Research in Ecology

Variation Patterns of Absorptive Root Traits and Resource Acquisition Strategies of Representative Tree Species across Different Successional Stages in Subtropical Forests

2025-12-04T13:40:15+08:00

The variation patterns of absorptive root functional traits and the differentiation of resource acquisition strategies among tree species during forest succession represent a critical scientific issue for understanding plant-soil interactions, community dynamics, and ecosystem functioning. This paper systematically reviews the multidimensional variation characteristics of absorptive root traits and their underlying ecological mechanisms in representative tree species across different successional stages in subtropical forests. Research demonstrates that functional traits of absorptive roots form a "root economics spectrum" through coordinated variation across morphological, anatomical, chemical, physiological, and symbiotic dimensions, reflecting the trade-off between resource acquisition efficiency and tissue persistence. Along the successional gradient, pioneer species exhibit an "acquisitive strategy" characterized by high specific root length (15–30 m/g), fine root diameter (0.3–0.6 mm), low tissue density (<0.30 g/cm³), high nitrogen content (15–25 mg·g⁻¹), and short lifespan (<1 year), whereas climax species display a "conservative strategy" featuring low specific root length, coarse root diameter, high tissue density (>0.40 g/cm³), low nitrogen content, and long lifespan. This directional differentiation is driven by environmental factors, including resource availability, competition intensity, and disturbance frequency, while simultaneously regulated by phylogenetic constraints and phenotypic plasticity. Root strategies exert cascading effects on ecosystem productivity, carbon sequestration, and stability through modulation of soil carbon and nitrogen cycling, nutrient availability, and resource acquisition efficiency. Under global change, the compound effects of factors such as climate warming, nitrogen deposition, and biodiversity loss may alter root strategy differentiation patterns and successional trajectories.

Ecological Value of Ormenis mixta Essential Oil from Pre-Rif Morocco as a Natural Antifungal Agent for Sustainable Agriculture

2026-03-02T10:05:36+08:00

Growing concerns regarding the environmental and health impacts of synthetic pesticides have stimulated increasing interest in plant-derived antimicrobial agents as sustainable alternatives. In this study, the essential oil (EO) of Ormenis mixta collected from the Pre-Rif region (Taza, Morocco) was extracted by hydrodistillation using a Clevenger-type apparatus and chemically characterized by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). Antimicrobial activity was evaluated using the broth microdilution method according to CLSI guidelines against Gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis), Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa), and the opportunistic yeast Candida albicans. The EO yield reached 0.55% (w/w). Chemical analysis revealed a composition dominated by aromatic hydrocarbons (51.18%) and polycyclic aromatic compounds (20.89%), whereas oxygenated monoterpenes were detected in lower proportions. The lowest minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was recorded against C. albicans (6.50 ± 0.76 mg/mL), indicating notable antifungal activity. Gram-positive bacteria exhibited moderate susceptibility, while Gram-negative strains were comparatively less sensitive, likely due to structural differences in their outer membranes. Molecular docking analysis further suggested that major aromatic constituents, particularly hydrogenated anthracene and trimethyl-substituted naphthalene derivatives, may contribute to membrane-related antimicrobial interactions. Overall, these findings describe a distinct Pre-Rif chemotype of O. mixta and provide experimental evidence supporting its potential as a natural antimicrobial agent. The results offer a scientific foundation for future ecological, toxicological, and field-based evaluations aimed at integrating this essential oil into sustainable agricultural and environmental management strategies.

Abundance and Biomass of Tikam (Pyganodon cataracta) in the Rice Paddies of Maligcong, Bontoc, Mountain Province

2026-03-10T16:01:01+08:00

This study determined the differences in abundance and biomass of freshwater Tikam (Pyganodon cataracta) in Maligcong, Bontoc, Mountain Province, and assessed the soil and water quality between two study sites: (1) spring-fed rice paddies and (2) paddies affected by agricultural runoff and domestic wastewater. Mussels were collected, counted, measured, and analyzed for wet and dry biomass. Mean abundance, biomass, and shell growth of P. cataracta were significantly higher in spring-fed paddies than in runoff-affected paddies. In particular, wet biomass in spring-fed paddies was more than twice that of the polluted site, while mussels there also exhibited larger average shell length and width. Physico-chemical qualities revealed significant differences in soil pH, organic matter content, water temperature, and dissolved oxygen, while water pH showed no significant difference between sites. These findings indicate that higher temperatures, lower dissolved oxygen, and altered soil characteristics in runoff-affected paddies negatively affect mussel populations. The results underscore that P. cataracta can serve as a useful bioindicator of paddy ecosystem health. Beyond ecological significance, the reduced abundance of Tikam in polluted paddies also implies a decline in a traditional food source, highlighting the need for integrated management of rice agroecosystems for both biodiversity conservation and community food security.

Influence of Natural Ventilation on Indoor Air Quality in a Single-Family Dwelling in the Northwest Area of Madrid

2026-01-21T17:15:05+08:00

Indoor air quality (IAQ) is a fundamental characteristic of eco-friendly buildings and sustainable environments, significantly impacting the well-being and behavior of occupants. Even in low-occupancy residences, maintaining good IAQ is essential for health and comfort. Buildings must meet both regulatory standards and occupant satisfaction to ensure a healthy indoor environment. Regardless of external conditions, people are constantly exposed to their surroundings, making air quality management a critical challenge. This study evaluates the impact of natural ventilation on IAQ in a single-family home in northwest Madrid through continuous monitoring of particle concentrations and CO₂ levels. The results reveal that daily indoor activities—particularly cooking, cleaning, and evening occupancy—significantly influence pollutant levels. Cleaning processes release particles ranging from 1 µm to 10 µm, while midday cooking generates notable emissions from stoves and ovens. CO₂ concentrations regularly exceed 1000 ppm at night in bedrooms with poor ventilation, whereas the living room maintains levels close to outdoor air due to consistent daily ventilation practices of approximately 3 h typically below 600 ppm. The monitoring also showed that volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are heavily influenced by furnishings, pets, tobacco, airflow patterns, temperature and humidity, among other factors with greater variability than CO₂. Based on these findings, the study provides targeted recommendations to optimize natural ventilation, emphasizing schedule-based airing routines and material considerations for furnishings. These insights will be valuable to homeowners, architects, engineers, and public health professionals seeking sustainable, health-focused indoor environments. By enhancing IAQ through passive strategies, this study advances occupant well-being and environmental sustainability.