Application of extended depth of field 3D imagery to tackle the challenges of cryptic species: a use case in the genus Betiscoides Sjöstedt, 1924 (Orthoptera, Caelifera, Lentulidae) and its taxonomic implications

Discovering and handling cryptic diversity among species challenges taxonomists around the world. This is particularly true for the most diverse animal class – the insects – with cryptic diversity, apart from vast species numbers, being one of the main factors that hamper the description of new species. The biodiversity hotspot Cape Floristic Region of South Africa harbors many endemic and yet undescribed insect species, inter alia, Orthoptera. In this study, extended depth of field and 3D imagery enabled for a novel assessment of the external morphological characteristics used for defining and describing the genetically highly diverse genus Betiscoides Sjösdtedt, 1924, leading to a new definition of the genus’ characteristics as well as a revision of character traits of the known species. Two new species are described and a key to all five recognized Betiscoides species is provided. Application standards are derived to enable replicable and reliable image acquisition and measuring. These findings shall contribute to promote efforts being made to establish image based taxonomic identification for researchers worldwide. High-resolution images provide the basis to train deep learning algorithms/ tools, to detect the smallest differences in highly morphologically alike species, and to implement this knowledge in global species monitoring and conservation action to prevent further species loss

Additional file 1: Figure S1. of A preliminary phylogeny of the South African Lentulidae

Phylogeny of the analyzed genera belonging to Lentulidae. Maximum likelihood tree for the genes 12S and NDS. Frontifissia and Sphingonotus were defined as outgroups. (JPG 1183 kb

License to Kill?—Disease Eradication Programs May Not be in Line with the Convention on Biological Diversity

Global human population growth is associated with many problems, such as food and water provision, political conflicts, spread of diseases, and environmental destruction. The mitigation of these problems is mirrored in several global conventions and programs, some of which, however, are conflicting. Here, we discuss the conflicts between biodiversity conservation and disease eradication. Numerous health programs aim at eradicating pathogens, and many focus on the eradication of vectors, such as mosquitos or other parasites. As a case study, we focus on the “Pan African Tsetse and Trypanosomiasis Eradication Campaign,” which aims at eradicating a pathogen (Trypanosoma) as well as its vector, the entire group of tsetse flies (Glossinidae). As the distribution of tsetse flies largely overlaps with the African hotspots of freshwater biodiversity, we argue for a strong consideration of environmental issues when applying vector control measures, especially the aerial applications of insecticides. Furthermore, we want to stimulate discussions on the value of species and whether full eradication of a pathogen or vector is justified at all. Finally, we call for a stronger harmonization of international conventions. Proper environmental impact assessments need to be conducted before control or eradication programs are carried out to minimize negative effects on biodiversity

Make EU trade with Brazil sustainable

Brazil, home to one of the planet's last great forests, is currently in trade negotiations with its second largest trading partner, the European Union (EU). We urge the EU to seize this critical opportunity to ensure that Brazil protects human rights and the environment