Lodging is still the key factor that limits continuous increases in wheat yields today,because the mechanical strength of culms is reduced due to low-light stress in populations under high-yield cultivation.The mechan...Lodging is still the key factor that limits continuous increases in wheat yields today,because the mechanical strength of culms is reduced due to low-light stress in populations under high-yield cultivation.The mechanical properties of the culm are mainly determined by lignin,which is affected by the light environment.However,little is known about whether the light environment can be sufficiently improved by changing the population distribution to inhibit culm lodging.Therefore,in this study,we used the wheat cultivar“Xinong 979”to establish a low-density homogeneous distribution treatment(LD),high-density homogeneous distribution treatment(HD),and high-density heterogeneous distribution treatment(HD-h)to study the regulatory effects and mechanism responsible for differences in the lodging resistance of wheat culms under different population distributions.Compared with LD,HD significantly reduced the light transmittance in the middle and basal layers of the canopy,the net photosynthetic rate in the middle and lower leaves of plants,the accumulation of lignin in the culm,and the breaking resistance of the culm,and thus the lodging index values increased significantly,with lodging rates of 67.5%in 2020–2021 and 59.3%in 2021–2022.Under HD-h,the light transmittance and other indicators in the middle and basal canopy layers were significantly higher than those under HD,and the lodging index decreased to the point that no lodging occurred.Compared with LD,the activities of phenylalanine ammonia-Lyase(PAL),4-coumarate:coenzyme A ligase(4CL),catechol-O-methyltransferase(COMT),and cinnamyl-alcohol dehydrogenase(CAD)in the lignin synthesis pathway were significantly reduced in the culms under HD during the critical period for culm formation,and the relative expression levels of TaPAL,Ta4CL,TaCOMT,and TaCAD were significantly downregulated.However,the activities of lignin synthesis-related enzymes and their gene expression levels were significantly increased under HD-h compared with HD.A partial least squares path modeling analysis found significant positive effects between the canopy light environment,the photosynthetic capacity of the middle and lower leaves of plants,lignin synthesis and accumulation,and lodging resistance in the culms.Thus,under conventional high-density planting,the risk of wheat lodging was significantly higher.Accordingly,the canopy light environment can be optimized by changing the heterogeneity of the population distribution to improve the photosynthetic capacity of the middle and lower leaves of plants,promote lignin accumulation in the culm,and enhance lodging resistance in wheat.These findings provide a basis for understanding the mechanism responsible for the lower mechanical strength of the culm under high-yield wheat cultivation,and a theoretical basis and for developing technical measures to enhance lodging resistance.展开更多
The objective of this study was to characterize the phaseolin type and a-amylase(αAI) level in common bean(Phaseolus vidgaris L.) accessions deposited in the Chinese National Genebank.The 40 accessions sampled were c...The objective of this study was to characterize the phaseolin type and a-amylase(αAI) level in common bean(Phaseolus vidgaris L.) accessions deposited in the Chinese National Genebank.The 40 accessions sampled were common varieties originating in Asia,North America,South America,Europe,and Africa.No Inca(I-) phaseolin was observed in the accessions.Only four accessions contained Tendergreen(T-) phaseolin and the remaining36 contained Sanilac(S-) phaseolin.aAI proteins extracted from nine accessions showed higher a-amylase inhibitory activity than the control(Phase 2,IC_(50) = 0.65 μg).These common bean accessions have potential use as nutraceutical ingredients.展开更多
Grafting is an ancient technique used for plant propagation and improvement in horticultural crops for at least 1,500 years.Citrus plants,with a seed-to-seed cycle of 5–15 years,are among the fruit crops that were pr...Grafting is an ancient technique used for plant propagation and improvement in horticultural crops for at least 1,500 years.Citrus plants,with a seed-to-seed cycle of 5–15 years,are among the fruit crops that were probably domesticated by grafting.Poncirus trifoliata,a widely used citrus rootstock,can promote early flowering,strengthen stress tolerance,and improve fruit quality via scion–rootstock interactions.Here,we report its genome assembly using PacBio sequencing.We obtained a final genome of 303 Mb with a contig N50 size of 1.17Mb and annotated 25,680 protein-coding genes.DNA methylome and transcriptome analyses indicated that the strong adaptability of P.trifoliata is likely attributable to its special epigenetic modification and expression pattern of resistance-related genes.Heterografting by using sweet orange as scion and P.trifoliata as rootstock and autografting using sweet orange as both scion and rootstock were performed to investigate the genetic effects of the rootstock.Single-base methylome analysis indicated that P.trifoliata as a rootstock caused DNA demethylation and a reduction in 24-nt small RNAs(sRNAs)in scions compared to the level observed with autografting,implying the involvement of sRNA-mediated graft-transmissible epigenetic modifications in citrus grafting.Taken together,the assembled genome for the citrus rootstock and the analysis of graft-induced epigenetic modifications provide global insights into the genetic effects of rootstock–scion interactions and grafting biology.展开更多
In this study,the effects of plasma treatment parameters on surface morphology,chemical constituent,dycabiliiy and color fastness of silk fabric were investigated.Atmospheric pressure glow discharge plasma generated w...In this study,the effects of plasma treatment parameters on surface morphology,chemical constituent,dycabiliiy and color fastness of silk fabric were investigated.Atmospheric pressure glow discharge plasma generated with different applied voltages(0 kV to 45 kV)was used to treat the surface of silk fabrics.C I Natural Yellow 3 was used to dye untreated and plasma-treated silk fabrics.The physical analysis based on scanning electron microscopy showed that the surface of silk fabrics was affected by plasma treatment.The chemical analysis was investigated with x-ray photi>elcctron spectroscopy and attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy.The results showed that the content of C Is decreased with the increasing applied voltage,the content of N Is and O Is increased with the increasing applied voltage.The increasing K/S values represented that the dyeability of silk fabrics was improved after plasma treatment.The color fastness to dry and wet rubbing was decreased after plasma treatment.展开更多
Purpose Skin pigmentation disorders,such as vitiligo and melasma,are difficult to diagnose in the early stages,but abnor-mal tyrosinase levels and tyrosinase activity are potential indicators.Some resorufin-based fluo...Purpose Skin pigmentation disorders,such as vitiligo and melasma,are difficult to diagnose in the early stages,but abnor-mal tyrosinase levels and tyrosinase activity are potential indicators.Some resorufin-based fluorescence probes(RBFPs)have been designed to detect tyrosinase in tumors,but they have not been used in skin pigmentation disorders.In this study,one of these RBFPs(synthesized by resorufin salt coupled with 3-(bromomethyl)phenol)was evaluated comprehensively.Methods The RBFP was tested in different kinds of mouse and human skin cells,as well as in in vivo models,including zebrafish,guinea pigs,and Sprague-Dawley rats.In addition,small interfering RNAs(siRNAs),kojic acid,and 1-phenyl-2-thiourea(PTU)were used to inhibit tyrosinase levels or tyrosinase activity.Results This probe successfully detected tyrosinase and emitted red fluorescence in melanoma cells and melanocytes.Fluorescence was also observable in zebrafish and on the skin of guinea pigs when using the RBFP.In mouse and human cells,the RBFP showed good selectivity to tyrosinase.Moreover,in the case of decreased tyrosinase levels or activity caused by siRNAs,kojic acid,or PTU,the probe was sensitive to these changes.Further,the RBFP showed no toxic effects at concentrations of<20μmol/L,both in vitro and in vivo.Conclusions Our findings indicate the value and limitations of the RBFP in tyrosinase detection,but suggest the need for further improvement of fluorescent probes in the diagnosis of skin pigmentation disorders.展开更多
[Objectives]In terms of increasing the utilization of land in agriculture and the per unit area yield,intercropping is the most popular farming method.[Methods]Based on the climate and soil conditions in Zhaoqing,this...[Objectives]In terms of increasing the utilization of land in agriculture and the per unit area yield,intercropping is the most popular farming method.[Methods]Based on the climate and soil conditions in Zhaoqing,this experiment explored the improved mode of no-tillage intercropping winter potato with citrus in the new high-ridge,wide-row and dense-plant cultivation mode citrus orchard.Taking the conventional tillage and film-mulched intercropping as the control,it studied the adaptability of intercropping,evaluated the quality,and analyzed its economic benefits.[Results]The early emergence rate of improved no-tillage intercropping cultivation was slightly higher than that of conventional tillage and film-mulched intercropping,but the difference of final emergence rate was not significant,indicating that improved no-tillage intercropping cultivation could provide excellent potato emergence environment.Under the conventional tillage and improved no-tillage intercropping cultivation mode,the change trend of the potato's plant height,main stem thickness,crown diameter and number of leaflet is the same.The change rule of the crown diameter of the film-mulched intercropping cultivation method is similar to that of the plant height,both have a large increase in the late growth stage.The potato yield of improved no-tillage intercropping cultivation were 22747.5 kg/ha,and the proportions of potatoes of each grade were 11.85%,35.61%,37.63%and 14.91%,respectively.The content of dry matter,Vc,soluble protein,starch and amino acid in the main nutrients of the potato under the improved no-tillage intercropping mode is not significantly different from that of the film-mulched intercropping cultivation.The changing trend of reducing sugar content showed that the reducing sugar content of no-tillage intercropping cultivation was the highest(0.466%).Through evaluating the eating characteristics of potatoes from the flavor,taste,texture and appearance after chewing,the three cultivation methods have little difference.In the no-tillage intercropping cultivation technology,the growth of potatoes consumes part of the nutrients in the soil between the rows of the citrus orchard,but it does not exerts a significant impact on the surrounding citrus trees.Compared with the film-mulched intercropping cultivation,the improved no-tillage intercropping cultivation method does not require the expense of mulched,the cost of fertilizer is low,and labor costs are saved,so a net income of 27075 yuan/ha can be obtained.[Conclusions]From the perspective of orchard intercropping,it has achieved the effect of improving soil utilization and increasing output without reducing the edible quality of potatoes.展开更多
Insects play important roles in the maintenance of ecosystem functioning and the provision of livelihoods for millions of people.However,compared with terrestrial vertebrates and angiosperms,such as the giant panda,cr...Insects play important roles in the maintenance of ecosystem functioning and the provision of livelihoods for millions of people.However,compared with terrestrial vertebrates and angiosperms,such as the giant panda,crested ibis,and the metasequoia,insect conservation has not attracted enough attention,and a basic understanding of the geographical biodiversity patterns for major components of insects in China is lacking.Herein,we investigated the geographical distribution of insect biodiversity across multiple dimensions(taxonomic,genetic,and phylogenetic diversity)based on the spatial distribution and molecular DNA sequencing data of insects.Our analysis included 18 orders,360 families,5,275 genera,and 14,115 species of insects.The results revealed that Southwestern and Southeastern China harbored higher insect biodiversity and numerous older lineages,representing a museum,whereas regions located in Northwestern China harbored lower insect biodiversity and younger lineages,serving as an evolutionary cradle.We also observed that mean annual temperature and precipitation had significantly positive effects,whereas altitude had significantly negative effects on insect biodiversity in most cases.Moreover,cultivated vegetation harbored the highest insect taxonomic and phylogenetic diversity,and needleleaf and broadleaf mixed forests harbored the highest insect genetic diversity.These results indicated that human activities may positively contribute to insect spatial diversity on a regional scale.Our study fills a knowledge gap in insect spatial diversity in China.These findings could help guide national-level conservation plans and the post-2020 biodiversity conservation framework.展开更多
Wild animals and plants have developed a variety of adaptive traits driven by adaptive evolution,an important strategy for species survival and persistence.Uncovering the molecular mechanisms of adaptive evolution is ...Wild animals and plants have developed a variety of adaptive traits driven by adaptive evolution,an important strategy for species survival and persistence.Uncovering the molecular mechanisms of adaptive evolution is the key to understanding species diversification,phenotypic convergence,and inter-species interaction.As the genome sequences of more and more non-model organisms are becoming available,the focus of studies on molecular mechanisms of adaptive evolution has shifted from the candidate gene method to genetic mapping based on genome-wide scanning.In this study,we reviewed the latest research advances in wild animals and plants,focusing on adaptive traits,convergent evolution,and coevolution.Firstly,we focused on the adaptive evolution of morphological,behavioral,and physiological traits.Secondly,we reviewed the phenotypic convergences of life history traits and responding to environmental pressures,and the underlying molecular convergence mechanisms.Thirdly,we summarized the advances of coevolution,including the four main types:mutualism,parasitism,predation and competition.Overall,these latest advances greatly increase our understanding of the underlying molecular mechanisms for diverse adaptive traits and species interaction,demonstrating that the development of evolutionary biology has been greatly accelerated by multi-omics technologies.Finally,we highlighted the emerging trends and future prospects around the above three aspects of adaptive evolution.展开更多
Multifaceted approaches are required to monitor wildlife populations and improve conservation efforts. In the last decade,increasing evidence suggests that metagenomic analysis offers valuable perspectives and tools f...Multifaceted approaches are required to monitor wildlife populations and improve conservation efforts. In the last decade,increasing evidence suggests that metagenomic analysis offers valuable perspectives and tools for identifying microbial communities and functions. It has become clear that gut microbiome plays a critical role in health, nutrition, and physiology of wildlife, including numerous endangered animals in the wild and in captivity. In this review, we first introduce the human microbiome and metagenomics, highlighting the importance of microbiome for host fitness. Then, for the first time, we propose the concept of conservation metagenomics, an emerging subdiscipline of conservation biology, which aims to understand the roles of the microbiota in evolution and conservation of endangered animals. We define what conservation metagenomics is along with current approaches, main scientific issues and significant implications in the study of host evolution, physiology,nutrition, ecology and conservation. We also discuss future research directions of conservation metagenomics. Although there is still a long way to go, conservation metagenomics has already shown a significant potential for improving the conservation and management of wildlife.展开更多
Gut microbiota plays a critical role in host physiology and health.The coevolution between the host and its gut microbes facilitates animal adaptation to its specific ecological niche.Multiple factors such as host die...Gut microbiota plays a critical role in host physiology and health.The coevolution between the host and its gut microbes facilitates animal adaptation to its specific ecological niche.Multiple factors such as host diet and phylogeny modulate the structure and function of gut microbiota.However,the relative contribution of each factor in shaping the structure of gut microbiota remains unclear.The giant(Ailuropoda melanoleuca)and red(Ailurus styani)pandas belong to different families of order Carnivora.They have evolved as obligate bamboo-feeders and can be used as a model system for studying the gut microbiome convergent evolution.Here,we compare the structure and function of gut microbiota of the two pandas with their carnivorous relatives using 16S rRNA and metagenome sequencing.We found that both panda species share more similarities in their gut microbiota structure with each other than each species shares with its carnivorous relatives.This indicates that the specialized herbivorous diet rather than host phylogeny is the dominant driver of gut microbiome convergence within Arctoidea.Metagenomic analysis revealed that the symbiotic gut microbiota of both pandas possesses a high level of starch and sucrose metabolism and vitamin B12 biosynthesis.These findings suggest a diet-driven convergence of gut microbiomes and provide new insight into host-microbiota coevolution of these endangered species.展开更多
Seasonally reproducing animals show many behavioral and physiological changes during the mating period, including increased signaling for intrasexual competition and mate attraction. We collected 102 anogenital gland ...Seasonally reproducing animals show many behavioral and physiological changes during the mating period, including increased signaling for intrasexual competition and mate attraction. We collected 102 anogenital gland secretions(AGS) from marking trees in Foping Nature Reserve, and used gas chromatography mass spectrometry to analyze these chemical composition. Of these marks, all but one were from males, confirmed with DNA analysis. We found that several chemical constituents, especially volatile compounds, were present only during the mating season and that the relative abundance of many compounds changed as a function of breeding season, whereas nonvolatile compounds were lower in the mating season. This seasonal variation in chemical composition of AGS most likely plays an important role in governing giant panda reproduction, including mate location, attraction, and male-male competition. The chemical properties of many of these putative chemosignals—such as volatility and longevity—are suggestive of these roles, and undoubtedly contribute to successful reproduction for this species with a characteristically sophisticated chemical communication system. We also found a number of important differences between the chemical constituents of AGS from wild pandas and those found in previous studies with captive pandas, suggesting that inappropriate chemosignal composition may contribute to poor reproductive success in captive breeding programs.展开更多
Understanding population size and genetic diversity is critical for effective conservation of endangered species.The Amur tiger(Panthera tigris altaica)is the largest felid and a flagship species for wildlife conserva...Understanding population size and genetic diversity is critical for effective conservation of endangered species.The Amur tiger(Panthera tigris altaica)is the largest felid and a flagship species for wildlife conservation.Due to habitat loss and human activities,available habitat and population size are continuously shrinking.However,little is known about the true population size and genetic diversity of wild tiger populations in China.In this study,we collected 55 fecal samples and 1 hair sample to investigate the population size and genetic diversity of wild Amur tigers in Hunchun National Nature Reserve,Jilin Province,China.From the samples,we determined that 23 fecal samples and 1 hair sample were from 7 Amur tigers:2 males,4 females and 1 individual of unknown sex.Interestingly,2 fecal samples that were presumed to be from tigers were from Amur leopards,highlighting the significant advantages of noninvasive genetics over traditional methods in studying rare and elusive animals.Analyses from this sample suggested that the genetic diversity of wild Amur tigers is much lower than that of Bengal tigers,consistent with previous findings.Furthermore,the genetic diversity of this Hunchun population in China was lower than that of the adjoining subpopulation in southwest Primorye Russia,likely due to sampling bias.Considering the small population size and relatively low genetic diversity,it is urgent to protect this endangered local subpopulation in China.展开更多
Understanding habitat requirements and identifying landscape linkages are essential for the survival of isolated populations of endangered species.Currently,some of the giant panda populations are isolated,which...Understanding habitat requirements and identifying landscape linkages are essential for the survival of isolated populations of endangered species.Currently,some of the giant panda populations are isolated,which threatens their long-term survival,particularly in the Xiaoxiangling mountains.In the present study,we quantified niche requirements and then identified potential linkages of giant panda subpopulations in the most isolated region,using ecological niche factor analysis and a least-cost path model.Giant pandas preferred habitat with conifer forest and gentle slopes(>20 to≤30°).Based on spatial distribution of suitable habitat,linkages were identified for the Yele subpopulation to 4 other subpopulations(Liziping,Matou,Xinmin and Wanba).Their lengths ranged from 15 to 54 km.The accumulated cost ranged from 693 to 3166 and conifer forest covered over 31%.However,a variety of features(e.g.major roads,human settlements and large unforested areas)might act as barriers along the linkages for giant panda dispersal.Our analysis quantified giant panda subpopulation connectivity to ensure long-term survival.展开更多
Bats are reservoirs for multiple coronaviruses(Co Vs).However,the phylogenetic diversity and transmission of global bat-borne Co Vs remain poorly understood.Here,we performed a Bayesian phylogeographic analysis based ...Bats are reservoirs for multiple coronaviruses(Co Vs).However,the phylogenetic diversity and transmission of global bat-borne Co Vs remain poorly understood.Here,we performed a Bayesian phylogeographic analysis based on 3,594 bat Co V Rd Rp gene sequences to study the phylogenetic diversity and transmission of bat-borne Co Vs and the underlying driving factors.We found that host-switching events occurred more frequently forα-Co Vs than forβ-Co Vs,and the latter was highly constrained by bat phylogeny.Bat species in the families Molossidae,Rhinolophidae,Miniopteridae,and Vespertilionidae had larger contributions to the cross-species transmission of bat Co Vs.Regions of eastern and southern Africa,southern South America,Western Europe,and Southeast Asia were more frequently involved in cross-region transmission events of bat Co Vs than other regions.Phylogenetic and geographic distances were the most important factors limiting Co V transmission.Bat taxa and global geographic hotspots associated with bat Co V phylogenetic diversity were identified,and bat species richness,mean annual temperature,global agricultural cropland,and human population density were strongly correlated with the phylogenetic diversity of bat Co Vs.These findings provide insight into bat Co Vevolution and ecological transmission among bat taxa.The identified hotspots of bat Co V evolution and transmission will guide early warnings of bat-borne Co V zoonotic diseases.展开更多
Conservation genetics and genomics are two independent disciplines that focus on using new techniques in genetics and genomics to solve problems in conservation biology. During the past two decades,conservation geneti...Conservation genetics and genomics are two independent disciplines that focus on using new techniques in genetics and genomics to solve problems in conservation biology. During the past two decades,conservation genetics and genomics have experienced rapid progress. Here, we summarize the research advances in the conservation genetics and genomics of threatened vertebrates(e.g., carnivorans, primates, ungulates, cetaceans, avians, amphibians and reptiles) in China. First, we introduce the concepts of conservation genetics and genomics and their development. Second, we review the recent advances in conservation genetics research, including noninvasive genetics and landscape genetics. Third, we summarize the progress in conservation genomics research, which mainly focuses on resolving genetic problems relevant to conservation such as genetic diversity, genetic structure, demographic history, and genomic evolution and adaptation. Finally, we discuss the future directions of conservation genetics and genomics.展开更多
Niobium pentoxide(Nb2O5)has attracted much attention in lithium batteries due to its advantages of high operating voltage,large theoretical capacity,environmental friendliness and cost-effectiveness.However,the intrin...Niobium pentoxide(Nb2O5)has attracted much attention in lithium batteries due to its advantages of high operating voltage,large theoretical capacity,environmental friendliness and cost-effectiveness.However,the intrinsic poor electrical conductivity,sluggish kinetics,and large volume changes hinder its electrochemical performance at high power density,making it away from the requirements for practical applications.In this research work,we regulate the electron transport of niobium-nickel oxide(NiNbO)anode material with enhanced structural stability at high power density by constructing the two-phase boundaries between niobium pentoxide(Nb2O5)and nickel niobate(NiNb2O6)through simple solid phase reaction.In addition,the presence of lattice defects in NiNbO-F further speeds up the transport of Li+and promotes the electrochemical reaction kinetics more effectively.The two-phase boundaries and defect modulated anode material displays high Li+diffusion coefficient of 1.63×10^(−10) cm^(2) s^(−1),pretty high initial discharge capacity of 222.8 mAh g^(−1) at 1 C,extraordinary high rate performance(66.7 mAh g^(−1))at an ultrahigh rate(100 C)and ultra-long cycling stability under high rate of 25 C(83.4 mAh g^(−1) after 2000 cycles)with only 0.016%attenuation per cycle.These results demonstrate an effective approach for developing electrode materials that greatly improve rate performance and durability.展开更多
The explosive accumulation of mammalian genomes has provided a valuable resource to characterize the evolution of the Y chromosome.Unexpectedly,the Y-chromosome sequence has been characterized in only a small ha...The explosive accumulation of mammalian genomes has provided a valuable resource to characterize the evolution of the Y chromosome.Unexpectedly,the Y-chromosome sequence has been characterized in only a small handful of species,with the majority being model organisms.Thus,identification of Y-linked scaffolds from unordered genome sequences is becoming more important.Here,we used a syntenic-based approach to generate the scaffolds of the male-specific region of the Y chromosome(MSY)from the genome sequence of 6 male carnivore species.Our results identified 14,15,9,28,14 and 11 Y-linked scaffolds in polar bears,pacific walruses,red pandas,cheetahs,ferrets and tigers,covering 1.55 Mbp,2.62 Mbp,964 Kb,1.75 Mb,2.17 Mbp and 1.84 Mb MSY,respectively.All the candidate Y-linked scaffolds in 3 selected species(red pandas,polar bears and tigers)were successfully verified using polymerase chain reaction.We re-annotated 8 carnivore MSYs including these 6 Y-linked scaffolds and domestic dog and cat MSY;a total of 11 orthologous genes conserved in at least 7 of the 8 carnivores were identified.These 11 Y-linked genes have significantly higher evolutionary rates compared with their X-linked counterparts,indicating less purifying selection for MSY genes.Taken together,our study shows that the approach of synteny search is a reliable and easily affordable strategy to identify Y-linked scaffolds from unordered carnivore genomes and provides a preliminary evolutionary study for carnivore MSY genes.展开更多
Taxonomy plays an important role in understanding the origin, evolution, and ecological functionality of biodiversity. There are large number of unknown species yet to be described by taxonomists, which together with ...Taxonomy plays an important role in understanding the origin, evolution, and ecological functionality of biodiversity. There are large number of unknown species yet to be described by taxonomists, which together with their ecosystem services cannot be effectively protected prior to description. Despite this, taxonomy has been increasingly underrated insufficient funds and permanent positions to retain young talents. Further, the impact factordriven evaluation systems in China exacerbate this downward trend, so alternative evaluation metrics are urgently necessary. When the current generation of outstanding taxonomists retires,there will be too few remaining taxonomists left to train the next generation. In light of these challenges, all co-authors worked together on this paper to analyze the current situation of taxonomy and put out a joint call for immediate actions to advance taxonomy in China.展开更多
Global biodiversity is undergoing dramatic loss,mostly due to anthropogenic actions and climate change.Around 2.3seed plants died out each year in the past 2.5 centuries(Humphreys et al.,2019).Current species extincti...Global biodiversity is undergoing dramatic loss,mostly due to anthropogenic actions and climate change.Around 2.3seed plants died out each year in the past 2.5 centuries(Humphreys et al.,2019).Current species extinction rates are about 1,000 times the likely background rate of extinction(Pimm et al.,2014).展开更多
基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32071955)the Natural Science Foundation of Shaanxi Province,China(2018JQ3061).
文摘Lodging is still the key factor that limits continuous increases in wheat yields today,because the mechanical strength of culms is reduced due to low-light stress in populations under high-yield cultivation.The mechanical properties of the culm are mainly determined by lignin,which is affected by the light environment.However,little is known about whether the light environment can be sufficiently improved by changing the population distribution to inhibit culm lodging.Therefore,in this study,we used the wheat cultivar“Xinong 979”to establish a low-density homogeneous distribution treatment(LD),high-density homogeneous distribution treatment(HD),and high-density heterogeneous distribution treatment(HD-h)to study the regulatory effects and mechanism responsible for differences in the lodging resistance of wheat culms under different population distributions.Compared with LD,HD significantly reduced the light transmittance in the middle and basal layers of the canopy,the net photosynthetic rate in the middle and lower leaves of plants,the accumulation of lignin in the culm,and the breaking resistance of the culm,and thus the lodging index values increased significantly,with lodging rates of 67.5%in 2020–2021 and 59.3%in 2021–2022.Under HD-h,the light transmittance and other indicators in the middle and basal canopy layers were significantly higher than those under HD,and the lodging index decreased to the point that no lodging occurred.Compared with LD,the activities of phenylalanine ammonia-Lyase(PAL),4-coumarate:coenzyme A ligase(4CL),catechol-O-methyltransferase(COMT),and cinnamyl-alcohol dehydrogenase(CAD)in the lignin synthesis pathway were significantly reduced in the culms under HD during the critical period for culm formation,and the relative expression levels of TaPAL,Ta4CL,TaCOMT,and TaCAD were significantly downregulated.However,the activities of lignin synthesis-related enzymes and their gene expression levels were significantly increased under HD-h compared with HD.A partial least squares path modeling analysis found significant positive effects between the canopy light environment,the photosynthetic capacity of the middle and lower leaves of plants,lignin synthesis and accumulation,and lodging resistance in the culms.Thus,under conventional high-density planting,the risk of wheat lodging was significantly higher.Accordingly,the canopy light environment can be optimized by changing the heterogeneity of the population distribution to improve the photosynthetic capacity of the middle and lower leaves of plants,promote lignin accumulation in the culm,and enhance lodging resistance in wheat.These findings provide a basis for understanding the mechanism responsible for the lower mechanical strength of the culm under high-yield wheat cultivation,and a theoretical basis and for developing technical measures to enhance lodging resistance.
基金supported by the Program of Science and Technology Cooperation with Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan, China (2013DFH30050)the special fund for Agro-scientific Research in the Public Interest (201403063)+1 种基金the earmarked fund for China Agriculture Research System (CYTX-014)Agricultural Science and Technology Innovation Program
文摘The objective of this study was to characterize the phaseolin type and a-amylase(αAI) level in common bean(Phaseolus vidgaris L.) accessions deposited in the Chinese National Genebank.The 40 accessions sampled were common varieties originating in Asia,North America,South America,Europe,and Africa.No Inca(I-) phaseolin was observed in the accessions.Only four accessions contained Tendergreen(T-) phaseolin and the remaining36 contained Sanilac(S-) phaseolin.aAI proteins extracted from nine accessions showed higher a-amylase inhibitory activity than the control(Phase 2,IC_(50) = 0.65 μg).These common bean accessions have potential use as nutraceutical ingredients.
基金the National Key Research and Development Program of China(2018YFD1000101)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(31925034 and 31872052)the National Postdoctoral Program for Innovative Talents(BX20200146)。
文摘Grafting is an ancient technique used for plant propagation and improvement in horticultural crops for at least 1,500 years.Citrus plants,with a seed-to-seed cycle of 5–15 years,are among the fruit crops that were probably domesticated by grafting.Poncirus trifoliata,a widely used citrus rootstock,can promote early flowering,strengthen stress tolerance,and improve fruit quality via scion–rootstock interactions.Here,we report its genome assembly using PacBio sequencing.We obtained a final genome of 303 Mb with a contig N50 size of 1.17Mb and annotated 25,680 protein-coding genes.DNA methylome and transcriptome analyses indicated that the strong adaptability of P.trifoliata is likely attributable to its special epigenetic modification and expression pattern of resistance-related genes.Heterografting by using sweet orange as scion and P.trifoliata as rootstock and autografting using sweet orange as both scion and rootstock were performed to investigate the genetic effects of the rootstock.Single-base methylome analysis indicated that P.trifoliata as a rootstock caused DNA demethylation and a reduction in 24-nt small RNAs(sRNAs)in scions compared to the level observed with autografting,implying the involvement of sRNA-mediated graft-transmissible epigenetic modifications in citrus grafting.Taken together,the assembled genome for the citrus rootstock and the analysis of graft-induced epigenetic modifications provide global insights into the genetic effects of rootstock–scion interactions and grafting biology.
文摘In this study,the effects of plasma treatment parameters on surface morphology,chemical constituent,dycabiliiy and color fastness of silk fabric were investigated.Atmospheric pressure glow discharge plasma generated with different applied voltages(0 kV to 45 kV)was used to treat the surface of silk fabrics.C I Natural Yellow 3 was used to dye untreated and plasma-treated silk fabrics.The physical analysis based on scanning electron microscopy showed that the surface of silk fabrics was affected by plasma treatment.The chemical analysis was investigated with x-ray photi>elcctron spectroscopy and attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy.The results showed that the content of C Is decreased with the increasing applied voltage,the content of N Is and O Is increased with the increasing applied voltage.The increasing K/S values represented that the dyeability of silk fabrics was improved after plasma treatment.The color fastness to dry and wet rubbing was decreased after plasma treatment.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.82073420)the Project of Health and Family Planning Commission of Hunan Province(No.C2019173)+2 种基金the Wisdom Accumulation and Talent Cultivation Project of the Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University(No.YX202007)the New Xiangya Talent Project of the Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University(No.20170301)the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities of Central South University(No.2020zzts294),China.
文摘Purpose Skin pigmentation disorders,such as vitiligo and melasma,are difficult to diagnose in the early stages,but abnor-mal tyrosinase levels and tyrosinase activity are potential indicators.Some resorufin-based fluorescence probes(RBFPs)have been designed to detect tyrosinase in tumors,but they have not been used in skin pigmentation disorders.In this study,one of these RBFPs(synthesized by resorufin salt coupled with 3-(bromomethyl)phenol)was evaluated comprehensively.Methods The RBFP was tested in different kinds of mouse and human skin cells,as well as in in vivo models,including zebrafish,guinea pigs,and Sprague-Dawley rats.In addition,small interfering RNAs(siRNAs),kojic acid,and 1-phenyl-2-thiourea(PTU)were used to inhibit tyrosinase levels or tyrosinase activity.Results This probe successfully detected tyrosinase and emitted red fluorescence in melanoma cells and melanocytes.Fluorescence was also observable in zebrafish and on the skin of guinea pigs when using the RBFP.In mouse and human cells,the RBFP showed good selectivity to tyrosinase.Moreover,in the case of decreased tyrosinase levels or activity caused by siRNAs,kojic acid,or PTU,the probe was sensitive to these changes.Further,the RBFP showed no toxic effects at concentrations of<20μmol/L,both in vitro and in vivo.Conclusions Our findings indicate the value and limitations of the RBFP in tyrosinase detection,but suggest the need for further improvement of fluorescent probes in the diagnosis of skin pigmentation disorders.
基金Special Project for Construction of Modern Agricultural(Citrus)Industrial Technology System(CARS-26)2019 Rural Science and Technology Commissioners Going to the Countryside to Find Problems and Condense the Science and Technology Agriculture Project(2019-18)2018 Guangdong Province Doctoral Workstation Construction Project(2018-386).
文摘[Objectives]In terms of increasing the utilization of land in agriculture and the per unit area yield,intercropping is the most popular farming method.[Methods]Based on the climate and soil conditions in Zhaoqing,this experiment explored the improved mode of no-tillage intercropping winter potato with citrus in the new high-ridge,wide-row and dense-plant cultivation mode citrus orchard.Taking the conventional tillage and film-mulched intercropping as the control,it studied the adaptability of intercropping,evaluated the quality,and analyzed its economic benefits.[Results]The early emergence rate of improved no-tillage intercropping cultivation was slightly higher than that of conventional tillage and film-mulched intercropping,but the difference of final emergence rate was not significant,indicating that improved no-tillage intercropping cultivation could provide excellent potato emergence environment.Under the conventional tillage and improved no-tillage intercropping cultivation mode,the change trend of the potato's plant height,main stem thickness,crown diameter and number of leaflet is the same.The change rule of the crown diameter of the film-mulched intercropping cultivation method is similar to that of the plant height,both have a large increase in the late growth stage.The potato yield of improved no-tillage intercropping cultivation were 22747.5 kg/ha,and the proportions of potatoes of each grade were 11.85%,35.61%,37.63%and 14.91%,respectively.The content of dry matter,Vc,soluble protein,starch and amino acid in the main nutrients of the potato under the improved no-tillage intercropping mode is not significantly different from that of the film-mulched intercropping cultivation.The changing trend of reducing sugar content showed that the reducing sugar content of no-tillage intercropping cultivation was the highest(0.466%).Through evaluating the eating characteristics of potatoes from the flavor,taste,texture and appearance after chewing,the three cultivation methods have little difference.In the no-tillage intercropping cultivation technology,the growth of potatoes consumes part of the nutrients in the soil between the rows of the citrus orchard,but it does not exerts a significant impact on the surrounding citrus trees.Compared with the film-mulched intercropping cultivation,the improved no-tillage intercropping cultivation method does not require the expense of mulched,the cost of fertilizer is low,and labor costs are saved,so a net income of 27075 yuan/ha can be obtained.[Conclusions]From the perspective of orchard intercropping,it has achieved the effect of improving soil utilization and increasing output without reducing the edible quality of potatoes.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(31821001,32030014)the Strategic Priority Research Program of the Chinese Academy of Sciences(XDB31000000)+1 种基金the Youth Innovation Promotion Association,CAS(2022080)the Young Elite Scientist Sponsorship Program by CAST(YESS20200196)。
文摘Insects play important roles in the maintenance of ecosystem functioning and the provision of livelihoods for millions of people.However,compared with terrestrial vertebrates and angiosperms,such as the giant panda,crested ibis,and the metasequoia,insect conservation has not attracted enough attention,and a basic understanding of the geographical biodiversity patterns for major components of insects in China is lacking.Herein,we investigated the geographical distribution of insect biodiversity across multiple dimensions(taxonomic,genetic,and phylogenetic diversity)based on the spatial distribution and molecular DNA sequencing data of insects.Our analysis included 18 orders,360 families,5,275 genera,and 14,115 species of insects.The results revealed that Southwestern and Southeastern China harbored higher insect biodiversity and numerous older lineages,representing a museum,whereas regions located in Northwestern China harbored lower insect biodiversity and younger lineages,serving as an evolutionary cradle.We also observed that mean annual temperature and precipitation had significantly positive effects,whereas altitude had significantly negative effects on insect biodiversity in most cases.Moreover,cultivated vegetation harbored the highest insect taxonomic and phylogenetic diversity,and needleleaf and broadleaf mixed forests harbored the highest insect genetic diversity.These results indicated that human activities may positively contribute to insect spatial diversity on a regional scale.Our study fills a knowledge gap in insect spatial diversity in China.These findings could help guide national-level conservation plans and the post-2020 biodiversity conservation framework.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (31821001)the Strategic Priority Research Program of Chinese Academy of Sciences (XDB31000000)。
文摘Wild animals and plants have developed a variety of adaptive traits driven by adaptive evolution,an important strategy for species survival and persistence.Uncovering the molecular mechanisms of adaptive evolution is the key to understanding species diversification,phenotypic convergence,and inter-species interaction.As the genome sequences of more and more non-model organisms are becoming available,the focus of studies on molecular mechanisms of adaptive evolution has shifted from the candidate gene method to genetic mapping based on genome-wide scanning.In this study,we reviewed the latest research advances in wild animals and plants,focusing on adaptive traits,convergent evolution,and coevolution.Firstly,we focused on the adaptive evolution of morphological,behavioral,and physiological traits.Secondly,we reviewed the phenotypic convergences of life history traits and responding to environmental pressures,and the underlying molecular convergence mechanisms.Thirdly,we summarized the advances of coevolution,including the four main types:mutualism,parasitism,predation and competition.Overall,these latest advances greatly increase our understanding of the underlying molecular mechanisms for diverse adaptive traits and species interaction,demonstrating that the development of evolutionary biology has been greatly accelerated by multi-omics technologies.Finally,we highlighted the emerging trends and future prospects around the above three aspects of adaptive evolution.
基金funded by the Strategic Priority Research Program of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (XDB31000000)the National Key Program of Research and Development, Ministry of Science and Technology of China (2016YFC0503200)the Creative Research Group Project of National Natural Science Foundation of China (31821001)
文摘Multifaceted approaches are required to monitor wildlife populations and improve conservation efforts. In the last decade,increasing evidence suggests that metagenomic analysis offers valuable perspectives and tools for identifying microbial communities and functions. It has become clear that gut microbiome plays a critical role in health, nutrition, and physiology of wildlife, including numerous endangered animals in the wild and in captivity. In this review, we first introduce the human microbiome and metagenomics, highlighting the importance of microbiome for host fitness. Then, for the first time, we propose the concept of conservation metagenomics, an emerging subdiscipline of conservation biology, which aims to understand the roles of the microbiota in evolution and conservation of endangered animals. We define what conservation metagenomics is along with current approaches, main scientific issues and significant implications in the study of host evolution, physiology,nutrition, ecology and conservation. We also discuss future research directions of conservation metagenomics. Although there is still a long way to go, conservation metagenomics has already shown a significant potential for improving the conservation and management of wildlife.
基金supported by grants from the Strategic Priority Research Program of the Chinese Academy of Sciences(XDB31000000)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(31821001,31471992,31970386)the project of Strategic Biological Resources Service Network of the Chinese Academy of Sciences(ZSSD003)。
文摘Gut microbiota plays a critical role in host physiology and health.The coevolution between the host and its gut microbes facilitates animal adaptation to its specific ecological niche.Multiple factors such as host diet and phylogeny modulate the structure and function of gut microbiota.However,the relative contribution of each factor in shaping the structure of gut microbiota remains unclear.The giant(Ailuropoda melanoleuca)and red(Ailurus styani)pandas belong to different families of order Carnivora.They have evolved as obligate bamboo-feeders and can be used as a model system for studying the gut microbiome convergent evolution.Here,we compare the structure and function of gut microbiota of the two pandas with their carnivorous relatives using 16S rRNA and metagenome sequencing.We found that both panda species share more similarities in their gut microbiota structure with each other than each species shares with its carnivorous relatives.This indicates that the specialized herbivorous diet rather than host phylogeny is the dominant driver of gut microbiome convergence within Arctoidea.Metagenomic analysis revealed that the symbiotic gut microbiota of both pandas possesses a high level of starch and sucrose metabolism and vitamin B12 biosynthesis.These findings suggest a diet-driven convergence of gut microbiomes and provide new insight into host-microbiota coevolution of these endangered species.
基金supported by the Ministry of Science and Technology of China(2016YFC0503200)the Chinese Academy of Sciences(QYZDB-SSW-SMC047)
文摘Seasonally reproducing animals show many behavioral and physiological changes during the mating period, including increased signaling for intrasexual competition and mate attraction. We collected 102 anogenital gland secretions(AGS) from marking trees in Foping Nature Reserve, and used gas chromatography mass spectrometry to analyze these chemical composition. Of these marks, all but one were from males, confirmed with DNA analysis. We found that several chemical constituents, especially volatile compounds, were present only during the mating season and that the relative abundance of many compounds changed as a function of breeding season, whereas nonvolatile compounds were lower in the mating season. This seasonal variation in chemical composition of AGS most likely plays an important role in governing giant panda reproduction, including mate location, attraction, and male-male competition. The chemical properties of many of these putative chemosignals—such as volatility and longevity—are suggestive of these roles, and undoubtedly contribute to successful reproduction for this species with a characteristically sophisticated chemical communication system. We also found a number of important differences between the chemical constituents of AGS from wild pandas and those found in previous studies with captive pandas, suggesting that inappropriate chemosignal composition may contribute to poor reproductive success in captive breeding programs.
文摘Understanding population size and genetic diversity is critical for effective conservation of endangered species.The Amur tiger(Panthera tigris altaica)is the largest felid and a flagship species for wildlife conservation.Due to habitat loss and human activities,available habitat and population size are continuously shrinking.However,little is known about the true population size and genetic diversity of wild tiger populations in China.In this study,we collected 55 fecal samples and 1 hair sample to investigate the population size and genetic diversity of wild Amur tigers in Hunchun National Nature Reserve,Jilin Province,China.From the samples,we determined that 23 fecal samples and 1 hair sample were from 7 Amur tigers:2 males,4 females and 1 individual of unknown sex.Interestingly,2 fecal samples that were presumed to be from tigers were from Amur leopards,highlighting the significant advantages of noninvasive genetics over traditional methods in studying rare and elusive animals.Analyses from this sample suggested that the genetic diversity of wild Amur tigers is much lower than that of Bengal tigers,consistent with previous findings.Furthermore,the genetic diversity of this Hunchun population in China was lower than that of the adjoining subpopulation in southwest Primorye Russia,likely due to sampling bias.Considering the small population size and relatively low genetic diversity,it is urgent to protect this endangered local subpopulation in China.
基金supported by the National Nature Science Foundation(30830020)Key Program of Knowledge Innovation Program of Chinese Academy of Sciences(KSCX2-EW-Z-4)the China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(200904501111).
文摘Understanding habitat requirements and identifying landscape linkages are essential for the survival of isolated populations of endangered species.Currently,some of the giant panda populations are isolated,which threatens their long-term survival,particularly in the Xiaoxiangling mountains.In the present study,we quantified niche requirements and then identified potential linkages of giant panda subpopulations in the most isolated region,using ecological niche factor analysis and a least-cost path model.Giant pandas preferred habitat with conifer forest and gentle slopes(>20 to≤30°).Based on spatial distribution of suitable habitat,linkages were identified for the Yele subpopulation to 4 other subpopulations(Liziping,Matou,Xinmin and Wanba).Their lengths ranged from 15 to 54 km.The accumulated cost ranged from 693 to 3166 and conifer forest covered over 31%.However,a variety of features(e.g.major roads,human settlements and large unforested areas)might act as barriers along the linkages for giant panda dispersal.Our analysis quantified giant panda subpopulation connectivity to ensure long-term survival.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32192420)the Special Foundation for National Science and Technology Basic Research Program of China(2021FY100304)。
文摘Bats are reservoirs for multiple coronaviruses(Co Vs).However,the phylogenetic diversity and transmission of global bat-borne Co Vs remain poorly understood.Here,we performed a Bayesian phylogeographic analysis based on 3,594 bat Co V Rd Rp gene sequences to study the phylogenetic diversity and transmission of bat-borne Co Vs and the underlying driving factors.We found that host-switching events occurred more frequently forα-Co Vs than forβ-Co Vs,and the latter was highly constrained by bat phylogeny.Bat species in the families Molossidae,Rhinolophidae,Miniopteridae,and Vespertilionidae had larger contributions to the cross-species transmission of bat Co Vs.Regions of eastern and southern Africa,southern South America,Western Europe,and Southeast Asia were more frequently involved in cross-region transmission events of bat Co Vs than other regions.Phylogenetic and geographic distances were the most important factors limiting Co V transmission.Bat taxa and global geographic hotspots associated with bat Co V phylogenetic diversity were identified,and bat species richness,mean annual temperature,global agricultural cropland,and human population density were strongly correlated with the phylogenetic diversity of bat Co Vs.These findings provide insight into bat Co Vevolution and ecological transmission among bat taxa.The identified hotspots of bat Co V evolution and transmission will guide early warnings of bat-borne Co V zoonotic diseases.
基金funded by Chinese Academy of Sciences (XDB31000000 and QYZDY-SSW-SMC019)Ministry of Science and Technology (2016YFC0503200)the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Nos.91531302 and 31670386)
文摘Conservation genetics and genomics are two independent disciplines that focus on using new techniques in genetics and genomics to solve problems in conservation biology. During the past two decades,conservation genetics and genomics have experienced rapid progress. Here, we summarize the research advances in the conservation genetics and genomics of threatened vertebrates(e.g., carnivorans, primates, ungulates, cetaceans, avians, amphibians and reptiles) in China. First, we introduce the concepts of conservation genetics and genomics and their development. Second, we review the recent advances in conservation genetics research, including noninvasive genetics and landscape genetics. Third, we summarize the progress in conservation genomics research, which mainly focuses on resolving genetic problems relevant to conservation such as genetic diversity, genetic structure, demographic history, and genomic evolution and adaptation. Finally, we discuss the future directions of conservation genetics and genomics.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.52002119 and 52102346)the National Key R&D Program of China(No.2021YFB3400800)the Startup Funds from the Henan University of Science and Technology(Nos.13480095,13480096,13554031 and 13554032).
文摘Niobium pentoxide(Nb2O5)has attracted much attention in lithium batteries due to its advantages of high operating voltage,large theoretical capacity,environmental friendliness and cost-effectiveness.However,the intrinsic poor electrical conductivity,sluggish kinetics,and large volume changes hinder its electrochemical performance at high power density,making it away from the requirements for practical applications.In this research work,we regulate the electron transport of niobium-nickel oxide(NiNbO)anode material with enhanced structural stability at high power density by constructing the two-phase boundaries between niobium pentoxide(Nb2O5)and nickel niobate(NiNb2O6)through simple solid phase reaction.In addition,the presence of lattice defects in NiNbO-F further speeds up the transport of Li+and promotes the electrochemical reaction kinetics more effectively.The two-phase boundaries and defect modulated anode material displays high Li+diffusion coefficient of 1.63×10^(−10) cm^(2) s^(−1),pretty high initial discharge capacity of 222.8 mAh g^(−1) at 1 C,extraordinary high rate performance(66.7 mAh g^(−1))at an ultrahigh rate(100 C)and ultra-long cycling stability under high rate of 25 C(83.4 mAh g^(−1) after 2000 cycles)with only 0.016%attenuation per cycle.These results demonstrate an effective approach for developing electrode materials that greatly improve rate performance and durability.
基金the funds of the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.31821001,31822050,31270418 and 31470441).
文摘The explosive accumulation of mammalian genomes has provided a valuable resource to characterize the evolution of the Y chromosome.Unexpectedly,the Y-chromosome sequence has been characterized in only a small handful of species,with the majority being model organisms.Thus,identification of Y-linked scaffolds from unordered genome sequences is becoming more important.Here,we used a syntenic-based approach to generate the scaffolds of the male-specific region of the Y chromosome(MSY)from the genome sequence of 6 male carnivore species.Our results identified 14,15,9,28,14 and 11 Y-linked scaffolds in polar bears,pacific walruses,red pandas,cheetahs,ferrets and tigers,covering 1.55 Mbp,2.62 Mbp,964 Kb,1.75 Mb,2.17 Mbp and 1.84 Mb MSY,respectively.All the candidate Y-linked scaffolds in 3 selected species(red pandas,polar bears and tigers)were successfully verified using polymerase chain reaction.We re-annotated 8 carnivore MSYs including these 6 Y-linked scaffolds and domestic dog and cat MSY;a total of 11 orthologous genes conserved in at least 7 of the 8 carnivores were identified.These 11 Y-linked genes have significantly higher evolutionary rates compared with their X-linked counterparts,indicating less purifying selection for MSY genes.Taken together,our study shows that the approach of synteny search is a reliable and easily affordable strategy to identify Y-linked scaffolds from unordered carnivore genomes and provides a preliminary evolutionary study for carnivore MSY genes.
基金mainly supported by National Science Fund for Distinguished Young Scholars (31625024)a grant (2008DP173354) from the Key Laboratory of the Zoological Systematics and Evolution of the Chinese Academy of Sciences。
文摘Taxonomy plays an important role in understanding the origin, evolution, and ecological functionality of biodiversity. There are large number of unknown species yet to be described by taxonomists, which together with their ecosystem services cannot be effectively protected prior to description. Despite this, taxonomy has been increasingly underrated insufficient funds and permanent positions to retain young talents. Further, the impact factordriven evaluation systems in China exacerbate this downward trend, so alternative evaluation metrics are urgently necessary. When the current generation of outstanding taxonomists retires,there will be too few remaining taxonomists left to train the next generation. In light of these challenges, all co-authors worked together on this paper to analyze the current situation of taxonomy and put out a joint call for immediate actions to advance taxonomy in China.
基金the Strategic Priority Research Program of the Chinese Academy of Sciences(XDB3100000)。
文摘Global biodiversity is undergoing dramatic loss,mostly due to anthropogenic actions and climate change.Around 2.3seed plants died out each year in the past 2.5 centuries(Humphreys et al.,2019).Current species extinction rates are about 1,000 times the likely background rate of extinction(Pimm et al.,2014).