An Integrative Approach of Taxonomic, Morphometric and Ecological Research to Solve the Status of Cryptic Chelonian Taxa—A Case Study With Pelomedusa kobe in Rwanda

African Journal of Ecology, Год журнала: 2025, Номер 63(1)

Опубликована: Янв. 1, 2025

ABSTRACT Using genetic data, we confirm for the first time presence of Tanzanian helmeted terrapin Pelomedusa kobe in Akagera National Park, Rwanda, extending their known distribution. Our study provides natural history observations, population and morphological data this species from a wild population. As genus are morphologically difficult to distinguish, gain insights into intraspecific interspecific patterns size shape variation plastron morphology between two morphologically‐similar living Eastern Africa, P. subrufa , using geometric morphometrics. Species affiliation, rather than sex, is dominant factor influencing variation. exhibits female‐based sexual dimorphism (SSD), while shows tendency toward male‐based SSD. Furthermore, (SShD) was observed but not . results provide integrative (genetic, history) on however further information distribution park needed effective conservation data‐deficient species. findings lay groundwork future ecological studies potentially revealing unique adaptations needs previously overlooked due its cryptic nature.

Язык: Английский

Morphological Species Delimitation in The Western Pond Turtle (Actinemys): Can Machine Learning Methods Aid in Cryptic Species Identification?

Integrative Organismal Biology, Год журнала: 2024, Номер 6(1)

Опубликована: Янв. 1, 2024

As the discovery of cryptic species has increased in frequency, there been an interest whether geometric morphometric data can detect fine-scale patterns variation that be used to morphologically diagnose such species. We a combination and ensemble five supervised machine learning methods (MLMs) investigate plastron shape differentiate two putative turtle species, Actinemys marmorata pallida. focus considerable research due its biogeographic distribution conservation status. Despite this work, reliable morphological diagnoses for are still lacking. validated our approach on datasets, one consisting eight disparate emydid other subspecies Trachemys (T. scripta scripta, T. elegans). The validation tests returned near-perfect classification rates, demonstrating is effective means distinguishing taxonomic groups emydids via MLMs. In contrast, same did not return high rates set alternative phylogeographic binning schemes Actinemys. All hypotheses performed poorly relative datasets no single hypothesis was unequivocally supported Two had performance marginally better than remaining hypotheses. both cases, those favored two-species split between A. pallida specimens, lending tentative support However, results also underscore as whole lower levels plastral turtles within Emydidae, but reason conservatism unclear.

Язык: Английский

A review of migratory Alosidae marine ecology in the northwest Atlantic

Journal of Fish Biology, Год журнала: 2024, Номер unknown

Опубликована: Ноя. 10, 2024

Migratory animals play a crucial role in connecting distinct habitats by transferring matter and energy across ecosystem boundaries. In the North Atlantic, anadromous species exemplify this through their movement between freshwater marine environments. Alosids, including such as alewife (Alosa pseudoharengus), blueback herring aestivalis), American shad sapidissima), exhibit migratory behavior to maximize growth fecundity are, therefore, vital components of Atlantic coastal ecosystems. Despite ecological importance, these have experienced considerable population declines. Due research focus on dams phase ecology, ecology Alosids remains much less understood, potentially hindering effective management. This paper synthesizes current knowledge alewife, herring, northwest focusing life-history aspects, patterns, foraging at sea. The also outlines fisheries management anthropogenic threats face during phase. We identified gaps regarding distribution, migration routes, impacts climate change behavior, dynamics, identification gaspereau. By identifying literature, we highlight needs, emphasizing telemetry studies tracking movements impact habitat use. Addressing targeted patterns is essential for developing informed strategies aimed increasing Alosid populations.

Язык: Английский