1
|
Fronhofer EA, Bonte D, Bestion E, Cote J, Deshpande JN, Duncan AB, Hovestadt T, Kaltz O, Keith SA, Kokko H, Legrand D, Malusare SP, Parmentier T, Saade C, Schtickzelle N, Zilio G, Massol F. Evolutionary ecology of dispersal in biodiverse spatially structured systems: what is old and what is new? Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2024; 379:20230142. [PMID: 38913061 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2023.0142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Dispersal is a well-recognized driver of ecological and evolutionary dynamics, and simultaneously an evolving trait. Dispersal evolution has traditionally been studied in single-species metapopulations so that it remains unclear how dispersal evolves in metacommunities and metafoodwebs, which are characterized by a multitude of species interactions. Since most natural systems are both species-rich and spatially structured, this knowledge gap should be bridged. Here, we discuss whether knowledge from dispersal evolutionary ecology established in single-species systems holds in metacommunities and metafoodwebs and we highlight generally valid and fundamental principles. Most biotic interactions form the backdrop to the ecological theatre for the evolutionary dispersal play because interactions mediate patterns of fitness expectations across space and time. While this allows for a simple transposition of certain known principles to a multispecies context, other drivers may require more complex transpositions, or might not be transferred. We discuss an important quantitative modulator of dispersal evolution-increased trait dimensionality of biodiverse meta-systems-and an additional driver: co-dispersal. We speculate that scale and selection pressure mismatches owing to co-dispersal, together with increased trait dimensionality, may lead to a slower and more 'diffuse' evolution in biodiverse meta-systems. Open questions and potential consequences in both ecological and evolutionary terms call for more investigation. This article is part of the theme issue 'Diversity-dependence of dispersal: interspecific interactions determine spatial dynamics'.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emanuel A Fronhofer
- ISEM, University of Montpellier, CNRS, IRD, EPHE , Montpellier 34095, France
| | - Dries Bonte
- Terrestrial Ecology Unit (TEREC), Department of Biology, Ghent University, K.L. Ledeganckstraat 35 , Ghent B-9000, Belgium
| | - Elvire Bestion
- Station d'Ecologie Théorique et Expérimentale, CNRS, UAR 2029 , Moulis F-09200, France
| | - Julien Cote
- Laboratoire Évolution & Diversité Biologique, CNRS, Université Toulouse III Paul Sabatier, IRD, UMR 5174, 118 route de Narbonne , Toulouse F-31062, France
| | - Jhelam N Deshpande
- ISEM, University of Montpellier, CNRS, IRD, EPHE , Montpellier 34095, France
| | - Alison B Duncan
- ISEM, University of Montpellier, CNRS, IRD, EPHE , Montpellier 34095, France
| | - Thomas Hovestadt
- Department Animal Ecology and Tropical Biology, Biozentrum, University of Würzburg , Würzburg 97074, Germany
| | - Oliver Kaltz
- ISEM, University of Montpellier, CNRS, IRD, EPHE , Montpellier 34095, France
| | - Sally A Keith
- Lancaster Environment Centre, Lancaster University , Lancaster LA1 4YQ, UK
| | - Hanna Kokko
- Institute of Organismic and Molecular Evolution, Johannes Gutenberg University , Mainz 55128, Germany
| | - Delphine Legrand
- Station d'Ecologie Théorique et Expérimentale, CNRS, UAR 2029 , Moulis F-09200, France
| | - Sarthak P Malusare
- ISEM, University of Montpellier, CNRS, IRD, EPHE , Montpellier 34095, France
| | - Thomas Parmentier
- Terrestrial Ecology Unit (TEREC), Department of Biology, Ghent University, K.L. Ledeganckstraat 35 , Ghent B-9000, Belgium
- Research Unit of Environmental and Evolutionary Biology, Namur Institute of Complex Systems, and Institute of Life, Earth, and the Environment, University of Namur , Namur 5000, Belgium
| | - Camille Saade
- ISEM, University of Montpellier, CNRS, IRD, EPHE , Montpellier 34095, France
| | | | - Giacomo Zilio
- ISEM, University of Montpellier, CNRS, IRD, EPHE , Montpellier 34095, France
| | - François Massol
- Institut Pasteur de Lille, Univ. Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, U1019 - UMR 9017 - CIIL - Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille , Lille 59000, France
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Moor H, Bergamini A, Vorburger C, Holderegger R, Bühler C, Bircher N, Schmidt BR. Building pondscapes for amphibian metapopulations. CONSERVATION BIOLOGY : THE JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR CONSERVATION BIOLOGY 2024:e14165. [PMID: 38711380 DOI: 10.1111/cobi.14281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
The success of ponds constructed to restore ecological infrastructure for pond-breeding amphibians and benefit aquatic biodiversity depends on where and how they are built. We studied effects of pond and landscape characteristics, including connectivity, on metapopulation dynamics of 12 amphibian species in Switzerland. To understand the determinants of long-term occupancy (here summarized as incidence), environmental effects on both colonization and persistence should be considered. We fitted dynamic occupancy models to 20 years of monitoring data on a pond construction program to quantify effects of pond and landscape characteristics and different connectivity metrics on colonization and persistence probabilities in constructed ponds. Connectivity to existing populations explained dynamics better than structural connectivity metrics, and simple metrics (distance to the nearest neighbor population, population density) were useful surrogates for dispersal kernel-weighted metrics commonly used in metapopulation theory. Population connectivity mediated the persistence of conservation target species in new ponds, suggesting source-sink dynamics in newly established populations. Population density captured this effect well and could be used by practitioners for site selection. Ponds created where there were 2-4 occupied ponds within a radius of ∼0.5 km had >3.5 times higher incidence of target species (median) than isolated ponds. Species had individual preferences regarding pond characteristics, but breeding sites with larger (≥100 m2) total water surface area, that temporarily dried, and that were in surroundings with maximally 50% forest benefitted multiple target species. Pond diversity will foster amphibian diversity at the landscape scale.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Helen Moor
- Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research WSL, Birmensdorf, Switzerland
- Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology Eawag, Dübendorf, Switzerland
| | - Ariel Bergamini
- Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research WSL, Birmensdorf, Switzerland
| | - Christoph Vorburger
- Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology Eawag, Dübendorf, Switzerland
- Department of Environmental Systems Science, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Rolf Holderegger
- Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research WSL, Birmensdorf, Switzerland
- Department of Environmental Systems Science, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Nicolas Bircher
- Sektion Natur and Landschaft, Kanton Aargau, Aarau, Switzerland
| | - Benedikt R Schmidt
- info fauna karch, Neuchâtel, Switzerland
- Department of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies, University of Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Brocka CW, Mazzamuto MV, Koprowski JL. The high cost of movement in an arid working landscape for an endangered amphibian. Ecol Evol 2024; 14:e11259. [PMID: 38628912 PMCID: PMC11019298 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.11259] [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: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Connectivity is essential for the maintenance of genetic diversity and stability of wildlife populations. Drought and changing precipitation regimes have caused natural aquatic amphibian breeding habitats to disappear or become isolated and have led to the replacement of natural surface water with artificial livestock water tanks. Terrestrial movement is the only means of responding to aquatic threats in arid landscapes and to allow population connectivity. Aridity may present an impenetrable barrier in hydrologically fragmented environments. We used a facultatively paedomorphic and federally endangered salamander to assess the challenges of movement across arid working lands. Sonoran tiger salamanders (Ambystoma mavortium stebbinsi) are endemic to the San Rafael Valley of southeastern Arizona, United States of America, where they depend on livestock water tanks as breeding habitat. The ecology of this species' metamorphs outside of stock tanks is virtually unknown. To assess survival on the landscape during terrestrial movement we used radio-transmitters to track 78 adult metamorphosed salamanders over 2 years. Sonoran tiger salamanders moved up to 1 km from the tank edge, and average distances moved of over 400 m were higher than most Ambystoma species. However, during the study period, none reached neighboring stock tanks. We found high mortality due to predation and desiccation. Individuals that dispersed to terrestrial habitat in summer survived longer than individuals that dispersed in spring. High mortality suggests terrestrial movement is exceptionally risky and may contribute to isolated subpopulations and elevated levels of inbreeding. Conservation actions that improve and maintain artificial aquatic habitats as well as increase connectivity may improve long-term management for pond-breeding amphibians in arid regions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Colin W. Brocka
- School of Natural Resources and the EnvironmentUniversity of ArizonaTucsonArizonaUSA
| | | | - John L. Koprowski
- School of Natural Resources and the EnvironmentUniversity of ArizonaTucsonArizonaUSA
- Haub School of Environment and Natural ResourcesUniversity of WyomingLaramieWyomingUSA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Medina I, Dong C, Marquez R, Perez DM, Wang IJ, Stuart-Fox D. Anti-predator defences are linked with high levels of genetic differentiation in frogs. Proc Biol Sci 2024; 291:20232292. [PMID: 38264783 PMCID: PMC10806439 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2023.2292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Predator-prey interactions have been suggested as drivers of diversity in different lineages, and the presence of anti-predator defences in some clades is linked to higher rates of diversification. Warning signals are some of the most widespread defences in the animal world, and there is evidence of higher diversification rates in aposematic lineages. The mechanisms behind such species richness, however, are still unclear. Here, we test whether lineages that use aposematism as anti-predator defence exhibit higher levels of genetic differentiation between populations, leading to increased opportunities for divergence. We collated from the literature more than 3000 pairwise genetic differentiation values across more than 700 populations from over 60 amphibian species. We find evidence that over short geographical distances, populations of species of aposematic lineages exhibit greater genetic divergence relative to species that are not aposematic. Our results support a scenario where the use of warning signals could restrict gene flow, and suggest that anti-predator defences could impact divergence between populations and potentially have effects at a macro-evolutionary scale.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Iliana Medina
- School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne 3010, Australia
| | - Caroline Dong
- School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne 3010, Australia
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70115, USA
| | - Roberto Marquez
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology and Michigan Society of Fellows, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Daniela M. Perez
- Max Plank Institute of Animal Behaviour, 78464 Konstanz, Germany
| | - Ian J. Wang
- Department of Environmental Science, Policy, and Management, Rausser College of Natural Resources, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Devi Stuart-Fox
- School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne 3010, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Reyes-Moya I, Sánchez-Montes G, Babik W, Dudek K, Martínez-Solano Í. Assessing fine-scale pondscape connectivity with amphibian eyes: An integrative approach using genomic and capture-mark-recapture data. Mol Ecol 2024; 33:e17206. [PMID: 37997532 DOI: 10.1111/mec.17206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
In the face of habitat loss, preserving functional connectivity is essential to maintain genetic diversity and the demographic dynamics required for the viability of biotic communities. This requires knowledge of the dispersal behaviour of target species, which can be modelled as kernels, or probability density functions of dispersal distances at increasing geographic distances. We present an integrative approach to investigate the relationships between genetic connectivity and demographic parameters in organisms with low vagility focusing on five syntopic pond-breeding amphibians. We genotyped 1056 individuals of two anuran and three urodele species (1732-3913 SNPs per species) from populations located in a landscape comprising 64 ponds to characterize fine-scale genetic structure in a comparative framework, and combined these genetic data with information obtained in a previous 2-year capture-mark-recapture (CMR) study. Specifically, we contrasted graphs reconstructed from genomic data with connectivity graphs based on dispersal kernels and demographic information obtained from CMR data from previous studies, and assessed the effects of population size, population density, geographical distances, inverse movement probabilities and the presence of habitat patches potentially functioning as stepping stones on genetic differentiation. Our results show a significant effect of local population sizes on patterns of genetic differentiation at small spatial scales. In addition, movement records and cluster-derived kernels provide robust inferences on most likely dispersal paths that are consistent with genomic inferences on genetic connectivity. The integration of genetic and CMR data holds great potential for understanding genetic connectivity at spatial scales relevant to individual organisms, with applications for the implementation of management actions at the landscape level.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ismael Reyes-Moya
- Departamento de Biodiversidad y Biología Evolutiva, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (MNCN-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Gregorio Sánchez-Montes
- Departamento de Biodiversidad y Biología Evolutiva, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (MNCN-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Wieslaw Babik
- Institute of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Dudek
- Institute of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
| | - Íñigo Martínez-Solano
- Departamento de Biodiversidad y Biología Evolutiva, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (MNCN-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Buono V, Bissattini AM, Davoli F, Mengoni C, Mucci N, Vignoli L. Fine-scale spatial genetic structure and dispersal among Italian smooth newt populations in a rural landscape. Sci Rep 2023; 13:19956. [PMID: 37968502 PMCID: PMC10651844 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-47265-8] [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: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Amphibians are particularly sensitive to habitat loss and fragmentation caused by the intensification and modernization of farming occurring in the second half of the twentieth century in the Mediterranean basin. However, artificial water bodies, associated with traditional husbandry, proved to be important surrogate for amphibian feeding and reproduction. Here, multilocus genotypes were used to investigate the spatial population structure of Lissotriton vulgaris meridionalis and the role of drinking troughs in supporting viable breeding populations within a rural landscape interested by traditional husbandry and agriculture. Our genetic analysis highlighted the conservation value and the potential stepping-stone function of artificial aquatic sites in the dispersal of the species and for the gene flow maintenance. Indeed, populations of drinking troughs show allelic richness and heterozygosity levels comparable to those from natural ponds and there is no great evidence of genetic bottlenecks. A complex system of artificial aquatic sites and few natural wetlands was identified sustaining a well-structured network of demes highly interconnected with themselves and natural aquatic sites. The conservation of the identified genetic clusters may be useful to prevent further population declines and future loss of genetic diversity within the study area characterized by scarce natural wetlands that frequently dried because of agricultural practices and strong seasonality. Site-specific protection measures are needed to contrast the progressive disappearance of drinking troughs observed in the last years in Italy because of the abandonment of traditional farming practices in favour of modern agriculture and intensive farming.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Buono
- Department of Biology and Biotechnologies "Charles Darwin", Sapienza University of Rome, 00185, Rome, Italy.
| | | | - Francesca Davoli
- Unit for Conservation, Management and Sustainable Use of Marine Aquatic Resources (BIO-CIT), Department for the Monitoring and Protection of the Environment and for Biodiversity Conservation, Italian Institute for Environmental Protection and Research (ISPRA), Ozzano Dell'Emilia, 40064, Bologna, Italy
| | - Chiara Mengoni
- Unit for Conservation Genetics (BIO-CGE), Department for the Monitoring and Protection of the Environment and for Biodiversity Conservation, Italian Institute for Environmental Protection and Research (ISPRA), Ozzano Dell'Emilia, 40064, Bologna, Italy
| | - Nadia Mucci
- Unit for Conservation Genetics (BIO-CGE), Department for the Monitoring and Protection of the Environment and for Biodiversity Conservation, Italian Institute for Environmental Protection and Research (ISPRA), Ozzano Dell'Emilia, 40064, Bologna, Italy
| | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Ortiz-Rodríguez DO, Guisan A, Van Strien MJ. Sensitivity of habitat network models to changes in maximum dispersal distance. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0293966. [PMID: 37930975 PMCID: PMC10627463 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0293966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Predicting the presence or absence (occurrence-state) of species in a certain area is highly important for conservation. Occurrence-state can be assessed by network models that take suitable habitat patches as nodes, connected by potential dispersal of species. To determine connections, a connectivity threshold is set at the species' maximum dispersal distance. However, this requires field observations prone to underestimation, so for most animal species there are no trustable maximum dispersal distance estimations. This limits the development of accurate network models to predict species occurrence-state. In this study, we performed a sensitivity analysis of the performance of network models to different settings of maximum dispersal distance. Our approach, applied on six amphibian species in Switzerland, used habitat suitability modelling to define habitat patches, which were linked within a dispersal distance threshold to form habitat networks. We used network topological measures, patch suitability, and patch size to explain species occurrence-state in habitat patches through boosted regression trees. These modelling steps were repeated on each species for different maximum dispersal distances, including a species-specific value from literature. We evaluated mainly the predictive performance and predictor importance among the network models. We found that predictive performance had a positive relation with the distance threshold, and that almost none of the species-specific values from literature yielded the best performance across tested thresholds. With increasing dispersal distance, the importance of the habitat-quality-related variable decreased, whereas that of the topology-related predictors increased. We conclude that the sensitivity of these models to the dispersal distance parameter stems from the very different topologies formed with different movement assumptions. Most reported maximum dispersal distances are underestimated, presumably due to leptokurtic dispersal distribution. Our results imply that caution should be taken when selecting a dispersal distance threshold, considering higher values than those derived from field reports, to account for long-distance dispersers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Damian O. Ortiz-Rodríguez
- Planning of Landscape and Urban Systems (PLUS), Institute for Spatial and Landscape Planning, ETH Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
- WSL Swiss Federal Research Institute, Birmensdorf, Switzerland
- Department of Environmental Systems Science, ETH Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Antoine Guisan
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Institute of Earth Surface Dynamics, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Maarten J. Van Strien
- Planning of Landscape and Urban Systems (PLUS), Institute for Spatial and Landscape Planning, ETH Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Boualit L, Cayuela H, Ballu A, Cattin L, Reis C, Chèvre N. The Amphibian Short-Term Assay: Evaluation of a New Ecotoxicological Method for Amphibians Using Two Organophosphate Pesticides Commonly Found in Nature-Assessment of Behavioral Traits. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2023; 42:1595-1606. [PMID: 37097014 DOI: 10.1002/etc.5642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Neurotoxic pesticides are used worldwide to protect crops from insects; they are recognized to impact nontarget organisms that live in areas surrounded by treated crops. Many biochemical and cell-based solutions have been developed for testing insecticide neurotoxicity. Nevertheless, such solutions provide a partial assessment of the impact of neurotoxicity, neglecting important phenotypic components such as behavior. Behavior is the apical endpoint altered by neurotoxicity, and scientists are increasingly recommending including behavioral endpoints in available tests or developing new methods for assessing contaminant-induced behavioral changes. In the present study, we extended an existing protocol (the amphibian short-term assay) with a behavioral test. To this purpose, we developed a homemade device along with an open-source computing solution for tracking trajectories of Xenopus laevis tadpoles exposed to two organophosphates insecticides (OPIs), diazinon (DZN) and chlorpyrifos (CPF). The data resulting from the tracking were then analyzed, and the impact of exposure to DZN and CPF was tested on speed- and direction-related components. Our results demonstrate weak impacts of DZN on the behavioral components, while CPF demonstrated strong effects, notably on speed-related components. Our results also suggest a time-dependent alteration of behavior by CPF, with the highest impacts at day 6 and an absence of impact at day 8. Although only two OPIs were tested, we argue that our solution coupled with biochemical biomarkers is promising for testing the neurotoxicity of this pesticide group on amphibians. Environ Toxicol Chem 2023;42:1595-1606. © 2023 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laurent Boualit
- Institute of Earth Surface Dynamics, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Hugo Cayuela
- Laboratoire de Biométrie et Biologie Evolution, Université Lyon 1, Villeurbanne, France
| | - Aurélien Ballu
- Institute of Earth Surface Dynamics, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Loïc Cattin
- Institute of Earth Surface Dynamics, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Christophe Reis
- Institute of Earth Surface Dynamics, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Nathalie Chèvre
- Institute of Earth Surface Dynamics, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Patterns in usage of under-road tunnels by an amphibian community highlights the importance of tunnel placement and design for mitigation. Glob Ecol Conserv 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gecco.2023.e02420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/05/2023] Open
|
10
|
Libro P, Chiocchio A, De Rysky E, Di Martino J, Bisconti R, Castrignanò T, Canestrelli D. De novo transcriptome assembly and annotation for gene discovery in Salamandra salamandra at the larval stage. Sci Data 2023; 10:330. [PMID: 37244908 DOI: 10.1038/s41597-023-02217-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Dispersal is a key process in ecology and evolutionary biology, as it shapes biodiversity patterns over space and time. Attitude to disperse is unevenly distributed among individuals within populations, and that individual personality can have pivotal roles in the shaping of this attitude. Here, we assembled and annotated the first de novo transcriptome of the head tissues of Salamandra salamandra from individuals, representative of distinct behavioral profiles. We obtained 1,153,432,918 reads, which were successfully assembled and annotated. The high-quality of the assembly was confirmed by three assembly validators. The alignment of contigs against the de novo transcriptome led to a mapping percentage higher than 94%. The homology annotation with DIAMOND led to 153,048 (blastx) and 95,942 (blastp) shared contigs, annotated on NR, Swiss-Prot and TrEMBL. The domain and site protein prediction led to 9850 GO-annotated contigs. This de novo transcriptome represents reliable reference for comparative gene expression studies between alternative behavioral types, for comparative gene expression studies within Salamandra, and for whole transcriptome and proteome studies in amphibians.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pietro Libro
- Università degli Studi della Tuscia, Dipartimento di Scienze ecologiche e Biologiche, Largo dell'Università snc, 01100, Viterbo, Italy
| | - Andrea Chiocchio
- Università degli Studi della Tuscia, Dipartimento di Scienze ecologiche e Biologiche, Largo dell'Università snc, 01100, Viterbo, Italy
| | - Erika De Rysky
- Università degli Studi della Tuscia, Dipartimento di Scienze ecologiche e Biologiche, Largo dell'Università snc, 01100, Viterbo, Italy
| | - Jessica Di Martino
- Università degli Studi della Tuscia, Dipartimento di Scienze ecologiche e Biologiche, Largo dell'Università snc, 01100, Viterbo, Italy
| | - Roberta Bisconti
- Università degli Studi della Tuscia, Dipartimento di Scienze ecologiche e Biologiche, Largo dell'Università snc, 01100, Viterbo, Italy
| | - Tiziana Castrignanò
- Università degli Studi della Tuscia, Dipartimento di Scienze ecologiche e Biologiche, Largo dell'Università snc, 01100, Viterbo, Italy.
| | - Daniele Canestrelli
- Università degli Studi della Tuscia, Dipartimento di Scienze ecologiche e Biologiche, Largo dell'Università snc, 01100, Viterbo, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Spatial ecology of the invasive Asian common toad in Madagascar and its implications for invasion dynamics. Sci Rep 2023; 13:3526. [PMID: 36864075 PMCID: PMC9981762 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-29467-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Invasion dynamics are determined, among other aspects, by the spatial behaviour of invasive populations. The invasive toad Duttaphrynus melanostictus is spreading inland from the eastern coast of Madagascar, causing considerable ecological impacts. Understanding the basic factors determining the spread dynamics can inform management strategies and provide insights into spatial evolutionary processes. We radio-tracked 91 adult toads in three localities along the invasion gradient to determine whether spatial sorting of dispersive phenotypes is occurring, and investigate intrinsic and extrinsic determinants of spatial behaviour. Overall, toads in our study appeared as habitat generalists, and their sheltering behaviour was tied to water proximity, with toads changing shelter more frequently closer to waterbodies. Toads showed low displacement rates (mean = 4.12 m/day) and quite a philopatric behaviour but were able to perform daily movements of over 50 m. We did not detect any spatial sorting of dispersal-relevant traits nor sex- or size-biased dispersal. Our results suggest that toads are more likely to expand their range during the wet season, and that the range expansion is probably dominated by short-distance dispersal at this stage of the invasion, although a future increase in invasion speed is expected, due to the capacity for long-distance movements of this species.
Collapse
|
12
|
Martínez-Gil H, Sánchez-Montes G, Montes-Gavilán P, Ugarte G, Martínez-Solano Í. Fine-scale functional connectivity of two syntopic pond-breeding amphibians with contrasting life-history traits: an integrative assessment of direct and indirect estimates of dispersal. CONSERV GENET 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s10592-023-01506-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2023]
Abstract
AbstractAssessing patterns of functional connectivity among amphibian demes is crucial to unravel their population dynamics and prevent their isolation and eventual extinction. Integrative studies based on direct (capture-mark-recapture) and indirect (genetic) estimates of dispersal provide robust, biologically realistic inferences on population structure and connectivity, with applications for conservation efforts. We focused on two pond-breeding amphibians with contrasting life-history traits: the short-lived, semi-arboreal Hyla molleri and the long-lived, fossorial Pelobates cultripes. We PIT-tagged 2150 individuals of both species in two ponds (Laguna and Gravera, separated by 700 m) and monitored them from 2009 to 2021 to document the frequency and spatial extent of dispersal events. In addition, we genotyped individuals from these and two additional breeding populations at a maximum distance of 5 km with 15–16 microsatellites to characterize fine-scale patterns of genetic structure. We detected dispersal events connecting Laguna and Gravera in both species, albeit at low frequencies (4.8% and 7.7% of recaptured individuals of H. molleri and P. cultripes, respectively). However, both species were capable of covering long distances, with individual accumulated displacements up to 3.5 km (Hyla) and 1.8 km (Pelobates). Breeding populations > 2 km apart were genetically differentiated, indicating lower connectivity at this spatial scale. Estimates of pairwise migration rates differed between species and were asymmetrical, with different ponds representing “source” populations contributing more migrants to other populations in each species. We discuss the role of differences in life history traits and ecological preferences in shaping population dynamics in the two species and highlight management implications of our results.
Collapse
|
13
|
Conan A, Le Brishoual M, Garnier L, Fleitz J, Dehaut N, Enstipp M, Jumeau J, Handrich Y. Efficacy of permanent wildlife fences as barriers to amphibian movement. Front Ecol Evol 2023. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2023.1074072] [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
To mitigate habitat fragmentation and roadkill, roads are increasingly equipped with wildlife fences and underpasses. However, the effectiveness of such fences in preventing road access for amphibians has not been tested under controlled conditions. In 2019 and 2020, we tested the efficacy of full panel fences of differing material, height, and shape (presence/absence of an overhang), to prevent road access for adult and juvenile amphibians. We selected five species according to locomotion mode: Natterjack toads (runners), European green toads (short-distance jumpers), agile frogs (proficient jumpers), American tree frogs (proficient climbers) and smooth newts (climbers). We found that Natterjack and green toads were unable to cross a concrete fence with a height of 13 and 24 cm, respectively. Addition of a 10 cm overhang reduced the height required to prevent crossing further to 10 and 17 cm, respectively. The ability of these less agile species to cross a certain fence height depended on body length. By contrast, jumping agile frogs and climbing tree frogs were not stopped by the greatest fence height tested (40 cm). However, addition of the overhang stopped the climbing tree frogs at a concrete fence height of 35 cm. An alternative metal fence (with overhang) was tested with some species and performed similar to the concrete fence (with overhang). Finally, the greatest concrete fence height passed by climbing juveniles was 20 cm (smooth newts). Hence, to stop amphibians from road crossing, we recommend the construction of durable (concrete or galvanized metal) and well-maintained fences with a minimum height of 40 cm with a 10 cm overhang.
Collapse
|
14
|
Lowe WH, Addis BR, Cochrane MM, Swartz LK. Source-sink dynamics within a complex life history. Ecology 2023; 104:e3991. [PMID: 36772972 DOI: 10.1002/ecy.3991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
Source-sink patch dynamics occur when movement from sources stabilizes sinks by compensating for low local vital rates. The mechanisms underlying source-sink dynamics may be complicated in species that undergo transitions between discrete life stages, particularly when stages have overlapping habitat requirements and similar movement abilities. In these species, for example, the demographic effects of movement by one stage may augment or offset the effects of movement by another stage. We used a stream salamander system to investigate patch dynamics within this form of complex life history. Specifically, we tested the hypothesis that the salamander Gyrinophilus porphyriticus experiences source-sink dynamics in riffles and pools, the dominant geomorphic patch types in headwater streams. We estimated stage-specific survival probabilities in riffles and pools and stage-specific movement probabilities between the two patch types using 8 years of capture-recapture data on 4491 individuals, including premetamorphic larvae and postmetamorphic adults. We then incorporated survival and movement probabilities into a stage-structured, two-patch model to determine the demographic interactions between riffles and pools. Monthly survival probabilities of both stages were higher in pools than in riffles. Larvae were more likely to move from riffles to pools, but adults were more likely to move from pools to riffles, despite experiencing much lower survival in riffles. In simulations, eliminating interpatch movements by both stages indicated that riffles are sinks that rely on immigration from pools for stability. Allowing only larvae to move stabilized both patch types, but allowing only adults to move destabilized pools due to the demographic cost of adult emigration. These results indicated that larval movement not only stabilizes riffles, but also offsets the destabilizing effects of maladaptive adult movement. Similar patch dynamics may emerge in any structured population in which movement and local vital rates differ by age, size, or stage. Addressing these forms of internal demographic structure in patch dynamics analyses will help to refine and advance general understanding of spatial ecology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Winsor H Lowe
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, Montana, USA
| | - Brett R Addis
- D.B. Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
| | - Madaline M Cochrane
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, Montana, USA
| | - Leah K Swartz
- Montana Freshwater Partners, Livingston, Montana, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Cook DG, Stemle LR, Stokes DL, Messerman AF, Meisler JA, Searcy CA. Habitat value of constructed breeding pools for the endangered Sonoma population of California tiger salamander. J Wildl Manage 2023. [DOI: 10.1002/jwmg.22370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Leyna R. Stemle
- Department of Biology, University of Miami, 1301 Memorial Drive Coral Gables FL 33146 USA
| | - David L. Stokes
- University of Washington Bothell, 18115 Campus Way NE, Box 358530 Bothell WA 98011 USA
| | - Arianne F. Messerman
- Department of Biology, University of Miami, 1301 Memorial Drive Coral Gables FL 33146 USA
| | | | - Christopher A. Searcy
- Department of Biology, University of Miami, 1301 Memorial Drive Coral Gables FL 33146 USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Burraco P, Salla RF, Orizaola G. Exposure to ionizing radiation and liver histopathology in the tree frogs of Chornobyl (Ukraine). CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 315:137753. [PMID: 36608893 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.137753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Ionizing radiation has the potential to damage organic molecules and decrease the health and survival of wildlife. The accident at the Chornobyl Nuclear Plant (Ukraine, 1986) led to the largest release of radioactive material to the environment. Among the different organs of a vertebrate, the liver plays a crucial role in detoxification processes, and has been used as a biomarker to investigate cellular damage in ecotoxicological research. Here, we examined the impact of the exposure to the current levels of ionizing radiation present in the Chornobyl Exclusion Zone on the liver of Eastern tree frogs (Hyla orientalis). We quantified the area of melanomacrophage cells and morphological variables of hepatocytes, two cell types often used to estimate damage caused by pollutants in vertebrates. First, we investigated whether these hepatic parameters were indicative of frog (individual) condition. Then, we analyzed the effect of individual absorbed dose rates and ambient radiation levels on frog livers. Most of the studied parameters were correlated with individual body condition (a good predictor of amphibian fitness and survival). We did not detect marked morphological lesions in the liver of frogs captured in medium-high radiation environments. The area occupied by melanomacrophages and the morphology of hepatocytes did not change across a gradient of radiocontamination covering two orders of magnitude. Once accounting for body condition and sampling locality, the area of melanomacrophages was lower in areas with high radiation levels. Finally, the area occupied by melanomacrophages was not linked to dorsal skin coloration. Our results indicate that current levels of radiation experienced by tree frogs in Chornobyl do not cause histopathological damage in their liver. These results agree with previous physiological work in the species in the Chornobyl area, and encourage further molecular and physiological research to fully disentangle the current impact of the Chornobyl accident on wildlife.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Burraco
- Animal Ecology, Department of Ecology and Genetics, Evolutionary Biology Centre, Uppsala University, 75236, Uppsala, Sweden; Doñana Biological Station, Spanish Research Council (EBD-CSIC), 41092, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Raquel Fernanda Salla
- Postgraduate Program of Biotechnology and Environmental Monitoring, Federal University of São Carlos, 18052-780, Sorocaba, São Paulo, Brazil; Institute of Tropical Pathology and Public Health, Federal University of Goiás, 74605-050, Goiania, Goias, Brazil
| | - Germán Orizaola
- IMIB-Biodiversity Research Institute (Univ. Oviedo-CSIC-Princip. Asturias), University of Oviedo, 33600, Mieres, Asturias, Spain; Zoology Unit, Department of Biology of Organisms and Systems, University of Oviedo, 33071, Oviedo, Asturias, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Gravel R, Lai S, Berteaux D. Long-term satellite tracking reveals patterns of long-distance dispersal in juvenile and adult Arctic foxes ( Vulpes lagopus). ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2023; 10:220729. [PMID: 36756054 PMCID: PMC9890113 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.220729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Long-distance dispersal plays a key role in species distribution and persistence. However, its movement metrics and ecological implications may differ whether it is undertaken by juveniles (natal dispersal) or adults (breeding dispersal). We investigated the influence of life stage on long-distance dispersal in the Arctic fox, an important tundra predator. We fitted 170 individuals with satellite collars during a 13-year study on Bylot Island (Nunavut, Canada), and analysed the tracks of 10 juveniles and 27 adults engaging in long-distance dispersal across the Canadian High Arctic. This behaviour was much more common than expected, especially in juveniles (62.5%, adults: 19.4%). Emigration of juveniles occurred mainly at the end of summer while departure of adults was not synchronized. Juveniles travelled for longer periods and over longer cumulative distances than adults, but spent similar proportions of their time travelling on sea ice versus land. Successful immigration occurred mostly in late spring and was similar for juveniles and adults (30% versus 37%). Our results reveal how life stage influences key aspects of long-distance dispersal in a highly mobile canid. This new knowledge is critical to understand the circumpolar genetic structure of the species, and how Arctic foxes can spread zoonoses across vast geographical areas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard Gravel
- Canada Research Chair on Northen Biodiversity, Centre for Northern Studies and Quebec Centre for Biodiversity Science, Université du Québec à Rimouski, Rimouski, Canada G5L 3A1
| | - Sandra Lai
- Canada Research Chair on Northen Biodiversity, Centre for Northern Studies and Quebec Centre for Biodiversity Science, Université du Québec à Rimouski, Rimouski, Canada G5L 3A1
| | - Dominique Berteaux
- Canada Research Chair on Northen Biodiversity, Centre for Northern Studies and Quebec Centre for Biodiversity Science, Université du Québec à Rimouski, Rimouski, Canada G5L 3A1
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Gravel R, Lai S, Berteaux D. Long-term satellite tracking reveals patterns of long-distance dispersal in juvenile and adult Arctic foxes ( Vulpes lagopus). ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2023; 10:220729. [PMID: 36756054 DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.7521679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Long-distance dispersal plays a key role in species distribution and persistence. However, its movement metrics and ecological implications may differ whether it is undertaken by juveniles (natal dispersal) or adults (breeding dispersal). We investigated the influence of life stage on long-distance dispersal in the Arctic fox, an important tundra predator. We fitted 170 individuals with satellite collars during a 13-year study on Bylot Island (Nunavut, Canada), and analysed the tracks of 10 juveniles and 27 adults engaging in long-distance dispersal across the Canadian High Arctic. This behaviour was much more common than expected, especially in juveniles (62.5%, adults: 19.4%). Emigration of juveniles occurred mainly at the end of summer while departure of adults was not synchronized. Juveniles travelled for longer periods and over longer cumulative distances than adults, but spent similar proportions of their time travelling on sea ice versus land. Successful immigration occurred mostly in late spring and was similar for juveniles and adults (30% versus 37%). Our results reveal how life stage influences key aspects of long-distance dispersal in a highly mobile canid. This new knowledge is critical to understand the circumpolar genetic structure of the species, and how Arctic foxes can spread zoonoses across vast geographical areas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard Gravel
- Canada Research Chair on Northen Biodiversity, Centre for Northern Studies and Quebec Centre for Biodiversity Science, Université du Québec à Rimouski, Rimouski, Canada G5L 3A1
| | - Sandra Lai
- Canada Research Chair on Northen Biodiversity, Centre for Northern Studies and Quebec Centre for Biodiversity Science, Université du Québec à Rimouski, Rimouski, Canada G5L 3A1
| | - Dominique Berteaux
- Canada Research Chair on Northen Biodiversity, Centre for Northern Studies and Quebec Centre for Biodiversity Science, Université du Québec à Rimouski, Rimouski, Canada G5L 3A1
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Gravel R, Lai S, Berteaux D. Long-term satellite tracking reveals patterns of long-distance dispersal in juvenile and adult Arctic foxes ( Vulpes lagopus). ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2023; 10:220729. [PMID: 36756054 DOI: 10.6084/m9.figshare.c.6399726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Long-distance dispersal plays a key role in species distribution and persistence. However, its movement metrics and ecological implications may differ whether it is undertaken by juveniles (natal dispersal) or adults (breeding dispersal). We investigated the influence of life stage on long-distance dispersal in the Arctic fox, an important tundra predator. We fitted 170 individuals with satellite collars during a 13-year study on Bylot Island (Nunavut, Canada), and analysed the tracks of 10 juveniles and 27 adults engaging in long-distance dispersal across the Canadian High Arctic. This behaviour was much more common than expected, especially in juveniles (62.5%, adults: 19.4%). Emigration of juveniles occurred mainly at the end of summer while departure of adults was not synchronized. Juveniles travelled for longer periods and over longer cumulative distances than adults, but spent similar proportions of their time travelling on sea ice versus land. Successful immigration occurred mostly in late spring and was similar for juveniles and adults (30% versus 37%). Our results reveal how life stage influences key aspects of long-distance dispersal in a highly mobile canid. This new knowledge is critical to understand the circumpolar genetic structure of the species, and how Arctic foxes can spread zoonoses across vast geographical areas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard Gravel
- Canada Research Chair on Northen Biodiversity, Centre for Northern Studies and Quebec Centre for Biodiversity Science, Université du Québec à Rimouski, Rimouski, Canada G5L 3A1
| | - Sandra Lai
- Canada Research Chair on Northen Biodiversity, Centre for Northern Studies and Quebec Centre for Biodiversity Science, Université du Québec à Rimouski, Rimouski, Canada G5L 3A1
| | - Dominique Berteaux
- Canada Research Chair on Northen Biodiversity, Centre for Northern Studies and Quebec Centre for Biodiversity Science, Université du Québec à Rimouski, Rimouski, Canada G5L 3A1
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Grosklos G, Zhao J. Chaos does not drive lower synchrony for intrinsically-induced population fluctuations. Ecol Modell 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ecolmodel.2022.110203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
|
21
|
Davis CL, Muñoz DJ, Amburgey SM, Dinsmore CR, Teitsworth EW, Miller DAW. Multistate model to estimate sex‐specific dispersal rates and distances for a wetland‐breeding amphibian population. Ecosphere 2023. [DOI: 10.1002/ecs2.4345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Courtney L. Davis
- Department of Ecosystem Science and Management Pennsylvania State University University Park Pennsylvania USA
- Intercollege Graduate Ecology Program, Pennsylvania State University University Park Pennsylvania USA
- Cornell Lab of Ornithology Cornell University Ithaca New York USA
| | - David J. Muñoz
- Department of Ecosystem Science and Management Pennsylvania State University University Park Pennsylvania USA
- Intercollege Graduate Ecology Program, Pennsylvania State University University Park Pennsylvania USA
| | - Staci M. Amburgey
- Washington Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences University of Washington Seattle Washington USA
- Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Olympia Washington USA
| | - Carli R. Dinsmore
- Department of Ecosystem Science and Management Pennsylvania State University University Park Pennsylvania USA
| | - Eric W. Teitsworth
- Department of Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology North Carolina State University Raleigh North Carolina USA
| | - David A. W. Miller
- Department of Ecosystem Science and Management Pennsylvania State University University Park Pennsylvania USA
- Intercollege Graduate Ecology Program, Pennsylvania State University University Park Pennsylvania USA
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Mathwin R, Wassens S, Gibbs MS, Young J, Ye Q, Saltré F, Bradshaw CJA. Modeling the effects of water regulation on the population viability of a threatened amphibian. Ecosphere 2023. [DOI: 10.1002/ecs2.4379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Rupert Mathwin
- Global Ecology (Partuyarta Ngadluku Wardli Kuu), College of Science and Engineering Flinders University Adelaide South Australia Australia
| | - Skye Wassens
- School of Environmental Sciences Charles Sturt University Albury New South Wales Australia
| | - Matthew S. Gibbs
- School of Civil, Environmental and Mining Engineering The University of Adelaide Adelaide South Australia Australia
- Land and Water, Commonwealth Science and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) Urrbrae South Australia Australia
| | - Jeanne Young
- College of Science and Engineering Flinders University Adelaide South Australia Australia
| | - Qifeng Ye
- College of Science and Engineering Flinders University Adelaide South Australia Australia
- South Australian Research and Development Institute West Beach South Australia Australia
| | - Frédérik Saltré
- Global Ecology (Partuyarta Ngadluku Wardli Kuu), College of Science and Engineering Flinders University Adelaide South Australia Australia
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Australian Biodiversity and Heritage (EpicAustralia.org.au) Wollongong New South Wales Australia
| | - Corey J. A. Bradshaw
- Global Ecology (Partuyarta Ngadluku Wardli Kuu), College of Science and Engineering Flinders University Adelaide South Australia Australia
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Australian Biodiversity and Heritage (EpicAustralia.org.au) Wollongong New South Wales Australia
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Shemesh H, Dener E, Sadeh A. Bedrock may dictate the distribution of the fire salamander in the southern border of its global range. Isr J Ecol Evol 2022. [DOI: 10.1163/22244662-bja10041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Understanding the factors that determine the spatial distribution of species is crucial for conservation planning. In this short communication, we review previous distribution models of the fire salamander (Salamandra infraimmaculata) in northern Israel, produced by the group of the late Prof. Leon Blaustein, while suggesting a biologically-informed reinterpretation of their main predictions. We argue for the prime importance of bedrock, specifically hard limestone, because it is tightly associated with the availability of karstic formations that are key to adult survival throughout the summer. Furthermore, we suggest that the spatial distribution of limestone bedrock also determines large-scale inter-population connectivity, and may explain the observed genetic differentiation among populations, as well as the southernmost limit of the species’ global distribution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hagai Shemesh
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Tel-Hai College, Tel-Hai, 1220800, Israel
| | - Efrat Dener
- Albert Katz International School for Desert Studies, Jacob Blaustein Institutes for Desert Research, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Sede Boqer Campus, Midreshet Ben-Gurion, Israel
- Mitrani Department of Desert Ecology, Swiss Institute for Dryland Environmental and Energy Research, The Jacob Blaustein Institutes for Desert Research, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Sede Boqer Campus, Midreshet Ben-Gurion, Israel
| | - Asaf Sadeh
- Agroecology lab, Department of Natural Resources, Newe Ya’ar Research Center, Agricultural Research Organization (Volcani Institute), Ramat Yishay, 3009500, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Licata F, Mohanty NP, Crottini A, Andreone F, Harison RF, Randriamoria TM, Freeman K, Muller B, Birkinshaw C, Tilahimena A, Ficetola GF. Using public surveys to rapidly profile biological invasions in hard‐to‐monitor areas. Anim Conserv 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/acv.12835] [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)
- F. Licata
- CIBIO, Centro de Investigação em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genéticos, InBIO Laboratório Associado, Campus de Vairão Universidade do Porto Vairão Portugal
- Departamento de Biologia, Faculdade de Ciências Universidade do Porto Porto Portugal
- BIOPOLIS Program in Genomics, Biodiversity and Land Planning, CIBIO Campus de Vairão Vairão Portugal
| | - N. P. Mohanty
- Centre for Ecological Sciences Indian Institute of Science Bangalore India
- Centre for Invasion Biology, Department of Botany and Zoology Stellenbosch University Stellenbosch South Africa
| | - A. Crottini
- CIBIO, Centro de Investigação em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genéticos, InBIO Laboratório Associado, Campus de Vairão Universidade do Porto Vairão Portugal
- Departamento de Biologia, Faculdade de Ciências Universidade do Porto Porto Portugal
- BIOPOLIS Program in Genomics, Biodiversity and Land Planning, CIBIO Campus de Vairão Vairão Portugal
| | - F. Andreone
- Museo Regionale di Scienze Naturali Torino Italy
| | - R. F. Harison
- Madagascar Fauna and Flora Group Toamasina Madagascar
- ISSEDD (Institut Supérieur de Science, Environnement et Développement Durable) Université de Toamasina Toamasina Madagascar
| | - T. M. Randriamoria
- Association Vahatra Antananarivo Madagascar
- Mention Zoologie et Biodiversité Animale, Domaine Sciences et Technologies Université d'Antananarivo Antananarivo Madagascar
| | - K. Freeman
- Madagascar Fauna and Flora Group Toamasina Madagascar
| | - B. Muller
- Madagascar Fauna and Flora Group Toamasina Madagascar
| | - C. Birkinshaw
- Missouri Botanical Garden – Madagascar Research and Conservation Program Antananarivo Madagascar
| | - A. Tilahimena
- Missouri Botanical Garden – Madagascar Research and Conservation Program Antananarivo Madagascar
| | - G. F. Ficetola
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy Università degli Studi di Milano Milan Italy
- CNRS, Laboratoire d'Écologie Alpine (LECA) Univ. Grenoble Alpes Grenoble France
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
The evolution of reproductive modes and life cycles in amphibians. Nat Commun 2022; 13:7039. [PMID: 36396632 PMCID: PMC9672123 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-34474-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Amphibians have undergone important evolutionary transitions in reproductive modes and life-cycles. We compare large-scale macroevolutionary patterns in these transitions across the three major amphibian clades: frogs, salamanders, and caecilians. We analyse matching reproductive and phylogenetic data for 4025 species. We find that having aquatic larvae is ancestral for all three groups and is retained by many extant species (33-44%). The most frequent transitions in each group are to relatively uncommon states: live-bearing in caecilians, paedomorphosis in salamanders, and semi-terrestriality in frogs. All three groups show transitions to more terrestrial reproductive modes, but only in caecilians have these evolved sequentially from most-to-least aquatic. Diversification rates are largely independent of reproductive modes. However, in salamanders direct development accelerates diversification whereas paedomorphosis decreases it. Overall, we find a widespread retention of ancestral modes, decoupling of trait transition rates from patterns of species richness, and the general independence of reproductive modes and diversification.
Collapse
|
26
|
Reyes-Moya I, Sánchez-Montes G, Martínez-Solano Í. Integrating dispersal, breeding and abundance data with graph theory for the characterization and management of functional connectivity in amphibian pondscapes. LANDSCAPE ECOLOGY 2022; 37:3159-3177. [PMID: 36345361 PMCID: PMC9631601 DOI: 10.1007/s10980-022-01520-x] [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: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Robust assessment of functional connectivity in amphibian population networks is essential to address their global decline. The potential of graph theory to characterize connectivity among amphibian populations has already been confirmed, but the movement data on which modelled graphs rely are often scarce and inaccurate. While probabilistic methods that account for intraspecific variability in dispersal better reflect the biological reality of functional connectivity, they must be informed by systematically recorded individual movement data, which are difficult to obtain for secretive taxa like amphibians. OBJECTIVES Our aim is to assess the applied potential of probabilistic graph theory to characterize overall connectivity across amphibian pondscapes using fine-scale capture-recapture data, and to inform conservation management based on the role of ponds on functional connectivity. METHODS We monitored an amphibian community in a pondscape located in a Spanish "dehesa" for 2 years. Photoidentification was used to build capture histories for individuals of six species, from which dispersal kernels and population sizes were estimated to model probabilistic graphs. RESULTS We obtained kernels of variable robustness for six species. Node importance for connectivity varied between species, but with common patterns such as shared road crossing areas and the presence of coincident interconnected pond clusters. CONCLUSIONS The combination of photoidentification, capture-recapture data and graph theory allowed us to characterize functional connectivity across the pondscape of study accounting for dispersal variability and identify areas where conservation actions could be most efficient. Our results highlight the need to account for interspecific differences in the study and management of amphibian pondscapes. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10980-022-01520-x.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ismael Reyes-Moya
- Departamento de Biodiversidad y Biología Evolutiva, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (MNCN-CSIC), c/ José Gutiérrez Abascal 2, 28006 Madrid, Spain
| | - Gregorio Sánchez-Montes
- Departamento de Biodiversidad y Biología Evolutiva, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (MNCN-CSIC), c/ José Gutiérrez Abascal 2, 28006 Madrid, Spain
| | - Íñigo Martínez-Solano
- Departamento de Biodiversidad y Biología Evolutiva, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (MNCN-CSIC), c/ José Gutiérrez Abascal 2, 28006 Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Bending the curve: Simple but massive conservation action leads to landscape-scale recovery of amphibians. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2123070119. [PMID: 36215493 PMCID: PMC9586276 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2123070119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The global decline of amphibians is part of the global freshwater biodiversity crisis. In human-dominated landscapes, amphibian population declines are driven by multiple stressors. A better understanding of the benefits of conservation action can contribute to the halting and reversal of population declines. Our analysis of 20 y of monitoring data shows that the large-scale construction of hundreds of new ponds in northern Switzerland has halted or even reversed declining trends for the majority of amphibian species, including multiple Red-Listed species undergoing declines at the national level. This conservation success suggests that increasing habitat availability benefits threatened amphibian species despite the continued presence of stressors known to negatively affect populations. Success stories are rare in conservation science, hindered also by the research-implementation gap, where scientific insights rarely inform practice and practical implementation is rarely evaluated scientifically. Amphibian population declines, driven by multiple stressors, are emblematic of the freshwater biodiversity crisis. Habitat creation is a straightforward conservation action that has been shown to locally benefit amphibians, as well as other taxa, but does it benefit entire amphibian communities at large spatial scales? Here, we evaluate a landscape-scale pond-construction program by fitting dynamic occupancy models to 20 y of monitoring data for 12 pond-breeding amphibian species in the Swiss state Aargau, a densely populated area of the Swiss lowlands with intensive land use. After decades of population declines, the number of occupied ponds increased statewide for 10 out of 12 species, while one species remained stable and one species further declined between 1999 and 2019. Despite regional differences, in 77% of all 43 regional metapopulations, the colonization and subsequent occupation of new ponds stabilized (14%) or increased (63%) metapopulation size. Likely mechanisms include increased habitat availability, restoration of habitat dynamics, and increased connectivity between ponds. Colonization probabilities reflected species-specific preferences for characteristics of ponds and their surroundings, which provides evidence-based information for future pond construction targeting specific species. The relatively simple but landscape-scale and persistent conservation action of constructing hundreds of new ponds halted declines and stabilized or increased the state-wide population size of all but one species, despite ongoing pressures from other stressors in a human-dominated landscape.
Collapse
|
28
|
Jreidini N, Green DM. Dispersal without drivers: Intrinsic and extrinsic variables have no impact on movement distances in a terrestrial amphibian. Ecol Evol 2022; 12:e9368. [PMID: 36203625 PMCID: PMC9526034 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.9368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Dispersive movements are often thought to be multicausal and driven by individual body size, sex, conspecific density, environmental variation, personality, and/or other variables. Yet such variables often do not account for most of the variation among dispersive movements in nature, leaving open the possibility that dispersion may be indeterministic. We assessed the amount of variation in 24 h movement distances that could be accounted for by potential drivers of displacement with a large empirical dataset of movement distances performed by Fowler's Toads (Anaxyrus fowleri) on the northern shore of Lake Erie at Long Point, Ontario (2002–2021, incl.). These toads are easy to sample repeatedly, can be identified individually and move parallel to the shoreline as they forage at night, potentially dispersing to new refuge sites. Using a linear mixed‐effect model that incorporated random effect terms to account for sampling variance and inter‐annual variation, we found that all potential intrinsic and extrinsic drivers of movement accounted for virtually none of the variation observed among 24 h distances moved by these animals, whether over short or large spatial scales. We examined the idea of movement personality by testing variance per individual toad and found no evidence of individuality in movement distances. We conclude that deterministic variables, whether intrinsic or extrinsic, neither can be shown to nor are necessary to drive movements in this population over all spatial scales. Stochastic, short time‐scale movements, such as daily foraging movements, can instead accumulate over time to produce large spatial‐scale movements that are dispersive in nature.
Collapse
|
29
|
Burraco P, Orizaola G. Ionizing radiation and melanism in Chornobyl tree frogs. Evol Appl 2022; 15:1469-1479. [PMID: 36187188 PMCID: PMC9488684 DOI: 10.1111/eva.13476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Human actions are altering ecosystems worldwide. Among human‐released pollutants, ionizing radiation arises as a rare but potentially devastating threat to natural systems. The Chornobyl accident (1986) represents the largest release of radioactive material to the environment. Our aim was to examine how exposure to radiation from the Chornobyl accident influences dorsal skin coloration of Eastern tree frog (Hyla orientalis) males sampled across a wide gradient of radioactive contamination in northern Ukraine. We assessed the relationship between skin frog coloration (which can act as a protective mechanism against ionizing radiation), radiation conditions and oxidative stress levels. Skin coloration was darker in localities closest to areas with high radiation levels at the time of the accident, whereas current radiation levels seemed not to influence skin coloration in Chornobyl tree frogs. Tree frogs living within the Chornobyl Exclusion Zone had a remarkably darker dorsal skin coloration than frogs from outside the Zone. The maintenance of dark skin coloration was not linked to physiological costs in terms of frog body condition or oxidative status, and we did not detect short‐term changes in frog coloration. Dark coloration is known to protect against different sources of radiation by neutralizing free radicals and reducing DNA damage, and, particularly melanin pigmentation has been proposed as a buffering mechanism against ionizing radiation. Our results suggest that exposure to high levels of ionizing radiation, likely at the time of the accident, may have been selected for darker coloration in Chornobyl tree frogs. Further studies are needed to determine the underlying mechanisms and evolutionary consequences of the patterns found here.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Burraco
- Animal Ecology, Department of Ecology and Genetics, Evolutionary Biology Centre Uppsala University Uppsala Sweden
- Doñana Biological Station (CSIC), 41092 Seville Spain
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences University of Glasgow Glasgow UK
| | - Germán Orizaola
- Animal Ecology, Department of Ecology and Genetics, Evolutionary Biology Centre Uppsala University Uppsala Sweden
- IMIB‐Biodiversity Research Institute (Univ. Oviedo‐CSIC‐Princip. Asturias) University of Oviedo Mieres ‐Asturias Spain
- Zoology Unit, Department of Biology of Organisms and Systems University of Oviedo Oviedo ‐Asturias Spain
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Across the Gobi Desert: impact of landscape features on the biogeography and phylogeographically-structured release calls of the Mongolian Toad, Strauchbufo raddei in East Asia. Evol Ecol 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10682-022-10206-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
|
31
|
Lemes P, Barbosa FG, Naimi B, Araújo MB. Dispersal abilities favor commensalism in animal-plant interactions under climate change. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 835:155157. [PMID: 35405230 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.155157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Scientists still poorly understand how biotic interactions and dispersal limitation jointly interact and affect the ability of species to track suitable habitats under climate change. Here, we examine how animal-plant interactions and dispersal limitations might affect the responses of Brazil nut-dependent frogs facing projected climate change. Using ecological niche modelling and dispersal simulations, we forecast the future distributions of the Brazil nut tree and three commensalist frog species over time (2030, 2050, 2070, and 2090) in the regional rivalry (SSP370) scenario that includes great challenges to mitigation and adaptation. With the exception of one species, projections point to a decrease in suitable habitats of up to 40.6%. For frog species with potential reductions of co-occurrence areas, this is expected to reduce up to 23.8% of suitable areas for binomial animal-plant relationships. Even so, biotic interactions should not be lost over time. Species will depend on their own dispersal abilities to reach analogous climates in the future for maintaining ecological and evolutionary processes associated with commensal taxa. However, ecological and evolutionary processes associated with commensal taxa should be maintained in accordance with their own dispersal ability. When dispersal limitation is included in the models, the suitable range of all three frog species is reduced considerably by the end of the century. This highlights the importance of dispersal limitation inclusion for forecasting future distribution ranges when biotic interactions matter.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Priscila Lemes
- Laboratório de Ecologia e Biogeografia da Conservação, Departamento de Botânica e Ecologia, Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso, Cuiabá, MT, Brazil.
| | | | - Babak Naimi
- Rui Nabeiro Biodiversity Chair, MED Institute, University of Évora, Évora, Portugal
| | - Miguel B Araújo
- Rui Nabeiro Biodiversity Chair, MED Institute, University of Évora, Évora, Portugal; Department of Biogeography and Global Change, National Museum of Natural Sciences, CSIC, Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Donati GFA, Bolliger J, Psomas A, Maurer M, Bach PM. Reconciling cities with nature: Identifying local Blue-Green Infrastructure interventions for regional biodiversity enhancement. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2022; 316:115254. [PMID: 35576714 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2022.115254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Revised: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Increasing urbanization degrades quantity, quality, and the functionality of spatial cohesion of natural areas essential to biodiversity and ecosystem functioning worldwide. The uncontrolled pace of building activity and the erosion of blue (i.e., aquatic) and green (i.e., terrestrial) landscape elements threaten existing habitat ranges and movability of wildlife. Local scale measures, such as nature-inspired engineered Blue-Green Infrastructure (BGI) are emerging mitigation solutions. Originally planned to promote sustainable stormwater management, adaptation to climate change and improved human livability in cities, such instruments offer interesting synergies for biodiversity in support of existing ecological infrastructure. BGI are especially appealing for globally declining amphibians, a rich and diverse vertebrate assemblage sensitive to urbanization. We integrated biological and highly resolved urban-rural land-cover data, ensemble models of habitat suitability, and connectivity models based on circuit theory to improve multi-scale and multi-species protection of core habitats and ecological corridors in the Swiss lowlands. Considering a broad spectrum of amphibian biodiversity, we identified distributions of amphibian biodiversity hotspots and four landscape elements essential to amphibian movability at the regional scale, namely i) forest edges, ii) wet-forest habitats, iii) soils with variable moisture and iv) riparian zones. Our work shows that cities can make a substantial contribution (e.g., up to 15% of urban space in the study area) to wider landscape habitat connectivity. We highlight the importance of planning BGI locally in strategic locations across urban and peri-urban areas to promote the permeability and availability of 'stepping stone' habitats in densely populated landscapes, essential to the maintenance of regional habitat connectivity and thereby enhancing biodiversity and ecosystem functioning.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giulia F A Donati
- Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science & Technology (Eawag), Überlandstrasse 133, 8600, Dübendorf, Switzerland; WSL Swiss Federal Research Institute, Zürcherstrasse 111, 8903, Birmensdorf, Switzerland.
| | - Janine Bolliger
- WSL Swiss Federal Research Institute, Zürcherstrasse 111, 8903, Birmensdorf, Switzerland.
| | - Achilleas Psomas
- WSL Swiss Federal Research Institute, Zürcherstrasse 111, 8903, Birmensdorf, Switzerland.
| | - Max Maurer
- Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science & Technology (Eawag), Überlandstrasse 133, 8600, Dübendorf, Switzerland; Institute of Environmental Engineering, ETH Zürich, 8093, Switzerland.
| | - Peter M Bach
- Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science & Technology (Eawag), Überlandstrasse 133, 8600, Dübendorf, Switzerland; Institute of Environmental Engineering, ETH Zürich, 8093, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Falaschi M, Gibertini C, Lo Parrino E, Muraro M, Barzaghi B, Manenti R, Ficetola GF. Assessing Population Trends of Species with Imperfect Detection: Double Count Analyses and Simulations Confirm Reliable Estimates in Brown Frogs. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12162085. [PMID: 36009675 PMCID: PMC9405163 DOI: 10.3390/ani12162085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Most animal species are detected imperfectly and overlooking individuals can result in a biased inference of the abundance patterns and underlying processes. Several techniques can incorporate the imperfect detection process for a more accurate estimation of abundance, but most of them require repeated surveys, i.e., more sampling effort compared to single counts. In this study, we used the dependent double-observer approach to estimate the detection probability of the egg clutches of two brown frog species, Rana dalmatina and R. latastei. We then simulated the data of a declining population at different levels of detection probability in order to assess under which conditions the double counts provided better estimates of population trends compared to naïve egg counts, given the detectability of frog clutches. Both species showed a very high detection probability, with average values of 93% for Rana dalmatina and 97% for R. latastei. Simulations showed that not considering imperfect detection reduces the power of detecting population trends if detection probability is low. However, at high detection probability (>80%), ignoring the imperfect detection does not bias the estimates of population trends. This suggests that, for species laying large and easily identifiable egg clutches, a single count can provide useful estimates if surveys are correctly timed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mattia Falaschi
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of Milan, Via Celoria 10, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Gibertini
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of Milan, Via Celoria 10, 20133 Milan, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Elia Lo Parrino
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of Milan, Via Celoria 10, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Martina Muraro
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of Milan, Via Celoria 10, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Benedetta Barzaghi
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of Milan, Via Celoria 10, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Raoul Manenti
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of Milan, Via Celoria 10, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Gentile Francesco Ficetola
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of Milan, Via Celoria 10, 20133 Milan, Italy
- Laboratoire d’Écologie Alpine, University Grenoble Alpes, University Savoie Mont Blanc, CNRS, LECA, F-38000 Grenoble, France
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Habitat fragmentation rather than habitat amount or habitat split reduces the diversity and abundance of ground-dwelling anurans within forest remnants of the Brazilian Cerrado. J Nat Conserv 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jnc.2022.126259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
|
35
|
Barrile GM, Chalfoun AD, Estes‐Zumpf WA, Walters AW. Wildfire influences individual growth and breeding dispersal, but not survival and recruitment in a montane amphibian. Ecosphere 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/ecs2.4212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel M. Barrile
- Wyoming Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Program in Ecology, Department of Zoology and Physiology University of Wyoming Laramie Wyoming USA
| | - Anna D. Chalfoun
- U.S. Geological Survey, Wyoming Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Department of Zoology and Physiology and Program in Ecology University of Wyoming Laramie Wyoming USA
| | | | - Annika W. Walters
- U.S. Geological Survey, Wyoming Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Department of Zoology and Physiology and Program in Ecology University of Wyoming Laramie Wyoming USA
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Denoël M, Duret C, Lorrain-Soligon L, Padilla P, Pavis J, Pille F, Tendron P, Ficetola GF, Falaschi M. High habitat invasibility unveils the invasiveness potential of water frogs. Biol Invasions 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10530-022-02849-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
|
37
|
Murphy M, Boone M. Evaluating the role of body size and habitat type in movement behavior in human‐dominated systems: A frog's eye view. Ecol Evol 2022; 12:e9022. [PMID: 35784035 PMCID: PMC9217892 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.9022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Animal movement is a key process that connects and maintains populations on the landscape, yet for most species, we do not understand how intrinsic and extrinsic factors interact to influence individual movement behavior. Land‐use/land‐cover changes highlight that connectivity among populations will depend upon an individual's ability to traverse habitats, which may vary as a result of habitat permeability, individual condition, or a combination of these factors. We examined the effects of intrinsic (body size) and extrinsic (habitat type) factors on desiccation tolerance, movement, and orientation in three anuran species (American toads, Anaxyrus americanus; northern leopard frogs, Lithobates pipiens; and Blanchard's cricket frogs, Acris blanchardi) using laboratory and field studies to connect the effects of susceptibility to desiccation, size, and movement behavior in single‐habitat types and at habitat edges. Smaller anurans were more vulnerable to desiccation, particularly for species that metamorphose at relatively small sizes. Habitat type had the strongest effect on movement, while body size had more situational and species‐specific effects on movement. We found that individuals moved the farthest in habitat types that, when given the choice, they oriented away from, suggesting that these habitats are less favorable and could represent barriers to movement. Overall, our work demonstrated that differences in habitat type had strong impacts on individual movement behavior and influenced choices at habitat edges. By integrating intrinsic and extrinsic factors into our study, we provided evidence that population connectivity may be influenced not only by the habitat matrix but also by the condition of the individuals leaving the habitat patch.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mason Murphy
- Department of Biology Miami University Oxford Ohio USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Hammond TT, Swaisgood RR, Jacobs LE, Curtis MJ, McCormick BA, Hornfeldt JA, Trotman EM, Shier DM. Age‐dependent effects of developmental experience on morphology, performance, dispersal and survival in a translocated, endangered species. J Appl Ecol 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/1365-2664.14182] [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)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Eric M. Trotman
- San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance Escondido CA USA
- Department of Biology University of Florida Gainesville FL USA
| | - Debra M. Shier
- San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance Escondido CA USA
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology University of California Los Angeles CA USA
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Wilber MQ, Ohmer MEB, Altman KA, Brannelly LA, LaBumbard BC, Le Sage EH, McDonnell NB, Muñiz Torres AY, Nordheim CL, Pfab F, Richards-Zawacki CL, Rollins-Smith LA, Saenz V, Voyles J, Wetzel DP, Woodhams DC, Briggs CJ. Once a reservoir, always a reservoir? Seasonality affects the pathogen maintenance potential of amphibian hosts. Ecology 2022; 103:e3759. [PMID: 35593515 DOI: 10.1002/ecy.3759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Host species that can independently maintain a pathogen in a host community and contribute to infection in other species are important targets for disease management. However, the potential of host species to maintain a pathogen is not fixed over time, and an important challenge is understanding how within- and across-season variability in host maintenance potential affects pathogen persistence over longer time scales relevant for disease management (e.g., years). Here, we sought to understand the causes and consequences of seasonal infection dynamics in leopard frogs (Rana sphenocephala and R. pipiens) infected with the fungal pathogen Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd). We addressed three questions broadly applicable to seasonal host-parasite systems. First, to what degree are observed seasonal patterns in infection driven by temperature-dependent infection processes compared to seasonal host demographic processes? Second, how does seasonal variation in maintenance potential affect long-term pathogen persistence in multihost communities? Third, does high deterministic maintenance potential relate to the long-term stochastic persistence of pathogens in host populations with seasonal infection dynamics? To answer these questions, we used field data collected over three years on >1400 amphibians across four geographic locations, laboratory and mesocosm experiments, and a novel mathematical model. We found that the mechanisms that drive seasonal prevalence were different than those driving seasonal infection intensity. Seasonal variation in Bd prevalence was driven primarily by changes in host contact rates associated with breeding migrations to and from aquatic habitat. In contrast, seasonal changes in infection intensity were driven by temperature-induced changes in Bd growth rate. Using our model, we found that the maintenance potential of leopard frogs varied significantly throughout the year and that seasonal troughs in infection prevalence made it unlikely that leopard frogs were responsible for long-term Bd persistence in these seasonal amphibian communities, highlighting the importance of alternative pathogen reservoirs for Bd persistence. Our results have broad implications for management in seasonal host-pathogen systems, showing that seasonal changes in host and pathogen vital rates, rather than the depletion of susceptible hosts, can lead to troughs in pathogen prevalence and stochastic pathogen extirpation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mark Q Wilber
- Department of Forestry, Wildlife, and Fisheries, University of Tennessee, Institute of Agriculture, Knoxville, TN.,Ecology, Evolution and Marine Biology, University of California, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA
| | - Michel E B Ohmer
- Living Earth Collaborative, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO.,Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA.,Department of Biology, University of Mississippi, Oxford, MS
| | - Karie A Altman
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA.,Department of Biology, St. Bonaventure University, St Bonaventure, NY
| | - Laura A Brannelly
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA.,Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, Australia
| | - Brandon C LaBumbard
- Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Emily H Le Sage
- Department of Pathology Microbiology, and Immunology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN
| | - Nina B McDonnell
- Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Aura Y Muñiz Torres
- Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Caitlin L Nordheim
- Ecology, Evolution and Marine Biology, University of California, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA.,Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Ferdinand Pfab
- Ecology, Evolution and Marine Biology, University of California, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA
| | | | - Louise A Rollins-Smith
- Department of Pathology Microbiology, and Immunology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN
| | - Veronica Saenz
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Jamie Voyles
- Department of Biology, University of Nevada, Reno, Reno, NV
| | - Daniel P Wetzel
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Douglas C Woodhams
- Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Cheryl J Briggs
- Ecology, Evolution and Marine Biology, University of California, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Conan A, Fleitz J, Garnier L, Le Brishoual M, Handrich Y, Jumeau J. Effectiveness of wire netting fences to prevent animal access to road infrastructures: an experimental study on small mammals and amphibians. NATURE CONSERVATION 2022. [DOI: 10.3897/natureconservation.47.71472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Transport infrastructures, such as highways, disrupt animal migrations and cause roadkill. To mitigate the latter problem, fences have been built but their effectiveness has rarely been tested under controlled conditions. Here, we tested the effectiveness of the most commonly used fence in France and probably in Europe (wire netting fence) to block animals. We tested the wire netting fence, with and without a structural modification (i.e. an overhang), with three small mammalian species (the European hamster: Cricetus cricetus Linnaeus, 1758; the common vole: Microtus arvalis Pallas, 1778 & the wood mouse: Apodemus sylvaticus Linnaeus, 1758) and two amphibian species (the marsh frog: Pelophylax ridibundus Pallas, 1771 & the European green toad: Bufotes viridis Laurenti, 1768). During testing, all small vertebrate species tested were placed into an arena, from which they could only escape by crossing the wire netting fence. Without an overhang, almost all adult individuals of all tested species were able to climb over a 30 to 40 cm high wire netting fence. Furthermore, the addition of an 8 cm long overhang at the top of the fence stopped the amphibian species tested but not the most agile mammalian species, such as the hamster and the wood mouse. Based on these results, we do not support the construction of wire netting fences along roads as a measure to stop small animals from crossing. We recommend the use of more effective and durable fences, which, in addition, can be associated with wildlife passages to reconnect isolated populations.
Collapse
|
41
|
Coexistence of two newt species in a transition zone of range overlap. CONTRIBUTIONS TO ZOOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1163/18759866-bja10028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Theory suggests that spatial segregation of similar, co-occurring species may be driven by alternative innate life history and dispersal strategies, and that it operates through catastrophic events. An inventory of the evolutionary closely related small-bodied newts Lissotriton helveticus and L. vulgaris in the northwest of France demonstrated the species’ spatial partitioning, with L. vulgaris dominating in two pond-rich and historically disturbed coastal areas and L. helveticus prevailing inland where ponds are sparser. Population numbers were followed over several decades (1975–2021) in a pond within the narrow (ca. 2000 m wide) species transition zone. Early in the temporal survey (1986) a massive die-off was observed of two-third of the L. helveticus breeding population from a late frost event. Yet, the contribution of L. helveticus to the newt assemblage was more or less stable around 60%, even though the total population size fluctuated by an order of magnitude. Lissotriton vulgaris and a third species, Ichthyosaura alpestris, made up ca. 30% and 10% of the total till 1993, after which date their relative contributions reversed. These data suggest that a state shift may have occurred among the latter two species and that the assumed two-species dynamics of Lissotriton underlying the study has been an oversimplification. The local decline of L. vulgaris is paralleled by the loss of well-vegetated ponds from the wider agricultural terrain that affects this species more than L. helveticus and I. alpestris.
Collapse
|
42
|
Albert EM, García-Navas V. Population structure and genetic diversity of the threatened pygmy newt Triturus pygmaeus in a network of natural and artificial ponds. CONSERV GENET 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10592-022-01437-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
AbstractPond physical characteristics (connectivity, hydroperiod) have shown to be highly relevant in explaining species presence, reproductive success, and survival in breeding-pond amphibians. However, few studies have addressed the influence that these factors may have on the genetic variability of pond populations. We examined genetic variation at 11 microsatellite loci in Iberian endemic, the pygmy newt (Triturus pygmaeus), from 58 breeding ponds in the Doñana National Park (Andalusia), including both temporary ponds and artificially deepened ponds that remain wet during the whole year. Temporary ponds are located in the North part of the region where the surrounding habitat-wet meadows-facilitates the connectivity among populations, whereas the deepest ponds (‘zacallones’) are located in the southern edge embedded in a matrix of unsuitable habitat (thickets and dry underbrush). We investigated genetic diversity and structure within and among ponds. Our results show that both regions (Doñana-North and Doñana-South) are well-differentiated and form two main clusters. We found higher genetic diversity within ponds from the North region, which also exhibited a higher degree of genetic admixture in comparison with populations from the southern edge. Although we found an isolation-by-distance pattern within each cluster, it arose due to the effect of a few isolated ponds located on the edge of each zone, suggesting the existence of substantial gene flow between ponds in the core area. According to our findings, landscape’s permeability to movement (pond connectivity) may constitute a more important factor than hydroperiod length in determining the genetic diversity and viability of pygmy newt populations in this area. Although Doñana populations show a good state, more peripheral and isolated populations present a more worrisome condition as a result of fragmentation and thus, require conservation efforts. Our study provides key insights that could help guide management practices of this threatened and poorly-studied salamander.
Collapse
|
43
|
Landler L. Orientation and emigration of larval and juvenile amphibians: selected topics and hypotheses. AMPHIBIA-REPTILIA 2022; 43:1-11. [PMID: 35440836 PMCID: PMC7612629 DOI: 10.1163/15685381-bja10081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Most amphibians have a complex life cycle with an aquatic larval and an adult (semi-) terrestrial stage. However, studies concerning spatial behaviour and orientation mainly focus on either the aquatic larvae or the adult animals on land. Consequently, behavioural changes that happen during metamorphosis and the consequences for emigration and population distribution are less understood. This paper aims to summarize the knowledge concerning specific topics of early amphibian life history stages and proposes several testable hypotheses within the following fields of research: larval and juvenile orientation, influences of environmental and genetic factors on juvenile emigration, their habitat choice later in life as well as population biology. I argue that studying larval and juvenile amphibian spatial behaviour is an understudied field of research, however, could considerably improve our understanding of amphibian ecology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lukas Landler
- University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences (BOKU), Institute of Zoology, Gregor-Mendel-Straße 33, 1180 Vienna, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Large, old trees define the vertical, horizontal, and seasonal distributions of a poison frog. Oecologia 2022; 199:257-269. [PMID: 35112173 DOI: 10.1007/s00442-022-05108-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
In tropical forests, large, old trees (LOTs) can be considered keystone structures for provisioning unique habitats such as decaying wood, roots, cavities, and epiphytes, including those that hold water (phytotelmata). These habitats may also be stratified in vertical space, for example, root structures occur at ground level and below, whereas epiphytes occur above-ground. Canopy habitat is utilized by a diversity of amphibians, but canopy habitat may only be viable in the wet season when epiphytes and surfaces are sufficiently saturated. Here, we examine how the provisioning of microhabitats and structures by LOTs influence the horizontal, vertical, and seasonal distribution patterns of phytotelmata-breeding poison frogs. We conducted ground-to-canopy surveys over 4 years, constituting 6 seasons, in Panama and used mark-recapture techniques on a population of the yellow-bellied poison frog, Andinobates fulguritus. We found that A. fulguritus migrated vertically, tracking seasonal rainfall, and displayed strong philopatry to individual trees. Furthermore, A. fulguritus almost exclusively inhabited the largest trees at the study location, which provided disproportionately high-quality microhabitats and epiphytes compared to other trees. LOTs, and specifically Anacardium excelsum at our site, appear to serve as keystone structures with high conservation value due to their provisioning of unique habitats. We conclude that the distribution of A. fulguritus is defined vertically by the stratification of arboreal microhabitat resources, horizontally by the presence of LOTs providing the resources, and temporally by the seasonal viability of the resources.
Collapse
|
45
|
Dalpasso A, Ficetola GF, Giachello S, Lo Parrino E, Manenti R, Muraro M, Falaschi M. Similar species, different fates: Abundance dynamics in spatially structured populations of common and threatened frogs. DIVERS DISTRIB 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/ddi.13483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Dalpasso
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy Università degli Studi di Milano Milan Italy
| | - Gentile Francesco Ficetola
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy Università degli Studi di Milano Milan Italy
- Laboratoire d’Écologie Alpine Univ. Grenoble AlpesUniv. Savoie Mont BlancCNRSLECA Grenoble France
| | - Simone Giachello
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy Università degli Studi di Milano Milan Italy
| | - Elia Lo Parrino
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy Università degli Studi di Milano Milan Italy
| | - Raoul Manenti
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy Università degli Studi di Milano Milan Italy
| | - Martina Muraro
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy Università degli Studi di Milano Milan Italy
| | - Mattia Falaschi
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy Università degli Studi di Milano Milan Italy
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Kiss I, Vörös J, Hamer A. Movement patterns within an urban population of fire salamanders highlight the importance of conserving small habitat patches. J Zool (1987) 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/jzo.12949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- I. Kiss
- Department of Zoology and Animal Ecology Szent István University Gödöllő Hungary
| | - J. Vörös
- Department of Zoology Hungarian Natural History Museum Budapest Hungary
| | - A.J. Hamer
- Balaton Limnological Research Institute Eötvös Loránd Research Network (ELKH) Klebelsberg K. u. 3 Tihany 8237 Hungary
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Shine R, Alford RA, Blennerhasset R, Brown GP, DeVore JL, Ducatez S, Finnerty P, Greenlees M, Kaiser SW, McCann S, Pettit L, Pizzatto L, Schwarzkopf L, Ward-Fear G, Phillips BL. Increased rates of dispersal of free-ranging cane toads (Rhinella marina) during their global invasion. Sci Rep 2021; 11:23574. [PMID: 34876612 PMCID: PMC8651681 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-02828-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Invasions often accelerate through time, as dispersal-enhancing traits accumulate at the expanding range edge. How does the dispersal behaviour of individual organisms shift to increase rates of population spread? We collate data from 44 radio-tracking studies (in total, of 650 animals) of cane toads (Rhinella marina) to quantify distances moved per day, and the frequency of displacement in their native range (French Guiana) and two invaded areas (Hawai’i and Australia). We show that toads in their native-range, Hawai’i and eastern Australia are relatively sedentary, while toads dispersing across tropical Australia increased their daily distances travelled from 20 to 200 m per day. That increase reflects an increasing propensity to change diurnal retreat sites every day, as well as to move further during each nocturnal displacement. Daily changes in retreat site evolved earlier than did changes in distances moved per night, indicating a breakdown in philopatry before other movement behaviours were optimised to maximise dispersal.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard Shine
- Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia.
| | - Ross A Alford
- College of Science and Engineering, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, 4811, Australia
| | | | - Gregory P Brown
- Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Jayna L DeVore
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Simon Ducatez
- UMR 241 EIO (UPF, IRD, IFREMER, ILM), Institut de Recherche Pour le Développement (IRD), Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia
| | - Patrick Finnerty
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Matthew Greenlees
- Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Shannon W Kaiser
- Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Samantha McCann
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Lachlan Pettit
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Ligia Pizzatto
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia.,School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Lin Schwarzkopf
- College of Science and Engineering, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, 4811, Australia
| | - Georgia Ward-Fear
- Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Benjamin L Phillips
- School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Hill MJ, Wood PJ, Fairchild W, Williams P, Nicolet P, Biggs J. Garden pond diversity: Opportunities for urban freshwater conservation. Basic Appl Ecol 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.baae.2021.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
|
49
|
Falaschi M, Giachello S, Lo Parrino E, Muraro M, Manenti R, Ficetola GF. Long-term drivers of persistence and colonization dynamics in spatially structured amphibian populations. CONSERVATION BIOLOGY : THE JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR CONSERVATION BIOLOGY 2021; 35:1530-1539. [PMID: 33355400 DOI: 10.1111/cobi.13686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Revised: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Many organisms live in networks of local populations connected by dispersing individuals, called spatially structured populations (SSPs), where the long-term persistence of the entire network is determined by the balance between 2 processes acting at the scale of local populations: extinction and colonization. When multiple threats act on an SSP, a comparison of the different factors determining local extinctions and colonizations is essential to plan sound conservation actions. We assessed the drivers of long-term population dynamics of multiple amphibian species at the regional scale. We used dynamic occupancy models within a Bayesian framework to identify the factors determining persistence and colonization of local populations. Because connectivity among patches is fundamental to SSPs dynamics, we considered 2 measures of connectivity acting on each focal patch: incidence of the focal species and incidence of invasive crayfish. We used meta-analysis to summarize the effect of different drivers at the community level. Persistence and colonization of local populations were jointly determined by factors acting at different scales. Persistence probability was positively related to the area and the permanence of wetlands, whereas it was negatively related to occurrence of fish. Colonization probability was highest in semipermanent wetlands and in sites with a high incidence of the focal species in nearby sites, whereas it showed a negative relationship with the incidence of invasive crayfish in the landscape. By analyzing long-term data on amphibian population dynamics, we found a strong effect of some classic features commonly used in SSP studies, such as patch area and focal species incidence. The presence of an invasive non-native species at the landscape scale emerged as one of the strongest drivers of colonization dynamics, suggesting that studies on SSPs should consider different connectivity measures more frequently, such as the incidence of predators, especially when dealing with biological invasions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mattia Falaschi
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria 10, Milan, 20133, Italy
| | - Simone Giachello
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria 10, Milan, 20133, Italy
| | - Elia Lo Parrino
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria 10, Milan, 20133, Italy
| | - Martina Muraro
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria 10, Milan, 20133, Italy
| | - Raoul Manenti
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria 10, Milan, 20133, Italy
| | - Gentile Francesco Ficetola
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria 10, Milan, 20133, Italy
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, Univ. Savoie Mont Blanc, CNRS, LECA (Laboratoire d'Écologie Alpine), Grenoble, F-38000, France
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Unglaub B, Cayuela H, Schmidt BR, Preißler K, Glos J, Steinfartz S. Context-dependent dispersal determines relatedness and genetic structure in a patchy amphibian population. Mol Ecol 2021; 30:5009-5028. [PMID: 34490661 DOI: 10.1111/mec.16114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2020] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Dispersal is a central process in ecology and evolution with far reaching consequences for the dynamics and genetics of spatially structured populations (SSPs). Individuals can adjust their decisions to disperse according to local fitness prospects, resulting in context-dependent dispersal. By determining dispersal rate, distance and direction, these individual-level decisions further modulate the demography, relatedness and genetic structure of SSPs. Here, we examined how context-dependent dispersal influences the dynamics and genetics of a great crested newt (Triturus cristatus) SSP. We collected capture-recapture data of 5564 individuals and genetic data of 950 individuals across an SSP in northern Germany. We added genetic data from six sites outside this SSP to assess genetic structure and gene flow at a regional level. Dispersal rates within the SSP were high but dispersal distances were short. Dispersal was context-dependent: individuals preferentially immigrated into high-quality ponds where breeding probabilities were higher. The studied SSP behaved like a patchy population, where subpopulations at each pond were demographically interdependent. High context-dependent dispersal led to weak but significant spatial genetic structure and relatedness within the SSP. At the regional level, a strong hierarchical genetic structure with very few first-generation migrants as well as low effective dispersal rates suggest the presence of independent demographic units. Overall, our study highlights the importance of habitat quality for driving context-dependent dispersal and therefore demography and genetic structure in SSPs. Limited capacity for long-distance dispersal seems to increase genetic structure within a population and leads to demographic isolation in anthropogenic landscapes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bianca Unglaub
- Institute of Biology, Molecular Evolution and Systematics of Animals, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany.,Department of Animal Ecology and Conservation, Biocentre Grindel, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Hugo Cayuela
- Institut de Biologie Intégrative et des Systèmes (IBIS), Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada.,Department of Ecology and Evolution, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Benedikt R Schmidt
- Department of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Info Fauna Karch, Neuchâtel, Switzerland
| | - Kathleen Preißler
- Institute of Biology, Molecular Evolution and Systematics of Animals, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Julian Glos
- Department of Animal Ecology and Conservation, Biocentre Grindel, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Sebastian Steinfartz
- Institute of Biology, Molecular Evolution and Systematics of Animals, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| |
Collapse
|