Articles publicats en revistes (Biologia Evolutiva, Ecologia i Ciències Ambientals)

URI permanent per a aquesta col·leccióhttps://hdl.handle.net/2445/16743

Estadístiques

Examinar

Mostrant 1 - 20 de 1875

Mycocalicium llimonae, a new species from the Iberian Peninsula
(Cambridge University Press (CUP), 2007-05-01) Muñiz Pérez, Diana; Hladun, Néstor L.
The new species, Mycocalicium llimonae, is described based on specimens collected from cones of Pinus halepensis in the west of the Iberian Peninsula. The new taxon is compared with the other species of the genus Mycocalicium in the Iberian Peninsula, particularly Mycocalicium subtile, and also with other genera in the Mycocaliciaceae.
Estructura, patrón espacial y regeneración de una población de Pinus uncinata Ram. en su límite occidental de distribución (Castillo de Vinuesa, Soria-La Rioja)
(Instituto de Estudios Riojanos, 1999-10-15) Camarero Martínez, Jesús Julio; Gutiérrez Merino, Emilia
Hemos estudiado una población de Pinus uncinata en el límite occidental de distribución de la especie, en el castillo de Vinuesa, sector NW del Sistema Ibérico (Soria-La Rioja). La población está dominada por plántulas que aparecen agregadas espacialmente, lo que corresponde a un estadio de iniciación del bosque. El nicho de regeneración puede definirse como zonas iluminadas, al borde de matas de Calluna vulgaris y con un sustrato formado por materia orgánica. No encontramos restos que indicaran perturbaciones recientes por lo que la población puede estar colonizando nuevo territorio antes dominado por pastos o Calluna vulgaris. Las plántulas abundan a lo largo del eje NE de la parcela, formando ondas a lo largo de la dirección N-S. El patrón descrito puede ser causado por la dispersión preferencial por los vientos dominantes (N, NW, W). Existe un gradiente de mayor edad de las plántulas hacia el E / NE, al alejarnos de una zona de pastos y de la población vieja, el cual puede deberse a una menor mortalidad por pastoreo en esa zona o a un menor flujo de semillas y menor germinación de plántulas jóvenes. El crecimiento radial de Pinus uncinata estaba positivamente relacionado con elevadas temperaturas en junio del año de crecimiento. La regeneración aumentaba en períodos de primaveras húmedas y elevadas temperaturas mínimas en septiembre, siendo baja la presión ganadera. Crecimiento y regeneración están controlados por distintas variables climáticas. Además, existe una relación inversa entre el crecimiento radial desfasado (año t-2) respecto a la regeneración (año t), posiblemente debida al balance entre reservas para crecimiento o reproducción.
Biochemical alterations in juvenile carp (Cyprinus carpio) exposed to zinc: Glutathione reductase as a target
(Elsevier B.V., 2008) Franco, Jeferson L.; Posser, Thais; Mattos, Jacó J.; Sánchez Chardi, Alejandro; Trevisan, Rafael; Oliveira, Camila S.; Carvalho, Paulo S.M.; Leal, Rodrigo B.; Marques, Maria R.F.; Bainy, Afonso C.D.; Dafre, Alcir L.
The aim of this study was to investigate biochemical changes in juvenile carp (Cyprinus carpio) exposed to zinc chloride (10, 30 and 100 μM) for a period of 48 h. Zinc exposure caused a concentration-dependent reduction in glutathione reductase (GR) activity in gills, liver and brain. Gill glutathione S-transferase (GST) was reduced when animals were exposed to the highest concentration of 100 μM zinc. The phosphorylation of p38MAPK increased in the brain of fish exposed to zinc 100 μM, while phosphorylation of the extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) and c-Jun N-terminal protein kinase 1/2 (JNK1/2) remained unchanged. Expression of proteins HSP60 and HSP70 were not affected by zinc exposure. Considering the significant concentration-dependent inhibition of GR in all tissues analyzed, this enzyme could be a potential biomarker of exposure to zinc, which has to be confirmed.
Linking Leaf water potential, photosynthesis and chlorophyll loss with mechanisms of photo- and antioxidant protection in juvenile olive trees subjected to severe drought
(Frontiers Media, 2020-12-11) Baccari, Sahar; Elloumi, Olfa; Chaari-Rkhis, Anissa; Fenollosa, Erola; Morales Ruiz, Manuel; Drira, Noureddine; Abdallah, Ferjani Ben; Fki, Lofti; Munné Bosch, Sergi
The identification of drought-tolerant olive tree genotypes has become an urgent requirement to develop sustainable agriculture in dry lands. However, physiological markers linking drought tolerance with mechanistic effects operating at the cellular level are still lacking, in particular under severe stress, despite the urgent need to develop these tools in the current frame of global change. In this context, 1-year-old olive plants growing in the greenhouse and with a high intra-specific variability (using various genotypes obtained either from cuttings or seeds) were evaluated for drought tolerance under severe stress. Growth, plant water status, net photosynthesis rates, chlorophyll contents and the extent of photo- and antioxidant defenses (including the deepoxidation state of the xanthophyll cycle, and the contents of carotenoids and vitamin E) were evaluated under well-watered conditions and severe stress (by withholding water for 60 days). Plants were able to continue photosynthesizing under severe stress, even at very low leaf water potential of −4 to −6 MPa. This ability was achieved, at least in part, by the activation of photo- and antioxidant mechanisms, including not only increased xanthophyll cycle de-epoxidation, but also enhanced α-tocopherol contents. "Zarrazi" (obtained from seeds) and "Chemlali" (obtained from cuttings) showed better performance under severe water stress compared to the other genotypes, which was associated to their ability to trigger a higher antioxidant protection. It is concluded that (i) drought tolerance among the various genotypes tested is associated with antioxidant protection in olive trees, (ii) the extent of xanthophyll cycle de-epoxidation is strongly inversely related to photosynthetic rates, and (iii) vitamin E accumulation is sharply induced upon severe chlorophyll degradation.
Hematology, genotoxicity, enzymatic activity and histopathology as biomarkers of metal pollution in the shrew Crocidura russula.
(Elsevier B.V., 2008) Sánchez Chardi, Alejandro; Marques, C.C.; Gabriel, S.I.; Capela-Silva, F.; Cabrita, A.S.; López-Fuster, M.J.; Nadal Lorenzo, Jordi; Mathias, M.L.
Haematological (WBC, RBC, Hgb and Hct) and genotoxicity (MNT) parameters, hepatic enzymatic activities (GST, GPx and GR), and a histopathological evaluation of liver, kidneys and gonads were assessed as general biomarkers of metal pollution in the shrew Crocidura russula inhabiting a pyrite mining area. Specimens exposed to metals presented a few significant alterations when compared with reference animals: GST activity decreased; micronuclei increased; and evident liver alterations related to metal exposure were observed. On the basis of all the parameters studied, age was an important factor that partly explained the observed variation, whereas sex was the least important factor. Significant correlations were also found between heavy metal concentrations and biomarkers evaluated, demonstrating the great influence of these metals in the metabolic alterations. To the best of our knowledge, these data constitute the first measurements of a battery of biomarkers in shrews from a mine site and are among the few available for insectivorous mammals.
A trait database for the characterization of diatom communities in disconnected pools.
(Springer Nature, 2026-07-10) Quevedo Ortiz, Guillermo; Gonzalez-Saldias, Fernanda; Crabot, Julie; Rimet, Frédéric; Gomà Martínez, Joan; Bonada i Caparrós, Núria
Trait-based approaches are increasingly used in ecology to understand biodiversity responses to environmental changes. However, information on diatom traits, particularly in temporary aquatic systems, remains limited. Here, we present DIATPOOL, the first database focused on diatom traits from disconnected pools. DIATPOOL includes 17 morphological, ecological, and physiological traits, derived from literature and expert knowledge, including size, shape, apical constriction, dispersal capacity, ecological guilds, colony formation, or habitat tolerance. The database also includes an initial inventory of diatom species, their relative abundances, and environmental characteristics of disconnected pools sampled across the Iberian Peninsula. DIATPOOL provides an open and standardized resource to explore diatom biodiversity and functional traits in temporary and intermittent aquatic systems, offering a valuable framework for ecological, taxonomic, and bioassessment studies in these transitional habitats.
Highly mobile seabirds reveal areas of conservation importance across the Atlantic
(Wiley, 2026-09-16) Jodice, Patrick G. R.; Johansen, Kasper Lambert; Mosbech, Anders; Navarro Bernabé, Joan Josep; Navarro Herrero, Leia; Neves, Verónica Costa; Newell, Mark A.; Newton, Stephen Francis; Olsen, Bergur; Karris, Georgios; Oppel, Steffen; Kolbeinsson, Yann; Oro, Daniel; Kress, Stephen W.; Padget, Oliver; Krüger, Lucas; Kubetzki, Ulrike; Lane, Jude V.; Lang, Johannes; Linnebjerg, Jannie Fries; Afán Asencio, Isabel; Lorentsen, Svein-Håkon; Alves, Jose A.; Lyons, Donald E.; Anker-Nilssen, Tycho; Arcos Pros, José Manuel; Atkins, Kelly M.; Auger-Méthé, Marie; Baran, Mark A.; Pina Barbosa, Nadito Jesus; Baylis, Alastair; Bearhop, Stuart; Paiva, Vítor Hugo; Rouyer, Marie-Morgane; Patterson, Allison; Rodrigues, Ana S.L.; Pereira, Jorge Miguel; Davies, Tammy E.; Petersen, Aevar; Clark, Bethany L.; Petry, Maria Virginia; Pearmain, Elizabeth J.; Phillips, Richard A.; Bhola, Nina; Pina, Admilton; Carneiro, Ana P.B.; Pollet, Ingrid L.; González-Solís, Jacob; Pollock, Christopher John; Guilherme, João L.; Ponchon, Aurore; Abdennadher, Aida; Bennison, Ashley; Bernard, Alice; Bertrand, Philip; Biscoito, Manuel; Bodey, Thomas W.; Bogdanova, Maria I.; Bollache, Loïc; Bonnet-Lebrun, Anne-Sophie; Boulinier, Thierry; Bråthen, Vegard Sandøy; Porter, Ben James; Quillfeldt, Petra; Quinn, John L.; Quintana, Flavio; Rail, Jean-François; Raine, André Francis; Ramírez, Iván; Ramos i Garcia, Raül; Ramos, Jaime A.; Redfern, Chris P. F.; Bried, Joël; Bugoni, Leandro; Campioni, Letizia; Catry, Paulo; Cecere, Jacopo G.; Ceia, Filipe Rafael; Chastel, Olivier; Christensen-Dalsgaard, Signe; Cianchetti-Benedetti, Marco; Clay, Thomas A.; Reiertsen, Toni Kristin; Robertson, Gregory J.; Ronconi, Robert A.; Rubolini, Diego; Saldanha, Sarah Delphine; Sallent, Ángel; Sardà-Serra, Mariona; Schmidt, Niels Martin; Schofield, Andy; Shamoun-Baranes, Judy; Cleasby, Ian Robert; Collins, Sydney Morgan; Courbin, Nicolas; Danielsen, Jóhannis; Daunt, Francis; Dinis, Herculano De Andrade; De Pascalis, Federico; Dehnhard, Nina; Dell'Omo, Giacomo; Descamps, Sébastien; Shutler, Dave; Sigurðsson, Ingvar Atli; Silva, Mónica C.; Stenhouse, Iain J.; Strøm, Hallvard; Swindells, Mike; Symons, Stephanie C.; Systad, Geir Helge Rødli; Thaxter, Chris B.; Thompson, Paul M.; Diamond, Antony W.; Dilley, Ben J.; Edwards, Ewan William James; Egevang, Carsten; Elliott, Kyle H.; Erikstad, Kjell Einar; Ezhov, Alexey; Fagundes, Ana Isabel; Fayet, Annette L.; Fifield, David A.; Thórarinsson, Thorkell Lindberg; Trevail, Alice M.; van Bemmelen, Rob S. A.; Vicente Sastre, Diego; Votier, Stephen; Wakefield, Ewan D.; Wanless, Sarah; Wanless, Ross M.; Wischnewski, Saskia; Wojczulanis-Jakubas, Katarzyna; Fijn, Ruben; González Forero, Manuela; Fort, Jérôme; Frederiksen, Morten; Furness, Robert W.; Gaibani, Giorgia; Garthe, Stefan; Gavrilo, Maria; Gilchrist, H. Grant; Gilg, Olivier; Wong, Joanna B.; Wright, Lucy Joanna; Xavier, José C.; Xirouchakis, Stavros M.; Zenatello, Marco; Zino, Francis; Dias, Maria P.; Gjerdrum, Carina; Granadeiro, José Pedro; Grecian, W. James; Green, Jonathan A.; Grémillet, David; Guilford, Tim; Hamer, Keith C.; Hansen, Erpur Snær; Hanssen, Sveinn Are; Harris, Stephanie M.; Maftei, Mark; Magalhães, Maria; Major, Heather L.; Mallory, Mark L.; Masden, Elizabeth A.; Masello, Juan F.; Tranquilla, Laura McFarlane; Harrison, Autumn-Lynn; Merkel, Flemming Ravn; Hedd, April; Militão, Teresa; Hernández-Montero, Marcos; Moe, Børge; Huffeldt, Nicholas P.; Imperio, Simona; Jakubas, Dariusz; Jeavons, Ruth; Jessopp, Mark
Countries have committed to expanding the marine protected area (MPA) network to 30% of the world's ocean by 2030, more than tripling current coverage, and focusing on areas important for biodiversity. For such expansion to translate into effective conservation of marine biodiversity, it must rely on the best available knowledge. Here, we analyze tracking data on > 13,000 individuals (44 species, eight families) to map the distribution of highly mobile seabirds in the Atlantic Ocean and adjacent seas throughout the year. We identify regions important year-round or seasonally. The High Seas are as important as national waters for highly mobile seabirds but are even less protected. Current Atlantic MPAs hold < 14% of tracked species density, but their expansion to 30% of the ocean could protect up to two thirds. We share this new knowledge layer to support national and international efforts and policies to strategically expand the Atlantic MPA network.
A paradise for Maldane sarsi antarctica: Preliminary characterisation of the marine soft-bottom fauna of False Bay (Livingston Island, South Shetland Islands, Antarctica).
(Cambridge University Press (CUP), 2025-06-04) Bascur, Miguel; Ávila Escartín, Conxita; Prófumo, Andrea; González Pineda, Mariona; Monràs i Riera, Pere; Azcárate-García, Tomás; Aubach-Masip, Àlex; De Llobet, Marina; Molina-Vacas, Guillem; Tibiriça, Yara; Ballesté Pau, Elisenda; Gil, J.
Soft-bottom areas are among the least explored ecosystems in Antarctica. To improve our understanding of these environments, we performed a preliminary assessment of the marine macrobenthic fauna in False Bay, Livingston Island, near Huntress Glacier (South Shetland Islands, Antarctica). Fourteen Van Veen grabs (0.018 m2 area) were deployed at two stations within the bay at depths of 174–210 m. The samples provided values up to 159 556 individuals m-2 within 15 major taxonomic groups. Annelida Polychaeta was predominant (~93%), followed by Ophiuroidea and Bivalvia at the external station and Bivalvia and Amphipoda at the internal site. Maldanid polychaetes, particularly Maldane sarsi antarctica, constituted 84.62–90.74% of the samples. Total biomass was 6673.25 grams of wet weight per square metre, mainly from Ascidiacea, Polychaeta, Holothuroidea and Ophiuroidea. Approximately 12% of the macrofauna inhabited the sediment (epifauna), while 88% lived into the sediments (infauna). Regarding feeding modes, specimens were detritivores (77.91–82.71%), suspension-feeders (7.59–13.37%) and, infrequently, predators (4.07–5.07%) and grazers (4.63–4.65%). According to the compilation of occurrence records in the Southern Ocean, M. sarsi antarctica has a circum-Antarctic distribution. Furthermore, the population of this species in False Bay appears to be stable and undisturbed with a normal distribution in size structure, with a higher proportion of individuals at intermediate sizes (2.85–4.26 cm).This study provides for the first time detailed descriptions of the macrofauna from the soft bottoms of False Bay, representing a preliminary effort to monitor ecological shifts in this critically important and understudied region, which is experiencing rapid environmental changes within Antarctic marine ecosystems.
Individual tree characteristics and plasticity to climate conditions modulate resistance to bark beetle attack in Pinus uncinata.
(Elsevier B.V., 2025-07-23) Bellostes, Clara; Batllori Presas, Enric; Valor, Teresa; Margalef-Marrase, Jordi; Marin, Dorian Christian; Jaime, Luciana
Forest infestation and mortality caused by bark beetles is increasing with climate change. Tree resistance to bark beetle attack may depend on resources allocation to growth or defence, which controls the shift from endemic to epidemic beetle populations. The aim of this study is to evaluate tree individual characteristics and climatic factors influencing tree resistance to bark beetle infestation in Pinus uncinata populations located in the central catalan Pyrenees. Specifically, we used standard dendroecological methods to (i) analyse tree resistance in living and dead trees in relation to growth and resin ducts formation as indicators of tree vigour and defence investment, respectively; (ii) evaluate how these processes are modulated by competition for resources; and (iii) determine the influence of climate, including temperature and drought stress, on tree resistance to bark beetles. The results indicate that trees that form larger resin ducts accumulate a greater total area of ducts leading to higher resistance to bark beetle infestation, likely due to their ability to have a higher resin flow. Competition for resources seem to modulate tree growth but it is not significantly related to resin duct characteristics. Importantly, our findings suggest that trees that survive bark beetle infestations may have greater plasticity under environmental variations: reducing growth and increasing production and total area of resin ducts under high temperatures and moderate drought conditions. Therefore, in the studied locations, investment in defence rather than in growth seem the primary determinant of the resistance of P. uncinata to bark beetles under increasing drought.
Vitamin E, total antioxidant capacity and potassium in tomatoes: A triangle of quality traits on the rise
(Elsevier B.V., 2025-07-01) Mesa Parra, Tania; Munné Bosch, Sergi
The quality of tomatoes is closely linked to their antioxidant content. However, the contribution of vitamin E to the total antioxidant capacity of these fruits remains unknown, along with its relationship with other components that benefit health. This study examined vitamin E content and composition and their correlation with the total antioxidant capacity in commercial tomato varieties, together with their modulation by abiotic stresses. We also assessed their relationship with other quality parameters such as total soluble sugars, titratable acidity, and sodium and potassium contents. A significant correlation was found between vitamin E content and the total antioxidant capacity, which was greatly influenced by the variety and abiotic stress. Furthermore, a strong association was found between vitamin E and potassium contents. We conclude that vitamin E, the total antioxidant capacity and potassium form a triangle of traits that can be coordinately selected to improve tomato quality.
Genetic predictions of eye and hair colour in the Danish population
(Elsevier B.V., 2025-06-01) Cabrejas-Olalla, Amaia; Jørgensen, Frank G.; Cheng, Jade Y.; Kjærgaard, Peter C.; Schierup, Mikkel H.; Mailund, Thomas; Athanasiadis, Georgios
Genetic predictions of eye and hair colour are prominent examples of forensic DNA phenotyping that can help resolve criminal cases. The advent of high-throughput genotyping technologies in forensic genetics opens up the possibility of applying polygenic risk scores in forensic settings. In this work, we compare the performance of HIrisPlex with PRSice-2 in predicting eye and hair colour to gain insights into the relative benefits of new approaches. Predictions were carried out on 584 Danish high school students for which genetic and self-reported phenotype data were available. Prediction of brown eye colour was very accurate (AUC = 0.98), followed by blue eye colour (AUC = 0.82), while it failed for intermediate eye colour (AUC = 0.57). As for hair colour, red and black were overall better predicted than blond and brown, and PRSice-2 performed better in all but the black hair colour. Despite the limitations of the study, HIrisPlex exhibited its usual high performance in the prediction of brown and blue eye colour, as well as red and black hair colour. However, PRSice-2 offered overall improvements in hair colour prediction over HIrisPlex suggesting that there is room for improvement in forensic DNA phenotyping by using polygenic risk scores.
Early organic carbon and nitrogen accumulation in a Pyrenean site: From rock to peat across the Late Glacial–Early Holocene transition
(Elsevier B.V., 2025-12-15) Vegas Vilarrúbia, Teresa Elena; Blasco, Arnau; Autoritat Garcés Pastor, Sandra; Blaauw, Maarten; Calero, Miguel Ángel; Rull, Valentí
Understanding carbon-climate feedbacks during past climate transitions is critical to projecting long-term Earthsystem responses. Peatlands, though covering only 3–4 % of the terrestrial surface, play a disproportionate role in the global carbon cycle. Yet, Late Glacial peatlands in southern Europe remain understudied due to their rarityand fragmented records. This study provides a sub-centennial, multi-proxy reconstruction (15–10 cal kyr BP) from the Bassa Nera peat bog in the Central Pyrenees, combining total organic carbon (TOC), total nitrogen (TN),carbon accumulation rates (CAR), stable isotopes (δ13C, δ15N), diatom assemblages, and charcoal influx. During the Oldest Dryas (GS-2 stadial), low TOC and TN suggest limited microbial activity under dry conditions. Despite climatic variability during the Bølling/Allerød (GI-1 interstadial), organic and isotopic signalsremained damped. The Younger Dryas (GS-1 stadial) marks a shift, with abrupt peaks in TOC and TN (~12.8 cal kyr BP), signaling the onset of organic accumulation. Sustained peat development begins around 12.3 cal kyr BP,accelerating in the Early Holocene with increased C/N ratios, charcoal influx, and isotopic changes, indicating higher terrestrial productivity and wetter conditions. Principal Component Analysis reveals evolving organicmatter sources linked to regional vegetation dynamics.Bassa Nera is among the earliest peat-forming systems in the mountains of southern Europe, offering novelinsights into long-term carbon accumulation patterns in montane settings. These findings highlight the role ofearly postglacial peatlands in shaping regional carbon dynamics and emphasize the need to incorporate underrepresented southern systems into global carbon and climate assessments.
Five centuries of lake deoxygenation and microbial shifts revealed by sedimentary DNA
(Elsevier, 2026-03-01) Vegas Vilarrúbia, Teresa Elena; Sacristán Soriano, Oriol; Borrego, Carles M.; Corella, Juan Pablo; Errea, Paz; Buchaca, Teresa; Rull, Valentí
Expanding global deoxygenation is a major ecological crisis. Oxygen loss in aquatic systems is reshaping ecosystems, altering biodiversity, nutrient cycles, and ecosystem functioning. Microbial communities, as key biogeochemical mediators, are highly responsive to oxygen availability, yet their long-term trajectories under sustained oxygen loss remain poorly understood. This limits our ability to anticipate ecosystem responses to climate-driven deoxygenation. We reconstructed five centuries of microbial and oxygen dynamics in meromictic Lake Montcortès (southern Pyrenees) using sedimentary deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy of varved sediments. Average volume of anoxic water (VAW) increased from 545,560 m³ in the preindustrial period (1500–1750 Common Era) to 558,692 m³ after 1905, with greater persistence from 1937 onward. Instrumental data (2013–2020) confirmed this trend, with VAW peaking at 1018,400 m³ and anoxia reaching 11.5 m and anoxia occurring below 11.5 m depth. Microbial communities gradually shifted from suboxic-adapted taxa to anaerobic assemblages dominated by sulfate-reducing bacteria and methanogenic archaea, reflecting historical anthropogenic pressures and recent warming-driven anoxia. Despite compositional change, core functional traits persisted, with no evidence of abrupt regime shifts indicating microbial resilience under long-term redox stratification. The timing of stratification intensification in Lake Montcortès coincides with the mid-20th century onset of the Anthropocene, as defined by the Anthropocene Working Group. Its annually resolved varved sediments, combined with clear geochemical and microbial signals of anthropogenic impact, support its proposal as a candidate Global Boundary Stratotype Section and Point Global (GSSP or “golden spike”).
Detecting community assembly filters in urban butterflies through analyses of non-Gaussian trait distributions
(Wiley, 2026-12-01) Melero Cavero, Yolanda; Stefanescu, Constanti; García-Callejas, David
The distributions of ecological traits are commonly used to infer the processes structuring ecological communities, as these processes (deterministic or neutral) select and filter species, leading to distinct trait patterns across communities. Trait distributions are frequently characterised by their average, the community-weighted mean, but increasing evidence exists for non-Gaussian trait distributions in empirical communities. In such situations, community-weighted means are insufficient to capture the patterns of community traits and to infer the implied ecological processes.We analysed the empirical distributions of six functional traits of butterflies from a natural community and a filtered community from an urban area across 6 years.All trait distributions were non-Gaussian, asymmetrical, with relatively long tails (high values of skewness and kurtosis) and multimodal. Results indicate the co-dominance of some trait values, while others rarely occur, and clear differences between the natural and filtered communities; patterns are only adequately described via statistical descriptors beyond community-weighted means. Our analyses allowed us to infer that the filtered community is shaped by a mixture of directional and stabilising assembly filters. The consistent results across the 6 years of data provided further evidence of deterministic processes shaping the assembly of our urban community.Overall, we provide evidence of the ubiquity of non-Gaussian trait distributions across natural and filtered communities, combine multiple statistical descriptors for understanding and comparing such distributions and identify filtering processes structuring these communities.
Insights from stable isotope and fatty acid analyses on the diet of an Antarctic nudibranch
(Inter-Research, 2024-12-05) De Castro Fernández, Paula; Giménez, Joan; Ávila Escartín, Conxita; Cardona Pascual, Luis
Reconstructing predator-prey interactions in a biological community provides a better understanding of species’ ecological roles and helps predict how changes in one component will affect the others. Doris kerguelenensis is an Antarctic heterobranch mollusc that feeds on sponges, according to previous gut content analyses. Here, stable isotopes of carbon and nitrogen (δ 13C and δ15N) and fatty acids (FAs) were used to assess the relative contribution of several species of demosponges (Axinella crinita, Dendrilla antarctica, Hemigellius pilosus, Kirkpatrickia variolosa, Mycale acerata, Sphaerotylus antarcticus, and Haliclona sp.) to D. kerguelenensis diet. Particulate organic matter and 2 macroalgae species were also analyzed to better characterize the diversity of sources fueling the food web. The δ15N values of the sponges suggest a trophic position of 2-3 for A. crinita, D. antarctica, M. acerata, and Haliclona sp. and of 3-4 for H. pilosus and S. antarcticus. Mixing models failed to resolve the nudibranch diet, either because the sponges were too enriched in 13C or because the diet-to-tissue discrimination factor values available in the literature for gastropods are unsuitable for this nudibranch species. The high abundance of bacterial FA markers in H. pilosus, S. antarcticus, and K. variolosa, and their high δ15N values, rule them out as major prey for D. kerguelenensis. The overall evidence suggests that A. crinita, D. antarctica, M. acerata, and Haliclona sp. are consumed regularly by D. kerguelenensis but do not represent its only dietary sources. Hence, the analysis of biomarkers refutes the previously established role of D. kerguelenensis as a specialized spongivore.
Effects of the invasive riparian plant Arundo donax on riverine fish: a call for action?
(Elsevier B.V., 2025-07-30) Maceda Veiga, Alberto; Colin, Nicole; Mac Nally, Ralph; Salvadó i Cabré, Humbert; Sostoa Fernández, Adolfo de; Yen, Jian D.L.
Studies that investigate the effects of a given invasive exotic species within real-world contexts are essential for informing effective management decisions. Here, we used extensive surveys of stream reaches in north-eastern Spain to test whether the presence of the widely distributed invasive exotic riparian plant Arundo donax is detrimental to the conservation of riverine fishes. To explore potential impacts of A. donax at different temporal scales, we examined fish responses using indicators of relatively recent effects (body-condition index) and longer lasting effects (functional diversity indices, taxonomic richness, and the relative abundance of 12 fish species). We found correlative evidence for net positive effects of the presence of A. donax on native fish richness and body condition but negative effects on the overall functional diversity of fish assemblages, including invasive exotic and translocated native fish species. Our analyses also revealed significant interactions between A. donax and local stream conditions, suggesting that these net effects of the plant on fish might shift in direction in some circumstances. In particular, several indicators at the fish community scale support that the presence of A. donax may be beneficial to fishes in streams with high Strahler order values, in-stream habitat diversity and lack of channelization. The plant may provide shelter and refugia to fish in these medium, low-land Mediterranean streams with typically poor cover of high riparian vegetation. Therefore, without overlooking the serious threats caused by biological invasions, this study illustrates that, at least under specific environmental conditions, the local removal of A. donax alone may not achieve the desired ecological outcomes if pre-existing fish-habitat relationships are not taken into account.
The Interplay of Climate Change, Urbanisation, and Species Traits Shapes European Butterfly Population Trends
(John Wiley & Sons, 2026-02-06) Colom, Pau; Tejeda, Ashley; Bonelli, Simona; Fontaine, Benoît; Kuussaari, Mikko; Maes, Dirk; Mestdagh, Xavier; Munguira, Miguel L.; Musche, Martin; Pettersson, Lars B.; Roy, David; Rüdisser, Johannes; Šašić, Martina; Schmucki, Reto; Stefanescu, Constanti; Titeux, Nicolas; Settele, Josef; van Swaay, Chris; Gordillo, Javier; Melero Cavero, Yolanda
Aim: To examine how butterfly population trends respond to climate change and urbanisation at a continental scale, and whether responses differ between urban and rural environments. Location: 869 sites across 12 European countries, spanning six bioclimatic zones. Time Period: 1976–2021. Major Taxa Studied: Butterflies (Lepidoptera). Methods: We analysed long-term monitoring data from > 8400 populations of 145 species representing a wide range of ecological and life-history traits. Population trends were modelled in relation to climate variables (temperature, precipitation and aridity), urbanisation (built-up surface), and their interactions with urban context (urban vs. rural) and species traits (trophic specialisation, body size, reproductive rate and thermal adaptation). Results: Climate warming and aridification were consistently linked to population declines in both rural and urban contexts, while precipitation effects varied by location and species. Urbanisation alone did not predict trends, but the urban–rural context strongly modulated species' responses to warming, indicating potential synergies between climate change and urbanisation. The stronger impact of warming in urban populations likely reflects elevated baseline temperatures and reduced habitat suitability and connectivity in urban landscapes, limiting thermal buffering. Species with colder thermal niches and lower reproductive rates were most vulnerable to warming, as warming exceeds the thermal optima of cold-adapted species and lower reproductive rates limit their capacity to buffer climate-driven population declines. Under aridification, which can reduce host-plant availability, trophic specialists declined more in urban areas, whereas generalists unexpectedly declined more in rural sites, suggesting context-dependent constraints under increasing water limitation. Main Conclusions: Our findings highlight the complex interplay between climate change, urban context, and species traits in driving population dynamics. Importantly, our results suggest that urbanisation generally amplifies the negative impact of climate change on insect population trends.
Plastic exposure risk for costal seabirds varies seasonally with freshwater runoff
(Elsevier B.V., 2025-03) Garcia-Garin, Odei; Burzón, Mireia; Cardona Pascual, Luis; Ramos Lobo, Raúl
Marine litter, including Floating Marine Macro-Litter (FMML) and microplastics (MP), poses a major threat to marine ecosystems. This study investigates the seasonal distribution of FMML and MP in the Ebro Delta, a key Mediterranean wetland, and evaluates the potential risk to three tern species (family Laridae, subfamily Sterninae) that rely on the area for foraging and breeding. Seasonal surveys (October 2021–June 2022) were conducted using drone and manta trawl sampling for litter assessment, with tern densities estimated via distance sampling. Results revealed seasonal peaks in FMML and MP densities, with the highest concentrations in autumn and spring, likely influenced by river discharge and irrigation runoff. Risk assessment maps identified high-risk zones where tern densities overlapped with FMML and MP hotspots, indicating potential threats from entanglement, ingestion, and trophic transfer of pollutants. These findings underscored the relevance of seasonality and spatial risk assessment when evaluating exposure to marine litter. This study not only enhanced our understanding of marine litter impacts in the Mediterranean Sea but also provided essential data to inform evidence-based policies and management strategies aimed at protecting vulnerable species in this ecologically relevant area.
Surface waters meso- and micro-litter around the Western Antarctic Peninsula: Are the South Shetland Islands a pollution hotspot?
(Elsevier, 2025-08-08) Monràs i Riera, Pere; Ruiz Orejón, Luis Francisco; Angulo-Preckler, Carlos; Sardá, Rafael; Ávila Escartín, Conxita
Not even the most remote and pristine oceanic regions, such as the Southern Ocean, are immune to the impacts of marine litter. This study presents novel data on surface waters meso- and micro-litter along the Western Antarctic Peninsula and Livingston Island (South Shetland Islands) across two summer campaigns (2022–2023), providing one of the broadest assessments of marine debris in Antarctica (62° S to 67° S). Litter was detected at all sampling sites, with abundances ranging from 0.019 ± 0.033 to 0.193 ± 0.104 items m−3 along the Western Antarctic Peninsula (average: 0.086 ± 0.082 items m−3). The South Shetland Islands exhibited significantly higher litter abundances compared to higher-latitude sites. Our results show that litter distribution correlates with human activity intensity, with latitude and the personnel density of nearby research stations as key influencing factors. The South Shetland Islands emerged as an Antarctic marine litter hotspot, likely driven by the concentration of Antarctic facilities and other anthropogenic activities. Litter was primarily composed of synthetic fibres, especially polyester and nylon, pointing to local human sources. Additionally, a decrease in marine litter was observed at Livingston Island between campaigns, with abundance declining from 0.235 ± 0.152 items m−3 to 0.116 ± 0.033 items m−3. This highlights the need for ongoing monitoring to capture interannual variability, avoid seasonal biases, and better understand marine litter dynamics in the Southern Ocean to guide conservation efforts. These findings underscore human impact in Antarctica and the urgent need for better waste management and stricter environmental regulation enforcement.
Micro-litter pollution in the ascidian Cnemidocarpa verrucosa along the Antarctic Peninsula
(Elsevier B.V., 2025-08-25) González Pineda, Mariona; Salvadó i Cabré, Humbert; Monràs i Riera, Pere; Ávila Escartín, Conxita
Antarctic benthic ecosystems are currently threatened by global change and direct human impact. Pollution fromlocal human activities is among the most relevant emerging hazards affecting Antarctic organisms. Micro-litter(ML) has already been found in Antarctic marine ecosystems, including diverse benthic fauna. This studycharacterised and quantified ML in a common soft-bottom filter-feeding solitary ascidian, Cnemidocarpa verrucosa(Lesson, 1830), along the Antarctic Peninsula from 62◦ S to 67◦ S, focusing particularly on Deception Island.Study sites included Johnsons’ Bay (Livingston Island), Deception Island (South Shetland Islands), Uruguay Island(Yalour Islands), and Ryder Buttress (Ryder Bay, Adelaide Island). More than half of the analysed organismscontained at least one ML particle, with an average of 0.14 ± 0.26 items per gram (viscera wet weight) and 1.62± 1.79 items per individual. Microplastics represented 37 % of the total ML items found. Along the AntarcticPeninsula, significantly higher amounts of ML were found in Johnsons’ Bay and Uruguay Island. WithinDeception Island, significantly higher ML abundances were found in Murature, at the innermost part of the island.The most common items found were black or blue cellulosic fibres within the smallest size range analysed(100–500 μm). We suggest that variations in ML among sites could be mainly due to the different intensity ofanthropogenic activities, although environmental characteristics of the locations (i.e. currents, bottom type) alsoplayed a key role in its distribution. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to assess ML pollution inan Antarctic ascidian and it also represents the southernmost benthic invertebrate study regarding ML along theAntarctic Peninsula. We believe this research may contribute to the development of policies to protect theAntarctic marine benthos from human pollution and improve their management.

Examinar

Enviaments recents