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Boughman JW, Brand JA, Brooks RC, Bonduriansky R, Wong BBM. Sexual selection and speciation in the Anthropocene. Trends Ecol Evol 2024; 39:654-665. [PMID: 38503640 DOI: 10.1016/j.tree.2024.02.005] [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: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Anthropogenic change threatens global biodiversity by causing severe ecological disturbance and extinction. Here, we consider the effects of anthropogenic change on one process that generates biodiversity. Sexual selection (a potent evolutionary force and driver of speciation) is highly sensitive to the environment and, thus, vulnerable to anthropogenic ecological change. Anthropogenic alterations to sexual display and mate preference can make it harder to distinguish between conspecific and heterospecific mates or can weaken divergence via sexual selection, leading to higher rates of hybridization and biodiversity loss. Occasionally, anthropogenically altered sexual selection can abet diversification, but this appears less likely than biodiversity loss. In our rapidly changing world, a full understanding of sexual selection and speciation requires a global change perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janette W Boughman
- Department of Integrative Biology & Evolution, Ecology and Behavior Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA.
| | - Jack A Brand
- School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria 3800, Australia; Department of Wildlife, Fish, and Environmental Studies, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Umeå, Västerbotten, SE-907 36, Sweden
| | - Robert C Brooks
- Evolution & Ecology Research Centre and School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Russell Bonduriansky
- Evolution & Ecology Research Centre and School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Bob B M Wong
- School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria 3800, Australia
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2
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Alam L, Zolkaply SZ, Sumaila UR, Rusydy I, Kutty AA, Bari MA, Mokhtar M, Pradhoshini KP, Krishnakumar S, Musthafa MS. Risk of extinction, variability in fish species composition, and factors influencing fish biodiversity in the Malacca Strait. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:41355-41369. [PMID: 37103711 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-27101-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Fish biodiversity in Malaysia is under pressure due to overexploitation, pollution, and climatic stressors. Nevertheless, the information on fish biodiversity and species vulnerability status is not well documented in the region. Therefore, a study on fish species composition and abundance in the Malacca Strait of Malaysia has been conducted for the purpose of monitoring biodiversity, determining the risk of species extinction, and identifying factors influencing biodiversity distribution. The sampling was conducted based on a random stratified sampling method from the three zones of sampling locations, i.e., estuary, mangrove, and open sea area of Tanjung Karang and Port Klang of Malacca Strait. Higher species diversity was recorded at Tanjung Karang coastal and mangrove areas (H' = 2.71; H' = 1.64) than Port Klang coastal and mangrove areas (H' = 1.50, H' = 0.29), an indication that the Port Klang area is comparatively more vulnerable. The study also explored sampling location, habitat, and IUCN red list as the influencing factors for fish biodiversity. Applying IUCN red list, this study identified one Endangered and one Vulnerable species with the forecasted increasing landing for both species. Our findings suggest the urgent need for the implementation of conservation measures as well as the continuous monitoring of fish biodiversity in the area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lubna Alam
- Institute for Environment and Development (LESTARI), Research Centre for Sustainability Science and Governance (SGK), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, 43600, Selangor, Malaysia
- Department of Aquaculture, Faculty of Fisheries and Marine, Universitas Airlangga, Mulyorejo Street, Surabaya, 60115, Indonesia
| | - Siti Zulaiha Zolkaply
- Institute for Environment and Development (LESTARI), Research Centre for Sustainability Science and Governance (SGK), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, 43600, Selangor, Malaysia
- Department of Agrotechnology and Bio-Industry, Jalan Raya, Lebuhraya Timur-Barat, Bandar Jeli, 17600, Jeli, Kelantan, Malaysia
| | - Ussif Rashid Sumaila
- Institute for Environment and Development (LESTARI), Research Centre for Sustainability Science and Governance (SGK), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, 43600, Selangor, Malaysia
- Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries, Faculty of Science, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Ibnu Rusydy
- Department of Geological Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Syiah Kuala University, Banda Aceh, Indonesia
| | - Ahmad Abas Kutty
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, 43600, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Md Azizul Bari
- Institute for Environment and Development (LESTARI), Research Centre for Sustainability Science and Governance (SGK), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, 43600, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Mazlin Mokhtar
- Institute for Environment and Development (LESTARI), Research Centre for Sustainability Science and Governance (SGK), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, 43600, Selangor, Malaysia
- United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network Asia Headquarters (UN SDSN ASIA), Sunway University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Kumara Perumal Pradhoshini
- Unit of Research in Radiation Biology & Environmental Radioactivity (URRBER), P.G. & Research Department of Zoology, The New College (Autonomous), Affiliated to University of Madras, Chennai, 600 014, Tamilnadu, India
| | - Subbiah Krishnakumar
- Department of Geology, Malankara Catholic College, Mariyagiri, Kaliyakkavilai, Kaniyakumari District, 629 153, India
| | - Mohamed Saiyad Musthafa
- Institute for Environment and Development (LESTARI), Research Centre for Sustainability Science and Governance (SGK), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, 43600, Selangor, Malaysia.
- Unit of Research in Radiation Biology & Environmental Radioactivity (URRBER), P.G. & Research Department of Zoology, The New College (Autonomous), Affiliated to University of Madras, Chennai, 600 014, Tamilnadu, India.
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Russo D, Jones G, Martinoli A, Preatoni DG, Spada M, Pereswiet‐Soltan A, Cistrone L. Climate is changing, are European bats too? A multispecies analysis of trends in body size. Ecol Evol 2024; 14:e10872. [PMID: 38333101 PMCID: PMC10850807 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.10872] [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: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Animal size, a trait sensitive to spatial and temporal variables, is a key element in ecological and evolutionary dynamics. In the context of climate change, there is evidence that some bat species are increasing their body size via phenotypic responses to higher temperatures at maternity roosts. To test the generality of this response, we conducted a >20-year study examining body size changes in 15 bat species in Italy, analysing data from 4393 individual bats captured since 1995. In addition to examining the temporal effect, we considered the potential influence of sexual dimorphism and, where relevant, included latitude and altitude as potential drivers of body size change. Contrary to initial predictions of a widespread increase in size, our findings challenge this assumption, revealing a nuanced interplay of factors contributing to the complexity of bat body size dynamics. Specifically, only three species (Myotis daubentonii, Nyctalus leisleri, and Pipistrellus pygmaeus) out of the 15 exhibited a discernible increase in body size over the studied period, prompting a reassessment of bats as reliable indicators of climate change based on alterations in body size. Our investigation into influencing factors highlighted the significance of temperature-related variables, with latitude and altitude emerging as crucial drivers. In some cases, this mirrored patterns consistent with Bergmann's rule, revealing larger bats recorded at progressively higher latitudes (Plecotus auritus, Myotis mystacinus, and Miniopterus schreibersii) or altitudes (Pipistrellus kuhlii). We also observed a clear sexual dimorphism effect in most species, with females consistently larger than males. The observed increase in size over time in three species suggests the occurrence of phenotypic plasticity, raising questions about potential long-term selective pressures on larger individuals. The unresolved question of whether temperature-related changes in body size reflect microevolutionary processes or phenotypic plastic responses adds further complexity to our understanding of body size patterns in bats over time and space.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danilo Russo
- Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Evolution (AnEcoEvo), Dipartimento di AgrariaUniversità degli Studi di Napoli Federico IIPorticiItaly
- School of Biological SciencesUniversity of BristolBristolUK
| | - Gareth Jones
- School of Biological SciencesUniversity of BristolBristolUK
| | - Adriano Martinoli
- Unità di Analisi e Gestione delle Risorse Ambientali, Guido Tosi Research Group, Dipartimento di Scienze Teoriche ed ApplicateUniversità degli Studi dell'InsubriaVareseItaly
| | - Damiano G. Preatoni
- Unità di Analisi e Gestione delle Risorse Ambientali, Guido Tosi Research Group, Dipartimento di Scienze Teoriche ed ApplicateUniversità degli Studi dell'InsubriaVareseItaly
| | | | | | - Luca Cistrone
- Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Evolution (AnEcoEvo), Dipartimento di AgrariaUniversità degli Studi di Napoli Federico IIPorticiItaly
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Rishan ST, Kline RJ, Rahman MS. New prospects of environmental RNA metabarcoding research in biological diversity, ecotoxicological monitoring, and detection of COVID-19: a critical review. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:11406-11427. [PMID: 38183542 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-31776-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/08/2024]
Abstract
Ecosystems are multifaceted and complex systems and understanding their composition is crucial for the implementation of efficient conservation and management. Conventional approaches to biodiversity surveys can have limitations in detecting the complete range of species present. In contrast, the study of environmental RNA (eRNA) offers a non-invasive and comprehensive method for monitoring and evaluating biodiversity across different ecosystems. Similar to eDNA, the examination of genetic material found in environmental samples can identify and measure many species, including ones that pose challenges to traditional methods. However, eRNA is degraded quickly and therefore shows promise in detection of living organisms closer to their actual location than eDNA methods. This method provides a comprehensive perspective on the well-being of ecosystems, facilitating the development of focused conservation approaches to save at-risk species and uphold ecological equilibrium. Furthermore, eRNA has been recognized as a valuable method for the identification of COVID-19 in the environment, besides its established uses in biodiversity protection. The SARS-CoV-2 virus, which is accountable for the worldwide epidemic, releases RNA particles into the surrounding environment via human waste, providing insights into the feasibility of detecting it in wastewater and other samples taken from the environment. In this article, we critically reviewed the recent research activities that use the eRNA method, including its utilization in biodiversity conservation, ecological surveillance, and ecotoxicological monitoring as well as its innovative potential in identifying COVID-19. Through this review, the reader can understand the recent developments, prospects, and challenges of eRNA research in ecosystem management and biodiversity conservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sakib Tahmid Rishan
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Program, School of Integrative Biological and Chemical Sciences, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, Brownsville, TX, USA
| | - Richard J Kline
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Program, School of Integrative Biological and Chemical Sciences, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, Brownsville, TX, USA
- School of Earth, Environmental, and Marine Sciences, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, Brownsville, TX, USA
| | - Md Saydur Rahman
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Program, School of Integrative Biological and Chemical Sciences, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, Brownsville, TX, USA.
- School of Earth, Environmental, and Marine Sciences, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, Brownsville, TX, USA.
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5
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Srikanthan P, Burg TM. Environmental drivers behind the genetic differentiation in mountain chickadees ( Poecile gambeli). Genome 2024; 67:53-63. [PMID: 37922513 DOI: 10.1139/gen-2023-0067] [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] [Indexed: 11/05/2023]
Abstract
Anthropogenic climate change has a large impact on wildlife populations and the scale of the impacts has been increasing. In this study, we utilised 3dRAD sequence data to investigate genetic divergence and identify the environmental drivers of genetic differentiation between 12 populations of mountain chickadees, family Paridae, sampled across North America. To examine patterns of genetic variation across the range, we conducted a discriminant analysis of principal components (DAPC), admixture analysis, and calculated pairwise Fst values. The DAPC revealed four clusters: southern California, eastern Rocky Mountains, northwestern Rocky Mountains, and Oregon/northern California. We then used BayeScEnv to highlight significant outlier SNPs associated with the five environmental variables. We identified over 150 genes linked to outlier SNPs associated with more than 15 pathways, including stress response and circadian rhythm. We also found a strong signal of isolation by distance and local temperature was highly correlated with genetic distance. Maxent simulations showed a northward range shift over the next 50 years and a decrease in suitable habitat, highlighting the need for immediate conservation action.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Srikanthan
- Department of Biology, University of Lethbridge, 4401 University Dr., Lethbridge, AB T1K 3M4, Canada
| | - T M Burg
- Department of Biology, University of Lethbridge, 4401 University Dr., Lethbridge, AB T1K 3M4, Canada
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Sugianto NA, Newman C, Macdonald DW, Buesching CD. Effects of weather and social factors on hormone levels in the European badger (Meles meles). ZOOLOGY 2023; 158:126093. [PMID: 37149943 DOI: 10.1016/j.zool.2023.126093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Animals in the wild continually experience changes in environmental and social conditions, which they respond to with behavioural, physiological and morphological adaptations related to individual phenotypic quality. During unfavourable environmental conditions, reproduction can be traded-off against self-maintenance, mediated through changes in reproductive hormone levels. Using the European badger (Meles meles) as a model species, we examine how testosterone in males and oestrogens in females respond to marked deviations in weather from the long-term mean (rainfall and temperature, where badger earthworm food supply is weather dependent), and to social factors (number of adult males and females per social group and total adults in the population), in relation to age, weight and head-body length. Across seasons, testosterone levels correlated postively with body weight and rainfall variability, whereas oestrone correlated positively with population density, but negatively with temperature variability. Restricting analyses to the mating season (spring), heavier males had higher testosterone levels and longer females had higher oestradiol levels. Spring oestrone levels were lower when temperatures were above normal. That we see these effects for this generally adaptive species with a broad bioclimatic niche serves to highlight that climatic effects (especially with the threat of anthropogenic climate change) on reproductive physiology warrant careful attention in a conservation context.
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Affiliation(s)
- N A Sugianto
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK; Wildlife Conservation Research Unit, Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, The Recanati-Kaplan Centre, Tubney OX13 5QL, UK.
| | - C Newman
- Wildlife Conservation Research Unit, Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, The Recanati-Kaplan Centre, Tubney OX13 5QL, UK; Cook's Lake Farming Forestry and Wildlife Inc (Ecological Consultancy), Queens County, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - D W Macdonald
- Wildlife Conservation Research Unit, Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, The Recanati-Kaplan Centre, Tubney OX13 5QL, UK
| | - C D Buesching
- Cook's Lake Farming Forestry and Wildlife Inc (Ecological Consultancy), Queens County, Nova Scotia, Canada; Department of Biology, Irving K. Barber Faculty of Sciences, The University of British Columbia, Okanagan, Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada
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The Impacts of Drought on the Health and Demography of Eastern Grey Kangaroos. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12030256. [PMID: 35158580 PMCID: PMC8833700 DOI: 10.3390/ani12030256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Revised: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Eastern grey kangaroos, like most wildlife, are facing an increasingly uncertain future under rapid climate change. How individuals and populations cope with extreme climatic events will influence their capacity to adapt and persist. Here, we analyzed how drought impacted eastern grey kangaroo populations by focusing on their body condition, demography, activity rates at water points, and the likelihood of parasitic infections. We found that body condition was lower as environmental conditions became more extreme and that fewer males in the population were observed. The proportion of juveniles within the population increased as more favorable conditions returned. Kangaroos with poor body conditions were more likely to become hosts to ticks, while higher parasite egg burdens in scats occurred in autumn. Our study has shown that the impacts eastern grey kangaroos face during climatic events such as drought can be severe and may have long-term consequences. Abstract Extreme climatic events such as droughts and floods are expected to become more intense and severe under climate change, especially in the southern and eastern parts of Australia. We aimed to quantify the relationship between body condition scores (BCS), demography, activity rate, and parasitic infections of eastern grey kangaroos on a large conservation property under different climate extremes by employing camera traps established at artificial water points (AWPs). The survey period included a severe drought, broken by a significant flooding event. Climatic and environmental conditions were documented using remotely sensed indices of moisture availability and vegetation productivity. These conditions were found to affect all health and population parameters measured. BCS, juvenile proportions, and sex ratios were most correlated with 6-month lags in climatic conditions, while the activity rate of kangaroos at AWPs was most correlated with vegetation productivity. Ticks were mostly found on individuals with a poorer BCS, while the concentration of parasitic eggs in feces was higher in autumn than in spring. Our study offers a glimpse into some of the environmental drivers of eastern grey kangaroo populations and their health, information that may become increasingly important in today’s climate. It further emphasizes the importance of this knowledge for wildlife conservation efforts appropriate to managing the impact of climate change alongside other threats.
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Sanger TJ, Harding L, Kyrkos J, Turnquist AJ, Epperlein L, Nunez SA, Lachance D, Dhindsa S, Stroud JT, Diaz RE, Czesny B. Environmental Thermal Stress Induces Neuronal Cell Death and Developmental Malformations in Reptiles. Integr Org Biol 2021; 3:obab033. [PMID: 34877473 PMCID: PMC8643577 DOI: 10.1093/iob/obab033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2021] [Revised: 09/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Every stage of organismal life history is being challenged by global warming. Many species are already experiencing temperatures approaching their physiological limits; this is particularly true for ectothermic species, such as lizards. Embryos are markedly sensitive to thermal insult. Here, we demonstrate that temperatures currently experienced in natural nesting areas can modify gene expression levels and induce neural and craniofacial malformations in embryos of the lizard Anolis sagrei. Developmental abnormalities ranged from minor changes in facial structure to significant disruption of anterior face and forebrain. The first several days of postoviposition development are particularly sensitive to this thermal insult. These results raise new concern over the viability of ectothermic species under contemporary climate change. Herein, we propose and test a novel developmental hypothesis that describes the cellular and developmental origins of those malformations: cell death in the developing forebrain and abnormal facial induction due to disrupted Hedgehog signaling. Based on similarities in the embryonic response to thermal stress among distantly related species, we propose that this developmental hypothesis represents a common embryonic response to thermal insult among amniote embryos. Our results emphasize the importance of adopting a broad, multidisciplinary approach that includes both lab and field perspectives when trying to understand the future impacts of anthropogenic change on animal development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas J Sanger
- Department of Biology, Loyola University Chicago, 1050 Sheridan Rd., Chicago, IL 60660, USA
| | - Laura Harding
- Department of Biology, Loyola University Chicago, 1050 Sheridan Rd., Chicago, IL 60660, USA
| | - Judith Kyrkos
- Department of Biology, Loyola University Chicago, 1050 Sheridan Rd., Chicago, IL 60660, USA
| | - Alexandrea J Turnquist
- Department of Biology, Loyola University Chicago, 1050 Sheridan Rd., Chicago, IL 60660, USA
| | - Lilian Epperlein
- Department of Biology, Loyola University Chicago, 1050 Sheridan Rd., Chicago, IL 60660, USA
| | - Sylvia A Nunez
- Department of Biology, Loyola University Chicago, 1050 Sheridan Rd., Chicago, IL 60660, USA
| | - Dryden Lachance
- Department of Biology, Loyola University Chicago, 1050 Sheridan Rd., Chicago, IL 60660, USA
| | - Seerat Dhindsa
- Department of Biology, Loyola University Chicago, 1050 Sheridan Rd., Chicago, IL 60660, USA
| | - James T Stroud
- Department of Biology, Washington University in St. Louis, Campus Box 1137. One Brookings Drive St. Louis, MO 63130-4899, USA
| | - Raul E Diaz
- Department of Biological Sciences, California State University, Los Angeles, 5151 State University Dr., Los Angeles, CA 90032, USA
| | - Beata Czesny
- Department of Biology, Loyola University Chicago, 1050 Sheridan Rd., Chicago, IL 60660, USA
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Rode KD, Regehr EV, Bromaghin JF, Wilson RR, St Martin M, Crawford JA, Quakenbush LT. Seal body condition and atmospheric circulation patterns influence polar bear body condition, recruitment, and feeding ecology in the Chukchi Sea. GLOBAL CHANGE BIOLOGY 2021; 27:2684-2701. [PMID: 33644944 DOI: 10.1111/gcb.15572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Polar bears (Ursus maritimus) are experiencing loss of sea ice habitats used to access their marine mammal prey. Simultaneously, ocean warming is changing ecosystems that support marine mammal populations. The interactive effects of sea ice and prey are not well understood yet may explain spatial-temporal variation in the response of polar bears to sea ice loss. Here, we examined the potential combined effects of sea ice, seal body condition, and atmospheric circulation patterns on the body condition, recruitment, diet, and feeding probability of 469 polar bears captured in the Chukchi Sea, 2008-2017. The body condition of ringed seals (Pusa hispida), the primary prey of females and subadults, was related to dietary proportions of ringed seal, feeding probability, and the body condition of females and cubs. In contrast, adult males consumed more bearded seals (Erignathus barbatus) and exhibited better condition when bearded seal body condition was higher. The litter size, number of yearlings per adult female, and the condition of dependent young were higher following winters characterized by low Arctic Oscillation conditions, consistent with a growing number of studies. Body condition, recruitment, and feeding probability were either not associated or negatively associated with sea ice conditions, suggesting that, unlike some subpopulations, Chukchi Sea bears are not currently limited by sea ice availability. However, spring sea ice cover declined 2% per year during our study reaching levels not previously observed in the satellite record and resulting in the loss of polar bear hunting and seal pupping habitat. Our study suggests that the status of ice seal populations is likely an important factor that can either compound or mitigate the response of polar bears to sea ice loss over the short term. In the long term, neither polar bears nor their prey are likely robust to limitless loss of their sea ice habitat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karyn D Rode
- Alaska Science Center, U.S. Geological Survey, Anchorage, AK, USA
| | - Eric V Regehr
- Polar Science Center, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | - Ryan R Wilson
- Marine Mammals Management, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Anchorage, AK, USA
| | - Michelle St Martin
- Marine Mammals Management, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Anchorage, AK, USA
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Chen Y, Yan C, Sun Z, Wang Y, Tao S, Shen G, Xu T, Zhou P, Cao X, Wang F, Wang S, Hao S, Yang H, Li H, Zhang Q, Liu W, Zhao M, Zhang Z. Organochlorine Pesticide Ban Facilitated Reproductive Recovery of Chinese Striped Hamsters. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2021; 55:6140-6149. [PMID: 33797225 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.1c00167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) have been used worldwide on an enormous scale over the last century but are banned globally due to environmental persistence and ecotoxicity in recent decades. The long-term effects of OCP ban for agricultural use in China since 1983 on the reproductive health of small terrestrial mammals have never been evaluated in the field. We examined the residue dynamics of OCPs and the reproductive performance of Chinese striped hamsters (Cricetulus barabensis) in North China Plain during 1983-2010 and concluded that the exposure levels of OCPs in hamsters drastically decreased from 2900 ± 740 to 25.2 ± 6.88 ng/g with an average half-life of 5.08 yrs, coinciding with the observed reproductive recovery of hamsters. The population-based reproductive performance of hamsters was significantly and negatively associated with OCP exposure levels after adjusting the contributions from climate and population density factors, indicating that the ban of OCPs has facilitated the reproductive recovery of hamsters by up to 81% contribution. Our findings suggest that the OCP ban is effective to restore reproduction of small terrestrial mammals. Integration of population biology and environmental science is essential to assess the impacts of persistent organic pollutants on ecological safety and biodiversity loss under accelerated global change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanchen Chen
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology for Industrial Pollution Control of Zhejiang Province, College of Environment, Research Center of Environmental Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Chuan Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management on Pest Insects and Rodents in Agriculture, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Zhe Sun
- Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1EW, U.K
| | - Yonghui Wang
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology for Industrial Pollution Control of Zhejiang Province, College of Environment, Research Center of Environmental Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Shu Tao
- Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Guofeng Shen
- Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Tongqin Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management on Pest Insects and Rodents in Agriculture, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Peixue Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology for Industrial Pollution Control of Zhejiang Province, College of Environment, Research Center of Environmental Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Xiaoping Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management on Pest Insects and Rodents in Agriculture, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Fusheng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management on Pest Insects and Rodents in Agriculture, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Shuqing Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management on Pest Insects and Rodents in Agriculture, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Shoushen Hao
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management on Pest Insects and Rodents in Agriculture, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Hefang Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management on Pest Insects and Rodents in Agriculture, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Hongjun Li
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management on Pest Insects and Rodents in Agriculture, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Quan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology for Industrial Pollution Control of Zhejiang Province, College of Environment, Research Center of Environmental Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Weiping Liu
- College of Environmental and Resource Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Meirong Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology for Industrial Pollution Control of Zhejiang Province, College of Environment, Research Center of Environmental Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Zhibin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management on Pest Insects and Rodents in Agriculture, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
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11
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Greenberg L, Jonsson B, Norrgård JR, Erlandsson A, Bergman E. Body shape and fin size in juvenile Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar): effects of temperature during embryogenesis. CAN J ZOOL 2021. [DOI: 10.1139/cjz-2020-0101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Temperature during egg incubation and early development influences later life stages of fishes, potentially influencing survival. Throughout its distribution, Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar Linnaeus, 1758) have experienced population declines, and in view of ongoing global warming, we tested if temperature during the earliest developmental stages modified body shape and fin size when temperatures averaged 2.6 vs. 5.6 °C. This temperature difference simulates increases predicted in climate change scenarios. Based on previous studies, we hypothesized that salmon originating from eggs subjected to cold incubation temperatures would have slimmer bodies and larger pectoral and dorsal fins than salmon from eggs that experienced warmer temperatures. After hatching, the juveniles were raised for 1 year under identical temperatures, after which we measured their body shape and fin areas. We found no support for our hypothesis regarding body shape. Indeed, we found the opposite, with cold-incubated salmon having deeper bodies than warm-incubated salmon. For fin size, the pectoral fins of cold-incubated salmon were larger than for warm-incubated salmon as predicted, but there was no difference in dorsal fin size. These results suggest that global warming may lead to altered body shape and fin size, possibly affecting swimming performance, and thus raise questions about the ecological consequences of the changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larry Greenberg
- River Ecology and Management Group, Department of Environmental and Life Sciences, Karlstad University, Karlstad S-651 88, Sweden
| | - Bror Jonsson
- Norwegian Institute for Nature Research, Sognsveien 68, Oslo 0855, Norway
| | | | - Ann Erlandsson
- River Ecology and Management Group, Department of Environmental and Life Sciences, Karlstad University, Karlstad S-651 88, Sweden
| | - Eva Bergman
- River Ecology and Management Group, Department of Environmental and Life Sciences, Karlstad University, Karlstad S-651 88, Sweden
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12
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Sanger TJ. Integrative developmental biology in the age of anthropogenic change. Evol Dev 2021; 23:320-332. [PMID: 33848387 DOI: 10.1111/ede.12377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Humans are changing and challenging nature in many ways. Conservation Biology seeks to limit human impacts on nature and preserve biological diversity. Traditionally, Developmental Biology and Conservation Biology have had nonoverlapping objectives, operating in distinct spheres of biological science. However, this chasm can and should be filled to help combat the emerging challenges of the 21st century. The means by which to accomplish this goal were already established within the conceptual framework of evo- and eco-devo and can be further expanded to address the ways that anthropogenic disturbance affect embryonic development. Herein, I describe ways that these approaches can be used to advance the study of reptilian embryos. More specifically, I explore the ways that a developmental perspective can advance ongoing studies of embryonic physiology in the context of global warming and chemical pollution, both of which are known stressors of reptilian embryos. I emphasize ways that these developmental perspectives can inform conservation biologists trying to develop management practices that will address the complexity of challenges facing reptilian embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas J Sanger
- Department of Biology, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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13
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Testard C, Larson SM, Watowich MM, Kaplinsky CH, Bernau A, Faulder M, Marshall HH, Lehmann J, Ruiz-Lambides A, Higham JP, Montague MJ, Snyder-Mackler N, Platt ML, Brent LJN. Rhesus macaques build new social connections after a natural disaster. Curr Biol 2021; 31:2299-2309.e7. [PMID: 33836140 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2021.03.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2020] [Revised: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of weather-related disasters such as hurricanes, wildfires, floods, and droughts. Understanding resilience and vulnerability to these intense stressors and their aftermath could reveal adaptations to extreme environmental change. In 2017, Puerto Rico suffered its worst natural disaster, Hurricane Maria, which left 3,000 dead and provoked a mental health crisis. Cayo Santiago island, home to a population of rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta), was devastated by the same storm. We compared social networks of two groups of macaques before and after the hurricane and found an increase in affiliative social connections, driven largely by monkeys most socially isolated before Hurricane Maria. Further analysis revealed monkeys invested in building new relationships rather than strengthening existing ones. Social adaptations to environmental instability might predispose rhesus macaques to success in rapidly changing anthropogenic environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camille Testard
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Sam M Larson
- Department of Anthropology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | - Cassandre H Kaplinsky
- Centre for Research in Evolutionary, Social and Interdisciplinary Anthropology, University of Roehampton, Roehampton, UK
| | - Antonia Bernau
- Centre for Research in Animal Behaviour, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Matthew Faulder
- Centre for Research in Animal Behaviour, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Harry H Marshall
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Roehampton, London, UK
| | - Julia Lehmann
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Roehampton, London, UK
| | - Angelina Ruiz-Lambides
- Carribean Primate Research Center-Cayo Santiago, University of Puerto Rico, Cayo Santiago Island, Puerto Rico
| | - James P Higham
- Department of Anthropology, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Michael J Montague
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Noah Snyder-Mackler
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA; Center for Evolution and Medicine, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Michael L Platt
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Department of Marketing, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Lauren J N Brent
- Centre for Research in Animal Behaviour, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
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14
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Prentice MB, Bowman J, Murray DL, Khidas K, Wilson PJ. Spatial and environmental influences on selection in a clock gene coding trinucleotide repeat in Canada lynx (Lynx canadensis). Mol Ecol 2020; 29:4637-4652. [PMID: 32989809 DOI: 10.1111/mec.15652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Clock genes exhibit substantial control over gene expression and ultimately life-histories using external cues such as photoperiod, and are thus likely to be critical for adaptation to shifting seasonal conditions and novel environments as species redistribute their ranges under climate change. Coding trinucleotide repeats (cTNRs) are found within several clock genes, and may be interesting targets of selection due to their containment within exonic regions and elevated mutation rates. Here, we conduct inter-specific characterization of the NR1D1 cTNR between Canada lynx and bobcat, and intra-specific spatial and environmental association analyses of neutral microsatellites and our functional cTNR marker, to investigate the role of selection on this locus in Canada lynx. We report signatures of divergent selection between lynx and bobcat, with the potential for hybrid-mediated gene flow in the area of range overlap. We also provide evidence that this locus is under selection across Canada lynx in eastern Canada, with both spatial and environmental variables significantly contributing to the explained variation, after controlling for neutral population structure. These results suggest that cTNRs may play an important role in the generation of functional diversity within some mammal species, and allow for contemporary rates of adaptation in wild populations in response to environmental change. We encourage continued investment into the study of cTNR markers to better understand their broader relevance to the evolution and adaptation of mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie B Prentice
- Department of Environmental & Life Sciences, Trent University, Peterborough, ON, Canada
| | - Jeff Bowman
- Wildlife Research and Monitoring Section, Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry, Peterborough, ON, Canada
| | - Dennis L Murray
- Biology Department, Trent University, Peterborough, ON, Canada
| | - Kamal Khidas
- Vertebrate Zoology and Beaty Centre for Species Discovery, Canadian Museum of Nature, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Paul J Wilson
- Biology Department, Trent University, Peterborough, ON, Canada
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15
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Late lactation in small mammals is a critically sensitive window of vulnerability to elevated ambient temperature. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2020; 117:24352-24358. [PMID: 32929014 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2008974117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Predicted increases in global average temperature are physiologically trivial for most endotherms. However, heat waves will also increase in both frequency and severity, and these will be physiologically more important. Lactating small mammals are hypothesized to be limited by heat dissipation capacity, suggesting high temperatures may adversely impact lactation performance. We measured reproductive performance of mice and striped hamsters (Cricetulus barabensis), including milk energy output (MEO), at temperatures between 21 and 36 °C. In both species, there was a decline in MEO between 21 and 33 °C. In mice, milk production at 33 °C was only 18% of that at 21 °C. This led to reductions in pup growth by 20% but limited pup mortality (0.8%), because of a threefold increase in growth efficiency. In contrast, in hamsters, MEO at 33 °C was reduced to 78.1% of that at 21 °C, yet this led to significant pup mortality (possibly infanticide) and reduced pup growth by 12.7%. Hamster females were more able to sustain milk production as ambient temperature increased, but they and their pups were less capable of adjusting to the lower supply. In both species, exposure to 36 °C resulted in rapid catastrophic lactation failure and maternal mortality. Upper lethal temperature was lowered by 3 to 6 °C in late lactation, making it a critically sensitive window to high ambient temperatures. Our data suggest future heat wave events will impact breeding success of small rodents, but this is based on animals with a long history in captivity. More work should be performed on wild rodents to confirm these impacts.
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16
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An Interaction Methodology to Collect and Assess User-Driven Requirements to Define Potential Opportunities of Future Hyperspectral Imaging Sentinel Mission. REMOTE SENSING 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/rs12081286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Evolution in the Copernicus Space Component is foreseen in the mid-2020s to meet priority user needs not addressed by the existing infrastructure, and/or to reinforce existing services. In this context, the European Commission is intending to evaluate the overall potential utility of a complementary Copernicus hyperspectral mission to be added to the Copernicus Sentinels fleet. Hyperspectral imaging is a powerful remote sensing technology that, allowing the characterization and quantification of Earth surface materials, has the potential to deliver significant enhancements in quantitative value-added products. This study aims to illustrate the interaction methodology that was set up to collect and assess user-driven requirements in different thematic areas to demonstrate the potential benefit of a future Copernicus hyperspectral mission. Therefore, an ad hoc interaction matrix was circulated among several user communities to gather preferences about hyperspectral-based products and services. The results show how the involvement of several user communities strengthens the identification of these user requirements. Moreover, the requirement evaluation is used to identify potential opportunities of hyperspectral imaging in addressing operational needs associated with policy obligations at European, national, and local levels. The frequency distribution of spectral range classes and spatial and temporal resolutions are also derived from the preference expressed by the user communities in each thematic area investigated.
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17
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Boni R. Heat stress, a serious threat to reproductive function in animals and humans. Mol Reprod Dev 2019; 86:1307-1323. [PMID: 30767310 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2018] [Revised: 01/25/2019] [Accepted: 01/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Global warming represents a major stressful environmental condition that compromises the reproductive efficiency of animals and humans via a rise of body temperature above its physiological homeothermic point (heat stress [HS]). The injuries caused by HS on reproductive function involves both male and female components, fertilization mechanisms as well as the early and late stages of embryo-fetal development. This occurrence causes great economic damage in livestock, and, in wild animals creates selective pressure towards the advantages of better-adapted genotypes to the detriment of others. Humans undergo several types of stress, including heat, and these represent putative causes of ongoing progressive decay in procreation; an increasing number of remedies in the form of antioxidant preparations are now being proposed to counteract the effects of stress. This review aims to describe the results of the most recent studies that aimed to highlight these effects and to draw information on the mechanisms acting as the basis of this problem from a comparative analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raffaele Boni
- Department of Sciences, University of Basilicata, Potenza, Italy
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18
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Chronic lifestyle diseases display seasonal sensitive comorbid trend in human population evidence from Google Trends. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0207359. [PMID: 30540756 PMCID: PMC6291106 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0207359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2018] [Accepted: 10/30/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Seasonal and human physiological changes are important factors in the development of many diseases. But, the study of genuine seasonal impact on these diseases is difficult to measure due to many other environment and lifestyle factors which directly affect these diseases. However, several clinical studies have been conducted in different parts of the world, and it has clearly indicated that certain groups of population are highly subjected to seasonal changes, and their maladaptation can possibly lead to several disorders/diseases. Thus, it is crucial to study the significant seasonal sensitive diseases spread across the human population. To narrow down these disorders/diseases, the study hypothesized that high altitude (HA) associated diseases and disorders are of the strong variants of seasonal physiologic changes. It is because, HA is the only geographical condition for which humans can develop very efficient physiological adaptation mechanism called acclimatization. To study this hypothesis, PubMed was used to collect the HA associated symptoms and disorders. Disease Ontology based semantic similarity network (DSN) and disease-drug networks were constructed to narrow down the benchmark diseases and disorders of HA. The DSN which was further subjected to different community structure analysis uncovered the highly associated or possible comorbid diseases of HA. The predicted 12 lifestyle diseases were assumed to be “seasonal (sensitive) comorbid lifestyle diseases (SCLD)”. A time series analyses on Google Search data of the world from 2004–2016 was conducted to investigate whether the 12 lifestyle diseases have seasonal patterns. Because, the trends were sensitive to the term used as benchmark; the temporal relationships among the 12 disease search volumes and their temporal sequences similarity by dynamic time warping analyses was used to predict the comorbid diseases. Among the 12 lifestyle diseases, the study provides an indirect evidence in the existence of severe seasonal comorbidity among hypertension, obesity, asthma and fibrosis diseases, which is widespread in the world population. Thus, the present study has successfully addressed this issue by predicting the SCLD, and indirectly verified them among the world population using Google Search Trend. Furthermore, based on the SCLD seasonal trend, the study also classified them as severe, moderate, and mild. Interestingly, seasonal trends of the severe seasonal comorbid diseases displayed an inverse pattern between USA (Northern hemisphere) and New Zealand (Southern hemisphere). Further, knowledge in the so called “seasonal sensitive populations” physiological response to seasonal triggers such as winter, summer, spring, and autumn become crucial to modulate disease incidence, disease course, or clinical prevention.
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19
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Jones KL, Rafferty C, Hing S, Thompson RCA, Godfrey SS. Perturbations have minor impacts on parasite dynamics and body condition of an endangered marsupial. J Zool (1987) 2018. [DOI: 10.1111/jzo.12541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- K. L. Jones
- School of Veterinary & Life Sciences Murdoch University Murdoch WA Australia
| | | | - S. Hing
- School of Veterinary & Life Sciences Murdoch University Murdoch WA Australia
| | - R. C. A. Thompson
- School of Veterinary & Life Sciences Murdoch University Murdoch WA Australia
| | - S. S. Godfrey
- School of Veterinary & Life Sciences Murdoch University Murdoch WA Australia
- Department of Zoology University of Otago Dunedin New Zealand
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20
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Prentice MB, Bowman J, Lalor JL, McKay MM, Thomson LA, Watt CM, McAdam AG, Murray DL, Wilson PJ. Signatures of selection in mammalian clock genes with coding trinucleotide repeats: Implications for studying the genomics of high-pace adaptation. Ecol Evol 2017; 7:7254-7276. [PMID: 28944015 PMCID: PMC5606889 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.3223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2017] [Revised: 05/31/2017] [Accepted: 06/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Climate change is predicted to affect the reproductive ecology of wildlife; however, we have yet to understand if and how species can adapt to the rapid pace of change. Clock genes are functional genes likely critical for adaptation to shifting seasonal conditions through shifts in timing cues. Many of these genes contain coding trinucleotide repeats, which offer the potential for higher rates of change than single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) at coding sites, and, thus, may translate to faster rates of adaptation in changing environments. We characterized repeats in 22 clock genes across all annotated mammal species and evaluated the potential for selection on repeat motifs in three clock genes (NR1D1,CLOCK, and PER1) in three congeneric species pairs with different latitudinal range limits: Canada lynx and bobcat (Lynx canadensis and L. rufus), northern and southern flying squirrels (Glaucomys sabrinus and G. volans), and white‐footed and deer mouse (Peromyscus leucopus and P. maniculatus). Signatures of positive selection were found in both the interspecific comparison of Canada lynx and bobcat, and intraspecific analyses in Canada lynx. Northern and southern flying squirrels showed differing frequencies at common CLOCK alleles and a signature of balancing selection. Regional excess homozygosity was found in the deer mouse at PER1 suggesting disruptive selection, and further analyses suggested balancing selection in the white‐footed mouse. These preliminary signatures of selection and the presence of trinucleotide repeats within many clock genes warrant further consideration of the importance of candidate gene motifs for adaptation to climate change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie B Prentice
- Department of Environmental and Life Sciences Trent University Peterborough ON Canada
| | - Jeff Bowman
- Wildlife Research and Monitoring Section Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry Peterborough ON Canada
| | | | - Michelle M McKay
- Department of Environmental and Life Sciences Trent University Peterborough ON Canada
| | | | - Cristen M Watt
- Department of Environmental and Life Sciences Trent University Peterborough ON Canada
| | - Andrew G McAdam
- Department of Integrative Biology University of Guelph Guelph ON Canada
| | | | - Paul J Wilson
- Biology Department Trent University Peterborough ON Canada
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21
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Dow K. What gets left behind for future generations? Reproduction and the environment in Spey Bay, Scotland. JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL ANTHROPOLOGICAL INSTITUTE 2016. [DOI: 10.1111/1467-9655.12451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Katharine Dow
- University of Cambridge, Free School Lane University of Cambridge Cambridge CB2 3RQ UK
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22
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Stokes KL, Fuller WJ, Glen F, Godley BJ, Hodgson DJ, Rhodes KA, Snape RTE, Broderick AC. Detecting green shoots of recovery: the importance of long-term individual-based monitoring of marine turtles. Anim Conserv 2014. [DOI: 10.1111/acv.12128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- K. L. Stokes
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation; University of Exeter; Penryn UK
| | - W. J. Fuller
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation; University of Exeter; Penryn UK
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; Near East University; Nicosia North Cyprus Turkey
- Society for Protection of Turtles; Kyrenia North Cyprus Turkey
| | - F. Glen
- 16 Eshton Terrace Clitheroe Lancashire UK
| | - B. J. Godley
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation; University of Exeter; Penryn UK
| | - D. J. Hodgson
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation; University of Exeter; Penryn UK
| | - K. A. Rhodes
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation; University of Exeter; Penryn UK
| | - R. T. E. Snape
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation; University of Exeter; Penryn UK
- Society for Protection of Turtles; Kyrenia North Cyprus Turkey
| | - A. C. Broderick
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation; University of Exeter; Penryn UK
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23
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Jensen PM, Sørensen M. Differences in human birth weight and corollary attributes as a result of temperature regime. Ann Hum Biol 2013; 40:385-95. [PMID: 23803160 DOI: 10.3109/03014460.2013.786757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Birth weight (BW) is an important attribute of human populations affecting post-natal mortality and later life morbidity, such as diabetes and reduced cognitive skills. BW is influenced by many factors, whereof temperature regime represents an important factor. METHODS By applying a generalized linear model, the impact of temperatures, altitude, nutrition, age at motherhood and other potential causes for BW variation were evaluated in more than 60 countries worldwide. National IQ scores were analysed in the same model. RESULTS This study identified a model explaining 2/3 of the global variation in BW. This model suggests that BW will decrease by 0.44-1.05% per °C increase in temperature under projected climate change. National IQ scores revealed a close relationship between IQ and BW. However, the model of IQ variation did not appear robust when challenged with variables not correlated with BW. CONCLUSION Climate change will affect BW, but it cannot be assumed that other human attributes such as IQ will change because (i) BW, in mainly being sensitive to intra-uterine conditions in the last quarter of pregnancy, is a poor predictor of intra-uterine conditions as such and (ii) developmental plasticity may require post-natal stimuli to unfold.
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Affiliation(s)
- Per M Jensen
- Department for Agriculture and Ecology, University of Copenhagen , Thorvaldsensvej 40, 1871 Frederiksberg , Denmark and
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24
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Cherry SG, Derocher AE, Thiemann GW, Lunn NJ. Migration phenology and seasonal fidelity of an Arctic marine predator in relation to sea ice dynamics. J Anim Ecol 2013; 82:912-21. [DOI: 10.1111/1365-2656.12050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2012] [Accepted: 12/07/2012] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Seth G. Cherry
- Department of Biological Sciences; University of Alberta; Edmonton; AB T6G 2E9; Canada
| | - Andrew E. Derocher
- Department of Biological Sciences; University of Alberta; Edmonton; AB T6G 2E9; Canada
| | - Gregory W. Thiemann
- Faculty of Environmental Studies; York University; Toronto; ON M3J 1P3; Canada
| | - Nicholas J. Lunn
- Wildlife Research Division; S&T, Environment Canada; 5320 122 Street; Edmonton; AB T6H 3S5; Canada
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25
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Maestre FT, Salguero-Gómez R, Quero JL. It is getting hotter in here: determining and projecting the impacts of global environmental change on drylands. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2013; 367:3062-75. [PMID: 23045705 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2011.0323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Drylands occupy large portions of the Earth, and are a key terrestrial biome from the socio-ecological point of view. In spite of their extent and importance, the impacts of global environmental change on them remain poorly understood. In this introduction, we review some of the main expected impacts of global change in drylands, quantify research efforts on the topic, and highlight how the articles included in this theme issue contribute to fill current gaps in our knowledge. Our literature analyses identify key under-studied areas that need more research (e.g. countries such as Mauritania, Mali, Burkina Faso, Chad and Somalia, and deserts such as the Thar, Kavir and Taklamakan), and indicate that most global change research carried out to date in drylands has been done on a unidisciplinary basis. The contributions included here use a wide array of organisms (from micro-organisms to humans), spatial scales (from local to global) and topics (from plant demography to poverty alleviation) to examine key issues to the socio-ecological impacts of global change in drylands. These papers highlight the complexities and difficulties associated with the prediction of such impacts. They also identify the increased use of long-term experiments and multidisciplinary approaches as priority areas for future dryland research. Major advances in our ability to predict and understand global change impacts on drylands can be achieved by explicitly considering how the responses of individuals, populations and communities will in turn affect ecosystem services. Future research should explore linkages between these responses and their effects on water and climate, as well as the provisioning of services for human development and well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando T Maestre
- Área de Biodiversidad y Conservación, Departamento de Biología y Geología, ESCET, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, 28933 Móstoles, Spain.
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26
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Piferrer F. Epigenetics of sex determination and gonadogenesis. Dev Dyn 2013; 242:360-70. [PMID: 23335256 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.23924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2012] [Revised: 12/27/2012] [Accepted: 12/27/2012] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Epigenetics is commonly defined as the study of heritable changes in gene function that cannot be explained by changes in DNA sequence. The three major epigenetic mechanisms for gene expression regulation include DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNAs. Epigenetic mechanisms provide organisms with the ability to integrate genomic and environmental information to modify the activity of their genes for generating a particular phenotype. During development, cells differentiate, acquire, and maintain identity through changes in gene expression. This is crucial for sex determination and differentiation, which are among the most important developmental processes for the proper functioning and perpetuation of species. This review summarizes studies showing how epigenetic regulatory mechanisms contribute to sex determination and reproductive organ formation in plants, invertebrates, and vertebrates. Further progress will be made by integrating several approaches, including genomics and Next Generation Sequencing to create epigenetic maps related to different aspects of sex determination and gonadogenesis. Epigenetics will also contribute to understand the etiology of several disorders of sexual development. It also might play a significant role in the control of reproduction in animal farm production and will aid in recognizing the environmental versus genetic influences on sex determination of sensitive species in a global change scenario.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesc Piferrer
- Institut de Ciències del Mar, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Barcelona, Spain.
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27
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Ahmad I, Coelho JP, Mohmood I, Anjum NA, Pacheco M, Santos MA, Duarte AC, Pereira E. Mercury contaminated systems under recovery can represent an increased risk to seafood human consumers – A paradox depicted in bivalves’ body burdens. Food Chem 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2012.01.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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28
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Schwab C, Cristescu B, Northrup JM, Stenhouse GB, Gänzle M. Diet and environment shape fecal bacterial microbiota composition and enteric pathogen load of grizzly bears. PLoS One 2011; 6:e27905. [PMID: 22194798 PMCID: PMC3240615 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0027905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2011] [Accepted: 10/27/2011] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Diet and environment impact the composition of mammalian intestinal microbiota; dietary or health disturbances trigger alterations in intestinal microbiota composition and render the host susceptible to enteric pathogens. To date no long term monitoring data exist on the fecal microbiota and pathogen load of carnivores either in natural environments or in captivity. This study investigates fecal microbiota composition and the presence of pathogenic Escherichia coli and toxigenic clostridia in wild and captive grizzly bears (Ursus arctos) and relates these to food resources consumed by bears. Methodology/Principal Findings Feces were obtained from animals of two wild populations and from two captive animals during an active bear season. Wild animals consumed a diverse diet composed of plant material, animal prey and insects. Captive animals were fed a regular granulated diet with a supplement of fruits and vegetables. Bacterial populations were analyzed using quantitative PCR. Fecal microbiota composition fluctuated in wild and in captive animals. The abundance of Clostridium clusters I and XI, and of C. perfringens correlated to regular diet protein intake. Enteroaggregative E. coli were consistently present in all populations. The C. sordellii phospholipase C was identified in three samples of wild animals and for the first time in Ursids. Conclusion This is the first longitudinal study monitoring the fecal microbiota of wild carnivores and comparing it to that of captive individuals of the same species. Location and diet affected fecal bacterial populations as well as the presence of enteric pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clarissa Schwab
- Department of Agricultural, Food and Nutritional Science, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
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