ORCID Profile
0000-0002-5779-7351
Current Organisation
University of Wollongong
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Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 06-2014
DOI: 10.1603/EN13264
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 08-2013
DOI: 10.1603/EN12351
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 29-09-2021
DOI: 10.3390/QUAT4040031
Abstract: The Middle Pleistocene fluvial channel site of the Upper Fossil-bearing Interval at Mata Menge in the So’a Basin, Flores, Indonesia, has yielded the earliest fossil evidence for Homo floresiensis in association with stone artefacts and fossils of highly endemic insular fauna, including Stegodon, giant rats, crocodiles, Komodo dragons, and various birds. A preliminary taphonomic review of the fossil material here aimed to provide additional context for the hominin remains in this bonebed. Analysis was performed on two subsets of material from the same fluvial sandstone layer. Subset 1 comprised all material from two adjacent one-metre square quadrants (n = 91), and Subset 2 all Stegodon long limb bones excavated from the same layer (n = 17). Key analytical parameters included species and skeletal element identification fossil size measurements and fragmentation weathering stages bone fracture characteristics and other biological and geological bone surface modifications. Analysis of Subset 1 material identified a highly fragmented assemblage with a significant bias towards Stegodon. A large portion of these bones were likely fractured by tr ling prior to entering the fluvial channel and were transported away from the death-site, undergoing surface modification causing rounding. Subset 2 material was less likely to have been transported far based on its limited susceptibility to fluvial transport. There was no significant difference in weathering for the long limb bones and fragments, with the highest portion exhibiting Stage 2 weathering, indicating that prior to final burial, all material was exposed to prolonged periods of surface exposure. Approximately 10% of all material have characteristics of fracturing on fresh bone, contributing to the taphonomic context for this bonebed however insufficient evidence was found for anthropogenic modification.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 03-06-2020
Abstract: The granary weevil, Sitophilus granarius Linnaeus 1875, is a primary pest of stored grains worldwide. Feeding damage and progeny production of S. granarius was estimated to identify the levels of resistance of the insect on different durum wheat cultivars. Insect attack on four different durum wheat cultivars was investigated over a period of 20 weeks. Durum wheats were artificially infected with 20 in iduals of S. granarius. Every two weeks the s le weight, hectoliter weight, moisture and the number of live weevils, including their number of progenies, were recorded. Overall findings revealed different levels of resistance of different durum wheat cultivars to S. granarius infestation. The Primadur cultivar had the highest resistance, followed by the Marco Aurelio and Cesare cultivars followed finally by the Tito Flavio cultivar which was highly susceptible to S. granarius. For all cultivars, apart from Primadur, S. granarius metabolism increased humidity and temperature, leading to grain degradation and resulting in the potential complete loss of market value if under field conditions. Evidently, durum wheat characteristics affect the life cycle of S. granarius, primarily their progeny, and thus the damage they undertake to the wheat itself. These findings are important because they enable the strategic selection of wheat cultivars that can be stored for a longer time period, while more sensitive wheat cultivars can be selected for shorter storage time and thus faster delivery to market.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 26-08-2012
Abstract: Codling moth (CM), Cydia pomonella L., is an important pest of apples worldwide. CM resistance to insecticides is a serious problem in apple production. For effective management and control, monitoring of resistant CM populations is absolutely necessary. Therefore, in this study, we investigated whether it is possible to find a reliable pattern of differences in CM populations related to the type of apple control method. The genetic results showed low estimated value of the pairwise fixation index, FST = 0.021, which indicates a lack of genetic differentiation and structuring between the genotyped populations. Different approaches were used to analyze the genetic structure of codling moth populations: Bayesian-based model of population structure (STRUCTURE), principal component analysis (PCA), and discriminant analysis of principal components (DAPC). STRUCTURE grouped the CM genotypes into two distinct clusters, and the results of PCA were consistent with this. The DAPC revealed three distinct groups. However, the results showed that population genetic differentiation between organic and integrated orchards was not significant. To confirm the genetic results, the forewing morphology of the same CM in iduals was examined using geometric morphometric techniques based on the venation patterns of 18 landmarks. The geometric results showed higher sensitivity and separated three distinct groups. Geometric morphometrics was shown to be a more sensitive method to detect variability in genotypes due to pest control management. This study shows the possibility of using a novel method for a strategic integrated pest management (IPM) program for CM that is lacking in Europe.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 03-12-2020
DOI: 10.3390/SU122310079
Abstract: The brown marmorated stink bug (Halyomorpha halys Stål, 1855) is an invasive polyphagous species that threatens fruit growing both in the United States and Europe. Many pesticide active ingredients have been studied in H. halys management, but for sustainable fruit growing, which implies the reduction of chemical harm to the environment, new safe insecticides should be implemented into the practice. For this purpose, novel green insecticide based on natural polyphenols of species Stevia rebaudiana (Bertoni) Bertoni and Aronia melanocarpa (Michx.) Elliott 1821 was developed. Stevia leaves (SLE) and Aronia pomace (APE) aqueous extracts were prepared using the ultrasound-assisted extraction method. Optimal extraction conditions for bioactive compounds (total polyphenols, flavonoids, anthocyanins, and flavan-3-ols, respectively) and antioxidant activity were determined using response surface methodology. Bioactive compounds rich SLE and APE were encapsulated in calcium alginate microparticles by the ionic gelation method. Physicochemical characteristics (morphology, size, encapsulation efficiency, loading capacity, and swelling) of microparticles showed very good properties with especially high encapsulation efficiency. Fitting to simple Korsmeyer–Peppa’s empirical model revealed that the underlying release mechanism of polyphenols is Fickian diffusion. SLE loaded microparticles showed very good pesticidal efficiency against Halyomorpha halys, especially on younger larval stages after both contact and digestive treatment. Microparticles loaded with APE did not achieve satisfactory digestive efficiency, but a certain toxic impact has been observed at contact application on all H. halys growth stages. Microparticles loaded with SLS exhibited prolonged insecticidal action against H. halys and could be a potential candidate as a green insecticide whose application could increase fruit growing safety.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 23-07-2016
DOI: 10.1002/PS.4072
Abstract: The western corn rootworm (WCR) is economically the most important pest of maize in Croatia. To predict WCR adult population abundance and variability, traditional, genetic and morphometric monitoring of populations was conducted over time through each phase of the WCR invasion process in Croatia. Through traditional monitoring it was shown that WCR established their current population and reached economic densities after 14 years persisting in the study area. Regression-tree-based modelling showed that the best predictor of WCR adult abundance was the total amount of rainfall. Genetic monitoring indicated that genetic differentiation increased over time at the intrapopulation level, and morphometric monitoring indicated that wing morphotypes varied according to edaphic landscape changes. Traditional population metric surveys are important in WCR integrated pest management (IPM), as such surveys can be effectively used to predict population abundances. Novel-use monitoring techniques such as genetics and geometric morphometrics can be used to provide valuable information on variation within and among populations. The monitoring techniques presented herein provide sound data to assist in the understanding of both WCR ecology and population genetics and may provide more information than that currently available using traditional techniques (e.g. sticky traps), and as such these additional techniques should be written into IPM for WCR.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 03-01-2020
Abstract: The codling moth, Cydia pomonella L., is a serious insect pest in pome fruit production worldwide with a preference for apple. The pest is known for having developed resistance to several chemical groups of insecticides, making its control difficult. The control and management of the codling moth is often hindered by a lack of understanding about its biology and ecology, including aspects of its population genetics. This review summarizes the information about the origin and biology of the codling moth, describes the mechanisms of resistance in this pest, and provides an overview of current research of resistant pest populations and genetic research both in Europe and globally. The main focus of this review is on non-pesticide control measures and anti-resistance strategies which help to reduce the number of chemical pesticides used and their residues on food and the local environment. Regular monitoring for insecticide resistance is essential for proactive management to mitigate potential insecticide resistance. Here we describe techniques for the detection of resistant variants and possibilities for monitoring resistance populations. Also, we present our present work on developing new methods to maintain effective control using appropriate integrated resistance management (IRM) strategies for this economically important perennial pest.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 17-10-2023
DOI: 10.1111/AEC.13247
Abstract: To address uncertainties surrounding the impacts of unprecedented 2019–20 bushfires in south‐eastern Australia, we convened a symposium on field‐measured impacts on bio ersity for the 2020 Ecological Society of Australia conference. Nine presentations covered a range of studies on plant species and communities, and reptiles and mammals. Here, we summarize the presentations and review other field studies from NSW, some of which are currently unpublished. The impacts were extensive, but results also estimated survival rate perhaps higher than first reported in the media. More than half of in idual mammal, reptile and threatened rainforest trees may have survived the fire, though small populations remain very vulnerable to second fire in the near future. Comprehensive understanding of the impacts of these fires requires much more field study, and for the results to be interpreted in the context of the broader fire regime. The symposium was an important early step in that understanding.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 27-08-2021
Abstract: Petaurus breviceps and Petaurus norfolcensis have produced hybrids in captivity, however there are no reported cases of Petaurus hybridisation in the wild. This study uses morphological data, mitochondrial DNA, and nuclear genome-wide SNP markers to confirm P. breviceps breviceps × P. norfolcensis hybridisation within their natural range on the central coast of New South Wales, Australia. Morphological data identified a potential hybrid that was confirmed with next-generation sequencing technology and 10,111 genome-wide SNPs. Both STRUCTURE and NewHybrid analyses identified the hybrid as a P. norfolcensis backcross, which suggests an initial F1 hybrid was fertile. The mitochondrial DNA matched that of a P. b. breviceps, indicating that a P. b. breviceps female initially mated with a P. norfolcensis male to produce a fertile female offspring. Our study is an important ex le of how genome-wide SNPs can be used to identify hybrids where the distribution of congeners overlaps. Hybridisation between congeners is likely to become more frequent as climate changes and habitats fragment, resulting in increased interactions and competition for resources and mates.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 29-01-2023
Abstract: Habitat loss and fragmentation contribute significantly to the decline of arboreal mammal populations. As populations become fragmented and isolated, a reduction in gene flow can result in a loss of genetic ersity and have an overall impact upon long-term persistence. Creating wildlife corridors can mitigate such effects by increasing the movement and dispersal of animals, thus acting to reduce population isolation. To evaluate the success of a corridor, a before–after experimental research framework can be used. Here, we report the genetic ersity and structure of sugar glider (Petaurus breviceps) s ling locations within a fragmented landscape prior to the implementation of a wildlife corridor. This study used 5999 genome-wide SNPs from 94 sugar gliders caught from 8 locations in a fragmented landscape in south-eastern New South Wales, Australia. Overall genetic structure was limited, and gene flow was detected across the landscape. Our findings indicate that the study area contains one large population. A major highway dissecting the landscape did not act as a significant barrier to dispersal, though this may be because of its relatively new presence in the landscape (completed in 2018). Future studies may yet indicate its long-term impact as a barrier to gene flow. Future work should aim to repeat the methods of this study to examine the medium-to-long-term impacts of the wildlife corridor on sugar gliders, as well as examine the genetic structure of other native, specialist species in the landscape.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 06-09-2016
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 07-09-2021
DOI: 10.1111/AEC.13109
Abstract: Ground dwelling mammal communities are documented six months before and after the Clyde Mountain Wildfire of 2019/2020 in Monga National Park. Across eight sites before fire, approximately 12 ground dwelling mammal species were recorded. Survey effort post‐fire increased to 40 sites, spanning three fire severity classes (low, moderate and extreme), revealed 16 ground dwelling mammal species. Species consist of small, medium and large native (one threatened species) and introduced mammals, though consistent with previous findings of ground dwelling mammal ersity in the area. Overall a greater number of species were found in low, compared to moderate and severe fire severity classes. Recovery and detection of mammals occurred in a shorter time period, again, in sites that experienced low, followed by moderate and extreme fire severity.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 12-2021
DOI: 10.1111/AEC.12979
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 08-2013
DOI: 10.1603/EC13010
Abstract: The western corn rootworm, Diabrotica virgifera virgifera LeConte, is a major pest of maize in the United States and more recently, Europe. Understanding the dispersal dynamics of this species will provide crucial information for its management. This study used geometric morphometric analysis of hind wing venation based on 13 landmarks in 223 specimens from nine locations in Illinois, Nebraska, Iowa, and Missouri, to assess whether wing shape and size differed between rotated and continuously grown maize where crop rotation-resistant and susceptible in iduals are found, respectively. Before assessing differences between rotation-resistant and susceptible in iduals, sexual dimorphism was investigated. No significant difference in wing (centroid) size was found between males and females however, females had significantly different shaped (more elongated) wings compared with males. Wing shape and (centroid) size were significantly larger among in iduals from rotated maize where crop-rotation resistance was reported however, cross-validation of these results revealed that collection site resistance status was an only better than average predictor of shape in males and females. This study provides preliminary evidence of wing shape and size differences in D. v. virgifera from rotated versus continuous maize. Further study is needed to confirm whether wing shape and size can be used to track the movement of rotation-resistant in iduals and populations as a means to better inform management strategies.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 02-02-2010
DOI: 10.1017/S0007485309990538
Abstract: Microsatellite markers were used to investigate the genetic structure among invasive L. decolor populations from Australia and a single international population from Kansas, USA to determine patterns of dispersal. Six variable microsatellites displayed an average of 2.5–4.2 alleles per locus per population. Observed (H O ) heterozygosity ranged from 0.12–0.65 per locus within populations but, in 13 of 36 tests, H O was less than expected. Despite low levels of allelic ersity, genetic structure estimated as θ was significant for all pairwise comparisons between populations (θ=0.05–0.23). Due to suspected null alleles at four loci, ENA (excluding null alleles) corrected F ST estimates were calculated overall and for pairwise population comparisons. The ENA- corrected F ST values (0.02–0.10) revealed significant overall genetic structure, but none of the pairwise values were significantly different from zero. A Mantel test of isolation by distance indicated no relationship between genetic structure and geographic distance among all populations (r 2 =0.12, P =0.18) and for Australian populations only (r 2 =0.19, P =0.44), suggesting that IBD does not describe the pattern of gene flow among populations. This study supports a hypothesis of long distance dispersal by L. decolor at moderate to potentially high levels.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2007
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 2015
DOI: 10.1071/AM14034
Abstract: A survey of the spotted-tailed quoll (Dasyurus maculatus) was conducted in the Watagan Mountains of New South Wales using baited remote cameras. Nine in iduals were detected, of which seven occurred at meat-baited sites and two at sites with a general mammal bait. This confirms the expectation that a meat-based bait increases the ability to detect this species using remote cameras.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 13-11-2014
DOI: 10.1111/BIJ.12194
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 09-2020
Abstract: Colorado potato beetle, CPB (Leptinotarsa decemlineata Say), is one of the most important pests of the potato globally. Larvae and adults can cause complete defoliation of potato plant leaves and can lead to a large yield loss. The insect has been successfully suppressed by insecticides however, over time, has developed resistance to insecticides from various chemical groups, and its once successful control has diminished. The number of available active chemical control substances is decreasing with the process of testing, and registering new products on the market are time-consuming and expensive, with the possibility of resistance ever present. All of these concerns have led to the search for new methods to control CPB and efficient tools to assist with the detection of resistant variants and monitoring of resistant populations. Current strategies that may aid in slowing resistance include gene silencing by RNA interference (RNAi). RNAi, besides providing an efficient tool for gene functional studies, represents a safe, efficient, and eco-friendly strategy for CPB control. Genetically modified (GM) crops that produce the toxins of Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) have many advantages over agro-technical, mechanical, biological, and chemical measures. However, pest resistance that may occur and public acceptance of GM modified food crops are the main problems associated with Bt crops. Recent developments in the speed, cost, and accuracy of next generation sequencing are revolutionizing the discovery of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and field of population genomics. There is a need for effective resistance monitoring programs that are capable of the early detection of resistance and successful implementation of integrated resistance management (IRM). The main focus of this review is on new technologies for CPB control (RNAi) and tools (SNPs) for detection of resistant CPB populations.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 25-09-2015
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 29-10-2020
DOI: 10.3390/SYM12111789
Abstract: Fluctuating asymmetry (FA), in contrast with other asymmetries, is the bilateral asymmetry that represents small, random developmental differences between right and left sides. After nearly a century of using traditional morphometrics in the estimation of FA, geometric morphometrics (GM) now provides new insights into the use of FA as a tool, especially for assessing environmental and developmental stress. Thus, it will be possible to assess adaptation to various environmental stressors as particular triggers for unavoidable selection pressures. In this review, we describe measures of FA that use geometric morphometrics, and we include a flow chart of the methodology. We also describe how this combination (GM + FA) has been tested in several agroecosystems. Nutritional stress, temperature, chemical pollution, and population density are known stressors experienced by populations in agroecosystems.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 2015
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 30-05-2021
DOI: 10.3390/SU13116167
Abstract: Alternatives and replacements for synthetic chemical-based plant protectants are required. In this study biopolymeric microspheres containing arthropod-derived apitoxin are explored as a possible novel environmentally friendly formulation for plant protection. Here we document the optimization process for microencapsulation of apitoxin into a stable formulation, for ready use in agricultural applications. Efficacy trials were carried out on three different beetle species at various developmental stages (Leptinotarsa decemlineata (Say, 1824.), Tenebrio molitor (Linnaeus, 1758.), Sitophilus granarius (Linnaeus, 1758.)). The encapsulated apitoxin has a steady initial and long residual effect, due to the slow release of apitoxin which is one of its main advantages over other conventional control methods. Microspheres loaded with apitoxin have a detrimental effect on insects, of which it is significantly better gastric compared to contact action (due to pH). The results showed that the highest and fastest mortality was obtained when the highest concentrations (0.6%) were applied, chosen to be economically acceptable. These important findings contribute to knowledge on the application and development of encapsulated apitoxin formulations, and their effectiveness, as an alternative eco-friendly control method in agricultural production.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 04-06-2016
DOI: 10.1007/S10661-016-5380-6
Abstract: The use of the marine gastropod, Cellana tramoserica, as a biomonitor of metal exposure was investigated. The factors influencing metal concentrations, such as mass, gender, substrate, shoreline position and temporal variation were examined. Tissue metal concentrations were mostly found to be independent of mass and gender. When metal concentrations were significantly correlated with mass, correlations were low and explained little variability. The underlying substrate and position in the littoral zone had only a small influence on metal concentrations. Variation between in iduals, inherent variability due to genetic variability, was the most significant contribution to the overall variation in metal concentrations, resulting in positive skewing of population distributions. The mean metal concentrations varied temporally metal masses were relatively constant with fluctuations in metal concentrations related to fluctuations in metal body burdens. The populations from a metal-contaminated site had significantly higher tissue Cu, Zn, As and Pb concentrations than the populations from relatively uncontaminated locations. C. tramoserica therefore can be considered to be a net accumulator of metals. A s le number of >10 is required to detect changes of 25 % from the mean concentrations at uncontaminated locations. This species meets the requirements of a suitable biomonitor for metal contaminants in the environment i.e. hardy, sessile, widespread, sufficient tissue mass and a metal accumulator. As the measurement of metal concentrations in C. tramesoria were influenced by substrate and shore position and, sometimes, mass, sites with similar substrates and organisms of similar mass and shoreline position should be chosen for comparison. When comparing metal concentrations in gastropods from different locations, they should be collected over the same period to minimise variability due to mass differences, spawning and other seasonal/temporal effects.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 24-06-2021
DOI: 10.3390/AGRICULTURE11070585
Abstract: The western corn rootworm (WCR), is one of the most serious pests of maize in the United States. In this study, we aimed to find a reliable pattern of difference related to resistance type using population genetic and geometric morphometric approaches. To perform a detailed population genetic analysis of the whole genome, we used single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) markers. For the morphometric analyses, hindwings of the resistant and non-resistant WCR populations from the US were used. Genetic results showed that there were some differences among the resistant US populations. The low value of pairwise FST = 0.0181 estimated suggests a lack of genetic differentiation and structuring among the putative populations genotyped. However, STRUCTURE analysis revealed three genetic clusters. Heterozygosity estimates (HO and HE) over all loci and populations were very similar. There was no exact pattern, and resistance could be found throughout the whole genome. The geometric morphometric results confirmed the genetic results, with the different genetic populations showing similar wing shape. Our results also confirmed that the hindwings of WCR carry valuable genetic information. This study highlights the ability of geometric morphometrics to capture genetic patterns and provides a reliable and low-cost alternative for preliminary estimation of population structure. The combined use of SNPs and geometric morphometrics to detect resistant variants is a novel approach where morphological traits can provide additional information about underlying population genetics, and morphology can retain useful information about genetic structure. Additionally, it offers new insights into an important and ongoing area of pest management on how to prevent or delay pest evolution towards resistant populations, minimizing the negative impacts of resistance.
Publisher: Research Information Ltd.
Date: 08-2005
DOI: 10.1564/16AUG09
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 07-07-2006
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2007
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 20-05-2021
Abstract: The use of genetic information in conservation biology has become more widespread with genetic information more readily available for non-model organisms. It has also been recognized that genetic information from invasive species can inform their management and control. The red fox poses a significant threat to Australian native fauna and the agricultural industry. Despite this, there are few recently published studies investigating the population genetics of foxes in Australia. This study investigated the population genetics of 94 foxes across the Illawarra and Shoalhaven regions of New South Wales, Australia. Diversity Array sequencing technology was used to genotype a large number of single nucleotide polymorphisms (N = 33,375). Moderate genetic ersity and relatedness were observed across the foxes s led. Low to moderate levels of inbreeding, high-levels of identity-by-state values, as well as high identity-by-descent values were also found. There was limited evidence for population genetic structure among the foxes across the landscape s led, supporting the presence of a single population across the study area. This indicates that there may be no barriers hindering fox dispersal across the landscape.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.FORSCIINT.2013.05.031
Abstract: It is of fundamental importance in forensic entomology that the factors controlling carcass temperatures during decomposition are thoroughly understood. The thermal environment to which fly larvae are exposed is the primary influence on their growth rate, and hence affects any estimate of minimum time since death using such specimens in homicide investigations. To date, much of the entomological research on maggot masses has focused on their elevation of carcass temperatures, with very little focus on the bacteria associated with larval activity. The aim of this study was to investigate the heat associated with decay and the types of bacteria present during the decomposition of a carcass, both in the presence and in the absence of maggots. Three treatments were imposed: fresh, frozen and maggot-infested, each consisting of five replicate pig carcasses. Temperature measurements and bacterial swabs were taken from the gastro-intestinal region of each pig and temperatures and bacterial communities compared between treatments. All carcasses reached average maximum temperatures above 32 °C in a temperature controlled room set at 23 °C. Treatment had no statistically significant effect on the temperatures recorded in each carcass but did significantly affect the community structure of the bacteria. However, bacterial community structure varied across time. This study suggests that bacterial metabolism plays a significant role in carcass thermogenesis, and that maggot masses, while contributing to localised heating within the carcass, may have less of a role in elevating carcass temperatures than previously assumed.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 21-09-2019
Abstract: The codling moth (CM) (Cydia pomonella L.) is the most important apple pest in Croatia and Europe. Owing to its economic importance, it is a highly controlled species and the intense selection pressure the species is under has likely caused it to change its phenotype in response. Intensive application of chemical-based insecticide treatments for the control of CM has led to resistance development. In this study, the forewing morphologies of 294 CM (11 populations) were investigated using geometric morphometric procedures based on the venation patterns of 18 landmarks. Finite element method (FEM) was also used to further investigate the dispersal capabilities of moths by modelling wing deformation versus wind speed. Three treatments were investigated and comprised populations from integrated and ecological (susceptible) orchards and laboratory-reared non-resistant populations. Forewing shape differences were found among the three treatment populations investigated. Across all three population treatments, the movement of landmarks 1, 7, 8, 9, and 12 drove the wing shape differences found. A reliable pattern of differences in forewing shape as related to control practice type was observed. FEM revealed that as wind speed (m/s−1) increased, so too did wing deformation (mm) for CM from each of the three treatments modelled. CM from the ecological orchards displayed the least deformation followed by integrated then laboratory-reared CM, which had the highest wing deformation at the highest wind speeds. This study presents an affordable and accessible technique that reliably demonstrates wing shape differences, and thus its use as a population biomarker to detect resistance should be further investigated.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 13-01-2011
DOI: 10.1017/S0007485310000544
Abstract: The Warehouse beetle, Trogoderma variabile (Coleoptera: Dermestidae), is an internationally significant invasive pest of packed goods and stored grain. When it was first documented in Australia at Griffith, New South Wales, in 1977, an eradication c aign was initiated. After several years and considerable effort, the eradication c aign was abandoned. To monitor the presence and spread of T. variabile , surveys were carried out by government agencies in 1992 and 2002. When survey data was compared, it was concluded that the distribution of morphologically identified T. variabile had doubled in most Australian states. Here, we used s les from the 2002 survey to conduct a phylogenetic study using partial sequences of mitochondrial genes Cytochrome oxidase I and Cytochrome B, and the nuclear gene 18S, to examine the distribution and dispersal of T. variabile and detect the presence of misidentified species. Based on our molecular results, we show that only 47% of the s les analysed were T. variabile , and the remaining were a mixture of six putative species. In addition, T. variabile was found in only 78% of the trapping sites. We discuss the importance of correct diagnosis in relation to the eradication c aign.
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 18-05-2022
DOI: 10.1071/WR21091
Abstract: Context Fire severity and frequency is predicted to increase over the remainder of the 21st century in Australia’s temperate forests therefore, the effects of fire severity on forest-dependant species is of major conservation concern. Aims Determining the short-term ( year) effect of fire severity on a forest-dependant species, the greater glider, Petauroides volans, in Monga National Park, south-eastern New South Wales. Methods Three fire-severity classes were investigated, namely, low (canopy unburnt), moderate (partial canopy burn) and high (complete canopy consumption). Fifteen randomly allocated sites were visited in total, with five sites in each fire-severity class being visited on three separate occasions. Spotlighting of two off-track transects per site was completed over a 4-week period by using multi-covariate distance s ling (MCDS) to estimate greater glider densities at each fire-severity class. Key results An overall mean greater glider density estimate of 0.456 ha−1 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.256–0.654 ha−1) was calculated across all sites in Monga National Park. Density estimates varied among fire-severity classes low 0.779 ha−1 (95% CI 0.358–1.692 ha−1), moderate 0.472 ha−1 (95% CI 0.262–0.848 ha−1), and high 0.077 ha−1 (95% CI 0.0142–0.414 ha−1). Conclusions Distance s ling estimates suggested that areas affected by high-severity fire have lower densities of greater gliders. Implications The importance of areas experiencing low fire severity as a source of greater glider refugia during wildfire events is evident. Under a changing climate, frequent major wildfire events may significantly affect population viability of greater gliders if insufficient time between fires allow for population recovery.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 02-04-2022
DOI: 10.3390/ANI12070912
Abstract: The use of camera traps to track in idual mammals to estimate home range and movement patterns, has not been previously applied to small mammal species. Our aim was to evaluate the use of camera trapping, using the selfie trap method, to record movements of small mammals within and between fragments of habitat. In a fragmented landscape, 164 cameras were set up across four survey areas, with cameras left to record continuously for 28 nights. Live trapping was performed prior to ear mark animals to facilitate in idual identification on camera. Four small mammal species (sugar glider
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 09-07-2021
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 30-09-2022
Abstract: The Colorado potato beetle (CPB, Leptinotarsa decemlineata Say) is one of the most successful invasive species worldwide. It has been present in Croatia since 1947, where it has caused significant damage to potato plants and developed resistance to several insecticides. Our study is the first attempt to investigate the population structure of CPBs in Croatia. SNP and GM techniques provided us with data about the population structure of the CPB population. A Bayesian model-based clustering algorithm implemented in STRUCTURE, principal component analysis (PCA), and discriminant analysis of principal components (DAPC) were used to analyze the genetic structure of CPBs. For the morphometric analysis, the hindwing shape of the same CPB in iduals was examined using wing venation patterns. We detected the low genetic and phenotypic variabilities of CPB populations and the presence of a single panmictic population in the study area, well adapted to different environmental conditions, indicating high phenotypic plasticity. Due to such exceptional adaptation of the CPB population, it is necessary to implement an area-wide approach in future pest control management.
No related grants have been discovered for Katarina Mikac.