The Western Caucasus is considered a refugium for several freshwater invertebrates, but detailed phylogeographic studies are lacking. By using mitochondrial sequence data, amplified fragment length polymorphisms and distribution modelling, we study the phylogeography of the Caucasian freshwater snail Melanopsis mingrelica Mousson, 1863, and discuss the role of the Western Caucasus region as a glacial refugium. Volcanism in the...

Global freshwater biodiversity is declining dramatically, and meeting the challenges of this crisis requires bold goals and the mobilisation of substantial resources. While the reasons are varied, investments in both research and conservation of freshwater biodiversity lag far behind those in the terrestrial and marine realms. Inspired by a global consultation, we identify 15 pressing priority needs, grouped into five research...

We present findings from the first survey of shallow-water amphipods conducted along the Black Sea coast in Georgia. Eight species from five families have been identified, all but one being new for the Georgian fauna. Although most are usual inhabitants of the Black and Mediterranean seas, we report the first record of the invader Melita nitida in this region. This North American species was previously known in Europe only fro...

Forest degradation worldwide stimulates efforts to restore forests. In particular, in mountain areas, where livestock agriculture and grazing have led to deforestation and a strong decrease in forest ecosystem services over centuries, it is necessary to develop sustainable strategies for the restoration of multifunctional forest ecosystems. We investigate the case study of the Javakheti Highland in the Southern Caucasus (Georg...