DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.24.197390

Authors: Stoyan Nedkov, Katrin Parvanova, Sofia Yakovleva, Ina Vasileva, Marta Paunova

Abstract: The Integrated Valuation of Ecosystem Services and Trade-offs Habitat Quality (InVEST HQ) model offers a spatially explicit approach for assessing habitat quality utilizing relatively simple, readily available data and an intuitive interface. In this paper, we provide a literature review of the InVEST HQ application based on 61 scientific papers, which have been systematized, analysed, and interpreted using a detailed and structured original template. We identify the main trends and gaps in the model’s applications, as well as its readiness for integration into studies on human-wildlife interactions (HWI). The first trend concerns the application of the model for assessing habitat quality to address spatial discrepancies between nature conservation and other human activities. The second one shows that, although InVEST HQ is often considered more suitable for assessing biodiversity in general, our review identifies a parallel trend of using the model in species-specific studies. The third trend reveals the application of the model in combination with other models and methods, which can provide more robust and ecologically meaningful results, compensating for its reliance on expert-based parameters. We further examine the extent to which InVEST HQ applications relate to HWI, showing that although the applicability is currently limited and mostly indirect, the model’s core strengths make it a promising tool for future HWI-oriented research. These results highlight the increasing popularity of the model as a spatially explicit tool for assessing habitat quality under a wide range of contexts, and point to its widespread integration with complementary tools as a core spatial framework that requires additional modelling layers to capture ecological complexity. This is in line with current trends in integrated ecosystem services modelling, which is necessary due to the multiple trade-offs among different services and the associated challenges that ecosystem assessments aim to resolve.

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DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.24.171467

Authors: Rayana M. R. Carvalho, Wesley A. C. Godoy

Abstract: In this study, we integrate population theory with experimental data from the literature and from our laboratory experiments to develop a preliminary predator–prey model. This model investigates wing polyphenism in aphids exposed to predators. We propose a system of three ordinary differential equations to simulate interactions among apterous aphids, alate aphids, and their predators. Although essential for biocontrol, predators can induce wing development, enabling aphids to disperse to previously uninfested plantations. Building on the work of Sentis et al. (2019), who found that ladybug presence increases winged offspring production (an effect dependent on the host plant) in Acyrthosiphon pisum, with stronger responses in alfalfa-specialized lineages than in clover-specialized ones, we investigated how host plant type shapes aphid responses using an analogous system with Myzus persicae on broccoli (a favorable host, akin to alfalfa for a strong response) and basil (a repellent host, akin to clover for a weak response). Our model results indicate that predator presence promotes alate formation, a response modulated by the predator’s attack rate, its conversion efficiency, and host plant effects, as plants vary in their attractiveness to different aphid morphs.

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DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.23.151538

Authors: Isabella Bueno, João Vitor Mendes Ferraz de Toledo, Lucas Santos Canuto, Wesley Augusto Conde Godoy

Abstract: This study presents an extended mathematical model, originally developed to explore biomass dynamics in Acromyrmex ants and their symbiotic fungus, which has been adapted to investigate biomass growth in Atta sexdens and its fungal partner. The model incorporates ant grooming as a defence against entomopathogenic fungi, building on experimental data where self-grooming and allogrooming were quantified across three groups: Metarhizium anisopliae, Escovopsis phialicopiosa, and a control. A second chamber was introduced to simulate biomass transfer between compartments. Inflection points in growth curves were identified to detect shifts in population dynamics, and bifurcation diagrams explored key parameters affecting system stability, namely worker allocation to fungal cultivation, ant mortality, and fungal mortality. Metarhizium anisopliae significantly reduced both ant and fungal biomass, even under optimal grooming conditions, owing to its direct virulence to workers. In contrast, E. phialicopiosa, an opportunistic pathogen, had minimal impact unless fungal mortality exceeded a critical threshold. Self-grooming proved more effective than allogrooming in mitigating M. anisopliae effects, likely owing to prioritisation of individual defences under high pathogen pressure. Spatial dynamics enhanced resilience: one-way transfer between chambers redistributed biomass, delaying inflection points and bolstering structural stability. Bifurcation analysis revealed that extreme proportions of workers cultivating the symbiotic fungus reduced the biomass for both partners, whilst ant and fungal mortality rates led to non-linear declines in most simulations. These findings underscore the role of multi-chamber architecture in mitigating pathogen impacts in Atta colonies and suggest potential applications for biological control strategies by identifying behavioural and structural factors that may limit or enhance the effectiveness of pathogenic fungi in field settings. The model provides a useful framework for understanding epidemiological dynamics in natural nests, integrating behavioural defences and spatial strategies to safeguard this mutualism.

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DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.22.125194

Authors: Stoyan Nedkov, Vanya Stoycheva, Hristina Prodanova, Ivaylo Ananiev, Yordan Yordanov

Abstract: The ecosystem services (ES) concept has established itself in recent years as the predominant paradigm for framing environmental research and policy-making. The EU Biodiversity Strategy to 2020 with its task for member countries to map and assess the state of ecosystems and their services has contributed vastly to the development of the ES studies in the European countries. Bulgaria was among the countries that made substantial progress in its implementation and the contribution of the geographers was of vital importance. This paper aims to provide an overview and analysis of the ES research in Bulgaria focusing on the contributions of the geographers and the spatial aspects of the studies. The information on the ES research was performed through a literature review by collecting all available published works that address the main objectives of the study. To systematize and characterize the content of the reviewed papers, a special database with a standard nomenclature was constructed. The findings from the review allowed us to identify both achievements and research gaps in the ES studies conducted by Bulgarian geographers. This enabled us to define the main research priorities of the coming years which can trace the future directions of ES research in the country. They include the development of the spatial aspects in the methodological frameworks for mapping and assessment of ES, better use of GIS-based tools for mapping ES alongside models’ integration, and improvement of the publication's quality and increase of the papers published in highly rated indexed journals.

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DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.21.111983

Authors: Aleksandrs Petjukevičs, Inta Umbraško, Natalja Škute

Abstract: This study describes an express method for identifying microorganisms: Pseudomonas aeruginosa by standard Raman spectroscopy, without surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS). The short-wavelength 514 nm Ar-Ion laser was used for P. aeruginosa spectral identification in the Raman shift range from 3200 cm−1 to 200 cm−1. The research results showed a high analytical and diagnostic sensitivity of the technology to the express identification of P. aeruginosa and can be used as one of the reliable methods. The proven technology is promising for further research of other microorganisms due to several significant advantages of the method. It does not require long-term cultivation of bacteria and special sample preparation, additional expensive reagents or consumables.

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DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.19.96250

Authors: Wojciech Ciesielski, Henryk Kołoczek, Zdzisław Oszczęda, Jacek A. Soroka, Piotr Tomasik

Abstract: Background: We attempt to recognise the effects of static magnetic field (SMF) of varying flux density on flora and fauna. For this purpose, the influence of static magnetic field is studied for molecules of octadecanoic (stearic), cis-octadec-9-enoic (oleic), cis,cis-octadec-9,12-dienoic (linoleic), all cis-octadec-6,9.12-trienoic (linolenic), trans-octadec-9-enoic – (elaidic), cis-octadec-11-enoic (vaccenic) and all trans-octadec-6,9,12-trienoic (trans-linolenic) acids as well as 1- and 2-caproyl monoglycerides, 1,2- and 1,3-caproyl diglycerides and 1,2,3-caproyl triglyceride. In such a manner we attempt to develop an understanding of the interactions of living cells with SMF on a molecular level. Methods: Computations of the effect of real SMF 0.0, 0.1, 1, 10 and 100 AMFU (Arbitrary Magnetic Field Unit; here 1AMFU > 1000 T) flux density were performed in silico (computer vacuum), involving advanced computational methods. Results: SMF polarises molecules depending on applied flux density It neither ionises nor breaks valence bonds at 0.1 and 1 AMFU. In some molecules under consideration flux density of 10 and 100AMFU some C-H and C-C bonds were broken. Some irregularities were observed in the changes of positive and negative charge densities and bond lengths against increasing flux density. They provide evidence that molecules slightly change their initially fixed positions with respect to the force lines of the magnetic field. The length of some bonds and bond angles change with an increase in the applied flux density providing, in some cases, polar interactions between atoms through space. Conclusions: SMF destabilizes lipid acids and caproyl glycerides irregularly against increasing flux density. That irregularity results from the ability of those molecules to twist out of the initially established SMF plain and squeeze molecules around some bonds. In some molecules SMF flux density of 10 AMFU and above breaks some valence bonds and only in case of elaidic acid the trans-cis conversion is observed. Depending on the structure and applied flux density SMF either stimulates or inhibits metabolic processes of the lipids under study.

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DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.18.86616

Authors: Wojciech Ciesielski, Tomasz Girek, Zdzisław Oszczęda, Jacek A. Soroka, Piotr Tomasik

Abstract: Background: An attempt to recognize the effects of a static magnetic field (SMF) of varying flux density on flora and fauna.. For this purpose the influence of static magnetic field upon molecules of Mg(II), Fe(II), Fe(III), Co(II), Co(III) and Cu(II) metalloporphyrins is studied. Methods: Computations of the effect of real SMF 0.0, 0.1, 1, 10 and 100 AFU (Arbitrary Magnetic Field Unit; here 1AMFU > 1000 T) flux density were performed in silico (computer vacuum) involving advanced computational methods. Results: The static magnetic field (SMF) decreased the stability of the metalloporphyrine molecules. This effect depended on the situation of the molecule in respect to the direction of the SMF of the Cartesian system. An increase in the value of heat of formation was accompanied by an increase in the dipole moment. It was an effect of deformations of the molecule which involved pyrrole rings holding the hydrogen atoms at the ring nitrogen atoms and the length of the C-H and N-H bonds. As a consequence, that macrocyclic ring lost its planarity. Conclusions: SMF even of the lowest, 0.1 AMFU flux density influences the biological role of metalloporphyrines associated with their central metal atoms. This effect is generated by changes in the electron density at these atoms, its steric hindering and polarization of particular bonds from pure valence bonds possibly into ionic bonds.

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DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.18.76997

Authors: Wojciech Ciesielski, Tomasz Girek, Zdzisław Oszczęda, Jacek A. Soroka, Piotr Tomasik

Abstract: Background: Recognising effects of static magnetic field (SMF) of varying flux density on flora and fauna is attempted. For this purpose, the influence of static magnetic field upon molecules of lower alkanols i.e. methanol, ethanol, propan-1-ol, propan-2-ol, butan-1-ol, S-butan-2-ol, isobutanol and tert-butanol is studied. Methods: Computations of the effect of real SMF 0.0, 0.1, 1, 10 and 100 AFU (Arbitrary Field Unit; here 1AFU > 1000 T) flux density were performed in silico (computer vacuum), involving advanced computational methods. Results: SMF polarises molecules depending on applied flux density, but it neither ionises nor breaks valence bonds. Some irregularities in the changes of positive and negative charge densities and bond lengths provide evidence that molecules slightly change their initially fixed positions with respect to the force lines of the magnetic field. Length of some bonds and bond angles change with an increase in the applied flux density, providing, in some cases, polar interactions between atoms through space. Conclusions: Since SMF produced and increase in the negative charge density at the oxygen atom of the hydroxyl group and elongated the –O-H bond length, these results show that SMF facilitates metabolism of the alkanols.

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DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.18.77001

Authors: Wojciech Ciesielski, Tomasz Girek, Henryk Kołoczek, Zdzisław Oszczęda, Jacek A. Soroka, Piotr Tomasik

Abstract: Background: Recognising effects of static magnetic field (SMF) of varying flux density on flora and fauna is attempted. For this purpose, the influence of SMF upon molecules of α- and β-D-glucose, α- and β-D-galactose, α- and β-fructopyranoses, α- and β-fructofuranoses and α- and β-D-xylofuranoses and α and β-D-xylopyranoses is studied. Methods: Computations of the effect of static magnetic field (SMF) of 0.0, 0.1, 1, 10 and 100 AFU (1 AFU > 1000 T) flux density were performed in silico for SMF changes distribution of the electron density in these molecules. Hyper-Chem 8.0 software was used together with the AM1 method for optimisation of the conformation of the molecules of monosaccharides under study. Then polarisability, charge distribution, potential and dipole moment for molecules placed in SMF were calculated involving DFT 3-21G method. Results: Application of SMF induced polarisability of electrons, atoms and dipoles, the latter resulting in eventual re-orientation of the molecules along the applied field of the molecules and the electron density redistribution at particular atoms. Increase in the field strength generated mostly irregular changes of the electron densities at particular atoms of the molecules as well as polarisabilities. Energy of these molecules and their dipole moments also varied with the SMF flux density applied. Conclusions: Saccharides present in the living organisms may participate in the response of the living organisms to SMF affecting metabolism of the molecules in the body fluids by fitting molecules to the enzymes. Structural changes of saccharide components of the cell membranes can influence the membrane permeability.

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DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.17.77523

Authors: Tsvetan Tsenov, Stanislav Donchev, Christomir Christov

Abstract: The models described in this study are of high importance in the development of thermodynamic database needed for nuclear waste geochemical storage as well as for technology for extracting cesium resources from saline waters. In this study we developed new not concentration restricted thermodynamic models for solution behavior and solid-liquid equilibrium in CsF-H2O CsOH-H2O and Cs2SO4-H2O systems at 25 °C. To parameterize models we used all available experimental osmotic coefficients data for whole concentration range of solutions and up to saturation point. The new models are developed on the basis of Pitzer ion interactions approach. The predictions of new developed here models are in excellent agreement with experimental osmotic coefficients data (ϕ) in binary solutions from low to extremely high concentration (up to 21.8 mol.kg-1 for CsOH-H2O and up to 35.6 mol.kg-1 for CsF-H2O). The previously developed by Christov by Christov and co-authors and by other authors Pitzer approach based thermodynamic models for five (5) cesium binary systems (CsCl-H2O CsBr- H2O CsI-H2O CsNO3-H2O and Cs2SeO4- H2O) are tested by comparison with experimental osmotic coefficients data and with recommendations on activity coefficients (γ±) in binary solutions. The models which give the best agreement with (ϕ)- and (γ±) -data from low to high concentration up to m(sat) are accepted as correct models which can be used for solubility calculations in binary and mixed systems and determination of thermodynamic properties of precipitating cesium solid phases. The thermodynamic solubility products (ln Kosp) and the Deliquescence Relative Humidity (DRH) of solid phases precipitating from saturated cesium binary solutions (CsF(cr) CsCl(cr) CsBr(cr) CsI(cr) CsOH(cr) CsNO3(cr) Cs2SO4(cr) and Cs2SeO4(cr)) have been determined on the basis of evaluated and accepted binary parameters and using experimental solubility data. The reported mixing parameters [θ(Cs M2+) and ψ(Cs M2+ X)] evaluated by solubility approach for 15 cesium mixed ternary systems (CsCl-MgCl2-H2O CsBr-MgBr2-H2O CsCl-NiCl2-H2O CsBr-NiBr2-H2O CsCl-MnCl2-H2O CsCl-CoCl2-H2O CsCl-CuCl2-H2O CsCl-CsBr-H2O CsCl-RbCl-H2O Cs2SO4-CoSO4-H2O Cs2SeO4-CoSeO4-H2O Cs2SO4-NiSO4-H2O Cs2SeO4-NiSeO4-H2O Cs2SO4-ZnSO4-H2O and Cs2SeO4-ZnSeO4-H2O) are tabulated.

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DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.17.77487

Authors: Stanislav Donchev, Tsvetan Tsenov, Christomir Christov

Abstract: The main purpose of this study is to develop new thermodynamic models for solution behavior and solid-liquid equilibrium in 10 nitrate binary systems of the type 2–1 (Mg(NO3)2-H2O, Ca(NO3)2-H2O, Ba(NO3)2-H2O, Sr(NO3)2-H2O, and UO2(NO3)2-H2O), 3–1 (Cr(NO3)3-H2O, Al(NO3)3-H2O, La(NO3)3-H2O, Lu(NO3)3-H2O), and 4–1 (Th(NO3)4-H2O) from low to very high concentration at 25 °C. To construct models, we used different versions of standard molality-based Pitzer approach. To parameterize models, we used all available raw experimental osmotic coefficients data (φ) for whole concentration range of solutions, and up to supersaturation zone. The predictions of developed models are in excellent agreement with φ-data, and with recommendations on activity coefficients (γ±) in binary solutions from low to very high concentration. The Deliquescence Relative Humidity (DRH), and thermodynamic solubility product (as ln K°sp) of 12 nitrate solid phases, precipitating from saturated binary solutions have been calculated. The concentration-independent models for nitrate systems described in this study are of high importance for development of strategies and programs for nuclear waste geochemical storage.

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DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.14.30319

Authors: Maissour Abdellah, Benamar Saad

Abstract: One of the important tools to evaluate the ecological quality of surface water is the Macrophytes indices based on the bioindication capacity of aquatic plants. In Mediterranean rivers (France, Spain, and Portugal), the development of some macrophytes indices like l’Indice Biologique Macrophytes Rivières (IBMR), the biological metric score (BMS), as well as the Fluvial Macrophyte Index (IMF) are founded on the determination of the indicator values of the floristic reference lists. The aim of this study was to test the impact of the eco-Mediterranean differences (from one country to another) on the indicator taxa by comparing the indicator values of the Euro‐ Mediterranean macrophyte indices. With this in mind, we explore the possibility of the introduction of the Euro‐Mediterranean macrophytes-based indices in Morocco (i.e. the hydrological basin of Sebou (HBS)) as a part of a preliminary attempt to develop the first Afro-Mediterranean macrophyte index. We confirm that the ecological amplitude and species optima vary between Mediterranean ecoregions, and indicator taxa differ between countries: There are medium to small correlations between Mediterranean indices: IBMR/BMS (p = 0.000, R2 = 0.57), IMF/BMS (p = 0.000, R2 = 0.34), and IBMR/IMF (p = 0.000, R2 = 0.30). Five species exhibit major differences in indicator values: Zannichellia palustris and Potamogeton pectinatus have more eutrophic indicator values in France (IBMR) than in Spain (IMF). Potamogeton nodosus, Amblystegium riparium and Lycopus europaeus have broader ecological amplitudes in Portugal (BMS) than in France (IBMR) and in Spain (IMF), where it is restricted to eutrophic conditions. Furthermore, the three indicator systems include different indicator-taxon numbers. The comparison of the HBS elaborated list with the Euro‐Mediterranean indices revealed the low level of common taxa approximately 6.76% of all indicator species used in the French index (IBMR), 10.48% in the Portuguese index (IMF) and 12.38% in the Spanish index (BMS). These results show the inadequacy of the trophic indices approach with the HBS conditions and thus the need for the development of an index based on biotic indices approach.

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DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.13.20688

Authors: Dolezel Marion, Bartel Andreas, Heissenberger Andreas

Abstract: In the environmental risk assessment (ERA) of genetically modified plants (GMP), the consideration of the different environments where genetically modified plants (GMP) will be commercially grown (the receiving environments) plays a crucial role. In addition, relevant protection goals which may be adversely affected by the GMP have to be considered during the ERA. Using a literature- and GIS-based approach, distribution data of protected lepidopteran species listed in Council Directive 92/43/EEC and of maize cultivation was used in order to evaluate potential spatial overlaps between GM maize and protected non-target Lepidoptera in different biogeographical regions (BGR) of the EU. Each BGR has its peculiarity regarding maize cultivation and the distribution of protected butterflies. The lepidopteran fauna of the Pannonian BGR is particularly sensitive due to large maize cultivation shares and wide distribution of protected butterflies within this BGR. For the BGRs evaluated potential, spatial exposures of protected butterflies to GM maize cannot be excluded. This study shows that the suggested approach is a useful tool for the consideration of EU-wide protected species in different receiving environments during the problem formulation of the ERA of GMPs.

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DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.12.12156

Authors: Sreenivas Reddy Bathula, A. Rakhimol

Abstract: This report recapitulates the diverse aspects of biological safety. Biological laboratory is a space that facilitates the handling and storage of microorganisms, their components or their derivatives. Laboratories that handle dangerous pathogens have to act in a responsible manner to manage the safety and security threats posed by these pathogens. This necessity was foreground in the December 2008 World at risk report, which specifically demanded bioscience laboratories that handle dangerous pathogens to implement a unified laboratory biorisk management framework to enhance their safety and security. The report also discusses the guidelines of biosafety regulations provided by World Health Organization (WHO) that are necessary to adequately and sustainably manage these biorisks and helps in better understanding of risk governance approaches for laboratories that handle dangerous pathogens to achieve the ultimate goal of minimizing or preventing the occurrence and consequences of human error within the laboratory environment: the biorisk management approach, composed of biosafety, laboratory biosecurity and ethical responsibility. It preferably provides an agreement between authorities, the public, and the scientific community establishing trust and societal safety and security, while enabling the continued progress of science. Biorisk management approach demonstrates that biorisks in all their potential forms are appropriately addressed, managed and minimized. Thus, biorisk management has become an important aspect of the development and sustainability of biological activities.

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DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.6.1325

Authors: Stuart Roberts, Simon Potts, Koos Biesmeijer, Michael Kuhlmann, William Kunin, Ralf Ohlemüller

Abstract: Increased risks of extinction to populations of animals and plants under changing climate have now been demonstrated for many taxa. This study assesses the extinction risks to species within an important genus of pollinating bees (Colletes: Apidae) by estimating the expected changes in the area and isolation of suitable habitat under predicted climatic condition for 2050. Suitable habitat was defined on the basis of the presence of known forage plants as well as climatic suitability. To investigate whether ecological specialisation was linked to extinction risk we compared three species which were generalist pollen foragers on several plant families with three species which specialised on pollen from a single plant species. Both specialist and generalist species showed an increased risk of extinction with shifting climate, and this was particularly high for the most specialised species (Colletes anchusae and C. wolfi). The forage generalist C. impunctatus, which is associated with Boreo-Alpine environments, is potentially threatened through significant reduction in available climatic niche space. Including the distribution of the principal or sole pollen forage plant, when modelling the distribution of monolectic or narrowly oligolectic species, did not improve the predictive accuracy of our models as the plant species were considerably more widespread than the specialised bees associated with them.

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DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.2.38

Authors: Josef Settele, Otakar Kudrna, Alexander Harpke, Ingolf Kühn, Chris van Swaay, Rudi Verovnik, Martin Warren, Martin Wiemers, Jan Hanspach, Thomas Hickler, Elisabeth Kühn, Inge van Halder, Kars Veling, Albert Vliegenthart, Irma Wynhoff, Oliver Schweiger

Abstract: In the „Climatic Risk Atlas of European Butterflies” by Settele et al. (2008) some errors occurred for which we apologize and herewith present the corrections.

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DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.2.4

Authors: Risto Heikkinen, Niko Leikola, Stefan Fronzek, Raino Lampinen, Heikki Toivonen

Abstract: Climate data and distribution data for the Canadian waterweed Elodea canadensis Michx. from North America, whole Europe and Finland were used to investigate the ability of bioclimatic envelope models to predict the distribution range and recent northward range shift of the species in Europe. Four different main types of models were developed using the North American data, including either three ‘baseline’ climate variables (growing degrees days, temperature of the coldest month, water balance) or an extended set of seven climate variables, both averaged either over a 30 year time slice or a longer 90 year time slice. Ten different random selections of pseudo-absences were generated from the North American data, on the basis of which ten separate generalized additive models (GAMs) were developed for each main model type. All the 40 developed GAMs were applied first to North America and then transferred to whole Europe and Finland. All the models showed a statistically highly significant accuracy in the three study areas. Although the differences among the four main model types were only minor, the two extended model types showed on average statistically better performance than the two baseline models based on Bayesian information criterion (BIC) values, the amount of deviance explained by the models, resubstitution validation and four-fold cross-validation in North America. They also provided slightly more accurate predictions of climatically suitable area for Elodea canadensis in Finland both in 1961–1984 and 1985–2006. However, the projections from the individual extended models were more variable than projections from the baseline models. Thus model predictions based on a variety of predictor variables but only one selection of pseudoabsences may be subject to biases, and outputs from multiple models should be investigated to better account for uncertainties in modelling. Overall, our results suggest that more attention should be paid to the careful selection of predictor variables and the use of multiple pseudo-absence sets in the ecological niche modelling in order to increase the reliability of the projections of the range shifts of invasive species.

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DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.1

Authors: Josef Settele, Otakar Kudrna, Alexander Harpke, Ingolf Kühn, Chris van Swaay, Rudi Verovnik, Martin Warren, Martin Wiemers, Jan Hanspach, Thomas Hickler, Elisabeth Kühn, Inge van Halder, Kars Veling, Albert Vliegenthart, Irma Wynhoff, Oliver Schweiger

Abstract: The overarching aim of the atlas is to communicate the potential risks of climatic change to the future of European butterflies. The main objectives are to: (1) provide a visual aid to discussions on climate change risks and impacts on biodiversity and thus contribute to risk communication as a core element of risk assessment; (2) present crucial data on a large group of species which could help to prioritise conservation efforts in the face of climatic change; (3) reach a broader audience through the combination of new scientific results with photographs of all treated species and some straight forward information about the species and their ecology. The results of this atlas show that climate change is likely to have a profound effect on European butterflies. Ways to mitigate some of the negative impacts are to (1) maintain large populations in diverse habitats; (2) encourage mobility across the landscape; (3) reduce emissions of greenhouse gasses; (4) allow maximum time for species adaptation; (4) conduct further research on climate change and its impacts on biodiversity. The book is a result of long-term research of a large international team of scientists, working at research institutes and non-governmental organizations, many within the framework of projects funded by the European Commission. DOWNLOAD COMPLETE VOLUME [PDF, 46.3 MB] Each chapter may be browsed/downloaded from the links below:0. COVER, TITLE PAGE, CONTENTS [PDF, 608 KB]A. CLIMATE CHANGE, BIODIVERSITY, BUTTERFLIES, AND RISK ASSESSMENT [PDF, 208 KB]B. METHODOLOGY [PDF, 516 KB]C. CLIMATE RISKS OF EUROPEAN BUTTERFLY SPECIES. Introduction and Hesperidae [PDF, 5.6 MB]; Papilionidae [PDF, 1.61 MB]; Pieridae [PDF, 5.0 MB]; Lycaenidae, Riodinidae, Libytheidae [PDF, 12 MB]; Nymphalidae, Danaidae [PDF, 21.2 MB]; Non-modelled species and summary [PDF, 328 KB]D. DISCUSSION OF METHODOLOGICAL LIMITATIONS [PDF, 572 KB]E. OUTLOOK: CLIMATE CHANGE AND BUTTERFLY CONSERVATION [PDF, 228 KB]F. APPENDICES, REFERENCES AND INDEX [PDF, 424 KB]Full-color paperback (EURO 59.00) and/or hardback (EURO 89.00) versions may be ordered at info@pensoft.net.

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