A generic, process-based model of microbial pollution in aquatic systems

Based on a comprehensive synthesis of data available within the literature, a new process-based model of microbial pollution is presented, which is applicable for surface and coastal waters. The model is based on a generic set of parameterisations that describe the dynamics of most protozoan, bacterial and viral organisms of interest, including pathogens and microbial indicator organisms. The parameterisations dynamically account for the effects of temperature, salinity, pH, dissolved oxygen, sunlight, nutrients and turbidity on the growth and mortality of enteric organisms. Parameters for a range of organisms are also presented which are based on collation of literature data. The model has been implemented within an aquatic ecology model, Computational Aquatic Ecosystem Dynamics Model (CAEDYM), which can couple to multidimensional hydrodynamic models. Without adjustment of the literature derived parameter values, a 3-D implementation is validated against observed data from three freshwater systems that differ in their climatic zone, trophic status and operation. The simulations highlight the spatial and temporal variability that may be encountered by operators. Additionally, large differences in the fate and distribution of different species originate from variable rates of growth, mortality and sedimentation and it is emphasized that the use of surrogates for quantifying risk is problematic. The model can be used to help design targeted monitoring programs, explore differences between species, and to support real-time decision-making. Areas where insufficient understanding and data exist are discussed.Matthew R. Hipsey, Jason P. Antenucci, Justin D. Brooke

The complete mitochondrial genome of the brown pansy butterfly, Junonia stygia (Aurivillius, 1894), (Insecta: Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae)

The brown pansy, Junonia stygia (Aurivillius, 1894) (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae), is a widespread West African forest butterfly. Genome skimming by Illumina sequencing allowed assembly of a complete 15,233 bp circular mitogenome from J. stygia consisting of 79.5% AT nucleotides. Mitochondrial gene order and composition is identical to other butterfly mitogenomes. Junonia stygia COX1 features an atypical CGA start codon, while ATP6, COX1, COX2, ND4, and ND4L exhibit incomplete stop codons. Phylogenetic reconstruction supports a monophyletic Subfamily Nymphalinae, Tribe Junoniini, and genus Junonia. The phylogenetic tree places Junonia iphita and J. stygia as basal mitogenome lineages sister to the remaining Junonia sequences