scholarly journals The ecology of ponds in the context of human activity and geography – environmental DNA and beyond

2021 ◽  
Vol 4 ◽  
Author(s):  
Karolina Bacela-Spychalska ◽  
Annette Taugbøl ◽  
Wiesław Babik ◽  
Maciej Pabijan ◽  
David Strand ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Alien Species ◽  
Invasive Alien Species ◽  
Environmental Dna ◽  
Genomic Variation ◽  
Genomic Diversity ◽  
Parasitic Fungus ◽  
Detailed Knowledge ◽  
Geographic Regions ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Pond Ecosystems

Pond ecosystems are hotspots of freshwater biodiversity, often containing many rare and protected species that are not commonly found elsewhere (Harper et al. 2018;Harper et al. 2019). However, even if they constitute c.a. 30% of freshwaters by area, still not enough effort has been put into pond monitoring and management and pond ecosystems are hence relatively poorly understood. Results of ECOPOND project will lead to add valuable knowledge upon pond diversity in geographic gradient taking for consideration human impact by comparing rural and urban areas. The sample design in ECOPOND includes six geographic regions, spanning from the south of Poland to the middle of Norway, where we will sample five replicates of urban and rural ponds in close geographic proximity, making it possible to test the impact of urbanization on biodiversity and biotic homogenization across latitude. We will sample all ponds at spring and late summer, making it possible to assess also seasonality in biodiversity. ECOPOND will utilize environmental DNA and RNA to perform biodiversity screening. The extracted eDNA and eRNA fragments will be amplified with the use of several selected markers for vertebrates, invertebrates, fungi and bacteria. Comparisons between eDNA and eRNA metabarcoding are hypothesized to allow inference between present and past diversity, as eRNA is thought to be only available from live organisms in the community. Moreover, ECOPOND aims at testing the effects of selected invasives species that can have on whole ecosystems. By sampling a range of biotic and abiotic parameters describing studied ponds, we will incorporate the available data for the ponds and employ occupancy modelling methods to assess the habitat preferences of selected invasive alien species. Then we will develop a method that can contribute towards an earlywarning system of evaluating threats to ecosystem status. One of the focus species will be the parasitic fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd), an infectious fungal pathogen that has caused a number of amphibian declines and extinctions. The European amphibians seem less affected by the parasite at present. However, the fungi could be a direct driver of reduced genetic variation due to selection, or directly reduce the infected amphibian’s overall fitness by reducing the microbiotic diversity on their skin, which in many cases acts as a second immune system. ECOPOND will therefore provide data on genomic variation (using RADseq) for two amphibian species: the smooth newt (Lissotriton vulgaris) and the common toad (Bufo bufo). We will investigate populations of these species inhabiting ponds that are infected and not infected by Bd as well as collect data on their skin microbes (identified using metabarcoding). We will also contrast the genomic diversity between the replicated urban/rural setup and look for repeatable genomic changes. This setup will also be compared for the genomic variation for a potential native prey, the blue-tailed dragonfly, as will ponds with and without fish and/or amphibians (possibly also comparing between native and IAS top-predators) in order to look for predatory selective sweeps in the genome and transcriptome (experimental setup). All ponds will also be analyzed for over 20 water quality parameters and include data on a range of site characteristics that will be used as explanatory variables in all models. ECOPOND will compare large datasets across large geographic regions and will provide detailed knowledge of biodiversity patterns in vertebrates, invertebrates, fungal and microbial species, as well as genomic composition and skin biodiversity for animals inhabiting the same ponds set in an urban context. As a total, ECOPOND will obtain data on the location and status of biodiversity interests, gather data that can help in preventing the establishment of invasive alien species, and eradicating or controlling species that have already become established. And finally, ECOPOND will work closely with stakeholders and develop statistical techniques that can be used for monitoring, detection and protection of biodiversity.

scholarly journals Invasive alien species on islands: impacts, distribution, interactions and management

2017 ◽  
Vol 44 (4) ◽  
pp. 359-370 ◽  
Author(s):  
JAMES C. RUSSELL ◽  
JEAN-YVES MEYER ◽  
NICK D. HOLMES ◽  
SHYAMA PAGAD
Keyword(s):  
Alien Species ◽  
Island Biogeography ◽  
Agricultural Intensification ◽  
Invasive Alien Species ◽  
Small Island ◽  
Future Directions ◽  
Correlated Patterns ◽  
Invasive Mammals ◽  
Geographic Regions ◽  
Over Exploitation

SUMMARYInvasive alien species (IASs) on islands have broad impacts across biodiversity, agriculture, economy, health and culture, which tend to be stronger than on continents. Across small-island developing states (SIDSs), although only a small number of IASs are widely distributed, many more, including those with greatest impact, are found on only a small number of islands. Patterns of island invasion are not consistent across SIDS geographic regions, with differences attributable to correlated patterns in island biogeography and human development. We identify 15 of the most globally prevalent IASs on islands. IAS impacts on islands are exacerbated through interactions with a number of other global change threats, including over-exploitation, agricultural intensification, urban development and climate change. Biosecurity is critical in preventing IAS invasion of islands. Eradication of IASs on islands is possible at early stages of invasion, but otherwise is largely restricted to invasive mammals, or otherwise control is the only option. Future directions in IAS management and research on islands must consider IASs within a broader portfolio of threats to species, ecosystems and people's livelihoods on islands. We advocate for stronger collaborations among island countries and territories faced with the same IASs in similar socio-ecological environments.

scholarly journals IMPACT OF INVASIVE ALIEN SPECIES ON BIODIVERSITY AND POPULATION STRUCTURE IN MORNI HILLS OF WESTERN HIMALAYA

2020 ◽  
Vol 11 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Anup Chandra ◽  
Ashok Kumar Dhakad
Keyword(s):  
Population Structure ◽  
Species Richness ◽  
Alien Species ◽  
Invasive Alien Species ◽  
Western Himalaya ◽  
Lantana Camara ◽  
Mountain Range ◽  
Forest Communities ◽  
Study Sites ◽  
The Impact

Species diversity, especially in forests, is one of the most important indices used to evaluate forest productivity, sustainability of forest communities and its ecological functioning and stand structure. Invasive alien species (IAS) are usually considered to be the second greatest threat to biodiversity after habitat destruction. The present study aims to characterize estimate the species richness, dominance of certain species distribution and population structure of major species in the study areas i.e. Kalka, Morni and Pinjore forest range of Panchkula Forest Division, Haryana lies under the Shiwalik mountain range of Western Himalaya. To achieve this, phytosociological study was carried out using quadrat method to assess the impact of IAS on plant diversity. We took twenty quardrats laid down in each site (10×10m for tree layer; 3×3m for shrubby layer and 1×1m for herbaceous flora) in both, invaded sites and control sites (without any IAS). In the study sites, Lantana camara was the major threat to the native flora. In general, diversity index (H) was higher at control site, however, species richness was found to be more in Lantana infested sites for trees and more or less equal for herbs and shrubs in control sites. This indicates the invasion of L. camara after the establishment of tree species in study sites. In all sites, the seedlings have significant more number than saplings and trees. But the conversion of saplings into trees was poor as well as the production of seedlings and their survival rate was very less or drastically reduced. Thus, there is an urgent need of conservation and management of alien invasive species in Himalayas and other parts of Indian forests. Lantana camara infestation can be managed if we utilize it for making handmade papers, handicrafts, baskets, toys, etc. by involving the self help groups and village forest communities.

scholarly journals IMPACT OF INVASIVE ALIEN SPECIES AND GENDER

2021 ◽  
Vol 9 (1) ◽  
pp. 78-84
Author(s):  
Sajani Shrestha
Keyword(s):  
Invasive Species ◽  
Alien Species ◽  
Invasive Alien Species ◽  
Habitat Degradation ◽  
Health And Safety ◽  
Biodiversity Loss ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Ecological Change ◽  
Fuel Wood ◽  
The Impact

Invasive Alien Species (IAS) is considered the second major cause of biodiversity loss and habitat degradation. They pose a serious threat to different ecosystems of Nepal such as agriculture, forestry, fisheries and natural systems. Invasive alien species affect people's livelihoods and human well-being. Some species are important sources of fuel wood, fodder, timber and food products for local households and communities. Similarly, some species hold cultural, spiritual and recreational significance. In contrast, they also harm livelihoods and increase vulnerability via land encroachment and reduction in mobility or access. In some cases, they also diminish the abundance of natural resources used by households and reduce agricultural production. This results in a loss of their income and increases vulnerability. Furthermore, some invasive species have also negative implications on human health and safety. Likewise, they are responsible for reducing the cultural value of landscapes. Invasive Alien Species are well-recognized drivers of social-ecological change. Extensive research on invasive species in Nepal has yet to be done. Therefore, the impact of invasive species on livelihoods and human well-being is a lesser-known concept.  The effect of benefits and costs analysis of invasive species on livelihoods and human well-being remains pivotal for policy-making and management. This article is based on the development of a comprehensive national strategy and plan of action to control and manage IAS in Nepal. It discusses the broader aspect and status of IAS in Nepal.

scholarly journals Warming mediates intraspecific multiple predator effects from an invasive crustacean

2021 ◽  
Vol 168 (3) ◽  
Author(s):  
Ross N. Cuthbert ◽  
Ryan J. Wasserman ◽  
Tatenda Dalu ◽  
Elizabeta Briski
Keyword(s):  
Alien Species ◽  
Trophic Interactions ◽  
Invasive Alien Species ◽  
Ecological Impacts ◽  
Feeding Rates ◽  
Functional Responses ◽  
Multiple Predator Effects ◽  
Predator Interactions ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Predator Effects

AbstractInvasive alien species impacts might be mediated by environmental factors such as climatic warming. For invasive predators, multiple predator interactions could also exacerbate or dampen ecological impacts. These effects may be especially pronounced in highly diverse coastal ecosystems that are prone to profound and rapid regime shifts. We examine emergent effects of warming on the strength of intraspecific multiple predator effects from a highly successful invasive gammarid Gammarus tigrinus, using a functional response approach towards larval chironomids (feeding rates under different prey densities). Single predator maximum feeding rates were three-times higher at 24 °C compared to 18 °C overall, with potentially prey destabilising type II functional responses exhibited. However, pairs of gammarids exhibited intraspecific multiple predator effects that were in turn mediated by temperature regime, whereby synergisms were found at the lower temperature (i.e. positive non-trophic interactions) and antagonisms detected at the higher temperature (i.e. negative non-trophic interactions) under high prey densities. Accordingly, warming scenarios may worsen the impact of this invasive alien species, yet implications of temperature change are dependent on predator–predator interactions. Emergent effects between abiotic and biotic factors should be considered in ecological impact predictions across habitat types for invasive alien species.

scholarly journals The recorded economic costs of alien invasive species in Italy

NeoBiota ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 67 ◽  
pp. 247-266 ◽  
Author(s):  
Phillip J. Haubrock ◽  
Ross N. Cuthbert ◽  
Elena Tricarico ◽  
Christophe Diagne ◽  
Franck Courchamp ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Alien Species ◽  
Invasive Alien Species ◽  
Grey Literature ◽  
Economic Cost ◽  
Ecological Impacts ◽  
Alien Invasive Species ◽  
Economic Costs ◽  
Cost Estimates ◽  
Taxonomic Groups ◽  
The Impact

Whilst the ecological impacts of invasion by alien species have been well documented, little is known of the economic costs incurred. The impacts of invasive alien species on the economy can be wide-ranging, from management costs, to loss of crops, to infrastructure damage. However, details on these cost estimates are still lacking, particularly at national and regional scales. In this study, we use data from the first global assessment of economic costs of invasive alien species (InvaCost), where published economic cost data were systematically gathered from scientific and grey literature. We aimed to describe the economic cost of invasions in Italy, one of the most invaded countries in Europe, with an estimate of more than 3,000 alien species. The overall economic cost of invasions to Italy between 1990 and 2020 was estimated at US$ 819.76 million (EUR€ 704.78 million). This cost was highest within terrestrial habitats, with considerably fewer costs being exclusively associated with aquatic habitats and management methods, highlighting a bias within current literature. There was also a clear indication of informational gaps, with only 15 recorded species with costs. Further, we observed a tendency towards particular taxonomic groups, with insect species accounting for the majority of cost estimates in Italy. Globally, invasion rates are not slowing down and the associated economic impact is thus expected to increase. Therefore, the evaluation and reporting of economic costs need to be improved across taxa, in order to mitigate and efficiently manage the impact of invasions on economies.

scholarly journals DNA-based identification of invasive alien species in relation to Canadian federal policy and law, and the basis of rapid-response management

Genome ◽  
2016 ◽  
Vol 59 (11) ◽  
pp. 1023-1031 ◽  
Author(s):  
Vernon G. Thomas ◽  
Robert H. Hanner ◽  
Alex V. Borisenko
Keyword(s):  
Invasive Species ◽  
Alien Species ◽  
Invasive Alien Species ◽  
Environmental Dna ◽  
Rapid Response ◽  
Taxonomic Identification ◽  
Diagnostic Features ◽  
The Usa ◽  
Parks Canada ◽  
Health Canada

Managing invasive alien species in Canada requires reliable taxonomic identification as the basis of rapid-response management. This can be challenging, especially when organisms are small and lack morphological diagnostic features. DNA-based techniques, such as DNA barcoding, offer a reliable, rapid, and inexpensive toolkit for taxonomic identification of individual or bulk samples, forensic remains, and even environmental DNA. Well suited for this requirement, they could be more broadly deployed and incorporated into the operating policy and practices of Canadian federal departments and should be authorized under these agencies’ articles of law. These include Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Transport Canada, Environment Canada, Parks Canada, and Health Canada. These efforts should be harmonized with the appropriate provisions of provincial jurisdictions, for example, the Ontario Invasive Species Act. This approach necessitates that a network of accredited, certified laboratories exists, and that updated DNA reference libraries are readily accessible. Harmonizing this approach is vital among Canadian federal agencies, and between the federal and provincial levels of government. Canadian policy and law must also be harmonized with that of the USA when detecting, and responding to, invasive species in contiguous lands and waters. Creating capacity in legislation for use of DNA-based identifications brings the authority to fund, train, deploy, and certify staff, and to refine further developments in this molecular technology.

scholarly journals Multilevel Coordination and Cooperation during Implementing Supranational Environmental Legislation: A Case Study on Invasive Alien Species

2019 ◽  
Vol 11 (6) ◽  
pp. 1531
Author(s):  
A. Roman ◽  
Volker Mauerhofer
Keyword(s):  
Alien Species ◽  
Regional Integration ◽  
Invasive Alien Species ◽  
International Environmental Agreements ◽  
The European Union ◽  
Online Questionnaire ◽  
Realistic View ◽  
Supranational Regulation ◽  
The Impact

Coordination and cooperation are necessary topics to strengthen international environmental agreements that improve action against worldwide challenges towards sustainable development and environmental protection, such as invasive alien species (IAS). This study aims to assess to what extent national and transnational cooperation and coordination influences the implementation of a supranational regulation against IAS based on an example from the European Union (EU). Data is used from a broader study, including 47 responses to an online questionnaire and 22 interviews completed by experts from two countries (Austria and Romania), together with in depth literature. Additionally, the IAS-Regulation is analyzed from the perspective of cooperation and coordination. The terms “cooperation” and “coordination” were found within the text of the IAS-Regulation 11 and nine times respectively, whereas their context was transnational and national levels mainly, and transnational, respectively. It was further acknowledged from the majority of the answers from the survey respondents that the national coordination and cooperation is weaker than the transnational level due to the influence of the national competence distribution. Results from the interviews are separated into ‘transnational’ and ‘national’ cooperation and coordination. They show that the majority of the 47 responses indicate that the distribution of competence is one of the main influencing factors on the implementation. It is concluded that the current situation of cooperation and coordination in Austria and Romania renders it difficult for the European Commission to receive a realistic view about IAS and the implementation of the IAS Regulation in the two countries; hence, it is difficult to offer helpful support especially due to poor national cooperation. The current study can serve as a blueprint for further studies. Even in regional integration contexts beyond the EU, it can prove helpful to assess the impact of different kinds of competence distribution on the implementation of common norms. Thus, this research can path the way innovatively and serve as a comparative example for similar future studies.

scholarly journals Ecological and socioeconomic impacts of invasive alien species in island ecosystems

2007 ◽  
Vol 34 (2) ◽  
pp. 98-111 ◽  
Author(s):  
JAMIE K. REASER ◽  
LAURA A. MEYERSON ◽  
QUENTIN CRONK ◽  
MAJ DE POORTER ◽  
L.G. ELDREGE ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Alien Species ◽  
Invasive Alien Species ◽  
Technical Information ◽  
Sufficient Evidence ◽  
Population Declines ◽  
Island Ecosystems ◽  
Socioeconomic Impacts ◽  
Policy Makers ◽  
Goods And Services ◽  
The Impact

Minimizing the impact of invasive alien species (IAS) on islands and elsewhere requires researchers to provide cogent information on the environmental and socioeconomic consequences of IAS to the public and policy makers. Unfortunately, this information has not been readily available owing to a paucity of scientific research and the failure of the scientific community to make their findings readily available to decision makers. This review explores the vulnerability of islands to biological invasion, reports on environmental and socioeconomic impacts of IAS on islands and provides guidance and information on technical resources that can help minimize the effects of IAS in island ecosystems. This assessment is intended to provide a holistic perspective on island-IAS dynamics, enable biologists and social scientists to identify information gaps that warrant further research and serve as a primer for policy makers seeking to minimize the impact of IAS on island systems. Case studies have been selected to reflect the most scientifically-reliable information on the impacts of IAS on islands. Sufficient evidence has emerged to conclude that IAS are the most significant drivers of population declines and species extinctions in island ecosystems worldwide. Clearly, IAS can also have significant socioeconomic impacts directly (for example human health) and indirectly through their effects on ecosystem goods and services. These impacts are manifest at all ecological levels and affect the poorest, as well as richest, island nations. The measures needed to prevent and minimize the impacts of IAS on island ecosystems are generally known. However, many island nations and territories lack the scientific and technical information, infrastructure and human and financial resources necessary to adequately address the problems caused by IAS. Because every nation is an exporter and importer of goods and services, every nation is also a facilitator and victim of the invasion of alien species. Wealthy nations therefore need to help raise the capacity of island nations and territories to minimize the spread and impact of IAS.

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