Immunomodulatory effects of flazin from Crassostrea sikamea on splenic lymphocytes of Sprague-Dawley rats / 中国天然药物

Crassostrea sikamea (C.sikamea) is an important edible and medicinal seafood in China. In the present study, a compound named flazin was separated and identified from the ethyl acetate extract of C.sikamea (EAECs) for the first time. In addition, the 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetra zolium (MTS) assay revealed that EAECs and flazin inhibited the transformation of splenic lymphocytes in vitro. Moreover, flazin (20 μg·mL

First detection of Shiga toxin producing Escherichia coli O157:H7 (HlyA gene) and enumeration of most probable number (MPN) of fecal coliforms and Escherichia coli in cage cultured oysters (Crassostrea iredalei) and water from southern Malaysia

Aims@#Escherichia coli O157:H7 is known to be transmitted via fecal-oral route, where water plays a role in the transmission process. Oysters as bivalves, bio accumulate pathogens from the water through filter feeding and are suspected to play a role as disease transmission vector. In Malaysia, the data on oyster’s microbiological quality are limited. Hence, it was vital to conduct oyster related studies in Malaysia. The main objectives of this study include the enumeration of most probable number (MPN) of fecal coliforms and E. coli and isolation of E. coli from oyster (Crassostrea iredalei) and water sample for the detection of 16S rRNA and HlyA (Hemolysin A) genes of E. coli O157:H7. @*Methodology and results@#A total of 120 oysters and water samples (n=6) were collected from a fisherman village located in southern Malaysia. Total fecal coliforms and E. coli were determined using the MPN procedure. Colonies of E. coli were identified based on Gram staining, biochemical test, and PCR detection for the presence of 16S rRNA and HlyA gene of E. coli O157:H7. The enumeration results showed that the MPN of the fecal coliforms and E. coli found in the collected oyster samples do not meet the standard to be directed for human consumption (0.72 ± 0.19 × 104 MPN/100 g and 0.13 ± 0.03 × 10 4 MPN/100 g, respectively). The PCR assays showed that 16 out of the 104 (15.38%) of E. coli isolated from water and oysters showed the presence of HlyA gene. The phylogenetic tree analysis showed there were genetic relationships between the HlyA gene of the E. coli isolated in this study with the ones isolated from calf and human faeces.@*Conclusion, significance and impact of study@#The detection of Shiga toxin producing E. coli O157:H7 (HlyA gene) in cage cultured oysters (C. iredalei) and water from southern Malaysia was first time reported here. In the future, more study can be conducted to study the expression of the HlyA gene and confirm of its identity as E. coli O157:H7 using different target genes such as eaeA (encodes a 94 kD outer membrane protein called intimin) and Stx1 (Shiga toxin, Shigella dysenteriae type 1).

Growth Performance of the Mangrove Oyster Cultivated on the Amazon Coast

Abstract In the last decades the oyster faming stands out as the main mitigating measure to the decline of the fishery, as it presents socio-economic and environmental viability. However, for the success of the activity, it is necessary to understand the stages of cultivation, as well as the growth performance of the species to be cultivated. The present work aims to characterize the growth and survival of Crassostrea tulipa, cultivated on the Amazon coast. For this purpose, oysters were grouped by commercial size class (seed, juvenile, baby, average and masters) and compared the growth rates and their relationships with the abiotic variables. There was no difference in the average growth between the oyster classes, however, when comparing them in the total and percentage growth rates, a higher performance was observed in the oysters classified by juvenile and seed, respectively. The relationship of salinity to oyster growth was evidenced only in the class of juvenile oysters. The cultivation time required to obtain native oysters in the commercial size varied between four and seven months, being inferior to those found in other Brazilian regions.

Spatio-temporal Distribution Pattern of Oyster Larvae in Guaratuba Bay, Paraná State - Brazil

HIGHLIGHTS Crassostrea oysters larvae patterns in estuarine environments. Larvae distribution patterns in Guaratuba Bay (Paraná State - Brazil).

Abstract Crassostrea oysters present planktonic/planktotrophic larval development. Thus, it is essential knowing larvae distribution patterns in estuarine environments presenting oyster farms and spat collection. The aim of the current research is to investigate the spatio-temporal distribution of oyster larvae in Guaratuba Bay (Paraná State - Brazil) based on monthly samplings conducted with a plankton net (50 cm diameter and 225 µm mesh size) from June 2003 to June 2004 in three different points (Point I - bay´s entrance; Point II - cultivation park; Point III - median sector of the bay). Plankton samples were preserved in 4% buffered formaldehyde. They were concentrated and quantified in the laboratory. The total number of larvae in the sample from each net was counted and corrected to a standard larvae/m3 collection tow. Data about sea water temperature, salinity, transparency and pluviosity were also collected. Based on results about the spatial distribution of larvae, mean density was 33.30 ±42.73 larvae/m³ in Point I; 17.84 ±16.88 larvae/m³ in Point II and 55.53 ±78.31 larvae/m³ in Point III, during the studied period. Spring and Summer were the seasons recording the most expressive mean number of larvae; the largest concentration of them was found in Point III, in the middle section of the bay.

Absence of norovirus contamination in shellfish harvested and commercialized in the Northeast coast of Brazil

Norovirus (NoV) is the main cause of gastroenteritis outbreaks worldwide. Although NoV spreads mainly from person to person, it is estimated that a large proportion of NoV outbreaks are caused by foodborne transmission. Bivalve mollusks are one of the most important foods involved in NoV transmission to humans. Little is known about NoV prevalence in shellfish harvested and commercialized in Brazil. The aim of this study was to map, for the first time, the distribution of NoV contamination in oysters and mussels harvested and commercialized in the coast of Pernambuco state, northeast Brazil. A total of 380 mollusks (260 oysters and 120 mussels) were collected between February and August 2017 either directly from harvesting areas or obtained from beach vendors at 17 sites in Pernambuco. Samples were processed and tested for NoV contamination using a SYBR Green real-time PCR assay. All samples were negative for NoV GI or GII contamination, suggesting a low risk of NoV contamination from this food source during the study period. Additional surveys in different areas of the Brazilian coast are warranted to monitor the risk of NoV infection upon seafood consumption.

Potential of the HSP70 protein family as biomarker of Crassostrea virginica under natural conditions (Ostreoida: Ostreidae)

The HSP70 proteins are used as exposure biomarkers, and the oyster Crassostrea virginica is considered as a bioindicator organism in environmental assessment. According to the season, the level of expression of the HSP70 family in wild oysters has not been characterized before. The aim of this work was to analyze the expression of the HSP70 family as an exposure biomarker using C. virginica gills from individuals and groups of oysters from the Tampamachoco Lagoon under natural conditions. Ninety oyster samples were collected at locations from the Tampamachoco Lagoon during the dry and "north winds" seasons. One group of oysters was maintained under laboratory conditions and exposed to thermal stress. The pH, temperature, salinity, and dissolved oxygen (DO2) were measured inside the brackish Tuxpam-Tampamachoco system. Salinity and DO2 were outside the limits recommended for brackish systems in both seasons. The electrophoresis and immunodetection assay of HSP70 were performed using proteins from oyster gills. The HSP73, HSP72 and HSP69 isoforms were expressed in dry season tissue samples, while only the HSP73 and HSP72 isoforms were detected in north winds season tissue samples and positive control tissue samples. The HSP73 isoform has not been previously reported in C. virginica. To evaluate the expression of HSP70 protein family at individual and group levels from wild animals, it is also important to determine a seasonal baseline expression.

Las proteínas HSP70 se utilizan como biomarcadores de exposición y el ostión Crasostrea virginica es considerado como un organismo bioindicador en evaluaciones ambientales. De acuerdo con la estación, el nivel de expresión de la familia de las HSP70 en ostiones silvestres no ha sido caracterizado. El objetivo de este trabajo fue analizar la expresión de la familia de las proteínas HSP70 como un biomarcador de exposición utilizando branquias de C. virginica de manera individual y grupal bajo condiciones naturales. Noventa muestras de ostión se recolectaron en un sitio dentro de la Laguna Tampamachoco durante las estaciones de secas y "nortes". Un grupo se mantuvo bajo condiciones de laboratorio y expuesto a estrés térmico. El pH, la temperatura, la salinidad y el oxígeno disuelto (DO2) se midieron dentro del sistema salobre Tuxpan-Tampamachoco. La salinidad y el DO2 estuvieron fuera de los límites recomendados para sistemas salobres en ambas estaciones. La electroforesis y el ensayo de inmunodetección se llevaron a cabo con branquias de ostiones. Las isoformas HSP73, HSP72 y HSP69 se expresaron en tejido de las muestras de la época de secas, mientras que solamente las isoformas HSP73 y HSP72 se detectaron en tejido de las muestras de época de nortes y control positivo. La isoforma HSP73 no ha sido reportada previamente en C. virginica. Para evaluar la expresión de la familia de las proteínas HSP70 a nivel individual y grupal de organismos silvestres es importante determinar una línea de base de expresión estacional.

Caulerpa lentillifera and Sucrose Formulated Diets as Growth Enhancer of Oyster (Crassostrea virginica)

A total of 200 of Crassostrea virginica populations of average weight range from 41.19 ± 3.42 to 47.53 ± 1.06 g were studied to determine the effect of the feed diets of Caulerpa lentillifera and sucrose as growth enhancement. Growth rates increased that range from 56.99 ± 3.16 to 61.56 ± 2.87 g for 90 days period using an artificial water tank system. Previous studies conducted that C. lentillifera contained high protein and were the most abundant component. This seaweed also contained high amounts of minerals and balanced amino acid and notably very rich in iodine. phosphorus, calcium, magnesium and copper that will contribute to oysters growth. Oysters are known to have the ability to uptake dissolved organic matter as nutrients. In the present study, the effects of culture water supplemented with sucrose were tested on oysters. Results revealed that this organic matter promotes growth to the oysters. Sugars will be metabolized into pyruvate through the glycolysis pathway and will result in the supply of energy. Therefore, supplementation of sugar to oysters may have contributed as an energy source together with the lipid and protein content from the algae diet.

Physical factors affecting oyster diversity and distribution in Southern Thailand

Aim: Studies on oyster population dynamic is essential for effective oyster aquaculture.Bandon Bay in Southern Thailand is a major shellfish aquaculture site of high commercial value. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of environmental factors on oyster diversity and their distribution in Bandon Bay. Methodology: Adult oysters were collected from eight aquaculture sites during low tide and their body sizes were measured. Monthly, transparency, salinity, pH, dissolved oxygen, biochemical oxygen demand, alkalinity, ammonium (NH4-N), nitrite, nitrate and phosphate were recorded from Surat Thani Coastal Fisheries Research and Development Centre, Department of Fisheries.Results: Three oyster species were observed: Crassostrea belcheri, Crassostrea lugubris and Saccostrea forskalii, however, C. belcheri was most abundant at most locations. Oyster density in Bandon Bay was mostly influenced by alkalinity, followed by salinity, pH, NO3 and NH4-N.Interpretation: Since oyster reproduction, survival and shell development depend on environmental factors, thus studies on relationships between environmental factors and oyster occurrence/density may provide a better understanding about the community structures and spatial dynamics of oysters, as well as how oysters respond to environmental changes.

Recombinant expression of Crassostrea gigas defensin in Pichia pastoris and its antibacterial activity / 生物工程学报

Defensins are endogenous cationic antimicrobial peptides rich in arginine and cysteine residues. They are important immune factors resisting pathogenic bacteria infection for mollusks. The 43 amino acid residues near the carboxyl terminal for Crassostrea gigas defensin (CgD) form its mature peptide region, responsible for the biological activity of CgD. First, two target genes, CgDH⁺ (with 6×His-tag at 3' end) and CgDH- (without 6×His-tag at 3' end) were separated and amplified by RT-PCR with specific primers from Crassostrea gigas mantle. These two target genes were ligated to the expression vector pPICZαA to construct recombinant expression vectors, pPICZαA-CgDH⁺ and pPICZαA-CgDH-, which were transformed into competent Pichia pastoris X-33 cells by electroporation respectively. The recombinant target proteins, CgDH⁺ and CgDH-, were induced for 72 h with 1% methanol at 29 °C and 250 r/min. The recombinant CgDH⁺ (5.78 kDa) was purified by immobilized metal affinity chromatography (IMAC), and identified by MALDI-TOF-TOF analysis, demonstrating that it was the expected target protein. Based on the concentration of the purified product, the estimated yield of recombinant CgDH⁺ was 2.32 mg/L. Antimicrobial assay showed that the culture medium supernatant containing recombinant CgDH⁺ and recombinant CgDH-, respectively, had activities against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, indicating that the existence of 6×His tag in the recombinant proteins do not affect their biological activities.

Epizootiology of Perkinsus sp. inCrassostrea gasar oysters in polyculture with shrimps in northeastern Brazil / Epizootiologia de Perkinsus sp. em ostrasCrassostrea gasar em policultivo com camarões no Nordeste do Brasil

Abstract Bivalve culture is of considerable economic and social interest in northeastern (NE) Brazil. The polyculture is an alternative approach to traditional monoculture for reducing the environmental impact of shrimp farming and improving oyster culture. Perkinsus marinus andPerkinsus olseni were found infecting oysters in NE Brazil and can threaten oyster production. This study evaluatedPerkinsus spp. occurrence in Crassostrea gasar during all production stages. Oyster spats were produced in a hatchery and grown in shrimp ponds in Rio Grande do Norte state.Perkinsus spp. were surveyed by Ray’s fluid thioglycollate medium and confirmed by polymerase chain reaction. Prevalence and intensity of infection were determined in oysters until they reached 7 cm. Results showed that the broodstock was already infected by Perkinsus (60%), but the derived spats were Perkinsus-free. Oyster spats acquired Perkinsus infection when transferred to ponds. The prevalence gradually increased in the seven months following placement in ponds (73%), and then decreased to 17% by the tenth month. The infections were initially mild, but intensity increased at the final growth stage. In conclusion, it is possible to produce Perkinsus-free C. gasar oyster spats from infected broodstock, and their culture in shrimp ponds is feasible.

Resumo O cultivo de bivalves é de grande interesse econômico e social no Nordeste (NE) do Brasil. O policultivo é uma alternativa ao monocultivo tradicional de camarões para reduzir o impacto ambiental e melhorar a produção de ostras.Perkinsus marinus e Perkinsus olseni foram identificados infectando ostras no Nordeste do Brasil e representam uma ameaça a produção de ostras. Este estudo avaliou a ocorrência dePerkinsus spp. em Crassostrea gasardurante todas as fases de produção. Sementes de ostras foram produzidas em laboratório e cultivadas em viveiros de camarão no Rio Grande do Norte.Perkinsus spp. foram diagnosticados ​​com o uso do meio de tioglicolato fluido de Ray e confirmado por reação em cadeia da polimerase. A prevalência e intensidade de infecção foram determinadas em ostras até atingirem 7 cm. Os resultados mostraram que os reprodutores encontravam-se infectados porPerkinsus (60%), mas as sementes produzidas estavam livres de Perkinsus. As sementes adquiriram a infecção porPerkinsus quando transferidas para os viveiros. A prevalência aumentou gradualmente nos sete meses após a colocação nos viveiros (73%) e, em seguida, diminuiu para 17% até o décimo mês. As infecções foram inicialmente leves, mas aumentaram até a fase final do crescimento. Em conclusão, é possível produzir sementes de ostras C. gasarlivres de Perkinsus a partir de reprodutores infectados e seu cultivo em viveiros de camarão é viável.

Evaluación del crecimiento y la sobrevivencia en cultivos de ostra japonesa desarrollados en Meanguera del Golfo, departamento de La Unión: en vínculo con CENDEPESCA / Growth assessment and survival of japanese oyster crops developed in Meanguera del Golfo, department of La Unión

En El Salvador, el cultivo de Ostra del Pacifico (Crassostrea gigas) es una actividad nueva, ya que en el país se desconocía la reproducción, el manejo de la semilla y el desarrollo del cultivo engorde en las zonas de cultivo. Es por ello que el Centro de Desarrollo de la Pesca y la Acuicultura (CENDEPESCA) juntamente con la cooperación técnica del Gobierno del Japón a través de la Agencia de Cooperación Internacional del Japón (JICA) ha implementado el "Proyecto para el Desarrollo de la Acuicultura de Moluscos en El Salvador" que ha introducido una nueva especie de ostra en El Salvador, la Ostra del Pacifico (Crassostrea gigas) con el objetivo de mejorar la calidad de vida de las comunidades de pescadores, que solamente se ha dedicado a la extracción de los recursos del medio natural, mas no al cultivo directamente a causa de la falta de recursos para la realización de la reproducción de los organismos, adquisición de la semilla e insumos para el desarrollo del cultivo. La Escuela Especializada en Ingeniería ITCA-FEPADE regional La Unión se unió a este esfuerzo y realizó una investigación en cooperación con CENDEPESCA, la cual inició con la siembra de 7,000 semillas en el sistema suspendido de Ostra japonesa, posterior a ello se elaboró un cronograma de trabajo para el control y se desarrollo del crecimiento del cultivo en los 6 meses de duración de la investigación,

In El Salvador, the cultivation of Pacific Oyster (Crassostrea gigas) is a new activity, due to, in the country, the reproduction, the handling of the seed and the development of the fattening crop in the cultivation areas were unknown. That is why the Center for the Development of Fisheries and Aquaculture (CENDEPESCA) together with the technical cooperation of the Government of Japan through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has implemented the "Project for the Development of Aquaculture of Mollusks in El Salvador "that has introduced a new species of oyster in El Salvador, the Pacific Oyster (Crassostrea gigas) with the aim of improving the quality of life of the fishing communities, which has only been dedicated to the extraction of the resources of the natural environment, but not to the cultivation directly because of the lack of resources for the realization of the reproduction of the organisms, acquisition of the seed and inputs for the development of the crop. ITCA-FEPADE La Unión joined this effort and carried out an investigation in cooperation with CENDEPESCA, which began with the sowing of 7,000 seeds in the suspended system of Japanese Oyster, after which a schedule of work for the control and development of the growth of the crop in the 6 months of duration of the investigation,

Oyster is an effective transmission vehicle for Cryptosporidium infection in human

Objective To determine the ability of oysters to trap and maintain viable Cryptosporidium oocysts, and the feasibility of Cryptosporidium multiplication in oysters' organs. Methods Seventy oysters were raised in experimentally seeded natural seawater for up to 3 months, with weekly oocysts inoculations. Cryptosporidium oocysts, viable and non-viable, as well as other stages were detected using two immunofluorescence vital staining techniques (Sporo-Glo and Merifluor

Oyster is an effective transmission vehicle for Cryptosporidium infection in human

OBJECTIVE@#To determine the ability of oysters to trap and maintain viable Cryptosporidium oocysts, and the feasibility of Cryptosporidium multiplication in oysters' organs.@*METHODS@#Seventy oysters were raised in experimentally seeded natural seawater for up to 3 months, with weekly oocysts inoculations. Cryptosporidium oocysts, viable and non-viable, as well as other stages were detected using two immunofluorescence vital staining techniques (Sporo-Glo and Merifluor(®)) with confocal microscopy. Viability rate at various times after inoculations were calculated.@*RESULTS@#Cryptosporidium oocysts were found most concentrated in oysters' digestive organs than in gill and water inside the oysters. Oocysts numbers were 857.33 at 24 h after inoculation and strikingly decreased to 243.00 and 126.67 oocysts at 72 h and 7 days, respectively. The oocysts in oyster were also less viable over time; 70%, 60% and 30% viable at 24 h, 72 h and 7 days after inoculation, respectively. At 77 days, the number of oocysts was very low and none was found at 84 days onwards. Although some oocysts were ruptured with released sporozoites, there was no evidence throughout the study of sporozoites multiplication to indicate that oyster is a biological host. Despite the significant reduction in oocysts number after 7 days of inoculation, the remained viable oocysts can still cause cryptosporidiosis.@*CONCLUSION@#The findings confirm that Cryptosporidium parvum does not multiply in oyster, and is therefore not a biological host. Nevertheless, the results suggest that oyster can be an effective transmission vehicle for Cryptosporidium oocysts, especially within 24-72 h of contamination, with viable oocysts present at up to 7 days post infection. Unless consuming well-cooked oyster dishes, eating raw oyster remains a public health concern and at least 3 days of depuration in clean sea water prior to consumption is recommended.

Evaluación del crecimiento y la sobrevivencia de ostra japonesa (Cassostrea gigas) en cultivos desarrollados en Meanguera del Golfo, departamento de La Unión, El Salvador / evaluation of growth and survival of japanese oyster (Cassostrea gigas) in crops grown in Meanguera del Golfo, department of La Unión, El Salvador

La Escuela Especializada en Ingeniería ITCA-FEPADE Centro Regional MEGATEC La Unión, a través de la carrera "Técnico en Manejo Integrado de Recursos Costero Marinos, con especialidad en Acuicultura y Pesquería" y en coordinación con el Centro de Desa- rrollo de la Pesca y la Acuicultura (CENDEPESCA), se desarrolló el proyecto de investigación aplicada para determinar el crecimiento y sobre vivencia en cultivos de Ostra Japonesa, con la finalidad de buscar y proponer alternativas de cultivo a los productores acuícolas del municipio de Meanguera del Golfo, departamento de La Unión. Para la implementación de este proyecto de investigación, se realizó una siembra de 7,000 semillas de ostras, que fueron colocadas suspendidas en la columna de agua de un sistema de cultivo constituido por un Long Line y linternas de 5 pisos cada una. Al final del periodo de cultivo se cosecharon organismos con tamaño promedio de 5.5 cm, con una sobre vivencia del 7%. El mayor depredador encontrado fue el caracol (Cymatium wiegmanni) y el rango de temperaturas durante este periodo de cultivo fue de 30.1 y 30.5 °C.

The Specialized School in Engineering ITCA-FEPADE, regional Centre MEGATEC in La Unión, through its career "Technician in Integrated Control Coastal marine resources, with an aquaculture and fishery emphasis" and in conjunction with The Development of Fishing and Aquaculture Center (CENDEPESCA), implemented an applied research project to determine the growth and survival in Japanese oyster farming so as to find and propose farming alternatives to aquaculture producers from the municipality of Meanguera del Golfo, departamento de la Unión. To implement this research project, 7,000 oysters were farmed and placed hanging from the water column of a farming system made up of a Long line and flashlights of 5 levels each. By the end of the farming period, organisms with an average size of 5.5 cm were harvested with a 7% survival chance. The main oyster predator found was the (Cymatium wiegmanni) snail, and the temperature range during the farming period was between 30.1 and 30.5 °C.

Paleoambientes de Rhizophora mangle (Rhizophoraceae) en Castilletes, Alta Guajira, Venezuela según las paleoconchas de Crassostrea rhizophorae (Ostreoida: Ostreidae)

Los conchales constituyen un rasgo muy característico de las adaptaciones humanas a los ambientes litorales. Analizar su composición y su variabilidad puede brindar indicios en cuanto a la subsistencia de antiguas poblaciones humanas, procesos de formación e información sobre cambios en el ambiente. Este estudio evaluó el uso de paleoconchas halladas en conchales para inferir las condiciones paleoambientales de un bosque de manglar. Datos de paleoconchas de conchales ubicados en Castilletes-Alta Guajira, Venezuela fueron datados en 3 580 ± 30 años A.P, se incluyeron datos de conchas actuales provenientes de la Laguna de Cocinetas (Castilletes) y de isla Maracas (Lago de Maracaibo). Se examinaron un total de 185 muestras con marcas de fijación de la raíz de mangle, paleoconchas (n = 109) y conchas actuales (n = 76) de C. rhizophorae. Posteriormente, se estimaron los diámetros de las paleoraíces y de las raíces actuales a través de un modelo geométrico utilizando la huella de fijación de la concha. Para validar el modelo se midieron directamente los diámetros de las raíces actuales. Adicionalmente se realizó un estudio fisionómico en los bosques de ambas localidades de estudio, para asociar la estructura del bosque, con el diámetro de las raíces y la información de las conchas. Los resultados mostraron que no hay diferencias significativas entre los diámetros de las raíces obtenidas por el modelo geométrico y los diámetros de las raíces medidas directamente (Castilletes P = 0.160854; Maracas P = 0.617271). Las mediciones de las conchas mostraron que las paleoconchas son más largas que las conchas modernas. Los diámetros de las paleoraíces no mostraron diferencias significativas con las raíces del bosque actual de Castilletes (zona expuesta) P = 0.303518, contrastando con los diámetros de las raíces de isla Maracas (zona protegida) (P = 0.017771). El estudio fisionómico mostro que el bosque actual de Castilletes tiene un DAP y una altura (11.10 y 4.90 m respectivamente) menor que Maracas (34.86 cm y 10.62 m), respondiendo a la exposición a los vientos. Se determinó que el paleobosque y el bosque actual de Castilletes tienen características similares asociadas con ambientes áridos, con fuerte exposición a los vientos. Se concluye que el análisis de las huellas de fijación de las paleoconchas es un método novedoso y de bajo costro que permite obtener información sobre el paleoambiente de los bosques de R. mangle.

Shell middens are a very characteristic feature of coastal human adaptations. Component and variability analysis offer clues to subsistence of ancient human populations, formation processes and information of environmental changes. In this study, we tested the use of paleoshells found in shell midden to infer paleoenviroment conditions of R. mangle forest. We presented data of paleoshells from shell middens, located on Castilletes-Alta Guajira, Venezuela, dated from 3 580 ± 30 años B.P years, and we included data of actual shells from mangrove forests located on Cocinetas laggon (Castilletes) and Maracas Island (Maracaibo lagoon). We examined 185 samples of fixing traces marked by mangrove roots on paleoshells (n = 109) and actual shells (n = 76) of C. rhizophorae. Subsequently, we estimated paleoroot and modern root diameter using a geometric model using shell's trace. To validate this model, we directly measured modern roots. Furthermore, a physiognomic study was made in both sites to associate mangrove forest with roots diameter and shells information. Results showed that there were no significant differences between estimated root diameter values obtained from traces of modern shells and the ones recorded by direct measurement of roots (Castilletes P = 0.160854; Maracas P = 0.617271); allowing the use of geometric model to obtain estimated values of paleoroots. Shell measurements showed that paleoshells were larger than modern shells. Paleoroot diameters showed no significant differences with modern Castilletes's mangrove roots (exposed zone) (P = 0.303518), contrasting with Maracas's roots (protected zone) (P = 0.017771). Physiognomic study showed that modern Castilletes forests had diameter at breast height (DBH) and tree height (11.10 m and 4.90 m, respectively) lower than Maracas (34.86 cm and 10.62 m), responding to the wind exposure and salinity. Diameters and quantity of roots per tree were higher in Castilletes (3.01 cm y 11 roots/tree) than Maracas (2.39 cm y 7 roots/tree). We determined that paleoforests and modern forests from Castilletes have similar characteristics associated to arid environment with stronger wind exposition. We concluded that paleoshells trace analysis is a low cost and novel method that allows obtaining information about paleoenvironment of R. mangle forests.

Perkinsus sp. infecting the oyster Crassostrea rhizophorae from estuaries of the septentrional Northeast, Brazil / Perkinsus sp. infectando a ostra Crassostrea rhizophorae de estuários do Nordeste setentrional, Brasil

Abstract The mangrove oyster Crassostrea rhizophorae is an estuarine resource exploited by riverside communities in Northeast Brazil. Despite its socioeconomic importance, studies on the health status of this bivalve are scanty in this region. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the presence of the protozoan Perkinsus sp. in C. rhizophorae collected in August and September 2011 in three estuaries of the septentrional Northeast, Brazil: Jaguaribe (Ceará), Camurupim (Piauí) and Carnaubeiras (Maranhão) (n= 150 specimens/site). The samples were submitted to Ray’s fluid thioglycollate medium (RFTM), PCR and histology assays. The RFTM assay revealed spherical, blue or bluish-black hypnospores of the genus Perkinsus in 50 specimens (Jaguaribe= 17.3%, Camurupim= 5.3%, Carnaubeiras= 10.6%). The intensity of the infection ranged from very light (1-10 cells per slide) to severe (more than 40 cells in each of 10 fields of the slide) for Jaguaribe; very light for Camurupim and very light to moderate (at least 40 cells observed in each of 10 fields of the slide) for Carnaubeiras. When submitted to confirmatory PCR analysis, 6 cases were confirmed (Jaguaribe=3, Camurupim=1, Carnaubeiras=2). The histology confirmed 21 cases of infection in specimens from the three estuaries. Although local collectors have reported no mortality in oyster populations that might be attributed to infection by Perkinsus, health surveillance of oyster populations in the septentrional region of Northeast Brazil is advisable.

Resumo A ostra-do-mangue Crassostrea rhizophorae é um recurso estuarino explorado por comunidades ribeirinhas do Nordeste do Brasil. Apesar de sua importância socioeconômica, estudos sobre o estado de saúde deste bivalve são escassos na região. O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar a presença do protozoário Perkinsus sp. em C. rhizophorae coletada em agosto e setembro de 2011, em três estuários da região setentrional do Nordeste brasileiro: Jaguaribe (Ceará), Camurupim (Piauí) e Carnaubeiras (Maranhão) (n = 150 espécimes/local). As amostras foram submetidas ao meio líquido de tioglicolato de Ray (RFTM), PCR e ensaios histológicos. A análise em RFTM revelou hipnósporos esféricos azuis ou preto-azulados do gênero Perkinsus em 50 espécimes (Jaguaribe= 17,3%, Camurupim= 5,3%, Carnaubeiras= 10,6%). A intensidade de infecção variou de muito leve (1-10 células por lâmina) a severa (mais de 40 células em cada um dos 10 campos da lâmina) para o Rio Jaguaribe; muito leve para o Rio Camurupim e muito leve a moderada (pelo menos 40 células observadas, em cada um dos 10 campos da lâmina) para o Rio Carnaubeiras. Quando submetidos à análise confirmatória por PCR, foram confirmados 6 casos (Jaguaribe= 3, Camurupim= 1, Carnaubeiras= 2). A histologia confirmou 21 casos de infecção em espécimes dos três estuários. Embora os coletores locais não tenham relatado nenhuma mortalidade em populações de ostras que pudesse ser atribuída à infecção por Perkinsus, é aconselhável um monitoramento sobre o estado de saúde de populações de ostras da região.

Multidimensional assessment of sustainability extractivism of mangrove oyster Crassostrea spp. in the estuary of Cananéia, São Paulo, Brazil / Avaliação Multidimensional de sustentabilidade do extrativismo da ostra de mangue Crassostrea spp. no estuário de Cananéia, São Paulo, Brasil

AbstractThis study was carried out with groups of extractivists of mangrove oysters in the estuary of Cananéia, São Paulo State, Brazil, between the years 1999 and 2007 with the objective to evaluate and compare trends in the sustainability of this activity, in a multidimensional and integrated way, in social, economic, ecological, technological and ethical dimensions, using the method RAPFISH. The different groups had distinct trends related to sustainability and the social, technological and ethical dimensions had more influence on trends in sustainability than the ecological and economic dimensions. The group with the best performance in the sustainability assessment was Mandira, due to advances promoted by local social organization. On the other hand, the Porto Cubatão group showed the worst performance, once this is very recent group in the extractivism of oysters. The RAPFISH proved to be a useful tool for data assessment.

ResumoO presente trabalho foi desenvolvido junto aos grupos de extrativistas de ostra em Cananéia, SP, entre os anos de 1999 e 2007 e teve o objetivo de avaliar e comparar as tendências relativas à sustentabilidade dessa atividade, de forma multidimensional e integrada, nas dimensões social, econômica, ecológica, tecnológica e ética, utilizando o método RAPFISH. Os diferentes grupos estudados apresentaram dististas tendências relativas à sustentabilidade e as dimensões social, tecnológica e ética exerceram maior influência sobre as tendências da sustentabilidade, do que as dimensões ecológica e econômica. O grupo com melhor desempenho na avaliação de sustentabilidade foi o do Mandira, em razão dos avanços promovidos pela organização social local, no extremo oposto posicionou-se o grupo do Porto Cubatão, em razão do grupo ser muito recente no extrativismo de ostras. O Rapfish se mostrou uma ferramenta útil no equacionamento dos dados.

RAW TROPICAL OYSTERS AS VEHICLES FOR MULTIDRUG-RESISTANT Vibrio parahaemolyticus / Ostras tropicais cruas como fonte de Vibrio parahaemolyticus multirresistentes

The following study aimed to determine the antimicrobial susceptibility profile of Vibrio parahaemolyticus strains from fresh and frozen oysters Crassostrea rhizophorae sold in Fortaleza-Brazil. An antibiogram was performed on 87 isolates using nine antibiotics: gentamicin (Gen 10 µg), ampicillin (Amp 10 µg), penicillin G (Pen 10U), ciprofloxacin (Cip 5 µg), chloramphenicol (Chl 30 µg), nalidixic acid (Nal 30 µg), tetracycline (Tet 30 µg), vancomycin (Van 30 µg) and erythromycin (Ery 15 µg). All strains were resistant to at least one antibiotic, and 85 (97.7%) were multi-resistant, with predominance of the Van+ Pen+Amp resistance profile (n = 46). Plasmid resistance to Pen, Amp and Ery was detected. Thus, the risk that raw oyster consumption poses to the health of consumers is highlighted, due to the fact that these bivalves may host antibacterial-resistant microorganisms.

O presente estudo objetivou determinar o perfil de suscetibilidade a antimicrobianos de cepas de Vibrio parahaemolyticus oriundas de ostras “in natura” e congeladas comercializadas em Fortaleza-Brasil. Oitenta e sete (87) cepas foram submetidas ao antibiograma com emprego de nove antibióticos: gentamicina (Gen 10 µg), ampicilina (Amp 10 µg), penicilina G (Pen 10U), ciprofloxacin (Cip 5 µg), cloranfenicol (Clo 30 µg), ácido nalidíxico (Nal 30 µg), tetraciclina (Tet 30 µg), vancomicina (Van 30 µg) e eritromicina (Eri 15 µg). Todas as cepas mostram-se resistentes a pelo menos um antibiótico, e 85 (97,7%) apresentaram multirresistência, com predomínio do perfil Van+ Pen+Amp (n = 46). Foi detectada resistência plasmidial a Pen, Amp e Eri. Dessa forma, o risco que o consumo de ostras cruas representa para a saúde dos consumidores merece ser destacado, uma vez que esses bivalves podem ser veículos de transmissão de micro organismos multirresistentes a fármacos antibacterianos.

The reproductive cycle of the oyster Crassostrea gasar / Ciclo reprodutivo da ostra Crassostrea gasar

The purpose of this study was to analyze the reproductive cycle of the oyster Crassostrea gasar (= C. brasiliana) in the field and the laboratory. The reproductive cycle of the animals was evaluated in the field at Sambaqui Beach, Florianópolis, SC (27° 29′18″ S and 48° 32′12″ W) from May 2008 through November 2009. In July, the animals were in the resting stage. The early growth stage began in August and was followed by the late growth stage in October. In November and December, the oysters began to enter the mature stage. Females in spawning condition were predominant during these months. The stages of the reproductive cycle were positively associated with temperature (r=0.77, P<0.01) and negatively associated with salinity (r=−0.56, P=0.042). These findings demonstrated that increased temperature and reduced salinity influence the reproductive development of Crassostrea gasar. The condition index (CI) of the animals was also associated with the seawater temperature. The highest values of the condition index were observed during the months when the temperature of the seawater was gradually increasing. A laboratory experiment was performed to test the effect of salinity on the reproductive cycle of the oysters. The experiment was conducted in standardized tanks. The animals were conditioned using two salinities (24‰ and 34‰). The salinity regime influenced the development of the gonadal tissue of the oysters. A salinity of 24‰ produced greater reproductive development.

O presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar o ciclo reprodutivo da ostra Crassostrea gasar, em campo e em laboratório. O estádio de desenvolvimento do ciclo reprodutivo dos animais foi acompanhado na Praia do Sambaqui/Florianópolis/SC (27°29′18″S e 48°32′12″W) entre maio de 2008 e novembro de 2009. No mês de julho os animais encontravam-se no estádio de repouso e entre os meses de agosto a outubro, as ostras seguiram nos estádios de pré-maturação e maturação. Entre os meses de novembro e dezembro, as ostras começaram a ser encontradas no estádio maturo, havendo predominância de fêmeas aptas a eliminação de gametas. Houve associação positiva (r=0,77; P<0,01) entre o estádio de desenvolvimento do ciclo reprodutivo das ostras e a temperatura, bem como associação negativa com a salinidade (r=−0,56; P=0,042), demonstrando que tanto o aumento da temperatura como a redução da salinidade são fatores ambientais que influenciam no desenvolvimento reprodutivo das ostras dessa espécie. O índice de condição (IC) dos animais, também teve relação com a temperatura da água do mar, sendo os maiores índices observados nos meses em que a temperatura da água do mar teve aumento gradativo. Também foi realizado um experimento em laboratório visando testar o efeito da salinidade da água sobre o desenvolvimento reprodutivo das ostras. Para tanto, os animais foram condicionados em tanques padronizados e testaram-se duas salinidades (24‰ e 34‰). Observou-se que o regime de salinidade influenciou o desenvolvimento do tecido gonádico das ostras, sendo que a salinidade de 24‰ permitiu aos animais maior desenvolvimento reprodutivo.

Variación del ciclo gonádico del ostión americano, Crassostrea virginica (Ostreoida: Ostreidae) en función de su talla en la laguna de Tamiahua, Veracruz, México / Variation of gonadal cycle of the american oyster, Crassostrea virginica (Ostreoida: Ostreidae) as a function of height in Tamiahua Lagoon, Veracruz, Mexico

The American oyster, Crassostrea virginica is one of the most important fishery resources of the Gulf of Mexico, where it has been classified as “resource exploited at maximum”. Since 1994 state authorities set a minimum extraction shell length of 70 mm (adult size); this was based on population studies alone. We compare the gonadal cycle of subadults oysters with adult organisms. From January to December 2011, 90 oysters were collected monthly in Tamiahua Lagoon, Veracruz and classified as subadults (50-69mm; 75% of sample) and adults (≥70mm). Histological gonad sections were classified in four categories: rest, gametogenesis, maturation and release of gametes. In subadults, the rest stage had two peaks (January 22% and June 13%), and gametogenesis between January and July (22-74%). Maturation was observed in July, August and September (40, 64 and 41% respectively) and release in October (66%) and November (45%). Correspondingly, adults were resting in January and June (17 and 13%), and January-July gametogenesis (56-88%), matured in August and September (64 and 42%) and released gametes in September and October (54 and 70%). The gametogenic cycle was similar in subadults and adults: the species breeds from sizes equal or smaller than 50 mm and this should be considered by authorities. Rev. Biol. Trop. 62 (Suppl. 3): 201-206. Epub 2014 September 01.

El ostión americano (Crassostrea virginica) es uno de los recursos de pesca mas importantes en el Golfo de México, donde es clasificado como “recurso aprovechado al máximo”. Desde 1994 las autoridades estatales fijaron una talla mínima de extracción de 70mm de longitud de concha (tamaño adulto); esto basado en estudios aislados de poblaciones. Comparamos el ciclo gonadal de subadultos y adultos. De enero a diciembre de 2011, se colectaron 90 ostiones mensualmente en la laguna de Tamiahua, Veracruz y se clasificaron como subadultos (40-69 mm) y adultos (>70mm). Los cortes histológicos de las gónadas se clasificaron en cuatrocategorías: reposo, gametogénesis, maduración y liberación de gametos. En subadultos, la categoría de reposo tuvo dos picos (enero 22% y junio 13%) y la gametogénesis entre enero y julio (22-74%). La maduración se observó en julio, agosto y setiembre (40, 64 y 41%) y la liberación en octubre (66%) y noviembre (74%). Correspondientemente, los adultos reposaban en enero y junio (17 y 13%), y la gametogénesis entre enero y julio (56-88%), maduraban en agosto y setiembre (64 y 42%) y liberaban gametos en setiembre y octubre (54 y 70%). El ciclo gametogénico fue similar entre ostiones subadultos y adultos: la especie se reproduce con tamaños igual o inferior a 50mm y esto lo deben considerar las autoridades.