All articles (2009 up to now)
A
new record of Hemidactylus turcicus
(Linnaeus, 1758) (Reptilia: Gekkonidae) from Bulgaria
2025 ZooNotes 257: 1-3: ILIAN VELIKOV, BORISLAV NAUMOV
Abstract. A single individual of Hemidactylus
turcicus is reported from Sofia, Bulgaria. This is the first reliable
registration of this species in the country. It is suggested that the
individual observed was accidentally introduced to the site as a result of
human activity.
How
stressed are two populations of the Mediterranean mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis Lamarck, 1819) from the Black Sea
(Bulgaria)? - Stress on stress biomarker responses
2025 ZooNotes 256: 1-4: VESELA YANCHEVA, ELENKA GEORGIEVA, STELA STOYANOVA, BORISLAVA TODOROVA, LASZLO ANTAL, KRISZTIAN NYESTE
Abstract. This article aims to present the latest results on the stress on stress
responses in farmed and wild mussels from Sozopol, Bulgaria, focusing on the
autumn season of 2024. Additionally, we compare these findings with the results
from the other three seasons.
Animal
remains from the Monastery of Chargubilya Mostich in Veliki Preslav (10-12th
c. AD) – NE Bulgaria
2025 ZooNotes 255: 1-4: ZLATOZAR BOEV
Abstract. A total 1653 animal remains
of 18 taxa have been established in the medieval (10-12 c. AD.) Monastery of
Chargubilya Mostich in Veliki Preslav (Shumen Region, CN Bulgaria). Some wild
mammals as red deer, roe deer, wild boar and European edible dormouse were
rarely hunted, while livestock breeding (cattle, pig, goat, sheep, horse,
donkey and rabbit) was the basic source of meat for the settlement’s
inhabitants.
Contribution
to the study of the free-living freshwater nematode fauna of Neretva River
(Bosna and Herzegovina)
2025 ZooNotes 254: 1-3: STEFAN STOICHEV
Abstract. Hydrobiologycal studies of
Neretva River were performed during the 2019. The present study provides the
first information on free-living freshwater nematodes from the Neretva River.
The identified species are new to the hydrofauna of Bosna and Herzegovina. In
our study, we identified 8 species of freshwater free-living nematodes belonging
to 7 genera. The identified species and genera are new to the hydrofauna of the
Neretva River, They are also new to the hydrofauna of Bosna and Herzegovina.
Some
unusual findings of Güldenstaedt’s White-toothed Shrew, Crocidura gueldenstaedtii (Pallas, 1811) (Mammalia: Eulipotyphla:
Soricidae) from Bulgaria
2024 ZooNotes 253: 1-4: NEDKO NEDYALKOV
Abstract. Here we reported some
unusual findings of the Güldenstaedt’s White-toothed Shrew, Crocidura gueldenstaedtii from Bulgaria.
Probably the first documented case of arboreal activity of this shrew - found
in a nest box attached to a tree at 1.5 m height. In the Western Rhodope Mountains,
we found a female shrew with a purple-red underpart, more intense around the
chest and cheek.
Characteristics
of Crested Tinamou (Eudromia elegans
Saint-Hilaire, 1832) (Aves: Tinamidae) eggs
2024 ZooNotes 252: 1-4: HRISTO LUKANOV, ATANAS GENCHEV
Abstract. The main characteristics of
Crested Tinamou eggs, including shell colour characteristics in two age groups
(young and old birds) were studied. The average value of the egg shape index
was 73.23±0.51 with the average egg size of 50.13±0.47 mm/36.67±0.18 mm. The
average egg weight of all eggs was 35.58±0.64 g, lighter in the young birds
(P<0.001). The share of albumen: yolk:
shell with shell membranes was 58.4%:32.2%:9.4%. Crested Tinamou eggshell is
characterized by average values in the CIE L*a*b* colour system as follows:
51.62±0.51 (L*), -11.57±0.21 (a*), and 36.62±0.54 (b*) with an average shell
color index (SCI**) of -13.19±0.4.
Reference
intervals for some clinical biochemical parameters and certain markers of
inflammation in a female paddlefish (Polyodon
spathula) in Bulgaria
2024 ZooNotes 251: 1-4: TACHO PASHOV, DIMITRINKA ZAPRYANOVA, ALEXANDER ATANASOFF, CIGDEM ÜRKÜ, GALIN NIKOLOV
Abstract. The American paddlefish, (Polyodon spathula), belongs to the order
Acipenseriformes, along with the other sturgeon species. It has been cultivated
in Bulgaria's aquaculture since 2003, but there is still a gap in knowledge
about the biology of this species. Therefore, the current study aimed to
establish reference normal ranges of basic clinical biochemical parameters and
markers of inflammation in a healthy female mature paddlefish being reared in
polyculture with carp in earthen fish ponds. For the present study, 8 summer
old healthy female mature individuals were selected. The blood reference
intervals were calculated according to the non-parametric method. The findings
from the present study may not be accurate for large-scale clinical interpretation
but can certainly be a starting point and guide practitioners in their actions
and practice.
Population
dynamics of Grey Partridge (Perdix perdix)
in Sakar Mountain over 15 years
2024 ZooNotes Supplement 15: 51-59: GRADIMIR GRUYCHEV
Abstract. The
population dynamics of the Grey Partridge were monitored over a 15-year period.
Breeding density and brood size were investigated, and statistical
relationships between breeding density, brood size, and density – related
losses were analyzed. The average breeding density for the entire study period
was 1.5±1.83 (0-12) pairs/100ha. The average brood size was 10.26±4.84 (2-21)
individuals. Autumn-winter losses varied
from 2.3% to 15.8%, showing a decreasing trend from 2018 to 2023. Spring-summer
losses averaged 51.5%. The results indicate a slight increase in the breeding
density of Grey Partridges in the Sakar Mountains over the past 15 years.
However, the species’ density remains lower compared to other plain areas of
the country, likely due to differences in habitat quality.
Animal
remains from the Late Byzantine settlement (4th-7th c. AD) Gradishteto near
Gabrovo City (CN Bulgaria)
2024 ZooNotes 250: 1-3: ZLATOZAR BOEV
Abstract. A
total 747 animal remains of 11 taxa have been established in the medieval (Late
Byzantine) settlement (4th-7th c. AD) near Gabrovo City (Gabrovo Region, CN
Bulgaria). Some wild mammals as Red deer, Roe deer and Wild boar were rarely
hunted, while livestock breeding (cattle, pig, goat, sheep, horse and donkey)
was the basic source of meat for the settlement’s inhabitants.
On
the diversity of the earthworms (Lumbricidae) from the Rhodope Mts in Bulgaria
2024 ZooNotes 249: 1-4: HRISTO VALCHOVSKI, TEODORA TEOFILOVA
Abstract. The
research is a contribution to the knowledge of the earthworm diversity from the
Western Rhodope Mts (Bulgaria). In this study, are presented new records of the
rare Balkan endemic species Dendrobaena
balcanica (Černosvitov, 1937). The paper also provides information about
distribution, zoogeography and ecology of earthworm species from the mountain.
Four
alien fruit-feeding sap beetle species (Coleoptera: Nitidulidae) from Sakar
Mts, Bulgaria
2024 ZooNotes Supplement 15: 43-50: DENIS GRADINAROV, YANA PETROVA
Abstract. Four alien sap beetle species – Carpophilus hemipterus (Linnaeus, 1758),
C. marginellus Motschulsky, 1858, Phenolia picta (W. S. MacLeay, 1825) and
Stelidota geminata (Say, 1825)
(Coleoptera: Nitidulidae) are reported from rural area in Sakar Mts, SE
Bulgaria. A single male of P. picta
was collected at UV light and larvae of the same species were found feeding on
fallen fruits of Ficus carica. The
remaining species were collected under fallen figs in the field or emerged from
the same fruits after laboratory rearing. Phenolia
picta seems to be successfully established in the country, including the
inland territory.
Range Extension of Aramides mangle
(Spix, 1825) (Aves, Gruiformes, Rallidae) to Cayenne, French Guiana
2024 ZooNotes 248: 1-4: TODOR MISHEV
Abstract. This report documents a new
occurrence of Aramides mangle (Spix,
1825) (Little Wood-Rail) in Cayenne Town, French Guiana, marking a significant
range extension within the country. Prior sightings of this species in French
Guiana were scarce, confined to the Kourou Town area from 2021 to 2024. The
present record, confirmed by the homologation committee of Groupe d'Étude et de
Protection des Oiseaux en Guyane (GEPOG), extends the known range of A. mangle into the Cayenne region and
provides fresh insights into its distributional dynamics in response to
environmental factors. This observation adds to the growing body of evidence
suggesting potential range shifts among coastal rallids in South America, particularly
along the northeastern coast where climate change and habitat modifications are
increasingly documented.
Species
composition, distribution and seasonal dynamics of ixodid ticks
(Ixodidae Koch, 1844) in the Karlovo area, Southern Bulgaria
2024 ZooNotes 247: 1-4: STILIANA BOYKOVA, ATANAS ARNAUDOV
Abstract. In the Karlovo area
(Southern Bulgaria) 6 species of ixodid ticks, belonging to 3 genera, including
one subgenus, were identified - Hyalomma
marginatum (Koch, 1844), Hyalomma
scupense (Schulze, 1919), Rhipicephalus
bursa (Canestrini & Fanzago, 1878), Rhipicephalus
sanguineus (Latreille, 1806), Ixodes
ricinus (Linnaeus, 1758) and Rhipicephalus
annulatus (Say, 1821). Differences in their distribution and seasonal
dynamics were found.
Butozania bulgarica
(Kantardzhieva-Minkova, 1953) (Scarabaeidae: Melolonthinae) – little known and
possibly endangered species
2024 ZooNotes 246: 1-4: DENIS GRADINAROV, YANA PETROVA
Abstract. Balkan endemic species Butozania
bulgarica
(Kantardzhieva-Minkova, 1953) was found in several closely situated localities
in the Radomir Valley (SW Bulgaria) after a period of more than 50 years lack
of data. The species has not been found in most of the historical localities in
Bulgaria during several years of targeted survey, and it seems that its distributional
range in the country has significantly decreased after the species description.
First study on the psocids (Insecta: Psocodea) of Rwanda
2024 ZooNotes 245: 1-3: DILIAN GEORGIEV
Abstract. This
study presents the first investigation into the species diversity of
psocids (Insecta: Psocodea) in Rwanda. Over a week-long period in July
2024, psocid specimens were collected from three distinct localities:
Mount Kigali, Kitabi Village, and the shores of Lake Kivu. Eight
species were identified, all of which are new records for Rwanda.
Blister beetles (Coleoptera: Meloidae) in Sakar Mountains, Bulgaria
2024 ZooNotes Supplement 15: 32-42: DENIS GRADINAROV, YANA PETROVA
Abstract. Eighteen
species of the family Meloidae (Coleoptera) are reported from the
Bulgarian part of Sakar Mountains. In the studied region of
southeastern Bulgaria, the species Mylabris quadripunctata (Linnaeus,
1767) has an unusual elytral pattern, resembling that of M. variabilis
(Pallas, 1781) with which it occurs sympatrically. The observed
similarity in elytral black pattern of M. quadripunctata and M.
variabilis may represent an example of classical Müllerian mimicry. The
presence of the species Apalus bipunctatus Germar, 1817 is confirmed
for Bulgaria. The number of known species of the family Meloidae in
Bulgaria increases to 65.
On the validity of the genus Strandzhia Georgiev & Glöer, 2013 (Gastropoda: Bythinellidae)
2024 ZooNotes 244: 1-2: DILIAN GEORGIEV, PETER GLÖER
Abstract. The genus Strandzhia Georgiev & Glöer, 2013
(Gastropoda: Bythinellidae) was described from the Strandzha Mountain area in
southeastern Bulgaria, with its type species, S. bythinellopenia Georgiev & Glöer, 2013. The species was
initially found in a spring near the village of Mladezhko, coexisting with Bythinella dedovi (Glöer & Georgiev
2011). This article addresses the critique by Jaszczyńska et al. (2024), who
question the validity of the genus Strandzhia
based on two key points: the examination of male specimens from the type
locality revealing a penis morphology typical of the genus Grossuana Radoman, 1983, and the sequencing of these specimens
confirming their identity with Grossuana.
They consequently question the expertise of the original authors regarding
penis morphology, concluding the genus is invalid. However, our studies
involved dissecting nine male specimens of Strandzhia,
confirmed the reported penis morphology. We assert the validity of the genus Strandzhia and the existence of S. bythinellopenia at its type locality,
alongside Bythinella and Grossuana species. Future genetic
studies are essential for specimens exhibiting the characteristic penis
morphology of Strandzhia.
A
potential Bio corridor for bears? New data on the occurrence of Ursus arctos (Linnaeus, 1758) in the
Eastern Balkan Mountains
2024 ZooNotes 243: 1-3: PAVLINA MARINOVA, NIKOLAY KOLEV, NIKOLAY NATCHEV
Abstract. In
the present study we provide data on the presence of a Brown bear specimen in
the Eastern Stara Planina (Eastern Balkan). We obtained camera-trap images and
photographs of the footprints of bears from the region of Varbishki and Rishki
passes (Varbishki Prohod and Rishki Prohod). The locations were positioned at
over 100 km from the easternmost border of the core population of bears in the
central Stara Planina. Our data indicate a potential bio corridor allowing at
least for young bears to migrate east along the mountain.
Hard ticks (Acari: Ixodida) in Sakar Mountains, SE Bulgaria
2024 ZooNotes Supplement 15: 20-31: NEVENA KOLAROVA, DENIS GRADINAROV, YANA PETROVA
Abstract. Eight species of hard
ticks (Acari: Ixodida: Ixodidae) are reported in Bulgarian part of Sakar
Mountains. Of the species found, Ixodes ricinus Linnaeus, 1756, Haemaphysalis punctata Canestrini & Fanzago, 1878, Dermacentor marginatus (Sulzer, 1776)
and Hyalomma marginatum Koch, 1844
are widespread species in Bulgaria, while
Haemaphysalis inermis Birula,
1895, Hae. parva (Neumann, 1897), R. turanicus Pomerantsev, 1936 and Hyalomma
aegyptium Linnaeus, 1758 are less common and distributed mainly in the
southern or southeastern regions of the country. It appears that R. turanicus substitutes the widespread
tick species R. bursa Canestrini
& Fanzago, 1878 in the studied habitats of Sakar Mountains.
First
finding of rare endemic species Cernosvitovia
biserialis (Černosvitov, 1937) since 1967 year from Bulgaria
2024 ZooNotes 242: 1-4: HRISTO VALCHOVSKI
Abstract. Identifying
the earthworm material recently collected from pre-Balkan hill zone resulted in discovered new record of rare Balkan endemic
species from Cernosvitovia biserialis (Černosvitov, 1937)
since 1967. This
is the northern finding of the species from Bulgaria. The paper
also provided information about distribution, zoogeography and ecology of this
taxon.
Stress
on stress response in wild and farmed Mediterranean mussels (Mytilus
galloprovincialis Lamarck, 1819) from Sozopol, Black Sea (Bulgaria)
2024 ZooNotes 241: 1-4: VESELA YANCHEVA, ILIANA VELCHEVA, ELENKA GEORGIEVA, STELA STOYANOVA, BORISLAVA TODOROVA, KRISZTIAN NYESTE, LASZLO ANTAL
Abstract. As
a continuation of our previous research, wild and farmed mussels from
the town of Sozopol, located on the Southern Bulgarian Black Sea coast,
were collected to assess and compare the survival rates (stress on
stress response, SoS) as a biomarker for the multi-stressor
environment. This time we aimed to investigate further if there could
be any seasonal differences. Overall, the mussels collected in April
had a longer survival time than those collected at the end of January
2024. However, the survival time of wild and farmed mussels had a
shorter survival rate in the air than in other studies. The answer to
the question “Why is that?” persists.
New
locality of the invasive Monk parakeet Myiopsitta
monachus (Boddaert, 1783) in Greece
2024 ZooNotes 240: 1-4: ZLATOZAR BOEV
Abstract. An adult individual of the Monk parakeet has
been recorded in the City of Piraeus (SE Greece), a new unknown so far locality
of the species.
New
records of some insects from the Strandzha Mts and adjacent Black Sea coast
2024 ZooNotes Supplement 16: 7-20: LIBOR DVOŘÁK, KATEŘINA DVOŘÁKOVÁ, Jiří Hejkal
Abstract. In
this contribution, data to 76 species and one subspecies are given: 29 species
of Coleoptera (Buprestidae: 2, Carabidae: 9, Cerambycidae: 3, Chrysomelidae: 1,
Coccinellidae: 1, Curculionidae: 2, Dytiscidae: 1, Geotrupidae: 1, Lucanidae: 1,
Meloidae: 1, Scarabaeidae: 7), one species of Dermaptera (Forficulidae), 35
species of Diptera (Acroceridae: 1, Dryomyzidae: 1, Heleomyzidae: 1, Hippoboscidae:
1, Lauxaniidae: 7, Opomyzidae:
1, Sciomyzidae: 5, Stratiomyidae: 1, Tabanidae: 15 spp. and 1 ssp., Therevidae:
1), four species of Hemiptera (Cicadidae), six species of Hymenoptera
(Apidae: 1, Megachilidae: 1, Scoliidae: 3, Vespidae: 1), one species of Mecoptera (Panorpidae), and one species of Neuroptera (Chrysopidae).
Four species are reported as new for Bulgaria: Ogcodes
guttatus A. Costa, 1854 (Diptera: Acroceridae), Calliopum
simillimum (Collin, 1933), Meiosimyza rorida
(Fallén, 1820) (all Diptera: Lauxaniidae), and Tetanocera hyalipennis von Roser, 1840 (Diptera:
Sciomyzidae). Three species are reported with the first precisely located
records for Bulgaria: Homoneura limnea
(Becker, 1895), Minettia longipennis (Fabricius, 1794) (both Diptera:
Lauxaniidae) and Tetanocera arrogans Meigen,
1830 (Diptera:
Sciomyzidae). Other recorded species interesting from faunistic point of view
are Dixus eremita (Dejean, 1825), Ophonus
gabrieleae Wrase, 1987 (both Coleoptera: Carabidae), Thereva
aurata Loew, 1854 (Diptera: Therevidae), and Megachile sculpturalis Smith, 1853 (Hymenoptera: Megachilidae).
Free-living
freshwater nematodes in Vlasina Lake (Serbia, Pčina District, Surdulica
Municipality)
2024 ZooNotes 239: 1-3: STEFAN STOICHEV, ELENA NENOVA
Abstract. For the first time, a short hydrofaunistic
research of Vlasina Lake, was carried in Serbia, Pčina District, Surdulica
Municipalityut. A total 18 free-living fresh water nematods species were found. Information on frequency
of occurrence and frequency of dominance is given. The study gives first
information on the free-living fresh water nematods of the Vlasina Lake. For the first time data are reported on free-living
fresh water Nematoda from Serbia.
Review of cestodes (Platyhelminthes: Cestoda) recorded from birds in Sakar Mountains
2024 ZooNotes Supplement 15: 7-19: MARGARITA H. MARINOVA
Abstract. A
review of cestodes (Platyhelminthes: Cestoda) recorded from birds in
Sakar Mountains is presented. A total of 31 species were reported as
two of them has been identified at the generic level only. They belong
to 21 genera and 4 families of the order Cyclophyllidea. As hosts, 39
species of bird from 19 families were reported. A host-parasite list is
presented. The cyclophyllidean cestode species from birds recorded in
the Sakar Mountains represent 13.6% of the cestode species recorded in
Bulgaria.
Physiological measurements of the Mediterannean mussel (Mytilus galloprovincialis Lamarck, 1819) from the Bulgarian Black Sea as biomarkers for multi-stressor environment
2024 ZooNotes 238: 1-4: VESELA YANCHEVA, ILIANA VELCHEVA, ELENKA GEORGIEVA, STELA STOYANOVA, BORISLAVA TODOROVA, KRISZTIAN NYESTE, LASZLO ANTAL
Abstract. Wild
and farmed mussels from the Bulgarian Black Sea were collected to study
and compare the survival rates (stress on stress response) as a
biomarker for multi-stressor environment. In sum, the survival time
indicated that the farmed mussels were more tolerant to stress, even
though they had a similar size and lived in similar conditions. Further
research needs to be done to clarify why.
A new
collection of Psocodea (Insecta) from Unguja Island (Zanzibar, Tanzania)
2024 ZooNotes 237: 1-4: DILIAN GEORGIEV
Abstract. The study presents a new collection of Psocodea
(Insecta) from Unguja Island (Zanzibar, Tanzania), conducted during March 3rd
to 9th, 2024. Despite recent efforts to explore Psocodea fauna in equatorial
and tropical Africa, comprehensive studies in East Africa, particularly along
the east coast and inland areas, remain limited. This research contributes to
filling these gaps by documenting 16 species, including nine new records for
the Zanzibar autonomic region and seven new records for Tanzania. Notably, one
species (Nanopsocus sp.) may
potentially be new to science.
A case
of transportation of Cimex hemipterus
(Fabricius, 1803) (Insecta, Hemiptera) in Bulgaria
2024 ZooNotes 236: 1-2: DILIAN GEORGIEV
Abstract. During the period of 02-09.03.2024, the author
and their family stayed in a hotel infested with bed bugs in Uroa village,
Unguja Island, Zanzibar. Upon returning to Bulgaria (Hrishteni village, Stara
Zagota city area), one specimen of Cimex
hemipterus (Fabricius, 1803) was found alive in the luggage. This should be the first documented record of
the tropical bed bug in Bulgaria, and the possibility of transfer via increased
touristic visit in tropical destinations were briefly discussed.
Abundance
and biomass of Cladocera (Crustacea) in Vaya Lake
Abstract. The number and biomass of Cladocera in Vaya Lake
during the period 2003 - 2007 was studied under the conditions of increased
anthropogenic pressure. The total number of cladocerans by station and
by species, as well as their biomass, was determined. A dendrogram of
similarity in species and quantitative composition of Cladocera was made. St. 1
and St. 5 are distinguished by the equal and lowest abundance of D. magna, and the very similar and
highest abundance of M. micrura.
Stations 3, 4, 11, and 12 had the highest Cladocera abundances, which were
mainly due to close D. longispina and
M. micrura. St. 9, 8, 2 and 7 form
one group with more than 83% similarity. They show similar abundances of D. pulex. The dendrogram of similarity
in species composition and biomass for the cladocerans showed 75% similarity
among all stations except st. 5, which clearly stands out with the lowest total
biomass.
Recent
record of Leioderes kollari kollari
L. Redtenbacher, 1849 (Cerambycidae: Cerambycinae) in Bulgaria
Abstract. The
longhorn beetle species Leioderes kollari
kollari L. Redtenbacher, 1849 (Cerambycidae: Cerambycinae) is reported in
Bulgaria after nearly thirty years of lack of data. Beetles were collected with
UV light traps in the Shumensko Plato Nature Park with preserved natural forest
habitats. The habitat of the species in the studied area is a mixed deciduous
forest with Fagus sylvatica L., Carpinus betulus L. and Acer campestre L.
Current
distribution of Chukar Partridge (Alectoris
chukar J.E. Gray, 1830) in Sakar Mts, Southeast Bulgaria
Abstract. The
distribution and degree of breeding evidence of Chukar Partridge was identified
by field observations in the period 2019-2023 in the area falling within the
natural habitats of the species in Sakar Mountain. For the entire study period,
a total of 22 different localities of the species with a certain breeding
category were established and in 8 of them there was confirmed breeding. The
average number of fledglings per successfully bred pair is 8.37±2.2 (6-12
ind.). Non-pairing and non-breeding
birds were also observed in 2021/2022 at sites where breeding success data were
collected.
First
record of Vadonia unipunctata makedonica
Holzschuh, 1989 (Cerambycidae: Lepturinae) in Bulgaria
Abstract. Vadonia unipunctata
makedonica
Holzschuh, 1989 (Cerambycidae: Lepturinae) is reported from the Bulgarian part
of Falakro Mts. The nominative subspecies V.
unipunctata unipunctata (Fabricius, 1787) is also present in Bulgaria.
Photographs of the beetles of both subspecies are provided.
Seasonal
and circadian activity patterns of two sympatric carnivores in an agricultural
habitat, Southern Bulgaria
Abstract. To establish the circadian activity of the Red Fox (Vulpes
vulpes) and the Stone
Marten (Martes
foina) in agricultural habitats of Southern Bulgaria a total of 5 camera
traps were set in protected area “Maritsa - Parvomay”. Both carnivores
demonstrated bimodal nocturnal activity with close or coincident hour
intervals. They showed peak activity in the dark and in the twilight, which is
usual for areas with strong anthropogenic influence.
One more “Asian” psocid (Insecta: Psocodea) found in Africa?
Abstract. The
study presents new findings of Peripsocus cf. constrictus Thornton
& Wong, 1968, in Uganda, near Buvi village, along the shores of
Lake Victoria. Specimens were collected on July 30th, 2022, from a
swampy area with bushes, palms, and various hygrophytes. A total of 12
female specimens were collected by beating the vegetation and stored
for further analysis. The species P. constrictus was previously
described based solely on a male specimen from Southeast Asia, so its
identification based on females from Africa remains uncertain.
A record
of import of the invasive snail Theba
pisana (O. F. Müller, 1774) (Gastropoda: Helicidae) in Bulgaria
Abstract. This is a short communication of a discovery of
the invasive Mediterranean snail species Theba
pisana among
food products in a market in Bulgaria imported from Spain. A single live
juvenile specimen was found among lettuce leaves. Later it was alive kept in a
terrarium.
Nesting observation of the Sculptured
Resin bee Megachile sculpturalis F.
Smith, 1853 (Hymenoptera: Megachilidae) in Bulgaria
Abstract. Establishing of the East Asian bee species Megachile sculpturalis F. Smith, 1853
(Hymenoptera: Megachilidae) is documented in Bulgaria. Nesting of the species on
two old trees of Styphnolobium japonicum
(L.) Schott was observed in the Sea Garden of Varna City, NE Bulgaria. A single
female of the same species was also collected in Banitsa Vill., NW Bulgaria.
Notes on the diet of Testudo hermanni boettgeri and T. graeca ibera in south-western Bulgaria with first cases of geophagy and myrmecophagy from the country
2023 ZooNotes 228: 1-4: EMANUIL MITREVICHIN, LIDIA SAKELARIEVA, HRISTO PESHEV, ALEXANDER PULEV
Abstract. Data on the diet of Testudo hermanni and T. graeca have been published in Bulgaria
for more than a century. Yet, few studies have provided more details on the feeding
habits of the two species. Here, we present information about their diet in
south-western Bulgaria where they coexist. The results showed that T. graeca
fed exclusively on plants, whereas T.
hermanni was more opportunistic and
supplemented its diet with other food sources, including ants and soil
particles.
New records of Agapanthia maculicornis maculicornis (Gyllenhal, 1817) (Cerambycidae: Lamiinae) in SE Bulgaria
2023 ZooNotes 227: 1-4: DENIS GRADINAROV, YANA PETROVA
Abstract. Eight new localities of Agapanthia maculicornis maculicornis (Gyllenhal, 1817)
(Cerambycidae: Lamiinae) in SE Bulgaria are reported. The species is rather
common in xerothermic herbaceous communities, being most often found on plants
from the tribe Cichorieae (Asteraceae: Cichorioideae). Photographs of the
species from Bulgaria are published for the first time.
Exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers impairs the health condition of Zebra Mussel, Dreissena polymorpha (Pallas, 1771)
2023 ZooNotes 226: 1-4: VESELA YANCHEVA, ILIANA VELCHEVA, ELENKA GEORGIEVA, BORISLAVA TODOROVA, KRISZTIÁN NYESTE, LÁSZLÓ ANTAL, STELA STOYANOVA
Abstract. Тhe present pilot laboratory study (96 hours and
30 days) aimed to provide for the first time the possible adverse effects of
different concentrations of PBDEs congers (PBDE 28, PBDE 47, PBDE 99, PBDE 100,
PBDE 153, PBDE 154), based on Water Framework Directive 2000/60/EC (WFD) in Zebra
Mussels (Dreissena polymorpha Pallas,
1771). Thus, we calculated different condition factors
based on the mussel’s weight and length to determine the possible adverse
effects of acute and subchronic exposure to PBDEs under laboratory conditions.
Earthworm (Clitellata: Lumbricidae) records from the Western Stara Planina Mts (Bulgaria)
2023 ZooNotes 225: 1-4: HRISTO VALCHOVSKI, NIKOLAY KODZHABASHEV, KALINA KOCEVA
Abstract. The
current study is
a contribution to the knowledge of the earthworm diversity from the Sofia
region (Bulgaria).
During the investigation 10
earthworm species were collected altogether, belonging to five
genera. Among them Dendrobaena
alpina alpina (Rosa, 1884)
and Dendrobaena attemsi (Michaelsen, 1902) proved to be the new records from Western Stara Planina
Mts. D. alpina alpina is registered
for the first time in the whole Balkan Mts., while D. attemsi is found for the first time in the Western parts of
Balkan Mts.
A noteworthy locality of the javelin sand boa (Eryx jaculus Linnaeus, 1758) in Southern Bulgaria
2023 ZooNotes 224: 1-4: ATANAS DECHEV, STANIMIRA DELEVA
Abstract. A noteworthy locality of the rare javelin sand
boa (Eryx jaculus Linnaeus 1758) is
described on the slope of the Rhodope Mountain south of Asenovgrad, with at
least 28 individual specimens. As this rare species is sensitive to
disturbance, conservation actions should be taken to preserve the site.
New records of Psocoptera (Insecta) from French Guiana (North Amazonia)
2023 ZooNotes 223: 1-4: DILIAN GEORGIEV
Abstract. Psocoptera were collected from French Guiana
(near Montjoly town and Wayki village) by beating the vegetation between
29.07-05.08.2023. At least 14 species from seven families of Psocoptera were
collected. Nine of them were new records for French Guiana (four new records
for the New World) and five were already known for this area.
Animal remains of the Late Antiquity settlement (1-4th c. AD) near Dolni Lukovit (Pleven Region, CN Bulgaria)
2023 ZooNotes 222: 1-2: ZLATOZAR BOEV
Abstract. A total of 29 bones and bone fragments of wild
and domestic birds and mammals collected in the Late Antiquity military
settlement near Dolni Lukovit village (Pleven Region, CN Bulgaria) have been
identified as 9 species of 7 orders. Most numerous are the remains of pigs and
chickens. The species composition suggests the existence of open treeless
grassy habitats in the vicinity of settlements.
New record of White-tailed lapwing (Vanellus leucurus Lichtenstein, 1823) on the south Black Sea shore in Bulgaria
2023 ZooNotes 221: 1-3: YANA YORDANOVA, VENTSESLAV DELOV
Abstract. Two adult individuals of the White-tailed
lapwing (Vanellus leucurus) were
observed on 26.04.2022 on the sand beach near Veleka River mouth.
Vantage point surveys of cetaceans (Mammalia, Cetacea) and their interactions with marine birds
2023 ZooNotes 220: 1-4: KIRIL VALCHEV, YANA YORDANOVA, VENTSESLAV DELOV
Abstract. Between June and September 2021, observations
were carried out from a vantage point near Cape Emine. The surveys cover 20
field days and 160 hours. Near Ahtopol between June and November – 18 field
days and 146 hours in 2022. All of the three cetacean species, occurring in the
Black sea, were observed in Cape Emine: 336 animals in 143 sightings. The
highest number of individuals recorded, was in June: 154 animals in 65
sightings. Near Ahtopol in 2022 only Phocaena
phocaena (61 individuals and 143 sightings) and Delphinus delphis (38 individuals in 1 sighting) were recorded.
Interactions with marine birds were recorded during 93 % of observations on
cetacean feeding.
Data on migration and wintering of the Common Crane (Grus grus Linnaeus, 1758) in Northwestern Bulgaria
2023 ZooNotes 219: 1-4: GEORGI STOYANOV, KRASIMIR DONCHEV
Abstract. In the period 2011 - 2022, four cases of
nocturnal flight and two cases of daytime observations during autumn migration
of Common Crane (Grus grus Linnaeus,
1758) were registered in Northwestern Bulgaria. One case of this species
wintering in NW Bulgaria has also been observed. The data available so far are
very limited regarding the migration and wintering of the Common Crane in this
part of Bulgaria.
Biomass of the chironomid larvae (Chironomidae, Diptera) in Vaya Lake (Bulgaria) during the period 2003-2007
2023 ZooNotes 218: 1-4: ELENA NENOVA, STEFAN STOICHEV
Abstract. The biomass of chironomids in the Vaya Lake during
the period 2003-2007 was studied. In the spring and summer of 2004, the biomass
was estimated by the highest values, and in the spring and summer of 2006 – the
lowest. The species with the greatest participation in the biomass were: Chironomus riparius, Cryptochironomus defectus, Chironomus gr. plumosus, Cricotopus
sylvestris, Tanytarsus gregarious
and Cricotopus algarum. The stations
along the central axis of the lake had the highest similarity. Dendrogram of
chironomid biomass similarity showed high similarity (greater than 80%) for
sites 3, 4 and 12.
New records of Psocoptera (Insecta) from Thailand
2023 ZooNotes 217: 1-3: DILIAN GEORGIEV
Abstract. The study was carried out between 24-27.02.2023,
East and South-East of Karon village on Phuket Island, Thailand. At least 13 species from seven families of
Psocoptera were collected. Eleven species were new records for Thailand.
Chronic toxicity of microplastics have lethal effects on common carp (Cyprinus carpio Linnaeus, 1785)
2023 ZooNotes 216: 1-4: VESELA YANCHEVA, BORISLAVA TODOROVA, DOBRINKA TODOROVA-BAMBALDOKOVA, ELENKA GEORGIEVA, ILIANA VELCHEVA, STELA STOYANOVA
Abstract. The 21st century has seen the
realization that people have overused plastic. Unfortunately, plastic pollution
is a widespread environmental problem in many of the world’s rivers and seas.
Plastic litter is well distributed in shallow as well as in deep-waters, and
therefore it is inevitably present in the world’s ocean which is in turn the
final sink of plastic debris of all sizes, alongside other various
anthropogenic toxicants (for example, heavy metals and persistent organic
pollutants). The negative effects of microplastics (MPs) which are produced by
the breakdown of larger plastic debris on aquatic organisms, including both freshwater
and marine fish have been already well documented. However, there is a gap in
the knowledge from studies conducted in the field or under laboratory
conditions in Bulgaria.
Faunistic and ecological investigations of the free-living freshwater nematode fauna of the Koprinka Reservoir (Central Bulgaria)
2023 ZooNotes 215: 1-4: STEFAN STOICHEV, ELENA NENOVA
Abstract. The study gives for the new information for
hydrofaunistic investigation of the Koprinka
Reservoir. A total of 22 free-living freshwater nematode species were found
for the period 2020, 2021. Nematode
fauna and environmental factors were tested by statistical analyses. The
species Monhystera stagnalis, Monhystera filiformis and Dorylaimus stagnalis were found in all
six stations of the reservoir.
New records of Psocoptera (Insecta) from Uganda
2023 ZooNotes 214: 1-4: DILIAN GEORGIEV
Abstract. A new collection of Psocoptera from Uganda
revealed 37 species. Thirty six were new records for the country. After this
study the current list of barklice of Uganda is comprised of 50 species.
First data on nesting of the Common Raven (Corvus corax Linnaeus, 1758) in cities of Bulgaria
2023 ZooNotes 213: 1-4: GEORGI STOYANOV, LYUDMIL GEORGIEV, MARIO ALEXANDROV, VLADIMIR PENCHEV
Abstract. In the period 2018-2022, nesting of Common Raven
(Corvus corax Linnaeus, 1758) pairs
was established in the cities of Montana, Varshets and Sofia. In 2021, possible
nesting was detected for one Common Raven pair in the city of Vratsa.
Microplastic pollution – are there potential toxic threats for aquatic animals in Bulgaria?
2023 ZooNotes 212: 1-4: BORISLAVA TODOROVA, DOBRINKA TODOROVA-BAMBALDOKOVA, STELA STOYANOVA, ELENKA GEORGIEVA, ILIANA VELCHEVA, VESELA YANCHEVA
Abstract. Microplastic (MPs) pollution and its negative
effects is a growing, yet poorly studied problem in Bulgaria. In the present
review we aimed to summarize the available data on MPs contamination of surface
waters and sediments, and its impact on aquatic animals in Bulgaria.
2022:
First record of Attagenus smirnovi (Zhantiev, 1973) in Bulgaria (Insecta: Coleoptera: Dermestidae)
2022 ZooNotes 211: 1-4: TSVETOMIR TSVETANOV, ANDREAS HERRMANN
Abstract. The dermestid beetle Attagenus smirnovi (Zhantiev, 1973) is recorded for the first time
in Bulgaria.
Harpacticoida (Crustacea, Copepoda) from caves in Bulgaria
2022 ZooNotes 210: 1-4: APOSTOL APOSTOLOV
Abstract. The paper summarizes the information concerning
the distribution of the harpacticoid fauna in Bulgarian caves. So far, in 56
caves situated in four physiсogeographic regions are registered 35 species from
12 genera of the 3 families (Ameiridae, Canthocamptidae and
Parastenocarididae). Of all the species found in the caves, 19 are stygobionts,
11 stogophiles and 5 stygoxenes.
Circadian activity patterns of the Red fox (Vulpes vulpes) and the Stone marten (Martes foina) in agricultural landscape of Northwestern Bulgaria during autumn-winter period
2022 ZooNotes 209: 1-4: ALEXANDER PETROV, KRASIMIR KIRILOV, DESISLAVA TINCHEVA
Abstract. Our study was aimed to establish the circadian
activity of the Red fox (Vulpes vulpes)
and the Stone marten (Martes foina)
in the protected area "Zlatiyata", situated in an agricultural
landscape. The study was conducted from September 2021 to March 2022 using
camera traps. It provides new data on the behavioral ecology of the target
species contributing to the knowledge of their co-existence in croplands.
Coturnix coturnix (Linnaeus, 1758) - the common known bird? Part III. Common quail hybridization aspects
2022 ZooNotes 208: 1-3: HRISTO LUKANOV, IVELINA PAVLOVA
Abstract. The common quail (Coturnix coturnix Linneaus, 1758) belongs
to a genus with a small variety of species, inhabiting a huge area, which has
given the opportunity to distinguish several subspecies. An important element for
the common quail’s population diversity, which is relatively poorly studied, is
the possibility of inter-species hybridization and intraspecies crossbreeding.
The main scientific focus is in the direction of relationship between common
and Japanese quail. The analysis of possible other possibilities of
interaction between the different species of the genus Coturnix and the separate subspecies gives serious grounds for a
far broader consideration of the common quail hybridization issue.
First observation of the White-tailed eagle Haliaeetus albicilla (Linnaeus, 1758) in CW Bulgaria for the last 132 years
2022 ZooNotes 207: 1-4: ZLATOZAR BOEV, ZLATOZAR BOEV Jr.
Abstract. An
observation of an adult bird on the 20th August 2022 along the shore
of Bozalan (Bakardere) Reservoir near Verinsko village (CW Bulgaria) is
reported. This is the first species’ record in the last 132 years in that part
of the country.
A Case of winter activity of the Hermann’s Tortoise (Testudo hermanni Gmelin, 1789) (Reptilia: Testudinidae) from Bulgaria
2022 ZooNotes 206: 1-4: EMANUIL MITREVICHIN, LIDIA SAKELARIEVA, ALEXANDER PULEV
Abstract. The active season of T. hermanni in Bulgaria is from March–April to October–November. So
far, few cases of winter activity have been registered in the country. Here we
report on another such case of an adult T.
hermanni. The temporary emergence of the specimen from its hibernaculum was
probably caused by the combined effect of several factors such as the high
ambient temperatures, the orientation of the slope, the altitude, the depth of
the hibernaculum used, etc.
Scavenging behavior of an adult Hermann’s Tortoise (Testudo hermanni Gmelin, 1789) (Reptilia: Testudinidae)
2022 ZooNotes 205: 1-4: EMANUIL MITREVICHIN, LIDIA SAKELARIEVA, ALEXANDER PULEV
Abstract. It is well known that the Hermann’s Tortoise (Testudo hermanni) feeds primarily on
plants. The species can also supplement its diet with different food sources,
including carrion. Yet, few cases of scavenging behavior have been reported in
the literature. Here we report on the consumption of a dead female Common Toad
(Bufo bufo) by an adult female T. hermanni. The scavenging behavior
observed can be related to the increased energy needs of females during the
nesting season.
Coturnix coturnix (Linnaeus, 1758) - the common known bird? Part II. Common quail taxonomy
2022 ZooNotes 204: 1-3: HRISTO LUKANOV, IVELINA PAVLOVA
Abstract. Despite the controversy over Common quail (Coturnix coturnix Linneaus, 1758)
subspecies diversity, the following subspecies stand out in the scientific
literature: C. c. coturnix (Linneaus,
1758), C. c. africana (Temminck &
Schlegel, 1848), C. c. erlangeri
(Zedlitz, 1912), C. c. inopinata
(Hartert, 1917), and C. c. conturbans
(Hartert, 1917). This systematics is based on the area of distribution and
insignificant external differences, which is criticized for the migratory
behavior of the species and the opportunities for interspecies contact in the
common areas.
Observations of terrestrial vertebrates at South Coastal Kenya: a short note
2022 ZooNotes 203: 1-4: DILIAN GEORGIEV
Abstract. In terms of the biodiversity monitoring and
conservation, localities of 9 species of reptiles, 26 species of birds, and 9
species of mammals were reported for the coastal area of Kenya (a stripe of about
20 km between the small river of Congo and the harbour to Chale
Island).
Faunistic and ecological investigations of the free-living freshwater nematode fauna of the Ogosta Reservoir (North-West Bulgaria)
2022 ZooNotes 202: 1-4: STEFAN STOICHEV, HRISTINA KALCHEVA, ELENA NENOVA
Abstract. The
study gives for the first time a short hydrofaunistic investigation of the
Ogosta Reservoir, recently infested by the invasive species from complex Dreissena
bugensis -polymorpha. A
total of 22 nematode species belonging to 12 genera and 9 families were found
for the period April 2010 and August 2012. Nematode fauna and environmental
factors were tested by statistical analyses. The species Monhystera stagnalis, M.
filiformis and Dorylaimus stagnalis
were found in all five stations of the reservoir. One species, Rhabditis brevispina, is new to the
Bulgarian hydrofauna.
Coturnix coturnix (Linnaeus, 1758) - the common known bird? Part I. Distribution and conservation status
2022 ZooNotes 201: 1-3: HRISTO LUKANOV, IVELINA PAVLOVA
Abstract. Common
quail (Coturnix coturnix Linneaus,
1758) inhabits a vast area spread over three continents - Europe, Asia and
Africa. Although it is the most thoroughly studied wild representative of the
genus Coturnix there are some poorly
clarified aspects, mainly concerning its current conservation status,
subspecies diversity, and the possibilities for natural hybridization. The
purpose of this article is to consolidate, systematize and analyze the
available information regarding the state of the global population, taxonomy,
and the hybridization of the common quail.
Mass winter movements of Yelkouan Shearwaters (Puffinus yelkouan) along the Bulgarian Black Sea coast
2022 ZooNotes 200: 1-3: PETER SHURULINKOV, ROSSEN TZONEV, GIRGINA DASKALOVA, PETKO TZVETKOV, ZHIVKO GRADINAROV
Abstract. Large
flocks of Yelkouan Shearwaters (Puffinus
yelkouan Acerbi, 1827) were reported to migrate along the northern
Bulgarian Black Sea coast in the winter. On 06.02.2021, a total of 15,488
Yelkouan Shearwaters were counted for one hour after midday at Dobrudzha
campsite, Shabla. During February 2021 and 2022, some smaller flocks were also
observed. In the past, such big concentrations of Yelkouan Shearwaters in the
Black Sea have been reported only during the spring, summer and rarely autumn.
The possible explanations for such a winter influx of the species are
discussed.
Common carp (Cyprinus carpio Linnaeus, 1785): a species equally important for aquaculture and aquatic toxicology
2022 ZooNotes 199: 1-3: VESELA YANCHEVA, STELA STOYANOVA, BORISLAVA TODOROVA, ELENKA GEORGIEVA, ILIANA VELCHEVA
Abstract. Our main goal in this short review is
to present the pros of using common carp (Cyprinus
caprio Linnaeus, 1785) for the purposes in both, aquaculture and aquatic
toxicology.
First record of the Asian seed beetle Megabruchidius dorsalis (Fåhraeus, 1839) (Chrysomelidae: Bruchinae) in Bulgaria
2022 ZooNotes 198: 1-4: DENIS GRADINAROV
Abstract. Asian
seed beetle Megabruchidius dorsalis
(Fåhraeus, 1839) is reported for the first time from Bulgaria. The beetles were
reared from seed pods of Gleditsia triacanthos L., collected in a city park in Sofia.
Zebra mussel (Dreissena polymorpha Pallas, 1771): the invasive bioindicator for freshwater quality?
2022 ZooNotes 197: 1-4: VESELA YANCHEVA, STELA STOYANOVA, BORISLAVA TODOROVA, ELENKA GEORGIEVA, ILIANA VELCHEVA
Abstract. In this short review we aim to discuss the
advantages and disadvantages of using zebra mussel (Dreissena polymorpha Pallas, 1771) for the purposes of freshwater
monitoring.
New records of scorpion-flies (Mecoptera: Panorpidae) from Bulgaria
2022 ZooNotes 196: 1-4: LIBOR DVOŘÁK
Abstract. The
distributional data for three Panorpa
species from Bulgaria are presented here. The species Panorpa rufostigma Westwood, 1846 is published the first time from
Bulgaria.
Avian remains from the Palace Center and the Citadel of the medieval capital Pliska of Bulgaria (10th century AD)
2022 ZooNotes 195: 1-4: ZLATOZAR BOEV
Abstract. Seven
species and domestic forms of birds have been reported through 155 bone remains
from the medieval Bulgarian capital Pliska, collected in 2012 and 2018. It is
assumed that the mute swan and the hooded crow were used for food.
First record of Limnodromus scolopaceus (Say, 1823) (Scolopacidae, Aves) in Bulgaria
2022 ZooNotes 194: 1-3: ZLATOZAR BOEV
Abstract. Two adult individuals of the Long-billed
Dowitcher Limnodromus scolopaceus were
observed on 31.12.2021 in the shallow basins in the southern part of the
Atanasovsko Lake near Burgas.
Additions
to the list of Psocoptera (Insecta) of Samothraki Island (Greece)
Abstract. A new collection of Psocoptera from Samothraki
Island revealed 6 species. Four of them were new records for this area. After
this study the current list of barklice of the island is comprised of 13
species.
Infestation of the road-killed Eastern European hedgehogs (Erinaceus roumanicus) with Ixodidae ticks in some parts of Upper Thracian Plain (Bulgaria)
2022 ZooNotes 192: 1-4: ATANAS ARNAUDOV, ATANAS MIKOV, DILIAN GEORGIEV
Abstract. Infestation of the road-killed hedgehogs (Erinaceus roumanicus) with Ixodes ticks
in some parts of Upper Thracian Plain (Bulgaria) was investigated. A total of 5
tick species from 3 genera were identified.
Ingestion of plastics in the European bass (Dicentrarchus labrax Linnaeus, 1758): first known observation in the city of Plovdiv, Bulgaria
2022 ZooNotes 191: 1-4: VESELA YANCHEVA, STELA STOYANOVA, BORISLAVA TODOROVA, ELENKA GEORGIEVA, ILIANA VELCHEVA
Abstract. In this article we report the first registered
case of plastic products in fish purchased from a local fish market in the city
of Plovdiv, Bulgaria.
2021
Another
contribution to the knowledge of the trophic spectrum of few
lacertid lizards (Reptilia, Squamata, Lacertidae) from
Southern Bulgaria
Abstract. We present
unpublished data on the diet of three lizards (Lacerta
trilineata, Lacerta agilis and Podarcis
tauricus) from the Lacertidae family, collected in 1974
in few localities in Southern Bulgaria. The analyzed data
showed that the insects (Insecta) are the most numerous and
the most frequently met food component and among the
non-insect components the spiders and isopods are slightly
predominating. The largest niche breadth was recorded in Podarcis
tauricus (6.135), followed by Lacerta trilineata
(5.263) and Lacerta agilis (4.132). All three studied
lacertid species are classified as opportunistic general
feeders (polyphages), which may show slight preference towards
beetles, ants or spiders, depending on the occupied habitat or
the season.
New records for distribution of Phytoliriomyza melampyga (Loew, 1869) (Diptera: Agromyzidae) and its host plants in Bulgaria
2021
Abstract. This study
provides new data on the distribution of Phytoliriomyza
melampyga, as well as information on its host plants
in the country.
Karvav Kamak Mnt. – a new locality of the Spotted Nutcracker (Nucifraga caryocatactes (Linnaeus, 1758)) in Bulgaria
2021
Abstract. A new species
locality of Nucifraga
caryocatactes is reported in the Karvav Kamak Mnt.
(part of the Milevska Mnt.) on the Bulgarian-Serbian state
border. The site is remote 50-70 km from the nearest known
localities in the Western Stara Planina, Vitosha, and Osogovo
mountains.
Additions and corrections to the list of Psocoptera of Unguja Island (Zanzibar, Tanzania)
2021
Abstract. Three species
were added to the list of Psocoptera of Unguja, and one was
excluded. A revision of the materials mentioned by Georgiev
(2021) revealed two species as new records to the island, and
one which was previously misidentified was now corrected.
These were Liposcelis puber,
L. plesiopuber and Stenocaecilius casarum.
All were new records for Tanzania.
First record of Thereva aurata (Loew, 1854) in Bulgaria (Insecta: Diptera: Therevidae)
2021
Abstract. The therevid fly
Thereva aurata (Loew,
1854) is recorded for the first time in Bulgaria.
Three new records of feather mite species (Acari: Astigmata) for Bulgaria
2021
Abstract. Five feather
mite species were collected from the bird species Columba
palumbus L., 1758 (Columbiformes), Emberiza
calandra L., 1758, Hippolais
icterina (Vieillot, 1817) and Acrocephalus
melanopogon (Temminck, 1823) (Passeriformes). Analges nitzschi Haller,
1878, Ingrassiella
melanopogoni Constantinescu, 2013 and Proctophyllodes
icterina Zullo & Manilla, 1992 (Analgoidea) are
new feather mite species for the acarofauna of Bulgaria.
Animal remains of the medieval settlement near Petarch village (Sofia Province, CW Bulgaria)
2021
Abstract. A total of 107
bones and bone fragments of wild and domestic reptiles, birds
and mammals collected in the medieval settlement near Petarch
village (Sofia Region, CW Bulgaria) have been identified as 11
taxa. Most numerous are the remains of cattle, aurochs and the
wild boar, indicating forest landscape. The record of the
wisent is a rare confirmation of the species existence at
least till 7th-9th century AD in the country.
New records of Pilemia tigrina (Mulsant, 1851) (Cerambycidae: Lamiinae) from roadside habitats in Bulgaria
2021
Abstract. New data on the
distribution of Pilemia
tigrina (Mulsant, 1851) in Bulgaria are presented.
The species is reportred for the first time from Mala Planina
Mts. and from several sites along Iskarski Prolom Gorge. It
seems that the species is not rare in roadside habitats of the
Western Stara Planina Mts., and its distribution is determined
by the presence of the host plant Anchusa barrelieri (All.)
Vitman.
Confirmation of the presence of Dorcadion (Cribridorcadion) decipiens (Germar, 1824) in Bulgaria (Insecta: Coleoptera: Cerambycidae)
2021
Abstract. The presence of
Dorcadion decipiens
(Germar, 1824) in Bulgaria is confirmed after 116 years from
the first record (Nedelkov 1905), which was not accepted by
scientific community as real.
Species composition of Chironomidae (Diptera) in Vaya Lake
2021
Abstract. The species
composition of one of the main zoobenthos groups in Vaya Lake
- Chironomidae (Diptera) in the period 2003 - 2007 was
studied. A total of 27 taxa were identified, of which 18
species from 11 genera were identified and 9 taxa at the level
of sp. The results showed a change in the species composition
of chironomids compared to the period 1953 - 1957 (Zashev and
Angelov, 1959) when the only systematic studies of the lake so
far were performed.
New data for feather mites (Acari: Astigmata) from birds in South Dobrudzha, Bulgaria
2021
Abstract. The feather mite
species on Certhia
familiaris L., 1758, Crex
crex (L., 1758), Jynx
torquila (L., 1758) and Turdus
pilaris L., 1758 are studied for the first time in
South Dobrudzha Region (Bulgaria). As a result, four feather
mite species are reported and two of these species -
Analges certhiae Haller, 1878 and Grallobia
rallorum (Robin, 1877) are new for the Bulgarian
fauna.
Feather mites (Acari: Analgoidea) from the Moustached Warbler, Acrocephalus melanopogon (Passeriformes: Acrocephalidae) in Bulgaria
2021
Abstract. For the first
time in Bulgaria Moustached Warbler, Acrocephalus
melanopogon (Temminck, 1823) is studied as a host of
feather mites. As a result, three feather mite species - Trouessartia bifurcata
(Trouessart, 1884), Trouessartia
mironovi Constantinescu, 2013 and Proctophyllodes
sp. were identified. One of these species - T.
mironovi is reported as a new for the Bulgarian
fauna.
A new member of the genus Graecophalangium Roewer, 1923 and the first generic record for the Turkish harvestman fauna (Arachnida: Opiliones)
2021
Abstract. Egaenus
marenzelleri
Nosek, 1905 is redescribed and transferred to the
genus Graecophalangium
Roewer, 1923 as Graecophalangium
marenzelleri, comb. n. This species is also the first
representative of its genus for the Turkish fauna. Male
external and genital morphology of this species is illustrated
for the first time.
A short note on vertebrates observed at Michamwi Peninsula, Unguja Island (Tanzania)
2021
Abstract. This case study presents
new distribution data on 37 vertebrate species (1 fish, 4
lizards, 1 snake, 3 mammals, and 28 birds). All were
registered at the area of North-West coast of Michamwi
Peninsula.
Some Psocoptera species (Hexapoda, Insecta) new to the fauna of Belarus
2021
Abstract. The first records of three
Psocoptera species (barkflies) from the genera Lepinotus
and Liposcelis from
Belarus are provided. They were found in bird's, wasp's, ant's
and marten's nests.
New and unpublished data about the ground beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae) of Bulgaria
2021
Abstract. Bulgarian carabid fauna is
relatively well studied but there are still many species and
regions in the country lacking enough research. This study
gives new information about 28 carabid species and 15
zoogeographical regions and subregions in Bulgaria. There are
10 species recorded for the first time in different regions.
Three species are reported for the second time in the regions
where they were currently collected. Eleven species haven’t
been reported since 1995 from the Predbalkan Region,
Ihtimanska Sredna Gora Mts., Sandanski-Petrich Valley, Vitosha
Mts., Rila Mts., Pirin Mts., and Kraishte Region.
New and unpublished data about Bulgarian ground beetles of the tribe Lebiini (Coleoptera: Carabidae)
2021
Abstract. This study gives new
information and new records on 24 carabid species and 18
zoogeographical regions and subregions in Bulgaria. This is
the second country record of Dromius
angustus. There are another 13 species recorded for
the first time in different regions. One species is reported
for the second time in the region where it was currently
collected. Eight species haven’t been reported for more than
25 years in the Boboshevo-Simitli valley, Sandanski-Petrich
valley, Vitosha Mts., Rila Mts., and Pirin Mts.
Toxic pesticides effects on the respiration rate in Dreissena polymorpha (Pallas, 1771)
2021
Abstract. With the present
experiment we aimed to study the possible negative effects of
two commonly used insecticides – cypermethrin (CYP) and
chlorpyrifos (CPF) on the respiration rate of Zebra Mussel (Dreissena polymorpha
Pallas, 1771) after 96 hours and 30 days. We found that both
chemicals altered the respiration process; however CYP was
determined to be more toxic regarding this particular
biological measurement.
On the presence of bats (Chiroptera) at the mouths of Kamchiya and Shkorpilovska Rivers, Bulgarian Black Sea Coast
2021
Abstract. Eight bat species was
identified using acoustic survey in the territories of
Kamchiya and Shkorpilovska Rivers. The majority of records
belong to Myotis cf.
daubentonii, Pipistrellus
nathusii and
Nyctalus noctula. Plecotus
austriacus was found only at the mouths of Kamchiya
river. Both sites have high conservation priority as the Black
Sea wetlands.
Some Psocoptera records from South-West Bulgaria
2021
Abstract. A total of 9 species were
reported from three geographic areas of South-West Bulgaria
(Kresna Gorge, Kozhuh Mt., and Ograzhden Mts.): Liposcelis
bostrychophila, L.
decolor, L.
silvarum, Lachesilla
pedicularia, L.
bernardi, E.
annulatus, E.
moebiusi, Amphigerontia
contaminata, and Neopsocus
rhenanus.
Animal remains of the medieval settlement (9th-10th century A. D.) near Nedan village (Veliko Tarnovo Region, CN Bulgaria)
2021
Abstract. A total 1142 animal
remains of 18 taxa (incl. man) have been established in the
medieval settlement (9th - 10th century A. D.) near Nedan
village (Veliko Tarnovo Region, CN Bulgaria). Some wild
mammals as Grey wolf, Red deer, Roe deer were rarely hunted,
while livestock breeding (cattle, sheep, goat, horse and pig)
was the basic source of meat for the settlement’s inhabitants.
In addition numerous remains of the Caspian whipsnake and
Grass/Dice snake have been found.
Golden jackal (Canis aureus Linnaeus, 1758) and Red fox (Vulpes vulpes Linnaeus, 1758) population dynamics in Sarnena Sredna Gora Mts., Bulgaria based on hunting statistics
2020
Abstract. Golden jackal (Canis
aureus Linnaeus, 1758) and Red fox (Vulpes
vulpes Linnaeus, 1758) are the most common
medium-sized canid species in Bulgaria. Annual harvest hunting
data base for 2009-2019 was used as a method for assessing
changes in their population trends. The study area covers
approximately 100,000 ha comprising the areas of State
Forestry Stara Zagora, State Forestry Kazanlak, State Forestry
Maglizh and State Forestry Chirpan (Bulgaria). The hunting bag
data for jackals and foxes varied considerably during the
study period, ranging from 340 to 899 specimens for the
jackals, and from 143 to 299 for the foxes, respectively. It
can be concluded that the dynamics in the number of the Golden
jackal and the Red fox in the region of Sarnena Sredna Gora
Mts. and its adjacent territories was of different intensity
over the years and proceeded independently.
Impacts of resource limitations on the reproduction behaviour in the Agile Frog (Rana dalmatina) on the territory of Natura park “Shumensko plato”
2020
Abstract. The
Agile Frog (Rana dalmatina)
is one of the anurans species inhabiting the Nature Park
“Shumensko Plato” (north-eastern Bulgaria). In 2019 and 2020
we studied the general ecology of the population in the Park
and in particular the breeding activity of the frogs. During
our survey we registered extension of the breeding season and
we also report on the longest amplexus for R.
dalmatina - 12 days (detected in an artificial water
basin).
Impatiens glandulifera, a new host of the tortrix Pristerognatha fuligana in Bulgaria
2020
Abstract. In
October 2020, larvae of Pristerognatha
fuligana ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775)
(Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) were found in stems of the invasive
alien species Impatiens
glandulifera Royale in Sofia region on the slopes of
Plana and Lozenska Mt. The trophic connection of this tortrix
moth with I. glandulifera
is new for Bulgaria.
A new predator on pine processionary moth larvae in Bulgaria
2020
Abstract. Oecanthus
pellucens (Scopoli, 1763) (Gryllidae) is recorded for
the first time as a predator on the larvae of Thaumetopoea
pityocampa (Denis & Schiffermüller, 1775) (PPM)
in Bulgaria. The Italian tree crickets were observed in black
pine plantations (Pinus
nigra Arn.), in the region of Fotinovo vill. (Eastern
Rhodope Mts.), occupied by the PPM summer population.
New records of non marine molluscs from Thassos Island (North Aegean, Greece)
2020
Abstract. Five mollusc species were
recorded on Thassos Island as new for the fauna of the island:
Four gastropods (Aegopinella
minor, Carychium
minimum, Deroceras
thersites, Limax
graecus), and one clam (Pisidium
personatum). Now the number of species recorded on
the island is 83. This is one of the richest island
malacofaunas of Greece.
Studen Kladenets Reservoir (CS Bulgaria), a stopover of the migratory Great White Pelicans (Pelecanus onocrotalus Linnaeus, 1758) through the Balkan Peninsula
2020
Abstract. An observation of a flock
of 30 birds on 26 August 2020 on the coast of the Studen
Kladenets Reservoir is discussed in the light of the species
migration and conservation.
A contribution to the knowledge of the malacofauna of the Bulgarian part of the Falakro Mts
2020
Abstract. A total of 44 mollusc
species was recorded during a one day study of the area. The
main part of the material came from river deposits of the
Matnitsa River near the village of Petrelik.
First record of Reesa vespulae (Milliron, 1939) in Bulgaria (Insecta: Coleoptera: Dermestidae)
2020
Abstract. The dermestid beetle Reesa
vespulae (Milliron, 1939) is recorded for the first time in
Bulgaria.
First records of Xylotrechus pantherinus (Savenius, 1825) and X. stebbingi Gahan, 1906 (Cerambycidae: Cerambycinae) in Bulgaria
2020
Abstract. Two species of the genus Xylotrechus Chevrolat,
1860 are reported for the first time in Bulgaria. A single
male of the rare species X.
pantherinus (Savenius, 1825) was found among
entomological materials collected in Sofia. A female specimen
of X. stebbingi
Gahan, 1906 alien in Europe was collected by light trapping in
the vicinity of Lilyanovo Vill., SW Bulgaria..
Mesophleps oxycedrella (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) in association with Juniperus excelsa (Cupressaceae) in Bulgaria
2020
Abstract. Mesophleps oxycedrella
(Millière, 1871) is recorded for the first time in Bulgaria,
feeding on female cones of Juniperus
excelsa M.-Bieb. Photographs of the moth and female
genitalia are provided.
First record of Galeruca (Haptoscelis) melanocephala (Ponza, 1805) in Bulgaria (Insecta: Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)
2020
Abstract. The
leaf
beetle Galeruca
melanocephala (Ponza, 1805) is recorded for the first
time in Bulgaria. A description of the distribution and photos
of adult specimens are presented.
New high altitude nesting site of White Stork (Ciconia ciconia Linnaeus, 1758) in Bulgaria
2020
Abstract. We
observed
a new White storks’ breeding site in 2014-2019 in Yundola
village at 1390 m a.s.l. The first successful nesting was in
2016. The breeding pair had produced two hatchlings per year
for three successive years until 2018. The nest site is new
for Bulgaria.
New Psocoptera (Hexapoda, Insecta) records from Belarus
2020
Abstract. Six
Psocoptera
species (barkflies) from the genera Lepinotus,
Psyllipsocus and Liposcelis were collected
from Belarus. All of them are new country records. They were
found in domestic situations and three of them also in ant
nests.
New Distributional Records and Another Case of Winter Activity of Malpolon insignitus (Geoffroy Saint-Hilaire, 1827) (Reptilia: Psammophiidae) in south-western Bulgaria
2020
Abstract. Six
new
localities of Malpolon
insignitus have been recorded lately in south-western
Bulgaria, which supplement its known distribution. One of the
observations is the second case of winter activity of the
species in the country.
New record of the steppe longhorn beetle species Phytoecia (Musaria) argus (G. F. Frölich, 1793) (Cerambycidae: Lamiinae) in Bulgaria
2020
Abstract. New
data on the distribution of Phytoecia
argus (G. F. Frölich, 1793) (Cerambycidae: Lamiinae)
in Bulgaria are presented. Six specimens were collected by net
sweeping and by hand collection around the host plant Trinia
glauca (L.) Dumort. in steppe grasslands in Chepan
Mts. The species is probably more widespread in suitable
habitats in Western Bulgaria.
First study of fungus gnats (Insecta: Diptera: Sciaroidea) in Tisata Reserve (SW Bulgaria)
2020
Abstract. As
a
result of the study in “Tisata” Reserve - 2 families, included
18 genera, from which 19 species of fungus gnats were
identified. Coelosia fusca is a newly recorded species for the
fauna of Bulgaria.
Zooplankton species composition of Cladocera and Cyclopoida (Copepoda) in the Vaya Lake
2020
Abstract.
Nine species of Cladocera and three species of
Cyclopoida were identified in the Vaya Lake during the period
2003-2007. The results show a complete change in the species
composition of cyclopoids compared to the period 1953-1957,
when the only systematic study of the zooplankton of the Vaya
Lake was conducted. From Cladocera, only two species are
common for both periods.
2019
Dyschiriodes (Eudyschirius) gracilis (O. Heer, 1837) – new record for the Bulgarian ground beetle fauna (Coleoptera: Carabidae: Scaritinae)
2019
Abstract.
This is the first record of Dyschiriodes (Eudyschirius)
gracilis gracilis (O. Heer, 1837) (Coleoptera: Carabidae:
Scaritinae) from Bulgaria. It was collected in the Srebarna
Reserve in NE Bulgaria via light attraction. Considering its
current distributional range, we may suggest that D. gracilis
gracilis is to be found in Croatia and Romania too.
New records of Trox Fabricius, 1775 species (Scarabaeoidea: Trogidae) from Bulgaria
2019
Abstract.
New data on the distribution of four species of genus
Trox Fabricius, 1775 (Scarabaeoidea: Trogidae): Trox niger P.
Rossi, 1792, T. perrisii Fairmaire, 1868, T. sabulosus
sabulosus (Linnaeus, 1758) and T. scaber (Linnaeus, 1767) are
reported from Bulgaria.
The effect of pingers on cetaceans bycatch and target catch in the turbot gillnets in Bulgarian Black Sea
2019
Abstract.
The present study is the first experiment to determine
whether acoustic deterrent devices (pingers) reduce cetaceans’
bycatch in the turbot gillnets and catch rates of the target
fish in the Bulgarian Black Sea territorial waters. During the
study period 2017–2019, 12.4 km of turbot gillnets were
included in the experiment. They were equipped with 10 kHz
Porpoise Pingers “Future Oceans”. Observations were carried
out on regular bases on active (with pingers) and on control
nets (without pingers). The results showed that the pingers
used were very effective in reducing cetaceans bycatch in
turbot gillnets without affecting the target catch.
Earthworms (Annelida: Lumbricidae) biodiversity affected by pyrogenic carbon emissions at the “Maritsa-Iztok” basin (Bulgaria)
2019
Abstract. The
paper
provides the first exploration of earthworm populations from
region of thermal power plant Maritsa East 2 (Bulgaria).
During the investigation was observed low biodiversity, count
and biomass of lumbricid earthworms in reclaimed soils from
coal mining. Five earthworm species were registered from the
studied area: Aporrectodea
caliginosa (Savigny, 1826), Aporrectodea
rosea (Savigny, 1826), Aporrectodea
trapezoides (Dugès, 1828), Aporrectodea
jassyensis (Michaelsen, 1891) and Cernosvitovia
rebeli (Rosa, 1897). First record of endemic species
Cernosvitovia rebeli
(Rosa, 1897) from Thracian Lowland.
Animal remains of the medieval settlement near Brankovtsi village (Vidin Region, NW Bulgaria)
2019
Abstract. A
total of 9 taxa of 6 domestic forms and 3 wild species of
animals have been identified, among them wild boar, red deer
and roe deer. All finds are dated Middle Ages (10th – 13th
century A. D.).
First Psocoptera records from Northwest Bulgaria: a case study
2019
Abstract. The
study
was carried out on the following dates - 15.6.2019 and
17.6.2019 in NW Bulgaria (Danube River Valley) from three
localities: villages of Vrav and Simeonovo, and town of
Kozloduy. Five widely distributed species of Psocoptera were
registered: Valenzuela
flavidus (Stephens, 1836), Graphopsocus
cruciatus (Linnaeus, 1768), Lachesilla
pedicularia (Linnaeus, 1758), Ectopsocus
briggsi McLachlan, 1899 and Ectopsocus
meridionalis Ribaga, 1904.
.
Scythris sinensis (Felder & Rogenhofer, 1875), a new species for Bulgaria and the Balkan Peninsula (Insecta: Lepidoptera: Scythrididae)
2019
Abstract. Scythris
sinensis (Felder & Rogenhofer, 1875) is reported
for the first time from Bulgaria. The species has never been
recorded from the Balkan Peninsula and the present locality is
one of the few southern points in its range in Europe..
.
Late Antiquity animal remains of the military settlement near Barkach village (Pleven Region, CN Bulgaria)
2019
Abstract. A
total of 86 bones and bone fragments of wild and domestic
mammals collected in the Late Antiquity military settlement
near Barkach village (Pleven Region, CN Bulgaria) have been
identified as 9 species of 4 orders. Most numerous are the
remains of Donkey and the Red deer. The record of the Fallow
deer proves the species occurrence in the Late Antiquity in
the North Bulgaria.
A White Stork (Ciconia ciconia (Linnaeus, 1758)) nest – an unique case of multiple nesting commensalism of five species from Dragoman (W Bulgaria)
2019
Abstract. A
rare case of contemporaneous nesting of five species of birds
in a single nest is described.
A few notes on the diet and the copulation of Theba pisana (Müller, 1774) snails: observations on terrarium kept animals
2019
Abstract. The
specimens
used to eat 17 grass species from all 44 species offered
(38.6% from all). They refused to eat all 3 liana and 21 tree
species and eat only leafs of
Paliurus spina-christi from the offered bushes.
Contrary they eat most of the fruits, vegetables and animal
food. Hanging on the tips of the soles from the top of
terrarium was observed during copulation.
Preliminary data on the defensive behavior and vocalization of the Lesser blind mole rat, Nannospalax leucodon (Nordmann, 1840)
2019
Abstract. The
defensive behavior of two individuals of the Lesser blind mole
rat, Nannospalax
(superspecies) leucodon
(Nordmann, 1840), was investigated. A characteristic defensive
posture and two types of vocalization were recorded: teeth
grinding and grunting, expressed by consecutive series of
complex harsh calls, consisting of sequences of single very
short (1.7 – 2.6 ms) phases (with maximum energy at about 9.8
KHz), accompanied by strong noise component. More research is
needed to reveal the full vocal repertoire and behavioral
characteristics of the species.
The Eurasian Collared Dove (Streptopelia decaocto Frivaldszky, 1838) – a subrecent invasive species of the avifauna of Bulgaria (subfossil records)
2019
Abstract. Although
the
Collared Dove appeared in Bulgaria at 17-18th century, the
subfossil record of the species in the country is rather
scant. Only five Late Holocene sites contain bone remains (88
bones of 9 individuals), but all of them remained imprecisely
dated. Some of the sites could be of older (possibly: Early
Medieval Ages) age. All sites are situated in the NE Bulgaria
and represent former feeding places of Eagle owls (Bubo
bubo).
New records of Pygopleurus Motschulsky, 1860 species (Scarabaeoidea: Glaphyridae) from Bulgaria
2019
Abstract. New
chorological
data of three Pygopleurus
Motschulsky, 1860 (Scarabaeoidea: Glaphyridae) (i.e. P.
apicalis (Brullé, 1832), P.
diffusus (Petrovitz, 1958) and P.
humeralis (Brullé, 1832)) are reported for Bulgaria.
The records of P. apicalis
(Brullé, 1832) and P.
diffusus (Petrovitz, 1958) are new for the country.
Lipid accumulation in Cyprinus carpio (Linnaeus, 1785) liver induced by thiamethoxam
2019
Abstract. The
aim
of the present study is to investigate the effects of a
thiamethoxam based insecticide on the expression of lipid
droplets in Common Carp, Cyprinus
Carpio (Linnaeus, 1785) liver. The selected
concentrations of the test pesticide were 6.6 mg/L, 10 mg/L
and 20 mg/L under laboratory conditions for an acute period of
96 h. The Sudan III staining method was applied for detection
of fatty degeneration in the fish hepatocytes. Overall, we
found that the fat storage in the liver cells increased
proportionally with the increased pesticide concentrations.
The results demonstrated fat accumulation in the fish liver
which in addition, could be used as an easy to perform and
relatively inexpensive biological tool for studying the
effects of pesticide contamination on fish.
Research on nesting birds on the territory of Kaliakra Wind Farm
2019
Abstract. The
study
presents data about the status of the nesting ornithofauna in
the region of Kaliakra wind farm (Kaliakra Cape, northeast
Bulgaria). The data shows the number and the density of the
birds observed in this region in 2005, before the construction
of the wind farm, and in 2009 after it’s commissioning.
Transect method was applied to establish the species
composition, numbers and density of the nesting birds. A total
amount of 24 nesting species was established. In 2005 the
recorded nesting bird species were 17, and in 2009 - 20.
Although the number of nesting species in 2009 is slightly
higher as compared to 2005, they were established in lower
numbers and density. In May the density was lower compared to
this in April. The data collected in May show about the same
density for the two compared years.
Histochemical alterations in liver of Common Carp Cyprinus carpio (Linnaeus, 1785) after glyphosate exposure: Preliminary study
2019
Abstract. The
present
study was designed to provide some preliminary data on the
toxic effects of 96 h exposure to glyphosate on the liver of
Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio
L.) under ex situ conditions. For this purpose we used Sudan
III staining which could be suggested as fast and low-cost
histochemical biomarker for pesticide contamination effects.
Heavy metals in bones from Harbour Porpoises Phocoena phocoena from the Western Black Sea Coast
2019
Abstract. During
the
last few years, the Western Black Sea coast has documented
increase in the number of stranded marine mammals,
particularly the harbour porpoise (Phocoena
phocoena). This species is a subject to threats such
as exposure to contaminants, fishery by-catch and introduced
new marine species. The aim of this study was to analyse
spatial and age trends in bone metal concentration in harbour
porpoises from the Western Black Sea Coast. Selected heavy
metals (Cu, Pb, Zn, Cd and Ni) were measured in bones of 33
harbour porpoises stranded along the Bulgarian Black Sea Coast
from 2017. Spatially, we found higher metal levels in the
harbour porpoises stranded in the Northern region compared
with those from Southern region. The effect of aging was
evident only for Zn content – the levels were higher in
juveniles than in adults. The obtained results suggested that
heavy metal contamination represent an important threat
encountered by harbour porpoises.
2018
On the occurrence and density of some tardigrade taxa in the city area of Plovdiv, Bulgaria
2018
Abstract. There
is
insufficient data on tardigrades’ distribution, diversity and
density. Moss and lichen samples were collected from four
different substrates – ground, walls, rocks and trees.
Specimens from genus Echiniscus
Schultze, 1840, genus Hypsibius
Ehrenberg, 1848, genus Milnesium
Doyère, 1840, genus Paramacrobitous
Guidetti, Schill, Bertolani, Dandekar & Wolf, 2009, genus
Ramazzottius Binda
& Pilato, 1986 and family Macrobiotidae Thulin, 1928 were
found.
Cetacean mortality along the Bulgarian Black Sea Coast during 2017
2018
Abstract. The
present
study provides information on the stranding of cetaceans along
the Bulgarian Black Sea Coast during 2017. Observations were
made trough covering transects along the Bulgarian Black Sea
Coast. A total of 198 cetaceans of three species were found -
Harbor Porpoise (Phocoena
phocoena), Bottlenose Dolphin (Tursiops
truncatus), and Common Dolphin (Delphinus
delphis). The most numerous were the harbor porpoise
- 48% followed by the bottlenose dolphin - 15% and common
dolphin - 8%. The most significant number of strandings was
observed during July and August (54% of all cases). Cetacean
strandings events were relatively highly concentrated in the
area of Shabla, Varna and Pomorie.
The benthic harpacticoids (Crustacea, Copepoda) of Budakskyi (Shabolatskyi) Lagoon, North-West coast of the Black Sea, Ukraine.
2018
Abstract. The
present
study gives new data on a poorly studied group of brackish
harpacticoids from the North-West coast of the Black Sea,
Ukraine. Seven harpacticoids species (Crustacea, Copepoda)
collected in July 1988 from the Budakskyi (Shabolatskyi)
Lagoon are reported.
First record of Argyresthia trifasciata Staudinger, 1871 in Bulgaria (Insecta: Lepidoptera: Argyresthiidae)
2018
Abstract.
Argyresthia (Blastotere) trifasciata Staudinger,
1871, a shoot mining moth known as pest on some Cupressaceae
representatives, is recorded for the first time in Bulgaria.
Photographs of the moth, its genitalia and the damage caused
on the host plant are provid.
First record of the Balkan-Anatolian crested newt (Triturus ivanbureschi Arntzen & Wielstra, 2013) on the territory of the Nature Park “Shumensko plato”
2018
Abstract. In a four-year
monitoring period, numerous permanent and temporary water
basins on the territory of the Habitat Protected Site
BG0000382 and the Nature Park “Shumensko Plato” (NE Bulgaria)
were identified as possible habitats for amphibians. We
inspected the water bodies for presence of Urodelas, included
in the inventory documentation of the protected territories.
Despite intense field surveys and use of traps, we were able
only recently to identify one specimen of the Balkan-Anatolian
crested newt. This is the first official record of the species
for the protected site.
Four species of Psocoptera as new records for Bulgaria
2018
Abstract. The species: Elipsocus abdominalis, E. annulatus, Lachesilla
bernardi and Kolbia
quisquiliarum were newly recorded for Bulgaria. All
were found in the area of Sarnena Sredna Gora Mts. After this
paper a total of 58 species of Psocoptera are known to occur
in the country.
First registration of European crested tit Lophophanes cristatus (Linnaeus, 1758) in Ponor Mountain, West Bulgaria
2018
Abstract. The European
crested tit Lophophanes cristatus (Linnaeus, 1758) is reported
for first time in the Ponor Mountain, West Bulgaria, during
the breeding season. The habitat, where one pair was observed,
is a large, old pine plantation. Most probably, the
forestation with coniferous species in the past is the reason
for the occurrence of the Crested tit at a low altitude – 718
m.
Araeopteron ecphaea, a new addition to the Bulgarian fauna (Insecta: Lepidoptera: Erebidae)
2018
Abstract. A small
macrolepidopteran, Araeopteron ecphaea (Hampson, 1914), is
reported for the first time for Bulgaria. Photographs of the
moth and its genitalia are provided. The vesica is illustrated
and described for the first time.
New data and notes on the distribution of Nitokra spinipes spinipes Boeck, 1865 (Crustacea: Copepoda: Harpacticoida) in Bulgaria
2018
Abstract. The present
study reports a new locality of Nitokra
spinipes spinipes Boeck, 1865. During 1988-1989 a
large number of Nitokra
spinipes spinipes were found in the biofilter at the
aquaculture station in Pomorie Town, on the Pomorie Lake
coast. This is the first record of the Nitokra
spinipes spinipes found trapped in the technical
equipment for water purification used in aquaculture.
First record of Vadonia saucia (Mulsant & Godart, 1855) (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) from Bulgaria
2018
Abstract. Single male and
single female specimens of Vadonia
saucia (Mulsant & Godart, 1855), collected from
Yambol (SE Bulgaria), were identified in examination of
material from collection of the National Museum of Natural
History in Sofia. The species is reported for the first time
for the country.
Characteristics of the hunting behavior of the Red-footed Falcon (Falco vespertinus) in South-Eastern Bulgaria
2018
Abstract. Hunting
behavior was studied in a small breeding population of
Red-footed Falcons in SE-Bulgaria and in a transitory migrants
of the same species. A total of seven types of hunting
strategies were performed by the Red-footed Falcons which can
be rapidly switched from one to another in relation to the
available type of prey, the speed and direction of the wind.
It was recorded that the hovering series were longer in calm
weather (wind speed < 2 m/s) and in strong winds (over 5
m/s) than in moderate winds (2 – 5 m/s). Difference was found
in the mean length of the hovering series between the
migrating and local breeding Red-footed Falcons. The hunting
success of the finished attacks of the Red-footed Falcons was
in overall 59.6 %.
Species composition of the Amphibians and Reptiles in the Natura 2000 Site „Oranovski Prolom - Leshko”, Bulgaria
2018
Abstract. The Natura 2000
site „Oranovski Prolom - Leshko” (BG0001022) was studied in
Jul 2013-Dec 2017 in order to supplement and summarize the
information about the diversity and distribution of the
herpetofauna. Two new species of amphibians (Caudata) and 8
new species of reptiles (4 Sauria and 4 Serpentes) have been
registered. Thus the total number of the representatives of
herpetofauna is 29 (10 amphibians and 19 reptiles).
New earthworm (Megadrili: Lumbricidae) records from Bulgaria with the first finding of Dendrobaena platyura (Fitzinger, 1833) in the country
2018
Abstract. Results of
recent earthworm collectings in Bulgaria are presented. During
the investigations altogether 18 species have been registered.
Dendrobaena platyura
(Fitzinger, 1833) is a new record for the country, and with D. hrabei (Černosvitov,
1934) and Octodrilus
transpadanus (Rosa, 1884) also for the region of
Stara Planina (Balkan) Mts. D.
hrabei, D.
depressa (Rosa, 1893), D.
octaedra (Savigny, 1826) and Eiseniella
tetraedra (Savigny, 1826) represent new records for
Pirin Mts.
Clarifications and new data on the distribution of Cacyreus marshalli Butler, 1898 in Bulgaria (Insecta, Lepidoptera, Lycaenidae)
2018
Abstract. We report a new
locality of the invasive butterfly Cacyreus marshalli Butler,
1898 from Vinarovo village in NW Bulgaria, by far the
northernmost observation in Bulgaria and also the most inland
observation in the Balkan Peninsula and one of the
northernmost records in Souheast Europe.
On the Arthropods in the Stone Marten’s (Martes foina) diet in Central Bulgaria
2018
Abstract. Fourteen newly
found Arthropods taxa in the Stone Marten's diet in Central
Bulgaria were reported. Five of them were defined to species
level. The study was carried out on the base of collected
fecal samples.
A report of Zebra Mussel Dreissena polymorpha (Pallas, 1771) (Bivalvia: Dreissenidae) in the middle sector of Iskar River, Bulgaria
2018
Abstract. Single
specimens of invasive mussel species Dreissena
polymorpha (Pallas, 1771) were found in the middle
part of the Iskar River, Bulgaria during 2016 and 2017. A
cascade of 14 small HPPs was built in this river sector and a
shift in the flowing river conditions with stagnant ones in
SHPP dam lakes was induced. Future mass invasion of the
species is possible. It is important to provide regular
monitoring of occurrence of the Zebra Mussel because of the
possible negative economic impact during the invasion.
Frugivory of the Stone Marten (Martes foina Erxl.) in Bulgaria – a review from an urban perspective
2018
Abstract. The present
study reviewed frugivory characteristics of the Stone Marten (Martes foina Erxleben,
1777) in Bulgaria with special reference to cultivated plants.
A total of six studies were compiled, which showed that nine
species fruits (eight species of them were cultivated) and 17
genus/family-level-identified fruits (six genera of them were
cultivated) were consumed by the marten.
2017
First records of the American wasps Sceliphron caementarium (Drury, 1770) and Isodontia mexicana (de Saussure, 1867) (Hymenoptera: Sphecidae) from Bulgaria
2017
Abstract. Two alien
sphecid species are reported for the first time for Bulgaria.
Nearctic species Sceliphron
caementarium (Drury, 1770) and Isodontia
mexicana (de Saussure, 1867) were found in Sofia. The
first species is collected as well from the Bulgarian Black
Sea Coast, near Varna.
On the sex and age structure of the Stone Marten (Martes foina) population from Sarnena Sredna Gora Mts. (Central Bulgaria)
2017
Abstract. The sex and age
structure of the Stone Marten (Martes
foina Erxleben, 1777) population from Sarnena Sredna
Gora Mts. (Central Bulgaria) was studied. A total of 67 skulls
were divided into three age groups using different methods.
The population structure showed a male-biased sex ratio with
adults predominating over yearlings.
Notes on the defensive behavior and activity of Ablepharus kitaibelii (Bibron & Bory de Saint-Vincent, 1833) in Bulgaria
2017
Abstract. The defensive
behavior of the Snake-eyed skink is reported for the first
time. It includes different strategies as hiding, spiral
winding of the body, moving the tail in a worm-like manner,
detaching the tail and limbs, thanatosis and even biting. Data
on the observed activities of the species in the wild are also
provided.
On the daily activity of the Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes) in two village areas of Bulgaria: a case study
2017
Abstract. The study was
carried out by digital camera traps in two village areas of
South Bulgaria. Total of 99 photos of Red Fox (Vulpes
vulpes) were made in the villages of Byaga and
Isperihovo. They were compared with 1133 photos made in
“Sinite Kamani” Nature Park (published by Georgiev et
al., 2015). It was evident that there was no any
activity during daylight in the villages studied, compared
with the natural habitats.
Rubrapterus bavius (Eversmann, 1832), a butterfly genus and species new to Bulgaria (Insecta, Lepidoptera, Lycaenidae)
2017
Abstract. Rubrapterus
bavius (Eversmann, 1832), a steppe specialist of
conservation concern in Europe, is reported from Sakar Mts. in
Bulgaria: the first Bulgarian record of this species and of
genus Rubrapterus
Korshunov, 1987. The reported population has a remarkably late
flight time and appears to be trophically connected to Salvia
pratensis Linnaeus, 1753, not yet recorded as a larval
host-plant of R. bavius
in the wild.
Updated and corrected list of the inland molluscs of Samothraki Island (N Aegean, Greece)
2017
Abstract. A list
of all valid and published species of freshwater and terrestrial
molluscs from Samothraki Island (N Aegean, Greece) is provided.
A total of 41 species of inland Mollusca are known from this
island: Bivalvia – 1 species, freshwater snails – 6 species and
terrestrial snails - 34 species. Some species remained with
unclear taxonomic status and need future studies.
Avian finds from the Early Neolithic settlement near Kapitan-Dimitrievo village (Pazardzhik Region)
2017
Abstract. Two
finds of Great bustard (Otis
tarda) and Rook (Corvus
frugilegus) have been identified among the materials of
the kitchen debris from the Early Neolithic (ca. 6000 BP)
settlement near Kapitan-Dimitrievo village (Pazardzhik Region).
They indicate open grassland habitats in its vicinities.
Late Neolithic and Late Antiquity avian finds of Chavdarova Cheshma (Simeonovgrad, Haskovo Region)
2017
Abstract. A total
of 6 taxa of 1(2) domestic and 4(5) wild birds have been
identified, among them two critically endangered (Anser
erythropus and Otis
tarda), one endangered (Gyps
fulvus) and one vulnerable (Aquila
chrysaetos). In addition Gallus
gallus domestica and Anser
anser ? domestica
have been recorded. Chicken find came of Late Antiquity (3-4
century AD), and all other finds are dated Late Neolithic
(4900-4850 BC).
Data on the distribution of freshwater harpacticoids (Crustacea, Copepoda) in Tierra del Fuego (Argentina)
2017
Abstract. All
available data on the distribution of freshwater harpacticoids
(Copepoda) in Grande de Tierra del Fuego Island are summarized.
Attheyella (Delachauxiella) nuda Lëffler, 1961 inhabiting wet
mosses in the valley of Martial Glacier near Ushuaia is newly
established. The site marks the southernmost distribution of the
species in Argentina.
Agalmatium flavescens (Hemiptera, Issidae) and Camponotus aethiops (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) – an unknown trophobiotic association
2017
Abstract. The
knowledge of trophobiosis between ants and planthoppers of the
family Issidae is limited to studies of individual cases from
Argentina, Mexico, India, the island of Naxos (Cyclades) and an
anecdotal report from Italy. This paper reports a previously
undescribed ant-attendance of Agalmatium
flavescens (Olivier, 1791) (Hemiptera, Issidae) by Camponotus aethiops
(Latreille, 1798). It includes a brief literature review and
presents some ecological aspects of this new finding. In
additions, live color photographs of A.
flavescens and interactions with ants are provided.
Fossil record of Tapirs (Tapirus Brünnich, 1772) (Tapiridae Gray, 1821 - Peryssodactyla Owen, 1848) in Bulgaria
2017
Abstract. Fossil
record of the tapirs in Bulgaria covers 7 taxa (4 unspecified),
the oldest one of Turolian age: Tapirus
arvernensis, T.
jeanpivetoui, T.
balkanicus, as well as Tapirus
sp. – 1, 2, 3, and 4 of 10 Late Miocene localities. All
records came from Sothwest Bulgaria (South of the Balkan Range
and West of the Rila-Rhodopes mountain massif). Cranial
fragments (mandibulae and maxillae) are the most often among the
identified remains. It is concluded that the Balkans were the
region of the most varied tapirid megafauna in the Late Neogene
(Miocene) in Europe.
First record of the genus Dactylobiotus Schuster, 1980 in Bulgaria (Eutardigrada: Murrayidae)
2017
Abstract. The
first find of a freshwater tardigrade in Bulgaria was reported:
unidentified Dactylobiotus
specimen from the hyporeal waters of Cherni Iskar River.
First exact data on the distribution of saproxylic species Calchaenesthes oblongomaculata (Guérin-Méneville, 1844) (Cerambycidae: Purpuricenini) in Bulgaria
2017
Abstract. Three
male specimens of Calchaenesthes
oblongomaculata (Guérin-Méneville, 1844) (Cerambycidae:
Purpuricenini) were collected in foothills of Maleshevska
Planina Mts., near Kamenitsa Vill. (SW Bulgaria). The
individuals were found on the leaves of Downy oak (Quercus
pubescens Willd.) or flying around the tree. The
present record confirms the presence of the species in the
country.
Shell size and population density of Cerastoderma glaucum Poiret 1789 (Mollusca: Bivalvia) in “Pomorie Lake” (Black Sea coast, Bulgaria)
2017
Abstract. The
seasonal population density and population size structure of Cerastoderma glaucum of
Pomorie Lake (Bulgaria) has been studied. The length of the
shells ranged between 2.00 and 27.00 mm. The highest population
density was estimated during spring and was 2062 individuals
per m².
Distribution of Amorphocephala coronata (Germar, 1817) (Coleoptera: Brentidae) in Bulgaria
2017
Abstract. All the
available data about distribution of the rare myrmecophilous
species Amorphocephala coronata in Bulgaria have been
summarized, and new localities of the species have been added.
New records of water mites (Acari: Hydrachnidia) from Iskar River Valley, Bulgaria
2017
Abstract. The
present study gives new data on a poorly studied group of
aquatic organisms – water mites. Six species are recorded for
the first time for the Bulgarian fauna and one of them is new
for the Balkan Peninsula.
New data and notes on the distribution of Lioderina linearis (Hampe, 1870) (Cerambycidae: Callidiini) in Bulgaria
2017
Abstract. New
records of Lioderina linearis
(Hampe, 1870) in Bulgaria are presented. The species was
collected with light traps in five localities from Black Sea
Coast, Rila Mts. and Sredna Gora Mts. Available data on the
distribution and host plants of the species in the country are
summarized. The species is common in coastal region of Bulgaria
and seems not to be rare in lower mountain areas inside the
country. The species is attracted to light and can be detected
successfully with light traps. Known host plants of L.
linearis in Bulgaria are species from the genera Amygdalus (Mill.), Juglans
L. and Pyrus L.
Penestoglossa dardoinella (Millière, 1863) (Lepidoptera: Psychidae) recorded for the first time in Albania
2017
Abstract. In
August, 2016 authors spent four nights light collecting in
Albania. In this paper we present one new genus and species for
Albania - Penestoglossa dardoinella (Millière, 1863).
2016
Earthworm (Clitellata: Lumbricidae) records from the Rila Mountains (Bulgaria)
2016
Abstract. The
current study is a contribution to the knowledge of the
earthworm diversity from the Rila Mountains (Bulgaria). During
the investigation 13 earthworm species were collected
altogether, belonging to eight genera. Among them Aporrectodea
handlirschi (Rosa, 1897) and Aporrectodea caliginosa (Savigny,
1826) proved to be new records from the territory of the Rila
Mountain.
New earthworm (Clitellata: Lumbricidae) records from Vitosha Mts. (Bulgaria)
2016
Abstract. The
paper deals with earthworm diversity from Vitosha Mountain
(Bulgaria). During the investigation 10 earthworm species were
collected altogether, belonging to 7 genera. Among them, two
taxa are reported for the first time from the explored region.
Aporrectodea caliginosa (Savigny, 1826) and Lumbricus terrestris
Linnaeus, 1758 are proved to be new records from the territory
of Vitosha Mountain.
First record of endemic earthworm Cernosvitovia rebeli (Rosa, 1897) (Clitellata, Annelida) from western parts of Stara planina Mountains
2016
Abstract. The
current study deals with earthworm biodiversity of Western Stara
planina Mountains. Endemic earthworm species Cernosvitovia
rebeli (Rosa, 1897) proved to be new record for the lumbricid
fauna of the Western Stara planina Mountains. This is the
western occurrence of this rare species on the territory of
Bulgaria. The paper proved information about ecology, habitats
and distribution of Cernosvitovia rebeli.
Cadmium (Cd) affects the gill structure and respiration rate of Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio L.)
2016
Abstract. The
main purpose of the present study was to provide some
preliminary data on the effects of Cd, which is considered as
priority toxic substance in surface waters according to
Directive 2008/105/EO on the gill structure and respiration rate
of common carp (Cyprinus carpio L.) under ex situ conditions. We
observed significant histological changes, which were grouped as
proliferative and degenerative ones, as well as increase in the
respiration rate index in the treated with Cd fish, compared
with the control. In general, the tested fish species proved to
be sensitive to Cd exposure in terms of the studied parameters.
New data on the distribution of Pilemia tigrina (Mulsant, 1851) (Cerambycidae: Lamiinae) in Bulgaria
2016
Abstract. Single
male specimen of Pilemia tigrina (Mulsant, 1851) was collected
in 2014 in Vrachanska Planina Mts., under Milanovo Vill.
Additional locality of the species, based on collection
material, is also reported – near Ivanovo Vill., Shumen region.
Vitrea neglecta Damjanov et L. Pintér 1969 – genital anatomy of a specimen from Greece
2016
Abstract. Two
live specimens and few shells of the Pristilomatid snail Vitrea
neglecta Damjanov et L. Pintér 1969 were collected at the
entrance of the Angitis Springs cave, foothills of Falakro Mts.,
North Greece. Genital anatomy of one dissected specimen from
this population confirms the presence of this species in Greece.
First earthworm (Oligochaeta: Lumbricidae) record from Sithonia Peninsula (Greece)
2016
Abstract. The
paper deals with the earthworm diversity of Chalkidiki
Peninsula, Greece. Aporrectodea longa (Ude, 1885) proved to be
new species for the fauna of Greece and also represents the
first earthworm record from Sithonia Peninsula. According to the
literature and authors data 14 earthworm taxa are registered
from the explored region. The paper underlines lumbricid
richness of Chalkidiki Peninsula and provides information about
the zoogeographical position of the earthworm species present.
The first report of Hadena tephroleuca (Boisduval, 1833) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in Bulgaria
2016
Abstract. Single
female specimen of Hadena (Pinkericola) tephroleuca (Boisduval,
1833) was collected in Belassitsa Mts. in SW Bulgaria at an
altitude of 1857m at light. This is the first record of this
species in Bulgaria. Collected specimen is illustrated here and
is deposed in the collection of the National Museum of Natural
History, Sofia (NMNHS).
A new record of the Blotched snake Elaphe sauromates Pallas, 1811 (Serpentes: Colubridae) from an urbanized habitat in Bulgaria
2016
Abstract. The
current paper reports a new location of the Blotched snake
(Elaphe sauromates) in south-east Bulgaria. On 14.05.2016 we
found a dead adult specimen in the east part of the town Aytos.
To date the species was not recorded for the locus. This is the
first record of the Blotched snake in urbanized area and we
provide a discussion concerning the distribution and the habitat
preferences of E. sauromates in Bulgaria.
First attempt to understand the effect of pingers on static fishing gear in Bulgarian Black Sea coast
2016
Abstract. Acoustic
deterrent
devices (pingers) were used on static fishing gear called
dalyans in an attempt to reduce bycatch of small cetaceans
and/or to reduce depredation in the Bulgarian Black Sea coast.
Between April and July 2015 dalyans were equipped with harbour
porpoise pingers in the northern part of the coast. Observations
were carried out on regular bases on active (with pingers) and
on control dalyans (without pingers). The preliminary results
were positive in reducing damages on fishing gear.
Newly registered tracks of Raccoon dogs (Nyctereutes procyonoides) indicate the presence of resident population in the region of Bolata dere (NE Bulgaria)
2016
Abstract. The Raccoon
dog
(Nyctereutes procyonoides Gray, 1834) is an invasive species
which was first recorded for the Bulgarian fauna in 1968. To
date, data concerning the distribution of the species in
Bulgaria are rather scarce and often provided by non specialists
(mostly local fishermen and hunters). The present note includes
information concerning the presence of Raccoon dogs in the
region of Bolata dere (NE Bulgaria). Faeces and footprints were
found in the springs of 2014 and 2015. Apparently, the predators
are resident inhabitants of the site, so that particular
population could be used for field surveys on the biology of the
Raccoon dogs in Bulgaria.
Home range, movements and activity patterns of an exceptionally large male Brown Bear (Ursus arctos L.) in the area of the Bulgarian-Greek border (Western Rhodope Mts.)
2016
Abstract. The
movements and activity patterns of an exceptionally large brown
bear (Ursus arctos L.) were investigated in the area of the
Bulgarian-Greek border (Western Rhodope Mts.) after footprints
and other signs of its life activities during a field work in
the period 2012-2016. Its minimum home range in spring was
estimated to at 140-150 km2. Different parts of its home range
were occupied seasonally.
The second record of Panorpa thrakica Willmann, 1976 (Insecta, Mecoptera, Panorpidae)
2016
Abstract. The
author presents the first record of Panorpa thrakica Willmann,
1976 from Bulgaria which is also the second published record of
this species. Moreover, this is the second record of any species
of the Panorpa aspoecki group outside of Turkey. Two males (one
of them dissected) were captured in 1976 in Izgrev (Strandzha
Plain, near to Velikovo, Bulgaria), where the other member of
the P. aspoecki group (P. schweigeri Willmann, 1975) was
recorded as well.
New animal remains from Pliska, the medieval capital (10 c. AD) of Bulgaria, (Shumen Region, NE Bulgaria)
2016
Abstract. A total of 9
taxa (5 birds and 4 mammals) have been identified, among them
two endangered avian species - Otis tarda and Falco
peregrinus.
Dinarda dentata (Gravenhorst, 1806) (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Aleocharinae) new to Bulgaria and an additional site for Lomechusoides strumosus (Fabricius, 1793) in Bulgaria
2016
Abstract. First record
of the myrmecophilous species Dinarda dentata (Gravenhorst,
1806) is reported for Bulgaria. A second site for
Lomechusoides strumosus (Fabricius, 1793) and a correction to
a previous record is provided.
Two Records of large specimens of Fire Salamander Salamandra salamandra (Linnaeus, 1758) (Amphibia: Caudata) in Bulgaria
2016
Abstract. Two
particularly large specimens of Fire Salamander have been
registered in southwestern Bulgaria in late winter/early
spring. Both of them are adult females with total body length
231 mm, and 219 mm. The two specimens recorded are the largest
ones found in Bulgaria so far. Their dimensions are impressive
for the entire range of the species. Both specimens have been
found during the day in a sunny and dry weather, which has not
been registered by other researchers in the cold half of the
year in Bulgaria. The winter activity of the species has been
confirmed.
2015
Is the Kotschy’s Gecko Mediodactylus kotschyi (Steindachner, 1870) (Reptilia: Gekkonidae) active during the winter?
2015
Abstract. The current
communication reports few cases of unusual winter activity of
the Kotschy’s Gecko – Mediodactylus kotschyi rumelicus from
the city of Plovdiv and Mediodactylus kotschyi daniliewskii
from Hrishteni Village (Stara Zagora District) in Bulgaria.
Published data and new records to the fauna of Eupelmidae (Insecta: Hymenoptera) in Bulgaria
2015
Abstract. This study
presents information about published data on eupelmid fauna of
Bulgaria and new records of 16 species distributed in the
country. Some of them are reared from Cynipidae (Hymenoptera)
galls on Quercus, Rosa, Hypecoum, as well as from
Cecidomyiidae (Diptera) developing in stems of Eryngium
campestre L. Other species are reared from pods of Astragalus
glycyphyllos L. and seeds of Dianthus giganteus dʼUrv. New
host associations are established. As a result of the study 4
species and 1 genus are new to the fauna of Bulgaria.
The first report of Japanese oak silkmoth Antheraea yamamai (Guérin-Méneville, 1861) (Lepidoptera: Saturniidae) in Montenegro
2015
Abstract. Japanese oak
silkmoth Antheraea yamamai (Guérin-Méneville, 1861) is
reported here for first time in the scientific literature from
Montenegro (Republic of Crna Gora). In two localities, not far
away each other, moths were collected at light. We report this
species from Serbia as well. All collected specimens are
males.
Biology of the blind geobiont scarab beetle genus Chaetonyx Schaum, 1862 (Scarabaeidae: Orphninae) with new distribution records of Ch. robustus Schaum, 1862 from Bulgaria
2015
Abstract. Life cycle of
the orphnine scarab beetles genus Chaetonyx was recorded for
the first time based on the multiyear observations on the
populations of its type species, Ch. robustus Schaum, 1862, in
riverside habitats at Zemen Gorge region, South-Western
Bulgaria. Our observations showed that this geobiont species
is common in alluvial soils near Struma River, where it forms
large colonies. At the Zemen Gorge, its preferable habitats
are sparse riverside forests of Alnus glutinosa L. and Populus
nigra L. neighboring grass communities. Larvae, adults and
pupae were found up to 50 cm deep with most specimens
inhabiting the upper soil layer from 0 to 20 cm deep. The
highest recorded density was 89 adults and 581 larvae per 0.25
m2. Oviposition, hatching of the eggs, pupation and emergence
of the new adults occur during the summer. Eggs have been
found in surface soil layer in July and August, the pupae –
mainly in July and August. Larvae of different instars were
found in soil during all months of the study period. Adults
from the new generation first occur in the beginning of
August. In August, September and October adults from different
generations can be found together. The main part of the adults
seems to die after the reproduction period, and the common
lifespan of adults seems to be about a year only. The life
cycle of Ch. robustus in investigated habitat seems to be
perennial and includes two years as larval stage and one as
adult. Tropical Orphninae occupy a number of ecological niches
but lack colonial geobiont specialists similar to Chaetonyx.
Изписване на български географски имена в статии на английски език
2015
Dimitar Bechev, DilIan Georgiev
Abstract.
Some recommendations on English
transliterations of Bulgarian geographic names were given
which can be usable in preparing scientific papers. Examples
of the following types of names were presented: I. names well
known in English; II. transliterated Bulgarian names: complex
names, names of mountains and mountains consisted only by a
single massif.
Application of allozyme markers for screening of turbot populations along Western Black Sea coast
2015
Abstract. Data for electrophoretic pattern of 26 loci, resolved for the 8 protein systems (7-enzyme and 1-non-enzyme) assayed were used to investigate population structure of turbot along the Bulgarian and Romanian Black Sea coasts using genetic diversity measures. Seventeen loci were polymorphic in all populations and a total of 34 alleles were identified. Four types of tissue: muscle, retina, plasma and haemoglobin were analyzed. The percentage of polymorphic loci was high (65.38%) within populations. A low level of genetic differentiation among populations was detected, based on the Shannon’s information index (0.446-0.448) and the coefficient of genetic differentiation between populations (FST =0.014). The overall mean of within-population inbreeding estimate (FIS) was (-0.209) and demonstrated low level of inbreeding. The genetic distance (DNei) between the populations was low and vary between 0.003 and 0.014. Genetic distances among turbot populations were positively correlated with geographic distances (r = 0.474), but the association was not significant according to the Mantel test (p=0.651) and showed a lack of correlation between genetic distance and the geographic location of populations. Results identified one genetic stock with sufficient gene flow between all the three sites to prevent genetic differentiation from occurring. Only 1.4% of the genetic variation was observed among populations. Results revealed that adopting a single stock model and regional shared management could probably be appropriate for sustainable long-term use of turbot along western Black Sea coast. Determination of the contemporary state of the population distribution will be the prerequisite for determination of adequate measures for exploitation and protection of the existing turbot populations along western Black Sea coast.
Ground beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae) from the region of Cape Emine (central Bulgarian Black sea coast). Part III. Spatial distribution and gradient analysis
2015
Abstract. The ground beetle fauna of the area of Cape Emine was studied. Over the period 2010 – 2012 adult carabid beetles were collected. The investigation was carried out at 13 sampling sites and pitfall traps were used. During the study altogether 12618 specimens were captured. Mathematical processing of the data by gradient analysis with methods for classification and ordination of the communities was performed. Analysis of distribution of the zoogeographical categories and life forms was done. The primary role of the humidity and vegetation as ecological factors affecting the distribution of the communities of ground beetles was proven.
Contribution to the knowledge of the gastropods (Gastropoda, Pulmonata) of Ilinska and Plakinska Mountains (Republic of Macedonia)
2015
Abstract. The work presents results of a collecting trip in July 2008 in the mountains Ilinska and Plakinska (Republic of Macedonia). The work summarizes data for distribution and ecology of 19 species from the mountains. The data collected during the expedition provide the first information for terrestrial gastropods in this region of Macedonia.
Malacofauna of the catchment area of Rusenski Lom River (North Bulgaria)
2015
Abstract. Freshwater and terrestrial molluscs were studied at the catchment area of Rusenski Lom River (North Bulgaria), and 121 species were found. Second records of Bythiospeum iltchokolevi Georgiev & Glöer, 2015, Discus rotundatus (Müller, 1774), and Oxyloma dunkeri (L. Pfeiffer, 1865) in Bulgaria were reported.
Fossil and subfossil remains of birds and mammals from the Mirizlivka cave (Vidin Region – NW Bulgaria)
2015
Abstract. The fossil/subfossil record of Mirizlivka cave numbers 17 taxa – 3 species of birds and 14 species of large mammals, 3 of them disappeared from the recent fauna of Bulgaria, and 6 other globally extinct.
Случаи на морфологична аномалия на тестиса при бялата риба (Sander lucioperca Linnaeus, 1758) в яз. Тополница (Средна гора, България)
2015
Cases of morphological testis abnormality in pikeperch (Sander lucioperca (Linnaeus, 1758) from dam-lake Topolnitsa (Sredna Gora, Bulgaria)
2015
Abstract. The paper presents cases of abnormal morphology of the pikeperch (Sander lucioperca) testis. Three of the investigated 7 males caught in the dam-lake Topolnitsa showed different morphological gonadal alterations. Possible reason for the morphological abnormalities of the male gonads in the pikeperch could be the pollution of this particularе freshwater ecosystem with different industrial wastes such as heavy metals and pesticides.
Evidences for the Lynx recovery in Bulgaria: the Lynx discovered in Western Rhodopes
2015
Abstract. On photographs taken by a camera trap in the region of Yagodina village, Western Rhodopes, (Bulgaria) the presence of the Eurasian Lynx Lynx lynx L. has been registered in the summer of 2014. This is the most reliable to date argument for the presence in Rhodope mountains of this critically endangered species in Bulgaria and for its gradual dispersal from the western mountainous border region of Bulgaria to more appropriate country habitats inland.
Soluble proteins in Messor structor (Latreille, 1798) (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) populations from Bulgaria – genetic variability and possible usage as population-genetic markers
2015
Abstract. The genetic variability of ant species determined as Messor structor (Latreille, 1798) or close to it (“M. cf. structor”) from Bulgaria has been studied using polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis analysis of five soluble protein systems (Sp-1, Sp-2, Sp-3, Sp-4 and Sp-5) corresponding to 5 loci. Four of the studied loci were found to be polymorphic. Two alleles were detected at Sp-1 and Sp-2 loci and three – at Sp-3 and Sp-5. The observed and expected heterozygosities (Ho and He) ranged from 0.0 (Yambol) to 0.140 (Topolovo) and from 0.170 (Nova Zagora) to 0.401 (Tvarditsa), respectively. The calculated mean value of inbreeding coefficient (FIS) was 0.8263 and demonstrated high level of inbreeding within populations, which correlated with a low level of observed heterozygosity compared to the expected one. The estimated mean fixation index (FST) value was 0.2746. Allele frequencies of soluble protein loci were used to estimate Nei’s (1972) genetic distance and to obtain the Unweighted Pair Group Method with Arithmetic Mean (UPGMA) and Neighbor-Joining (NJ) dendrograms, where Topolovo and Nova Zagora populations were grouped separately than other populations.
Ground beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae) from the region of Cape Emine (central Bulgarian Black sea coast). Part II. Ecological parameters and community structure
2015
Abstract. For the first time an ecological study of the carabid fauna of the area of Cape Emine (Bulgarian Black sea coast) was conducted. Over the period 2010 – 2011 adult carabid beetles were collected. The investigation was carried out at 7 sampling sites and pitfall traps were used. During the study altogether 6245 specimens were captured. The greatest number of both species and specimens was found in the steppe-like habitat, least – in the pine (Pinus nigra J. F. Arnold) plantation. Indices for α- and β-diversity were calculated. The dominant structure of the whole carabid complex showed the presence of two eudominant, three dominant, two subdominant, eleven recedent and 85 subrecedent species. The analysis of the sex structure showed the total prevalence of males over females. Cluster analysis indicated a low percentage of taxonomic similarity between the communities, which reflected the diversity of the landscape.
Movement and activity pattern of a brown bear (Ursus arctos L.) tracked in Central Balkan Mountain, Bulgaria
2015
Abstract. First data about movement of brown bear in Bulgaria, based on 10 days tracking period of female without cubs on the territory of Central Balkan, Stara ,planina Mountain. Bear is active 46% of a 24-hour period, traveling 4 km per day in average. Speed is varying in different habitats and is up to 6.5 km/h in the grasslands.
On the activity of two medium-sized canids: the
Golden Jackal (Canis aureus) and the Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes)
in the Natural Bark “Sinite Kamani” (Bulgaria) revealed by
camera traps
2015
Abstract. Daylight activity in both species was often registered during the cold seasons. Foxes were registered to be active between 7-9h and 12-14h, while the jackals – during the whole day. Activity of both predators was rising during the night. The number of photographs increased from around 17h and activity was high until morning around 9-10h.
Ground beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae) from the region of Cape Emine (Central Bulgarian Black sea coast). Part I. Taxonomic and zoogeographic structure, life forms, habitat and humidity preferences
2015
Abstract. For the first time the carabid fauna of the area of Cape Emine (the middle of the Bulgarian Black sea coast) was studied. Over the period 2010 – 2012 adult carabid beetles were collected. Investigations were performed at 13 sampling sites and pitfall traps were used. During the study a total of 12618 specimens were captured. They belonged to 134 species, classified into 46 genera, 18 tribes, and 3 subfamilies. Dyschirius rufipes Dejean, 1825 and Laemostenus janthinus (Duftschmid, 1812) were reported as new species for the carabid fauna of Bulgaria. Three species were new for the fauna of the Bulgarian Black Sea coast. Fifty-four species were defined as new for the area of Cape Emine. Two endemics were found: Pterostichus merkli Frivaldszky, 1879 (Bulgarian endemic) and Cychrus semigranosus balcanicus Hopffgarten, 1881 (Balkan endemic). Species of ground beetles were characterized and classified according to their zoogeographical belonging, degree of endemism and rarity, habitat and humidity preferences; the life forms they refer to were determined.
2014
Aphidiinae (Hymenoptera, Braconidae) of the
Agro-ecosystems in Plovdiv Region (Bulgaria)
2014
Abstract. Eleven Aphidiinae genera and 23 species from 197 aphidiids were identified. Six species of them are new to the fauna of Bulgaria. Thirty two plant-aphid-parasitoid associations are reported.
Two Lomechusini (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Aleocharinae) species new to Bulgaria
2014
Abstract. First records of the myrmecophilous species Lomechusoides strumosus Fabricius, 1793 and Lomechusa paradoxa Gravenhorst, 1806 are reported for Bulgaria. Lomechusoides strumosus is the only member of the genus in Bulgaria while Lomechusa paradoxa joins L. emarginata (Paykull, 1789) as the second member of the genus Lomechusa. Both beetle species were found in nests of Formica ants.
Animal remains of the Late Antiquity settlement near Dyakovo Village (Kyustendil Region (SW Bulgaria)
2014
Abstract. From a total of 102 highly fragmented animal bone and tooth finds, dated ~250 AD – ~550 AD have been identified 13 taxa (4 wild species - Bison bonasus, Cervus elaphus, ? Cervus dama and Canis lupus) and 9 domestic forms – Bos taurus, Capra hircus, Ovis aries, Equus caballus, Equus asinus, Sus domesticus and Canis familiaris).
First record of Trypanosoma infection in Mediterranean mouse (Mus macedonicus Petrov & Ružić, 1983) in Bulgaria
2014
Abstract. The study presents a Trypanosoma infection in Mediterranean mouse (Mus macedonicus Petrov & Ružić, 1983) from Plovdiv region (Bulgaria). The average established prevalence of the parasite in Mus macedonicus was 23.5 %, whereas the infection rate was lower in female (11.1%) compared to male (37.5%) individuals. All observed parasite forms are trypomastigotes, possessing the morphological characteristics of the sub-genus Herpetosoma (Stercoraria section), to which T. lewisi-like parasites belong. These features are: free flagellum, ‘‘C shape’’ of the parasite with size about 25 ± 5 μm, clear visible undulating membrane, subterminal kinetoplast with oval shape, anterior located nucleus. These morphological characteristics and the absence of infection in the other investigated rodents, hosting other Trypanosoma species, allow us to provide evidence-based assumption that the registered parasite is Trypanosoma musculi. Further studies with molecular methods are required to confirm the registered species.
New Quaternary remains of terrestrial vertebrates of some caves in Bulgaria
2014
Abstract. New data on the occurrence of some terrestrial mammals and amphibians collected from 15 caves in Sarnena Sredna Gora Mts (4 caves), Stara Planina Mts (7 caves), and Rhodopes Mts (4 caves) was reported. Evidence for breeding of cave bears in/around the Kokalenata Cave was registered as finding of a skull fragment of a single juvenile specimen.
Contribution to the study of marine harpacticoid fauna (Crustacea, Copepoda) of Iceland
2014
Abstract.The author reports 19 harpacticoid species (Crustacea, Copepoda) sampled from the marine coastal and brackish waters on the Icelandic shore of the Atlantic Ocean in June and July 2004.
New locality of Eurasian stone-curlew Burhinus oedicnemus (Linnaeus, 1758) during the breeding season in Northwest Bulgaria
2014
Abstract. We describe a new locality of Eurasian stone-curlew Burhinus oedicnemus (Linnaeus, 1758) during breeding season near the town of Berkovitsa, in the SPA BG 0002090 Berkovitsa. The site is new and unknown so far, and is the third site in the Northwestern Bulgaria where the species is registered, and the only one from the interior of North Bulgaria.
First records of Psammodius asperoides Pittino, 2007 and Rhyssemus annaedicatus Pierotti, 1980 (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Aphodiinae) in Bulgaria
2014
Abstract. Psammodius asperoides Pittino, 2007 and Rhyssemus annaedicatus Pierotti, 1980 are reported from Bulgaria for the first time. New locality for Rhyssemus annaedicatus Pierotti, 1980 is given..
Diversity of earthworms (Oligochaeta: Lumbricidae) in Sofia Plain, Bulgaria
2014
Abstract. A rich earthworm material from 47 different localities in Sofia Plain has been elaborated. During the investigations between the years 2010 and 2013, thirteen earthworm species and subspecies were collected altogether, belonging to seven genera. Among them, three new records are reported. Aporrectodea longa (Ude, 1885), Eisenia lucens (Waga, 1857) and Octodrilus transpadanus (Rosa, 1884) proved to be new to the earthworm fauna of Sofia plain.
Animal remains of the Neolithic Ritual Burial Complex near Krum Village (Haskovo Region, SE Bulgaria)
2014
Abstract. From a total of 389 highly fragmented animal bone and tooth finds, dated ca. 6500-6300 B.P. have been identified 7 taxa: Lesser mole rat, Eurasian beaver, Cattle, Sheep, Goat, Pig, and Donkey.
Chaetonyx robustus (Scarabaeidae: Orphninae) – new natural host of Heterorhabditis bacteriophora (Rhabditida: Heterorhabditidae)
2014
Abstract. Heterorhabditis bacteriophora Poinar, 1976 was isolated from single larva of Chaetonyx robustus Schaum, 1862 (Scarabaeidae: Orphninae) from soil of a riverside habitat near town of Zemen, SW Bulgaria. Insects from the subfamily Orphninae are reported for the first time as natural hosts of heterorhabditids. In laboratory conditions larvae of C. robustus exhibited a low susceptibility to nematodes, which probably results from adaptation to avoid nematode invasion, arising from continuous coexistence in natural habitats.
Notes on autumn-winter stomach contents of the Stone Marten (Martes foina) in the Balkan Mountains, Central Bulgaria
2014
Abstract. We studied autumn-winter food (November-February, 1997-2003) of the Stone Marten in the Balkan Mountains, Central Bulgaria. A total of 26 stomachs (18 of males and eight of females) were examined, of which contents was expressed as the number of occurrence and relative frequency of occurrence. The result clearly showed that rodents are primary prey for the Stone Marten. Birds and insects were the following categories consumed. The edible dormouse was detected as a prey for the first time in Bulgaria. Besides, wild ungulates and domestic animals were occasionally scavenged, while neither fruits nor artificial materials were detected in the marten stomachs. Thus, our study showed that the Stone Marten in the Balkan Mountains tended to be more carnivorous in winter.
First study on the zooplankton of the Kerid (Kerið) Crater Lake, Iceland
2014
Abstract. We studied the qualitative composition of zooplankton of the Kerid Crater Lake. We found 10 taxa from which five rotifers and two lower crustaceans. Three of the recorded species are new to the freshwater fauna of Iceland: the rotifer species Keratella cf. americana Carlin, 1943 and Colurella sulcata (Stenroos, 1898), and the crustacean harpacticoid Bryocamptus (Bryocamptus) minutus (Claus, 1863).
Late Holocene distribution of the European Shag (Phalacrocorax aristotelis (Linnaeus, 1761) in Bulgaria
2014
Abstract. A review of the species’ discovery, its breeding
range and records, and the subfossil records in Bulgaria is
presented.
Faunistical
records of Tenebrionidae (Coleoptera) from Bulgaria and
Republic of Macedonia
2014
Abstract. New faunistical data about 4 species and
genera of the family Tenebrionidae are presented as
follows: one new species for the fauna of Balkan
Peninsula – Eledonoprius serrifrons (Reitter, 1890);
three genera and three species are new records for
Bulgaria – Eledona agricola (Herbst, 1783), Eledonoprius
serrifrons and Latheticus oryzae Waterhouse, 1880; and a
new genus and species to the fauna of the Republic of
Macedonia - Hymenalia graeca Seidlitz, 1896. Distribution
maps and photos of these species are also provided. The male
genitalia of E. agricola are illustrated for the first time.
Records
of European free-tailed bat Tadarida teniotis
(Rafinesque, 1814) (Mammalia: Chiroptera) in Bulgaria
2014
Abstract. Seven localities of registration of European
free-tailed bat Tadarida teniotis (Rafinesque, 1814) on
the territory of Bulgaria are recorded. For the first time the
species is reported in Rila Mountain. Its relatively high
flying activity is registered during the late autumnal period
(end of November) in Eastern Rhodopes Mountains.
The first record
of scorpion-fly Panorpa schweigeri Willmann, 1975
(Insecta, Mecoptera, Panorpidae) from Bulgaria
2014
Abstract. The author presents the first record of Panorpa
schweigeri from Bulgaria as well as the first record of
any species of the Panorpa aspoecki group
outside Turkey. Two females (one dissected) were caught
in 1973 in Kalovo (Strandzha Mountain), ca. 30 km NE of the
locality Velika near Kırklareli in Turkey, where P.
schweigeri was published in original description.
2013
Mollusca
(terrestrial and marine Gastropods et Bivalvia) from
Morocco
2013
ZooNotes 50:
1-5 Atanas Irikov, Georgi Gerdzhikov
Abstract. Fifteen samples with molluscs are collected from various habitats and regions of Morocco, located in the seashore zone, as well as the central and the eastern parts of the country. We recorded 21 terrestrial and 15 marine species of molluscs. New localities and new species for the fauna of Morocco and the African continent are reported for the first time.
On
distribution area of Asovia maeoticaria (Alphéraky, 1876)
(Insecta, Lepidoptera, Geometridae)
2013
ZooNotes 49: 1-2 MIlan Djurić, Boženka Hric
Abstract. Species Asovia maeoticaria (Alphéraky,
1876) was described from southeast Ukraine and subsequently
recorded in Bulgaria, Greece, European part of Russia, parts
of Turkey and southeast Romania. That led to the conclusion it
has Ponto-Mediterranean distribution. Authors discovered the
species on 7 June 2013 in the village of Kamenica, SE Serbia,
making that conclusion doubtful since the location is distant
from any seashore.
A record of
Viviparus syriacus (Gastropoda: Viviparidae) in Turkey
Abstract. First record of the fossil species Viviparus
syriacus from Turkey was reported: deposits of the Asi Nehri
river north of Antioch town, about 20 km west of the Syrian
border, N36 14 54.0 E36 11 59.3, 127 m alt.
Contribution
to the butterfly species of Belasitsa Mountain (SW
Bulgaria) and second record of Gonepteryx cleopatra
(Linnaeus, 1767) from Bulgaria
2013
ZooNotes 47:
1-5 Liuben Domozetski
Abstract. At present, according to the literature data for
Belasitsa Mountain are published 139 butterfly species. This
article contributes to the knowleage of the butterfly fauna of
the mountain by adding five more species. With this supplement
the number of the butterflies’ fauna of Belasitsa Mountain
increase to 144 species. This article also presents
information about the second record of Gonepteryx cleopatra
(Linnaeus, 1767) in Bulgaria.
First records
of Cecilioides tumulorum (Gastropoda: Ferussaciidae) in
Bulgaria
2013
ZooNotes 46:
1-6 Dilian Georgiev, Slaveya Stoycheva
Abstract. First records of Cecilioides tumulorum (Bourguignat,
1956) in Bulgaria were reported: 1. deposits of Karabaiska
River, near village of Sladun, Sakar Mountain; 2. deposits of
Stara Reka River, near Peshtera town, Western Rhodopes
Mountain; 3. deposits of Byala Reka River, near village of
Mandritza, Eastern Rhodopes Mountain; 4. Ivaylovgrad town,
Eastern Rhodopes Mountain. After this report, the known
species from the genus Cecilioides in Bulgaria are: C.
acicula, C. janii, C. spelaeus and C. tumulorum.
New data on the
distribution of Hoplia stenolepis (Scarabaeoidea:
Melolonthidae) in Bulgaria
Abstract. The Balkan endemic species Hoplia stenolepis
Apfelbeck, 1912 is reported from two localities in Kresna and
Zemen Gorge, SW Bulgaria. The Zemen Gorge locality is the most
northern for the species in Bulgaria to date. At the Zemen
Gorge the species is found in numerous aggregations of male
specimens on different grasses. No feeding or mating activity
was observed.
Contribution
to the knowledge for distribution of Criodrilus lacuum
(Annelida: Oligochaeta: Criodrilidae) from Bulgaria
Abstract. All known records of Criodrilidae earthworms in the
country were presented. The current knowledge for distribution
of family Criodrilidae in Bulgaria was summarized. In this
paper we report new locality of Criodrilus lacuum Hoffmeister,
1845. Surprisingly this species was found in one of the parks
in Sofia Town. New data confirm its presence in Sofia Plane.
Also information about ecology, habitat type locality and
short description of Criodrilus lacuum was provided.
Localities of
valvatiform hydrobiids (Gastropoda: Hydrobiidae) in
Bulgaria
Abstract. In this paper three new localities of unidentified
valvatiform hydrobiids are reported in Bulgaria: Glava Panega
Spring (Zlatna Panega Town), Rushovata Cave (near Glogovo
Village), and Mandrata Cave (near Chavdartsi Village).
Diet of the
Stone marten (Martes foina Erxl.) in two large cities of
the Upper Thracian Lowland, South Bulgaria
Abstract. The fruits of domestic and wild plants comprise the
main food of the urban Stone martens. The secondary food
varied during seasons. Insects, birds and mammals (small and
bone remains of large mammals) occurred in the feces.
Amphibians and reptiles were eaten occasionally.
New localities
of Eastern Montpellier Snake – Malpolon insignitus
(Geoffroy Saint-Hilaire, 1827) from Southwestern Bulgaria
Abstract. The current report presents three new localities of
the Eastern Montpellier Snake in Bulgaria. Two of them are
situated along the valley of Mesta River whereas the third one
is on the slopes of Belasitsa Mountain. The localities along
Mesta River are of great interest, because they represent the
valley as natural corridor for penetration and distribution of
mediteranean species in Bulgaria. Two of the localities arouse
interest because of their high altitude.
Additions and
corrections to the species list of the Bulgarian
Chloropinae (Diptera: Chloropidae)
2013
ZooNotes 40: 1-4 Venelin Beschovski
Abstract. One genus (Elachiptereicus) and 8 Chloropinae
species are reported for the first time for Bulgaria. With
these new data total 20 genera with 81 species are established
to subfamily Chloropinae in Bulgaria at the time being.
New records of
some rare rodents (Mammalia: Rodentia) from South-East
Bulgaria
2013
ZooNotes 39: 1-4 Nedko Nedyalkov
Abstract. New records of three rare rodent species from SE
Bulgaria are reported, as follows: European Snow Vole
(Chionomys nivalis) – Madzharovo Town, Eastern Rhodope
Mountains (UTM MG01); Gray Dwarf Hamster (Cricetulus
migratorius) –Matochina Village (UTM MG 63); and Roach's
Mouse-tailed Dormouse (Myomimus roachi) –Malki Voden Village,
Eastern Rhodope Mountains (UTM MG11). All three species were
found in the food remains of two owl species: the Barn Owl
(Tyto alba) and the Tawny Owl (Strix aluco), and the Eastern
Imperial Eagle (Aquila heliaca).
Dolichopus
species (Diptera: Dolichopodidae) in the Еntomological
Collection of the Institute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem
Research at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences
2013
ZooNotes 38: 1-4 Venelin Beschovski
Abstract. Total 22 species are presented, 3 of which are not
from Bulgaria (D. austriacus and D. longicornis from Slovakia,
and D. popularis from Hungary); other 5 species except in
Bulgaria are collected and from Slovakia (D. argyrotarsis, D.
plumipes and D. ungulatus), Romania (D. diadema) and Russia
(D. lepidus).
First record of
Grossuana angeltsekovi Glöer & Georgiev, 2009
(Gastropoda: Risooidea) from Greece
2013
ZooNotes 37: 1-4 Dilian Georgiev
Abstract. In this paper it is reported the first finding of a
representative of the genus Grossuana from the Greek Rhodopes
Mts. – Grossuana angeltsekovi Glöer & Georgiev, 2009 which
is and the first record of the species for this country. The
locality is a karstic spring, Rodopi county, Papikio Oros,
near Vronti (= 4 km N of Kerasia) (445 m a.s.l.). The material
is stored in the Hungarian Natural History Museum, Budapest.
Development
of Steinernema feltiae (Rhabditida: Steinernematidae) in
larvae of Chaetonyx robustus (Coleoptera: Orphnidae)
2012
ZooNotes 36: 1-4 Denis
Gradinarov, Yana Petrova
Abstract. Steinernema feltiae (Filipjev, 1934) infects
and reproduces in larvae of Chaetonyx robustus Schaum,
1862 (Coleoptera: Orphnidae), isolated from soil of the same
habitat. Insects of the family Orphnidae are reported for the
first time as hosts of entomopathogenic nematodes. Lack of
establishment of natural infected larvae may be due to the
lower susceptibility of C. robustus to nematode
invasion and random factors related to the spatial
distribution of infective juveniles in soil.
First record of
Iphthiminus italicus (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae) in
Bulgaria
2012
ZooNotes 35: 1-4 Ognyan Sivilov
Abstract. Iphthiminus italicus croaticus (Truqui, 1857) is
reported from Bulgaria for the first time. Genus Iphthiminus
Spilman, 1973 is also new to the Bulgarian fauna.
Asilidae
(Diptera: Brachycera) – natural hosts of Steinernema
feltiae (Rhabditida: Steinernematidae) at the Zemen Gorge
region
2012
ZooNotes 34: 1-4 Denis Gradinarov
Abstract. Invaded with entomopathogenic nematode S. feltiae
(Filipjev, 1934) larva from family Asilidae was found in an
alluvial soil of riverside forest in the region of Zemen
Gorge, SW Bulgaria. It is the first record of Asilidae as
natural hosts of S. feltiae. It seems that insects from the
family Asilidae are generally among the suitable hosts of the
genus Steinernema Travassos, 1927. Members of Asilidae are
important predators in the soil, and their susceptibility to
nematode invasion must be considered when assessing the impact
of entomopathogenic nematodes on beneficial soil insects.
The Bulgarian
Odonata database – current status, organisation and a case
study new entries
2012
ZooNotes 33: 1-25 Yordan Kutsarov, Dimitar Bechev,
Rosen Kostadinov, Milen Marinov
Abstract. Bulgarian Odonata database is analysed for the
period of the last 10 years. All new entries are summarised in
individual species graphs representing the trends in data
compilations. Special attention is paid on the role of
communities in this process with a single study case which is
evident of how a small contribution could elucidate important
new information on some underexplored areas. It is concluded
that for the past 10 years mountain areas and large Bulgarian
rivers have been understudied. These should be the priority
target areas in the investigations undertaken in near future.
Records of
Oedemeridae (Insecta: Coleoptera) species from Strandzha
Mountain (Bulgaria and Turkey)
2012
ZooNotes 32: 1-5 Ognyan Sivilov
Abstract. A list of 16 species from 5 genera of the family
Oedemeridae and their localities in Strandzha Mountain was
presented, five from which were reported for the first time to
the mountain.
Sub-recent
avian remains from two cave localities of the Devetashko
Plateau (Lovech Region, CN Bulgaria)
2012
ZooNotes 31: 1-3 Zlatozar Boev
Abstract. Eighteen
bone finds of 6 species (incl. one domestic form) of two cave
localities from the Devetashko Plateau have been examined.
2012
ZooNotes 30: 1-6 Rostislav Bekchiev, Koen Smets, Luc
Crevecoeur
Abstract. New distribution data about nine species of the
genus Triplax Herbst, 1793 in Bulgaria are reported. The
species Triplax scutellaris Charpentier, 1825 is new for the
fauna of the country. The biology, distribution and
conservation status of several species are discussed. For the
first time, a complete list of all nine Triplax species
present in Bulgaria is given.
2012
ZooNotes 29: 1-2 Venelin Beschovski
Abstract. Two species, belonging to two genera are reported for the first time in Bulgaria.
2012
ZooNotes 28: 1-3 Ivelin Mollov
Abstract. A melanistic specimen of Natrix natrix from Plovdiv,
Bulgaria was found. This is the third recorded case of
melanism in the Grass snake in Bulgaria. Short morphological
descriptions of the specimen, as well as some taxonomical and
ecological comments are given.
Unusual late
mass occurrence of the Common Swift (Apus apus (Linnaeus,
1758)) (Aves: Apodidae) in Sofia (Bulgaria)
2012
ZooNotes 27: 1-2 Zlatozar Boev
Abstract. An observation of about 120 Common Swifts over the
central part of the Sofia City on 15 October is reported.
2011
First report of
Idiopterus nephrelepidis Davis, 1909 (Hemiptera:
Aphididae) from Bulgaria
2011
ZooNotes 26: 1-4 Elena Tasheva - Terzieva, Maria
Yovkova, Anelia Pencheva
Abstract. Idiopterus nephrelepidis (Hemiptera: Aphididae) is
reported for the first time in Bulgaria on ornamental ferns in
four greenhouses in Sofia and Varna. Dense colonies
of apterous viviparous females and larvae were observed. The
established host plants are Nephrolepis exaltata, Asplenium
nidus and Pteris cretica. Infested ferns exhibit
leaf deformation. The aphids were reared in laboratory
conditions for four months. A morphometric study of apterae
was carried out. Taking into account the presence of
host plants of I. nephrelepidis in Bulgaria which are native
to the local flora and the reports of the aphid from the
Balkan area, it may spread in the country outdoors.
Checklist
of the Bulgarian Bruchinae (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)
2011
ZooNotes 25:
1-7 Anelia Stojanova, Zoltán György
Abstract. Checklist of Bulgarian Bruchinae (Coleoptera:
Chrysomelidae) based on published data till 2011 is presented.
Eighty-five species belonging to nine genera are listed.
Check list of
the Bulgarian minor freshwater snails (Gastropoda:
Risooidea) with some ecological and zoogeographical notes
2011
ZooNotes 24: 1-4 Dilian Georgiev
Abstract. A synopsis and
critical overview of all the literature on the freshwater
minor snails (Gastropoda: Risooidea) of Bulgaria was made. A
check list of 49 species known till now in the country with
the ecological and zoogeorgraphical categories to which the
species belong was provided.
Ricania
japonica Melichar, 1898 – a representative of family
Ricaniidae (Homoptera, Fulgoromorpha), new to the fauna of
Bulgaria
2011
ZooNotes 23: 1-3 Ilia Gjonov
Abstract. For first time there is a new record of a
representative of family Ricaniidae on theterritory of
Bulgaria. The species Ricania japonica Melichar, 1898 was
collected in SoutheastBulgaria near to the Black Sea coast.
First records
of Laboulbeniales (Ascomycota) on ants (Hymenoptera:
Formicidae) in Bulgaria
2011
ZooNotes 22: 1-6 Albena Lapeva-Gjonova,
Sergi Santamaria
New records of
myrmecophilous beetle Paussus turcicus (Coleoptera,
Carabidae) in Southeastern Balkans
Abstract. The rare myrmecophilous beetle Paussus turcicus I. Frivaldszky von Frivald, 1835 (Coleoptera, Carabidae) is reported in three new localities in Bulgaria and one in the European part of Turkey. It has been found in nests of the typical ant host Pheidole pallidula (Nylander, 1849) (Hymenoptera, Formicidae). It is reported for first time from Sakar and Eastern Rhodope Mountains in Bulgaria.
Case of alarm
vocalization in a colony of Microtus guentheri (Danford
& Alston, 1880) (Mammalia, Rodentia, Arvicolidae) from
Southern Bulgaria
2011
ZooNotes 20: 1-3 Ivan Pandourski
Abstract. The main frequency characteristics of alarm vocalization in Guenter’s vole Microtus guentheri (Danford & Alston, 1880), expressed by single whistle signal are presented. The alarm call was recorded in a colony of Guenter’s vole in the valley of Byala reka River in Eastern Rhodopes Mountains, Sothern Bulgaria. The start of the call is explosive and marked frequency modulated, followed by uniform frequency plateau with narrow bandwidth of 2.3 KHz and maximum energy at 15.4 KHz.
Comparison of
the eggs size between two subspecies of the Kotschy’s
Gecko Mediodactylus kotschyi (Steindachner, 1870)
(Reptilia: Gekkonidae) in Bulgaria
2011
ZooNotes 19: 1-4 Ivelin Mollov
Abstract. The
current study compares the egg size (length, width, egg volume
and clutch size) between two subspecies of the Kotschy’s Gecko
– Mediodactylus kotschyi rumelicus and Mediodactylus
kotschyi daniliewskii from Bulgaria. Our results showed
that M. k. rumelicus from Plovdiv has bigger eggs,
compared to M. k. daniliewskii from Sozopol, The South
Black Sea Coast and Ukraine, regarding length, width and egg
volume. The clutch size between the two subspecies both from
Bulgaria and Ukraine is very similar and contains average of 2
eggs.
Study on the
Stone crayfish Austropotamobius torrentium (Schrank, 1803)
(Crustacea: Decapoda: Astacidae) population in the Dospat
Dam (Western Rhodope Mountains, Bulgaria)
2011
ZooNotes 18: 1-5 Angel Zaikov, Tanja
Hubenova, Ivan Iliev, Penka Vasileva, Ivailo Piskov
Abstract. In present paper the results from a study on the
Stone crayfish in the Dospat Dam were represented. During the
study period a total of 551 stone crayfish were caught (328
males and 223 females) by traps. The size-weight
characteristics of the population were established, as well as
the determination of its relative density (CPUE), and the
ratio between the males and the females.
Изследване
върху популацията на Eзерния рак Astacus leptodactylus
Eschscholtz, 1823 (Crustacea: Decapoda: Astacidae) в
кариерен водоем в района на с. Бошуля (Горнотракийска
низина, България)
2011
ZooNotes 17: 1-4 Ангел Зайков, Таня Хубенова, Иван Илиев,
Ивайло Писков
Study on the narrow-clawed
crayfish Astacus leptodactylus Eschscholtz, 1823
(Crustacea: Decapoda: Astacidae) population in a sand-pit Lake
near the village of Boshulya (Upper Thracian Lowland,
Bulgaria)
ANGEL ZAIKOV, TANJA HUBENOVA, IVAN ILIEV, IVAILO
PISKOV
Abstract. The paper represents the results of investigation on the narrow-clawed crayfish population in the sand-pit Lake near village of Boshulya (Upper Thracian Lowland, Bulgaria). The number of crayfish (925) caught showed a high density of their population (mean CPUE=14.69). Individuals with a body weight between 20.1 and 30.0 g predominated the sample. They were 38% of the total catch. With the lowest percent (1%) were the groups with body weight 70.1 – 80.0 g and this one over 80 g. The average ovarian eggs number (absolute fecundity) was 228.85 (min. 144, max. 294)
Abstract. New localities of Belgrandiella pussila Angelov,
1959; Belgrandiella angelovi Pintér, 1968; Bythiospeum
copiosus (Angelov, 1972) and Grossuana thracica Glöer
& Georgiev, 2009 were reported in Bulgaria. Some notes on
the generic position of Belgrandiella angelovi and Bythiospeum
copiosus were done.
Contribution
to the fauna of Elasmus Westwood (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae)
in Bulgaria
2011
ZooNotes 15: 1-8 Irina Strakhova, Zoya Yefremova,
Peter Boyadzhiev
Abstract. Twelve species of genus Elasmus Westwood are
presented; eleven of them are newrecords for Bulgaria.
Bulgaria is the second country where Elasmus bistrigatus Graham,1995
and E. longiclava Graham, 1995 were collected.

Ново
късно-плейстоценско находище на алпийски козирог (Capra
ibex L.) (Mammalia: Bovidae) в България
2010
ZooNotes 14: 1-4 Дилян Георгиев , Славея
Стойчева
New Late Pleistocene locality
of the Alpine Ibex (Capra ibex L.) (Mammalia: Bovidae)
in Bulgaria
DILIAN GEORGIEV, SLAVEYA STOYCHEVA
Abstract. There were a total of 12 localities
of fossil Alpine Ibex (Capra ibex) in Bulgaria till
now, all of Late Pleistocene. Most of them were from the West
part of Stara Planina Mountain. The paper reports the
easternmost cave locality of this species from the Pchena Cave
(Tvardishki Balkan area, Stara Planina Mnt.), near the town of
Tvarditsa. The find represents a cranial fragment, bearing the
horn shafts.
An illustrated
key to the Bulgarian freshwater crayfish species of family
Astacidae (Crustacea: Decapoda)
2010
ZooNotes 13:
1-4 Angel Zaikov
Abstract. A key for the 3 crayfish species of the family
Astacidae (Crustacea, Decapoda) found in Bulgaria: Astacus
leptodactylus Eschscholtz, 1823; Astacus astacus (Linnaeus,
1758)
and Austropotamobius torrentium (Schrank, 1803) is
presented. More important identification characters are
illustrated with original photographs.
Изследване
върху популацията на Речния рак Astacus astacus (Linnaeus,
1758) в река Ръждавец (Стара планина, България)
2010
ZooNotes 12:
1-4 Ангел Зайков, Таня Хубенова, Иван Илиев, Ивайло
Писков
Investigation on noble
crayfish Astacus astacus (Linnaeus, 1758) population in
River Razhdavets (Balkan Mountain, Bulgaria)
ANGEL ZAIKOV, TANJA HUBENOVA, IVAN ILIEV, IVAILO PISKOV
Abstract. This article points out the results of the conducted investigation on the noble crayfish population in Razhdavets River (Balkan mountain, Bulgaria). The number of caught crayfish shows relatively high density of the population (CPUE = 2.65). A predominance of the individuals with body weight between 20.1 and 30.0 g was established. They form 27 % of the total catch. The lowest share have the groups with body weight 70.1 – 80.0 g (2 %) and this over 80 g (2 %). The mean body weight of the crayfish was 31.34 g (39.29 g for the males and 25.12 g for the females) with total length 9.01 cm (9.42 cm for the males and 8.68 cm for the females).
2010 ZooNotes 11: 1-3 Rostislav Bekchiev
Abstract. A new data about the distribution in Bulgaria of the rare species Omoglymmius germari is given. His nature conservation value is discussed.
2010
ZooNotes 10: 1-4 Ангел Зайков, Таня Хубенова, Иван
Илиев, Пенка Василева, Ивайло Писков
Investigation on stone
crayfish Austropotamobius torrentium (Schrank, 1803)
population in River Sarnena (Western Rhodope Mountains,
Bulgaria)
ANGEL ZAIKOV, TANJA HUBENOVA, IVAN ILIEV, PENKA VASILEVA,
IVAILO PISKOV
Abstract. During the study 116 stone crayfish specimens (100 males and 16 females) were caught by traps. Mean body weight for males 26.18±6.7 g and 16.97±6.4 g for females was established. The value of catch per unit effort (CPUE) for the crayfish population in River Sarnena was 1.93.
A
contribution to the knowledge of the trophic spectrum of
the Slow Worm (Anguis fragilis L., 1758) (Reptilia:
Anguidae) from Bulgaria
2010
ZooNotes 9: 1-4 Ivelin Mollov
Abstract. During our study we identified 23 prey items in 12
prey categories in the trophic spectrum of Anguis fragilis with
average
number of prey items per stomach 2.87. The most important prey
components are snails and slugs (Gastropoda) with 39.14% and
beetles (Coleoptera) with 21.72%. The estimated trophic niche
breadth is very high – 19.46. The Slow Worm forages primarily
at dawn or twilight, and the feeding is most intensive in the
summer season. It can be considered “swallowing” predator and
a “polyphage” to some extend, capturing only slowly moving
prey.
2010
ZooNotes 8:
1-4 Dilian Georgiev, Liubomir Yankov, Slaveya Stoycheva,
Stanimira Deleva, Pavlin Zhelev, Anelia Pavlova, Mariela
Zagorska
Abstract. Bear bones were reported for first time in four
Bulgarian caves: Mazata (near Hristo Danovo village, Stara
Planina Mnt.) - Ursus cf ingressus, Ursus sp., Kokalenata
(near Bulgarka hut, Stara Planina Mnt.) - Ursus cf
ingressus, Kiliykite (near Stanchov Han village, Stara
Planina Mnt.) - Ursus sp. and Vodnata Modarska (near
the Lilkovo village, Western Rhodopes Mnt.) - Ursus
spelaeus species complex.
Flower
visitation of fungus gnats from the genera Antlemom,
Asindulum and Macrorrhyncha (Diptera: Keroplatidae):
published data and a new record
2010
ZooNotes 7:
1-3 Dimitar Bechev
Abstract. The literature data about flower visitation of
species from the fungus gnats genera Antlemon, Asindulum and Macrorrhyncha are
summarized
and a new record for Macrorrhyncha flava on Heracleum
verticillatum is given.
A
New Locality of the Italian Wall Lizard Podarcis siculus
(Rafinesque-Schmaltz, 1810) from Turkey
2009
ZooNotes 6: 1-3 Ivelin Mollov
Abstract. The current paper reviews the current distribution
of the Italian Wall Lizard (Podarcis siculus) in
Turkey. A new locality at Güzelyalı Belediyesi Resort,
south-west of Mudanya City in the country is reported.
A
record of Horned viper Vipera ammodytes (L.) in the diet
of the Stone marten Martes foina (Erxl.)
2009
ZooNotes 5: 1-2 Dilian Georgiev, Evgenii Raychev
Abstract. Among undigested prey remains in Stone marten’s Martes
foina (Erxl.) faeces (n=47), collected in Sakar Mountain
(near Sladun Village) a single lower jaw from a Horned viper (Vipera
ammodytes) was found. The rest of taxa registered in the
Rock marten’s diet among the faecas were: Insceta indet., Lacerta
sp., Pseudopus apodus, Aves indet., Dryomis nitedula,
Sylvaemus sp., Arvicola terrestris, Microtus sp., and
fruits of Rosa sp., Rubus sp., and Pyrus sp. The
percent frequency of the main prey groups in the faeces were
as follows: Mammalia (n=35, 74.5%), Aves (n=16, 34.0%),
Reptilia (n=4, 8.5%), Insecta (n=4, 8.5%), and fruits (n=5,
10.6%).
2009
ZooNotes 4:
1-4 Ivelin Mollov, Peter Boyadziev
Abstract. During our study we identified 500 prey items in 20
prey categories in the trophic spectrum of Bufo bufo with
average number of prey items per stomach 25.00. The most
important prey taxon is Formicidae (70.20%), followed by
Coleoptera (especially Carabidae – 11.40%), as well as
non-insect invertebrates (Isopoda, Gastropoda, Arachnida)
which also play significant role. The estimated trophic niche
breadth is low – 1.96.
2009
ZooNotes 3:
1-2 Ognian Todorov
Abstract. Seven species of Aphidiidae (Hymenoptera) are collected with light trap. The trap was situated in Parvenets Village (Plovdiv District, Bulgaria) near by crops.
First record of Bolitophila japonica (Diptera: Bolitophilidae) for continental Asia
2009
ZooNotes 2:
1-2
Dimitar Bechev
Abstract. Bolitophila (Bolitophila) japonica (Okada, 1934) is reported for the first time for continental Asia in Nepal. This is also the first record of Bolitophilidae for the Himalayas.
Видовете от Ctenophorinae (Diptera: Tipulidae) във фауната на България
2009
ZooNotes 1:
1-3
Димитър Бечев
DIMITAR BECHEV
Abstract. List of the species of Ctenophorinae subfamily, known from Bulgaria is given, including Ctenophora elegans Meigen, 1818, species reported for Bulgaria, but not presented in Fauna Europaea and Catalogue of the Craneflies of the World for the country. Ctenophora flaveolata (Fabricius, 1794) is reported for the first time to the fauna of Bulgaria.