In GBOL III: Dark Taxa, in addition to the research of dark taxa and the training of taxonomists, the completion of the DNA barcode reference library is the most important concern, as is the establishment of a further function of the databases: the ASV registry.
Despite the effectiveness of DNA metabarcoding for gaining insights into biodiversity and environmental species composition, a centralised management and storage option including easy accessibility of already-published data is lacking. Since most data are published as supplementary material or in private repositories, DNA metabarcoding has a huge untapped potential to be used for analyses across multiple taxa, sample locations or multiple research projects. We developed a platform to register, manage and identify amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) or zero-radius OTUs (ZOTUs), respectively, against several barcode reference datasets. Moreover, ASV tables can be uploaded, managed, versioned and published with DOIs thus contributing to the full research Data Life Cycle.
Bräunig, C., Meid, S., Quast, B., Rduch, V., Grobe, P. (2024): The ASV Registry: a place for ASVs to be. Metabarcoding and Metagenomics 8: e124564. https://doi.org/10.3897/mbmg.8.124564
In GBOL (German Barcode of Life Project), a large proportion of the animals, fungi and plants found in Germany have been and are being recorded in a DNA barcode reference library by the LIB - Museum Koenig Bonn. GBOL benefits from the expertise of taxon experts from all over Germany. GBOL III: Dark Taxa answers a whole series of questions relating to the largely unknown part of the German fauna: the so-called ‘dark taxa’, and in particular the Diptera (flies & mosquitoes) and parasitoid Hymenoptera (parasitoid wasps).
Vogel, J., Forshage, M., Bartsch, S.B., Ankermann, A., Mayer, C., von Falkenhausen, P., Rduch, V., Müller, B., Braun, C., Krammer, H.-J., Peters, R.S. (2024) Integrative characterisation of the Northwestern European species of Anacharis Dalman, 1823 (Hymenoptera, Cynipoidea, Figitidae) with the description of three new species. Journal of Hymenoptera Research 97: 621-698. https://doi.org/10.3897/jhr.97.131350
Jaume-Schinkel, S., Müller, B., Avila-Calero, S., Kukowka, S., Rduch, V., Mengual, X. (2024) Preserving morphology while extracting DNA: a non-destructive
field-to-museum protocol for slide-mounted specimens. Biodiversity Data Journal 12: e119448. https://doi.org/10.3897/BDJ.12.e119448
Jafari, S., Müller, B., Rulik, B., Rduch, V. & Peters, R. S. (2023): Another crack in the Dark Taxa wall: a custom DNA barcoding protocol for the
species-rich and common Eurytomidae (Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea). Biodiversity Data Journal 11: e101998. https://doi.org/10.3897/BDJ.11.e101998
Rduch, V. & Peters, R.S. (2020): GBOL III: Dark Taxa – die dritte Phase der German Barcode of Life Initiative hat begonnen. Koenigiana 14 (2): 91-107. Link
Leibniz-Forschungsnetzwerk Biodiversität (Thonicke, K., Rahner, E., Arneth, A., Bonn, A., Borchard, N., Chaudhary, A., Darbi, M., Dutta, T., Eberle, U., Eisenhauer, N., Farwig, N., Flocco, C. G., Freitag, J., Grobe, P., Grosch, R., Grossart, H. P., Grosse, A., Grützmacher, K., Hagemann, N., Hansjürgens, B., Hartman Scholz, A., Hassenrück, C., Häuser, C., Hickler, T., Hölker, F., Jacob, U., Jähnig, S., Jürgens, K., Kramer-Schadt, S., Kretsch, C., Krug, C., Lindner, J. P., Loft, L., Mann, C., Matzdorf, B., Mehring, M., Meier, R., Meusemann, K., Müller, D., Nieberg, M., Overmann, J., Peters, R. S., Pörtner, L., Pradhan, P., Prochnow, A., Rduch, V., Reyer, C., Roos, C., Scherber, C., Scheunemann, N., Schroer, S., Schuck, A., Sioen, G. B., Sommer, S., Sommerwerk, N., Tanneberger, F., Tockner, K., van der Voort, H., Veenstra, T., Verburg, P., Voss, M., Warner, B., Wende, W., Wesche, K.) (2024): 10 Must-Knows aus der Biodiversitätsforschung 2024. Potsdam-Institut für Klimafolgenforschung. 72 S., https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.10794362.
Link (english): https://www.leibniz-biodiversitaet.de/en/mainnavigation/news/10-must-knows-from-biodiversity-science-2024
Link (german): https://www.leibniz-biodiversitaet.de/mainnavigation/aktuelles/10-must-knows-aus-der-biodiversitaetsforschung-3
Mit dieser Handlungsempfehlung werden die Herausforderungen und Optionen des standardisierten Einsatzes von DNA-Metabarcoding im behördlichen Natur- und Umweltschutz analysiert und bewertet. Basierend darauf werden konkrete Lösungsoptionen für die Standardisierung und Qualitätssicherung sowie die dafür erforderlichen Schritte dargestellt. Die Handlungsempfehlung fasst die Ergebnisse der Veranstaltung „DNA-basierte Biodiversitätsanalysen im Natur- und Umweltschutz: Welche Optionen haben wir für eine Standardisierung?“ zusammen, die vom Bundesamt für Naturschutz (BfN) gemeinsam mit dem Fachbereich Biodiversität der VDI-Gesellschaft Technologies of Life Sciences (VDI-TLS) vom 1.-3. Juni 2022 im Kloster Schöntal durchgeführt wurde.
Only available in German: Link
DNA-based biodiversity analyses in nature and environmental protection: What options do we have for standardisation?
This recommendation for action analyses and evaluates the challenges and options for the standardised use of DNA metabarcoding in official nature conservation and environmental protection. Based on this, concrete solution options for standardisation and quality assurance as well as the necessary steps are presented.
We describe the first case of a melanistic individual in the Nile monitor lizard, Varanus niloticus (Linné, 1766) from Kasanka National Park, Zamiba. In that context we briefly review all known cases, to the best of our knowledge, of melanism in varanids. Our record here of a melanistic specimen of V. niloticus from the Zambian Kasanka National Park is the first documented instance of melanism in a monitor lizard of the Polydaedalus clade of Varanus and the first from the African continent for the family Varanidae.
Böhme, W., Rduch, V. & Koppetsch, T. (2022): Melanism in monitor lizards (Squamata: Varanidae), with a first case in the Nile Monitor, Varanus (Polydaedalus) niloticus (Squamata: Varanidae). Herpetology Notes 15: 257-262; https://www.biotaxa.org/hn/article/view/72870
Knowledge about antelope populations and their status is a key for conservation. In November 2019, we used distance sampling to perform a re-survey of the bovid species in Kasanka National Park, Zambia, with a focus on the puku (Kobus vardonii). Data collection and subsequent analyses were of the same design as in a previous survey in 2009–2010. This allowed for the direct comparison between survey periods, especially for the data collected in November 2010 and 2019. The estimated puku population size decreased from 5,038 (range 3,268–7,238) animals in 2009–2010 to 819 (range 250–2,708) animals in 2019, representing an 84% decline. Smaller group sizes were observed. Changes in population structure (decline in male abundance, fewer male groups) and spatial distribution (decline in population density, especially along the park boundaries) of puku showed signs of increased poaching activities in Kasanka National Park. Also, puku became more vigilant and demonstrated significantly longer flight distances in 2019 in comparison with 2010. A strong decline in puku in combination with clear signs of poaching, as well as the reduced species richness and sightings of other bovids, should become an agenda for long-term conservation of Kasanka National Park.
Rduch, V. & Jentke, T. (2021): Alarming decline of bovids in Kasanka National Park, Zambia: a case study of the puku antelope (Kobus vardonii). African Journal of Ecology 59: 387-398. DOI: 10.1111/aje.12843. Link
Rduch, V. & Jentke, T. (2021): Eine Forschungsreise nach Sambia: Alarmierende Neuigkeiten von den Puku-Antilopen (Kobus vardonii) im Kasanka-Nationalpark. Koenigiana 15(1): 3-20
Assessing the population status of wildlife is useful for enhancing biodiversity management strategies in protected areas. This study was carried out within the framework of the Faro National Park (FNP) management plan. The objective was to provide baseline data on the status and population dynamics of the Buffon's kob (Kobus kob kob). The surveys were conducted in the month of June at the beginning of the rainy season. Data were collected along 145 line transects of 2.5 km apart and analysed using Distance 7.2 and Quantum GIS 3.4 software. The Buffon's kob population was estimated to comprise around 4,094 ± 1,303 individuals, with an overall density of 1.24 individuals/km2. When compared to results from a study conducted in the year 2000, the concentration of Buffon's kob was higher in the northern part of the national park as opposed to the southern part, as was previously recorded. The population trend shows an extensive decline of approximately 80% compared to records of the year 2000. There was also a weak negative correlation between Buffon's kob density and human activities in the FNP.
Taiga, L.K., Kamgang, S.A., Bakwo Fils, E.M., Tsakem, C.S. & Rduch, V. (2020): The status and population dynamics of Buffon’s kob (Kobus kob kob, ERXLEBEN 1777) in Faro National Park, Northern Cameroon. African Journal of Ecology 00: 1– 10. DOI: 10.1111/aje.12808. Link
Saiga antelopes (Saiga tatarica), stemming from the Asian steppes and semi-deserts, were kept and bred at Cologne Zoo between 1976 and 2009. We examined husbandry, life history and breeding of saiga at Cologne Zoo. This article gives an insight into the experiences compiled and the data analysed which, are now available for a possible future captive breeding, supporting the conservation efforts in the wild. Solely saigas from Cologne Zoo are present in the mammalogy collection at ZFMK. One of them is the only mounted specimen of this species at the Museum Koenig – and we provide some interesting details of her life.
Rduch, V. & Sliwa, A. (2019): Saiga-Antilopen (Saiga tatarica): aus den Steppen Asien über den Kölner Zoo ins Museum Koenig nach Bonn. Koenigiana 13(1): 13-30. Article in German.
This study is the first to estimate the population size and density of puku in the western part of Luambe National Park, eastern Zambia. The population was estimated to be 2,081 ± 501. The study area was the western part of Luambe N.P. near the Luangwa River, where puku densities increased with the progression of the dry season. Pukus were unevenly distributed and more abundant in grasslands where they reached local densities of up to 54.78 animals/km². The sex ratio was biased towards females, which was even more pronounced in woodland areas and along the only transect line situated just outside the National Park. Most frequently observed were single individuals, as well as female groups eventually accompanied by a male. Group sizes up to 15 animals were most common. Especially striking was the co-occurrence of puku and impala (Aepyceros melampus) which were generally equally abundant in the study area. Impala reached higher densities in woodlands while puku were more abundant in grasslands. Surveys like this provide basic data and play a fundamental role in our understanding of the ecosystem and for improving conservation measures.
Rduch, V. (2018): Puku (Kobus vardonii Livingstone, 1857) – characteristic antelopes of Luangwa Valley in Zambia: Population status and distribution patterns in Luambe National Park. Gnusletter 35 (2): 4-12.
The saiga (Saiga tatarica), a critically endangered antelope of the steppes and semi-deserts of Asia, is currently not kept by any zoo outside of Kazakhstan. This article is dealing with the former husbandry and breeding of this extraordinary antelope at Cologne Zoo from 1976 to 2009. Retrospectively, we describe the rather difficult character of this animal species and its requirements regarding the husbandry. The data dealing with the life and breeding of the saiga in Cologne revealed very interesting information. In this context we highlight the differences in duration of the gestation period of single or twin calves and especially the lower twinning rates in Cologne compared to data from the field. In addition we analysed exact data on maximal age and age at reproduction by saigas with known ages. This kind of observation is only possible in zoos and complement data from the wild. It underlines once more the unique possibility and importance of observations and research in zoos.
Die Saiga (Saiga tatarica) ist eine stark bedrohte Antilopenart aus den Steppen und Halbwüsten Asiens, die aktuell von keinem Zoo außerhalb Kasachstans mehr gehalten wird. Die ehemalige Haltung und Zucht dieser außergewöhnlichen Antilope im Kölner Zoo von 1976 bis 2009 ist Gegenstand dieses Artikels. Es ist eine Rückschau auf den durchaus schwierigen Charakter der Tiere und ihre Anforderungen an die Tierpflege. Die Daten zu Leben und Zucht der Saigas in Köln haben sehr interessante Informationen zutage gebracht. Hervorzuheben sind die unterschiedliche Dauer der Tragzeit bei einzelnen Jungtieren und Zwillingen und vor allem das im Vergleich zum Freiland geringere Auftreten von Zwillingsgeburten im Kölner Zoo. Ebenfalls genaue Daten zum maximalen Alter und zur Fortpflanzung bei Saigas mit exakt bekanntem Alter. Solche Beobachtungen sind in der Form nur im Zoo möglich und ergänzen Daten aus dem Freiland. Es unterstreicht einmal mehr die einzigartige Möglichkeit und Bedeutung von Beobachtungen und Forschungen im Zoo.
Rduch, V. & Sliwa, A. (2017): Breeding and life history patterns of saiga antelopes (Saiga tatarica) at Cologne Zoo, Germany. European Journal of Wildlife Research 63: 90. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10344-017-1149-7
Rduch, V., Zimmermann, W., Vogel, K.H., Ladener, H. & Sliwa, A. (2016): Saiga-Antilopen (Saiga tatarica) im Kölner Zoo: tiergärtnerische Erfahrungen und Beobachtungen. Zeitschrift des Kölner Zoos 59: 135-149. Link to original German version.
Rduch, V., Zimmermann, W., Vogel, K.H., Ladener, H. & Sliwa, A. (2016): "Saiga antelopes (Saiga tatarica) at Cologne Zoo: husbandry experiences and observations"
English version of the article “Saiga-Antilopen (Saiga tatarica) im Kölner Zoo: tiergärtnerische Erfahrungen und Beobachtungen” published in 2016 in Zeitschrift des Kölner Zoos Vol. 59 (3): 135-149. Available here.
Sympatric occurrence of puku (Kobus vardonii) and impala (Aepyceros melampus) characterises large parts of the protected areas in Zambia. The present study assessed traits of the populations as well as spatial and dietary overlap of both antelopes in Kafue National Park and adjacent Game Management Areas in western Zambia. Data were collected via distance sampling along line transects (population and distribution) and via microhistological analyses of dung (diet). Hunting activities might result in fewer males in both antelopes in the Game-Management areas. During the cool dry season there was considerable spatial overlap between puku and impala. However, puku are more abundant in grassland areas, while impala reach highest population densities in intermediate habitats. The diet of puku was characterised by high amounts of grasses during both the cool dry season and the late rainy season. Impala shifted from browsing during the cool dry season to a more grazing diet during the rainy season. This study found niche partitioning via habitat and diet as a key to understand the coexistence of these antelopes and improves our knowledge of Zambian Wildlife.
Rduch, V. (2016): Population characteristics and coexistence of puku (Kobus vardonii) and impala (Aepyceros melampus) in and around Kafue National Park, Zambia. Mammalian Biology – Zeitschrift für Säugetierkunde 81(4): 350-360. DOI: 10.1016/j.mambio.2016.03.005 Link
Diet and dietary competition among puku (Kobus vardonii) and other grazing bovids were investigated in Kasanka National Park, Zambia, a prime area for puku. The objective was to provide new insights into the puku’s feeding ecology including autecological and synecological traits. Other bovids assessed for their diets were sitatunga (Tragelaphus spekii), reedbuck (Redunca arundinum), Lichtenstein’s hartebeest (Alcelaphus lichtensteinii), sable antelope (Hippotragus niger) and African buffalo (Syncerus caffer). Dung was collected during different periods in 2009 and 2010 and examined using microhistological analyses. The diets were assessed for potential differences or overlap using the Pianka Index. Puku feed mainly on monocotyledons and consumed Panicum spp., Brachiaria sp., Sporobolus spp. and Hyparrhenia/Andropogon grasses. Differences in dietary composition between sexes were observed, especially during the cool dry season, as well as differences at a temporal and spatial scale. It can be concluded that puku exhibit a flexible diet with regard to grass species. Diet breadth changed throughout the year being narrowest in the late rainy season but showed no sexual differences. The dietary overlap of puku with other grazing bovids was low. This combination contributes to the puku’s extraordinary situation in Kasanka National Park.
Rduch, V. (2016): Diet of the puku antelope (Kobus vardonii) and dietary overlap with selected other bovids in Kasanka National Park, Zambia. Mammal Research 61(3): 289-297. DOI: 10.1007/s13364-016-0268-y Link
Miombo woodland, the most extensive tropical seasonal woodland and dry forest formation in Africa covering about 2.7 million km² in south-central Africa, is characterized by several distinctive
features including low numbers and biomass of large herbivores (Frost, 1996). Some of them are specific to the miombo, for example sable antelope (Hippotragus niger) and Lichtenstein’s
hartebeest (Alcelaphus lichtensteinii).
Among the many carnivores occurring in the miombo but not confined to it (Shorrocks, 2007) is the spotted hyaena (Crocuta crocuta Erxleben, 1777). This species is known as a flexible and
unselective carnivore (Hayward, 2006), distributed over sub-Saharan Africa (Holekamp & Kolowski, 2009). I examined the question how the spotted hyaena adapts its diet to this ecosystem and
its prey availability. This expands our knowledge of the spotted hyaena in the Zambian miombo, which forms a linkage between eastern and southern Africa, and which so far rested on a single
report (Mitchell, Shenton & Uys, 1965).
Rduch, V. (2016): A snapshot into the spotted hyaena's feeding ecology (Crocuta crocuta) in the miombo woodland of Zambia. African Journal of Ecology. DOI: 10.1111/aje.12347 Link
The puku (Kobus vardonii Livingstone, 1857) is a medium-sized member of the Reduncini (Bovidae) with a golden-yellow coat with horns in males only and distributed along rivers and lakes
in south central Africa (Jenkins, 2013). This is a common species in protected areas in Zambia, but recent population estimates are lacking; East (1998) presented the latest figures. Kasanka
National Park (KasNP; 390 km²) is run by the Kasanka Trust Ltd. and is situated in the north of the Central Province of Zambia. Woodlands, especially miombo woodlands, cover 70% of KasNP but are
interrupted by grasslands, that is, papyrus swamps, dambos and floodplains (Kennedy et al., 2008).
In KasNP, data for the last study about puku in Zambia were collected in 1994 (Goldspink et al., 1998). I (re)investigated this population with regard to numbers, population structure and
distribution to assess possible changes and to provide new information about puku in Zambia.
Rduch, V. (2015): Population status and distribution patterns of puku (Kobus vardonii Livingstone, 1857) in Kasanka National Park, Zambia. African Journal of Ecology 53: 121–125. DOI: 10.1111/aje.12166 Link