bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DYNAMICS OF THERMOPSIS MONGOLICA (FABACEAE) COENOPOPULATIONS IN THE STEPPES OF THE ALTAI REPUBLIC
Authors: Karnaukhova N. A. , Zvereva G. K. , Syeva S. Ya.
Published: April 2024

Studies of Thermopsis mongolica, a poisonous perennial herbaceous plant with a long rhizome, which spreads rapidly in grazing meadow and steppe phytocenoses of the Altai Republic, were conducted. In permanently grazed pastures, the thermopsis is not eaten by cattle and, with reduced competition from other species, quickly spreads and invades the territory due to a large number of growing rhizomes. Due to vegetative propagation, the main maximum in T. mongolica cenopopulations is represented by virginal ramets, the second one y middle-aged or old generative ramets. With increasing anthropogenic pressure, the share of virginal ramets and the cenopopulation density increase. In the communities disturbed by cattle grazing with the stage III of pasture digression, thermopsis co-dominates and makes an aspect in the herbaceous layer. In such cenopopulations, the thermopsis density increases from 24.8 to 131.2 ramets per m2. Generative shoots in this case reach the maximum morphometric parameters, power and productivity. Continuous grazing until complete failure (stage IV) leads to rapid aging of T. mongolica plants and accumulation of old ramets. In the ontogenetic spectra, the second maximum is shifted to the ramets of the postgenerative period. Due to constant trampling and soil compaction, the density of T. mongolica decreases to 6.5–4.6 ramets per m2. Thus, the anthropogenic load, if not destructive, leads to weakening of interspecific competition, which enables T. mongolica to increase rapidly the organismal and population indices and to realize its reactive properties.
ANATOMICAL STRUCTURE OF THE CONDUCTING SYSTEM OF THE POPULUS TREMULA (SALICACEAE) LEAF
Authors: Molganova N. A. , Ovesnov S. A.
Published: April 2024

A study of the conductive elements arrangement throughout the petiole length and in the midrib of the Populus tremula leaves was carried out. The plants growing wild in Perm and artificially planted in residential areas were studied. It was found that the shape of the petiole cross-section varies throughout its length from broadly heart-shaped (at the distal end) to strongly flattened laterally (at the leaf blade). In the middle part, the petiole is almost rounded. Three groups of collateral conducting bundles enter the petiole, where they regroup to be arranged at 4–5 levels. The additional basal veins of the leaf blade include lateral parts of the groups of bundles of the levels I, II and III. At a distance of about 1 cm from the base of the leaf blade, the leaves of brachyblast have conducting bundles arranged following a linear type. The division of groups of conducting bundles is carried out symmetrically or asymmetrically. The leaves with an asymmetric leaf blade can have both symmetrical and asymmetrical arrangement of conductive elements. There were no significant differences in the anatomical structure of P. tremula petioles between the plants growing in culture and in wild. Stress conditions of the urban environment do not have a fundamental effect on the location of conductive tissues in the petiole throughout its length.
NEW SPECIES OF GRASSES TO THE FLORA OF DAGESTAN
Authors: Mukhumaeva P. O. , Magomedova M. A. , Kotseruba V. V. , Murtazaliev R. A.
Published: April 2024

Information is provided on the first records of 5 species of the Poaceae family in Dagestan, found as a result of field research and study of herbarium materials of the Dagestan State University (LENUD). Koeleria asiatica Domin and Puccinellia macropus (V.I. Krecz.) Pavlov are reported for the first time for the flora of the whole Caucasus, and Lolium loliaceum (Bory et Chaub.) Hand.-Mazz. and Stipa ucrainica P.A. Smirn. – for the flora of the Eastern Caucasus. The occurrence of Stipa brauneri (Pacz.) Klokov in the territory of Dagestan is confirmed. The findings of the five new species of grasses in Dagestan is of great interest from botanical and geographical positions. As a rule, the newly recorded species are located at the extreme limits of their ranges, except for Koeleria asiatica. In trhis case, there is a large gap between the new locality and the range border.
GEORGY IVANOVICH RODIONENKO (ON THE 110th ANNIVERSARY OF THE BIRTH)
Authors: Alexeeva N. B. , Dorofeyev V. I.
Published: April 2024

The memoirs of colleagues and excerpts from archival documents related to the life of Georgy Ivanovich Rodionenko served as material for this generalization. The name of Georgy Ivanovich is widely known among botanists of our country and all over the world. Georgy Ivanovich, first of all, is known to everyone as the creator of the Iridarium of the Botanical Institute. V.L. Komarov (RAS). For 35 years he was the scientific curator of the Iridaceae collection of the Botanical Garden of the BIN RAS. Thanks to his efforts, the BIN RAS Iris collection has become world famous.
NYMPOIDES PELTATA (MENYANTHACEAE) – A NEW SPECIES FOR THE FLORA OF LENINGRAD REGION
Authors: Bubyreva V. A. , Khrabryi V. M.
Published: April 2024

The article presents data on the locality of Nymphoides peltata (S.G. Gmel.) Kuntze, a new species for the flora of the Leningrad Region. A rare alien species forms extensive thickets on Lake Nakhimovskoye (Vyborgsky District).
ANDROMONOECY IN GALIUM ODORATUM (RUBIACEAE)
Authors: Godin V. N.
Published: April 2024

The manifestation of sexual polymorphism in the sweet woodruff Galium odoratum was studied in the Moscow region during 2021–2023. The plant is a common perennial herbaceous, long-rhizome, polycarpic sciophyte. We find that at low illumination (less than 15% of total sunlight) only perfect flowers are formed. With increasing illumination (to up to 60% of full sunlight in clear weather), both perfect and staminate flowers are formed on individual plants. The perfect flowers of G. odoratum are complete, actinomorphic, tetracyclic, and heteromeric. In contrast, in staminate flowers the gynoecium is reduced, but its rudiments are preserved in the form of sterile stigmas and very short stylodia. Perfect flowers are significantly larger than staminate ones. The inflorescence in G. odoratum is a panicle-shaped monotelic, heterocladial, conjunctive thyrsus. Staminate flowers in andromonoecious individuals are located only on shoots of order IV, and their proportion varies from 12% to 30%. We finally discuss the possible reasons for the manifestation of andromonoecy in flowering plants under the influence of various environmental factors.
DIVERSITY OF PLANT FORMATIONS OF THE “WATER–LAND” ECOTONES OF THE SOSTINSKY LANDSCAPE AREA (KUMO-MANYCH DEPRESSION, KALMYKIA)
Authors: Goryaev I. A. , Ulanova S. S.
Published: April 2024

The “water–land” ecotone system is the coast of a reservoir from the water’s edge to the watershed. It is characterized by its landscape, soil properties, the hydrological regime of the land, the peculiarity of vegetation and the dynamics of biocomplexes. In the Sostinsky landscape area, located in the north-east of the Kumo-Manych depression, there is a large number of saline lakes drying up in the summer (Keltrikan, Kirkita, Khar–Erge, Sostinsky) and depressions. The vegetation of ecotones near these lakes is represented by halophytic dwarfsemishrubs (Halocnemeta strobilacei, Halimioneta verruciferae Caroxyleta dendroidis, Frankenieta hirsutae), annuals (Suaedeta acuminatae, Petrosimonieta oppositifoliae, Petrosimonieta brachiatae) and shrubs (Tamariceta laxae) communities.
SPECIES OF PUCCINELLIA (POACEAE) IN PLANT COMMUNITIES IN THE SOUTH OF WESTERN SIBERIA
Authors: Chupina I. S. , Korolyuk A. Yu.
Published: April 2024

The study is based on analysis of 1415 relevés representing communities with presence or dominance of Puccinellia tenuissima, P. gigantea, and P. kulundensis from the southern part of  Western Siberia. The ecological plasticity of these species has been shown. Their phytocenotic optimum is revealed using the species indicator values in relation to soil moisture and richness-salinity gradients. The communities dominated by P. tenuissima are most common in the south of  Western Siberia. This is the reason of the highest ecological plasticity of this species. In contrast, P. kulundensis is the most environmentally stable and shows the greatest dominant potential. Among the studied species P. gigantea rarely achieves high cover. The West-Siberian communities dominated by endemic P. kulundensis are described as a new association Puccinellietum kulundensis ass. nov. from the class Festuco-Puccinellietea Soó ex Vicherek 1973, the order Scorzonero-Juncetalia gerardii Vicherek 1973 and the alliance Cirsion esculenti Golub 1994.
STOCKS OF POTENTIALLY TOXIC ELEMENTS IN THE GROUND COVER OF NORTHERN TAIGA PINE FORESTS UNDER AEROTECHNOGENIC POLLUTION
Authors: Lyanguzova I. V. , Belyaeva A. I. , Kataeva M. N. , Volkova E. N.
Published: April 2024

The paper presents the results of studying the distribution of stocks of potentially toxic elements (Ni, Cu) in subcrown spaces and “windows” of stands in medium-aged pine forests in the background area of the Kola Peninsula and that under environmental pollution by atmospheric emissions of the Severonickel Combine (Monchegorsk, Murmansk Region). On the basis of previously obtained data on the stocks of aboveground biomass of the components of the ground cover, mortmass of plant debris and forest litter and data of chemical analysis by means of atomic absorption spectrometry of leaves of dominant shrub species, aboveground parts of the moss Pleurozium schreberi (Brid.) Mitt, and lichen Cladonia stellaris (Opiz) Pouzar et Vězda, as well as plant waste and organogenic horizon (forest litter) of Al-Fe-humus podzols, Ni and Cu stocks in different components of forest ecosystems were calculated. It was found that the sharp decrease in atmospheric emissions by the Severonickel Combine over the last 20 years has not affected the level of habitat contamination, and the stock of heavy metals in the upper organogenic horizon of Al-Fe-humus podzols remains very high, especially in the impact zone, which does not even allow to start the process of restoration of the ground cover in this area. The stock of heavy metals in the plant waste consistently increases with the increase in the level of forest litter contamination when approaching the source of pollution, but the scale of this increase is significantly smaller in the mortmass compared to the litter. The pattern of distribution of heavy metal stocks in components of ground cover, plant waste and forest litter over the phytocenosis area is fundamentally different in background conditions and under aerotechnogenic pollution, which is due to differences in the accumulation of organic matter in different types of microsites. The ratio of Ni : Cu concentrations and stocks also differs in the soil-vegetation cover in pine forests of the background area and under the influence of aerotechnogenic pollution.
STRUCTURAL FEATURES OF OVERGROWING OF RESERVOIRS IN THE VYCHEGDA RIVER BASIN
Authors: Panyukova E. V. , Teteryuk B. Yu. , Panyukov A. A.
Published: April 2024

Based on the materials of the study of three artificial reservoirs located in the southern part of the Komi Republic, in the Vychegda River basin, it was shown that a characteristic feature of the overgrowth of the studied reservoirs is the predominance of sedge communities in its structure. There are three types of shallow water in the reservoirs: open, protected estuarine, and protected insular shallow water. For each type of shallow water, the formula and the degree of their overgrowth are determined. It has been established that the degree of overgrowth of the reservoirs and their coenotic composition largely depends on age (the time elapsed from filling the reservoir with water).
DEVELOPMENT OF MALE REPRODUCTIVE STRUCTURES IN CAMPANULA ALLIARIIFOLIA (CAMPANULACEAE)
Authors: Zhinkina N. A. , Evdokimova E. E.
Published: April 2024

A cytoembryological study of the formation of microsporangium wall and the development of pollen grains in Campanula alliariifolia Willd. was carried out. A significant similarity in the structure of male embryonic structures in this species with the other representatives of Campanulaceae was revealed, namely: simultaneous formation of tetrads of microspores, bicellular pollen grains with relatively large vegetative cell, cellular secretory tapetum, bilayered endothecium. Characteristic features of this species are as follows: the absence of placentoids which indicates its evolutionary advancement, since the placentoids are characteristic of the most primitive representatives of the family; long-term, in comparison with previously studied species of the family, preservation of the tapetum, namely up to the opening of the anther, in the form of a cord of deformed tapetal cells located in a row and tightly adjacent to each other; relatively late appearance of fibrous bands.
ADDITION TO THE LICHEN FLORA OF SAKHALIN ISLAND
Authors: Kaganov V. V. , Ezhkin A. K.
Published: April 2024

The paper presents data on six lichen species new to Sakhalin Island. Two of them, namely Physconia subpulverulenta and Bacidia elongata, are recorded for the Sakhalin Region for the first time. Mycobilimbia carneoalbida, Mycobilimbia tetramera, Chaenotheca xyloxena, and Pseudoschismatomma rufescens are noted for Sakhalin Island for the first time. Brief information on distribution, ecology, distinctive characters and illustrations are provided for the species.
VEGETATION OF THE MIRES OF THE CHEREK BALKARSKY RIVER BASIN (KABARDINO-BALKARIAN REPUBLIC)
Authors: Liksakova N. S. , Shilnikov D. S. , Doroshina G. Ya.
Published: April 2024

Mountain mires are studied in the valleys of the Karasu and Kurnoyatsu Rivers – tributaries of the Cherek Balkarsky River flowing in the Central Jurassic and North Jurassic depressions. As a result of ecological and phytocenotic classification using cluster analysis methods, 11 formations were identified, 4 of which belonging to Hygrosphagnion, 4 to Phorbion types of mire vegetation, 2 ones are borderline with wet meadows, and 1 includes stream communities. The most common communities belong to Cariceta rostratae and Cariceta transcaucasici formations. The leading role in the distribution of communities on the ordination diagram is played by the flow rate of moisture. The communities of the Cariceta rostratae formation cover the largest range of heights above sea level. The communities of the Cariceta transcaucasici formation occupy the highest habitats. Small mires include communities of 1–3 formations, larger mires combine communities of 8 or more formations, their maximum diversity is represented on the mire lakes in the valley of the Kurnoyatsu River. Mire lakes and mire vegetation changes occur at different rates.
DEVELOPMENT OF FEMALE REPRODUCTIVE STRUCTURES IN BOECHERA (BRASSICACEAE) SPECIES UNDER SEXUAL AND APOMICTIC REPRODUCTIVE MODES
Authors: Vinogradova G. Yu. , Sinelnikova N. V. , Taşkin K. M. , Brukhin V. B.
Published: April 2024

The results of comparative embryological study of the two species from the genus Boechera (B. falcata and B. stricta), which are characterized by a sexual mode of reproduction, and the apomictic M4B accession, an ancient natural hybrid of B. stricta × B. retrofracta, are presented. A detailed description of the ovule development of the studied plants is described. A significant similarity of the ovule development has been shown; a general plan of the ovules structure is ortho-campylotropic, bitegmal, medionucellate. The development of the embryo sac in B. falcata and B. stricta corresponds to the monosporic Polygonum type; in the ovules of the M4B accession, an apomictic unreduced female gametophyte is predominantly formed as a result of Taraxacum-type diplospory. However, in this accession apomixis is facultative, since a small amount of the ovules in the ovary forms a reduced embryo sac with participation of meiosis, but unlike B. falcata and B. stricta, after the second meiotic division, a triad of megaspores is formed, of which the chalazal one is functional. In the ovules of the apomictic M4B accession, underdevelopment of the inner integument was often observed, which, apparently, correlates with arrest of the megasporocyte and embryo sac development, since destruction was often observed in ovules with a short inner integument. This abnormality is likely due to the hybrid nature of the M4B accession rather than apomixis. In this accession, the embryo is formed parthenogenetically, but its development requires endosperm, which apparently develops by pseudogamy, only after triple fusion (fertilization of the fused polar nuclei by sperm). In the absence of endosperm, the embryo perishes, and seed development is arrested.
First Record of the Family Emmelichthyidae in Mexico: Presence of Erythrocles monodi in the Southwestern Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Del Moral-Flore L. F. , Salgado-Ugarte I. H. , Alejo-Plata M. C.
Published: April 2024

Two species of the Emmelichthyidae family, Emmelichthys ruber and Erythrocles monodi, have been recorded in the western Atlantic. The species E. monodi is reported for the first time in Mexican waters, based on a specimen of 403 mm standard length, captured south of Veracruz, which corresponds to the first record of the family in Mexico and its southwestern distribution range of the Gulf of Mexico.
Seasonal Distribution and Size Composition of the Purplegray Sculpin Gymnocanthus detrisus off the Mainland Coast of the Russian Waters of the Sea of Japan
Authors: Panchenko V. V. , Vdovin A. N. , Solomatov S. F.
Published: April 2024

The purplegray sculpin Gymnocanthus detrisus occurs at the depths between of 17 and 595 m at the temperature from –1.1 to+13.2°C off the mainland coast of the Russian waters of the Sea of Japan. In the warm period, the fish are concentrated in the middle and lower parts of the shelf, mainly at a temperature of 1.2–2.0°C, in the cold period, in the lower part of the shelf and the upper part of the continental slope at 0.6–1.4°C. The water area in the north (the waters of the Tatar Strait) is intensively used only in the warm season. The main aggregations are formed in the south (Peter the Great Bay) and in the areas of the central part of the surveyed region. Juveniles are more eurythermal than adult individuals and more adults prefer the shelf zone in all seasons, where the temperature regime is less stable than on the mainland slope.
The Ratio of Leukocytes in Peripheral Blood and Immunocompetent Organs of Chars of the Genus Salvelinus (Salmonidae) in the Lake Kronotskoe Basin
Authors: Gordeyev I. I. , Mikryakov D. V. , Balabanova L. V. , Suvorova T. A. , Kuzmicheva S. V. , Busarova O. Yu.
Published: April 2024

The cellular composition of leukocytes in the peripheral blood, head kidney and spleen was studied in individuals of three species of chars of the genus Salvelinus, white char S. albus, long–headed char S. kronocius and long-nosed char S. schmidti, as well as two forms, small-mouth and large-mouth chars living in Lake Kronotskoe. In the studied individuals, the proportion of lymphocytes of leukocytes in the peripheral blood was significant. The forms (species) of chars differed in the proportion of cell types, the size of leukocytes, as well as the intensity of leukopoiesis. The most significant differences in the proportion of different forms of leukocytes were found in the large-mouth char compared to other species and small–mouth char: high content of lymphocytes in blood smears, low content of monocytes in all tissues and organs, blast forms in the blood and neutrophils in the pronephros.
Age, Growth, Maturation and Mortality of Picarel Spicara flexuosa (Sparidae) from the Crimea Water Area (Black Sea)
Authors: Kutsyn D. N.
Published: April 2024

The results of the study of the sex and size-age structure, growth, maturation, sexual inversion, dynamics of the gonadosomatic index and mortality of 1948 individuals of the picarel Spicara flexuosa caught in the Crimea water area in 2020–2021 are presented. The total sex ratio in catches is biased towards females (3.5 : 1.0); sex inversion was recorded in 50% of females with a total body length of 13.5 ± 0.05 cm at the age of 3+. The maximum length of females is 15.1 cm, males, 22.0 cm; the weight is 29.0 and 132.2 g, respectively. The maximum age of females and males is 4 and 7 years, respectively. The values of the parameters of the von Bertalanffy equation are calculated: for females, the asymptotic length is 15.69 cm, the asymptotic weight is 32.0 g, the growth coefficient is 0.49 year–1; for males, 18.32 cm, 59.7 g and 0.44 year–1, respectively. A value of the exponent in the length-weight relationship is 2.68 for females (negative allometry) and 3.0 for males (isometry). The sexual maturity of 50% of females occurs at a length of 10.34 ± 0.21 cm at the age of 1+. The peak of spawning occurs in June. The rates of total, natural and fishing mortality are 1.2, 1.9 and 0.3 year–1, respectively in both sexes; the exploitation rate is 0.25, which indicates a low fishing pressure. It is established that S. flexuosa from northern populations is characterized by larger maximum sizes, a higher growth rate and a longer life expectancy
Biological Characteristics of the Great Sculpin Myoxocephalus polyacanthocephalus (Cottidae) from Pacific Waters off the Kuril Islands and Southeastern Kamchatka in Autumn Period
Authors: Poltev Yu. N.
Published: April 2024

The spatial distribution, size-sex composition, feeding of Myoxocephalus polyacanthocephalus and accompanying species in the Pacific waters off the northern Kuril Islands and southeastern Kamchatka in the autumn period are considered. In August–November 1997, this species was represented in catches by individuals with a length of 30-89 (on average 47.8 ± 0.5) cm and a body weight of 300–11000 (2321 ± 90) g. Females dominated over males; the sex ratio was 1.2 : 1.0. The relationship between the body weight and length of great sculpin is described by the exponential equation: W = 0.0031FL3.446 (R2 = 0.935). The food spectrum of great sculpin includes fish (56.2% of the diet), mainly the walleye pollock Gadus chalcogrammus and Atka mackerel Pleurogrammus monopterygius (19.9 and 11.9%, respectively); fish processing wastes (19.6%), mainly heads of Atka mackerel (12.2%); as well as decapods (18.6%), mainly the snow crab Chionoecetes opilio (14.1%). As great sculpin grow, decapods are replaced by fish in the diet and walleye pollock is replaced by Atka mackerel and Liparidae. The size and sex composition and feeding patterns of great sculpin as well as the species composition of the accompanying species differed in some parts of the surveyed area. The co-occurrence of great sculpin with walleye pollock and the northern rock sole Lepidopsetta polyxystra was 100%.
Diagnostic Value of Biochemical and Histopathological Characteristics of the Round Goby Neogobius melanostomus (Gobiidae) in Assessing of Aquatic Environment
Authors: Sigacheva T. B. , Gavruseva T. V.
Published: April 2024

Study of the transformation of biochemical reactions into histopathological alterations is of importance for their correct use as the biomarkers for early biodiagnostics of the aquatic environment quality. The purpose of the present investigation was to analyze the biochemical characteristics (activity of superoxide dismutase, catalase, aminotransferases, alkaline phosphatase, level of oxidized proteins and lipid peroxidation, albumin and urea concentrations) in tissues of round goby Neogobius melanostomus (Pallas, 1814) with different degrees of histopathological alterations. The results of histopathological studies in liver, gills and kidneys of this fish revealed twenty four pathological alterations referring to five types of disorders: circulatory disturbances, inflammatory reactions, progressive and regressive changes, and benign tumors. The relation between some pathological changes (necrosis of nephrocytes, necrosis and atrophy of individual renal tubules; necrosis of hepatocytes) and biochemical parameters (activity of alanine aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase, level of lipid peroxidation) in round goby tissues was found. We demonstrate high diagnostic significance of the combined use of biochemical and histopathological parameters in round goby tissues for assessing the aquatic environment quality.
Zoogeographic Analysis of the Features of Temperature Preferences of Fish of the European Part of Russia
Authors: Smirnov A. K.
Published: April 2024

Analyzes of temperature preferences of fish and cyclostomes 54 species, inhabiting fresh water bodies of the European part of Russia are presented. It is shown that the main temperature criteria of the fundamental ecological niche (optimum, limits, and spawning temperatures) cannot be used as a clear sign of the species attribution to a particular faunistic complex. Nevertheless, these criteria are, apparently, a certain reflection of the climatic conditions in time of the species origin and development. Among the studied fish and cyclostomes, two separate groups of “northern” cold-water and “southern” warm-water species are identified. Their presence results from the historical features of the ichthyofauna formation in the region. The outlined in recent decades climatic trend towards an increase in water temperature probably favors the spread of the southern group representatives to the north, which can lead to further restructuring of competitive relations in fish populations and cause changes in the boundaries of their ranges.
Morphometric Characters and Feeding Habits in the Early Ontogenesis of Kildin Cod Gadus morhua kildinensis (Gadidae) from Lake Mogilnoe (Kildin Island, Barents Sea)
Authors: Stroganov A. N. , Strelkov P. P. , Mukhina N. V. , Stogov I. A.
Published: April 2024

Kildin cod Gadus morhua kildinensis is a subspecies of Atlantic cod with extremely small population size, listed in the Red Data Book of the Russian Federation, which inhabits the waters of a small meromictic lake on the Kildin Island (Barents Sea). Comparative studies of morphobiological characteristics and feeding habits of Kildin cod in the juvenile period were conducted for the first time. Comparison of sample sets of adult Kildin cod and fingerlings on the basis of multivariate analysis of variance demonstrates a high degree of differences in the complex of morphometric characters. The diet of the analyzed sample set of Kildin cod fingerlings consisted of ostracodes (Ostracoda), larvae of polychaetas (Polychaeta), cladocerans (Cladocera), and gammarids (Gammaridae). The special features of changes in the diet of Kildin cod in the early ontogenesis are discussed.
The first record of Icelinus pietschi (Cottidae) from Russian Waters of the Sea of Japan
Authors: Balanov A. A. , Panchenko V. V.
Published: April 2024

The rare species Icelinus pietschi Yabe, Soma et Amaoka, 2001 was first discovered in the Russian waters in the Sea of Japan (the Peter the Great Bay). The characters and description of the analyzed specimen are reported. The species I. pietschi inhabiting the Sea of Japan may be supposedly found from the Peter the Great Bay to the water region off the south coastline of the Sakhalin Island and along the continental coastline northward to the Vladimir Bay and southward to the northern part of the Korean Peninsula.
Spine Anomalies and Vertebral Phenotypes in the Underyearlings of Roach Rutilus rutilus (Cyprinidae) after Separate and Combined Exposure to a Magnetic Field and Metrifonate on Embryos
Authors: Chebotareva Yu. V. , Krylov V. V. , Talikina M. G. , Izyumov Yu. G.
Published: April 2024

Anomalies in the spine structure and vertebral phenotypes were studied in 4-month-old underyearlings of the roach Rutilus rutilus (Linnaeus, 1758) after combined or separate exposure of embryos to a magnetic field (frequency 500 Hz, induction 150 μT) and metrifonate (concentration 0.01 mg/L) for 48 h from fertilization to the onset of organogenesis in comparison with control (no treatment). The most common developmental disorders of the spine in all groups are open neural or haemal arches, as well as deformities and fusions of the vertebra bodies. An increase in the total number of vertebrae and their number in the trunk section of the spine were noted in fish with vertebra fusions. Juveniles under treatments differed from those in control by a greater number of spinal anomalies, as well as by the frequency of occurrence of specific vertebral phenotypes. The magnetic field had the greatest effect.
Age Determination of the Azov Anchovy Engraulis encrasicolus maeoticus (Engraulidae) Based on the Otolith Image Analysis
Authors: Chesalin M. V.
Published: April 2024

To specify the age determination of the Azov anchovy Engraulis encrasicolus maeoticus, the length of otoliths of the age 0+ fish and the radii of annual rings in the otoliths of individuals of different age groups have been analysed. The otoliths of 380 fish caught in the Sea of Azov in October–November 2018 and off the northwestern coast of the Caucasus in February 2019 have been analyzed. The ImageJ software has been used for measuring the maximum otolith length and plotting the reflected light intensity profiles along the length of the otolith transect. In the fingerlings (0+) with an average total length of 70.9 ± 6.7 mm, in October–November, the otolith radius averaged 0.95 ± 0.08 mm, while in February, with an average 66.6 ± 10.6 mm, it was 0.86 ± 0.15 mm. In the smallest fish (48–55 mm), the distance from the core of the otolith to the edge of the white opaque zone varied from 0.54 to 0.72 mm (on average, 0.63 ± 0.04 mm). According to the averaged data, the radii to the center of the dark hyaline zone of otoliths for different age groups of anchovy are: R1, 0.94 ± 0.09; R2, 1.23 ± 0.08; and R3, 1.40 ± 0.07 mm. The present study is aimed at developing automatic methods for determining the age of fish from light intensity profile peaks on otolith images.
A New Whalefish Species of the Genus Cetomimus (Cetomimidae) from the Tropical Part of the Central Atlantic
Authors: Kobyliansky S. G. , Gordeeva N. V. , Mishin A. V.
Published: April 2024

A new species of bathypelagic whalefishes of the genus Cetomimus is described; its two specimens were caught over the central tropical part of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge at the layers of 1500–0 and 2680–0 m. The species is characterized by the presence of 31/2 gill arches (with a small slit behind the third gill arch) and cavernous tissue developed only around the anus and above the bases of the first to sixth rays of the anal fin; large pores in the lateral line canal, which are approximately as wide as this canal; the absence of large, valve-shaped triangular outgrowths along the margin of septa between pores in the posterior part of the lateral line; 42–48 vertebrae; and 20, 17–18, and 18 rays in the pectoral, dorsal, and anal fins, respectively; 17–18 pores in the lateral line canal between the upper margin of the gill cover and the end of the caudal peduncle, as well as by some other diagnostic features. The first molecular genetic data for the described species (mtDNA COX-1 sequences, or DNA barcodes) and analysis of interspecific divergence in the genus Cetomimus are given
Quantitative Distribution of the Flying Fish (Exocoetidae), Marine Mammals, Birds, and Sea Turtles in the Northern Part of the Central Atlantic Ocean (Results Obtained in the Research Cruises nos. 43–45 of the R/V “Akademik Nikolaj Strakhov”)
Authors: Shakhovskoy I. B.
Published: April 2024

The results of visual assessments of the flying fish (Exocoetidae), marine mammals, birds, and sea turtles, carried out mainly in the northern part of the Central Atlantic Ocean both during the ship was under way and at stations, are presented. Schematic maps of the quantitative distribution of the detected animals and of the specific biomass of the flying fish are provided. In terms of abundance and biomass of the flying fish, the studied region of the Atlantic south of 30° N is one of the most productive in the World Ocean, no signs of decreasing productivity have been found when compared with data obtained earlier. Tremendous abundance of gulfweed (Sargassum) in the study area is expected to have a positive effect on the abundance of birds and four-winged flying fish (subfamily Cypselurinae); at the same time, it apparently had a negative impact on the abundance of two–winged flying fish (genus Exocoetus). As a result, four-winged flying fish began to significantly predominate in the study area replacing the two-winged flying fish that dominated by abundance for almost a century. The relationships between the abundance of the flying fish and birds and some environmental parameters have been studied. An attempt has been made to assess the influence of various environmental factors on the quantitative distribution of the flying fish and birds using mathematical models.
New Distributional Record of the Short-Snouted Scorpionfish, Scorpaenopsis obtusa (Scorpaeniformes: Scorpaenidae), from Indian Coastal Waters
Authors: Subburaman S. , Murugan A. , Mahadevan G. , Immanuel G. , Fricke R.
Published: April 2024

A new record of the Short–snouted scorpionfish, Scorpaenopsis obtusa Randall et Eschmeyer, 2002 is reported from India’s southeast coast. Three specimens were collected (67.6–75.1 mm SL) as trawl-fishery bycatch at Tuticorin fishing harbour, India on 21 April 2022. Morphometric and meristic characters were measured and compared with published data. The record of this species from India expands the known distribution of S. obtusa, previously reported from Myanmar eastward. The above species is a new addition to the list of marine fishes of Indian coastal waters.
Study of the Polymorphism of ISSR Markers in Spined Loaches of the Genus Cobitis (Cobitidae) in Connection with Problems of Differentiation of the Species Involved in the Formation of Polyploid Forms of Hybrid Origin and Determination of Their Taxonomic Status
Authors: Volkov A. A. , Rastorguev S. M. , Vasil’eva E. D. , Vasil’ev V. P.
Published: April 2024

We have analyzed the polymorphism of ISSR fragments of DNA by polymerase chain reaction in spined loaches for the first time. The analysis has made it possible to successfully differentiate the genomes, which were presumably involved in the formation of polyploid forms of hybrid origin: Cobitis taenia; spined loaches from the Danube River basin, which are diagnosed as C. elongatoides; C. tanaitica from the Don River basin and spined loaches from Lake Sinoe, which are also assigned to the species C. tanaitica by a number of authors. The following conclusions have been made based on comparative morphological studies of previously undifferentiated forms: (1) spined loaches from Central Europe with karyotype 2n = 50, NF = 96 correspond to the diagnosis of the species C. elongatoides; this species also differs from a number of closely related species and polyploid forms in the origin of the dorsal fin in front of the base of the pelvic fins, as well as in the presence of a spot in the lower half of the caudal fin base; (2) spined loaches from Lake Sinoe and other populations of Central Europe with karyotype 2n = 50, NF = 86 are nonconspecific to C. tanaitica and should apparently be ranked as an independent species, C. megaspila
Comparative Morphology of the Zona Radiata in Oocytes of Korean Bitterlings from the Genera Rhodeus, and Acheilognathus (Cyprinidae)
Authors: Choi S. J. , Yun  S. W. , Park J. Y.
Published: April 2024

Zona radiata is formed in vitellogenic oocytes between the plasmalemma and the follicular layer. Light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy were used to study on the formation of oocytes and zona radiata. The morphological architecture of zona radiata is classified into four types: (1) villous structure-covered massive villi seen only in the genus Rhodeus (R. ocellatus, R. pseudosericeus, R. uyekii, and R. notatus); (2) mesh-shaped structures with porous shapes in Acheilognathus rhombeus and A. macropterus; (3) vine-like structure with longer and thicker materials in A. chankaensis; (4) smooth structure with no any structural modifications in A. yamatsutae, A. lanceolatus, A. koreensis, A. majusculus, A. signifier, and A. somjinensis. In all investigated species, the thickness, the number of pores, and other features of bitterlings zona radiata are species-specific.
First Record of a Rare Eel Dysomma bucephalus (Synaphobranchidae) in the Arabian Sea
Authors: Karmovskaya E. S.
Published: April 2024

A report of the first occurrence of species Dysomma bucephalus Alcock in the Arabian Sea. The species first recorded outside its type locality in the Bay of Bengal. Dysomma bucephalus is described from three adult specimens collected in the Arabian Sea off the Laccadives at a depth of 193 m. The larval form of the species D. bucephalus was first found in the Bay of Bengal near the Nicobar Islands and is also described herein. These findings expand the known range species westward.
Preliminary Study of Age and Growth of Bluefin Tuna Thunnus thynnus (Scombridae) from Fish Farm in the East of Tunisia
Authors: Khemiri S. , Gaamour A. , Zarrad R. , Saidane S.
Published: April 2024

The Atlantic bluefin tuna, Thunnus thynnus, is a fish of high economic interest. Nevertheless, its biology is not yet well understood. The objective of the study is to describe the age and the growth of the bluefin tuna collected from the tuna farm located in the East area of Tunisia (Salakta-Mahdia). The age is estimated by counting the annuli on the cross sectioned dorsal fin ray and the Von Bertalanffy growth equation is established: Lt = 390×(1 – exp(−0.07x(t + 1.23)). The estimated age ranges from 3 to 14 years. Most of the catch is composed of bluefin tuna of age class 4 to 7. A positive allometric growth is established for fattened bluefin tuna. The condition factor ranges from 0.98 to 2.63 with a mean value of 1.79 ± 0.26. The mean condition factor shows an increasing trend with age.
Length-Weight Relationship of Four Species of Deep-Sea Congrid Eel (Congridae) from the Southwest Coast of India, Arabian Sea
Authors: Kodeeswaran P. , Ajith Kumar T. T. , Kumar Lal K.
Published: April 2024

Length-weight relationship was estimated for the deep-sea congrid eel species collected from the trawler landings at Kalamukku, of Kochi, Kerala and Colachel, of Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu, Arabian Sea, southern India, between February 2021 and August 2022. The samples were obtained from the deep-sea trawlers, operated along the Exclusive Economic Zone of India, Arabian Sea with a cod end mesh size of 35 mm at 200–250 m depth. The estimated b values range from 2.80 to 3.19. Novelty of the study is providing length-weight relationship for two newly described eel species viz. Ariosoma indicum and A. maurostigma will help in the conservation and management of these species in the future.
Feeding-Related Skull Structures of Climbing Perch Anabas testudineus (Anabantidae)
Authors: Pavlov D. A.
Published: April 2024

The feeding-related skull structures are described and occluding elements of the upper and lower regions of the buccopharyngeal cavity are analyzed in climbing perch. At each side of the neurocranium, the transverse process of the parasphenoid with four or five large conical teeth oppose the hypobranchial 3, and the medial teeth of the parasphenoid oppose the medial joints between paired hypobranchials 3 and ceratobranchials 4. As in the majority of other advanced Teleostei, the pharyngeal bite is carried out by the lower pharyngeal jaw (fused ceratobranchials 5) and upper pharyngeal jaws (left and right plates of pharyngobranchials 3–4). The latter jaws are articulated with paired pharyngeal processes of the basioccipital. At both sides of the skull, the strong elongated Baudelot’s ligament joins the basioccipital and supracleithrum. The hypothesis on the occurrence of the unique lower pharyngeal jaw–parasphenoid bite in climbing perch is rejected.
Age, Growth, and Maturity of Painted Comber Serranus scriba (Serranidae) from the Crimea Region, the Black Sea
Authors: Kutsyn D. N. , Tamoikin I. Yu. , Samotoy Yu. V. , Donchik P. I.
Published: April 2024

The painted comber Serranus scriba, a subtropical marine fish species assigned to the famiy Serranidae in the Black Sea is insufficiently studied. It is a simultaneous hermaphrodite fish. Data on age, growth, and maturity of the painted comber inhabiting the Black sea area around Crimea, including its spatial variation within the entire habitat range are reported. Overall, 537 specimens caught from July to October 2022 are analyzed. The biggest specimen ever caught in the Black Sea with 26.1 cm total length and 265.1 g weight at the age of 15 years was registered. The values for the von Bertalnffy equation parameters were estimated. Thus, asymptotic length, asymptotic weight, and growth constant made up 28.3 cm, 358.6 g, and 0.17 year−1, respectively. The exponent of 3.10 in the length-weight relationship equation (positive allometry) was estimated. Maturity was defined in 50% spesimens at 12.0 ± 0.2 cm total length in the third year of life. It was ascertained that spatial variation in the life history traits for the specimens is weakly expressed. The painted comber inhabiting the Black Sea is slightly different from the representatives of this species found in the Aegean and Adriatic Seas in age, size, and growth. In addition, the biggest and faster-growing specimens are recorded more often under the low-latitude climate conditions, in the water areas off Egypt and the Canary Islands.
Lipid Profile of the Muscle Tissue of Some Mesopelagic Fish Species of the Families Stomiidae and Myctophidae from Different Depths of the Irminger Sea, North Atlantic
Authors: Voronin V. P. , Artemenkov D. V. , Orlov A. M. , Murzina S. A.
Published: April 2024

For the first time the qualitative and quantitative lipid profile (total lipids and polar and nonpolar lipids) of the muscle tissue of six mesopelagic fish species, which are representatives of two deep-sea families widespread in the World Ocean: Stomiidae and Myctophidae were studied. It was found the species specificity of lipid accumulation for the studied fishes, which indicates differences in the mechanisms of compensatory responses. Triacylglycerols are the main form of lipid storage in the studied species. However, an accumulation of cholesterol esters and waxes (lipid characteristic of vertical migrants) has also been recorded in Borostomias antarcticus. The revealed distinctive features of Myctophidae and Stomiatidae, related to the accumulation of cholesterol and variations in the content of different phospholipid fractions, indicate that the fishes of these families use different mechanisms for regulating and maintaining the physicochemical state (permeability and fluidity) of biological membranes under conditions of change in a set of environmental factors (temperature, salinity, hydrostatic pressure, and specific photoperiod) with increase in the habitat depth.
Morphological Identification and DNA Barcoding Confirm the Discovery of Ambassis dussumieri (Ambassidae) in the Persian Gulf
Authors: Afrand M. , Sourinejad I.
Published: April 2024

Ambassidae fishes are endemic to the Indo-West Pacific region. This study presents the first record of Ambassis dussumieri Cuvier, 1828, from the mangroves of the Persian Gulf, southern Iran. The examined specimens were identified and described by morphomeristic characteristics in addition to DNA barcoding based on the mitochondrial COI gene. The present record of this species adds to our knowledge of the biodiversity of fishes in the Persian Gulf
Redescription of the Сommon but Poorly Known Piranha Dulce Serrasalmus hollandi (Serrasalmidae) from the Upper Madeira River
Authors: Gallo-Cardozo F. , Careaga M. , Carvajal-Vallejos F. M.
Published: April 2024

The piranha Serrasalmus hollandi was described in 1915 by Eigenmann based on a single specimen from the upper Madeira River basin in the southwestern Amazon and the holotype was later lost. Because morphological variation is absent from the description, species identification is somewhat difficult. Misidentification with S. eigenmanni, another poorly known but morphologically similar species, may have been common in ichthyological inventories. This last species was described in 1929 by Norman, based on a single specimen collected from the Essequibo River, which drains the Guyana Shield, northeast of the Amazon Basin. The present study redescribes S. hollandi, a species commonly known in the Iténez basin of Bolivia as piraña dulce, based on morphological and genetic (mtDNA-COI) information. A neotype was designated from the Paraguá River, a tributary of the Itenéz River which is close to the type locality. A diagnosis to differentiate among S. hollandi and species reported in the Bolivian Amazon and La Plata basins, and S. eigenmanni is presented.
Chronic Starvation-Induced Alterations in Biochemical Parameters and Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Testicular Axis in the Mozambique Tilapia Oreochromis mossambicus (Cichlidae)
Authors: Gouda M. , Ganesh S. B.
Published: April 2024

Although fish are often exposed to food restrictions in natural or aquafarming conditions, the relationship between altered energy status and the reproduction is not well understood. The aim of the present investigation was to elucidate the effect of chronic food-deprivation on energy status and reproductive axis in male Mozambique tilapia Oreochromis mossambicus. The controls received food ad libitum, whereas the fish in the starvation group were deprived of food for 21 days. The liver showed significantly higher levels of gluconeogenesis and triglycerides, whereas the levels of blood glucose and total protein content in the liver were significantly lower in starved fish compared to controls. Furthermore, the mean numbers of different spermatogenic cells, such as spermatogonia-A, primary spermatocytes, secondary spermatocytes, early spermatids, and late spermatids were significantly lower, but the number of spermatogonia-B did not show a significant difference compared to controls. In starved fish, there was a significant increase in germ cell apoptosis at different stages of development concomitant with faintly immunoreactive androgen receptors in the Sertoli cells of the testis compared with controls. In addition, the percent areas of gonadotropin-releasing hormone—immunoreactive fibres and luteinizing hormone—immunoreactive content—in the proximal pars distalis part of the pituitary gland were significantly lower in starved fish compared with controls. Collectively, these results suggest that decreased energy status negatively affects the gonadotropin-releasing hormone—luteinizing hormone – testicular axis, leading to inhibition of spermatogenesis before entry of germ cells into meiosis through increased apoptosis and decreased expression of androgen receptors in the testis of the Mozambique tilapia.
Genetic Evaluation of the Refuge Program for Sonoyta Pupfish Cyprinodon eremus (Cyprinodontidae) in Mexico
Authors: Rodríguez-Ramírez R. , Echelle A. A. , Varela-Romero A. , Grijalva-Chon H. M. , López-Torres M. A.
Published: April 2024

Cyprinodon eremus is endemic to the Sonoyta River system, where wild populations comprise two conservation management units, one in Quitobaquito Springs, Arizona, and another small segment of the Sonoyta River, Sonora. Declining habitat from overmining of groundwater threatens both populations. Because of concern for the Sonoyta River population, refuges were built in Sonora and stocked with individuals from the river. Using seven microsatellite loci, we evaluated the genetic diversity of the wild population and three refuge populations. Comparison with earlier results for the wild population suggests that diversity changed little over the 12 years between collections. Two refuge populations established in 2007–2008 had levels of diversity comparable to that of the wild population. This reflects the relatively recent origins and exchange with the wild population. Notably lower measures of diversity occurred in an older refuge population that was established in 1988 and has no history of exchange with other populations. Suggestions for a program of genetic exchange are presented to inform future management.