Effect of seasonality on the leaf phenology and physiology of Byrsonima species (Malpighiaceae)

Introduction: Defined seasonality in savanna species can stimulate physiological responses that maximize photosynthetic metabolism and productivity. However, those physiological responses are also linked to the phenological status of the whole plant, including leaf phenophases. Objective: To study how physiological traits influence phenophase timing among congeneric and co-occurring savanna species. Methods: We evaluated the leaf phenology and physiological traits of populations of Byrsonima intermedia, B. coccolobifolia, and B. verbascifolia. Physiological measurements were performed at the onset of the dry and rainy seasons and again late in the season. Results: B. intermedia and B. coccolobifolia were classified as brevideciduous and B. verbascifolia as evergreen. The maximum quantum yield for B. intermedia and B. coccolobifolia were lowest during the dry season. At the onset of the dry period, the highest chloroplastidic pigment levels were observed, which decreased as the season advanced, total chlorophyll/carotenoid ratios were lowest, and carotenoid contents were highest. We detected low starch content values at the start of the rainy season, coinciding with the resumption of plant growth. Two months into this season, the leaves were at their peak structural and functional maturity, with high water-soluble polysaccharide values and photosynthetic rates, and were storing large amounts of starch. Conclusions: Physiological and leaf phenological strategies of the Byrsonima species were related to drought resistance and acclimatization to the seasonality of savanna water resources. The oscillations of the parameters quantified during the year indicated a strong relationship with water seasonality and with the phenological status of the leaves.

Introducción: La marcada estacionalidad en las especies de sabana puede estimular respuestas fisiológicas que maximicen el metabolismo fotosintético y la productividad. Sin embargo, esas respuestas fisiológicas están vinculadas al estado fenológico de toda la planta, incluidas las fenofases de las hojas. Objetivo: Estudiar cómo los rasgos fisiológicos influyen en el tiempo de la fenofase entre especies de sabana congenéricas y concurrentes. Métodos: Evaluamos la fenología y características fisiológicas de poblaciones de Byrsonima intermedia, B. coccolobifolia y B. verbascifolia. Las mediciones fisiológicas se realizaron al inicio de la estación seca y lluviosa, y de nuevo al final de la estación. Resultados: B. intermedia y B. coccolobifolia se clasificaron como brevicaducifolias y B. verbascifolia como perennifolias. El rendimiento cuántico máximo para B. intermedia y B. coccolobifolia fueron más bajos durante la época seca. Al inicio del período seco, se observaron niveles de pigmentos cloroplastídicos más altos, aunque los niveles de clorofila disminuyeron a medida que avanzaba la estación seca, las proporciones clorofila/carotenoides totales fueron más bajas y los contenidos de carotenoides más altos. Detectamos valores bajos de contenido de almidón al inicio de la época lluviosa, que coincide con la reanudación del crecimiento de la planta. A dos meses de esta época, las hojas estaban en su máxima madurez estructural y funcional, con altos valores de polisacáridos solubles en agua y tasas fotosintéticas, y almacenaban grandes cantidades de almidón. Conclusiones: Las estrategias fisiológicas y fenológicas de las hojas de las especies de Byrsonima estaban relacionadas con la resistencia a la sequía y la aclimatación a la estacionalidad de los recursos hídricos de la sabana. Las oscilaciones de los parámetros cuantificados durante el año indicaron una fuerte relación con la estacionalidad hídrica y con los estados fenológicos de las hojas.

Multi-taxon inventory and landscape characterization in an agrosystem of the Brazilian Midwest targeted for payment for environmental services / Inventário multi-táxon e caracterização da paisagem em um agrossistema no Centro-Oeste brasileiro alvo de pagamento por serviços ambientais

Abstract: The replacement of natural landscapes by anthropic environments has led to habitat loss and consequently, to the decline and extinction of many species populations. Several strategies, such as the creation of protected areas (PAs) and payment for ecosystem services have been adopted to mitigate the consequences of this biodiversity crisis. In Rio Verde, Goiás, Brazil, a Water Producer Program (WPP) was established, which provides payment for ecosystem services for the maintenance of riparian vegetation in the region of the Ribeirão Abóbora, a river which supplies the city and metropolitan area. In the absence of environmental diagnostic studies in the region, this present study contributes to reducing some knowledge gaps, through the: (i) characterization of the landscape in the WPP area, (ii) characterization of species of fauna (amphibians, birds, fish, and medium and large terrestrial mammals) and woody flora that occur in this area, and (iii) comparison of species diversity (fauna and flora) found in our study area with the diversity observed in the Cerrado protected area network. Our results reveal a low native vegetation cover (~21% of total area), but we recorded 300 total species: 20 species of anuran amphibians, 100 birds, 10 fish, 16 terrestrial mammals (medium and large), and 154 woody plants. Our sample comprises species considered endemic to the Cerrado (e.g., Anuran - Barycholos terntezi and Mammal - Callithrix penicillata), threatened species (e.g., Mammals - Herpailurus yagouaroundi, Myrmecophaga tridactyla and Tapirus terrestris), and exotic invasive species (Mammal - Sus scrofa). The results presented in this study are relevant and may help in the proposal of management actions within the scope of this important program of payment for environmental services.

Resumo: A substituição das paisagens naturais por ambientes antropizados tem levado à perda de habitat e, consequentemente, ao declínio populacional e extinção de muitas espécies. Várias estratégias como a criação de Unidades de Conservação (UCs) e o pagamento de serviços ecossistêmicos têm sido adotadas para mitigar as consequências da crise de biodiversidade. Em Rio Verde, estado de Goiás, foi estabelecido um Programa Produtores de Água (PPA) que prevê o pagamento de serviços ecossistêmicos pela manutenção da vegetação ripária na região do ribeirão Abobora que abastece a cidade. Diante da ausência de estudos de diagnóstico ambiental da região, o presente estudo contribui para reduzir algumas lacunas de conhecimento, através da: i) caracterização da paisagem na área deste PPA, ii) caracterização das espécies da fauna (anfíbios, aves, peixes e mamíferos terrestres de médio e grande porte) e flora lenhosa que ocorrem neste local, iii) comparação da diversidade de espécies (fauna e flora) encontrada na área de estudo com aquela observada na rede de áreas protegidas do Cerrado. Nossos resultados revelam baixo índice de cobertura vegetal nativa (~21% da área total), mas por outro lado, registramos 300 espécies, sendo 20 de anfíbios anuros, 100 aves, 10 peixes, 16 mamíferos terrestres (médio e grande porte) e 154 plantas lenhosas. A nossa amostragem compreende espécies que são consideradas endêmicas do Cerrado (p.ex. Anfíbio - Barycholos terntezi e Mamífero - Callithrix penicillata), ameaçadas de extinção (p.ex. Mamíferos - Herpailurus yagouaroundi, Myrmecophaga tridactyla e Tapirus terrestris) ou exótica invasora (Mamífero - Sus scrofa). Os resultados apresentados no presente estudo são relevantes e podem auxiliar na proposição de ações de manejo no âmbito deste importante programa de pagamento por serviços ambientais.

Vegetación asociada con helechales en el Parque Nacional Natural Serranía de Los Yariguíes, Colombia / Associated vegetation with bracken ferns in the Yariguíes National Natural Park, Colombia

Introducción: La alteración en la composición y estructura de la vegetación da paso a la introducción de especies consideradas invasoras, caso de Pteridium arachnoideum, que, por sus características de crecimiento por reproducción asexual y efecto alelopático, puede colonizar rápidamente; tal capacidad de invasión, inhibe los procesos de sucesión natural, permite el dominio de especies herbáceas y disminuye la diversidad de especies arbóreas. Objetivo: Evaluar la vegetación asociada a los helechales (P. esculentum subsp. arachnoideum x P. esculentum subsp. campestre) distribuidos en la zona denominada Golconda, ubicada en el Parque Nacional Natural Serranía de Los Yariguíes. Métodos: Se realizaron 15 parcelas de 25 m2 cada una; en ellas, se tomaron datos de composición y fisonomía de la vegetación [formas de crecimiento, altura (m), cobertura (m2), diámetro a la altura del pecho (DAP) para todos los árboles y abundancia de especies]; se estimaron índices de probabilidad de diversidad (Shannon y Simpson), el porcentaje de especies y abundancia por formas de crecimiento, IVI para especies arbóreas y arbustivas, IVR para herbáceas y el esfuerzo de muestreo. Resultados: Se registraron 924 individuos pertenecientes a 65 especies, distribuidas en 24 familias; las taxa más ricas son: Melastomataceae, Asteraceae y Poaceae, consideradas frecuentes en áreas perturbadas. Las áreas dominadas por helechales son diversas, a pesar de la dominancia de especies como: Ageratina cf. fastigiata, Tibouchina lindeniana, Clethra fagifolia, Coccocypselum lanceolatum y Clidemiaciliata; se identificaron 30 especies leñosas y 21 herbáceas. Conclusiones: Con especies leñosas pioneras que favorecen la sucesión, así como, taxones provenientes de áreas conservadas de interior de bosque, este estudio contribuye en la reevaluación del atributo de P. esculentum subsp. arachnoideum x P. esculentum subsp. campestre como inhibidora y causante de la disminución de la diversidad por su dominancia.

Introduction: Alteration of the composition and structure of natural vegetation allows the invasion of species. This occurs with Pteridium esculentum subsp. arachnoideum x Pteridium esculentum subsp. campestre, which due to its growth by asexual reproduction and allelopathic effect, can quickly colonize disturbed habitat inhibiting natural succession, allowing herbaceous species to dominate and reducing tree species diversity. Objective: Evaluate the vegetation associated with the bracken P. esculentum subsp. arachnoideum x P. esculentum subsp. campestre distributed in the area called Golconda, in the Yariguíes National Park, Colombia. Methods: 15 plots of 25 m2 each were established; in each plot the vegetation composition and physiognomy were registered [growth forms, height (m) as well as vegetation cover (m2), diameter at breast height (DBH) for all trees and species abundance]; diversity probability indexes (Shannon and Simpson), percentage of species and abundance of growth forms, IVI for tree and shrub species, IVR for herbs, and the sampling effort were estimated. Results: 924 individuals belonging to 65 species were registered; they were distributed in 24 families; the richest taxa are: Melastomataceae, Asteraceae and Poaceae, which are considered frequent in disturbed areas. The areas dominated by ferns are botanically diverse, despite the dominance of species such as Ageratina cf. fastigiata, Tibouchina lindeniana, Clethra fagifolia, Coccocypselum lanceolatum and Clidemia ciliata; 30 woody and 21 herbaceous species were identified. Conclusions: Given that pioneer woody species and taxa from preserved areas of forest interiors subserve succession, this study contributes to a reevaluation of P. esculentum subsp. arachnoideum x P. esculentum subsp. campestre as an inhibitor and cause of a decrease in diversity due to its dominance.

Short-term response of fish assemblages to instream habitat restoration in heavily impacted streams

Habitat homogenization has been a major impact in stream ecosystems, and it is considered one of the main drivers of biotic homogenization as well, leading to the loss of water quality and fish diversity. In this study, we added artificial woody structures and leaf packs in physically impacted streams to test if the additions can improve habitat complexity and change the taxonomic and functional structure of fish communities. The experiment was done in eight streams impacted by siltation, deforestation, and habitat homogeneization, inserted in an agricultural landscape from the Upper Paraná River Basin, and lasted 112 days. The provision of artificial microhabitats increased instream habitat diversity by creating patches of organic matter deposits, changing flow, and providing substrate for grass colonization of the instream habitat. The experimental manipulation also changed fish species abundance. Nine species contributed to these changes, five decreased and four increased in abundance, indicating species responded differently to the experimental manipulation. However, overall species richness, diversity, and community functional traits remained unaltered. These results indicate that short-term habitat restoration on a local scale may not be enough to promote changes in fish community attributes of streams that are heavily impacted.(AU)

A homogeneização de habitats tem sido um importante impacto nos ecossistemas de riachos e também é considerada um dos principais fatores de homogeneização biótica, levando à perda da qualidade da água e da diversidade de peixes. Neste estudo, adicionamos estruturas artificiais de madeira e pacotes de folhas em riachos fisicamente impactados para testar se as adições podem aumentar a heterogeneidade do habitat e alterar a estrutura taxonômica e funcional das comunidades de peixes. O experimento foi realizado em oito riachos impactados por assoreamento, desmatamento e homogeneização de hábitat, inseridos em uma paisagem agrícola da bacia do Alto Paraná, com duração de 112 dias. O fornecimento de microhabitats artificiais aumentou a diversidade de hábitat criando manchas de depósitos de matéria orgânica, alterando o fluxo e fornecendo substrato para a colonização de grama no interior do canal. A manipulação experimental também alterou a abundância de espécies de peixes. Dentre as nove espécies que contribuíram para essas alterações, cinco diminuíram e quatro aumentaram em abundância, indicando que as espécies responderam diferentemente à manipulação experimental. No entanto, a riqueza geral de espécies, a diversidade e as características funcionais da comunidade permaneceram inalteradas. Esses resultados indicam que a restauração de habitat a curto prazo em escala local pode não ser suficiente para promover mudanças nos atributos da comunidade de córregos que são fortemente impactados.(AU)

Identification of Morindae Officinalis Radix root cortex and woody core based on UPLC characteristic chromatogram and chemical pattern recognition method / 中草药

Objective: A method for identification of root cortex and woody core of Morindae Officinalis Radix (MOR) was established based on Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography (UPLC) characteristic chromatogram and chemical pattern recognition technique. Methods: Using UPLC technique, the characteristic chromatograms of iridoids and oligosaccharides of root cortex and woody core of MOR were established, combined with the similarity analysis, variance analysis, cluster analysis, principal component analysis (PCA) methods for chemical pattern recognition research. Results: The UPLC characteristic chromatograms of iridoids and oligosaccharides of different parts of MOR were established, and 12 and 20 common characteristic peaks were confirmed, respectively. The UPLC characteristic chromatograms of root cortex and woody core of MOR were obviously different. Conclusion: UPLC characteristic chromatograms of iridoids and oligosaccharides of MOR combined with chemical pattern recognition analysis method can reflect the difference of root cortex and woody core of MOR integrally, comprehensively and truly, which provides more sufficient basis for the necessity of removing woody core from MOR.

Supervivencia y características de rebrotes en tocones de dos años de cultivos dendroenergéticos / Survival rates and characteristics of spreads in two years stumps of crops with dendroenergy potential

Resumen Varias especies de los géneros Eucalyptus y Acacia son adecuadas para la producción de biomasa útil en la generación de energía. El objetivo del presente estudio fue evaluar la supervivencia y características del rebrote en tocones de cuatro especies dendroenergéticas en tres diferentes densidades poblacionales. Se utilizó un diseño de bloques completos al azar con tres repeticiones, en tres sitios (Parcelas Collipulli, La Aguada y Pilpilco Abajo) con características edafoclimáticas contrastantes. Se estudió Eucalyptus globulus, Eucalyptus denticulata, Eucalyptus nitens y Acacia dealbata en tres densidades de plantación (5 000 árboles/ ha; 10 000 árboles/ha y 15 000 árboles/ha). Se evaluó el porcentaje de supervivencia y las características del rebrote por tocón. Las variables especie, densidad de plantación y sitio de siembra afectaron los parámetros analizados. La densidad de plantación afectó el diámetro y altura de los rebrotes dominantes de tipo proventicio en las cuatro especies estudiadas. La mayor tasa de supervivencia de tocones (97 %), la presentó Eucalyptus nitens en Pipilco Abajo, con 79 % de supervivencia de rebrotes a una densidad de 5 000 árboles/ha. Sin embargo, en densidades de 15 000 árboles/ha, la supervivencia de rebrote fue de 29 %. Acacia dealbata es una especie reconocida por su capacidad de colonización, sin embargo, en La Aguada, con densidades de siembra de 5 000 árboles/ha y 10 000 árboles/ha, mostró baja tasa de supervivencia de tocones (19 % y 18 %, respectivamente) y de rebrotes (57 % y 63 %, respectivamente). La especie Eucalyptus globulus mostró altas tasas de supervivencia de tocones y rebrotes en todos los sitios evaluados, por lo que puede ser considerada como una buena opción para optimizar el sistema de monte bajo.

Abstract Several species of the genera Eucalyptus and Acacia are suitable for biomass production useful in energy generation. The objective of this research was to evaluate the survival and chaof four dendroenergetic species in three population densities. A randomized block design with three replications was used in three sites (Collipulli, La Aguada and Pilpilco Abajo plots) with contrasting edaphoclimatic characteristics. Eucalyptus globulus, Eucalyptus denticulata, Eucalyptus nitens and Acacia dealbata were studied in three plantation densities (5 000 trees/ha, 10 000 trees/ha and 15 000 trees/ha). The survival percentage and characteristics of stump regrowth characteristics of each stump were evaluated. The variables specie, plantation density and planting site affected the analyzed parameters. Plantation density affected the diameter and height of prevalent sprouts of proventic proventitious shoots in all species. Hihest stump survival rate (97 %) was presented by Eucalyptus nitens in Pipilco Abajo, with 79 % shoots survival of sprouts at a density of 5 000 trees/ha. However, at densities of 15 000 trees/ ha, regrowth survival was 29%. The Acacia dealbata is a species characterized by its colonization capacity. However, at La Aguada, which had population densities of 5 000 trees/ha and 10 000 trees/ha, it showed a low stump (19% and 18 % respectively) and shoots (57 % and 63 % respectively) survival rate. The species Eucalyptus globulus showed high stump and shoot survival rates in all sites evaluated, therefore it can be considered a good option to optimize the scrub system.

A comparison of callus induction in 4 Garcinia species

Background: This research is intended to determine suitable types and concentrations of plant growth regulators (PGRs) to induce callus on stem and leaf sections of 4 species of the genus Garcinia, namely, Garcinia mangostana, Garcinia schomburgkiana, Garcinia cowa, and Garcinia celebica. The base medium was MS medium containing 30 g l -1 sucrose, 0.5 g l-1 polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), and 7 g l-1 agar, and for the different treatments, PGRs were added to the medium as follows: thidiazuron (TDZ) at concentrations of 0, 0.1, 0.5, 1, and 2 mg l-1; 6-(3- hydroxybenzylamino) purine (meta-topolin) at concentrations of 0, 0.5, 2.5, and 5 mg l-1; 4-amino-3,5,6- trichloro-2-pyridinecarboxylic acid (picloram) at concentrations of 0, 0.5, 2.5, and 5 mg l-1; and 2,4- dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) at concentrations of 0, 0.5, 1, 2, and 4 mg l-1. The occurrence of callus was observed after 4 weeks. Results: A maximum of 100% and 93% of G. mangostana leaf explants formed callus in the 0.5 mg l-1 and 1 mg l-1 TDZ treatments, respectively, while 100% of G. schomburgkiana stem explants formed callus in the 1 mg l-1 TDZ treatment and 89% of G. schomburgkiana leaf explants formed callus in the 0.5 mg l-1 picloram treatment. The highest callus induction rate for G. cowa was 62% in the 1 mg l-1 TDZ treatment and for G. celebica was 56% in the 0.5 mg l-1•mT-1 treatment. Conclusions: For all 4 species, the greatest amount of large nodular callus was observed in the TDZ treatments. White, friable callus was observed on most of the 2,4-D and picloram treatment groups. Most meta-topolin treatments resulted in minimal callus formation.

Effects of an accidental dry-season fire on the reproductive phenology of two Neotropical savanna shrubs / Efeitos de um incêndio acidental de estação seca sobre a fenologia reprodutiva de dois arbustos savânicos neotropicais

Abstract Fire is a recurrent disturbance in savanna vegetation and savanna species are adapted to it. Even so, fire may affect various aspects of plant ecology, including phenology. We studied the effects of a spatially heterogeneous fire on the reproductive phenology of two dominant woody plant species, Miconia albicans (Melastomataceae) and Schefflera vinosa (Araliaceae), in a savanna area in South-eastern Brazil. The study site was partially burnt by a dry-season accidental fire in August 2006, and we monitored the phenolology of 30 burnt and 30 unburnt individuals of each species between September 2007 and September 2008. We used restricted randomizations to assess phenological differences between the burnt and unburnt individuals. Fire had negative effects on the phenology of M. albicans, with a smaller production of reproductive structures in general and of floral buds, total fruits, and ripe fruits in burnt plants. All unburnt but only 16% of the burnt M. albicans plants produced ripe fruits during the study. Fire effects on S. vinosa were smaller, but there was a greater production of floral buds and fruits (but not ripe fruits) by burnt plants; approximately 90% of the individuals of S. vinosa produced ripe fruits during the study, regardless of having been burnt or not. The differences between the two species may be related to S. vinosa's faster growth and absence from the seed bank at the study site, whereas M. albicans grows more slowly and is dominant in the seed bank.

Resumo O fogo é uma perturbação recorrente em vegetação savânica e as espécies do cerrado são adaptadas a ele. Mesmo assim, o fogo pode afetar aspectos da ecologia vegetal, incluindo a fenologia. Nós estudamos os efeitos de um incêndio espacialmente heterogêneo sobre a fenologia reprodutiva de duas espécies lenhosas dominantes, Miconia albicans (Melastomataceae) e Schefflera vinosa (Araliaceae), em uma área de cerrado no Sudeste do Brasil. A área de estudo foi parcialmente queimada por um incêndio acidental na estação seca (agosto) de 2006. Nós acompanhamos a fenologia reprodutiva de 30 indivíduos queimados e 30 não-queimados de cada espécie, de setembro de 2007 a setembro de 2008, usando aleatorizações restritas para comparar os dois grupos. Em M. albicans, a produção de estruturas reprodutivas como um todo e de botões florais, frutos e frutos maduros foi maior em indivíduos queimados do que nos não-queimados. Todos os indivíduos não-queimados, mas apenas 16% dos queimados, produziram frutos maduros durante o estudo. Já em S. vinosa, a produção de botões florais e de frutos (mas não de frutos maduros) foi maior em indivíduos queimados; aproximadamente 90% dos indivíduos de S. vinosa produziram frutos maduros durante o estudo, independentemente de terem sido queimados ou não. As diferenças entre as duas espécies podem estar relacionadas com o fato de S. vinosa crescer mais rápido e estar ausente do banco de sementes, ao contrário de M. albicans, de crescimento mais lento e dominante no banco de sementes.

Riqueza total de especies de plantas vasculares en un bosque andino de la Cordillera central de Colombia / Total richness of vascular plant species in an Andean forest of the Central Cordillera, Colombia

Resumen Los reportes sobre diversidad de plantas en los bosques tropicales suelen estar restringidos a árboles u otros grupos de plantas leñosas por encima de cierto diámetro del tallo. Sin embargo, otros estudios que incluyen todas las formas de vida sin restricciones de tamaño de los individuos, indican claramente que las plantas no leñosas son igual de importantes. En este estudio se reporta la Riqueza total de especies de plantas vasculares (RTE) en una parcela de una hectárea en un bosque andino del noroccidente de Colombia (6º12'48"N & 75º29'32"O); adicionalmente evaluamos la contribución de los diferentes hábitos de crecimiento a la RTE y el efecto del tamaño de las plantas. Se censaron todos los individuos con diámetro del tronco (D) ≥ 5 cm en 1 ha, y todas las plantas vasculares de todos los tamaños, incluyendo epífitas, en una muestra de 0.25 hectáreas. Se registró un total de 14 545 individuos distribuidos en 318 especies, 72 familias (considerando Pteridophyta como un solo grupo) y 171 géneros. El 99.7 % de las especies son menores de 10 cm de (D) y el 94.4 % son menores a 2.5 cm de (D). Las especies no arbóreas (hierbas terrestres, epífitas y escandentes) representan el 54.3% del total de especies registradas en la parcela, lo que indica que son un componente clave de la estructura, composición y riqueza de este bosque montano neotropical. Estos resultados confirman reportes similares para otros bosques tropicales. Concluimos que para conocer con más detalle la diversidad de florística de un sitio es recomendable: 1) ampliar el rango de tamaño de las plantas considerado comúnmente en los inventarios florísticos y 2) incluir las especies no leñosas; esta información es crucial para tomar mejores decisiones en los esfuerzos de conservación a escala local y global.

Abstract Studies of plant diversity in tropical forests are usually restricted to trees or other groups of woody plants above a certain stem diameter. However, surveys that include all forms of live plants with no restrictions on their sizes, clearly indicate that non-woody plants are equally important. In this study, we reported the total species richness of vascular plants species (TSR) in one hectare plot in an Andean forest in Northwestern Colombia (6º12'48"N & 75º29 32"W). We evaluated the relative contribution of the different growth habits and the effect of the plant size, to TSR. We measured all individuals with diameter (D) ≥ 5 cm in the hectare and all the vascular plants of all sizes, including epiphytes, in a subsample of 0.25 ha. A total of 14 545 individuals distributed in 318 species, 72 families (considering Pteridophyta as one group) and 171 genera were registered. Most of the species showed a (D) < 10 cm (99.7 %) and < 2.5 cm (94.4 %). The no-arboreal species (ground herbs, epiphytes and vines) represented 54.3 % of the total species reported in the plot, indicating that they are important in the structure, composition and species richness of this montane forest. Our results coincide with similar studies in other tropical forests. We concluded that to get a more detailed knowledge of the floristic diversity of a site, it is advisable to: 1) amplify the size range of the plants generally considered in the floristic inventories and 2) to include non-woody species. This information is crucial for making better decisions in local and global conservation efforts. Rev. Biol. Trop. 66(1): 227-236. Epub 2018 March 01.

Acaulosproa koreana, a New Species of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (Glomeromycota) Associated with Roots of Woody Plants in Korea

A new species of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (Glomeromycota), Acaulospora koreana, was isolated from forest soils in South Korea. This novel fungus was collected from the rhizosphere of Lindera obtusiloba and Styrax obassia in forest and propagated with Sorghum bicolor in pot. Morphological characteristics of spores of A. koreana are rarely distinguished from Acaulospora mellea, which is reported as one of the most abundant mycorrhizal species in Korea. However, molecular evidence of rDNA sequence using improved primers for glomeromycotan fungal identification strongly supported that A. koreana is different from A. mellea but also any other species belonging to the genus Acaulospora. This is the first novel glomeromycatan fungus introduced in South Korea, but it suggests that there is a high possibility for discovering new arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi considering the abundance of plant species and advanced phylogenetic analysis technique.

Proposal of a New Estimation Method of Colonization Rate of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi in the Roots of Chengiopanax sciadophylloides

This study proposed a rapid method to quantify the colonization rate of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) in plant roots. The method involved the use of an image analysis software (WinRHIZO Pro). The colonization rate is defined as the ratio of the fungal body to the plant root area in a micrograph. Three seedlings of Chengiopanax sciadophylloides, a woody species that accumulates radiocesium, were collected from a secondary forest in the Yamakiya district of Kawamata, Fukushima Prefecture during May–September 2014. The colonization of AMF structures was examined under a light microscope, and the percentage of colonization was determined using the WinRHIZO method. The superiority of the new method was verified by comparing with a modified grid-line intersect method. The colonization of AMF was confirmed in all the seedlings, and a significant coefficient of determination (R² = 0.94) was found with both the methods. The results suggested that the WinRHIZO method is reliable for estimating the colonization of AMF in C. sciadophylloides.

Effects of an accidental dry-season fire on the reproductive phenology of two Neotropical savanna shrubs

Abstract Fire is a recurrent disturbance in savanna vegetation and savanna species are adapted to it. Even so, fire may affect various aspects of plant ecology, including phenology. We studied the effects of a spatially heterogeneous fire on the reproductive phenology of two dominant woody plant species, Miconia albicans (Melastomataceae) and Schefflera vinosa (Araliaceae), in a savanna area in South-eastern Brazil. The study site was partially burnt by a dry-season accidental fire in August 2006, and we monitored the phenolology of 30 burnt and 30 unburnt individuals of each species between September 2007 and September 2008. We used restricted randomizations to assess phenological differences between the burnt and unburnt individuals. Fire had negative effects on the phenology of M. albicans, with a smaller production of reproductive structures in general and of floral buds, total fruits, and ripe fruits in burnt plants. All unburnt but only 16% of the burnt M. albicans plants produced ripe fruits during the study. Fire effects on S. vinosa were smaller, but there was a greater production of floral buds and fruits (but not ripe fruits) by burnt plants; approximately 90% of the individuals of S. vinosa produced ripe fruits during the study, regardless of having been burnt or not. The differences between the two species may be related to S. vinosas faster growth and absence from the seed bank at the study site, whereas M. albicans grows more slowly and is dominant in the seed bank.

Resumo O fogo é uma perturbação recorrente em vegetação savânica e as espécies do cerrado são adaptadas a ele. Mesmo assim, o fogo pode afetar aspectos da ecologia vegetal, incluindo a fenologia. Nós estudamos os efeitos de um incêndio espacialmente heterogêneo sobre a fenologia reprodutiva de duas espécies lenhosas dominantes, Miconia albicans (Melastomataceae) e Schefflera vinosa (Araliaceae), em uma área de cerrado no Sudeste do Brasil. A área de estudo foi parcialmente queimada por um incêndio acidental na estação seca (agosto) de 2006. Nós acompanhamos a fenologia reprodutiva de 30 indivíduos queimados e 30 não-queimados de cada espécie, de setembro de 2007 a setembro de 2008, usando aleatorizações restritas para comparar os dois grupos. Em M. albicans, a produção de estruturas reprodutivas como um todo e de botões florais, frutos e frutos maduros foi maior em indivíduos queimados do que nos não-queimados. Todos os indivíduos não-queimados, mas apenas 16% dos queimados, produziram frutos maduros durante o estudo. Já em S. vinosa, a produção de botões florais e de frutos (mas não de frutos maduros) foi maior em indivíduos queimados; aproximadamente 90% dos indivíduos de S. vinosa produziram frutos maduros durante o estudo, independentemente de terem sido queimados ou não. As diferenças entre as duas espécies podem estar relacionadas com o fato de S. vinosa crescer mais rápido e estar ausente do banco de sementes, ao contrário de M. albicans, de crescimento mais lento e dominante no banco de sementes.

Nuevos registros de hongos gasteroides leñosos desertícolas (agaricaceae): battarrea stevenii (liboschitz) Fr. y chlamydopus meyenianus (klotzsch) lloyd, en el norte de Chile / New reports of woody desert gasteroid fungi (agaricaceae): battarrea stevenii (liboschitz) Fr. and chlamydopus meyenianus (Klotzsch) lloyd, in northern Chile

Battarrea stevenii (Liboschitz) Fr. y Chlamydopus meyenianus (Klotzsch) Lloyd son dos hongos gasteroides raramente recolectados en Chile. Habitan regiones áridas y emergen después de las lluvias de primavera. Nuevas localidades y descripciones se presentan aquí.

Battarrea stevenii (Liboschitz) Fr. and Chlamydopus meyenianus (Klotzsch) Lloyd are two infrequently collected stalked gasteroid in Chile. They inhabit arid regions and emerge after early spring rains. New localities and descriptions are presented here.

Micropropagation of Calophyllum brasiliense (Cambess) from nodal segments / Micropropagação de Calophyllum brasiliense (Cambess) a partir de segmentos nodais

Abstract Micropropagation of Calophyllum brasiliense Cambess. (Clusiaceae) is a way to overcome difficulties in achieving large-scale plant production, given the recalcitrant nature of the seeds, irregular fructification and absence of natural vegetative propagation of the species. Cultures were established using nodal segments 2 cm in length, obtained from 1-2 year old seedlings, maintained in a greenhouse. Mercury chloride and Plant Preservative Mixture™ were used in the surface sterilizing stage, better results being achieved with Plant Preservative Mixture™ incorporation in culture medium, at any concentration. Polyvinylpyrrolidone, activated charcoal, cysteine, ascorbic acid or citric acid were added to the culture medium to avoid oxidation. After 30 days of culture, polyvinylpirrolidone and ascorbic acid gave better results, eliminating oxidation in most explants. For shoot multiplication, benzylaminopurine was used in concentrations of 4.4 and 8.8 µM in Woody Plant Medium, resulting in an average of 4.43 and 4.68 shoots per explant, respectively, after 90 days. Indole-3-butyric acid and α-naphthalene acetic acid were used to induce root formation, reaching a maximum rooting rate of 24% with 20µM α-naphthalene acetic acid. For acclimatization. the rooted plants were transferred to Plantmax® substrate and cultured in a greenhouse, reaching 79% of survival after 30 days and 60% after one year.

Resumo A micropropagação de Calophyllum brasiliense Cambess. (Clusiaceae) é uma maneira de superar dificuldades para sua produção em larga escala, devido à natureza recalcitrante das sementes, frutificação irregular e ausência de propagação vegetativa natural da espécie. Culturas foram estabelecidas utilizando segmentos nodais com 2 cm de comprimento, obtidos de plantas com 1 a 2 anos de idade, mantidas em casa de vegetação. Cloreto de mercúrio e Plant Preservative Mixture™ foram utilizados durante a etapa de desinfestação, com melhores resultados alcançados com a incorporação de Plant Preservative Mixture™ ao meio de cultura. Polivinilpirrolidona, carvão ativado, cisteína, ácido ascórbico ou ácido cítrico foram adicionados ao meio de cultura para evitar a oxidação dos explantes. Após 30 dias de cultivo, o uso de polivinilpirrolidona ou ácido ascórbico proporcionou melhores resultados, eliminando a oxidação na maioria dos explantes. Para multiplicação das brotações, benzilaminopurina foi usada em concentrações de 4.4 e 8.8 µM em meio WPM, resultando em uma média de 4.43 e 4.68 brotações por explante, respectivamente, após 90 dias. Ácido indol-3-butírico e ácido α-naftaleno acético foram usados para a indução de raízes, alcançando um enraizamento máximo de 24% com o uso de 20µM de ácido α-naftaleno acético. As plantas enraizadas foram transferidas para substrato Plantmax® e cultivadas em casa de vegetação, alcançando 79% de sobrevivência após 30 dias e 60% após um ano.

Effects of variations in culture media and hormonal treatments upon callus induction potential in endosperm explant of Barringtonia racemosa L

Objective: To induce callus from the medicinally valuable species, Barringtonia racemosa L. (B. racemosa) whereby the formation of callus is essential for micropropagation studies and in vitro plant secondary metabolites production. Methods: The callus induction potential in B. racemosa was assessed from endosperm explant cultured on different culture media and plant hormonal treatments. Lloyd and McCown's woody plant medium and Murashige and Skoog's medium were used in the study as culture media. On the other hand, various concentrations and combinations of 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (1.0-2.0 mg/L) and kinetin (0.5-2.5 mg/L) had been incorporated in the culture media to exert the effects of auxin and cytokinin on callus induction. Results: From the present study, it was found that the profuse [(1.681 ± 0.770) g fresh weight, (0.239 ± 0.239) g dry weight] and friable callus formation was optimally produced with desirable morphology and considerable percentage of callus induction (56.70%) in endosperm explants cultured on 1.0 mg/L 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid and 1.5 mg/L kinetin in Murashige and Skoog's medium. Conclusions: A reliable protocol for inducing callus formation of profuse and friable morphology in endosperm explant of B. racemosa had therefore been successfully established.

Dormancy-breaking requirements of Sophora tomentosa and Erythrina speciosa (Fabaceae) seeds / Dormancy-breaking requirements of Sophora tomentosa and Erythrina speciosa (Fabaceae) seeds

The physical dormancy of seeds has been poorly studied in species from tropical forests, such as the Atlantic Forest. This study aimed to examine the effect of moderate alternating temperatures on breaking the physical dormancy of seeds, the morphoanatomy and histochemistry of seed coats, and to locate the structure/region responsible for water entrance into the seed, after breaking the physical dormancy of seeds of two woody Fabaceae (subfamily Faboideae) species that occur in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest: Sophora tomentosa and Erythrina speciosa. To assess temperature effect, seeds were incubated in several temperature values that occur in the Atlantic Forest. For morphological and histochemical studies, sections of fixed seeds were subjected to different reagents, and were observed using light or epifluorescence microscopy, to analyze the anatomy and histochemistry of the seed coat. Treated and non-treated seeds were also analyzed using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) to observe the morphology of the seed coat. To localize the specific site of water entrance, the seeds were blocked with glue in different regions and also immersed in ink. In the present work a maximum temperature fluctuation of 15ºC was applied during a period of 20 days and these conditions did not increase the germination of S. tomentosa or E. speciosa. These results may indicate that these seeds require larger fluctuation of temperature than the applied or/and longer period of exposition to the temperature fluctuation. Blocking experiments water inlet combined with SEM analysis of the structures of seed coat for both species showed that besides the lens, the hilum and micropyle are involved in water absorption in seeds scarified with hot water. In seeds of E. speciosa the immersion of scarified seeds into an aniline aqueous solution showed that the solution first entered the seed through the hilum. Both species showed seed morphological and anatomical features for seed coats of the subfamily Faboideae. Lignin and callose were found around all palisade layers and the water impermeability and ecological role of these substances are discussed in the work.

Requisitos para romper la latencia en semillas de Sophora tomentosa y Erythrina speciosa (Fabaceae). La latencia física de las semillas ha sido poco estudiada en las especies de los bosques tropicales, como el bosque atlántico. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo examinar el efecto de las temperaturas moderadas alternantes en romper la latencia física de las semillas, la anatomía y la histoquímica de la cubierta de las semillas, y la localización de la estructura o región responsable de la entrada de agua, después de romper la latencia física de las semillas de Sophora tomentosa y Eythrina speciosa, dos especies leñosas de Fabaceae (subfamilia Faboideae) que presentes en el bosque atlántico de Brasil. Para cumplir con el primer objetivo se incubaron las semillas a varias temperaturas que se dan en el bosque atlántico. Para los estudios morfológicos e histoquímicos se fijaron secciones de semillas sometidos a diferentes reactivos y se observaron usando luz o microscopía de epifluorescencia para analizar la anatomía y la histoquímica de la cubierta de la semilla. Semillas tratadas y no tratadas se analizaron también usando un microscopio electrónico de barrido (MDB) o microscopio estereoscópico (ME) para observar la morfología de la cubierta de la semilla. Para localizar el sitio específico de la entrada de agua, las semillas fueron bloqueadas con pegamento en diferentes regiones y también sumergidas en tinta. En el presente trabajo se aplicó una fluctuación de temperatura máxima de 15°C durante un período de 20 días y estas condiciones no aumentó la germinación de S. tomentosa o E. speciosa. Estos resultados pueden indicar que estas semillas requieren mayor fluctuación de la temperatura que la aplicada y/o un período más largo de exposición a la fluctuación de la temperatura. Experimentos de bloqueo de entrada de agua combinada con el análisis de las estructuras de la cubierta de la semilla para ambas especies (SEM) mostró que, a pesar de la lente, el hilio y micropilo están implicados en la absorción de agua en las semillas escarificadas con agua caliente. En las semillas de E. speciosa la inmersión de semillas escarificadas en una solución acuosa de anilina mostró que la solución entró por primera vez a la semilla a través del hilio. Ambas especies mostraron características morfológicas y anatómicas de semillas con cubierta de la subfamilia Faboideae. La lignina y callosa se encontraron alrededor de todas las capas de empalizada y la impermeabilidad al agua y en el trabajo se discute el papel ecológico de estas sustancias.

Composición de especies leñosas en comunidades invadidas en montañas del centro de Argentina: su relación con factores ambientales locales

Woody species composition in invaded communities from mountains of central Argentina: their relations with local environmental factors. Invasions by exotic woody species are threatening ecosystem functions worldwide. The spread and subsequent replacement of native forest by exotic dominated stands is particularly evident nearby urban centers were exotic propagule pressure is highest. Yet, there is a lack of information on the environmental factors that underlie these replacements. In this study we addressed the following questions: (1) is there a local spatial segregation between the dominant native and exotic woody species? and (2) if this local segregation does exist, is it driven by environmental features?. For this, in 2010 we established 31 plots distributed along 16 sampling sites where we surveyed the composition and abundance of all woody species with a basal diameter ≥ 5cm. To characterize the environment of each plot, we measured the topographic position (slope, exposure) and different properties such as soil physics (bulk density, soil impedance), structure (soil deep, texture) and chemical characteristics (pH, nutrient and water content). Through a cluster analysis we were able to identify five different woody communities in coexistence: (1) Woodlands dominated by the exotic Ligustrum lucidum; (2) Mixed woodlands dominated by the native Lithraea molleoides and the exotic Celtis australis; (3) Scrublands dominated by the native Condalia buxifolia; (4) Scrublands dominated by the exotic Cotoneaster glaucophyllus, and (5) Scrubby grasslands with the exotic Pyracantha angustifolia. These communities were all associated with different local topographic and edaphic features. The environmental segregation among the identified communities suggests that woody invaders have the potential to colonize almost all the environments of the study site (though varying in the identity of the dominant exotic species). The observed patterns, even being restricted to a single well invaded area of mountain Chaco, may posit the spread of woody invaders towards native communities in the region.

En todo el mundo, las invasiones de especies leñosas exóticas están amenazando las funciones ecosistémicas. La dispersión y el subsecuente reemplazo de bosques de especies nativas por comunidades dominadas por exóticas es evidente, particularmente, en proximidad a centros urbanos donde la presión de propágulos de especies exóticas es alta. Sin embargo, existe una falta de información sobre los factores ambientales que subyacen este reemplazo. En este estudio nos propusimos responder las siguientes preguntas: (1) ¿se observa una segregación espacial a escala local entre especies leñosas exóticas y/o nativas dominantes?, y (2) si existe esa segregación, ¿está asociada a variables ambientales? En el 2010 se establecieron 31 parcelas distribuidas en 16 laderas en los bosques Chaqueños de las Sierras de Córdoba, en Argentina central. En cada uno de los sitios de muestreo se relevó la composición y abundancia de todas las especies leñosas con un diámetro a la altura de la base superior a 5cm. Para caracterizar el ambiente en cada una de las parcelas medimos la posición topográfica (pendiente y orientación) y algunas propiedades asociadas con la física (densidad aparente y compactación), estructura (profundidad y textura) y con la química (pH y el contenido de nutrientes y agua) del suelo. A través, de un análisis jerárquico de agrupamiento, se identificaron cinco comunidades de leñosas coexistiendo: (1) Bosques dominados por Ligustrum lucidum, (2) Bosques mixtos dominados por Lithraea molleoides y Celtis australis, (3) Matorrales de Condalia buxifolia, (4) Matorrales de Cotoneaster glaucophyllus, y (5) Pajonales con emergentes de Pyracantha angustifolia. Estas comunidades se asociaron diferencialmente a las variables topográficas y edáficas locales. La segregación ambiental observada sugiere que las especies invasoras tienen una capacidad potencial para colonizar casi todos los ambientes en el área de estudio (variando la identidad de la invasora). En conjunto, los patrones descritos, aunque circunscriptos a un área de Chaco Serrano con un avanzado grado de invasión, plantearían un escenario de posible expansión de las leñosas exóticas sobre las comunidades nativas.

In Vitro Regeneration from Shoot Tip and Nodal Explants of Simarouba Glauca DC, a Promising Biodiesel Tree.

An efficient regeneration protocol was developed from shoot tip and nodal explants of Simarouba glauca DC, a promising biodiesel plant. Nodal explants appeared to have better regeneration capacity than shoot tip explants (40%) in the tested media. The highest regeneration frequency (90%) and shoot number (7.00 ± 1.00 shoots per explants) were obtained in nodal explants in Murashige and Skoog’s (MS) medium supplemented with 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP) 4.43 μM and α-naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) 5.36 μM.Induced shoot buds were multiplied and elongated on the MS medium supplemented with BAP (4.44 μM), NAA (5.36 μM) and TDZ (Thidiazuron) 2.27 μM with 9.66±0.33 (mean length 5.35±0.32 cm) and 9.00±0.57 (mean length 4.51±0.15cm) shoots using nodal segments and shoot tip explants, respectively. Halfstrength woody plant medium (WPM) containing 2.46μM indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) produced the maximum number of roots (6.00±1.15). The rooted plantlets were hardened on MS basal liquid medium and subsequently in polycups containing sterile soil and vermiculite (1:1) and successfully established in pots.

Expressão transiente do gene uidA em explantes foliares de Eucalyptus saligna Sm. transformado via Agrobacterium tumefaciens / Transient expression of uidA gene in leaf explants of Eucalyptus saligna Sm. transformed via Agrobacterium tumefaciens

O objetivo desse trabalho foi avaliar a influência do pré-cultivo de explantes foliares e do meio de cultura na ressuspensão de Agrobacterium tumefaciens para infecção dos explantes. Os meios MS/2 (50% da concentração de sais) e MS N/2 (50% da concentração de NH4NO3 e KNO3) + PGR (1,0µM de TDZ (thidiazuron) + 0,1 µM de ANA (ácido naftalenoacético)) foram testados na ressuspensão da bactéria para infecção dos explantes. O pré-cultivo consistiu da manutenção dos explantes em meio de cultura para formação de calos (MS N/2 + PGR) durante um dia, sendo o tratamento sem pré-cultivo consistituído dos explantes após a excissão dos mesmos. Os explantes foram mantidos no escuro a 25 ± 2ºC mediante a utilização de plástico preto. O delineamento usado foi o inteiramente casualisado com 20 explantes. Os experimentos foram repetidos duas vezes. O meio MS/2 promoveu resultados superiores (22,4%) comparado ao meio MS N/2 + PGR (14,5%) para a percentagem de área com expressão do gene uidA. Aos 7 dias de cultivo em meio seletivo, a percentagem de área expressando o gene uidA foi 1,6 no MS/2 e 0% para o MS N/2 + PGR. O pré-cultivo produziu resultados superiores aos encontrados sem pré-cultivo, atingindo 31,4% de expressão transiente e no tratamento sem pré-cultivo 2,1%. Após 7 dias de cultivo em meio seletivo, a percentagem de área de expressão dos explantes do tratamento com pré-cultivo permaneceu 4,8% e 0% para o tratamento sem pré-cultivo. Os resultados indicam que o précultivo e ressuspensão da bactéria em meio MS/2 aumentaram a eficiência da expressão transiente do gene uidA em explantes foliares de E. saligna.

The aim of this research was to evaluate the effect of the pre-culture of leaf explants and the effect of the culture medium for the Agrobacterium tumefaciens resuspension to the explant infection. The media, MS/2 (half strength) and MS N/2 (10.3 mM NH4NO3 and 9.4 mM KNO3) + PGR (1.0 µM TDZ (thidiazuron) and 0.1 µM NAA (1-Naphthaleneacetic acid)) were tested for the bacteria resuspension. The pre-culture consisted of the maintenance of the explants on culture medium for callus formation (MS N/2+PGR) during one day and the treatment without pre-culture consisted of the use of the explants after the excision of the same ones. At the end of the co-culture, the MS/2 promoted results superiors to the MS N/2+PGR, and the area percentage that presented expression of the gene uidA was of 22.4% compared at 14.5%. To the 7 days of culture on a medium with kanamycin, the area percentage expressing the gene uidA was 1.6 in MS/2 and 0% for the MS N/2+PGR. At the end of the co-culture, the pre-culture produced results superiors to the found in the treatment without pre-culture, reaching 31.4% of expression and in the treatment without pre-culture 2.1%. After 7 days of culture on a medium with kanamycin, the area percentage of explant expression of the treatment with pre-culture stayed 4.8% and 0% for the treatment without pre-culture. The results indicate that the pre-culture and the bacteria resuspension in MS/2 increase the efficiency of the transient expression of the gene uidA in leaf explants of E. saligna.