Pakistan Journal of Zoological Sciences (PJZS) is the official, peer-reviewed journal of IJSMART Publishing Company®. It is an open-access, quarterly publication that follows a double-blind peer-review process. PJZS (ISSN: 3105-5222) serves as a platform for disseminating original scientific research across all branches of zoology. Journal Scope PJZS (ISSN: 3105-5222) aims to promote significant advancements in the field of zoology. PJZS is the first open-access zoology journal in Pakistan dedicated to combining diverse disciplines that study animal life from various perspectives. Our goal is to provide a platform for a comprehensive understanding of zoological phenomena at all levels—molecular, cellular, organismal, ecological, and evolutionary. We welcome original research articles and systematic reviews, in the following areas: Animal Biology & Behavior Ecology and Environmental Zoology Animal Physiology and Anatomy Entomology Evolutionary Zoology and Systematics Zoological Genetics and Genomics Zoological Toxicology and Wildlife Health Applied Zoology and Conservation Invertebrate and Vertebrate Zoology Aquaculture and Fisheries Zoology Parasitology and Zoonotic Zoology Developmental and Cell Zoology Comparative Zoology: Anatomy and Physiology Paleozoology and Zoological Biogeography Ethnozoology and Human-Animal Interactions Our editorial board and expert peer reviewers rigorously evaluate all submissions to ensure the highest standards of scientific integrity, clarity, and novelty. Editorial Board Editor-in-Chief Ms. Saba Malik School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Xianlin Campus, Qixia District, Nanjing, 210023 China. Environmental science, Zoology, Water quality management, Environmental toxicology, ecological risk assessment, Climate change >>>View Full Biography Associate Editors Dr. Muhammad Naeem Associate Professor, College of Biological Resources and Food Engineering, Qujing Normal University, Yunnan, China All editorial correspondence should be addressed to: Associate editor Dr. Muhammad Naeem Associate Professor, College of Biological Resources and Food Engineering, Qujing Normal University, Yunnan, China; Email: pjzs@ijsmartpublishing.com (See full Editorial Board for more details.) Article Processing Charges All manuscripts submitted from Pakistan and other countries are welcome without any initial processing fees. However, a publication fee will be applicable only upon acceptance of the manuscript after the peer-review and editorial decision process: For authors in Pakistan: PKR 15,000 For students from China: RMB 300 For international (overseas) authors: USD 100 These charges support the cost of DOI, digital archiving, online hosting, and long-term accessibility of published content.
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Integration of GIS and Remote Sensing for Studying Environmental Impacts on Invertebrate Biodiversity of Different Districts of Punjab
The rapid environmental fluctuations occurring across various districts of Punjab have raised concerns regarding their impact on invertebrate biodiversity, which plays a vital role in maintaining ecological balance. This research aims to inspect the influence of environmental factors on invertebrate diversity using the combined application of Geographic Information Systems and Remote Sensing, addressing the deficiency of spatial biodiversity calculations in the region. Field-based biodiversity surveys were conducted to collect species data, which was then analyzed alongside satellite imagery and spatial datasets to identify areas facing ecological stress due to anthropogenic activities. GIS tools were used to map land use and land cover changes, while remote sensing helped in detecting environmental transformations such as urban expansion, deforestation, and habitat fragmentation. Evaluation was based on species occurrence and richness patterns observed across selected sites. The findings revealed a noticeable decline in invertebrate diversity in regions with high human-induced disturbances and land use conversion. The study concludes that GIS and RS are effective tools for monitoring biodiversity patterns and can support conservation planning in biodiversity-sensitive areas. Future research could expand this framework by incorporating long-term monitoring and species-level ecological modeling.
Copyright (c) 2025 Rabia Yousaf Yousaf Ali Shahid, Maryam Riasat, Iqra, Naureen Rana, Tehreem Shakoor, Nawaz Haider Bashir, Muhammad Naeem, Nawaz Haider Bashir (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Aphids fauna (Aphidoidea: Hemiptera) and their host association of Al Bahah Province, Saudi Arabia
Aphid habitats are aplenty in the Al Bahah Province, Saudi Arabia because of the abundance of native and introduced plants there and the region's moderate temperature. But no prior surveys of aphids from the province have been conducted. Fifty-five aphid species from 30 genera were identified. Six aphid species namely, Macrosiphum euphorbiae (Thomas, 1878), Brachycaudus rumexicolens (Patch, 1917), Uroleucon sonchi (Linnaeus, 1767), Brachycaudus helichrysi (Kaltenbach, 1843) and Myzus persicae (Sulzer, 1776) were the most prevalent aphid species according to the quantity of samples gathered. In this research, 102 species of host plants for aphids were identified, comprising 82 genera. The most frequent aphid hosts plant during the recent findings were species of the Asteraceae, Chenopodiaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Fabaceae, Poaceae, and Solanaceae families. Aphid species varied from one to six in number per plant host species. There is a key provided for identifying the different kinds of aphids in KSA.
Copyright (c) 2025 Sabir Hussain, Muhammad Naeem, Muhammad Rafiq Shahid, Zainab Baloch, Javed Iqbal, Jahansher Qambrani, Manzoor Ahmed, Huanhuan Chen (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Effects of Green and Chemical Cerium Oxides Nanoparticles on the Blood Profile and Liver Enzymes of Cirrhinus mrigala
As nanotechnology advances, minute contaminants are increasingly found in both the terrestrial and aquatic environments, raising concerns about nanoparticle pollution such as cerium oxide. They could be consumed by fish and other aquatic life, leading to poisoning, illness, and even death. The goal of the current study was to investigate how cerium oxide nanoparticles physically affected the freshwater Cirrhinus mrigala's liver and hematological markers. Fish for 28 days were exposed to two dosages of each type: 50 mg and 100 mg. The fingerlings in each experimental aquarium were twelve. Following CRD, hepatotoxicity was measured in a spectrophotometer Microlab 300® using the QCA diagnostic kit method for markers such as ALT and AST, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and total bilirubin. Hematological parameters were evaluated by CBC tests, which included hemoglobin, hematocrit, differential RBCs, WBCs, and platelets. One-way ANOVA was used to statistically examine the data. This study showed that both chemically produced cerium oxide nanoparticles and green cerium oxide had an effect on the liver and blood profile of Cirrhinus mrigala. Histopathological analysis revealed cellular deterioration and necrosis in the liver tissue. Hematological markers like white blood cell counts and hemoglobin levels showed notable variability in the blood profile. These results suggested that both kinds of nanoparticles may have toxicological consequences on fish.
Copyright (c) 2025 Iqra Aqram, Maryam Riasat, Rida Younas, Naureen Rana, NawazHaider Bashir, Muhmmad Naeem, Huanhuan Chen (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Microplastic Pollution in Urban Birds: A Comparative Study of Rock, Columba livia, and Corvus splendens
Microplastic pollution has emerged as a pervasive environmental threat, yet its effects on terrestrial urban avifauna remain underexplored. This study investigates the extent and implications of microplastic contamination in two synanthropic bird species: the Rock Pigeon (Columba livia) and the House Crow (Corvus splendens), both of which inhabit highly polluted urban environments. Through a comparative analysis involving the examination of ingested microplastics, health markers, and behavioral changes, the research evaluates species-specific vulnerabilities and adaptive responses to microplastic exposure. Findings reveal significant differences in ingestion patterns, with behavioral and physiological impacts evident in both species. The study highlights the role of urban birds as bioindicators of environmental health and underscores the urgent need for targeted conservation strategies and improved urban waste management. This work contributes to filling the knowledge gap in terrestrial microplastic ecology and advocates for integrative urban biodiversity protection measures.
Copyright (c) 2025 Sheeza Iqbal, Naureen Rana, Maryam Riasat, Rida Younas, Nawaz Haider Bashir, Muhammad Naeem (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Assessing the Role of Light and Bioclimatic Factors in the Distribution and Abundance of Nocturnal Insects in Urban and Semi-Urban Areas of Faisalabad and Sahiwal
The influence of light pollution and bioclimatic factors on nocturnal insect diversity is key knowledge for biodiversity conservation in fast urbanizing areas. Here we assess whether artificial light intensity and environmental variability, including abiotic and biotic variables, drive nocturnal insect community composition in two contrasting regions: Faisalabad (urban) and Sahiwal (semi-urban), Punjab, Pakistan. Spodoptera litura, Helicoverpa armigera, Plusia orichalcea, and Gryllus bimaculatus were the key species whose abundance was significantly affected by the light intensity, while the others had weak or no significant responses with the increase in light intensity, as revealed by regression analysis. Results Boxplots and scatterplots showed higher variability of light pollution and lower species richness in Faisalabad, and a weak negative trend between Shannon Diversity Index and light intensity promote that light pollution might help in biodiversity losses. By using multivariate analyses such as Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Canonical Correspondence Analysis (CCA), each region was found to have a unique composition of species and environmental factors. The higher degree of environmental heterogeneity in Faisalabad was most likely driven by urbanization-related processes such as habitat fragmentation and change in local microclimates. Correlation heatmaps and hierarchical clustering additionally emphasized this complexity in species interactions and species interactions with environmental variables. These results highlight the relative importance of environmental heterogeneity and light pollution as local-scale drivers of nocturnal insect diversity. Our study highlights the need to manage increasing light pollution and environmental heterogeneity to promote insect conservation, particularly in urbanizing landscapes. This knowledge provides clearer understanding in the impacts of anthropogenic change on nocturnal ecosystems and informs urban and biodiversity management moving forward.
Copyright (c) 2025 Hafsa Adil, Maryam Riasat, Rida Younas, Nawaz Haider Bashir, Muhammad Naeem, Huanhuan Chen (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Assessing The Role of Bioclimatic Variables in Shaping Diptera Biodiversity and Distribution in District Faisalabad, Punjab
Agricultural and climatic changes are reshaping insect communities globally, yet the role of bioclimatic factors in determining Diptera diversity remains underexplored. This study examined the effects of temperature, precipitation, humidity, and seasonality on Diptera occurrence across 14 sites in District Faisalabad, Pakistan. Field observations of 11 ecologically and medically relevant species were analyzed alongside 19 WorldClim bioclimatic variables. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) revealed that temperature (PC1) and moisture (PC2) accounted for 61% of the environmental variation. Sites were grouped into four clusters warm, humid, cool, wet, cool and dry, and hot, dry each supporting distinct Diptera assemblages. K-means clustering validated these ecological groupings, highlighting microclimatic gradients as key drivers of species composition. Warm–humid sites harbored the highest richness, while arid and cooler areas supported more specialized or generalist taxa. Correlation analysis showed strong positive associations between Diptera abundance and both Bio5 (maximum temperature) and Bio12 (annual precipitation), suggesting these as primary predictors of species richness. Overall, the findings underscore the importance of temperature and moisture thresholds in shaping Diptera communities and offer a framework for forecasting climate-induced distribution shifts and managing key fly species.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ujala Hanif, Maryam Riasat, Zubda Ashfaq, Muhammad Shahid, Rida Younas , Iqra, Naureen Rana, Tehreem Shakoor , Nawaz Haider Bashir, Muhammad Naeem , Huanhuan Chen (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
FACTORS RESPONSIBLE FOR SHAPING THE DISTRIBUTION AND BIODIVERSITY OF DIFFERENT SPECIES OF LEPIDOPTERA IN DISTRICT FAISALABAD
The analysis examines butterfly distribution and diversity in District Faisalabad, Punjab, Pakistan, and the impacts of ecological (climate variables and land cover) and anthropogenic (population density and urbanization) factors. A diverse assemblage including Pieris rapae, Danaus chrysippus, and Euploea core was recorded. PCA and K-means clustering revealed three major climatic zones in Faisalabad. Species like Eurema hecabe and Pieris rapae were common in agro-ecosystems due to human activity adaptation and host plant presence. Correlation matrix showed strong positive correlations between butterfly richness and moderate climates (stable temperatures, adequate precipitation), while extreme weather or stress led to negative correlations. Butterflies, as pollinators and bioindicators, are affected by urbanization, habitat fragmentation, and pesticide use. Results emphasize targeted conservation through nectar-rich vegetation and reduced chemical use to sustain butterfly diversity.
Copyright (c) 2025 Muhammad Shahid, Maryam Riasat, Zubda Ashfaq, Ujala Hanif, Rida Younas, Iqra, Naureen Rana, Nawaz Haider Bashir, Muhammad Naeem, Huanhuan Chen (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Influence of Environmental Factors on the Mosquito Vector Habitat Distribution in Urban Areas of Faisalabad, Punjab
The viruses that cause malaria, Dengue hemorrhagic fever, and Rift Valley fever are primarily spread by mosquitoes. Globally, mosquito-borne diseases pose a serious threat to public health, particularly in crowded cities. The goal of the current study was to update knowledge about the mosquito (Diptera: Culicidae) fauna of Punjab region, Pakistan's District Faisalabad, and forecast the distribution of the larvae of the most important mosquito vectors in this area. Environmental factors such as water sources, land use, temperature, and humidity were recorded at each collection location. A perspective for the geographic distribution of dengue vectors in the metropolitan areas of Faisalabad was created using GIS-based spatial analytic tools after the data was gathered. The number of mosquito larvae was assessed in connection with the physiochemical characteristics (pH & TDS) of breeding grounds. Mosquito larvae were collected from January 2024 until December 2024. Aedes aegypti was the most important vector discovered in Faisalabad. To predict the species distribution of Aedes aegypti in the district of Faisalabad, 19 bioclimatic variables were combined with the data from the collection. More than 100 locations yielded more than 1800 mosquito larvae. The northeastern region of the Faisalabad district was identified as having the best suited lands. The region that was least conducive to the presence of Aedes aegypti was the southwest. Precipitation factor (bio8) contributed the most in the presence of this vector, accounting for over 40%, followed by bio19, which contributed 20%.
Copyright (c) 2025 Sania Shammas, Maryam Riasat, Rida Younas, Naureen Rana, Nawaz Haider Bashir, Muhammad Naeem, Huanhuan Chen (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Effects of Silver Nitrate (AgNO₃) Nanoparticles on the Growth Performance and Liver of Cyprinus carpio
Water pollutants that contaminate water supplies and harm aquatic life all over the world and impact on their growth and physical parameters. Silver nanoparticles have wide use in industries because of their electrical, optical, and antibacterial qualities. The aquatic life has suffered as a result of its widespread use and application. The objective of the study was to investigate the effect of various concentrations of silver nitrate nanoparticles on growth performance and liver profile of Cyprinus carpio. In experimental design, total 60 fishes (15 fingerling/ aquarium) were subjected to different concentrations of AgNO3 NPs 0 mg/L (Tₒ serve as control) group), 50 mg/L (T1), 100 mg/L (T2) and 150 mg/L T3). The treatments were compared by applying one way Analysis of variance and variation among mean was evaluated by applying Duncan’s Multiple Range Test (DMRT) in statistical software R (Version 4.3.3). Results showed that effect of silver nitrate nanoparticles on fish growth rate are toxic and showed non-significant (P>0.05) variation in average weight, specific growth rate and condition factor while, significant (P<0.05) in weight gain, average length and length gain and liver profile (bilirubin, albumin, total protein, alanine transaminase, alkaline phosphatase and aspartate aminotransferase) of Cyprinus carpio. It can be concluded that silver nitrate nanoparticles at higher concentration (150 mg/L) in T3 have significant (P<0.05) toxic effect on fish growth rate and liver profile of Cyprinus carpio.
Copyright (c) 2025 Tehreem Shakoor, Rida Younas, Maryam Riasat, Naureen Rana, Muhammad Saail Abbas, Nawaz Haider Bashir, Muhammad Naeem, Huanhuan Chen (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Biodiversity and Relative Abundance of Insects Fauna in different Crops of Kamalia Region, Pakistan
This study examines insect biodiversity across 28 locations in Kamalia using key ecological indices—Species Richness, Shannon Index, and Simpson Index—to assess species distribution and diversity. The findings highlight significant variations in biodiversity, with areas like the Forest area, Chak No. 740 GB Kamalia exhibiting high species richness and a balanced ecosystem, whereas urbanized locations such as Govt. Girls High School 713 GB Kamalia show lower diversity, dominated by species like Aedes aegypti and Periplaneta americana. The study underscores the impact of human activities, including urbanization, pollution, and habitat fragmentation, on insect populations. It also identifies both beneficial species, such as Apis mellifera linnaeus, and pest species, indicating a complex ecological balance. Key limitations include sampling biases and the exclusion of seasonal variations. To address these gaps, future research should incorporate broader geographic sampling and long-term monitoring. The study emphasizes the need for targeted conservation strategies and sustainable habitat management to preserve biodiversity. Encouraging green spaces and community-based research can help mitigate biodiversity loss. These findings provide valuable insights for researchers, conservationists, and policymakers aiming to balance ecological stability with sustainable development in Kamalia’s diverse ecosystems.
Copyright (c) 2025 Sabahat Farooq, Maryam Riasat, Junaid Raza, Rida Younas, Naureen Rana, Tehreem Shakoor, Nawaz Haider Bashir, Muhammad Naeem, Huanhuan Chen (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0