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Biodiversity Journal 2024, 15 (2): 113-466

  • Biodiversity Journal, 15 (2): 115-121

    Ulrich Kutschera & Rajnish Khanna
    The Significance of Darwin’s Origin of Species 1872 and ecology of salt-marsh plants in Northern California, USA
    https://doi.org/10.31396/Biodiv.Jour.2024.15.2.115.121

    ABSTRACT
    In 1872, the 6th (last) edition of Charles Darwin’s Origin of Species was published, wherein he had added a well-known section on Mivart’s criticism of 1871 concerning natural selection. Here, we describe Darwin’s ideas on “lower vs. higher organisms”, inclusive of his hypothesis of steady “perfection” and species co-existence during the evolutionary history of life. In addition, Darwin discussed evolution with reference to ecological interactions, proposed the concept of “competitive exclusion”, and, in our view, founded “evolutionary ecology”. These concepts were not addressed in the first, frequently quoted text of 1859. Therefore, we present Darwin’s ignored section with reference to a major recent paper on “Co-existence of plant species under harsh environmental conditions”, as well as our own observations on marsh vegetation in the San Francisco Bay Estuary. We conclude that “Darwin 1872” should be recognized as the definitive version of the “Species Book”, as recommended by the author himself and with reference to Letters published in the Darwin Correspondence Project-2023.

  • Biodiversity Journal, 15 (2): 123-127

    Ivan Rapuzzi
    Three new Carabus Linnaeus, 1758 (Coleoptera Carabidae) of the subgenus Apotomopterus Hope, 1838 from North and Central Vietnam
    https://doi.org/10.31396/Biodiv.Jour.2024.15.2.123.127
    https://www.zoobank.org/B8163B88-9EE7-4AC2-BD23-8508285650F0

    ABSTRACT
    Three new taxa belonging to sugbenus Apotomopterus Hope, 1838 (genus Carabus Linnaeus, 1758, Coleoptera Carabidae) from Vietnam are here described and figured: Carabus (Apotomopterus) anacoreta n. sp. from Ha Giang Province, C. (Apotomopterus) tarasovinus toussainti n. ssp. from Nghe An Province, and C. (Apotomopterus) tonkinensis tropicus n. ssp. from Da Nang Province.

  • Biodiversity Journal, 15 (2): 129-133

    Bernhard Seifert
    Frequent misclassification by mtDNA barcoding as revealed by nuDNA and/or testable analysis of its expression products
    https://doi.org/10.31396/Biodiv.Jour.2024.15.2.129.133

    ABSTRACT
    Species identities are best indicated by analyses of nuclear DNA which is the material representing the working points of evolution. Additional good indicators of species identities are those expression products of nuclear DNA which are least modified by environmental influence and, as a consequence, show the highest correlation with the genetical core information. Among expression products such as morphology, products of metabolism and ethologicalor ecological traits, morphology is rated here as indicator with the highest correlation. The use of morphology as most important accessory indicator is furthermore favored by the leading position it played in species descriptions over 280 years of taxonomic research. Focusing on the example of ants, the paper considers 13 studies with parallel application of mtDNA barcoding, analysis of nuclear DNA and application of Numeric Morphology-Based Alpha-Taxonomy (NUMOBAT). Selected were only studies based on sufficiently high within-species numbers of samples. With nuclear DNA and NUMOBAT used as objective and testable control systems, the average classification error of mtDNA barcoding per sample or individual was 16.8% over 10 genera with 66 species with the extremes ranging from 0 to 32%. Ancient hybridization is considered a much more likely cause for mtDNA mismatches in ants than incomplete lineage sorting.

  • Biodiversity Journal, 15 (2): 135-141

    Calogero Muscarella & Ignazio Sparacio
    Rhizotrogus tatianae a new species from Mount Etna (Sicily, Italy) (Coleoptera Scarabaeidae Melolonthinae)
    https://doi.org/10.31396/Biodiv.Jour.2024.15.2.135.141
    https://www.zoobank.org/F370C2CD-4901-460F-82EB-AE82D017197E

    ABSTRACT
    Rhizotrogus tatianae a new species from Mount Etna (Sicily, Italy) is here described and illustrated (Coleoptera Scarabaeidae Melolonthinae). It is similar to R. romanoi Sabatinelli, 1975, endemic of Sicily and Calabria (Madonie and Nebrodi Mountains), from which it differs by some characters of external morphology and genitalia. Both of these species belong to the R. aestivus (Olivier, 1789) group, a species widespread throughout almost all of Europe up to Asia Minor including almost all regions of continental and peninsular Italy. Rhizotrogus tatianae n. sp. is a crepuscolar species found in a forest environment.

  • Biodiversity Journal, 15 (2): 143-155

    Ndakara Ofudjaye Emmanuel & Atuma Ifeanyi Morrison
    Characterising Rainwash Nutrient Fluxes and Soil Nutrients under Anacardium occidentale L. (Anacardiaceae) and Lowland Rainforest: implications for Ecosystem Management
    https://doi.org/10.31396/Biodiv.Jour.2024.15.2.143.155

    ABSTRACT
    This study aimed to ascertain the relationship between rainwash nutrient fluxes and soil nutrient properties under Anacardium occidentale L. (Anacardiaceae) and lowland rainforest for the purpose of sustainable ecosystem management. Both experimental and quasi experimental research designs were adopted. Samples from rainwash (for 12 months) and soil (from 0–15 cm and 15–30cm) were taken from 12 A. occidentale stands and 12 rainforests within 12 stratified quarters. Laboratory analyses of samples involved standard procedures, while data generated where statistically analysed. Results revealed that from A. occidentale and rainforest, fluxes of nutrients varied between throughfall (Tf) and stemflow (Sf), and between rainy season and dry season. The monthly nutrient fluxes by rainwash is such that Tf > Sf for both A. occidentale and native rainforest. The highest fluxes of nutrients by Tf occurred during dry months, with corresponding Sf fluxes were observed during rainy months. At 0.05 alpha levels, nutrient fluxes between Tf and Sf differed significantly; as well as between soil nutrient contents under A. occidentale and rainforest. Rainwash nutrients correlated positively and significantly with soil nutrients. Over time, A. occidentale add nutrients to soil through rainwash, therefore its cultivation is recommended for agro-forestry and sustainable ecosystem management.

  • Biodiversity Journal, 15 (2): 159-162 - MONOGRAPH

    Ettore Petralia, Teresa La Torretta, Milena Stracquadanio, Antonella Malaguti, Giuseppe Cremona, Giancarlo Papitto, Cristiana Cocciufa, Maurizio Gualtieri & Antonio Piersanti
    “Visibility” at Italian natural parks: preliminary data from the first-ever pilot project by ENEA and CUFAA
    https://doi.org/10.31396/Biodiv.Jour.2024.15.2.159.162

    ABSTRACT
    “Visibility” is meant as the greatest distance at which an observer can see a distant object in contrast with the horizon and, when referred to a landscape, it depends on the optical characteristics of the atmosphere, somehow linked to the presence of air pollutants. Visibility can hence become a useful indicator of air quality and the project Visibility, representing the first case of visibility monitoring in Europe, aims to apply this approach within the Italian National Parks as natural areas with a significant fruition vocation. The goal is to test the U.S. National Park Service protocol I.M.PRO.V.E. (Interagency Monitoring of PROtected Visual Environment) for the quantification of a coefficient that describes the light extinction (Bext) as a function of different chemical-physical parameters associated with molecules dispersed in the air, and the Circeo National Park (LT) was selected for the “pilot” action, with the positioning of the measuring instruments for atmospheric pollution evaluation at the Lago dei Monaci site. 24-hours samplings were performed in spring-summer 2021 and winter 2021/2022, to measure the air concentration of PM2.5 and PM10 particulate matter, sulfates and nitrates, elemental carbon and organic carbon, metals and trace elements and the gaseous species nitrogen dioxide, with the consequential calculation of the Bext. The visual detection of the degree of air transparency was performed by a panoramic camera pointed in the direction of the “landmark” Monte Circeo, taken as a reference for the definition of long-distance visibility.

  • Biodiversity Journal, 15 (2): 163-168 - MONOGRAPH

    Angelo Dimarca, Vincenzo Billeci, Giulia Casamento, Rosario Di Pietro, Giuseppe Maraventano, Elena Prazzi & Gerry Sorrentino
    Protected Natural Areas and sustainable use: the Spiaggia dei Conigli in the “Lampedusa Island” Nature Reserve (Agrigento, Sicily, Italy)
    https://doi.org/10.31396/Biodiv.Jour.2024.15.2.163.168

    ABSTRACT
    The Spiaggia dei Conigli, falling within the “Isola di Lampedusa” Nature Reserve (Agrigento, Sicily, Italy) is of great naturalistic interest due to the presence of various habitats of community importance and as a regular oviposition site of sea turtle Caretta caretta (Linnaeus, 1758) (Reptilia Cheloniidae). Since its establishment, the Nature Reserve has activated numerous conservation and protection interventions and actions, renaturalization and re-orientation of seaside use, becoming a concrete example of integration between nature protection and territorial promotion. Over the last three years, the management body Legambiente Sicilia has strengthened the regulation of the site by initiating an action to limit attendance, in order to further reduce the impacts on habitats and species and to guarantee a more rewarding and aware of the naturalistic values of a protected natural area. The first results of this action are presented in this paper.

  • Biodiversity Journal, 15 (2): 169-177 - MONOGRAPH

    Roberto De Pietro & Francesca Messina
    Gelsari and Lentini marshes (Sicily, Italy), a wetland of extremely high biodiversity. Consequences on avifauna from the crossing of an overhead high-voltage power line
    https://doi.org/10.31396/Biodiv.Jour.2024.15.2.169.177

    ABSTRACT
    In the Gelsari and Lentini marshes (Sicily, Italy), which constitute a vast and historically well-known wetland on the central eastern coast of Sicily, the crossing of an overhead high-voltage power line surprisingly had been planned and approved. This choice was made despite the high landscape value that these marshes possess, the environmental protection constraints they enjoy, the interest they hold for the biodiversity conservation in Sicily, and their extraordinary ability to attract avifauna. At present, the work, which began in August 2021, has resulted in the placement of all supports. An estimate of the risk of mortality of avifauna that the presence of the power line will produce has been made, limiting the survey to species of high conservation interest, which are among those present in the marshes. It turned out that the risks of collision of avifauna and especially of species considered of high conservation interest, due largely to the characteristics of the power line and especially its route, are extremely high; the damage that is likely to occur does not, therefore, seem to have been properly assessed, neither at the design nor at the approval stages of the project. Given that the impact of the power line does not appear to be mitigable, neither with regard to the landscape nor with regard to avifauna, considering, in the latter case, especially the high mortality risks to which species of high conservation interest would be subjected, it is believed that the only solution to avoid such damage is to make a modification to the route of the power line in the section affecting the marshes.

  • Biodiversity Journal, 15 (2): 179-185 - MONOGRAPH

    Giorgio Sabella & Fabio Massimo Viglianisi
    The new layout of the Museum of Zoology of the University of Catania (Italy) one year after its opening
    https://doi.org/10.31396/Biodiv.Jour.2024.15.2.179.185

    ABSTRACT
    On 9 July 2021 the Museum of Zoology of the University of Catania (Italy), the oldest Sicilian zoological museum whose foundation dates back to 1853 by Prof. Andrea Aradas, reopened to the public with a new layout, which involved the elimination of all the showcases in which the specimens were displayed. The new project instead envisaged that all the vertebrate specimens present in the main room, around 170, are arranged on open platforms and grouped according to systematic or biogeographical criteria. An emotional museum was thus created in which the elimination of the showcases and the possibility to walk among the exhibits without barriers or limitations increase the emotional and emphatic involvement of the visitor, helping the transmission of information on biodiversity and the relationship between man and nature.

  • Biodiversity Journal, 15 (2): 187-192 - MONOGRAPH

    Giorgio Sabella & Fabio Massimo Viglianisi
    Design and preparation of a thematic showcase on alien species at the Museum of Zoology of the University of Catania (Italy)
    https://doi.org/10.31396/Biodiv.Jour.2024.15.2.187.192

    ABSTRACT
    As part of the Interreg FAST (Fight Alien Species Transborder) project, in which the Zoology Museum of the University of Catania (Italy) is involved, in the Museum main room a thematic exhibition relating to alien species, also equipped with interactive supports, has been planned. This action is part of the communication strategy of the aforementioned project, providing for the promotion of Citizen Science initiatives that bring all citizens closer to this problem, increasing their awareness and participation. Some of the most representative and iconic animals linked to this issue will be exhibited within this space. Visitors will be able to observe both vertebrates such as the Nutria (Myocastor coypus Molina, 1782) or the American pond turtle (Trachemys scripta Thunberg in Schoepff, 1792), and invertebrates such as the Red palm weevil (Rhynchophorus ferrugineus Olivier, 1790) or the Louisiana red crayfish (Procambarus clarkii Girard, 1852). Also, a large poster illustrating all the species of alien birds in Europe will complete the exhibition, which will also be accompanied by information panels in Italian and English regarding not only the animals on display but also the aims and objectives of the FAST project. Adjacent to the exhibition space an 80-inch touch screen monitor will be installed with a software, also for children, for the recognition of native and alien species, accompanied by information collected in a database on alien invasive species present in Sicily and in Malta.

  • Biodiversity Journal, 15 (2): 193-198 - MONOGRAPH

    Vera D’Urso, Salvatore Bella, David Mifsud, Arthur Lamoliere & Giorgio Sabella
    Problems and perspectives for the use of exotic predators and parasitoids in biological control
    https://doi.org/10.31396/Biodiv.Jour.2024.15.2.193.198

    ABSTRACT
    The accidental introduction of alien organisms potentially harmful to agriculture can cause extensive damage to vegetable crops and fruit plants and is favoured by the global mobility of people, trade of goods and the ongoing climate change. The use of alien predators and parasitoids is well known in the agricultural field, where they are often used for biological control to protect fruit and horticultural plants. The management of invasive species is and will be one of the key issues for preserving biodiversity and the profitability of crops, the latter can now count on an effective, consolidated and lasting strategy: Integrated Pest Management (IPM). The legislation on this subject is complex and articulated and is continuously being updated. It allows for the development of specific skills in biological control and the availability to use quarantine chambers where it is possible to breed and study the behaviour of antagonists (predators and parasitoids), even exotic ones. If successful, their subsequent release to targeted biological control interventions of infestations of the IAS ‘Invasive Alien Species’ can be carried out. This contribution highlights the risk that such practices may involve and takes into account the following points: 1. The behaviour of an alien species can be very different in different contexts, being able to be a real IAS or not showing any character of invasiveness; 2. The behavior of an alien species can vary over time in the same context, diversifying and also expanding its trophic niche; 3. A good number of indigenous predators and parasitoids can over time adapt to new alien prey/hosts and could potentially be used for biological control. In future, biological control will be increasingly used given that EU funds reward and support this type of approach and the intentional introduction of alien natural predators and parasitoids into agroecosystems, although subject to strict protocols, cannot exclude spontaneous colonization by these last of natural environments with currently not assessable consequences on their biocoenosis. In conclusion, the rigorous risk analysis alone does not currently seem sufficient to exclude potential damage to local biodiversity, and programs for the release of exotic predators and parasitoids should be associated with mandatory monitoring of at least five years to verify the behaviour of these aliens in nature and their possible impact on ecosystems.

  • Biodiversity Journal, 15 (2): 199-203 - MONOGRAPH

    Mauro Grano
    Cats versus rats in the Eternal City (Rome, Italy)
    https://doi.org/10.31396/Biodiv.Jour.2024.15.2.199.203

    ABSTRACT
    Since ancient Rome (Italy), cats have lived together with man in a marked commensalism. The story of a great Mayor and a candidate for Mayor for this city in the last years has characterized the marriage between cats and rats in the streets of the Eternal City.

  • Biodiversity Journal, 15 (2): 205-210 - MONOGRAPH

    Antonino Puglisi
    Three days at school with FAST
    https://doi.org/10.31396/Biodiv.Jour.2024.15.2.205.210

    ABSTRACT
    “Three days at school with FAST” is the name of the environmental education project included within the FAST (Fight Alien Species Transborder), Project Interreg Italy-Malta. The FAST Project aims to record the entry and spread of non-native animal and plant species; and even more so those invasive species capable of reducing biodiversity in the islands of Sicily and Malta, located in the center of the Mediterranean basin. Furthermore, an important part of the project concerns dissemination, raising awareness among the community about alien species, the problems associated with them and the protection of biodiversity. Environmental education in schools (today considered an important form of dissemination of good practices) is the focus of the three days at school with FAST. An attempt was made to give the youngest elementary and middle school students tangible experiences, to teach them useful practices for the protection of nature by explaining, for the purposes of greater knowledge and awareness, environmental issues and problems linked to the most well-known and widespread alien species in Sicily, Thanks to the game and the experiences proposed in the three scheduled meetings, the aim is to enhance and at the same time learn to protect local environmental resources.

  • Biodiversity Journal, 15 (2): 211-218 - MONOGRAPH

    Sara Basile, Luca Montevago, Vincenzo Di Dio, Giorgio Sabella, Rosaria Mulè & Barbara Manachini
    Since 2015, the first solitary bee hotels in Sicily located in the small island of Isola delle Femmine Nature Reserve, Sicily (Italy)
    https://doi.org/10.31396/Biodiv.Jour.2024.15.2.211.218

    ABSTRACT
    Natural pollinators, mainly represented by solitary apoidea, play an essential role in ecosystems and biodiversity. Their population has sharply declined recently, putting both flora and fauna biodiversity at risk. Many studies report that artificial nesting for reproducing solitary bees, also known as bee hotels, can support conservation and increase the number of pollinators. Unipa and LIPU Isola delle Femmine Nature Reserve wanted to create the first bee hotels in 2015 near the coast. In particular, the goal of this project was to protect and increase biodiversity on the islet of Isola delle Femmine, a peculiar and challenging to-balance environment where there are more than 200 botanical taxa present on the island, some of which are endemic to Sicilian north-western coast, including pollination by insects. In the current state of knowledge, it is the first case of installing bee hotels in a coastal area so close to the sea, which entailed a significant technical challenge in the construction using recycled material. The hotels built were wholly colonized in a very short period, and even when maintenance and replacement of materials were carried out in less than a week, the recolonization was rapid. Most individuals belonged to the Megachilidae family, which is characteristic of the Mediterranean. The bee hotels have also been a source of curiosity and insight for the reserve visitors. In conclusion, the bee hotel proved useful for colonizing pollinators and increasing reserve use.

  • Biodiversity Journal, 15 (2): 219-224 - MONOGRAPH

    Salvatore Bella
    Recent findings of alien insect in citrus and olive groves in the Mediterranean basin: new risks for integrated pest management (IPM)
    https://doi.org/10.31396/Biodiv.Jour.2024.15.2.219.224

    ABSTRACT
    Recently, the number of alien arthropods found in the Mediterranean basin has increased considerably. This phenomenon occurred especially in the milder climate areas of the southern sector. In this context, citrus and olive groves see their productions and even their existence at risk. In the last three decades, the increased number of allochthonous species introduced to Italy and potentially harmful to Citrus and Olea genera has alerted and worried farmers, especially for those species capable of transmitting diseases for which no phytosanitary remedies are yet known. The adoption of an integrated supra-regional surveillance and monitoring system is therefore essential. Here the focus is on some invasive alien insect species (phytophagous and predators) recently reported on the Italian territory on Citrus and Olea plant species.

  • Biodiversity Journal, 15 (2): 225-233 - MONOGRAPH

    Giulia Casamento, Angelo Dimarca, Gianfranco Barraco & Elena Biondo
    Protected Natural Areas and Renaturation: the Nature Reserve “Grotta di Santa Ninfa” (Trapani, Sicily, Italy)
    https://doi.org/10.31396/Biodiv.Jour.2024.15.2.225.233

    ABSTRACT
    The Nature Reserve “Grotta di Santa Ninfa” (Trapani, Sicily, Italy) protects an area of geological and naturalistic interest extended for about 140 ha and included in a larger Special Conservation Area. Since its establishment, the Managing Body has started the actions of environmental restoration of the plateau above the chalky slope where the entrance of the Grotto opens, altered before the establishment of the Reserve by widespread discharges of inert waste. This work describes the actions carried out and the results obtained.

  • Biodiversity Journal, 15 (2): 235-249 - MONOGRAPH

    Antonino Barbera & Salvatore Surdo
    Checklist Birds of Wetlands in south-western Sicily (Italy): Capo Feto and Pantano Leone
    https://doi.org/10.31396/Biodiv.Jour.2024.15.2.235.249

    ABSTRACT
    Over the years the importance of checklists as indispensable basic knowledge instruments in the correct management of Sicily’s natural heritage has been reinforced by the requests contained in international conventions on biodiversity especially by the need to implement the Habitats Directive. Today’s growing interest in biodiversity makes it essential that inventories of fauna and flora are compiled and kept up to date for each individual region to serve as an initial, indispensable knowledge base. In this paper, a first detailed (and, partly, commented) checklist of the waterbirds, diurnal raptors species of two naturalistic areas in Sicily (Italy) is presented. Regarding the Capo Feto (Mazara del Vallo) wetland, the checklist includes 94 species of waterbirds and birds of prey, As far as the Pantano Leone (Campobello di Mazara) wetland is concerned, the checklist includes 73 species of waterbirds. Capo Feto is a nationally important site for the Kentish Plover, an endangered species (EN) on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species that nests there. Pantano Leone is a nationally important site for the overwintering of Common snipe.

  • Biodiversity Journal, 15 (2): 251-257 - MONOGRAPH

    Lucio Morin, Salvatore Surdo, Roberto Viviano, Antonino Dentici & Ignazio Sparacio
    Lepidoptera from the Isola delle Femmine Nature Reserve (Sicily, Italy)
    https://doi.org/10.31396/Biodiv.Jour.2024.15.2.251.257

    ABSTRACT
    On the basis of specific entomological researches carried out on Isola delle Femmine Nature Reserve (Sicily, Italy) in recent years, a first check-list of the Lepidoptera with 46 species recorded is provided. Additional taxonomic, faunal and geonemic informations for four of these species are provided: Idaea leipnitzi Hausmann, 2004 (Geometridae), Maradana fuscolimbalis (Ragonot, 1887) and M. vidualis (Chrétien, 1911) (Pyralidae) and Crassicornella crassicornella (Zeller, 1847) (Tinaeidae).

  • Biodiversity Journal, 15 (2): 259-264 - MONOGRAPH

    Emilio Badalamenti & Tommaso La Mantia
    Making smart use of woody alien plants
    https://doi.org/10.31396/Biodiv.Jour.2024.15.2.259.264

    ABSTRACT
    It is unquestionable that some alien woody plant species are a major issue for biodiversity conservation. However, being alien species generally adapted to warmer conditions than natives, they could be particularly suited to cope with the new environmental and climatic conditions that are also forecasted in the coming decades in Sicily. This poses an issue that is not easy to deal with, whether trying to use these species for the advantages they could bring, for instance in the new reforestation activities, while avoiding them becoming a serious problem for biodiversity conservation in natural and seminatural areas. Here, we present some study cases of non-native tree species which represent emblematic examples in that regard: Acacia saligna and A. cyclops, Eucalyptus spp., Leucaena leucocephala, Opuntia ficus-indica and Ailanthus altissima. These tree species are very invasive in some ecological contexts, while being useful to meet ecological services in others. A sound planning activity could help distinguish where planting these species could be not only possible but also desirable, from areas where their presence should be totally avoided.

  • Biodiversity Journal, 15 (2): 265-269 - MONOGRAPH

    Salvatore Surdo, Andrea Cusmano, Giovanni Cumbo, Nino Di Lucia, Manuel Andrea Zafarana & Paolo Galasso
    Current status and expansion of Western Red-rumped Swallow Cecropis daurica rufula (Temminck, 1835) (Aves Hirundinidae) in Sicily
    https://doi.org/10.31396/Biodiv.Jour.2024.15.2.265.269

    ABSTRACT
    The recent paper published by Corso et al. (2021) about the status of the Western Redrumped Swallow, Cecropis daurica rufula (Temminck, 1835) (Aves Hirundinidae), in Sicily was mainly focused on updating the distribution of breeding pairs in the south-eastern part of the region; hence the decision to provide a more complete and up-to-date regional picture of the current status of this species collecting unpublished data and investigating the most suitable locations in the period 2011–2022. This survey highlights as, also in western and central Sicily, the species has been showing an increase in number of breeding pairs, found in 18 new UTM squares (11 of these for which the breeding was ascertained and 7 for which was very probable) in comparison to the last updated data. A new map of the distribution of the Western Red-rumped Swallow in Sicily is therefore presented here.

  • Biodiversity Journal, 15 (2): 271-276 - MONOGRAPH

    Mauro Grano
    Peristeriones (Περιστεριώνες), the typical pigeon houses in Sifnos Island (Cyclades, Greece)
    https://doi.org/10.31396/Biodiv.Jour.2024.15.2.271.276

    ABSTRACT
    This work takes into consideration the characteristic dovecotes of the Cycladic island of Sifnos. Their great importance that they had in the past for the agriculture of the island and the current architectural feature are analyzed.

  • Biodiversity Journal, 15 (2): 277-300 - MONOGRAPH

    Giuseppe Rannisi, Paolo Galasso, Andrea Cusmano, Rosa Termine, Manuel Andrea Zafarana, Renzo Ientile & Salvatore Surdo
    Colonies of herons and other allied waterbirds breeding in Sicily, 2007-2022
    https://doi.org/10.31396/Biodiv.Jour.2024.15.2.277.300

    ABSTRACT
    We describe the results of the first regional census of herons and other colonial waterbirds, including Great Cormorants Phalacrocorax carbo, Little Bitterns Ixobrychus minutus, Black-crowned Night Herons Nycticorax nycticorax, Squacco Herons Ardeola ralloides, Western Cattle Herons Bubulcus ibis, Grey Herons Ardea cinerea, Purple Herons Ardea purpurea and Little Egrets Egretta garzetta, carried out throughout Sicily from 2007 to 2022. We also collected data about Great Egrets Casmerodius alba and other waterbird species in Ardeidae colonies without any breeding evidence, as Eurasian Spoonbills Platalea leucorodia and Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus. Collected data highlighted a regional widespread increase of the numbers in known colonies and nests of each species, especially of Bubulcus ibis that showed a sharp increase in number from 30 nests recorded for the whole region in 2007 up to 530 nests in 2022, mainly concentrated in eastern Sicily, in the province of Catania. Also A. ralloides, N. nycticorax and E. garzetta showed a positive trend with an increase in the number of colonized locations and nests recorded, with A. ralloides occupying the most of the Sicilian colonies with at least few pairs. On the other hand, A. cinerea showed a slight negative trend, with 45 nests recorded in 2007 and only 31 in 2022, at the end of the study; A. purpurea is an irregular breeder with an oscillating and unpredictable trend related to only 1–4 ascertained pairs maximum for the whole region. Despite the P. carbo is a regular breeding species in Sicily, it has not showed any sign of expansion in the last decade, remaining confined to a few historical locations near the Simeto River and Lentini Lake. All data here presented are related to the minimum and ascertained numbers of colonies and counted nests. Small colonies may not have been counted in some unmonitored locations, often inaccessible. It is highly recommended, in the near future, the creation of a coordinated survey network that would improve and make the census more in-depth and better standardized.

  • Biodiversity Journal, 15 (2): 301-309 - MONOGRAPH

    Paolo Galasso, Salvatore Surdo & Manuel Andrea Zafarana
    An updated estimate of the wintering population of Sanderling Calidris alba (J.F. Gmelin, 1788) in Sicily for the years 2015-2022
    https://doi.org/10.31396/Biodiv.Jour.2024.15.2.301.309

    ABSTRACT
    The Sanderling Calidris alba (J.F. Gmelin, 1788) overwinters along the sandy coasts of Italy with an average of about 546 individuals for the years 2006–2010, showing a positive long-term increase. The species regularly overwinters in Sicily, for which the latest estimate reports 30–130 individuals in the years 2000–2004. Since no further updated estimates are available, new data were collected every winter on the field during the years 2015–2022, monitoring the most suitable stretches of beaches and collecting additional data from birdwatchers and photographers. A wintering regional population with an average of 100 individuals per year (65–136) was recorded, with an estimate of 145 individuals per year (110–180). The sandy coast of the Gulf of Gela hosts 54% of the recorded regional wintering population and about 10% of the whole Italian population and can therefore be considered a “site of national importance”. Other important areas are the Gulf of Catania, which hosts 24% of the regional population and 4.57% of the Italian population, and some sandy coasts of Ragusa’s province. This survey shows an increase of the regional wintering population in the last decades, highlighting Sicily’s role at national level for the wintering of the species. Conservation measures and sustainable management of Sicilian sandy coasts are strongly recommended to support the wintering of C. alba and other species of shorebirds.

  • Biodiversity Journal, 15 (2): 311-317 - MONOGRAPH

    Alberto Villari, Giovanni Ammendolia, Danilo Scuderi & Pietro Battaglia
    New stranding records of Janthina janthina (Linnaeus, 1758) (Gastropoda Epitoniidae) in the central Mediterranean Sea (Strait of Messina, Italy) and observations on its behaviour
    https://doi.org/10.31396/Biodiv.Jour.2024.15.2.311.317
    Additional files

    ABSTRACT
    An unusual occurrence and massive stranding of the pelagic snail Janthina janthina (Linnaeus, 1758) (Gastropoda Epitoniidae) is reported along the Sicilian coast of the Strait of Messina (Italy). The diet of the Mediterranean species consisting of Porpita porpita (Linnaeus, 1758) and Velella velella (Hydrozoa) is reported. Further information on the genus Janthina Röding, 1798 are provided. Charts, photographs and a video clip on the construction of the ‘raft’ by the mollusc and its predatory behaviour are attached.

  • Biodiversity Journal, 15 (2): 319-326 - MONOGRAPH

    Agatino Reitano, Davide Di Franco & Danilo Scuderi
    Further new taxonomical and paleontological notes on Haliotis stomatiaeformis Reeve, 1846 (Gastropoda Haliotidae)
    https://doi.org/10.31396/Biodiv.Jour.2024.15.2.319.326

    ABSTRACT
    The finding of new both recent and fossil materials of the Mediterranean small abalone Haliotis stomatiaeformis Reeve, 1846 (Gastropoda Haliotiidae) allowed a more detailed study of this rare species. Analogies between the paleo-environment in which the fossil material is contextualized and the peculiar environment where nowadays it still lives are made on account of the faunal assemblage comparisons. Data on the morphology of the protoconch and the external soft parts chromatism and a new iconography complete the information set on this “neglected” species.

  • Biodiversity Journal, 15 (2): 327-346 - MONOGRAPH

    Ignazio Sparacio, Fabio Liberto, Najla Abushaala, Maria Tavano & Roberto Poggi
    An annotated type catalogue of the land and freshwater mollusks from Tunisia and Libya in the Natural History Museum “Giacomo Doria” of Genova (Italy)
    https://doi.org/10.31396/Biodiv.Jour.2024.15.2.327.346

    ABSTRACT
    In the present work are listed the type specimens of land and freshwater molluscs from Tunisia and Libya deposited in the Natural History Museum “Giacomo Doria” of Genova (Italy). The historical nucleus of the malacological collections of the Museum of Genova is made up of the material collected by the young Giacomo Doria. After the official creation of the Museum in 1867, the malacological collection increased considerably in number of species and importance also through the material collected in various scientific missions organized by the Museum around the world. After 1916, the director Raffaello Gestro reorganized all this material and began the cataloging and selection of the type species. Nineteen nominal species described by Arturo Issel, Laura Gambetta, Jole Bisacchi and Rolf Arthur Max Brandt have been traced in these malacological collections. The type series described (types and syntypes) but also the material coming from the description localities and collected by the author himself (sometimes referred to as “topotypes”) were examined. For each taxa, the collection data obtained from the labels, the current taxonomic classification, the photographic documentation, remarks and the malacological bibliography are provided.

  • Biodiversity Journal, 15 (2): 347-353 - MONOGRAPH

    Alfredo Petralia, Marcello Artioli, Alberto Petralia & Toni Puma
    Brachytrupes membranaceus (Drury, 1773) and B. megacephalus (Lefebvre, 1827) (Orthoptera Gryllidae): two species compared
    https://doi.org/10.31396/Biodiv.Jour.2024.15.2.347.353

    ABSTRACT
    The authors compare the stridulations of Brachytupes membranaceus (Drury, 1773) and Brachytrupes megacephalus (Lefebvre, 1827) (Orthoptera Gryllidae), two burrowing sabulicolous crickets which coexist in the contiguous areas of their respective ranges and which, although easily distinguishable morphologically, show remarkable eco-ethological similarities. The sound spectrograms of the two species are here analysed and it is highlighted how the stridulations produced by the males to recall the females do not seem species-specific as they are mutually accepted as a signal of recall for the partner. Is hypothesized that the forms morphologically described in the literature as intermediate between the two species may be hybrids. This work was presented in 6th International Congress on Biodiversity “Biodiversity and the new scenarios on alien species, climate, environment and energy” held at the University Territorial Center of Trapani (Italy, Sicily) (2–3 September 2022).

  • Biodiversity Journal, 15 (2): 355-361 - MONOGRAPH

    Laura Genco, Giovanni Callea, Calogero Muscarella, Alessandro Salemi & Bruno Massa
    Presence of Brachytrupes megacephalus (Lefebvre, 1827) (Orthoptera Gryllidae) in the Oriented Nature Reserves “Capo Rama” (Terrasini, Palermo, Sicily) and “Torre Salsa” (Siculiana, Agrigento, Sicily)
    https://doi.org/10.31396/Biodiv.Jour.2024.15.2.355.361

    ABSTRACT
    The authors present preliminary findings regarding the distribution and habitat selection of Brachytrupes megacephalus (Lefebvre, 1927) (Orthoptera Gryllidae) within the “Capo Rama” and “Torre Salsa” Nature Reserves (Sicily, Italy). This elusive species is closely associated with undamaged coastal ecosystems and appears to be in decline in Italy. It has been listed in the European Union’s Habitat Directive 92/43/EEC and the European Red List. Consequently, a monitoring plan was initiated in March 2021 and continued into 2022. The monitoring involved identifying signs of presence (burrows, sand cones, and song) using zig-zag transects in sample areas, with the aim of collecting both presence/absence data and density information. The presence of the species has been confirmed at various sites within the two study areas and on the beach in Balestrate (Palermo). The data obtained are crucial for planning effective conservation initiatives for both the species itself and the ecosystems inhabited by it.

  • Biodiversity Journal, 15 (2): 363-375 - MONOGRAPH

    Antonino Dentici & Franco Ciro Amata
    New data on the Arachnofauna (Arachnidae Araneae Opiliones) of Enna and surrounding areas (Sicily, Italy) with some first reports for Sicily
    https://doi.org/10.31396/Biodiv.Jour.2024.15.2.363.375

    ABSTRACT
    In this paper we present faunistic data on Arachnid collected, with sampling on sight during 2019 and 2020, in Enna (Sicily, Italy. The arachnofauna of this area of the Island is poorly studied, to date only 16 species of spiders are reported for this municipality. 180 taxa of spiders are known in total now, 15 of this (1 first report in Italy) and 6 genera are new for Sicily, in particular Pritha nana (Simon, 1868) (Filistatidae), Micaria coarctata (Lucas, 1846), Micaria dives (Lucas, 1846), Poecilochroa loricata Kritscher, 1996 (Gnaphosidae) (new for Italy), Agroeca sp., Scotina celans (Blackwall, 1841) (Liocranidae), Bolyphantes luteolus (Blackwall, 1833), Centromerus arcanus (O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1873), Lepthyphantes minutus (Blackwall, 1833), Linyphia mimonti Simon, 1885, Megalepthyphantes collinus (L. Koch, 1872), Walckenaeria corniculans (O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1875), Walckenaeria monoceros (Wider, 1834) (Linyphiidae), Synageles venator (Lucas, 1836) (Salticidae) and Enoplognatha afrodite Hippa et Oksala, 1983 (Theridiidae) and 3 species of opilions. Additional biological and taxonomic notes on these spiders are also provided.

  • Biodiversity Journal, 15 (2): 377-382 - MONOGRAPH

    Antonino Dentici, Salvatore Surdo, Roberto Viviano & Ignazio Sparacio
    Araneofauna (Arachnida Araneae) from Isola delle Femmine Nature Reserve (north-western Sicily, Italy)
    https://doi.org/10.31396/Biodiv.Jour.2024.15.2.377.382

    ABSTRACT
    The species of spiders (Arachnida Araneae) found in the “Isola delle Femmine Nature Reserve” (Sicily, Italy) are reported here. The checklist provided is the result of some excursions carried out between 2021 and 2023 and aimed at studying the invertebrate fauna that live on this small island. In total, up to date, 42 species, belonging to 38 genera and 19 families, are listed, among these Diplostyla concolor (Wider, 1834) is reported for the first time for Sicily.

  • Biodiversity Journal, 15 (2): 383-385 - MONOGRAPH

    Antonino Dentici, Giovanni Altadonna & Ferdinando Giovine
    New data on the distribution of Textrix rubrofoliata Pesarini, 1990 (Araneae Agelenidae) in Italy
    https://doi.org/10.31396/Biodiv.Jour.2024.15.2.383.385

    ABSTRACT
    The spider Textrix rubrofoliata Pesarini, 1990 (Araneae Agelenidae), species known in Italy only in Sicily and Trentino-Alto Adige, was found and identified in Campo Calabro, province of Reggio Calabria, Calabria (Italy). This is the first record of the species for Calabria. Additional notes on taxonomy, distribution and biology are provided.

  • Biodiversity Journal, 15 (2): 387-390 - MONOGRAPH

    Francesco Lamanna & Caterina Dima
    A new particular finding of Lethocerus patruelis (Stål, 1854) (Hemiptera Heteroptera Belostomatidae) on the Calabria Ionian coast
    https://doi.org/10.31396/Biodiv.Jour.2024.15.2.387.390

    ABSTRACT
    The first observation of Lethocerus patruelis (Stål, 1854) (Hemiptera Heteroptera Belostomatidae) on the Ionian coast of Crotone, in eastern Calabria (Italy), is documented. During some local naturalistic research on the Strongoli Marina beach a live adult specimen of this large Belostomatidae was collected and identified. The diffusion in Calabria and in general in Italy of this species, typical of Balkans, has not yet been completely ascertained thus the finding, albeit sporadic, represents an important event for the knowledge and control of the species. Only two other records of Lethocerus patruelis in Calabria are reported in the literature. One to the north in the city of Villapiana in the province of Cosenza and the other to the south in the small hamlet of Prunella in the municipality of Melito di Porto Salvo in the province of Reggio Calabria. This may indicate an increase of the presence of Lethocerus patruelis on the Calabrian Ionian coast.

  • Biodiversity Journal, 15 (2): 391-397 - MONOGRAPH

    Salvatore Surdo & Antonino Barbera
    Checklist Odonata of Wetlands in south-western Sicily (Italy): Pantano Leone, Capo Feto, Margi Spanò, Nespolilla and Milo
    https://doi.org/10.31396/Biodiv.Jour.2024.15.2.391.397

    ABSTRACT
    Over time, the significance of checklists as essential tools for managing Sicily’s natural heritage has been underscored by the requirements outlined in international biodiversity conventions, particularly in relation to implementing the Habitats Directive. Compiling and updating checklists of fauna and flora for each specific region is necessary due to the growing interest in biodiversity today, which serves as a foundational and indispensable knowledge base. In this paper, a first detailed and complete checklist of the 17 Odonata species of some naturalistic areas of Sicily (Italy) is presented. Regarding the Capo Feto and Margi Spanò wetland, the checklist includes 10 species of dragonflies, 13 species for Margi Milo. As far as the Pantano Leone wetland is concerned 13 species of dragonflies are listed.

  • Biodiversity Journal, 15 (2): 399-405 - MONOGRAPH

    Calogero Muscarella, Simone Costa, Francesco Paolo Faraone, Giuseppe Mascarello, Alessandro Salemi, Daniele Sechi & Gabriele Giacalone
    Isidus moreli Mulsant et Rey, 1874 in Sicily (Elateridae Pomachiliini): regional distribution and threat factors
    https://doi.org/10.31396/Biodiv.Jour.2024.15.2.399.405

    ABSTRACT
    The distribution of Isidus moreli Mulsant et Rey, 1874 (Elateridae Pomachiliini) in Sicily is updated, a saproxylophagous species linked to dune environments and considered “Vulnerable” in the national red lists and “Near Threatened” in the European ones. For this species, the ecological peculiarities are also highlighted and the main threat factors are discussed, underlining the importance of protected areas for its conservation.

  • Biodiversity Journal, 15 (2): 407-431 - MONOGRAPH

    Roberto Viviano, Antonino Dentici, Salvatore Surdo & Ignazio Sparacio
    Arthropoda (except Coleoptera, Araneae and Lepidoptera) from the Isola delle Femmine Nature Reserve (north-western Sicily, Italy)
    https://doi.org/10.31396/Biodiv.Jour.2024.15.2.407.431

    ABSTRACT
    On the basis of specific entomological researches carried out on Isola delle Femmine Nature Reserve (north-western Sicily, Italy) in recent years, a first check-list of the Arthropoda species (except Coleoptera, Araneae and Lepidoptera) found is provided.

  • Biodiversity Journal, 15 (2): 433-456 - MONOGRAPH

    Ignazio Sparacio, Roberto Viviano, Salvatore Surdo & Antonino Dentici
    Coleoptera from the Isola delle Femmine Nature Reserve (north-western Sicily, Italy)
    https://doi.org/10.31396/Biodiv.Jour.2024.15.2.433.456

    ABSTRACT
    On the basis of specific entomological researches carried out on Isola delle Femmine Nature Reserve (north-western Sicily, Italy) in recent years, a first annotated check-list of the Coleoptera species is provided.

  • Biodiversity Journal, 15 (2): 457-463 - MONOGRAPH

    Ignazio Sparacio, Angelo Ditta, Vincenzo Genna & Salvatore Surdo
    New data on the beetle fauna (Insecta Coleoptera) in the Trapani surroundings (Sicily, Italy)
    https://doi.org/10.31396/Biodiv.Jour.2024.15.2.457.463

    ABSTRACT
    In this work, some interesting beetles (Insecta Coleoptera) collected in the surroundings of Trapani (Sicily, Italy) are reported. Among these, Icosium (Icosium) tomentosum tomentosum Lucas, 1854 (Cerambycidae) is a new record for Sicily.