Morphological study in heart of wild Chinese alligator (Alligator sinensis) / Estudio morfológico del corazón del caimán chino salvaje (Alligator sinensis)

SUMMARY: The Chinese alligator (Alligator sinensis) belongs to the genus Alligator, which is a unique crocodile in China. In order to study the macroscopic structure of the heart of Chinese alligator, we performed detailed cardiac anatomy on five specimens. The heart is in the cranial mediastinum. It is caudally involved by the liver cranial margins, and ventrally by the ribs, intercostal muscles, and sternum and dorsally by the lungs. The wild Chinese alligator heart is a typical four-chamber heart, with two (right and left) atria and ventricles, left and right aorta, pulmonary artery and subclavian artery branch from the aorta. Morphology measures the circumference (129.36 mm), weight (44.14 g), and length of the heart from apex to bottom (52.50 mm). Studies have shown that the shape of the wild Chinese alligator's heart is consistent with the anatomy of other crocodiles.

El caimán chino (Alligator sinensis) pertenece al género Alligator, que es un cocodrilo único en China. Para estudiar la estructura macroscópica del corazón del caimán chino, revisamos detalladamente la anatomía cardíaca de cinco especímenes. El corazón está en el mediastino craneal. Está limitado caudalmente por los márgenes craneales del hígado, y ventralmente por las costillas, los músculos intercostales y el esternón, y dorsalmente por los pulmones. El corazón de cocodrilo chino salvaje es un corazón típico de cuatro cámaras, con dos atrios y dos ventrículos (derecho e izquierdo), aortas izquierda y derecha, arteria pulmonar y rama de la arteria subclavia de la aorta. La morfología mide la circunferencia (129,36 mm), el peso (44,14 g) y la longitud del corazón desde el ápice hasta la base (52,50 mm). Los estudios han demostrado que la forma del corazón del caimán chino salvaje es consistente con la anatomía de otros cocodrilos.

Hematologic parameters of captive Bothrops atrox (Squamata: viperidae)

The breeding of venomous snakes in captivity for research purposes and mainly as a source of pharmaceutical products highlights the need to determine hematological parameters for monitoring and ensuring a healthy breeding populationThe complete blood count is used to help diagnose alterations such as anemia, inflammatory diseases, parasitemia, hematopoietic disorders, hemostatic and toxicological changes, as well as bacterial and viral inclusions. Thus, the objective of this study was to define reference parameters for complete blood count in Bothrops atrox snakes. Blood samples were collected from 20 specimens of B. atrox from the Pentapharm do Brasil commercial breeding facility for laboratory examination. Mean values and standard deviation were: hematocrit 33.6 ± 5.47%, hemoglobin 10.81 ± 2.07g/dL, total number of erythrocytes 0.59 ± 0.1 x 106/mm3, leukocytes 11387.5 ± 3279.2/mm3 and thrombocytes 28175 ± 6320/mm3. No significant difference was observed between males and females and heterophils were the predominant leukocyte cell type.

PREDATORY INTERACTION BETWEEN TWO ANURAN SPECIES WITH Thamnodynastes chaquensis (COLUBRIDAE) IN THE BRAZILIAN CERRADO / Interacción depredatoria entre dos especies de anura con Thamnodynastes chaquensis (Colubridae) en el Cerrado brasileño

ABSTRACT Although predatory events are uncommon to be recorded in nature, these data are important tools for understanding prey-predator interaction of the involved species. Snakes of genus Thamnodynastes are known for having an anuran diet, including some species of hylid frogs in their diet. Despite this, this pattern does not include T. chaquensis since there are no records on predation or trophic interaction with hylid frogs. Here, we report the first predatory interaction between T. chaquensis and two hylid frogs in Brazilian Cerrado. The first predation event with treefrog Boana caiapo occurred with success but, the second with B. albopunctata did not. Connecting trophic links within an ecosystem requires in-depth knowledge of its species and their intraspecific interactions. In this context, records of the predation and predation attempts such as these may help to connect unknown trophic links, which helps to understand aspects of the natural history of the species involved.

RESUMEN Aunque los eventos depredatorios son poco comunes de registrar en la naturaleza, estos datos son herramientas importantes para comprender la interacción presa-depredador de las especies involucradas. Las serpientes del género Thamnodynastes son conocidas por su dieta basada en anuros y, aunque algunas especies incluyen ranas hílidas en su dieta, esto no ocurre en la especie T. chaquensis porque no hay registros de depredación o interacción trófica con los hílidos. Aquí informamos sobre la primera interacción depredatoria entre T. chaquensis y dos ranas hílidas del Cerrado brasileño. El primer evento de depredación con la rana Boana caiapo fue exitoso, pero el segundo con B. albopunctata no. Conectar los enlaces tróficos dentro de un ecosistema requiere conocer íntimamente sus especies y sus interacciones intraespecíficas. En este contexto, los registros de depredación y de intentos de depredación como estos pueden ayudar a conectar enlaces tróficos no conocidos, lo cual ayuda a comprender los aspectos de la historia natural de las especies involucradas.

Are tropical reptiles really declining? A six-year survey of snakes in a tropical coastal rainforest: role of prey and environment

Introduction: Even though snake declines seem to be a reality in many parts of the world, some reports are based on anecdotal evidence and there is a need of prolonged and intensive studies, especially in the tropics, for corroboration. Objective: Toinvestigate if snake populations in Drake Bay are decreasing, and if there is a relationship with prey, time, temperature, rain and moonlight. Methods: We counted snakes seen per hour when walking along a single trail in the coastal forest of Drake Bay, Costa Rica. We walked the trail at night for a total of 842 nights (over 4 000 hours of observations), from 2012 through 2017 and recorded all the individual snakes we could see with head flashlights. We used ANOVA tests to check correlations among counts per hour with moonlight and rain; and graphic analysis for associations with diet, temperature, month and year. Results: We recorded 25 species (five families); which feed mostly on terrestrial vertebrates. Counts per hour have fallen over the years, especially for species that prey on amphibians and reptiles; Mastigodryas melanolomus has remained in similar numbers; and Siphlophis compressus has not been seen since May 2016. Temperature is relatively constant along the year in Drake, but month strongly affected the counts, which increased from August to September. Most species were seen more often in rainy nights (0.11 per hour versus only 0.03 per hour in nights without rain, ANOVA P 0.05). Conclusion: Night field counts of snakes in Drake Bay, Costa Rica, are not strongly affected by light or temperature, but are lower when there is no rain and show a strong decline from 2012 through 2017, particularly for species that feed on amphibians and reptiles. We have no reason to believe that the decline is an erroneous interpretation or that the snakes moved elsewhere, the decline of snakes in Drake seems to be real and needs attention from the conservation authorities.

Introducción: A pesar de que la disminución de serpientes parece ser una realidad en muchas partes del mundo, algunos informes se basan en evidencia anecdótica y existe la necesidad de estudios prolongados e intensivos, especialmente en los trópicos, para corroborar. Objetivo: Investigar si las poblaciones de serpientes en Bahía Drake están disminuyendo y si existe una relación con la presa, el tiempo, la temperatura, la lluvia y la luz de la luna. Metodología: Contamos las serpientes que se ven por hora al caminar por un sendero en el bosque costero de la Bahía Drake, Costa Rica. Recorrimos el sendero por la noche durante un total de 842 noches (más de 4 000 horas de observaciones), desde el 2012 hasta el 2017, y registramos todas las serpientes individuales que pudimos ver con linternas de cabeza. Utilizamos pruebas ANDEVA para verificar correlaciones entre conteos por hora con luz de luna y lluvia; y análisis gráfico para asociaciones con dieta, temperatura, mes y año. Resultados: Registramos 25 especies (cinco familias); se alimentan principalmente de vertebrados terrestres. Las cuentas por hora han disminuido a lo largo de los años, especialmente para especies que se alimentan de anfibios y reptiles; Mastigodryas melanolomus se ha mantenido en números similares; y Siphlophis compressus no se ha visto desde mayo de 2016. La temperatura es relativamente constante durante todo el año en Drake, pero el mes afectó fuertemente los conteos, que aumentaron de agosto a septiembre. La mayoría de las especies se observaron con mayor frecuencia en noches lluviosas (0.11 por hora versus solo 0.03 por hora en noches sin lluvia, ANDEVA P 0.05). Conclusión: El recuento nocturno de serpientes en la Bahía de Drake, Costa Rica, no se ve muy afectado por la luz o la temperatura, pero es más bajo cuando no llueve y muestra un fuerte descenso desde 2012 hasta 2017, particularmente para las especies que se alimentan de anfibios y reptiles. No tenemos ninguna razón para creer que la disminución sea una interpretación errónea o que las serpientes se mudaron a otra parte, la disminución de las serpientes en Drake parece ser real y necesita la atención de las autoridades de conservación.

Identification of sex using SBNO1 gene in the Chinese softshell turtle, Pelodiscus sinensis (Trionychidae)

The Chinese softshell turtle exhibits ZZ/ZW sex determination. To identify the sex of embryos, juvenile and adult individuals, we designed two pairs of polymerase chain reaction primers, SB1-196, which amplifies a fragment of 196 bp in the female and the other, CK1-482, which amplifies the 482-bp fragment in both the sexes. It is validated in 24 adult turtles of known sex, sampled from three different locations. This one-step sexing technique is rapid and easy to perform and is reported for the first time.

Tear meniscometry test in wild animals / Teste de meniscometria lacrimal em animais silvestres

ABSTRACT: This study aimed to describe strip meniscometry test values for Amazona aestiva (turquoise-fronted amazon), Ara ararauna (blue-and-yellow macaw) and Caiman latirostris (broad-snouted caiman). Twenty-one Amazona aestiva and 11 Ara ararauna, healthy, adults of unknown sex, and 37 healthy adult Caiman latirostris (27 males and 10 females), were used in this investigation. All animals were manually restrained and I-Tear® Test strip was inserted for 5 s at the edge of the lower tear meniscus, without touching the eyelid or ocular surface, immediately followed by measurement (millimeter per 5 seconds). No differences were reported between left and right eyes for Amazona aestiva (P = 0.824), Ara ararauna (P = 0.262) and Caiman latirostris (P = 0.679). Median and confidence interval were 2.0 (2.25-3.56) mm/5s for Amazona aestiva, 3.0 (2.93-4.15) mm/5s for Ara ararauna and 3.0 (2.55-4.90) mm/5 s for Caiman latirostris. These values for strip meniscometry tear test can be used as parameters for each species and may be helpful for diagnosis and treatment of tear-production disorders in birds and reptiles.

RESUMO: O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever os valores do teste de meniscometria lacrimal para Amazona aestiva (papagaio-verdadeiro), Ara ararauna (arara-canindé) e Caiman latirostris (jacaré-de-papo-amarelo). Vinte e um Amazona aestiva, 11 Ara ararauna adultos, de sexo desconhecido, e 37 Caiman latirostris adultos (27 machos e 10 fêmeas), foram utilizados nesta investigação. Todos os animais foram contidos manualmente e uma tira do I-Tear® test foi inserida por 5 segundos na borda do menisco inferior, sem tocar a pálpebra ou a superfície ocular, e imediatamente mensurada (milímetro por 5 segundos). Não foram encontradas diferenças entre os olhos esquerdos e direitos para Amazona aestiva (P = 0,824), Ara ararauna (P = 0,262) e Caiman latirostris (P = 0,679). Mediana e intervalo de confiança foram de 2,0 (2,25-3,56) mm/5 s para Amazona aestiva, 3,0 (2,93-4,15) mm/5 s para Ara ararauna e 3,0 (2,55-4,90) mm/5 s para Caiman latirostris. Estes valores para o teste de meniscometria podem ser utilizados como parâmetros para estas espécies e podem ser úteis para diagnosticar e tratar distúrbios de produção lacrimal em aves e répteis.

Amblyomma dissimile en Boa constrictor en cautiverio del Centro de Atención y Valoración de Fauna Silvestre de Montería (Córdoba, Colombia) / Amblyomma dissimile in Boa constrictor in captivity at the Wildlife Attention and Valuation Center in Montería (Córdoba, Colombia) / Amblyomma dissimile em jiboias-constritora em cativeiro do Centro de Atenção e Avaliação da Fauna Silvestre de Montería (Córdoba, Colômbia)

Resumen El objetivo del estudio fue identificar garrapatas extraídas en ejemplares de Boa constrictor llevadas al Centro de Atención y Valoración de Fauna Silvestre (CAV), en Montería (Córdoba, Colombia). Para ello se obtuvo un total de 199 garrapatas de 27 ejemplares de la serpiente. Los ectoparásitos fueron conservados en alcohol al 70 % y posteriormente se identificaron mediante diversas claves taxonómicas. El 100 % de las garrapatas fue identificado como Amblyomma dissimile, de las cuales el 58,4 % correspondió a machos y el 41,6 %, a hembras. Se pudo comprobar que la garrapata de mayor prevalencia en Boa constrictor es Amblyomma dissimile como ectoparásito de este reptil.

Abstract This study aimed to identify ticks removed from specimens of Boa constrictor taken to the Wildlife Attention and Valuation Center (CAV) in Montería (Córdoba, Colombia). To this effect, a total of 199 ticks were obtained from 27 snake specimens. The ectoparasites were preserved in 70% alcohol and later identified using various taxonomic codes. 100% of the ticks were identified as Amblyomma dissimile, 58.4% of which were males and 41.6% females. The study was able to evidence that the tick of greatest prevalence in Boa constrictor is Amblyomma dissimile as an ectoparasite of this reptile.

Resumo O objetivo do estudo foi identificar carrapatos extraídos em exemplares de jiboias levadas ao Centro de Atenção e Avaliação da Fauna Silvestre (CAV), em Montería (Córdoba, Colômbia). Para isso obteve-se um total de 199 carrapatos de 27 exemplares da serpente. Os ectoparasitas foram conservados em álcool ao 70 % e posteriormente se identificaram mediante diversas chaves taxonômicas. O 100 % dos carrapatos foram identificados como Amblyomma dissimile, das quais o 58,4 % eram machos e o 41,6 %, fêmeas. Pôde-se comprovar que o carrapato de maior prevalência em jiboias-constritoras é Amblyomma dissimile como ectoparasita deste réptil.

Descrição morfológica do coração e dos vasos da base do jacaré-do-pantanal (Caiman yacare Daudin, 1802) proveniente de zoocriadouro / Morphological description of heart and large vessels of the jacaré-do-pantanal (Caiman yacare Daudin, 1802) from a crocodile breeding Center

Com este estudo objetivou-se descrever os aspectos anatômicos e histológicos do coração do jacaré-do-pantanal (Caiman yacare), proveniente de zoocriadouro. Para tanto, estudou-se 13 exemplares da espécie, os quais foram perfundidos, conservados em solução de formaldeído a 10% e submetidos às técnicas anatômicas específicas. O coração foi separado e amostras foram colhidas e submetidas à avaliação histológica. Macroscopicamente o coração é tetracavitário, e além de dois átrios e dois ventrículos, apresenta uma estrutura denominada cone arterial, do qual emergem os vasos da base do coração. Foram identificadas duas aortas, direita e esquerda, sendo que a esquerda emerge do ventrículo direito e se comunica com o tronco sistêmico direito por meio do forame de Panizza. Histologicamente o coração possui epicárdio, miocárdio e endocárdio típicos. Concluímos que a histologia do coração, no jacaré-do-pantanal, é semelhante à de outras espécies de répteis. Contudo, anatomicamente apresenta particularidades importantes, as quais representam, possivelmente, adaptações que permitiram a perpetuação da espécie.(AU)

The aim of this study was to describe anatomical and histological aspects of the heart of Caiman yacare from a crocodile breeding center. For this purpose, we have chosen and further studied 13 specimens which were perfused and preserved in a 10% formaldehyde solution and they were subjected to the specific anatomical techniques. The heart was separated and samples were collected and submitted to the specific histological procedures. Macroscopically, the heart is four-chambered and besides two atria and two ventricles, has a structure called arterial cone from which the large vessels of the heart emerge. Two aortas, left and right, were identified. The left aorta emerges from the right ventricle and communicates with the systemic trunk through the Foramen of Panizza. From a histological point of view, the heart is typically composed of epicardium, myocardium and endocardium. According to these observations, it is assumed that the histology of the heart of "Jacaré-do-Pantanal" is similar to other species of reptiles. However, there are some anatomic particularities, which possibly represent the adaptations allowing the perpetuation of the species.(AU)

Morphological analysis of peripheral blood cells of Chelonoidis carbonaria (Spix, 1824) / Análise morfológica das células do sangue periférico de Chelonoidis carbonaria (Spix, 1824)

This present work describe the peripheral blood cell morphology from Chelonoids carbonaria. To do this were used ten animal specimens clinically healthy, six female and four male, submitted to peripheral blood collect by jugular vein. Blood was collected to prepare blood smears, without the use of anticoagulants. The slides were stained and analyzed microscopically to describe the cell morphology. The mature erythrocytes had an ellipsoid shape and a grain-free nucleus; immature ones were circular. The leukocytes, granulocytes and agranulocytes were also circular. The heterophils had cytoplasmic granules with various elongated shapes, and the eosinophils had a uniform round shape. The basophils had highly dense basophilic granules, stained in blue; the granules were irregularly arranged and also inside the nucleus. The lymphocytes were circular with a large circular nucleus. The thrombocytes were small, with basophilic staining and a small cytoplasm (the nucleus occupied almost the entire cell). The morphological results found in this study are consistent with cell types of other chelonians.

O presente estudo descreve a morfologia dos constituintes celulares do sangue periférico de Chelonoides carbonaria. Para tanto, 10 espécimes adultos, sendo seis fêmeas e quatro machos, clinicamente saudáveis foram submetidos à coleta de sangue periférico através da veia jugular. O sangue foi recolhido para preparar esfregaços sanguíneos, sem a utilização de anticoagulantes. As lâminas foram coradas e analisadas microscopicamente para descrever a morfologia da célula. Os eritrócitos maduros têm a forma elipsóide e apresentam núcleo central sem granulações; nas fases imaturas mostram-se arredondados. Os leucócitos, granulócitos e agranulócitos, também são circulares. Os heterófilos possuem grânulos citoplasmáticos com várias formas alongadas e nos eosinófilos são uniformes e arredondados. Os basófilos possuem grânulos altamente densos e basofílicos, corados em azul; os grânulos são dispostos de forma irregular e também no interior do núcleo. Os linfócitos são circulares com um grande núcleo circular. Os trombócitos são pequenos, com coloração basofílica e citoplasma escasso (o núcleo ocupa quase toda a célula). Os resultados encontrados nesta pesquisa são compatíveis com a morfologia encontrada nesses tipos celulares em outros quelônios.

Characterization of Dipeptidyl Peptidase IV Enzyme Activity in Serum of the Komodo Dragon (Varanus komodoensis).

Aims: Soluble serum dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPPIV) is a protease that cleaves dipeptides from proteins that have alanine or proline next to the N-terminal amino acid. This enzyme demonstrates substantial immune function by regulating T-lymphocyte activity, T-cell chemotaxis, growth, and proliferation during an inflammatory response. The goal of this study was to characterize DPPIV activity in the serum of the Komodo dragon (Varanus komodoensis). Study Design: Serum from captive Komodo dragons were pooled and the DPPIV activities were determined at a range of serum dilutions, temperatures, and time points. The effects of Diprotin A, a specific DPPIV enzyme inhibitor, on the generation of fluorescent product were also determined. All samples were analyzed in quadruplicate such that meaningful statistical evaluations could be conducted. Place and Duration of Study: Serum was collected from eight Komodo dragons at the San Antonio Zoo (n=5) and Houston Zoo (n=3) in June of 2012. The samples were analyzed for DPPIV enzyme activity in the Department of Chemistry at McNeese State University in Lake Charles, Louisiana, USA Methodology: We used Ala-Pro-AFC, a dipeptide conjugated to a fluorescent probe via an amide linkage, to measure the activity of DPPIV in the serum of Komodo dragons (Varanus komodoensis). The fluorescent intensity of the product formed was measured at excitation and emission wavelengths of 395 and 530 nm, respectively, in a fluorimeter. Results: Incubation of different volumes of serum from the Komodo dragon with Ala-Pro-AFC resulted in a volume-dependent increase in fluorescent intensity, which was decreased in a concentration-dependent manner by diprotin A, a specific inhibitor of DPPIV activity. Kinetic analysis showed that the DPPIV enzyme activity was detectable after five minutes, and that was nearly linear for three hours. A thermal profile showed that Komodo dragon DPPIV exhibited dramatically reduced activities at low temperatures (5-10°C), but activity increased linearly with temperature and was maximal at the highest temperature tested (40°C). Conclusion: These results from this study indicate that Komodo dragons exhibit considerably high serum DPPIV activities, which are likely to contribute to T-cell activation and function, and act as a bridge between innate and adaptive immunity in these ancient vertebrates.

Determinação das concentrações plasmáticas de proteínas e metabólitos de cascavéis em cativeiro / Determination of proteins and metabolites concentrations in plasma of rattlesnakes in captivity

Para determinar as concentrações plasmáticas de proteínas e metabólitos de cascavéis em cativeiro, foram utilizadas 60 serpentes adultas, sendo 30 machos e 30 fêmeas. O sangue foi coletado através de punção do seio venoso paravertebral cervical e armazenado em tubos com heparina. As análises bioquímicas foram processadas colorimetricamente em Analisador Automático de Bioquímica Chemwell (Awareness Technology®, Inc). Foram calculadas as médias e desvios padrão dos seguintes constituintes: proteínas totais, albumina, globulinas, relação albumina/globulinas, ácido úrico, creatinina, ureia, colesterol, colesterol HDL e triglicérides. Os valores obtidos foram semelhantes aos descritos na literatura para repteis e serpentes, sendo as diferenças observadas provavelmente decorrentes da diferença entre espécies, clima, estação do ano e metodologia utilizada. Não houve diferenças significativas entre machos e fêmeas para os parâmetros estudados. Estes resultados podem ser úteis no estabelecimento de valores de referência para planos de conservação destes ofídios em cativeiro.(AU)

For determining plasma concentrations of proteins and metabolites of rattlesnakes in captivity, 60 adult snakes, 30 males and 30 females were used. Blood was collected by puncture of the cervical paravertebral venous sinus and stored in tubes with heparin. Biochemical analyzes were colorimetrically processed using an Automatic Biochemistry Analyzer Chemwell (Awareness Technology®, Inc). The mean and standard deviation were calculated for the following constituents: total protein, albumin, globulin, albumin/globulin ratio, uric acid, creatinine, urea, cholesterol, HDL cholesterol and triglycerides. The values were similar to those previously reported for reptiles and snakes, with the differences observed probably due to the difference between species, climate, season and the methodology used. There were no significant differences between males and females for the parameters studied. These results may be useful in establishing normal biochemical values for conservation plans for these snakes in captivity.(AU)

Tráfico ilegal ee tortugas continentales (testuinata) en Colombia: una aproximmación desde el análisis de redes / Illegal Trade of Tortoises (Testudinata) in Colombia: A Network Analysis Approach

El uso de productos extraídos o provenientes de la fauna silvestre es relevante para el desarrollo económico y el bienestar social en muchos lugares del mundo. Sin embargo, frecuentemente la fauna silvestre entra en los circuitos de tráfico ilegal para abastecer los mercados de mascotas y productos como pieles, plumas, "carne de monte", entre otros. El tráfico ilegal genera enormes presiones sobre las especies sujetas a extracción y es una de las principales amenazas para estas. En Colombia, el tráfico de tortugas es de importancia debido a los volúmenes explotados y al significado que tienen sus productos para las comunidades. Mediante el Análisis de Redes se caracterizó espacialmente, a nivel de Departamento, el tráfico de los cinco géneros de testudíneos continentales de Colombia más traficados (Trachemys, Chelonoidis, Kinosternon, Podocnemis y Rhinoclemmys), tomando como base los registros de incautación y decomiso recopilados por el Ministerio de Ambiente y Desarrollo Sostenible entre los años 2005 y 2009. Se encontró que la red de tráfico ilegal de testudíneos está articulada con mercados internacionales y propende por abastecer mercados del interior del país (región Andina), siendo los Departamentos de las costas Caribe y Pacífica, y de la Orinoquía, los principales extractores de especímenes. Se identificaron los Departamentos de Quindío, Santander, Antioquia y Putumayo como intermediarios y consumidores. Finalmente, se proponen medidas socioculturales y coercitivas como mecanismos de desarticulación de las redes de tráfico ilegal, siendo dichas acciones un soporte para la conservación y el uso sostenible de los recursos naturales.

The use of wildlife is important for supporting the economic and demographic growth in emerging countries. Nevertheless, the products of wildlife usually come from illegal trade to supply fur, wild meat and pet markets. Illegal trade puts great pressure over wild populations and threats some endangered species. In Colombia, the trade of wildlife is important because of the volumes traded and the cultural and economic connotation of some products. We describe the spatial structure of illegal trade of wildlife at departmental level for the five most traded genera of Colombian tortoises (Trachemys, Chelonoidis, Kinosternon, Podocnemis and Rhinoclemmys). This study is based on the reports of seizures between 2005 and 2009 compiled by the Ministerio de Medio Ambiente y Desarrollo of Colombia. We apply Network Analysis to study and evidence that the illegal trade network of tortoises includes international markets and supplies the Andean region. The Caribbean, Pacific and Orinoquia regions are the principal suppliers. Quindio, Santander, Antioquia and Putumayo are the biggest jobbers and consumers of wild tortoises. We propose sociocultural and cohercitive actions to fragment the trade network and their illegal market as well as promoting the conservation and sustainable use of tortoises.

Histologia e histoquímica do tubo digestório de Phrynops geoffroanus (Testudines, Chelidae) / Histology and histochemistry of the digestive tract of Phrynops geoffroanus (Testudines, Chelidae)

Phrynops geoffroanus is the omnivorous chelonian with widest geographical distribution in South America. This work describes the histology and histochemistry of the digestive tube of this species, to relate the characteristics of these organs to the species' eating habit. The esophagus, stomach and intestine of four specimens were fixed in 10% formal and embedded in paraffin by routine histological techniques. Afterwards, 5-µm sections were stained with hematoxylin-eosin (HE), periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) and alcian blue (AB) pH 0.4 and 2.5. The tube is formed by the mucosa, submucosa, muscular and adventitia or serosa layers. The mucosa layer of the esophagus and stomach is lined with a simple cylindrical epithelium with mucus-secreting cells, where are intraepithelial glands inserted in the portion of the esophagus and gastric fossettes emptying into glands in the stomach. The stomach is divided into an anterior, middle and posterior region, according to the depth of the fossettes and the concentration of gastric glands. The intestine is lined by a simple cylindrical epithelium with striated boundaries and goblet cells and is divided into an anterior and posterior regions, according to the pattern of folds of the mucosa layer and the number of goblet cells. Reactivity to PAS and AB is observed in the entire tube. Smooth muscle fibers are present in mucosa layer of all the segments. The muscular layer is formed by two sub-layers of smooth muscle, except for the posterior stomach. This study will help understanding of the digestive physiology of P. geoffroanus and provide data for comparative analyzes with other turtles.

Phrynops geoffroanus é o quelônio onívoro com mais ampla distribuição geográfica na América do Sul. Este trabalho descreve a histologia e histoquímica do tubo digestório desta espécie, relacionando as características dos órgãos com seu hábito alimentar. O esôfago, estômago e intestino de quatro espécimes foram fixados em formol 10% e incluídos em parafina por técnica histológica de rotina. Depois, cortes de 5 µm de espessura foram corados com hematoxilina-eosina (HE), ácido periódico de Schiff (PAS) e alcian blue (AB) pH 0.4 e 2.5. O tubo é formado pelas camadas mucosa, submucosa, muscular e adventícia ou serosa. A mucosa do esôfago e do estômago é revestida pelo epitélio simples cilíndrico com células mucossecretoras, onde estão inseridas glândulas intraepiteliais na porção do esôfago e fossetas gástricas desembocando em glândulas no estômago. O estômago divide-se em anterior, médio e posterior, de acordo com a profundidade das fossetas e a concentração de glândulas gástricas. O intestino é revestido pelo epitélio simples cilíndrico com borda estriada e células caliciformes e divide-se em anterior e posterior, de acordo com o padrão de dobramentos da mucosa e o número de células caliciformes. Reatividade ao PAS e AB é observada em todo o tubo. Fibras musculares lisas estão presentes na camada mucosa de todos os segmentos. A camada muscular é formada por duas subcamadas de músculo liso, exceto na porção posterior do estômago. Este estudo ajudará no entendimento da fisiologia digestiva da espécie investigada e fornecerá dados para análises comparativas com outros quelônios.

Herpetofauna do Parque Natural Municipal de Sertao, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil

The northern part of the state of Rio Grande do Sul was extensively deforested in recent decades, and only isolated fragments of the original vegetation remain. The Parque Natural Municipal de Sertão comprises a remnant of Atlantic Rain Forest, one of the largest fragments in northern Rio Grande do Sul. This study examined the diversity of the herpetofauna, focusing on environmental distribution, seasonality and species richness. We used complementary methods of sampling such as pitfall traps, active search and occasional encounters. We recorded 23 species of frogs, nine snakes and one lizard. With respect to the relationship between amphibians and reptiles and the structural and abiotic factors of the environment, the edge of the fragment showed higher richness and increased dominance of amphibians and reptiles than the interior. The highest amphibian abundances were found when the minimum temperatures were higher and maximum temperatures were lower. The abundance of snakes was correlated with humidity, and species richness was influenced by humidity and monthly average temperature. Our results reinforce the importance of the conservation of forested areas to the maintenance of the species.

O norte do Rio Grande do Sul foi extensivamente desflorestado durante as últimas décadas e restaram somente fragmentos isolados das áreas originais. O Parque Natural Municipal de Sertão compreende um remanescente de Mata Atlântica, um dos maiores fragmentos do norte do Rio Grande do Sul. O objetivo deste estudo foi conhecer a diversidade da herpetofauna, enfocando aspectos da distribuição no ambiente, sazonalidade e riqueza de espécies. Utilizamos métodos complementares como armadilhas de interceptação e queda, procura ativa e encontros ocasionais. Registramos 23 espécies de anfíbios anuros, nove de serpentes e uma de lagarto. Encontramos relação entre os anfíbios e répteis e os fatores estruturais e abióticos do ambiente, onde a borda do fragmento apresentou maior riqueza e maior dominância de anfíbios e répteis que o interior do fragmento. As maiores abundâncias de anfíbios foram encontradas quando as temperaturas mínimas eram maiores e temperaturas máximas menores. A abundância de serpentes foi correlacionada com a umidade e a riqueza foi influenciada pela umidade e temperatura média mensal. Nossos resultados reforçam a importância da conservação de áreas florestadas para a manutenção das espécies.

Morphological characterization of gecko's (eublepharis macularius) glial cells in culture / Caracterización morfológica de las células gliales del gecko (eublepharis macularius) en cultivo

Central nervous system of reptiles has the ability to grow and regenerate during adult life of the animal. Therefore, cells creating CNS of this animal class should compound substances or molecules enabling neuroregeneration. Cells directly involved in this process have not been clearly characterized, especially in cell culture environment. Morphology of reptilian glial adherent cells should be known better to find any differences from mammalian CNS cells. We isolated glial cells from olfactory bulb and cerebrum from gecko (Eublepharis macularius) and cultured separately. We have observed populations of cells with proliferative capacity in both types of cultures. Also, we have detected lipid molecules deposits within their cytoplasm, which localization was correlated with mitochondria position. This information can be helpful in searching new bioactive substances involved in regeneration of central nervous system.

El sistema nervioso central de los reptiles tiene la capacidad de crecer y regenerarse durante la vida adulta del animal. Por lo tanto, las células de SNC creadas de esta clase de animales deberían componerse de sustancias o moléculas que permiten la neuroregeneración. Las células que participan directamente en este proceso no han sido claramente caracterizadas, especialmente en el entorno de cultivo celular. La morfología de las células adherentes gliales de reptiles deben ser reconocidas y diferenciarse respecto a las células del SNC de mamíferos. Se aislaron células gliales del bulbo olfatorio y el cerebro del Gecko (Eublepharis macularius) y se cultivaron por separado. Se observaron poblaciones de células con capacidad proliferativa en ambos tipos de cultivos. Además, se detectaron moléculas de depósitos lipídicos dentro de su citoplasma, y su localización se correlacionó con la posición de las mitocondrias. Esta información puede ser útil en la búsqueda de nuevas sustancias bioactivas que participan en la regeneración del sistema nervioso central.

Identification of bacteria from the oral cavity and cloaca of snakes imported from Vietnam / 한국실험동물학회지

Reptiles are used for various purposes these days, including public exhibits, medicinal applications, and as laboratory animals. As the international exchange of reptiles has gradually increased, more people have had the opportunity to come in contact with these animals. Snakes typically live in the rhizosphere where various bacterial strains exist and as such they can lead to opportunistic human diseases. When snakes are encountered in veterinary medicine, it is necessary to monitor their microflora. Native microflora of reptiles imported from other countries has not yet been reported in Korea. In this study, oral and cloacae samples were collected from 18 Burmese pythons transported from Vietnam. The specimens were incubated at 37degrees C for 18 h to produce colony growth under aerobic condition and isolated colonies were then identified using a VITEK automated identification system. There were fourteen types of aerobic bacteria isolated from both oral and cloacae samples, nine from only oral specimens, and fifteen from only cloacae specimens. Most bacteria isolated were opportunistic pathogens of humans which therefore have the potential to induce disease in people. Based on the microflora and the prevalence of bacterial strains in snakes, quarantine procedures for reptiles transported internationally should be strengthened. Characterization of the microflora of reptiles with the potential to induce zoonosis should be performed in those used as laboratory animals and to prevent zoonotic outbreaks in the general population as well as among veterinarians.

Avaliação da resposta inflamatória hematológica em cascavéis (Crotalus durissus Linnaeus, 1758) inoculadas com BCG / Assessment of blood inflammatory response in BCG stimulated rattlesnakes (Crotalus durissus Linnaeus, 1758)

A criação de serpentes peçonhentas em cativeiro para produção de soros antipeçonhas possui crescente importância para a saúde pública devido ao aumento do número de notificações de acidentes ofídicos a cada ano no Brasil. Iniciado no século XX, ainda hoje essa atividade apresenta alguns desafios como a instalação de doenças no plantel. O hemograma é um exame de triagem clínica que auxilia no diagnóstico de diversas moléstias que acometem diferentes espécies de animais, no entanto ainda pouco estudado em serpentes. A caracterização das alterações hematológicas em cascavéis inoculadas experimentalmente com BCG pode servir de base na utilização deste exame no auxílio ao diagnóstico de infecções bacterianas na espécie. Dessa forma, foram realizados exames hematológicos em 10 serpentes da espécie Crotalus durissus pertencentes ao plantel da Divisão de Herpetologia do Instituto Vital Brazil. Os animais foram divididos em dois grupos (Grupos 1 e 2), homogêneos entre si em relação ao peso e proporção sexual. Os dois grupos foram inoculados com BCG e submetidos à coleta de sangue antes da inoculação e em três momentos pós-inoculação (3º, 5º, e 7º dias para o Grupo 1 e 11º, 17º e 21º dias para o Grupo 2). O hemograma foi realizado por método semidireto pela utilização de líquido de Natt e Herrick e as lâminas foram coradas pelo Giemsa. Observou-se anemia discreta, com redução dos valores de concentração de hemoglobina corpuscular média e da hemoglobina globular média no Grupo 1 que foi relacionada à doença inflamatória. A trombocitopenia observada no Grupo 2 sugeriu a atuação deste tipo celular em processos inflamatórios. Um único animal do Grupo 1 apresentou granulocitose e alguns animais apresentaram discreta azurofilia. Observaram-se alterações morfológicas nos leucócitos. Os granulócitos apresentaram granulações grosseiras e os azurófilos apresentaram aumento de tamanho e grandes vacúolos. De forma geral, a inoculação de BCG em cascavéis desencadeia ...

The high demand for anti-venom production in response to the increased number of cases of snakebite envenomation highlights the importance of raising and breeding venomous snakes in captivity. Knowledge of types of venoms and anti-venoms is of great interest to public health. The maintenance of venomous serpents in captivity started in the early twentieth century, but still nowadays it is a challenge to manage and prevent diseases in captive fauna. Hematology is commonly used for general health assessment and illness detection. However, data on serpent blood analysis are still scarce. Alterations in hematological parameters were experimentally induced in rattlesnakes by the inoculation of BCG. Based on this, hemograms can be used as a health auxiliary diagnosis method for bacterial diseases in this species. In this study, blood samples were taken from 10 healthy specimens of rattlesnakes (Crotalus durissus) born and bred in captivity in the Herpetological Division of Vital Brazil Institute. Animals were divided into two groups (group 1 and 2) with similar live weight and sex proportion, and were then inoculated subcutaneously with BCG (Bacillus Calmette-Guérin). Blood samples were taken before and after inoculation at three experimental times (days 3, 5 and 7 for group 1 and days 11, 17 and 21 for group 2). Hematological analysis was performed through semi-direct technique, blood samples were diluted in Natt and Herrick solution and smears were stained by Giemsa. Serpents from group 1 developed discrete anemia due to the inflammatory syndrome, and showed significant decrease of MCH and MCHC. Granulocytes were characterized by the presence of rough granules. The azurophils varied in shape and size and showed large amount of cytoplasmic vacuoles. The thrombocytopenia observed in group 2 suggests that these cells participate in the inflammatory process. A single individual from group 1 showed granulocytosis and a few animals showed a discrete ...

Occurrence of Microcerella halli (Engel) (Diptera, Sarcophagidae) in snake carrion in southeastern Brazil / Ocorrência de Microcerella halli (Engel) (Diptera, Sarcophagidae) em uma Carcaça de Cobra no Sudeste Brasileiro

The occurrence of 27 second-instar larvae of the flesh fly Microcerella halli (Engel, 1931) (Diptera, Sarcophagidae) in a carcass of a snake usually called as Urutu, Bothrops alternatus (Duméril, Bibron & Duméril, 1854) (Serpentes, Viperidae, Crotalinae) is reported. The snake was kept in captivity in a snake farm in Morungaba, São Paulo state, Brazil. Descriptions of reptile carcass colonization by insects and general biological data of this flesh fly are scarce and this necrophagic behavior is described for the first time in literature.

A ocorrência de 27 larvas de segundo estádio do sarcofagídeo Microcerella halli (Engel, 1931) (Diptera, Sarcophagidae) em uma carcaça de urutu Bothrops alternatus (Duméril, Bibron & Duméril, 1854) (Serpentes, Viperidae, Crotalinae) é relatada. A cobra era mantida em cativeiro em um serpentário no município de Morungaba, estado de São Paulo, Brasil. Descrições de colonização de carcaças de répteis por insetos e dados gerais da biologia deste sarcofagídeo são escassos, e este comportamento necrófago é descrito pela primeira vez na literatura.

The influence of circadian rhythms on the metabolism of the snake Bothrops jararaca (Serpentes, Viperidae) - DOI: 10.4025/actascibiolsci.v30i3.5030 / A influência dos ritmos circadianos no metabolismo da serpente Bothrops jararaca (Serpentes, Viperidae) - DOI: 10.4025/actascibiolsci.v30i3.5030

The thermoregulatory activity has led to an extensive search for correlations between physiological variables, including metabolic functions, and the ideal level of body temperature. Snakes were also often seen basking, when their body temperatures were relatively independent of ambient temperature, indicating successful thermoregulation. Bothrops jararaca were exposed to two different ambient temperatures (20 and 30ºC) over a time course of three weeks and oxygen consumption and body temperature were measured. The snakes exhibited a freerunning rhythm of body temperature. Metabolic rate was increased at the same circadian phase as the increase in body temperature in the 30ºC. The increase of body temperature and oxygen consumption of B. jararaca occurs in the scotophase of the photoperiod, consistent with that of nocturnal species. However, prior to a scotophase period the snakes under 20ºC maintain body temperature and oxygen consumption at higher levels during the day. These results demonstrate for the first time that ectothermic animals may display physiologically generated circadian rhythms of body temperature similar to those recorded in endotherms. Circadian rhythms allow animals to anticipate environmental changes: physiological parameters such as body temperature and mobilization of energy reserves have to be adjusted before the expected environmental changes actually

A atividade termorreguladora conduziu a uma busca extensiva para o entendimento das correlações entre as variáveis fisiológicas, incluindo as funções metabólicas e a temperatura corporal. Frequentes observações mostram que algumas serpentes podem se aquecer, sendo este aumento de temperatura independente da temperatura ambiente, indicando a termorregulação bem sucedida. Bothrops jararaca foram expostas a dois ambientes com diferentes temperaturas (20 e 30oC) durante três semanas, sendo mensuradas a temperatura corporal e o consumo de oxigênio. O aumento da temperatura corporal e consumo de oxigênio de Bothrops jararaca ocorreram na fase de escuro do fotoperíodo, consistente para espécies noturnas. Entretanto, antecedendo a fase de escuro, as serpentes em 20oC apresentaram os níveis mais elevados durante o dia para temperatura corporal e consumo de oxigênio. Estes resultados indicam pela primeira vez que animais termodependentes podem controlar a temperatura corporal por meio de ritmos fisiológicos circadianos, semelhante aos observados em termoindependentes. Os ritmos circadianos permitem que os animais antecipem as mudanças no ambiente: parâmetros fisiológicos como a temperatura corporal e as reservas de energia ou sua mobilização podem ser ajustadas antes que as mudanças ambientais previstas ocorram realmente.

Prevalence of Enterobacteria in Bothrops jararaca in São Paulo State: Microbiological Survey and Antimicrobial Resistance Standards - DOI: 10.4025/actascibiolsci.v30i3.536 / Prevalência de enterobactérias em Bothrops jararaca no Estado de São Paulo: levantamento microbiológico e padrões de resistência antimicrobiana - DOI: 10.4025/actascibiolsci.v30i3.536

There are few microbiological surveys on reptiles in Brazil. The study described here focuses on a species of snake of great medical interest and serves as basis for other studies and comparisons. The samples were collected directly from the colon of healthy adult Jararacas. The material was seeded in MacConkey Agar (Difco®) and XLT4 Agar (Difco®). The isolates were identified through the API 20E Identification System (BioMériux®). The isolates of Salmonella sp. were submitted to serotyping. Finally, the colonies were submitted to the antimicrobial sensitivity test. Several genera of the Enterobacteriaceae family were obtained (Citrobacter, Enterobacter, Escherichia, Klebsiella, Kluyvera, Morganella, Proteus, Providencia and Salmonella), as well as a genus of morphologically similar Gram-negative bacteria (Aeromonas). Salmonella, Citrobacter and Escherichia were the most frequent isolates. Fourteen (14) serotypes of Salmonella were identified; 13 are of the subspecies IIIb and 1 of the subspecies IV. Aeromonas, Enterobacter, Escherichia and Klebsiella presented a higher resistance rate to antibiotics. Kluyvera and Salmonella were the genera most sensitive to the tested drugs. Aminoglycosides presented good antimicrobial action, but chloramphenicol was the only drug to which no isolate presented resistance.

Existem poucos levantamentos microbiológicos em répteis no Brasil. O estudo aqui descrito enfoca uma espécie de serpente de grande interesse médico e serve como base para outros estudos e comparações. As amostras foram colhidas diretamente do cólon de jararacas adultas e saudáveis. O material foi semeado em ágar MacConkey (Difco®) e ágar XLT4 (Difco®). Os isolados foram identificados por meio do Sistema API 20E de Identificação Bioquímica (Galerias API-BioMériux®). Os isolados de Salmonella sp. foram submetidos à sorotipagem. Por fim, as colônias foram submetidas ao teste de sensibilidade antimicrobiana. Foram obtidos vários gêneros da família Enterobacteriaceae (Citrobacter, Enterobacter, Escherichia, Klebsiella, Kluyvera, Morganella, Proteus, Providencia e Salmonella) e um gênero de bactéria Gram-negativa morfologicamente semelhante (Aeromonas). Salmonella, Citrobacter e Escherichia foram os isolados mais frequentes. 14 sorotipos de Salmonella foram identificados, sendo 13 da subespécie IIIb e 1 da subespécie IV. Aeromonas, Enterobacter, Escherichia e Klebsiella apresentaram maior taxa de resistência aos antibióticos. Kluyvera e Salmonella foram os gêneros mais sensíveis às drogas testadas. Aminoglicosídeos apresentaram boa ação antimicrobiana, mas cloranfenicol foi a única droga para qual nenhum isolado apresentou resistência.