Showing papers in "Revista Brasileira De Zoologia in 2007"
TL;DR: The collection of ancillary data during the census allowed the determination of diet and habitat use by the titis groups, and results show a relative adaptability to disturbed habitats.
Abstract: Between april 2005 and May 2006, according to the pressuposts of line transect methodology, census were carried to estimate abundance and population density of Callicebus nigrifrons Spix, 1823 (Pitheciidae) in Cantareira State Park, State of Sao Paulo, southeastern Brazil (23°23'42"S, 46°35'27"W). After 275.80 Km of census sampling effort, the titis were the second most abundant primate species, presenting an abundance index of 1.4 groups for each 10 km walked and a density estimate of 12.21 ind./km2 (ranging between 8.45 a 17.63 ind./km2). The collection of ancillary data during the census allowed the determination of diet and habitat use by the titis groups, and results show a relative adaptability to disturbed habitats.
80 citations
TL;DR: The diversity and structure of Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera assemblages in streams of Central Brazil was investigated and showed that anthropic action determined the patterns of diversity whereas the size of streams determined the faunistic composition.
Abstract: The diversity and structure of Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera (EPT) assemblages in streams of Central Brazil (Serra dos Pireneus, Pirenopolis, State of Goias) was investigated. Abundance data of EPT were obtained in Central-West Brazilian streams in order to evaluate the effect of spatial variability, including the effect of size of the stream and anthropic action, and seasonality (dry and rainy seasons) on faunal diversity and structure. The immatures were collected with circular sieves (0. 5 mm mesh) during one hour at five collection stations over 14 months. From a spatial point of view, the data showed that anthropic action determined the patterns of diversity whereas the size of streams (1st and 3rd-4th orders) determined the faunistic composition. In addition, environmental seasonality was an important factor for structuring the EPT fauna.
69 citations
TL;DR: It is suggested that some stream chironomids (not typical shredders) can use leaf litter of riparian vegetation as a complementary food source.
Abstract: Our objective was to evaluate the potential use of leaf detritus by chironomid larvae. Field and laboratory experiments were performed using leaves and chironomid species collected in Portugal and Brazil. Laboratory experiments under controlled conditions were done using microbial conditioned senescent leaves of Alnus glutinosa (L.) Gaertn, Neriumoleander L., Protium heptaphilum (Aubl.) March, Protium brasiliense (Spreng) Engl., Myrcia guyanensis(Aubl.) DC and Miconia chartacea Triana. Laboratory experiments were performed using specimens collected from leaf litter in local streams. Whenever possible, after the experiments, chironomids were allowed to emerge as adults and identified. In Portugal the following taxa were identified: Micropsectra apposita (Walker, 1856), Polypedilum albicorne (Meigen, 1838),Eukiefferiella claripennis Lundbeck (1898), Rheocricotopus (Psilocricotopus) atripes Rempel (1937) and Ablabesmyia Johannsen (1905) (Diptera, Chironomidae). Consumption rates ranged from 0.15 ± 0.10 mg (AFDM) of leaf animal-1 day-1 (Micropsectra apposita feeding on Alnus glutinosa) up to 0.85 ± 0.33 mg (AFDM) of leaf animal-1 day-1 (Polypedilum albicorne feeding on Miconia chartacea). In Brazil, the following taxa were identified from leaves: Phaenopsectra sp., Chironomus spp. and Polypedilum sp. and maximum consumption rates reached 0.47 ± 0.28 (AFDM) of leaf mg.animal-1.day-1 (Chironomus Meigen (1803) feeding on Protium heptaphilum). Feeding experiments with laboratory cultured specimens, revealed that some chironomids were unable to feed on decomposing leaves (e.g., C. xanthus Rempel (1939) on P.brasiliensis and M.guyanensis). Our results suggest that some stream chironomids (not typical shredders) can use leaf litter of riparian vegetation as a complementary food source.
66 citations
TL;DR: Data was suggestive of the probable local extinction of Tayassu pecari(Link, 1795) in the Park, which is strongly associated with the conservation of the "Misiones Green Corridor", which probably represents a source area for many species.
Abstract: Between January of 2005 and December of 2006, studies on the composition and relative abundance of medium and large sized mammals were carried out in Turvo State Park. Records came from camera-trapping, in addition to visualization and presence and absence data from track surveys along pre determined transects. At total, 29 species of medium-large sized mammals were listed. Of these, Dasyprocta azarae Lichtenstein, 1823 and Sylvilagus brasiliensis (Linnaeus, 1758) were the most frequently found. For carnivores, the majority of records were for Nasua nasua (Linnaeus, 1766) and Leopardus pardalis (Linnaeus, 1758), whereas Leopardus tigrinus (Schreber, 1775), Leopardus wiedii (Schinz, 1782) and Galictis cuja (Molina 1782), had the least. Among the ungulates, only Pecari tajacu (Linnaeus, 1758) showed frequent records, ranking fourth overall. Some species, common to other environments, showed few records at Turvo State Park, such as Dasypus novemcinctus Linnaeus, 1758 and Didelphis albiventris Lund, 1840. Data was suggestive of the probable local extinction of Tayassu pecari(Link, 1795) in the Park. The conservation of the medium and large sized mammals of this conservation area is strongly associated with the conservation of the "Misiones Green Corridor", which probably represents a source area for many species.
62 citations
TL;DR: Elaenia chiriquensis is a very common passerine abundant during the reproductive season (September-December) in the cerrados of Central Brazil and several aspects of its reproduction are described, which are similar to other Neotropical passerines.
Abstract: Elaenia chiriquensis (Lawrence, 1865) is a very common passerine abundant during the reproductive season (September-December) in the cerrados of Central Brazil. Since its breeding biology is still poorly known, this study had the aim to describe several aspects of its reproduction. We conducted the study at the “Estacao Ecologica de Aguas Emendadas”, Federal District, Brazil, between August 2002 and December 2003. Birds were banded (n = 285) during this period. Nests (n = 110) found were monitored every 1-5 days. Clutch sizes had one (n = 14), two (n = 88) or three eggs (n = 1), which were pinkish with small reddish dots around the obtuse end. Nest characteristics were comparable to other records of this species. Breeding occurred between mid September to the end of December with two peaks of active nests, one in mid October and one in mid November. These two peaks may be explained by a second breeding attempt after a successful nest or a second breeding attempt after an unsuccessful first attempt. Thirty-two nests (30%) were successful, with most of the nests being depredated (n = 70%) and few abandoned (n = 4%). Egg success was of 28% and the hatching rate was 0.96 ± 0.02. Fledgling production was of 0.48 fledglings/nest and fecundity was 1.1 fledglings/female. All these values are similar to the ones already reported for this species and similar to other Neotropical passerines.
62 citations
TL;DR: A analise de agrupamento (UPGMA) dos pontos de amostragem mostrou dois tipos de associacoes de especies de cladoceros fitofilos, caracterizadas pela maior ou menor riqueza e abundância relativa das espescies das familias Daphniidae e Moinidae (filtradoras).
Abstract: A rapid assessment survey identified 39 phytophilous cladocerans species from littoral zones of rivers, permanent and temporary lagoons, and swamps of the Parana River Valley, Goias, Brazil, 22 are registered for the first time in Central Brazil. Aspects of the taxonomy of some of these species are discussed. Cluster analysis (UPGMA) revealed two phytophilous cladoceran assemblages, characterized by higher or lower richness and relative abundance of species of the families Daphniidae and Moinidae (filter feeders), in comparison with the dominant families Chydoridae and Macrothricidae (scraper feeders).
60 citations
TL;DR: About 40% of the registered anuran species were associated on the habitat features provided by the forest cover which reinforces the importance of conservation of Araucaria Forest remnants.
Abstract: Species richness, spatial distribution and the seasonal occurrence of anurans (adults and tadpoles) were studied throughout 15 months in an Araucaria forest remnant at Fazenda Rio Grande, Parana State, Brazil. Thirty-two species were registered, which corresponds to the third largest anuran richness in Parana State. The spatial distribution of the species was not uniform between habitats sampled: 46% of the species were associates with opened areas, occurring exclusively in habitats of open areas and/or in forest edges, 34% were associated with forest habitats, occurring, in habitats forest and/or forest edge, while that 13% were classified as generalists as they occurred in open formations, at the edge and interior of the forest fragments. The reproductive period of the species was correlated with rainfall, since 80% of the species were found in breeding activity the rainy season. About 40% of the registered anuran species were associated on the habitat features provided by the forest cover which reinforces the importance of conservation of Araucaria Forest remnants.
59 citations
TL;DR: The permeability of the Parana River to dispersal, as well as its potential as a geographical barrier to some species, is discussed, which can be useful for promoting the conservation of this region.
Abstract: The region of Porto Rico, on the Upper Parana River, is a contact zone between the Atlantic Rainforest and the Cerrado, with elements of the Pantanal wetlands. During surveys from September 2003 to September to 2005, we recorded the presence of non-volant mammals on 14 islands and the adjacent riverbanks. Surveys were by foot and by boat, and we also interviewed local people about the mammals of the region. Sightings of three primate species - Cebus nigritus (Goldfuss, 1809) (left margin of the river), C. libidinosus Spix, 1823 (right margin) and Alouatta caraya (Humboldt, 1812) (both margins and 12 islands) - were plotted on a satellite image. Alouatta clamitans Cabrera, 1940 was not recorded. However, interviews indicated that this species has occurred in this region in the past. The survey of mammals revealed the occurrence of 32 native species, a native genus with one or more unidentified species, and two introduced species [Lepus europaeus Pallas, 1778 and Sus scrofa (Linnaeus, 1758)]. The study discusses the permeability of the Parana River to dispersal, as well as its potential as a geographical barrier to some species. Hypothesis on the local extinction of A. clamitans is also addressed. This study provides information that can be useful for promoting the conservation of this region.
56 citations
TL;DR: Comunidades de Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera e Trichoptera (EPT) em substrato rochoso foram estudadas em dois riachos do Parque Estadual Intervales and indicaram que nao houve um padrao sazonal claro da variacao temporal da densidade.
Abstract: Comunidades de Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera e Trichoptera (EPT) em substrato rochoso foram estudadas em dois riachos do Parque Estadual Intervales. Coletas com um amostrador de Surber (10 subamostras aleatorias, 1 m 2 ) foram feitas mensalmente de setembro de 1999 a setembro de 2000 e trimestralmente de dezembro de 2000 a setembro de 2001 nos Ribeiroes Bocaina e Agua Comprida. A fauna de EPT do Ribeirao Bocaina foi mais diversificada e mais abundante do que a do Ribeirao Agua Comprida. A fauna de EPT foi bastante diferente entre os dois riachos, tanto do ponto de vista da composicao faunistica quanto do ponto de vista funcional. Os resultados indicaram que nao houve um padrao sazonal claro da variacao temporal da densidade.
52 citations
TL;DR: A mammalian survey in the neighborhoods of the Serra da Bodoquena National Park, Mato Grosso do Sul state, a region poorly known in southwestern Brazil, recorded fifty six mammal species, including threatened species.
Abstract: We carried out a mammalian survey in the neighborhoods of the Serra da Bodoquena National Park, Mato Grosso do Sul state, a region poorly known in southwestern Brazil. During the months of April, May and July 2002 we used wire live trap, direct observation, indirect evidence (e.g. tracks), carcasses, and interviews with local residents to record mammalian species. Fifty six mammal species were recorded, including threatened species (14%). These records were discussed regarding species abundance, distribution, range extension, habitat, and conservation. The geographic distribution and ecology of the poorly known marsupials Thylamys macrurus and Micoureus constantiae in Brazil are emphasized.
50 citations
TL;DR: Methodological issues aiming at optimizing the use of camera traps in mammalian inventories are discussed and a comparison of two brands of equipments is provided, showing significant differences in durability and efficiency, both within and between brands.
Abstract: The use of camera traps is quite recent in Brazil The high cost of equipments and constant expenses with supplies can, in some circumstances, limit the number of units to be deployed and sampling effort The present study discusses methodological issues aiming at optimizing the use of these traps in mammalian inventories and also provides a comparison of two brands of equipments The study was carried out in Santa Lucia Biological Station (SLBS) in Center-north Espirito Santo state between January 2002 and November 2003, using three Wildlife Pro Camera © (WPC) units and four DeerCam © units We realized the importance of sampling in different phitophysiognomies as they varied in mammal community We detected a significant correlation between species richness and sampling effort in each trail, observing that 60% or more of species richness recorded in SLBS was obtained when sampling effort was $ 250 camera-trap nights/trail Nocturnal records predominated (67%) although the number of recorded species was similar between night and day When camera traps were set in pairs, only 27% of records were simultaneous The tested units showed significant differences in durability and efficiency, both within and between brands
TL;DR: The results suggest that the Silveira River is subject to moderate environmental stress, from human impact, although it showed the highest diversity of the major macrobenthic groups.
Abstract: Benthic macroinvertebrate in four rivers, three in the Pelotas River basin (Divisa, Marco and Silveira rivers, in the headwaters of the Uruguai River) and one in the Taquari-Antas system (Antas River), a tributary in the Guaiba basin, in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, were identified. Two samples were collected in summer, autumn and spring, with one replicate in each river. The total of 28,961 specimens included members of Platyhelminthes, Annelida, Acarina, Insecta, Crustacea and Mollusca. The Silveira and Marco rivers showed significant differences in the indices of Shannon-Weaver (H), Simpsons Reciprocal (1/D), Margalef (DMg) and Equitability (E). The Silveira River showed the highest means of diversity and the EPT index (Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera, Trichoptera). Comparison among the diversity indices, considered individually, were insufficient to show differences in community structure, for the purpose of ecological characterization of the rivers. The EPT values characterized the Divisa River as having the highest abundance (73%), followed by the Marco (71%), Antas (48%) and Silveira (36%). These results suggest that the Silveira River is subject to moderate environmental stress, from human impact, although it showed the highest diversity of the major macrobenthic groups.
TL;DR: The study of Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera associated with litter in southeastern Brazil streams aimed to answer the following questions: Does richness and composition of EPT fauna differ between riffle and pool mesohabitats despite being associated to the same substratum, litter?
Abstract: The study of Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera associated with litter in southeastern Brazil streams aimed to answer the following questions: 1) Does richness and composition of EPT fauna differ between riffle and pool mesohabitats despite being associated to the same substratum, litter? 2) Does the similarity of the EPT fauna between both mesohabitats change with time? 3) Does the EPT functional feeding structure differ between both mesohabitats (riffles-pools)? In order to answer these questions, monthly collections, from November 1999 to June 2000, were done in Ribeirao (Stream) Bocaina with a D-net (10 litter patches in riffles and 10 in pools). The EPT fauna at Ribeirao Bocaina was more diversified and more abundant in the litter in riffles than in the litter in pools, although, when richness was standardized for the same number of individuals it became similar in both conditions. EPT fauna was very different between both mesohabitats in terms of faunal composition as well as in terms of function. Probably it was due to differences in water speed, in the time of litter residence and in the concentration of dissolved oxygen between both mesohabitats.
TL;DR: Aiming to improve the fish breeding activity in this region, it is recommended to close this area for shrimp trawling during the spring, because this measure could be positive for both species that spawn in spring and those preparing to spawn in the summer.
Abstract: Desembarques de arrasto visando a pesca do camarao sete-barbas, Xiphopenaeus kroyeri, foram acompanhados de 2005 a 2007 no municipio de Sao Francisco do Sul, Santa Catarina. Setenta e seis especies de teleosteos foram registradas como captura incidental e seus individuos foram avaliados quanto ao estadio de maturacao e Indice de Atividade Reprodutiva. Constatou-se que individuos de metade das especies sao capturados com gonadas maduras, em estacoes que variaram conforme a especie. Em Isopisthus parvipinnis a atividade enquadrou-se na categoria "muito intensa" na primavera de 2005 e no verao de 2007; em Menticirrhus americanus, Stellifer sp., Pomadasys corvinaeformis, Stellifer brasiliensis, Syacium papillosum, Larimus breviceps, Diapterus rhombeus, Symphurus tessellatus, Chirocentrodon bleekerianus, Pellona harroweri, Anchoa tricolor e Selene setapinnis apenas em uma estacao, dependendo da especie. O verao de 2007, seguido da primavera de 2005, foram as estacoes em que o arrasto incidiu sobre maior numero de especies em atividade reprodutiva "intensa" ou "muito intensa". No verao de 2007 o arrasto camaroeiro incidiu sobre um conjunto de especies em atividade reprodutiva maior que na mesma estacao em 2006. Atribui-se esse fato a proibicao legal do arrasto de camarao no trimestre de outubro-dezembro de 2006, favorecendo a atividade reprodutiva das especies na estacao subsequente. Recomenda-se que a gestao da pesca camaroeira na regiao mantenha o defeso de arrasto na primavera, assim beneficiando nao apenas as especies de peixes que desovam nesta estacao, mas tambem aquelas que se preparam para a desova no verao.
TL;DR: The analysis of the mortality indicates that the fishing is a source of mortality more important for the Barbado than for the other species.
Abstract: The length structure of the stocks of four species of large Pimelodidae catfishes was used to study the dynamics of their populations in the Cuiaba river basin, north Pantanal. The estimative of the growth parameters, recruitment and mortality rates for the species were obtained. Among the species studied the Barbado presented the fastest growth than the others. The Pintado, Cachara and Jau exhibited similar growth rate. For the Barbado and the Pintado we observed two annual picks of recruitment, however the Cachara and the Jau presented a single annual pick. The analysis of the mortality indicates that the fishing is a source of mortality more important for the Barbado than for the other species.
TL;DR: O estudo sao fornecidas informacoes sobre predacao de anuros de uma assembleia no sudeste do Brasil sobre especies ou individuos de pequeno porte.
Abstract: Anfibios anuros sao predados por todos os grupos de vertebrados e muitos invertebrados. Todavia os estudos sobre predacao em anfibios anuros ainda sao esparsos e anedoticos. Neste estudo sao fornecidas informacoes sobre predacao de anuros de uma assembleia no sudeste do Brasil. Invertebrados (aranhas e barata d’agua), a ra Leptodactylus cf. ocellatus e cinco especies serpentes (quatro Colubridae e um Viperidae) predaram especies ou individuos de pequeno porte.
TL;DR: Six field trips were carried bimonthly in three fragments of Decidual Seasonal Forest of Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul State, in which M had the highest richness and abundance of species and about half of the total registered species were exclusive from one of the three localities.
Abstract: Six field trips were carried bimonthly, between July 2004 and July 2005, in three fragments of Decidual Seasonal Forest of Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul State: Morro do Elefante (E), Morro do Lar Metodista (M) and Morro Cerrito (C). After 135 sampling hours, 1594 butterflies of 145 species were registered. Among these, 59% are Nymphalidae, 19% Hesperiidae, 10% Papilionidae, 7% Pieridae and 5% Lycaenidae. Nine species were new registers for Rio Grande do Sul State. M had the highest richness and abundance of species. The lowest richness was observed in E and the lowest abundance in C. Shannon-Wiener and Margalef diversity indexes had the same ordination among localities, being higher in M, more heterogeneous and disturbed, and lower in E. Simpson and Berger-Parker dominance indexes were higher in E, with more abundant species, and lower in C. Only 30% of the species were common to the three localities. About half of the total registered species were exclusive from one of the three localities. The highest similarity indexes (Morisita and Jaccard) were obtained between M and E, and the lowest between E and C.
TL;DR: Due to the semi-arboreal habits of most of its species, their large size and their usual preference for mammalian prey, the Boiidae are probably the main reptiles predators of bats in the Neotropics, though predation by colubrids may also be relatively frequent.
Abstract: Predation on bats by snakes is relatively infrequently reported in the literature, though it may actually not be an uncommon phenomenon, since bat colonies represent a potential concentration of food for many medium-sized or large snakes. Herein we describe four events of bat predation by snakes and present a review of predation records of snakes on bats in the Neotropics compiled from the literature. A total of 20 species of snakes have been recorded so far as predators of bats in the New World tropics, with boiids being represented by the greatest number of cases. Due to the semi-arboreal habits of most of its species, their large size and their usual preference for mammalian prey, the Boiidae are probably the main reptilian predators of bats in the Neotropics, though predation by colubrids may also be relatively frequent. Two types of predatory events can be pointed out: (1) on active bats outside refuges or exiting them, and (2) on animals (active or inactive) inside refuges. The former strategy is apparently used mainly by boiids, whereas the latter strategy appears to be the one most used by large colubrids.
TL;DR: Richness and abundance were higher during the dry period of the year, and the genus Polypedilum was the most abundant, and there was evident the effect of the environmental variables on the attributes of diversity in the Upper Paraguay River.
Abstract: The aim of this study is to determine the influence of environmental variables on the time distribution of assemblages of Chironomidae in the Upper Paraguay River. The samples were collected from November 2004 to October of 2005. To consider the diversity of habitats in the region, nine different sampling points were sampled and 2988 individuals were collected, distributed in 34 species, eight tribes and three subfamilies. The genus Labrundinia sp.1, Polypedilum (Asheum) and Polypedilum (Tripodura) occurred almost every month during the study. Richness and abundance were higher during the dry period of the year, and the genus Polypedilum was the most abundant. There was evident the effect of the environmental variables on the attributes of diversity in the Upper Paraguay River.
TL;DR: The gonad morphology and gametogenesis of Lophiosilurus alexandri Steindachner, 1877 from Santo Antonio river (Minas Gerais, Brazil) were studied through anatomical and histological techniques and revealed that they were paired, fringed organs with two distinct regions: cranial sperMatogenic and caudal spermatogenic and secretory.
Abstract: The gonad morphology and gametogenesis of Lophiosilurus alexandri Steindachner, 1877 from Santo Antonio river (Minas Gerais, Brazil) were studied through anatomical and histological techniques. Examination of the testis revealed that they were paired, fringed organs with two distinct regions: cranial spermatogenic and caudal spermatogenic and secretory. The cranial region represents ca. 60% of the mature/maturing testis, containing 41 to 73 fringes, while the caudal portion represents ca. 40% and contains 44 to 68 fringes. At the cranial portion the length of the fringes was 3.70 ± 1.70 mm and in the caudal portion was 0.20 ± 0.10 mm. The spermatogenesis was cystic, synchronic, and occurred throughout the whole extension of the seminiferous tubules. The ovaries were saculiforms, paired organs, which present ovigerous lamellae containing cells of the oogenic lineage. The oocytes were classified into four developmental stages according to their cytological characteristics and the characteristics of the cell layers that surround them.
TL;DR: A study on bats and their ectoparasites in AF remnants located in the municipality of Fazenda Rio Grande, Parana State between December 2001 and May 2003 found no significant differences in prevalence and mean intensity between the sexes of S. lilium.
Abstract: The information available on streblid and nycteribiid bat flies and their hosts are scant in the Araucaria Forest (AF) and there are no data on richness, distribution patterns or abundance of these ectoparasites in bat communities. Therefore, we conducted a study on bats and their ectoparasites in AF remnants (approximately 470 ha) located in the municipality of Fazenda Rio Grande, Parana State, between December 2001 and May 2003. Twelve individuals of three species of Nycteribiidae and 119 individuals of six species of Streblidae were collected on 127 bats (four species of Phyllostomidae and seven of Vespertilionidae). Five of the six species of streblid were found exclusively on Sturnira lilium (E. Geoffroy, 1810) and Artibeus lituratus (Olfers, 1818). We collected Megistopoda proxima (Seguy, 1926) on 62 S. lilium examined with prevalence of 65.4% and mean intensity of 2.00; Aspidoptera falcata Wenzel, 1976, respectively, with 13.5% and 2.29; Trichobius phyllostomae Kessel, 1925 with 7.7% and 1.00; and Metelasmus wenzeli Graciolli & Dick, 2004 with 1.6% and 4.00. We did not find significant differences in prevalence (p = 0.544) and mean intensity (p = 0.361) between the sexes of S. lilium . On 26 A . lituratus captured we found only Paratrichobius longicrus (Miranda-Ribeiro, 1907) with prevalence of 32% and mean intensity of 1.50.
TL;DR: The bird community in both patched of forest showed the same pattern found in other different forest fragments of relative size studies by many distinct authors, in both localities, insectivorus and frugivorus birds were the most representative.
Abstract: Qualitative and quantitative survey of bird community were performed in two distinct semideciduous forest in the interior of the State of Sao Paulo from July 2004 to July 2005. Point Counts were used for the quantitative survey followed by diversity and frequence of ocurrence indexes of the bird assemblage. The qualitative survey registered a total of 181 species of birds at Fazenda Rio das Pedras (FRP, Itapetininga, 350 ha) and 126 at Fazenda Santa Maria II (FSM II, Buri, 260 ha). The qualitative survey registered 73 species in 998 contacts and 64 species en 1019 contacts, respectively, for FRP and FSM II. The ponctual index of abundance (IPA) varied from 0.01 (one contact) to 1.32 (132 contacts) at FRP and from 0.01 (one contact) to 0.97 (97 contacts) at FSM II. The general diversity index for FRP was H’ = 2.85 and H’ = 3.04 at FSM II. Both areas presented an evenness index of E = 0.91. The bird community in both patched of forest showed the same pattern found in other different forest fragments of relative size studies by many distinct authors. In both localities, insectivorus (53% at FSM e 50% at FRP) and frugivorus (23% na FSM e 26% na FRP) birds were the most representative. Among the former, Tyrannidae and Thamnophilidae were predominant, respectively, at FSM and FRP. In both places understory insectivorous birds were dominant (53% at FSM and 51,4% at FRP), followed by understory frugivorus at FSM (50%) and by canopy frugivorus (52,6%) at FRP. The importance of bird community in forest remmants in linked to managing and conservation of wild natural forested in Stade of Sao Paulo.
TL;DR: The results show that human activities such as forest clearing, agriculture and cattle rising have altered the habitat diversity in freshwater ecosystems in a process that affects the aquatic biota and thus the food availability to the fish fauna.
Abstract: From December 2003 to September 2004, benthic macroinvertebrates (BM), fishes, water and sediment were collected quarterly at six stations in two streams of the upper Sao Francisco River basin, south-eastern Brazil. We evaluated the ecological conditions, habitat diversity, water quality, composition and structure of BM communities, as well as the food habits of the local fish fauna. By applying a protocol for rapid characterization of ecological conditions and habitat diversity, three of the sampled localities were classified as "pristine" while the others stations were considered "altered". A well oxygenated water with near neutral pH and low electric conductivity ( 60%). Our results show that human activities such as forest clearing, agriculture and cattle rising have altered the habitat diversity in freshwater ecosystems in a process that affects the aquatic biota and thus the food availability to the fish fauna. The results also highlight the importance of the fish stomach contents analysis as a complementary tool in BM inventories.
TL;DR: The composition of species, the density and the spatial and temporal distribution of benthic malacofauna in three reservoirs of the Middle Tiete River reveal the invading potential of same and the probable competition with the native species.
Abstract: This study analyze the composition of species, the density and the spatial and temporal distribution of benthic malacofauna in three reservoirs of the Middle Tiete River. The samplings were carried out in two climatic periods, the rainy season in November 2002 and the dry season in August 2003, showing three portions in each reservoir (upper, middle and lower) and following a sweeping with six sampling points in each transect. Based on the limnological data the reservoirs of the Middle Tiete River were eutrophied with high concentrations of nutrients (total and dissolved). Eight species of mollusks were registered, six natives and two exotics. Of these, the dominant species was the exotic and invading mollusk Melanoides tuberculata (Muller, 1774), found in all reservoirs. Another exotic specie Corbicula fluminea (Muller, 1774), was current in all the reservoirs in both periods of sampling (except in the Barra Bonita reservoir). In the Barra Bonita reservoir only the two exotic species occurred, while in the Bariri and Ibitinga the native species Aylacostoma tenuilabris (Bernardi, 1856), Biomphalaria glabrata (Say, 1818), Biomphalaria intermedia (Paraense & Deslandes, 1962), Diplodon expansus (Kuster, 1853), Physa cubensis (Pfeiffer, 1839) and Pomacea canaliculata (Lamarck, 1822) occurred in at least one of the sampled periods. The generalized occupation of M. tuberculata and C. fluminea and the high densities of these species in the studied reservoirs reveal the invading potential of same and the probable competition with the native species.
TL;DR: The alimentary behavior, and consequently the diet of these lizards seems to be constrained phylogenetically, with a pattern that may have evolved in the ancestor of all iguanids, according to the Optimal Foraging Theory.
Abstract: We compared the effects of habitat disturbance on the feeding ecology of two local populations of Tropidurus torquatus (Wied, 1820) in restinga habitats on Ilha da Marambaia, Southeastern Brazil. Both populations presented a relatively diverse diet and differ in the number (DMax = 0.22, DF = 2, p = 0.00) and volume of prey consumed (DMax = 0.82, DF = 2, p = 0.00). Ants were the most frequent and numerous preys in both areas, and plant matter and coleopterans were the most important alimentary items in volume. The population from the disturbed area presented a larger niche breadth for number of prey items consumed (Binum = 3.06) and volume (Bivol = 2.98), when compared to the other population (Bjnum = 2.44, Bjvol = 1.52). Niche overlap was higher for number of items consumed between the populations (Oijnum = 0.82) but lower for volume (Oijvol = 0.05). Our data suggest dietary differences between the two lizard populations, and these differences may be associated with environmental modifications. Our main hypothesis to explain the dietary differences is based in the Optimal Foraging Theory. However, the alimentary behavior, and consequently the diet of these lizards, seems to be constrained phylogenetically, with a pattern that may have evolved in the ancestor of all iguanids.
TL;DR: The composition and guild structure of bird communities of riparian and upland forest in an Atlantic forest reserve, the Godoy State Park, in northern Parana State, southern Brazil, was compared to show the large frugivores guild was closely associated to the upland Forest.
Abstract: We compared the composition and guild structure of bird communities of riparian and upland forest in an Atlantic forest reserve, the Godoy State Park (GP), in northern Parana State, southern Brazil. Unlimited distance point counts were sampled monthly from September-December 2001, along four trails. Two trails in upland forest (TA and TB) were parallel to each other and about 300 m apart. Two trails in riparian forest (TC and TD) were along the Apertados River, about 100 m away from the river. A total of 145 species were recorded: 81 species were recorded in both upland and riparian forests, 19 species were recorded only in upland forest and 45 species were recorded exclusively in riparian forest. Among the 81 species occurring in both forest types, 18 species had significantly higher numbers of contacts in the riparian forest while only 8 species had significantly higher numbers of contacts in the upland forest. Taking into account the contacts numbers of the species the large frugivores guild was closely associated to the upland forest, while bamboo and vine-tangles insectivore, canopy insectivores, edge omnivores, ground omnivore and midstory insectivores were those more closely related to the riparian forest.
TL;DR: The ‘saguiru’ Steindachnerina insculpta, a small teleost detritivorous fish species in Furnas reservoir, upper rio Parana basin, Minas Gerais, Brazil, has a prolonged period of reproductive activity that extends from September to March, with fractionated spawning.
Abstract: The ‘saguiru’ Steindachnerina insculpta , a small teleost detritivorous fish species in Furnas reservoir, upper rio Parana basin, Minas Gerais, Brazil, has a prolonged period of reproductive activity that extends from September to March, with fractionated spawning. During gonadal maturation, the females showed a low hepatosomatic index, suggesting that hepatic substances are possibly transferred from liver to ovaries. During the reproductive period, this fish had lower stomach repletion and coelomic fat indexes, indicating that the species eat less and consume more fat reserves. The weight of the ovaries influenced positively the condition factor (K1), since the lowest K2 values (without the gonads weight), were obtained during maturation, confirming the influence of the weight of the ovaries upon the physiological condition of the females.
TL;DR: The aim was to study the venoms of P. olfersii and P. patagoniensis and found that the toxic activity of both venoms was similar, showing values around 60.0 µg/mouse, which are comparable to those of Bothrops Wagler, 1824 venoms.
Abstract: Philodryas olfersii (Lichtenstein, 1823) and P. patagoniesis (Girard, 1857) are species of colubrid snakes of the opisthoglyphous series restricted to South America. Several accidents caused by these snakes have been reported and they are mainly characterized by marked effects at the site of bite, such as pain, swelling and hemorrhage. Such accidents are similar to those caused by snakes of the genus Bothrops , and thereby patients bitten by Philodryas sp. are frequently treated with Bothrops antivenom. Since few studies have dealt with the characterization of these venoms, our aim was to study the venoms of P. olfersii and P. patagoniensis . They presented protein contents between 75 and 90%. No defibrinogenating activity could be detected when tested in mice. Experimental envenomation induced by P olfersii or P. patagoniensis evoked intense pain symptoms in mice, but the venom of P. patagoniensis was more active. Both venoms presented minimum edematogenic doses around 1 µg/mouse, peaking at 30 mm. The onset of hemorrhagic activity was rapid, and their minimum hemorrhagic doses were alike. The toxic activity of both venoms was similar, showing values around 60.0 µg/mouse, which are comparable to those of Bothrops Wagler, 1824 venoms.
TL;DR: It is suggested that vegetation characteristics and geographical distance are important factors in the determination of Arctiidae assemblages in the Brazilian Cerrado.
Abstract: The Cerrado biome covers 23% of the Brazilian territory and includes nearly one third of the estimated biota of the country. The aim of this article is to know the species composition of the nocturnal Arctiidae and describe the beta-diversity patterns among 14 Cerrado areas. We collected a total of 1,016 individuals, representing 197 morphospecies. Estimates of species richness using Jackknife 2 and Chao 2 indicated that the region should contain, respectively, 375.7 and 383.8 species. The regression between species richness and number of vegetation types in the sampled areas was not significant. The beta-diversity (Sorensen distance) among study sites was positively related to geographical distances. The multivariate analyses indicated that, except for Pedregulho, study areas in Sao Paulo State were distinct from those in Goias and Tocantins States. Pooling study sites within vegetation types revealed that fauna of gallery forests and “cerradoes” were similar and, together, were different from those collected in open vegetacional formations (“campo sujo” and “cerrado sensu stricto” ). We suggested that vegetation characteristics and geographical distance are important factors in the determination of Arctiidae assemblages in the Brazilian Cerrado.
TL;DR: The population structure of Rn and Pt were not significantly different in the wet and the dry season, suggesting no seasonality reproduction, and the population structure showed higher abundance of adults in Pt populations.
Abstract: Rhodnius neglectus Lent, 1954 {Rn}and Psammolestes tertius Lent & Jurberg, 1965 {Pt} are triatomines that occur in bird nests, mainly furnarid nests. Their biological cycles are known in laboratory conditions and few studies were done in wild ecotopes. To analyze the infestation and population structure of Rn and Pt in bird nests on Mauritia flexuosa Linnaeus palm trees in two climatic seasons we sampled 41 palm trees with Phacellodomus ruber Vieillot, 1817 nests (22 in the wet season and 19 in the dry season) in four areas of Distrito Federal. The insects were collected by manual capture in the crown of palms, identified, separated by sex and immature stages. Faeces and salivary glands of Rn were examined to verify Trypanosoma cruzi Chagas, 1909 and/or T. rangeli Tejera, 1920 infection. Thirty five palm trees with P. ruber nests were infested by Rn (85%) and 22 by Pt (53%). 442 insects were collected in the dry season (200 Rn and 242 Pt) and 267 in the wet season (136 Rn and 131 Pt). The area was the only factor related with triatomine density in palm trees. The population structure showed: a) higher abundance of adults in Pt populations, b) higher abundance of males in both species and, c) females laying eggs in both seasons. Within the 177 insects examined none was infected by T. cruzi or T. rangeli. The population structure of Rn and Pt were not significantly different in the wet and the dry season, suggesting no seasonality reproduction.