van Langevelde F. The influence of vertebrate scavengers on leakage of nutrients from carcasses. Oecologia 2024; 206:21-35. [PMID: 39153020 PMCID: PMC11489260 DOI: 10.1007/s00442-024-05608-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 08/07/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024]
Abstract
The decomposition of carcasses by scavengers and microbial decomposers is an important component of the biochemical cycle that can strongly alter the chemical composition of soils locally. Different scavenger guilds are assumed to have a different influence on the chemical elements that leak into the soil, although this assumption has not been empirically tested. Here, we experimentally determine how different guilds of vertebrate scavengers influence local nutrient dynamics. We performed a field experiment in which we systematically excluded different subsets of vertebrate scavengers from decomposing carcasses of fallow deer (Dama dama), and compared elemental concentrations in the soil beneath and in the vegetation next to the carcasses over time throughout the decomposition process. We used four exclusion treatments: excluding (1) no scavengers, thus allowing them all; (2) wild boar (Sus scrofa); (3) all mammals; and (4) all mammals and birds. We found that fluxes of several elements into the soil showed distinct peaks when all vertebrates were excluded. Especially, trace elements (Cu and Zn) seemed to be influenced by carcass decomposition. However, we found no differences in fluxes between partial exclusion treatments. Thus, vertebrate scavengers indeed reduce leakage of elements from carcasses into the soil, hence influencing local biochemical cycles, but did so independent of which vertebrate scavenger guild had access. Our results suggest that carcass-derived elements are dispersed over larger areas rather than locally leak into the soil when vertebrate scavengers dominate the decomposition process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elke Wenting
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Wageningen University and Research, Box 47, 6700, Wageningen, The Netherlands.
- Department of Ecology, Radboud Institute for Biological and Environmental Sciences, Radboud University, Box 9010, 6500, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| | - Patrick A Jansen
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Wageningen University and Research, Box 47, 6700, Wageningen, The Netherlands
- Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, Ancon, Balboa, Panama
| | - Simon Burggraeve
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Wageningen University and Research, Box 47, 6700, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Devon F Delsman
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Wageningen University and Research, Box 47, 6700, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Henk Siepel
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Wageningen University and Research, Box 47, 6700, Wageningen, The Netherlands
- Department of Ecology, Radboud Institute for Biological and Environmental Sciences, Radboud University, Box 9010, 6500, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Frank van Langevelde
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Wageningen University and Research, Box 47, 6700, Wageningen, The Netherlands
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3
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Taylor LS, Mason AR, Noel HL, Essington ME, Davis MC, Brown VA, Steadman DW, DeBruyn JM. Transient hypoxia drives soil microbial community dynamics and biogeochemistry during human decomposition. FEMS Microbiol Ecol 2024; 100:fiae119. [PMID: 39293810 DOI: 10.1093/femsec/fiae119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2024] [Revised: 07/08/2024] [Accepted: 09/17/2024] [Indexed: 09/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Human decomposition in terrestrial ecosystems is a dynamic process creating localized hot spots of soil microbial activity. Longer-term (beyond a few months) impacts on decomposer microbial communities are poorly characterized and do not typically connect microbial communities to biogeochemistry, limiting our understanding of decomposer communities and their functions. We performed separate year-long human decomposition trials, one starting in spring, another in winter, integrating bacterial and fungal community structure and abundances with soil physicochemistry and biogeochemistry to identify key drivers of microbial community change. In both trials, soil acidification, elevated microbial respiration, and reduced soil oxygen concentrations occurred. Changes in soil oxygen concentrations were the primary driver of microbial succession and nitrogen transformation patterns, while fungal community diversity and abundance was related to soil pH. Relative abundance of facultative anaerobic taxa (Firmicutes and Saccharomycetes) increased during the period of reduced soil oxygen. The magnitude and timing of the decomposition responses were amplified during the spring trial relative to the winter, even when corrected for thermal inputs (accumulated degree days). Further, soil chemical parameters, microbial community structure, and fungal gene abundances remained altered at the end of 1 year, suggesting longer-term impacts on soil ecosystems beyond the initial pulse of decomposition products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lois S Taylor
- Department of Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Allison R Mason
- Department of Microbiology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Hannah L Noel
- Department of Microbiology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Michael E Essington
- Department of Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Mary C Davis
- Department of Anthropology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Veronica A Brown
- Department of Microbiology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Dawnie W Steadman
- Department of Anthropology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Jennifer M DeBruyn
- Department of Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
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4
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Newsome T, Cairncross R, Cunningham CX, Spencer EE, Barton PS, Ripple WJ, Wirsing AJ. Scavenging with invasive species. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2024; 99:562-581. [PMID: 38148253 DOI: 10.1111/brv.13035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 11/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Abstract
Carrion acts as a hotspot of animal activity within many ecosystems globally, attracting scavengers that rely on this food source. However, many scavengers are invasive species whose impacts on scavenging food webs and ecosystem processes linked to decomposition are poorly understood. Here, we use Australia as a case study to review the extent of scavenging by invasive species that have colonised the continent since European settlement, identify the factors that influence their use of carcasses, and highlight the lesser-known ecological effects of invasive scavengers. From 44 published studies we identified six invasive species from 48 vertebrates and four main groups of arthropods (beetles, flies, ants and wasps) that scavenge. Invasive red foxes (Vulpes vulpes), domestic dogs (Canis familiaris), feral pigs (Sus scrofa), black rats (Rattus rattus) and feral cats (Felis catus) were ranked as highly common vertebrate scavengers. Invasive European wasps (Vespula germanica) are also common scavengers where they occur. We found that the diversity of native vertebrate scavengers is lower when the proportion of invasive scavengers is higher. We highlight that the presence of large (apex) native vertebrate scavengers can decrease rates of scavenging by invasive species, but that invasive scavengers can monopolise carcass resources, outcompete native scavengers, predate other species around carcass resources and even facilitate invasion meltdowns that affect other species and ecological processes including altered decomposition rates and nutrient cycling. Such effects are likely to be widespread where invasive scavengers occur and suggest a need to determine whether excessive or readily available carcass loads are facilitating or exacerbating the impacts of invasive species on ecosystems globally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Newsome
- School of Life and Environmental Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, 2006, Australia
| | - Rhys Cairncross
- School of Life and Environmental Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, 2006, Australia
| | - Calum X Cunningham
- School of Environmental and Forest Sciences, University of Washington, College of the Environment, Box 352100, Seattle, WA, 98195-2100, USA
| | - Emma E Spencer
- School of Life and Environmental Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, 2006, Australia
| | - Philip S Barton
- School of Life and Environmental Science, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, 3216, Australia
| | - William J Ripple
- Department of Forest Ecosystems and Society, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA
| | - Aaron J Wirsing
- School of Environmental and Forest Sciences, University of Washington, College of the Environment, Box 352100, Seattle, WA, 98195-2100, USA
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5
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Kaštovská E, Mastný J, Konvička M. Rewilding by large ungulates contributes to organic carbon storage in soils. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 355:120430. [PMID: 38428182 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.120430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/17/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
The concept of rewilding, which focuses on managing ecosystem functions through self-regulation by restoring trophic interactions through introduced animal species with little human intervention, has gained increasing attention as a proactive and efficient approach to restoring ecosystems quickly and on a large scale. However, the science of rewilding has been criticized for being largely theory-based rather than evidence-based, with available data being geographically biased towards the Netherlands and Scandinavian countries, and a lack of objective data on rewilding effects on soil processes and C sequestration. In response to a call for data-driven experimental rewilding projects focused on national contexts, we collected unique data on the effects of large herbivore rewilding on soil properties from eight sites in the Czech Republic. These include sites with a wide range of edaphic characteristics that were grazed by Exmoor ponies, European bison, and back-bred Bos primigenius cattle (singly or in combination) for 2-6 years on areas ranging from ≈30 to ≈250 ha. Despite the relatively short duration of rewilding actions and considerable variability in the response rate of soil properties to grazing, our results indicate improved nutrient availability (evidenced by higher nitrification rate or higher soluble nitrogen concentration) and accelerated ecosystem metabolism (higher soil microbial biomass and dissolved carbon content). On longer-grazed pastures, rewilding contributed to soil carbon sequestration associated with increased water holding capacity and improved soil structure. However, other soil properties (reduced dissolved P concentration or total P content) showed signs of low P availability in the soils of the rewilding sites. Therefore, carcass retention should be considered where possible. Our data, although limited in number and geographic coverage, allow us to conclude that large ungulate rewilding has the potential to enhance soil carbon sequestration and related ecosystem services in rewilding areas. At the same time, we urge similar monitoring as an essential part of other rewilding projects, which will ultimately allow much more robust conclusions about the effects of this management on soils.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Kaštovská
- Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, 37005 České Budějovice, Czech Republic.
| | - Jiří Mastný
- Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, 37005 České Budějovice, Czech Republic.
| | - Martin Konvička
- Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, 37005 České Budějovice, Czech Republic; Biology Centre CAS, Institute of Entomology, 37005 České Budějovice, Czech Republic.
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6
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Bartel SL, Stephenson T, Crowder DW, Jones ME, Storfer A, Strickland MS, Lynch L. Global change influences scavenging and carrion decomposition. Trends Ecol Evol 2024; 39:152-164. [PMID: 37816662 DOI: 10.1016/j.tree.2023.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023]
Abstract
Carrion decomposition is fundamental to nutrient cycling in terrestrial ecosystems because it provides a high-quality resource to diverse organisms. A conceptual framework incorporating all phases of carrion decomposition with the full community of scavengers is needed to predict the effects of global change on core ecosystem processes. Because global change can differentially impact scavenger guilds and rates of carrion decomposition, our framework explicitly incorporates complex interactions among microbial, invertebrate, and vertebrate scavenger communities across three distinct phases of carcass decomposition. We hypothesize that carrion decomposition rates will be the most impacted when global change affects carcass discovery rates and the foraging behavior of competing scavenger guilds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Savannah L Bartel
- Department of Entomology, Washington State University, 166 FSHN, 100 Dairy Road, Pullman, WA 99164, USA; School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, 301 Abelson Hall, Pullman, WA 99164, USA.
| | - Torrey Stephenson
- Department of Soil and Water Systems, University of Idaho, 875 Perimeter Drive, Moscow, ID 83844, USA
| | - David W Crowder
- Department of Entomology, Washington State University, 166 FSHN, 100 Dairy Road, Pullman, WA 99164, USA
| | - Menna E Jones
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Life Sciences Building, Hobart, TAS 7001, Australia
| | - Andrew Storfer
- School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, 301 Abelson Hall, Pullman, WA 99164, USA
| | - Michael S Strickland
- Department of Soil and Water Systems, University of Idaho, 875 Perimeter Drive, Moscow, ID 83844, USA
| | - Laurel Lynch
- Department of Soil and Water Systems, University of Idaho, 875 Perimeter Drive, Moscow, ID 83844, USA
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Taylor LS, Gonzalez A, Essington ME, Lenaghan SC, Stewart CN, Mundorff AZ, Steadman DW, DeBruyn JM. Soil elemental changes during human decomposition. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0287094. [PMID: 37310961 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0287094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammalian decomposition provides pulses of organic matter to the local ecosystem creating ephemeral hotspots of nutrient cycling. While changes to soil biogeochemistry in these hotspots have been described for C and N, patterns associated with deposition and cycling of other elements have not received the same attention. The goal of our study was to evaluate temporal changes to a broad suite of dissolved elements in soils impacted by human decomposition on the soil surface including: 1) abundant mineral elements in the human body (K, Na, S, P, Ca, and Mg), 2) trace elements in the human body (Fe, Mn, Se, Zn, Cu, Co, and B), and 3) Al which is transient in the human body but common in soils. We performed a four-month human decomposition trial at the University of Tennessee Anthropology Research Facility and quantified elemental concentrations dissolved in the soil solution, targeting the mobile and bioavailable fraction. We identified three groups of elements based on their temporal patterns. Group 1 elements appeared to be cadaver-derived (Na, K, P, S) and their persistence in soil varied based upon soluble organic forms (P), the dynamics of the soil exchange complex (Na, K), and gradual releases attributable to microbial degradation (S). Group 2 elements (Ca, Mg, Mn, Se, B) included three elements that have greater concentrations in soil than would be expected based on cadaver inputs alone, suggesting that these elements partially originate from the soil exchange (Ca, Mg), or are solubilized as a result of soil acidification (Mn). Group 3 elements (Fe, Cu, Zn, Co, Al) increased late in the decomposition process, suggesting a gradual solubilization from soil minerals under acidic pH conditions. This work presents a detailed longitudinal characterization of changes in dissolved soil elements during human decomposition furthering our understanding of elemental deposition and cycling in these environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lois S Taylor
- Department of Biosystems Engineering & Soil Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States of America
| | - Adrian Gonzalez
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States of America
| | - Michael E Essington
- Department of Biosystems Engineering & Soil Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States of America
| | - Scott C Lenaghan
- Center for Agricultural Synthetic Biology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States of America
| | - C Neal Stewart
- Department of Plant Sciences, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States of America
| | - Amy Z Mundorff
- Department of Anthropology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States of America
| | - Dawnie W Steadman
- Department of Anthropology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States of America
| | - Jennifer M DeBruyn
- Department of Biosystems Engineering & Soil Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States of America
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8
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Arnberg MP, Frank SC, Blaalid R, Davey ML, Eycott AE, Steyaert SMJG. Directed endozoochorous dispersal by scavengers facilitate sexual reproduction in otherwise clonal plants at cadaver sites. Ecol Evol 2022; 12:e8503. [PMID: 35127028 PMCID: PMC8794756 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.8503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The regeneration niche of many plant species involves spatially and temporally unpredictable disturbances, called recruitment windows of opportunity. However, even species with clear dispersal adaptations such as fleshy berries may not successfully reach such elusive regeneration microsites. Ericaceous, berry-producing species in the northern hemisphere demonstrate this dispersal limitation. They are said to display a reproductive paradox owing to their lack of regeneration in apparently suitable microsites despite considerable investment in producing large quantities of berries.Cadavers generate vegetation-denuded and nutrient-rich disturbances termed cadaver decomposition islands (CDIs). Cadavers attract facultative scavengers with considerable capacity for endozoochorous seed dispersal. We hypothesize that CDIs facilitate recruitment in berry-producing ericaceous species due to endozoochorous dispersal directed toward favorable microsites with low competition.We examined seedling establishment within a permanent, semi-regular 10 × 10 m grid across an ungulate mass die-off on the Hardangervidda plateau in southeastern Norway. Competing models regarding the relative importance of factors governing recruitment were evaluated, specifically cadaver location (elevated seed rain) and microsite conditions (competition).We found that CDIs did facilitate seedling establishment, as cadaver density was the best predictor of seedling distribution. Other important factors governing seedling establishment such as percentage cover of soil and vascular plants alone were inadequate to explain seedling establishment. Synthesis: This study provides a novel understanding of sexual reproduction in species with cryptic generative reproduction. The directed nature of endozoochorous dispersal combined with long-distance dispersal abilities of medium to large vertebrate scavengers toward cadavers allows plants to exploit the advantageous but ephemeral resource provided by CDIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mie Prik Arnberg
- Faculty of Biosciences and AquacultureNord UniversitySteinkjerNorway
| | | | - Rakel Blaalid
- Department of Natural HistoryUniversity Museum of BergenBergenNorway
- Norwegian Institute for Nature ResearchTrondheimNorway
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9
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Monk JD, Schmitz OJ. Landscapes shaped from the top down: predicting cascading predator effects on spatial biogeochemistry. OIKOS 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/oik.08554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Julia D. Monk
- School of the Environment, Yale Univ. New Haven CT USA
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10
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Yang J, Li T, Feng T, Yu Q, Su W, Zhou R, Li X, Li H. Water volume influences antibiotic resistomes and microbiomes during fish corpse decomposition. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 789:147977. [PMID: 34052485 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.147977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Corpse decomposition may cause serious pollution (e.g., releasing antibiotic resistance genes) to the water environment, thereby threatening public health. However, whether antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) and microbiomes are affected by different water volumes during carcass decomposition remains unknown. Here, we investigated the effects of large/small water volumes on microbial communities and ARGs during fish cadaver decomposition by 16S rRNA high-throughput sequencing and high-throughput quantitative PCR. The results showed that the large water volume almost eliminated the effects of corpse decomposition on pH, total organic carbon (TOC), and total nitrogen (TN). When the water volume enlarged by 62.5 fold, the relative abundances of some ARGs resisting tetracycline and sulfonamide during carcass decomposition decreased by 217 fold on average, while there was also a mean 5267 fold increase of vancomycin resistance genes. Compared with the control group, the enriched types of ARGs varied between the large and small volume. Water volume, mobile genetic elements, and carcass decomposition were the most important factors affecting ARG profiles. Many opportunistic pathogens (like Bacteroides and Comamonas) were enriched in the corpse group. Bacteroides and Comamonas may be potential hosts of ARGs, indicating the potential for the spread of ARGs to humans by water pathogenic bacteria. This research highlights that the "dilution effect" can contribute to eliminating this adverse effect during corpse decomposition to a certain extent. It may provide references for environmental governance and public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiawei Yang
- School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Tongtong Li
- Department of Applied Biology, College of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Tianshu Feng
- School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Qiaoling Yu
- School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Wanghong Su
- School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Rui Zhou
- School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Xiangzhen Li
- Key Laboratory of Environmental and Applied Microbiology, Environmental Microbiology Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu Institute of Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China.
| | - Huan Li
- School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China; Center for Grassland Microbiome, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China.
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11
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Daufresne T. A consumer-driven recycling theory for the impact of large herbivores on terrestrial ecosystem stoichiometry. Ecol Lett 2021; 24:2598-2610. [PMID: 34523233 DOI: 10.1111/ele.13876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2021] [Revised: 07/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Biological control of nutrient cycles is well documented in aquatic ecosystems, where consumer-driven recycling by herbivores can significantly impact ecosystem stoichiometry. In contrast, little is known in terrestrial ecosystems, where there is evidence that herbivores can also impact ecosystem stoichiometry. I studied a stoichiometric model of the soil-plant-herbivore system. The model shows that herbivores influence the ecosystem stoichiometry mainly through the direct and indirect controls of ecosystem inputs and losses, in a more complex way than predicted by the classic consumer-driven recycling theory. Overall, it shows that herbivores affect nutrient ratios in terrestrial ecosystems mostly independently of their own stoichiometric ratios, and that their impact may be different in forest versus grassland. The results highlight the sensitivity of terrestrial ecosystems to elusive actors, negligible in biomass but capable of modifying nutrient loss rates with major impacts on nutrient cycles and ecosystem stoichiometry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanguy Daufresne
- Unite Eco&Sols, INRAE, (French Institute for Agriculture and Environmental Research), Montpellier, France
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12
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Hilal MG, Yu Q, Zhou R, Wang Y, Feng T, Li X, Li H. Exploring microbial communities, assessment methodologies and applications of animal's carcass decomposition: a review. FEMS Microbiol Ecol 2021; 97:6311132. [PMID: 34185048 DOI: 10.1093/femsec/fiab098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Animals are an essential part of the ecosystem, and their carcasses are the nutrient patches or hotspots where nutrients accumulate for a long time. After death, the physical and chemical properties undergo alterations inside the carcass. The animal carcass is decomposed by many decomposers such as bacteria, fungi, microeukaryotes and insects. The role of microbial symbionts in living organisms is well explored and studied, but there is a scarcity of knowledge and research related to their role in decomposing animal carcasses. Microbes play an important role in carcass decomposition. The origins of microbial communities associated with a carcass, including the internal and external microbiome, are discussed in this review. The succession and methods used for the detection and exploration of decomposition-associated microbial communities have been briefly described. Also, the applications of carcass-associated microbial taxa have been outlined. This review is intended to understand the dynamics of microbial communities associated with the carcass and pave the way to estimate postmortem interval and its role in recycling nutrients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mian Gul Hilal
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Activities and Stress Adaptations, School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, Tianshui South Road #222, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, PR China
| | - Qiaoling Yu
- Institute of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Rui Zhou
- Institute of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Yijie Wang
- Institute of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Tianshu Feng
- Institute of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Xiangkai Li
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Activities and Stress Adaptations, School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, Tianshui South Road #222, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, PR China
| | - Huan Li
- Institute of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China.,Center for Grassland Microbiome, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
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13
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Ilardi MO, Cotter SC, Hammer EC, Riddell G, Caruso T. Scavenging beetles control the temporal response of soil communities to carrion decomposition. Funct Ecol 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/1365-2435.13849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Marco O. Ilardi
- School of Biological Sciences Queen's University Belfast Belfast UK
| | | | | | - Gillian Riddell
- School of Biological Sciences Queen's University Belfast Belfast UK
| | - Tancredi Caruso
- School of Biology & Environmental Science University College Dublin Dublin 4 Ireland
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14
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Ellis-Soto D, Ferraro KM, Rizzuto M, Briggs E, Monk JD, Schmitz OJ. A methodological roadmap to quantify animal-vectored spatial ecosystem subsidies. J Anim Ecol 2021; 90:1605-1622. [PMID: 34014558 DOI: 10.1111/1365-2656.13538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Energy, nutrients and organisms move over landscapes, connecting ecosystems across space and time. Meta-ecosystem theory investigates the emerging properties of local ecosystems coupled spatially by these movements of organisms and matter, by explicitly tracking exchanges of multiple substances across ecosystem borders. To date, meta-ecosystem research has focused mostly on abiotic flows-neglecting biotic nutrient flows. However, recent work has indicated animals act as spatial nutrient vectors when they transport nutrients across landscapes in the form of excreta, egesta and their own bodies. Partly due to its high level of abstraction, there are few empirical tests of meta-ecosystem theory. Furthermore, while animals may be viewed as important mediators of ecosystem functions, better integration of tools is needed to develop predictive insights of their relative roles and impacts on diverse ecosystems. We present a methodological roadmap that explains how to do such integration by discussing how to combine insights from movement, foraging and ecosystem ecology to develop a coherent understanding of animal-vectored nutrient transport on meta-ecosystems processes. We discuss how the slate of newly developed technologies and methods-tracking devices, mechanistic movement models, diet reconstruction techniques and remote sensing-that when integrated have the potential to advance the quantification of animal-vectored nutrient flows and increase the predictive power of meta-ecosystem theory. We demonstrate that by integrating novel and established tools of animal ecology, ecosystem ecology and remote sensing, we can begin to identify and quantify animal-mediated nutrient translocation by large animals. We also provide conceptual examples that show how our proposed integration of methodologies can help investigate ecosystem impacts of large animal movement. We conclude by describing practical advancements to understanding cross-ecosystem contributions of animals on the move. Understanding the mechanisms by which animals shape ecosystem dynamics is important for ongoing conservation, rewilding and restoration initiatives around the world, and for developing more accurate models of ecosystem nutrient budgets. Our roadmap will enable ecologists to better qualify and quantify animal-mediated nutrient translocation for animals on the move.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Ellis-Soto
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA.,Center for Biodiversity and Global Change, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | | | - Matteo Rizzuto
- Department of Biology, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Canada
| | - Emily Briggs
- School of the Environment, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA.,Department of Anthropology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Julia D Monk
- School of the Environment, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
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15
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Newsome TM, Barton B, Buck JC, DeBruyn J, Spencer E, Ripple WJ, Barton PS. Monitoring the dead as an ecosystem indicator. Ecol Evol 2021; 11:5844-5856. [PMID: 34141188 PMCID: PMC8207411 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.7542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Dead animal biomass (carrion) is present in all terrestrial ecosystems, and its consumption, decomposition, and dispersal can have measurable effects on vertebrates, invertebrates, microbes, parasites, plants, and soil. But despite the number of studies examining the influence of carrion on food webs, there has been no attempt to identify how general ecological processes around carrion might be used as an ecosystem indicator. We suggest that knowledge of scavenging and decomposition rates, scavenger diversity, abundance, and behavior around carrion, along with assessments of vegetation, soil, microbe, and parasite presence, can be used individually or in combination to understand food web dynamics. Monitoring carrion could also assist comparisons of ecosystem processes among terrestrial landscapes and biomes. Although there is outstanding research needed to fully integrate carrion ecology and monitoring into ecosystem management, we see great potential in using carrion as an ecosystem indicator of an intact and functional food web.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas M. Newsome
- School of Life and Environmental SciencesThe University of SydneySydneyNSWAustralia
| | - Brandon Barton
- Department of Biological SciencesMississippi State UniversityMississippi StateMSUSA
| | - Julia C. Buck
- Biology and Marine BiologyUniversity of North Carolina WilmingtonWilmingtonNCUSA
| | - Jennifer DeBruyn
- Biosystems Engineering and Soil ScienceUniversity of TennesseeKnoxvilleTNUSA
| | - Emma Spencer
- School of Life and Environmental SciencesThe University of SydneySydneyNSWAustralia
| | - William J. Ripple
- Department of Forest Ecosystems and SocietyOregon State UniversityCorvallisORUSA
| | - Philip S. Barton
- School of ScienceFederation University AustraliaMt HelenVICAustralia
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16
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Burcham ZM, Weitzel MA, Hodges LD, Deel HL, Metcalf JL. A pilot study characterizing gravesoil bacterial communities a decade after swine decomposition. Forensic Sci Int 2021; 323:110782. [PMID: 33894685 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2021.110782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Vertebrate decomposition leads to an efflux of fluids rich with biochemicals and microbes from the carcass into the surrounding soil affecting the endogenous soil bacterial community. These perturbations are detectable in soils associated with carcasses (gravesoil) and influence soil bacterial ecology for years after the decomposition event, but it is unknown for how long. Measuring these impacts over extended timescales is critical to expanding vertebrate decomposition's role in the ecosystem and may provide useful information to forensic science. Using 16S rRNA gene amplicon data, this study surveyed bacterial composition in terrestrial soils associated with surface-exposed swine decomposition for 10 years after carcass placement. This pilot study utilizes the increased statistical power associated with repeated measure/within-subjects sampling to analyze bacterial diversity trends over time. Our results demonstrate that the soil bacterial diversity was significantly impacted by decomposition, with this impact being localized to the area underneath the carcass. Bacterial community dissimilarity was greatest 12 months postmortem before beginning recovery. Additionally, random forest regressions were utilized to determine 10 important genera for distinguishing decomposition timepoints, an important component of forensic investigations. Of these 10 genera, four were further analyzed for their significant relative abundance shifts underneath the carcass. This pilot study helps expand the current knowledge of long-term effects of carcass decomposition on soil bacterial communities, and is the first to our knowledge to characterize these communities temporally from placement through a decade of decomposition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary M Burcham
- Department of Animal Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80525, USA.
| | - Misty A Weitzel
- Criminal Justice Department, Western Oregon University, Monmouth, OR 97361, USA.
| | - Larry D Hodges
- Department of Microbiology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA.
| | - Heather L Deel
- Department of Animal Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80525, USA.
| | - Jessica L Metcalf
- Department of Animal Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80525, USA.
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17
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Abstract
Many large predators are also facultative scavengers that may compete with and depredate other species at carcasses. Yet, the ecological impacts of facultative scavenging by large predators, or their "scavenging effects," still receive relatively little attention in comparison to their predation effects. To address this knowledge gap, we comprehensively examine the roles played by, and impacts of, facultative scavengers, with a focus on large canids: the African wild dog (Lycaon pictus), dhole (Cuon alpinus), dingo (Canis dingo), Ethiopian wolf (Canis simensis), gray wolf (Canis lupus), maned wolf (Chrysocyon brachyurus), and red wolf (Canis rufus). Specifically, after defining facultative scavenging as use or usurpation of a carcass that a consumer has not killed, we (1) provide a conceptual overview of the community interactions around carcasses that can be initiated by facultative scavengers, (2) review the extent of scavenging by and the evidence for scavenging effects of large canids, (3) discuss external factors that may diminish or enhance the effects of large canids as scavengers, and (4) identify aspects of this phenomenon that require additional research attention as a guide for future work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron J Wirsing
- School of Environment and Forest Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Thomas M Newsome
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
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18
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DeBruyn JM, Hoeland KM, Taylor LS, Stevens JD, Moats MA, Bandopadhyay S, Dearth SP, Castro HF, Hewitt KK, Campagna SR, Dautartas AM, Vidoli GM, Mundorff AZ, Steadman DW. Comparative Decomposition of Humans and Pigs: Soil Biogeochemistry, Microbial Activity and Metabolomic Profiles. Front Microbiol 2021; 11:608856. [PMID: 33519758 PMCID: PMC7838218 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.608856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Vertebrate decomposition processes have important ecological implications and, in the case of human decomposition, forensic applications. Animals, especially domestic pigs (Sus scrofa), are frequently used as human analogs in forensic decomposition studies. However, recent research shows that humans and pigs do not necessarily decompose in the same manner, with differences in decomposition rates, patterns, and scavenging. The objective of our study was to extend these observations and determine if human and pig decomposition in terrestrial settings have different local impacts on soil biogeochemistry and microbial activity. In two seasonal trials (summer and winter), we simultaneously placed replicate human donors and pig carcasses on the soil surface and allowed them to decompose. In both human and pig decomposition-impacted soils, we observed elevated microbial respiration, protease activity, and ammonium, indicative of enhanced microbial ammonification and limited nitrification in soil during soft tissue decomposition. Soil respiration was comparable between summer and winter, indicating similar microbial activity; however, the magnitude of the pulse of decomposition products was greater in the summer. Using untargeted metabolomics and lipidomics approaches, we identified 38 metabolites and 54 lipids that were elevated in both human and pig decomposition-impacted soils. The most frequently detected metabolites were anthranilate, creatine, 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid, taurine, xanthine, N-acetylglutamine, acetyllysine, and sedoheptulose 1/7-phosphate; the most frequently detected lipids were phosphatidylethanolamine and monogalactosyldiacylglycerol. Decomposition soils were also significantly enriched in metabolites belonging to amino acid metabolic pathways and the TCA cycle. Comparing humans and pigs, we noted several differences in soil biogeochemical responses. Soils under humans decreased in pH as decomposition progressed, while under pigs, soil pH increased. Additionally, under pigs we observed significantly higher ammonium and protease activities compared to humans. We identified several metabolites that were elevated in human decomposition soil compared to pig decomposition soil, including 2-oxo-4-methylthiobutanoate, sn-glycerol 3-phosphate, and tryptophan, suggesting different decomposition chemistries and timing between the two species. Together, our work shows that human and pig decomposition differ in terms of their impacts on soil biogeochemistry and microbial decomposer activities, adding to our understanding of decomposition ecology and informing the use of non-human models in forensic research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer M DeBruyn
- Department of Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Katharina M Hoeland
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Lois S Taylor
- Department of Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Jessica D Stevens
- Department of Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Michelle A Moats
- Department of Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Sreejata Bandopadhyay
- Department of Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Stephen P Dearth
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Hector F Castro
- Biological and Small Molecule Mass Spectrometry Core, Department of Chemistry, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Kaitlin K Hewitt
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Shawn R Campagna
- Biological and Small Molecule Mass Spectrometry Core, Department of Chemistry, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Angela M Dautartas
- Department of Anthropology, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Giovanna M Vidoli
- Department of Anthropology, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Amy Z Mundorff
- Department of Anthropology, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Dawnie W Steadman
- Department of Anthropology, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Knoxville, TN, United States
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19
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Heo CC, Tomberlin JK, Aitkenhead-Peterson JA. Soil chemistry dynamics of Sus scrofa carcasses with and without delayed Diptera colonization. J Forensic Sci 2020; 66:947-959. [PMID: 33290606 DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.14645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Revised: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Under normal circumstances, insects such as blow flies will oviposit and larvae will colonize a carcass as soon as possible. However, insect colonization on a carcass may be delayed due to the effects of wrapping, shallow burial, addition of lime derivatives to mitigate scavenging and odor, or extreme weather. The impacts of delayed insect colonization on carcass decomposition and its subsequent effect on soil chemistry profiles have not been examined to date. The objectives of this study were to determine soil chemistry dynamics associated with porcine carcasses experiencing delayed insect colonization for 7-day or 14-day. Soil chemistry profiles such as ammonium-N (NH4 -N), orthophosphate-P (PO4 -P), and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) were significantly different among treatments: insect inclusion (immediate access of blow fly colonization on porcine carcasses), 7-day insect exclusion and 14-day insect exclusion (blow fly access was delayed up to 7-day and 14-day). Furthermore, significant differences of soil chemical profiles were detected between days of decomposition and soil regions. Soil moisture, NH4 -N, PO4 -P, and DOC were significantly higher when insects were excluded from the porcine carcass suggesting loss of tissue from larval feeding reduced the mass of nutrients entering the soil. This study provides useful information for forensic science in cases where insect colonization is delayed for a period of time postmortem and soil chemistry in the cadaver decomposition island is considered for estimating postmortem interval.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chong C Heo
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA.,Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Selangor, Malaysia
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20
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Watson CJ, Ueland M, Schotsmans EMJ, Sterenberg J, Forbes SL, Blau S. Detecting grave sites from surface anomalies: A longitudinal study in an Australian woodland. J Forensic Sci 2020; 66:479-490. [PMID: 33202037 DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.14626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Revised: 10/17/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Forensic investigations of single and mass graves often use surface anomalies, including changes to soil and vegetation conditions, to identify potential grave locations. Though numerous resources describe surface anomalies in grave detection, few studies formally investigate the rate at which the surface anomalies return to a natural state; hence, the period the grave is detectable to observers. Understanding these processes can provide guidance as to when ground searches will be an effective strategy for locating graves. We studied three experimental graves and control plots in woodland at the Australian Facility for Taphonomic Experimental Research (Sydney, Australia) to monitor the rate at which surface anomalies change following disturbance. After three years, vegetation cover on all grave sites and control plots had steadily increased but remained substantially less than undisturbed surroundings. Soil anomalies (depressions and cracking) were more pronounced at larger grave sites versus the smaller grave and controls, with leaf litterfall rendering smaller graves difficult to detect beyond 20 months. Similar results were observed in two concurrent burial studies, except where accelerated revegetation appeared to be influenced by mummified remains. Extreme weather events such as heatwaves and heavy rainfall may prolong the detection window for grave sites by hindering vegetation establishment. Observation of grave-indicator vegetation, which exhibited abnormally strong growth 10 months after commencement, suggests that different surface anomalies may have different detection windows. Our findings are environment-specific, but the concepts are applicable globally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J Watson
- Département des sciences de l'environnement, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Trois-Rivières, QC, Canada
| | - Maiken Ueland
- Centre for Forensic Science, University of Technology Sydney, Broadway, NSW, Australia
| | - Eline M J Schotsmans
- Centre for Archaeological Science, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.,PACEA De la Préhistoire à l'Actuel: Culture, Environnement et Anthropologie, UMR 5199, Université de Bordeaux, Pessac, France
| | - Jon Sterenberg
- Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Shari L Forbes
- Département de Chimie, Biochimie et Physique, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Trois-Rivières, QC, Canada
| | - Soren Blau
- Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Department of Forensic Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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21
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Brabazon H, DeBruyn JM, Lenaghan SC, Li F, Mundorff AZ, Steadman DW, Stewart CN. Plants to Remotely Detect Human Decomposition? TRENDS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2020; 25:947-949. [PMID: 32893124 DOI: 10.1016/j.tplants.2020.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Revised: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
In the USA, 100 000 people go missing every year. Difficulty in the rapid identification of sites of human decomposition complicates the recovery of bodies, especially in forests. We propose that spectral responses in tree and shrub canopies could act as guides to find cadavers using remote sensing platforms for societal benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Holly Brabazon
- Center for Agricultural Synthetic Biology, University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA; Department of Plant Sciences, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Jennifer M DeBruyn
- Center for Agricultural Synthetic Biology, University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA; Department of Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Scott C Lenaghan
- Center for Agricultural Synthetic Biology, University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA; Department of Food Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Fei Li
- Department of Plant Sciences, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Amy Z Mundorff
- Department of Anthropology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Dawnie W Steadman
- Department of Anthropology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - C Neal Stewart
- Center for Agricultural Synthetic Biology, University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA; Department of Plant Sciences, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA.
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22
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Soil chemical markers distinguishing human and pig decomposition islands: a preliminary study. Forensic Sci Med Pathol 2020; 16:605-612. [DOI: 10.1007/s12024-020-00297-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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23
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Effects of elk and bison carcasses on soil microbial communities and ecosystem functions in Yellowstone, USA. Funct Ecol 2020. [DOI: 10.1111/1365-2435.13611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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24
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Frank SC, Blaalid R, Mayer M, Zedrosser A, Steyaert SMJG. Fear the reaper: ungulate carcasses may generate an ephemeral landscape of fear for rodents. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2020; 7:191644. [PMID: 32742677 PMCID: PMC7353961 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.191644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2019] [Accepted: 05/03/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Animal carcasses provide an ephemeral pulse of nutrients for scavengers that use them. Carcass sites can increase species interactions and/or ephemeral, localized landscapes of fear for prey within the vicinity. Few studies have applied the landscape of fear to carcasses. Here, we use a mass die-off of reindeer caused by lightning in Norway to test whether rodents avoided larger scavengers (e.g. corvids and fox). We used the presence and abundance of faeces as a proxy for carcass use over the course of 2 years and found that rodents showed the strongest avoidance towards changes in raven abundance (β = -0.469, s.e. = 0.231, p-value = 0.0429), but not fox, presumably due to greater predation risk imposed by large droves of raven. Moreover, the emergence of rodent occurrence within the carcass area corresponded well with the disappearance of raven during the second year of the study. We suggest that carcasses have the potential to shape the landscape of fear for prey, but that the overall effects of carcasses on individual fitness and populations of species ultimately depend on the carcass regime, e.g. carcass size, count, and areal extent, frequency and the scavenger guild. We discuss conservation implications and how carcass provisioning and landscapes of fear could be potentially used to manage populations and ecosystems, but that there is a gap in understanding that must first be bridged.
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Affiliation(s)
- S. C. Frank
- Faculty of Technology, Natural Sciences and Maritime Sciences, Department of Natural Sciences and Environmental Health, University of South-Eastern Norway, 3800 Bø i Telemark, Norway
| | - R. Blaalid
- Norwegian Institute for Nature Research, Thormøhlensgate 55, 5006 Bergen
| | - M. Mayer
- Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, 8410 Rønde, Denmark
| | - A. Zedrosser
- Faculty of Technology, Natural Sciences and Maritime Sciences, Department of Natural Sciences and Environmental Health, University of South-Eastern Norway, 3800 Bø i Telemark, Norway
- Department of Integrative Biology, Institute of Wildlife Biology and Game Management, University of Natural Resources and Applied Life Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - S. M. J. G. Steyaert
- Faculty of Technology, Natural Sciences and Maritime Sciences, Department of Natural Sciences and Environmental Health, University of South-Eastern Norway, 3800 Bø i Telemark, Norway
- Faculty of Biosciences and Aquaculture, Nord University, 7711 Steinkjer, Norway
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25
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van Klink R, van Laar-Wiersma J, Vorst O, Smit C. Rewilding with large herbivores: Positive direct and delayed effects of carrion on plant and arthropod communities. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0226946. [PMID: 31967995 PMCID: PMC6975527 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0226946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Carrion of large animals is an extremely nutrient rich, ephemeral resource that is essential for many species, but is scarce in the anthropogenic Western-European landscape due to legislative restrictions. Rewilding, a novel conservation strategy that aims at restoring natural processes with minimal human intervention, is increasing in popularity and could lead to increased carrion availability in the landscape. It is therefore important to understand the effects of carrion on biodiversity. We investigated the direct and delayed (five months) effects of red deer (Cervus elaphus) carcasses on plants and arthropods in the Oostvaardersplassen, the Netherlands, one of the oldest rewilding sites in Europe. Specifically, we tested whether carrion has a positive direct effect on the abundances and diversity of various arthropod functional groups, as well as a delayed effect on the vegetation and arthropods through the increased nutrient availability. During the active decomposition stage in spring, we, not surprisingly, observed higher abundances of carrion associated species (scavengers and their specialized predators) at the carrion sites than at control sites without carrion, but no higher abundances of predators or detritivores. In late summer, after near-complete decomposition, plant biomass was five times higher, and nutritional plant quality (C:N ratio) was higher at the carrion sites than at the control sites. Arthropod abundance and diversity were also manifold higher, owing to higher numbers of herbivorous and predatory species. Regression analysis showed that abundances of herbivores and detritivores were positively related to plant biomass, and predator abundances were positively related to abundances of herbivores and detritivores, suggesting bottom-up effects propagating through the food chain. Our results show that even in a naturally nutrient-rich ecosystem like the Oostvaardersplassen, carrion can have strong positive effects on local plant biomass and nutritional quality and arthropod abundances, lasting the whole growing season. We found evidence that these effects were first directly caused by the presence of carrion, and later by the enhanced nutrient availability in the soil. This highlights the importance of the indirect pathways by which carrion can structure arthropod communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roel van Klink
- Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences (GELIFES), Conservation Ecology Group, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- * E-mail:
| | - Jitske van Laar-Wiersma
- Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences (GELIFES), Conservation Ecology Group, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Oscar Vorst
- Independent Researcher, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Christian Smit
- Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences (GELIFES), Conservation Ecology Group, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
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26
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Steyaert SMJG, Frank SC, Puliti S, Badia R, Arnberg MP, Beardsley J, Økelsrud A, Blaalid R. Special delivery: scavengers direct seed dispersal towards ungulate carcasses. Biol Lett 2019; 14:rsbl.2018.0388. [PMID: 30111659 DOI: 10.1098/rsbl.2018.0388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2018] [Accepted: 07/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cadaver decomposition islands around animal carcasses can facilitate establishment of various plant life. Facultative scavengers have great potential for endozoochory, and often aggregate around carcasses. Hence, they may disperse plant seeds that they ingest across the landscape towards cadaver decomposition islands. Here, we demonstrate this novel mechanism along a gradient of wild tundra reindeer carcasses. First, we show that the spatial distribution of scavenger faeces (birds and foxes) was concentrated around carcasses. Second, faeces of the predominant scavengers (corvids) commonly contained viable seeds of crowberry, a keystone species of the alpine tundra with predominantly vegetative reproduction. We suggest that cadaver decomposition islands function as endpoints for directed endozoochory by scavengers. Such a mechanism could be especially beneficial for species that rely on small-scale disturbances in soil and vegetation, such as several Nordic berry-producing species with cryptic generative reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- S M J G Steyaert
- Faculty of Technology, Natural Sciences and Maritime Sciences, Department of Natural Sciences and Environmental Health, University of South-Eastern Norway, 3800 Bø i Telemark, Norway .,Faculty of Environmental Sciences and Natural Resource Management, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, 1432 Ås, Norway
| | - S C Frank
- Faculty of Technology, Natural Sciences and Maritime Sciences, Department of Natural Sciences and Environmental Health, University of South-Eastern Norway, 3800 Bø i Telemark, Norway
| | - S Puliti
- Faculty of Environmental Sciences and Natural Resource Management, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, 1432 Ås, Norway.,Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy Research, 1431 Ås, Norway
| | - R Badia
- Faculty of Environmental Sciences and Natural Resource Management, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, 1432 Ås, Norway
| | - M P Arnberg
- Faculty of Technology, Natural Sciences and Maritime Sciences, Department of Natural Sciences and Environmental Health, University of South-Eastern Norway, 3800 Bø i Telemark, Norway
| | - J Beardsley
- Surveying and Spatial Sciences Group, College of Sciences and Engineering, University of Tasmania, Sandy Bay Tasmania, Hobart TAS-7001, Australia
| | - A Økelsrud
- Faculty of Technology, Natural Sciences and Maritime Sciences, Department of Natural Sciences and Environmental Health, University of South-Eastern Norway, 3800 Bø i Telemark, Norway
| | - R Blaalid
- Norwegian Institute for Nature Research, 5006 Bergen, Norway
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Barton PS, Evans MJ, Foster CN, Pechal JL, Bump JK, Quaggiotto MM, Benbow ME. Towards Quantifying Carrion Biomass in Ecosystems. Trends Ecol Evol 2019; 34:950-961. [PMID: 31256926 DOI: 10.1016/j.tree.2019.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2019] [Revised: 05/13/2019] [Accepted: 06/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The decomposition of animal biomass (carrion) contributes to the recycling of energy and nutrients through ecosystems. Whereas the role of plant decomposition in ecosystems is broadly recognised, the significance of carrion to ecosystem functioning remains poorly understood. Quantitative data on carrion biomass are lacking and there is no clear pathway towards improved knowledge in this area. Here, we present a framework to show how quantities derived from individual carcasses can be scaled up using population metrics, allowing for comparisons among ecosystems and other forms of biomass. Our framework facilitates the generation of new data that is critical to building a quantitative understanding of the contribution of carrion to trophic processes and ecosystem stocks and flows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip S Barton
- Fenner School of Environment and Society, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, 2601, Australia.
| | - Maldwyn J Evans
- Fenner School of Environment and Society, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, 2601, Australia
| | - Claire N Foster
- Fenner School of Environment and Society, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, 2601, Australia
| | - Jennifer L Pechal
- Department of Entomology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Joseph K Bump
- Department of Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN 55108, USA
| | - M-Martina Quaggiotto
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, G12 8QQ, UK
| | - M Eric Benbow
- Department of Entomology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; Department of Osteopathic Medical Specialties, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
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Barton PS, Strong C, Evans MJ, Higgins A, Quaggiotto MM. Nutrient and moisture transfer to insect consumers and soil during vertebrate decomposition. FOOD WEBS 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fooweb.2018.e00110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Benbow ME, Barton PS, Ulyshen MD, Beasley JC, DeVault TL, Strickland MS, Tomberlin JK, Jordan HR, Pechal JL. Necrobiome framework for bridging decomposition ecology of autotrophically and heterotrophically derived organic matter. ECOL MONOGR 2018. [DOI: 10.1002/ecm.1331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- M. Eric Benbow
- Department of Entomology; Michigan State University; East Lansing Michigan 48824 USA
- Department of Osteopathic Medical Specialties; Michigan State University; East Lansing Michigan 48824 USA
- Ecology, Evolutionary Biology and Behavior Program; Michigan State University; East Lansing Michigan 48824 USA
| | - Philip S. Barton
- Fenner School of Environment and Society; Australian National University; Canberra Australian Capital Territory 2601 Australia
| | | | - James C. Beasley
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory and Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources; University of Georgia; Aiken South Carolina 29802 USA
| | - Travis L. DeVault
- U.S. Department of Agriculture; National Wildlife Research Center; Sandusky Ohio 44870 USA
| | | | | | - Heather R. Jordan
- Department of Biological Sciences; Mississippi State University; Mississippi Mississippi 39762 USA
| | - Jennifer L. Pechal
- Department of Entomology; Michigan State University; East Lansing Michigan 48824 USA
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Soil chemistry changes beneath decomposing cadavers over a one-year period. Forensic Sci Int 2018; 286:155-165. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2018.02.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2017] [Revised: 02/16/2018] [Accepted: 02/28/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
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Singh B, Minick KJ, Strickland MS, Wickings KG, Crippen TL, Tarone AM, Benbow ME, Sufrin N, Tomberlin JK, Pechal JL. Temporal and Spatial Impact of Human Cadaver Decomposition on Soil Bacterial and Arthropod Community Structure and Function. Front Microbiol 2018; 8:2616. [PMID: 29354106 PMCID: PMC5758501 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2017.02616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2017] [Accepted: 12/14/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
As vertebrate carrion decomposes, there is a release of nutrient-rich fluids into the underlying soil, which can impact associated biological community structure and function. How these changes alter soil biogeochemical cycles is relatively unknown and may prove useful in the identification of carrion decomposition islands that have long lasting, focal ecological effects. This study investigated the spatial (0, 1, and 5 m) and temporal (3-732 days) dynamics of human cadaver decomposition on soil bacterial and arthropod community structure and microbial function. We observed strong evidence of a predictable response to cadaver decomposition that varies over space for soil bacterial and arthropod community structure, carbon (C) mineralization and microbial substrate utilization patterns. In the presence of a cadaver (i.e., 0 m samples), the relative abundance of Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes was greater, while the relative abundance of Acidobacteria, Chloroflexi, Gemmatimonadetes, and Verrucomicrobia was lower when compared to samples at 1 and 5 m. Micro-arthropods were more abundant (15 to 17-fold) in soils collected at 0 m compared to either 1 or 5 m, but overall, micro-arthropod community composition was unrelated to either bacterial community composition or function. Bacterial community structure and microbial function also exhibited temporal relationships, whereas arthropod community structure did not. Cumulative precipitation was more effective in predicting temporal variations in bacterial abundance and microbial activity than accumulated degree days. In the presence of the cadaver (i.e., 0 m samples), the relative abundance of Actinobacteria increased significantly with cumulative precipitation. Furthermore, soil bacterial communities and C mineralization were sensitive to the introduction of human cadavers as they diverged from baseline levels and did not recover completely in approximately 2 years. These data are valuable for understanding ecosystem function surrounding carrion decomposition islands and can be applicable to environmental bio-monitoring and forensic sciences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baneshwar Singh
- Department of Forensic Sciences, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Kevan J. Minick
- Department of Forestry and Environmental Resources, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Michael S. Strickland
- Department of Soil and Water Systems, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID, United States
| | - Kyle G. Wickings
- Department of Entomology, Cornell University, Geneva, NY, United States
| | - Tawni L. Crippen
- Southern Plains Agricultural Research Center, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, College Station, TX, United States
| | - Aaron M. Tarone
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | - M. Eric Benbow
- Department of Entomology and Department of Osteopathic Medical Specialties, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
| | - Ness Sufrin
- Bode Cellmark Forensics, Lorton, VA, United States
| | - Jeffery K. Tomberlin
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | - Jennifer L. Pechal
- Department of Entomology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
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Probst C, Globig A, Knoll B, Conraths FJ, Depner K. Behaviour of free ranging wild boar towards their dead fellows: potential implications for the transmission of African swine fever. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2017; 4:170054. [PMID: 28573011 PMCID: PMC5451812 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.170054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2017] [Accepted: 04/27/2017] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
The behaviour of free ranging wild boar (Sus scrofa) towards carcasses of their conspecifics potentially infected with African swine fever (ASF) may significantly influence the course of an ASF epidemic. This study aims to better understand the behaviour of wild boar towards their dead fellows. Thirty-two wild boar carcasses on nine study sites in northeast Germany were monitored under field conditions by photo-trapping from October 2015 until October 2016. During this period, a total of 122 160 pictures were taken, thereof 16 111 pictures of wild boar. In both winter and summer, wild boar seemed to be particularly interested in the soil next to and underneath the carcasses. About one third of the visits of wild boar led to direct contact with dead conspecifics. The contacts consisted mostly in sniffing and poking on the carcass. Under the given ecological and climatic conditions, there was no evidence for intra-species scavenging. However, piglets were observed several times chewing bare bones once skeletonization of the carcasses was complete. It must be assumed that all these types of contact may represent a risk of transmission. Both the high tenacity of ASF virus and the long time wild boar carcasses can remain in the environment, allow the persistence of the virus for several months or even years. We therefore consider the rapid detection and removal (or destruction on the spot) of contaminated carcasses as an important control measure against ASF in wild boar.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Probst
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Institute of Epidemiology, Südufer 10, 17493 Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
- Author for correspondence: Carolina Probst e-mail:
| | - Anja Globig
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Institute of Epidemiology, Südufer 10, 17493 Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Bent Knoll
- Universitäts- und Hansestadt Greifswald, Markt 15, 17489 Greifswald, Germany
| | - Franz J. Conraths
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Institute of Epidemiology, Südufer 10, 17493 Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Klaus Depner
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Institute of Epidemiology, Südufer 10, 17493 Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
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