Clarifying Taxonomic and Biogeographic Interpretations of Japanese Neocaridina
Our article reinforces the importance of integrative, evidence-based taxonomy as the best approach for resolving species boundaries and supporting the conservation of cryptic native species in Japanese Neocaridina shrimps. By addressing misinterpretations in Fuke (2024), we demonstrate that N. denticulata and N. davidi can be consistently distinguished only when molecular, morphological, and biogeographic evidence are evaluated together, rather than relying on mtDNA or SNP admixture patterns alone. This clarification has direct conservation consequences: mislabeling invasive taxa as native risks obscuring cryptic endemic lineages and misguiding management decisions. More broadly, our reply highlights how careful phylogenetic analysis, attention to data quality, and realistic treatment of hybridization are essential for recognizing and protecting freshwater biodiversity.
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