Latest Articles from BioRisk Latest 52 Articles from BioRisk https://biorisk.pensoft.net/ Fri, 29 Mar 2024 02:48:46 +0200 Pensoft FeedCreator https://biorisk.pensoft.net/i/logo.jpg Latest Articles from BioRisk https://biorisk.pensoft.net/ Pteromalid fauna (Hymenoptera, Pteromalidae) in oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.) fields in Bulgaria – species composition and perspectives for biological control https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/77454/ BioRisk 17: 329-342

DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.17.77454

Authors: Ivaylo Todorov, Toshko Ljubomirov, Vlada Peneva

Abstract: Parasitoid wasps belonging to the family Pteromalidae are widespread and abundant members of the insect communities in the temperate regions of the world. As many other chalcids do, pteromalids serve as natural enemies of the pests in various crops and play an important role in the biological control of these harmful insects. Here we present the results of a field study in Bulgaria which was focused on the diversity of family Pteromalidae in ten oilseed rape fields. All samples were collected by sweep netting on the border line or inside the crop field. A total of 93 pteromalid specimens belonging to 26 taxa were gathered. The most abundant genus was Mesopolobus – 67% of the sampled pteromalids. The most numerous species in the samples was Mesopolobus morys – a well-known key parasitoid of the cabbage seed weevil, Ceutorhynchus obstrictus, in Europe. One species – Halticoptera patellana, is recorded for the first time in Bulgarian fauna. Clearfield oilseed rape fields had relatively higher parasitoid abundance and richness than the fields treated by conventional technology. In the present work we discuss the overall species composition of Pteromalidae obtained from the studied areas and present our point of view on the perspectives for biological control of oilseed rape pests.

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Research Article Thu, 21 Apr 2022 19:00:30 +0300
Monitoring bumblebee pollinator visits to the medicinal plant Gentiana asclepiadea L. (Gentianacese) – a comparison between the periods 1990–1994 and 2017–2020 https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/76577/ BioRisk 17: 317-327

DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.17.76577

Authors: Ekaterina Kozuharova, Vasil Simeonov

Abstract: Ever increasing data continue to indicate the decline of bumblebee populations. The key factors causing declines in their abundance and diversity are: 1) habitat destruction, 2) loss of floral resources, 3) emerging diseases, 4) increased use of pesticides (particularly neonicotinoids). The aim of this study is to monitor bumblebee visits to Gentiana asclepiadea L, recording pollinator species, and taking measurements of seed set. This plant species is chosen for two reasons: 1) similar data is available from our previous research in the 1990’s and 2) this montane plant species is supposed to be less exposed to hazards from pesticides and habitat destruction. Three study sites were chosen in Mt. Vitosha (SW Bulgaria) where natural populations of G. asclepiadea occur in 1990. The observations of bumblebee activity in the flowers of G. asclepiadea were conducted during the flowering seasons (August and September) of 2017 – 2020 at the same study sites and compared to the data obtained in the previous period (1990–1994). The free pollination fruit set was tested by monitoring of 100 G. asclepiadea flowers each year for development of fruit capsules. The seed set was tested by counting the matured seeds and non-fertilised ovules of 10 fruit capsules each year. A slight decline in bumblebee activity was recorded in 2017 – 2020 in comparison to 1990–1994. This is reflected in the fruit set and the seed set. Our data demonstrates that even in a mountain habitat, where there are fewer direct hazards to bumblebees, that pollination effectiveness has been suppressed over time. This corresponds to a research study which provides evidence that insect biomass fell by 76% in German nature reserves between 1989 and 2016.

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Research Article Thu, 21 Apr 2022 19:00:29 +0300
Sexually-manifested variations in pigmentation of Boeckella poppei (Copepoda, Calanoida) from Livingston Island (Maritime Antarctica) https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/75988/ BioRisk 17: 263-269

DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.17.75988

Authors: Ivan Pandourski, Vesela Evtimova, Lyubomir Kenderov

Abstract: Antarctic environments are exposed to high levels of ultraviolet radiation (UVR) that are often detrimental to their biota. Recent studies suggest that the genus Boeckella (Copepoda, Calanoida) has a high level of plasticity in terms of its reaction to UVR, which enables its wide distribution in various water bodies in Antarctica. Boeckella poppei is common in freshwater habitats of all three main biogeographic regions in Antarctica: sub-Antarctic islands, maritime and continental. We present for the first time a specific photoprotective response in populations of B. poppei from Livingston Island, Maritime Antarctica. In non-ovigerous females and in males, we observed uniform distribution of carotenoids in the body, while these pigments were almost entirely concentrated in the ovisacs of mature females. We consider this as a means of progeny protection from the teratogenic influence of the high level of UVR in Antarctic environments. Unequivocally, such adaptation would facilitate the expansion of B. poppei on the continent through colonisation and survival in shallow freshwater habitats. Given that the Antarctic environment is dynamically changing over the past decades and the accelerated retreat of permanent ice cover is a premise for the formation of shallow ponds, B. poppei could be a suitable indicator for reflecting the ongoing global environmental changes in Antarctica.

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Research Article Thu, 21 Apr 2022 19:00:24 +0300
Environmental impact assessment of discharge of treated wastewater effluent in Upper Iskar sub-catchment https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/77381/ BioRisk 17: 59-71

DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.17.77381

Authors: Veronika Yordanova, Yovana Todorova, Mihaela Belouhova, Lyubomir Kenderov, Valentina Lyubomirova, Yana Topalova

Abstract: The upper Iskar sub-catchment is one of Bulgaria’s most important economic and socially significant water sources because of its role in supplying Sofia with drinking water. Among the critical factors that carry potential high-risk levels for water quality in this hydrosystem are the discharge from the Samokov Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP), diffuse pollution from agriculture, and the percolation of untreated sewage from the small villages. In this study, we assessed the effect of treated wastewater effluent on water quality, and on the ecological state and microbial communities in the river sector of Samokov’s WWTP discharge area. The assessment was based on the complex use of chemical and microbiological indicators and biological quality elements. The concentrations of organics, nutrients and microcomponents were determined with results confirming the expected increase for parameters associated with the discharge of urban wastewater. The ecological state, according to macrozoobenthos indicators, was “good” throughout the river sector but local deterioration was registered in a proximal location downstream of the WWTP outfall. The analysis of stream water and bed sediment microbial communities by a fluorescent technique showed the high metabolic activity and intensive transformation processes in addition to high abundance registered with standard cultivation methods. The importance of the studied sub-catchment for the functioning of the urban water cycle, and for the quality of Sofia’s drinking water, underlines the need to extend an existing monitoring program with a more detailed assessment of the environmental impact of wastewater discharge.

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Research Article Thu, 21 Apr 2022 19:00:06 +0300
Citizen scientists significantly improve our knowledge on the non-native longhorn beetle Chlorophorus annularis (Fabricius, 1787) (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae) in Europe https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/61099/ BioRisk 16: 1-13

DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.16.61099

Authors: Matthias Seidel, Maren Lüttke, Christian Cocquempot, Katy Potts, Wil J. Heeney, Martin Husemann

Abstract: The Asian bamboo borer Chlorophorus annularis is a beetle species that has been introduced in many countries globally. Originating in Southeast Asia, it can now be found in the Americas, South Africa, the Middle East, Australasia and Europe. The literature record of the species in Europe consists of findings of single individuals usually associated with imported bamboo products. A general European effort in surveying C. annularis was never undertaken, since the overall scientific consensus was that the species cannot establish here. Yet, recent records in Genk, Torhout (Belgium) and in Hamburg (Germany) do not seem directly associated with a recently imported product and hence may indicate otherwise. Such a shortfall in recording commonly imported, potentially invasive species may be counteracted through citizen science initiatives, allowing for continuous, high density monitoring. In this paper we present thirteen new records of the species from five European countries, including two new country records, mostly going back to interested citizen scientists.

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Research Article Tue, 9 Mar 2021 16:44:00 +0200
Selection of non-target Lepidoptera species to test Bt maize effects in the laboratory: which species and how to breed them? https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/59823/ BioRisk 15: 45-65

DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.15.59823

Authors: Andreas Lang, Matthias Dolek, Marina S. Lee, Anja Freese-Hager, Mathias Otto

Abstract: Bt maize targeting Lepidopteran pests poses potential risks for non-target (NT) butterflies and moths which are addressed in the environmental risk assessment of genetically modified crop plants. For this purpose, eco-toxicological tests are often conducted with specific NT species in the laboratory in order to assess possible adverse effects. As only a limited number of surrogate species can be addressed, the choice of focal species to be tested is an important decision. However, practical and standardised selection procedures have hardly been developed and applied for NT Lepidoptera, so far. Here, we present a transparent and systematic selection process of suitable test species for Germany, involving selection criteria such as exposure to Bt maize, habitat range and laboratory maintenance of the species. As a result, we compiled a list of 15 lepidopteran species particularly appropriate for testing the adverse effects of Bt maize in the laboratory. In addition, we collected and reviewed published reports for breeding methods of Lepidoptera, which provides essential information on maintaining lab stocks of NT Lepidoptera. The presented selection procedure allows focusing on the relevant test species in a transparent and reproducible way, and supplies the breeding knowledge required to breed and maintain them, which will be of great utility for the future assessment on possible risks of Bt maize cultivation to non-target Lepidoptera.

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Research Article Tue, 29 Dec 2020 10:26:59 +0200
Invasion stages and potential distributions of seven exotic terrestrial isopods in Japan https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/23514/ BioRisk 13: 53-76

DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.13.23514

Authors: Shigenori Karasawa, Kensuke Nakata

Abstract: Evaluating potential distribution areas and limiting factors for the distribution of exotic species in invasive regions are essential to identify risks and protect the native ecosystem. However, less research has been conducted on the underground ecosystem than for above-ground. Factors, limiting the distributions of exotic terrestrial isopods, have been identified and their invasive stages and potential distribution areas in Japan evaluated. A database of distribution data has been developed for 17,412 terrestrial isopod specimens in Japan and two ecological niche models constructed using 19 bioclimatic variables; the regional model was calculated using data from Japan (invasive region) only, whereas a combination of data from Japan and North America (invasive regions) and Europe (native region) was used to construct the global model. The global model predicted that annual mean temperature and mean diurnal-temperature range were the important limiting factors for most exotic isopods. It was found that Armadillidium nasatum Budde-Lund, 1833, A. vulgare Latreille, 1804, Haplophthalmus danicus Budde-Lund, 1880, Porcellio laevis Latreille, 1804, P. scaber Latreille, 1804 and Porcellionides pruinosus (Brandt, 1833) were composed of stabilising and colonising populations, which enabled prediction of the future spread of distribution areas for these species in Japan. Porcellio dilatatus Brandt, 1833 was introduced in unstable environments and thus was found in fewer locations.

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Research Article Thu, 15 Mar 2018 10:47:35 +0200
Spatial analysis of the occurrence of protected butterflies in six European biogeographic regions as a tool for the environmental risk assessment of Bt maize https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/20688/ BioRisk 13: 31-52

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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Research Article Wed, 21 Feb 2018 13:18:07 +0200
Insect hibernation on urban green land: a winter-adapted mowing regime as a management tool for insect conservation https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/22316/ BioRisk 13: 1-29

DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.13.22316

Authors: Philipp Andreas Unterweger, Jorinde Klammer, Manuela Unger, Oliver Betz

Abstract: Insect conservation is challenging on various ecological scales. One largely neglected aspect is the quality of undisturbed hibernation sites. This study aims to fill a lack of knowledge concerning insect hibernation on uncut meadows persisting in urban green spaces during the winter season in a middle-sized town in south Germany. During two years of sampling, 13,511 insect specimens of the orders Heteroptera, Hymenoptera, Coleoptera and Diptera were caught from their winter stands. The specimens were assigned to 120 families and 140 taxonomic species were determined from the orders Heteroptera, Coleoptera and Diptera and 324 morphotypes from the orders Hymenoptera, Coleoptera and Diptera. The data indicate the importance of winter fallows for insect hibernation. Unmown meadows offer additional plant structures in winter (flower heads, stems, tufts and leaves) that are absent from mown ones. This increased structural diversity results in both higher species diversity and numbers of insect individuals during spring emergence. The results of this study thus emphasise the value of unmown structures for insect conservation and suggest a mosaic-like cutting maintenance of meadows, way- and river-sides and other green infrastructure in both the urban area and the open landscape.

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Research Article Fri, 12 Jan 2018 14:14:23 +0200
Elucidating food plants of the aggregative, synchronously flashing Southeast Asian firefly, Pteroptyx tener Olivier (Coleoptera, Lampyridae) https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/14061/ BioRisk 12: 25-39

DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.12.14061

Authors: Shawn Cheng, Kar-Men Chan, Shah-Fadir Ishak, V. Khoo, M.Y. Chew

Abstract: The aggregative, synchronously flashing firefly, Pteroptyx tener congregates on a nightly basis on Berembang trees (Sonneratia caseolaris) growing along the lower reaches of the Selangor River (West Malaysia). Every night, the males and females of this species engage one another in a pre-mating ritual of flash communication. Little is known of the dietary requirements of the adults of P. tener apart from suggestions that these beetles feed on the nectar and sap of mangrove trees. The drastic reduction in their numbers in recent years has sparked an urgency to understand their dietary needs. Here, we report on a series of probing experiments where we sequenced and analysed DNA fragments obtained from the gut contents of adult P. tener specimens. We detected coding and non-coding chloroplast DNA (cpDNA) gene sequences in the gut DNA extracts of P. tener. One DNA sequence was in reasonably good condition to allow us to match it to the cpDNA sequence of a Malvacean, that is, Heritiera littoralis, a common inhabitant of estuarine habitats. We also detected the DNA sequences of plants (cultivated and natural) that may have come from hamlets or isolated freshwater swamps located further inland. The findings reported here provide early indication that P. tener may be able to travel further inland to search for their hosts. Future research should focus on visually confirming if P. tener feeds on H. littoralis and obtaining a more complete reference DNA database of plants in the firefly habitat.

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Research Article Thu, 17 Aug 2017 13:32:53 +0300
Climatic Risk and Distribution Atlas of European Bumblebees https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/4749/ BioRisk 10: 1-236

DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.10.4749

Authors: Pierre Rasmont, Markus Franzén, Thomas Lecocq, Alexander Harpke, Stuart Roberts, Jacobus C. Biesmeijer, Leopoldo Castro, Björn Cederberg, Libor Dvorak, Úna Fitzpatrick, Yves Gonseth, Eric Haubruge, Gilles Mahé, Aulo Manino, Denis Michez, Johann Neumayer, Frode Ødegaard, Juho Paukkunen, Tadeusz Pawlikowski, Simon Potts, Menno Reemer, Josef Settele, Jakub Straka, Oliver Schweiger

Abstract: Bumble bees represent one of the most important groups of pollinators. In addition to their ecological and economic relevance, they are also a highly charismatic group which can help to increase the interest of people in realizing, enjoying and conserving natural systems. However, like most animals, bum- ble bees are sensitive to climate. In this atlas, maps depicting potential risks of climate change for bumble bees are shown together with informative summary statistics, ecological back- ground information and a picture of each European species. Thanks to the EU FP7 project STEP, the authors gathered over one million bumblebee records from all over Europe. Based on these data, they modelled the current climatic niche for almost all European species (56 species) and projected future climatically suitable conditions using three climate change scenarios for the years 2050 and 2100. While under a moderate change scenario only 3 species are projected to be at the verge of extinction by 2100, 14 species are at high risk under an intermediate change scenario. Under a most severe change scenario as many as 25 species are projected to lose almost all of their climatically suitable area, while a total of 53 species (77% of the 69 European species) would lose the main part of their suitable area. Climatic risks for bumblebees can be extremely high, depending on the future development of human society, and the corresponding effects on the climate. Strong mitigation strategies are needed to preserve this important species group and to ensure the sustainable provision of pollination services, to which they considerably contribute.

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Monograph Wed, 18 Feb 2015 12:24:29 +0200
Monitoring agricultural ecosystems by using wild bees as environmental indicators https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/1899/ BioRisk 8: 53-71

DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.8.3600

Authors: Matthias Schindler, Olaf Diestelhorst, Stephan Haertel, Christoph Saure, Arno Scharnowski, Hans. R. Schwenninger

Abstract: Wild bees are abundant in agricultural ecosystems and contribute significantly to the pollination of many crops. The specialisation of many wild bees on particular nesting sites and food resources makes them sensitive to changing habitat conditions. Therefore wild bees are important indicators for environmental impact assessments. Long-term monitoring schemes to measure changes of wild bee communities in agricultural ecosystems are currently lacking. Here we suggest a highly standardized monitoring approach which combines transect walks and pan traps (bowls). The combination of these two methods provides high sample coverage and reveals data on plant-pollinator interactions. We point out that comprehensive methodical, biological and taxonomical expertise is mandatory. The suggested approach is applicable to diverse monitoring goals in an agricultural context e.g. the impact of land use changes as well as monitoring potential effects of GM crops on wild bees.

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Research Article Thu, 8 Aug 2013 00:00:00 +0300
Standardised methods for the GMO monitoring of butterflies and moths: the whys and hows https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/1901/ BioRisk 8: 15-38

DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.8.3244

Authors: Andreas Lang, Bernhard Theißen, Matthias Dolek

Abstract: Butterflies and moths (Lepidoptera) are correlated with many biotic and abiotic characteristics of the environment, and are widely accepted as relevant protection goals. Adverse effects on butterflies and moths through genetically modified (GM) crops have been demonstrated, by both insect-resistant and herbicide-tolerant events. Thus, Lepidoptera are considered suitable bio-indicators for monitoring the potential adverse effects due to the cultivation of GM crops, and guidelines were developed under the umbrella of the Association of German Engineers VDI (Verein Deutscher Ingenieure), entitled “Monitoring the effects of genetically modified organisms (GMO) – Standardised monitoring of butterflies and moths (Lepidoptera): transect method, light trap and larval survey”. Here, the background and rationale of the VDI guidelines is presented, including a summary of the methods described in the guidelines. Special emphasis is given to the discussion of underlying reasons for the selection and adjustment of the applied methodology with respect to the GMO monitoring of day-active Lepidoptera, of night-active moths and of the recording of lepidopteran larvae, as well as to sample design and strategy. Further aspects possibly interfering with monitoring quality are treated such as landscape patterns, low species number and abundance in agro-ecosystems, or high year-to-year fluctuations of populations of Lepidoptera. Though specifically designed for GM crops, the VDI guidelines may also serve as a template to monitor the effects of a wider range of adverse factors on Lepidoptera in agriculture.

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Research Article Thu, 8 Aug 2013 00:00:00 +0300
Assessing continental-scale risks for generalist and specialist pollinating bee species under climate change https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/1890/ BioRisk 6: 1-18

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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Research Article Mon, 19 Dec 2011 00:00:00 +0200
Dragonflies and climatic change - recent trends in Germany and Europe https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/1887/ BioRisk 5: 253-286

DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.5.857

Authors: Jürgen Ott

Abstract: In this paper the trends of dragonfly expansions during the last decades in Germany and Europe are summarized. It is shown, that there is a general expansion of many species to the north: Mediterranean species expanded to Central and Northern Europe, whereas some African species expanded to Southern Europe, some are even new to the continent. In general this means an increase of biodiversity, but looking at the ecological effects, in the medium term a decrease can be expected for mooreland and alpine species. Dragonflies can be regarded as a good indicator group for climatic change. Already now in some areas or regions negative effects on waters bodies and their dragonfly communities can be observed and more will occur if e.g. temperature rises or precipitation decreases. The consequences for nature conservation strategies – such as the NATURA 2000 network – are outlined and the general need for monitoring programmes is emphasised.

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Research Article Thu, 30 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0200
The local species richness of Dragonflies in mountain waterbodies: an indicator of climate warming? https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/1886/ BioRisk 5: 243-251

DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.5.853

Authors: Beat Oertli

Abstract: With climate warming, many Odonata species are extending their geographical area. In Switzerland, as in many parts of the world, this phenomenon may lead to a regional increase in species richness. The local richness (the richness of individual waterbodies) is also expected to increase, particularly in the alpine or subalpine areas where the waterbodies are particularly species–poor. Based on the species richness recorded in 109 waterbodies scattered all across Switzerland, a model is presented here relating the local species richness (adult dragonflies) to environmental variables, including the mean annual air temperature. This model predicts a sharp increase in species richness for alpine or subalpine waterbodies, which is expected to double or even treble before the end of this century. This increase would mainly be the consequence of the immigration of eurythermal species extending their geographical range, together with potential local extinctions of the cold stenothermal species.

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Research Article Thu, 30 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0200
Dragonfly and Damselfly (Insecta, Odonata) Distributions in Ontario, Canada: Investigating the Influence of Climate Change https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/1885/ BioRisk 5: 225-241

DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.5.852

Authors: Christopher Beatty, Stewart Fraser, Felipe Pérez-Jvostov, Thomas Sherratt

Abstract: We analysed temperature data and odonate distribution data collected in the province of Ontario, Canada, over approximately sixty years. Analysis of temperature data from 31 weather stations collected in the years 1945–2000 showed an overall significant increase in the minimum, maximum and mean monthly temperatures; these trends were not adjusted for changes in urbanisation. Comparison of county level presence/absence data for odonates from the 1950´s and 2002 found a slight decrease in the northernmost distributions of some species, although no significant patterns were evident. Lower sampling coverage in the larger, more northerly counties in Ontario, as well as the assessment of distributions based on county records may limit the sensitivity of our approach in detecting changes in odonate species distributions over time. Future work should focus on increasing the coverage, uniformity and geographic detail of available datasets, as well as evaluating range change through testing predictions based on the ecology and biogeography of odonate species.

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Research Article Thu, 30 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0200
Expansion of Crocothemis erythraea in Ukraine https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/1884/ BioRisk 5: 211-223

DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.5.851

Authors: Lyudmyla Khrokalo

Abstract: A noticeable expansion of some Mediterranean species takes place in Europe during last several decades and this data are related to climatic effects clearly. The present work is a review of literature and original data on distribution of C. erythraea in Ukraine. In the beginning and middle of XX century in Ukraine the Scarlet Dragonfly was observed in southern area at Dnieper valley, in outmost southwest at Danube delta at the west of Ukraine in Transcarpathian and Forecarpathian. Next, this species was registered at the foothills of Carpathian Mountains. During last three decades C. erythraea was also recorded at the north and east (central regions, eastern, northern and northeastern areas). Since 2000 new points have been registered in Odessa, Kherson,Vinnytsya, Cherkasy, Chernihiv, Kyiv administrative regions and in Crimea.

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Research Article Thu, 30 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0200
Anthropogenic climate change impacts on ponds: a thermal mass perspective https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/1883/ BioRisk 5: 193-209

DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.5.849

Authors: John Matthews

Abstract: Small freshwater aquatic lentic systems (lakes and ponds) are sensitive to anthropogenic climate change through shifts in ambient air temperatures and patterns of precipitation. Shifts in air temperatures will influence lentic water temperatures through convection and by changing evaporation rates. Shifts in the timing, amount, and intensity of precipitation will alter the thermal mass of lentic systems even in the absence of detectable ambient air temperature changes. These effects are likely to be strongest in ponds (standing water bodies primarily mixed by temperature changes than by wind), for whom precipitation makes up a large component of inflows. Although historical water temperature datasets are patchy for lentic systems, thermal mass effects are likely to outweigh impacts from ambient air temperatures in most locations and may show considerable independence from those trends. Thermal mass-induced changes in water temperature will thereby alter a variety of population- and community-level processes in aquatic macroinvertebrates.

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Research Article Thu, 30 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0200
Monitoring the effects of conservation actions in agricultural and urbanized landscapes – also useful for assessing climate change? https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/1882/ BioRisk 5: 175-192

DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.5.848

Authors: Hansruedi Wildermuth

Abstract: Various methods for measuring the success of conservation actions and for evaluating aquatic habitats are outlined, based on quantified dragonfly monitoring. They are discussed with respect to their practicability and information value, counts of adult males and especially of exuviae yielding the most valuable results. These are presented by actual examples of mire ponds, streams, ditches and rivers from central Europe, making allowance for the dynamics of the habitats and their dragonfly community. Records of detailed data, if repeated subsequently at the same localities with the same methods, are considered a useful basis for preparation of distribution maps and for comparison of the fauna over the time. Fauna shifts in horizontal and vertical distribution over the time should be judged critically with respect to climate change as they could also be caused by anthropogenic habitat changes.

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Research Article Thu, 30 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0200
Changes in the range of dragonflies in the Netherlands and the possible role of temperature change https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/1881/ BioRisk 5: 155-173

DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.5.847

Authors: Tim Termaat, Vincent Kalkman, Jaap Bouwman

Abstract: The trends of 60 Dutch dragonfly species were calculated for three different periods (1980–1993, 1994–1998 and 1999–2003). Comparing period 1 and period 3 shows that 39 of these species have increased, 16 have remained stable and 5 have decreased. These results show a revival of the Dutch dragonfly fauna, after decades of ongoing decline. The species were categorized in different species groups: species with a southern distribution range, species with a northern distribution range, species of running waters, species of fenlands and species of mesotrophic lakes and bogs. The trends of these different species groups were compared with the all-species control group. As expected, a significantly higher proportion of the southern species show a positive trend than the all-species group. In the northern species group on the contrary, a significantly higher proportion of the species show a negative trend than the all-species group. Different explanations for these results are discussed, such as climate change, improved quality of certain habitats and degradation of other habitats. It is likely that the observed increase of southern species is at least partly caused by the increasing temperatures. The less positive picture of the northern species group is probably more influenced by other environmental factor than directly by climate change. Three out of six southern species which have become established since 1990 have done so during the aftermath of large invasions. It is concluded that dragonflies are well capable of using changing climate circumstances to colonise new habitats.

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Research Article Thu, 30 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0200
When south goes north: Mediterranean dragonflies (Odonata) conquer Flanders (North-Belgium) https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/1880/ BioRisk 5: 141-153

DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.5.855

Authors: Geert De Knijf, Anny Anselin

Abstract: Since 1980, eight southern dragonfly species have been regularly recorded in Flanders. They show a significant increase in relative abundance, relative area as well as indications of reproduction since the beginning of the nineties, with peak occurrence mainly in the 1995–1999 period. Since 2000, numbers are lower but more species were simultaneously present. Three species, Lestes barbarus, Crocothemis erythraea and Sympetrum fonscolombii, show a combination of earlier arrival, earlier reproduction with a higher frequency and higher maximum ranges and can be considered asstable populations in Flanders. All other southern species show in general a later arrival, only one confirmed or probable reproduction and have much lower maximum ranges. Two other species, reaching their northern limit of distribution in Flanders, Erythromma viridulum and E. lindenii have clearly expanded their relative area since the eighties. Their relative abundance also increased although this shows more fluctuations.

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Research Article Thu, 30 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0200
Monitoring of Odonata in Britain and possible insights into climate change https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/1879/ BioRisk 5: 127-139

DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.5.846

Authors: Adrian Parr

Abstract: The history of recording and monitoring of Odonata in Britain is briefly described. Results are then presented which suggest that the country’s Odonata fauna is currently in a period of flux, in a manner consistent with the actions of a high-level regulatory factor such as climate change. The ranges of many resident species are shifting. Leucorrhinia dubia has recently been lost from southern England, but many species are presently expanding their ranges to the north and west, some (such as Aeshna mixta and Anax imperator) with considerable speed. In addition to these changes, a number of ‘southern’ species have started to appear in Britain for the very first time. These include Lestes barbarus, Erythromma viridulum (which has now become a locally-common resident in southeast England), Anax parthenope and Crocothemis erythraea. In addition to these distributional changes, some recent trends in flight times are also discussed. Evidence indicates that many species are now emerging significantly earlier than in the past, though trends relating to the end of the flight period are less clear cut.

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Research Article Thu, 30 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0200
Southern dragonflies expanding in Wallonia (south Belgium): a consequence of global warming? https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/1878/ BioRisk 5: 109-126

DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.5.845

Authors: Philippe Goffart

Abstract: The occurrence of seven southern Odonata species has been watched in Wallonia over the last two decades (from 1981 to 2000). They have clearly expanded in the meantime and this pattern is still highly significant when the data are corrected for the increase of sampling efforts. Moreover, reproduction evidences have been collected recently (from 1993 onwards) for all these species and several settled and have now resident populations in Wallonia. In a second step, all present regular and irregular resident species of Wallonia were looked for change in range size and observation rate per visit between two six years periods of a survey and monitoring scheme, from 1989 to 2000. Analysis was achieved on grid cells visited at the right time at both periods, a procedure designed to neutralize the spatio-temporal heterogeneity of sampling. The comparison of results in relation to the distribution types of species and their habitat preferences show a significant global trend toward an increase for southern species during the investigated time interval, contrasting with other groups of species. If there is a tendency to rise for species preferring eutrophic still waters, this proves to be clearly due to the southern species sub-group, the other dragonflies of this habitat type showing a stable or even decreasing trend. Three distinct hypotheses are examined and discussed as possible explanations of the expansion pattern of southern species: (1) global warming, (2) change in aquatic habitats, especially eutrophication, and (3) intrinsic population dynamics. The rise of temperatures appears to be the main factor explaining the observed expansions.

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Research Article Thu, 30 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0200
Climate and elevational range of a South African dragonfly assemblage https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/1877/ BioRisk 5: 85-107

DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.5.844

Authors: Michael Samways, Augustine Niba

Abstract: Elevation and climate are interrelated variables which have a profound affect on biota. Flying insects such as dragonflies can rapidly disperse and optimal habitat conditions at appropriate elevations. Such behaviour is likely to be especially important in geographical areas which are subject to major climatic events such as El Niño. Accordingly, we studied dragonflies and environmental variables in a series of reservoirs over an elevational range of 100–1350 m a.s.l. at the same latitude on the eastern seaboard of South Africa. The aim was to determine how elevation and climate (as regional processes), as well as local factors, influence species assemblage variability, habitat preference and phenology. Certain environmental variables strongly explained the main variation in species assemblage. These included local factors such as pH, marginal grasses, percentage shade, exposed rock, marginal forest and to a lesser extent, marshes and flow. Different species showed various tolerance levels to these variables. Elevation and climate as regional processes had very little influence on dragonfly assemblages in comparison with these environmental factors. These odonate species are essentially sub-tropical, and are similar to their tropical counterparts in that they have long flight periods with overlapping generations. Yet they also have temperate characteristics such as over-wintering mostly as larvae. These results indicate evolutionary adaptations from both temperate and tropical regions. Furthermore, most were also widespread and opportunistic habitat generalists. The national endemics Pseudagrion citricola and Africallagma sapphirinum only occurred at high elevations. However, the endemic Agriocnemis falcifera was throughout all elevations, suggesting regional endemism does not necessarily equate to elevational intolerance. Overall, the results suggest that many millennia of great climatic variation have led to a highly vagile and elevation-tolerant dragonfly assemblage which readily occupies new water bodies. Such an assemblage is likely to be highly tolerant of global climate change, so long as there is sufficient water to keep the reservoirs at a constant level.

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Research Article Thu, 30 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0200
Impacts of extreme weather and climate change on South African dragonflies https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/1876/ BioRisk 5: 73-84

DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.5.843

Authors: Michael Samways

Abstract: The absence of ice sheets for many millions of years, yet variable topography and changing climate, has generated considerable biodiversity in South Africa. There is no evidence to date that anthropogenic climate change has affected odonate populations in the region. One reason is that the highly varying weather and climate constitutes considerable background noise against which any effects of modern climate change must be measured. Evidence is accumulating that the Holocene interglacial and gradual warming has left some species with isolated populations in montane areas among a matrix of arid land. Many South African odonate species are remarkably vagile and elevationally tolerant, readily immigrating into and emigrating from pools during wet and dry phases respectively. Some species take this movement to greater extremes by moving the southern margins of their geographical range back and forth with varying climate. After floods, populations of riverine odonates can recover within a year, although where the riparian corridor has been stripped of its trees, the recovery is very slow. Various synergistic impacts, particularly from invasive alien woody plants, area severe impact on many riverine species, and reducing their ability to respond positively to changing environmental conditions. Large-scale removal of these woody aliens is greatly benefiting the odonates’ ability to survive in the short-term and to restore natural corridors for movement in the face of possible future climatic changes.

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Research Article Thu, 30 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0200
Do climate changes influence dispersal and population dynamics of dragonflies in the western Peruvian Andes? https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/1874/ BioRisk 5: 47-72

DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.5.842

Authors: Joachim Hoffmann

Abstract: For nine dragonfly species (five aeshnids and four libellulids) all previous and verifiable data are related to the vertical climate zones and nature regions of the western Peruvian Andes and the Peruvian Pacific coast. Climate changes due to the El Niño and La Niña phenomena, as well as the global climate change have an influence on the different natural regions and also restrict aquatic biotopes. These changes influence the dispersal and behavior of some dragonflies and concern also loss of habitats as well as alterations of biotic and abiotic factors at and in water. However new waters and habitats also are formed in most nature regions. Specialists like Rhionaeschna peralta, a species of high mountain regions and the Puna, are not able to react to habitat losses by adaptation, while other species such as R. maita and R. marchali do colonize new habitats also in higher altitudes. While the here represented aeshnids change their distribution ranges within the vertical nature regions of the west Andes, this is suspected for three of the four libellulids (Orthemis ferruginea, O. discolor and Pantala flavescens) as latitudinally respectively longitudinally immigrations and expansions of their areals. For all species discussed, a seasonally earlier flight beginning is detectable, but for no species an extension of their flight time. Altogether, the above named three libellulid do react more flexibly and faster to the alterations by climate changes than the majority of the five aeshnid species. The influence of increased UV-B and UV-A radiation possibly affects also the site occurrence of some species in high altitudes of the Andes.

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Research Article Thu, 30 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0200
Trends in occurrence of thermophilous dragonfly species in North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/1873/ BioRisk 5: 31-45

DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.5.841

Authors: Klaus-Jürgen Conze, Nina Grönhagen, Mathias Lohr, Norbert Menke

Abstract: Since 1996 the “Workgroup Odonata in North Rhine-Westphalia” (“AK Libellen NRW”) has built up a data base including about 150.000 data sets concerning the occurrence of dragonflies in North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW). This data confirms an increase and spread of some thermophilous dragonfly species in NRW, and the effects of climate change evidenced by an increasing average temperature, are considered to be important reasons for this process.

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Research Article Thu, 30 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0200
Climate change impacts on biodiversity: a short introduction with special emphasis on the ALARM approach for the assessment of multiple risks https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/1872/ BioRisk 5: 3-29

DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.5.856

Authors: Josef Settele, Greg Fanslow, Stefan Fronzek, Stefan Klotz, Ingolf Kühn, Martin Musche, Jürgen Ott, Michael Samways, Oliver Schweiger, Joachim Spangenberg, Gian-Reto Walther, Volker Hammen

Abstract:

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Editorial Thu, 30 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0200
Monitoring climate change with Dragonflies: Foreword https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/1871/ BioRisk 5: 1-2

DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.5.854

Authors: Jeffrey McNeely

Abstract:

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Editorial Thu, 30 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0200
Springtails and Silverfishes (Apterygota). Chapter 13.5 https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/1868/ BioRisk 4: 851-854

DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.4.47

Authors: Jürg Zettel

Abstract: The alien fauna of Apterygota is still limited in Europe. Springtails (Collembolla) alien to Europe include only three species to which add a cryptogenic one. Two nowadays cosmopolitan species of silverfishes may originate from Central America. The reasons of this limited colonisation of Europe are briefly discussed.

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Research Article Tue, 6 Jul 2010 00:00:00 +0300
Lice and Fleas (Phthiraptera and Siphonaptera). Chapter 13.4 https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/1867/ BioRisk 4: 833-849

DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.4.65

Authors: Marc Kenis, Alain Roques

Abstract: A total of 31 Phthiraptera species alien to Europe are listed. They include 24 chewing lice and seven sucking lice of 12 different families. The families Goniodidae (Ischnocera) and Menoponidae (Amblycera) largely dominate the alien entomofauna of chewing lice. Asia is the major supplier of alien Phthiraptera which are mostly associated with poultry farming, game birds, guinea pigs and invasive alien mammals. The recent period did not show any acceleration in alien arrival in Europe. Alien fleas include six species in the families Pulicidae and Ceratophyllidae. Three of them are primarily associated with rats and are capable of transmiting major human diseases such as the bubonic plague and the murine typhus.

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Research Article Tue, 6 Jul 2010 00:00:00 +0300
Dictyoptera (Blattodea, Isoptera), Orthoptera, Phasmatodea and Dermaptera. Chapter 13.3 https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/1866/ BioRisk 4: 807-831

DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.4.68

Authors: Jean-Yves Rasplus, Alain Roques

Abstract: For convenience, we treat all “polyneopteran” orders together. Five orders of hemimetabolous “Polyneoptera” include species alien to Europe, namely Blattodea, Isoptera, Orthoptera, Phasmatodea and Dermaptera. A total of 37 species alien to Europe have been recorded. These belong to 14 different families. Most of these species show a detritivorous feeding regime (22 spp.), whereas 12 species are phytophagous and two are predators. The majority of species were first observed between 1900 and 1975. Unlike other arthropod groups, the mean number of polyneopteran species newly recorded per year showed no acceleration since 1975. The alien “Polyneoptera” mostly originated from Central/South America and Asia (10 species each, 27.0%), followed by Africa (7, 18.9%). Germany hosts the largest number of alien Polyneoptera (15 spp.), followed by Denmark (14), Spain (11) and France (10). All but one alien species represent unintentional introductions. More than 75% of the species are associated with artificial habitats (houses, buildings and greenhouses) and cultivated areas. Blattodea and Isoptera have huge economic and/or medical importance. The cost of treatments and sanitary measures against termites and cockroaches, in particular, is significant in Europe.

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Research Article Tue, 6 Jul 2010 00:00:00 +0300
Psocids (Psocoptera). Chapter 13.2 https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/1865/ BioRisk 4: 793-805

DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.4.46

Authors: Nico Schneider

Abstract: Among the 231 species of Psocoptera present in Europe, 49 (21.2%) are considered to be of alien origin. They include 29 exotic introduced species and 20 cryptogenic species. Most of the exotic species originated from tropical and subtropical areas, essentially from Africa. Many of them are food pests, moving along with stored products. Thirty-nine of these species occur in buildings in Europe.

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Research Article Tue, 6 Jul 2010 00:00:00 +0300
Thrips (Thysanoptera). Chapter 13.1 https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/1864/ BioRisk 4: 767-791

DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.4.59

Authors: Philippe Reynaud

Abstract: Thrips (Order Thysanoptera) are found worldwide and include almost 6000 species. Several of them are notorious for causing extensive crop damage (by feeding on leaf tissue or by vectoring viral disease). Their small size (usually less than 2 millimeters) and cryptic habits have facilited invasions and establishment in Europe in the wild or in greenhouses. Fifty-two alien species, belonging to four families have been recorded within Europe. Species introduced before 1950 mostly originate from America, tropical and subtropical areas and subsequent arrivals generally originate from Asia (and from America to some extent). Five countries host more than 30% of the European alien thrips fauna and two alien thrips occur in more than 50% of the countries and islands of Europe.

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Research Article Tue, 6 Jul 2010 00:00:00 +0300
Hymenoptera. Chapter 12 https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/1863/ BioRisk 4: 669-776

DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.4.55

Authors: Jean-Yves Rasplus, Claire Villemant, Maria Rosa Paiva, Gérard Delvare, Alain Roques

Abstract: We present the first review of Hymenoptera alien to Europe. Our study revealed that nearly 300 species of Hymenoptera belonging to 30 families have been introduced to Europe. In terms of alien species diversity within invertebrate orders, this result ranks Hymenoptera third following Coleoptera and Hemiptera. Two third of alien Hymenoptera are parasitoids or hyperparasitoids that were mostly introduced for biological control purposes. Only 35 phytophagous species, 47 predator species and 3 species of pollinators have been introduced. Six families of wasps (Aphelinidae, Encyrtidae, Eulophidae, Braconidae, Torymidae, Pteromalidae) represent together with ants (Formicidae) about 80% of the alien Hymenoptera introduced to Europe. The three most diverse families are Aphelinidae (60 species representing 32% of the Aphelinid European fauna), Encyrtidae (55) and Formicidae (42) while the Chalcidoidea together represents 2/3 of the total Hymenoptera species introduced to Europe. The first two families are associated with mealybugs, a group that also included numerous aliens to Europe. In addition, they are numerous cases of Hymenoptera introduced from one part of Europe to another, especially from continental Europe to British Islands. These introductions mostly concerned phytophagous or gall-maker species (76 %), less frequently parasitoids. The number of new records of alien Hymenoptera per year has shown an exponential increase during the last 200 years. The number of alien species introduced by year reached a maximum of 5 species per year between 1975 and 2000. North America provided the greatest part of the hymenopteran species alien to Europe (96 species, 35.3%), followed by Asia (84 species, 30.9%) and Africa (49 species, 18%). Three Mediterranean countries (only continental parts) hosted the largest number of alien Hymenoptera: Italy (144 spp.), France (111 spp.) and Spain (90 spp.) but no correlation was found with the area of countries. Intentional introduction, mostly for biological control, has been the main pathway of introduction for Hymenoptera. Consequently, the most invaded habitats are agricultural and horticultural as well as greenhouses. To the contrary, Hymenoptera alien in Europe are mostly associated with woodland and forest habitats. Ecological and economic impacts of alien Hymenoptera have been poorly studied. Ants have probably displaced native species and this is also true for introduced parasitoids that are suspected to displace native parasitoids by competition, but reliable examples are still scarce. The cost of these impacts has never been estimated.

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Research Article Tue, 6 Jul 2010 00:00:00 +0300
Lepidoptera. Chapter 11 https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/1862/ BioRisk 4: 603-668

DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.4.50

Authors: Carlos Lopez-Vaamonde, David Agassiz, Sylvie Augustin, Jurate De Prins, Willy De Prins, Stanislav Gomboc, Povilas Ivinskis, Ole Karsholt, Athanasios Koutroumpas, Fotini Koutroumpa, Zdeněk Laštůvka, Eduardo Marabuto, Elisenda Olivella, Lukasz Przybylowicz, Alain Roques, Nils Ryrholm, Hana Sefrova, Peter Sima, Ian Sims, Sergey Sinev, Bjarne Skulev, Rumen Tomov, Alberto Zilli, David Lees

Abstract: We provide a comprehensive overview of those Lepidopteran invasions to Europe that result from increasing globalisation and also review expansion of species within Europe. A total of 97 non-native Lepidoptera species (about 1% of the known fauna), in 20 families and 11 superfamilies have established so far in Europe, of which 30 alone are Pyraloidea. In addition, 88 European species in 25 families have expanded their range within Europe and around 23% of these are of Mediterranean or Balkan origin, invading the north and west. Although a number of these alien species have been in Europe for hundreds of years, 74% have established during the 20th century and arrivals are accelerating, with an average of 1.9 alien Lepidoptera newly established per year between 2000–2007. For 78 aliens with a known area of origin, Asia has contributed 28.9%, Africa (including Macaronesian islands, Canaries, Madeira and Azores) 21.6%, North America 16.5%, Australasia 7.2% and the neotropics just 5.2%. The route for almost all aliens to Europe is via importation of plants or plant products. Most alien Lepidoptera established in Europe are also confined to man-made habitats, with 52.5% occuring in parks and gardens. We highlight four species in particular, Diaphania perspectalis, Cacyreus marshalli, Cameraria ohridella and Paysandisia archon, as the most important current economic threats.

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Research Article Tue, 6 Jul 2010 00:00:00 +0300
Diptera. Chapter 10 https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/1861/ BioRisk 4: 553-602

DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.4.53

Authors: Marcela Skuhravá, Michel Martinez, Alain Roques

Abstract: Of the 19,400 native species and 125 families forming the European diptera fauna, 98 species (less than 0.5%) in 22 families are alien to Europe. These aliens constitute 66 species (18 families) of the suborder Brachycera and 32 species (4 families) of the suborder Nematocera. By family in this category, there are 23 Cecidomyiidae species, 18 Drosophilidae, nine Phoridae, eight Tachinidae and seven Culicidae. Another 32 fly species belonging to five families are considered to be alien in Europe. These invasives native to other European countries are composed of 14 species of Cecidomyiidae, seven Syrphidae, five Culicidae and three species each of Anthomyiidae and Tephritidae. The date of the first record in Europe is known for 84 alien species. Arrivals of alien species of Diptera have accelerated rapidly since the second half of the 20th century. North America appears to be the dominant contributor of the alien flies. The majority of alien Diptera were introduced into or within Europe unintentionally, with only three predators released intentionally for biological control. Alien Diptera are predominantly phytophagous (35.6%), while a lesser portion are zoophagous (28.6%) or detrivorous/mycetophagous (29.6%). Ecological impacts on native fauna and flora have not been documented for any of the alien species established in Europe. However, 14 alien species have economic impacts on crops.

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Research Article Tue, 6 Jul 2010 00:00:00 +0300
Other Hemiptera Sternorrhyncha (Aleyrodidae, Phylloxeroidea, and Psylloidea) and Hemiptera Auchenorrhyncha. Chapter 9.4 https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/1860/ BioRisk 4: 511-552

DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.4.63

Authors: David Mifsud, Christian Cocquempot, Roland Mühlethaler, Mike Wilson, Jean-Claude Streito

Abstract: Apart from aphids and scales, 52 additional Sternorrhyncha hemipteran species alien to Europe have been identified within Aleyrodidae (27 whitefly species), Phylloxeroidea (9 adelgids, 2 phylloxerans) and Psylloidea (14 species of jumping plant-lice) in addition to 12 Auchenorrhyncha species (mostly Cicadellidae- 8 species). At present, the alien species represent 39% of the total whitefly fauna and 36% of the total adelgid fauna occuring in Europe. The proportion is insignificant in the other groups. The arrival of alien phylloxerans and adelgids appeared to peak during the first part of the 20th century. In contrast, the mean number of new records per year of alien aleyrodids, psylloids and Auchenorrhyncha increased regularly after the 1950s. For these three groups, an average of 0.5–0.6 new alien species has been recorded per year in Europe since 2000. The region of origin of the alien species largely differs between the different groups. Alien aleyrodids and psylloids mainly originated from tropical regions whilst the adelgids and phylloxerans came equally from North America and Asia. A major part of the alien Auchenorrhyncha originated from North American. Most of these alien species are presently observed in man-made habitats, especially in parks and gardens but alien adelgids are mainly observed in forests because of their association with conifer trees used for afforestation.

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Research Article Tue, 6 Jul 2010 00:00:00 +0300
Scales (Hemiptera, Superfamily Coccoidea). Chapter 9.3 https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/1859/ BioRisk 4: 475-510

DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.4.45

Authors: Giuseppina Pellizzari, Jean-François Germain

Abstract: Scale insects are frequent invaders. With 129 established species, they numerically represent one of the major group of insects alien to Europe. Scales are usually small insects with wingless females. Due to this small size and concealment, many species, mainly belonging to the families Diaspididae, Pseudococcidae and Pseudococcidae, have been accidentally introduced to Europe, mostly originating from tropical regions and essentially from Asia. The trade of fruit trees and ornamentals appears to be the usual pathway of introduction. At present, alien scales represent an important component of the European entomofauna, accounting for about 30% of the total scale fauna.

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Research Article Tue, 6 Jul 2010 00:00:00 +0300
Aphids (Hemiptera, Aphididae) Chapter 9.2 https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/1858/ BioRisk 4: 435-474

DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.4.57

Authors: Armelle Coeur d’Acier, Nicolás Pérez-Hidalgo, Olivera Petrović-Obradović

Abstract: Our study aimed at providing a comprehensive list of Aphididae alien to Europe. A total of 98 species originating from other continents have established so far in Europe, to which we add 4 cosmopolitan species of uncertain origin (cryptogenic). The 102 alien species of Aphididae established in Europe belong to 12 different subfamilies, five of them contributing by more than 5 species to the alien fauna. Most alien aphids originate from temperate regions of the world. There was no significant variation in the geographic origin of the alien aphids over time. The average introduction rate was 0.5 species per year since 1800. The mean number of newly recorded species per year decreased since 2000 but this pattern may change in the following years.

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Research Article Tue, 6 Jul 2010 00:00:00 +0300
True Bugs (Hemiptera, Heteroptera). Chapter 9.1 https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/1857/ BioRisk 4: 407-433

DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.4.44

Authors: Wolfgang Rabitsch

Abstract: The inventory of the alien Heteroptera of Europe includes 16 species alien to Europe, 25 species alien in Europe and 7 cryptogenic species. This is approximately 1.7 % of the Heteroptera species occurring in Europe. Most species belong to Miridae (20 spp.), Tingidae (8 spp.), and Anthocoridae (7 spp.). The rate of introductions has exponentially increased within the 20th century and since 1990 an approximate arrival rate of seven species per decade has been observed. Most of the species alien to Europe are from North America, almost all of the species alien in Europe originate in the Mediterranean region and were translocated to central and northern Europe. Most alien Heteroptera species are known from Central and Western Europe (Czech Republic, Germany, Netherlands, Great Britain). Ornamental trade and movement as stowaways with transport vehicles are the major pathways for alien Heteroptera. Most alien Heteroptera colonize habitats under strong human influence, like agricultural, horticultural, and domestic habitats, parks and gardens. A few species prefer woodland including plantations of non-native forest trees. Impacts of alien Heteroptera in Europe are poorly investigated. A few species are considered pests in agriculture, forestry, or on ornamentals. More research is needed for a better understanding of the ecological and economic effects of introduced Heteroptera.

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Research Article Tue, 6 Jul 2010 00:00:00 +0300
Coleoptera families other than Cerambycidae, Curculionidae sensu lato, Chrysomelidae sensu lato and Coccinelidae. Chapter 8.5 https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/1856/ BioRisk 4: 315-406

DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.4.61

Authors: Olivier Denux, Pierre Zagatti

Abstract: Here we consider 274 alien Coleoptera species belonging to 41 of the 137 beetle families in Europe (Cerambycidae, Curculionidae sensu lato, Chrysomelidae sensu lato and Coccinelidae are treated separately elsewhere). Among the families we consider asinvaded the European fauna, Acanthocnemidae and Ptilodactylidae represent new arrivals. Many species-rich families have surprisingly few aliens, whereas some relatively minor families such as Dermestidae, Nitidulidae and Anobiidae have a relatively high representation of alien species. Since the start of the 19th century, the number of coleopteran aliens introduced into Europe has continued to increase. Alien species colonizing Europe derive from a wide range of geographic regions as well as ecozones, but the most important source area is Asia. The countries with the largest number of alien species established are France, Germany and Italy. The majority have been introduced accidentally via international transport mechanisms. The most important route for importation is stored products and crops, followed by transport of wood, then horticultural and ornamental plants. Most alien species in these families are found within anthropogenic habitats in Europe. The introduction of invasive alien beetles in these families has had significant economic impacts, particularly as pests of stored foodstuffs, as well as serious ecological impacts. For example, the buprestid species Agrilus planipennis, recently recorded in Russia, is an important potential economic threat which may also impact the biodiversity associated with ash trees.

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Research Article Tue, 6 Jul 2010 00:00:00 +0300
Ladybeetles (Coccinellidae). Chapter 8.4 https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/1855/ BioRisk 4: 293-313

DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.4.49

Authors: Helen Roy, Alain Migeon

Abstract: The majority of Coccinellidae are beneficial predators and they have received considerable research attention because of their potential as biological control agents. Indeed the role of coccinellids as predators of pest insects has been a major factor in the movement of coccinellids between countries. The commercial production of coccinellids by biological control companies and local producers led to a rapid increase in distribution thoughout the 1990’s. To date, 13 alien coccinellid species have been documented in Europe; 11 of these are alien to Europe (two are alien to Great Britain and Sweden but native within Europe). The distribution of alien coccinellids in Europe mirrors the biogeographical distribution and patterns of introduction. Some species have dispersed widely; Harmonia axyridis has spread rapidly from countries where it was deliberately introduced to many others across Europe. The ecological and economic impacts of alien coccinellids are not well documented. In this chapter we provide an overview of the temporal and spatial patterns of alien coccinellids in Europe.

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Research Article Tue, 6 Jul 2010 00:00:00 +0300
Leaf and Seed Beetles (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae). Chapter 8.3 https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/1854/ BioRisk 4: 267-292

DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.4.52

Authors: Ron Beenen, Alain Roques

Abstract: The inventory of the leaf and seed beetles alien to Europe revealed a total of 25 species of which 14 seed beetles (bruchids) and 11 leaf beetles mostly belonging to the subfamilies Alticinae and Chrysomelinae. At present, aliens account for 9.4% of the total fauna of seed beetles in Europe whereas this percentage is less than 1% for leaf beetles. Whilst seed beetles dominated the introductions in Europe until 1950, there has been an exponential increase in the rate of arrival of leaf beetles since then. New leaf beetles arrived at an average rate of 0.6 species per year during the period 2000–2009. Most alien species originated from Asia but this pattern is mainly due to seed beetles of which a half are of Asian origin whereas leaf beetles predominantly originated from North America (36.4%). Unlike other insect groups, a large number of alien species have colonized most of Europe. All but one species have been introduced accidentally with either the trade of beans or as contaminants of vegetal crops or stowaway. Most aliens presently concentrate in man-made habitats but little affect natural habitats (<6%). Highly negative economic impacts have been recorded on stored pulses of legumes and crops but very little is known about possible ecological impact.

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Research Article Tue, 6 Jul 2010 00:00:00 +0300
Weevils and Bark Beetles (Coleoptera, Curculionoidea). Chapter 8.2 https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/1853/ BioRisk 4: 219-266

DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.4.64

Authors: Daniel Sauvard, Manuela Branco, Ferenc Lakatos, Massimo Faccoli, Lawrence Kirkendall

Abstract: We record 201 alien curculionoids established in Europe, of which 72 originates from outside Europe. Aliens to Europe belong to five families, but four-fifth of them are from family Curculionidae. Many families and subfamilies, among which species-rich ones, have few representatives among alien curculionoids, whereas some others are over-represented; these latter, Dryophthoridae, Cossoninae and specially Scolytinae, all contains many xylophagous species. The number of new records of alien species increases continuously, with an acceleration during the last decades. Aliens to Europe originate from all parts of the world, but mainly Asia; few alien curculionoids originate from Africa. Italy and France host the largest number of alien to Europe. The number of aliens per country decreases eastwards, but is mainly correlated with importations amount and, secondary, with warm climates. All alien curculionoids have been introduced accidentally via international shipping. Wood and seed borers are specially liable to human-mediated dispersal due to their protected habitat. Alien curculionoids mainly attack stems, and half of them are xylophagous. The majority of alien curculionoids live in human-modified habitats, but many species live in forests and other natural or semi-natural habitats. Several species are pests, among which grain feeders as Sitophilus sp. are the most damaging.

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Research Article Tue, 6 Jul 2010 00:00:00 +0300
Longhorn beetles (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae). Chapter 8.1 https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/1852/ BioRisk 4: 193-218

DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.4.56

Authors: Christian Cocquempot, Åke Lindelöw

Abstract: A total of 19 alien longhorn beetle species have established in Europe where they presently account for ca. 2.8 % of the total cerambycid fauna. Most species belong to the subfamilies Cerambycinae and Laminae which are prevalent in the native fauna as well. The alien species mainly established during the period 1975-1999, arriving predominantly from Asia. France, Spain and Italy are by far the most invaded countries. All species have been introduced accidentally. Wood-derived products such as wood- packaging material and palettes, plants for planting, and bonsais constitute invasive pathways of increasing importance. However, only few species have yet colonized natural habitats outside parks and gardens. Present ecological and economical impacts, and future trends are discussed.

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Research Article Tue, 6 Jul 2010 00:00:00 +0300
Mites and ticks (Acari). Chapter 7.4 https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/1851/ BioRisk 4: 149-192

DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.4.58

Authors: Maria Navajas, Alain Migeon, Agustin Estrada-Peña, Anne-Catherine Mailleux, Pablo Servigne, Radmila Petanović

Abstract: The inventory of the alien Acari of Europe includes 96 species alien to Europe and 5 cryptogenic species. Among the alien species, 87 are mites and 9 tick species. Besides ticks which are obligate ectoparasites, 14 mite species belong to the parasitic/predator regime. Among these species, some invaded Europe with rodents (8 spp.) and others are parasitic to birds (2 spp). The remaining 77 mite species are all phytophagous and among these 40% belong to the Eriophyidae (37 spp.) and 29% to the Tetranychidae (27 spp.) families. These two families include the most significant agricultural pest. The rate of introductions has exponentially increased within the 20th century, the amplification of plant trade and agricultural commodities movements being the major invasion pathways. Most of the alien mite species (52%) are from North America, Asia (25%), and Central and South America (10%). Half of the ticks (4 spp.) alien to Europe originated from Africa. Most of the mite species are inconspicuous and data regarding invasive species and distribution range is only partially available. More research is needed for a better understanding of the ecological and economic effects of introduced Acari.

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Research Article Tue, 6 Jul 2010 00:00:00 +0300
Spiders (Araneae). Chapter 7.3 https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/1850/ BioRisk 4: 131-147

DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.4.48

Authors: Wolfgang Nentwig, Manuel Kobelt

Abstract: A total of 47 spider species are alien to Europe; this corresponds to 1.3 % of the native spider fauna. They belong to (in order of decreasing abundance) Theridiidae (10 species), Pholcidae (7 species), Sparassidae, Salticidae, Linyphiidae, Oonopidae (4-5 species each) and 11 further families. There is a remarkable increase of new records in the last years and the arrival of one new species for Europe per year has been predicted for the next decades. One third of alien spiders have an Asian origin, one fifth comes from North America and Africa each. 45 % of species may originate from temperate habitats and 55 % from tropical habitats. In the past banana or other fruit shipments were an important pathway of introduction; today potted plants and probably container shipments in general are more important. Most alien spiders established in and around human buildings, only few species established in natural sites. No environmental impact of alien species is known so far, but some alien species are theoretically dangerous to humans.

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Research Article Tue, 6 Jul 2010 00:00:00 +0300
Alien terrestrial crustaceans (Isopods and Amphipods). Chapter 7.1 https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/1848/ BioRisk 4: 81-96

DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.4.54

Authors: Pierre-Olivier Cochard, Ferenc Vilisics, Emmanuel Sechet

Abstract: A total of 17 terrestrial crustacean species aliens to Europe of which 13 isopods (woodlice) and 4 amphipods (lawn shrimps) have established on the continent. In addition, 21 species native to Europe were introduced in a European region to which they are not native. The establishment of alien crustacean species in Europe slowly increased during the 20th century without any marked changes during the recent decades. Almost all species alien to Europe originate from sub-tropical or tropical areas. Most of the initial introductions were recorded in greenhouses, botanical gardens and urban parks, probably associated with passive transport of soil, plants or compost. Alien woodlice are still confined to urban habitats. Natural habitats have only been colonized by three amphipod species in the family Talitridade.

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Research Article Tue, 6 Jul 2010 00:00:00 +0300
Corrigenda: Climatic Risk Atlas of European Butterflies https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/1824/ BioRisk 2: 33-72

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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Corrigenda Fri, 27 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0200
Climatic Risk Atlas of European Butterflies https://biorisk.pensoft.net/article/1821/ BioRisk 1: 1-712

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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Monograph Wed, 3 Dec 2008 00:00:00 +0200