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Carter S, Mills C, Hao Z, Mott R, Hauser CE, White M, Sharples J, Taylor J, Moore JL. Spatial prioritization for widespread invasive species control: Trade-offs between current impact and future spread. ECOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS : A PUBLICATION OF THE ECOLOGICAL SOCIETY OF AMERICA 2024:e2982. [PMID: 38831569 DOI: 10.1002/eap.2982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
Spatially explicit prioritization of invasive species control is a complex issue, requiring consideration of trade-offs between immediate and future benefits. This study aimed to prioritize management efforts to account for current and future threats from widespread invasions and examine the strength of the trade-off between these different management goals. As a case study, we identified spatially explicit management priorities for the widespread invasion of introduced willow into riparian and wetland habitats across a 102,145-km2 region in eastern Australia. In addition to targeting places where willow threatens biodiversity now, a second set of management goals was to limit reinfestation and further spread that could occur via two different mechanisms (downstream and by wind). A model of likely willow distribution across the region was combined with spatial data for biodiversity (native vegetation, threatened species and communities), ecological conditions, management costs, and two potential dispersal layers. We used systematic conservation planning software (Zonation) to prioritize where willow management should be focussed across more than 100,000 catchments for a range of different scenarios that reflected different weights between management goals. For willow invasion, we found that we could prioritize willow management to reduce the future threat of dispersal downstream with little reduction in the protection of biodiversity. However, accounting for future threats from wind dispersal resulted in a stronger trade-off with protection of threatened biodiversity. The strongest trade-off was observed when both dispersal mechanisms were considered together. This study shows that considering current and future goals together offers the potential to substantially improve conservation outcomes for invasive species management. Our approach also informs land managers about the relative trade-offs among different management goals under different control scenarios, helping to make management decisions more transparent. This approach can be used for other widespread invasive species to help improve invasive species management decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Carter
- School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Catherine Mills
- School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Zhenhua Hao
- School of Science, UNSW Canberra, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
- Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences, Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Rowan Mott
- School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Cindy E Hauser
- Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Matthew White
- Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jason Sharples
- School of Science, UNSW Canberra, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - John Taylor
- School of Science, UNSW Canberra, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Joslin L Moore
- School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
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2
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Majumdar A, Avishek K. Assessing heavy metal and physiochemical pollution load of Danro River and its management using floating bed remediation. Sci Rep 2024; 14:9885. [PMID: 38688947 PMCID: PMC11061306 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-60511-x] [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: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
River Danro in Garhwa (India) plays a vital role as a significant source of surface water and a crucial tributary of the North Koel River, ultimately joining the Ganga River Basin. Serving both urban-industrial and rural areas, the region faces challenges, including sand mining near Belchampa Ghat. This study aimed to assess physicochemical and heavy metals pollution at nine sampling locations, utilizing the Overall Index of Pollution (OIP), Nemerow Pollution Index (NPI), and Heavy Metal Pollution Index (HPI). OIP values indicated excellent surface water quality (0.71) in non-monsoon and slight pollution (6.28) in monsoon. NPI ranged from 0.10 to 1.74 in non-monsoon and from 0.22 (clean) to 27.15 (heavily polluted) in monsoon. HPI results suggested groundwater contamination, particularly by lead. Principal component analysis (PCA) and geospatial mapping showed similar outcomes, highlighting the influence of adjacent land use on water quality. Recognizing the significance of the Danro River in sustaining life, livelihoods, and economic growth, the study recommends implementing measures like floating bed remediation and regulatory actions for effective river management. The study acknowledges weaknesses in the current practical assessment methods for water contamination. These weaknesses make it difficult to put plans for cleaning up and controlling contamination into action. Because of this, future research on developing new in-place remediation techniques should focus on creating better ways to measure how effective the cleanup is.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aditi Majumdar
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Birla Institute of Technology Mesra, Ranchi, 835215, Jharkhand, India
| | - Kirti Avishek
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Birla Institute of Technology Mesra, Ranchi, 835215, Jharkhand, India.
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Vollert SA, Drovandi C, Adams MP. Unlocking ensemble ecosystem modelling for large and complex networks. PLoS Comput Biol 2024; 20:e1011976. [PMID: 38483981 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1011976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The potential effects of conservation actions on threatened species can be predicted using ensemble ecosystem models by forecasting populations with and without intervention. These model ensembles commonly assume stable coexistence of species in the absence of available data. However, existing ensemble-generation methods become computationally inefficient as the size of the ecosystem network increases, preventing larger networks from being studied. We present a novel sequential Monte Carlo sampling approach for ensemble generation that is orders of magnitude faster than existing approaches. We demonstrate that the methods produce equivalent parameter inferences, model predictions, and tightly constrained parameter combinations using a novel sensitivity analysis method. For one case study, we demonstrate a speed-up from 108 days to 6 hours, while maintaining equivalent ensembles. Additionally, we demonstrate how to identify the parameter combinations that strongly drive feasibility and stability, drawing ecological insight from the ensembles. Now, for the first time, larger and more realistic networks can be practically simulated and analysed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A Vollert
- Centre for Data Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- School of Mathematical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Christopher Drovandi
- Centre for Data Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- School of Mathematical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Matthew P Adams
- Centre for Data Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- School of Mathematical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- School of Chemical Engineering, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia
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4
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Świerszcz S, Czarniecka-Wiera M, Szymura TH, Szymura M. From invasive species stand to species-rich grassland: Long-term changes in plant species composition during Solidago invaded site restoration. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 353:120216. [PMID: 38290260 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.120216] [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: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
Biological invasions degrade ecosystems, negatively affecting human well-being and biodiversity. Restoration of invaded agricultural ecosystems is among specific goals of European Union Biodiversity Strategy. Successful restoration of invaded lands is a long-term process that requires monitoring to assess the effects of interventions. Here, we present the results of a long-term experiment (8 years) on restoration of semi-natural grassland on abandoned arable field overgrown by invasive Solidago species (S. gigantea and S. canadensis). We examined effect of different invaders removal methods (rototilling, turf stripping, herbicide application) and seed application practices (commercial seed mixture, fresh hay) on changes in species composition and taxonomic diversity of restored vegetation. Our results showed a positive effect of grassland restoration on taxonomic diversity and species composition, manifested by a decrease in Solidago cover and an increase in cover and richness of target graminoids and forbs characteristic of grassland. The seed source had a longer lasting and still observable effect on the vegetation composition than the Solidago removal treatments, which ceased to differ significantly in their influence after the first few years. Applying fresh hay as a seed source increased the cover of grassland species such as Arrhenatherum elatius and Poa pratensis. For commercial seed mixture, we observed the high cover of Lolium perenne and Schedonorus pratensis (introduced with seed mixture) at the beginning and the slow decrease along the experiment course. The most striking effect was the fresh hay with herbicide application, which resulted in the lowest Solidago cover and the highest cover of target graminoids. Nonetheless, with years the non-chemical methods, including no treatment, gives comparable to herbicide effectiveness of restoration. Overall, during the experiment, alpha diversity increased, while beta and gamma diversity reached a species maximum in the third year, and then decreased. In conclusion, this study gives guidance to successful restoration of species-rich grasslands on sites invaded by Solidago. It should be emphasised that short-term effect differ considerably from long-term outputs, especially highlighting the importance of seed source, as well as effectiveness of environmentally friendly methods such as regular mowing to control the invader.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Świerszcz
- Institute of Agroecology and Plant Production, Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Grunwaldzki Sq 24a, 50-363, Wrocław, Poland; Botanical Garden, Center for Biological Diversity Conservation, Polish Academy of Sciences, Prawdziwka 2, 02-976, Warszawa, Poland.
| | - Marta Czarniecka-Wiera
- Institute of Agroecology and Plant Production, Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Grunwaldzki Sq 24a, 50-363, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Tomasz H Szymura
- Botanical Garden, University of Wrocław, Przybyszewskiego 63, 51-148, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Magdalena Szymura
- Institute of Agroecology and Plant Production, Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Grunwaldzki Sq 24a, 50-363, Wrocław, Poland
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Bird JP, Fuller RA, Shaw JD. Patterns of recovery in extant and extirpated seabirds after the world's largest multipredator eradication. CONSERVATION BIOLOGY : THE JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR CONSERVATION BIOLOGY 2024:e14239. [PMID: 38375602 DOI: 10.1111/cobi.14239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
Eradicating invasive predators from islands can result in substantial recovery of seabirds, but the mechanisms that drive population changes remain poorly understood. Meta-analyses have recently revealed that immigration is surprisingly important to the recovery of philopatric seabirds, but it is not known whether dispersal and philopatry interact predictably to determine rates of population growth and changes of distribution. We used whole-island surveys and long-term monitoring plots to study the abundance, distribution, and trends of 4 burrowing seabird species on Macquarie Island, Australia, to examine the legacy impacts of invasive species and ongoing responses to the world's largest eradication of multiple species of vertebrates. Wekas (Gallirallus australis) were eradicated in 1988; cats (Felis catus) in 2001; and rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus), black rats (Rattus rattus), and mice (Mus mus) in 2011-2014. We compared surveys from 1976-1979 and 2017-2018 and monitoring from the 1990s and 2000s onward. Antarctic prions (Pachyptila desolata) and white-headed petrels (Pterodroma lessonii) increased ∼1% per year. Blue petrels (Halobaena caerulea) and gray petrels (Procellaria cinerea) recolonized following extirpation from the main island in the 1900s but remained spatially and numerically rare in 2018. However, they increased rapidly at 14% and 10% per year, respectively, since cat eradication in 2001. Blue and gray petrel recolonization occurred on steep, dry, west-facing slopes close to ridgelines at low elevation (i.e., high-quality petrel habitat). They overlapped <5% with the distribution of Antarctic prion and white-headed petrels which occurred in suboptimal shallow, wet, east-facing slopes at high elevation. We inferred that the speed of population growth of recolonizing species was related to their numerically smaller starting size compared with the established species and was driven by immigration and selection of ideal habitat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy P Bird
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Richard A Fuller
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Justine D Shaw
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
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6
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Vera-Escalona I, Brante A. A simulation study evaluating how population survival and genetic diversity in a newly established population can be affected by propagule size, extinction rates, and initial heterozygosity. PeerJ 2024; 12:e16628. [PMID: 38239294 PMCID: PMC10795529 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.16628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
The introduction and establishment of invasive species in regions outside their native range, is one of the major threats for the conservation of ecosystems, affecting native organisms and the habitat where they live in, causing substantial biological and monetary losses worldwide. Due to the impact of invasive species, it is important to understand what makes some species more invasive than others. Here, by simulating populations using a forward-in-time approach combining ecological and single polymorphic nucleotides (SNPs) we evaluated the relation between propagule size (number of individuals = 2, 10, 100, and 1,000), extinction rate (with values 2%, 5%, 10%, and 20%), and initial heterozygosity (0.1, 0.3, and 0.5) on the population survival and maintenance of the heterozygosity of a simulated invasive crab species over 30 generations assuming a single introduction. Our results revealed that simulated invasive populations with initial propagule sizes of 2-1,000 individuals experiencing a high extinction rate (10-20% per generation) were able to maintain over 50% of their initial heterozygosity during the first generations and that under scenarios with lower extinction rates invasive populations with initial propagule sizes of 10-1,000 individuals can survive up to 30 generations and maintain 60-100% of their initial heterozygosity. Our results can help other researchers better understand, how species with small propagule sizes and low heterozygosities can become successful invaders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iván Vera-Escalona
- Departamento de Ecología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Católica de la Santísima Concepción, Concepción, BioBío, Chile
- Centro de Investigación en Biodiversidad y Ambientes Sustentables (CIBAS), Universidad Católica de la Santísima Concepción, Concepción, BioBío, Chile
| | - Antonio Brante
- Departamento de Ecología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Católica de la Santísima Concepción, Concepción, BioBío, Chile
- Centro de Investigación en Biodiversidad y Ambientes Sustentables (CIBAS), Universidad Católica de la Santísima Concepción, Concepción, BioBío, Chile
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7
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Torres A, Kuebbing SE, Stuble KL, Catella SA, Núñez MA, Rodriguez-Cabal MA. Inverse priority effects: A role for historical contingency during species losses. Ecol Lett 2024; 27:e14360. [PMID: 38183675 DOI: 10.1111/ele.14360] [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: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/08/2024]
Abstract
Communities worldwide are losing multiple species at an unprecedented rate, but how communities reassemble after these losses is often an open question. It is well established that the order and timing of species arrival during community assembly shapes forthcoming community composition and function. Yet, whether the order and timing of species losses can lead to divergent community trajectories remains largely unexplored. Here, we propose a novel framework that sets testable hypotheses on the effects of the order and timing of species losses-inverse priority effects-and suggests its integration into the study of community assembly. We propose that the order and timing of species losses within a community can generate alternative reassembly trajectories, and suggest mechanisms that may underlie these inverse priority effects. To formalize these concepts quantitatively, we used a three-species Lotka-Volterra competition model, enabling to investigate conditions in which the order of species losses can lead to divergent reassembly trajectories. The inverse priority effects framework proposed here promotes the systematic study of the dynamics of species losses from ecological communities, ultimately aimed to better understand community reassembly and guide management decisions in light of rapid global change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agostina Torres
- Grupo de Ecología de Invasiones, INIBIOMA, Universidad Nacional del Comahue, CONICET, San Carlos de Bariloche, Río Negro, Argentina
| | - Sara E Kuebbing
- The Forest School at the Yale School of the Environment, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | | | - Samantha A Catella
- Institute of the Environment and Sustainability, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Martín A Núñez
- Grupo de Ecología de Invasiones, INIBIOMA, Universidad Nacional del Comahue, CONICET, San Carlos de Bariloche, Río Negro, Argentina
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Mariano A Rodriguez-Cabal
- Grupo de Ecología de Invasiones, INIBIOMA, Universidad Nacional del Comahue, CONICET, San Carlos de Bariloche, Río Negro, Argentina
- Rubenstein School of Environment and Natural Resources, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, USA
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Abeysinghe N, Guerrero AM, Rhodes JR, McDonald-Madden E, O'Bryan CJ. How success is evaluated in collaborative invasive species management: A systematic review. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023; 348:119272. [PMID: 37862887 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.119272] [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: 07/02/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
Invasive species are one of the most pressing global challenges for biodiversity and agriculture. They can cause species extinctions, ecosystem alterations, crop damage, and spread harmful diseases across broad regions. Overcoming this challenge requires collaborative management efforts that span multiple land tenures and jurisdictions. Despite evidence on the importance and approaches to collaboration, there is little understanding of how success is evaluated in the invasive species management literature. This is a major gap, considering evaluating success is crucial for enhancing the efficacy of future management projects. To overcome this knowledge gap, we systematically reviewed the published literature to identify the stages at which success is evaluated - that is, the Process stage (collaborative management actions and Processes), Outputs stage (results of management actions to protect environmental, economic, and social values) and Outcomes stage (effects of Outputs on environmental, economic, and social values) of collaborative invasive species management projects. We also assessed what indicators were used to identify success and whether these evaluations vary across different characteristics of collaborative invasive species management. Our literature search detected 1406 papers, of which 58 met our selection criteria. Out of these, the majority of papers evaluated success across two stages (n = 25, 43.1%), whereas only ten (17.2%) papers evaluated success across all stages. Outputs were the most commonly evaluated stage (n = 40, 68.9%). The most widely used indicators of success for these stages included increased collaboration of stakeholders (Process stage), the number of captured/eradicated/controlled invasive species (Outputs stage) and change in biodiversity values, such as the number of threatened species (Outcomes stage). Most indicators of success were environmentally focused. We highlight the need to align the indicators of success and evaluation stages with the fundamental objectives of the projects to increase the effectiveness of evaluations and thereby maximise the benefits of collaborative invasive species management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nisansala Abeysinghe
- School of the Environment, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia; Centre for Biodiversity and Conservation Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia.
| | - Angela M Guerrero
- School of Architecture and Built Environment, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4000, Australia
| | - Jonathan R Rhodes
- School of the Environment, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia; Centre for Biodiversity and Conservation Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Eve McDonald-Madden
- School of the Environment, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia; Centre for Biodiversity and Conservation Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Christopher J O'Bryan
- School of the Environment, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia; Centre for Biodiversity and Conservation Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
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Marchessaux G, Chevalier C, Mangano MC, Sarà G. Larval connectivity of the invasive blue crabs Callinectes sapidus and Portunus segnis in the Mediterranean Sea: A step toward improved cross border management. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 194:115272. [PMID: 37442052 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115272] [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: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
The two invasive blue crabs, Callinectes sapidus and Portunus segnis have spread rapidly in the Mediterranean and no data exists on the connectivity of populations. Determining the source and recruitment areas is crucial to prioritize where population control measures should be put into immediate action. We simulated the dispersal of blue crab larvae using a Lagrangian model coupled at high resolution to estimate the potential connectivity of blue crab populations over a 3-year period. Our results reveal that the main areas at risk are the Spanish, French, Italian Tyrrhenian and Sardinian coasts for Callinectes sapidus with high populations connectivity. Tunisia and Egypt represent high auto recruitment zones for Portunus segnis restricted to the central and western basins. This study provides an overview of the connectivity between populations and will help define priority areas that require the urgent implementation of management measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillaume Marchessaux
- Laboratory of Ecology, Department of Earth and Marine Science (DiSTeM), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy; NBFC, National Biodiversity Future Center, Piazza Marina 61, 90133 Palermo, Italy.
| | | | - Maria Cristina Mangano
- NBFC, National Biodiversity Future Center, Piazza Marina 61, 90133 Palermo, Italy; Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Dipartimento Ecologia Marina Integrata, Sicily Marine Center, Lungomare Cristoforo Colombo (complesso Roosevelt), 90142 Palermo, Italy
| | - Gianluca Sarà
- Laboratory of Ecology, Department of Earth and Marine Science (DiSTeM), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy; NBFC, National Biodiversity Future Center, Piazza Marina 61, 90133 Palermo, Italy
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10
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Dean EK, Drake DAR, Mandrak NE. Non-linear effects on the population performance of Bighead Carp under different maturation schedules. Biol Invasions 2023; 25:3567-3581. [PMID: 37743906 PMCID: PMC10514160 DOI: 10.1007/s10530-023-03126-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Bighead Carp currently threatens to invade the Laurentian Great Lakes from the Mississippi River, but the novel climatic conditions it will encounter by expanding northwards could affect its population performance. Bighead Carp in colder climates exhibits slower growth and matures later, with later maturation typically leading to larger adult size and increased fecundity and survival. Accordingly, the life-history strategies of Bighead Carp at its northern range limits could differ from those observed in its current invaded range. To explore how population performance could differ across changing environmental conditions, we used a stage- and age-based matrix population model parameterized with values reported for Bighead Carp populations around the world. The model was used to evaluate how different ages of maturity and their resulting impacts to body size, survival, and fecundity could impact rates of population growth and establishment. Age of maturity had a non-linear effect on population growth, with maturation at intermediate ages (4-6 years) resulting in better performance. However, performance differed less between maturation ages when fecundity was allowed to increase disproportionately with body size. Greater population growth at younger ages of maturity suggest that invasion at lower latitudes could enable establishment in fewer years due to faster rates of development in warmer temperatures. Across all maturation schedules, population growth was most sensitive to the recruitment of age-1 individuals and least sensitive to adult survival, and vital rates overall varied more in their contribution to population growth at younger ages of maturity. Thus, understanding the factors that control age-1 recruitment would inform projections of population performance for Bighead Carp in the Laurentian Great Lakes. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10530-023-03126-z.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik K. Dean
- Department of Physical and Environmental Sciences, University of Toronto Scarborough, 1265 Military Trail, Toronto, ON M1C 1A4 Canada
| | - D. Andrew R. Drake
- Great Lakes Laboratory for Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, 867 Lakeshore Rd., Burlington, ON L7S 1A1 Canada
| | - Nicholas E. Mandrak
- Department of Physical and Environmental Sciences, University of Toronto Scarborough, 1265 Military Trail, Toronto, ON M1C 1A4 Canada
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Toronto Scarborough, 1265 Military Trail, Toronto, ON M1C 1A4 Canada
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11
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Szydlowski DK, Elgin AK, Lodge DM, Tiemann JS, Larson ER. Long-term macrophyte and snail community responses to population declines of invasive rusty crayfish (Faxonius rusticus). ECOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS : A PUBLICATION OF THE ECOLOGICAL SOCIETY OF AMERICA 2023; 33:e2818. [PMID: 36772970 DOI: 10.1002/eap.2818] [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: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
A central focus of invasive species research has been on human efforts to eradicate invaders or reduce their abundance to mitigate the worst of their impacts. In some cases, however, populations of invasive species decline without human intervention, which may inform management responses to these invaders. Such is the case of the invasive rusty crayfish (Faxonius rusticus) in northern Wisconsin, USA, where systematic population monitoring since 1975 has revealed population declines in approximately half of the lakes surveyed. Population declines of invasive species without human intervention remain understudied, but there is even less research on how communities respond following such declines. Using 10 lakes in Vilas County, Wisconsin, we investigated community recovery of habitat (macrophytes) and prey (freshwater snails) of F. rusticus following up to 33 years of declines of this invader in some lakes using a dataset with a rare, long-term span over which consistent data were collected (1987, 2002, 2011, and 2020). We compared community responses in lakes where F. rusticus populations reached a peak and subsequently declined (boom-bust lakes) and lakes where our dataset only captured the decline of F. rusticus (bust lakes) to reference lakes with consistently high or low crayfish abundance over time. We found partial recovery of macrophytes and snails in the bust and boom-bust lakes where F. rusticus has declined, with recovery of macrophyte abundance and richness in the boom-bust lakes achieving levels observed in the low-crayfish reference lakes. Snail abundance and richness increased after declines of F. rusticus, though not to the level of the low-crayfish reference lakes, suggesting that snail recovery may lag macrophyte recovery because snails are dependent on macrophytes and associated periphyton for habitat. The recovery we document potentially represents long-term ecosystem resilience of lakes to biological invasions. Our results suggest that lake communities may recover without active restoration interventions after invasive crayfish population declines, although identifying which lakes experience these natural declines remains a priority for future research and management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel K Szydlowski
- Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Ashley K Elgin
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory, Muskegon, Michigan, USA
| | - David M Lodge
- Cornell Atkinson Center for Sustainability, and Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Jeremy S Tiemann
- Illinois Natural History Survey, Prairie Research Institute, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Eric R Larson
- Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, Illinois, USA
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12
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Walsh GC, Sosa AJ, Mc Kay F, Maestro M, Hill M, Hinz HL, Paynter Q, Pratt PD, Raghu S, Shaw R, Tipping PW, Winston RL. Is Biological Control of Weeds Conservation’s Blind Spot? THE QUARTERLY REVIEW OF BIOLOGY 2023. [DOI: 10.1086/723930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
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13
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Quiroga MP, Vidal-Russell R, Nuñez C, Fernández Cánepa G, Speziale K. Interacciones efectivas entre academia y gestión: participación de voluntarios para el control de una hiedra invasora en Puerto Blest, Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi (Argentina). BOLETÍN DE LA SOCIEDAD ARGENTINA DE BOTÁNICA 2023. [DOI: 10.31055/1851.2372.v58.n1.38455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Introducción y objetivos: Las prácticas de manejo de especies no-nativas e invasoras es tema prioritario en áreas protegidas, en especial en estadios tempranos de invasión, porque facilita la recuperación de sistemas nativos. Aquí presentamos una metodología para el control de una planta trepadora invasora, Hedera helix (Araliaceae).
M&M: Se realizó remoción manual y la disposición de los residuos se compostó en bolsas en el lugar. Luego se monitoreó la regeneración natural del bosque nativo. La propuesta incluye la convocatoria de voluntarios, enmarcados en un proyecto de investigación y extensión de la Universidad Nacional Comahue Bariloche con la colaboración de la Administración de Parques Nacionales.
Resultados: Desde 2019 participaron 47 voluntarios, se extrajeron 870 kg (peso húmedo) de material de cinco de los seis sitios identificados. Dos de los cinco sitios intervenidos se encuentran en la etapa de monitoreo de especies nativas.
Conclusión: La participación de voluntarios resultó efectiva en términos de las acciones de control manual, al estar los sitios controlados. De esta manera, se está logrando con éxito un mínimo impacto negativo sobre el entorno, al menos en las especies de plantas, evidenciado por una rápida recolonización pasiva de especies nativas y la eliminación la especie invasora en los sitios intervenidos. En particular, este modo de trabajo permite crear conciencia del problema de las invasiones biológicas en la comunidad y en futuros profesionales. También fortalece las relaciones entre instituciones vinculando la academia con la gestión en conservación, un aspecto a veces difícil de lograr.
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Dutra FB, Almeida LS, Pinto GCV, Furlaneto LF, Souza TKS, Viveiros E, Piotrowski I, Piña-Rodrigues FCM, Silva JMS. Pre-emergent indaziflam can enhance forest seed germination in direct seeding? BRAZ J BIOL 2023; 83:e268716. [PMID: 37042910 DOI: 10.1590/1519-6984.268716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Pre-emergent herbicides can contribute to the control of weed competition in direct seeding restoration, however it is necessary to evaluate their effects on seeds of native tropical forest species. The aim of the study was to assess the potential impact of the herbicide indaziflam on the germination of 17 forest species. For this, a dosage of 180 mL of the product in 200L of water was compared to the control without herbicide. The degree of sensitivity of each species was calculated by a ratio between the percentage of germination with herbicide (GH) and the control without herbicide (GC) classifying them as: extremely sensitive (ES= (GH/GC) <0.25), sensitive (S=0.25< (GH/GC) <0.50), low sensitivity (LS=0.50< (GH/GC) <0.75), indifferent (I=0.75< (GH/GC) <1.0) and potentiated (P= (GH/GC) >1). The herbicide promoted a significant reduction in mean germination in 35% (n=6) of the species and 59% (n = 10) were sensitive or extremely sensitive to indaziflam, and only three did not germinate. On the other hand, 29.4% (n=5) showed low sensitivity or indifference to the herbicide, while seed germination was slightly increased by indaziflam to 11.7% (n=2). Pre-emergent indaziflam can be recommended in direct seeding restoration, as only 17.6% (n=3) of the species were inhibited by pre-emergent. However, the effect of indaziflam varies by species and requires further studies to support large-scale use in direct seeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- F B Dutra
- Universidade Federal de São Carlos - UFSCar, Programa de Pós-graduação em Planejamento e Uso de Recursos Renováveis, Sorocaba, SP, Brasil
| | - L S Almeida
- Universidade Federal de Viçosa - UFV, Departamento de Engenharia Florestal, Viçosa, MG, Brasil
| | - G C V Pinto
- Universidade Federal de São Carlos - UFSCar, Graduação em Engenharia Florestal, Sorocaba, SP, Brasil
| | - L F Furlaneto
- Universidade Federal de São Carlos - UFSCar, Graduação em Engenharia Florestal, Sorocaba, SP, Brasil
| | - T K S Souza
- Universidade Federal de São Carlos - UFSCar, Graduação em Engenharia Florestal, Sorocaba, SP, Brasil
| | - E Viveiros
- Universidade Federal de São Carlos - UFSCar, Programa de Pós-graduação em Planejamento e Uso de Recursos Renováveis, Sorocaba, SP, Brasil
- AES Brasil, Bauru, SP, Brasil
| | - I Piotrowski
- Universidade Federal de São Carlos - UFSCar, Departamento de Ciências Ambientais, Sorocaba, SP, Brasil
| | - F C M Piña-Rodrigues
- Universidade Federal de São Carlos - UFSCar, Departamento de Ciências Ambientais, Sorocaba, SP, Brasil
| | - J M S Silva
- Universidade Federal de São Carlos - UFSCar, Departamento de Ciências Ambientais, Sorocaba, SP, Brasil
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Clark‐Wolf TJ, Hahn PG, Brelsford E, Francois J, Hayes N, Larkin B, Ramsey P, Pearson DE. Preventing a series of unfortunate events: using qualitative models to improve conservation. J Appl Ecol 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/1365-2664.14231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- T. J. Clark‐Wolf
- Wildlife Biology Program, Department of Ecosystem and Conservation Sciences, W.A. Franke College of Forestry and Conservation University of Montana Missoula, MT 59812 USA
- Current Address: Center for Ecosystem Sentinels, Department of Biology University of Washington Seattle, WA 98195 USA
| | - Philip G. Hahn
- Department of Entomology and Nematology University of Florida Gainesville, FL 32608 USA
| | - Eric Brelsford
- Stamen, 2017 Mission St Suite 300 San Francisco, CA 94110 USA
| | - Jaleen Francois
- Stamen, 2017 Mission St Suite 300 San Francisco, CA 94110 USA
| | - Nicolette Hayes
- Stamen, 2017 Mission St Suite 300 San Francisco, CA 94110 USA
| | - Beau Larkin
- MPG Ranch, 19400 Lower Woodchuck Road Florence, MT 59833 USA
| | - Philip Ramsey
- MPG Ranch, 19400 Lower Woodchuck Road Florence, MT 59833 USA
| | - Dean E. Pearson
- Rocky Mountain Research Station, U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service Missoula, MT 59801 USA
- Division of Biological Sciences University of Montana Missoula, MT 59812 USA
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16
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Johnson CJ, Ray JC, St‐Laurent M. Efficacy and ethics of intensive predator management to save endangered caribou. CONSERVATION SCIENCE AND PRACTICE 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/csp2.12729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Chris J. Johnson
- Ecosystem Science and Management University of Northern British Columbia Prince George British Columbia Canada
| | - Justina C. Ray
- Wildlife Conservation Society Canada Toronto Ontario Canada
| | - Martin‐Hugues St‐Laurent
- Département de Biologie, Chimie et Géographie Université du Québec à Rimouski, Centre for Forest Research, Centre for Northern Studies Rimouski Québec Canada
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17
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Izadi F, Chamani A, Zamani-Ahmadmahmoodi R. How vegetation cover characteristics response to the spread of Prosopis juliflora: a time-series remote sensing analysis in southern Iran. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2022; 194:401. [PMID: 35505172 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-022-09888-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Plant invasion is recognized as the second most severe threat to biodiversity, following habitat loss. As one of the world's worst invasive alien plant species, Prosopis juliflora (Mesquite) has severely affected the majority of the Earth's dry ecosystems. Hence, this study attempted to identify the distribution, dominance, and changes in the vegetation characteristics of Mesquite-invaded regions along a series of coastal ecosystems in Southern Iran. Mesquite and other tree/shrub types were successfully classified using a temporarily-median-filtered Landsat 8-OLI image with acceptable kappa coefficient and overall accuracy values of 80.66 and 84.75, respectively. The multi-resolution segmentation was used to divide the region into spectrally homogenous parcels, then calculating the percentage cover (dominance) of Mesquite relative to other tree/shrub types. Analysis of MODIS NDVI products in highly invaded parcels showed a steady increase in NDVI values from 0.27 to 0.53 during 2000-2020 with a significant difference (z = -3.12, 0.183, sig ≤ .05, 2-tailed) from that of the low-invaded regions whose NDVI values oscillated constantly in a range between 0.15 and 0.28. Mesquite distribution also showed a local invasion pattern from areas with a steady or saturated status to neighboring parcels. In regions susceptible to Mesquite invasion, constant investigation of uncommon changes in NDVI whose vegetation characteristics differ significantly from that expected in poor dry vegetation covers of southern Iran can be considered as a conservation tool to identify and manage areas with early Mesquite establishment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Izadi
- Islamic Azad University, Isfahan(Khorasgan)Branch, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Atefeh Chamani
- Islamic Azad University, Isfahan(Khorasgan)Branch, Isfahan, Iran.
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18
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Plein M, O'Brien KR, Holden MH, Adams MP, Baker CM, Bean NG, Sisson SA, Bode M, Mengersen KL, McDonald‐Madden E. Modeling total predation to avoid perverse outcomes from cat control in a data-poor island ecosystem. CONSERVATION BIOLOGY : THE JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR CONSERVATION BIOLOGY 2022; 36:e13916. [PMID: 35352431 PMCID: PMC9804458 DOI: 10.1111/cobi.13916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Data hungry, complex ecosystem models are often used to predict the consequences of threatened species management, including perverse outcomes. Unfortunately, this approach is impractical in many systems, which have insufficient data to parameterize ecosystem interactions or reliably calibrate or validate such models. Here we demonstrate a different approach, using a minimum realistic model to guide decisions in data- and resource-scarce systems. We illustrate our approach with a case-study in an invaded ecosystem from Christmas Island, Australia, where there are concerns that cat eradication to protect native species, including the red-tailed tropicbird, could release meso-predation by invasive rats. We use biophysical constraints (metabolic demand) and observable parameters (e.g. prey preferences) to assess the combined cat and rat abundances which would threaten the tropicbird population. We find that the population of tropicbirds cannot be sustained if predated by 1607 rats (95% credible interval (CI) [103, 5910]) in the absence of cats, or 21 cats (95% CI [2, 82]) in the absence of rats. For every cat removed from the island, the bird's net population growth rate improves, provided that the rats do not increase by more than 77 individuals (95% CI [30, 174]). Thus, in this context, one cat is equivalent to 30-174 rats. Our methods are especially useful for on-the-ground predator control in the absence of knowledge of predator-predator interactions, to assess whether 1) the current abundance of predators threatens the prey population of interest, 2) managing one predator species alone is sufficient to protect the prey species given potential release of another predator, and 3) control of multiple predator species is needed to meet the conservation goal. Our approach demonstrates how to use limited information for maximum value in data-poor systems, by shifting the focus from predicting future trajectories, to identifying conditions which threaten the conservation goal. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michaela Plein
- School of Earth and Environmental ScienceUniversity of QueenslandSt LuciaQueenslandAustralia
- Centre for Biodiversity and Conservation ScienceUniversity of QueenslandSt LuciaQueenslandAustralia
- Administration de la nature et des forêtsDiekirchLuxembourg
| | - Katherine R. O'Brien
- School of Chemical EngineeringUniversity of QueenslandSt LuciaQueenslandAustralia
| | - Matthew H. Holden
- Centre for Biodiversity and Conservation ScienceUniversity of QueenslandSt LuciaQueenslandAustralia
- School of Biological SciencesUniversity of QueenslandBrisbaneQueenslandAustralia
- School of Mathematics and PhysicsUniversity of QueenslandBrisbaneQueenslandAustralia
| | - Matthew P. Adams
- School of Earth and Environmental ScienceUniversity of QueenslandSt LuciaQueenslandAustralia
- Centre for Biodiversity and Conservation ScienceUniversity of QueenslandSt LuciaQueenslandAustralia
- School of Chemical EngineeringUniversity of QueenslandSt LuciaQueenslandAustralia
- School of Mathematical SciencesQueensland University of TechnologyBrisbaneQueenslandAustralia
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Mathematical and Statistical FrontiersQueensland University of, TechnologyBrisbaneQueenslandAustralia
| | - Christopher M. Baker
- School of Mathematics and StatisticsThe University of MelbourneParkvilleVictoriaAustralia
- Melbourne Centre for Data ScienceThe University of MelbourneParkvilleVictoriaAustralia
- Centre of Excellence for Biosecurity Risk AnalysisThe University of MelbourneMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Nigel G. Bean
- School of Mathematical SciencesUniversity of AdelaideAdelaideSouth AustraliaAustralia
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Mathematical and Statistical FrontiersUniversity of AdelaideAdelaideSouth AustraliaAustralia
| | - Scott A. Sisson
- School of Mathematics and StatisticsUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
- UNSW Data Science HubUniversity of New SouthWales, SydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Michael Bode
- School of Mathematical SciencesQueensland University of TechnologyBrisbaneQueenslandAustralia
| | - Kerrie L. Mengersen
- School of Mathematical SciencesQueensland University of TechnologyBrisbaneQueenslandAustralia
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Mathematical and Statistical FrontiersQueensland University of, TechnologyBrisbaneQueenslandAustralia
| | - Eve McDonald‐Madden
- School of Earth and Environmental ScienceUniversity of QueenslandSt LuciaQueenslandAustralia
- Centre for Biodiversity and Conservation ScienceUniversity of QueenslandSt LuciaQueenslandAustralia
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19
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Evidence for Negative Impacts on Terrestrial Salamanders following Invasive Plant Removal. J HERPETOL 2022. [DOI: 10.1670/21-018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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20
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Hakkinen H, Petrovan SO, Sutherland WJ, Dias MP, Ameca EI, Oppel S, Ramírez I, Lawson B, Lehikoinen A, Bowgen KM, Taylor N, Pettorelli N. Linking climate change vulnerability research and evidence on conservation action effectiveness to safeguard European seabird populations. J Appl Ecol 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/1365-2664.14133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Henry Hakkinen
- Institute of Zoology, Zoological Society of London London UK
| | - Silviu O. Petrovan
- Department of Zoology Cambridge University, The David Attenborough Building Cambridge UK
| | - William J. Sutherland
- Department of Zoology Cambridge University, The David Attenborough Building Cambridge UK
- Biosecurity Research Initiative at St Catharine's (BioRISC), St Catharine's College University of Cambridge Cambridge UK
| | - Maria P. Dias
- BirdLife International The David Attenborough Building Cambridge UK
- Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes (cE3c) Faculdade de Ciências da Universidade de Lisboa Lisboa Portugal
| | - Eric I. Ameca
- MOE Key Laboratory for Biodiversity Science and Ecological Engineering Beijing Normal University Beijing China
- Climate Change Specialist Group Species Survival Commission, International Union for Conservation of Nature Gland Switzerland
| | - Steffen Oppel
- RSPB Centre of Conservation Science David Attenborough Building Cambridge, Cambridgeshire UK
| | - Iván Ramírez
- Convention on Migratory Species United Campus in Bonn Bonn Germany
| | - Becki Lawson
- Institute of Zoology, Zoological Society of London London UK
| | | | | | - Nigel G. Taylor
- Department of Zoology Cambridge University, The David Attenborough Building Cambridge UK
- Ecological Consultant Cambridge UK
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21
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Altenritter ME, DeBoer JA, Maxson KA, Casper AF, Lamer JT. Ecosystem responses to aquatic invasive species management: A synthesis of two decades of bigheaded carp suppression in a large river. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2022; 305:114354. [PMID: 34954679 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2021.114354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Revised: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/18/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The invasion of silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) and bighead carp (H. nobilis) or "bigheaded carps" has caused extensive ecological and economic harm throughout the Mississippi River and its tributaries. To prevent their continued spread upstream toward the Great Lakes, intense commercial harvest was implemented on the Illinois River, a large tributary that connects the Mississippi River to Lake Michigan. Since implementation, harvest has reduced densities at the invasion front while also presenting an opportunity to generate a synthesis on ecosystem resilience in the face of accelerating invasion. Resilience, the ability of an ecosystem to recover after perturbation, was observed at local scales and within some taxa but has yet to manifest at a river-wide scale and often co-varied with abiotic environmental or seasonal factors. Thus, while intensive harvest has limited further spread of bigheaded carps, and evidence of additional secondary ecosystem benefits exists, opportunities remain to identify potential pathways that could spread such ecosystem benefits even farther.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew E Altenritter
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois Natural History Survey, 704 North Schrader Avenue, Havana, IL, 62644, United States.
| | - Jason A DeBoer
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois Natural History Survey, 704 North Schrader Avenue, Havana, IL, 62644, United States
| | - Kristopher A Maxson
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois Natural History Survey, 704 North Schrader Avenue, Havana, IL, 62644, United States
| | - Andrew F Casper
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois Natural History Survey, 704 North Schrader Avenue, Havana, IL, 62644, United States
| | - James T Lamer
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois Natural History Survey, 704 North Schrader Avenue, Havana, IL, 62644, United States
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22
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Meriggi C, Drakare S, Polaina Lacambra E, Johnson RK, Laugen AT. Species distribution models as a tool for early detection of the invasive Raphidiopsis raciborskii in European lakes. HARMFUL ALGAE 2022; 113:102202. [PMID: 35287933 DOI: 10.1016/j.hal.2022.102202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Revised: 01/29/2022] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
In freshwater habitats, invasive species and the increase of cyanobacterial blooms have been identified as a major cause of biodiversity loss. The invasive cyanobacteria Raphidiopsis raciborskii a toxin-producing and bloom-forming species affecting local biodiversity and ecosystem services is currently expanding its range across Europe. We used species distribution models (SDMs) and regional bioclimatic environmental variables, such as temperature and precipitation, to identify suitable areas for the colonization and survival of R. raciborskii, with special focus on the geographic extent of potential habitats in Northern Europe. SDMs predictions uncovered areas of high occurrence probability of R. raciborskii in locations where it has not been recorded yet, e.g. some areas in Central and Northern Europe. In the southeastern part of Sweden, areas of suitable climate for R. raciborskii corresponded with lakes of high concentrations of total phosphorus, increasing the risk of the species to thrive. To our knowledge, this is the first attempt to predict areas at high risk of R. raciborskii colonization in Europe. The results from this study suggest several areas across Europe that would need monitoring programs to determine if the species is present or not, to be able to prevent its potential colonization and population growth. Regarding an undesirable microorganism like R. raciborskii, authorities may need to start information campaigns to avoid or minimize the spread.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlotta Meriggi
- Department of Aquatic Sciences and Assessment, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Stina Drakare
- Department of Aquatic Sciences and Assessment, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | - Richard K Johnson
- Department of Aquatic Sciences and Assessment, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Ane T Laugen
- Department of Ecology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden; Bioeconomy Research Team, Novia University of Applied Science, Ekenäs, Finland; Current address: Centre for Coastal Research, Department of Natural Sciences, Agder University, Kristiansand, Norway
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23
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Weise EM, Scribner KT, Adams JV, Boeberitz O, Jubar A, Bravener G, Johnson NS, Robinson JD. Pedigree analysis and estimates of effective breeding size characterize sea lamprey reproductive biology. Evol Appl 2022; 15:484-500. [PMID: 35386399 PMCID: PMC8965388 DOI: 10.1111/eva.13364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2020] [Revised: 02/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) is an invasive species in the Great Lakes and the focus of a large control and assessment program. Current assessment methods provide information on the census size of spawning adult sea lamprey in a small number of streams, but information characterizing reproductive success of spawning adults is rarely available. We used RAD-capture sequencing to genotype single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) loci for ~1600 sea lamprey larvae collected from three streams in northern Michigan (Black Mallard, Pigeon, and Ocqueoc Rivers). Larval genotypes were used to reconstruct family pedigrees, which were combined with Gaussian mixture analyses to identify larval age classes for estimation of spawning population size. Two complementary estimates of effective breeding size (N b), as well as the extrapolated minimum number of spawners (N s), were also generated for each cohort. Reconstructed pedigrees highlighted inaccuracies of cohort assignments from traditionally used mixture analyses. However, combining genotype-based pedigree information with length-at-age assignment of cohort membership greatly improved cohort identification accuracy. Population estimates across all three streams sampled in this study indicate a small number of successfully spawning adults when barriers were in operation, implying that barriers limited adult spawning numbers but were not completely effective at blocking access to spawning habitats. Thus, the large numbers of larvae present in sampled systems were a poor indicator of spawning adult abundance. Overall, pedigree-based N b and N s estimates provide a promising and rapid assessment tool for sea lamprey and other species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen M. Weise
- Department of Fisheries and WildlifeMichigan State UniversityEast LansingMichiganUSA
| | - Kim T. Scribner
- Department of Fisheries and WildlifeMichigan State UniversityEast LansingMichiganUSA
- Department of Integrative BiologyMichigan State UniversityEast LansingMichiganUSA
| | - Jean V. Adams
- US Geological Survey ‐ Great Lakes Science CenterAnn ArborMichiganUSA
| | - Olivia Boeberitz
- Department of Fisheries and WildlifeMichigan State UniversityEast LansingMichiganUSA
| | | | - Gale Bravener
- Fisheries and Oceans CanadaSea Lamprey Control CentreSault Ste. MarieOntarioCanada
| | - Nicholas S. Johnson
- US Geological SurveyGreat Lakes Science CenterHammond Bay Biological StationMillersburgMichiganUSA
| | - John D. Robinson
- Department of Fisheries and WildlifeMichigan State UniversityEast LansingMichiganUSA
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Thomson DM, McEachern AK, Schultz EL, Niessen K, Wilken D, Chess K, Cole LF, Oliver RY, Phillips JD, Tucker A. Diverse native island flora shows rapid initial passive recovery after exotic herbivore removal on Santa Rosa Island, California. Biol Invasions 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10530-022-02735-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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25
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Pearson DE, Clark TJ, Hahn PG. Evaluating unintended consequences of intentional species introductions and eradications for improved conservation management. CONSERVATION BIOLOGY : THE JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR CONSERVATION BIOLOGY 2022; 36:e13734. [PMID: 33734489 PMCID: PMC9291768 DOI: 10.1111/cobi.13734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Increasingly intensive strategies to maintain biodiversity and ecosystem function are being deployed in response to global anthropogenic threats, including intentionally introducing and eradicating species via assisted migration, rewilding, biological control, invasive species eradications, and gene drives. These actions are highly contentious because of their potential for unintended consequences. We conducted a global literature review of these conservation actions to quantify how often unintended outcomes occur and to elucidate their underlying causes. To evaluate conservation outcomes, we developed a community assessment framework for systematically mapping the range of possible interaction types for 111 case studies. Applying this tool, we quantified the number of interaction types considered in each study and documented the nature and strength of intended and unintended outcomes. Intended outcomes were reported in 51% of cases, a combination of intended outcomes and unintended outcomes in 26%, and strictly unintended outcomes in 10%. Hence, unintended outcomes were reported in 36% of all cases evaluated. In evaluating overall conservations outcomes (weighing intended vs. unintended effects), some unintended effects were fairly innocuous relative to the conservation objective, whereas others resulted in serious unintended consequences in recipient communities. Studies that assessed a greater number of community interactions with the target species reported unintended outcomes more often, suggesting that unintended consequences may be underreported due to insufficient vetting. Most reported unintended outcomes arose from direct effects (68%) or simple density-mediated or indirect effects (25%) linked to the target species. Only a few documented cases arose from more complex interaction pathways (7%). Therefore, most unintended outcomes involved simple interactions that could be predicted and mitigated through more formal vetting. Our community assessment framework provides a tool for screening future conservation actions by mapping the recipient community interaction web to identify and mitigate unintended outcomes from intentional species introductions and eradications for conservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dean E. Pearson
- Rocky Mountain Research StationU.S. Department of Agriculture Forest ServiceMissoulaMontanaUSA
- Division of Biological SciencesUniversity of MontanaMissoulaMontanaUSA
| | - Tyler J. Clark
- Wildlife Biology Program, Department of Ecosystem and Conservation Sciences, W.A. Franke College of Forestry and ConservationUniversity of MontanaMissoulaMontanaUSA
| | - Philip G. Hahn
- Department of Entomology and NematologyUniversity of FloridaGainesvilleFloridaUSA
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Removal of invasive Scotch broom increases its negative effects on soil chemistry and plant communities. Oecologia 2022; 198:243-254. [PMID: 34981220 DOI: 10.1007/s00442-021-05099-z] [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: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Recovery of ecosystem properties following removal of invasive plants likely varies with characteristics of the plant and the relative soil quality at a given site. These factors may influence the occurrence of soil legacies and secondary invasions, hindering the effectiveness of restoration strategies. We assessed the potential for ecosystem recovery following removal of N-fixing Scotch broom for 4 years at two sites that contrasted strongly in soil quality in western Washington and Oregon, USA. Comparisons were made among plots, where Scotch broom was never present (uninvaded), retained, or removed. Scotch broom removal increased PAR and soil temperature but had limited effects on soil moisture. Concentrations of soil Ca, Mg, K, and P were significantly lower with Scotch broom removal, with the effect being most pronounced at the low-quality site. NMS ordinations indicated that the treatments differed in vegetation composition, with limited recovery following broom removal. Non-native and native species varied inversely in their abundance responses, where non-native species abundance was greatest in the removal treatment, intermediate in the retained treatment, and lowest in the uninvaded treatment, indicating occurrence of a secondary invasion following removal. As with the soil response, effects were more pronounced at the low-quality site. Our findings indicate that Scotch broom removal exacerbates negative effects on soil chemistry and plant communities, with little evidence of recovery over our study period. These findings highlight the importance of controlling Scotch broom invasions immediately after the species establishes, especially on low-quality sites that are more susceptible to Scotch broom invasion.
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Hartley R, Blanchard W, Schroder M, Lindenmayer DB, Sato C, Scheele BC. Exotic herbivores dominate Australian high‐elevation grasslands. CONSERVATION SCIENCE AND PRACTICE 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/csp2.601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Renée Hartley
- Fenner School of Environment and Society, Australian National University Canberra Australia
| | - Wade Blanchard
- Fenner School of Environment and Society, Australian National University Canberra Australia
| | - Mellesa Schroder
- Southern Ranges Branch National Parks and Wildlife Service NSW Jindabyne Australia
| | - David B. Lindenmayer
- Fenner School of Environment and Society, Australian National University Canberra Australia
| | - Chloe Sato
- Fenner School of Environment and Society, Australian National University Canberra Australia
| | - Ben C. Scheele
- Fenner School of Environment and Society, Australian National University Canberra Australia
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Rogosch JS, Olden JD. Comparing opportunistic and strategic removal efforts to manage invasive fish species using a dynamic multi‐state occupancy model. J Appl Ecol 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/1365-2664.14012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jane S. Rogosch
- School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences University of Washington Seattle WA USA
| | - Julian D. Olden
- School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences University of Washington Seattle WA USA
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Burt AJ, Nuno A, Bunbury N. Defining and bridging the barriers to more effective conservation of island ecosystems: A practitioner's perspective. CONSERVATION SCIENCE AND PRACTICE 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/csp2.587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- April J. Burt
- Department of Plant Sciences Oxford University Oxford UK
- Seychelles Islands Foundation Mahé Seychelles
| | - Ana Nuno
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation University of Exeter Penryn UK
- Interdisciplinary Centre of Social Sciences (CICS.NOVA) School of Social Sciences and Humanities (NOVA FCSH), NOVA University Lisbon Lisbon Portugal
| | - Nancy Bunbury
- Seychelles Islands Foundation Mahé Seychelles
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation University of Exeter Penryn UK
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Cordell S, Bardwell-Jones C, Ostertag R, Uowolo A, DiManno N. Species Home-Making in Ecosystems: Toward Place-Based Ecological Metrics of Belonging. Front Ecol Evol 2021. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2021.726571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Globalization has undeniably impacted the Earth’s ecosystems, but it has also influenced how we think about natural systems. Three fourths of the world’s forests are now altered by human activity, which challenges our concepts of native ecosystems. The dichotomies of pristine vs. disturbed as well as our view of native and non-native species, have blurred; allowing us to acknowledge new paradigms about how humans and nature interact. We now understand that the use of militaristic language to define the perceived role of a plant species is holding us back from the fact that novel systems (new combinations of all species) can often provide valuable ecosystem services (i.e., water, carbon, nutrients, cultural, and recreation) for creatures (including humans). In reality, ecosystems exist in a gradient from native to intensely managed – and “non-nativeness” is not always a sign of a species having negative effects. In fact, there are many contemporary examples of non-native species providing critical habitat for endangered species or preventing erosion in human-disturbed watersheds. For example, of the 8,000–10,000 non-native species introduced to Hawai‘i, less than 10% of these are self-sustaining and 90 of those pose a danger to native biota and are considered invasive. In this paper, we explore the native/non-native binary, the impacts of globalization and the political language of invasion through the lens of conservation biology and sociology with a tropical island perspective. This lens gives us the opportunity to offer a place-based approach toward the use of empirical observation of novel species interactions that may help in evaluating management strategies that support biodiversity and ecosystem services. Finally, we offer a first attempt at conceptualizing a site-specific approach to develop “metrics of belonging” within an ecosystem.
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Lamb N, Havens K, Holloway J, Steffen JF, Zeldin J, Kramer AT. Low passive restoration potential following invasive woody species removal in oak woodlands. Restor Ecol 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/rec.13568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nathan Lamb
- Chicago Botanic Garden Negaunee Institute for Plant Conservation Science and Action Glencoe IL 60022 U.S.A
- Program in Plant Biology and Conservation Northwestern University 2205 Tech Drive Evanston IL 60208 U.S.A
| | - Kayri Havens
- Chicago Botanic Garden Negaunee Institute for Plant Conservation Science and Action Glencoe IL 60022 U.S.A
- Program in Plant Biology and Conservation Northwestern University 2205 Tech Drive Evanston IL 60208 U.S.A
| | - Jalen Holloway
- Chicago Botanic Garden Negaunee Institute for Plant Conservation Science and Action Glencoe IL 60022 U.S.A
| | - James F. Steffen
- Chicago Botanic Garden Negaunee Institute for Plant Conservation Science and Action Glencoe IL 60022 U.S.A
| | - Jacob Zeldin
- Chicago Botanic Garden Negaunee Institute for Plant Conservation Science and Action Glencoe IL 60022 U.S.A
| | - Andrea T. Kramer
- Chicago Botanic Garden Negaunee Institute for Plant Conservation Science and Action Glencoe IL 60022 U.S.A
- Program in Plant Biology and Conservation Northwestern University 2205 Tech Drive Evanston IL 60208 U.S.A
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Walentowitz A, Manthey M, Bentet Preciado MB, Chango R, Sevilla C, Jäger H. Limited natural regeneration of unique Scalesia forest following invasive plant removal in Galapagos. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0258467. [PMID: 34644364 PMCID: PMC8513895 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0258467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
More than 60% of the flora of the Galapagos Islands is introduced and some of these species have become invasive, severely altering ecosystems. An example of an affected ecosystem is the Scalesia forest, originally dominated by the endemic giant daisy tree Scalesia pedunculata (Asteraceae). The remnant patches of this unique forest are increasingly being invaded by introduced plants, mainly by Rubus niveus (blackberry, Rosaceae). To help large-scale restoration of this ecologically important forest, we seek to better understand the natural regeneration of S. pedunculata after invasive plant control. We monitored naturally recruited S. pedunculata saplings and young trees over five years in an area where invasive plant species are continuously being removed by manual means. We measured survival, height and growth of S. pedunculata saplings and young trees along permanent transects. Percent cover of surrounding plant species and of canopy shade directly above each S. pedunculata individual were determined, as well as distance to the next mature S. pedunculata tree. We identified potential factors influencing initial sapling survival and growth by applying generalized linear models. Results showed a rapid growth of saplings and young trees of up to 0.45 cm per day and a high mortality rate, as is typical for pioneer species like S. pedunculata. Sapling survival, growth and mortality seemed to be influenced by light availability, surrounding vegetation and distance to the next adult S. pedunculata tree. We concluded that natural regeneration of S. pedunculata was high only five months after the last herbicide application but that 95% of these recruits had died over the 5-year period. Further studies are needed to corroborate whether the number of surviving trees is sufficient to replace the aging adult trees and this way maintain remnants of the Scalesia forest. Urgent action is needed to help improve future restoration strategies to prevent further degradation of this rapidly shrinking threatened forest ecosystem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Walentowitz
- Department of Biogeography, University of Bayreuth, Bayreuth, Germany
- * E-mail:
| | - Michael Manthey
- Institute of Botany and Landscape Ecology, University of Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | | | - Rafael Chango
- Galapagos National Park Directorate, Galapagos, Ecuador
| | | | - Heinke Jäger
- Charles Darwin Research Station, Charles Darwin Foundation, Santa Cruz, Galapagos, Ecuador
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Ning Z, Chen C, Xie T, Zhu Z, Wang Q, Cui B, Bai J. Can the native faunal communities be restored from removal of invasive plants in coastal ecosystems? A global meta-analysis. GLOBAL CHANGE BIOLOGY 2021; 27:4644-4656. [PMID: 34170600 DOI: 10.1111/gcb.15765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Coastal ecosystems worldwide are being threatened by invasive plants in the context of global changes. However, how invasive plants influence native faunal communities and whether native faunal communities can recover following the invader removals/controls across global coastal ecosystems are still poorly understood. Here, we present the first global meta-analysis to quantify the impacts of Spartina species invasions on coastal faunal communities and further to evaluate the outcomes of Spartina species removals on faunal community recovery based on 74 independent studies. We found that invasive Spartina species generally decreased the biodiversity (e.g., species richness), but increased coastal faunal abundance (e.g., individual number) and fitness (e.g., biomass), though the effect on abundance was insignificant. The pattern of influence was strongly dependent on habitat types, faunal taxa, trophic levels, and feeding types. Specifically, Spartina species invasion of mudflats caused greater impacts than invasion of vegetated habitats. Insects and birds at higher trophic levels were strongly affected by invasive Spartina, indicating that invasive plant effects can cascade upward along the food chain. Additionally, impacts of Spartina invasions were more obvious on food specialists such as herbivores and carnivores. Furthermore, our analyses revealed that invader removals were overall beneficial for native faunal communities to recover from the displacement caused by Spartina invasions, but this recovery process depended on specific removal measure and time. For example, the long-term waterlogging had strong negative impacts on faunal recovery, so it should not be encouraged. Our findings suggest that invasive plants could have contrasting effects on functional responses of native faunal communities. Although invasive plant removals could restore native faunal communities, future functional restorations of invaded ecosystems should take the legacy effects of invasive species on native communities into account. These findings provide insightful implications for future scientific controls of invasive species and ecosystem restoration under intensifying global changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhonghua Ning
- School of Environment, State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
- Yellow River Estuary Wetland Ecosystem Observation and Research Station, Ministry of Education, Shandong, China
| | - Cong Chen
- School of Environment, State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
- Research and Development Center for Watershed Environmental Eco-Engineering, Advanced Institute of Natural Science, Beijing Normal University at Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Tian Xie
- School of Environment, State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
- Yellow River Estuary Wetland Ecosystem Observation and Research Station, Ministry of Education, Shandong, China
| | - Zhenchang Zhu
- Institute of Environmental and Ecological Engineering, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangdong, China
| | - Qing Wang
- School of Environment, State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
- Research and Development Center for Watershed Environmental Eco-Engineering, Advanced Institute of Natural Science, Beijing Normal University at Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Baoshan Cui
- School of Environment, State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
- Yellow River Estuary Wetland Ecosystem Observation and Research Station, Ministry of Education, Shandong, China
| | - Junhong Bai
- School of Environment, State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
- Yellow River Estuary Wetland Ecosystem Observation and Research Station, Ministry of Education, Shandong, China
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Unrestricted gene flow between two subspecies of translocated brushtail possums (Trichosurus vulpecula) in Aotearoa New Zealand. Biol Invasions 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10530-021-02635-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
AbstractTwo lineages of brushtail possums (Trichosurus vulpecula) were historically introduced to Aotearoa New Zealand, and these two subspecies have different phenotypic forms. Despite over 100 years of potential interbreeding, they appear to retain morphological differences, which may indicate reproductive isolation. We examined this using population samples from a confined landscape and scored each specimen for phenotype using a number of fur colour traits. This resulted in a bimodal trait distribution expected for segregated grey and black lineages. We also sought evidence for genetic partitioning based on spatial and temporal effects. Genetic structure and rates of genetic mixing were determined using seven neutral, species-specific nuclear microsatellite markers and mitochondrial DNA control region sequence. Genotype analyses indicated high levels of variation and mtDNA sequences formed two major haplogroups. Pairwise tests for population differentiation of these markers found no evidence of subdivision, indicating that these brushtail possums behave as a single randomly mating unit. Despite maintenance of two main colour phenotypes with relatively few intermediates, previous inference of assortative mating and anecdotes of distinct races, our data indicate that New Zealand brushtail possums can freely interbreed, and that in some locations they have formed completely mixed populations where neutral genetic markers are unrelated to phenotype. This has implications for effective pest management towards eradication.
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Ariefiandy A, Purwandana D, Azmi M, Panggur MR, Mardani J, Parra DP, Jessop TS. Invasive water buffalo population trends and competition-related consequences for native rusa deer in eastern Indonesian protected areas. Mamm Biol 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s42991-021-00161-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Benkwitt CE, Gunn RL, Le Corre M, Carr P, Graham NAJ. Rat eradication restores nutrient subsidies from seabirds across terrestrial and marine ecosystems. Curr Biol 2021; 31:2704-2711.e4. [PMID: 33887185 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2021.03.104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Revised: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Biological invasions pose a threat to nearly every ecosystem worldwide.1,2 Although eradication programs can successfully eliminate invasive species and enhance native biodiversity, especially on islands,3 the effects of eradication on cross-ecosystem processes are unknown. On islands where rats were never introduced, seabirds transfer nutrients from pelagic to terrestrial and nearshore marine habitats, which in turn enhance the productivity, biomass, and functioning of recipient ecosystems.4-6 Here, we test whether rat eradication restores seabird populations, their nutrient subsidies, and some of their associated benefits for ecosystem function to tropical islands and adjacent coral reefs. By comparing islands with different rat invasion histories, we found a clear hierarchy whereby seabird biomass, seabird-driven nitrogen inputs, and the incorporation of seabird-derived nutrients into terrestrial and marine food chains were highest on islands where rats were never introduced, intermediate on islands where rats were eradicated 4-16 years earlier, and lowest on islands with invasive rats still present. Seabird-derived nutrients diminished from land to sea and with increasing distance to rat-eradicated islands, but extended at least 300 m from shore. Although rat eradication enhanced seabird-derived nutrients in soil, leaves, marine algae, and herbivorous reef fish, reef fish growth was similar around rat-eradicated and rat-infested islands. Given that the loss of nutrient subsidies is of global concern,7 that removal of invasive species restores previously lost nutrient pathways over relatively short timescales is promising. However, the full return of cross-ecosystem nutrient subsidies and all of their associated demographic benefits may take multiple decades.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rachel L Gunn
- Lancaster Environment Centre, Lancaster University, Lancaster LA1 4YQ, UK
| | - Matthieu Le Corre
- UMR ENTROPIE, Université de La Réunion, IRD, CNRS, IFREMER, Université de Nouvelle-Calédonie, Avenue René Cassin, 97490 Sainte Clotilde, La Réunion
| | - Peter Carr
- Institute of Zoology, Zoological Society of London, Regent's Park, London NW1 4RY, UK; Environment and Sustainability Institute, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, Cornwall TR10 9EZ, UK
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Morais MC, Gonçalves B, Cabral JA. A Dynamic Modeling Framework to Evaluate the Efficacy of Control Actions for a Woody Invasive Plant, Hakea sericea. Front Ecol Evol 2021. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2021.641686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Invasive alien species (IAS) are a significant component of global changes, causing severe economic and biodiversity damage. In this regard, Hakea sericea is one of the most widespread IAS throughout the Mediterranean region, including Portugal. The difficulty surrounding its management is exacerbated by post-fire situations, signifying a challenging task for managers. To assist in this effort, we used a system dynamic approach to model the population dynamics of Hakea sericea regarding the combinations of wildfire risk and control scenarios, which differ in periodicity, type of interventions, and cohort age. The ultimate goal of this study was to assess the effectiveness and costs of control efforts at reducing the abundance of this IAS. A Natura 2000 site Alvão/Marão (code PTCON0003) in northern Portugal, severely invaded by Hakea sericea, served as the study site. The modeling results demonstrate that Hakea sericea is likely to continue spreading if left uncontrolled. Although it may not be possible to ensure eradication of Hakea sericea from the study, repeated control actions aimed at the entire IAS population could be very effective in reducing its area. From a practical standpoint, removing all plants 24 months after each fire event followed by subsequent monitoring appears to be the most cost-effective strategy for managing Hakea sericea. Considering the modeling results, the dynamic modeling framework developed is a versatile, instructive tool that can support decision-making aimed at effective management of Hakea sericea.
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A novel approach to quantifying trophic interaction strengths and impact of invasive species in food webs. Biol Invasions 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10530-021-02490-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
AbstractMeasuring ecological and economic impacts of invasive species is necessary for managing invaded food webs. Based on abundance, biomass and diet data of autochthonous and allochthonous fish species, we proposed a novel approach to quantifying trophic interaction strengths in terms of number of individuals and biomass that each species subtract to the others in the food web. This allowed to estimate the economic loss associated to the impact of an invasive species on commercial fish stocks, as well as the resilience of invaded food webs to further perturbations. As case study, we measured the impact of the invasive bass Micropterus salmoides in two lake communities differing in food web complexity and species richness, as well as the biotic resistance of autochthonous and allochthonous fish species against the invader. Resistance to the invader was higher, while its ecological and economic impact was lower, in the more complex and species-rich food web. The percid Perca fluviatilis and the whitefish Coregonus lavaretus were the two species that most limited the invader, representing meaningful targets for conservation biological control strategies. In both food webs, the limiting effect of allochthonous species against M. salmoides was higher than the effect of autochthonous ones. Simulations predicted that the eradication of the invader would increase food web resilience, while that an increase in fish diversity would preserve resilience also at high abundances of M. salmoides. Our results support the conservation of biodiverse food webs as a way to mitigate the impact of bass invasion in lake ecosystems. Notably, the proposed approach could be applied to any habitat and animal species whenever biomass and diet data can be obtained.
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Pinto AS, Monteiro FKDS, Ramos MB, Araújo RDCC, Lopes SDF. Invasive plants in the Brazilian Caatinga: a scientometric analysis with prospects for conservation. NEOTROPICAL BIOLOGY AND CONSERVATION 2020. [DOI: 10.3897/neotropical.15.e57403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding the impacts caused by invasive plant species, especially in regions where studies are scarce, is of great importance to the development of management and conservation strategies. Amongst the biomes present in Brazil, the Caatinga (Dry Tropical Forest) stands out for having had few studies dealing with biological invasions by plants and animals. An evaluation of scientific production can provide a means by which the progress of invasion-related studies can be assessed, as well as identify research gaps and provide a broad overview of the importance of invasions in this biome. Thus, the objective of this study was to perform a scientometric analysis to evaluate the development of scientific research over the years on exotic and invasive plant species in the Caatinga. We found 46 papers dealing with invasive plants in the Caatinga published over a 14-year period. The main objectives of most of the papers focused on identifying the main strategies used by plants in the process of invasion and characterising the invaded environment. A total of 28 species were cited as invasive for the Caatinga, with Prosopis juliflora (Sw.) DC., Cryptostegia madagascariensis Bojer, Calotropis procera (Aiton) W.T.Aiton and Parkinsonia aculeata L. being the most cited species. Although studies on the subject are incipient, there is already important information about the dynamics of the invasiveness of plant species in the Caatinga, which can serve as a basis for new studies, as well as for the development of management policies, based on consistent information.
Biological invasion, dry forest, exotic species, northeast Brazil, scientometry, semi-arid
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Huebner CD. Patterns of invasive plant abundance in disturbed versus undisturbed forests within three land types over 16 years. DIVERS DISTRIB 2020. [DOI: 10.1111/ddi.13175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
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Hulme PE, Baker R, Freckleton R, Hails RS, Hartley M, Harwood J, Marion G, Smith GC, Williamson M. The Epidemiological Framework for Biological Invasions (EFBI): an interdisciplinary foundation for the assessment of biosecurity threats. NEOBIOTA 2020. [DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.62.52463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Emerging microparasite (e.g. viruses, bacteria, protozoa and fungi) epidemics and the introduction of non-native pests and weeds are major biosecurity threats worldwide. The likelihood of these threats is often estimated from probabilities of their entry, establishment, spread and ease of prevention. If ecosystems are considered equivalent to hosts, then compartment disease models should provide a useful framework for understanding the processes that underpin non-native species invasions. To enable greater cross-fertilisation between these two disciplines, the Epidemiological Framework for Biological Invasions (EFBI) is developed that classifies ecosystems in relation to their invasion status: Susceptible, Exposed, Infectious and Resistant. These states are linked by transitions relating to transmission, latency and recovery. This viewpoint differs markedly from the species-centric approaches often applied to non-native species. It allows generalisations from epidemiology, such as the force of infection, the basic reproductive ratio R0, super-spreaders, herd immunity, cordon sanitaire and ring vaccination, to be discussed in the novel context of non-native species and helps identify important gaps in the study of biological invasions. The EFBI approach highlights several limitations inherent in current approaches to the study of biological invasions including: (i) the variance in non-native abundance across ecosystems is rarely reported; (ii) field data rarely (if ever) distinguish source from sink ecosystems; (iii) estimates of the susceptibility of ecosystems to invasion seldom account for differences in exposure to non-native species; and (iv) assessments of ecosystem susceptibility often confuse the processes that underpin patterns of spread within -and between- ecosystems. Using the invasion of lakes as a model, the EFBI approach is shown to present a new biosecurity perspective that takes account of ecosystem status and complements demographic models to deliver clearer insights into the dynamics of biological invasions at the landscape scale. It will help to identify whether management of the susceptibility of ecosystems, of the number of vectors, or of the diversity of pathways (for movement between ecosystems) is the best way of limiting or reversing the population growth of a non-native species. The framework can be adapted to incorporate increasing levels of complexity and realism and to provide insights into how to monitor, map and manage biological invasions more effectively.
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The costs of removing the unsanctioned import of marine plastic litter to small island states. Sci Rep 2020; 10:14458. [PMID: 32913284 PMCID: PMC7483532 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-71444-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Small island states receive unprecedented amounts of the world’s plastic waste. In March 2019, we removed as much plastic litter as possible from Aldabra Atoll, a remote UNESCO World Heritage Site, and estimated the money and effort required to remove the remaining debris. We removed 25 tonnes at a cost of $224,537, which equates to around $10,000 per day of clean-up operations or $8,900 per tonne of litter. We estimate that 513 tonnes (95% CI 212–814) remains on Aldabra, the largest accumulation reported for any single island. We calculate that removing it will cost approximately $4.68 million and require 18,000 person-hours of labour. By weight, the composition is dominated by litter from the regional fishing industry (83%) and flip-flops from further afield (7%). Given the serious detrimental effects of plastic litter on marine ecosystems, we conclude that clean-up efforts are a vital management action for islands like Aldabra, despite the high financial cost and should be integrated alongside policies directed at ‘turning off the tap’. We recommend that international funding be made available for such efforts, especially considering the transboundary nature of both the marine plastic litter problem and the ecosystem services provided by biodiversity-rich islands.
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Machado MX, Castellani TT, de Sá Dechoum M. Integrating management techniques to restore subtropical forests invaded by
Hedychium coronarium
J. Köenig (Zingiberaceae) in a biodiversity hotspot. Restor Ecol 2020. [DOI: 10.1111/rec.13213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Marcela Xavier Machado
- Instituto Chico Mendes de Conservação da Biodiversidade Gerência Regional Sul, Rodovia Jornalista Maurício Sirotsky Sobrinho, 700, 88053‐701 Florianópolis Brazil
- Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Campus Universitário, s/n, Córrego Grande, 88040‐900 Florianópolis Brazil
| | - Tânia Tarabini Castellani
- Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Campus Universitário, s/n, Córrego Grande, 88040‐900 Florianópolis Brazil
- Departamento de Ecologia e Zoologia, Centro de Ciências Biológicas Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Campus Universitário, s/n, Córrego Grande, 88040‐900 Florianópolis Brazil
| | - Michele de Sá Dechoum
- Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Campus Universitário, s/n, Córrego Grande, 88040‐900 Florianópolis Brazil
- Departamento de Ecologia e Zoologia, Centro de Ciências Biológicas Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Campus Universitário, s/n, Córrego Grande, 88040‐900 Florianópolis Brazil
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Brown TR, Todd CR, Hale R, Swearer SE, Coleman RA. Testing the adaptive advantage of a threatened species over an invasive species using a stochastic population model. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2020; 264:110524. [PMID: 32250924 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2020.110524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2019] [Revised: 03/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/28/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Introduced species are a major threat to freshwater biodiversity. Often eradication is not feasible, and management must focus on reducing impacts on native wildlife. This requires an understanding of how native species are affected but also how environmental characteristics influence population dynamics of both invasive and native species. Such insights can inform how to manipulate systems in order to take advantage of life-history traits native species possesses that invaders do not. The highly invasive fish, Gambusia holbrooki, has been implicated in the decline of many freshwater fish and amphibians. In south-eastern Australia, one of these is the threatened native fish, Galaxiella pusilla. As G. pusilla can survive periods without surface water, this presents an opportunity for adaptive management, given G. holbrooki lack these adaptations. We develop a stochastic population model to explore the impact of G. holbrooki on G. pusilla and test the feasibility of both natural and management-induced drying to protect this species. Our results support recent empirical studies showing G. holbrooki are a serious threat to G. pusilla persistence, especially through impacts on larval survival. While persistence is more likely in water bodies that frequently dry out, even optimal natural drying regimes may be insufficient when impacts from G. holbrooki are high. However, management-induced drying may allow persistence of G. pusilla in sites inhabited by both species. Given our model outcomes, the biology of these species and the habitats they occupy, we recommend maintaining or restoring aquatic and riparian vegetation and natural drying regimes to protect G. pusilla from G. holbrooki, in addition to undertaking management-induced drying of invaded water bodies. Our results provide insights into how the effects of G. holbrooki may be mitigated for other native species, which is important given this species is perhaps the most pervasive invader of freshwater ecosystems. We conclude with a discussion of the potential for using disturbance processes in the management of invasive species more broadly in freshwater and terrestrial systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy R Brown
- School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3010, Australia.
| | - Charles R Todd
- Arthur Rylah Institute, Department of Environment, Land Water, and Planning, Heidelberg, Victoria, 3084, Australia
| | - Robin Hale
- School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - Stephen E Swearer
- School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - Rhys A Coleman
- Melbourne Water Corporation, Docklands, Victoria, 3008, Australia
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Abstract
Invasive predatory lake trout Salvelinus namaycush were discovered in Yellowstone Lake in 1994 and caused a precipitous decrease in abundance of native Yellowstone cutthroat trout Oncorhynchus clarkii bouvieri. Suppression efforts (primarily gillnetting) initiated in 1995 did not curtail lake trout population growth or lakewide expansion. An adaptive management strategy was developed in 2010 that specified desired conditions indicative of ecosystem recovery. Population modeling was used to estimate effects of suppression efforts on the lake trout and establish effort benchmarks to achieve negative population growth (λ < 1). Partnerships enhanced funding support, and a scientific review panel provided guidance to increase suppression gillnetting effort to >46,800 100-m net nights; this effort level was achieved in 2012 and led to a reduction in lake trout biomass. Total lake trout biomass declined from 432,017 kg in 2012 to 196,675 kg in 2019, primarily because of a 79% reduction in adults. Total abundance declined from 925,208 in 2012 to 673,983 in 2019 but was highly variable because of recruitment of age-2 fish. Overall, 3.35 million lake trout were killed by suppression efforts from 1995 to 2019. Cutthroat trout abundance remained below target levels, but relative condition increased, large individuals (> 400 mm) became more abundant, and individual weights doubled, probably because of reduced density. Continued actions to suppress lake trout will facilitate further recovery of the cutthroat trout population and integrity of the Yellowstone Lake ecosystem.
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Weidlich EWA, Flórido FG, Sorrini TB, Brancalion PHS. Controlling invasive plant species in ecological restoration: A global review. J Appl Ecol 2020. [DOI: 10.1111/1365-2664.13656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Flávia G. Flórido
- Department of Forest Sciences ‘Luiz de Queiroz’ College of Agriculture (ESALQ) University of São Paulo (USP) Piracicaba SP Brazil
| | - Taísi B. Sorrini
- Department of Forest Sciences ‘Luiz de Queiroz’ College of Agriculture (ESALQ) University of São Paulo (USP) Piracicaba SP Brazil
| | - Pedro H. S. Brancalion
- Department of Forest Sciences ‘Luiz de Queiroz’ College of Agriculture (ESALQ) University of São Paulo (USP) Piracicaba SP Brazil
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Biological Control of Salvinia molesta (D.S. Mitchell) Drives Aquatic Ecosystem Recovery. DIVERSITY 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/d12050204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Salvinia molesta D.S. Mitchell (Salviniaceae) is a damaging free-floating invasive alien macrophyte native to South America. The biological control programme against S. molesta by the weevil Cyrtobagous salviniae Calder and Sands (Erirhinidae) has been successful in controlling S. molesta infestations in the introduced range, however, there is some debate as to how biological control success is measured. This study measured the response of epilithic algae and aquatic macroinvertebrate communities in a S. molesta-dominated state and subsequently where the weed had been cleared by biological control, as a proxy for ecosystem recovery in a before–after control–impact mesocosm experiment. The restored treatment (S. molesta and C. salviniae) demonstrated epilithic algae and aquatic macroinvertebrate recovery during the “after” biological control phase, defined as similar to the control treatment. Comparatively, the impacted treatment (100% S. molesta) showed a drastic decline in biodiversity and shifts in community assemblages. We conclude that the biological control effort by C. salviniae facilitated biodiversity recovery of the impacted treatment. Furthermore, epilithic algae and aquatic macroinvertebrate communities were reliable biological indicators for measuring ecological impacts of invasion and ecosystem recovery following biological control, and thus represent potential tools for evaluating biological control success and ecological restoration.
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Cubas J, Irl SDH, Villafuerte R, Bello-Rodríguez V, Rodríguez-Luengo JL, Del Arco M, Martín-Esquivel JL, González-Mancebo JM. Endemic plant species are more palatable to introduced herbivores than non-endemics. Proc Biol Sci 2020; 286:20190136. [PMID: 30940053 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2019.0136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Islands harbour a spectacular diversity and unique species composition. This uniqueness is mainly a result of endemic species that have evolved in situ in the absence of mammal herbivores. However, island endemism is under severe threat by introduced herbivores. We test the assumption that endemic species are particularly vulnerable to generalist introduced herbivores (European rabbit) using an unprecedented dataset covering an entire island with enormous topographic, climatic and biological diversity (Tenerife, Canary Islands). With increasing endemism, plant species are more heavily browsed by rabbits than non-endemic species with up to 67% of endemics being negatively impacted by browsing, indicating a dramatic lack of adaptation to mammal herbivory in endemics. Ecosystems with high per cent endemism are most heavily browsed, suggesting ecosystem-specific vulnerability to introduced herbivores, even within islands. Protection of global biodiversity caused by disproportionally high endemism on oceanic islands via ecosystem-specific herbivore control and eradication measures is of utmost importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonay Cubas
- 1 Plant Conservation and Biogeography Research Group, Departamento de Botánica, Ecología y Fisiología Vegetal, Universidad de La Laguna , Avda. Francisco Sánchez s/n, 38206 La Laguna, Tenerife, Islas Canarias , Spain
| | - Severin D H Irl
- 2 Biogeography and Biodiversity Lab, Institute of Physical Geography, Goethe-University Frankfurt , 60438 Frankfurt , Germany
| | - Rafael Villafuerte
- 3 Instituto de Estudios Sociales Avanzados (IESA-CSIC), Campo Santo de los Mártires , 14004 Córdoba , Spain
| | - Víctor Bello-Rodríguez
- 1 Plant Conservation and Biogeography Research Group, Departamento de Botánica, Ecología y Fisiología Vegetal, Universidad de La Laguna , Avda. Francisco Sánchez s/n, 38206 La Laguna, Tenerife, Islas Canarias , Spain
| | - Juan Luis Rodríguez-Luengo
- 4 Servicio de Biodiversidad, Gobierno de Canarias , Edificio de Usos Múltiples I, Avda. de Anaga, 35, 38170 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Tenerife, Islas Canarias , Spain
| | - Marcelino Del Arco
- 1 Plant Conservation and Biogeography Research Group, Departamento de Botánica, Ecología y Fisiología Vegetal, Universidad de La Laguna , Avda. Francisco Sánchez s/n, 38206 La Laguna, Tenerife, Islas Canarias , Spain
| | - José Luís Martín-Esquivel
- 5 Parque Nacional del Teide , C/Sixto Perera González 25, 38300 La Orotava, Tenerife, Islas Canarias , España
| | - Juana María González-Mancebo
- 1 Plant Conservation and Biogeography Research Group, Departamento de Botánica, Ecología y Fisiología Vegetal, Universidad de La Laguna , Avda. Francisco Sánchez s/n, 38206 La Laguna, Tenerife, Islas Canarias , Spain
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Cano-Rocabayera O, de Sostoa A, Coll L, Maceda-Veiga A. Managing small, highly prolific invasive aquatic species: Exploring an ecosystem approach for the eastern mosquitofish (Gambusia holbrooki). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2019; 673:594-604. [PMID: 30999100 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.02.460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2019] [Revised: 02/14/2019] [Accepted: 02/15/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Invasive exotic species threaten native biodiversity worldwide and their management is on the agenda of an increasing number of countries. We explored the potential of an ecosystem approach for the natural control of Gambusia holbrooki, which is among the most pernicious and widely distributed fish invaders. Individual-based linear mixed models were used to identify the ecosystem factors (conspecific density, environment and piscivorous birds) that most influenced life-history variation in male and female G. holbrooki (N = 654). All traits (body condition, growth, length, gonad weight, offspring size and number, real and potential fertility) were associated with at least one ecosystem factor from the 18 water bodies surveyed in north-eastern Spain. Models for female reproductive traits had the highest fit (R2 = 0.89) and those for body condition in both sexes the lowest (0.12). The life history of G. holbrooki was mostly affected by its density; increasing offspring number at the expense of offspring size at the sites with the highest fish density. Weaker effects on G. holbrooki life history were observed for the abundance of piscivorous birds and water-quality conditions, including turbidity and nutrient concentrations. Although effects were not consistent between traits, outputs supported that G. holbrooki has a wide tolerance to changes in water quality. Therefore, actions based solely on environmental changes within the range tested probably will fail in reducing the proliferation of G. holbrooki, especially if its body condition improved at the most naturalised sites. Overall, this study suggests that the management of G. holbrooki using ecologically sound treatments is likely to be very difficult in stagnant waters. Preventing new introductions and direct removal once established are the most appropriate actions for the management of this small, highly prolific fish invader.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oriol Cano-Rocabayera
- Department of Evolutionary Biology, Ecology and Environmental Sciences, Institute of Research in Biodiversity (IRBio-UB), Universitat de Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Adolfo de Sostoa
- Department of Evolutionary Biology, Ecology and Environmental Sciences, Institute of Research in Biodiversity (IRBio-UB), Universitat de Barcelona, Spain
| | - Lluís Coll
- Department of Evolutionary Biology, Ecology and Environmental Sciences, Institute of Research in Biodiversity (IRBio-UB), Universitat de Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alberto Maceda-Veiga
- Department of Evolutionary Biology, Ecology and Environmental Sciences, Institute of Research in Biodiversity (IRBio-UB), Universitat de Barcelona, Spain; Department of Integrative Ecology, Estación Biológica de Doñana (EBD-CSIC), Sevilla, Spain
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50
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Panetta FD, O’Loughlin LS, Gooden B. Identifying thresholds and ceilings in plant community recovery for optimal management of widespread weeds. NEOBIOTA 2019. [DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.42.30797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
A substantial body of work underlies the theory and practice of early intervention in the management of invasive alien plants, but less attention has been paid to the strategic management of widespread weeds, especially in the context of natural asset recovery. The assumption lingers amongst some researchers and land managers that removing weeds will automatically lead to positive biodiversity outcomes, with the more weed removed, the better the outcome. However, this is often not the case, particularly for long-established weed species whose dominance has created impoverished communities with little capacity for passive recovery. A common result may be wasted investment in weed control and, in the extreme, net negative impacts upon asset values. We present a conceptual model for the management of weed-impacted assets, plus guidance for its application, with a view to improving asset recovery practice. Weed removal should be calibrated by asset recovery, which may mean not seeking to completely remove a weed at a given spatial scale. Our model focusses on weed removal that is enough to initiate asset recovery, but not more than is necessary to promote maximum expression of asset resilience, particularly in the context of secondary invasions. Optimal management efficiency will involve a proportional allocation of resources to control, monitoring and revegetation activities that is appropriate to the stage of asset recovery, as well as a willingness to revise a management goal if the original one cannot be achieved within existing constraints on resources.
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