Reassessment of the extinction risk status of the ponytail palm Beaucarnea inermis / Reevaluación del riesgo de extinción de la pata de elefante Beaucarnea inermis

Abstract Beaucarnea inermis is an endemic species from Northeast Mexico, in the states of San Luis Potosí and Tamaulipas. It is appreciated as an ornamental plant, so its populations are subject to the poaching of individuals for illegal trade. Previous studies determined that their populations have been affected due to the disturbance since the incidence of anthropogenic activities affects the viability of the species. Here we determine the current conservation status of B. inermis and identify their main risk factor by performing an extinction risk assessment based on the Annex II "Method for Evaluation of Risk of Extinction of Plants in Mexico". We studied 10 populations of B. inermis from protected and non-protected areas in San Luis Potosí and Tamaulipas. We considered the MER criteria: A) geographical distribution characteristics, B) habitat characteristics, C) intrinsic biological vulnerability, and D) impact of human activity. Using field and analyzed data, the MER assessment gives 1.91 points that confirm B. inermis is correctly classified as an Endangered species. The natural protected areas where the species occurs represent cores for its protection; however, the surface of these areas may not be sufficient without biological corridors that connect them.

Resumen Beaucarnea inermis es una especie endémica del Noroeste de México distribuida en los estados de San Luis Potosí y Tamaulipas. Es apreciada como planta ornamental, por lo que sus poblaciones están sujetas al saqueo de individuos para su comercialización ilegal. En trabajos anteriores se determinó que sus poblaciones han sido afectadas debido al disturbio por la incidencia de actividades antrópicas que afectan su viabilidad. En la presente contribución se determina el nivel de riesgo de B. inermis con base en el Anexo Normativo II "Método de Evaluación de Riesgo de Extinción de Plantas en México". Se estudiaron 10 poblaciones de B. inermis en San Luis Potosí y Tamaulipas, tanto en áreas naturales protegidas como en sitios no protegidos. Los criterios MER considerados fueron: A) características de la distribución geográfica, B) características del hábitat, C) vulnerabilidad biológica intrínseca y D) impacto de la actividad humana. El análisis MER arroja un valor de 1.91 que, confirma a B. inermis dentro de la categoría de Amenazada. Las áreas naturales protegidas donde se distribuye la especie funcionan como núcleos de protección, sin embargo, su superficie puede no ser suficiente sin la presencia de corredores biológicos que las conecten.

Geographic distribution, conservation status and lectotypification of Pedersenia weberbaueri (Suess.) Holub (Amaranthaceae), an endemic and highly threatened shrub from the Marañón valley of Peru

The present study analyses the geographical distribution, conservation status, and nomenclature of Peruvian endemic Pedersenia weberbaueri. The species distribution was modelled using MaxEnt based on occurrence data and bioclimatic variables. The conservation status of the species was assessed against the categories and criteria of the IUCN Red List, and nomenclatural and typification issues were resolved. The potential distribution map of P. weberbaueri shows that the species is restricted to the seasonally dry tropical forests of the Marañón valley within a narrow latitudinal, longitudinal, and elevational range. Consequently, we propose to categorise the species as Endangered (EN) and provide the necessary information for its inclusion in the IUCN Red List. Finally, we resolve nomenclatural issues and designate a lectotype. The results contribute to the biological knowledge of P. weberbaueri and support subsequent conservation management plans.

El presente estudio analiza la distribución geográfica, el estado de conservación y la nomenclatura de la endémica peruana Pedersenia weberbaueri. La distribución de especies se modeló usando MaxEnt con base en datos de ocurrencia y variables bioclimáticas. Se evaluó el estado de conservación de la especie frente a las categorías y criterios de la Lista Roja de la UICN y se resolvieron cuestiones de nomenclatura y tipificación. El mapa de distribución potencial de P. weberbaueri muestra que la especie está restringida a los bosques tropicales estacionalmente secos del valle del Marañón dentro de un estrecho rango latitudinal, longitudinal y altitudinal. En consecuencia, proponemos categorizar a la especie como En Peligro (EN) y brindar la información necesaria para su inclusión en la Lista Roja de la UICN. Finalmente, resolvemos cuestiones de nomenclatura y designamos un lectotipo. Los resultados contribuyen al conocimiento biológico de P. weberbaueri y respaldan los planes de manejo de conservación posteriores.

Ant diversity sampling in the Brazilian Amazon: a comparison of litter collection and pitfall trapping / Muestreo de la diversidad de hormigas en la Amazonía brasileña: una comparación de recolección de hojarasca y trampas de caída

Abstract Introduction: Ants in tropical forests are a hyper-diverse group that plays important ecological roles. Several studies on tropical forests have used different sampling protocols to capture soil ants, making it difficult to compare responses and patterns of diversity between studies. Thus, research that compares different well-structured and standardized sampling methodologies to adequately estimate the richness of ant species in tropical forests is necessary. Objective: In this study, we examined the combination of catches with pitfall traps with and without baits and litter collections for soil ant sampling. Methods: In the fall traps, we use two baited (sardines and bananas) and one non-baited. For the manual collections (litter sampling), the litter and only the topsoil of the loose soil were collected. Results: We found that traps containing sardine baits collected a greater abundance of ants, whereas non-baited traps collected a greater richness of ant species. On the other hand, litter collections captured the largest number of exclusive species, presenting a different species composition from the pitfall traps (with and without baits). In general, baited traps showed greater abundance in more degraded locations, while manual collections and unbaited pitfalls captured more individuals in preserved environments. Conclusions: Our results provide evidence that, for accurate sampling of soil ant assemblages in tropical forests, the use of different methodologies is necessary to capture a greater diversity of species because the methods differ in effectiveness according to habitat.

Resumen Introducción: Las hormigas en los bosques tropicales son un grupo hiperdiverso que juega un papel ecológico importante. Varios estudios en los bosques tropicales han utilizado diferentes protocolos de muestreo para capturar las hormigas de suelo, lo que dificulta la comparación de respuestas y patrones de diversidad entre estudios. Por lo tanto, es necesaria una investigación que compare diferentes metodologías de muestreo bien estructuradas y estandarizadas para estimar adecuadamente la riqueza y uniformidad de las especies de hormigas en los bosques tropicales. Objetivo: En este estudio, examinamos la combinación de capturas con trampas de caída con y sin cebos y recolecciones manuales para muestreo de hormigas en el suelo. Métodos: En las trampas de otoño, utilizamos dos cebos (sardinas y plátanos) y uno sin cebo. Para las recolecciones manuales (muestreo de hojarasca), se recogió la hojarasca y solo la capa superior de suelo suelto. Resultados: Encontramos que las trampas que contenían cebos de sardina recolectaron una mayor abundancia de hormigas, mientras que las trampas sin cebo recolectaron una mayor riqueza de especies de hormigas. Por otro lado, las recolecciones de hojarasca capturaron el mayor número de especies exclusivas, presentando una composición de especies diferente a las trampas de caída (con y sin cebo). En general, las trampas con cebo mostraron mayor abundancia en lugares más degradados, mientras que las recolecciones manuales y las trampas sin cebo capturaron más individuos en ambientes preservados. Conclusiones: Nuestros resultados proporcionan evidencia de que, para un muestreo preciso de ensambles de las hormigas de suelo en los bosques tropicales, el uso de diferentes metodologías es necesario para capturar una mayor diversidad de especies, ya que los métodos difieren en la efectividad de acuerdo con el hábitat.

INFLUENCIA DE LA HERBIVORÍA Y LA APERTURA DE CLAROS SOBRE EL CRECIMIENTO TOTAL DE Brosimum alicastrum (Moraceae) / Influence of herbivory and gap-openness on whole-plant growth of Brosimum alicastrum (Moraceae)

RESUMEN El crecimiento compensatorio y las defensas vegetales son respuestas para lidiar con la herbivoría y la luz. El estudio de la influencia de los componentes morfo-fisiológicos, de la asignación de biomasa y de la defensa vegetal podría arrojar información que ayude a entender estas respuestas. Se evaluaron los efectos de la herbivoría y la apertura de claros sobre el crecimiento, los componentes morfo-fisiológicos, la asignación de biomasa y las defensas químicas y físicas en plántulas de Brosimum alicastrum en una selva mediana subcaducifolia. Se utilizó un diseño anidado con sitios de sotobosque y claros (n = 3 en cada uno) y dentro de ellos plántulas sometidas a tres tratamientos de herbivoría: control (n = 10), simulada (n = 10) y natural (n = 10). Se registró a lo largo de seis meses la influencia de la herbivoría sobre el crecimiento (biomasa, área foliar, altura, diámetro y producción de hojas), la producción de fenoles y la dureza foliar. Se halló un crecimiento compensatorio (todas las variables de crecimiento) con la herbivoría natural, subcompensatorio (biomasa, altura y diámetro) con la simulada, y sobrecompensatorio (producción de hojas) con la herbivoría natural sólo en claros. Los componentes morfológicos como el cociente del área foliar (LAR) y el área foliar específica (SLA) fueron mayores bajo claros y el fisiológico, como la tasa de asimilación neta (NAR), en sotobosque. La proporción de biomasa en sotobosque fue mayor hacia hojas y tallos y en claros más alta hacia raíces. La herbivoría fue mayor en claros y los fenoles foliares en sotobosque. No se encontró una relación (compromiso) entre las defensas y el crecimiento, sólo una tendencia negativa con los fenoles bajo condiciones limitantes de recursos, como ocurre en el sotobosque.

ABSTRACT Compensatory plant growth and plant defense are responses to deal with herbivory and light availability. The research focused on compensatory growth responses explained through the influence of morphological and physiological components of plant growth, allocation mass, and plant defense could clarify such process. We studied the effects of herbivory and gap-openness on compensatory growth responses, morphological and physiological components, allocation mass, and chemical defenses in seedlings of Brosimum alicastrum in a subhumid tropical forest. We used a nested design with understory and gap-openness site (n = 3 each) within each replicated site seedling belong to three herbivory treatments (n = 10 each): control, simulated, and natural; and along six months we studied the influence of leaf herbivory on plant growth (mass, leaf area, height, diameter, and leaf production) and production of phenols and leaf toughness. We recorded compensatory growth responses (all plant growth variables) with natural herbivory, subcompensatory (mass, height, and diameter) with simulated and, overcompensatory (leaf production) with natural herbivory although only under gap-openness. We found a higher leaf area ratio (LAR) and specific leaf area (SLA) (both morphological components) under gap-openness and high values of net assimilation rate (NAR) on understory. The mass proportion was highest in leaves and stems on the understory and higher in roots under gap-openness. Leafherbivory was highest under gap-openness while the phenols of the leaves on understory. We did not find a relationship (trade-off) between defense with plant growth, but it was possible to underline a negative pattern of the leaf phenols under limiting resources environment such as understory.

Distribution and conservation of Cactaceae in Brazilian Seasonally Dry Tropical Forests: insights from floristic and phytosociological surveys / Distribución y conservación de Cactaceae en Bosques Tropicales Estacionalmente Secos: apreciaciones a partir de estudios florísticos y fitosociológicos

Abstract Species lists available from floristic and phytosociological studies contain important information about species distributions that are useful for making biogeographical inferences and even to evaluate conservation status of species and ecosystems. In the case of the Caatinga, this information may contribute to challenging the pre-established idea that it is a homogeneous vegetation unit. The strong relation between the substrate and the plant assemblages of the Caatinga may characterise different types of vegetation. In this way, the objective of the present study is to evaluate whether differences in the distribution of Cactaceae relate to distinctive types of substrate (sedimentary and crystalline) as much in terms of floristic richness as species density. Concomitantly, we evaluated the conservation status of the Caatinga areas studied. To obtain the data, we undertook a bibliographic revision of floristic and phytosociological studies in the Caatinga and constructed a similarity matrix using the selected floristic studies in order to evaluate the relation among different areas of Caatinga. We found that 48 areas included Cactaceae species; 33 species distributed in 14 genera were recorded. Among these taxa, Cereus jamacaru was the species that presented the largest number of occurrences, appearing in 17 areas, followed by Pilosocereus gounellei (=Xiquexique gounellei), found in 11 studies, and Tacinga inamoena in 10. The grouping analysis resulted in the formation of 10 groups, with a remarkable relationship between species and soil type. There were differences in both the diversity and density of species related with the degree of conservation of the Caatinga, noticeable from the direct relationship between conservation and richness and, indirectly, between density and number of species.

Resumen Las listas de especies presentadas en trabajos florísticos o fitosociológicos proporcionan importante información sobre distribución, útil para realizar inferencias biogeográficas y evaluar el estado de conservación de especies o incluso de ecosistemas. En el caso de los bosques secos del nordeste de Brasil, conocidos como Caatinga, el análisis de esas listas puede contribuir para confrontar ideas previamente establecidas sobre la homogeneidad de esa unidad de vegetación. La fuerte relación entre el sustrato y los ensambles de plantas de la Caatinga pueden caracterizar distintos tipos de vegetación. Es así como, el objetivo de este trabajo es evaluar sí la distribución de Cactaceae está relacionada con los tipos de sustrato (sedimentar y cristalino), sea con la riqueza florística o la densidad de las especies. Al mismo tiempo, evaluamos el estado de conservación de las áreas estudiadas de la Caatinga. Los datos fueron obtenidos a partir de revisiones bibliográficas, de estudios de florística y fitosociología en la Caatinga. Para evaluar las distintas áreas, con los estudios florísticos seleccionados se preparó una matriz de similaridad. Se encontró que, 48 áreas tenían especies de Cactaceae; 33 especies distribuidas en 14 géneros fueron listadas. Cereus jamacaru fue la especie con el mayor número de puntos en 17 áreas, seguido por Pilosocereus gounellei (=Xiquexique gounellei), encontrado en 11 estudios y Tacinga inamoena, en 10. El análisis resultó en la formación de 10 grupos con fuertes relaciones entre especies y tipos de sustratos. También, encontramos diferencias en diversidad de especies en relación con el estado de conservación de la Caatinga, notable por las relaciones directas entre conservación y riqueza de especies, e indirectas entre densidad y número de especies.

Dendroecology of Macrolobium acaciifolium (Fabaceae) in Central Amazonian floodplain forests / Dendroecologia de Macrolobium acaciifolium (Fabaceae) em florestas alagáveis da Amazônia central

The forest dynamics in the Amazonian floodplains is strongly triggered by the flood pulse. Trees respond to unfavorable growth conditions during the flood period by cambial dormancy, which results in the formation of annual growth rings. We determined tree age and compared the mean annual rates of increase in the diameter of Macrolobium acaciifolium with hydrological and climatic factors in three regions of central Amazonian floodplain forest. A wood sample was obtained from each tree using an increment borer. Ring growth was assessed by marginal parenchyma bands to determine tree age and the mean diameter increment. Ring widths were indexed to construct cross-dating chronologies and correlated with climatic and hydrological variables. The analyses demonstrate that the mean annual diameter increment did not differ between the three study sites. The chronologies correlated significantly with the terrestrial phase. There was no significant difference in the ring-width index between El Niño years and other years, and between La Niña and other years. These results show that the hydrological variables can be considered crucial to the rates of tree growth and diameter increment in floodplains, and El Niño signals were not detected in the tree-ring chronologies.

A dinâmica das florestas alagáveis da Amazônia é fortemente influenciada pelo pulso anual de inundação. As árvores respondem às condições de crescimento desfavoráveis durante o período de inundação através da dormência cambial, resultando na formação de anéis de crescimento anuais. Neste estudo, determinamos a idade das árvores e comparamos as taxas anuais médias de incremento em diâmetro de Macrolobium acaciifolium com fatores hidrológicos e climáticos em três regiões de florestas alagáveis na Amazônia central. Para cada árvore, uma amostra de madeira foi obtida usando uma broca dendrocronológica. O crescimento do anel foi avaliado por bandas de parênquima marginal, para determinar a idade da árvore e o incremento médio em diâmetro. As séries de anéis foram indexadas, para construir cronologias, e correlacionadas com variáveis climáticas e hidrológicas. Nossas análises demonstraram que o incremento anual médio em diâmetro não diferiu entre os três locais de estudo. As cronologias correlacionaram-se significativamente com a fase terrestre. Não houve diferença significativa no índice de largura dos anéis entre os anos de El Niño e outros anos, e entre os anos de La Niña e outros anos. Estes resultados mostraram que as variáveis hidrológicas podem ser consideradas cruciais para as taxas de crescimento e de incremento em diâmetro das árvores em florestas alagáveis, e que não foram detectados sinais de El Niño nas cronologias das árvores analisadas.

Los suelos del paisaje alto-andino de santa isabel (tolima, colombia) ¿son sumideros de carbono orgánico? / Soils in high-land landscapes of santa isabel (tolima, colombia), are they a carbon sink?

RESUMEN El cambio climático global es uno de los problemas más graves de la humanidad, causado, principalmente, por el aumento de CO2 y otros gases de efecto invernadero en la atmósfera. Se reconoce que las emisiones de estos gases pueden ser reducidas disminuyendo su emisión o aumentando su remoción y depósito, en sumideros terrestres. El suelo es el mayor sumidero de carbono © y mitiga su creciente concentración atmosférica. Los paisajes rurales alto-andinos retienen importantes cantidades de C orgánico del suelo (COS), teniendo un papel fundamental en su ciclo global, pero ha sido poco valorado. El objetivo de este estudio fue estimar el COS en los principales usos de la tierra y los impactos del cambio de uso en paisajes alto-andinos en Santa Isabel - Tolima, Colombia. Se evaluaron tres usos del suelo: (i) cultivos agrícolas (CA), (ii) sistemas silvo-pastoriles de pasturas con árboles dispersos (SSP) y (iii) bosques nativos (BN), estimando la densidad aparente, por el método del cilindro y la concentración de COS, a una profundidad de 0-40cm. La densidad aparente, se incrementó notablemente, al cambiar de BN a CA y SSP (0,35 a 0,61 y 0,65g/cm3, respectivamente). Contrastando, la concentración de COS, se redujo al convertir BN a usos agropecuarios (8,9 a 5,8%). Los BN almacenaron más C que los CA y SSP (122,4; 79,6 y 79,8t/ha, respectivamente), causando una emisión potencial de 157 t CO2/ha, en caso de deforestación. Procesos contrarios implican captura de C atmosférico. La conservación de BN alto-andinos debe estar altamente considerados en las políticas nacionales y regionales.

SUMMARY Global climate change is one of the most serious problems of mankind, caused mainly by the increase of CO2 and other greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. It is recognized that net emissions of these gases can be reduced either by reducing their emission or by increasing their removal by depositing in terrestrial sinks. The soil is the largest carbon I sink and mitigates its increase in atmospheric concentration. The rural landscapes in high-land ndean zones retain significant amounts of organic soil C (SOC), playing a key role in its global cycle. The objective of this study was to estimate the SOC stocks in the main land uses, and the impacts of land use change in high-land ndean landscapes in Santa Isabel, Tolima, Colombia. Three land uses were evaluated: (i) agricultural crops (AC), (ii) silvopastoral systems of pastures with dispersed trees (SPS), and (iii) native forests (NF), estimating bulk density (BD) by cylinder method and the concentration of SOC to a depth of 0-40cm. The BD notably increased by changing from NF to AC and SPS (0.35 to 0.61 and 0.65g/ cm3, respectively). Contrasting, the concentration of SOC was reduced when NF change to agricultural and livestock uses (8.9 to 5.8%). The NF stocked more C than AC and SPS (122.4, 79.6 and 79.8t/ha, respectively), causing a potential emission of 157t CO2/ha in case of deforestation. Opposite processes imply capture of atmospheric carbon. The conservation of NF in high-land Andean zones must be highly considered in national and regional policies.

Contribución al conocimiento de la vegetación de las sabanas de casanare (colombia) / Contribution to knowledge of savannas vegetation of casanare (colombia)

RESUMEN Se estudió la diversidad vegetal en parcelas de bosques de galería, bosques de vega, morichales, matas de monte, bancos de sabana, bajos de sabana y esteros, así como de inventarios ad libitum. En total, se registraron 318 especies y 206 géneros de 80 familias, siendo la más diversa la familia Poaceae, con 29 especies, seguida de Euphorbiaceae, con 17 especies. Los géneros más diversos fueron Phyllantus y Panicum, con siete especies. Los tipos de vegetación con mayor riqueza fueron los bosques de galería, los bajos de sabana y los morichales. La composición, a nivel de familias en los bosques, es similar a la reportada en otros estudios, pero las especies son diferentes, sugiriendo dominancia local, debida a la heterogeneidad espacial. Con este estudio, se incrementó el número de especies registradas para el departamento de Casanare, de 1.479 a 1.562.

SUMMARY We studied plant diversity in forest plots of bosques de galería, bosques de vega, morichales, matas de monte, bancos de sabana, bajos de sabana y esteros, as well as ad libitum inventories. A total of 318 species and 80 genera of 206 families were found, being Poaceae the most diverse family with 29 species, followed by Euphorbiaceae with 17 species. The most diverse genera were Phyllantus and Panicum with seven species. The types of vegetation with the greatest diversity were bosques de galería, bajos de sabana and morichales. The composition of families in forests is similar to that reported in other studies, but species composition is different suggesting local dominance due to spatial heterogeneity. With this study, there was an increase in the number of species recorded for the department of Casanare from 1479 to 1562.

Hexapod decomposers of Serra de Santa Catarina, Paraíba, Brazil: an area with high potential for conservation of Caatinga biodiversity / Hexápodes decompositores da Serra de Santa Catarina, Paraíba, Brasil: uma área com elevado potencial para a conservação da biodiversidade da caatinga

Abstract: In detritus-based trophic systems, springtails, dung beetles, saprophagous calyptrate flies and termites consume and fragment organic matter and control populations of decomposer microorganisms, exerting a strong influence on energy and nutrient fluxes. A faunal inventory of these four groups of hexapods was performed in Serra de Santa Catarina (SSC), an area of arboreal-shrub caatinga located in the state of Paraíba, with the purpose of characterizing the assemblages of these taxa, and highlighting their unique links to the local ecosystem. Samplings were performed in May, 2014, and April, 2015, both during the rainy season. Standard sampling protocols for biodiversity inventory of the various taxa were used, including both active and passive sampling methods. In general, 114 species of hexapods were captured, with 26 species of springtails, 20 dung beetles, 30 saprophagous calyptrate flies and 38 termites, with sampling sufficiency varying from 69.5 to 96.8% of total estimated richness. Species richness of the groups are among the highest recorded for a single area of Caatinga, with some taxa being recorded for the first time for the domain. Several morphospecies had indeterminate taxonomic status, especially springtails and termites, and are quite likely new species to science. The structure of the assemblages of springtails, dung beetles, saprophagous calyptrate flies and termites recorded in SSC, suggest that this conserved area is unique within the highly impacted landscape of Caatinga, and has great potential for the conservation of biodiversity of this domain in the Northeast Region of Brazil.

Resumo: No sistema trófico baseado em detritos, os colêmbolos, besouros escarabeíneos, moscas saprófagas e térmitas atuam no consumo e fragmentação da matéria orgânica e no controle das populações de microrganismos decompositores, exercendo forte influência nos fluxos de energia e nutrientes. Um inventário faunístico desses quatro grupos de hexápodes foi realizado na Serra de Santa Catarina (SSC), uma área de Caatinga arbóreo-arbustiva localizada no Estado da Paraiba, com intuito de caracterizar as taxocenoses desses táxons, salientando as suas peculiaridades ligadas ao ecossistema local. As coletas foram realizadas em maio/2014 e abril/2015, durante o período chuvoso na região. De acordo com o táxon, foram utilizados protocolos amostrais padronizados para inventários de biodiversidade, com métodos passivos e ativos de coleta. No geral, 114 espécies de hexápodes foram capturadas, sendo 26 de colêmbolos, 20 de besouros escarabeíneos, 30 de dípteros e 38 de térmitas, com suficiência amostral variando de 69,5 a 96.8% da total estimada. A riqueza de espécies por grupo está entre as maiores para uma única área de Caatinga, com alguns táxons sendo registrados pela primeira vez para o domínio. Especialmente para os colêmbolos e térmitas, várias morfoespécies tiveram seus status taxonômicos indeterminados, havendo elevada possibilidade de serem nova para a ciência. As estruturas e funcionalidades das taxocenoses de colêmbolos, besouros escarabeíneos, moscas saprófagas e térmitas registradas na SSC, sugerem que esse ecossistema é singular, dentro de um cenário generalizado de impacto antrópico presente na Caatinga, e possui um elevado potencial para a conservação da biodiversidade desse domínio no nordeste brasileiro.

Malpighiaceae in the Raso da Catarina Ecoregion, Bahia, Brazil / Malpighiaceae na Ecorregião Raso da Catarina, Bahia, Brasil

Abstract This study presents a floristic survey of Malpighiaceae species from in the Raso da Catarina Ecoregion in the state of Bahia, Brazil. After extensive field and herbarium studies, we identified 18 genera and 32 species of Malpighiaceae in the study area: Aspicarpa harleyi W.R.Anderson, Banisteriopsis C.B.Rob. (3 spp.), Barnebya harleyi W.R.Anderson & B.Gates, Bronwenia ferruginea (Cav.) W.R.Anderson & C.C.Davis, Bunchosia pernambucana W.R.Anderson, Byrsonima Rich. ex Kunth (4 spp.), Carolus chasei (W.R.Anderson) W.R.Anderson, Diplopterys lutea (Griseb.) W.R.Anderson & C.C.Davis, Galphimia brasiliensis (L.) A.Juss., Heteropterys Kunth (5 spp.), Janusia anisandra (A.Juss.) Griseb., Mascagnia Bertero (2 spp.), Mcvaughia bahiana W.R.Anderson, Peixotoa hispidula A.Juss., Ptilochaeta Turcz. (2 spp.), Stigmaphyllon A.Juss. (3 spp.), Tetrapterys Cav. (2 spp.) and Thryallis longifolia Mart. Among the species recorded, three represent new records for the Caatinga biome, 25 are endemic to Brazil, and six are exclusive to the Caatinga. We present an identification key to all species, comments on morphology, taxonomy, distribution and phenology, besides illustrations to most species.

Resumo Este estudo apresenta o levantamento florístico das espécies de Malpighiaceae na Ecorregião Raso da Catarina, no estado da Bahia, Brasil. Após extensos estudos de campo e herbário, identificamos 18 gêneros e 32 espécies de Malpighiaceae na área de estudo: Aspicarpa harleyi W.R.Anderson, Banisteriopsis C.B.Rob. (3 spp.), Barnebya harleyi W.R.Anderson & B.Gates, Bronwenia ferruginea (Cav.) W.R.Anderson & C.C.Davis, Bunchosia pernambucana W.R.Anderson, Byrsonima Rich. ex Kunth (4 spp.), Carolus chasei (W.R.Anderson) W.R.Anderson, Diplopterys lutea (Griseb.) W.R.Anderson & C.C.Davis, Galphimia brasiliensis (L.) A.Juss., Heteropterys Kunth (5 spp.), Janusia anisandra (A.Juss.) Griseb., Mascagnia Bertero (2 spp.), Mcvaughia bahiana W.R.Anderson, Peixotoa hispidula A.Juss., Ptilochaeta Turcz. (2 spp.), Stigmaphyllon A.Juss. (3 spp.), Tetrapterys Cav. (2 spp.), e Thryallis longifolia Mart. Entre as espécies catalogadas, três são novos registros para o bioma Caatinga, 25 são endêmicas do Brasil e seis são exclusivas da Caatinga. Apresentamos chave de identificação para todas as espécies, comentários sobre morfologia, taxonomia, distribuição e fenologia, além de ilustrações para a maioria espécies.

Mamíferos y aves silvestres usados por los pobladores de la cuenca del río Abujao (Ucayali, Perú)

La Amazonia peruana esta clasificada como un ecosistema mega-diverso. La riqueza de especies de fauna y flora acrecienta la diversidad de la población humana. La cuenca del río Abujao está poblada por mestizos y grupos indígenas Ashéninka y Shipibo-Conibo, los cuales todavía guardan parte de sus tradiciones, conocimientos ancestrales y ecológicos. Esta investigación se realizó con la finalidad de conocer el uso de especies de mamíferos y aves silvestres por la población indígena y mestiza en la cuenca del río Abujao. Se determinaron categorías de uso; entre las categorías determinadas predomina el mayor conocimiento de mamíferos y aves silvestres para el uso alimenticio, medicinal y comercial; relativamente pocas especies y parte de estas son para uso ritual, mágico y ornamental debido a la pérdida de conocimientos y tradiciones ancestrales. Rescatando estos conocimientos el presente trabajo tiene una gran importancia en la conservación de aves y mamíferos y el conocimiento ecológico de la Amazonía Peruana

The Peruvian Amazon is classified as one of the mega-diverse ecosystem of the world. Local populations have benefited from the uses of its richness of fauna and flora, promoting the emergence of a wide variety of uses. The Abujao river basin, located in the Peruvian Amazon, is home for mestizos and indigenous groups of Ashéninka and Shipibo-Conibo, whose traditions, and ancestral and ecological knowledge are still alive and closely related to their natural environments. This research was carried out to determine how and to what extent present groups of indigenous and mestizo in the Abujao river basin have been using the wild species of mammals and birds in their locations. Categories of its uses were determined. Among of all defined categories, the most predominant one was the use of wild animals for human consumption, traditional medicine and commercial trades. In contrast, relatively few species, in whole or part, were still used for rituals, and ornamental due to the loss of some ancestral knowledge and traditions on these uses. Revaluing this set of knowledge and uses has a great importance in the conservation of birds and mammals as well as the ecological knowledge of local populations in the Peruvian Amazon

Microhabitats occupied by Myxomycetes in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest: Heliconiaceae inflorescences / Microhabitats ocupados por Myxomycetes na Floresta Atlântica Brasileira: inflorescências de Heliconiaceae

Abstract The occurrence of Myxomycetes in Heliconia psittacorum L.f. inflorescences was researched within four conservation units located in Northeast Brazil, aiming at evaluating the occupation of this microhabitat in fragments of Atlantic Forest along an altitude between 30-750 m. Inflorescences attached to the plant were examined; dead flowers and bracts were collected to assemble moist chambers (368). Four families, four genera and 10 species were recorded. A preference was evidenced for a basic pH substrate and a predominance of calcareous species (5:1). The composition of the myxobiota in fragments pertaining to altitudes above 400 m was similar and differed significantly from the one found in fragments of lowland forests (<100 m). Physarum compressum and Arcyria cinerea are the most characteristic species of the studied myxobiota.

Resumo A ocorrência de mixomicetos em inflorescências de Heliconia psittacorum L.f. foi pesquisada em quatro unidades de conservação situadas no Nordeste do Brasil, visando avaliar a ocupação deste microhabitat em fragmentos de Floresta Atlântica, numa faixa altitudinal de 30-750 m. Foram examinadas partes mortas de inflorescências ainda presas à planta; flores e brácteas mortas foram colhidas para montagem de câmaras-úmidas (368). Foram registrados quatro famílias, quatro gêneros e 10 espécies. Evidenciou-se preferência para substrato com pH básico e predominância de espécies calcárias (5:1). A composição da mixobiota nos fragmentos de altitudes acima de 400 m foi semelhante e diferiu significativamente da encontrada nos fragmentos de florestas de terras baixas (<100 m). Physarum compressum e Arcyria cinerea são as espécies mais características da mixobiota estudada.

Relaciones suelo-vegetación en una toposecuencia del Escudo Guayanés, Venezuela

The Guayana Shield is one of the oldest territories in the planet and has millions of years subjected to leaching and erosion processes that produce oligotrophic soils. This scarcity of nutrients has not avoided the development of high, diverse and magnificent forests, where plants have adaptations to survive these difficult conditions. The aim of this work was to characterize the physical and chemical parameters of the soils in different forest communities of the Imataca Forest Reserve (IFR), to establish some interpretations on their origin, and some relationships between the edaphic components and the inhabitant species. Terrestrial journeys were carried out and two path-ways were traced for the interpretation of forest communities. In each community, three plots (100m x 100m) for the ecological survey were established. In each plot, all trees, palms, and lianas were measured (dbh≥10cm; dbh: diameter at breast height); four 10m x 10m understory sub-plots were evaluated, and a census of all the spermatophyta species (dbh<10cm) was made. Soils were evaluated by means of a trial pit in each community, and a bore in each one understory sub-plot. The obtained data were analyzed by both a detrended and a canonical correspondence analysis. Results from a total of 15 plots allowed us to identify three communities: a forest dominated by Mora excelsa located in a narrow valley with high content of silt; a swamp forest dominated by Catostemma commune in a sandy broad valley, and a forest in clay hills dominated by Alexa imperatricis. Most of the soils had a pH between 3.1 and 4.5. Nutrients were in very low concentrations (N: 0-0.2%; P: 0-14ppm; K: 0-0.3Cmol/kg) and Al in toxicity quantities. We observed that Ca/Al relationship greater than 1 meant a neutralization of the toxic effect of Al. Besides, basal area ranged from 20.4 to 32.3m²/ha; the highest level (top local forest development) corresponded with the C. commune community with a Ca/Al value of 2.5. This research found an adequate relationship between soil and vegetation, as it was able to identify three communities into three distinct soil conditions. Nevertheless, edaphic constraints indicated that high forest cover must be maintained as an essential element for the conservation of these communities.

El Escudo Guayanés es uno de los territorios más antiguos del planeta; tiene millones de años sometido a procesos de lixiviación y erosión que dejan suelos oligotróficos. El objetivo de este trabajo fue hacer la caracterización de los parámetros físicos y químicos de los suelos, en diferentes comunidades boscosas de la Reserva Forestal Imataca, e identificar ciertas relaciones entre los componentes edáficos y las especies que allí se presentan. Se realizó un inventario de todos los individuos mayores a 10cm dap (diámetro a la altura del pecho) en 15 parcelas (1ha); en cada una de esas parcelas se evaluaron cuatro sub-parcelas de sotobosque (100m²) para contabilizar todas las espermatofitas; los suelos se evaluaron mediante una calicata por comunidad y un barreno en cada sub-parcela de sotobosque. La mayoría de los suelos tienen un pH muy ácido (3.1-4.5), los nutrientes están en concentraciones muy bajas (N: 0-0.2%; P: 0-14ppm; K: 0-0.3Cmol/kg) y el Al en concentraciones tóxicas. Esto coincide con otros estudios realizados en esta región, pero en este trabajo se encontró que la relación Ca/Al con valores superiores a 1, lo que implica una neutralización del efecto tóxico del Al y permite un mejor desarrollo de las comunidades boscosas.

Abundancia relativa y uso de microhábitat de la rana Geobatrachus walkeri (Anura: Strabomantidae) en dos hábitats en Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Colombia

Relative abundance and microhabitat use by the frog Geobatrachus walkeri (Anura:Strabomantidae) in two habitats of Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Colombia. Geobatrachus walkeri belongs to a monotypic frog genus endemic to the San Lorenzo area, Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Colombia. This species has been categorized as endangered because of its small distribution area and the decline in the extent and quality of its habitat. It inhabits two forest types with different composition and structure, the native secondary forest and a pine plantation (dominated by Pinus patula). To compare the relative abundance and microhabitat use of this species in these habitat types, 30 quadrants/environment were distributed randomly. The individual number, microhabitat use and other aspects of its natural history were registered using visual encounter surveys in both sites, including non-sampled areas in the quadrants. The relative abundance of frogs was significantly different between habitats and among seasons. The highest abundance of G. walkeri relative to the total area was found in the pine plantation, being 2.3 times higher than in the natural forest. More frogs were significantly found during the rainy season; nevertheless, active individuals were also found during the dry season. Significant differences were found in the microhabitat use with respect to the forest type and season. The most frequently microhabitat used in the two forest types was the pine leaf-litter; besides, in the native forest, the microhabitat occupied more frequently presented medium and large size stones. Geobatrachus walkeri is a successful species in pine plantations, associated permanently to its leaf-litter environment where it seems to develop its entire life cycle. The clear modifications in the soils and water, derived from the introduction of the pine plantation in this area, seem not to have negatively affected the conservation and successful maintenance of this species. Rev. Biol. Trop. 59 (2): 907-920. Epub 2011 June 01.

La rana Geobatrachus walkeri pertenece a un género monotípico y endémico del área de San Lorenzo, Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Colombia. La especie habita en el bosque secundario natural y en una plantación de pino (dominada por Pinus patula). Para comparar la abundancia relativa y el uso del microhábitat en estos dos hábitat y durante los períodos de máxima y mínima precipitación, se distribuyeron aleatoriamente 30 cuadrantes en cada bosque sobre los que se registraron el número de individuos y los microhábitats ocupados. Además se reconocieron otros aspectos de la historia natural mediante muestreo por encuentros casuales (VES), se incluye en los dos hábitats áreas no muestreadas por los cuadrantes. La mayor abundancia de ranas se obtuvo en la plantación de pino y durante la época de lluvias. El microhábitat más usado fue la hojarasca de pino. Geobatrachus walkeri es una especie exitosa en las plantaciones de pino, asociada permanentemente a su hojarasca en donde parece desarrollar todo su ciclo de vida. Las claras modificaciones derivadas de la introducción de las plantaciones de pino en el suelo y el agua, parecen no haber afectado la supervivencia y mantenimiento exitoso de esta especie categorizada como en peligro de extinción.

Cronología de la regeneración del bosque tropical seco en Santa Rosa, Guanacaste, Costa Rica: I. Características edáficas

Chronology of tropical dry forest regeneration in Santa Rosa, Guanacaste, Costa Rica. I. Edaphic characteristics. We characterized soil chemical and physical properties in eight tropical dry forest (TDF) successional sites along a time sequence (10, 15, 20, 40, 60 and >100 years) in Santa Rosa, Costa Rica. Seventeen soils were identified, described, and classified in six orders. Most soils were classified as Entisols and Vertisols, but Mollisols, Alfisols, Inceptisols and Ultisols were also present. All soils showed good fertility that did not constrain species richness. High edaphic variation seemed the result of complex interactions among the pyroclastic origin of Santa Rosa ignimbritic plateau (SRIP), the lithological composition and acidity of ignimbritic rocks, the strong seasonality in rainfall, intense hydric and aeolic erosion, topographic variations within the SRIP, and past human intervention. Correlations performed on soils classified as Entisols (<60 cm deep) showed a depletion of soil cations (Ca, Mg, K, Na and CEC) during the first 20 years of forest regeneration, that later recovered in mature TDF sites. Organic matter content did not change significantly along the TDF chrono-sequence. Substantial increments in macro-pores and soil hydraulic conductivity were observed, probably resulting from higher root biomass and turnover in older successional sites. Soil available water and meso-pore abundance were negatively correlated with TDF successional age. Our results indicate that edaphic chan ges observed along TDF regeneration might have been due to annual fires in pastures and young TDF sites, addition of decaying litter and fine roots as regeneration progressed, milder microclimate conditions during late regeneration in mature TDF sites, increased nutrient cycling, and the predominance of sandy loam textures among the soils examined. These changes in the soil environment with succession may have physiological and phenological consequences on the species appearing at different stages of TDF regeneration. Rev. Biol. Trop. 57 (3): 801-815. Epub 2009 September, 30.

Se caracterizaron las propiedades químicas y físicas de los suelos a lo largo de una cronosecuencia de ocho fragmentos de bosque tropical estacionalmente seco (BTS) en Santa Rosa, Costa Rica, y se relacionaron con el estado sucesional de los sitios (10, 15, 20, 40, 60 y >100 años de regeneración). Se encontró una alta diversidad edáfica a escalas pequeñas (0.5-1 ha) y se describieron 17 clases dominantes de suelos, clasificados en seis órdenes. La mayoría de los suelos fueron clasificados como Entisoles y Vertisoles, pero los Mollisoles, Alfisoles, Inceptisoles y Ultisoles estuvieron representados también. Todos los suelos presentaron buenos índices de fertilidad que no restringieron la riqueza de las especies. La alta heterogeneidad edáfica pareció ser el resultado de la interacción entre el origen piroclástico de la meseta ignimbrítica de Santa Rosa, la composición litológica y la acidez de las rocas del material parental, la marcada estacionalidad de la lluvia, intensos procesos de erosión hídrica y eólica, variaciones topográficas locales, y la historia de intervención humana. Correlaciones efectuadas en los Entisoles (<60 cm profundidad) revelaron un agotamiento de los cationes (Ca, Mg, K, Na y CIC) durante los primeros veinte años de regeneración, que más tarde se recuperaron en los bosque maduros. El contenido de materia orgánica no varió significativamente con la regeneración. Se observaron incrementos sustanciales en los macroporos y en la conductividad hidráulica, probablemente resultado de mayor biomasa y actividad radical en sitios sucesionales más viejos. La abundancia de mesoporos y el agua disponible para las plantas disminuyeron con la regeneración del bosque. Los resultados indican que los cambios observados en el suelo son resultado de la presencia anual de fuego, la adición de materia orgánica y minerales al suelo conforme la regeneración progresó, las condiciones microclimáticas más benignas conforme el bosque se desarrolló, el creciente ciclaje de nutrimentos, y la predominancia de texturas franco-arenosas en los suelos examinados. Estos cambios en las propiedades del suelo con la sucesión pueden tener importantes consecuencias sobre la fisiología y la fenología de las diversas formas de vida vegetal observadas durante la regeneración de los bosques tropicales estacionalmente secos.

Diversity and aboveground biomass of lianas in the tropical seasonal rain forests of Xishuangbanna, SW China

Lianas are important components of tropical forests and have significant impacts on the diversity, structure and dynamics of tropical forests. The present study documented the liana flora in a Chinese tropical region. Species richness, abundance, size-class distribution and spatial patterns of lianas were investigated in three 1-ha plots in tropical seasonal rain forests in Xishuangbanna, SW China. All lianas with = 2 cm diameter at breast height (dbh) were measured, tagged and identified. A total of 458 liana stems belonging to 95 species (ranging from 38 to 50 species/ha), 59 genera and 32 families were recorded in the three plots. The most well-represented families were Loganiaceae, Annonceae, Papilionaceae, Apocynaceae and Rhamnaceae. Papilionaceae (14 species recorded) was the most important family in the study forests. The population density, basal area and importance value index (IVI) varied greatly across the three plots. Strychnos cathayensis, Byttneria grandifolia and Bousigonia mekongensis were the dominant species in terms of IVI across the three plots. The mean aboveground biomass of lianas (3 396 kg/ha) accounted for 1.4% of the total community aboveground biomass. The abundance, diversity and biomass of lianas in Xishuangbanna tropical seasonal rain forests are lower than those in tropical moist and wet forests, but higher than those in tropical dry forests. This study provides new data on lianas from a geographical region that has been little-studied. Our findings emphasize that other factors beyond the amount and seasonality of precipitation should be included when considering the liana abundance patterns across scales. Rev. Biol. Trop. 57 (1-2): 211-222. Epub 2009 June 30.

Las lianas son componentes importantes de los bosques tropicales y tienen importantes impactos en la diversidad, la estructura y la dinámica de los bosques tropicales. El presente estudio documenta la flora de lianas en una región tropical estacional china. La riqueza de especies, abundancia, clases de tamaño y patrones espaciales de distribución de las lianas fueron investigados en tres parcelas de una hectárea de bosque tropical estacional lluvioso, en Xishuangbanna, SW China. Todas las lianas con = 2 cm de diámetro a la altura del pecho (DAP) fueron medidas, etiquetadas e identificadas. Un total de 458 tallos de lianas pertenecientes a 95 especies (que van de 38 a 50 especies/ha), 59 géneros y 32 familias se registraron en las tres parcelas. Las familias mejor representadas fueron Loganiaceae, Annonceae, Papilionaceae, Apocynaceae y Rhamnaceae. Papilionaceae (14 especies registradas) fue la de mayor importancia. La densidad de población, área basal y el índice de valor de importancia (IVI) varió mucho a través de las tres parcelas. Strychnos cathayensis, Byttneria grandifolia y Bousigonia mekongensis fueron las especies dominantes en términos de IVI en las tres parcelas. La media de la biomasa aérea de lianas (3 396 kg/ha) representó el 1.4% de la biomasa aérea total de la comunidad. La abundancia, biomasa y diversidad de lianas en bosques tropicales estacionales de Xishuangbanna son inferiores a los de zonas tropicales y bosques húmedos, pero superiores a los de los bosques tropicales secos. Este estudio proporciona nuevos datos sobre las lianas de una región geográfica que ha sido poco estudiada. Los resultados enfatizan que otros factores, además de la cantidad y la estacionalidad de la precipitación, deben ser considerados al examinar los patrones de la abundancia de lianas.

Cross-scale determinants of palm species distribution

We investigate palm species distribution, richness and abundance along the Mokoti, a seasonally-dry river of southeastern Amazon and compare it to the patterns observed at a large scale, comprising the entire Brazilian territory. A total of 694 palms belonging to 10 species were sampled at the Mokoti River basin. Although the species showed diverse distribution patterns, we found that local palm abundance, richness and tree basal area were significantly higher from the hills to the bottomlands of the study region, revealing a positive association of these measures with moisture. The analyses at the larger spatial scale also showed a strong influence of vapor pressure (a measure of moisture content of the air, in turn modulated by temperature) and seasonality in temperature: the richest regions were those where temperature and humidity were simultaneously high, and which also presented a lower degree of seasonality in temperature. These results indicate that the distribution of palms seems to be strongly associated with climatic variables, supporting the idea that, by 'putting all the eggs in one basket' (a consequence of survival depending on the preservation of a single irreplaceable bud), palms have become vulnerable to extreme environmental conditions. Hence, their distribution is concentrated in those tropical and sub-tropical regions with constant conditions of (mild to high) temperature and moisture all year round.

Investigamos a distribuição, riqueza e abundância de espécies de palmeiras ao longo do Rio Mokoti, um rio sazonalmente seco do sudoeste da Amazônia, comparando posteriormente os resultados com os padrões observados em uma escala espacial mais ampla, englobando a totalidade do território brasileiro. Um total de 694 palmeiras pertencentes a 10 espécies foi amostrado na bacia do Rio Mokoti. Apesar das espécies terem mostrado padrões de distribuição diversos, a abundância e riqueza de palmeiras, além da área basal das árvores, foram significativamente superiores nas baixadas do que nas serras da região estudada, revelando uma forte influência de umidade sobre estes parâmetros. A análise englobando a escala espacial mais ampla também mostrou uma forte influência de pressão de vapor (uma medida de umidade do ar, modulada por temperatura) e sazonalidade sobre a temperatura: as regiões cuja riqueza de palmeiras foi mais alta foram aquelas onde a temperatura e a umidade foram simultaneamente altas, e que apresentaram menor sazonalidade na temperatura. Estes resultados indicam que a distribuição de palmeiras parece estar fortemente associada a fatores climáticos, apoiando a idéia de que ao adotar uma estratégia em que "todos os ovos são colocados em uma mesma cesta" (conseqüência da sobrevivência depender da preservação de um único broto insubstituível), as palmeiras tornaram-se vulneráveis a condições ambientais extremas. Desta forma, estas têm sua distribuição concentrada naquelas regiões tropicais e subtropicais com condições constantes tanto de temperatura (amenas a altas) como de umidade ao longo do ano.