OCCURRENCE OF PHYTOPLANKTON OF SOME ESTUARIES FROM RATNAGIRI DISTRICT DURING RAINY SEASON

Occurrence, diversity and density of phytoplankton were recorded in five estuaries from Ratnagiri district of Maharashtra during rainy season. A total of 104 phytoplankton species belonging four division, viz, Cyanophyceae (11), Chlorophyceae (7), Dinophyceae (3) and Bacillariophyceae (83) were reported in the present study. Species diversity and density was recorded highest at Ranpar estuary and from Bacillariophyceae it was greater than other divisions. Diversity index is very high due to number of contributing species. He result concluded that the selected estuaries are more fertile with rich phytoplankton productivity.

Hábitos alimentarios de tres especies de peces lenguados (Pleuronectiformes: Achiridae) en la Bahía de Buenaventura, Pacífico Colombiano / Feeding habits of three species of sole fish (Pleuronectiformes: Achiridae) in Buenaventura Bay, Colombian Pacific

Resumen Introducción: La dinámica de las condiciones ambientales influencia la variación del alimento disponible para los organismos estuarinos, afectando el consumo de alimento de los organismos bentónicos como los lenguados, esenciales para establecer y monitorear la calidad ambiental en estos ecosistemas. Objetivo: Determinar los hábitos tróficos de tres especies de la familia Achiridae en la Bahía de Buenaventura, Pacífico colombiano. Métodos: Los peces se recolectaron por medio de pesca de arrastre artesanal. Así mismo, en laboratorio se determinó la dieta de cada una de las especies y se calcularon diferentes índices tróficos, registrando diferencias en los hábitos alimentarios entre estas especies. Resultados: Se recolectó un total de 159 peces del género Achirus, siendo la especie más abundante Achirus klunzingeri (98), luego Achirus mazatlanus (44) y finalmente Achirus scutum (17). La dieta de A. scutum se basó en detritos, la de A. mazatlanus en detritos y peces y la de A. klunzingeri en crustáceos y peces. Los individuos de A. klunzingeri presentaron diferencias en su dieta entre la zona interna y externa del estuario, en la zona interna los peces fueron la presa principal y en la zona externa fueron los crustáceos. Las especies A. klunzingeri y A. mazatlanus presentaron ingesta de microplásticos, principalmente fibras alargadas e incoloras presentes en individuos de todas las tallas. La dinámica de los hábitos tróficos de A. klunzingeri, se relacionaron con algunas variables ambientales, como temperatura, trasparencia y oxígeno disuelto. Por ejemplo, estas tres variables presentaron correlaciones negativas con el ítem peces, y positivas para la categoría crustáceos. Conclusión: Se evidenció que estas especies son generalistas y que las condiciones ambientales no solo influenciaron la dinámica del consumo alimentario, sino que también, determinaron la presencia de los microplásticos.

Abstract Introduction: The dynamic of the environmental conditions influences the availability of the food resources for the estuarine organisms, affecting the food consumption of the benthic organism such as the soles, which are essential for establishing and monitoring the environmental quality of these ecosystems. Objective: To determine the trophic habits of three species of the Achiridae family in Buenaventura Bay, Colombian Pacific. Methods: Fish were captured using artisanal trawling. Then, the diet of each species was determined and different trophic indexes were calculated registering differences in alimentary habits among species. Results: It was collected a total of 159 fishes of the genus Achirus, being the most abundant Achirus klunzingeri (98), then Achirus mazatlanus (44) and finally Achirus scutum (17). The diet of A. scutum was based on detritus, the diet of A. mazatlanus was mainly detritus and fish whereas the diet of A. klunzingeri presented a dynamic pattern based mainly on crustaceans and fish. The individuals of Achirus klunzingeri presented differences in the diet between the internal and external area of the estuary, in the internal zone the fish were the main prey while in the external zone were the crustaceans. The species A. klunzingeri and A. mazatlanus presented ingestion of microplastics, mainly elongated and colorless fibers which were present in individuals of all sizes. The dynamic of the trophic habits of A. klunzingeri was related to the environmental variables such as temperature, transparency and dissolved oxygen. For example, these three variables presented negative correlations with the item fishes, and positive for the crustacean category. Conclusions: Despite the generalist nature of the studied species, the environmental conditions, not only influenced the food consumption dynamic, but also determined the presence of microplastics.

EFECTO DEL pH EN LAS TASAS DE BIOACUMULACIÓN DE METALES PESADOS EN LA MACROALGA Bostrychia calliptera (Rhodomelaceae, Ceramiales) / Effect of pH on the bioacumulation rates of heavy metals in macroalgae Bostrychia calliptera (Rhodomelaceae, Ceramiales)

RESUMEN Uno de los factores que más influye en las características químicas de un metal en solución es el nivel de acidez. El pH, por lo tanto, afecta la reactividad del ion y por ende su interacción con los puntos de unión de la pared celular de la planta. Este estudio evaluó el efecto del pH en la capacidad de bioacumulación de metales pesados en el alga roja Bostrychia calliptera (Rhodophyta, Rhodomelaceae). Se sometieron talos del alga a diferentes concentraciones de mercurio (Hg) y Plomo (Pb), desde 0,1 hasta 10 mg/L para Hg y desde 0,1 hasta 15 mg/L para Pb, durante periodos exposición de 0, 12, 24 y 96 horas, bajo diferentes niveles de pH. Las concentraciones de metal acumulado se determinaron por espectrofotometría de absorción atómica. Las mayores tasas de acumulación se encontraron en el alga expuesta a pH 8 (tanto para Hg como para Pb), el cual es un nivel de pH muy cercano al medido en el área de muestreo. La concentración de metal en el alga se incrementó de manera lineal hasta las 48 h de exposición, tiempo en el que se evidenció una mayor eficiencia de acumulación durante el primer intervalo del periodo del bioensayo. El presente estudio permitió identificar el uso potencial del alga B. calliptera como especie bioindicadora de metales pesados en ambientes estuarinos.

ABSTRACT One of the factors with a bigger influence on the chemical characteristics of metal in solution is the level of acidity. Solution pH affects the cell wall metal-binding sites and the metal ion chemistry in water. This study evaluated the effect of pH on the bioaccumulation capacity in the red algae B. calliptera (Rhodophyta, Rhodomelaceae) exposed to different pH ranges. Algae thalli were subjected to different concentrations ofmercury (Hg) and Lead (Pb), at concentrations from 0.1 to 10 mg/L for Hg and from 0.1 to 15 mg/L for Pb, respectively, during the following exposure times: 0, 12, 24 and 96 hours for each ion. Metal concentrations were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry according to standard APHA methods. The highest accumulation rates were found when the algae were exposed to pH 8 (for both Hg and Pb), which is a level very close to that measured in the study area. The metal concentration in the algae increased linearly until 48 hrs, a time where a greater accumulation efficiency was evident. The present study allowed to identify the potential use of the alga B. calliptera as a bioindicator species for heavy metals in estuarine environments.

Behavioral aspects of waterbirds / Aspectos comportamentais de aves aquáticas

Abstract Estuaries are used by waterbirds as foraging, resting and nesting sites, serving also as shelter for migratory birds. The dynamics of this avifauna in an aquatic environment may be associated with the differences of time of day, tide height, temperature, wind speed and use of the site by different species. This study had the objective of evaluating behavioral aspects of aquatic birds, relating the influence of environmental variables with their activities. Bird counts were performed at the mouth of two important rivers of the state of Santa Catarina, Brazil, during two-hour intervals throughout the day in monthly samplings between June (2015) and May (2016). A total of 44 species were recorded, ten of which were migratory. The most recorded behaviors were foraging and resting. The Kruskal-Wallis analysis indicated no significant difference in behavior between the sampling intervals. The Bray-Curtis similarity test resulted in three groups: 1) - species that foraged most of the time; 2) - species that rested most of the time; and 3) - same time in both activities. The Indicator Species Analysis showed that 17 species were associated with only one microhabitat and 15 species with more than one. The Canonical Correlation Analysis indicated that only tide height, temperature and rainfall variables were correlated with the behaviors performed and only the resting activity was positively correlated with all variables. This may be associated with thermoregulation and the ability of some species to stay in midlitoral at high tide. The results demonstrate that different waterbird species used the studied areas in different ways. Thus, the heterogeneity of microhabitats in an aquatic environment of extreme importance for the coexistence and maintenance of the diversity of waterbirds.

Resumo Estuários são utilizados por aves aquáticas como locais de forrageio, descanso e nidificação, servindo, também, como pontos de parada para aves migratórias. A dinâmica dessa avifauna em um ambiente pode estar associada a diferenças entre horários do dia, altura da maré, temperatura, velocidade do vento e uso do local. Esse trabalho teve o objetivo de avaliar aspectos comportamentais de aves aquáticas, relacionando a influência de variáveis ambientais com suas atividades. Amostragens mensais foram realizadas na foz de dois importantes rios do Estado de Santa Catarina, Brasil, entre junho de 2015 e maio de 2016, em intervalos de duas horas no decorrer do dia. Um total de 44 espécies foram registradas, dez das quais foram migratórias. Os comportamentos mais observados foram forrageio e descanso. A análise de Kruskall-Wallis não indicou diferenças significativas no comportamento entre os horários de amostragem. O teste de similaridade Bray-Curtis resultou em três agrupamentos: 1) - espécies que forragearam na maior parte do tempo; 2) - espécies que descansaram na maior parte do tempo; e 3) - mesma quantidade de tempo em ambas atividades. A Análise de Espécies Indicadoras mostrou que 17 espécies estiveram associadas com apenas um microhabitat e 15 espécies com mais de um. A Análise de Correlação Canônica indicou que apenas as variáveis maré, temperatura e precipitação foram significativamente correlacionadas com os comportamentos demonstrados e apenas a atividade de descanso foi positivamente correlacionada com as todas as variáveis. Isso pode estar associado com a termorregulação e com a habilidade de algumas espécies de permanecer no mediolitoral durante a maré cheia. Os resultados demonstram que diferentes espécies de aves aquáticas utilizaram as áreas estudadas de diferentes maneiras. Assim, a heterogeneidade de microhabitats em um ambiente aquático é de extrema importância para a coexistência e a manutenção da diversidade de aves.

Mangrove-associated fish assemblages off the southern Panama Bight region (tropical eastern Pacific)

The Panama Bight ecoregion (PBE) in the eastern Pacific contains probably the best developed mangrove forests in the American continent. Fishes inhabiting the mangrove-estuary mosaic play fundamental ecological roles and sustain the artisanal fishery operating there. Here, using data collected along ~300 km between 2012 and 2017, we examine the spatial dynamics of mangrove fish assemblages that undertake intertidal migrations in the southern part of the PBE (southern Colombian Pacific coast), where the largest and least disturbed mangroves of Colombia are located. Sixty-one fish species used intertidal mangrove habitats in these areas, constituting ~30% of all fishes inhabiting the whole mosaic of mangrove habitats in this ecoregion. Species within Clupeidae, Ariidae, Centropomidae and Tetraodontidae, all common in mangroves of the eastern Pacific, were the most dominant. Half of the fish species found are commercially important to the artisanal fishery. Differences in fish community structure could be related to salinity differences, but other environmental and ecological factors could also play a role in explaining these differences. A better understanding of the ecological role of mangrove fishes in the region could be gained by examining the ichthyofauna of other habitats within the mosaic and their trophic relationships.(AU)

La ecorregión del Panama Bight (EPB) en el océano Pacifico oriental contiene probablemente los bosques de manglar más desarrollados de America. Los peces que habitan el mosaico estuario-manglar juegan papeles ecológicos fundamentales y sostienen las pesquerías artesanales que operan allí. Usando datos colectados a lo largo de ~300 km entre 2012 y 2017, examinamos la dinámica espacial de ensamblajes de peces de manglar que realizan migraciones intermareales en el EPB sur (costa sur del Pacífico colombiano), donde se encuentran los manglares más grandes y menos intervenidos de Colombia. Sesenta y un especies de peces ingresaron en zonas intermareales de manglar, constituyendo ~30% de todos los peces que pueden ser encontrados en el mosaico de hábitats de manglar de esta ecoregión. Especies de Clupeidae, Ariidae, Centropomidae y Tetraodontidae, todas comunes en manglares del Pacífico oriental, fueron las más dominantes. La mitad de los peces encontrados son importantes comercialmente para la pesquería artesanal. Las diferencias en la estructura de la comunidad pueden estar relacionadas con diferencias en salinidad, pero otros factores ambientales y ecológicos podrían también jugar un rol explicando las diferencias encontradas. Un mejor entendimiento del rol ecológico de los peces de manglar de la región podría alcanzarse examinando la ictiofauna de otros hábitats de este mosaico y sus relaciones tróficas.(AU)

Diet composition of abundant fish species in the shallow waters of the Todos os Santos Bay, Bahia, Brazil

Coastal habitats have great ecological importance with estuarine environments providing feeding sites for many fish species, especially during juvenile life stages. This study investigates the diet composition and trophic guild organization of the common and abundant ichthyofauna in shallow areas of the Todos os Santos Bay (TSB), Bahia, Brazil, and their relationships with environmental parameters. Six fish sampling campaigns were carried out in the shallow zones (infralittoral) of the Paraguaçu River estuary which encompasses the inner and outer (marine exposure) reaches of theTSB. The stomach contents of 1231 individualsbelonging to common and abundant species were examined. A total of 32 food items were identifiedand fish were into four trophic guilds: detritivores, zoobenthivores I, zoobenthivores II, and zooplanktivores. The relationship between the guilds and environmental parameters showed that zoobenthivores II and zooplanktivores guilds had a positive relationship with salinity and pH, explaining 86% of data variability, though only the salinity variable was significant. This study provides basic information about the diet composition of common and abundant species in the TSBand their organization into trophic guilds. In addition, demonstrates that shallow waters fish across all guilds have broadly similar diets, comprising food items that are usually associated with bottom waters.

Morphometric analysis of Littoraria angulifera (Caenogastropoda) in estuarine regions of northeastern Brazil / Análise morfométrica de Littoraria angulifera (Caenogastropoda) em regiões estuarinas do Nordeste do Brasil

Abstract The gastropod Littoraria angulifera (Littorinidae) is an exclusively estuarine mollusk with Neotropical anfiatlantic distribution. Recent studies indicate a possible use of the species as bioindicator. The aim of this study was to analyze the shell height, as well as to perform a morphometric analysis of the reproductive apparatus of L. angulifera collected in 22 sampling points located between latitudes 13º54'S and 15º44'S in the South Atlantic, State of Bahia, Northeastern Brazil. The specimens were obtained in different estuarine environments including mangroves, as well as on rocks and concrete walls in places close to ports, shipyards and berths during January and February 2014. All specimens (n = 880) were analyzed regarding the sex and shell height/morphology, 440 were analyzed about the reproductive apparatus morphometry and 15 in histological description. The average shell height of animals from artificial substrates in nautical areas was lower (p<0.05) than the animals from mangroves, mainly in preserved areas, evidencing relation with human impacts and desiccation. The morphometric analysis of L. angulifera reproductive tract allowed us to conclude that the length of prostate in males and of palial oviduct in females may be useful in the reproductive evaluation of the species.

Resumo O gastrópode Littoraria angulifera (Littorinidae) é um molusco exclusivamente estuarino com distribuição anfiatlântica neotropical. Estudos recentes indicam um possível uso dessa espécie como bioindicadora. No presente estudo teve-se por objetivos analisar a altura da concha, assim como realizar uma análise morfométrica do aparato reprodutor de L. angulifera coletada em 22 pontos amostrais localizados entre as latitudes 13º54'S e 15º44'S no Atlântico Sul, Estado da Bahia, Nordeste do Brasil. Os exemplares foram obtidos em diferentes ambientes estuarinos, incluindo manguezais, assim como sobre rochas e paredes de concreto em lugares próximos a portos, estaleiros e atracadouros, durante janeiro e fevereiro de 2014. Todos os espécimes (n = 880) foram analisados quanto à morfologia/ altura da concha e sexo, 440 quanto à morfometria do aparelho reprodutor e 15 em descrição histológica. A média de altura da concha de animais de substratos artificiais em áreas náuticas foi menor (p<0,05) do que de animais de manguezais, principalmente de áreas preservadas, evidenciando relação com o impacto antrópico e a dessecação. A análise morfométrica do trato reprodutivo de L. angulifera levou à conclusão que o comprimento da próstata em machos e do oviduto palial em fêmeas pode ser útil na avaliação reprodutiva da espécie.

Larval fish assemblages in nearshore waters of southeast Gulf of California: vertical and temporal patterns

The influence of salinity and temperature on larval fish assemblages, as well as, temporal and vertical patterns on larval fish assemblages off the inlet of the Presidio River, southeast coast of the Gulf of California were evaluated. Samplings for ichthyoplankton and environmental parameter measurements were carried out at three depths, in five sampling sites, during September and December 1994, and April and June 1995. Anchovies and herrings (Clupeiformes) were the most abundant larval fish accounting for 77% of the total abundance. A significant relationship between salinity and the abundance of larval herrings (Opisthonema medirastre and O. dovii) and between the water temperature and the abundance of the weakfish (Cynoscion reticulatus) was found. Anchovies (Anchoa lucida, A. walkeri, and A. nasus) were present in all sampled months, while O. medirastre and O. dovii occurred in December and June, and C. reticulatus in September. Larvae of pelagic fish were more abundant near the surface, while larvae of demersal fish were more abundant near the bottom. The present study, by emphasising the importance of considering temporal and vertical changes in larval fish assemblages in coastal environments with ecological and economic importance, will be useful for designing more efficient sampling programs.(AU)

Se evaluó la influencia de la salinidad y la temperatura, así como patrones temporales y verticales en la comunidad de larvas de peces enfrente del río Presidio, costa sudeste del Golfo de California. Los muestreos de ictioplancton y las mediciones de los parámetros ambientales fueron realizados a tres profundidades, en cinco sitios de muestreo, durante septiembre y diciembre de 1994, y abril y junio de 1995. Las anchoas y sardinas (Clupeiformes) fueron las larvas de peces más abundantes representando el 77% de la abundancia total. Se encontró una relación significativa entre la salinidad y la abundancia de larvas de sardinas (Opisthonema medirastre and O. dovii), y entre la temperatura del agua y la abundancia de la corvina rayada (Cynoscion reticulatus). Las anchoas (Anchoa lucida, A. walkeri y A. nasus) estuvieron presentes en todos los meses muestreados, mientras que O. medirastre y O. dovii ocurrieron en diciembre y junio, y C. reticulatus en septiembre. Las larvas de peces pelágicos fueron más abundantes cerca de la superficie, mientras que las larvas de peces demersales fueron más abundantes cerca del fondo. El presente estudio, al enfatizar la importancia de considerar los cambios temporales y verticales en el ensamblaje de larvas de peces en ambientes costeros con importancia ecológica y económica, será útil para diseñar programas de muestreo más eficientes.(AU)

Estructura de la comunidad de poliquetos en un manglar de la costa norte de Brasil / Structure of a polychaete community in a mangrove in the northern coast of brazil

ABSTRACT Polychaetes play an important role in the structure and functioning of benthic communities in mangroves; however, knowledge about these organisms in the Maranhão Amazon coast is scarcity. This study analyzed the ecological aspects of polychaete community in the Quebra Pote mangrove in Maranhão State. Four sampling campaigns were carried out during both rainy and dry periods between November 2013 and July 2014, using 100 meters long transects set perpendicular to the waterline at three zones 50 m between them. A total of 521 organisms were identified belonging to ten families and 15 species; Nephtys simoni, Notomastus sp., and Paraonis sp. represented 58.92 % of all samples. Mobile deposit-feeders polychaetes were dominant and abundant. The Quebra Pote mangrove showed high values of diversity and evenness. The spatial distribution indicated that several species such as Capitella sp., Heteromastus sp., N. simoni, Notomastus sp., Paradoneis sp., Paraonis sp., Scoloplos texana, Sigambra grubei, and Syllis gracilis magellanica were present in all mangrove zones. The diversity and abundance of polychaetes were greater in lower mesolittoral (Zone 1), with a dominance of Avicennia schaueriana. The abundance of polychaetes decreased along transects from the lower mesolittoral to upper mesolittoral areas, suggesting that the presence of domestic sewage effects supersedes the vegetation effect.

RESUMEN Los poliquetos desempeñan un importante papel en la estructura y funcionamiento de las comunidades bentónicas de manglares; sin embargo, el conocimiento sobre estos organismos permanece escaso en la costa amazónica de Maranhão, Brasil. Este estudio analizó los aspectos ecológicos de la comunidad de poliquetos del manglar Quebra Pote, Estado de Maranhão. Se realizaron cuatro recolectas durante el período de secas y lluvias, entre noviembre 2013 y julio 2014, se delimitó un transecto de 100 metros de longitud, perpendicular a la línea de agua, con tres zonas distantes entre sí de 50 m. Se cuantificaron 521 individuos distribuidos en diez familias y 15 especies; Nephtys simoni, Notomastus sp. y Paraonis sp., correspondieron al 58,92 % del total muestreado. Los poliquetos detritívoros móviles fueron dominantes y abundantes. El manglar Quebra Pote presentó elevados valores de diversidad y equidad. En la distribución espacial, se observó que varias especies estuvieron presentes en todas las zonas del manglar, por ejemplo Capitella sp., Heteromastus sp., N. simoni, Notomastus sp., Paradoneis sp., Paraonis sp., Scoloplos texana, Sigambra grubei y Syllis gracilis magellanica. La diversidad y abundancia de poliquetos fueron mayores en el mediolitoral inferior (Zona 1), con predominio de Avicennia schaueriana. A lo largo de las zonas se observó que la abundancia de poliquetos decrece del mediolitoral inferior hacia al mediolitoral superior, probablemente como consecuencia del desagüe doméstico, que suplantó el efecto de la vegetación.

Potentially mobile of heavy metals on the surface sediments in tropical hyper-saline and positive estuaries

ABSTRACT Estuarine sediments represent important pools of trace metals, released from both anthropogenic and natural sources. Fluctuations in the water column physicochemical conditions, on the other hand, may transfer metals from solid to liquid compartment and resulting in contamination of the surrounding environment. The present research was carried out to evaluate the weakly bounded heavy metal levels in tropical hyper-saline and positive estuaries, in order to quantify its potentially availability. The monitoring includes five metals (Cd, Cr, Cu, Pb, Zn) and cover nine estuaries in Rio Grande do Norte state/Brazil, including four hypersaline and five true estuaries. 50 surface sediment samples were collected in each estuary. At the same time, organic matter concentrations were evaluated in order to help explaining possible local variations in heavy metal levels. Organic matter results (0.7% - 7.3%) suggest the positive Potengi estuary as the most critical environmental quality situation. On the other hand, according to heavy metals levels, both Conchas and Potengi estuaries registered the higher concentrations of Cr. The highest concentrations were observed in the hyper-saline estuaries, with the exception of the Zn. The present study revealed that the watershed occupation has significantly influenced the heavy metal concentrations in the estuaries.

Pathogenic Vibrio species isolated from estuarine environments (Ceará, Brazil) - antimicrobial resistance and virulence potential profiles

ABSTRACT Detection of virulent strains associated with aquatic environment is a current concern for the management and control of human and animal health. Thus, Vibrio diversity was investigated in four estuaries from state of Ceará (Pacoti, Choró, Pirangi and Jaguaribe) followed by antimicrobial susceptibility to different antimicrobials used in aquaculture and detection of main virulence factors to human health. Isolation and identification were performed on TCBS agar (selective medium) and dichotomous key based on biochemical characteristics, respectively. Nineteen strains of genus Vibrio were catalogued. Vibrio parahaemolyticus (Choró River) and V. alginolyticus (Pacoti River) were the most abundant species in the four estuaries. All strains were submitted to disk diffusion technique (15 antimicrobials were tested). Resistance was found to: penicillin (82%), ampicillin (54%), cephalotin (7%), aztreonan (1%), gentamicin, cefotaxime and ceftriaxone (0.5%). Five pathogenic strains were chosen to verification of virulence factors. Four estuaries showed a high abundance of species. High number of tested positive strains for virulence is concerning, since some of those strains are associated to human diseases, while others are known pathogens of aquatic organisms.

Gill parasites of fish from two estuaries in northeastern Brazil: new hosts and geographical records

ABSTRACT Parasites are important components of communities and constitute great part of the biological diversity found in ecosystems, providing valuable information about their hosts and the environment in which they live. However, despite its importance, parasitic diversity is still not well known in some regions of Brazil, especially with respect to fish parasites in the Northeast Region. The present study aims to perform the survey of gill parasites of fish from two tropical estuaries located in northeastern Brazil: Paraíba and Mamanguape rivers. Two collections were made in each estuary, one during the dry period (November / 2013) and the other during the rainy season (July / 2014). The fish were caught using a beach seine net, dragged along the main channel margin. After the identification, biometry and necropsy of the fish, their parasites were collected, stored and identified. For each species of parasite, the values ​​of prevalence, mean intensity and mean abundance were calculated. Of the 882 examined fish, belonging to four species, 145 were parasitized by at least one species of parasite. In total, 18 taxa of parasites of the groups Monogenea, Digenea, Nematoda, Copepoda and Isopoda were recorded, being the copepod Acusicola brasiliensis the most abundant species of parasite.

Morphometric analysis of Littoraria angulifera (Caenogastropoda) in estuarine regions of northeastern Brazil

Abstract The gastropod Littoraria angulifera (Littorinidae) is an exclusively estuarine mollusk with Neotropical anfiatlantic distribution. Recent studies indicate a possible use of the species as bioindicator. The aim of this study was to analyze the shell height, as well as to perform a morphometric analysis of the reproductive apparatus of L. angulifera collected in 22 sampling points located between latitudes 13º54'S and 15º44'S in the South Atlantic, State of Bahia, Northeastern Brazil. The specimens were obtained in different estuarine environments including mangroves, as well as on rocks and concrete walls in places close to ports, shipyards and berths during January and February 2014. All specimens (n = 880) were analyzed regarding the sex and shell height/morphology, 440 were analyzed about the reproductive apparatus morphometry and 15 in histological description. The average shell height of animals from artificial substrates in nautical areas was lower (p 0.05) than the animals from mangroves, mainly in preserved areas, evidencing relation with human impacts and desiccation. The morphometric analysis of L. angulifera reproductive tract allowed us to conclude that the length of prostate in males and of palial oviduct in females may be useful in the reproductive evaluation of the species.

Resumo O gastrópode Littoraria angulifera (Littorinidae) é um molusco exclusivamente estuarino com distribuição anfiatlântica neotropical. Estudos recentes indicam um possível uso dessa espécie como bioindicadora. No presente estudo teve-se por objetivos analisar a altura da concha, assim como realizar uma análise morfométrica do aparato reprodutor de L. angulifera coletada em 22 pontos amostrais localizados entre as latitudes 13º54'S e 15º44'S no Atlântico Sul, Estado da Bahia, Nordeste do Brasil. Os exemplares foram obtidos em diferentes ambientes estuarinos, incluindo manguezais, assim como sobre rochas e paredes de concreto em lugares próximos a portos, estaleiros e atracadouros, durante janeiro e fevereiro de 2014. Todos os espécimes (n = 880) foram analisados quanto à morfologia/ altura da concha e sexo, 440 quanto à morfometria do aparelho reprodutor e 15 em descrição histológica. A média de altura da concha de animais de substratos artificiais em áreas náuticas foi menor (p 0,05) do que de animais de manguezais, principalmente de áreas preservadas, evidenciando relação com o impacto antrópico e a dessecação. A análise morfométrica do trato reprodutivo de L. angulifera levou à conclusão que o comprimento da próstata em machos e do oviduto palial em fêmeas pode ser útil na avaliação reprodutiva da espécie.

Behavioral aspects of waterbirds

Abstract Estuaries are used by waterbirds as foraging, resting and nesting sites, serving also as shelter for migratory birds. The dynamics of this avifauna in an aquatic environment may be associated with the differences of time of day, tide height, temperature, wind speed and use of the site by different species. This study had the objective of evaluating behavioral aspects of aquatic birds, relating the influence of environmental variables with their activities. Bird counts were performed at the mouth of two important rivers of the state of Santa Catarina, Brazil, during two-hour intervals throughout the day in monthly samplings between June (2015) and May (2016). A total of 44 species were recorded, ten of which were migratory. The most recorded behaviors were foraging and resting. The Kruskal-Wallis analysis indicated no significant difference in behavior between the sampling intervals. The Bray-Curtis similarity test resulted in three groups: 1) - species that foraged most of the time; 2) - species that rested most of the time; and 3) - same time in both activities. The Indicator Species Analysis showed that 17 species were associated with only one microhabitat and 15 species with more than one. The Canonical Correlation Analysis indicated that only tide height, temperature and rainfall variables were correlated with the behaviors performed and only the resting activity was positively correlated with all variables. This may be associated with thermoregulation and the ability of some species to stay in midlitoral at high tide. The results demonstrate that different waterbird species used the studied areas in different ways. Thus, the heterogeneity of microhabitats in an aquatic environment of extreme importance for the coexistence and maintenance of the diversity of waterbirds.

Resumo Estuários são utilizados por aves aquáticas como locais de forrageio, descanso e nidificação, servindo, também, como pontos de parada para aves migratórias. A dinâmica dessa avifauna em um ambiente pode estar associada a diferenças entre horários do dia, altura da maré, temperatura, velocidade do vento e uso do local. Esse trabalho teve o objetivo de avaliar aspectos comportamentais de aves aquáticas, relacionando a influência de variáveis ambientais com suas atividades. Amostragens mensais foram realizadas na foz de dois importantes rios do Estado de Santa Catarina, Brasil, entre junho de 2015 e maio de 2016, em intervalos de duas horas no decorrer do dia. Um total de 44 espécies foram registradas, dez das quais foram migratórias. Os comportamentos mais observados foram forrageio e descanso. A análise de Kruskall-Wallis não indicou diferenças significativas no comportamento entre os horários de amostragem. O teste de similaridade Bray-Curtis resultou em três agrupamentos: 1) - espécies que forragearam na maior parte do tempo; 2) - espécies que descansaram na maior parte do tempo; e 3) - mesma quantidade de tempo em ambas atividades. A Análise de Espécies Indicadoras mostrou que 17 espécies estiveram associadas com apenas um microhabitat e 15 espécies com mais de um. A Análise de Correlação Canônica indicou que apenas as variáveis maré, temperatura e precipitação foram significativamente correlacionadas com os comportamentos demonstrados e apenas a atividade de descanso foi positivamente correlacionada com as todas as variáveis. Isso pode estar associado com a termorregulação e com a habilidade de algumas espécies de permanecer no mediolitoral durante a maré cheia. Os resultados demonstram que diferentes espécies de aves aquáticas utilizaram as áreas estudadas de diferentes maneiras. Assim, a heterogeneidade de microhabitats em um ambiente aquático é de extrema importância para a coexistência e a manutenção da diversidade de aves.

POLYCHAETES FROM RED MANGROVE (Rhizophora mangle) AND THEIR RELATIONSHIP WITH THE WATER CONDITIONS IN THE GULF OF URABÁ, COLOMBIAN CARIBBEAN / Poliquetos de manglar rojo (Rhizophora mangle) y su relación con las condiciones acuáticas en el golfo de Urabá, Caribe Colombiano

Polychaetes play a significant role in benthic communities' ecology; they dominate the infauna, recycle nutrients from the water column and are commonly used as biological indicators. Along the Gulf of Urabá (Colombian Caribbean), particularly for the zones of the Marirrío Bay and the Rionegro Cove, there are no reports about ecological aspects of polychaete species; only a few taxonomic studies have been conducted. In this research we evaluate the relationship between polychaete species associated with red mangrove roots, Rhizophora mangle, and some physicochemical variables of the water column; also, we made some notes about the spatial distributions of polychaetes species within the two study areas. We found that the environmental variables that best explain polychaetes community segregation are the dissolved oxygen and electrical conductivity; temperature seems to have not a significant effect. In terms of spatial distribution, we found that Alitta succinea, Capitella cf. capitata and Ficopomatus miamiensis occupied the inner, middle and outer zones for both study area and seasons, while Stenoninereis sp. 1 (rainy and dry season) and the exotic polychaete Ficopomatus uschakovi (rainy season) were found just in Rionegro Cove. Finally, the species Nicolea modesta is registered by first time for the Gulf of Urabá, Colombian Caribbean.

Los poliquetos tienen un papel importante en la ecología de las comunidades bénticas, dominan la infauna, reciclan nutrientes de la columna de agua y son comúnmente usados como indicadores biológicos. En el Golfo de Urabá (Caribe Colombiano), específicamente para las zonas de Bahía Marirrío y Ensenada de Rionegro no existen estudios sobre la ecología de los poliquetos, solo se han desarrollado algunos estudos taxonómicos. En esta investigación se evaluó la relación entre algunas variables fisicoquímicas y las especies de poliquetos encontradas. Adicionalmente, se realizaron algunas observaciones sobre las distribución espacial de estas especies en las dos zonas de estudio. Se encontró que las variables que mejor explican las segregación de las especies de poliquetos fueron el oxígeno disuelto y la conductividad eléctrica; la temperatura no tuvo un efecto significativo. En términos de distribución espacial se encontró que las especies Alitta succinea, Capitella cf. capitata y Ficopomatus miamiensis ocuparon las zonas interna, media y externa de las dos áreas de estudio en las dos temporadas de muestreo; mientras que Ficopomatus uschakovi (temporada de lluvia) y Stenoninereis sp. 1 (ambas temporadas) fueron registradas solamente la Ensenada de Rionegro en diferentes temporadas. Finalmente, las especies Nicolea modesta es registrada por primera vez para el Golfo de Urabá.

The community structure of macroscopic basidiomycetes (Fungi) in Brazilian mangroves influenced by temporal and spatial variations / La estructura de la comunidad de basidiomicetos macroscópicos (Fungi) en los manglares brasileños influenciada por las variaciones temporales y espaciales

Mangroves are transitional ecosystems between terrestrial and marine environments, and are distinguished by a high abundance of animals, plants, and fungi. Although macrofungi occur in different types of habitat, including mangroves, little is known about their community structure and dynamic. Therefore the aim of this study was to analyze the diversity of macrofungi in a number of Brazilian mangroves, and the relationship between such diversity, precipitation and area of collection. A total of 32 field trips were undertaken from 2009 to 2010, and macrofungi were studied in four 250×40m transects: Timbó and Santa Cruz Channel on the Northern coast, and Maracaípe and Ariquindá on the Southern coast. All basidiomata found along the transects were placed in paper bags, air-dried and identified using existing literature. It was found that Northern areas predominantly featured Avicennia schaueriana mangroves, while Rhizophora mangle dominated in Southern transects. A total of 275 specimens were collected, and 33 species, 28 genera, 14 families and six orders were represented. Overall abundance and species richness did not vary significantly among areas, but varied according to time, being higher during the rainy season. Subtle differences in composition were observed over time and between areas, probably due to variations in plant species occurrence. Further studies with collections during months of greater precipitation in transects dominated by different mangrove species of the same ecosystem are suggested to assess the overall diversity of mycobiota in these ecosystems.

Los manglares son ecosistemas de transición entre los ambientes terrestres y marinos, y se distinguen por la gran abundancia de animales, plantas y hongos. Aunque los macrohongos se encuentran en diferentes tipos de hábitat, incluidos los manglares, poco se sabe acerca de la estructura de su comunidad y dinámica. Por lo tanto, el objetivo de este estudio fue analizar la diversidad de macrohongos en los manglares de Brasil y su relación con la precipitación y área de recolección. Se realizaron un total de 32 salidas de campo entre 2009 y 2010, y los macrohongos fueron estudiados en cuatro transectos de 250×40m: Timbó y Canal de Santa Cruz en la costa norte y Maracaípe y Ariquindá en la costa sur. Todos los basidiomas encontrados a lo largo de los transectos se colocaron deshidratados en bolsas de papel, y se identificaron con ayuda de la literatura preexistente. Se encontró que las zonas del norte predominantemente presentaron Avicennia schaueriana, mientras Rhizophora mangle domina en transectos del sur. Se recolectaron un total de 275 especímenes y 33 especies, 28 géneros, 14 familias y seis órdenes estuvieron representados. Abundancia y riqueza de especies en general no varió significativamente entre las áreas, pero si varió en el tiempo, siendo mayor durante la estación lluviosa. Se observaron diferencias sutiles en la composición a través del tiempo y entre áreas, probablemente debido a las variaciones en la presencia de las especies de plantas. Otros estudios con recolectas durante los meses de mayor precipitación en transectos dominados por diferentes plan- tas de manglar en el mismo ecosistema son deseables para acceder a la diversidad de la micobiota.

DETECTION OF VIRULENCE GENES IN ENVIRONMENTAL STRAINS OF Vibrio cholerae FROM ESTUARIES IN NORTHEASTERN BRAZIL / Detecção de genes de virulência em estirpes de Vibrio cholerae isolados de estuários no Nordeste do Brasil

The objectives of this study were to detect the presence of Vibrio cholerae in tropical estuaries (Northeastern Brazil) and to search for virulence factors in the environmental isolates. Water and sediment samples were inoculated onto a vibrio-selective medium (TCBS), and colonies with morphological resemblance to V. cholerae were isolated. The cultures were identified phenotypically using a dichotomous key based on biochemical characteristics. The total DNA extracted was amplified by PCR to detect ompW and by multiplex PCR to detect the virulence genes ctx, tcp, zot and rfbO1. The results of the phenotypic and genotypic identification were compared. Nine strains of V. cholerae were identified phenotypically, five of which were confirmed by detection of the species-specific gene ompW. The dichotomous key was efficient at differentiating environmental strains of V. cholerae. Strains of V. cholerae were found in all four estuaries, but none possessed virulence genes.

O objetivo deste estudo foi detectar a presença potencial virulência de Vibrio cholerae isolado de estuários do Nordeste do Brasil. Amostras de água e sedimento foram coletadas e inoculadas sobre meio seletivo para víbrios (TCBS) e colônias com características morfológicas de V. cholerae foram isoladas. A identificação fenotípica seguiu chave dicotômica baseada em caraterísticas bioquímicas. Foram empregadas as técnicas de amplificação da polimerase em cadeia (PCR) utilizando o gene ompW e a de multiplex PCR para detecção de genes de virulência (ctx, tcp, zot e rfbO1). Os resultados da identificação das diferentes abordagens foram comparados. Nove cepas de V. cholerae foram identificadas fenotipicamente e cinco confirmadas através da detecção do gene ompW. A chave dicotômica utilizada foi eficiente para a confirmação da espécie. Os quatro estuários analisados apresentaram estirpes de V. cholerae, e nenhuma das cepas isoladas apresentaram genes de virulência.

Ecomorphological patterns of the fishes inhabiting the tide pools of the Amazonian Coastal Zone, Brazil

The present study was based on the identification of the ecomorphological patterns that characterize the fish species found in tide pools in the Amazonian Coastal Zone (ACZ) in the Pará State, Brazil. Representatives of 19 species were collected during two field campaigns in 2011. The dominance, residence status, and trophic guild of each species were established, and morphometric data were obtained for up to 10 specimens of each species. A total of 23 ecomorphological attributes related to locomotion, position in the water column, and foraging behavior were calculated for the analysis of ecomorphological distance. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was utilized for the evaluation of ecomorphological attributes that explained the variation among species. Mantel Test was used to correlate the taxonomic distance with species' morphological patterns and a partial Mantel Test to analyze the correlation among trophic guilds and ecomorphological patterns, controlling the effects of taxonomic distance among species. The analyses revealed two principal axes of the variation related to locomotion, correlated with the width of the caudal peduncle and the shape of the anal fin, as well as the influence of taxonomic distance on the ecomorphological characteristics of the different species. The dominant and resident species both presented a reduced capacity for continuous swimming. The two principal axes identified in relation to the position of the fish in the water column were correlated with the position of the eyes, the area of the pelvic fin, and body shape, with evidence of the influence of taxonomic distance on the morphology of the species. PCA grouped species with pelagic habits with benthonic ones. In the case of foraging behavior, the two principal axes formed by the analysis correlated with the size of the mouth, eye size, and the length of the digestive tract. Species of different guilds were grouped together, indicating a weak relationship between morphology and foraging behavior, and no relationship was found with taxonomic distance. The resident and dominant species in the tide pools of the ACZ present sedentary habits, with little evidence of the influence of taxonomic distance on the use of habitats or morphology, which was a poor indicator of foraging strategies, and showing that phylogenetically distant species could present similar ecomorphological patterns.

Identificamos padrões ecomorfológicos que refletem a ecologia de espécies encontradas em poças de maré na Zona Costeira Amazônica (ZCA). Indivíduos de 19 espécies foram coletados no estado do Pará durante duas expedições em 2011. Foram estabelecidas dominância, grau de residência, guildas tróficas e tomadas medidas morfométricas de até 10 indivíduos de cada espécie. Calculou-se 23 atributos ecomorfológicos relacionados à locomoção, posição e forrageio, utilizados para o cálculo da distância ecomorfológica. Foram utilizadas Análises de Componentes Principais (PCA) para avaliar que atributos ecomorfológicos explicaram a variação entre as espécies. O teste de Mantel foi utilizado para testar a correlação da distância taxonômica com a morfologia das espécies e um teste de Mantel parcial para avaliar a correlação das guildas tróficas com os padrões ecomorfológicos, controlando-se o efeito da distância taxonômica entre as espécies. Nas análises formaram-se dois eixos principais para variação em relação aos padrões de locomoção, correlacionados à largura do pedúnculo caudal e formato da nadadeira anal, ocorrendo influência da distância taxonômica entre as espécies nos padrões ecomorfológicos. Espécies dominantes e residentes apresentaram menor capacidade de natação contínua. Quanto à posição na coluna d'água, formaram-se dois eixos principais da variação, correlacionados à posição do olho, área da nadadeira pélvica e formato do corpo, ocorrendo influência da distância taxônomica entre as espécies nas dissimilaridades morfológicas. A PCA agrupou espécies de hábito pelágico com espécies de hábito bentônico. Em relação ao forrageio, formaram-se dois eixos principais da variação, correlacionados ao tamanho da boca, tamanho do olho e comprimento do trato digestório. Espécies de diferentes guildas permaneceram agrupadas, sugerindo fraca relação da morfologia com o forrageio e não houve influência da distância taxonômica nas dissimilaridades nas guildas tróficas. Espécies residentes e dominantes em poças de maré na ZCA apresentam hábito sedentário, ocorrendo pouca influência da distância taxonômica nos padrões ecomorfológicos que se referem à posição na coluna d'água e locomoção, demonstrando que espécies distantes filogeneticamente podem apresentar padrões ecomorfológicos similares, e a morfologia demonstrou-se como fraca preditora das táticas de forrageio.

Plasma ion levels of freshwater and marine/estuarine teleosts from Southern Brazil

The purpose of this study was to investigate Na+, Cl-, K+, Ca2+, and Mg2+ levels in the plasma of freshwater and marine/estuarine teleosts collected at different salinities (0 to 34) from the estuarine and freshwater portions of the São Gonçalo channel in Southern Brazil. Any relationship between plasma ion levels and salinity and the capacity of ionic regulation of teleosts found at three or more different salinities (Genidens barbus and Micropogonias furnieri) was also investigated. Results showed no relationship between plasma ion levels and salinity when considering all species together, but the two species collected from three or more different salinities showed a significant positive relationship between plasma ion levels and salinity, indicating that G. barbus and M. furnieri have a high capacity to regulate plasma ion levels at both low and high salinities.

A proposta deste estudo foi investigar os níveis de Na+, Cl-, K+, Ca2+, and Mg2+ no plasma de teleósteos de água doce e marinhos/estuarinos coletados em diferentes salinidades (0 a 34) nas porções de água doce e estuarinas do Canal São Gonçalo, sul do Brasil. Uma possível relação entre os níveis iônicos plasmáticos e a salinidade também foi investigada bem como a capacidade de regulação iônica dos teleósteos coletados em três ou mais salinidades (Genidens barbus e Micropogonias furnieri). Os resultados mostraram que não houve relação entre os níveis iônicos no plasma com a salinidade quando considerando todas as espécies juntas, mas as duas espécies coletadas em três ou mais salinidades mostraram uma relação significativamente positiva entre níveis iônicos no plasma e salinidade, mostrando que G. barbus e M. furnieri apresentaram uma grande capacidade para regular os íons do plasma em baixas e altas salinidades.

Condición somática de la almeja Polymesoda solida (Veneroidea: Corbiculidae) durante el periodo lluvioso, enel Parque Natural Isla de Salamanca, Caribe colombiano

Somatic condition of the clam Polymesoda solida (Veneroidea: Corbiculidae) in the rainy season of the Salamanca Island Natural Park, Colombian Caribbean. The estuarine clam Polymesoda solida is the main fishery resource in the Salamanca Island Natural Park. I sampled the clam in three interconnected lagoons (Poza Verde, El Torno and Atascosa) during the rainy period (April to November 2004). Sixty individuals were monthly collected by hand on each lagoon; 30 to analyze two condition indexes (relationship between body and shell weight and between soft dry and wet weight), yield (meat percentage) and length-weight relationships. Maturity of female gonad smears was assessed on the remaining individuals. Measures of salinity, temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, transparency and depth, were also taken at the collection places. Increases of the condition indexes occurred when the Magdalena River showed some decreases in its level, especially at Poza Verde and El Torno. The condition indexes were higher at 27-33mm, (range where maturity size was reached). Clams from Poza Verde, the lagoon nearest to the Magdalena River, had the highest values in condition indexes, yield, fresh weight and maturity frequency. Yield was directly correlated to the condition indexes and sexual maturity. The condition index (body weight/shell weight) showed a highest multiple regression coefficient with salinity, pH and transparency (R²=74%), indicating the relevance of the hydrological regime in the regulation of the condition of the organisms. P. solida seems to be more adapted to the lowest salinities of the system (0.0-0.4), corresponding to Poza Verde, where the influence of the Magdalena river is more direct and steady. Additionally, differences found between sites in the assessed variables, emphasize the importance of considering spatial heterogeneity of this kind of lagoon estuaries, and should be taken into account for future fisheries management in the rainy period and conservation of P. solida populations. Rev. Biol. Trop. 58 (1): 131-145. Epub 2010 March 01.

Se evaluó la condición somática de la almeja Polymesoda solida en tres lagunas del Parque Isla de Salamanca (abril a noviembre de 2004), durante el periodo lluvioso. En 60 individuos por laguna, se analizaron mensualmente índices de condición, rendimiento, relación talla-peso y madurez gonadal en fresco. También se midió salinidad, temperatura, pH, oxígeno disuelto, transparencia y profundidad del agua. Los mayores índices de condición coincidieron con descensos en el nivel del río Magdalena, especialmente en Poza Verde y El Torno. Estos índices fueron más altos en tallas entre 27mm y 33mm, donde también se ubicó la talla media de madurez sexual. En Poza Verde, laguna con mayor influencia del río, se presentaron los mayores índices de condición, rendimiento, peso húmedo y frecuencia de madurez, revelando una mejor condición de los organismos. El índice de condición (peso cuerpo/ peso concha) presentó mayor coeficiente de regresión múltiple con la salinidad, pH y transparencia, sugiriendo la importancia del régimen hidrológico en su regulación. Las diferencias espaciales en las variables evaluadas, resaltan la necesidad de tener en cuenta la heterogeneidad de este tipo de estuarios para la conservación y manejo adecuado de la pesquería de P. solida.