Aims: Analyzing biodiversity patterns across multiple dimensions such as species, evolution, and function is essential for deeply understanding biological diversification and informing effective conservation strategies. As the province with the richest biodiversity in China and an important distribution center of Lauraceae plants globally, Yunnan is a key region for studying the multidimensional diversity patterns of Lauraceae plants and their environmental driving mechanisms. To gain a comprehensive understanding of the multidimensional patterns of biodiversity and to enhance the conservation system in Yunnan, we focused on Lauraceae, which is highly endemic and threatened in Yunnan, to conduct studies on diversity patterns and conservation. 

Methods: By collecting distribution data, we examined the multidimensional diversity patterns of Lauraceae in Yunnan, identified its endemism and diversity hotspots, analyzed the dominant environmental factors shaping these patterns, conducted conservation gap analysis to inform conservation planning. 

Results: (1) The results indicated that there were 21 genera and 225 species of Lauraceae in Yunnan, and the diversity patterns of the different dimensions were mismatched. (2) Southeast Yunnan, South Yunnan, Southwest Yunnan, Northwest Yunnan, Northeast Yunnan, as well as the Ailaoshan-Wuliangshan area in the central part were the diversity hotspots and centers of endemism of Lauraceae in Yunnan. (3) Water and soil were the dominant factors affecting the patterns of Lauraceae in Yunnan. (4) Current protected areas in Yunnan did not adequately cover Lauraceae conservation hotspots, leaving 63.4% of the critical areas unprotected. Notably, 52.6% of these conservation hotspots were located in narrow areas adjacent to neighboring provinces and countries. 

Conclusion: A multidimensional comprehensive analysis method should be employed to fully understand the distribution patterns of regional biodiversity, and develop scientific and effective conservation planning. The conservation planning of Yunnan needs to focus particularly on edge conservation hotspot grids that are adjacent to neighboring provinces or countries.

Aims: Seaweeds are ecologically important foundation species in coastal marine waters. However, their ecosystem services are highly linked to levels of genetic diversity, distribution range, and ecological adaptation. This study aims to understand the complex genetic structure and biogeographic history of the brown macroalga Fucus distichus in the North Pacific, Northeast Atlantic, and Northwest Atlantic, including the identification of a marine glacial refugium in eastern Newfoundland, Canada, and to provide insights for conserving and managing seaweed resources under future global climate change. 

Methods: We sampled five F. distichus populations from the Grand Banks of Newfoundland, and conducted PCR-based amplification and sequencing of two mitochondrial markers: 23S rRNA-tRNA-Val intergenic spacer (IGS) and COX1. By integrating these samples with molecular datasets published in 2011, we calculated the number of haplotypes, haplotype diversity (h) and nucleotide diversity (π) for each marker. We also constructed haplotype networks and evaluated phylogenetic affinities among haplotypes using maximum likelihood estimation and neighbour joining trees for each marker. 

Results: IGS data showed that F. distichus populations from the Grand Banks each harbored 3–4 haplotypes of which most were private, whereas other populations from the North Pacific, Northeast Atlantic and Northwest Atlantic mostly had 1–2 haplotypes. In particular, the Grand Banks populations exhibited much higher haplotype (h = 0.6533) and nucleotide diversity (π = 0.0067) than other populations (h = 0.1487; π = 0.0022), with the highest genetic indices. Haplotype networks inferred from IGS and COX1 both showed that the ancestral haplotype was widely distributed in the Northeast Atlantic and Northwest Atlantic, including the Grand Banks. Phylogenetic trees further revealed a clear genetic divergence between the private haplotypes in the Grand Banks and others elsewhere. These phylogeographic results indicated that F. distichus populations on both sides of the North Atlantic experienced multiple large-scale extinction events due to sea-level fluctuations driven by glacial-interglacial cycles during the late Pleistocene. Afterwards, the surviving ancestor of F. distichus in the Arctic recolonized the Northeast Atlantic prior to the last glacial maximum, following with a trans-Atlantic migration from Europe to North America possibly during the Holocene. Our phylogeographic results also suggested that the Flemish Cap located to the east of the Grand Banks of Newfoundland, Canada was potentially a marine glacial refugium during the late Pleistocene ice ages. 

Conclusion: Phylogeographic diversity patterns and processes can be influenced by various kinds of environmental factors. Adding geographically unique specimens such as isolated or ice-age survived populations during the paleoclimate change can largely expand our understanding of how species responded to historical environmental change, particularly the dynamic survival relics and dispersal routes associated with population diversification and speciation. These phylogeographic insights are also valuable for guiding natural resource conservation and management, and understanding of climate-driven ecological adaptation.

Aims: Niche differentiation is an important mechanism for carnivores to coexist when they have similar functional or morphological characteristics. Of the most common methods of niche differentiation (i.e., spatial, nutritional, and temporal niches), temporal niche differentiation (i.e., activity-rest cycles within circadian rhythms) is often considered the easiest for animals to adjust. The manner in which these sympatric small- and medium-carnivores maintain their temporal niche has attracted increasing attention from researchers, but is not well-studied. 

Methods: We conducted a systemic camera-trapping survey in Chishui Alsophila National Nature Reserve, Guizhou Province, China (GCANNR) to investigate patterns of coexistence between sympatric small- and medium-sized carnivores (i.e., Prionailurus bengalensis, Paguma larvata, Viverricula indica, Arctonyx collaris, Melogale moschata, Mustela kathiah, M. nivalis and M. sibirica). We detected 2,299 independent photographs of carnivores and used kernel-density estimation and coefficient of overlap index (Δ) to examine how circadian activity rhythms for each species differed in the presence or absence of human disturbance (i.e., outside or within GCANNR, respectively). We also quantified the temporal differentiation of these carnivores. 

Results: The circadian activity rhythms of small- and medium-sized carnivores revealed that the dominant species P. larvata, V. indica, and M. moschata and the common species P. bengalensis exhibited nocturnal activity patterns. Meanwhile, the common species A. collaris and M. kathiah, and the rare species M. nivalis and M. sibirica, showed cathemeral activity patterns. There was high overlap in the circadian activity rhythms of nocturnal dominant species (Δ > 0.90, 95% CI, 0.79–0.97) between within and outside of GCANNR. Despite this, dominant carnivores outside GCANNR had a peak in early-morning activity 1–2 h earlier than those inside GCANNR. Common species had a low overlap coefficient for their circadian activity rhythms between within and outside of GCANNR, as well as those of rare species (Δ < 0.80). Further analysis was conducted on the overlapping activity rhythms among the sympatric dominant and common species, which use the same trapping sites. P. bengalensis and A. collaris showed the lowest overlap coefficient (Δ = 0.49, 95% CI, 0.28–0.69). Meanwhile, there was no significant temporal differentiation in the activity rhythms among the three dominant species (P. larvata, V. indica and M. moschata; Δ > 0.90), and the Δ was 0.6–0.8 between the other species pairs. 

Conclusion: Circadian activity rhythms of the sympatric small- and medium-sized carnivores in GCANNR are affected by the human activities. These carnivores are able to coexist largely due to temporal differentiation. Most of the common species avoided the dominant species in temporal activity. In contrast, the coexistence among dominant species in the same distribution is not promoted by temporal niche differentiation, so the role of nutrient niche differentiation may have been more important. Thus, our results indicate there are patterns of temporal differentiation for several sympatric small- and medium-sized carnivores, but nutritional or spatial niche differentiation also aid in integrating these carnivores, helping them coexist. These results indicate that it is important to pay attention to the ecological niche differentiation pattern of species while managing wildlife protection areas; doing so would help formulate more effective conservation policies.

Aims: Our objective is to provide a better understanding on the background and community structure of fish diversity in the main inland water bodies of Shanghai. 

Methods: We used specimens from 13 rivers and one reservoir in Shanghai to investigate the species resources and community structure of fish in the main inland water bodies of Shanghai. These specimens were examined qualitatively and quantitatively from July to August in summer and then from October to November in autumn in 2023. 

Results: A total of 20,160 specimens belonging to 16 orders, 24 families, 57 genera, and 71 species were collected and identified. Of which are Cypriniformes, Gobiiformes, and Siluriformes accounted for 57.74%, 9.86%, and 5.63% of the total species, respectively. There were 57 species of freshwater fish, 11 species of estuarine fish, 3 species of migratory fish, and 5 exotic or artificial species. The high taxonomic composition of series Percomorpha and the rich ecological types of estuarine fish represented the characteristics of fish composition in estuarine tidal river networks in eastern China. There was an average of 35.9 species of fish in the 14 water bodies. The Punan Canal and Pudong Canal had the largest number with 47 species each, and Dishui Lake had the smallest number with 24 species. There were 15 dominant species and 14 common species with the average being 5 dominant species and 10 common species in each water body. Carassius auratus, Acheilognathus macropterus, Culter dabryi, and Chanodichthys erythropterus were the dominant species in the 14 water bodies. The Margalef richness index (D), Shannon diversity index (H'), Pielou evenness index (J'), and Simpson dominance index (C) showed fish diversity is higher in the 13 rivers such as Yuanxie River and lowest in Dishui Lake. The Cody index (β_c) of each water body ranged from 4.0–15.5 with an average of 9.9. A large species diversity was shown by the Routledge index (β_R) ranging from 12.44 to 28.76 with an average of 19.8. The ABC curve showed W is negative in most water bodies, and the abundance dominance curve was mostly above the biomass curve, showing the characteristics of community structure dominated by small and medium-sized individual fish. The fish communities in 14 water bodies were divided into 4 groups by cluster analysis. The similarities within the groups were approximately 74%, with the exception of the first group, and the differences between the groups are 31.42%–49.65%. The highest contribution of differences is Carassius auratus, Pseudorasbora parva, and Chanodichthys mongolicus. 

Conclusion: Our results suggest the differences of fish community structure of main inland water bodies in Shanghai may be caused by natural conditions, regional location, release activities of the water bodies, and the land use forms where the water bodies are located. The water of the metropolis with dense buildings can also maintain a high diversity of fish species under the premise of protecting the water environment and fish habitat.

Aims: The Yarlung Zangbo River is a crucial river ecosystem on the Tibetan Plateau, and protozoa, as an essential component of eukaryotic microorganisms, play a key role in aquatic ecosystems. This study aimed to investigate the diversity patterns and geographical distribution of protozoan communities in the middle reaches of the Yarlung Zangbo River during the dry season, focusing on their community structure, diversity, and environmental response mechanisms in both the mainstream and tributaries. 

Method: In the dry season of 2021, we conducted a comprehensive study of protozoan communities in the middle reaches of the Yarlung Zangbo River. We analyzed community structure, diversity, and environmental drivers using high-throughput sequencing, generating amplicon sequence variants (ASVs). Statistical analyses included distance- decay, environmental-decay, neutral and null models, and co-occurrence network analysis to assess spatial and environmental influences on protozoan assemblages. 

Results: A total of 6,066 ASVs were detected, encompassing 23 phyla, 55 classes, 86 orders, 114 families, 281 genera, and 323 species. Significant differences in community structure were observed between the mainstream and tributaries, with species turnover identified as the primary driver of β-diversity variations. Distance-decay and environmental-decay analyses revealed that protozoan communities in tributaries were more sensitive to geographical and environmental changes. Neutral and null model analyses indicated that community assembly in both habitats was primarily driven by homogenous selection, though stochastic processes played a greater role in tributaries. Co-occurrence networks showed distinct environmental influences on protozoan communities in the mainstream versus tributaries. 

Conclusion: These findings highlight the spatial heterogeneity and environmental response mechanisms of protozoan communities in river ecosystems. These insights contribute to a deeper understanding of microbial ecology in high-altitude river systems.

Aims: This study aimed to investigate the cascading effects of plant diversity-grasshoppers-carabids across four types of temperate grasslands in Ningxia, China, and to assess their impacts on primary productivity. 

Methods: A total of 42 sampling plots were established across four grassland types: Temperature meadow steppe, temperature typical steppe, temperature desert steppe, and temperature steppe desert. Plant species richness and coverage were measured using quadrats, and primary productivity was estimated accordingly. Grasshopper richness and abundance were assessed sampled via sweep-netting, while carabid beetle richness and abundance were determined using pitfall trapping. All data were analyzed to identify correlations among the studied variables. 

Results: The plant species richness in the temperature meadow steppe, temperature typical steppe, temperature desert steppe, and temperature steppe desert was 41, 35, 22, and 16 species. Grasshopper (Orthoptera) richness was 9, 12, 16, and 6 species, while carabid beetle (Coleoptera: Carabidae) species richness was 8, 12, 12, and 3 species, respectively. In the temperature meadow steppe, there were no significant pairwise correlations were found among plant diversity, grasshopper abundance (richness), carabid abundance (richness), and primary productivity. In the temperature typical steppe, primary productivity was positively correlated with plant diversity, carabid abundance, and carabid species richness. In the temperature desert steppe, primary productivity was positively correlated with plant diversity but negatively correlated with carabid richness. In the temperature steppe desert, both grasshopper richness and abundance were positively correlated with plant diversity, and carabid abundance was positively correlated with grasshopper abundance. However, primary productivity was negatively correlated with plant diversity, grasshopper richness, and abundance. 

Conclusion: Among the four grassland types, the strongest cascading effect of plant diversity-grasshoppers-carabids was observed in the steppe desert, where increased plant diversity significantly promoted grasshopper outbreaks and ultimately reduced primary productivity. These findings suggest that enhancing plant diversity for vegetation restoration in steppe deserts must be carefully managed, considering the trophic interactions between herbivores and their natural enemies, as well as the potential consequences for grassland productivity.

Aims: Environmental DNA (eDNA) technology provides a non-invasive approach for biodiversity monitoring. Recent studies have demonstrated that airborne eDNA collected from the air can be utilized to monitor wildlife in forest ecosystems. Compared with other eDNA survey methods, airborne eDNA offers greater flexibility in sampling site selection, especially in survey areas lacking environmental media such as water bodies. Therefore, airborne eDNA holds significant potential for biodiversity monitoring in forest ecosystems. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of airborne eDNA in monitoring terrestrial vertebrate diversity in tropical rainforests. 

Methods: The research was conducted in a 20-hectare forest dynamics plot in Xishuangbanna, China. Airborne eDNA technology was employed to survey terrestrial vertebrate diversity, and results were compared with those obtained from infrared camera monitoring data. A total of 20 airborne eDNA samplers were deployed, and three 24-hour sampling sessions were conducted over six days in November 2023. Collected samples were amplified using 12SV05 primers targeting the 12S rRNA gene fragment and sequenced on the Illumina NovaSeq 6000 platform. Sequences data were taxonomically annotated, and species detection efficiency was compared between airborne eDNA and infrared cameras. 

Results: Across the three airborne eDNA sampling sessions, 66 operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were detected, representing birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. In comparison, 20 infrared cameras placed at the same sites recorded 15 mammal species and 15 bird species over 5,682 camera days. Comparative analyses revealed that airborne eDNA was more effective in detecting species diversity. Additionally, evaluation of the alpha diversity accumulation curve indicated that the diversity plateaued when 10 airborne eDNA samples were collected. Suggesting that within the current experimental conditions, 10 samples collected over three days were sufficient for maximizing species detection. 

Conclusion: This study demonstrates that airborne eDNA serves as an effective tool for monitoring terrestrial vertebrate diversity in tropical rainforests, enabling rapid and comprehensive biodiversity assessments. Compared to infrared cameras, airborne eDNA shows distinct advantages in rapid species detection. Although the technology is still under development and its stability and accuracy under specific environmental conditions require further improvement, advancing technology is likely to establish airborne eDNA as a critical tool for cross-trophic and multi-species biodiversity monitoring. It holds strong potential to support large-scale, standardized biodiversity monitoring networks in China.

Aims: Scientific protection and effective management of wildlife highly rely on baseline data regarding biological resources, and the precision of survey methods directly affects the objectivity and accuracy of resource assessments. Environmental DNA (eDNA) technology has been widely used in monitoring of fish community, but its application in amphibian surveys still remains relatively limited and is mostly focused on detecting specific species. This study takes Hunan Mangshan National Nature Reserve as a case study to evaluate the detection efficiency and accuracy of eDNA technology in amphibian surveys. 

Methods: eDNA test samples were collected from 19 water sampling sites within the reserve between July to August 2023. eDNA data were then compared with data collected during the same period using traditional transect survey methods. By calculating α and β diversity, a comprehensive evaluation of the two methods results was conducted. Results: Both methods detected 34 amphibian species, with 24 species identified by both approaches. Significant differences (P < 0.05) were observed between the two methods in terms of the Shannon-Wiener diversity index, Simpson dominance index, and Pielou evenness index. PCoA and ANOSIM analysis showed significant differences in species composition between the two methods (P < 0.05), potentially influenced by species behavior, sampling location and timing, and environmental disturbances. 

Conclusion: This study demonstrates that while eDNA technology offers clear advantages in amphibian resource survey, it cannot yet completely replace traditional transect method. It is suggested that eDNA techniques be integrated with traditional approaches to obtain more comprehensive and accurate baseline data on amphibian resources, thereby supporting more informed conservation and management efforts.

Aims: This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the baited remote underwater video (BRUV) technology in monitoring nearshore reef fish communities in the Nanpeng Archipelago, China, and to compare its performance with the traditional underwater visual census (UVC) method. The focus is on assessing both techniques in terms of species diversity, composition, and their ability to capture different ecological groups of reef fish. 

Methods: Simultaneous BRUV and UVC surveys were carried out at four coral reef sites. Each BRUV unit, baited with 1 kg of chopped clupeoid fish (Clupea sp.), was deployed until the camera was out of battery. UVC surveys were done by divers recording fish species and abundances along 50 m transects. Functional diversity was assessed using traits such as body size, trophic level, mobility, gregariousness, water column, and diet. 

Results: BRUV and UVC recorded a similar number of species (59 for BRUV vs. 61 for UVC), but BRUV exhibited a higher functional richness index (0.987 vs. 0.783). Functional trait analysis showed that BRUV was more effective at capturing large-bodied, highly mobile, schooling predators such as Caranx sexfasciatus, whereas UVC detected a higher number of cryptic reef-associated species. Analysis of species accumulation curves indicated an optimal BRUV deployment duration of 50–60 minutes, beyond which additional sampling time yielded diminishing returns in species detection. 

Conclusions: Both BRUV and UVC have distinct strengths and limitations in monitoring reef fish communities. Our findings demonstrate that BRUV and UVC exhibit distinct monitoring efficiencies, yet they complement each other effectively: UVC is more effective for monitoring fish communities in coral-rich reefs, while BRUV performs better in monitoring rocky reef fish diversity. In practical applications, a combination of both methods would provide a more comprehensive understanding of reef fish diversity and ecological function.

Aims: Meconopsis, the second largest genus in the Papaveraceae, is widely distributed across the Eastern Himalayas and Hengduan Mountains, and is highly valued for its ornamental qualities. Recently, numerous new taxa, based on subtle morphological differences, have been described from Xizang, Yunnan, and Sichuan, creating considerable challenges in the taxonomy of this genus. This study aims to comprehensively revise the Meconopsis species in China, clarifying their species classifications and geographical distributions, and provide an updated checklist for the genus. 

Methods: This research was based on an extensive review of taxonomic literature, databases, specimen identification, and field surveys, along with molecular systematics data, to comprehensively update the catalogue of Meconopsis species in China. 

Results: This study clarified the horizontal and vertical distribution ranges of the genus Meconopsis in China, as well as the county-level distribution information for each species within the genus. The study confirmed that Meconopsis in China included 61 species, 4 subspecies, and 3 varieties, with 34 endemic species. We presented an updated catalogue and identification key for the genus, as well as brief discussed on selected taxa. We synonymized several species: M. pseudointegrifolia subsp. daliensis, M. prattii, M. atrovinosa, M. biluoensis, M. lhasaensis, M. horridula subsp. drukyulensis, and M. merakensis. Meconopsis zhongdianensis was downgraded to a variety, and M. purpurea and M. pulchella var. melananthera were newly combined and also downgraded to varieties. Additionally, this paper reported two newly recorded Meconopsis species in China, M. ludlowii and M. sinuata, as well as one newly recorded Meconopsis species in Xizang, M. sherriffii. 

Conclusion: Based on the latest taxonomic research findings, this study provides updated catalogue information and distribution data for the genus Meconopsis in China, offering a reference for future taxonomic studies and species conservation of Meconopsis in China. Future efforts should focus on targeted field surveys of the Meconopsis, combining morphological traits with modern molecular systematics to further refine its classification system and distribution range.

Aim: Hubei Province, located in central China, features a complex and diverse topography that provides heterogeneous habitats for rich flora. Lycophytes and ferns are important elements in biodiversity. However, they were not included in the Flora of Hubei. 

Methods: To comprehensively document the diversity and distribution of lycophytes and ferns in Hubei Province, we compiled a checklist integrating data from the Catalogue of Life China: 2024 Annual Checklist, the National Specimen Information Infrastructure (NSII), published books, and journal articles. Families and genera were classified based on the Pteridophyte Phylogeny Group I (PPG I) system. 

Results: Our results identified 31 families, 99 genera, 570 species, 3 subspecies, and 27 varieties of lycophytes and ferns in Hubei Province. Among these, lycophytes comprised 2 families, 8 genera, 38 species, and 1 subspecies, while ferns comprised 29 families, 91 genera, 532 species, 2 subspecies, and 27 varieties. In addition, this study confirmed that 42 species previously recorded in Hubei Province were not actually distributed there, and we questioned the authenticity of 37 species reported in the province. 

Conclusion: To improve the accuracy of plant documentation in Hubei Province, we recommend strengthening field investigations, and ensuring rigor and precision in specimen collection records. Our results provide a valuable dataset for future study on lycophytes and ferns in Hubei Province.

Aims: A species checklist serves as essential baseline data for regional biodiversity. Timely updating of the checklist plays an important role in biodiversity conservation and in the promotion of fundamental data sharing. The aim of this article is to update the list of bryophytes in Gansu Province in order to understand their current status and provide a baseline for the conservation of bryophyte diversity moving forward. 

Method: This bryophyte list was created by reviewing literature, as well as identifying and examining collected specimens. 

Results: This analysis revealed that a cumulative 846 bryophyte species, belonging to 284 genera and 94 families, have been identified in Gansu Province. Among them, there were 195 species of liverworts belonging to 65 genera and 36 families, 1 species of hornworts belonging to 1 genus and 1 family, and 650 species of moss belonging to 218 genera and 57 families. Additionally, 7 families had more than 25 species, and 10 genera had more than 15 species. Of the cumulative bryophyte species found in this province, 67 species, 17 genera, and 3 families were newly recorded. The bryophyte flora was comprised of 41.25% temperate distribution types, 32.98% East Asian distribution types (including endemic distributions in China), and 13.24% tropical distribution types. Of these flora, 53 of the species were endemic to China; 1 was Critically Endangered, Buxbaumia minakatae; 6 were Endangered, include: Scapania harae, Ascidiota blepharophylla, Encalypta buxbaumioida, Bucklandiella angustifolia, Distichium brevisetum, and Hypnum desirameum; 5 were Vulnerable, include: Grimmia mammosa, Crossidium squamiferum, Bryum bornholmense, Cyrtomnium hymenophylloides, and Neckera laevidens; 1 was a second-class national key protected wild plant, Leucobryum juniperoideum. 

Conclusions: Research efforts on bryophyte resources in different regions of Gansu Province are unevenly distributed, with some areas receiving significantly more attention than others. Moreover, there has been a lack of systematic surveys since 2007. To ensure that these invaluable resources are protected and utilized efficiently moving forward, it is recommended to routinely carry out systematic and comprehensive investigations.

Aim: To comprehensively investigate the current status of the diversity of aphid species and their host plants, this study presents an updated checklist of aphids and their host plants in Fujian Province. 

Methods: Based on the aphid data in Fauna of Insects in Fujian Province of China (Vol. II): Homoptera∙Aphidoidea published in 1999, we conducted a comprehensive survey by reviewing relevant literature, specimen records, biodiversity databases, and field survey records over the past decade, then compiled an updated checklist of aphids and their host plants, documenting detailed information on taxonomic status (family, subfamily, genus, Chinese and scientific species names), geographical distributions, voucher specimens, host plants, and data sources. 

Results: In total, 240 aphid species (subspecies) belonging to 111 genera, 13 subfamilies and two families have been recorded. Among them, the Aphididae comprises 239 species in 110 genera of 12 subfamilies, while the Phylloxeridae includes only one species. Compared with the aphid records in Fauna of Insects in Fujian Province of China (Vol. II): Homoptera∙Aphidoidea, this study revised the taxonomic status of 11 species with genus-level changes, revealed 15 synonyms and 6 species with misspelled names, and added 90 newly discovered species in Fujian, including 14 newly described species and 76 newly recorded species. A total of 95 families of host plants for aphids have been recorded in Fujian. Among them, Poaceae, Asteraceae, Rosaceae, Fagaceae, Salicaceae, and Pinaceae are the dominant host plant families, with 51, 36, 34, 27, 11, and 11 aphid species feeding on these families, respectively. At the genus level, a total of 247 host plant genera have been recorded, among which Artemisia, Quercus, Prunus, Pyrus, Pinus and Castanopsis are dominant host plant genera with 20, 19, 11, 9, 9 and 8 aphid species on them, respectively. 

Conclusions: This study provides a revised and updated species checklist of aphids and their host plants in Fujian Province, incorporating improved species information, including geographical distributions and voucher specimens. This comprehensive data serves as a valuable resource for insect diversity surveys and assessments, pest control in agriculture and forestry, and supports the development of related disciplines.

Potaninia mongolica, a nationally protected plant species of Class II in China, is a Tertiary relict whose communities form a distinctive desert landscape on the eastern margin of the Afro-Asian desert region. Based on field survey data collected from September 1998 to August 2024, supplemented by relevant literature, this study investigated the geographical distribution, community characteristics, and community classification of Potaninia mongolica desert communities. Survey sites were located in Etoke Banner and Hangjin Banner of Ordos City, Alxa Left Banner and Alxa Right Banner of Alxa League, Urad Rear Banner and Urad Middle Banner of Bayannur City in Nei Mongol Autonomous Region, as well as Minqin County of Wuwei City and Linze County of Zhangye City in Gansu Province, China, and South Gobi Province and East Gobi Province of Mongolia. A total of 83 community investigation plots were established, including 67 quadrats and 16 registration plots (field-recorded coordinates of Potaninia mongolica distribution without quadrats). In the quadrat, one to three shrub quadrats (10 m × 10 m, with some early quadrats slightly smaller) were randomly placed within Potaninia mongolica communities, and each was divided into four sub-quadrats (5 m × 5 m). If herbaceous plants were present, herbaceous quadrats (1 m × 1 m) were established within the sub-quadrats. For each species in the shrub and semi-shrub layers, species name, height, and crown diameter were recorded. For the herbaceous layer, species name, height, clump diameter, and individual count were documented. The registration plots recorded basic information such as species composition, dominant species, and community types. The results showed that: (1) Potaninia mongolica communities were mainly distributed in the eastern part of the Mongolian Plateau desert region. (2) The field investigation was recorded 42 species of seed plants belonging to 30 genera and 10 families, including 1 tree species, 15 shrub species, 15 semi-shrub species, 8 perennial herbaceous species and 3 annual herbaceous species. In terms of water ecological types, there were 21 strongly xerophytic species and 19 xerophytic species. (3) Based on dominant species and community structure, Potaninia mongolica desert communities can be classified into four association group: Potaninia mongolica temperate shrub desert group, Potaninia mongolica-bunchgrass desert group, Potaninia mongolica-temperate semi-shrub desert group, and Potaninia mongolica-temperate shrub desert group, which can be further subdivided into 25 associations. (4) Potaninia mongolica communities occur in arid, cold desert climate zones characterized by very low precipitation. This dataset is comprehensive and of high scientific value, providing critical evidence for understanding the geographical distribution, species composition, and structural features of Potaninia mongolica communities. It offers essential baseline data for further research on the basic characteristics of these communities and supports the compilation of the desert volume of Vegetation of China.

Understanding the distribution patterns of plant stoichiometric characteristics is significant for revealing their nutrient allocation strategies and predicting plant responses to environmental changes. As a representative shrub species in the middle reaches of the Yarlung Zangbo River, Sophora moorcroftiana plays crucial ecological roles in windbreak and sand fixation, as well as soil and water conservation in this region. In this study, we conducted community surveys and sample collections across 19 plots and 57 quadrats of Sophora moorcroftiana shrublands. Carbon (C), nitrogen (N), and phosphorus (P) contents were measured in both shrub tissues and soils, which were compiled into the C, N, and P stoichiometric characteristic dataset of Sophora moorcroftiana communities in the middle reaches of the Yarlung Zangbo River. The community characteristic dataset includes community type, plant height, crown width, and phenological phase for each shrub individual, totaling 1,544 records. The stoichiometric measurements for different shrub organs (leaf, branch, root) yielded 166 records. Soil stoichiometric characteristics and pH values across different depths were measured, providing 191 records. This dataset offers primary data resources for in-depth studies of vegetation patterns and stoichiometric traits of Sophora moorcroftiana in the middle reaches of Yarlung Zangbo River.

Wildlife diversity monitoring is an important tool for assessing progress in conservation programs in protected areas. Gaowangjie National Nature Reserve is located in Guzhang County, Hunan Province, situated in the heart of the Wuling Mountain Range. This reserve covers an area of 17,169.8 ha, and it is habitat to 12 species of wildlife under national protection, such as small Indian civet (Viverricula indica), leopard (Prionailurus bengalensis), Elliot’s pheasant (Syrmaticus ellioti) and Koklass pheasant (Pucrasia macrolopha). Camera-trapping technology is a practice often used in wildlife monitoring, providing effective support for species cataloging in nature reserves. Infrared camera monitoring records from 2021–2023 in the Gaowangjie National Nature Reserve were collected and species identification was performed. The dataset included 42,947 camera working days and captured a total of 45,838 images. Among them, there were 19,972 animal records and 8,039 independent detections, covering 12 species of animals in 3 orders and 8 families. There were 5,694 bird records and 2,212 independent detections, involving 43 species of birds in 9 orders and 23 families. By showing detailed coordinates of the camera sites, the working days of the cameras, the independent detections of birds and animals, and the list of bird and animal species monitored, these data can aid in revealing the biodiversity of a protected area. This insight provides an important foundation for developing evidence-based conservation plans and management strategies in protected areas.

Aims: Global plant diversity has declined in recent decades, primarily due to human activities and climate change, posing a threat to human existence. In this context, botanical gardens have played a vital role in the research and protection of plant diversity. In China, a system of national botanical gardens is being developed to collect, protect, and study wild plants, thereby promoting their sustainable use. To support this effort, the goal of our paper is to analyze the current state of knowledge on botanical gardens in China and identify effective strategies for plant diversity conservation. 

Methods: To accomplish this goal, we collected data from 170 botanical gardens located in China. General data included year of establishment, affiliations, and staff structure, while performance outcomes focused on conservation, research, education, horticulture, and amenities. These data were used to categorize the gardens into levels A through D, with Level A representing the highest level of performance and Level D the lowest. 

Results: Our analyses revealed that 90% of botanical gardens in China are government-sponsored, public welfare institutions. Notably, gardens affiliated with the Chinese Academy of Sciences were the leading contributors to scientific research. While gardens managed by government administrations made significant contributions to conservation, horticulture, education, and recreation, their research capacities were less developed. Lastly, the limited collaboration among gardens hindered their overall impact. 

Conclusion: To bridge this gap, we propose three main strategies. First, establish a connected system of national, regional, and local botanical gardens to facilitate collaborative efforts in protecting China’s native flora and contributing to global plant conservation. Second, construct an integrated information facility for plant conservation, leveraging digitalization and standardization to strengthen cooperation among gardens. Finally, introduce botanical garden accreditation and innovative operational models to ensure long-term sustainability. We believe that these recommendations will enhance the efficiency of plant diversity conservation and contribute to sustainable development.

Background: The decision to develop a multilateral mechanism, including a global fund, for sharing the benefits derived from the use of digital sequence information on genetic resources (DSI) was adopted during Phrase II of the 15th meeting of the Conference of Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (COP15) at the end of 2022. It was further resolved that the modalities of the mechanism would be finalized at COP16. On 2 November, 2024, COP16 adopted a subsequent decision on these modalities, including the establishment of the Cali Fund. This mechanism is considered a potential solution to globally concerning issue of digital bio-piracy. According to its rules and requirements, Parties, non-Parties and other stakeholders are expected to take action to facilitate the implementation of the mechanism at both global and national levels. Its operation is anticipated to have significant implications for DSI governance at these levels. 

Results: The multilateral mechanism applies to DSI that is publicly available in accordance with national legislation and that is not covered by mutually agreed terms (MATs) for access to genetic resources and by other international instruments on access and benefit-sharing. It grants Parties, non-Parties, public databases operators, and users corresponding rights and obligations in aspects such as monetary benefit-sharing, Cali Fund governance, non-monetary benefit-sharing, data governance, and operation management. The launch of Cali Fund signifies that the multilateral mechanism has entered the global implementing stage. Although the multilateral mechanism is not legally binding, its execution is expected to facilitate the transition of open access to DSI derived from genetic resources within national jurisdictions from scientific practice to customary international law. It is also anticipated to promote the advancement of international and domestic legislation related to DSI. As a major producer and user of DSI in scientific research, China has begun to establish a foundational DSI management system. However, DSI generated from domestic genetic resources is currently stored primarily in large international public databases. China’s commercialization of DSI lags behind that of major developed countries, and gaps remain in its DSI management framework, particularly in areas such as property right. 

Recommendations: DSI is considered a fundamental, crucial and strategic production factor for the development of the bioeconomy and for maintaining global competitiveness. There is an urgent need to improve the DSI governance system and to develop a cross-sectoral coordination mechanism based on unified leadership and clear division of responsibilities by integrating DSI into national big data governance. To enhance the legal framework for DSI management, national competent authorities should conduct legislative studies on issues such as property rights attribution, data generation, collection and storage, classification, research and development, data infrastructure construction, cross-border transmission, and data security. Furthermore, a national biodiversity digitalization project should be launched to create a unified plan generation, storage, application and benefit-sharing of DSI. This project should aim to digitalize and informatize key ecosystems, species, genes, and traditional knowledge, while establishing a set of standards for data collection, storage and benefit-sharing. Finally, the potential spillover effects of the multilateral mechanism on other ongoing or future international negotiations should be thoroughly examined.