Title : The current records on taxonomic status and advancements in molecular studies of endemic freshwater species identified from Sulawesi Island, Indonesia
Abstract:
The Sulawesi island in Indonesia has gained prominence as the largest island in the Wallacea region, which is a biogeographic transition zone between Indomalaya and Australasia. Its high level of endemism, particularly in freshwater species, renders it a compelling subject of research. In this study, we present the latest findings regarding the number of endemic freshwater species from Sulawesi, totaling 110 species, including fish and shrimp. Fish contribute 66% of the total, while shrimp contribute 34%. These species represent 8 families within 6 different orders. These families include Anguillidae (1 species, 1 genus), Atherinidae (6 species, 2 genera), Telmatherinidae (11 species, 2 genera), Adrianichthyidae (21 species, 2 genera), Zenarchopteridae (17 species, 3 genera), Terapontidae (1 species, 1 genus), Gobiidae (16 species, 6 genera), and Atyidae (37 species, 3 genera). Approximately 65% of these endemic freshwater species inhabit lake waters. Evaluation using the IUCN Red List assessment indicates that 13% of species are not evaluated (NE), 10% are data deficient (DD), 7% are least concern (LC), 26% are near threatened (NT), 13% are vulnerable (VU), 12% are endangered (EN), and 19% are critically endangered (CR). Besides documenting the latest number of endemic freshwater species on this island, another objective of this study is to evaluate the implementation level of molecular studies, particularly in the utilization of partial fragments of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (COI), cytochrome b (cytb), and complete mitochondrial genomes, across all presented species. Approximately 40% of the total species have been subject to COI, 31% to cytb, and only 4% to the complete mitochondrial genome. Phylogenetic analysis using the COI target gene is also employed to understand the evolution of these endemic species, which is crucial for establishing effective conservation measures. Nevertheless, the implementation of molecular studies at the observed locations has not fully encompassed the entire diversity of species present. Therefore, we recommend further research intensification in the utilization of molecular approaches to explore the diversity of species that have not been thoroughly investigated. Genetic data integration with morphological and ecological data is also necessary for a more comprehensive understanding of the studied endemic species. Additionally, management strategies should be implemented to preserve the populations of endemic species and their ecosystems as a whole.
Audience take-away:
- A study on the taxonomic status and the extent of molecular study implementation on endemic freshwater species in Sulawesi, Indonesia.
- This study has the potential to support conservation efforts and serve as a scientific foundation for decision-making regarding policies on endemic freshwater species in Sulawesi, enhancing capacity in applying molecular research techniques for endemic species studies, and enriching teaching programs or curricula introducing students to topics related to molecular studies and endemic species.
- Additionally, this study may open new opportunities for collaboration between scientists and policymakers, enrich scientific literature on the biology and conservation of endemic species, and attract global interest and attention to the biodiversity of Sulawesi.
