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Marco HG, Glendinning S, Ventura T, Gäde G. The gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) superfamily across Pancrustacea/Tetraconata: A role in metabolism? Mol Cell Endocrinol 2024; 590:112238. [PMID: 38616035 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2024.112238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Heather G Marco
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, 7701, South Africa.
| | - Susan Glendinning
- Centre for BioInnovation, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Queensland, 4556, Australia; School of Science, Technology and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Queensland, 4556, Australia
| | - Tomer Ventura
- Centre for BioInnovation, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Queensland, 4556, Australia; School of Science, Technology and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Queensland, 4556, Australia
| | - Gerd Gäde
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, 7701, South Africa
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2
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Hellemans S, Rocha MM, Wang M, Romero Arias J, Aanen DK, Bagnères AG, Buček A, Carrijo TF, Chouvenc T, Cuezzo C, Constantini JP, Constantino R, Dedeine F, Deligne J, Eggleton P, Evans TA, Hanus R, Harrison MC, Harry M, Josens G, Jouault C, Kalleshwaraswamy CM, Kaymak E, Korb J, Lee CY, Legendre F, Li HF, Lo N, Lu T, Matsuura K, Maekawa K, McMahon DP, Mizumoto N, Oliveira DE, Poulsen M, Sillam-Dussès D, Su NY, Tokuda G, Vargo EL, Ware JL, Šobotník J, Scheffrahn RH, Cancello E, Roisin Y, Engel MS, Bourguignon T. Genomic data provide insights into the classification of extant termites. Nat Commun 2024; 15:6724. [PMID: 39112457 PMCID: PMC11306793 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-51028-y] [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: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
The higher classification of termites requires substantial revision as the Neoisoptera, the most diverse termite lineage, comprise many paraphyletic and polyphyletic higher taxa. Here, we produce an updated termite classification using genomic-scale analyses. We reconstruct phylogenies under diverse substitution models with ultraconserved elements analyzed as concatenated matrices or within the multi-species coalescence framework. Our classification is further supported by analyses controlling for rogue loci and taxa, and topological tests. We show that the Neoisoptera are composed of seven family-level monophyletic lineages, including the Heterotermitidae Froggatt, Psammotermitidae Holmgren, and Termitogetonidae Holmgren, raised from subfamilial rank. The species-rich Termitidae are composed of 18 subfamily-level monophyletic lineages, including the new subfamilies Crepititermitinae, Cylindrotermitinae, Forficulitermitinae, Neocapritermitinae, Protohamitermitinae, and Promirotermitinae; and the revived Amitermitinae Kemner, Microcerotermitinae Holmgren, and Mirocapritermitinae Kemner. Building an updated taxonomic classification on the foundation of unambiguously supported monophyletic lineages makes it highly resilient to potential destabilization caused by the future availability of novel phylogenetic markers and methods. The taxonomic stability is further guaranteed by the modularity of the new termite classification, designed to accommodate as-yet undescribed species with uncertain affinities to the herein delimited monophyletic lineages in the form of new families or subfamilies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Hellemans
- Okinawa Institute of Science & Technology Graduate University, Okinawa, Japan.
- Evolutionary Biology and Ecology, Université libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Mauricio M Rocha
- Museu de Zoologia da Universidade de São Paulo, Ipiranga, São Paulo/SP, Brazil
| | - Menglin Wang
- Okinawa Institute of Science & Technology Graduate University, Okinawa, Japan
| | - Johanna Romero Arias
- Evolutionary Biology and Ecology, Université libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Duur K Aanen
- Department of Plant Sciences, Laboratory of Genetics, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Aleš Buček
- Okinawa Institute of Science & Technology Graduate University, Okinawa, Japan
- Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | | | - Thomas Chouvenc
- University of Florida, Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center, 3205 College Avenue, Davie, Florida, USA
| | - Carolina Cuezzo
- Museu de Zoologia da Universidade de São Paulo, Ipiranga, São Paulo/SP, Brazil
| | - Joice P Constantini
- Museu de Zoologia da Universidade de São Paulo, Ipiranga, São Paulo/SP, Brazil
| | | | - Franck Dedeine
- Institut de Recherche sur la Biologie de l'Insecte, UMR 7261, CNRS / Université de Tours, Faculté des Sciences et Techniques, Parc Grandmont, Tours, France
| | - Jean Deligne
- Royal Museum for Central Africa, Entomology, Tervuren, Belgium
- Département de Biologie des Organismes, Université libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Paul Eggleton
- Department of Life Sciences, Natural History Museum, London, UK
| | - Theodore A Evans
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Robert Hanus
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Mark C Harrison
- Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity, University of Münster. Hüfferstrasße 1, Münster, Germany
| | - Myriam Harry
- UMR Evolution, Génomes, Comportement, Ecologie (EGCE), IDEEV, Université Paris Saclay-CNRS-IRD, 12 route 128, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Guy Josens
- Département de Biologie des Organismes, Université libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Corentin Jouault
- Institut de Systématique, Évolution, Biodiversité (ISYEB), UMR 7205, Muséum national d'Histoire naturelle (MNHN), CNRS, Sorbonne Université, EPHE, Université des Antilles, CP50, Paris, France
- Géosciences Rennes (UMR 6118), Université de Rennes, CNRS, Rennes, France
- Institut des Sciences de l'Évolution de Montpellier (UMR 5554), Université de Montpellier, CNRS, F-, Montpellier, France
| | - Chicknayakanahalli M Kalleshwaraswamy
- Okinawa Institute of Science & Technology Graduate University, Okinawa, Japan
- Department of Entomology, Keladi Shivappa Nayaka University of Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences, Shivamogga, Karnataka, India
| | - Esra Kaymak
- Okinawa Institute of Science & Technology Graduate University, Okinawa, Japan
| | - Judith Korb
- Evolutionary Biology & Ecology, University of Freiburg, Hauptstrasse 1, 79104 Freiburg, Germany & Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Australia
| | - Chow-Yang Lee
- Department of Entomology, University of California, Riverside, CA, USA
| | - Frédéric Legendre
- Institut de Systématique, Évolution, Biodiversité (ISYEB), UMR 7205, Muséum national d'Histoire naturelle (MNHN), CNRS, Sorbonne Université, EPHE, Université des Antilles, CP50, Paris, France
| | - Hou-Feng Li
- Department of Entomology, National Chung Hsing University, Taichug, Taiwan
| | - Nathan Lo
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Kenji Matsuura
- Laboratory of Insect Ecology, Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University, Kitashirakawa-Oiwake-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Kiyoto Maekawa
- Faculty of Science, Academic Assembly, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | - Dino P McMahon
- Institute of Biology, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Department for Materials and the Environment, BAM Federal Institute for Materials Research and Testing, Berlin, Germany
| | - Nobuaki Mizumoto
- Okinawa Institute of Science & Technology Graduate University, Okinawa, Japan
- Department of Entomology & Plant Pathology, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Danilo E Oliveira
- Instituto de Estudos em Saúde e Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Sul e Sudeste do Pará, Marabá, PA, Brazil
| | - Michael Poulsen
- Section for Ecology and Evolution, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen East, Denmark
| | - David Sillam-Dussès
- University Sorbonne Paris Nord, Laboratory of Experimental and Comparative Ethology, LEEC, UR 4443, Villetaneuse, France
| | - Nan-Yao Su
- University of Florida, Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center, 3205 College Avenue, Davie, Florida, USA
| | - Gaku Tokuda
- Tropical Biosphere Research Center, University of the Ryukyus, 1 Senbaru, Nishihara, Okinawa, Japan
| | - Edward L Vargo
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Jessica L Ware
- Division of Invertebrate Zoology, American Museum of Natural History, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jan Šobotník
- Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
- Faculty of Tropical AgriSciences, Czech University of Life Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Rudolf H Scheffrahn
- University of Florida, Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center, 3205 College Avenue, Davie, Florida, USA
| | - Eliana Cancello
- Museu de Zoologia da Universidade de São Paulo, Ipiranga, São Paulo/SP, Brazil
| | - Yves Roisin
- Evolutionary Biology and Ecology, Université libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Michael S Engel
- Division of Invertebrate Zoology, American Museum of Natural History, New York, NY, USA
- Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Lima, Perú
- Departamento de Entomología, Museo de Historia Natural, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Lima 14, Perú
| | - Thomas Bourguignon
- Okinawa Institute of Science & Technology Graduate University, Okinawa, Japan.
- Faculty of Tropical AgriSciences, Czech University of Life Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic.
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Lisboa HM, Nascimento A, Arruda A, Sarinho A, Lima J, Batista L, Dantas MF, Andrade R. Unlocking the Potential of Insect-Based Proteins: Sustainable Solutions for Global Food Security and Nutrition. Foods 2024; 13:1846. [PMID: 38928788 PMCID: PMC11203160 DOI: 10.3390/foods13121846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The present review highlights the potential of insect-based proteins to address the growing need for sustainable and secure food systems. The key findings suggest that edible insects offer a viable and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional livestock, requiring significantly less land, water, and feed while emitting lower levels of greenhouse gases. Insect farming can also reduce waste and recycle nutrients, supporting circular economy models. Nutritionally, insects provide high-quality protein, essential amino acids, and beneficial fats, making them valuable to human diets. Despite these benefits, this review emphasizes the need for comprehensive regulatory frameworks to ensure food safety, manage potential allergenicity, and mitigate contamination risks from pathogens and environmental toxins. Additionally, developing innovative processing technologies can enhance the palatability and marketability of insect-based products, promoting consumer acceptance. This review concludes that with appropriate regulatory support and technological advancements, insect-based proteins have the potential to significantly contribute to global food security and sustainability efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugo M. Lisboa
- Unidade Academica Engenharia de Alimentos, Universidade Federal Campina Grande, Av. Aprigio Veloso, 882, Campina Grande 58429-900, PB, Brazil
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Jorge JS, Duarte AFV, Santos RL, Freire EMX, Caliman A. Semi-arid's Unsung Heroes: Hymenoptera and the Vital Ecosystem Services Enabled by Encholirium spectabile, a Rupicolous Bromeliad in the Brazilian Semi-arid Region. NEOTROPICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2024; 53:514-530. [PMID: 38687425 DOI: 10.1007/s13744-024-01152-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
The concept of Ecosystem Services (ES) recognizes the importance of natural ecosystems in supporting human well-being. Hymenoptera, a diverse group of insects including ants, bees, and wasps, play crucial roles in providing ESs. Despite their significance, the provision of ESs by Hymenoptera is often undervalued, leading to ecosystem degradation and loss of important services. This study focuses on the association between Hymenoptera and a rupicolous bromeliad species (Encholirium spectabile) and explores the ESs promoted directly and indirectly by these insects. The study area is located in the Caatinga region of Brazil, characterized by irregular rainfall and a dry season. The results show that Hymenoptera, particularly bees, ants, and wasps, provide a range of ESs including pollination, honey production, pest control, cultural symbolism, and educational value. These services are vital for plant reproduction, food production, and ecosystem functioning in both seasons; there are no differences in species richness between seasons, but rather in species composition. Understanding the importance of Hymenoptera for ESs is crucial for informing conservation and management practices to ensure the sustainability of natural ecosystems. The study highlights the need for conservation actions to protect the intricate ecological relationships between Hymenoptera and bromeliads, which indirectly support ESs by providing habitat and resources, especially during droughts when resources are scarce in the region. By recognizing the importance of bromeliads in supporting Hymenopteran communities, conservation efforts can focus on preserving these critical ecological interactions and maintaining ES provision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaqueiuto S Jorge
- Departament of Ecology, Federal University of Rio Grande Do Norte, Natal, Brazil.
- Postgraduate Program in Ecology, Centro de Biociências, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Norte, Natal, Rio Grande Do Norte, Brazil.
| | - André Felipe V Duarte
- Departament of Botanic and Zoology, Centro de Biociências, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Norte, Natal, Rio Grande Do Norte, Brazil
| | - Roberto Lima Santos
- Departament of Botanic and Zoology, Centro de Biociências, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Norte, Natal, Rio Grande Do Norte, Brazil
| | - Eliza Maria X Freire
- Departament of Botanic and Zoology, Centro de Biociências, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Norte, Natal, Rio Grande Do Norte, Brazil
| | - Adriano Caliman
- Departament of Ecology, Federal University of Rio Grande Do Norte, Natal, Brazil
- Postgraduate Program in Ecology, Centro de Biociências, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Norte, Natal, Rio Grande Do Norte, Brazil
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5
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de Souza AR, Bernardes RC, Barbosa WF, Dos Santos Araújo R, Martins GF, Lima MAP. A mixture of mesotrione and atrazine harms adults and larvae of the predatory wasp Polistes satan. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 923:171526. [PMID: 38458447 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
Herbicides have been intensively used for weed control, raising concerns about their potentially adverse effects on non-target organisms. Research on the effects of these common agrochemicals on beneficial insects and the ecosystem services they provide (e.g., predation and pollination) is scarce. Therefore, we tested whether a commercial formulation comprising a mixture of mesotrione and atrazine was detrimental to adult females and larvae of the Neotropical predatory social wasp Polistes satan, which is an effective natural enemy of crop pests. Wasps were individually fed syrups contaminated with different concentrations of the herbicide above and below the maximum label rate (MLR = 12 mL/L). Survival was assessed. The locomotor activity, immune response, and midgut morphology of adults as well as the immune response of the larvae were also studied. Herbicide concentrations far above the MLR (12, 40, and 100 times) caused adult mortality, whereas lower concentrations (0.5, 1, and 6 times) did not. Herbicide exposure at 0.5 to 12 times the MLR increased adult activity. Adult exposure at 0.1 or 0.5 times the MLR did not affect melanotic encapsulation of foreign bodies but led to changes in the morphology of the midgut epithelium and peritrophic matrix. In larvae, the ingestion of herbicide at 0.1 or 0.2 times the MLR (corresponding to 9.6 and 19.2 ng of herbicide per individual) did not cause mortality but decreased their melanization-encapsulation response. Increased locomotor activity in herbicide-exposed adults can affect their foraging activity. The altered midgut morphology of adults coupled with the decreased immune response in larvae caused by herbicide exposure at realistic concentrations can increase the susceptibility of wasps to infections. Therefore, herbicides are toxic to predatory wasps.
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Affiliation(s)
- André Rodrigues de Souza
- Departamento de Biologia, Faculdade de Filosofia, Ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | | | | | - Renan Dos Santos Araújo
- Istituto de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde, Campus Universitário do Araguaia, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso, Pontal do Araguaia, MT, Brazil
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de Sousa Silveira Z, Silva Macêdo N, de Menezes Dantas D, Vieira Brito S, Silva Dos Santos H, Regis de Sousa Gomes RV, Douglas Melo Coutinho H, Bezerra da Cunha FA, Vanusa da Silva M. Chemical Profile and Biological Potential of Scaptotrigona Bee Products (Hymenoptera, Apidae, Meliponini): An Review. Chem Biodivers 2024; 21:e202301962. [PMID: 38415915 DOI: 10.1002/cbdv.202301962] [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: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
Stingless bees belong to the Meliponini tribe and are widely distributed in the tropics and subtropics, where they perform important ecological services. Among the best distributed groups of stingless bees is the genus Scaptotrigona, which includes 22 species distributed throughout the neotropical region, including the area from Mexico to Argentina. Bees of this genus are responsible for the production of products such as honey, propolis, geopropolis and fermented pollen ("saburá"). This review aimed to provide an overview of the chemical composition and biological activities associated with derived products from stingless bees of the genus Scaptotrigona. The bibliographic review was carried out through searches in the Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect and PubMed databases, including publications from 2003 to January 2023. The study of the chemodiversity of products derived from Scaptotrigona demonstrated the mainly presence of flavonoids, phenolic acids, terpenoids and alkaloids. It was also demonstrated that products derived from bees of the genus Scaptotrigona exhibit a wide range of biological effects, such as antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antifungal activities, among other bioactivities. This review provides an overview of phytochemical and pharmacological investigations of the genus Scaptotrigona. However, it is essential to clarify the toxicity and food safety of these products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zildene de Sousa Silveira
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences (PPGCB), Federal University of Pernambuco (UFPE), Recife, 50670-901, PE, Brazil
| | - Nair Silva Macêdo
- Graduate Program in Biological Chemistry (PPQB), Regional University of Cariri (URCA), Crato, 63105-000, CE, Brazil
| | - Débora de Menezes Dantas
- Graduate Program in Biological Chemistry (PPQB), Regional University of Cariri (URCA), Crato, 63105-000, CE, Brazil
| | - Samuel Vieira Brito
- Graduate Program in Environmental Sciences, Center for Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Federal University of Maranhão (UFMA), Chapadinha, 65500-000, Maranhão, Brazil
| | - Helcio Silva Dos Santos
- Graduate Program in Natural Sciences, State University of Ceara (UECE), Fortaleza, CE, 60.714.903, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Márcia Vanusa da Silva
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences (PPGCB), Federal University of Pernambuco (UFPE), Recife, 50670-901, PE, Brazil
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Meldrum JR, Larson DL, Hoelzle TB, Hinck JE. Considering pollinators' ecosystem services in the remediation and restoration of contaminated lands: Overview of research and its gaps. INTEGRATED ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT AND MANAGEMENT 2024; 20:322-336. [PMID: 37431069 DOI: 10.1002/ieam.4808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023]
Abstract
The concept of ecosystem services provides a useful framework for understanding how people are affected by changes to the natural environment, such as when a contaminant is introduced (e.g., oil spills, hazardous substance releases) or, conversely, when contaminated lands are remediated and restored. Pollination is one example of an important ecosystem service; pollinators play a critical role in any functioning terrestrial ecosystem. Other studies have suggested that consideration of pollinators' ecosystem services could lead to better remediation and restoration outcomes. However, the associated relationships can be complex, and evaluation requires synthesis from numerous disciplines. In this article, we discuss the possibilities for considering pollinators and their ecosystem services when planning remediation and restoration of contaminated lands. To inform the discussion, we introduce a general conceptual model of how pollinators and the ecosystem services associated with them could be affected by contamination in the environment. We review the literature on the conceptual model components, including contaminant effects on pollinators and the direct and indirect ecosystem services provided by pollinators, and identify information gaps. Though increased public interest in pollinators likely reflects increasing recognition of their role in providing many important ecosystem services, our review indicates that many gaps in understanding-about relevant natural and social systems-currently impede the rigorous quantification and evaluation of pollinators' ecosystem services required for many applications, such as in the context of natural resource damage assessment. Notable gaps include information on non-honeybee pollinators and on ecosystem services beyond those benefitting the agricultural sector. We then discuss potential research priorities and implications for practitioners. Focused research attention on the areas highlighted in this review holds promise for increasing the possibilities for considering pollinators' ecosystem services in the remediation and restoration of contaminated lands. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2024;20:322-336. © 2023 SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- James R Meldrum
- US Geological Survey, Fort Collins Science Center, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Diane L Larson
- US Geological Survey, Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center, St. Paul, Minnesota, USA
| | - Timothy B Hoelzle
- U.S. Department of the Interior, Office of Restoration and Damage Assessment-Restoration Support Unit, Denver, Colorado, USA
| | - Jo Ellen Hinck
- US Geological Survey, Columbia Environmental Research Center, Columbia, Missouri, USA
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Buczkowski G. Termite cuticular extracts improve acceptance of bait for controlling invasive Asian needle ants, Brachyponera chinensis. PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2023; 79:4004-4010. [PMID: 37288874 DOI: 10.1002/ps.7601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Asian needle ant, Brachyponera chinensis, is an invasive ant currently spreading in urban and natural habitats throughout the eastern United States. Recent studies have documented the negative impact of B. chinensis on native ecosystems and human health, yet effective control strategies are lacking. Control difficulties are, in part, due to the unique biology of B. chinensis, which is a predatory ant and a termite specialist. Given that subterranean termites are an important nutritional resource for B. chinensis, the current study evaluated the potential of termite cuticular extract to improve the target-specificity and efficacy of commercial bait used for B. chinensis control. RESULTS The efficacy of bait augmented with termite cuticular extracts was evaluated in laboratory and field trials. In laboratory assays, B. chinensis colonies were offered granular bait treated with termite cuticular extract. Results demonstrated that the acceptance of commercial bait is significantly increased by the addition of termite cuticular extract or synthetic (Z)-9-pentacosene, a major component of termite cuticular extract. Foraging activity of Asian needle ants was significantly greater on baits augmented with termite cuticular extract or (Z)-9-pentacosene relative to standard bait. Furthermore, bait augmented with termite cuticular extract worked substantially faster relative to standard bait. To evaluate population effects, field studies were conducted in forested areas invaded by B. chinensis. Bait treated with termite cuticular extract scattered on the forest floor provided rapid control of B. chinensis and ant densities throughout the treated plots declined by 98% within 14 days. CONCLUSION The incorporation of termite cuticular extracts and individual cuticular hydrocarbons such as (Z)-9-pentacosene into traditional baits used for B. chinensis control may offer a novel tool to manage this increasingly problematic invasive ant. © 2023 The Author. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
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Nagari M, Charter M. Comparing Insect Predation by Birds and Insects in an Apple Orchard and Neighboring Unmanaged Habitat: Implications for Ecosystem Services. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:1785. [PMID: 37889713 PMCID: PMC10252115 DOI: 10.3390/ani13111785] [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: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Preserving ecosystem services, such as natural enemies that can provide pest control, can positively impact crops without compromising agricultural yield. Even though controlling pests by natural enemies has been suggested to reduce pests in agriculture, growers continue using conventional pesticides that kill beneficial predators. Here we studied whether the predation of avian and insect-beneficial predators varies in an apple orchard with conventional insecticide use compared to a bordering tree stand without insecticides. We studied the predation rates of mealworm pupae as a proxy to coddling moth pupae at 42 stations in both an apple orchard and a Eucalyptus stand at three distances (0 m, 50 m, and 100 m) from the border. Half of the stations were netted to prevent bird predation but were accessible to insects. The other half were non-netted and accessible to birds. We conducted six trials, each lasting two weeks, during which we recorded the predation of 504 stations with 5040 pupae. To validate which species predated the pupae, we added video cameras that took RGB videos during the day and IR videos at night in 45 stations and found that in net-free stations, birds preyed in 94.1% of stations in the orchard and 81.8% in the Eucalyptus stand. However, ants predated 70% of the pupae in stations with nets in the orchards and 100% in stations in the Eucalyptus strands. In addition, we found a significant rise in predation by birds as the distance into the orchard increased. Conversely, insect predation declined within the orchard but escalated in the adjacent unmanaged area. These findings suggest that the orchard's environment negatively affects beneficial insect activity, specifically predatory ants. This study demonstrates that birds can play an essential role in predating insect pests inside the orchard. In addition, we believe that the decreased predation of ants within the orchard was due to intense insecticide use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moshe Nagari
- Shamir Research Institute, University of Haifa, Katzrin 1290000, Israel
| | - Motti Charter
- Shamir Research Institute, University of Haifa, Katzrin 1290000, Israel
- Department of Geography and Environmental Sciences, University of Haifa, Mount Carmel, Haifa 3498838, Israel
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10
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Rey PL, Vittoz P, Petitpierre B, Adde A, Guisan A. Linking plant and vertebrate species to Nature's Contributions to People in the Swiss Alps. Sci Rep 2023; 13:7312. [PMID: 37147401 PMCID: PMC10163046 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-34236-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Since the late 1990s, Nature's Contributions to People (NCPs; i.e. ecosystem services) were used as a putative leverage for fostering nature preservation. NCPs have largely been defined and mapped at the landscape level using land use and cover classifications. However, NCP mapping attempts based directly on individual species are still uncommon. Given that species shape ecosystems and ultimately deliver NCPs, mapping NCPs based on species distribution data should deliver highly meaningful results. This requires first establishing a census of the species-to-NCP relationships. However, datasets quantifying these relationships across several species and NCPs are rare. Here, we fill this gap by compiling literature and expert knowledge to establish the relationships of 1816 tracheophyte and 250 vertebrate species with 17 NCPs in the Swiss Alps. We illustrated the 31,098 identified species-NCP relationships for the two lineages and discuss why such a table is a key initial step in building spatial predictions of NCPs directly from species data, e.g. to ultimately complement spatial conservation planning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre-Louis Rey
- Institute of Earth Surface Dynamics, Faculty of Geosciences and Environment, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Pascal Vittoz
- Institute of Earth Surface Dynamics, Faculty of Geosciences and Environment, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Blaise Petitpierre
- Info Flora, c/o Conservatoire et Jardin botaniques de Genève, Chambésy-Genève, Switzerland
| | - Antoine Adde
- Institute of Earth Surface Dynamics, Faculty of Geosciences and Environment, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Antoine Guisan
- Institute of Earth Surface Dynamics, Faculty of Geosciences and Environment, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
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11
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Favreau E, Cini A, Taylor D, Câmara Ferreira F, Bentley MA, Cappa F, Cervo R, Privman E, Schneider J, Thiéry D, Mashoodh R, Wyatt CDR, Brown RL, Bodrug-Schepers A, Stralis-Pavese N, Dohm JC, Mead D, Himmelbauer H, Guigo R, Sumner S. Putting hornets on the genomic map. Sci Rep 2023; 13:6232. [PMID: 37085574 PMCID: PMC10121689 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-31932-x] [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: 11/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Hornets are the largest of the social wasps, and are important regulators of insect populations in their native ranges. Hornets are also very successful as invasive species, with often devastating economic, ecological and societal effects. Understanding why these wasps are such successful invaders is critical to managing future introductions and minimising impact on native biodiversity. Critical to the management toolkit is a comprehensive genomic resource for these insects. Here we provide the annotated genomes for two hornets, Vespa crabro and Vespa velutina. We compare their genomes with those of other social Hymenoptera, including the northern giant hornet Vespa mandarinia. The three hornet genomes show evidence of selection pressure on genes associated with reproduction, which might facilitate the transition into invasive ranges. Vespa crabro has experienced positive selection on the highest number of genes, including those putatively associated with molecular binding and olfactory systems. Caste-specific brain transcriptomic analysis also revealed 133 differentially expressed genes, some of which are associated with olfactory functions. This report provides a spring-board for advancing our understanding of the evolution and ecology of hornets, and opens up opportunities for using molecular methods in the future management of both native and invasive populations of these over-looked insects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emeline Favreau
- Centre for Biodiversity and Environmental Research, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK.
| | - Alessandro Cini
- Centre for Biodiversity and Environmental Research, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
- Department of Biology, Università di Pisa, Via Volta 6, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | - Daisy Taylor
- Centre for Biodiversity and Environmental Research, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | | | - Michael A Bentley
- Centre for Biodiversity and Environmental Research, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Federico Cappa
- Department of Biology, University of Florence, Via Madonna del Piano 6, 50019, Sesto Fiorentino, Florence, Italy
| | - Rita Cervo
- Department of Biology, University of Florence, Via Madonna del Piano 6, 50019, Sesto Fiorentino, Florence, Italy
| | - Eyal Privman
- Department of Evolutionary and Environmental Biology, Institute of Evolution, University of Haifa, Abba Hushi 199, 3498838, Haifa, Israel
| | - Jadesada Schneider
- Centre for Biodiversity and Environmental Research, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Denis Thiéry
- INRAe, UMR 1065 Santé et Agroécologie du Vignoble, Bordeaux Sciences Agro, ISVV, Université de Bordeaux, 33883, Villenave d'Ornon, France
| | - Rahia Mashoodh
- Centre for Biodiversity and Environmental Research, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Christopher D R Wyatt
- Centre for Biodiversity and Environmental Research, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Robert L Brown
- Manaaki Whenua - Landcare Research, 54 Gerald Street, Lincoln, 7608, New Zealand
| | - Alexandrina Bodrug-Schepers
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Computational Biology, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna, Muthgasse 18, 1190, Vienna, Austria
| | - Nancy Stralis-Pavese
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Computational Biology, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna, Muthgasse 18, 1190, Vienna, Austria
| | - Juliane C Dohm
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Computational Biology, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna, Muthgasse 18, 1190, Vienna, Austria
| | - Daniel Mead
- Tree of Life Programme, Wellcome Sanger Institute, Hinxton, CB10 1SA, UK
| | - Heinz Himmelbauer
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Computational Biology, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna, Muthgasse 18, 1190, Vienna, Austria
| | - Roderic Guigo
- Centre for Genomic Regulation, Dr. Aiguader 88, 08003, Barcelona, Spain
- Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Seirian Sumner
- Centre for Biodiversity and Environmental Research, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK.
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12
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Skaldina O, Łukowski A, Leskinen JTT, Koistinen AP, Eeva T. Mobile samplers of particulate matter - Flying omnivorous insects in detection of industrial contamination. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 867:161511. [PMID: 36632898 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.161511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Flying insects are potential mobile samplers of airborne particulate matter (PM). However, current knowledge on their susceptibility to PM is limited to pollinators. Insects' capacity for particle surface accumulation depends on the lifestyle, structure of the body integuments, and behavioral patterns. Here, we investigate how two species of flying omnivorous insects from the genus Vespula, possessing direct interactions with air, soil, plants, and herbivores, indicate industrial pollution by accumulating coarse (PM10) and fine (PM2.5) particles on their bodies. The internal accumulation of particles in wasps' gut tissues is assessed considering heavy metals exposure to reveal and discuss the potential magnitude of ecotoxicological risks. Female individuals of Vespula vulgaris and V. germanica were sampled with a hand-netting near to Harjavalta Cu-Ni smelter and in the control areas in southwestern Finland. They were analyzed with light microscopy (LM), electron microscopy (SEM, TEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) methods. Near to the smelter, wasps trapped significantly more particles, which were of bigger size and their surface optical density was higher. Vespula vulgaris accumulated larger particles than V. germanica, but that wasn't associated with morphological characteristics such as body size or hairiness. In both areas, accumulated surface PM carried clays and silicates. Only in polluted environments PM consistently contained metallic and nonmetallic particles (from high to moderate weight %) of Fe, Ni, Cu, and S - major pollutants emitted from the smelter. Wasps from industrially polluted areas carried significantly more granules in the columnar epithelial midgut cells. TEM-EDX analyses identified those structures were associated with metal ions such as Cr, Cu, Ni, and Fe. As epithelial gut cells accumulated metal particles, midgut confirmed as a barrier for metal exposure in wasps. External PM contamination in wasps is suggested as a qualitative, yet a natural and simple descriptor of local industrial emissions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oksana Skaldina
- Department of Biology, University of Turku, 20014, Turku, Finland; Department of Environmental and Biological Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Yliopistonranta 1E, 70211, Kuopio, Finland.
| | - Adrian Łukowski
- Faculty of Forestry and Wood Technology, Poznan University of Life Sciences, Wojska Polskiego 71E, 60-625 Poznań, Poland.
| | - Jari T T Leskinen
- SIB Labs Unit, University of Eastern Finland, Yliopistonranta 1E, 70211 Kuopio, Finland.
| | - Arto P Koistinen
- SIB Labs Unit, University of Eastern Finland, Yliopistonranta 1E, 70211 Kuopio, Finland.
| | - Tapio Eeva
- Department of Biology, University of Turku, 20014, Turku, Finland.
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13
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Barmak R, Stefanec M, Hofstadler DN, Piotet L, Schönwetter-Fuchs-Schistek S, Mondada F, Schmickl T, Mills R. A robotic honeycomb for interaction with a honeybee colony. Sci Robot 2023; 8:eadd7385. [PMID: 36947600 DOI: 10.1126/scirobotics.add7385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/24/2023]
Abstract
Robotic technologies have shown the capability to interact with living organisms and even to form integrated mixed societies composed of living and artificial agents. Biocompatible robots, incorporating sensing and actuation capable of generating and responding to relevant stimuli, can be a tool to study collective behaviors previously unattainable with traditional techniques. To investigate collective behaviors of the western honeybee (Apis mellifera), we designed a robotic system capable of observing and modulating the bee cluster using an array of thermal sensors and actuators. We initially integrated the system into a beehive populated with about 4000 bees for several months. The robotic system was able to observe the colony by continuously collecting spatiotemporal thermal profiles of the winter cluster. Furthermore, we found that our robotic device reliably modulated the superorganism's response to dynamic thermal stimulation, influencing its spatiotemporal reorganization. In addition, after identifying the thermal collapse of a colony, we used the robotic system in a "life-support" mode via its thermal actuators. Ultimately, we demonstrated a robotic device capable of autonomous closed-loop interaction with a cluster comprising thousands of individual bees. Such biohybrid societies open the door to investigation of collective behaviors that necessitate observing and interacting with the animals within a complete social context, as well as for potential applications in augmenting the survivability of these pollinators crucial to our ecosystems and our food supply.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Barmak
- Mobile Robotic Systems Group, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Martin Stefanec
- Artificial Life Lab, Department of Zoology, Institute of Biology, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Daniel N Hofstadler
- Artificial Life Lab, Department of Zoology, Institute of Biology, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Louis Piotet
- Mobile Robotic Systems Group, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | - Francesco Mondada
- Mobile Robotic Systems Group, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Schmickl
- Artificial Life Lab, Department of Zoology, Institute of Biology, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Rob Mills
- Mobile Robotic Systems Group, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
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14
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Luke SH, Roy HE, Thomas CD, Tilley LAN, Ward S, Watt A, Carnaghi M, Jaworski CC, Tercel MPTG, Woodrow C, Aown S, Banfield‐Zanin JA, Barnsley SL, Berger I, Brown MJF, Bull JC, Campbell H, Carter RAB, Charalambous M, Cole LJ, Ebejer MJ, Farrow RA, Fartyal RS, Grace M, Highet F, Hill JK, Hood ASC, Kent ES, Krell F, Leather SR, Leybourne DJ, Littlewood NA, Lyons A, Matthews G, Mc Namara L, Menéndez R, Merrett P, Mohammed S, Murchie AK, Noble M, Paiva M, Pannell MJ, Phon C, Port G, Powell C, Rosell S, Sconce F, Shortall CR, Slade EM, Sutherland JP, Weir JC, Williams CD, Zielonka NB, Dicks LV. Grand challenges in entomology: Priorities for action in the coming decades. INSECT CONSERVATION AND DIVERSITY 2023; 16:173-189. [PMID: 38505358 PMCID: PMC10947029 DOI: 10.1111/icad.12637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Entomology is key to understanding terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems at a time of unprecedented anthropogenic environmental change and offers substantial untapped potential to benefit humanity in a variety of ways, from improving agricultural practices to managing vector-borne diseases and inspiring technological advances.We identified high priority challenges for entomology using an inclusive, open, and democratic four-stage prioritisation approach, conducted among the membership and affiliates (hereafter 'members') of the UK-based Royal Entomological Society (RES).A list of 710 challenges was gathered from 189 RES members. Thematic analysis was used to group suggestions, followed by an online vote to determine initial priorities, which were subsequently ranked during an online workshop involving 37 participants.The outcome was a set of 61 priority challenges within four groupings of related themes: (i) 'Fundamental Research' (themes: Taxonomy, 'Blue Skies' [defined as research ideas without immediate practical application], Methods and Techniques); (ii) 'Anthropogenic Impacts and Conservation' (themes: Anthropogenic Impacts, Conservation Options); (iii) 'Uses, Ecosystem Services and Disservices' (themes: Ecosystem Benefits, Technology and Resources [use of insects as a resource, or as inspiration], Pests); (iv) 'Collaboration, Engagement and Training' (themes: Knowledge Access, Training and Collaboration, Societal Engagement).Priority challenges encompass research questions, funding objectives, new technologies, and priorities for outreach and engagement. Examples include training taxonomists, establishing a global network of insect monitoring sites, understanding the extent of insect declines, exploring roles of cultivated insects in food supply chains, and connecting professional with amateur entomologists. Responses to different challenges could be led by amateur and professional entomologists, at all career stages.Overall, the challenges provide a diverse array of options to inspire and initiate entomological activities and reveal the potential of entomology to contribute to addressing global challenges related to human health and well-being, and environmental change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah H. Luke
- School of BiosciencesUniversity of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington CampusNr LoughboroughUK
- Department of ZoologyUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
| | - Helen E. Roy
- UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, MacLean BuildingCrowmarsh Gifford, WallingfordUK
| | - Chris D. Thomas
- Leverhulme Centre for Anthropocene Biodiversity, Department of BiologyUniversity of YorkYorkUK
| | | | - Simon Ward
- Royal Entomological Society, The Mansion HouseSt AlbansUK
| | - Allan Watt
- UK Centre for Ecology & HydrologyBush EstateMidlothianUK
| | - Manuela Carnaghi
- Department of Agriculture Health and Environment, Natural Resources InstituteUniversity of Greenwich at MedwayKentUK
| | | | | | - Charlie Woodrow
- University of Lincoln, School of Life and Environmental SciencesJoseph Banks LaboratoriesLincolnUK
| | | | | | | | - Iris Berger
- Department of ZoologyUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
| | - Mark J. F. Brown
- Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Behaviour, Department of Biological Sciences, School of Life Sciences and the EnvironmentRoyal Holloway University of LondonEghamUK
| | | | - Heather Campbell
- Agriculture and Environment DepartmentHarper Adams UniversityNewportUK
| | | | - Magda Charalambous
- Department of Life SciencesImperial College London, South Kensington CampusLondonUK
| | - Lorna J. Cole
- Integrated Land ManagementSRUC, Auchincruive EstateAyrUK
| | | | | | - Rajendra S. Fartyal
- Department of Zoology, Birla CampusHNB Gahrwal UniveristySrinagar GarhwalUttarakhandIndia
| | - Miriam Grace
- Department of ZoologyUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
| | - Fiona Highet
- SASA (Science and Advice for Scottish Agriculture)EdinburghUK
| | - Jane K. Hill
- University of York, Leverhulme Centre for Anthropocene Biodiversity & Department of BiologyUniversity of YorkYorkUK
| | - Amelia S. C. Hood
- Centre for Agri‐Environmental Research, School of Agriculture, Policy and DevelopmentUniversity of ReadingReadingUK
| | - Eleanor S. Kent
- School of Biological SciencesUniversity of East AngliaNorwichUK
| | | | - Simon R. Leather
- Agriculture and Environment DepartmentHarper Adams UniversityNewportUK
| | - Daniel J. Leybourne
- Zoological Biodiversity, Institute of GeobotanyLeibniz University HannoverHannoverGermany
| | | | - Ashley Lyons
- RSPB Centre for Conservation ScienceHaweswater, Naddle Farm, BamptonCumbriaUK
| | | | - Louise Mc Namara
- Teagasc, Crop Science Department, Oak Park Crops Research CentreCarlowIreland
| | - Rosa Menéndez
- Lancaster Environment CentreLancaster UniversityLancasterUK
| | | | - Sajidha Mohammed
- Department of ZoologyM.E.S Mampad CollegeMampad, MalappuramKeralaIndia
| | - Archie K. Murchie
- Agri‐Food & Biosciences InstituteNewforge LaneBelfast, Northern IrelandUK
| | | | - Maria‐Rosa Paiva
- CENSE ‐ Center for Environmental and Sustainability Research, NOVA School of Science and TechnologyNOVA University LisbonCaparicaPortugal
| | | | - Chooi‐Khim Phon
- Entomology BranchForest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM)KepongSelangorMalaysia
| | - Gordon Port
- Newcastle University, School of Natural and Environmental SciencesNewcastle UniversityNewcastle upon TyneUK
| | | | | | | | | | - Eleanor M. Slade
- Asian School of the EnvironmentNanyang Technological UniversitySingapore
| | | | - Jamie C. Weir
- Institute for Evolutionary BiologyUniversity of Edinburgh Ashworth LaboratoriesEdinburghUK
| | | | | | - Lynn V. Dicks
- Department of ZoologyUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
- School of Biological SciencesUniversity of East AngliaNorwichUK
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15
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Balkanska R, Shumkova R, Atsenova N, Salkova D, Dundarova H, Radoslavov G, Hristov P. Molecular Detection and Phylogenetic Analysis of Deformed Wing Virus and Sacbrood Virus Isolated from Pollen. Vet Sci 2023; 10:vetsci10020140. [PMID: 36851444 PMCID: PMC9965827 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10020140] [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: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Among many pathogens and pests, honey bee viruses are known as one of the most common cause of diseases in honey bee colonies. In this study, we demonstrate that pollen grains and bee bread are potential sources of viral DNA. We extracted DNA from 3 types of pollen samples: directly provided by beekeepers (n = 12), purchased from trade markets (n = 5), and obtained from honeycombs (bee bread, n = 10). The extracted DNA was used for molecular detection (RT-PCR analysis) of six of the most widely distributed honey bee viruses: deformed wing virus, sacbrood virus, acute bee paralysis virus, black queen cell virus, Kashmir bee virus, Israeli acute paralysis virus, and chronic bee paralysis virus. We successfully managed to establish only the deformed wing virus (DWV) and the sacbrood virus (SBV), with different distribution frequencies depending on the territory of the country. The phylogenetic analyses of Bulgarian isolates were performed with the most similar sequences available in molecular databases from other countries. Phylogenies of Bulgarian viral strains demonstrated genetically heterogeneous populations of DWV and relatively homogenous populations of SBV. In conclusion, the results obtained from the current study have shown that pollen is a valuable source for molecular detection of honey bee pathogens. This allows epidemiological monitoring of honey bee diseases at a regional and a national level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ralitsa Balkanska
- Department “Special Branches”, Institute of Animal Science, Agricultural Academy, 2230 Kostinbrod, Bulgaria
| | - Rositsa Shumkova
- Research Centre of Stockbreeding and Agriculture, Agricultural Academy, 4700 Smolyan, Bulgaria
| | - Nedyalka Atsenova
- Department of Animal Diversity and Resources, Institute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Delka Salkova
- Department of Experimental Parasitology, Institute of Experimental Morphology, Pathology and Anthropology with Museum, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Heliana Dundarova
- Department of Animal Diversity and Resources, Institute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
- Department of Ecosystem Research, Environmental Risk Assessment and Conservation Biology, Institute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Georgi Radoslavov
- Department of Animal Diversity and Resources, Institute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Peter Hristov
- Department of Animal Diversity and Resources, Institute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
- Correspondence:
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16
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Hassenbach C, Buchner L, Haug GT, Haug C, Haug JT. An Expanded View on the Morphological Diversity of Long-Nosed Antlion Larvae Further Supports a Decline of Silky Lacewings in the Past 100 Million Years. INSECTS 2023; 14:170. [PMID: 36835743 PMCID: PMC9966087 DOI: 10.3390/insects14020170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Lacewings have been suggested to be a relict group. This means that the group of lacewings, Neuroptera, should have been more diverse in the past, which also applies to many ingroups of Neuroptera. Psychopsidae, the group of silky lacewings, is one of the ingroups of Neuroptera which is relatively species-poor in the modern fauna. Larvae of the group Psychopsidae, long-nosed antlions, can be easily identified as such in being larvae of antlion-like lacewings without teeth in their stylets (=compound structure of mandible and maxilla), with empodia (=attachment structures on legs) and with a prominent forward-protruding labrum. Therefore, such larvae can also be recognised in the fossil record. An earlier study demonstrated a decline in the morphological diversity of long-nosed antlion larvae over the past 100 million years. Here, we report several dozen new long-nosed antlion larvae and expand the earlier quantitative study. Our results further corroborate the decline of silky lacewings. Yet, a lack of an indication of saturation indicates that we have still not approached the original diversity of long-nosed antlions in the Cretaceous.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colin Hassenbach
- Faculty of Biology, Biocenter, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (LMU Munich), Großhaderner Str. 2, 82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Laura Buchner
- Faculty of Biology, Biocenter, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (LMU Munich), Großhaderner Str. 2, 82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Gideon T. Haug
- Faculty of Biology, Biocenter, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (LMU Munich), Großhaderner Str. 2, 82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Carolin Haug
- Faculty of Biology, Biocenter, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (LMU Munich), Großhaderner Str. 2, 82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
- GeoBio-Center at LMU, Richard-Wagner-Str. 10, 80333 Munich, Germany
| | - Joachim T. Haug
- Faculty of Biology, Biocenter, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (LMU Munich), Großhaderner Str. 2, 82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
- GeoBio-Center at LMU, Richard-Wagner-Str. 10, 80333 Munich, Germany
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17
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Induced drought strongly affects richness and composition of ground-dwelling ants in the eastern Amazon. Oecologia 2023; 201:299-309. [PMID: 36645473 DOI: 10.1007/s00442-023-05316-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Species loss in tropical regions is forecast to occur under environmental change scenarios of low precipitation. One of the main questions is how drought will affect invertebrates, a key group for ecosystem functioning. We use 1 year of data from a long-term rainwater exclusion experiment in primary Amazonian rainforest to test whether induced water stress and covarying changes in soil moisture, soil respiration, and tree species richness, diversity, size, and total biomass affected species richness and composition (relative abundance) of ground-dwelling ants. Data on ant abundance and environmental variables were collected at two sites (control and experimental) in the Eastern Amazon. Since 2002, drought has been induced in the experimental plot by excluding 50% of normal rainfall. Ant species richness in the experiment plot was reduced and some generalist species responded positively. Ant species richness also increased in the experimental plot with increasing diversity of the plant species of the leaf litter. The relative abundance of ants differed between plots. The experimental plot was characterized by a higher frequency of generalist and other species that appeared to be favored by the reduction in rainfall. Between-plot comparisons suggested loss and changes in ant species composition in tropical forests were affected by increasing dryness. These changes could ultimately lead to cascading effects on ecosystem processes and the services they mediate.
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18
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Feitosa RM, Camacho GP, Silva TSR, Ulysséa MA, Ladino N, Oliveira AM, Albuquerque EZ, Schmidt FA, Ribas CR, Nogueira A, Baccaro FB, Queiroz ACM, Dáttilo W, Silva RR, Santos JC, Rabello AM, Morini MSDC, Quinet YP, Del-Claro K, Harada AY, Carvalho KS, Sobrinho TG, Moraes AB, Vargas AB, Torezan-Silingardi HM, Souza JLP, Marques T, Izzo T, Lange D, Santos IA, Nahas L, Paolucci L, Soares SA, Costa-Milanez CB, Diehl-Fleig E, Campos RBF, Solar R, Frizzo T, Darocha W. Ants of Brazil: an overview based on 50 years of diversity studies. SYST BIODIVERS 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/14772000.2022.2089268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo M. Feitosa
- Laboratório de Sistemática e Biologia de Formigas, Departamento de Zoologia, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Gabriela P. Camacho
- Center for Integrative Biodiversity Discovery, Museum für Naturkunde, Berlin, Germany
- Laboratório de Hymenoptera, Museu de Zoologia da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Thiago S. R. Silva
- The Insect Biodiversity and Biogeography Laboratory, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Mônica A. Ulysséa
- Laboratório de Hymenoptera, Museu de Zoologia da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Natalia Ladino
- Laboratório de Sistemática e Biologia de Formigas, Departamento de Zoologia, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Aline M. Oliveira
- The Insect Biodiversity and Biogeography Laboratory, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Emília Z. Albuquerque
- AntLab, National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC, USA
- Rabeling Lab, School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Fernando A. Schmidt
- Laboratório de Ecologia de Formigas, Centro de Ciências Biológicas e da Natureza, Universidade Federal do Acre, Rio Branco, Acre, Brazil
| | - Carla R. Ribas
- Laboratório de Ecologia de Formigas, Departamento de Ecologia e Conservação, Universidade Federal de Lavras, Lavras, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Lancaster Environment Centre, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
| | - Anselmo Nogueira
- Laboratório de Interações Planta-Animal, Centro de Ciências Naturais e Humanas, Universidade Federal do ABC, São Bernardo do Campo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Fabrício B. Baccaro
- Departamento de Biologia, Universidade Federal do Amazonas, Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil
| | - Antônio C. M. Queiroz
- Laboratório de Ecologia de Formigas, Departamento de Ecologia e Conservação, Universidade Federal de Lavras, Lavras, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Wesley Dáttilo
- Red de Ecoetología, Instituto de Ecología AC, Xalapa, Veracruz, Mexico
| | - Rogério R. Silva
- Coordenação de Ciências da Terra e Ecologia, Museu Paraense Emílio Goeldi, Belém, Pará, Brazil
| | - Jean C. Santos
- Laboratório de Ecologia & Biodiversidade, Departamento de Ecologia, Universidade Federal de Sergipe, São Cristóvão, Sergipe, Brazil
| | - Ananza M. Rabello
- Instituto de Estudos do Xingu, Universidade Federal do Sul e Sudeste do Pará, São Félix do Xingu, Pará, Brazil
| | - Maria Santina De C. Morini
- Laboratório de Mirmecologia do Alto Tietê, Núcleo de Ciências Ambientais, Universidade de Mogi das Cruzes, Mogi das Cruzes, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Yves P. Quinet
- Laboratório de Entomologia, Departamento de Biologia, Universidade Estadual do Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Kleber Del-Claro
- Laboratório de Ecologia Comportamental e de Interações, Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Ana Y. Harada
- Coordenação em Zoologia, Museu Paraense Emilio Goeldi, Belém, Pará, Brazil
| | - Karine S. Carvalho
- Laboratório de Ecologia, Departamento de Ciências Naturais, Universidade Estadual do Sudoeste da Bahia, Vitória da Conquista, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Tathiana G. Sobrinho
- Laboratório de Sistemática e Ecologia de Insetos, Departamento de Ciências Agrárias e Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, São Mateus, Espírito Santos, Brazil
| | - Aline B. Moraes
- Prefeitura Municipal de Novo Hamburgo, Novo Hamburgo, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - André B. Vargas
- Centro Universitário de Volta Redonda, UniFOA, Volta Redonda, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Helena Maura Torezan-Silingardi
- Laboratório de Ecologia Comportamental e de Interações, Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Jorge Luiz P. Souza
- Instituto Nacional da Mata Atlântica, INMA, Santa Teresa, Espírito Santo, Brazil
| | - Tatianne Marques
- Laboratório de Ecologia Aplicada e Citogenética, Instituto Federal do Norte de Minas Gerais – IFNMG, Salinas, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Thiago Izzo
- Laboratório de Ecologia de Comunidades, Departamento de Botânica e Ecologia, Universidade Federal do Mato Grosso, Cuiabá, Mato Grosso, Brazil
| | - Denise Lange
- Universidade Tecnológica Federal do Paraná, Santa Helena, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Iracenir A. Santos
- Centro de Formação Interdisciplinar, Universidade Federal do Oeste do Pará, Santarém, Pará, Brazil
| | - Larissa Nahas
- Laboratório de Ecologia Comportamental e de Interações, Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Lucas Paolucci
- Departamento de Biologia Geral, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Stela A. Soares
- Secretaria Estadual de Educação de Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
| | - Cinthia B. Costa-Milanez
- Departamento de Biologia, Instituto de Ciências Exatas e Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | - Renata B. F. Campos
- Laboratório de Ecologia, Ambiente e Território, PPG Gestão Integrada do Território, Universidade Vale do Rio Doce, Governador Valadares, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Solar
- Centro de Síntese Ecológica e Conservação, Departamento de Genética, Ecologia e Evolução, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Tiago Frizzo
- Departamento de Ecologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - Wesley Darocha
- Laboratório de Mirmecologia (CPDC), Centro de Pesquisa do Cacau (CEPEC), Ilhéus, Bahia, Brazil
- Laboratório de Ecologia de Insetos, Departamento de Biologia Geral, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
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19
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Emmet RL, Augustine BC, Abrahms B, Rich LN, Gardner B. A spatial capture-recapture model for group-living species. Ecology 2022; 103:e3576. [PMID: 34714927 DOI: 10.1002/ecy.3576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Group living in species can have complex consequences for individuals, populations, and ecosystems. Therefore, estimating group density and size is often essential for understanding population dynamics, interspecific interactions, and conservation needs of group-living species. Spatial capture-recapture (SCR) has been used to model both individual and group density in group-living species, but modeling either individual-level or group-level detection results in different biases due to common characteristics of group-living species, such as highly cohesive movement or variation in group size. Furthermore, no SCR method currently estimates group density, individual density, and group size jointly. Using clustered point processes, we developed a cluster SCR model to estimate group density, individual density, and group size. We compared the model to standard SCR models using both a simulation study and a data set of detections of African wild dogs (Lycaon pictus), a group-living carnivore, on camera traps in northern Botswana. We then tested the model's performance under various scenarios of group movement in a separate simulation study. We found that the cluster SCR model outperformed a standard group-level SCR model when fitted to data generated with varying group sizes, and mostly recovered previous estimates of wild dog group density, individual density, and group size. We also found that the cluster SCR model performs better as individuals' movements become more correlated with their groups' movements. The cluster SCR model offers opportunities to investigate ecological hypotheses relating group size to population dynamics while accounting for cohesive movement behaviors in group-living species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert L Emmet
- Quantitative Ecology and Resource Management, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Ben C Augustine
- Department of Natural Resources and the Environment, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Briana Abrahms
- Department of Biology, Center for Ecosystem Sentinels, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Lindsey N Rich
- California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Wildlife Diversity Program, West Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Beth Gardner
- School of Environmental and Forest Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
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20
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Rajesh TP, Manoj K, Prashanth Ballullaya U, Shibil VK, Asha G, Varma S, Mohan P, Sinu PA. Urban tropical forest islets as hotspots of ants in general and invasive ants in particular. Sci Rep 2022; 12:12003. [PMID: 35835929 PMCID: PMC9283449 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-16243-x] [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: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Urbanization is a crucial driver of environmental and biodiversity change. It is suggested that urbanization favours generalist and invasive species and might harm specialists of natural and semi-natural habitats. In this study, we examined how an urbanization gradient and environmental gradients in the habitat area, habitat diversity, elevation, and proportion of built-up area influenced the abundance and richness of ants within tropical forest islet habitat in south India. We used abundance (proportional trap incidence) of overall ants, native ants, invasive ants, and Anoplolepis gracilipes—a globally notorious invasive ant of possible south Asian origin—and rarefied richness as the response variables. We found that native ant abundance was greater and A. gracilipes abundance was lesser in less-urbanized landscape compared to moderately-urbanized and highly-urbanized landscape. The richness of ants and abundance of overall and invasive ants were unaffected by the urbanization. We also found that none of the measured environmental gradients but habitat diversity influenced abundance of overall ants, native ants, overall invasive ants, and richness of ants; however, A. gracilipes abundance was negatively correlated with habitat diversity. Ant species composition of less-urbanized landscape was distinct from that of higher urbanization levels. The richness and abundance of native ants and abundance of non-A. gracilipes invasive ants decreased with the abundance of A. gracilipes. Because the forest islets of all three urbanization levels supported similar richness of native ants, the urbanization seems not to have an adverse effect for the native ants of native forest islets. The increasing population of A. gracilipes in urban green islets, however, is a concern. Future studies might investigate its effect on other invertebrates of epigeal and soil strata.
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Affiliation(s)
- T P Rajesh
- Central University of Kerala, Periya, Kerala, 671316, India
| | - K Manoj
- Central University of Kerala, Periya, Kerala, 671316, India
| | | | - V K Shibil
- Central University of Kerala, Periya, Kerala, 671316, India
| | - G Asha
- Central University of Kerala, Periya, Kerala, 671316, India
| | | | - Prabitha Mohan
- Central University of Kerala, Periya, Kerala, 671316, India
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21
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Sankararaman S. Unwrapping the compositional mystery of Eumeninae nest: A laser-induced breakdown spectroscopic study. SPECTROCHIMICA ACTA. PART A, MOLECULAR AND BIOMOLECULAR SPECTROSCOPY 2022; 268:120713. [PMID: 34896674 DOI: 10.1016/j.saa.2021.120713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 11/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The nest of Eumeninae wasp is one of nature's creations, revealing the mysterious architectural beauty through its composition and nanostructuring. The present study unveils the compositional mystery of Eumeninae nest through the signal processing of the laser-induced breakdown spectrum (LIBS). The structure, morphological, and optical characterisations of the nest sample shows nanoparticles of oxides of silicon, aluminium, and iron with an optical bandgap of 2.5 eV, giving a fluorescence emission in the blue region upon ultraviolet excitation. Though, the energy dispersive spectroscopic study confirms the major elements present in the sample, the more elements are revealed through LIBS analysis. The intriguing properties of nest is attributed to the elemental compositions - oxygen, silicon, iron, manganese, chromium, cobalt, calcium and carbon - which necessitate deconvolution of peaks in the spectra for estimating the plasma temperature (4300-5045 K) and electron density (1.13 × 10-19 cm-3).
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Affiliation(s)
- S Sankararaman
- Department of Optoelectronics, University of Kerala, Trivandrum, 695581, Kerala, India.
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22
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Nascimento G, Câmara T, Arnan X. Critical thermal limits in ants and their implications under climate change. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2022; 97:1287-1305. [PMID: 35174946 DOI: 10.1111/brv.12843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Critical thermal limits (CTLs) constrain the performance of organisms, shaping their abundance, current distributions, and future distributions. Consequently, CTLs may also determine the quality of ecosystem services as well as organismal and ecosystem vulnerability to climate change. As some of the most ubiquitous animals in terrestrial ecosystems, ants are important members of ecological communities. In recent years, an increasing body of research has explored ant physiological thermal limits. However, these CTL data tend to centre on a few species and biogeographical regions. To encourage an expansion of perspectives, we herein review the factors that determine ant CTLs and examine their effects on present and future species distributions and ecosystem processes. Special emphasis is placed on the implications of CTLs for safeguarding ant diversity and ant-mediated ecosystem services in the future. First, we compile, quantify, and categorise studies on ant CTLs based on study taxon, biogeographical region, methodology, and study question. Second, we use this comprehensive database to analyse the abiotic and biotic factors shaping ant CTLs. Our results highlight how CTLs may affect future distribution patterns and ecological performance in ants. Additionally, we identify the greatest remaining gaps in knowledge and create a research roadmap to promote rapid advances in this field of study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geraldo Nascimento
- Universidade de Pernambuco - Campus Garanhuns, Rua Capitão Pedro Rodrigues, 105 - São José, Garanhuns, 55294-902, Brazil.,Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciência e Tecnologia Ambiental, Universidade de Pernambuco - Campus Petrolina, BR 203, KM 2 - Vila Eduardo, Petrolina, 56328-900, Brazil
| | - Talita Câmara
- Universidade de Pernambuco - Campus Garanhuns, Rua Capitão Pedro Rodrigues, 105 - São José, Garanhuns, 55294-902, Brazil.,Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciência e Tecnologia Ambiental, Universidade de Pernambuco - Campus Petrolina, BR 203, KM 2 - Vila Eduardo, Petrolina, 56328-900, Brazil
| | - Xavier Arnan
- Universidade de Pernambuco - Campus Garanhuns, Rua Capitão Pedro Rodrigues, 105 - São José, Garanhuns, 55294-902, Brazil.,Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciência e Tecnologia Ambiental, Universidade de Pernambuco - Campus Petrolina, BR 203, KM 2 - Vila Eduardo, Petrolina, 56328-900, Brazil.,CREAF, Campus de Bellaterra (UAB) Edifici C, Cerdanyola del Vallès, 08193, Spain
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23
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Ladino N, Feitosa RM. Ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) of the Parque Estadual São Camilo, an isolated Atlantic Forest remnant in western Paraná, Brazil. ZOOLOGIA 2022. [DOI: 10.1590/s1984-4689.v39.e22001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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24
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Boaventura MG, Villamil N, Teixido AL, Tito R, Vasconcelos HL, Silveira FAO, Cornelissen T. Revisiting florivory: an integrative review and global patterns of a neglected interaction. THE NEW PHYTOLOGIST 2022; 233:132-144. [PMID: 34363707 DOI: 10.1111/nph.17670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Florivory is an ancient interaction which has rarely been quantified due to a lack of standardized protocols, thus impairing biogeographical and phylogenetic comparisons. We created a global, continuously updated, open-access database comprising 180 species and 64 families to compare floral damage between tropical and temperate plants, to examine the effects of plant traits on floral damage, and to explore the eco-evolutionary dynamics of flower-florivore interactions. Flower damage is widespread across angiosperms, but was two-fold higher in tropical vs temperate species, suggesting stronger fitness impacts in the tropics. Flowers were mostly damaged by chewers, but neither flower color nor symmetry explained differences in florivory. Herbivory and florivory levels were positively correlated within species, even though the richness of the florivore community does not affect florivory levels. We show that florivory impacts plant fitness via multiple pathways and that ignoring this interaction makes it more difficult to obtain a broad understanding of the ecology and evolution of angiosperms. Finally, we propose a standardized protocol for florivory measurements, and identify key research avenues that will help fill persistent knowledge gaps. Florivory is expected to be a central research topic in an epoch characterized by widespread decreases in insect populations that comprise both pollinators and florivores.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Gabriela Boaventura
- Center for Ecological Synthesis and Conservation, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Belo Horizonte, MG, CP 486, Brazil
| | - Nora Villamil
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, Université de Lausanne, Lausanne, CH-1015, Switzerland
| | - Alberto L Teixido
- Departamento de Botânica e Ecologia, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso, Av. Fernando Corrêa 2367, Cuiabá, MT, E-78060-900, Brazil
| | - Richard Tito
- Instituto de Ciencias de la Naturaleza, Territorio y Energías Renovables, Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú, Lima, 15088, Peru
| | - Heraldo L Vasconcelos
- Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Av. Pará 1720, Uberlândia, MG, 38405-302, Brazil
| | - Fernando A O Silveira
- Center for Ecological Synthesis and Conservation, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Belo Horizonte, MG, CP 486, Brazil
| | - Tatiana Cornelissen
- Center for Ecological Synthesis and Conservation, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Belo Horizonte, MG, CP 486, Brazil
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25
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Hood ASC, Aryawan AAK, Advento AD, Suberkah WR, Ashton‐Butt A, Ps S, Caliman J, Naim M, Foster WA, Turner EC. A whole‐ecosystem method for experimentally suppressing ants on a small scale. Methods Ecol Evol 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/2041-210x.13774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Amelia SC Hood
- Department of Zoology University of Cambridge Downing Street Cambridge CB2 3EJ UK
| | - Anak Agung Ketut Aryawan
- Sinar Mas Agro Resources and Technology Research Institute (SMARTRI) Jalan Teuku Umar, No. 19 28112 Riau Indonesia
| | - Andreas D Advento
- Sinar Mas Agro Resources and Technology Research Institute (SMARTRI) Jalan Teuku Umar, No. 19 28112 Riau Indonesia
| | - Wahyu R Suberkah
- PT. Ouzen Anugerah Indonesia Bukit Barisan Street, No. 78 E Medan North Sumatra Indonesia
| | - Adham Ashton‐Butt
- British Trust for Ornithology BTO The Nunnery Thetford, Norfolk IP24 2PU
- Department of Biological and Marine Sciences University of Hull Hull HU6 7RX
| | - Sudharto Ps
- Sinar Mas Agro Resources and Technology Research Institute (SMARTRI) Jalan Teuku Umar, No. 19 28112 Riau Indonesia
| | - Jean‐Pierre Caliman
- Sinar Mas Agro Resources and Technology Research Institute (SMARTRI) Jalan Teuku Umar, No. 19 28112 Riau Indonesia
| | - Mohammad Naim
- Sinar Mas Agro Resources and Technology Research Institute (SMARTRI) Jalan Teuku Umar, No. 19 28112 Riau Indonesia
| | - William A Foster
- Department of Zoology University of Cambridge Downing Street Cambridge CB2 3EJ UK
| | - Edgar C Turner
- Department of Zoology University of Cambridge Downing Street Cambridge CB2 3EJ UK
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26
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Gomes DGE, Toth CA, Bateman CC, Francis CD, Kawahara AY, Barber JR. Experimental river noise alters arthropod abundance. OIKOS 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/oik.08499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Dylan G. E. Gomes
- Dept of Biological Sciences, Boise State Univ. Boise ID USA
- Cooperative Inst. for Marine Resources Studies – Hatfield Marine Science Center, Oregon State Univ. Newport OR USA
| | - Cory A. Toth
- Dept of Biological Sciences, Boise State Univ. Boise ID USA
| | - Craig C. Bateman
- Florida Museum of Natural History, McGuire Center for Lepidoptera and Biodiversity, Univ. of Florida Gainesville FL USA
| | - Clinton D. Francis
- Dept of Biological Sciences, California Polytechnic State Univ. San Luis Obispo CA USA
| | - Akito Y. Kawahara
- Florida Museum of Natural History, McGuire Center for Lepidoptera and Biodiversity, Univ. of Florida Gainesville FL USA
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27
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Abstract
In between Earth's poles, ants exert impacts on other biota that are unmatched by most animal clades. Through their interactions with animals, plants, fungi and microbes, ants have cultivated - or succumbed to - relationships ranging from metabolic mutualisms to exploitation by social parasites. The diversity of these relationships implies that ants are keystone taxa in many habitats, directly or indirectly supporting a menagerie of other species. Yet, beyond these interactions is a less obvious but arguably as significant impact: through their collective ecological pressure, ants have imposed survivorship bias on the species that we observe inhabiting terrestrial environments. If life on land has passed through an ant-shaped selective filter, it is imperative we understand how these insects have sculpted ecological communities and are enmeshed within them. Here, we describe how ants have shaped biodiversity, and the often-devastating consequences of humanity's impact on these social insects.
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28
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Kumaravel J, Lalitha K, Arunthirumeni M, Shivakumar MS. Mycosynthesis of bimetallic zinc oxide and titanium dioxide nanoparticles for control of Spodoptera frugiperda. PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2021; 178:104910. [PMID: 34446186 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2021.104910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2020] [Revised: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/27/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Spodoptera frugiperda is an important pest of several crops. Use of chemical insecticides in insect control has not been successful. In the present study, bio-nano formulation of bimetallic nanoparticles were synthesized using fungal metabolites from Metarhizium anisopliae and tested for insecticidal activity. Metarhizium anisopliae metabolites was synthesized along with bimetallic nanoparticles at different volumes for bioassay studies. Bimetallic nanoparticles showed colour change from light greenish to white. Synthesis of bimetallic NPs was confirmed by UV-vis spectrophotometer, with absorption peak at 387 nm. Functional groups in the synthesized BMNPs were analyzed by FTIR, which showed the presence of functional amines, carboxylic acids, alkenes, alkyl halides, phosphine oxides, anhydrides, phosphines, sulfonates, acid chlorides and alkynes. XRD analysis confirms the crystalline nature of nanoparticles. SEM analysis exhibits, the nanoparticles to be spherical in shape with size ranging 9.50 nm. EDaX analysis confirmed the elemental composition of synthesized NPs, while DLS for size distribution ranging at 80 to 137 nm. The larvicidal activity of monometallic and mycogenic bimetallic nanoparticles were tested on third instar S. frugiperda larvae. The highest mortality was observed in BMNPs at a concentration of 100 μg/ml after 48 h exposure. Pupicidal and antifeedant activity was also observed in the tested BMNPs. Detoxification enzymes studies of BMNPs showed considerable lowering these enzyme which may result in toxic manifestation in the insect. These results strongly suggest that, bimetallic nanoparticles synthesized using M. anisopilae can be used for protecting the crops against S. furgiperda.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jayaraman Kumaravel
- Molecular Entomology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Periyar University, Salem -11, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Kandhasamy Lalitha
- Molecular Entomology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Periyar University, Salem -11, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Murugan Arunthirumeni
- Molecular Entomology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Periyar University, Salem -11, Tamil Nadu, India
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29
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Menzel F, Feldmeyer B. How does climate change affect social insects? CURRENT OPINION IN INSECT SCIENCE 2021; 46:10-15. [PMID: 33545433 DOI: 10.1016/j.cois.2021.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Climate change poses a major threat to global biodiversity, already causing sharp declines of populations and species. In some social insect species we already see advanced phenologies, changes in distribution ranges, and changes in abundance Rafferty (2017) and Diamond et al. (2017). Physiologically, social insects are no different from solitary insects, but they possess a number of characteristics that distinguish their response to climate change. Here, we examine these traits, which might enable them to cope better with climate change than solitary insects, but only in the short term. In addition, we discuss how climate change will alter biotic interactions and ecosystem functions, and how it will affect invasive social insects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Menzel
- Institute of Organismic and Molecular Evolution, Johannes-Gutenberg-University Mainz, Hanns-Dieter-Hüsch-Weg 15, 55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Barbara Feldmeyer
- Senckenberg Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre, Senckenberganlage 25, 60325 Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
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30
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Freelance CB, Tierney SM, Rodriguez J, Stuart-Fox DM, Wong BBM, Elgar MA. The eyes have it: dim-light activity is associated with the morphology of eyes but not antennae across insect orders. Biol J Linn Soc Lond 2021. [DOI: 10.1093/biolinnean/blab088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
The perception of cues and signals in visual, olfactory and auditory modalities underpins all animal interactions and provides crucial fitness-related information. Sensory organ morphology is under strong selection to optimize detection of salient cues and signals in a given signalling environment, the most well-studied example being selection on eye design in different photic environments. Many dim-light active species have larger compound eyes relative to body size, but little is known about differences in non-visual sensory organ morphology between diurnal and dim-light active insects. Here, we compare the micromorphology of the compound eyes (visual receptors) and antennae (olfactory and mechanical receptors) in representative pairs of day active and dim-light active species spanning multiple taxonomic orders of insects. We find that dim-light activity is associated with larger compound eye ommatidia and larger overall eye surface area across taxonomic orders but find no evidence that morphological adaptations that enhance the sensitivity of the eye in dim-light active insects are accompanied by morphological traits of the antennae that may increase sensitivity to olfactory, chemical or physical stimuli. This suggests that the ecology and natural history of species is a stronger driver of sensory organ morphology than is selection for complementary investment between sensory modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Simon M Tierney
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Hawkesbury Institute for the Environment, Western Sydney University, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, NSW, Australia
| | - Juanita Rodriguez
- Australian National Insect Collection, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
| | - Devi M Stuart-Fox
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Bob B M Wong
- School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mark A Elgar
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Brock RE, Cini A, Sumner S. Ecosystem services provided by aculeate wasps. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2021; 96:1645-1675. [PMID: 33913243 DOI: 10.1111/brv.12719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The aculeate wasps are one of the most diverse and speciose insect taxa; they are omnipresent across ecosystems and exhibit diverse co-evolutionary and exploitative associations with other organisms. There is widespread conjecture that aculeate wasps are likely to perform essential ecological and economic services of importance to the health, well-being and nutritional needs of our planet. However, the scope and nature of the ecosystem services they provide are not well understood relative to other insect groups (e.g. bees, butterflies, beetles); an appreciation of their value is further tarnished by their public reputation as pointless pests. Here, we conduct the first comprehensive review of how aculeate wasps contribute to the four main areas of ecosystem services: regulatory, provisioning, supporting and cultural services. Uniting data from a large but previously disconnected literature on solitary and social aculeate wasps, we provide a synthesis on how these insects perform important ecosystem services as parasites, predators, biological indicators, pollinators, decomposers and seed dispersers; and their additional services as a sustainable alternative to meat for human consumption, and medicinal potential as sources of research leads for anti-microbials and cancer treatments. We highlight how aculeate wasps offer substantial, but largely overlooked, economic benefits through their roles in natural pest management and biological control programs. Accordingly, we provide data-driven arguments for reasons to consider the ecosystem service value of aculeate wasps on a par with other 'useful' insects (e.g. bees). Finally, we provide a research roadmap identifying the key areas of research required to capitalise better on the services provided by these important insects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan E Brock
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, NR4 7TJ, U.K
| | - Alessandro Cini
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università degli Studi di Firenze, Via Madonna del Piano 6, 50019, Sesto Fiorentino, FI, Italy.,Centre for Biodiversity & Environment Research, University College London, Medawar Building, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, U.K
| | - Seirian Sumner
- Centre for Biodiversity & Environment Research, University College London, Medawar Building, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, U.K
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Clement RA, Flores-Moreno H, Cernusak LA, Cheesman AW, Yatsko AR, Allison SD, Eggleton P, Zanne AE. Assessing the Australian Termite Diversity Anomaly: How Habitat and Rainfall Affect Termite Assemblages. Front Ecol Evol 2021. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2021.657444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Termites are important ecosystem engineers in tropical habitats, with different feeding groups able to decompose wood, grass, litter, and soil organic matter. In most tropical regions, termite abundance and species diversity are assumed to increase with rainfall, with highest levels found in rainforests. However, in the Australian tropics, this pattern is thought to be reversed, with lower species richness and termite abundance found in rainforest than drier habitats. The potential mechanisms underlying this pattern remain unclear. We compared termite assemblages (abundance, activity, diversity, and feeding group composition) across five sites along a precipitation gradient (ranging from ∼800 to 4,000 mm annual rainfall), spanning dry and wet savanna habitats, wet sclerophyll, and lowland and upland rainforests in tropical North Queensland. Moving from dry to wet habitats, we observed dramatic decreases in termite abundance in both mounds and dead wood occupancy, with greater abundance and activity at savanna sites (low precipitation) compared with rainforest or sclerophyll sites (high precipitation). We also observed a turnover in termite species and feeding group diversity across sites that were close together, but in different habitats. Termite species and feeding group richness were highest in savanna sites, with 13 termite species from wood-, litter-, grass-, dung-, and soil-feeding groups, while only five termite species were encountered in rainforest and wet sclerophyll sites—all wood feeders. These results suggest that the Australian termite diversity anomaly may be partly driven by how specific feeding groups colonized habitats across Australia. Consequently, termites in Australian rainforests may be less important in ecosystem processes, such as carbon and nutrient cycling during decomposition, compared with termites in other tropical rainforests.
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Brock RE, Crowther LP, Wright DJ, Richardson DS, Carvell C, Taylor MI, Bourke AFG. No severe genetic bottleneck in a rapidly range-expanding bumblebee pollinator. Proc Biol Sci 2021; 288:20202639. [PMID: 33563116 PMCID: PMC7893223 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2020.2639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Genetic bottlenecks can limit the success of populations colonizing new ranges. However, successful colonizations can occur despite bottlenecks, a phenomenon known as the genetic paradox of invasion. Eusocial Hymenoptera such as bumblebees (Bombus spp.) should be particularly vulnerable to genetic bottlenecks, since homozygosity at the sex-determining locus leads to costly diploid male production (DMP). The Tree Bumblebee (Bombus hypnorum) has rapidly colonized the UK since 2001 and has been highlighted as exemplifying the genetic paradox of invasion. Using microsatellite genotyping, combined with the first genetic estimates of DMP in UK B. hypnorum, we tested two alternative genetic hypotheses ('bottleneck' and 'gene flow' hypotheses) for B. hypnorum's colonization of the UK. We found that the UK population has not undergone a recent severe genetic bottleneck and exhibits levels of genetic diversity falling between those of widespread and range-restricted Bombus species. Diploid males occurred in 15.4% of reared colonies, leading to an estimate of 21.5 alleles at the sex-determining locus. Overall, the findings show that this population is not bottlenecked, instead suggesting that it is experiencing continued gene flow from the continental European source population with only moderate loss of genetic diversity, and does not exemplify the genetic paradox of invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan E Brock
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, Norfolk NR4 7TJ, UK
| | - Liam P Crowther
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, Norfolk NR4 7TJ, UK
| | - David J Wright
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, Norfolk NR4 7TJ, UK.,Earlham Institute, Norwich Research Park, Colney Lane, Norwich, Norfolk NR4 7UZ, UK
| | - David S Richardson
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, Norfolk NR4 7TJ, UK
| | - Claire Carvell
- UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, Maclean Building, Crowmarsh Gifford, Wallingford, Oxfordshire OX10 8BB, UK
| | - Martin I Taylor
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, Norfolk NR4 7TJ, UK
| | - Andrew F G Bourke
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, Norfolk NR4 7TJ, UK
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Hood AS, Advento AD, Stone J, Fayle TM, Fairnie AL, Waters HS, Foster WA, Snaddon JL, Ps S, Caliman JP, Naim M, Turner EC. Removing understory vegetation in oil palm agroforestry reduces ground-foraging ant abundance but not species richness. Basic Appl Ecol 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.baae.2020.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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Castracani C, Spotti FA, Schifani E, Giannetti D, Ghizzoni M, Grasso DA, Mori A. Public Engagement Provides First Insights on Po Plain Ant Communities and Reveals the Ubiquity of the Cryptic Species Tetramorium immigrans (Hymenoptera, Formicidae). INSECTS 2020; 11:insects11100678. [PMID: 33036330 PMCID: PMC7601173 DOI: 10.3390/insects11100678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2020] [Revised: 10/02/2020] [Accepted: 10/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Public involvement in biodiversity research in the form of Citizen Science is a powerful tool to improve our understanding of the natural world, and it is especially suitable for the study of heavily populated environments. Ants’ ubiquity and diversity, their role as ecological bioindicators, and the fact that most species can easily be sampled makes them ideal candidates for this kind of studies. In the framework of the international School of Ants citizen science project, we joined the “BioBlitz Lombardia” in which citizens are invited to collect biodiversity data on several parks from Lombardy (Po Plain, Italy). As a result, we recorded 30 ant species and obtained a first characterization of the region’s ant assemblages. We studied their patterns of variation in relation with the ecological difference between the studies sites, which ranged from urban to subalpine areas. In addition, we detected the presence of a cryptic species (Tetramorium immigrans) whose distribution and identity were only recently clarified. It likely represents an under-recorded introduced species in the region. Advantages and critical aspects of using CS methodology for the study of biodiversity are discussed in light of our experience. Abstract Ants are considered a useful model for biodiversity monitoring and several of their characteristics make them promising for citizen science (CS) projects. Involving a wide range of public figures into collecting valuable data on the effect of human impact on ant biodiversity, the School of Ants (SoA) project represents one of the very few attempts to explore the potential of these insects in CS. Through the collaboration with the “BioBlitz Lombardia” project, we tested the SoA protocol on 12 Northern Italy parks, ranging from urban green to subalpine protected sites. As a result, we obtained some of the very first quantitative data characterizing the ants of this region, recording 30 species and highlighting some interesting ecological patterns. These data revealed the ubiquitous presence of the recently taxonomically defined cryptic species Tetramorium immigrans, which appears to be probably introduced in the region. We also discuss advantages and criticisms encountered applying the SoA protocol, originally intended for schools, to new categories of volunteers, from BioBlitz participants to park operators, suggesting best practices based on our experience.
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