Publications by authors named "B Krystufek"

Article Synopsis
  • A genomic database encompassing all eukaryotic species on Earth is crucial for scientific advancements, yet most species lack genomic data.
  • The Earth BioGenome Project (EBP) was initiated in 2018 by global scientists to compile high-quality reference genomes for approximately 1.5 million recognized eukaryotic species.
  • The European Reference Genome Atlas (ERGA) launched a Pilot Project to create a decentralized model for reference genome production by testing it on 98 species, providing valuable insights into scalability, equity, and inclusiveness for genomic projects.
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  • Plague is a dangerous disease mainly found in rodents and their fleas, with the jird (Meriones persicus) as the main carrier in Iran, showing complex subspecies and genetic variations.
  • The study examined the cytb gene in various populations across Iran, focusing on regions between the Zagros and Alborz Mountains, revealing two main genetic lineages and questioning the classification of certain subspecies.
  • Findings suggest a link between the genetic sub-lineage IA (M. p. rossicus) and all recorded plague cases in Iran from 1946 to 2023, highlighting the importance of careful interpretation for plague monitoring in the region.
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Crocidura (Eulipotyphla, Soricidae) is the most species-rich genus among mammals, with high cryptic diversity and complicated taxonomy. The hirta-flavescens group of Crocidura represents the most abundant and widespread shrews in savannahs of eastern and southern Africa, making them a suitable phylogeographical model for assessing the role of paleoclimatic changes on current biodiversity in open African habitats. We present the first comprehensive study on the phylogeography, evolutionary history, geographical distribution, systematics, and taxonomy of the group, using the integration of mitochondrial, genome-wide (ddRAD sequencing), morphological and morphometrical data collected from specimens over most of the known geographic distribution.

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Article Synopsis
  • Comprehensive global range maps for all existing mammal species are crucial for biodiversity studies and conservation efforts, facilitating better understanding of their distribution.
  • The maps are created through a meticulous process involving digital interpretation, georeferencing, and alignment across multiple taxonomic databases, including HMW, CMW, and MDD.
  • Although expert maps have limitations in detail and precision, the provided georeferenced shapefiles, accompanied by species metadata, enhance accessibility and the potential for future updates through an online platform.
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