Showing papers in "Biota Neotropica in 2018"

Antifungal potential of crude extracts of Trichoderma spp.

Abstract: Antibiosis is the mechanism by which certain microorganisms respond to the presence of others, secreting compounds or metabolites capable of inhibiting or impeding their development. The crude extract of Trichoderma contains a mixture of secondary compounds, which may show antibiotic effect, and has been used for the prospect of this fungus for biological control and other industrial purposes. Faced with the increasing demand of agriculture for ecologically compatible alternatives for the management of diseases, this work aimed to investigate the spectrum of action of Non-Volatile Metabolites (NVMs) of Trichoderma isolates against different plant pathogenic fungi. The antagonistic potential of NVMs was evaluated through the incorporation method of the filtered liquid extract in PDA medium. The assays showed that all the NVMs produced inhibited the fungus Sclerotinia sclerotiorum similarly. On the other hand, strains CEN1245 and CEN1274, both belonging to the species Trichoderma brevicompactum, showed broad spectrum against Sclerotium rolfsii, Colletotrichum gloesporioides, Verticillium dahliae, Fusarium oxysporum and Cylindrocladium sp. The present study describes isolates producing non-volatile metabolites with broad spectrum of antifungal action, as well as pathogen-specific. The Trichoderma spp. NVMs obtained from different soil samples cultivated with vegetables, cassava and maize were efficient in inhibiting plant pathogenic fungi belonging to other patossystems, such as forest or fruit, which could increase their potential application in biological control of plant diseases. In addition, these antagonistic fungi should be studied in greater depth for the identification of bioactive molecules of industrial interest or in commercial formulations of products for biological control of plant pathogens.

Trends and gaps of the scientific literature about the effects of fire on Brazilian Cerrado

Abstract: Fire management is an important issue in the Brazilian Cerrado, since both anthropogenic high intensity fires and complete fire suppression can reduce the biodiversity in this biome. In this paper, we highlight the trends in scientific literature about fire effects in the Cerrado, aiming to detect possible gaps and to indicate directions of future scientific research. We searched for articles in the periodic database Web of Knowledge from 1991 to 2016, and observed an increase in the number of publications throughout the years. Most articles were associated with Brazilian institutions (58%), followed by those with collaboration between Brazilian and international institutions (33%), and those published by authors exclusively from international institutions (9%). Most articles addressed the effects of fire on biodiversity (77%), followed by articles about abiotic environment (19%), and then biotic interactions or interactions between organisms and environment (4%). The most studied taxonomic group was plants (75%), followed by mammals (8%) and insects (6%), with the remaining taxa comprising about 11% of publications. The Federal District was the federative unit with the greatest number of studies (31%). The majority of studies was conducted in areas with fewer fire events, whereas areas with major incidence of fires are poorly studied. Our data shows that studies on the effect of fires on the Brazilian Cerrado are geographically and taxonomically biased. This lack of knowledge limits the extrapolations about the effects of fire on this biome. Therefore, we emphasize the need for investment in research in areas with high fire frequency and also for an increase in knowledge about these effects on the biota, especially on the fauna. This action is fundamental to support the development of public policies for effective and directed fire management in the Cerrado.

Human-modified landscape acts as refuge for mammals in Atlantic Forest

Abstract: Human-modified landscapes (HMLs) are composed by small, isolated and defaunated forest fragments, which are surrounded by agricultural and urban areas. Information on species that thrives in these HMLs is essential to direct conservation strategies in local and regional scales. Since HMLs are dominant in the Atlantic Forest, we aimed to assess the mammalian diversity in a HML in southeastern Brazil and to propose conservation strategies. We collected data of terrestrial (small-, medium- and large-sized) and volant mammals in three small forest fragments (10, 14 and 26 ha) and adjacent areas, between 2003 and 2016, using complementary methods: active search, camera trapping, live-traps, mist nets and occasional records (i.e., roadkills). In addition, we used secondary data to complement our species list. We recorded 35 native mammal species (6 small-sized, 16 medium- and large-sized, and 13 bats) and seven exotic species in the HML. The recorded mammal assemblage (non-volant and volant), although mainly composed of common and generalist species, includes three medium- and large-sized species nationally threatened (Leopardus guttulus, Puma concolor and Puma yagouaroundi) and two data deficient species (Galictis cuja and Histiotus velatus), highlighting the importance of this HML for the maintenance and conservation of mammal populations. Despite highly impacted by anthropogenic disturbances, the study area harbors a significant richness of medium- and large-sized mammals, being an important biodiversity refuge in the region. However, this biodiversity is threatened by the low quality of the habitats, roadkills and abundant populations of domestic cats and dogs. Therefore, we stress the need of conservation strategies focusing on the medium- and large-sized mammals as an umbrella group, which could benefit all biodiversity in the landscape. We recommend actions that promotes biological restoration, aiming to increase structural composition and connectivity of the forest fragments, reducing roadkills and controlling the domestic cats and dogs' populations, in order to maintain and improve the diversity of mammals in long-term.

Changes in vegetation cover of the Pantanal wetland detected by Vegetation Index: a strategy for conservation

Abstract: The Brazilian Pantanal wetland undergoes landscape alterations that can cause impacts on hydrological processes, changing the flood pulse. The objective of this work is to analyse the vegetation cover of the Pantanal in the period of 2000, 2008 and 2015, and to make a projection for 2030. Therefore, NDVI from the sensor MODIS was analysed and the transition matrix was calculated by the DINAMICA EGO. The methods adopted were open sources. The results were worrisome, indicating alterations of the vegetation cover of the Pantanal, with an increase of short vegetation (grasslands or pastures) in the evaluated period. The projection pointed out that in 2030 the Brazilian Pantanal wetland area will be covered by 78% of short vegetation and only 14% of dense (arboreal-shrubby) vegetation. The approach can be a useful tool for conservation of the Brazilian Pantanal wetland.

Effects of habitat fragmentation on the persistence of medium and large mammal species in the Brazilian Savanna of Goiás State

Abstract: Habitat loss and fragmentation are the main threats to the conservation of Cerrado biodiversity The objective of this study was to evaluate the implications of habitat loss on the persistence of medium and large mammal species, considering the spatial and temporal changes (years 1985, 2000 and 2014) to the evaluated fragments The study was carried out in 14 fragments (105 - 618 ha), located in Southeastern Goias, Brazil Records for 24 mammal species were obtained and revealed the two sites with the largest habitat amount in the landscape contained higher species richness than the remaining sites The three mammal groups based on body mass (weight 20 kg) analyzed in this study showed different responses regarding landscape changes For larger mammals (between 5 - 20 kg and > 20 kg), there was significant association between current species richness and the amount of habitat in 2014, while the species richness of smaller mammals did not significantly correlate with any of the variables assessed for any of the years Therefore, the amount of habitat present within the current landscape was the most important variable regarding mammal species richness, especially for the larger species The time lag was not evident at the time scale evaluated, and this delay in response may have occurred in a relatively short time (< 15 years) For the remaining fragments in the studied landscapes, most are too small to support populations of some larger mammal species and may also leave individuals more vulnerable to anthropogenic actions (eg hunting), whose effects may accelerate local extinctions

Fish fauna in forested and rural streams from an ecoregion of high endemism, lower Iguacu River basin, Brazil

Abstract: The fish fauna of eight streams with different land uses of their watersheds (forested and rural areas) in the lower Iguacu River basin was inventoried, in order to evaluate the composition and species richness. The fishes were sampled quarterly from May 2015 to February 2016, using the electrofishing technique. In total, 4,239 individuals were captured, belonging to six orders, 11 families and 26 species. The orders Siluriformes and Characiformes, and the families Characidae and Trichomycteridae were the most specious. Of the total species sampled, 65% were endemic to the Iguacu River basin, four are not described and four are non-native. As expected to the Iguacu River basin, the inventoried fauna revealed low richness and high endemism, however was highly nested within the species composition reported for main channel of Iguacu River and their larger tributaries. The species recorded here corresponded to a subset of 24.5% of the 106 species documented for the basin. The streams presented different faunas, with only two species (Astyanax bifasciatus and Trichomycterus stawiarski) common to both forested and rural streams. In addition, higher species richness was recorded in streams inserted in conservation units. The presence of non-native species was more frequent in rural streams. These results highlight the importance of the preservation of forested areas in the watersheds of lower Iguacu, which presents a peculiar fish fauna, along with several threats to biodiversity such as habitat loss by intensive agriculture use.

The effects of fish feeding by visitors on reef fish in a Marine Protected Area open to tourism

Abstract: Coral reef-based tourism has risen sharply across the globe, coupled with an increase in fish feeding by visitors. Studies indicate that fish feeding is one of the leading causes of changes in distribution patterns, abundance, the structure of marine fish communities, and fish behavior. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of human presence and fish feeding on the behavior of reef fish by conducting in situ experiments in tide pools in a Marine Protected Area located at the northern limit of the Abrolhos Bank in the South Atlantic Ocean. Eight feeding sessions were conducted and filmed, resulting in a total of 160 minutes of video footage. Each filming session recorded four different experimental conditions alternating between human presence, human absence, and fish feeding. Our findings suggest that fish feeding may cause changes in fish behavior, such as habituation to human presence, conditioning to fish feeding, increased aggressiveness, attacks on humans, and short-term changes in species distribution. The continuation of fish feeding over time can cause an increase in the size of the populations of species that consume food provided during feeding and consequently trigger changes in the structure of communities.

Native species exploited by marine aquarium trade in Brazil

Abstract: Brazil has an important role in marine ornamental trade, exploiting native species for both international and domestic market. A few works have previously assessed wild species exploited by the Brazilian marine aquarium industry and most of them focused solely on fish. Hence, the present paper intends to address an information gap regarding the species currently traded in the country, as well as concerning their conservation statuses. Thus, different sources of information were investigated and each species was categorized in accordance with existing lists of threatened species. A wide variety of native species was identified in Brazilian marine aquarium trade, including not only fish but also invertebrates, seaweeds and macrophytes. Some of these species were legally protected, but are still commerced anyway. Such illegal exploitation of native species causes increasing concerns about the sustainability of the activity. Therefore, in order to reduce environmental impacts caused by marine ornamental trade, Brazilian authorities should encourage the implementation of eco-fees, the purchase of eco-labeled aquarium products, the development of sustainable ornamental aquaculture and ecosystem-based management initiatives.

Checklist of Odonata (Insecta) in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil with seven new records

Abstract: The regional knowledge of species diversity and distribution is important to support conservation strategies for species and their habitats. The main goal of this work is to present a checklist of Odonata species in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, as well as their known locations in the municipalities. The preparation of the list was based in data gathered from collections of Museu de Ciencias da Universidade do Vale do Taquari (UNIVATES), Laboratorio de Ecologia e Evolucao da Universidade do Vale do Taquari (UNIVATES), Museu de Ciencias Naturais da Fundacao Zoootânica, Museu de Zoologia da Universidade do Vale do Rio dos Sinos (UNISINOS) plus data extracted from 65 publications and the sites SpeciesLink, All Odonata and Puget Sound University. A total of 182 Odonata species were recorded, spanning nine families and 57 genera. The most representative family was Libellulidae (80 species) followed by Coenagrionidae (41 species) and seven species are new records for Rio Grande do Sul. The list of species presented here is a significant advance compared to previous counts for Rio Grande do Sul, however, our list is by no means a final one. Some regions of the state remain poorly explored, such as the border to Uruguay also in the northernmost part of the state. Several families remain poorly sampled, especially those that inhabit small forested streams and probably there are many specimens which are not cataloged and identified yet in scientific collections, both in the state and in the country.

Continental ichthyofauna from the Paraíba do Norte River basin pre-transposition of the São Francisco River, Northeastern Brazil

Abstract: Freshwater ichthyofauna from Brazil Northeast region was considered as being poorly known until recent years, with a considerable number of publications becoming available in the last decade. The present study provides an inventory of freshwater fish species from the Paraiba do Norte River basin located in Paraiba State, Brazil. This inventory is intended to contribute to the of knowledge to the regional fish diversity, pre-transposition of the Sao Francisco River. Collecting data was obtained from ichthyological databases of both national and foreign institutions. A total of 47 freshwater fish species are registered within the Paraiba do Norte River basin, represented by 38 genera, 20 families and six orders. Characiformes, comprising 47% (22 species), Cichliformes, and Siluriformes are among the most representative orders, 19% (9 species) each, of total recorded species. Seven species of Cichliformes are reported as introduced species in this basin. Cyprinodontiformes and Gobiiformes also registered in this region and correspond to 5% (two species) and Gymnotiformes, Perciformes and Synbranchiformes, 2% (one species each) of total recorded species. Paraiba do Norte River basin stands out in the current national scenario as it comprises the first region from the Mid-Northeastern Caatinga freshwater ecoregion to receive water from the transposition of the Sao Francisco River. The current inventory is important as it provides scientific data related to the ichthyofauna of Paraiba do Norte River basin prior to the commencement of the river transposition process. An identification key is also given for the freshwater fish species of the region.

The bats of Rio Grande do Norte state, northeastern Brazil

Abstract: Rio Grande do Norte is one of the smallest states in Brazil but has a rich diversity of ecosystems, including Caatinga vegetation, remnants of Atlantic Forest, coastal habitats, mangroves and large karstic areas with caves. However, its chiropteran fauna is little known, and the state contains conspicuous gaps of information on the occurrence and distribution of bats in Brazil. In order to reduce this information gap, based on a review of scientific literature and regional mammal collections, we list 42 species of bats, including new occurrences for 13 species and discussion on their conservation status. Results show that more than half (54%) of the recorded species are phyllostomid bats, and about one third of the bats in the state roosts in underground cavities. The Caatinga harbored the highest bat richness in the state, including the occurrence of four vulnerable species (Furipterus horrens, Lonchorhina aurita, Natalus macrourus and Xeronycteris vieirai). The Atlantic Forest needs to be more sampled, including mangroves, coastal habitats and areas of Caatinga in the central region of the state (Borborema highlands), which are virtually unsurveyed. Although the recent increase of studies on bats in the state, future studies should complement conventional mistnetting with active roost search and bioacoustical records in order to obtain better data for unraveling the bat fauna of Rio Grande do Norte.

Biological survey of a cloud forest in southwestern Mexico: plants, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals

Abstract: Cloud forest ecosystems contain unique flora and fauna characterized by high levels of richness and endemism. However, this ecosystem is one of the most threatened because of land-use changes stemming from anthropogenic activities. Therefore, biological inventories are necessary to adequately assess the effects of land-use changes on species now and in the future. In this study, we conducted an inventory of plants and terrestrial vertebrates (amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals) in three fragments of cloud forest in southwestern Mexico. Field work was carried out for 15 days per biological group during distinct time periods (2005-2008). Conventional methods of species capture and observation were employed to record species. Recorded species were then categorized based on their endemism and risk category. A total of 67 species of plants, 17 species of amphibians, 25 species of reptiles, 93 species of birds, and 46 species of mammals were recorded. The species accumulation curves for most taxa, except for birds and mammals, showed an asymptotic trend. A total of 56 species endemic to Mexico and four quasi-endemic species were recorded. Plants, amphibians, and reptiles presented the greatest number of species exclusive to Mexico (13 species). Six species of herpetofauna endemic to Guerrero were recorded. According to Mexican laws, 24 of the encountered species are under special protection, while 16 are categorized as threatened and seven as endangered. Reptiles and birds presented the greatest number of at-risk species (14 species). Bird and mammal richness in this study is high in comparison to that recorded in the cloud forests of the entire Mexican state of Guerrero (157 and 75 species, respectively). This data highlights the importance of cloud forests in the study area for local and regional biodiversity. Effective conservation strategies should be prioritized in cloud forests, as this ecosystem is poorly represented in natural protected areas.

Endemic angiosperms in Bahia Coastal Forests, Brazil: an update using a newly delimited area

Abstract: The forest along the coast of Bahia state, in northeastern Brazil, has been acknowledged as an area of endemism for several groups of organisms. The first study concerning endemic angiosperm species in this region, through which 395 taxa were registered, was conducted 15 years ago. However, this number is probably underrated. In this article, we present an updated checklist of angiosperm taxa in Bahia Coastal Forests (BCF) based on geographic distribution data available from the Brazilian Plant List (Flora do Brasil 2020). The records were checked in herbaria, recent taxonomic literature, and, when necessary, reviewed by experts. The final checklist consists of 547 taxa endemic to BCF, distributed in 69 families, with seven endemic genera: Bahiella (Apocynaceae), Santosia (Asteraceae), Harleyodendron (Fabaceae), Cubitanthus (Linderniaceae), Anomochloa and Parianella (Poaceae), and Andreadoxa (Rutaceae). The families with highest richness in endemic taxa were Bromeliaceae (108 spp.), Fabaceae (41 spp.) and Myrtaceae (32 spp.). This updated checklist shares only 143 taxa with a previous list published about 15 years ago. Those two lists differ mostly due to slightly different area limits, and to the large number of additional endemic species described since then. We hope our list will be used as a resource in future studies and contributes to the conservation of the highly diverse Bahia Coastal Forest.

Biodiversity of the metazoan parasites of Prochilodus lineatus (Valenciennes, 1837) (Characiformes: Prochilodontidae) in anthropized environments from the Batalha River, São Paulo State, Brazil

Abstract: Biodiversity of fish parasites is a field of significant growth worldwide, whether due to the advancement of fish farms or the important role of these organisms as indicators of environment quality and ecosystem health, making them useful tools in the conservation and maintenance of the biodiversity as a whole. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the structure and composition of the parasitic fauna of Prochilodus lineatus collected from two structurally distinct stretches of the Batalha River. Fifty specimens of P. lineatus were collected between June 2015 and June 2016. Of these 50 hosts, 875 parasite specimens were collected, divided into 30 species, belonging to seven groups: Myxozoa, Monogenea, Digenea, Acanthocephala, Nematoda, Copepoda and Hirudinea. In addition to new records of known parasites of P. lineatus for this locality, 13 species were newly recorded parasitizing this fish, including a new monogenean species (Tereancistrum sp. n.), with Monogenea being the most representative class in the study. The findings of this study expands the known geographic distribution of these parasite species and helps to increase the knowledge of the biodiversity of these organisms in different hosts and environments. In general, the structure and composition of the P. lineatus parasitic fauna did not seem to be influenced by the structural characteristics of the two stretches studied, due to the migratory habits of the host.

Update on the ichthyofauna of the Piquiri River basin, Paraná, Brazil: a conservation priority area

Abstract: Knowledge of the fish species in river basins is among the minimum requirements for the management of water and fish resources. Therefore, the aim of this study was to update the fish species composition of the Piquiri River basin, upper Parana River basin. Data were gathered from recent information published in specialized literature and records for ichthyology collections. This update reports the occurrence of 152 fish species distributed in 8 orders, 31 families, and 89 genera. Non-native species accounted for 20% of all species, and the construction of the Itaipu Power Plant and its fish ladder were the main vectors of introduction. Three percent of the species were endangered, and 11% were classified as migratory. The Piquiri River basin harbors a large number of species, some of which are rare, endangered, migratory, endemic, and even unknown by science. Because of this, maintaining the integrity of this river basin will support the persistence of regional biodiversity.

Density and diversity of filamentous fungi in the water and sediment of Araçá bay in São Sebastião, São Paulo, Brazil

Abstract: Araca Bay, located in the city of Sao Sebastiao, Sao Paulo, Brazil, is a protected area of substantial complexity. It represents the last remaining mangrove swamp preserve between the cities of Bertioga and Ubatuba on the northern coast of Sao Paulo State. This mangrove swamp has specific physical and chemical properties, and it shelters a wide variety of life, including fungi. These microorganisms are present in a variety of species with different morphophysiological features, and they have the ability to produce enzymes of biotechnological importance. The goal of this study was to quantify, isolate, and identify filamentous fungi in water and sediment samples from the Araca Bay mangrove swamp in Sao Sebastiao. Two samplings were performed in the summer and two were performed in the winter. The samples were collected from intertidal zones, and dissolved oxygen (DO), temperature, salinity, and pH were measured in situ. The spread plate technique was used to inoculate the samples collected on plates with a potato dextrose agar (PDA) medium. A total of 208 colonies (68 from water samples and 140 from sediment samples) were isolated, and they were identified based on their morphological characteristics. Filamentous fungus density was higher in the sediment than in the water, and the samplings performed in the winter revealed a higher density than those performed in the summer. Though some of the environmental parameters were not ideal for fungal development, a high quantity of growth was nevertheless observed. When the isolated colonies were analyzed, the greatest diversity and species richness were found in the summer samples. The genera identified in all of the samples were Aspergillus, Penicillium, Cladosporium, and Fusarium. The pathogenic species found from these genera were Aspergillus fumigatus, A. terreus, Penicillium citrinum, and P. chrysogenum. These species are also able to produce enzymes that offer a variety of applications. The fungal community described herein represents the diversity found in this mangrove swamp during the period studied. Many of the fungus species found are pathogenic and may be useful due to their ability to produce specific enzymes applicable in the biotechnological and pharmaceutical industries.

A checklist of Rutelinae MacLeay, 1819 (Coleoptera, Melolonthidae) of Bahia, Brazil

Abstract: A list of species of Rutelinae from Bahia state, Northeastern Brazil, is presented. The list is based on specimens deposited in Brazilian collections. The list includes 4 tribes, 23 genera, 101 species and 17 subspecies. The genera Byrsopolis Burmeister, 1844, Pseudodorysthetus Soula, 2008 and Trizogeniates Ohaus, 1917 are recorded for the first time in Bahia and Northeastern Brazil. Thirty species are newly recorded in Bahia: Areoda espiritosantensis Ohaus, 1905, B. laticollis Burmeister, 1855, Bolax flavolineata (Mannerheim, 1829), Chlorota abdominalis Ohaus, 1926, C. espiritosantensis Ohaus, 1912, Dorysthetus espiritosantensis Ohaus, 1905, D. fulgidus (Waterhouse, 1881), Leucothyreus acanthurus Ohaus, 1917, L. albopilosus Ohaus, 1917, L. campestris Burmeister, 1855, L. cayapo Ohaus, 1931, L. duplopunctatus Frey, 1976, L. eligius Ohaus, 1918, L. fluminensis Ohaus, 1918, L. iridipennis Ohaus, 1917, L. lucipetens Ohaus, 1931, L. occipitalis Ohaus, 1931, L. pallefactus Ohaus, 1924, L. paulista Ohaus, 1917, L. punctulatus Blanchard, 1851, L. suturalis Laporte, 1840, L. trochantericus Ohaus, 1917, L. verticalis Ohaus, 1924, Macraspis cincta (Drury, 1872), Paranomala tricostulata (Ohaus, 1897), P. violacea (Burmeister, 1844), Pseudodorysthetus calcaratus (Spinola, 1835), and Trizogeniates planipennis Ohaus, 1917. Pelidnota unicolor unicolor (Drury, 1778) is recorded for the first time in Bahia. Fourteen species are identified and will be described in subsequent papers: 10 of Leucothyreus MacLeay, 1819, 2 of Lobogeniates Ohaus, 1917 and 1 species of Byrsopolis Burmeister, 1844 and Pelidnota MacLeay, 1819. Rutelini is the richest tribe with 16 genera and 49 species. The information presented in the list generates an important set of knowledge regarding the diversity of Rutelinae of Bahia and Brazil and provides the basis for conducting future research within the group.

Ichthyofauna of the inner shelf of Paraná, Brazil: checklist, geographic distribution, economic importance and conservation status

Abstract: Comprehensive species checklists are essential to effectively implementing preservation and recovery measures, and should assess conservation status, vulnerability degree and anthropogenic threats. This checklist was compiled from fish species recorded in surveys conducted over the last 30 years in the shallow inner continental shelf in the State of Parana, Brazil. Information on biogeography, conservation status, economic importance and degree of species’ vulnerability are provided. A total of 272 fish species were recorded, spanning 25 orders and 88 families. The most speciose family was Sciaenidae (25 species), followed by Carangidae (23), Engraulidae (10), Carcharhinidae (9), Epinephelidae (9) and Paralichthyidae (9). Most species occurring in Parana’s shallow inner continental shelf are restricted to the West Atlantic. In terms of economic importance, 93% (253) of the species recorded were of fishery, aquaculture or aquaria interest. A notable fraction (39%) of the recorded species was classified as having moderate to very high vulnerability to extinction. In particular, 28 species (10%) were listed as globally endangered, and 34 species (12%) were listed as endangered in the Brazilian territory.

Ichthyofauna of the Mamanguape river basin, Northeastern, Brazil

Abstract: The Mamanguape River Basin is located in a peripheral semi-arid area of South America, with its headwaters and middle reaches running through the Caatinga (from wetter to drier) and its lower reaches through the Atlantic Forest. The objective of this study was to inventory the fish fauna of the Mamanguape river basin through a comprehensive sampling and to discuss its ichthyofaunal dominance pattern. Sampling was conducted between 2015 and 2016 at 38 points throughout. The main river course was sampled at 18 fixed points during two expeditions (dry and wet seasons) using traw nets, cast nets, and dip nets, with a standardized effort. The tributaries were sampled during the dry season at 20 points using an adaptaptation of the AquaRAP methodology. A total of 32 freshwater fish species belonging to 26 genera, 16 families and six orders were recorded, predominantly from the order Characiformes and the family Characidae. Astyanax fasciatus had widest distribution and greatest abundance in the basin. Siluriformes were the second most prevalent order, with five species recorded. Cichla cf. monoculus, Poecilia reticulata and Oreochromis niloticus were non-native records for the basin. Apareiodon davisi, an Endangered species, was recorded.

Going extinct before being discovered? New lichen fungi from a small fragment of the vanishing Atlantic Rainforest in Brazil

Abstract: In the frame of an ongoing lichen inventory of Atlantic Rainforest remnants in Northeast Brazil, five new species of Graphidaceae were discovered in a small forest fragment, Mata do Cipo, in Sergipe state, the smallest state of Brazil and among those with the highest deforestation rate in the country. An additional new species had already been collected in Panama before and was now also found in the Mata do Cipo and is described here as well. In total, 40 species of Graphidaceae are reported for this remnant, including a large number of taxa indicative of well-preserved rainforest. The new species are: Fissurina atlantica T.A. Pereira, M. Caceres & Lucking, sp. nov., Graphis subaltamirensis Passos, M. Caceres & Lucking, sp. nov., Ocellularia cipoensis L.A. Santos, M. Caceres & Lucking, sp. nov., O. sosma T.A. Pereira, M. Caceres & Lucking, sp. nov., O. submordenii Lucking, sp. nov. (also known from Panama), and Pseudochapsa aptrootiana M. Caceres, T.A. Pereira & Lucking, sp. nov. The findings are discussed in the context of the strong fragmentation of the Atlantic Rainforest, with individual remnants apparently serving as refugia for residual populations of rare species of lichen fungi that were more widely distributed in the past, but currently seem to occur only in isolated fragments.

Temporal and spatial variation of Myriapoda (Diplopoda and Chilopoda) assemblages in a Neotropical floodplain

Abstract: Myriapods constitute important edaphic macrofauna taxa which dwell in different trophic levels and influence the dynamics of these environments. This study evaluated the variation in composition, richness and abundance of edaphic myriapod assemblages as a function of the distribution and structure of flooded and non-flooded habitats (spatial variation) and hydrological seasonality (temporal variation) in a floodplain of the northern Pantanal region of Mato Grosso, Brazil. Sampling was carried out in three areas of the Pocone Pantanal, along an altitudinal and inundation gradient consisting of inundated and non-inundated habitats and different vegetation formations. Three quadrats (10 x 10 m) were delimited within each habitat type, where sampling was performed using pitfall traps and mini-Winkler extractors during the dry, rising water, high water and receding water periods of two hydrological cycles within the Pantanal (2010/2011 and 2011/2012). A total of 549 millipedes were collected, consisting of 407 Diplopoda and 142 Chilopoda distributed in six orders, 12 families and 20 species. The assemblages composition varied throughout the seasonal periods, indicating that the rising water and dry periods differed from the high water and receding water periods. In addition to the variation between seasonal periods, myriapod richness and abundance also varied in relation to areas consisting of different vegetation formations. Thus, it can be concluded that the hydrological seasonality associated with the inundation gradient and different vegetation types were determinant in the heterogeneous spatial and temporal distribution of myriapod assemblages, validating that the conservation of these invertebrates in the Pantanal is directly linked to the preservation of vegetation, and consequently, ecosystem integrity.

Oligochaeta (Annelida: Clitellata) in the Juruena River, MT, Brazil: species indicators of substrate types

Abstract: Oligochaeta assemblages are important components in freshwater environments, where their abundance and composition may indicate aspects related to water quality and sediment. The lack of information about these communities in Brazilian aquatic environments, as well as the application of native species as bioindicators of lotic environmental, stimulated the conception of this paper. Thus, the aim was to study the community of aquatic Oligochaeta in selected stretches of the Juruena River (MT), thereby generating grounds for future environmental monitoring action in lotic ecosystems. For this purpose, samples were analyzed at bimonthly intervals during the period from January to November 2009, in stretches of the Juruena River (Amazon River Basin) located in the State of Mato Grosso (MT). Two methods were used to collect the organisms: a) "D" network in small clusters of fixed macrophytes in the sediment on the river banks; and b) Ekman-Birge dredge in fine sediment. Preliminary results were 584 organisms distributed in 22 taxa. Of these, 22 valid species were identified. This number corresponds to approximately 25% of the aquatic oligochaete species registered in Brazil. Of these species, Limnodrilus hoffmeisteri, Dero nivea and Pristina rosea can be associated with organic enrichment conditions and/or some level of environmental degradation.

Misguided policy may jeopardize a diverse South brazilian environmental protection area

Abstract: The Devonian Escarpment (DEEPA), located in the south of Brazil, represents an important area of environmental preservation composed by grasslands, gallery forests, as well as rock outcrops and archaeological sites. A law project (LP 527/2016), which suggests a reduction of the DEEPA area in approximately 70% of its original area (from 393,579 to 125,895 ha), is currently being processed in the Parana State House of Representatives. Such reduction seems to be related to economic interests (mainly agriculture and mining) in the state of Parana. If approved, LP 527/2016 will allow farmers to deliberately expand their activities, with the suppression of natural forest as main consequence. Additionally, loss of faunal diversity, contamination of water and soils, and alteration in nutrient cycles are expected, due the intensive use of agrochemicals. In addition to the direct environmental consequences, we expect the disappearance of areas of high geological interest, reducing local geodiversity, as well as substantial economic losses with ecotourism. Brazil is a signatory to the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity, where it undertakes to develop strategies to prevent biodiversity loss and ecosystem degradation by 2020. An approval of the LP would be contradictory, considering that there are few natural vegetation areas in this region of the country. We emphasize that the proposal of such projects goes against the sustainability in the country and disregard the scientific knowledge generated until then. Thus, it is necessary to develop regional and federal political objectives that guarantee economic development in a balanced way, considering the local bio and geodiversity, not the proposal of mechanisms that destroy them.

Soil macrofauna in organic and conventional coffee plantations in Brazil

Abstract: Brazil has always been one of the most important coffee producing countries. Lately, there has equally been a renewed interest in alternative coffee production systems. The state of Espirito Santo is the second greatest coffee producer in Brazil; so, we used local coffee plantations to evaluate the relations between soil macrofauna and chemical and microbiological soil properties to identify which of these properties discriminate more effectively between the organic management system (OS) and the conventional management system (CS) of coffee plantations. For each of these two cultivation systems we chose three coffee farms who employed both cultivation systems and picked out the most similar fields from each property. At each site, first we sampled the litter at the soil surface. Afterwards, we sampled nine soil monoliths to evaluate the macrofauna, in summer and winter. We also collected nine supplemental soil samples, taken at a few centimeters from the soil monoliths, for chemical and microbiological analyses. Macrofauna density was evaluated by ANOVA and multivariate analysis. The chemical and microbiological properties are environmental variables, while the data on macrofauna are the explanatory variables. The total number of individuals recovered in this study was 3,354, and the climate, identified by the sampling season, was a great modulator of macrofauna, with higher numbers in winter. The principal components analysis showed that soil moisture, organic matter, nitrogen, phosphorus, boron, copper, pH, acid and alkaline phosphatases and microbial biomass carbon, were the most outstanding ones to discriminate both cultivation systems. We found no statistical significant differences in macrofauna density between OS and CS, probably due to a general great variability, since there was a tendency for much greater values in OS. We detected the interference of chemical and microbiological soil properties on the macrofauna community in both systems of coffee cultivation, and some results clearly correlated much better with climate data than with other factors. To our knowledge, this is the first time in which the data point to a clear separation between the more numerous and diversified soil macrofauna in coffee with organic cultivation from that with a conventional cultivation system.

Phanerogamic flora and phytogeography of the Cloud Dwarf Forests of Ibitipoca State Park, Minas Gerais, Brazil

Abstract: This study was developed in Ibitipoca State Park (ISP), a mountainous massif that stands out in the Serra da Mantiqueira, in the Southeastern Region of Brazil. The vegetation is represented by a phytophysiognomic mosaic where areas of campos rupestres interspersed with cloud dwarf forests predominate, at altitudes of 1100 to 1700 m.s.m. The cloud dwarf forests exist in narrow altitude belts on the mountain peaks, immersed in a layer of clouds. They form a peculiar landscape high in the mountains by the short stature of the arboreal elements and richness of lichens and bryophytes, which develop under constant condensation of humidity, low temperatures, and frequent winds. The objective of the present work was to determine the floristic composition and phytogeography of the cloud dwarf forests of ISP. Twelve monthly campaigns were conducted to collect botanical material during the years 2014 and 2015. The collected material was deposited in the collection of the CESJ Herbarium. A total of 372 species, 209 genera, and 73 families of phanerogams were found. The richest families were Orchidaceae (84 spp.), Asteraceae (39 spp.), and Melastomataceae (21 spp). The genera with the greatest wealth were Leandra (09 spp.), Epidendrum (09 spp.), Pleurothallis (09 spp.), Mikania (07 spp.), and Miconia (07 spp). The arboreal habit was predominant with 103 species (27.7%), followed by 83 shrubs (22.3%), 82 epiphytic herbs (22%), 80 terrestrial herbs (21.5%), and 23 lianas (6.5%). The floristic composition presents elements typical of altitude vegetation, including species of campos rupestres and high epiphytes richness, especially of the families Orchidaceae and Bromeliaceae. The genera with tropical distribution represent 86.5%, whereas the temperate elements represent 13.5% of the total. The cloud dwarf forests presented similarity, at the family and gender levels, with the upper montane forests of the Andes, besides phytogeographic characteristics that allow to associate them to a transition environment between the campos rupestres and the upper montane forests of the Southeast Region of Brazil.

Biodiversity of Holocene marine fish of the southeast coast of Brazil

Abstract: Middens are archaeological sites dating between 8,000 and 1,000 years before present and are commonly found on the Brazilian coast. Data were collected from 68 middens allowing an inventory of 142 fish species, most of them recorded in no more than five sites. Conversely, Micropogonias furnieri and Pogonias cromis had the highest frequencies of occurrence. The biogeographic, ecological and economic data showed that most of the identified fish are widely distributed in the Western Atlantic (59.72%) and inhabit estuarine environments (53.99%), while most species have a demersal habit (35.92%) and exhibit oceanic migratory behaviour (28.87%). Lastly, the surveyed fish are predominantly carnivorous (72.54%) with some commercial value (96.48%). Chi-squared tests comparing midden inventory and current ichthyofauna checklists failed to show significant differences between them (p > 0.99). Thus, the results indicate that zoo-archaeological fish remains are key evidence of Holocene biodiversity and may help the establishment of more complete baselines.

Size-related and seasonal changes in the diet of the non-native Cichla kelberi Kullander & Ferreira, 2006 in a lowland reservoir in the southeastern Brazil

Abstract: We examined size-related and seasonal changes in the diet of the peacock bass Cichla kelberi in a tropical lowland reservoir in southeastern Brazil over three hydro-climatic seasons: summer (high rainfall and temperature), winter (low rainfall and temperature), and late spring (increasing rainfall and temperature) during two years (2006-2007) The tested hypothesis is that this non-native predator fish changes diet during the subadult and adult phases and among seasons to adapt in new colonized environment Fishes of the families Clupeidae (Platanichthys platana), Characidae (Astyanax spp) and Cichlidae (Cichla kelberi) were the most important food items, followed by insects of the order Odonata Cannibalism was also recorded for the largest individuals A significant size-related change in diet was found with the smallest individuals (Total Length, TL 30 cm) preyed mainly on Odonata The niche breadth increased during growth, with the largest individuals having a diet more evenly distributed among the available resources No significant seasonal differences in diet composition were found, but stomachs with higher degree of volume occupied by food were more frequent in late spring than in summer Conversely, the highest niche breadth was found during the summer compared to the other seasons Together, these observations suggest an efficient use of the available resources by this top predator in this new colonized system

Insect galls in Rupestrian field and Cerrado stricto sensu vegetation in Caetité, Bahia, Brazil

Abstract: We investigated insect galls in Rupestrian field and Cerrado vegetation in the municipality of Caetite (BA), Brazil, between August/2015 and June/2016. This is the first study of gall diversity in Rupestrian field vegetation in that state. We encountered 48 different morphotypes of galls, distributed among 17 different plant species belonging to 13 genera and 21 host plant families. The greatest gall richness was observed in Cerrado (n=39) as compared to Rupestrian field (n=9) vegetation. The principal botanical families observed with galls were Leguminosae, Malpighiaceae, and Myrtaceae, with 10, 8 and 4 morphotypes, respectively. The genera showing the greatest gall diversity were Copaifera L. (n=6) (Leguminosae-Detarioideae), Croton L. (n=2) (Euphorbiaceae), Mimosa L. (n=2) (Leguminosae-Caesalpinioideae), Byrsonima Rich. ex Kunth (n=2) (Malpighiaceae), and Eugenia L. (n=2) (Myrtaceae). The super-host species was Copaifera sabulicola J.A.S. Costa & L.P. Queiroz (n= 5). Most galls occurred on leaves, being globoid, glabrous, isolated, and unilocular. Most gall-inducing insect species belong to the Cecidomyiidae family, while the associated fauna was represented by Hymenoptera and Lepidoptera. We recorded here for the first time galls on Ocotea velutina (Mart. ex Ness) Rohwer (Lauraceae) and Miconia alborufescens Naudin (Melastomataceae). The results indicate the need for more studies to understand the dynamics of the insect-induced galls in Rupestrian field.

Diagnosis, presence of endoparasites, and local knowledge on the infestation of the exotic giant African snail (gastropoda: pulmonata: achatinidae), in the urban zone of Rio Branco, Acre, Brazil

Abstract: The giant African land snail, Lissachatina fulica is considered to be one of the world's worst invader species. This snail can provoke major economic and public health problems in urban areas, in particular as a potential vector of nematodes that infect both humans and animals. In this context, the present study investigated the extent of the infestation of this exotic snail in the urban neighborhoods of the city of Rio Branco, verified the presence of endoparasites in these snails, and evaluated the knowledge of local residents with regard to the presence of this invader species. For this, daytime surveys were conducted between August 2015 and June 2016. For the analysis of endoparasites, 44 live specimens were sent to the National Reference Laboratory for Schistosomiasis-Malacology (LRNEM) of the Oswaldo Cruz Institute (FIOCRUZ). The knowledge of local residents in the infested neighborhoods was investigated using questionnaires with direct, closed questions. The exotic invader species (L. fulica) was detected in 24 of the 36 neighborhoods visited. A total of 858 L. fulica specimens were collected, of which, 329 were alive and 527 were dead. The total length of the shell ranged from 0.7 to 14.2 cm, with a mean±standard deviation of 4.8±2.21 cm. The density of snails in the areas surveyed varied from 0.34 individuals/m2 to 3.54 individuals/m2, while the mean density within the whole study area was estimated to be 0.54 individuals/m2. Mature eggs were found in only 9 (2.7%) of the 329 specimens dissected. The endoparasitological analysis revealed the presence of rhabditiform larvae in 84% of the specimens examined, as well as the nematodes Aelurostrongylus abstrusus (22.7% of the specimens) and Strongyluris sp. (2.2%). A total of 39 local residents were interviewed, and while all were conscious of the presence of the mollusk, none knew its origin or the most adequate way of dealing with it. The results of the study indicate an ample infestation of the city of Rio Branco by L. fulica, and confirmed a complete lack of intervention on the part of the local authorities for the implementation of measures foe the control and management of this pest within the urban zone of Rio Branco.

Gomphonema Ehrenberg (Bacillariophyceae, Gomphonemataceae) of the São Francisco Falso River, Paraná, Brazil

Abstract: Gomphonema Ehrenberg is a genus well represented in periphytic algal flora of epicontinental environments. The substrate colonization is facilitated by the secretion of mucilage by the pore field, allowing cell adhesion. Samples were scraped off and analyzed from vegetative portions of the macrophyte Eichhornia azurea Kunth, collected in Sao Francisco Falso River, located in Santa Helena City, Parana State. The sampling occurred in four different sites, in four different periods, totaling 16 samples. The quantitative material analysis resulted in 28 identified taxa, in which Gomphonema brasiliense ssp. pacificum, Gomphonema neoapiculatum Lange-Bertalot, Reichardt & Metzeltin Gomphonema pantropicum Reichardt and Gomphonema perapicatum Metzeltin & Lange-Bertalot represented pioneer citations for Parana diatomflorula. The ultrastructure observations of some species were crucial to distinguish a few taxa, as Gomphonema brasiliense and Gomphonema brasiliensoide D. Metzeltin, Lange-Bertalot & F. Garcia-Rodriguez. We suggest future studies in this environment, once it has propitious characteristics to the development of epilithic diatoms. Moreover, phylogenetic studies are also recommended for a better distinction of taxa with a wide morphologic variation.