Integrative Zoology[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
The Effects of Noise on the Juvenile Life Stage of Crustaceans: Behavioral, Cellular, and Molecular Responses in Procambarus clarkii.
Ceraulo M, Buscaino G, De Vita C … +6 more , Vizzini A, Vazzana M, Papale E, Longo F, Faraone FP, Mauro M
Integr Zool · 2026 Apr · PMID 41996608 · Publisher ↗
Underwater noise from human activities is an increasing concern due to its potential ecological impacts. While knowledge on its effects on aquatic species is growing, responses of juvenile invertebrates remain poorly und...
Underwater noise from human activities is an increasing concern due to its potential ecological impacts. While knowledge on its effects on aquatic species is growing, responses of juvenile invertebrates remain poorly understood. This study investigated behavioral, cellular, and molecular responses to noise (1-20 kHz linear sweep) in juvenile Procambarus clarkii (Girard, 1852). Behavioral parameters (including movement, interactions, feeding, and tail flips) were recorded using overhead video and analyzed with BORIS software. Cellular assays measured esterase, alkaline phosphatase, glucose, total protein (TP), peroxidase, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and cytotoxicity. Additionally, gene expression of crustin, prophenoloxidase (proPO), Heat shock protein 70 (HSP70), Heat shock protein 90 (HSP90), caspase, SOD and catalase (CAT) was assessed via real-time PCR. Specimens exposed to underwater noise exhibited increased interactions and feeding, but no significant changes in movement were observed. Results of cellular analysis revealed elevated protein content, hydrolase, and antioxidant activity, while glucose and cytotoxicity levels decreased. Molecular analyses showed upregulation of immune and stress-related genes (crustin, proPO, HSP70, HSP90, and caspase) and downregulation of SOD and CAT, indicating potential oxidative stress. These findings suggest that even early life stages of invertebrates are sensitive to underwater noise disturbance, affecting the specimens at multiple interconnected levels.
Gut Microbiota of Gray Snub-Nosed Monkeys: Adaptation to Seasonal Variations Through Energy Compensation and Thermogenesis.
Sun Y, Zhang M, Wang X … +15 more , Huang X, Yu Y, Pan H, Li H, Shi L, Yang W, Zhang C, Ding B, Liu X, Li J, Qian C, Cheng B, Zhang C, Ran J, Li M
Integr Zool · 2026 Apr · PMID 41990029 · Publisher ↗
As an extremely endangered species, the gray snub-nosed monkey (Rhinopithecus brelichi) relies on its gut microbiota for adaptation to environmental changes, particularly in coping with fluctuations in energy and nutrien...
As an extremely endangered species, the gray snub-nosed monkey (Rhinopithecus brelichi) relies on its gut microbiota for adaptation to environmental changes, particularly in coping with fluctuations in energy and nutrient availability. In this study, we employed metagenomic, metatranscriptomic, and widely targeted metabolomic analyses to characterize the gut microbiota of gray snub-nosed monkeys. Based on metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs), we recovered 1229 non-redundant MAGs. Among them, a total of 103 MAGs exhibited significant seasonal variation, primarily belonging to the phyla Bacillota_A, Bacteroidota, and Bacillota_I. During winter, metagenomic results indicated that the gut microbiota exhibited an enhanced capacity to produce energy substrates such as amino acids, short-chain fatty acids, pyruvate, and acetyl-CoA, with increased conversion of these substrates. Metatranscriptomic analysis further confirmed that key carbon cycle-related genes and metabolic pathways were significantly upregulated in winter. Additionally, metabolite analysis indicated significantly lower levels of amino acids in winter fecal samples, suggesting that gray snub-nosed monkeys efficiently absorb and utilize metabolites, with the gut microbiota likely contributing to energy compensation. Notably, the gut microbiota may also synergistically support the host's non-shivering thermogenesis, helping maintain physiological functions in extreme cold conditions. This study elucidates the cooperative role of the gut microbiota in helping gray snub-nosed monkeys adapt to seasonal environmental fluctuations, providing new insights into how gut microbiota optimize winter energy utilization-an understanding with important implications for the conservation of endangered wildlife.
Urbanization Modifies Birds' Acoustic Circadian Timing and Characteristics.
Xu W, Li J, Xu Y … +3 more , Han Z, Huang W, Wang H
Integr Zool · 2026 Apr · PMID 41989994 · Publisher ↗
Urban-dwelling organisms face significant challenges, and understanding how species adapt to novel urban environments is critical for conservation planning. In this study, we collected avian vocalization data from 220 si...
Urban-dwelling organisms face significant challenges, and understanding how species adapt to novel urban environments is critical for conservation planning. In this study, we collected avian vocalization data from 220 sites across varying urbanization gradients in China using autonomous recording units SM4 to investigate how urbanization affects the circadian timing and characteristics of bird vocalizations. We found that all 60 bird species in highly urbanized areas advanced their dawn singing by an average of 23.89 min. Although not statistically significant, the dusk singing time was delayed by an average of 6.56 min. Urban-adapted species showed greater shifts compared to urban-sensitive taxa like woodpeckers. Additionally, by analyzing the acoustic characteristics of 3371 vocalizations from three widely distributed bird species, we investigated how avian acoustic traits vary along urbanization gradients. We found that the Asian tit (Parus cinereus) reduced its maximum frequency in highly urbanized areas. In contrast, the light-vented bulbul (Pycnonotus sinensis) and Eurasian tree sparrow (Passer montanus) adapted to the novel urban environment by increasing their minimum frequency and adjusting song structure. While such adjustments in singing timing and acoustic features may improve signal transmission efficiency, the ecological consequences-particularly in terms of immediate and ultimate fitness-remain largely unknown.
Economic Costs of Biological Invasions in Marine Systems.
Yu L, Zhang C, Li S … +12 more , Zhan A, Katsanevakis S, Haubrock PJ, Courtois P, Kourantidou M, Tarkan AS, Renault D, Dolan EJ, Huang H, Zhang Y, Cuthbert RN, Liu C
Integr Zool · 2026 Apr · PMID 41989983 · Publisher ↗
Marine systems worldwide are suffering escalating impacts from biological invasions, with increasing threats projected for the future. Despite substantial financial investments in managing marine invasive species, knowle...
Marine systems worldwide are suffering escalating impacts from biological invasions, with increasing threats projected for the future. Despite substantial financial investments in managing marine invasive species, knowledge of their impacts remains patchy across regions and organismal groups. A global assessment of economic costs is urgently needed to assess invasion risk, guide management, and identify knowledge gaps. We analyzed the total economic costs of marine biological invasions worldwide from 1975 to 2021, examining the distributions of costs across time, regions, and organismal groups. Over this period, marine invasive species have cost at least US$4.3 billion, with the majority (US$3.0 billion) resulting from resource damages rather than management investments. These costs revealed substantial geographic and organismal biases. While most entries (56.8%) were associated with invasive plants, most of the costs (76.7%) were linked to invasive invertebrates. Moreover, the majority of costs were driven by a single species within each organismal group. Economic costs were available for only 26 out of 146 coastal countries, with sporadic data from Africa and South America. Economic costs were positively associated with national GDP but unrelated to the number of invaders. Compared to terrestrial (US$2 trillion) and freshwater (US$104.8 billion) systems, marine systems had both lower numbers and magnitudes of economic costs, with all values referring to total costs between 1975 and 2021. These findings highlight the need for improved management and cost-reporting systems to better address the impacts of marine invasions. In particular, management efforts should prioritize high-risk species and highly vulnerable regions, with the development of species-specific management strategies to enhance effectiveness. Moreover, proactive measures, such as strengthened regulations and pathway management, are crucial for reducing future risks and conserving marine biodiversity.
Availability of a Keystone Plant Resource Reduces Niche Overlap and Drives Distinct Species-Specific Changes in Niche Breadth Among Small Rodents.
Perini AA, Vieira EM
Integr Zool · 2026 Apr · PMID 41973622 · Publisher ↗
The araucaria pine (Araucaria angustifolia) is a putative keystone species in the Araucaria Forest of southern South America. Its large seeds (pinhões) constitute an important food resource for small rodents, whose abund...
The araucaria pine (Araucaria angustifolia) is a putative keystone species in the Araucaria Forest of southern South America. Its large seeds (pinhões) constitute an important food resource for small rodents, whose abundance and trophic dynamics may vary with seed availability. We investigated the dietary importance of Araucaria angustifolia seeds for three native omnivorous sigmodontine rodents-Akodon paranaensis, Oligoryzomys flavescens, and Oligoryzomys nigripes-and evaluated whether their responses to seed availability support a single functional-group assumption. If rodents act as a single functional group, increased pinhão consumption should reduce niche breadth, increase interspecific niche overlap, and raise rodent abundance during seed production. We assessed rodent abundance through trapping over ten months spanning seed production and non-production periods and analyzed stomach contents to characterize diet composition. Food items were grouped into five categories, with arthropods, pinhões, and other seeds or fruits accounting for more than ninety-five percent of all recorded items. Arthropods were consumed more frequently during the non-production period, particularly by Akodon paranaensis. In contrast, Oligoryzomys species consumed more pinhões and reached peak abundance during the production period. Trophic niche overlap was greater than expected by chance only during the non-production period. During seed production, Oligoryzomys species reduced their niche breadth, whereas Akodon paranaensis broadened its diet, being less dependent on Araucaria angustifolia seeds. Overall, species exhibited distinct responses to pinhão availability, with Oligoryzomys spp.-especially O. nigripes-showing stronger functional and numerical responses, underscoring their key role in Araucaria seed-rodent interactions.
Genomic-Environmental Integration Predicts Climate Vulnerability and Adaptive Potential of Tibetan Plateau Herpetofauna.
Zhe M, Zhang Z, Sun Y
Integr Zool · 2026 Apr · PMID 41962080 · Publisher ↗
The herpetofauna of the Tibetan Plateau, home to Earth's highest-elevation ectothermic vertebrates, face escalating threats from rapid climate change. However, conventional conservation strategies often overlook intraspe...
The herpetofauna of the Tibetan Plateau, home to Earth's highest-elevation ectothermic vertebrates, face escalating threats from rapid climate change. However, conventional conservation strategies often overlook intraspecific genetic variation and adaptive potential, limiting their predictive accuracy and effectiveness. Here, we integrate whole-genome resequencing data with environmental modeling to assess climate vulnerability in two endemic species: Nanorana parkeri (Tibetan frog) and Thermophis baileyi (hot-spring snake). Results suggest that the western populations of the two species exhibit higher genomic offsets under future climate, while some eastern populations of the Tibetan frog face a decrease in niche suitability, and the hot-spring snake will experience varying degrees of loss of suitable habitats. Furthermore, heterozygosity, genetic diversity, and genetic load demonstrate significant correlations with genomic offsets, suggesting that low genetic diversity and high genetic load may weaken the potential to adapt to environmental changes. Based on a genome-niche index that combines genomic offsets with niche suitability change, we identified evolutionary rescue populations that are potentially tolerant to climate change. Our findings underscore the importance of integrating genomic and environmental data to forecast the adaptive potential and enable effective conservation management of high-altitude herpetofauna under rapid climate change.
Exposure to Environmental Microbes Alters Responsiveness of Tadpole Gut Microbiome to Dietary Tannins.
Westcott RG, Rudzki EN, Emerson KJ … +2 more , Woodley SK, Kohl KD
Integr Zool · 2026 Apr · PMID 41962053 · Publisher ↗
Amphibian larvae consume variable diets in the wild, which can include tannin-rich plant material. Tannins are secondary metabolites that, when consumed, could have complex effects on herbivorous amphibian larvae, includ...
Amphibian larvae consume variable diets in the wild, which can include tannin-rich plant material. Tannins are secondary metabolites that, when consumed, could have complex effects on herbivorous amphibian larvae, including altering their microbiome. Previous studies on the effects of dietary tannic acid on tadpoles were performed using laboratory water, largely devoid of natural microbes. Given that tadpoles acquire much of their gut microbiota from the aquatic environment, we sought to understand the effect of dietary tannins on tadpole size and the gut microbiome when animals were raised in natural pond water, supplying a diverse repertoire of microbes. We raised Green Frog (Lithobates clamitans) tadpoles in autoclaved (microbially depleted) or natural (microbially rich) pond water treatments for 4 weeks. Tadpoles were fed a control diet or a diet containing 2% tannic acid. Tadpoles raised in natural pond water had a greater body mass and length than those raised in autoclaved pond water, but dietary tannins had no effect on body size. Gut bacterial diversity was profiled using 16S rRNA sequencing. The gut microbiome from tadpoles raised in natural pond water was more diverse than that of tadpoles raised in autoclaved pond water. In general, dietary tannins caused a decrease in bacterial diversity and a net reduction in the relative abundance of potentially pathogenic bacterial genera in tadpoles raised in natural pond water but not autoclaved pond water. This study highlights the importance of replicating natural microbial contexts in captive experiments to better investigate biological interactions, such as plant-herbivore and host-microbe interactions.
Adaptive Evolution of FOXO Family Regulating Lifespan Extension and Cancer Resistance in Long-Lived Species.
Sun L, Chen X, Zhang H … +3 more , Xu Z, Yang G, Xu S
Integr Zool · 2026 Apr · PMID 41962044 · Publisher ↗
The extension of lifespan has evolved independently multiple times in mammals. Long-lived species exhibit markedly lower cancer mortality rates, indicating that they may have evolved enhanced cancer resistance to accommo...
The extension of lifespan has evolved independently multiple times in mammals. Long-lived species exhibit markedly lower cancer mortality rates, indicating that they may have evolved enhanced cancer resistance to accommodate their prolonged lifespan. The FOXO protein family is considered to play key roles in modulating lifespan and cancer resistance in model organisms. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms of the FOXO protein family regulating lifespan extension and cancer resistance in long-lived species remain poorly understood. Here, evolutionary analysis of four FOXO genes across 137 mammalian species revealed all the four genes were under overall purifying selection. Nonetheless, we detected modestly elevated ω values in long-lived lineages relative to background groups, and 18 positively selected sites were identified in the four FOXO genes in long-lived mammals. To further test whether these FOXO genes have occurred functional changes, we selected FOXO3 and FOXO4 to perform functional validation. Cell experiments demonstrated that bowhead whale FOXO3 and FOXO4 significantly inhibited HeLa cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Subcellular localization assays showed that mouse FOXO3 and FOXO4 were mostly distributed in the cytosolic cytoplasm, whereas bowhead whale FOXO3 and FOXO4 were predominantly localized in the nucleus, which may increase transcriptional activity and inhibit tumorigenesis in cetaceans. In particular, bowhead whale FOXO3 was found to upregulate the tumor suppressors PTEN and FASL while downregulating the oncogene BCL6, suggesting that this FOXO3-driven expression pattern may underlie cancer resistance in long-lived mammals. Overall, our findings provide novel insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying the cancer resistance in mammals.
A Novel Antioxidant Peptide Cath-Np Derived from Nanorana parkeri Attenuates UVB-Induced Skin Photodamage in Mice.
Liao H, Shen X, Chai J … +6 more , Wang K, Wu J, Yang J, Chen M, Mo G, Xu X
Integr Zool · 2026 Apr · PMID 41962043 · Publisher ↗
The frog skin-derived antioxidant peptides have great potential for relieving injury caused by ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation, and have therefore attracted increasing attention. However, the research on these peptides is...
The frog skin-derived antioxidant peptides have great potential for relieving injury caused by ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation, and have therefore attracted increasing attention. However, the research on these peptides is far from sufficient. This study characterized a new antioxidant peptide, Cath-Np (AGGKKECKDYYCRLLTKLGSRGHISGVDL), from the skin of Nanorana parkeri. Cath-Np possessed strong ABTS and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging, potassium ferricyanide reducing, and DNA-protecting effects. Cath-Np was also able to reduce the abnormal elevation of reactive oxygen species and neutrophil migration in zebrafish. Notably, Cath-Np significantly reduced the oxidative damage, inhibited inflammatory factor production by suppressing the activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase and p53 while activating the Nrf2 signaling pathways, and consequently exerted a protective effect against skin photodamage in UVB-irradiated mice. Hence, our results help to better understand the adaptation mechanism of N. parkeri to the extreme environmental conditions of the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau. Meanwhile, they also highlight the potential application of Cath-Np as a protective agent against damage caused by UVB radiation and offer a novel candidate molecule for developing anti-photodamage drugs and cosmetic products.
Diet Metabarcoding Reveals Correlations Between the Consumption of Slugs and Hepatic Toxicants in European Hedgehogs (Erinaceus europaeus).
Fieschi-Méric L, Van Leeuwen P, De Bruyckere S … +3 more , Vervaeke M, Pasmans F, Martel A
Integr Zool · 2026 Apr · PMID 41950490 · Publisher ↗
The European hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus) is currently designated as near threatened by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature. Threats include reduced prey availability, emerging pathogens, and environ...
The European hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus) is currently designated as near threatened by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature. Threats include reduced prey availability, emerging pathogens, and environmental contaminants. Improving knowledge of food preferences and the role of diet in disease and exposure to toxins is important for its conservation. We used fecal DNA metabarcoding to characterize the diet of 209 hedgehogs in Europe. Stylommatophora (slugs and snails) made up the most frequent order in the hedgehog diet (found in 92% of individuals), followed by Haplotaxida (earthworms; 54%), Coleoptera (beetles; 54%), Lepidoptera (moths and butterflies; 48%), and Orthoptera (grasshoppers, locusts, and crickets; 54%). Presumed anthropogenic food, primarily in the form of pet food, was consumed by 29% of hedgehogs. We found no relation between diet and infection with pathogens (Corynebacterium ulcerans or circovirus). However, diet richness was negatively correlated with hepatic concentration in brodifacoum, a widely used rodenticide. Moreover, the relative abundance of Stylommatophora in the hedgehog diet was positively correlated with their hepatic concentration of zinc. Generally, Stylommatophora consumption was most frequent at locations of highest cumulated rainfall. The near-ubiquity of invasive Spanish slugs (Arion vulgaris; found in 80% of individuals) in the diet is concerning for hedgehog conservation, since this species is a known vector of lungworm parasites and accumulates high concentrations of environmental contaminants, such as zinc and rodenticides. Overall, this study provides a novel, high-resolution view of hedgehog diet composition and highlights the need for further research on the role of terrestrial gastropods as toxicant vectors through food webs.
Low Temperature Reduces Byssus Adhesion of Highly Invasive Golden Mussels: Influencing Mechanisms and Antifouling Implications.
Zhang M, Li S, Wang F … +2 more , He D, Zhan A
Integr Zool · 2026 Apr · PMID 41950489 · Publisher ↗
Byssus adhesion-based biofouling by invasive mussels poses threats to freshwater ecosystems and underwater facilities. Among existing antifouling strategies, high-temperature treatment, though effective, is limited by hi...
Byssus adhesion-based biofouling by invasive mussels poses threats to freshwater ecosystems and underwater facilities. Among existing antifouling strategies, high-temperature treatment, though effective, is limited by high energy consumption and potential surface damage. Low-temperature treatment offers a promising alternative, but its mechanisms remain poorly understood. Here, we used the invasive golden mussel (Limnoperna fortunei) as a model species to investigate the mechanisms by which low temperatures (15°C and 5°C) affect byssus adhesion. Our results showed low-temperature exposures significantly reduced adhesion rates, primarily by limiting byssus production and decreasing byssus breaking force. Staining analysis observed foot gland atrophy and thickened collagen, suggesting disrupted byssal protein secretion. Additionally, reduced levels of tyrosinase and polyphenol oxidase further suggested the decreased byssus structural integrity due to disrupted byssal protein cross-linking. Individual and integrated transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses confirmed downregulations of genes/pathways for byssal protein synthesis (such as Foot protein 15, Putative foot protein-2, and the Phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan biosynthesis pathway) and upregulations of metabolites (pretyrosine and genipin) linked to protein cross-linking disruption, which collectively restricted byssal protein synthesis, precursor availability, and cross-linking processes. Notably, integrated transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses also revealed that low-temperature exposures activated survival-prioritized responses, including antioxidant, cellular stress response, immune regulation, and anti-apoptosis, reallocating energy from byssus production to stress responses and contributing to the reduced byssus adhesion. These findings advance low-temperature treatment as a strategy for controlling freshwater mussel biofouling and provide a foundation for developing targeted, environmentally sustainable antifouling approaches.
Urbanization and Vector Species Shape Avian Malaria Prevalence in Mosquitoes.
Parra P, Veiga J, Garrigós M … +3 more , Panisse G, Garrido M, Martínez-de la Puente J
Integr Zool · 2026 Apr · PMID 41941326 · Publisher ↗
Avian malaria prevalence was assessed in two mosquito species across urban and peri-urban habitats. No infections were detected in either species in urban areas, while a 2.53% prevalence was found in the native Culex pip...
Avian malaria prevalence was assessed in two mosquito species across urban and peri-urban habitats. No infections were detected in either species in urban areas, while a 2.53% prevalence was found in the native Culex pipiens from peri-urban sites, highlighting the influence of urbanization on parasite transmission dynamics.
The Age of Female Pardosa pseudoannulata Affects the Attractiveness of Their Dragline Silk Sex Pheromones to Males.
Wu Y, Tu C, Zhu H … +8 more , Zhang H, Xiao W, Xie Z, Li L, Zhao Y, Zong Q, Liu J, Peng Y
Integr Zool · 2026 Apr · PMID 41941303 · Publisher ↗
This study aimed to investigate whether the attractiveness of female dragline silk sex pheromones in the wolf spider Pardosa pseudoannulata varies with female age, and to identify the key chemical compounds responsible f...
This study aimed to investigate whether the attractiveness of female dragline silk sex pheromones in the wolf spider Pardosa pseudoannulata varies with female age, and to identify the key chemical compounds responsible for male attraction. We conducted integrated behavioral, chemical, and electrophysiological analyses. Dragline silk was collected from females of three age groups (young, middle-aged, and old). Male courtship behaviors were assessed in response to silk exposure. Silk extracts were analyzed using gas chromatography coupled with electroantennographic detection and mass spectrometry. Candidate pheromone compounds were further evaluated via electroantennography and Y-tube olfactometer assays to confirm their behavioral relevance. Male spiders exhibited significantly stronger courtship responses, shorter latency, higher palpal drumming, and increased leg vibration, toward silk from young and middle-aged females compared to older females. Three compounds-oleic acid, n-heptacosane, and squalene-were consistently identified as key pheromone components across age groups. Their electrophysiological activity was concentration and solvent dependent, while behavioral attraction was confirmed under tested conditions. In behavioral assays, synthetic versions of these compounds at 0.01 µg/µL in mineral oil significantly attracted males, confirming their role as sex pheromone components. The findings demonstrate that female age significantly influences the chemical composition and attractiveness of dragline silk pheromones in P. pseudoannulata. Younger females produce more attractive pheromone blends, guiding male mate preference. The identification of oleic acid, n-heptacosane, and squalene as bioactive compounds provides new insights into spider chemical ecology and supports potential applications in eco-friendly pest management strategies.
The Northern Pygmy Slow Loris Xanthonycticebus intermedius Found in Guangxi, China.
Yang D, Wei X, Liu S … +5 more , Huang S, Long J, Bin G, Zhou Q, Fan P
Integr Zool · 2026 Apr · PMID 41941293 · Publisher ↗
The northern pygmy slow loris (Xanthonycticebus intermedius) is the highest priority protected wild animal in China and is listed among the world's Top 25 Most Endangered Primates (2023-2025). From June to October 2025,...
The northern pygmy slow loris (Xanthonycticebus intermedius) is the highest priority protected wild animal in China and is listed among the world's Top 25 Most Endangered Primates (2023-2025). From June to October 2025, we performed comprehensive nighttime spotlight surveys across southwestern and southern Guangxi, China. For the first time, we confirmed stable populations of X. intermedius in Bobai, Ningming, Longzhou, and Pingxiang counties. A total of 98 individuals were recorded, likely representing the largest known population of this species in China.
Evolutionary Shifts in Rhodopsin Function Illuminate Dim-Light Adaptations in Birds.
Liu F, Zhou K, Li S … +9 more , Zhang Y, Chi H, Zhan Y, Zhu Y, Zhang J, Wang Z, Rossiter SJ, Liu Y, Zhang S
Integr Zool · 2026 Mar · PMID 41915632 · Publisher ↗
Rhodopsin evolution suggests the ancestral bird lineage underwent a shift from dim-light environments to niches characterized by brighter conditions. Despite this, little is known about functional variation of rhodopsin...
Rhodopsin evolution suggests the ancestral bird lineage underwent a shift from dim-light environments to niches characterized by brighter conditions. Despite this, little is known about functional variation of rhodopsin or its consequences for sensory ecology in crown birds. Here, we performed in vitro expression and determined the retinal release rate and spectral tuning of rhodopsin pigments in 16 extant bird species, including seven members of two clades adapted to nocturnal niches, namely owls and nightbirds (nightjars and allies). We found that rhodopsin retinal release was conserved in owls but accelerated in nightbirds, suggesting adaptation for higher temporal resolution in dim light. The oilbird (Steatornis caripensis), which inhabits caves and uses echolocation, showed the fastest release rate, possibly representing convergent evolution with echolocating bats that exhibit similar kinetics. Unexpectedly, the flightless cassowary (Casuarius casuarius) exhibited a blue-shifted spectral tuning of rhodopsin relative to its close relative, the emu (Dromaius novaehollandiae). Blue-shifted rhodopsins were also identified in another bird, the white-bellied erpornis (Erpornis zantholeuca), and in a terrestrial mammal, the okapi (Okapia johnstoni), but not in its close relative, the giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis). Thus, the blue-shifted rhodopsin, normally associated with deep-sea or fossorial amniotes, appears to have undergone convergent evolution in these three lineages, suggesting possible visual adaptation to dim-light conditions in forest habitats.
BirdNET: Automated Detection for Monitoring Critically Endangered Lemurs from the Maromizaha Forest.
Ferrario V, Versaci G, Dall'Ava G … +8 more , De Gregorio C, Carugati F, Cristiano W, Torti V, Ratsimbazafy J, Giacoma C, Gamba M, Valente D
Integr Zool · 2026 Mar · PMID 41915631 · Publisher ↗
Passive acoustic monitoring (PAM) is a widely used technique in wildlife research, enabling the collection of extensive data on species presence, distribution, and behavior over large spatial and temporal scales in a non...
Passive acoustic monitoring (PAM) is a widely used technique in wildlife research, enabling the collection of extensive data on species presence, distribution, and behavior over large spatial and temporal scales in a non-invasive and cost-effective manner. However, the resulting data volumes pose significant computational challenges, potentially creating processing bottlenecks. In this study, we evaluated the effectiveness of integrating PAM with BirdNET, a convolutional neural network originally developed for avian vocalization detection, to monitor two critically endangered lemurs, Indri indri and Varecia variegata, in Madagascar's Maromizaha rainforest. We collected 55,091 recordings over 4 years (2020-2023) and retrained BirdNET for lemur vocalization detection using labeled recordings. We then tested models with different training datasets and confidence thresholds achieving one with a high performance (precision, recall, and accuracy ∼90% for both species). Using this best-performing model, we analyzed the recordings to investigate temporal patterns in vocal behavior. Indri indri exhibited a clear diurnal calling pattern with peak activity between 08:00 and 09:00, supporting its use of morning songs for territorial advertisement. Vocal activity also peaked during the warm season (October-March). In contrast, Varecia variegata showed an irregular calling pattern throughout the day, including at night, and lacked clear seasonal vocal peaks, consistent with previous descriptions of its more flexible activity. Spatial analysis further revealed detection variability across sites, likely influenced by habitat structure and population distribution. This work demonstrates the feasibility and value of combining PAM with machine learning for long-term primate monitoring, providing a potentially replicable and scalable method for studying species' ecology and informing conservation strategies.
Extinction Debt Paid Off: The Demise of the European Polecat (Mustela putorius) in NE Iberia.
Salvador S, Puig-Gironès R, Llopart X … +2 more , Palazón S, Clavero M
Integr Zool · 2026 Mar · PMID 41904639 · Publisher ↗
The global loss of individuals and populations is driving a myriad of species toward extinction, many of which are not yet recognized as threatened. The European polecat (Mustela putorius) exemplifies this trend, as thro...
The global loss of individuals and populations is driving a myriad of species toward extinction, many of which are not yet recognized as threatened. The European polecat (Mustela putorius) exemplifies this trend, as throughout most of its range it is of low conservation concern despite widespread suspected, though poorly documented, population declines. For a decade, we monitored a vanishing polecat population to identify the ecological drivers behind its decline, using a combination of camera trapping (5551 trap days), roadkill data, landscape descriptors, and dietary and toxicological analyses. We documented a marked segregation between the polecat and other mesocarnivores. Polecat favored lowland farmland rich in rats and rabbits as prey, avoiding sclerophyllous forest and water bodies dominated by potential competitors like the invasive American mink, otter, and stone marten. This habitat selection likely increased the risk of rodenticide secondary poisoning (with 84.6% prevalence), road mortality (42 individuals in 10 years), and interactions with domestic cats. However, the loss of habitat heterogeneity and semi-natural vegetation, associated with agricultural intensification, led the habitat and connectivity loss that probably contributed decisively to the ultimate demise of the population. Although American mink control was implemented, large-scale conservation actions-such as hedgerow restoration, construction of faunal underpasses, or replacement of anticoagulant rodenticides-were not in place prior to the population's extinction. However, ongoing habitat restoration may support future recolonization or reintroductions and benefit other species for which the polecat could serve as an effective umbrella species in European agroecosystems.
Warm Spring Weather Alters Calling Phenology of Four Sympatric Early-Breeding Anurans.
Ethier JP, Habib N, Mazerolle MJ … +1 more , Trudeau VL
Integr Zool · 2026 Mar · PMID 41904637 · Publisher ↗
Changes in phenological patterns in breeding behavior are useful for determining the effect of climate change on amphibian communities, many of which are declining and at risk of extinction. Most climate change research...
Changes in phenological patterns in breeding behavior are useful for determining the effect of climate change on amphibian communities, many of which are declining and at risk of extinction. Most climate change research focuses on long-term warming trends with less consideration for the increasing frequency of extreme weather events. The calling probability of four early spring-breeding anurans, including the boreal chorus frog (Pseudacris maculata), spring peeper (Pseudacris crucifer), wood frog (Boreorana sylvatica), and American toad (Anaxyrus americanus), was determined using autonomous recording units from 2022 to 2025. An unusually warm March in 2024 ("false spring") followed by freezing temperatures allowed us to assess the impact of a weather event on the calling probability of the four anuran species. Coinciding with the warmer temperatures in March, the first date of calling was advanced by 11-18 days in 2024 compared to 2022. However, the probability of calling was reduced in 2024 for all species except the spring peeper, which had the highest probability of calling in that year. The probability of calling in boreal chorus frogs decreased from 69% in years with average weather to 49% in 2024, which may lead to negative fitness consequences for this declining species. This study exemplifies the species-specific response of spring-breeding anurans to seasonal and environmental variables, highlighting the potential impact of weather events on calling behavior. Phenological shifts can create mismatches between the timing of reproduction and the availability of resources important for the survival of offspring, thus negatively impacting recruitment and persistence of local anuran populations.
Phylogenetic and Functional Originality Shape Species Positions in Flea-Mammal Networks Across Biogeographic Realms.
Krasnov BR, Grabovsky VI
Integr Zool · 2026 Mar · PMID 41904636 · Publisher ↗
We investigated the relationships between a species' network position (measured as the combined normalized degree, species strength, and betweenness centrality) and its phylogenetic or functional originality, using 91 fl...
We investigated the relationships between a species' network position (measured as the combined normalized degree, species strength, and betweenness centrality) and its phylogenetic or functional originality, using 91 flea-host interaction networks from four biogeographic realms (the Afrotropics, the Nearctic, the Neotropics, and the Palearctic). The originality of a species was measured either via the topology of a phylogenetic tree/functional dendrogram (tree-based index) or as the minimal phylogenetic/functional distance from another species in the same assemblage (distance-based index). Significant relationships between a flea species' position and functional originality were positive in all realms independently of the index used, suggesting that functionally original species were characterized by higher combined species degree, strength, and betweenness centrality. Higher values of these components of the network position were detected in the most phylogenetically original Neotropical fleas using the tree-based index and the least phylogenetically original Afrotropical and Palearctic fleas using the distance-based index. A host species' network position was associated with its phylogenetic originality in the Nearctic (positive) and the Neotropics (negative) but only when the distance-based but not the tree-based index was used. No effect of a host's functional originality on its network position was found in any realms independently of the index used. We conclude that the pattern of the relationship between phylogenetic and functional originality and species position in a flea-host network differed substantially between (a) fleas and hosts and (b) biogeographic realms.
The Wonder Years: A Demographic Approach to Revisit the Age-at-Size Conundrum in Amphibians.
Sánchez-Montes G, Rotger A, Caballero-Díaz C … +3 more , Tavecchia G, Gutiérrez-Rodríguez J, Martínez-Solano Í
Integr Zool · 2026 Mar · PMID 41904634 · Publisher ↗
Characterizing age-structure patterns in amphibian populations is crucial to unravel the drivers of their demographic dynamics and implement biologically informed conservation management. Consequently, accurately assessi...
Characterizing age-structure patterns in amphibian populations is crucial to unravel the drivers of their demographic dynamics and implement biologically informed conservation management. Consequently, accurately assessing the age of individuals in wild populations is of utmost importance in the face of the current amphibian crisis. However, age estimation in amphibians has so far remained elusive due to the difficulty of lifetime tracking, especially during the terrestrial juvenile stage, and to the uncertainty associated with alternative methods like skeletochronology. Here, we illustrate the usefulness of long-term monitoring programs based on capture-mark-recapture to address age estimation from body size data. Specifically, we combined repeated body size measurements of marked individuals of unknown age throughout their adult life with growth records of individuals marked as postmetamorphic juveniles and recaptured years later as sexually mature adults, focusing on 10 amphibian species in central Spain. Growth models fitted to mark-recapture data provided robust estimates of size-at-age, supported by data on individuals of known age for five of the study species. For three additional species, known age records disproved mark-recapture models, but rendered enough data to build alternative growth models. The inferred consensus size estimates allowed discerning first- and second-year age classes in some species, contributing to assess the age at maturity of individuals and population-specific patterns of recruitment. Consequently, our demographic approach provided multi-evidence information to address age-at-size estimation in amphibians, thus demonstrating the value of long-term mark-recapture programs to fill pervasive gaps in our knowledge about amphibian demographic dynamics.
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