CiteScore 2022: 2.5
SJR 2022: 0.412
SNIP 2022: 0.619
ISSN: 1336-5266 (Print)
ISSN: 1338-7014 (Online)
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Folia Oecologica
CURRENT ISSUE - 52 (1) / 2025
Masanja, Sarafina N; Shirima, Deo D; Zahabu, Eliakimu M Relationship between deadwood structural diversity and carbon stock along environmental and disturbance gradients in Tropical dry forests Journal Article Folia Oecologica, 52 (1), pp. 1-13, 2025, ISSN: 1338-7014. @article{Masanja_2025, title = {Relationship between deadwood structural diversity and carbon stock along environmental and disturbance gradients in Tropical dry forests}, author = {Sarafina N Masanja and Deo D Shirima and Eliakimu M Zahabu}, url = {http://ife.sk/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/foecol-2025-0001.pdf}, doi = {10.2478/foecol-2025-0001}, issn = {1338-7014}, year = {2025}, date = {2025-01-01}, journal = {Folia Oecologica}, volume = {52}, number = {1}, pages = {1-13}, publisher = {Walter de Gruyter GmbH}, abstract = {Deadwood is a substantial component of forest ecosystems playing a vital role in maintaining ecosystem health and functioning. However, there is limited information on deadwood stand structure which encompasses attributes such as type, quantities and distribution of deadwood pieces and how it is related to its biomass. This study examined the relationship between deadwood species structural diversity and carbon stock along different environmental and disturbance factors in forest and woodland ecosystems. An agglomerative hierarchical clustering analysis was used to identify species communities, followed by indicator species analysis which was done to determine the species significantly associated with each community. Species richness, evenness and Shannon-Wiener diversity index were calculated to determine deadwood species diversity in both ecosystems. Multimodel inference approach was used to analyse the relationship between deadwood carbon stock and diversity indices, soil properties, climate and proximity to roads and settlements. Three communities were identified from forest ecosystems while four communities were from woodland. Multimodel analysis found a positive significant relationship between deadwood carbon stock and species abundance, Shannon-Wiener diversity, soil moisture and proximity to roads in both ecosystems. These findings provide insights into conservation strategies that prioritize protection and restoration of ecosystems as carbon reservois.}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } Deadwood is a substantial component of forest ecosystems playing a vital role in maintaining ecosystem health and functioning. However, there is limited information on deadwood stand structure which encompasses attributes such as type, quantities and distribution of deadwood pieces and how it is related to its biomass. This study examined the relationship between deadwood species structural diversity and carbon stock along different environmental and disturbance factors in forest and woodland ecosystems. An agglomerative hierarchical clustering analysis was used to identify species communities, followed by indicator species analysis which was done to determine the species significantly associated with each community. Species richness, evenness and Shannon-Wiener diversity index were calculated to determine deadwood species diversity in both ecosystems. Multimodel inference approach was used to analyse the relationship between deadwood carbon stock and diversity indices, soil properties, climate and proximity to roads and settlements. Three communities were identified from forest ecosystems while four communities were from woodland. Multimodel analysis found a positive significant relationship between deadwood carbon stock and species abundance, Shannon-Wiener diversity, soil moisture and proximity to roads in both ecosystems. These findings provide insights into conservation strategies that prioritize protection and restoration of ecosystems as carbon reservois. |
García-Solís, Fernando; Zúñiga, Alfredo H; Rau, Jaime R; Encina-Montoya, Francisco; Garcés, Cristóbal Temporal interactions among carnivores in an anthropized landscape of the coastal mountain range in southern Chile Journal Article Folia Oecologica, 52 (1), pp. 14-21, 2025, ISSN: 1338-7014. @article{Garc_a_Sol_s_2025, title = {Temporal interactions among carnivores in an anthropized landscape of the coastal mountain range in southern Chile}, author = {Fernando García-Solís and Alfredo H Zúñiga and Jaime R Rau and Francisco Encina-Montoya and Cristóbal Garcés}, url = {http://ife.sk/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/foecol-2025-0002.pdf}, doi = {10.2478/foecol-2025-0002}, issn = {1338-7014}, year = {2025}, date = {2025-01-01}, journal = {Folia Oecologica}, volume = {52}, number = {1}, pages = {14-21}, publisher = {Walter de Gruyter GmbH}, abstract = {The structuring of carnivore assemblages is based on the partitioning of niche axes, where the activity pattern is relevant for their coexistence. However, the continuous degradation of habitats, and the human presence (and exotic species) limit the availability of resources. Therefore, these species must readjust their requirements to minimize interactions derived from competition. For two years, activity patterns of two native carnivores (the cougar Puma concolor and the chilla fox Lycalopex griseus), one exotic carnivore (the domestic dog Canis lupus familiaris) and people were evaluated in an anthropogenic landscape in southern Chile. A differentiation was observed in the circadian cycle of the species, where the fox was predominantly nocturnal, while the cougar maintained a random activity pattern, in contrast to the dog and humans, which were the most diurnal. The ecological implications derived from the observed patterns are discussed, mainly in relation to the interference exerted by the exotic species.}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } The structuring of carnivore assemblages is based on the partitioning of niche axes, where the activity pattern is relevant for their coexistence. However, the continuous degradation of habitats, and the human presence (and exotic species) limit the availability of resources. Therefore, these species must readjust their requirements to minimize interactions derived from competition. For two years, activity patterns of two native carnivores (the cougar Puma concolor and the chilla fox Lycalopex griseus), one exotic carnivore (the domestic dog Canis lupus familiaris) and people were evaluated in an anthropogenic landscape in southern Chile. A differentiation was observed in the circadian cycle of the species, where the fox was predominantly nocturnal, while the cougar maintained a random activity pattern, in contrast to the dog and humans, which were the most diurnal. The ecological implications derived from the observed patterns are discussed, mainly in relation to the interference exerted by the exotic species. |
Korsakova, Svetlana; Korsakov, Pavel; Evstigneev, Vladislav Folia Oecologica, 52 (1), pp. 22-33, 2025, ISSN: 1338-7014. @article{Korsakova_2025, title = {Spring phenological models combining the effects of temperature and photoperiod are successfully transferred to various spatial and temporal scales: a case study of Aesculus hippocastanum L.}, author = {Svetlana Korsakova and Pavel Korsakov and Vladislav Evstigneev}, url = {http://ife.sk/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/foecol-2025-0003.pdf}, doi = {10.2478/foecol-2025-0003}, issn = {1338-7014}, year = {2025}, date = {2025-01-01}, journal = {Folia Oecologica}, volume = {52}, number = {1}, pages = {22-33}, publisher = {Walter de Gruyter GmbH}, abstract = {On the basis of long-term, high-quality in situ observations on phenological and meteorological data, we parameterised and examined the performances of four single-phase and two two-phase models for the prediction of the leaf unfolding and flowering dates of horse chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum L.). Amongst models, those combining the effects of temperature and photoperiod showed the best phenophase prediction, suggesting the influence of photoperiod on the leaf unfolding and flowering of A. hippocastanum. The obtained coefficients showed that the effect of photoperiod was greater on leaf unfolding than on flowering. Comprehensive assessment revealed that the single-phase BCdoy model demonstrated the best fitting for both phenophases. This model also showed sufficiently high accuracy and the transferability of results in time and space. The proposed models can be used to predict the spring phenophases of A. hippocastanum in European and Asian countries, where this ornamental tree species is widely used in urban landscaping, and to optimise control methods against Cameraria ohridella Deschka & Dimić (Lepidoptera, Gracillariidae). For C. ohridella, the first flying out of adults after overwintering begins at the onset of horse chestnut leaf unfolding and mass flight occurs during the full flowering period.}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } On the basis of long-term, high-quality in situ observations on phenological and meteorological data, we parameterised and examined the performances of four single-phase and two two-phase models for the prediction of the leaf unfolding and flowering dates of horse chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum L.). Amongst models, those combining the effects of temperature and photoperiod showed the best phenophase prediction, suggesting the influence of photoperiod on the leaf unfolding and flowering of A. hippocastanum. The obtained coefficients showed that the effect of photoperiod was greater on leaf unfolding than on flowering. Comprehensive assessment revealed that the single-phase BCdoy model demonstrated the best fitting for both phenophases. This model also showed sufficiently high accuracy and the transferability of results in time and space. The proposed models can be used to predict the spring phenophases of A. hippocastanum in European and Asian countries, where this ornamental tree species is widely used in urban landscaping, and to optimise control methods against Cameraria ohridella Deschka & Dimić (Lepidoptera, Gracillariidae). For C. ohridella, the first flying out of adults after overwintering begins at the onset of horse chestnut leaf unfolding and mass flight occurs during the full flowering period. |
Swaid, Sajeda Yaseen; Shareef, Hussein Jasim Mitigating the oxidative stress caused by UV-B in date palm seedlings: efficacy of salicylic acid and ascorbic acid application Journal Article Folia Oecologica, 52 (1), pp. 34-41, 2025, ISSN: 1338-7014. @article{Swaid_2025, title = {Mitigating the oxidative stress caused by UV-B in date palm seedlings: efficacy of salicylic acid and ascorbic acid application}, author = {Sajeda Yaseen Swaid and Hussein Jasim Shareef}, url = {http://ife.sk/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/foecol-2025-0004.pdf}, doi = {10.2478/foecol-2025-0004}, issn = {1338-7014}, year = {2025}, date = {2025-01-01}, journal = {Folia Oecologica}, volume = {52}, number = {1}, pages = {34-41}, publisher = {Walter de Gruyter GmbH}, abstract = {The date palm is one of the plants whose growth is being affected by global warming through harmful wavelengths of UV radiation. The protective role of salicylic acid (SA) and ascorbic acid (AsA) at physiological (100 and 200 mg l–1) levels was assessed under UV-B (8 hrs day–1) stress in the development and physiological adaptation of date palm seedlings. Three months after treatment with different concentrations of SA and AsA, their effects on growth criteria, pigment content, oxidation stress markers, and enzyme antioxidant activities were studied. Results revealed that both SA and AsA increased the seedling height, leaf width, and dry weight, decreased the level of malondialdehyde and hydrogen peroxide, and increased membrane stability, thereby alleviating oxidant injury. Furthermore, activities of antioxidant enzymes such as peroxidase and ascorbate peroxidase have been upregulated, thereby enhancing the seedlings’ tolerance against stress. The results suggest that foliar SA and AsA application could be an efficient way to alleviate the UV-B radiation stress damage in young date palm plants, therefore providing a possible approach to improving crop resilience in increasingly harsh environmental conditions.}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } The date palm is one of the plants whose growth is being affected by global warming through harmful wavelengths of UV radiation. The protective role of salicylic acid (SA) and ascorbic acid (AsA) at physiological (100 and 200 mg l–1) levels was assessed under UV-B (8 hrs day–1) stress in the development and physiological adaptation of date palm seedlings. Three months after treatment with different concentrations of SA and AsA, their effects on growth criteria, pigment content, oxidation stress markers, and enzyme antioxidant activities were studied. Results revealed that both SA and AsA increased the seedling height, leaf width, and dry weight, decreased the level of malondialdehyde and hydrogen peroxide, and increased membrane stability, thereby alleviating oxidant injury. Furthermore, activities of antioxidant enzymes such as peroxidase and ascorbate peroxidase have been upregulated, thereby enhancing the seedlings’ tolerance against stress. The results suggest that foliar SA and AsA application could be an efficient way to alleviate the UV-B radiation stress damage in young date palm plants, therefore providing a possible approach to improving crop resilience in increasingly harsh environmental conditions. |
Kollár, Ján; Janský, Vladimír; Donoval, Ľuboš The first record of non-indigenous cicada Graptopsaltria nigrofuscata (Motschulsky, 1866) (Hemiptera: Cicadidae, Polyneurini) in Slovakia Journal Article Folia Oecologica, 52 (1), pp. 42-47, 2025, ISSN: 1338-7014. @article{Koll_r_2025, title = {The first record of non-indigenous cicada Graptopsaltria nigrofuscata (Motschulsky, 1866) (Hemiptera: Cicadidae, Polyneurini) in Slovakia}, author = {Ján Kollár and Vladimír Janský and Ľuboš Donoval}, url = {http://ife.sk/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/foecol-2025-0005.pdf}, doi = {10.2478/foecol-2025-0005}, issn = {1338-7014}, year = {2025}, date = {2025-01-01}, journal = {Folia Oecologica}, volume = {52}, number = {1}, pages = {42-47}, publisher = {Walter de Gruyter GmbH}, abstract = {This paper provides the first record of the large brown cicada Graptopsaltria nigrofuscata (Motschulsky, 1866) in Slovakia. This cicada species is native to Japan, Korea and China. An adult and several exuviae were found near the city of Martin, in Vrútky and Dražkovce in August 2022. The nymphs were introduced to Slovakia with white pine (Pinus parviflora Siebold & Zucc.), imported in pots from the Czech Republic. The pine trees were originally purchased in Japan, where G. nigrofuscata is one of the most common cicada species. The nymphs had been developing at the locations in Slovakia for about 5 years. Based on the number of exuviae, it can be assumed that the population was large enough for the cicadas to produce a new generation. Many potted plants from Japan are popular trees, and many companies buy them directly in Japan, so it is possible that the cicada G. nigrofuscata will gradually start to appear more often in the European region.}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } This paper provides the first record of the large brown cicada Graptopsaltria nigrofuscata (Motschulsky, 1866) in Slovakia. This cicada species is native to Japan, Korea and China. An adult and several exuviae were found near the city of Martin, in Vrútky and Dražkovce in August 2022. The nymphs were introduced to Slovakia with white pine (Pinus parviflora Siebold & Zucc.), imported in pots from the Czech Republic. The pine trees were originally purchased in Japan, where G. nigrofuscata is one of the most common cicada species. The nymphs had been developing at the locations in Slovakia for about 5 years. Based on the number of exuviae, it can be assumed that the population was large enough for the cicadas to produce a new generation. Many potted plants from Japan are popular trees, and many companies buy them directly in Japan, so it is possible that the cicada G. nigrofuscata will gradually start to appear more often in the European region. |
Dad, Javaid M; Rashid, Irfan Folia Oecologica, 52 (1), pp. 48-61, 2025, ISSN: 1338-7014. @article{Dad_2025, title = {Effect of climate change on potential distribution of Dactylorhiza hatagirea (D. Don) Soó in the twenty-first century across the north-western Himalayas}, author = {Javaid M Dad and Irfan Rashid}, url = {http://ife.sk/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/foecol-2025-0006.pdf}, doi = {10.2478/foecol-2025-0006}, issn = {1338-7014}, year = {2025}, date = {2025-01-01}, journal = {Folia Oecologica}, volume = {52}, number = {1}, pages = {48-61}, publisher = {Walter de Gruyter GmbH}, abstract = {The populations of Dactylorhiza hatagirea are shrinking fast across the north-western Himalayas. Although the effects of contemporary anthropic factors on its distribution are well documented, the impacts of anticipated climate change have not been evaluated. In the present study, the maximum entropy modelling (MaxEnt) was used to quantify the impact of climate change on the distribution of D. hatagirea over the next 50 years under representative concentration pathways (RCP) 4.5 and 8.5, using ensemble mean of four general circulation models, viz. CCSM4, CNRM, MRI, and GFDL. The results exhibited a fairly good model performance, with D. hatagirea attaining the highest suitability when ‘annual mean temperature’ and ‘annual precipitation’ peaks at ca. 11.5 °C and 1,250 mm, respectively. The variables with greater influence (%) were annual precipitation (40.7), mean temperature of the wettest quarter (22.9), precipitation seasonality (16.6), and mean annual temperature (10.4). Under the current climate, about 790 km2 that spread across Kashmir (274.1 km2) Jammu (210.5 km2), and Ladakh (305.6 km2) were identified as high potential habitat (HPH) areas. The predicted distribution showed that for RCP 4.5 the HPH areas would decrease by 4.2 and 5.4%, by 2050 and 2070, while for RC P8.5 the decrease would be 18.1 and 8.7%, respectively. The shrinkage may be more obvious across tropical and temperate regions, while the species may gain new HPH areas across cold arid areas. Although HPH shrinkage for D. hatagirea appears mild, but as it exhibits high habitat specificity and grows inherently slow, this insignificant shrinkage may enhance its risk of local extinction. Therefore, an integrated approach involving in-situ measures across regions, where the species may disappear, and ex-situ measures, where it may expand, is hugely important.}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } The populations of Dactylorhiza hatagirea are shrinking fast across the north-western Himalayas. Although the effects of contemporary anthropic factors on its distribution are well documented, the impacts of anticipated climate change have not been evaluated. In the present study, the maximum entropy modelling (MaxEnt) was used to quantify the impact of climate change on the distribution of D. hatagirea over the next 50 years under representative concentration pathways (RCP) 4.5 and 8.5, using ensemble mean of four general circulation models, viz. CCSM4, CNRM, MRI, and GFDL. The results exhibited a fairly good model performance, with D. hatagirea attaining the highest suitability when ‘annual mean temperature’ and ‘annual precipitation’ peaks at ca. 11.5 °C and 1,250 mm, respectively. The variables with greater influence (%) were annual precipitation (40.7), mean temperature of the wettest quarter (22.9), precipitation seasonality (16.6), and mean annual temperature (10.4). Under the current climate, about 790 km2 that spread across Kashmir (274.1 km2) Jammu (210.5 km2), and Ladakh (305.6 km2) were identified as high potential habitat (HPH) areas. The predicted distribution showed that for RCP 4.5 the HPH areas would decrease by 4.2 and 5.4%, by 2050 and 2070, while for RC P8.5 the decrease would be 18.1 and 8.7%, respectively. The shrinkage may be more obvious across tropical and temperate regions, while the species may gain new HPH areas across cold arid areas. Although HPH shrinkage for D. hatagirea appears mild, but as it exhibits high habitat specificity and grows inherently slow, this insignificant shrinkage may enhance its risk of local extinction. Therefore, an integrated approach involving in-situ measures across regions, where the species may disappear, and ex-situ measures, where it may expand, is hugely important. |
Gollo, Maira S; Villagra, Elizabeth L B; Gomez, Jonatan J Folia Oecologica, 52 (1), pp. 62-69, 2025, ISSN: 1338-7014. @article{Gollo_2025, title = {Atmospheric microplastic accumulation in Ramalina celastri (Sprengel) Krog & Swinscow Thalli: a transplant study across different levels of urbanization}, author = {Maira S Gollo and Elizabeth L B Villagra and Jonatan J Gomez}, url = {http://ife.sk/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/foecol-2025-0007.pdf}, doi = {10.2478/foecol-2025-0007}, issn = {1338-7014}, year = {2025}, date = {2025-01-01}, journal = {Folia Oecologica}, volume = {52}, number = {1}, pages = {62-69}, publisher = {Walter de Gruyter GmbH}, abstract = {Lichens are widely recognized as bioindicators of atmospheric pollution, but studies on their role in monitoring microplastic (MP) deposition remain scarce. This study investigates MP accumulation in natural populations of Ramalina celastri across an urbanization gradient in Luján, Argentina, marking the first report for this species. MP concentrations ranged from 16.54 ± 3.59 MPs g–1 in baseline sites to significantly higher levels in urban zones. Fragments showed a stronger association with urbanised areas compared with fibres. Unlike larger urban centers, no significant trend was observed in MP size with urbanization, likely due to Lujan’s small size, facilitating unrestricted MP movement. Comparisons with global studies revealed consistent patterns of increased MP accumulation near anthropogenic sources, while unique findings highlight the potential of R. celastri as a bioindicator in diverse environments. These results emphasize the influence of urbanization on MP deposition and suggest localized sources as key contributors to fragments, advancing our understanding of MP dynamics. This work underscores the need for standardized methodologies to enhance comparability in future research on terrestrial MP pollution.}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } Lichens are widely recognized as bioindicators of atmospheric pollution, but studies on their role in monitoring microplastic (MP) deposition remain scarce. This study investigates MP accumulation in natural populations of Ramalina celastri across an urbanization gradient in Luján, Argentina, marking the first report for this species. MP concentrations ranged from 16.54 ± 3.59 MPs g–1 in baseline sites to significantly higher levels in urban zones. Fragments showed a stronger association with urbanised areas compared with fibres. Unlike larger urban centers, no significant trend was observed in MP size with urbanization, likely due to Lujan’s small size, facilitating unrestricted MP movement. Comparisons with global studies revealed consistent patterns of increased MP accumulation near anthropogenic sources, while unique findings highlight the potential of R. celastri as a bioindicator in diverse environments. These results emphasize the influence of urbanization on MP deposition and suggest localized sources as key contributors to fragments, advancing our understanding of MP dynamics. This work underscores the need for standardized methodologies to enhance comparability in future research on terrestrial MP pollution. |
Moslehi, Maryam; Ahmadi, Farzad; Matinizadeh, Mohammad; Sadeghi, Seyed Mousa; Izadi, Masoumeh; Faunae, Nafiseh; Alizadeh, Tahereh; Shackleton, Ross T Native versus non-native Prosopis woody species: Which fertilize the soil better? Journal Article Folia Oecologica, 52 (1), pp. 70-81, 2025, ISSN: 1338-7014. @article{Moslehi_2025, title = {Native versus non-native Prosopis woody species: Which fertilize the soil better?}, author = {Maryam Moslehi and Farzad Ahmadi and Mohammad Matinizadeh and Seyed Mousa Sadeghi and Masoumeh Izadi and Nafiseh Faunae and Tahereh Alizadeh and Ross T Shackleton}, url = {http://ife.sk/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/foecol-2025-0008.pdf}, doi = {10.2478/foecol-2025-0008}, issn = {1338-7014}, year = {2025}, date = {2025-01-01}, journal = {Folia Oecologica}, volume = {52}, number = {1}, pages = {70-81}, publisher = {Walter de Gruyter GmbH}, abstract = {This study assessed differences in the physical, chemical, and microbial properties of soils under trees of the native species Prosopis cineraria and the invasive species Prosopis juliflora trees, focusing on implications for ecosystem management and restoration. At the start of the growing season, 30 trees of each species with a trunk diameter of 15–30 cm were randomly selected. Soil samples were taken from the top 20 cm of soil profiles east of each tree, under the tree crowns and from control plots in open areas. Three soil samples per site were pooled for chemical and microbial analysis. Soil moisture was highest under P. cineraria (14.64 ± 0.3) and lowest in control plots (9.04 ± 0.65). Soil pH was highest in control soils (7.91 ± 0.09), slightly lower under P. cineraria (7.77 ± 0.06), and lowest under P. juliflora (7.49 ± 0.0). Electrical conductivity, soil salinity was highest under P. juliflora (2.25 ± 0.12). Microbial activity indicators (basal respiration and microbial biomass carbon) were greater under P. cineraria than under P. juliflora trees. Native P. cineraria trees enhance soil conditions, benefiting ecosystem management. In contrast, invasive P. juliflora trees raise soil salinity, threatening soil quality, biodiversity, and ecosystem services in the Sahara-Sahel region. Managing the spread of P. juliflora is crucial to maintaining ecosystem functions.}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } This study assessed differences in the physical, chemical, and microbial properties of soils under trees of the native species Prosopis cineraria and the invasive species Prosopis juliflora trees, focusing on implications for ecosystem management and restoration. At the start of the growing season, 30 trees of each species with a trunk diameter of 15–30 cm were randomly selected. Soil samples were taken from the top 20 cm of soil profiles east of each tree, under the tree crowns and from control plots in open areas. Three soil samples per site were pooled for chemical and microbial analysis. Soil moisture was highest under P. cineraria (14.64 ± 0.3) and lowest in control plots (9.04 ± 0.65). Soil pH was highest in control soils (7.91 ± 0.09), slightly lower under P. cineraria (7.77 ± 0.06), and lowest under P. juliflora (7.49 ± 0.0). Electrical conductivity, soil salinity was highest under P. juliflora (2.25 ± 0.12). Microbial activity indicators (basal respiration and microbial biomass carbon) were greater under P. cineraria than under P. juliflora trees. Native P. cineraria trees enhance soil conditions, benefiting ecosystem management. In contrast, invasive P. juliflora trees raise soil salinity, threatening soil quality, biodiversity, and ecosystem services in the Sahara-Sahel region. Managing the spread of P. juliflora is crucial to maintaining ecosystem functions. |
Pugh, Andrew; Trower, Max; Mercier, Celine; Bartlett, Michael; Sutherland, Roanne; Cridge, Andrew Environmental DNA profiling for detecting plant-insect interactions in endangered and native flora Journal Article Folia Oecologica, 52 (1), pp. 82-90, 2025, ISSN: 1338-7014. @article{Pugh_2025, title = {Environmental DNA profiling for detecting plant-insect interactions in endangered and native flora}, author = {Andrew Pugh and Max Trower and Celine Mercier and Michael Bartlett and Roanne Sutherland and Andrew Cridge}, url = {http://ife.sk/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/foecol-2025-0009.pdf}, doi = {10.2478/foecol-2025-0009}, issn = {1338-7014}, year = {2025}, date = {2025-01-01}, journal = {Folia Oecologica}, volume = {52}, number = {1}, pages = {82-90}, publisher = {Walter de Gruyter GmbH}, abstract = {Environmental DNA (eDNA) is an established technique for studying plant-insect interactions, that has so far had very limited use in exploring flower-visiting insect communities. This study provides important evidence of the effectiveness of eDNA for studying flower-visiting insects, proving its ability to provide a comprehensive overview of pollinator communities beyond traditional observational methods. Our data revealed a surprising diversity of flower-visiting insects, including both expected pollinators and possible non-pollinating species utilising pollen and/or nectar as a nutritional resource. Native bees, such as Leioproctus spp., and various flies, including those with uncertain roles in pollination, were detected. This study also shed light on the underexplored area of nocturnal pollination, providing evidence of native moth involvement in pollinating plant species. While there was no definitive evidence of rare insects visiting mānuka (Leptospermum scoparium) or Lophomyrtus spp., this study did reveal the importance of these plant species and the resources the flowers provide not just to pollinators, but insects with other key roles in the ecosystem.}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } Environmental DNA (eDNA) is an established technique for studying plant-insect interactions, that has so far had very limited use in exploring flower-visiting insect communities. This study provides important evidence of the effectiveness of eDNA for studying flower-visiting insects, proving its ability to provide a comprehensive overview of pollinator communities beyond traditional observational methods. Our data revealed a surprising diversity of flower-visiting insects, including both expected pollinators and possible non-pollinating species utilising pollen and/or nectar as a nutritional resource. Native bees, such as Leioproctus spp., and various flies, including those with uncertain roles in pollination, were detected. This study also shed light on the underexplored area of nocturnal pollination, providing evidence of native moth involvement in pollinating plant species. While there was no definitive evidence of rare insects visiting mānuka (Leptospermum scoparium) or Lophomyrtus spp., this study did reveal the importance of these plant species and the resources the flowers provide not just to pollinators, but insects with other key roles in the ecosystem. |
Sukumaran, Arun; Sasidharan, Sarath; Khanduri, Vinod Prasad; Suraj, ; Rawat, Shweta; Chand, Vaisakhy Prem Folia Oecologica, 52 (1), pp. 91-104, 2025, ISSN: 1338-7014. @article{Sukumaran_2025, title = {Effect of tree size attributes on fruit production and animal-mediated seed dispersal web in Melia azedarach L. (Chinaberry) in north-west Himalaya, India}, author = {Arun Sukumaran and Sarath Sasidharan and Vinod Prasad Khanduri and Suraj and Shweta Rawat and Vaisakhy Prem Chand}, url = {http://ife.sk/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/foecol-2025-0010.pdf}, doi = {10.2478/foecol-2025-0010}, issn = {1338-7014}, year = {2025}, date = {2025-01-01}, journal = {Folia Oecologica}, volume = {52}, number = {1}, pages = {91-104}, publisher = {Walter de Gruyter GmbH}, abstract = {Insights into the relationships between tree species and their potential seed dispersers in a specific region are vital for determining spatial distribution and population dynamics that rely solely on natural regeneration. Several factors influence fruit production in trees, and the fluctuations in fruit output directly affects the population and diversity of frugivores in that area. We examined the trees of Melia azedarach to analyse the impact of tree size attributes (diameter, height and crown length) on fruit yield. Furthermore, we observed the seed dispersers to determine their role in fruit removal and dispersal. The average fruit production among sample trees varied from 1.8 × 103 to 1.18 × 105. Out of the 10 bird species recorded, the Hypsipetes leucocephalus (Himalayan Black Bulbul) and Pycnonotus leucogenys (Himalayan Bulbul) were the most frequent visitors and crucial for seed dispersal of M. azedarach. Psittacula krameri (Rose-ringed Parakeets) dropped a significant quantity of fruits below the parent tree, acting as a pre-dispersal seed predator. There were significant variations among species in total visits and estimated endocarp disbursed. Our findings indicate that the tree-size attributes like diameter, height, and crown length strongly affected fruit yield capacity in trees of Melia azedarach. Large trees are likely to be reproductively matured and are prioritising resources for reproduction rather than growth. Native animals, especially birds are facilitating seed dispersal in M. azedarach. The estimated period of the availability of ripe fruits reflects the status of seed predators and seed dispersal. The results ultimately revealed that the animal plant interactions of this study would be vital for ecosystem functioning, habitat rewilding and conservation of the ecosystem through balancing plant-animal mutualism.}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } Insights into the relationships between tree species and their potential seed dispersers in a specific region are vital for determining spatial distribution and population dynamics that rely solely on natural regeneration. Several factors influence fruit production in trees, and the fluctuations in fruit output directly affects the population and diversity of frugivores in that area. We examined the trees of Melia azedarach to analyse the impact of tree size attributes (diameter, height and crown length) on fruit yield. Furthermore, we observed the seed dispersers to determine their role in fruit removal and dispersal. The average fruit production among sample trees varied from 1.8 × 103 to 1.18 × 105. Out of the 10 bird species recorded, the Hypsipetes leucocephalus (Himalayan Black Bulbul) and Pycnonotus leucogenys (Himalayan Bulbul) were the most frequent visitors and crucial for seed dispersal of M. azedarach. Psittacula krameri (Rose-ringed Parakeets) dropped a significant quantity of fruits below the parent tree, acting as a pre-dispersal seed predator. There were significant variations among species in total visits and estimated endocarp disbursed. Our findings indicate that the tree-size attributes like diameter, height, and crown length strongly affected fruit yield capacity in trees of Melia azedarach. Large trees are likely to be reproductively matured and are prioritising resources for reproduction rather than growth. Native animals, especially birds are facilitating seed dispersal in M. azedarach. The estimated period of the availability of ripe fruits reflects the status of seed predators and seed dispersal. The results ultimately revealed that the animal plant interactions of this study would be vital for ecosystem functioning, habitat rewilding and conservation of the ecosystem through balancing plant-animal mutualism. |
Negi, Javaid Diksha; Ahmed, Shakoor; Sambyal, Deepali; Stašiov, Slavomír; Julka, Jatinder Mohan Folia Oecologica, 52 (1), pp. 105-112, 2025, ISSN: 1338-7014. @article{Negi_2025, title = {Distribution and abundance of a soil centipede, Tygarrup nepalensis Shinohara, 1965 (Mecistocephalidae: Geophilomorpha: Chilopoda) in a moist temperate forest in Northwest Himalaya}, author = {Javaid Diksha Negi and Shakoor Ahmed and Deepali Sambyal and Slavomír Stašiov and Jatinder Mohan Julka}, url = {http://ife.sk/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/foecol-2025-0011.pdf}, doi = {10.2478/foecol-2025-0011}, issn = {1338-7014}, year = {2025}, date = {2025-01-01}, journal = {Folia Oecologica}, volume = {52}, number = {1}, pages = {105-112}, publisher = {Walter de Gruyter GmbH}, abstract = {This study investigates the distribution of the soil centipede, Tygarrup nepalensis (Order Geophilomorpha), in the moist temperate forest of the Northwest Himalayas, located in Himri, District Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India. Centipedes were collected using a standardized 25 × 25 cm quadrat sampling method. We examined the influence of various environmental and edaphic parameters on its populations across different forest areas (north, northeast, southwest facing aspects). The north aspect exhibited higher density due to more favourable soil conditions, including higher phosphorus and organic carbon, which supported larger populations of detritivore earthworms, likely prey for T. nepalensis. These findings underscore the role of microhabitat characteristics in shaping centipede distribution and highlight implications for forest management strategies aimed at conserving soil biodiversity and enhancing forest productivity. Our results indicate that average soil moisture levels (25.8% to 30.5%) are conducive to the habitat requirements of T. nepalensis, which thrives in moist environments. Notably, population densities varied significantly, with lower density in the northeastern aspect, correlated with reduced soil phosphorus concentrations and increased acidity.}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } This study investigates the distribution of the soil centipede, Tygarrup nepalensis (Order Geophilomorpha), in the moist temperate forest of the Northwest Himalayas, located in Himri, District Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India. Centipedes were collected using a standardized 25 × 25 cm quadrat sampling method. We examined the influence of various environmental and edaphic parameters on its populations across different forest areas (north, northeast, southwest facing aspects). The north aspect exhibited higher density due to more favourable soil conditions, including higher phosphorus and organic carbon, which supported larger populations of detritivore earthworms, likely prey for T. nepalensis. These findings underscore the role of microhabitat characteristics in shaping centipede distribution and highlight implications for forest management strategies aimed at conserving soil biodiversity and enhancing forest productivity. Our results indicate that average soil moisture levels (25.8% to 30.5%) are conducive to the habitat requirements of T. nepalensis, which thrives in moist environments. Notably, population densities varied significantly, with lower density in the northeastern aspect, correlated with reduced soil phosphorus concentrations and increased acidity. |