Mongolian Journal of Biological Sciences

Mongolian Journal of Biological Sciences Contact information, map and directions, contact form, opening hours, services, ratings, photos, videos and announcements from Mongolian Journal of Biological Sciences, Publisher, Department of Biology School of Arts and Sciences, National University Of Mongolia, Ulaanbaatar.

Mongolian Journal of Biological Sciences (MJBS) publishes original articles, review-type articles, notes from the field, short communications, anniversary notes, book reviews and reports of scientific meetings.

Dear Readers,The next article, entitled "Plant diversity and vegetation community analysis of the Ikh Nart Nature Reserv...
14/02/2025

Dear Readers,
The next article, entitled "Plant diversity and vegetation community analysis of the Ikh Nart Nature Reserve, Mongolia", has just been published.
The online first version of the article is available at the following DOI link: https://doi.org/10.22353/mjbs.2024.22.13

Abstract
The ecosystem of Ikh Nart Nature Reserve is unique as it is located in the transitional zone of the steppe and desert-steppe ecosystems, which have been often used as pastureland. It was established in 1996 to protect fascinating rocky outcrops and rare argali sheep. The present study was conducted with the objectives of vegetation community structure, species composition, biological spectrum, and indicator species characteristics in the study area. Eighty-seven species of vascular plants are distributed in the study area, which composed six communities: Salix ledebouriana, Prunus pedunculata, Caragana pygmaea, Spiraea hypericifolia, Ulmus pumila, and Atraphaxis frutescens. These communities were different from one another in species richness, diversity, biological spectrum, and indicator species. Hemicryptophytes are dominated in each community, and therophytes are composed 24.14% of the total sampled species, followed by the geophytes (10.34%), chamaephytes (8.05%), and phanerophytes, (6.9%). The degradation indicator species (15 taxa) were dominated and anthropophilic weedy species, such as Saussurea salsa, Eragrostis minor in Salix ledebouriana, and Ulmus pumila communities, were identified.

Dear Readers,The next article, entitled "Morpho-physiological Responses of Lycium ruthenicum Murr. Propagated by Tissue ...
13/01/2025

Dear Readers,
The next article, entitled "Morpho-physiological Responses of Lycium ruthenicum Murr. Propagated by Tissue Culture to Drought Stress", has just been published.
The online first version of the article is available at the following DOI link: https://doi.org/10.22353/mjbs.2024.22.12

Abstract
To estimate the drought tolerance of Lycium ruthenicum Murr., which is propagated through tissue culture, we conducted a laboratory experiment to investigate the morphological and physiological responses of this species under various levels of drought stress (10%, 20%, and 40% polyethylene glycol (PEG)). The results showed that leaf morphology (leaf length, area, thickness, aspect), actual water content (AW), water deficit (WD), relative water content (RWC), absolute water content (AWC), chlorophyll fluorescence parameters, such as Fv/ Fm and maximum quantum yield (QY) and fluorescence decrease ratio (Rfd), were affected in L. ruthenicum transplanted from in vitro to ex vitro conditions. In plants treated with 10% PEG, the leaf length and leaf area are increased. Also, the leaf thickness, water exchange, and chlorophyll fluorescence parameters also remained comparable to those of control plants, indicating that L. ruthenicum treated with 10% PEG maintained normal physiological activity. Plants treated with 20% and 40% PEG exhibited a reduction of the leaf length and leaf area. In L. ruthenicum treated with 20% PEG, the Fv/Fm and Rfd values decreased to 0.61±0.04 and 1.61±0.25, respectively, resulting in reduced photosynthetic activity, although plant survival remained viable. Conversely, in L. ruthenicum treated with 40% PEG, the Fv/Fm and Rfd values decreased to 0.33±0.05 and 0.49±0.12, respectively, causing in a significant reduction in photosynthesis and plant survival. Even after normal watering, L. ruthenicum demonstrated an inability to recover from 40% PEG treatment, indicating that it cannot tolerate this level of drought stress.

Dear Readers,The next article, entitled "The Influence of Physicochemical Parameters on Diversity and Distribution of Zo...
13/01/2025

Dear Readers,
The next article, entitled "The Influence of Physicochemical Parameters on Diversity and Distribution of Zooplankton in Three Ponds of Gangetic Plain in India", has just been published.
The online first version of the article is available at the following DOI link: https://doi.org/10.22353/mjbs.2024.22.11

Abstract
The distribution and diversity of zooplankton in aquatic ecosystems depend mainly on the physicochemical properties of water. A minor change in the physicochemical parameters of aquatic systems influences the primary production and distribution of zooplankton. Two fishery ponds (P-1 and P-2) and an abundant pond (P-3) were considered for this study. Among the physicochemical parameters hardness, alkalinity, salinity, DO, free CO2, and pH have been estimated. It appears that the number of zooplankton was less in P-1 than in P-2, but the richness and evenness were higher in P-1 than in P-2 and P-3. That was probably due to desirable ranges of different physicochemical parameters. The results showed that parameters like pH, DO, free CO2, and hardness are on the same side as the zooplankton in the biplot and alkalinity plays the role of buffer to maintain the pH of the pond water. These physicochemical parameters have a direct role, whereas, salinity and temperature have an inverse role in maintaining the zooplankton population in these ponds.

Dear Readers,The next article, entitled "A Microhistological Key for the Identification of Plant Fragments in Herbivore ...
13/01/2025

Dear Readers,
The next article, entitled "A Microhistological Key for the Identification of Plant Fragments in Herbivore Droppings from Mongolia’s Steppe and Semi-desert", has just been published.
The online first version of the article is available at the following DOI link: https://doi.org/10.22353/mjbs.2024.22.10

Abstract
Herbivores play a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of rangelands, making accurate dietary analysis essential for both wildlife conservation and livestock management. In Mongolia, where livestock husbandry is widespread, understanding the diets of both wildlife and livestock is vital for sustainable ecosystem management. Microhistology remains one of the most effective methods for herbivore diet analysis, yet the scarcity of comprehensive reference materials poses significant challenges. To address this, we developed an identification key based on the micro-anatomical characteristics of plant fragments found in herbivore f***s from Mongolia’s steppe and semi-desert regions. This study examined 93 plant species, focusing on epidermal cell types, stomatal patterns, trichomes, and specialized cells. Key anatomical features, such as elongated, lobed, and angular epidermal cells, along with various stomatal configurations, were essential for plant identification, with anomocytic stomata being particularly prevalent. The diversity of trichomes, including ligulate and prickle types, provided additional clarity for distinguishing dicot species. Additionally, cork and dumbbell-shaped silica cells, especially in Cleistogenes, further aided in taxonomic classification. Our findings enhance the reliability of microhistological diet analysis, offering a tool to support wildlife conservation and sustainable grazing practices in the face of increasing grazing pressures and habitat degradation.

Dear Readers,The next article, entitled "Localization of Helminths in the Large Intestine of Mongolian Horses", has just...
13/01/2025

Dear Readers,
The next article, entitled "Localization of Helminths in the Large Intestine of Mongolian Horses", has just been published.
The online first version of the article is available at the following DOI link: https://doi.org/10.22353/mjbs.2024.22.07

Abstract
The predestinate localization of colonies of 50 species of helminths including 48 strongylid species and two oxyurid species living in the lumen of the large intestine of Mongolian horses were determined. The mucosal surface of the cecum as well as ventral colon of horses are the predestinate habitat for the 11 strongylid species. The mucosal surface of the horse ventral colon is the predestinate habitat for the 15 strongylid species. The mucosal surface of the horse dorsal colon is the predestinate habitat of the 22 strongylid species. Colonies of the 11 cecal species are composed 18.9% of strongylid community with a common location in the horse large intestine, colonies of the 15 ventral colonic species – 52.5% and colonies of the 21 dorsal colonic species – 28.6%. Meanwhile, colonies of the 11 cecal species are composed 19.3% of strongylid community with a displaced location in the horse large intestine, colonies of the 14 ventral colonic species – 59.4% and colonies of the 22 dorsal colon species – 21.2%. The mucosal surface of the dorsal colon as well as ventral colon of horses are the predestinate habitat for the oxyurid species – Oxyuris equi, and the mucosal surface of the ventral colon is the predestinate habitat for the oxyurid species – Probstmayria vivipara.

Dear Readers,The next article, entitled "A New Record of Selaginella sibirica (Selaginellaceae) to the Flora of Mongolia...
13/01/2025

Dear Readers,
The next article, entitled "A New Record of Selaginella sibirica (Selaginellaceae) to the Flora of Mongolia", has just been published.
The online first version of the article is available at the following DOI link: https://doi.org/10.22353/mjbs.2024.22.06

Abstract
Selaginella sibirica (Milde) Hieron. is newly recorded for the flora of Mongolia, i.e., from the Khuvsgul phytogeographical region. Based on the two herbarium specimens and observation from the iNaturalist open source, we extend the range of this species to Mongolia. This species was known previously from the southern Siberia and Russian Far East, northern territories of China, Japan, Korea, and North America. Selaginella sibirica can easily be distinguished from the other Mongolian Selaginella species by its leaves linear-lanceolate and monomorphic, ciliolate at the margin, and with long, white apical seta. We provide morphological description, illustrations, notes on its taxonomy, and a distribution map of this newly reported species.

Dear Readers,The next article, entitled "Butterflies (Insecta: Lepidoptera) of the Shrungarbandh Lake Basin, Gondia, Mah...
13/01/2025

Dear Readers,
The next article, entitled "Butterflies (Insecta: Lepidoptera) of the Shrungarbandh Lake Basin, Gondia, Maharashtra, Central India", has just been published.
The online first version of the article is available at the following DOI link: https://doi.org/10.22353/mjbs.2024.22.05

Abstract
The butterfly diversity around the Shrungarbandh Lake is rich due to enormous flowering vegetation and agriculture crops after monsoon. This study was carried out during June 2020 to April 2021, when opportunistic sampling and biweekly photographic documentation were conducted in vicinity of Shrungarbandh Lake. A total of 70 species of butterflies belonging to six families were recorded. Most of the butterflies recorded are from the family Nymphalidae (28 species) followed by Lycaenidae (15 species) and Pieridae (12 species). Exactly half of the total species, i.e., 35 spp. were very common, 18 spp. were common, eight species were frequently occurred, 6 spp. found to be rare, and 3 spp. were very rare. According to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, eight species were classified as Least Concern, 59 species were not evaluated, and three species were not available. Six species are currently under the protection category of the Indian Wildlife Protection Act 1972. The findings confirm the importance of the Shrungarbandh Lake region in providing beneficial resources for butterflies.

Dear Readers,The next article, entitled "Ecology and Conservation of the Endangered Mongolian Saiga (Saiga tatarica mong...
13/01/2025

Dear Readers,
The next article, entitled "Ecology and Conservation of the Endangered Mongolian Saiga (Saiga tatarica mongolica)", has just been published.
The online first version of the article is available at the following DOI link: https://doi.org/10.22353/mjbs.2024.22.04

Abstract
In this review, we provide a detailed information on ecology and conservation of Mongolian saiga, which is endemic to western Mongolia. Due to human activities many ungulates including saiga have become threatened in Mongolia, during the last century. Currently, this antelope occurs in an area covering ca. 40,006 km2 across 18 soums (districts) of four aimags (provinces) in Mongolia, which represents approximately 40% of its historical range. The movement of Mongolian saiga can be categorized as nomadic and a satellite collaring study shows that they do not usually cover large distances. Mongolian saiga has high twinning rates and the first-year survival of saiga’s calves is about 50%. The most predation on young saiga is attributed to golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) and red fox (Vulpes vulpes). Advances in survey methodologies have led to a better assessment of the population status of Mongolian saiga, and the present population is estimated at 15,540 individuals. Infectious disease and linear infrastructures emerged as new challenges, in addition to the known threats, such as habitat degradation due to livestock overgrazing, poaching, and harsh climatic conditions. Recent conservation efforts to mitigate impacts of environmental and human influences, such as law enforcement, habitat management, disease prevention and community engagement have aided to an increase in the saiga population in Mongolia.

Dear Readers,The next article, entitled "Lacking Sexual Size Dimorphism in Some Rodent Species (Rodentia) in Semi-desert...
29/06/2024

Dear Readers,
The next article, entitled "Lacking Sexual Size Dimorphism in Some Rodent Species (Rodentia) in Semi-desert Region of Mongolia", has just been published.
The online first version of the article is available at the following DOI link: https://doi.org/10.22353/mjbs.2024.22.03

Abstract
Body size differences between males and females of the same species are known as s*xual size dimorphisms (SSD). The male-biased and female-biased SSD have been reported simultaneously across numerous clades of mammals. In this study, we used long term monitoring measurement data of five species rodents to test for the existence of SSD in Ikh Nart Nature Reserve, Mongolia. We collected body measurements of Allactaga sibirica, Dipus sagitta, Meriones meridianus, Meriones ungiculatus, and Phodopus roborovskii between 2007 and 2022. We found both significant male-biased and female-biased SSDs in P. roborovskii (N = 661, t = 5.33; df = 602.70; P < 0.001), and D. sagitta (N = 243, t = 2.14; df = 192.9; P < 0.001), respectively. In addition, a small level of male-biased SSD (non-significant SSD) was obtained species from genus Meriones. The non-significant SSD of both s*xes could be related to other important secondary s*xual displays (e.g., olfaction, ornamentation), which play important roles in s*xual selection. Eventually, effective s*xual dimorphism in rodents could be determined by interactions between morphology, body size, ornamentation, behavior, olfaction, and social status.

Dear Readers,The next article, entitled "Composition of Vespid Wasps (Hymenoptera, Vespidae) in the Baitag Bogd Mountain...
29/06/2024

Dear Readers,
The next article, entitled "Composition of Vespid Wasps (Hymenoptera, Vespidae) in the Baitag Bogd Mountains with a First Record of Symmorphus murarius (Linnaeus 1758) in Mongolia", has just been published.
The online first version of the article is available at the following DOI link: https://doi.org/10.22353/mjbs.2024.22.02

Abstract
Fourteen vespid wasp species are listed from the Baitag Bogd Mountains, representing three subfamilies and nine genera. Of these, 13 species are new for the region and one species, Symmorphus murarius (Linnaeus, 1758), is new for Mongolia. The data include specimen information (number, s*x, location, habitat if available, date and collector), previous records in Mongolia (by province), and distribution ranges of the species.

Dear Readers,The next article, entitled "A Newly Recorded Species of the Genus Hedysarum L. (Fabaceae) from Mongolia", h...
29/06/2024

Dear Readers,
The next article, entitled "A Newly Recorded Species of the Genus Hedysarum L. (Fabaceae) from Mongolia", has just been published.
The online first version of the article is available at the following DOI link: https://doi.org/10.22353/mjbs.2024.22.01

Abstract
The family Fabaceae, one of the largest angiosperm families globally, encompasses diverse ecosystems worldwide, notably in Mongolia where it stands as the second largest family. Within this family, Hedysarum L. emerges as the largest genus in the Hedysareae tribe, exhibiting adaptability across Eurasia’s temperate zones. Our study marks the first recorded occurrence of Hedysarum tarbagataicum in Mongolia. Field surveys conducted in the Jargalant Khairkhan Mountain revealed its presence, enriching our understanding through detailed observations, photographs, and specimen collection. This species thrives in arid habitats, notably dry stream beds and stony slopes, often coexisting with various flora. Distinguishing characteristics, like drooping flowers and smooth beans, differentiate it from closely related species. Our findings significantly extend the geographical range of H. tarbagataicum, underscoring its rarity and hinting at potential expansions in Central Asia. However, conclusive assertions demand further floristic exploration in the region. This discovery underscores the significance of continued research and investigating specimen collection for a comprehensive understanding of this species’ distribution.

Dear Readers,The next article, entitled "Autumn Migration Strategy of Asian Dowitchers (Limnodromus semipalmatus) from E...
27/12/2023

Dear Readers,

The next article, entitled "Autumn Migration Strategy of Asian Dowitchers (Limnodromus semipalmatus) from Eastern Mongolia", has just been published.
The online first version of the article is available at the following DOI link: https://doi.org/10.22353/mjbs.2023.21.06

Abstract
The Asian dowitcher (Limnodromus semipalmatus) breeds in the wetlands of southeast Siberia, Mongolia, and northeast China. It is a Near Threatened shorebird species that only occurs in East Asian Australasian Flyway (EAAF) sites. It is reported that its wintering area extends from East India to South Asia, but its migration route remains unknown. Identifying specific migration routes and migratory stopovers is essential for conserving the declining Asian dowitcher populations. We deployed mobile based transmitters that provide information within the mobile network on eight Asian dowitchers from the eastern Mongolia. Based on this information, the migration route, distance, wintering area, time, and speed of migration of the Asian dowitcher were determined. Asian dowitchers passed through China’s Bohai Sea and Lianyungang coast to Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore for the winter. This species adopted a coastal migration strategy and traveled an average distance of 4,833 km to reach its wintering grounds. They recover their energy after a long rest and travel long distances in a short time. The duration of the autumn migration varied from individual to individual but averaged 47 days (min=14, max=90). Lianyungang, located on the east coast of China, is an important stopover site for the Asian dowitcher, and the tracked individuals landed and rested in this area. During autumn migration, eight Asian dowitchers used 14 stop over sites along the coast, of which two were nature reserves, three were provincial and local protected areas, three were protected areas near cities, and the remaining six were densely populated areas with no protection.

Address

Department Of Biology School Of Arts And Sciences, National University Of Mongolia
Ulaanbaatar
210646

Website

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Mongolian Journal of Biological Sciences posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Business

Send a message to Mongolian Journal of Biological Sciences:

Shortcuts

Share

Category