A new methodology to use color spectral data for taxonomic, phylogenetic, and biogeographic studies : An example with three genera of lowland hummingbirds: <i>Topaza, Anthracothorax, </i>and<i> Eulampis</i>

I developed a methodology to obtain and compare integral information on bird plumage coloration, using color spectral data to conduct studies on geographic variation, taxonomy and phylogeny of different bird groups. I used principal component analysis and discriminant function analysis to analyze and compare the color spectra of different body parts of the individuals included in the groups. I took these spectral data to perform phylogenetic analyses using PAUP by adapting the generalized frequency coding method as a tool to code the continuous spectral and morphometric data into discrete variables. Using these methods and statistical tools, I have reviewed the taxonomy of three mango hummingbird genera occurring in South and Central America and the Caribbean islands (Topaza, Anthracothorax, and Eulampis). This constitutes an applied example of the methodology that allowed me to make some conclusions and suggestions about the taxonomy, phylogeny, and biogeography of the group

Data from: Complex migration and breeding strategies in an elusive bird species illuminated by genetic and isotopic markers

Unlike the annual bi-directional movements of over 200 bird species within the Palaearctic–Afrotropical region, irregular movements such as irruptive migration with a low degree of philopatry are reported for a variety of species depending on highly seasonal and unpredictable resources. These flexible movements allow for itinerant breeding – consecutive breeding attempts in two or more geographically different regions during the same annual reproductive cycle. In order to illuminate migratory and breeding strategies of the erratic wetland species Baillon's crake Zapornia pusilla across the W-Palaearctic–Afrotropical region, we used a set of six DNA microsatellites as well as δ2Hf values of individuals sampled at one African and four European breeding sites. We investigated the degree of genetic population structure within and among different sites and assigned individuals’ feathers of unknown origin to their probable moulting (hence breeding) site using a likelihood approach. We found three genetic clusters, differentiating into one ‘European’ and two ‘African’ populations. Connectivity between the sampling sites was probable as genetic ‘African’ individuals were found in breeding conditions in Europe and vice versa. Likewise, assigned moulting locations based on δ2H isoscapes suggested trans-continental movements as well as moulting and possibly breeding by the same individual both in African and European breeding grounds. Both isotopic and genetic data reveal the Baillon's crake pursue a complex migration and breeding strategy, allowing as well for irruptive movements and itinerant breeding across the W-Palaearctic–Afrotropical region. However, a better knowledge about the species’ distribution as well as a more comprehensive data set, including samples from the southern and eastern boundaries of the distribution area would be necessary to improve the spatial resolution to the precision required to unambiguously infer migration directions and extent of exchange between African and European breeding grounds

Microsatellite data Baillons Crake

Data of 6 microsatellite loci for Baillons Crake Zapornia pusill

Multidrug-Resistant High-Risk Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae Clonal Lineages Occur in Black-Headed Gulls from Two Conservation Islands in Germany

Multidrug-resistant (MDR) Enterobacterales, including extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae, not only emerge in healthcare settings but also in other habitats, such as livestock and wildlife. The spread of these pathogens, which often combine resistance with high-level virulence, is a growing problem, as infections have become increasingly difficult to treat. Here, we investigated the occurrence of ESBL-producing E. coli and K. pneumoniae in fecal samples from two black-headed gull colonies breeding on two nature conservation islands in Western Pomerania, Germany. In addition to cloacal samples from adult birds (n = 211) and their nestlings (n = 99) during the 2021 breeding season, collective fecal samples (n = 29) were obtained. All samples were screened for ESBL producers, which were then subjected to whole-genome sequencing. We found a total of 12 ESBL-producing E. coli and K. pneumoniae consisting of 11 E. coli and 1 K. pneumoniae, and including the international high-risk E. coli sequence types (ST)131, ST38, and ST58. Eight of the investigated strains had a MDR genotype and carried a large repertoire of virulence-associated genes, including the pap operon, which is important for urinary tract infections. In addition, we identified many genes associated with adherence, biofilm formation, iron uptake, and toxin production. Finally, our analysis revealed the close phylogenetic relationship of ST38 strains with genomes originating from human sources, underlining their zoonotic and pathogenic character. This study highlights the importance of the One Health approach, and thus the interdependence between human and animal health and their surrounding environment