scholarly journals Leaf arrangements are invalid in the taxonomy of orchid species

PeerJ ◽  
2017 ◽  
Vol 5 ◽  
pp. e3609 ◽  
Author(s):  
Anna Jakubska-Busse ◽  
Elżbieta Żołubak ◽  
Zbigniew Łobas ◽  
Edyta Magdalena Gola
Keyword(s):  
Field Research ◽  
Crucial Importance ◽  
Molecular Tools ◽  
Orchid Species ◽  
Leaf Arrangement ◽  
Vegetative Characters ◽  
Taxonomic Groups

The selection and validation of proper distinguishing characters are of crucial importance in taxonomic revisions. The modern classifications of orchids utilize the molecular tools, but still the selection and identification of the material used in these studies is for the most part related to general species morphology. One of the vegetative characters quoted in orchid manuals is leaf arrangement. However, phyllotactic diversity and ontogenetic changeability have not been analysed in detail in reference to particular taxonomic groups. Therefore, we evaluated the usefulness of leaf arrangements in the taxonomy of the genus Epipactis Zinn, 1757. Typical leaf arrangements in shoots of this genus are described as distichous or spiral. However, in the course of field research and screening of herbarium materials, we indisputably disproved the presence of distichous phyllotaxis in the species Epipactis purpurata Sm. and confirmed the spiral Fibonacci pattern as the dominant leaf arrangement. In addition, detailed analyses revealed the presence of atypical decussate phyllotaxis in this species, as well as demonstrated the ontogenetic formation of pseudowhorls. These findings confirm ontogenetic variability and plasticity in E. purpurata. Our results are discussed in the context of their significance in delimitations of complex taxa within the genus Epipactis.

scholarly journals A Revision of the Taxonomy and Identification of Epipactis greuteri (Orchidaceae, Neottieae)

Plants ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 9 (6) ◽  
pp. 783 ◽  
Author(s):  
Anna Jakubska-Busse ◽  
Elżbieta Żołubak ◽  
Marcin Górniak ◽  
Zbigniew Łobas ◽  
Spyros Tsiftsis ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Internal Transcribed Spacer ◽  
Phenotypic Variability ◽  
Field Research ◽  
Morphological Features ◽  
Nuclear Marker ◽  
Genetic Analyses ◽  
Orchid Species ◽  
Taxonomic Treatment ◽  
Close Relationship ◽  
Distribution In Europe

Epipactis greuteri is an obligate autogamous orchid species. Due to large differences in the interpretation of the diagnosis of this species, it is often mistakenly identified by botanists, which results in erroneous information provided in the literature about its distribution in Europe. In the present paper we review its description, including flower details, gynostemium features, and papillae morphology and compare it to E. helleborine, with which it is often confused. Based on thorough study of herbarium material (including holotype and isotype) and field research in Greece, Romania, and Poland, we confirm that gynostemium of E. greuteri has strongly reduced clinandrium and does not produce viscidium. We also discuss taxonomic treatment of E. preinensis and E. flaminia, two recently described taxa related to E. greuteri. The results of genetic analyses, as well as the range of phenotypic variability of E. greuteri individuals from various regions of Europe were presented and discussed. The analysis based on the ITS (internal transcribed spacer) nuclear marker showed no differences among E. helleborine, E. purpurata, E. albensis, and E. greuteri, which probably indicates their close relationship. Based on the analysis of plastid regions, six haplotypes were detected in all investigated samples. An exhaustive description of morphological features of E. greuteri is provided.

scholarly journals NUCLEAR DNA CONTENT OF DENDROBIUM ORCHID SPECIES AS DETERMINED BY LASER FLOW CYTOMETRY

HortScience ◽  
1996 ◽  
Vol 31 (3) ◽  
pp. 322c-322
Author(s):  
W.E. Jones ◽  
A.R. Kuehnle ◽  
K. Arumuganathan
Keyword(s):  
Flow Cytometry ◽  
Dna Content ◽  
Nuclear Dna ◽  
Evolutionary Relationship ◽  
Internal Standard ◽  
Nuclear Dna Content ◽  
Orchid Species ◽  
Group Assignment ◽  
Taxonomic Groups

Flow cytometry (FC) has proven to be an efficient and reliable method to estimate nuclear DNA content (genome size) in quantifiable units useful for genetic and molecular biology studies. This method also makes possible determination of the variation in nuclear DNA content between related taxa, which gives insights into the process of speciation. In this study, DNA content was determined in nuclei isolated from leaves of 21 Dendrobium species representing each of the major taxonomic groups used in the Univ. of Hawaii breeding program. Nuclei were mechanically isolated, stained with the nucleic acid-specific fluorochrom propidium iodide, and DNA content determined using a Coulter Epics 753 laser flow cytometer. Chicken erythrocyte nuclei (2C = 2.33 pg DNA) were used as an internal standard for direct comparative measurement. The mean diploid genome (2C) values for Dendrobium species ranged from 3.36 to 5.06 pg. Genome sizes were evaluated for possible use as discrete characters for taxonomic group assignment and compared to previous data on breeding compatibility and evolutionary relationship between species.

scholarly journals Detection of secretive mammal species by methods of lepidopterological field research

2021 ◽  
Vol 2020 (20) ◽  
pp. 132-138
Author(s):  
Yurii Geryak ◽  
◽  
Evgen Khalaim ◽  
Keyword(s):  
Roe Deer ◽  
Mammalian Species ◽  
Field Research ◽  
Scale Insects ◽  
Artificial Light ◽  
Nocturnal Activity ◽  
Mammal Species ◽  
New Findings ◽  
Entomological Research ◽  
Taxonomic Groups

Information is given on observations of a number of mammalian species with secretive lifestyle and nocturnal activity, including dormice, made during field lepidopterological research. The use of artificial light and aromatic scents in entomological research is one of the most effective methods for obtaining rich and diverse ecological and faunal information. In addition to scale insects, many other invertebrates, primarily insects, are attracted to light and bait. At the same time, large clusters of invertebrates that flock in masse and converge on light and bait, as readily available food attract a number of mammals with nocturnal activity, mostly insectivores (Soriciformes), bats (Vespertilioniformes), and rodents (Muriformes). A number of species that are rare and lead a hidden way of life are attracted to artificial light and aromatic scents, including species of the dormice family (Gliridae) such as the edible, forest, and hazel dormice. The latter are obviously attracted to the light by the insects. Instead, in case of the use of baits, for edible dormice and yellow-necked wood mice, probably the aroma and taste of the bait is what attracts them, because they were repeatedly seem feeding on the bait. At the same time, bright sources of artificial light are obviously of interest to other mammals. In particular, in this way were noted: hare, fox, European roe deer, and wild boar, as well as such rare mammals as lynx, wild cat, great jerboa, and thick-tailed three-toed jerboa. Based on such observations, as an example, a small overview of new findings of the forest dormouse is given, in particular in areas where this rodent species has not been recorded before or it was observed very infrequently. The authors noted this species on traps for scale insects in the highlands of the Ukrainian Carpathians (Chornohora ridge) and in the Northern Black Sea coast, within Odesa Oblast. Thus, standard methods of collecting field material often used in lepidopterological research, such as attracting by artificial light and aromatic scents, can be quite effective for detecting a number of mammal species of different taxonomic groups, including nocturnal mammals.

Detection of Rickettsia asembonensis in Fleas (Siphonaptera: Pulicidae, Ceratophyllidae) Collected in Five Counties in Georgia, United States

2020 ◽  
Vol 57 (4) ◽  
pp. 1246-1253
Author(s):  
Marina E Eremeeva ◽  
Danielle Capps ◽  
Cynthia Logan McBride ◽  
Amanda J Williams-Newkirk ◽  
Gregory A Dasch ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
United States ◽  
Restriction Analysis ◽  
Field Research ◽  
Infection Prevalence ◽  
State Parks ◽  
Molecular Tools ◽  
Rickettsia Felis ◽  
Cat Flea ◽  
Rural Settings ◽  
Archival Specimens

Abstract We conducted a molecular survey of Rickettsia in fleas collected from opossums, road-killed and live-trapped in peridomestic and rural settings, state parks, and from pet cats and dogs in Georgia, United States during 1992–2014. The cat flea, Ctenocephalides felis (Bouché) was the predominant species collected from cats and among the archival specimens from opossums found in peridomestic settings. Polygenis gwyni (Fox) was more prevalent on opossums and a single cotton rat trapped in sylvatic settings. Trapped animals were infested infrequently with the squirrel flea, Orchopeas howardi (Baker) and C. felis. TaqMan assays targeting the BioB gene of Rickettsia felis and the OmpB gene of Rickettsia typhi were used to test 291 flea DNAs for Rickettsia. A subset of 53 C. felis collected from a cat in 2011 was tested in 18 pools which were all bioB TaqMan positive (34% minimum infection prevalence). Of 238 fleas tested individually, 140 (58.8%, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 52.5–64.9%) DNAs were bioB positive. Detection of bioB was more prevalent in individual C. felis (91%) compared to P. gwyni (13.4%). Twenty-one (7.2%) were ompB TaqMan positive, including 18 C. felis (9.5%) and 3 P. gwyni (3.2%). Most of these fleas were also positive with bioB TaqMan; however, sequencing of gltA amplicons detected only DNA of Rickettsia asembonensis. Furthermore, only the R. asembonensis genotype was identified based on NlaIV restriction analysis of a larger ompB fragment. These findings contribute to understanding the diversity of Rickettsia associated with fleas in Georgia and emphasize the need for development of more specific molecular tools for detection and field research on rickettsial pathogens.

scholarly journals On Entering the Field: Notes from a Neophyte Researcher

2019 ◽  
Vol 15 (3) ◽  
pp. 64-92
Author(s):  
Julian Torelli
Keyword(s):  
Field Research ◽  
Research Literature ◽  
Sense Making ◽  
Crucial Importance ◽  
Dirty Work ◽  
Qualitative Interviewing ◽  
Quantitative Studies ◽  
Field Notes ◽  
Post Hoc ◽  
Oriented Research

Qualitative field research can capture the life worlds and definitions of the situation of informants often not reported in quantitative studies. Post hoc reflections of how more seasoned researchers de­fine, assess, and interpret the process of entering the field and the interview dynamic between the researcher’s subjectivity and the subjectivity of informants are widespread in the qualitative research literature. However, seldom are the personal stories and reflections of neophyte researchers voiced in published accounts. This article accounts for my experiences in researching the “dirty work” of front­line caseworkers and the importance of practicing empathy while managing a boundary. I emphasize the practical sense-making challenges of managing a delicate balance between under and over rapport in researching homeless shelter caseworkers as an occupational group. My experiences underscore the challenging dynamics of maintaining a professionally oriented research-role, as well as the crucial importance of boundary work and distancing as practical strategies to qualitative interviewing.

New molecular tools for field research

1998 ◽  
Vol 47 ◽  
pp. 35
Author(s):  
K Katakura ◽  
Y Hashiguchi
Keyword(s):  
Field Research ◽  
Molecular Tools

scholarly journals Endophytic fungi associated with roots of epiphytic orchids in two Andean forests in Southern Ecuador and their role in germination

Lankesteriana ◽  
2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jazmin M. Salazar ◽  
Marisol Pomavilla ◽  
Anne T. Pollard ◽  
Eduardo J. Chica ◽  
Denisse F. Peña
Keyword(s):  
Endophytic Fungi ◽  
Orchid Species ◽  
Epiphytic Orchids ◽  
Orchid Conservation ◽  
Southern Ecuador ◽  
Symbiotic Germination ◽  
Orchid Seed ◽  
Complex Relationships ◽  
Taxonomic Groups

Orchids are known to establish complex relationships with endophytic fungi throughout their life cycle, and particularly during germination of their reserves-deprived seeds. Characterizing generalist or specialist interactions between orchids and associated fungi is key to supporting orchid conservation efforts. Here, endophytic fungi associated with roots of epiphytic orchids were studied in two montane Andean forests in Southern Ecuador. Orchid root samples were collected from ten ~500 m2 plots distributed between two neighboring forests. Endophytic fungi associated with these roots were then isolated, cultured, and identified by sequencing of rDNA markers. In total, 52 pure isolates were recovered from the roots of 10 orchid species. These isolates were classified into nine taxonomic groups except for one isolate that remained unclassified. Most fungal isolates were found in roots of up to two different orchid species; however, Coprinellus radians was found in the roots of all sampled orchids. The potential of C. radians to promote germination of orchid seeds was tested in a separate assay using seeds from two orchid species different than those found in the experimental forest plots. Of the two C. radians isolates tested, one improved germination in the two orchids evaluated to a level about half of that observed in seeds germinated in nutrient-rich medium (Phytamax) and above the null germination observed in plates without the fungus. Together, these results revealed a generalist relationship between C. radians and all the studied epiphytic orchids and the potential role of this fungus as a promoter of orchid seed germination. Key Words: Agaricales, Epidendrum, symbiotic germination

scholarly journals Updated estimates of biotic diversity and endemism for Madagascar

Oryx ◽  
2005 ◽  
Vol 39 (1) ◽  
pp. 73-77 ◽  
Author(s):  
Steven M. Goodman ◽  
Jonathan P. Benstead
Keyword(s):  
Species Richness ◽  
Species Diversity ◽  
Research Team ◽  
Field Research ◽  
The Past ◽  
Biotic Diversity ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
History Of ◽  
Taxonomic Groups ◽  
Biodiversity Information

Madagascar is a critical priority for international conservation efforts, based on almost unparalleled levels of endemism, species diversity, and human threat. Field research conducted over the past two decades has greatly expanded knowledge of the island's biota, making it difficult for any single research team to maintain up to date estimates of biodiversity and endemism across taxonomic groups. The recent publication of The Natural History of Madagascar, a synthesis by nearly 300 contributors from a wide range of disciplines, provides the means to update these estimates. Here, we summarize biodiversity information presented in the volume by providing revised estimates of species richness, endemism, and state of knowledge of a wide variety of taxonomic groups occurring on the island.

The zoonotic potential of bat-borne coronaviruses

2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (4) ◽  
pp. 365-381
Author(s):  
Ny Anjara Fifi Ravelomanantsoa ◽  
Sarah Guth ◽  
Angelo Andrianiaina ◽  
Santino Andry ◽  
Anecia Gentles ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Genetic Material ◽  
Field Research ◽  
Sympatric Species ◽  
Animal Origin ◽  
Mammalian Host ◽  
Past Century ◽  
The Past ◽  
Novel Host ◽  
Horseshoe Bat ◽  
Human Infections

Seven zoonoses — human infections of animal origin — have emerged from the Coronaviridae family in the past century, including three viruses responsible for significant human mortality (SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV, and SARS-CoV-2) in the past twenty years alone. These three viruses, in addition to two older CoV zoonoses (HCoV-229E and HCoV-NL63) are believed to be originally derived from wild bat reservoir species. We review the molecular biology of the bat-derived Alpha- and Betacoronavirus genera, highlighting features that contribute to their potential for cross-species emergence, including the use of well-conserved mammalian host cell machinery for cell entry and a unique capacity for adaptation to novel host environments after host switching. The adaptive capacity of coronaviruses largely results from their large genomes, which reduce the risk of deleterious mutational errors and facilitate range-expanding recombination events by offering heightened redundancy in essential genetic material. Large CoV genomes are made possible by the unique proofreading capacity encoded for their RNA-dependent polymerase. We find that bat-borne SARS-related coronaviruses in the subgenus Sarbecovirus, the source clade for SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2, present a particularly poignant pandemic threat, due to the extraordinary viral genetic diversity represented among several sympatric species of their horseshoe bat hosts. To date, Sarbecovirus surveillance has been almost entirely restricted to China. More vigorous field research efforts tracking the circulation of Sarbecoviruses specifically and Betacoronaviruses more generally is needed across a broader global range if we are to avoid future repeats of the COVID-19 pandemic.

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