scholarly journals Small size today, aquarium dumping tomorrow: sales of juvenile non-native large fish as an important threat in Brazil

2017 ◽  
Vol 15 (4) ◽  
Author(s):  
André L. B. Magalhães ◽  
Mário Luis Orsi ◽  
Fernando M. Pelicice ◽  
Valter M. Azevedo-Santos ◽  
Jean R. S. Vitule ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Management Strategies ◽  
Biological Traits ◽  
Large Fish ◽  
Native Range ◽  
Invasion Risk ◽  
Pangasianodon Hypophthalmus ◽  
Arapaima Gigas ◽  
Geographical Regions ◽  
Astronotus Ocellatus ◽  
Amphilophus Citrinellus

ABSTRACT Informal sales of large-bodied non-native aquarium fishes (known as “tankbusters”) is increasing among Brazilian hobbyists. In this study, we surveyed this non-regulated trade on Facebook® from May 2012 to September 2016, systematically collecting information about the fishes available for trading: species, family, common/scientific names, native range, juvenile length, behavior, number of specimens available in five geographical regions from Brazil. We also assessed the invasion risk of the most frequently sold species using the Fish Invasiveness Screening Test (FIST). We found 93 taxa belonging to 35 families. Cichlidae was the dominant family, and most species were native to South America. All species are sold at very small sizes (< 10.0 cm), and most display aggressive behavior. The hybrid Amphilophus trimaculatus × Amphilophus citrinellus, Astronotus ocellatus, Uaru amphiacanthoides, Osteoglossum bicirrhosum, Cichla piquiti, Pangasianodon hypophthalmus, Datnioides microlepis and Cichla kelberi were the main species available. The southeast region showed the greatest trading activity. Based on biological traits, the FIST indicated that Arapaima gigas, C. kelberi and C. temensis are high-risk species in terms of biological invasions via aquarium dumping. We suggest management strategies such as trade regulations, monitoring, euthanasia and educational programs to prevent further introductions via aquarium dumping.

scholarly journals Identifying Forest Fire Driving Factors and Related Impacts in China Using Random Forest Algorithm

Forests ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 11 (5) ◽  
pp. 507
Author(s):  
Wenyuan Ma ◽  
Zhongke Feng ◽  
Zhuxin Cheng ◽  
Shilin Chen ◽  
Fengge Wang
Keyword(s):  
Random Forest ◽  
Forest Fire ◽  
Forest Fires ◽  
Fire Management ◽  
Fire Hazard ◽  
Management Strategies ◽  
Driving Factors ◽  
Socioeconomic Variables ◽  
Forest Fire Management ◽  
Geographical Regions

Reasonable forest fire management measures can effectively reduce the losses caused by forest fires and forest fire driving factors and their impacts are important aspects that should be considered in forest fire management. We used the random forest model and MODIS Global Fire Atlas dataset (2010~2016) to analyse the impacts of climate, topographic, vegetation and socioeconomic variables on forest fire occurrence in six geographical regions in China. The results show clear regional differences in the forest fire driving factors and their impacts in China. Climate variables are the forest fire driving factors in all regions of China, vegetation variable is the forest fire driving factor in all other regions except the Northwest region and topographic variables and socioeconomic variables are only the driving factors of forest fires in a few regions (Northwest and Southwest regions). The model predictive capability is good: the AUC values are between 0.830 and 0.975, and the prediction accuracy is between 70.0% and 91.4%. High fire hazard areas are concentrated in the Northeast region, Southwest region and East China region. This research will aid in providing a national-scale understanding of forest fire driving factors and fire hazard distribution in China and help policymakers to design fire management strategies to reduce potential fire hazards.

scholarly journals The Impact of Information on Attitudes toward Sustainable Wildlife Utilization and Management: A Survey of the Chinese Public

Animals ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (9) ◽  
pp. 2640
Author(s):  
Zhifan Song ◽  
Qiang Wang ◽  
Zhen Miao ◽  
Kirsten Conrad ◽  
Wei Zhang ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Wildlife Conservation ◽  
Public Attitudes ◽  
Management Strategies ◽  
Sustainable Use ◽  
Effective Rate ◽  
Conservation Education ◽  
Related Information ◽  
Geographical Regions ◽  
Wildlife Utilization ◽  
The Impact

The widespread dissemination of information related to wildlife utilization in new online media and traditional media undoubtedly impacts societal conservation concepts and attitudes, thus triggering public discussions on the relationship between conservation and utilization. A study on how public attitudes and concepts are affected by the related information on wildlife utilization is helpful to implement the scientific wildlife conservation and management strategies, and to propose targeted measures to optimize the information environment. We designed the questionnaire to investigate the public’s awareness and agreement with related information on wildlife utilization so as to measure how information with different dissemination channels, source types, and content orientation influenced the public’s concept of wildlife conservation and utilization. The questionnaire was distributed in seven major geographical regions throughout China. Out of a total of 1645 questionnaires that were collected, 1294 questionnaires were valid, with an effective rate of 78.7%. Results show that respondents had the greatest awareness of information on preventing unsustainable and illegal utilization, and the lowest awareness of information on promoting unsustainable utilization, and that awareness of information that against utilization was higher than that of information which supported sustainable utilization. At the same time, respondents showed the greatest agreement for information on preventing unsustainable utilization and the lowest agreement for information on promoting unsustainable utilization; also, their agreement with information that against utilization was higher than that for information which supported sustainable use. Respondents had a high level of awareness of information on wildlife related to COVID-19 provided by experts. Gender, age, the level of development of the city in which they live, education, vegetarianism, and religious beliefs all affected respondents’ agreement with related information on wildlife utilization. This research suggests that the publicity and education of scientific conservation methods should be emphasized in the future conservation education. In addition, scholars in the field of wildlife research should assume the role of ‘influencer’ and give full play to the scientific guidance of public opinion.

scholarly journals Evaluation of open- and closed-eyed entrances on retention and escape of invasive swimming crabs and associated fauna from pots in their native range

2019 ◽  
Vol 70 (8) ◽  
pp. 1169 ◽  
Author(s):  
Miguel Vazquez Archdale ◽  
Jorge Santos ◽  
Fukunori Watariguchi
Keyword(s):  
The Other ◽  
Swimming Crab ◽  
Large Fish ◽  
Native Range ◽  
Crab Species ◽  
Associated Fauna ◽  
Native Habitat ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
Swimming Crabs

Fishing trials targeting several invasive swimming crab species in their native habitat were undertaken using two types of collapsible pot, one with open-eyed entrances and the other with closed-eyed entrances, to analyse differences in catch retention between them. The open-eyed pot was dome-shaped with two funnel entrances located at opposite ends, whereas the closed-eyed pot had two soft sleeves that ended in slits and had to be pushed through by organisms to ingress, supposedly reducing escape. Retention fishing trials (100 pot hauls per pot type) using a 1-day soaking and fish bait confirmed no significant difference in crab catches between pot types; differences were only detected for large fish (morays and congers). A second set of 4-day escape trials (20 pots per type) was undertaken to investigate how long organisms would be detained in the pots. Escape was significantly affected, and half-residences were typically delayed by 1–2 days for most crabs and fish in closed-eyed entrance pots because the entrances closed. Closed-eyed entrances hampered escape and may be useful when longer soakings are needed; however, because no differences were detected in crab numbers between the two entrance types for short soakings, we recommend open-eyed entrance pots in order to mitigate possible ghost fishing effects from lost gear.

scholarly journals Widespread anthropogenic translocation of the African Clawed Frog across its native range is revealed by its co-introduced monogenean parasite in a co-phylogeographic approach

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Anneke Lincoln Schoeman ◽  
Louis Heyns du Preez ◽  
Nikol Kmentová ◽  
Maarten P M Vanhove
Keyword(s):  
Management Strategies ◽  
Invasion Biology ◽  
Holistic Approach ◽  
Life Cycles ◽  
Invasion Success ◽  
Native Range ◽  
Invasive Range ◽  
Conservation Implications ◽  
Host Lineage ◽  
Live Bait

1. The management of biological invasions relies upon the development of methods to trace their origin and expansion. Co-introduced parasites, especially monogenean flatworms, are ideal tags for the movement of their invasive hosts due to their short generations, direct life cycles and host specificity. However, they are yet to be applied to trace the intraspecific movement of species in their native ranges. 2. As proof of this concept, we conducted a co-phylogeographic analysis based upon two mitochondrial markers of a globally distributed frog Xenopus laevis and its monogenean flatworm parasite Protopolystoma xenopodis in both its native range in southern Africa and its invasive range in Europe. 3. Translocation of lineages was largely masked in the frog's phylogeography. However, incongruent links between host and parasite phylogeography indicated host switches from one host lineage to the other after these were brought into contact due to human-mediated translocation in the native range. Thus, past translocation of host lineages is revealed by the invasion success of its co-introduced parasite lineage. 4. This study demonstrates the concept that parasite data can serve as an independent line of evidence in invasion biology, also on the intraspecific level, shedding light on previously undetected invasion dynamics. Based upon the distribution of these invasive parasite lineages, we infer that the widespread translocation of hosts is mainly facilitated by the frog's use as live bait by the local angling communities and not via official export routes. 5. Data from co-introduced, host-specific parasites can add value to investigations in invasion biology and conservation. A better understanding of the translocation history and resulting genetic mixing of animals in their native ranges prior to introduction into new environments can inform management strategies in the invasive range. Knowledge of the intraspecific movement of different lineages of animals in their native ranges also has conservation implications, since contact between divergent lineages of hosts and parasites can facilitate host switches and altered parasite dynamics in both native and invasive populations. Therefore, we recommend the inclusion of parasite data as a more holistic approach to the invasion ecology of animals on the intraspecific level.

Scenario-based analyses evaluate potential outcomes of proposed regulatory changes in recreational fishery

2019 ◽  
Vol 77 (6) ◽  
pp. 2333-2343 ◽  
Author(s):  
Alyssa S Thomas ◽  
Taciano L Milfont ◽  
Michael C Gavin
Keyword(s):  
New Zealand ◽  
Management Strategies ◽  
Maximum Size ◽  
Potential Outcomes ◽  
Effective Management ◽  
Large Fish ◽  
Recreational Fisheries ◽  
Size Limit ◽  
Regulatory Changes ◽  
Regulation Change

Abstract Understanding current and predicting future behaviour of fishers is fundamental to designing effective management strategies. The management of most recreational fisheries requires releasing fish not meeting size or daily limits, and assuming the majority survive. In the Marlborough Sounds, New Zealand, a maximum size limit imposed on the blue cod (Parapercis colias) fishery aimed to achieve a more balanced sex ratio for this hermaphroditic species. We tested three alternative size limit scenarios (current, increased, and no maximum size) in a study with recreational fishers (N = 420) to investigate whether regulation change would influence their intentions to discard fish and fishing satisfaction. Increasing or eliminating the maximum size led to lower discard intentions and greater fishing satisfaction, suggesting strategies to achieve both management goals (e.g. more large fish) and increased fisher satisfaction (potentially increasing compliance). More broadly, the results demonstrate the benefits of using scenarios to evaluate potential regulatory changes prior to implementation.

scholarly journals Biology, Ecology, and Management of Eastern Grape Leafhopper (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae), a Key Pest of Vineyards in North America

2020 ◽  
Vol 11 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Kevin R Jarrell ◽  
Eric J Rebek ◽  
Astri C Wayadande ◽  
Kristopher L Giles
Keyword(s):  
United States ◽  
North America ◽  
Management Strategies ◽  
Early Spring ◽  
Native Range ◽  
Historical Account ◽  
Northeastern United States ◽  
Eastern Canada ◽  
Mesophyll Cells ◽  
Grape Leafhopper

Abstract Eastern grape leafhopper, Erythroneura comes (Say), is a key pest of grapes (Vitales: Vitaceae) in the central and northeastern United States and eastern Canada. This native insect uses its piercing-sucking mouthparts to puncture the mesophyll cells of leaves and suck out the contents, thereby reducing the quality and quantity of fruit. Eastern grape leafhopper has been reported as a vineyard pest for nearly 200 yr and is one of several Erythroneura spp. that feed on grapes in North America. Overwintered adults become active in early spring and may feed on grasses, weeds, and other plants before feeding on grapevines. Although eastern grape leafhopper has an extensive host range, it is only known to oviposit on wild and cultivated grapes. This multivoltine species can outbreak periodically, which has generated much research into improved monitoring and integrated pest management strategies employed throughout its native range. In this review, we describe the biology, life history, population dynamics, and phenology of eastern grape leafhopper and provide a historical account of monitoring and management strategies for this important vineyard pest.

Biological and ecological evidences suggest Stipa krylovii (Pooideae), contributes to optimal growth performance and population distribution of the grasshopper Oedaleus asiaticus

2017 ◽  
Vol 107 (3) ◽  
pp. 401-409 ◽  
Author(s):  
X.B. Huang ◽  
M.R. McNeill ◽  
J.C. Ma ◽  
X.H. Qin ◽  
X.B. Tu ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Growth Performance ◽  
Population Distribution ◽  
Management Strategies ◽  
Optimal Growth ◽  
Significant Loss ◽  
Economic Losses ◽  
Biological Traits ◽  
Pest Species ◽  
Stipa Krylovii ◽  
Size Growth

AbstractOedaleus asiaticus Bey. Bienko is a significant grasshopper pest species occurring in north Asian grasslands. Outbreaks often result in significant loss in grasses and economic losses. Interestingly, we found this grasshopper was mainly restricted to Stipa-dominated grassland. We suspected this may be related to the dominant grasses species, Stipa krylovii Roshev, and hypothesized that S. krylovii contributes to optimal growth performance and population distribution of O. asiaticus. A 4 year investigation showed that O. asiaticus density was positively correlated to the above-ground biomass of S. krylovii and O. asiaticus growth performance variables (survival rate, size, growth rate) were significantly higher in Stipa-dominated grassland. A feeding trial also showed that O. asiaticus had a higher growth performance when feeding exclusively on S. krylovii. In addition, the choice, consumption and the efficiency of conversion of ingested food (ECI) by O. asiaticus was highest for S. krylovii compared with other plant species found in the Asian grasslands. These ecological and biological traits revealed why O. asiaticus is strongly associated with Stipa-dominated grasslands. We concluded that the existence of S. krylovii benefited the growth performance and explained the distribution of O. asiaticus. These results are useful for improved pest management strategies and developing guidelines for the monitoring of grasshopper population dynamics against the background of vegetation succession and changing plant communities in response to activities such as grazing, fire and climate change.

scholarly journals Fishery and biological traits of obtuse barracuda Sphyraena obtusata (Cuvier, 1829) off south-west coast of India

2021 ◽  
Vol 42 (1) ◽  
pp. 112-117
Author(s):  
K.M. Rajesh ◽  
◽  
P. Rohit ◽  
E.M. Abdussamad ◽  
◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
West Coast ◽  
Gonadosomatic Index ◽  
Management Strategies ◽  
Reproductive Traits ◽  
Biological Traits ◽  
West Coast Of India ◽  
South West ◽  
South West Coast ◽  
First Maturity ◽  
Spawning Periods

Aim: The present study was conducted to investigate the fishery, diet composition and reproductive aspects of obtuse barracuda landed in Karnataka, south-west coast of India. Methodology: Feeding and reproductive traits of 1229 samples (638 males and 591 females) of S. obtusata was studied for a period of five years. The index of relative importance (IRI) was determined for each diet component in the stomach. Reproductive aspects such as maturity stages, gonadosomatic index and fecundity were investigated. Results: The most predominant prey item in terms of frequency of occurrence (93.1%), number (91.4%), weight (93.2%), IRI (3615.5) and also % IRI (98.5%) was fishes. Crustaceans and cephalopods were noticed less frequently and were represented by shrimps and Loligo sp. The estimated length at first maturity for male and female fishes was 20.5 and 21.3 cm, respectively. Higher GSI values were observed during post monsoon (October-November) followed by summer pre monsoon (April-May) season in both males and females, indicating two peak spawning periods. Interpretation: The comprehensive study on major biological characteristics of Sphyraena obtusata could be useful for developing appropriate management strategies for conservation and judicious exploitation of this commercially important resource. Key words: Barracuda, Fecundity, Gonadosomatic index, Sphyraena obtusata

scholarly journals The role of fruit heteromorphism in the naturalization of Asteraceae

2019 ◽  
Vol 123 (6) ◽  
pp. 1043-1052 ◽  
Author(s):  
Annamária Fenesi ◽  
Dorottya Sándor ◽  
Petr Pyšek ◽  
Wayne Dawson ◽  
Eszter Ruprecht ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Life History ◽  
Life Span ◽  
Native Species ◽  
Biological Traits ◽  
Tall Stature ◽  
Heterogeneous Environments ◽  
Large Set ◽  
Native Range ◽  
Short Life ◽  
Short Life Span

Abstract Background and Aims Fruit heteromorphism is considered to be a bet-hedging strategy to cope with spatially or temporally heterogeneous environments. The different behaviours of the fruit morphs of the same species might also be beneficial during naturalization, once the species has been introduced to a new range. Yet, no study to date has tested the association between fruit heteromorphism and global-scale naturalization success for a large set of plant species. Methods We compiled two large datasets on fruit heteromorphism in Asteraceae. One dataset was on native species in Central Europe (n = 321) and the other was on species frequently planted as ornamentals (n = 584). Using phylogenetic linear and logistic regressions, we tested whether heteromorphic species are more likely to naturalize outside their native range, and in more regions of the world than monomorphic species. We also tested whether the effect of heteromorphism is modulated by life history and height of the species. Key Results We show that heteromorphic species were more likely to naturalize outside their native range. However, among the naturalized species, heteromorphic and monomorphic species did not differ in the number of world regions where they became naturalized. A short life span and tall stature both promoted naturalization success and, when life history and height were included in the models, the effect of fruit heteromorphism on the ability to naturalize became non-significant. Nevertheless, among tall plants, heteromorphic ornamental species were significantly more likely to become naturalized in general and in more regions than monomorphic species. Conclusions Our results provide evidence that in Asteraceae the production of heteromorphic fruits is associated with naturalization success. It appears, however, that not fruit heteromorphism per se, but a successful combination of other biological traits in fruit heteromorphic species, namely short life span and tall stature, contributes to their naturalization success.

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