Traditional conservation monitoring often relies on morphological abundance, which can mask critical underlying genetic erosion. This study investigates the ‘Abundance Paradox’ in Southwest Nigeria through a combined morpho-molecular assessment of the Piper and Pterocarpus genera – taxa of significant ethno-medicinal and timber value. We employed a robust integrated approach combining 31 vegetative descriptors with chloroplast Simple Sequence Repeat (SSR), nuclear SSR and Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism (AFLP) markers to assess genetic diversity across a Lowland Rainforest-Derived Savanna gradient. Sampling covered five distinct land-use types: Primary forest reserves, degraded secondary forests, smallholder farmlands, institutional gardens and sacred groves. Analysis revealed that while Piper guineense appears locally abundant in farmlands, it suffers a significant 12% reduction in expected heterozygosity (He) and shows clear signs of a recent bottleneck (P < 0.05). In contrast, Pterocarpus erinaceus demonstrated high genetic differentiation (FST = 0.24), leading to the identification of three distinct evolutionarily significant units aligned with regional ecological zones. Sacred groves were found to maintain biodiversity levels comparable to primary forests, outperforming degraded areas. These data demonstrate that high phenotypic frequency is a misleading proxy for genetic health, and that morphological plasticity in disturbed habitats masks underlying genomic erosion. We provide actionable recommendations for the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan 2025–2030, emphasizing the need for molecular auditing to safeguard the adaptive potential of underutilized tropical genetic resources.

Wolbachia, a widespread facultative endosymbiont in arthropods, not only manipulates host reproduction but also influences the genetic diversity of mitochondrial DNA through maternal inheritance. Despite being extensively reported across various insect taxa, Wolbachia infection patterns remain poorly documented in the family Hesperiidae. In this study, we investigated Wolbachia infections in 21 species from 14 genera across six tribes of Hesperiinae, based on the amplification of five housekeeping genes (gatB, coxA, hcpA, ftsZ, and fbpA). Host phylogenies were reconstructed using concatenated datasets of mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) and cytochrome b (Cytb), together with the nuclear elongation factor 1-alpha (EF-1α), while population genetic analyses were performed on COI and Cytb. The results reveal an infection rate of approximately 61.9% at the species level and 58.33% at the individual level. Phylogenetic analysis indicates that nearly half of the infected samples belong to the A supergroup and cluster with strains previously linked to horizontal transmission. These findings suggest the possibility of cross-species transmission events, although direct evidence for horizontal transfer remains limited.

Risso’s dolphin (Grampus griseus) is a widely distributed oceanic species; its global and regional population structure remains poorly understood. To assess their genetic diversity and connectivity in British waters, we analysed tissue samples from stranded individuals collected between 1992 and 2016 using 16 nuclear microsatellite loci and a 433-bp mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) sequence. Microsatellite analyses (STRUCTURE, AMOVA, and PCA) consistently indicated a single genetic cluster with no significant geographic differentiation among sampling sites, suggesting a panmictic population. BayesAss results further supported high gene flow and limited isolation among regions. The mtDNA dataset identified six haplotypes with low haplotype and nucleotide diversity, showing no spatial structuring within the British Isles. Phylogenetic reconstruction revealed that all British haplotypes were endemic and formed a monophyletic clade closely related to haplotypes from the Azores in the North Atlantic. Together, the nuclear and mtDNA data indicate low genetic diversity and a lack of population subdivision among British Risso’s dolphins. These findings imply recent colonisation and high dispersal capability, consistent with patterns observed in other wide-ranging marine mammals. Continued monitoring, broader geographic sampling, and large-scale photo-identification are needed to refine understanding of Risso’s dolphin population dynamics and to inform conservation management.

Chilo partellus is a major stem borer of cereals in India, causing significant yield losses. Understanding its population genetic structure is critical for tracing origins, elucidating dispersal patterns, and informing sustainable pest management. The present study focused on 11 geographically distinct Indian populations (Akola, New Delhi, Hyderabad, Umiam, Parbhani, Solan, Surat, Udaipur, Raichur, Coimbatore, and Kovilpatti) using multilocus mitochondrial DNA markers, viz., cytochrome c oxidase subunits I and II (COI and COII), cytochrome b (Cytb), and 16S rRNA. Phylogenetic analyses revealed moderate genetic differentiation, with no strictly location-specific clades, indicating partial geographic structuring alongside widespread haplotype sharing. COI sequences showed minimal divergence, reflecting strong genetic cohesion and recent common ancestry, while COII and Cytb provided higher resolution for detecting regional variation. The 16S rRNA marker captured deeper evolutionary divergence, particularly among northern, central, and southern populations. Haplotype networks displayed starlike topologies with dominant central haplotypes and multiple low-frequency derivatives, consistent with recent population expansion and high gene flow. Nucleotide polymorphism analyses identified locus-specific hotspots contributing to haplotype differentiation but not to strong population-specific signatures. Overall, Indian C. partellus populations exhibit low-to-moderate mitochondrial diversity and weak phylogeographic structure, suggesting a common genetic origin with extensive contemporary gene flow likely facilitated by contiguous cropping systems, migratory behaviour, and anthropogenic movement. These findings underscore the importance of area-wide integrated pest management strategies and highlight the utility of multilocus mitochondrial markers in resolving both historical and recent population dynamics in migratory insect pests.

Bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is a vital crop with production demand increasing due to population growth. However, bread wheat is facing challenges, including the emergence of pests and diseases, reduced genetic diversity and climate change. To meet food security, pre-breeding can help to develop varieties by incorporating desirable traits from wild relatives and landraces. Although pre-breeding is crucial, it does not often take full advantage of recent genotyping technologies. The DArTag mid-density wheat panel, developed by CIMMYT as part of the CGIAR initiative, offers a low-cost genotyping solution, but its applicability in pre-breeding programs has not been widely evaluated. This study aims to assess population structure, genetic diversity and genomic selection in a set of 484 pre-breeding bread wheat lines derived from crosses with wild relatives, using the DArTag mid-density wheat panel to investigate the ability of this genotyping approach to validate pedigrees, identify specific trait subsets and detect potential introgressions for targeted selection. Our results demonstrate that the panel captured genetic diversity in the pre-breeding population, identifying seven subpopulations with different genetic compositions; analysis confirmed the existence of private alleles associated with important agronomic traits, highlighting the role of wild relatives, especially Aegilops bicornis and Aegilops ovata, in genetic variation. In addition, the genotyping also facilitates pedigree validation and generates trait-specific sub-populations for phenotyping. The sub-populations and markers found in this work are useful resources that can be effectively used to accelerate wheat improvement, offering new insights into the contribution of wild relatives and landraces to wheat diversity.

Clonality plays an important role in the proliferation of invasive species and can facilitate invasive success by reducing reliance on sexual reproduction and promoting spread of genetically identical individuals. Clonal invasions are advantageous for biological control strategies, as biological control agents may have a uniform, damaging response to invasive populations with low genetic diversity. Agents sourced in the native range, that are locally adapted to the same plant genotype that is invasive, may cause this response. Understanding the population genetics and invasion history of a species in the novel range is paramount to ensure effective biological control agents are introduced. Here we investigated the population genetics of pickerelweed (Pontederia cordata L.), a tristylous invasive macrophyte native to North and South America that is causing detrimental impacts in South Africa (SA). SA populations all have only one of three tristylous forms and produce no seeds. Inter simple sequence repeats (ISSR) of P. cordata leaf samples from SA and from parts of the native range in the United States were used to determine population structure and potential source populations. Pontederia cordata has low genetic diversity within and among invasive populations in SA compared with native populations. This suggests no sexual reproduction and limited gene flow in SA and only one introductory event. Invasive populations shared the closest genetic similarity with native samples from Virginia, USA, and although large parts of the indigenous distribution were not sampled, this close match suggests that the site may be a suitable area to source potential biological control agents. However, genetic sampling in other native areas should also be considered to confidently determine the origin of SA populations. This study corroborates other global findings of highly successful invasive species utilizing clonality and, consequently, resulting in invasive genotypes with low diversity.

Crop wild relatives represent an essential reservoir of untapped genetic diversity for crop improvement. Despite sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) being an important oilseed crop, its wild relatives remain underutilized for characterization and breeding efforts. To comprehensively assess their potential, a field evaluation was conducted during the kharif seasons of 2022 and 2023 on 53 accessions belonging to seven wild, three S. indicum accessions, and three cultivated species. Thirty-four agro-morphological traits (18 qualitative, 16 quantitative) were characterized under field conditions. Substantial variability was observed across key traits, including plant height, branching patterns, leaf morphology, corolla structure and pigmentation, capsule size and shape, seed characteristics, and yield-contributing attributes. Multivariate analyses revealed significant clustering patterns, and several traits, notably capsule width, capsule length, corolla length, seed area and test weight, exhibited high heritability. Importantly, certain wild accessions such as IC621506 and IC557250 (early maturity), IC409053, IC204658, IC208661 and IC208662 (greater capsule number), and IC208661, IC208662 and IC409053 (superior seed yield per plant) outperformed cultivated sesame species. These novel accessions constitute valuable genetic resources for broadening the cultivated gene pool and enhancing breeding strategies. This study provides the first comprehensive characterization of morphological diversity in wild sesame species, underscoring their potential utility in developing high-yielding, resilient varieties that can address future agricultural challenges.

Haemonchus contortus, a highly pathogenic gastrointestinal nematode, significantly impacts small ruminant production, causing substantial economic losses in sheep and goat farming. This study examined the genetic diversity and population structure of 171 H. contortus isolates collected from the abomasa of sheep slaughtered across 8 distinct regions in Xinjiang, China. Using sequence analysis, phylogenetic reconstruction and population genetic analyses of the mitochondrial nad4 gene, we identified 163 haplotypes, with haplotype diversity ranging from 0.995 to 1.000 and nucleotide diversity from 0.02007 to 0.03145. The Tacheng population displayed the highest nucleotide diversity. Analysis of molecular variance revealed that 91.83% of genetic variation occurred within populations, with minimal differentiation among them (Fst: −0.01296 to 0.04274). Neutrality tests (Tajima’s D and Fu’s Fs) indicated no recent population bottlenecks. Phylogenetic and haplotype network analyses showed no distinct geographic clustering, suggesting extensive gene flow, likely facilitated by host movement. These findings provide critical insights into the genetic structure of H. contortus in Xinjiang, informing strategies for managing anthelmintic resistance and controlling this economically significant parasite.

The brazilwood tree Paubrasilia echinata is endemic to the Atlantic Forest of Brazil and is categorized as Endangered on the IUCN Red List as a result of habitat loss and overexploitation. Phylogenomic analysis has identified five groups based on genotype, including the arruda-RJ lineage endemic to the state of Rio de Janeiro. We propose a prioritization classification protocol for Atlantic Forest fragments and evaluate the effectiveness of conservation for this species in Rio de Janeiro. We collated a total of 164 occurrence records of P. echinata from fieldwork during 2004–2024 and from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility. We classified forest fragments containing the species as high, medium or low priority for conservation. The arruda-RJ lineage persists in 43 forest fragments in the coastal region, 30 of which are documented for the first time here. Most forest fragments are small and have an uneven population structure. Urbanization is the primary threat to the survival of this lineage. We documented protected areas in 33 fragments, and identified conservation opportunities. The greatest number of forest fragments is in the northern region where there are the most protected areas and the brazilwood populations hold the greatest local genetic diversity. We propose targeted conservation actions for P. echinata arruda-RJ in eight forest fragments identified as high priority and with the greatest potential for conservation of the lineage. We identified 25 fragments as medium priority and 10 fragments as low priority. Our approach is applicable to other lineages of P. echinata and is aligned with Global Biodiversity Framework targets.

The rapid spread of herbicide resistance in weeds, driven by gene flow through multiple pathways, poses an increasing challenge for agricultural systems. This review summarizes the extent and distance of pollen- and seed-mediated gene flow (PMGF and SMGF, respectively) in selected self-pollinated weeds and the environmental factors that influence PMGF. A comprehensive literature review was focused on assessing PMGF patterns, dispersal mechanisms, and influencing factors across self-pollinated weed species. Statistical analyses were conducted to evaluate correlations between PMGF and environmental variables, including temperature, precipitation, humidity, and elevation. Self-pollinated weeds in the Asteraceae family show the highest PMGF (average 10.63%), with common groundsel showing 24% at 0.5 m from the pollen source. Solanaceae and Chenopodiaceae are plant families with the second and third highest PMGF (average 10.00% and 1.58%, respectively). Within Solanaceae, eastern black nightshade exhibited the maximum PMGF (17%), whereas in Chenopodiaceae, magenta spreen showed the highest gene flow, reaching 3% at 15 m from the pollen source. In contrast, the lowest mean PMGF was observed in Poaceae and Brassicaceae (average 1.87% and 0.33%, respectively). Furthermore, among environmental variables, only temperature showed a significant correlation (P < 0.05). Due to the limited number of studies, this correlation should be viewed cautiously, as it likely reflects general patterns rather than a causal link to PMGF. Bold-seeded grasses such as oat may disperse seeds at low frequency (14-18%), however, light-seeded species such as horseweed can disperse as high as 99% of their seeds. Understanding gene flow in self-pollinated weeds with high fecundity is vital to limiting herbicide resistance spread in such species.

Kochia [Bassia scoparia (L.) A.J. Scott] is an invasive species in the High Plains of the United States that poses formidable management challenges in agricultural systems, primarily due to its evolution of resistance to glyphosate. Resistance is due to a transposon-associated increase in 5-enolpyruvyl-3-shikimate phosphate synthase (EPSPS) gene copy number relative to the sensitive biotype. Factors behind the rapid spread of glyphosate-resistant biotypes are likely associated with certain aspects of B. scoparia biology, such as a protogynous flower morphology producing large amounts of pollen, that encourages outcrossing and favors high genetic diversity. Furthermore, its ability to tumble over long distances ensures a rapid spread of the resistance trait. Herein, we explore glyphosate resistance in B. scoparia in Colorado. There was no difference in EPSPS gene (Type I, Type II) and FAR1 copy numbers between parent and progeny B. scoparia populations across multiple years (2018, 2020, and 2022), suggesting stable inheritance of glyphosate resistance. Further, the inheritance of glyphosate resistance was investigated using three specific microsatellites or simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers viz. 2656, 2896, and 1792. SSR marker analysis revealed an outcrossing rate of 78% and a selfing rate of 22% in B. scoparia progeny. By investigating the complex interplay between B. scoparia’s biology and genetics, this study investigates the inheritance of glyphosate resistance in B. scoparia, estimates the outcrossing rate under field conditions, and underscores the importance of developing effective management strategies to mitigate its impact on agricultural ecosystems.

Molecular analyses of geographically dispersed Fasciola spp. isolates based on ribosomal, mitochondrial and nuclear molecular markers have revealed high levels of genetic diversity within liver fluke populations. To investigate the Fasciola population substructure across Pakistan 4 molecular markers were compared (fatty acid binding protein, fabp; phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase, pepck; random amplified polymorphic DNA, RAPD; mitochondrial NADH dehydrogenase, mt-nd1). Adult parasites (n = 595) were collected from buffalo and cattle across 4 provinces in Pakistan (Baluchistan, Gilgit Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab). Species classification of all 595 parasites was confirmed by the 3 gel-based markers (pepck, fabp and RAPD) as F. gigantica, except for the fabp marker which unexpectedly could not be amplified in 274 parasites (46%). Analysis of a subset of samples indicates the potential for mis-priming due to multiple genomic loci that match the fabp primer sequences resulting in negative PCR products in some cases. Sequence analysis of the mt-nd1 PCR products identified 29 haplotypes within the samples from Pakistan, the majority of which are unique to this study. None of the 29 haplotype sequences were identified in samples from Africa, highlighting the genetic diversity between geographically disparate liver fluke populations. Inconsistencies between Fasciola spp. molecular markers in this study highlights the need for multiple markers, validated on large numbers of geographically disparate parasites, to generate robust analyses of liver fluke genetic diversity. This study echoes other Fasciola spp. population studies and highlights the genetic diversity of F. gigantica populations in Pakistan that is comparable to observations of diversity throughout Asia.

Dyckia ibiramensis is an endemic species from southern Brazil, known for its ability to adapt to extreme environmental variations. This study reports the development of species-specific microsatellite markers and the assembly and annotation of the plastid genome of D. ibiramensis, aiming to generate new genomic resources useful for studies on the conservation and evolution of this endangered species. A total of 33,112 microsatellite loci were identified, of which 10 were selected and validated for genotyping 30 individuals from natural populations, showing high genetic variability. These 10 microsatellite markers were very informative for the evaluation of genetic variability. These microsatellite markers evidenced moderate to high genetic diversity at the individual level, low population differentiation, and the capacity of the species to recover population size from ancient genetic bottlenecks. The assembled plastid genome revealed conserved structures and the occurrence of features at the gene level, likely related to stress response to environmental conditions. This study expands the understanding of the genetics of D. ibiramensis, highlighting the importance of genomic strategies for the conservation of endangered species. In situ and ex situ conservation strategies should be used to avoid the extinction of this endemic southern Brazilian genetic resource in nature.

Biodiversity knowledge gaps and biases persist across low-income tropical regions. Genetic data are essential for addressing these issues, supporting biodiversity research and conservation planning. To assess progress in wildlife genetic sampling within the Philippines, I evaluated the scope, representativeness, and growth of publicly available genetic data and research on endemic vertebrates from the 1990s through 2024. Results showed that 82.3% of the Philippines’ 769 endemic vertebrates have genetic data, although major disparities remain. Reptiles had the least complete coverage but exhibited the highest growth, with birds, mammals, and amphibians following in that order. Species confined to smaller biogeographic subregions, with narrow geographic ranges, or classified as threatened or lacking threat assessments were disproportionately underrepresented. Research output on reptiles increased markedly, while amphibian research lagged behind. Although the number of non-unique authors in wildlife genetics studies involving Philippine specimens has grown steeply, Filipino involvement remains low. These results highlight the uneven and non-random distribution of wildlife genetic knowledge within this global biodiversity hotspot. Moreover, the limited participation of Global South researchers underscores broader inequities in wildlife genomics. Closing these gaps and addressing biases creates a more equitable and representative genetic knowledge base and supports its integration into national conservation efforts aligned with global biodiversity commitments.

This work analyses the genetic potential of Stevia rebaudiana beyond its sweetening properties, aiming to reassess its conservation and utilization in breeding programmes. This focus is justified by the growing global demand for natural sweeteners and the challenges posed by extreme weather events and diseases affecting crop yield and quality. The relationship between the species’ genetic diversity and its response to biotic and abiotic stresses is explored, as well as the limitations of current conservation and breeding strategies. Findings reveal underutilized genetic resources, limited integration of genomic tools in breeding efforts and a lack of robust in situ conservation initiatives. Genotypic variability has been observed in response to diseases such as Septoria leaf spot, while abiotic factors, including salinity and drought, can significantly influence steviol glycoside content. It is concluded that an integrated approach, combining dynamic conservation, photoperiod‐informed breeding strategies, improvements in seed viability, omics‐based tools and coherent public policies, is essential to ensure crop resilience and genetic sovereignty, especially in regions of origin such as Paraguay. The sustainable use of Stevia’s genetic diversity could foster more sustainable, healthier and fairer production systems.

Genetic diversity and phytochemical content are critical factors for enhancing the utility of wild plant species for breeding and conservation. In this study, we investigated wild ramie (Boehmeria nivea (L.) Gaudich. var. tenacissima (Roxb.) Miq.) populations from six coastal and island regions of South Korea. Genetic diversity was assessed in 150 samples using genotyping-by-sequencing, which revealed high genetic differentiation (Fst = 0.438) among the populations. Notably, the observed heterozygosity ranged from 0.297 to 0.422, whereas the allele richness ranged from 1.256 to 1.323. These findings suggest significant genetic variability within and among the populations. Phytochemical analyses were conducted to measure total phenolic and flavonoid contents (TPC and TFC, respectively) over 2 years. The TPC varied significantly across regions and years, with averages ranging from 2.2 to 30.3 mgGAE/g in 2021 and 3.2 to 19.6 mgGAE/g in 2022. Similarly, the TFC values exhibited regional and annual differences with significant environmental influences. Although TPC showed strong genotype-by-environment interactions, TFC was predominantly affected by environmental factors. This study highlights the potential of wild ramie as a reservoir of genetic and biochemical traits for the development of improved cultivars with high antioxidant properties. By linking genetic diversity to phytochemical variation, this study highlights the importance of conserving wild genetic resources and optimizing their use in breeding programmes. These findings provide a foundation for further exploration of the genetic and environmental factors that influence economically valuable traits in wild plants.

Toxoplasmosis, caused by the obligate intracellular parasite Toxoplasma gondii, is one of the most prevalent zoonotic parasitic infections worldwide. When acquired during pregnancy, T. gondii can be transmitted to the fetus, with clinical outcomes influenced by gestational age at time of infection and the parasite’s genotype. Prenatal screening enables the detection of maternal seroconversion and offers a critical window for intervention. In Uruguay, despite mandatory serological screening during pregnancy, national data on T. gondii seroprevalence and maternal seroconversion have not been updated in two decades. In addition, the genetic diversity of local strains remains poorly characterized. In this study, we analysed publicly available serological data from pregnant individuals attending Uruguay’s largest public maternity hospital between 2019 and 2023. We found that seroprevalence has modestly declined from 50% (reported in 1998) to 45.5%, with a congenital transmission rate of 0.58%. Clinical analysis of affected newborns revealed chorioretinitis as the predominant manifestation. To investigate parasite diversity, we performed genotyping of T. gondii strains using in silico PCR-RFLP following molecular detection. Our findings revealed substantial genetic diversity, including novel allele combinations not previously described in the region. These results highlight both the continued public health burden and the evolving genetic landscape of T. gondii in Uruguay. Our findings underscore the need to strengthen surveillance and prevention strategies for congenital toxoplasmosis in South America.

Spirometra is a genus of zoonotic cestodes with an ambiguous species-level taxonomic history. Previously, Spirometra mansonoides was considered the only species present in North America. However, recent molecular data revealed the presence of at least three distinct species in the USA: Spirometra sp. 2 and 3, and Spirometra mansoni. This study aimed to elucidate the diversity and potential host associations of Spirometra species among companion animals in the USA. Samples (N = 302) were examined from at least 13 host species, including mammals, amphibians and reptiles. Sample types included eggs isolated from faeces (n = 222), adult specimens (n = 71) and plerocercoids (n = 9) from 18 different states and 2 territories across the USA. Extracted genomic DNA was subjected to PCR targeting a fragment of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (cox1) gene. Generated sequences (n = 136) were included in a phylogenetic analysis. Spirometra mansoni was detected in domestic cats (n = 76), dogs (n = 12), a White’s tree frog (n = 1), a Cuban knight anole (n = 1), a green iguana (n = 1) and a serval (n = 1) across 15 states and Puerto Rico. Spirometra sp. 2 was found only in dogs (n = 3) from Florida and Spirometra sp. 3 was found only in cats (n = 41) from 17 states. All plerocercoid samples were consistent with S. mansoni. The results confirm that at least three distinct Spirometra species are present and established in companion animals, such as dogs and cats, and likely are using various native and exotic species as paratenic hosts within the USA.