Dear Editor,Mountain systems have long been refuges for many species,often viewed as"islands"that promote speciation due to geographic isolation(Rahbek et al.,2019).Their high environmental heterogeneity fos...Dear Editor,Mountain systems have long been refuges for many species,often viewed as"islands"that promote speciation due to geographic isolation(Rahbek et al.,2019).Their high environmental heterogeneity fosters centers of endemism,and they harbor over 85%of global species diversity(Zhao et al.,2022).Consequently,mountains are key systems for exploring biodiversity patterns along elevational gradients,where species richness often follows four recognized models:monotonic decrease,unimodal pattern(forward and backward peak patterns),and low plateau followed by a decrease along the elevational gradient(McCain et al.,2010).展开更多
The Tinuy-an Falls Protected Landscape(TFPL),located south of the Diwata Range,was established as a protected area(PA)under the Expanded National Integrated Protected Areas System(ENIPAS)Act of 2018.In contrast to the...The Tinuy-an Falls Protected Landscape(TFPL),located south of the Diwata Range,was established as a protected area(PA)under the Expanded National Integrated Protected Areas System(ENIPAS)Act of 2018.In contrast to the well-documented herpetological diversity of its neighboring northeastern Caraga,what we know about herpetofauna of southern Caraga is based on historical records distributed across various localities of Surigao del Sur.To address this gap,we conducted surveys for herpetofauna in low-elevation(100-200 m above sea level)forests of Tinuy-an Falls Protected Landscape during Jun 10-12 and Sep 1-5,2022.We employed visual survey and opportunistic approaches to capture amphibians and reptiles during diurnal(09:00-11:00)and nocturnal walks(19:00-22:00)along a two-km line transect established between advanced secondary forest and cultivated land.We recorded specimens’natural history data(e.g.,body weight,snout to vent length,microhabitat)and utilized standard preparation techniques for voucher specimens.Here,we highlight augmented knowledge of Surigao del Sur’s herpetofaunal diversity and present 20 new distribution records of amphibians and reptiles in Tinuy-an Falls Protected Landscape,Bislig,Surigao del Sur,southeastern Mindanao,representing a subset(16%)of Caraga Region’s herpetological diversity.We suggest a more exhaustive biotic inventory to document herpetological diversity in the area,augment knowledge about species presence and richness using distribution records,and supplement our current understanding of the biodiversity of the Caraga Region.展开更多
Oxidative stress arises from disruption of the balance between reactive oxygen species(ROS)production and detoxification and constitutes a fundamental driver of diverse pathological diseases.Skin photoaging is a well-...Oxidative stress arises from disruption of the balance between reactive oxygen species(ROS)production and detoxification and constitutes a fundamental driver of diverse pathological diseases.Skin photoaging is a well-recognized example,primarily driven by chronic ultraviolet(UV)exposure and marked by progressive structural and functional deterioration.UV-induced ROS accelerate macromolecular degradation and impair epidermal and dermal barrier integrity,highlighting the urgent need for effective antioxidant interventions.Antioxidant peptides(AOPs),whether naturally occurring or synthetically engineered,have shown considerable potential in mitigating ROS-induced cellular damage.Amphibians,which possess highly permeable skin and are continuously challenged by fluctuating environmental conditions,represent a rich source of bioactive peptides with potent antioxidant properties.In particular,AOPs isolated from amphibian skin secretions demonstrate notable efficacy in ROS scavenging and mitigation of oxidative damage,offering promising candidates for anti-photoaging therapies.This review provides an integrated overview of ROS generation and signaling,the molecular mechanisms linking oxidative stress to skin photoaging,and the emerging biomedical potential of amphibian-derived AOPs.Deeper mechanistic insight into their structure and function is expected to accelerate the development of novel peptide-based interventions for photoaging and other oxidative stress-associated dermatological disorders.展开更多
Water soluble skin secretions of six common Chinese amphibians were studied for their biological and enzymatic activities.The skin secretions of Tylototriton verrucosus,Bombina maxima ,and Bufo andrewsi were f...Water soluble skin secretions of six common Chinese amphibians were studied for their biological and enzymatic activities.The skin secretions of Tylototriton verrucosus,Bombina maxima ,and Bufo andrewsi were found toxic to mice with the intraperitoneal LD 50 of 11 5?mg/kg,18 8?mg/kg,and 264?mg/kg,respectively.No acute lethal toxicities were observed for the skin secretions of Rana nigromaculata,Rana guentheri and Rana limnocharis in a dose up to 500?mg/kg.The lethal toxicities of the skin secretions of T verrucosus and B maxima to mice are in the same grade as those of Viperidae snake venoms.The toxic components in T verrucosus and B maxima skin secretions are the proteins with molecular weights ranging from 3 to 60?kDa.All the skin secretions had both proteolytic activity and trypsin inhibitory activity.The skin secretions from T verrucosus , B maxima and B andrewsi also displayed wide spectrum antimicrobial activity.On the other hand,the skin secretions from B andrewsi and B maxima showed cytotoxicity on human cancer cells.All the six samples had not significant effects on mammalian blood coagulation system.Phospholipase A 2 activity was only found in the skin secretions of T verrucosus .None of these skin secretions showed acetylcholine esterase activity.展开更多
We report amphibian and reptile distribution records based on recent biodiversity surveys conducted at the Angat Watershed Reservation, Bulacan Province, Luzon Island, Philippines. This watershed constitutes the princ...We report amphibian and reptile distribution records based on recent biodiversity surveys conducted at the Angat Watershed Reservation, Bulacan Province, Luzon Island, Philippines. This watershed constitutes the principal water source for Manila, the Philippines＇ largest metropolitan area. As virtually nothing is known of the herpetological diversity of the immediate area and the surrounding Bulacan Province, all species recorded as part of our surveys constitute major geographical records and/or significant range extensions. Our data result in a total of 63 new records of amphibian （19 frogs） and reptile （22 lizards, 2 turtles, and 20 snakes） species for this protected area （and immediate vicinity） that serves as a watershed for the major metropolitan area of Manila and surrounding cities. Together with the few previous literature records, our new records bring the total number of amphibian and reptile species for Bulacan Province to 68. We discuss several strategies for future survey work （focusing on habitat type, seasonal variation, and elevational variability） that we anticipate will result in increased knowledge of diversity within the Angat Watershed Reserve. The impressive level of herpetological diversity within such a small area, so close to Metro Manila, emphasizes that the diversity and distribution patterns of amphibians and reptiles from Luzon are still poorly known and in need of further study.展开更多
A disease caused by the fungi Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis（Bd） and Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans（Bsal） is responsible for recent worldwide declines and extinctions of amphibian populations.The Qinghai-Tibeta...A disease caused by the fungi Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis（Bd） and Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans（Bsal） is responsible for recent worldwide declines and extinctions of amphibian populations.The Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau（QTP） is aglobal biodiversity hotspot,yet little is known about the prevalence of Bd and Bsal in this region.In this study,we collected 336 non-invasive skin swabs from wild amphibians（including an exotic amphibian species） on the QTP.In addition,to assess the historical prevalence of Bd and Bsal on the QTP,we collected 117 non-invasive skin swabs from museum-archived amphibian samples（from 1964-1982） originating from the QTP.Our results showed all samples to be negative for Bd and Bsal.The government should ban the potentially harmful introduction of non-native amphibian species to the QTP and educate the public about the impacts of releasing exotic amphibians from chytridinfected areas into native environments of the QTP.展开更多
Understanding the genetic mechanisms underlying particular adaptations/phenotypes of organisms is one of the core issues of evolutionary biology.The use of genomic data has greatly advanced our understandings on this ...Understanding the genetic mechanisms underlying particular adaptations/phenotypes of organisms is one of the core issues of evolutionary biology.The use of genomic data has greatly advanced our understandings on this issue,as well as other aspects of evolutionary biology,including molecular adaptation,speciation,and even conservation of endangered species.Despite the well-recognized advantages,usages of genomic data are still limited to non-mammal vertebrate groups,partly due to the difficulties in assembling large or highly heterozygous genomes.Although this is particularly the case for amphibians,nonetheless,several comparative and population genomic analyses have shed lights into the speciation and adaptation processes of amphibians in a complex landscape,giving a promising hope for a wider application of genomics in the previously believed challenging groups of organisms.At the same time,these pioneer studies also allow us to realize numerous challenges in studying the molecular adaptations and/or phenotypic evolutionary mechanisms of amphibians.In this review,we first summarize the recent progresses in the study of adaptive evolution of amphibians based on genomic data,and then we give perspectives regarding how to effectively identify key pathways underlying the evolution of complex traits in the genomic era,as well as directions for future research.展开更多
The Philippines is listed as one of the world's megadiverse countries despite its small size.Conversely,it is also on the list of global biodiversity conservation hotspots.With the threat of extinction at an all-t...The Philippines is listed as one of the world's megadiverse countries despite its small size.Conversely,it is also on the list of global biodiversity conservation hotspots.With the threat of extinction at an all-time high,better understa nding of the archipelago's biodiversity will provide invalua ble baseline information for proper conservation efforts.Here we provide an upda ted checklist on the herpetological biodiversity of Ca miguin Sur,Misa mis Oriental,Minda nao,Philippines.Field surveys and specimen collection from the municipality of Mambajao resulted in a total of 28 species(13 anurans,11 lizards,and four snakes)-all well represented by voucher specimens.Our data provides seven additional species records,upda ting the island's total amphibian and reptile species count to 57,with about half Philippine endemic.Included in the new records are three invasive alien species of amphibians:The Cane Toad Rhinella marina,the Greenhouse Frog Eleutherodatylus planirstris,and the Asiatic Painted Narrowmouth Toad Kaloula pulchra.展开更多
Amphibians are good indicators of ecosystem health. Updating the information of endemic species in time and understanding their spatial distributions are necessary for the development of integrative conservation strat...Amphibians are good indicators of ecosystem health. Updating the information of endemic species in time and understanding their spatial distributions are necessary for the development of integrative conservation strategies and the elucidation of geographic patterns of amphibians. We analyzed the diversity and distributions of the endemic amphibians in China based on a database of specimen records, recently published literature, and field surveys. Two hundred and sixty two endemic species of amphibians, belonging to 59 genera in 12 families and two orders, are recognized. They account for 67% of the total number of amphibian species in China, with the family Megophryidae possessing the largest number of endemics. There are also 17 genera endemic to China. Across provinces, the species richness of endemics shows five levels with a hierarchical diversification. Sichuan has the largest number of endemics, while Heilongjiang and Jilin have no endemic species. Alternatively, whether on the level of endemic genus or species, the highest diversity occurs in the Western Mountains and Plateau Subregion. The distribution ranges of most endemic species cover ≤ 4 provinces or zoogeographic subregions. Additionally, the species richness of endemics along an elevational gradient shows a bell-shaped pattern with the peak around 800 m. Most endemic species are distributed in areas of low to mid elevation(c. 700–1 500 m), while 36 species are distributed up to 3 000 m. Endemic species richness decreases with increasing of elevation range. Species at mid elevations display large range sizes, while species at lower and higher elevations exhibit smaller ranges. Our results are to be beneficial for further exploration of the underlying mechanisms of distributional patterns of amphibians in China. This study highlights a need to promote conservation programs for Chinese endemic amphibians due to their narrow distribution ranges and potential threats.展开更多
Road traffic is the main factor causing the decline in amphibian populations worldwide. The proper design of an amphibian tunnel is one of the most efficient measures to mitigate the negative impacts of road traffic o...Road traffic is the main factor causing the decline in amphibian populations worldwide. The proper design of an amphibian tunnel is one of the most efficient measures to mitigate the negative impacts of road traffic on amphibians. However, no study has investigated the effectiveness of amphibian tunnels under semi-controlled conditions in Asian amphibians. Here, we selected two representative amphibian species, the Chinese brown frog, Rana chensinensis, and the Asiatic toad, Bufo gargarizans, which suffer the most severe road mortality along the roads in Northeast China. We placed experimental arrays of culverts of various sizes(diameters of 1.5, 1, and 0.5 m for circular culverts; side lengths of 1.5, 1, and 0.5 m for box culverts), and substrate type(soil, concrete, and metal) to examine the preferences of both species during the migratory season between May and September in 2016 and 2017. The results revealed that the Chinese brown frog preferred mid-and large-sized culverts as well as soil culverts. We concluded that culverts with a side length ≥ 1 m, lined with soil, and accompanied by a ≥ 0.4 m high guide drift fence and ≤ 45° gradient on the roadside ditch wall would best facilitate road crossings for both species and likely for other amphibian species in Northeast China.展开更多
This work summarizes the history and progress of the studies on Chinese amphibians since they first appeared in the Chinese literature.A wide range of research has been carried out,including the history of the definit...This work summarizes the history and progress of the studies on Chinese amphibians since they first appeared in the Chinese literature.A wide range of research has been carried out,including the history of the definition of amphibians,faunal surveys,systematic research,ecological research,biochemical research(isozyme and other proteins or peptides,chromosomes,DNA),anatomical research,embryological research,phylogenetic and zoogeographical research,and many others such as ultrastructure of organs,crossbreeding test,regeneration of organs,abnormality survey,acoustics,fossils,sperm ultrastructure and parasites.In addition,the prospects for studies on Chinese amphibians in future are proposed in this paper.展开更多
The species diversity and altitudinal distribution of amphibians along an eleva tional gradient of 200-1600 m in the Xianxialing and Wuyishan Mountain Ranges in Southeastern China were investiga ted through time-const...The species diversity and altitudinal distribution of amphibians along an eleva tional gradient of 200-1600 m in the Xianxialing and Wuyishan Mountain Ranges in Southeastern China were investiga ted through time-constra ined visual surveys along 32 transect lines in 9 survey areas,in which the ha bitat types were also recorded.A total of 27 amphibian species belonging to 19 genera,7 families,and 2 orders were found.The species diversity of the amphibians plateaued at low elevation,and the altitudinal boundary of their distribution was at 800 m.Their species compositions were dissimilar in the two mountain ranges probably beca use the annual average temperature and annual rainfall were different in both areas.The eleva tional Rapoport's rule demonstrated that the species range size of the amphibians expanded as the elevation increased in both mountain ranges.The results of the cross species method supported the rule only when the influence of the low-frequency occurrence proba bility of an investigated species was excluded,whereas those of the Steven's method strongly corroborated the rule rega rdless of the incidental occurrence or absence of the species.展开更多
Why do two sexes of the same species differ in body size holds a long-standing question of evolutionary biology. While many across-species comparisons have focused on ultimate causes behind sexual size dimorphism （SS...Why do two sexes of the same species differ in body size holds a long-standing question of evolutionary biology. While many across-species comparisons have focused on ultimate causes behind sexual size dimorphism （SSD）, only have a few been directed toward elucidating its ontogenetic basis. Urodeles are an amphibian group in which the direction and degree of SSD vary greatly among species. Using demographic data yielded by skeletochronology for 33 urodele species, the current study re- veals a positive across-species correlation between SSD and the sex difference in mean age of adult animals, and the latter in- creases with the corresponding difference in age at maturity; annual growth rate does not differ between the sexes. We conclude that extended longevities in one sex, which is mediated by delayed maturation, would allow it to grow for longer and get larger, with growth rate making a weak contribution to body size. The sex-specific divergence in ontogenetic trajectory might be ex- plained by potentially high growth costs of reproduction to females in association with stronger fecundity selection, and to males that are expected to experience stronger sexual selection [Current Zoology 59 （1）： 142-150, 2013].展开更多
Amphibians are declining worldwide.At the same time,each year many species of amphibians are described,indicating that biological diversity on Earth remains poorly understood.This is especially true for mountainous re...Amphibians are declining worldwide.At the same time,each year many species of amphibians are described,indicating that biological diversity on Earth remains poorly understood.This is especially true for mountainous regions,such as the Himalayas,which are also regarded as a biodiversity hotspot.However,it is most likely that the current diversity of amphibians in Nepal is highly underestimated.Amphibian inventories by the past researchers primarily used phenotypic characters as the basis for species identification.However,the application of molecular systematics methods to taxonomic studies has successfully uncovered the taxonomic status of several cryptic taxa.This study used both molecular(16 S rDNA sequences)and morphological comparisons and estimated the diversity of amphibians from Nepal.This study reports the occurrence of 38 species of amphibians based on both molecular and morphological comparisons.Among them,three species were recorded for the first time in Nepal.This study also invalids the taxonomic status of Sphaerotheca paschima.This study highlights the importa nce of integrative taxonomic approaches that help to resolve the current taxonomic ambiguities of Nepalese amphibians.展开更多
For the last decade, chytridiomycosis was considered to be caused by a single species of fungus, Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis （Bd）, but a second chytrid species, Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans （Bs）, was recen...For the last decade, chytridiomycosis was considered to be caused by a single species of fungus, Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis （Bd）, but a second chytrid species, Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans （Bs）, was recently isolated from an in- fected Salamandra salamandra in the Netherlands. To date, Bs has only been found in the Netherlands. To assess whether Bs is present in China, we analyzed a total of 665 samples, including 425 wild samples, 41 preserved specimens, and 199 captive sam- pies, from 30 different species, including both urodeles and anurans. Our sample sites covered 15 provinces in China. All of the samples tested negative for Bs, resulting in a 95% confidence limit for a prevalence of 0.6%. The absence of Bs observed in this large-scale survey in China has significant implications for amphibian conservation and for border trade management strategies intended to control amphibian diseases. We strongly recommend the continued close monitoring of Bs to verify the status of this potentially devastating amphibian fungus in China .展开更多
Environmental DNA(eDNA)metabarcoding has emerged as a powerful,non-invasive tool for biodiversity assessments.However,the accuracy and limitations of these assessment techniques are highly dependent on the choice of p...Environmental DNA(eDNA)metabarcoding has emerged as a powerful,non-invasive tool for biodiversity assessments.However,the accuracy and limitations of these assessment techniques are highly dependent on the choice of primer pairs being used.Although several primer sets have been used in eDNA metabarcoding studies of amphibians,there are few comparisons of their reliability and efficiency.Here,we employed lab-and field-tested sets of publicly available and de novo-designed primers in amplifying 83 species of amphibian from all three orders(Anura,Caudata,and Gymnophiona)and 13 families present in China to evaluate the versatility and specificity of these primers sets in amphibian eDNA metabarcoding studies.Three pairs of primers were highly effective,as they could successfully amplify all the major clades of Chinese amphibians in our study.A few non-amphibian taxa were also amplified by these primers,which implies that further optimization of amphibian-specific primers is still needed.The simultaneous use of three primer sets can completely cover all the species obtained by conventional survey methods and has even effectively distinguished quite a number of species(n=20)in the Wenshan National Nature Reserve.No single primer set could individually detect all of the species from the studied region,indicating that multiple primers might be necessary for a comprehensive survey of Chinese amphibians.Besides,seasonal variations in amphibian species composition were also revealed by eDNA metabarcoding,which was consistent with traditional survey methods.These results indicate that eDNA metabarcoding has the potential to be a powerful tool for studying spatial and temporal community changes in amphibian species richness.展开更多
The study was based on material from the Medvezhiy Klyk Cave,located in the Southern Sikhote-Alin range in the Russian Far East.The aim of this research was to assess the taxonomic composition and changes in the speci...The study was based on material from the Medvezhiy Klyk Cave,located in the Southern Sikhote-Alin range in the Russian Far East.The aim of this research was to assess the taxonomic composition and changes in the species diversity of the Southern Primorye herpetofauna over geological time in response to environmental changes.In the fifth layer of sedimentary deposits in Medvezhiy Klyk Cave(horizons 15-11),corresponding to the Middle Holocene,remains of sixteen extant species of amphibians and squamate reptiles were identified:Bombina orientalis,Bufo sachalinensis,Dryophytes japonicus,Rana amurensis,R.dybowskii,Pelophylax nigromaculatus,Takydromus amurensis,T.wolteri,Zootoca vivipara,Elaphe dione,E.schrenckii,Lycodon rufozonatus,Hebius vibakari,Rhabdophis lateralis,Gloydius intermedius,and G.ussuriensis.Salamandrella sp.was identified only to the genus level due to difficulties in distinguishing species within this genus based on the preserved skeletal elements.Additionally,among the snake remains,some bones could not be assigned to any species in the comparative osteological collection.These remains are classified as Lycodon sp.and Serpentes gen.et sp.indet.They most likely also belong to extant species that currently inhabit regions south of the Russian border.The faunal assemblages of amphibians and reptiles indicate that forest vegetation predominated around the cave during the Middle Holocene,with the most extensive forest cover occurring during the accumulation of horizon 14.This period was also the most favorable for thermophilic and moisture-dependent species,including those whose current ranges lie further south.The climate throughout the deposition of the fifth layer is reconstructed as warmer and more humid than present-day conditions,consistent with other Middle Holocene climate reconstructions.Only horizon 11 corresponds to a relative climatic cooling.展开更多
Bhutan is a biodiverse country,yet there are relatively few scientific studies on its herpetofauna.To determine research gaps and opportunities for scientific advances,we completed a literature review on amphibians an...Bhutan is a biodiverse country,yet there are relatively few scientific studies on its herpetofauna.To determine research gaps and opportunities for scientific advances,we completed a literature review on amphibians and reptiles of Bhutanese origin from online databases including ResearchGate,Google Scholar,the Integrated Taxonomic Information System(ITIS),and relevant authors.Of the 63 studies on herpetofauna of Bhutan between 1972 and 2022,most focused on reptiles(45%)followed by amphibians(32%),while fewer(23%)included both taxa.Most studies were field-based(n=44),followed by desktop research(n=14),and then laboratory work(n=5).Ecology and natural history studies(n=35)dominated the literature,while other disciplines included conservation and anthropogenic interactions(n=22),then evolution,taxonomy,and systematics(n=4).Single reports existed on disease,and on genetic studies.After 2009,the quantity of literature rose considerably to a total of 52 publications on Bhutanese herpetofauna.Most studies have been conducted by Bhutanese researchers(n=36),followed by collaborations with scientists from outside the country(n=15),and work published by foreign scientists alone(n=12)contributed some of the earliest studies.There was a bias in the taxa studied,the type of research,and the location of study.Research concentrating on anatomy or physiology was absent,while studies on disease,genetics,taxonomy,and systematic classification are scarce.There is a pressing need for increased conservation-oriented studies,as they were poorly represented.These gaps offer direction for further research.In particular,there are few studies on the diversity and distribution of amphibians and reptiles-such information is key to analysing threats and developing effective conservation strategies.Such knowledge would contribute greatly towards the conservation and management of Bhutan’s native amphibians and reptiles.Bhutan currently harbours ca.83 amphibian species(31 genera,8 families,3 orders:Anura,Caudata,Gymnophiona)and ca.138 reptile species(58 genera,17 families,2 orders:Squamata,Testudines).Bhutan does have crocodiles,but they are in captivity only.展开更多
Regenerative capacity of the central nervous system(CNS)is unevenly distributed among vertebrates.While most mammalian species including humans elicit limited repair following CNS injury or disease,highly regenerative...Regenerative capacity of the central nervous system(CNS)is unevenly distributed among vertebrates.While most mammalian species including humans elicit limited repair following CNS injury or disease,highly regenerative vertebrates including urodele amphibians and teleost fish spontaneously reverse CNS damage.Teletost zebrafish(danio rerio)are tropical freshwater fish that proved to be an excellent vertebrate model of successful CNS regeneration.Differential neuronal,glial,and immune injury responses underlie disparate injury outcomes between highly regenerative zebrafish and poorly regenerative mammals.This article describes complications associated with neuronal repair following spinal cord injury(SCI)in poorly regenerative mammals and highlights intersecting modes of plasticity and regeneration in highly regenerative zebrafish(Figures 1 and 2).Comparative approaches evaluating immunoglial SCI responses were recently reviewed elsewhere(Reyes and Mokalled,2024).展开更多
The conservation status of all the amphibians in China is analyzed,and the country is shown to be a global priority for conservation in comparison to many other countries of the world.Three Chinese regions are particu...The conservation status of all the amphibians in China is analyzed,and the country is shown to be a global priority for conservation in comparison to many other countries of the world.Three Chinese regions are particularly rich in amphibian diversity:Hengduan,Nanling,and Wuyi mountains.Sala-manders are more threatened than frogs and toads.Several smaller families show a high propensity to become seriously threatened:Bombinatoridae,Cryptobranchidae,Hynobiidae and Salamandridae.Like other parts of the world,stream-breeding,high-elevation forest amphibians have a much higher likeli-hood of being seriously threatened.Habitat loss,pollution,and over-harvesting are the most serious threats to Chinese amphibians.Over-harvesting is a less pervasive threat than habitat loss,but it is more likely to drive a species into rapid decline.Five conservation challenges are mentioned with recommendations for the highest priority research and conservation actions.展开更多
基金supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.32360333)the Guizhou Provincial Science and Technology Projects(Grant Nos.ZK[2022]540 and[2023]099)+1 种基金the Survey of Amphibian and Reptile Resources in Leigongshan National Nature Reserve and Literature Publishing Services(P5226002023000019)the Guizhou Provincial Science and Technology Innovation Talent Team Construction Project 2024[Qian Ke He Talent CXTD(2025)053].
文摘Dear Editor,Mountain systems have long been refuges for many species,often viewed as"islands"that promote speciation due to geographic isolation(Rahbek et al.,2019).Their high environmental heterogeneity fosters centers of endemism,and they harbor over 85%of global species diversity(Zhao et al.,2022).Consequently,mountains are key systems for exploring biodiversity patterns along elevational gradients,where species richness often follows four recognized models:monotonic decrease,unimodal pattern(forward and backward peak patterns),and low plateau followed by a decrease along the elevational gradient(McCain et al.,2010).
基金to DENR Caraga for administering our wildlife gratuitous permit(WGP No.R13-2022-21)。
文摘The Tinuy-an Falls Protected Landscape(TFPL),located south of the Diwata Range,was established as a protected area(PA)under the Expanded National Integrated Protected Areas System(ENIPAS)Act of 2018.In contrast to the well-documented herpetological diversity of its neighboring northeastern Caraga,what we know about herpetofauna of southern Caraga is based on historical records distributed across various localities of Surigao del Sur.To address this gap,we conducted surveys for herpetofauna in low-elevation(100-200 m above sea level)forests of Tinuy-an Falls Protected Landscape during Jun 10-12 and Sep 1-5,2022.We employed visual survey and opportunistic approaches to capture amphibians and reptiles during diurnal(09:00-11:00)and nocturnal walks(19:00-22:00)along a two-km line transect established between advanced secondary forest and cultivated land.We recorded specimens’natural history data(e.g.,body weight,snout to vent length,microhabitat)and utilized standard preparation techniques for voucher specimens.Here,we highlight augmented knowledge of Surigao del Sur’s herpetofaunal diversity and present 20 new distribution records of amphibians and reptiles in Tinuy-an Falls Protected Landscape,Bislig,Surigao del Sur,southeastern Mindanao,representing a subset(16%)of Caraga Region’s herpetological diversity.We suggest a more exhaustive biotic inventory to document herpetological diversity in the area,augment knowledge about species presence and richness using distribution records,and supplement our current understanding of the biodiversity of the Caraga Region.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32070439)Key Research&Development Plan in Social Development of Jiangsu Province(BE2022723)Suzhou Agricultural Science and Technology Innovation Project(SNG2022054)。
文摘Oxidative stress arises from disruption of the balance between reactive oxygen species(ROS)production and detoxification and constitutes a fundamental driver of diverse pathological diseases.Skin photoaging is a well-recognized example,primarily driven by chronic ultraviolet(UV)exposure and marked by progressive structural and functional deterioration.UV-induced ROS accelerate macromolecular degradation and impair epidermal and dermal barrier integrity,highlighting the urgent need for effective antioxidant interventions.Antioxidant peptides(AOPs),whether naturally occurring or synthetically engineered,have shown considerable potential in mitigating ROS-induced cellular damage.Amphibians,which possess highly permeable skin and are continuously challenged by fluctuating environmental conditions,represent a rich source of bioactive peptides with potent antioxidant properties.In particular,AOPs isolated from amphibian skin secretions demonstrate notable efficacy in ROS scavenging and mitigation of oxidative damage,offering promising candidates for anti-photoaging therapies.This review provides an integrated overview of ROS generation and signaling,the molecular mechanisms linking oxidative stress to skin photoaging,and the emerging biomedical potential of amphibian-derived AOPs.Deeper mechanistic insight into their structure and function is expected to accelerate the development of novel peptide-based interventions for photoaging and other oxidative stress-associated dermatological disorders.
文摘Water soluble skin secretions of six common Chinese amphibians were studied for their biological and enzymatic activities.The skin secretions of Tylototriton verrucosus,Bombina maxima ,and Bufo andrewsi were found toxic to mice with the intraperitoneal LD 50 of 11 5?mg/kg,18 8?mg/kg,and 264?mg/kg,respectively.No acute lethal toxicities were observed for the skin secretions of Rana nigromaculata,Rana guentheri and Rana limnocharis in a dose up to 500?mg/kg.The lethal toxicities of the skin secretions of T verrucosus and B maxima to mice are in the same grade as those of Viperidae snake venoms.The toxic components in T verrucosus and B maxima skin secretions are the proteins with molecular weights ranging from 3 to 60?kDa.All the skin secretions had both proteolytic activity and trypsin inhibitory activity.The skin secretions from T verrucosus , B maxima and B andrewsi also displayed wide spectrum antimicrobial activity.On the other hand,the skin secretions from B andrewsi and B maxima showed cytotoxicity on human cancer cells.All the six samples had not significant effects on mammalian blood coagulation system.Phospholipase A 2 activity was only found in the skin secretions of T verrucosus .None of these skin secretions showed acetylcholine esterase activity.
基金Support for fieldwork was provided by the funding from the University of Kansas Biodiversity Institute to DSM and RMB,and NSF grants(EF-0334952 and DEB 0743491)to RMBSupport for participation in Angat surveys by some of the 2011 field team members was provided by the California Academy of Science and the Hearst Foundation
文摘We report amphibian and reptile distribution records based on recent biodiversity surveys conducted at the Angat Watershed Reservation, Bulacan Province, Luzon Island, Philippines. This watershed constitutes the principal water source for Manila, the Philippines＇ largest metropolitan area. As virtually nothing is known of the herpetological diversity of the immediate area and the surrounding Bulacan Province, all species recorded as part of our surveys constitute major geographical records and/or significant range extensions. Our data result in a total of 63 new records of amphibian （19 frogs） and reptile （22 lizards, 2 turtles, and 20 snakes） species for this protected area （and immediate vicinity） that serves as a watershed for the major metropolitan area of Manila and surrounding cities. Together with the few previous literature records, our new records bring the total number of amphibian and reptile species for Bulacan Province to 68. We discuss several strategies for future survey work （focusing on habitat type, seasonal variation, and elevational variability） that we anticipate will result in increased knowledge of diversity within the Angat Watershed Reserve. The impressive level of herpetological diversity within such a small area, so close to Metro Manila, emphasizes that the diversity and distribution patterns of amphibians and reptiles from Luzon are still poorly known and in need of further study.
基金funded by China Postdoctoral Science Foundation (2016M601132)
文摘A disease caused by the fungi Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis（Bd） and Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans（Bsal） is responsible for recent worldwide declines and extinctions of amphibian populations.The Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau（QTP） is aglobal biodiversity hotspot,yet little is known about the prevalence of Bd and Bsal in this region.In this study,we collected 336 non-invasive skin swabs from wild amphibians（including an exotic amphibian species） on the QTP.In addition,to assess the historical prevalence of Bd and Bsal on the QTP,we collected 117 non-invasive skin swabs from museum-archived amphibian samples（from 1964-1982） originating from the QTP.Our results showed all samples to be negative for Bd and Bsal.The government should ban the potentially harmful introduction of non-native amphibian species to the QTP and educate the public about the impacts of releasing exotic amphibians from chytridinfected areas into native environments of the QTP.
基金This study was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(31671326,31871275)the Highlevel Talent Introduction Program of Yunnan University to Y.B.S。
文摘Understanding the genetic mechanisms underlying particular adaptations/phenotypes of organisms is one of the core issues of evolutionary biology.The use of genomic data has greatly advanced our understandings on this issue,as well as other aspects of evolutionary biology,including molecular adaptation,speciation,and even conservation of endangered species.Despite the well-recognized advantages,usages of genomic data are still limited to non-mammal vertebrate groups,partly due to the difficulties in assembling large or highly heterozygous genomes.Although this is particularly the case for amphibians,nonetheless,several comparative and population genomic analyses have shed lights into the speciation and adaptation processes of amphibians in a complex landscape,giving a promising hope for a wider application of genomics in the previously believed challenging groups of organisms.At the same time,these pioneer studies also allow us to realize numerous challenges in studying the molecular adaptations and/or phenotypic evolutionary mechanisms of amphibians.In this review,we first summarize the recent progresses in the study of adaptive evolution of amphibians based on genomic data,and then we give perspectives regarding how to effectively identify key pathways underlying the evolution of complex traits in the genomic era,as well as directions for future research.
基金We would like to thank the following for making this field expedition possible and successful:the Philippine National Museum of Natural History(PNMNH),the local government of Camiguin Sur,Mindanao and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Ma mbajao for the logistics support and permit to collect,allowing us to conduct herpetofa unal assessment in Mount Timpoong Hibok-hibok National Monument(MTHHNM)and other areas within the island.We would also like to extend our gratitude to the our collagues who assisted us,for support and company:Dave Gencral,Rolly Urriza,Cecilia Banag Moran,Sarah Grace Zamudio,and the local guide Jhoner Abian for his extensive effort and support during our field survey.
文摘The Philippines is listed as one of the world's megadiverse countries despite its small size.Conversely,it is also on the list of global biodiversity conservation hotspots.With the threat of extinction at an all-time high,better understa nding of the archipelago's biodiversity will provide invalua ble baseline information for proper conservation efforts.Here we provide an upda ted checklist on the herpetological biodiversity of Ca miguin Sur,Misa mis Oriental,Minda nao,Philippines.Field surveys and specimen collection from the municipality of Mambajao resulted in a total of 28 species(13 anurans,11 lizards,and four snakes)-all well represented by voucher specimens.Our data provides seven additional species records,upda ting the island's total amphibian and reptile species count to 57,with about half Philippine endemic.Included in the new records are three invasive alien species of amphibians:The Cane Toad Rhinella marina,the Greenhouse Frog Eleutherodatylus planirstris,and the Asiatic Painted Narrowmouth Toad Kaloula pulchra.
基金supported by the Knowledge Innovation Program of the Chinese Academy of Sciences(Y1B302100)to Junhua HUthe National Natural Science Foundation of China(NSFC,31071906)the Main Direction Program of the Knowledge Innovation Project of CAS(Grant No.KSCX2-EW-J-22)to Jianping JIANG
文摘Amphibians are good indicators of ecosystem health. Updating the information of endemic species in time and understanding their spatial distributions are necessary for the development of integrative conservation strategies and the elucidation of geographic patterns of amphibians. We analyzed the diversity and distributions of the endemic amphibians in China based on a database of specimen records, recently published literature, and field surveys. Two hundred and sixty two endemic species of amphibians, belonging to 59 genera in 12 families and two orders, are recognized. They account for 67% of the total number of amphibian species in China, with the family Megophryidae possessing the largest number of endemics. There are also 17 genera endemic to China. Across provinces, the species richness of endemics shows five levels with a hierarchical diversification. Sichuan has the largest number of endemics, while Heilongjiang and Jilin have no endemic species. Alternatively, whether on the level of endemic genus or species, the highest diversity occurs in the Western Mountains and Plateau Subregion. The distribution ranges of most endemic species cover ≤ 4 provinces or zoogeographic subregions. Additionally, the species richness of endemics along an elevational gradient shows a bell-shaped pattern with the peak around 800 m. Most endemic species are distributed in areas of low to mid elevation(c. 700–1 500 m), while 36 species are distributed up to 3 000 m. Endemic species richness decreases with increasing of elevation range. Species at mid elevations display large range sizes, while species at lower and higher elevations exhibit smaller ranges. Our results are to be beneficial for further exploration of the underlying mechanisms of distributional patterns of amphibians in China. This study highlights a need to promote conservation programs for Chinese endemic amphibians due to their narrow distribution ranges and potential threats.
基金funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant No. 51508250)the Science and Technology Project of Department of Transportation of Jilin Province (Grant No. 2018-1-14)+1 种基金the Basic Research Program of the Centric Level, Scientific Research Institutes (Grant No. 20180615)the World Wild Fund for Nature Project (Grant No. P03516)
文摘Road traffic is the main factor causing the decline in amphibian populations worldwide. The proper design of an amphibian tunnel is one of the most efficient measures to mitigate the negative impacts of road traffic on amphibians. However, no study has investigated the effectiveness of amphibian tunnels under semi-controlled conditions in Asian amphibians. Here, we selected two representative amphibian species, the Chinese brown frog, Rana chensinensis, and the Asiatic toad, Bufo gargarizans, which suffer the most severe road mortality along the roads in Northeast China. We placed experimental arrays of culverts of various sizes(diameters of 1.5, 1, and 0.5 m for circular culverts; side lengths of 1.5, 1, and 0.5 m for box culverts), and substrate type(soil, concrete, and metal) to examine the preferences of both species during the migratory season between May and September in 2016 and 2017. The results revealed that the Chinese brown frog preferred mid-and large-sized culverts as well as soil culverts. We concluded that culverts with a side length ≥ 1 m, lined with soil, and accompanied by a ≥ 0.4 m high guide drift fence and ≤ 45° gradient on the roadside ditch wall would best facilitate road crossings for both species and likely for other amphibian species in Northeast China.
基金supported partially by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (31071906,30730029)the international collaborate project of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (GJHZ0954)the Field Front Project of the Knowledge Innovation Program of the Chinese Academy of Sciences
文摘This work summarizes the history and progress of the studies on Chinese amphibians since they first appeared in the Chinese literature.A wide range of research has been carried out,including the history of the definition of amphibians,faunal surveys,systematic research,ecological research,biochemical research(isozyme and other proteins or peptides,chromosomes,DNA),anatomical research,embryological research,phylogenetic and zoogeographical research,and many others such as ultrastructure of organs,crossbreeding test,regeneration of organs,abnormality survey,acoustics,fossils,sperm ultrastructure and parasites.In addition,the prospects for studies on Chinese amphibians in future are proposed in this paper.
基金The work was carried out in compliance with the current laws on animal welfare and research in China,and was supported by grants from the Zhejiang Provincial Natural Science Foundation of China(LQ16C040001,LY17C030003)National Natural Science Foundation of China(31500308,31971414)+1 种基金Special Founda tion fur Basic Work of the Science and technology Ministry of China(2015FY110200)Zhejiang Science and Technology Innovation Program for College Students(2019R434006).We thank Hongxing GUO,Yingchao HU,Youfu LIN,Hongze QI,Zeshuang WANG,Haohua WEI,Yankun WU and Yaofei YU for assistance during the research.
文摘The species diversity and altitudinal distribution of amphibians along an eleva tional gradient of 200-1600 m in the Xianxialing and Wuyishan Mountain Ranges in Southeastern China were investiga ted through time-constra ined visual surveys along 32 transect lines in 9 survey areas,in which the ha bitat types were also recorded.A total of 27 amphibian species belonging to 19 genera,7 families,and 2 orders were found.The species diversity of the amphibians plateaued at low elevation,and the altitudinal boundary of their distribution was at 800 m.Their species compositions were dissimilar in the two mountain ranges probably beca use the annual average temperature and annual rainfall were different in both areas.The eleva tional Rapoport's rule demonstrated that the species range size of the amphibians expanded as the elevation increased in both mountain ranges.The results of the cross species method supported the rule only when the influence of the low-frequency occurrence proba bility of an investigated species was excluded,whereas those of the Steven's method strongly corroborated the rule rega rdless of the incidental occurrence or absence of the species.
文摘Why do two sexes of the same species differ in body size holds a long-standing question of evolutionary biology. While many across-species comparisons have focused on ultimate causes behind sexual size dimorphism （SSD）, only have a few been directed toward elucidating its ontogenetic basis. Urodeles are an amphibian group in which the direction and degree of SSD vary greatly among species. Using demographic data yielded by skeletochronology for 33 urodele species, the current study re- veals a positive across-species correlation between SSD and the sex difference in mean age of adult animals, and the latter in- creases with the corresponding difference in age at maturity; annual growth rate does not differ between the sexes. We conclude that extended longevities in one sex, which is mediated by delayed maturation, would allow it to grow for longer and get larger, with growth rate making a weak contribution to body size. The sex-specific divergence in ontogenetic trajectory might be ex- plained by potentially high growth costs of reproduction to females in association with stronger fecundity selection, and to males that are expected to experience stronger sexual selection [Current Zoology 59 （1）： 142-150, 2013].
基金the Second Tibetan Plateau Scientific Expedition and Research Program(STEP),(Grant No.2019QZKK05010503)the National Natural Sciences Foundation of China(NSFC.31471964)grants to Jianping JIANG+1 种基金supported by the CAS.TWAS President Fellowshipthe Chinese Academy of Sciences President’s International Fellowship Initiative(Grant No.2018PB0016)。
文摘Amphibians are declining worldwide.At the same time,each year many species of amphibians are described,indicating that biological diversity on Earth remains poorly understood.This is especially true for mountainous regions,such as the Himalayas,which are also regarded as a biodiversity hotspot.However,it is most likely that the current diversity of amphibians in Nepal is highly underestimated.Amphibian inventories by the past researchers primarily used phenotypic characters as the basis for species identification.However,the application of molecular systematics methods to taxonomic studies has successfully uncovered the taxonomic status of several cryptic taxa.This study used both molecular(16 S rDNA sequences)and morphological comparisons and estimated the diversity of amphibians from Nepal.This study reports the occurrence of 38 species of amphibians based on both molecular and morphological comparisons.Among them,three species were recorded for the first time in Nepal.This study also invalids the taxonomic status of Sphaerotheca paschima.This study highlights the importa nce of integrative taxonomic approaches that help to resolve the current taxonomic ambiguities of Nepalese amphibians.
基金Acknowledgements We thank Prof. An Martel at Ghent University for providing positive control samples for Bs detection by PCR. We thank Zhiqing Xu at the Chongqing Museum of Natural History for assisting with sampling. This research was supported by grants from The Ministry of Science and Technology of China （2013FYl10300） and the Beijing Natural Science Foundation （code： 5132026）.
文摘For the last decade, chytridiomycosis was considered to be caused by a single species of fungus, Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis （Bd）, but a second chytrid species, Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans （Bs）, was recently isolated from an in- fected Salamandra salamandra in the Netherlands. To date, Bs has only been found in the Netherlands. To assess whether Bs is present in China, we analyzed a total of 665 samples, including 425 wild samples, 41 preserved specimens, and 199 captive sam- pies, from 30 different species, including both urodeles and anurans. Our sample sites covered 15 provinces in China. All of the samples tested negative for Bs, resulting in a 95% confidence limit for a prevalence of 0.6%. The absence of Bs observed in this large-scale survey in China has significant implications for amphibian conservation and for border trade management strategies intended to control amphibian diseases. We strongly recommend the continued close monitoring of Bs to verify the status of this potentially devastating amphibian fungus in China .
基金supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(NSFC32170478,NSFC32001222,NSFC32060828,NSFC32370478)to Z.Y.and P.L.the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(SWU-KR22014)+2 种基金the“Special Fund for Youth Team of Southwest University”(SWU-XJPY202302)“Youth Top Talent Program of Chongqing”(CQYC 20220510893)Conservation and Genetic Germplasm Creation of Aquatic Resources in the Upper Yangtze River(2010423005)to Z.Y.
文摘Environmental DNA(eDNA)metabarcoding has emerged as a powerful,non-invasive tool for biodiversity assessments.However,the accuracy and limitations of these assessment techniques are highly dependent on the choice of primer pairs being used.Although several primer sets have been used in eDNA metabarcoding studies of amphibians,there are few comparisons of their reliability and efficiency.Here,we employed lab-and field-tested sets of publicly available and de novo-designed primers in amplifying 83 species of amphibian from all three orders(Anura,Caudata,and Gymnophiona)and 13 families present in China to evaluate the versatility and specificity of these primers sets in amphibian eDNA metabarcoding studies.Three pairs of primers were highly effective,as they could successfully amplify all the major clades of Chinese amphibians in our study.A few non-amphibian taxa were also amplified by these primers,which implies that further optimization of amphibian-specific primers is still needed.The simultaneous use of three primer sets can completely cover all the species obtained by conventional survey methods and has even effectively distinguished quite a number of species(n=20)in the Wenshan National Nature Reserve.No single primer set could individually detect all of the species from the studied region,indicating that multiple primers might be necessary for a comprehensive survey of Chinese amphibians.Besides,seasonal variations in amphibian species composition were also revealed by eDNA metabarcoding,which was consistent with traditional survey methods.These results indicate that eDNA metabarcoding has the potential to be a powerful tool for studying spatial and temporal community changes in amphibian species richness.
基金carried out within the state assignment of Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation (theme No. 124012200182-1)
文摘The study was based on material from the Medvezhiy Klyk Cave,located in the Southern Sikhote-Alin range in the Russian Far East.The aim of this research was to assess the taxonomic composition and changes in the species diversity of the Southern Primorye herpetofauna over geological time in response to environmental changes.In the fifth layer of sedimentary deposits in Medvezhiy Klyk Cave(horizons 15-11),corresponding to the Middle Holocene,remains of sixteen extant species of amphibians and squamate reptiles were identified:Bombina orientalis,Bufo sachalinensis,Dryophytes japonicus,Rana amurensis,R.dybowskii,Pelophylax nigromaculatus,Takydromus amurensis,T.wolteri,Zootoca vivipara,Elaphe dione,E.schrenckii,Lycodon rufozonatus,Hebius vibakari,Rhabdophis lateralis,Gloydius intermedius,and G.ussuriensis.Salamandrella sp.was identified only to the genus level due to difficulties in distinguishing species within this genus based on the preserved skeletal elements.Additionally,among the snake remains,some bones could not be assigned to any species in the comparative osteological collection.These remains are classified as Lycodon sp.and Serpentes gen.et sp.indet.They most likely also belong to extant species that currently inhabit regions south of the Russian border.The faunal assemblages of amphibians and reptiles indicate that forest vegetation predominated around the cave during the Middle Holocene,with the most extensive forest cover occurring during the accumulation of horizon 14.This period was also the most favorable for thermophilic and moisture-dependent species,including those whose current ranges lie further south.The climate throughout the deposition of the fifth layer is reconstructed as warmer and more humid than present-day conditions,consistent with other Middle Holocene climate reconstructions.Only horizon 11 corresponds to a relative climatic cooling.
文摘Bhutan is a biodiverse country,yet there are relatively few scientific studies on its herpetofauna.To determine research gaps and opportunities for scientific advances,we completed a literature review on amphibians and reptiles of Bhutanese origin from online databases including ResearchGate,Google Scholar,the Integrated Taxonomic Information System(ITIS),and relevant authors.Of the 63 studies on herpetofauna of Bhutan between 1972 and 2022,most focused on reptiles(45%)followed by amphibians(32%),while fewer(23%)included both taxa.Most studies were field-based(n=44),followed by desktop research(n=14),and then laboratory work(n=5).Ecology and natural history studies(n=35)dominated the literature,while other disciplines included conservation and anthropogenic interactions(n=22),then evolution,taxonomy,and systematics(n=4).Single reports existed on disease,and on genetic studies.After 2009,the quantity of literature rose considerably to a total of 52 publications on Bhutanese herpetofauna.Most studies have been conducted by Bhutanese researchers(n=36),followed by collaborations with scientists from outside the country(n=15),and work published by foreign scientists alone(n=12)contributed some of the earliest studies.There was a bias in the taxa studied,the type of research,and the location of study.Research concentrating on anatomy or physiology was absent,while studies on disease,genetics,taxonomy,and systematic classification are scarce.There is a pressing need for increased conservation-oriented studies,as they were poorly represented.These gaps offer direction for further research.In particular,there are few studies on the diversity and distribution of amphibians and reptiles-such information is key to analysing threats and developing effective conservation strategies.Such knowledge would contribute greatly towards the conservation and management of Bhutan’s native amphibians and reptiles.Bhutan currently harbours ca.83 amphibian species(31 genera,8 families,3 orders:Anura,Caudata,Gymnophiona)and ca.138 reptile species(58 genera,17 families,2 orders:Squamata,Testudines).Bhutan does have crocodiles,but they are in captivity only.
文摘Regenerative capacity of the central nervous system(CNS)is unevenly distributed among vertebrates.While most mammalian species including humans elicit limited repair following CNS injury or disease,highly regenerative vertebrates including urodele amphibians and teleost fish spontaneously reverse CNS damage.Teletost zebrafish(danio rerio)are tropical freshwater fish that proved to be an excellent vertebrate model of successful CNS regeneration.Differential neuronal,glial,and immune injury responses underlie disparate injury outcomes between highly regenerative zebrafish and poorly regenerative mammals.This article describes complications associated with neuronal repair following spinal cord injury(SCI)in poorly regenerative mammals and highlights intersecting modes of plasticity and regeneration in highly regenerative zebrafish(Figures 1 and 2).Comparative approaches evaluating immunoglial SCI responses were recently reviewed elsewhere(Reyes and Mokalled,2024).
文摘The conservation status of all the amphibians in China is analyzed,and the country is shown to be a global priority for conservation in comparison to many other countries of the world.Three Chinese regions are particularly rich in amphibian diversity:Hengduan,Nanling,and Wuyi mountains.Sala-manders are more threatened than frogs and toads.Several smaller families show a high propensity to become seriously threatened:Bombinatoridae,Cryptobranchidae,Hynobiidae and Salamandridae.Like other parts of the world,stream-breeding,high-elevation forest amphibians have a much higher likeli-hood of being seriously threatened.Habitat loss,pollution,and over-harvesting are the most serious threats to Chinese amphibians.Over-harvesting is a less pervasive threat than habitat loss,but it is more likely to drive a species into rapid decline.Five conservation challenges are mentioned with recommendations for the highest priority research and conservation actions.
