Ecological Research

@ecologicalresearch

Established in 1986, 𝑬𝑹 is the only journal from Asia that encompasses all fields of ecology. ©The Ecological Society of Japan 🌐 日本語サイト: Follow the list:

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Ecological Research@ecologicalresearch· 9d

Golden Jackal (Canis aureus) Population Dynamics and Habitat Preferences Across Five Decades Ezra Hadad, Jakub Z. Kosicki, Reuven Yosef ▶️ esj-journals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/share/NT7VQJ... long term population change/ species distribution modeling

Graphical abstract: We modeled population trend of Jackal in the Middle-East across 5 decades. Furthermore, we also created a predictive map of probability of species occurrence using the SDM approach.

Ecological Research@ecologicalresearch· 9d

<SPECIAL FEATURE> #UltramaficEcology2025 #OpenAccess Local Adaptation and Edaphic Divergence Across Ultramafic and Non-Ultramafic Soils: Insights From Artificially Controlled Experiments and Elemental Profiles Kiyoto Takazoe et al ▶️ doi.org/10.1111/1440... Solidago virgaurea

Graphical abstract: The study addresses early-stage edaphic divergence between ultramafic and non-ultramafic soils using Solidago virgaurea as a model species, and aims to advance our understanding of local adaptation to contrasting soil environments. By combining reciprocal transplant experiments under controlled conditions with elemental analyses of soils and plant tissues, we identify key morphological and physiological responses associated with adaptation to extreme edaphic conditions. These findings have broad relevance for understanding plant adaptation to heterogeneous environments.

Ecological Research@ecologicalresearch· 9d

#OpenAccess Estimating Distribution Range Shifts of the Japanese Alpine Butterfly Colias palaeno Induced by Historical Climate Fluctuations and the Crucial Role of Its Host Plant Daisuke Shimizu, Yuji Yamazaki ▶️ doi.org/10.1111/1440... ecological niche model/ biodiversity conservation

Graphical abstract: In this study, we used ecological niche models to quantify historical changes in the estimated distribution ranges of the alpine butterfly Colias palaeno and its host plant Vaccinium uliginosum in Japan. The results showed that temperature and host plant occurrence strongly influence the estimated distribution of C. palaeno. Future projections under SSP2-4.5 (2041–2060) indicated substantial range contraction, increased fragmentation, and regional loss of habitat.

Ecological Research@ecologicalresearch· 9d

<SPECIAL FEATURE> #UltramaficEcology2025 #OpenAccess Enhanced Nickel Uptake in Mixed Plant Communities of Hyperaccumulator and Non-Hyperaccumulator Species Under Nickel Stress Panayiotis G. Dimitrakopoulos @pdimi2.bsky.social et al ▶️ doi.org/10.1111/1440...

Graphical abstract: This study investigated how species richness and biotope space affect phytoextracted nickel mass. Growing monocultures and bicultures of two endemic species across a nickel stress gradient revealed that bicultures generally enhanced soil nickel bioavailability, aboveground biomass, and nickel phytoextraction compared to monocultures. These results support the stress-gradient hypothesis, suggesting that facilitative interactions between hyperaccumulator and non-hyperaccumulator species can improve nickel phytoextraction in stressful, nickel-rich environments.

Ecological Research@ecologicalresearch· 10d

<REVIEW AND SYNTHESIS> #OpenAccess Addressing Uncertainties in Climate–Ecosystem Feedbacks in the Arctic: Ten Priority Research Questions for Integrated Observation and Modeling Akira S Mori et al 👉 doi.org/10.1111/1440... #climatechange/ plant–soil feedback

Graphical abstract:
• Uncertainties exist in the biosphere–climate feedbacks in the Arctic.
• Remote and ground measurements play complementary roles in detecting possible changes.
• A critical next step is identification of key drivers of the global changes for future projections.

Ecological Research@ecologicalresearch· 10d

Microenvironmental Heterogeneity Driven by Trees in Arid Woodlands: Effects of Neltuma flexuosa Canopy in the Monte Desert Brian Leonardo A Rios et al 👉 esj-journals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/share/879WW8... dryland/ facilitation/ microenvironment/ precipitation/ Prosopis

Graphical abstract: Neltuma flexuosa generates diverse water and thermic microenvironments underneath its canopy. Environmental changes generated by N. flexuosa are not homogeneous and promote microheterogeneity. Microenvironmental differences can explain the distribution of understory species in the area.

Ecological Research@ecologicalresearch· 10d

<SPECIAL FEATURE> #UltramaficEcology #OpenAccess Comparative Ionomics of Lycopodiaceae and Selaginellaceae Across Diverse Soil Types in Japan Akinori Ren et al 👉 doi.org/10.1111/1440... acidic soil/ ionome/ lycophyte/ serpentine/ solfatara

Graphical abstract: We conducted a comparative ionomic analysis of Lycopodiaceae and Selaginellaceae collected from diverse soil types in Japan, including serpentine soils and solfatara fields, to examine how evolutionary lineage and soil environment shape elemental composition in lycophytes. Family-level ionomic profiles were more strongly associated with lineage than with environment, while characteristic shifts in specific elements were observed under extreme soil conditions, such as magnesium-rich serpentine soils and acidic solfatara fields. These results indicate that lycophytes exhibit conserved, lineage-specific elemental homeostasis alongside flexible ionomic responses to extreme environments.

Ecological Research@ecologicalresearch· 11d

<SPECIAL FEATURE> #UltramaficEcology2025 Slow Succession: A Comparison of the Saxicolous Lichens of a 50-Year-Old Abandoned Chromite Mine and a Nearby Undisturbed Ultramafic Outcrop Michael Mulroy et al ▶️ esj-journals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/share/UHHJNF... cryptogams/ dispersal/ geoecology

Graphical abstract: Our study explored lichen succession in ultramafic habitats by comparing the communities of an undisturbed rock outcrop (a) and a chromite mine (b) that was abandoned a half century ago. We found that the rocks in the chromite mine (dark blue ellipse) hosted a different lichen community from the undisturbed outcrop (light blue ellipse) and had significantly lower richness and cover of lichens. Our study highlights the slow pace of recovery of saxicolous communities and underlines the importance of preserving undisturbed lithic habitats.

Ecological Research@ecologicalresearch· 11d

<SPECIAL FEATURE> #UltramaficEcology2025 Mineralogical and Chemical Characterization of Clay Minerals in Albania for Sustainable Soil Management Bushi Teuta et al ▶️ esj-journals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/share/R25XKR... adsorption potential/ heavy metals/ nickel bioavailability/ soil remediation

Graphical abstract: This study evaluated the capacity of clays from different parent materials to immobilize nickel (Ni) in ultramafic soils. Smectite-rich Prrenjas clay immobilized ~89% of Ni within 240 min and reduced Ni accumulation in alfalfa by 20%–45% in a pot experiment, whereas illite/chlorite-dominated Durrës clay immobilized only ~64%. These findings demonstrate that smectite-rich clay amendments represent an effective, low-cost strategy for reducing Ni bioavailability and mitigating risks to agricultural systems.

Ecological Research@ecologicalresearch· 11d

<NOTES & INSIGHTS> Trophic Dynamics and Organic Carbon Sources in Washington DC, USA Area Seepage Spring Communities William Farmer et al ▶️ esj-journals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/share/PMX4BY... Conasellus/ Hypotelminorheic/ Stable isotope analysis/ Stygobromus

Graphical abstract: Stable Isotope Analysis was used to estimate the trophic positions of macroinvertebrates that occupy seepage spring habitats in the Washington DC area. We estimated the trophic positions of Lumbriculidae, Conasellus kenki, Stygobromus tenuis potomacus, Crangonyx shoemakeri, Tipula sp., Pseudolimnophila sp., and a species of Platyhelminthes. Stygobromus tenuis potomacus was the dominant predator in both locations with δ15N and δ13C values between 7‰ and 10‰ and −25‰ and −27‰, respectively.

Ecological Research@ecologicalresearch· 27d

<TECHNICAL NOTE> #OpenAccess MIG-seq2: Multiplexed Inter-Simple Sequence Repeat Genotyping by Sequencing With Dual-Unique Indices Yoshihisa Suyama, Naoko Ishikawa 👉 doi.org/10.1111/1440... genome-wide SNP analysis/ MIG-seq/ molecular phylogenetics/ phylogeography

Graphical abstract: We developed a new version of the Multiplexed ISSR Genotyping by Sequencing (MIG-seq) method, called MIG-seq2. This improved protocol incorporates dual unique indices to distinguish more than 1344 samples and optimizes primer tail sequences to improve sequence quality. Additionally, we designed an optional degenerate primer set (dpMIG-seq2) to enhance amplification efficiency in low-diversity samples. The effectiveness of these improvements was confirmed by phylogenetic analyses of two closely related Plantago species, which yielded highly reproducible and well-supported trees.

Ecological Research@ecologicalresearch· 27d

<REVIEW AND SYNTHESIS> #OpenAccess Reconnecting People to Nature Across Society to Shape the Future of Biodiversity Masashi Soga, Kevin J Gaston 👉 doi.org/10.1111/1440... Masashi Soga is the recipient of the 29th #MiyadiAward 🏆of the Ecological Society of Japan

Graphical abstract: We argue that personal and direct experiences of nature can influence biodiversity outcomes across multiple societal sectors, not only among the general public but also among actors such as policy makers, business leaders, educators, scientists, and journalists. By synthesizing existing evidence, we show that these experiences can shape biodiversity through sector-specific decisions and interconnected social, economic, and institutional pathways. Strengthening direct human-nature interactions across society may therefore represent a key approach for transformative biodiversity conservation.

Ecological Research@ecologicalresearch· 27d

<DATA ARTICLE>🐬 Dataset of the Age and Estimated Period of Parturition of Indo-Pacific Bottlenose Dolphins (Tursiops aduncus) Identified Around Mikura Island, Japan Genfu Yagi et al 👉 x.gd/35YCj age estimation/ age structure/ noninvasive method

Graphical abstract: This study provides a comprehensive dataset of actual and estimated ages, as well as inferred birth periods, for Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops aduncus) around Mikura Island, Japan. Using long-term individual identification surveys, speckle pattern analysis, and epigenetic data from fecal samples, age information was determined for 85.6% of the known population (268 of 313 individuals). The resulting dataset offers valuable insights into the population's demographics and reproductive seasonality, contributing to life history and conservation research.

Ecological Research@ecologicalresearch· Jul 1

#OpenAccess Succession and Carbon Source Utilization of Fungi Associated With Hylocomium splendens on a Subalpine Forest Floor Yuki Hatano, Yudai Nagata, Takashi Osono 👉 doi.org/10.1111/1440... Biolog EcoPlate/ bryophyte/ decomposition/ forest floor moss/ fungal isolate

Graphical abstract: The present study examined the succession and carbon source utilization of fungi associated with moss profiles and to identify the metabolic traits that were linked to the successional status. We showed that the successional status of microfungi in decomposing tissues of Hylocomium splendens was affected not by the taxonomic group but by the potential ability to utilize four carboxylic acids and two amino acids.

Ecological Research@ecologicalresearch· Jul 1

Temporal Compensation Among Different Non-Native Prey Sustains the Food Supply of an Intraguild Predator Threatening a Native Species Mikuni Tokuyoshi et al esj-journals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/share/Y45SK5... feral cat/ hyperpredation/ mesopredator/ non-native rodent/ #ornithology seabird

Graphical abstract: This study examined seasonal changes in the structure of intraguild predation systems involving cats, two rat species, and seabirds using stable isotope analysis. Our results showed that cats depended on seabirds (shared prey) as food when seabirds were present, but, when seabirds were absent, shifted their diet to Norway rats and subsequently showed increased reliance on black rats. In addition, Norway rats showed higher carbon and nitrogen stable isotope ratios than black rats, suggesting a stronger dependence on seabirds as a food source. These results suggest that, during periods when seabirds are absent, cats rely on two non-native rat species that serve as temporally compensatory prey.

Ecological Research@ecologicalresearch· Jun 22

#OpenAccess Species-Specific Adaptability in Seasonal Resource Use by Non-Breeding Crows: Contrasting Responses to Natural and Anthropogenic Environments Yuta Kumakura, Chie Murano, Nobuyuki Azuma doi.org/10.1111/1440... carrion crow/ foraging strategy/ large-billed crow

Graphical abstract: Two sympatric crow species showed distinct resource use during the snow-free season, exploiting different environments and anthropogenic resources. In contrast, during winter, both species converged on similar habitats and food resources under snow cover. These results highlight flexible, season-dependent resource use in non-breeding crows.

Ecological Research@ecologicalresearch· Jun 22

<DATA ARTICLE> #OpenAccess MorFunSeed: A Morphological and Functional #Seed Database of Tree and Shrub Species Commonly Used for Direct Seeding in the Cerrado and Atlantic Forest Biomes of Brazil Mariane Cristina Inocente et al doi.org/10.1111/1440... ecological restoration

Graphical abstract: The MorFunSeed dataset compiles standardized seed morphology and functional traits for 131 tree and shrub species native to Brazil's Cerrado and Atlantic Forest biomes. It includes 26 variables and 3406 records, providing a consistent and comparable structure across species. This dataset supports investigations into trait–environment relationships, germination strategies, and seedling establishment processes, while also contributes to improving species selection for large‑scale ecological restoration.

Ecological Research@ecologicalresearch· Jun 19

<SPECIAL FEATURE> #UltramaficEcology2025 #OpenAccess Effects of Organic and Inorganic Fertilizers on Biomass Production and Nickel Yield in the Hyperaccumulator Bornmuellera emarginata Under Field Conditions Dimitrios Kyrkas et al, @pdimi2.bsky.social doi.org/10.1111/1440... agromining

Graphical abstract: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of fertilization regime (organic vs. inorganic) on the growth performance, nickel accumulation, and total nickel yield of the nickel hyperaccumulator Bornmuellera emarginata, cultivated under realistic field conditions in its native ultramafic environment in Northern Greece over a 3-year period.

Ecological Research@ecologicalresearch· Jun 19

Using Camera Traps to Study Wild Ungulate Ecology and Behavior in a Tropical Semi-Arid System Kamakshi S. Tanwar et al esj-journals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/share/DHSGKE... activity pattern/ body condition scoring/ chital/ demography/ sambar/ deer

Graphical abstract: We used camera traps in Ranthambhore National Park to study the ecology and behavior of chital and sambar with respect to seasonal variations. We found that body condition and foraging increased in winter, whereas summer conditions were associated with increased movement and reduced foraging. Our results demonstrate that camera traps can generate integrated demographic and behavioral indicators of ungulate performance, with direct relevance for monitoring prey populations in predator-dominated systems.

Ecological Research@ecologicalresearch· May 29

<SPECIAL FEATURE> #UltramaficEcology2025 Influence of Root-Applied Glutathione on Nickel Uptake and Distribution in Brassica Roots Mayu Tashiro et al doi.org/10.1111/1440... cell wall/ micro-PIXE/ radial transport/ hyperaccumulator #ICSE2025Kyoto

Graphical abstract: This study indicates that exogenous glutathione (GSH) applied to the roots inhibits nickel (Ni) uptake and its translocation to the shoots in hydroponically grown Brassica napus. Micro-PIXE imaging further revealed that GSH reduces Ni accumulation near the stele, indicating inhibition of Ni radial transport toward the vascular tissues. Transcriptome analysis demonstrated that Ni-induced lignin biosynthesis genes are downregulated by GSH, suggesting that GSH modulates root cell wall structure to regulate Ni mobility at the molecular level.

Ecological Research@ecologicalresearch· May 28

Trends Toward Earlier Breeding Related to Temperature in Early Spring-Breeding Brown Frogs Revealed by Community Science Monitoring in Japan Noe Matsushima et al x.gd/uWfgw amphibian conservation/ monitoring 1000/ phenological shifts/ satoyama/ #citizenscience

Graphical abstract: Community scientists (citizen scientists) have monitored populations of early-spring-breeding frog species by counting egg masses at conservation sites across Japan. Using these long-term data, we examined shifts in breeding phenology in three frog species. All species showed trends toward earlier breeding, with population size influencing timing, while survey frequency had little effect. Our results indicate that warming advances amphibian breeding phenology in Japan and demonstrate the value of community science data. Photo by The Nature Conservation Society of Japan.

Ecological Research@ecologicalresearch· May 28

Beyond Accuracy: Ecological Validity of Machine Learning Models for Assessing Vegetation Conservation Classes in South Korea Minkyu Park doi.org/10.1111/1440... ecosystem monitoring/ phytosociology/ random forest/ vegetation conservation class (VCC)

Graphical abstract: We developed a Random Forest model to assess vegetation conservation classes (VCCs) using 5779 national survey datasets in South Korea. The model not only achieved high classification accuracy (80.4%) but also demonstrated ecological validity by correctly identifying the successional trajectories and phytosociological species composition of Pinus and Quercus communities.

Ecological Research@ecologicalresearch· May 28

#OpenAccess Nest Predation in the Canarian Houbara Bustard (Chlamydotis undulata fuertaventurae): An Experimental Study Using Artificial Nests Alberto Ucero et al doi.org/10.1111/1440... Canarian raven/ habitat variables/ vegetation cover

Graphical abstract: We investigated nest predation in the endangered Canarian houbara bustard using 229 artificial nests and camera traps. Ravens were identified as the main predators, and predation rates were influenced by raven density, vegetation cover, stone cover, and road density. These results provide practical recommendations for habitat management and strategies to reduce nest predation in houbara breeding areas.

Ecological Research@ecologicalresearch· May 21

<SPECIAL FEATURE> #UltramaficEcology2025 Physiological and Nutritional Mechanisms Underlying the Crimson Coloration of Boxwood on Ultramafic Soils of Sugashima Island, Japan Takafumi Mizuno et al esj-journals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/share/4RRXBK... chlorophyll–carotenoid balance/ light stress

Graphical abstract: The evergreen shrub Buxus microphylla, growing on ultramafic soils of Sugashima Island, Japan, develops crimson leaves each winter. Field and laboratory results indicate that nutrient limitation and light stress lead to chlorophyll degradation and carotenoid enrichment, rather than anthocyanin formation. This pigment imbalance highlights the roles of photoprotection and nutrient status in shaping the distinctive “crimson boxwood” phenotype.

Ecological Research@ecologicalresearch· May 21

#OpenAccess Detection of Heat and Drought Effects on the Photosynthetic Activity Using Solar-Induced Chlorophyll Fluorescence and a Photochemical Reflectance Index in a Cool-Temperate Larch Forest in Japan Tomoki Morozumi et al doi.org/10.1111/1440... drought response/ remote sensing

Graphical abstract: Solar-induced chlorophyll fluorescence (SIF) and gross primary productivity decline at midday during a short heatwave in a tower site of a larch forest. High atmospheric vapor pressure deficit significantly reduced the photochemical reflectance index (PRI), light-use efficiency (LUE), and canopy fluorescence emission efficiency (εF). The study demonstrated that remote sensing of SIF and PRI effectively indicates heat- and drought-induced responses in photosynthetic activity in a forest ecosystem.

Ecological Research@ecologicalresearch· May 20

<SPECIAL FEATURE> #UltramaficEcology2025 Differences in the Elemental Profiles of Two Obligate Ultramaficophytes From the Balkans: Balkana spergulifolia and Polygonum albanicum Ksenija Jakovljević et al, @antonyent.bsky.social x.gd/0NZxT accumulator/ excluder/ Gypsophila/ serpentinophyte

Graphical abstract: Two obligate ultramaficophytes, Balkana spergulifolia and Polygonum albanicum, were analyzed for elemental profiles and differences in response to ultramafic soils. Slight differences were observed between the soil samples, corresponding to some extent to the degree of serpentinization. The analyzed plants exhibited different strategies in response to excessive element concentrations in the soil.

Ecological Research@ecologicalresearch· May 20

Shrub Expansion Mediates the Relationship Between Alpine Meadow Biodiversity and Ecosystem Multifunctionality Nan Zhang, Minxia Liu et al esj-journals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/share/CH9VWX... multitrophic level/ plant diversity/ soil biodiversity/ threshold effect

Graphical Abstract: We found that the relative contributions of plant diversity and soil biodiversity to EMF changed significantly with increasing levels of shrub expansion. At lower levels of shrub expansion (shrub cover below 58%), plant diversity was a more prominent driver of EMF, whereas at higher levels of shrub expansion (shrub cover above 65%), the influence of soil biodiversity dominated. Shrub expansion has re-regulated the pattern of associations between above-ground and below-ground biodiversity and ecosystem functioning by altering vegetation structure and soil conditions. The present study provides new evidence that shrub expansion may shift ecosystem function maintenance mechanisms from plant diversity dominance to soil biodiversity dominance. This shift may be related to the simplification of plant community composition, changes in the quality of apoplastic material, and increased heterogeneity of the soil microenvironment during shrub expansion.

Ecological Research@ecologicalresearch· May 11

#OpenAccess Latitudinal Gradients of Species Richness in Marine Benthos: Insights From Japan's Tidal Flat Areas Beverly Tudence Jaspe, Gen Kanaya, Osamu Miura doi.org/10.1111/1440... alpha beta gamma diversity

Graphical abstract: Latitudinal diversity gradients in species richness were observed in the coasts of Japan. Extensive tidal flats and biogeographical connectivity to the Eurasian Continent may cause the unexpected peak in species diversity at the Kyushu region. Mollusca was the dominant taxonomic group, followed by Malacostraca, Annelida, and other benthic groups.

Ecological Research@ecologicalresearch· May 11

Ontogenetic Shifts in Prey Selection by Flower-Dwelling Spiders: Implications of Predation by Small Immatures on Floral Exploiters Hiroshi S Ishii, Yutaka H Tamura doi.org/10.1111/1440... crab spiders/ floral antagonists/ plant-pollinator interactions/ predator–prey

Graphical abstract: Ontogenetic shifts in flower-dwelling spiders alter their roles in pollination systems. Spiderlings preferentially prey on floral exploiters such as thrips, potentially reducing nectar and pollen loss, whereas adult spiders mainly capture effective pollinators. Considering predator ontogeny reveals stage-dependent and contrasting impacts of spiders on plant–pollinator interactions.

Ecological Research@ecologicalresearch· May 11

Cost of Living in Leopard Habitat: Pattern, Drivers, and Perceptions of Human-Leopard Conflict in the Aravalli Hilly Landscape, Rajasthan, India Vijay Kumar Koli et al x.gd/kyMqj compensation schemes/ human–wildlife conflict/ livestock depredation/ Panthera pardus