A neglected normal anatomical structure in mammal: a study in bats and tree shrews / Una estructura anatómica normal desatendida en mamíferos: un estudio en murciélagos y musarañas arborícolas

SUMMARY: The myodural bridge is a dense connective tissue connecting muscles and ligaments to the spinal dura mater in the atlanto-occipital interspace. Some researchers believe that the myodural bridge may play a vital physiological role. It is possible, for instance, that the prevention of spinal dura mater infoldings might be involved in regulated cerebrospinal fluid circulation. For instance, it is possible to prevent spinal dura mater infoldings, regulating cerebrospinal circulation. Bats are nocturnal and the only mammals that can perform a genuine and sustained flight, whereas tree shrews are arboreal mammals that often climb to a high altitude of about 10,000 feet. Both animals have lifestyles that are different from other previously studied mammals. The study of these two animals will shed further light on the existence of the myodural bridge in mammals. Gross anatomical dissection was used to observe the connections between the deep muscles of the neck and the dura mater at the level of the atlanto-occipital interspace. The existing structures were analyzed using conventional and special histological staining techniques. The suboccipital regions in bats and tree shrews contained the rectus capitis dorsal major (RCDma), rectus capitis dorsal minor (RCDmi), oblique capitis anterior (OCA), and oblique capitis posterior (OCP). Dense connective tissue connects the RCDmi to the posterior atlanto-occipital membrane (PAOM) and the latter to the spinal dura mater. The myodural bridge in these mammals shares a similar structure to the myodural bridge in humans. Histological analyses confirmed that the connective fibers of the myodural bridge were primarily type I collagen fibers. In this study, it is supplemented by the existence of the myodural bridge in mammals. This further demonstrates that myodural bridge widely exists in the normal anatomy of mammals. This provides morphological support for a comparative anatomical study of the physiological function of the myodural bridge.

El puente miodural es un tejido conjuntivo denso que conecta los músculos y los ligamentos a la duramadre espinal en el espacio atlanto-occipital. Algunos investigadores creen que el puente miodural puede desempeñar un papel fisiológico vital. Es posible, por ejemplo, que la prevención de los pliegues de la duramadre espinal pueda estar involucrada en la circulación regulada del líquido cefalorraquídeo. En esta instancia, es posible prevenir los pliegues de la duramadre espinal, regulando la circulación cerebro espinal. Los murciélagos son animales nocturnos y los únicos mamíferos que pueden realizar un vuelo real y sostenido, mientras que las musarañas arborícolas son mamíferos arbóreos que a menudo ascienden a una gran altura de unos 10 000 pies. Ambos animales tienen estilos de vida diferentes a los de otros mamíferos previamente estudiados. El estudio de estos dos animales ofrecerá más información sobre la existencia del puente miodural en los mamíferos. Se realizó una disección anatómica macroscópica para observar las conexiones entre los músculos profundos del cuello y la duramadre a nivel del espacio atlanto-occipital. Las estructuras existentes se analizaron mediante técnicas de tinción histológica convencionales y especiales. Las regiones suboccipitales en murciélagos y musarañas arbóreas presentaban el músculo recto dorsal mayor de la cabeza (RCDma), el recto dorsal menor de la cabeza (RCDmi), el oblicuo anterior de la cabeza (OCA) y el oblicuo posterior de la cabeza (OCP). El tejido conjuntivo denso conecta el RCDmi con la membrana atlanto- occipital posterior (PAOM) y esta última con la duramadre espinal. El puente miodural en estos mamíferos comparte una estructura similar al puente miodural en humanos. Los análisis histológicos confirmaron que las fibras conectivas del puente miodural son principalmente fibras de colágeno tipo I. Esto demuestra además que el puente miodural existe ampliamente en la anatomía normal de los mamíferos. Esta investigación proporciona apoyo morfológico para un estudio anatómico comparativo de la función fisiológica del puente miodural.

Molecular identification of genus Pipistrellus (Mammalia: Chiroptera) from Fata region, Pakistan / Identificação molecular do gênero Pipistrellus (Mammalia: Chiroptera) da região de Fáta, Paquistão

A total of 10 specimens were captured from selected sites of Bajaur Agency FATA, Pakistan using mist nets. The captured specimens were morphologically identified and various morphometric measurements were taken. The head and Body length (HB) of Pipistrellus coromondra and Pipistrellus kuhlii lepidus (n=10) was 43±0.11 mm and 45±1.1 respectively. Morphologically identified Pipistrellus kuhlii confirmed as Pipistrellus kuhlii lepidus based on 16S rRNA sequences. The DNA sequences were submitted to GenBank and accession numbers were obtained (MN719478 and MT430902). The available 16S rRNA gene sequences of Pipistrellus coromondra and Pipistrellus kuhlii lepidus were retrieved from NCBI and incorporated in N-J tree analysis. Overall, the interspecific genetic variations among Pipistrellus coromondra and Pipistrellus kuhlii lepidus were 8% and 1% respectively. In our recommendation, a comprehensive molecular identification of bats is need of hour to report more cryptic and new species from Pakistan.

Um total de 10 espécimes foi capturado em locais selecionados da Bajaur Agency FATA, Paquistão, usando redes de neblina. Os espécimes capturados foram identificados morfologicamente e várias medidas morfométricas foram realizadas. O comprimento da cabeça e do corpo (HB) de Pipistrellus coromondra e Pipistrellus kuhlii lepidus (n = 10) foi de 43 ± 0,11 mm e 45 ± 1,1, respectivamente. Pipistrellus kuhlii identificado morfologicamente e confirmado como Pipistrellus kuhlii lepidus com base em sequências de rRNA 16S. As sequências de DNA foram submetidas ao GenBank e os números de acesso foram obtidos (MN 719478 e MT430902). As sequências do gene 16S rRNA disponíveis de Pipistrellus coromondra e Pipistrellus kuhlii lepidus foram recuperadas do NCBI e incorporadas na análise da árvore N-J. No geral, as variações genéticas interespecíficas entre Pipistrellus coromondra e Pipistrellus kuhlii lepidus foram de 8% e 1%, respectivamente. Em nossa recomendação, uma identificação molecular abrangente de morcegos precisa de uma hora para relatar mais espécies crípticas e novas do Paquistão.

Systematic analysis of leisler's bat Nyctalus leisleri (Kuhl, 1817) captured from FATA region, Pakistan / Análise sistemática do morcego de leisler Nyctalus leisleri (Kuhl, 1817) capturado na região das FATA, Paquistão

Extensive field surveys were carried out to explore the distribution of Leisler’s Bat Nyctalus leisleri (Kuhl, 1819) in selected area of FATA regions, Pakistan. Specimens of Leisler's Bat Nyctalus leisleri (Kuhl, 1819) (n5) were collected from Kurram Agency (Shublan) (N33.8229788 E70.1634414) at elevation 1427m and Khyber Agency (Landi Kotel) (N34.0909899 E71.1457517) at elevation 1091m for two years survey extending from May 2013 through August 2015. The mean head and body length, hind foot length, ear length and tail length the Nyctalus leisleri specimens captured from the study area was 65.08 ± 1.58 mm, 44.06 ± 0.52 mm, 8.38 ± 0.60 mm, 13.20 ± 0.99 mm and 39.46 ± 1.46 mm, respectively. For molecular analysis the sequences of COI gene were obtained and analyzed. The mean intraspecific divergences of Nyctalus leisleri was 0.04%. The mean interspecific divergences of Nyctalus noctula and Nyctalus leisleri was 0.2%. The mean concentration of each nucleotides was A = (26.3%), T = (32.8%), G = (15.9%) and C = (25.0%). The mean A+T contents were 59.2%and C+G were 40.9%. In the phylogenetic tree Nyctalus leisleri and Nyctalus noctula clustered with significant bootstrap support value.

Extensas pesquisas de campo foram realizadas para explorar a distribuição do morcego de Leisler Nyctalus leisleri (Kuhl, 1819), em uma área selecionada das regiões das FATA, Paquistão. Espécimes do morcego de Leisler Nyctalus leisleri (Kuhl, 1819) (n = 5) foram coletados na Agência Kurram (Shublan) (N33.8229788 E70.1634414), na elevação 1.427 m, e na Agência Khyber (Landi Kotel) (N34.0909899 E71.1457517), na elevação 1.091 m, por dois anos de pesquisa, estendendo-se de maio de 2013 a agosto de 2015. Os comprimentos médios da cabeça, do corpo, do pé traseiro, da orelha e da cauda dos espécimes de Nyctalus leisleri capturados na área de estudo foram de 65,08 ± 1,58 mm, 44,06 ± 0,52 mm, 8,38 ± 0,60 mm, 13,20 ± 0,99 mm e 39,46 ± 1,46 mm, respectivamente. Para análise molecular, foram obtidas e analisadas as sequências do gene COI. A média das divergências intraespecíficas de Nyctalus leisleri foi de 0,04%. As divergências interespecíficas médias de Nyctalus noctula e Nyctalus leisleri foram de 0,2%. A concentração média de cada nucleotídeos foi A = 26,3%, T = 32,8%, G = 15,9% e C = 25%. Os conteúdos médios de A + T foram de 59,2% e de C + G foram de 40,9%. Na árvore filogenética, Nyctalus leisleri e Nyctalus noctula agruparam-se com um valor significativo de suporte de bootstrap.

Frugivorous bat (Chiroptera: Phyllostomidae) community structure and trophic relations in Atlantic Forest fragments

We evaluated the structure of a community of frugivorous bats using composition and abundance patterns, niche amplitude and food overlap of these animals in four Atlantic Forest fragments, each one exposed to different conservation realities. For twelve months, we captured six bat species and found the seeds of 13 species of pioneering plants in 158 fecal samples. The most abundant bat species were Artibeus planirostris (25.4%), Artibeus lituratus (24.1%) and Carollia perspicillata(23.9%). Only one fragment (Fazenda Unida), the most conserved area, exhibited a significantly different composition and abundance of species. We found low trophic niche amplitude values (<0.60), associated to high food overlaps. Our results suggest that bats can adjust their foraging strategy to deal with food availability variations. By favoring pioneering plant species, the fragmentation process noted of the studied areas creates an attractive environment for bats more tolerant to this type of disturbance. The sampled areas represent important secondary forest remnants in southern Brazil that require attention to avoid an even greater loss of bat diversity.

Refugios diurnos del murciélago Rhynchonycteris naso (Chiroptera: Emballonuridae) en Laguna de Términos, Campeche, México / Diurnal roosts of the bat Rhynchonycteris naso (Chiroptera: Emballonuridae) in Laguna de Términos, Campeche, Mexico

Introducción: La selección de refugios diurnos es un proceso crucial para los murciélagos debido a su influencia en la ecología, organización social y supervivencia de sus poblaciones. El murciélago narigón (Rhynchonycteris naso) es una especie protegida por leyes de México, cuyos refugios y zonas de forrajeo, están estrictamente asociados a cuerpos de agua, principalmente ríos. Por lo tanto, cambios en la calidad del agua suponen un riesgo para sus poblaciones. Sin embargo, el conocimiento sobre el estado actual de sus poblaciones y refugios diurnos en México, es escaso. Objetivo: Ubicar y describir los refugios diurnos de R. naso y evaluar la relación del tamaño del grupo de murciélagos con las características de los refugios, la salinidad y el pH del agua donde habitan. Métodos: De marzo a octubre 2015, se realizaron búsquedas de refugios diurnos mediante recorridos en lancha a lo largo de ríos, arroyos y lagunas, en once sitios del Área de Protección de Flora y Fauna Laguna de Términos, Campeche México. Por cada refugio localizado se registró el tamaño del grupo y su acomodo en el refugio, el tipo de refugio, el tipo de vegetación, la cobertura, la distancia entre refugios, el diámetro del tronco, la salinidad y el pH. Para investigar el efecto de las variables registradas en los refugios sobre el tamaño de cada grupo, se ajustaron Modelos Lineales Generalizados. Resultados: Encontramos 48 refugios en troncos secos, cortezas de árboles y puentes, asociados a cuerpos de agua dulce y oligohalina, principalmente en vegetación de manglar. El promedio (± EE) del tamaño del grupo fue de 5.3 ± 0.48 para los refugios naturales y de 22.6 ± 9.54 para los artificiales. Encontramos una relación significativa con el tipo de refugio, el tipo de vegetación y el diámetro del tronco. Los refugios con tamaño de grupo mayores presentaron un acomodo agregado. Se localizaron 40 refugios sobre cuerpos de agua dulce y ocho en oligohalina con alto nivel de agrupamiento. Conclusiones: La mayor incidencia de refugios en sitios de agua dulce y ligeramente ácida, es explicada bajo la teoría del óptimo forrajeo. Debido a que el área de estudio se encuentra en el límite de su distribución, el manglar representa el tipo de vegetación más importante para garantizar la permanencia de las poblaciones de R. naso. Adicionalmente, debido a que en algunas porciones de la zona de estudio no fue posible encontrar refugios, es crucial llevar a cabo estudios sobre la calidad del agua y los niveles de contaminación en la región. Este estudio proporciona información relevante sobre las poblaciones del murciélago Rhynchonycteris naso con implicaciones directas sobre su conservación en zonas ribereñas y humedales costeros.

Introduction: The selection of day-roost is a crucial process for bats because it influences the ecology, social organization, and survivorship aspects of their populations. Proboscis bat (Rhynchonycteris naso) is a protected species by Mexican law, whose foraging and roosting areas are strongly associated with bodies of water, primarily rivers. Therefore, alterations in the water quality pose a risk to their populations. However, knowledge of the current state of their populations and roosting ecology is very poor in Mexico. Objectives: To locate and to describe R. naso's diurnal roosts, and to evaluate the relationship of the group size per roost with the characteristics of the diurnal roost, the salinity and pH of the water where they inhabit. Methods: From March to October 2015, we searched diurnal roost through boat tours along rivers, streams, and lagoons, in eleven sites in the Laguna de Términos Flora and Fauna Protection Area, Campeche, Mexico. For each localized roost, we recorded the group size, and their spatial distribution, the type of roost and vegetation, the distance between roosts, the diameter of trunk, the salinity, and pH. In order to investigate the effect of the variables recorded in diurnal roost on size group, generalized linear models were adjusted. Results: We found 48 diurnal roost in dead tree-trunks, tree bark and bridges, associated with freshwater, and oligohaline bodies, mainly in mangrove vegetation. The average size of the groups was 5.3 ± 0.48 and 22.6 ± 9.54 in natural and artificial roosts, respectively. We found a significant relationship with the type of roost, type of vegetation and diameter of trunk. Roosts with larger groups of bats presented an aggregated distribution. We located 40 diurnal roosts on freshwater bodies and eight in oligohaline with a high grouping level. Conclusions: Greater incidence of roost in fresh and lightly acid water is explained under optimal foraging theory. Because the study area is found in the limit of their distribution, mangrove is a very important vegetation type to guarantee the establishment of R. naso populations. Also, due no roosts were found in some portions of the study zone, quality of water, and contaminant level studies are crucial. This study provides relevant information on their populations with direct implications for the conservation in coastal areas.

Estimation of bat colony size even with low recapture rates: an example based on the Cormack-Jolly-Seber model in Oaxaca, México / Estimación del tamaño de colonia en murciélagos incluso con bajas tasas de recaptura: un ejemplo basado en el modelo Cormack-Jolly-Seber en Oaxaca, México

Introduction: Group or colony size is an important variable that is related to biological, ecological, and conservation aspects of bats. However, estimating the size of each colony or group in roosts used by more than one species is particularly difficult, especially when recapture rates are very low (< 10 %). Objective: Estimate the colony size of 14 species of bats: one emballonurid, one natalid, four mormoopids, seven phyllostomids, and one vespertilionid, which roosted throughout one year (July 2016 to June 2017) in a mine and two caves -Cerro Huatulco and El Apanguito- in the Sierra Sur and Costa of the state of Oaxaca. Methods: We constructed capture-recapture histories per species and roost, and for species for which we obtained recaptures that represented at least 10 % of the captures, we used the probabilistic Cormack-Jolly-Seber model. In the case of species with no recaptures or with a recapture proportion lower than 10 %, we estimated the number of individuals per roost by applying the same proportion between the number of captured specimens and the estimated number for species with recaptures greater than 10 % and that they belonged to the same family or trophic guild. Results: The total estimated number of bats in the three studied roosts was 20 105. The highest colony size estimates were for the mormoopids Pteronotus fulvus and P. mesoamericanus from El Apanguito and P. fulvus from Cerro Huatulco, with 6 609, 4 092 and 2 212 individuals, respectively. Conclusions: The methodology used in this study allowed estimating the colony size for all registered species, even though only for 21.42 % the recapture rates were greater than 10 %. Therefore, we consider that this methodology represents a viable alternative to estimate colony size in other roosts. This information, together with the high species richness and importance for reproductive processes, allow us to propose these sites as Bat Protection and Conservation Areas in Mexico.

Introducción: El tamaño del grupo o colonia es una variable importante que está relacionada con los aspectos biológicos, ecológicos y de conservación de los murciélagos. Sin embargo, estimar el tamaño de cada colonia o grupo en refugios utilizados por más de una especie es particularmente difícil, especialmente cuando las tasas de recaptura son muy bajas (< 10 %). Objetivo: Estimar el tamaño de la colonia de 14 especies de murciélagos: un emballonúrido, un natálido, cuatro mormópidos, siete filostómidos y un vespertiliónido, que se refugiaron durante un año (Julio 2016 a Junio 2017) en una mina y dos cuevas -Cerro Huatulco y El Apanguito- en la Sierra Sur y Costa del estado de Oaxaca. Métodos: Construimos historias de captura-recaptura por especie y refugio, y para las especies que se obtuvieron recapturas que representaban al menos el 10 % de las capturas, utilizamos un modelo probabilístico de Cormack-Jolly-Seber para estimar el tamaño de sus colonias. En el caso de especies sin recapturas o con una proporción de recaptura inferior al 10 %, estimamos el número de individuos por refugio aplicando la misma proporción entre el número de individuos capturados y el número total estimado para las especies con recapturas mayores del 10 % y que pertenecieran a la misma familia o gremio trófico registradas con la mayor similitud ecológica y con suficientes recapturas para aplicar el modelo Cormack-Jolly-Seber. Resultados: El número total estimado de murciélagos en los tres refugios de estudio fue de 20 105. Las estimaciones de tamaño de colonia más altos fueron para los mormópidos Pteronotus fulvus y P. mesoamericanus de El Apanguito y P. fulvus en Cerro Huatulco, con 6 609, 4 092 and 2 212 individuos, respectivamente. Conclusiones: La metodología utilizada en este estudio permitió estimar el tamaño de la colonia para todas las especies registradas, a pesar de que solo para el 21.42 % las tasas de recaptura fueron superiores al 10 %. Por lo tanto, consideramos que esta metodología representa una alternativa viable para estimar el tamaño de colonia en otros refugios. Esta información, junto con los procesos de alta riqueza de especies y reproducción que tienen lugar en esta área, permiten proponer estos sitios como áreas de protección y conservación de murciélagos en México.

Comparative retinal histomorphometry and visual acuity of three bat species of the genus Artibeus (Phyllostomidae: Stenodermatinae) / Histomorfometria comparada da retina e acuidade visual de três espécies de morcegos do gênero Artibeus (Phyllostomidae: Stenodermatinae)

This study performed a histomorphometric analysis of the retina and estimated the visual acuity of three fruit-eating bats of the genus Artibeus, including Artibeus lituratus, Artibeus planirostris and Artibeus obscurus. In total, 13 animals were used for this study, in which the retinas were hemidisected, fixed, cut, and stained. The visual acuity was determined by the density of ganglion cells in the retina and the retinal layers were also measured from histological sections. The retinas of these bats are avascular, do not present tapetum lucidum in any quadrant, and have the 10 retinal layers common in mammals. Moreover, it was observed that the thickness of the retina in the central region was significantly higher in all measured parameters (p<0.001), except for the outer plexiform layer (OPL) which was significantly higher in the peripheral region (p<0.001). The retinas of the three species showed a horizontal visual streak with a higher concentration of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) at the inferotemporal region. In addition, the species A. lituratus exhibited extras areas of high cell density in the retina. Thus, A. lituratus showed the highest visual acuity (1.92 cycles/degree), while A. planirostris showed a visual acuity of (1.77 cycles/degree) and A. obscurus exhibited the lowest visual acuity (1.50 cycles/degree). All these characteristics are related to the echolocation system and the eating habits of each species. Therefore, it can be concluded that bats of the genus Artibeus have a high visual acuity value compared to other echolocating bats and all these differences might be directly linked to the phylogeny of the genus.(AU)

Este estudo realizou uma análise histomorfométrica da retina e determinou os valores de acuidade visual de três espécies de morcegos do gênero Artibeus, incluindo Artibeus lituratus, Artibeus planirostris e Artibeus obscurus. Em total, 13 animais foram usados para esse estudo, no qual as retinas foram hemidissecadas, fixadas, cortadas e coradas. A acuidade visual foi determinada pela densidade de células ganglionares na retina e também foi realizado a mensuração das camadas retinianas a partir de cortes histológicos. As retinas dessas três espécies são avasculares, não apresentaram tapetum lucidum em nenhum quadrante e possuem as 10 camadas retinianas comum em mamíferos. Verificou-se também que a espessura da retina na região central foi significativamente maior em todos os parâmetros mensurados (p<0,001), com exceção da camada plexiforme externa (OPL) que foi significativamente maior na região periférica (p<0,001). As retinas das três espécies exibiram uma especialização retiniana em forma de faixa visual horizontal apresentando a maior concentração de células ganglionares na região inferotemporal. Além disso, a espécie A. lituratus exibiu áreas extras de alta densidade celular na retina. Assim, a espécie A. lituratus exibiu a maior acuidade visual (1,92 ciclos/grau), A. planirostris mostrou um valor intermediário entre essas duas espécies (1,77 ciclos/grau) e A. obscurus exibiu a menor acuidade visual (1,50 ciclos/grau). Todas estas características estão relacionadas aos padrões de ecolocalização e hábitos alimentares de cada espécie. Portanto, pode-se concluir que os morcegos do gênero Artibeus têm um alto valor de acuidade visual em comparação com outros morcegos ecolocalizadores e todas essas diferenças devem estar diretamente ligadas à filogenia do gênero.(AU)

Quantification of the neurons of myenteric plexus of the bat molossus rufus / Quantificação dos neurônios do plexo mientérico de morcegos da espécie Molossus rufus

There are no studies that characterize the enteric nervous system (ENS) bats. The organization and density of myenteric neurons may vary according to the animal species, as well as the segment of the digestive tube considered. The nitric oxide is one of the key neurotransmitters present in the myenteric neurons, acting as a mediator in the smooth muscle relaxation. These neurons are evidenced by immunohistochemistry of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) or by NADPH-diaphorase histochemistry. In this sense, this study aimed to characterize the total neuronal population and subpopulation NADPH-d+ of the myenteric plexus present in the jejunum of the insectivore species Molossus rufus quantitatively. Five specimens were collected of M. rufus in a buffer area of the "Reserva Biológica das Perobas" in the microregion of Cianorte/PR. After the euthanasia, in a chamber saturated with isoflurane, segments were collected from the small intestine corresponding to the jejunum intended for two techniques for neuronal marking, Giemsa and NADPH-diaphorase, and a fragment to the histological technique of hematoxylin-eosin and Masson's trichrome. All the procedures were approved by the "Comitê de Ética no Uso de Animais Unipar" (CEUA - protocol No. 34347/2017) and the "Instituto Chico Mendes de Conservação da Biodiversidade" (ICMBio - protocol No. 60061-1) The histological sections allowed to highlight the location of the myenteric plexus between the longitudinal and circular layers of the muscular tunic. The myenteric plexus had an average of total neuronal population (neurons Giemsa+) of 279.23 neurons/mm2, being the nitrergic neurons (neurons NADPH-d+) represented 20.4% of this total population, with an average of 58.14 neuron/mm2. Therefore, the collected data are consistent with previous studies in other mammalian species concerning the location of the myenteric plexus, as well as the neural myenteric proportion NADPH-d+ compared with the population of neurons Giemsa+. The gaps in the knowledge of ENS of bats limits comparative intraspecific and interspecific studies.(AU)

Não há estudos que caracterizem o sistema nervoso entérico (SNE) destes animais, configurando uma lacuna no conhecimento quanto à biologia destes indivíduos. A organização e densidade dos neurônios mientéricos podem variar de acordo com a espécie animal bem como o segmento do tubo digestório considerado. O óxido nítrico é um dos principais neurotransmissores presentes nos neurônios mientéricos, atuando como mediador no relaxamento do músculo liso gastrointestinal, de modo que estes neurônios são evidenciados igualmente pela imunohistoquímica da óxido nítrico-sintase (NOS) ou pela histoquímica da NADPH-diaforase. Neste sentido, objetivou-se caracterizar quantitativamente a população neuronal total e subpopulação NADPH-d+ do plexo mientérico presente no jejuno da espécie Molossus rufus de hábito alimentar insetívoro. Foram coletados cinco espécimes de M. rufus em área de amortecimento da Reserva Biológica das Perobas na microrregião de Cianorte/PR. Após a eutanásia, em câmara saturada com isoflurano, foram coletados segmentos do intestino delgado correspondentes ao jejuno destinados a duas técnicas para marcação neuronal, Giemsa e NADPH-diaforase e, um fragmento para a técnica histológica de hematoxilina-eosina e tricômio de Masson. Todos os procedimentos realizados foram aprovados pelo Comitê de Ética no Uso de Animais da Unipar (CEUA - protocolo nº 34347/2017) e pelo Instituto Chico Mendes de Conservação da Biodiversidade (ICMBio - protocolo nº 60061-1) Os cortes histológicos possibilitaram evidenciar a localização do plexo mientérico entre os estratos longitudinal e circular da túnica muscular. Neurônios Giemsa+ apresentaram uma média de 279,23 neurônios/mm2, já os neurônios nitrérgicos apresentaram em média 20,4% da população neuronal mientérica total, sendo evidenciados 58,14 neurônios NADPH-d+/mm2. Portanto, os dados coletados mostram-se condizentes com estudos anteriores em outras espécies de mamíferos quanto à localização do plexo mientérico, bem como, a proporção neuronal mientérica NADPH-d+ comparada com a população de neurônios Giemsa+. As lacunas existentes quanto ao conhecimento do SNE de morcegos limita possíveis inferências em comparativo intraespecífico e interespecífico.(AU)

Seasonal influence on testicular morphophysiological parameters of bat Carollia perspicillata in fragments of the Atlantic Forest, northeastern Brazil / Influência sazonal sobre os parâmetros morfofisiológicos testiculares de Carollia perspicillata (Chiroptera: Phyllostomidae) em fragmentos florestais de Mata Atlântica, Nordeste do Brasil

Bats belong to the order Chiroptera, family Phyllostomidae, and present a wide diversity of reproductive strategies. However, information on the reproductive biology of male bats is scarce, mainly in the Northeast Region of Brazil. Thus, this study evaluated the seasonal testicular histomorphometry of the bat Carollia perspicillata in fragments of the Atlantic Forest in Pernambuco state. To this end, adult males were collected, euthanized for removal of the testicles, and later submitted to a routine histological technique. Histomorphometric analysis included assessment of the areas of tubular and intertubular compartment occupation, as well as quantification of spermatocytes, rounded spermatids, elongated spermatids, and Sertoli and Leydig cells. Results indicated that this bat species presents reproductive seasonality, because significantly higher averages of the testicular parameters were observed in the rainy season, which is a period of greater availability of food resources. Such inferences indicate that there is a synchrony between peak spermatogenesis and hormonal inversion in the months of high precipitation; furthermore, a higher carrying capacity of the Sertoli cells is noted. C. perspicillata males possibly present greater sperm and androgenic activity in the rainy season, associated with increased tubular area and number of spermatogenic cells, as well as with the intertubular area and number of Leydig cells, respectively.(AU)

Os morcegos pertencem a ordem Chiroptera, família Phyllostomidae, e apresentam ampla diversidade de estratégias reprodutivas. Entretanto, as informações relacionadas à biologia reprodutiva dos machos são escassas, principalmente no Nordeste do Brasil. Dessa forma, o trabalho avaliou a histomorfometria sazonal testicular de Carollia perspicillata em fragmentos de Mata Atlântica de Pernambuco. Para tanto, os machos adultos foram coletados, eutanasiados para a remoção dos testículos, e posteriormente submetidos à técnica histológica de rotina. As análises histomorfométricas avaliaram as áreas de ocupação do compartimento tubular e intertubular, assim como a quantificação dos espermatócitos, espermátides arredondadas, espermátides alongadas, células de Sertoli e de Leydig. Os resultados indicaram que a espécie apresenta sazonalidade reprodutiva, visto que maiores médias significativas dos parâmetros testiculares foram encontradas na estação chuvosa, que é um período de maior disponibilidade de recursos alimentares. Tais inferências indicam que existe uma sincronia entre o pico de espermatogênese e investimento hormonal nos meses de alta precipitação, atrelado a isso, nota-se ainda, uma maior capacidade de suporte das células de Sertoli. Os machos de C. perspicillata possivelmente apresentam uma maior atividade espermática e androgênica na estação chuvosa, associadas ao aumento da área tubular e do número de células espermatogênicas, assim como da área intertubular e do número das células de Leydig, respectivamente.(AU)

Anatomical attributes of the musculus quadriceps femoris responsible for poor crawling ability in the greater horseshoe bat ( Rhinolophus ferrumequinum ) / Atributos anatómicos del músculo cuádriceps femoral responsable de la limitada capacidad de arrastre en el murciélago grande de herradura ( Rhinolophus ferrumequinum )

SUMMARY: In mammals, the Musculus quadriceps femoris is a well-developed extensor muscle of the thigh. It is also relatively well developed in bats. The muscle group consists of a distally elongated muscle belly, which is important for the full extension of the knee joint during terrestrial locomotion. However, most bats species demonstrate poor terrestrial locomotion, although several species are able to crawl on the ground. Among the crawling bats, knee joint extension is necessary for crawling. Among bat species generally, the M. quadriceps femoris has a distally elongated belly for extending the shank, although the feature also occurs among poor crawling bat species. The relationship between a relatively well-developed M. quadriceps femoris and poor crawling ability in bats is incongruous, but there is a possibility that bats with a reduced M. quadriceps femoris have not yet been found. The greater horseshoe bat (Rhinolophus ferrumequinum) has long been known to be incapable of crawling, but there are no detailed descriptions in the literature concerning this bat's M. quadriceps femoris. The findings of this study reveal that the M. quadriceps femoris of Rh. ferrumequinum has a short muscle belly attached to the proximal portion of the femur; furthermore, the insertional tendon of this muscle and its patellar ligament are very thin. These morphological features suggest that this species cannot exert a strong and long-distance extension of its knee joints, unlike most other bat species. In addition to the above described morphological features, the M. rectus femoris of Rh. ferrumequinum is fused with the vasti in the M. quadriceps femoris. This M. quadriceps femoris arises from the pelvis and inserts onto the femur. Therefore, Rh. ferrumequinum has an M. quadriceps femoris specialized for flexion of the hip joint.

RESUMEN: En los mamíferos, el Musculus quadriceps femoris es un músculo extensor bien desarrollado del muslo. Este músculo también está relativamente bien desarrollado en murciélagos. El grupo muscular consiste en un vientre muscular distalmente alargado, lo que es importante para la extensión completa de la articulación de la rodilla durante la locomoción terrestre. Sin embargo, la mayoría de las especies de murciélagos muestran limitada locomoción terrestre, aunque varias especies pueden arrastrarse por el suelo. Entre los murciélagos reptantes, la extensión de la articulación de la rodilla es necesaria para gatear. Entre las especies de murciélagos en general, el M. quadriceps femoris tiene un vientre distalmente alargado para extender la rodilla, aunque la característica también ocurre entre las especies de murciélagos de rastreo limitado. La relación entre un M. quadriceps femoris relativamente bien desarrollado y la escasa capacidad de rastreo en los murciélagos es incongruente, pero existe la posibilidad de que aún no se hayan encontrado murciélagos con M. cuádriceps femoral poco desarrollado. Se sabe desde hace tiempo que el murciélago de herradura (Rhinolophus ferrumequinum) es incapaz de gatear, pero no hay descripciones detalladas en la literatura sobre el M. quadriceps femoris de este murciélago. Los hallazgos de este estudio revelan que el M. quadriceps femoris de Rh. ferrumequinum tiene un vientre muscular corto, unido a la epífisis proximal del fémur; además, el tendón de inserción de este músculo y su ligamento patelar son muy delgados. Estas características morfológicas sugieren que esta especie no puede ejercer una extensión importante y de larga distancia de la articulación de la rodilla, a diferencia de la mayoría de otras especies de murciélagos. Además de las características morfológicas descritas anteriormente, el M. rectus femoris de Rh. ferrumequinum está fusionadocon el vasto del M. quadriceps femoris. El M. quadriceps femoris se origina de la pelvis y se inserta en el fémur. Por lo tanto, Rh. ferrumequinum tiene un M. quadriceps femoris especializado para la flexión de la articulación de la cadera.

Analysis of the reproductive stage and ovarian histomorphometry of Dermanura cinerea (Chiroptera: Phyllostomidae) in an Atlantic Forest fragment of Pernambuco, northeastern Brazil / Análise do estágio reprodutivo e histomorfometria ovariana de Dermanura cinerea (Chiroptera: Phyllostomidae) em um fragmento de Mata Atlântica de Pernambuco, Nordeste do Brasil

This study aimed to analyze the reproductive stage, histology and morphometry of the ovary of Dermanura cinerea in an Atlantic Forest fragments in the Biological Reserve of Saltinho, Pernambuco, Brazil. Adult females were captured monthly by mist net, during two consecutive nights from June/2014 to November/2015. The meteorological data were provided by the National Institute of Meteorology and grouped together with the reproductive data, in six periods: period I (June to August/2014), period II (September to November/2014), period III (December/2014 to February/2015), period IV (March to May/2015), period V (June to August/2015) and period VI (September to November/2015). The females were classified according to their reproductive stages in: Inactive, pregnant, lactating and postlactating. Among the 25 females caught, 10 inactive females were selected for the histomorphometric analysis of the ovaries and then they were euthanized. After that, the specimens had their ovaries removed, fixed, processed and included in Paraplast. The organs were cut and stained by Hematoxylin - Eosin and the histological slides produced were submitted to the appropriate optical microscope analysis. Each type of ovarian follicle was estimated according to the histological characteristics evidenced for other mammals. In the morphometric analysis, it was considered: The area of the ovary (measured in square millimeter), Quantification of different types of ovarian follicles (unilaminar and multilaminar primary follicles, antral and matures) and corpus luteum, as well as the area of each by those different follicles (measured in square micrometer) The results indicated that 16 females were inactive, 5 were lactating, 4 were pregnant and no post-lactating. The histological analysis revealed that the ovaries of D. cinerea exhibit characteristics, structures and cellular types similar to other mammals. The morphometric data of the study area were statistically evaluated using the Student's t-test. Therefore, ovarian histomorphometric analysis are very important to infer with greater certainty about the reproduction of a species. Thus, it was observed that females of D. cinerea exhibit two reproductive peaks, that is, they can give birth either at the end of dry periods or from the beginning to the middle of the rainy season. The main feature observed in the ovary of this species, found in the Atlantic Forest area of the state of Pernambuco, is the preparation of the ovarian cortex to ovulate in months of high rainfall throughout the year. Therefore, this species tries to adjust its reproductive period with the variations of the environmental conditions, so that the reproduction might occur during the period more favorable for the maintenance of their offspring.(AU)

Esse estudo objetivou analisar o estágio reprodutivo, histologia e morfometria do ovário de Dermanura cinerea em um fragmento de Mata Atlântica da Reserva Biológica de Saltinho (Pernambuco, Brasil). Foram utilizadas fêmeas adultas capturadas por redes de neblina, de modo que as coletas ocorreram mensalmente, durante duas noites consecutivas de Junho/2014 a Novembro/2015. Os dados meteorológicos foram fornecidos pelo Instituto Nacional de Meteorologia e agrupados, juntamente com os dados reprodutivos, em seis períodos, sendo estes: período I (Junho a agosto/2014), período II (Setembro a novembro/2014), período III (Dezembro/2014 a fevereiro/2015) período IV (Março a maio/2015), período V (Junho a agosto/2015) e período VI (Setembro a novembro/2015). As fêmeas foram classificadas, de acordo com o estágio reprodutivo em: inativas, grávidas, lactantes e pós-lactantes. Das 25 fêmeas capturadas, foram selecionadas, para as análises histomorfométricas dos ovários, 10 fêmeas inativas, as quais foram eutanasiadas. Depois disso, os espécimes tiveram os seus ovários removidos, fixados, processados e inclusos em paraplast. Os cortes foram corados por Hematoxilina - Eosina e as lâminas histológicas produzidas foram submetidas às devidas análises em microscópio óptico. Cada tipo de folículo ovariano foi estimado de acordo com as características histológicas evidenciadas para outros mamíferos. Nas análises morfométricas, considerou-se: a área do ovário (mensurada em milímetro quadrado), quantificação dos diferentes tipos de folículos ovarianos (primários unilaminar e multilaminar, antrais e maduros) e corpo lúteo, bem como foi medida a área de cada um desses diferentes tipos de folículos (mensurada em micrômetro quadrado). Os resultados indicaram a presença de 16 fêmeas inativas, 5 lactantes, 4 grávidas e nenhuma pós-lactante. As análises histológicas destacaram que os ovários de D. cinerea possui características, estruturas e tipos celulares padrões semelhantes ao dos demais mamíferos. Os dados morfométricos da área do ovário foram avaliados estatisticamente por meio do teste t de Student. Assim, as análises histomorfométricas ovariana são de suma importância para inferir com maior segurança sobre a reprodução de uma dada espécie. Portanto, ficou constatado que as fêmeas de D. cinerea apresentam dois picos reprodutivos, isto é, podem parir no final de períodos secos ou do início para metade do período chuvoso. A principal característica observada no ovário dessa espécie, encontrada em área de Mata Atlântica do estado de Pernambuco, foi a preparação do córtex ovariano para ovular em meses de elevados índices pluviométricos ao longo do ano. Logo, essa espécie procura ajustar seu período reprodutivo com as variações das condições ambientais, de forma que a reprodução ocorra em períodos mais favoráveis para manutenção da prole.(AU)

Ultrastructure of the secretory epithelial cells of the bulbo-urethral glands (Cowper's gland) in the Indian fruit bat, Rousettus leschenaulti (Desmarest) during the reproductive cycle / Ultraestructura de las células epiteliales secretoras de las glándulas bulbouretrales (glándula de Cowper) en el murciélago de la India, Rousettus leschenaulti (Desmarest) durante el ciclo reproductivo

The present paper describes the ultrastructural characteristics of the bulbo-urethral gland (Cowper' glands) of the Indian fruit bat, R. leschenaulti during sexually inactive-breeding cycle. Cyclic histological changes during the seasonal breeding quiescence cycle are not well marked. There are no marked differences. The ultrastructural characteristic of the secretory epithelial cells of Bulbo-Uretrhal Gland gland have been studied during different phases of reproductive cycle. The secretory epithelial cells are characterized by the well-developed rough endoplasmic reticulum, extensive developed complexus golgiensis (Golgi apparatus) and mitochondria. Mitochondria with lamellate cristae are dispersed in the cytoplasm. Three different types of secretory granules can be identified on the basis of electron density. These granules are not of different types but they represent the different stages of granule maturation. The secretory products of bulbo-urethral gland of bat are released into lumen both by apocrine and merocrine modes. The functional significance of the secretions of the bulbo-urethral glands in reproduction is discussed.

El presente trabajo describe las características ultraestructurales de las glándulas bulbouretrales (glándulas de Cowper) del murciélago de la fruta de la India, R. leschenaulti durante el ciclo inactivo de reproducción sexual. Los cambios histológicos cíclicos durante el ciclo de quiescencia estacional de la cría no están bien determinados. No hay diferencias marcadas. La característica ultra estructural de las células epiteliales secretoras de la glándula bulbouretral ha sido estudiada durante diferentes fases del ciclo reproductivo. Las células epiteliales secretoras se caracterizan por un retículo endoplasmático rugoso bien desarrollado, el complexus golgiensis (complejo de Golgi) y mitocondrias desarrollados extensamente. Las mitocondrias con crestas lamelares se encontraron dispersas en el citoplasma. Se pueden identificar tres tipos diferentes de gránulos secretores en base a la densidad de electrones. Estos gránulos no son de tipos diferentes, sino que representan las diferentes etapas de maduración del gránulo. Los productos secretores de las glándulas bulbouretrales de murciélagos son liberados en el lumen tanto por modos apócrinos como merócrinos. Se discute la importancia funcional de las secreciones de la glándula bulbouretral en la reproducción.

Morphological and scanning electron microscopy studies of the stomach of the Egyptian fruit bat (Rousettus aegyptiacus) / Estudios morfológico y de microscopía electrónica de barrido del estómago del murciélago egipcio de la fruta (Rousettus aegyptiacus)

This study was performed to investigate the histomorphological characters of the Egyptian fruit bat stomach using the light and scanning electron microscope. The stomachs of fourteen adult normal healthy Egyptian fruit bats of both sexes were used. Stomach was tubular with an elongated fundic part and a long narrow pyloric part. Internally, the superficial epithelium was disposed in filiform form, the longitudinal rugaes extended throughout the length of the stomach, their numbers were high but they were thin and branched in the fundic region, while in the cardiac and pyloric region reached to 3 or 4 thick longitudinal and not branched rugaes. Under the scanning electron microscopy, we found differences in the appearance of middle part with the peripherical part of the fundic region, like the appearance of honeycomb buildings in the middle part different to round elevated formations at the periphery of fundic region. At high magnification of cardiac region, there was an aggregation of epithelial cells without regular shape, while there were elevated mountains areas in the pyloric region. We concluded that the stomachs of Egyptian fruit bat had special characters different to other mammals.

En este trabajo se estudiaron las características histomorfológicas del estómago del murciélago egipcio de la fruta, a través de microscopía electrónica de barrido. Para el estudio se utilizaron 14 estómagos de murciélagos egipcios de la fruta, adultos sanos y de ambos sexos. El estómago era tubular con una región fúndica alargada y una región pilórica larga y estrecha. Internamente, el epitelio era filiforme y las rugas longitudinales se extendían a lo largo del estómago, su número era alto, delgado y ramificado en la región fúndica, mientras que en las regiones del cardias y pilórica alcanzaban un número de 3 o 4, gruesos, longitudinales y no ramificados. Al microscopio electrónico de barrido se encontraron diferencias en la apariencia de la parte media respecto a la parte periférica de la región fúndica, al igual que la aparición de estructuras en nido de abeja en la parte media, diferente a las formaciones redondas elevadas observadas en la periferia de la región fúndica. A mayor ampliación de la región del cardias, se observó una agregación de células epiteliales sin forma regular, mientras que en la región pilórica, se encontraron áreas elevadas. Concluimos que los estómagos del murciélago egipcio de la fruta presentan caracteres especiales diferentes a la de otros mamíferos.

Morphology of the axial skeleton of seven bat genera (Chiroptera: Phyllostomidae)

ABSTRACT Here we present detailed descriptions and comparisons of the axial skeleton of seven species of bats belonging to five subfamilies of Phyllostomidae of different trophic guilds. The material examined consisted of 34 complete skeletons of seven species. For five of the studied species, previous descriptions have not been conducted, and for the vampires only limited information is available, so that descriptions for these species are here completed. The axial skeleton has characters that allow grouping of the species phylogenetically of the same subfamily and by feeding habits. At the same time, there are characters that associate species from different subfamilies with different types of diet or ways to obtain food.

Anatomical location of Periglischrus iheringi(Acari: Spinturnicidae) associated with the great fruit-eating bat (Chiroptera: Phyllostomidae) / Localização anatômica de Periglischrus iheringi (Acari: Spinturnicidae) associado com o morcego-das-frutas (Chiroptera: Phyllostomidae)

Spinturnicid mites are ectoparasites that infest the wings of bats, and species of the genus Periglischrus Kolenati, 1857 are associated exclusively with bats of the family Phyllostomidae. We tested the hypothesis that a long-term evolutionary association led P. iheringi to choose very specific wing locations to infest the great fruit-eating bats, Artibeus lituratus. Seven anatomical wing regions and the uropatagium from 140 bats were analyzed and a total of 78 parasites were collected. Periglischrus iheringi had a significant preference for the plagiopatagium and dactylopatgium major wing regions (i.e., large, proximal regions) and infestation was directly correlated to area (r=0.9744). However, other factors may also influence mite choice, such as higher and more stable temperature and humidity, vascularization and lower risk of displacement.

Spintunicídeos são ácaros ectoparasitos encontrados nas asas dos morcegos, e espécies do gênero Periglischrus são associadas exclusivamente com morcegos filostomídeos. Foi testada a hipótese de que a longa associação evolutiva entre ácaro e hospedeiro, permitiu P. iheringiescolher uma localização específica na asa do morcego-das-frutas, Artibeus lituratus. Sete regiões anatômicas da asa e o uropatágio de 140 morcegos foram analisados, e um total de 78 ácaros foram coletados. Periglischrus iheringi apresentou preferência significativa para as regiões denominadas plagiopatágio e dactilopatágio largo (ou seja, regiões grandes e proximais), e sua infestação está correlacionada com o tamanho apresentado por essas áreas (r=0.9744). No entanto, outros fatores também podem influenciar a escolha parasitária, tal como a estabilidade da temperatura e umidade, maior vascularização e menor risco de deslocamento.

Morphological comparison of the filiform papillae of New Zealand white rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) as domestic mammals and Egyptian fruit bat (Rousettus aegyptiacus) as wild mammals using scanning electron microscopic specimens / Comparación morfológica de las papilas filiformes de conejos blancos Nueva Zelanda (Oryctolagus cuniculus) como los mamíferos domésticos y los murciélagos de la fruta egipcios (Rousettus aegyptiacus) como los mamíferos salvajes utilizando muestras de microscopía electrónica de barrido

This paper presents a comparison of the morphological structure of the filiform papillae in New Zealand white rabbits as domestic mammals and Egyptian fruit bats as wild mammals. This study was carried out on the tongues of adult healthy New Zealand white rabbits and Egyptian fruit bats of both sexes. There were four types of lingual papillae in both animals. In the Egyptian fruit bats, there were six subtypes of the filiform papillae; three on the anterior part (small, conical and giant), two on the middle part (cornflower and leaf-like papillae) while the posterior part contain rosette shape filiform papillae, in addition to transitional papillae and conical papillae. In New Zealand white rabbits, there were four subtypes of filiform papillae; spoonful conical (on the lingual anterior part), processed (at the anterior edge of lingual prominence), leaf-like (on the posterior area of lingual prominence) and triangular filiform papillae (on the lingual root). The shape, size, number and orientation of the lingual papillae itself and its processes varied according to their location within the tongue (region-specific) in relation to the feeding habits, strategies for obtaining food, climate conditions, and types of food particles.

Se comparó la estructura morfológica de las papilas filiformes de un mamífero doméstico (conejo neozelandes) y de un mamífero silvestre (murciélagos de la fruta egipcio). El estudio fue realizado en animales de ambos sexos. Se observó cuatro tipos de papilas linguales, en ambas especies de animales. En los murciélagos de la fruta egipcio se observaron seis subtipos de papilas filiformes; tres en la parte anterior (pequeño, cónico y gigante), dos en la parte media (aciano y hojas como papilas) mientras que en la parte posterior se observaron papilas filiformes y papilas de transición cónica. En los conejos se observaron cuatro subtipos de papilas filiformes; cónica cucharada (en la parte anterior lingual), procesado (en el margen anterior de la prominencia lingual), tipo hoja (en la zona posterior de la prominencia lingual) y papilas filiformes triangulares (en la raíz lingual). La forma, tamaño, número y orientación de las papilas linguales y sus procesos varían de acuerdo a la función y a la ubicación en la lengua (específicos de la región) en relación con los hábitos de alimentación, las estrategias para la obtención de alimentos, las condiciones climáticas y tipos de partículas de alimentos.

Murciélagos de cola corta (Carollia: Phyllostomidae) del Parque Nacional Natural Gorgona (Colombia) y sus implicaciones biogeográficas / Short-tailed bats (Carollia: Phyllostomidae) from Gorgona National Natural Park (Colombia) and its biogeographical implications

Taxonomy of short-tailed bats (Phyllostomidae: Carollia) has been unclear due to the extreme morphological similarity among species and the significant morphological variation within species. The identity of the Carollia species in Gorgona National Natural Park (Colombian Pacific) has been controversial due to the high morphological similarity between Carollia perspicillata and C. brevicauda. C. perspicillata is common in lowlands, and more likely to be the Gorgona species than C. brevicauda, while geological evidence suggests that common between 1 500 and 3 000m. We recorded eight measurements from jaws and skulls of confirmed C. perspicillata (24 individuals) and C. brevicauda (23) and 35 individuals captured in Gorgona. Discriminant analyses showed that, contrary to expectations based on current altitudinal distributions, the Gorgona population is morphologically closer to C. brevicauda. Biological evidence suggests that Gorgona was connected in the past to mainland South America. Gorgona may be the highest part of a now submerged mountain range (“Cordillera de la Costa”) that was part of the continent during the Pleistocene glaciations. Consequently, I hypothesize that C. brevicauda colonized Gorgona overland during last Pleistocene glaciations. Rev. Biol. Trop. 62 (Suppl. 1): 435-445. Epub 2014 February 01.

La identidad de la especie de Carollia (Chiroptera: Phyllostomidae) en el Parque Nacional Natural Gorgona ha sido controvertida debido a la alta similitud entre C. perspicillata y C. brevicauda. C. perspicillata es la especie con mayor probabilidad de habitar en la isla debido a que actualmente se distribuye en las tierras bajas de la costa pacífica colombiana, mientras C. brevicauda es una especie predominantemente de tierras altas. Con el objetivo de resolver la controversia acerca de la especie del género Carollia que habita la isla, se realizaron análisis morfométricos con base en característica de cráneos y mandíbulas de especímenes de las dos especies y del PNN Gorgona. Los resultados evidenciaron que, contrario a lo esperado, esta población insular es morfológicamente más similar a C. brevicauda. Evidencia biológica para diferentes grupos de organismos sugiere que Gorgona puede haber estado conectada a los andes y las zonas bajas del pacífico del sur de Colombia-norte de Ecuador en el pasado. Por otra parte, existe evidencia geológica que muestra que Gorgona es la parte más alta de una cordillera (Cordillera de la Costa) que se encuentra sumergida actualmente, pero que probablemente fue parte del continente durante el Pleistoceno. Por lo tanto, con base en esta evidencia biológica y geológica se plantea la hipótesis de una ruta de colonización de C. brevicauda a Gorgona desde los Andes a través de la Cordillera de la Costa. Este proceso pudo facilitarse por el descenso marino durante las glaciaciones del Pleistoceno.

Distribución y abundancia de murciélagos en bosques con diferente grado de intervención en el Parque Nacional Natural Gorgona (Colombia) / Distribution and abundance of bat assemblages among different forest covers in Gorgona National Natural Park, Colombia

Bats are important for maintenance of ecological processes in tropical forests since they are among the most abundant mammals and play a crucial role in tropical succession. Due to the importance of bats to forest dynamics and to the lack of ecological information, a study was conducted to quantify the variation in species richness, abundance and occurrence of bats in forest with different levels of perturbation in Gorgona National Natural Park; accounting for imperfect detectability. Bats were captured with mist-nets in three areas that differed in their perturbation levels (2 sites per area). A total of 670 bats representing 10 species and three families (Emballonuridae, Phyllostomidae y Vespertilionidae) were captured. The frugivorous species Dermanura rosenbergi (44.1%), Carollia brevicauda (20.9%) and Artibeus lituratus (30.1%) were the most captured species, and 6 out of 10 were insectivorous. Detection probability (p) increased with the increase in perturbation level (p perturbed>p secondary>p primary), and was highest for frugivorous bats. The best model for occurrence (Ψ) revealed that probabilities of occurrence increased with perturbation levels (Ψperturbed>Ψsecondary>Ψprimary) and differed among species. Substantial differences in abundance were due to an additive effect of perturbation level, body size, and guild. Abundance increased with perturbation level (Nperturbed>Nsecondary>Nprimary), decreased with body size, and was highest for frugivorous bats. Bats had higher occurrence and abundance values in most disturbed areas, but they also occurred in less disturbed areas. Consequently, bats can potentially eat fruits from different stages of succession, promoting seed movement among zones that are suitable for colonization. Bats should be considered a conservation target for Gorgona. Rev. Biol. Trop. 62 (Suppl. 1): 419-434. Epub 2014 February 01.

Se cuantificó la variación de la comunidad de murciélagos en bosques con diferente grado de intervención en el Parque Nacional Natural Gorgona. Para esto se realizaron capturas en tres zonas (dos sitios en cada zona) durante tres eventos de muestreo. El análisis de datos consideró la detección imperfecta, permitiendo realizar una inferencia confiable acerca de los cambios en presencia, abundancia y riqueza entre tipos de coberturas. Los resultados evidenciaron una considerable variación en detectabilidad relacionada con variaciones entre gremios tróficos y tipos de cobertura. Las tasas de presencia aumentaron al disminuir la cobertura boscosa (Ψb.intervenido>Ψb. secundario>Ψb. primario) y fueron diferentes entre especies. La abundancia incrementó al aumentar el nivel de intervención (Nb.intervenido>Nb.secundario>Nb primario), disminuyó con el tamaño corporal y fue mayor para frugívoros y nectarívoros que para insectívoros. Los resultados sugieren que las comunidades de murciélagos despliegan fuertes respuestas al grado de intervención. Aunque se presentó mayor presencia y abundancia en el área más intervenida, los murciélagos también utilizaron las menos intervenidas. Esto puede incrementar el movimiento de las semillas entre diferentes estadíos sucesionales. Por lo tanto, el estudio de la comunidad de murciélagos puede ser importante para monitorear el estado de recuperación de los bosques del PNN Gorgona y para entender los procesos ecológicos que generan la recuperación de estos.

Riqueza de especies, nuevos registros y actualización del listado taxonómico de la comunidad de murciélagos del Parque Nacional Natural Gorgona, Colombia / Species richness, new reports and inventory update of bat assemblage of the Gorgona National Natural Park, Colombia

The information resulting from inventories is crucial for tracking the effects of habitat alteration and climate change on biodiversity, and for determining conservation priorities. Bats provide several ecosystem services and reflect the status of the populations they interact with. However, the inventory of bats in Gorgona National Natural Park can be incomplete since relatively few intensive surveys have been done. Using mist nets in areas with different forest cover, 670 bats representing 10 species and three families (Emballonuridae, Phyllostomidae and Vespertilionidae) were captured. Frugivorous species were more abundant in the survey, but a higher number of insectivorous species were registered. A model that incorporates detectability suggests that 33 bat species occur (95% credible interval=[26,39]) and that frugivorous species have a higher detectability than other trophic guilds. To the 13 bat species reported for Gorgona, we added two: Peropteryx macrotis and Mimon crenulatum. In conclusion, our results add two new records of bats to Gorgona, and suggest that the inventory of bats in Gorgona is incomplete, and aerial insectivorous bats have been underrepresented because of the exclusive use of mist nets. Rev. Biol. Trop. 62 (Suppl. 1): 407-417. Epub 2014 February 01.

Los inventarios biológicos son esenciales para el seguimiento de cambios causados por factores naturales y antrópicos, y para determinar las prioridades de conservación. El estudio de los murciélagos es importante pues estos proveen servicios ambientales esenciales y su diversidad puede reflejar el estado de otros organismos. Sin embargo, el inventario de los murciélagos del PNN Gorgona puede ser incompleto debido a los pocos muestreos intensivos que se han realizado. En este trabajo, se actualiza el listado de la comunidad de murciélagos del Parque Nacional Natural Gorgona, se evalúa su inventario y se propone una clave taxonómica. Considerando que sólo existe una especie del género Saccopteryx (S. leptura) en Gorgona, en los estudios previos se han registrado 13 especies de murciélagos, En el presente estudio se adicionan dos nuevos registros: Peropteryx macrotis con base en la revisión de colecciones biológicas y Mimon crenulatum con base en trabajo de campo. Consecuentemente, se han registrado un total de 15 especies de murciélagos en le PNN Gorgona, mientras el estimado de riqueza predice un total de 33 especies. Por lo tanto, el inventario actual corresponde al 45.5% del número de especies esperado. Por otra parte, la detectabilidad de murciélagos insectívoros y nectarívoros fue baja en comparación con la de frugívoros. En conclusión, el inventario de murciélagos no es completo y las especies insectívoras pueden estar sub-representadas debido al uso exclusivo de redes de niebla en los estudios realizados.

Morphometric differences in testicular tissue of tadarida brasiliensis bats from the urban area of Mexico City during summer, autumn, and winter / Diferencias morfométricas en parenquima testicular de murcielagos tadarida brasiliensis del área urbana de la Ciudad de México en verano, otoño e invierno

Most of the neotropical bats reproduce in a seasonal fashion. The purpose of this study was to assess changes in testicular tissue by morphometry, in Tadarida brasiliensis bat, in a south urban zone of Mexico City during summer, autumn, and winter. Three sample collections (February, June, and September) from T. brasiliensis were carried out (n=6). Testicle fragments were obtained for histological studies. Diameter of the seminiferous tubules and interstitial space were measured, cellular populations were identified and counted. June samples showed smaller diameter of seminiferous tubules and larger interstitial space between tubules; also there were less number of germinal epithelium cells and spermatids were absent. Tissues from September and February showed a significant increase (p 0.05) in tubule diameter, germinal epithelium thickness, and number of germinal epithelium cells when compared to June samples. Only February samples showed presence of spermatids. Our results suggest the existence of seasonal variations in the reproductive activity of T. brasiliensis, under conditions in which the study was conducted.

La mayoría de los murciélagos neotropicales se reproducen de manera estacional. El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar los cambios morfométricos en el parénquima testicular del murciélago Tadarida brasiliensis que habita en un área urbana del sur de la Ciudad de México durante las estaciones de verano, otoño e invierno. Se obtuvieron fragmentos de tejido testicular para su estudio histológico. Se midió el diámetro de los túbulos seminíferos y el espacio interstisial y se identificaron y contaron distintos tipos celulares. En las muestras de junio se encontró un menor diámetro de los túbulos seminíferos y un mayor espacio intersticial entre los túbulos; también hubo un menor número de células del epitelio germinal y no hubo presencia de espermátides. En las muestras de tejido obtenidas en el mes de septiembre y febrero se observó un incremento significativo en el diámetro del túbulo, grosor del epitelio germinal y número de células del epitelio germinal cuando fueron comparadas con las muestras de junio (p 0.05). Solo en las muestras de febrero hubo presencia de espermátides. En conjunto, nuestros resultados sugieren la existencia de variaciones estacionales en la actividad reproductiva de T. brasiliensis, bajo las condiciones en que se realizó el estudio.