Which variables influence the herbivory amount on Montrichardia spp. (Araceae) in aquatic ecosystems? / ¿Qué variables influyen en la herbivoría en Montrichardia spp. (Araceae) en los ecosistemas acuáticos?

Abstract Introduction: The study of herbivory is fundamental in ecology and includes how plants invest in strategies and mechanisms to reduce herbivore damage. However, there is still a lack of information about how the environment, plant density, and functional traits influence herbivory in aquatic ecosystems. Objective: To assess if there is a relationship between herbivory, environmental variables, and plant traits two species of Montrichardia, a neotropical aquatic plant. Methods: In September 2018, we studied 78 specimens of Montrichardia arborescens and 18 of Montrichardia linifera, in 18 sites in Melgaço, Pará, Brazil. On each site, we measured water depth, distance to the margin, and plant density. From plants, we measured plant height and leaf thickness, and photographed the leaves to calculate the specific leaf area and percentage herbivory. To identify anatomical structures, we collected fully expanded leaves from three individuals per quadrat. Results: For M. arborescens, plants with thicker leaves and higher specific leaf area have less herbivore damage. For M. linifera, plants from deeper sites and with thicker leaves had more herbivore damage, while plants that grew farther from the margin had less damage. We found anatomical structures related to defense, such as idioblast cells with phenolic compounds, and cells with solid inclusions that can contribute to avoiding severe damage. Conclusions: Herbivory in these Montrichardia species can be explained by a combination of plant and environmental traits (patch isolation and water depth). The main plant traits are leaf thickness and area, but chemical compounds and solid inclusions also help Montrichardia to sustain less damage than other macrophytes.

Resumen Introducción: La herbivoría es fundamental para comprender cómo las plantas invierten en diferentes estrategias para evitar la depredación, lo que implica diferentes mecanismos de defensa. Factores relacionados con el medio ambiente, la densidad de plantas y/o los rasgos funcionales de las plantas pueden influir en la herbivoría en los ecosistemas acuáticos. Sin embargo, todavía falta información sobre cómo esos factores influyen en la herbivoría en los ecosistemas acuáticos y pueden contribuir a la carga de herbivoría. Objetivo: Evaluar si existe una relación entre la herbivoría y las variables ambientales (p. ej., profundidad del agua y distancia al margen), los factores ecológicos (densidad de plantas) y los rasgos estructurales de las plantas (altura, grosor de la hoja y área foliar) e indicar estructuras anatómicas que actúen junto con los rasgos estructurales en el sistema de defensa de especies de Montrichardia. Métodos: Se evaluaron 96 individuos de Montrichardia spp. (78 de M. arborescens y 18 de M. linifera, en 18 sitios) recolectados en septiembre de 2018. En cada sitio, se midió la profundidad del agua, la distancia al margen y la densidad de plantas. De los individuos, medimos la altura de la planta, el grosor de la hoja y fotografiamos las hojas para calcular el área foliar específica y la cantidad de herbivoría (en porcentaje). Para identificar las estructuras anatómicas relacionadas con la defensa de las plantas, se recogió hojas completamente expandidas de tres individuos por cuadrante. Resultados: Para M. arborescens, las plantas con hojas más gruesas y mayor área foliar específica tienen menos daño por herbivoría. Para M. linifera, las plantas con hojas más gruesas y que habitan en sitios más profundos tienen más daño por herbívoros, mientras que las plantas más alejadas del margen tienen menos daño por herbívoros. Se encontró estructuras anatómicas relacionadas con la defensa, como células idioblásticas con compuestos fenólicos y células con inclusiones sólidas que pueden contribuir a evitar daños severos en las características de las hojas. Conclusiones: Nuestros resultados indican que la herbivoría en las especies de Montrichardia podría explicarse por una combinación de características ambientales (aislamiento del parche y profundidad del agua) y de la planta. Descubrimos que los rasgos de las hojas eran factores importantes que impulsaban los cambios en la carga de herbivoría, especialmente el grosor de las hojas y el área foliar específica. Además, las especies de Montrichardia invierten en compuestos químicos e inclusiones sólidas para evitar daños graves en las hojas y, por lo tanto, pueden sufrir menos daños que otras especies de macrófitos.

A checklist of aquatic macrophytes of the Guaraguaçu river basin reveals a target for conservation in the Atlantic rainforest

Describing and understanding distribution of species in natural ecosystems is the first step to establish conservation efforts. In aquatic habitats, macrophytes play a central role in promoting biodiversity and ecosystem functioning. This study aimed to create the first checklist of aquatic macrophyte species occurring in the Guaraguaçu river, the largest river in Paraná State coast, Brazil. Species herborized, identified and incorporated into the Herbarium collection of the Universidade Federal do Paraná. A total of 47 species were registered corresponding to 37 genera and 29 botanical families; Cyperaceae and Poaceae were the most representative families. In addition, the wide invasion of the non-native species Urochloa arrecta (Hack. ex T. Durand & Schinz) Morrone & Zuloaga was registered and the presence of the floating-leaved non-native species Nymphaea caerulea Savugny was recorded. Even so, the inventory shows a noteworthy richness of aquatic macrophytes species in the Guaraguaçu river, and it is clear macrophyte species reflect a gradient of anthropic impact and salinity in this tidal estuarine river. Our study contributes to the creation of public policies to aid in the protection of this river that represents a central site for biological conservation efforts, yet is constantly threatened by anthropic activities.

Growth of Microcystisstrains isolated from environments with the presence and absence of submerged macrophytes in coexistence with Ceratophyllum demersum

Cyanobacterial blooms can cause severe ecological and health problems in drinking water reservoirs. To alleviate this problem, allelopathically active submerged macrophytes can be used to reduce cyanobacterial growth. Accordingly, this study aimed to evaluate the sensitivity of strains of the Microcystis aeruginosacomplex isolated from reservoirs with the presence and absence of submerged macrophytes to the allelochemicals of Ceratophyllum demersum.A coexistence experiment was carried out between the submerged macrophyte C. demersum and four Microcystisstrains, with two treatments for each strain, one in coexistence with the submerged macrophyte (7 g L-1) and control (in the absence of the macrophyte). Two strains of M. aeruginosa(BMIUFRPE-06 and BMIUFRPE-07) and two of M. panniformis(BMIUFRPE-08 and BMIUFRPE-09) were used, which were isolated from Cajueiro (with submerged macrophytes) and Tapacurá (without submerged macrophytes) reservoirs, respectively. The biomass of Microcystisstrains from the reservoir without macrophytes (BMIUFRPE-08 and BMIUFRPE-09) was significantly inhibited in 96% (T-test: p 0.05; growth rate -ANOVA: p > 0.05). These results suggest that strains isolated from environments with submerged macrophytes are less sensitive to allelochemicals of these plants,as these strains may be adapted to the coexistence with submerged macrophytes.

New records of the invasive macrophyte, Urochloa arrecta extend its range to eastern Brazilian Amazon altered freshwater ecosystems

Invasive species influence the structure and functioning of ecosystems, as they affect native species, significantly decreasing their diversity. Aquatic ecosystems harbor a great biodiversity, and invasive macrophytes significantly affect the native plant communities, causing a cascade effect on other trophic levels. Among invasive macrophytes, Urochloa arrecta is cause for concern in the Neotropics and is found in several regions of Brazil, specially in the southeastern and southern regions. So far the species had been recorded only in the northern state of Amazonas. We report the first record of the species in the state of Pará, in the eastern Brazilian Amazon. We emphasize that identifying sites where this species is invasive is the best strategy to prevent its spread, aiming at the protection and conservation of Amazonian freshwater ecosystems. (AU)

The High Water Plants Water Road in Cleaning

The ecology of high-water plants such as pistachio, euchronia, azolla forms the basis for improving biological wastewater treatment technology. For the first time in the Andizhan region of the Republic of Uzbekistan, it was found that high-altitude algae can be used by the method of biological treatment of municipal wastewater. the results of the study, we used biological treatment of high-water plant species such as pistia (Pistia stratiotes), Euchornia crassipes Solms, azolla (Azolla coroliniana Willd), with the observations of the dynamics of rapid growth and development at high concentrations. We developed a Pistia stratiotes, which is scientifically grounded in improvement, and was recommended for reproduction under laboratory conditions.

Aquaculture biological waste as culture medium to cultivation of Ankistrodesmus gracilis (Reinsch) Korshikov / Resíduos biológicos de aquicultura como meio de cultura para o cultivo de Ankistrodesmus gracilis (Reinsch) Korshikov

Abstract Current study investigated the effectiveness of different macrophytes as culture media for Ankistrodesmus gracilis in laboratory conditions. Significant difference (p < 0.05) was reported in cell density with regard to conventional culture medium (CHU12) and macrophytes culture media. Mean cell density in NPK, Eichhornia crassipes and E. azurea media was higher (p < 0.05) than in conventional culture medium. Chlorophyll-a was higher than 1 g.L-1, except in CHU12 (0.7 ± 0.4 g.L-1) and T. domingensis (0.8 ± 0.3 g.L-1) media. Nitrate decreased sharply as from the 7th-day of the experiment. Ammonium and total phosphorus were highest in culture media and ranged between 0.4 g.L-1 (P. cordata medium) and 1.7 g.L-1 (CHU12 medium) for ammonium, and between 0.8 g.L-1 (CHU12 medium) and 1.9 g.L-1 (T. domingensis medium) for total phosphorus. Results revealed inorganic fertilizer and macrophytes combined with vitamins may be effective as culture media and strongly supports the growth of Ankistrodesmus gracilis, since cell density and biochemical composition are similar to or higher than conventional culture medium (CHU12). Macrophyte is a tool for aquaculture since biological wastes may be used with nutrients to improve the cultivation of microalgae.

Resumo O presente estudo investigou a eficácia na utilização de diferentes macrófitas como meio de cultura para Ankistrodesmus gracilis em condições laboratoriais. Foi observada diferença significativa (p < 0,05) entre a densidade celular em relação aos meios de cultura convencional (CHU12) e de macrófitas. Os meios de cultura com Eichhornia crassipes, E. azurea e NPK apresentaram densidade celular maiores (p < 0,05) que o meio de cultura convencional. Os teores de clorofila-a foram superiores a 1 g.L-1, exceto nos meios de cultura CHU12 (0.7 ± 0.4 g.L-1) e de T. domingensis (0.7 ± 0.3 g.L-1). O nitrato diminuiu acentuadamente a partir do 7º dia de experimento. Dentre os nutrientes, amônia e o fósforo total foram os mais elevados nos meios de cultura, variando entre 0.4 g.L-1 (meio de P. cordata) a 1,7 g.L-1 (meio CHU12) para amônia e, entre 0.8 g.L-1 (meio CHU12) e 1,9 gL-1 (meio de T. domingensis) para o fósforo total. Os resultados do presente estudo mostraram que o uso de fertilizantes inorgânicos e macrófitas, combinados com vitaminas, pode ser eficaz como meio de cultura no crescimento de Ankistrodesmus gracilis, uma vez que a densidade celular e a composição bioquímica foram semelhantes ou superiores ao meio de cultura convencional (CHU12). As macrófitas são ferramentas a serem adotadas na aquicultura, desde que os resíduos biológicos podem ser usados como nutrientes para melhorar o cultivo de microalgas.

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.

Accumulation of copper by the aquatic macrophyte Salvinia biloba Raddi (Salviniaceae) / Acumulação de cobre pela macrófita aquática Salvinia biloba Raddi (Salviniaceae)

Abstract Aquatic macrophytes have properties and mechanisms which are useful for the removal of substances in solution, commonly used in phytoremediation processes in aquatic environments. This study evaluated the performance of copper (Cu) accumulation by Salvinia biloba Raddi (Salviniaceae) in different metal concentrations (1, 3 and 5 µg mL-1), as well as the control treatment, measured at intervals of 0, 7 and 14 days under laboratory conditions, with control as to pH and luminosity. After the experiment, the S. biloba biomass was washed, kiln dried, crushed and subjected to the process of digestion, and subsequently the accumulated copper content was determined by atomic absorption spectroscopy. The results showed that S. biloba is apt at accumulating copper, varying significantly between different treatments and days of exposure to the contaminant, as well as its interaction (treatment × days). The highest accumulation values were observed in treatment with 5 µg mL-1, which at 14 days, with 11,861 µg g-1 of copper. We observed symptoms of toxicity and mortality in plants, probably indicating the effect of copper on the species when at high levels. Salvinia biloba is an efficient species in the removal of copper in solution, its recommendation as a remediating agent in aquatic ecosystems being possible.

Resumo Macrófitas aquáticas apresentam propriedades e mecanismos úteis à remoção de substâncias presentes em solução, comumente, utilizadas em processos de fitorremediação de ambientes aquáticos. Este estudo avaliou o desempenho de acumulação de cobre (Cu) por Salvinia biloba Raddi (Salviniaceae) em diferentes concentrações do metal (1, 3 e 5 µg mL-1), além do tratamento controle, avaliados em intervalos de 0, 7 e 14 dias, sob condições laboratoriais, com controle de pH e luminosidade. Após o experimento a biomassa de S. biloba, foi lavada, seca em estufa, triturada e submetida ao processo de digestão, sendo, posteriormente, o teor de cobre acumulado determinado por espectroscopia de absorção atômica. Os resultados evidenciaram que S. biloba é hábil em acumular cobre em sua biomassa, variando significativamente entre os diferentes tratamentos e dias de exposição ao contaminante, bem como por sua interação (tratamentos × dias). Os maiores teores de acúmulo foram observados no tratamento com 5 µg mL-1, que aos 14 dias apresentou até 11.861 µg g-1 de Cu. Observamos sintomas de toxicidade e mortalidade nas plantas, evidenciando, provavelmente, o efeito do cobre sobre a espécie quando em elevados níveis. Salvinia biloba é uma espécie eficiente na remoção do cobre em solução, sendo possível sua recomendação como agente de remediação em ecossistemas aquáticos.

Interactions between different biological forms of aquatic macrophytes in a eutrophic tropical reservoir in Northeastern Brazil / Interacciones entre las diferentes formas biológicas de los macrófitos acuáticos en un reservorio eutrófico tropical del Noreste de Brasil

Abstract: The aquatic plants and biological processes have different interactions and their knowledge may contribute to the understanding of environmental dynamics in wetlands. The aim of this study was to report the type of interactions that different biological forms of macrophytes stand in the eutrophic tropical reservoir of Penha reservoir, Northeastern Brazil. Data collection was captured every two months from October 2009 to October 2010, considering the hydrological cycle in one-year period. For this, twelve perpendicular transects (separated by 10 m) at the reservoir's water edge were defined; each transect had two plots of 625 cm² (25 x 25 cm, separated by one meter) from which samples were obtained. Plants were collected and transported in identified plastic bags for subsequent quantification of the dry weight biomass; additionally, pressed samples were made in the field for identification purposes. The relative interaction index (RII) was used to identify the existence of positive and/or negative interactions between the biomass of the biological forms of aquatic plants. Student's t-tests were used to analyze variations in the abiotic data and biomass over time, and to determine differences between the dry and rainy seasons. Pearson and Spearman correlation coefficients were calculated to determine correlations between the biological forms and the biomass of the macrophytes, as well as environmental variables and RII. In the dry season, the environment was mainly composed of floating macrophytes (1 013.98 g/m²), with mats of submerged macrophytes (98.18 g/m²) that demonstrated a range of positive (RII= 1.0) to negative (RII= -0.2) interactions. The biomass of emergent macrophytes increased throughout the dry season (4.87 to 106.91 g/m²) due to the nurse plant effect that served as a substratum (RII= 1.0). During the rainy season the biomass of submerged macrophytes was reduced by 97 % due to direct and indirect relationships (RII= -1.0) to other macrophytes. Rainfall and emergent plants contributed to a reduction in the biomass of floating macrophytes (19.16 g/m²). The emergence of a third group of plants (emergent) lead floating plants to occupy other areas and excluded submerged plants. Overall, the interactions among plants within ecosystems were not definite due to stand composition and seasonality. Rev. Biol. Trop. 65 (3): 1095-1104. Epub 2017 September 01.

Resumen: El conocimiento de las interacciones de las plantas acuáticas contribuye a la comprensión de la dinámica del ambiente (embalse Penha, Noreste Brasil). El objetivo del estudio fue reportar las posibles interacciones positivas y/o negativas que ocurren en los matorrales de macrófitos con distintos tipos de plantas, en un reservorio tropical eutrofizado. La recolección de los datos se hizo cada dos meses, desde Octubre 2009 hasta Octubre 2010, se consideró un ciclo hidrológico de un año. Fueron muestreados doce transectos perpendiculares a la orilla, separados 10 m entre ellos. En cada transecto se recolectaron dos cuadrículas de 625 cm² (25 x 25 cm) distantes 1 m uno del otro. Las plantas fueron retiradas y puestas en bolsas plásticas numeradas de acuerdo con el punto de recolección, para cuantificación del peso seco de la biomasa. En el campo se hizo el prensaje de las muestras para la identificación de las macrófitas. Se utilizó el índice relativo de interacciones (RII) para identificar la existencia de interacciones positivas y/o negativas entre las formas biológicas de las plantas acuáticas. Se uso el t Student para evaluar las variaciones de los datos abióticos y biomasa a lo largo del tiempo y determinar las diferencias entre las estaciones de lluvia y seca. Fueron calculados los coeficientes de correlación de Pearson y Spearman para determinar las correlaciones entre las formas biológicas y la biomasa de macrófitas, las variables ambientales y RII. En el período seco, el ambiente estaba compuesto principalmente por plantas flotantes (1 013.98 g/m²) y con la presencia de macrófitos sumergidos (98.18 g/m²), que demostraron interacciones variando de positivas (índice relativo de interacción - RII= 1.0) hasta negativas (RII= -0.2). La biomasa de macrófitos emersos aumentó a lo largo de la estación seca (4.87 to 106.91 g/m²) debido al efecto nodriza que sirve como substrato (RII= 1.0). En la estación lluviosa la biomasa de macrófitos sumergida se redujo 97 % debido a interacciones directas y indirectas (RII= -1.0) con otros macrófitos. La lluvia y los matorrales de plantas acuáticas contribuyen a la reducción en la biomasa de los macrófitos flotantes (19.16 g/m²). La aparición de un tercer grupo de plantas (emersas) llevan las flotantes a ocupar otros sitios y la exclusión de los macrófitos sumergidos. La interacción entre las plantas en el ecosistema evaluado no son rígidas debido a la composición de los matorrales y la estacionalidad.

Macrophyte Communities of Andean Rivers: Composition and Relation with Environmental Factors / Comunidades de macrófitas en ríos andinos: composición y relación con factores ambientales

RESUMEN Los pequeños ríos de los Andes tropicales se han estudiado escasamente y poco se conoce sobre la composición, diversidad y estructura de sus comunidades de macrófitas. En esta investigación se estudiaron las comunidades de plantas acuáticas de 18 pequeños ríos andinos pertenecientes a las cuencas de los ríos La Vieja (Quindío) y Otún (Risaralda) en la ecorregión cafetera colombiana, una de las más afectadas por actividades antrópicas en el país. Se buscó evaluar el efecto del uso del suelo sobre la estructura de las comunidades de macrófitas. Para ello se seleccionaron ríos que nacen y discurren exclusivamente en cada uno de los usos del suelo dominantes en cada cuenca. El muestreo se realizó en dos épocas climáticas distintas del año 2006. La vegetación acuática encontrada en las dos cuencas (54 especies, pertenecientes a 25 familias) presentó riqueza y abundancia menores que las reportadas en otros sistemas acuáticos tropicales y estuvo dominada por especies con alta capacidad de adaptación a ambientes cambiantes o alterados. Se encontró que variables ambientales de los ríos asociadas con el tipo de uso del suelo, como la temperatura, la conductividad y el tipo de sustrato, fueron las que principalmente explicaron la estructura de las comunidades de macrófitas. Los ríos de zonas ganaderas, con dominancia de sustrato fino y valores más altos de temperatura y conductividad, presentaron mayor riqueza y abundancia de especies que los ríos de zonas con uso forestal, caracterizados por una alta cobertura arbórea del cauce, menor temperatura, baja concentración de nutrientes y predominancia de sustrato rocoso.

ABSTRACT Small streams of tropical Andes have been poorly studied. Therefore, there is little information about the structure, dynamics and function of their macrophyte communities. In this research, aquatic plant communities of 18 Andean streams of La Vieja (Quindío) and Otún (Risaralda) river basins were studied; those are some of the basins most affected by anthropic activities in the country. Streams were selected according to their association with the main land's uses of the region in both basins. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of land use on the structure of macrophyte communities. Streams running exclusively through each land use were selected. Sampling was done in two different climatic seasons in 2006. Vegetation found (54 species belonging to 25 families) was dominated by species with high capability of adaptation to changing and disturbed environments. Richness and abundance of macrophytes were lower than those reported in other tropical aquatic systems. Variables associated with land use, such as temperature, conductivity and type of substrate of the streams mainly explained the structure of the macrophyte communities: streams running on meat-cattle areas -with higher temperatures, conductivity and dominance of sandy-slimy substrates- had higher macrophyte species richness and abundance than streams of protected-forest areas, with higher coverage of riparian vegetation, lower temperatures and conductivity and rocky substrates.

Accumulation of copper by the aquatic macrophyte Salvinia biloba Raddi (Salviniaceae)

Abstract Aquatic macrophytes have properties and mechanisms which are useful for the removal of substances in solution, commonly used in phytoremediation processes in aquatic environments. This study evaluated the performance of copper (Cu) accumulation by Salvinia biloba Raddi (Salviniaceae) in different metal concentrations (1, 3 and 5 µg mL-1), as well as the control treatment, measured at intervals of 0, 7 and 14 days under laboratory conditions, with control as to pH and luminosity. After the experiment, the S. biloba biomass was washed, kiln dried, crushed and subjected to the process of digestion, and subsequently the accumulated copper content was determined by atomic absorption spectroscopy. The results showed that S. biloba is apt at accumulating copper, varying significantly between different treatments and days of exposure to the contaminant, as well as its interaction (treatment × days). The highest accumulation values were observed in treatment with 5 µg mL-1, which at 14 days, with 11,861 µg g-1 of copper. We observed symptoms of toxicity and mortality in plants, probably indicating the effect of copper on the species when at high levels. Salvinia biloba is an efficient species in the removal of copper in solution, its recommendation as a remediating agent in aquatic ecosystems being possible.

Resumo Macrófitas aquáticas apresentam propriedades e mecanismos úteis à remoção de substâncias presentes em solução, comumente, utilizadas em processos de fitorremediação de ambientes aquáticos. Este estudo avaliou o desempenho de acumulação de cobre (Cu) por Salvinia biloba Raddi (Salviniaceae) em diferentes concentrações do metal (1, 3 e 5 µg mL-1), além do tratamento controle, avaliados em intervalos de 0, 7 e 14 dias, sob condições laboratoriais, com controle de pH e luminosidade. Após o experimento a biomassa de S. biloba, foi lavada, seca em estufa, triturada e submetida ao processo de digestão, sendo, posteriormente, o teor de cobre acumulado determinado por espectroscopia de absorção atômica. Os resultados evidenciaram que S. biloba é hábil em acumular cobre em sua biomassa, variando significativamente entre os diferentes tratamentos e dias de exposição ao contaminante, bem como por sua interação (tratamentos × dias). Os maiores teores de acúmulo foram observados no tratamento com 5 µg mL-1, que aos 14 dias apresentou até 11.861 µg g-1 de Cu. Observamos sintomas de toxicidade e mortalidade nas plantas, evidenciando, provavelmente, o efeito do cobre sobre a espécie quando em elevados níveis. Salvinia biloba é uma espécie eficiente na remoção do cobre em solução, sendo possível sua recomendação como agente de remediação em ecossistemas aquáticos.

Aquaculture biological waste as culture medium to cultivation of Ankistrodesmus gracilis (Reinsch) Korshikov

Abstract Current study investigated the effectiveness of different macrophytes as culture media for Ankistrodesmus gracilis in laboratory conditions. Significant difference (p 0.05) was reported in cell density with regard to conventional culture medium (CHU12) and macrophytes culture media. Mean cell density in NPK, Eichhornia crassipes and E. azurea media was higher (p 0.05) than in conventional culture medium. Chlorophyll-a was higher than 1 g.L-1, except in CHU12 (0.7 ± 0.4 g.L-1) and T. domingensis (0.8 ± 0.3 g.L-1) media. Nitrate decreased sharply as from the 7th-day of the experiment. Ammonium and total phosphorus were highest in culture media and ranged between 0.4 g.L-1 (P. cordata medium) and 1.7 g.L-1 (CHU12 medium) for ammonium, and between 0.8 g.L-1 (CHU12 medium) and 1.9 g.L-1 (T. domingensis medium) for total phosphorus. Results revealed inorganic fertilizer and macrophytes combined with vitamins may be effective as culture media and strongly supports the growth of Ankistrodesmus gracilis, since cell density and biochemical composition are similar to or higher than conventional culture medium (CHU12). Macrophyte is a tool for aquaculture since biological wastes may be used with nutrients to improve the cultivation of microalgae.

Resumo O presente estudo investigou a eficácia na utilização de diferentes macrófitas como meio de cultura para Ankistrodesmus gracilis em condições laboratoriais. Foi observada diferença significativa (p 0,05) entre a densidade celular em relação aos meios de cultura convencional (CHU12) e de macrófitas. Os meios de cultura com Eichhornia crassipes, E. azurea e NPK apresentaram densidade celular maiores (p 0,05) que o meio de cultura convencional. Os teores de clorofila-a foram superiores a 1 g.L-1, exceto nos meios de cultura CHU12 (0.7 ± 0.4 g.L-1) e de T. domingensis (0.7 ± 0.3 g.L-1). O nitrato diminuiu acentuadamente a partir do 7º dia de experimento. Dentre os nutrientes, amônia e o fósforo total foram os mais elevados nos meios de cultura, variando entre 0.4 g.L-1 (meio de P. cordata) a 1,7 g.L-1 (meio CHU12) para amônia e, entre 0.8 g.L-1 (meio CHU12) e 1,9 gL-1 (meio de T. domingensis) para o fósforo total. Os resultados do presente estudo mostraram que o uso de fertilizantes inorgânicos e macrófitas, combinados com vitaminas, pode ser eficaz como meio de cultura no crescimento de Ankistrodesmus gracilis, uma vez que a densidade celular e a composição bioquímica foram semelhantes ou superiores ao meio de cultura convencional (CHU12). As macrófitas são ferramentas a serem adotadas na aquicultura, desde que os resíduos biológicos podem ser usados como nutrientes para melhorar o cultivo de microalgas.

Urbanization effects on the composition and structure of macrophytes communities in a lotic ecosystem of Pernambuco State, Brazil / Efeitos da urbanização na composição e estrutura de comunidades de macrófitas aquáticas em um ecossistema lótico do Estado de Pernambuco, Brasil

Abstract Population growth in urban areas changes freshwater ecosystems, and this can have consequences for macrophyte communities as can be seen in the municipalities that border the Capibaribe River, Pernambuco, Brazil. This study reports the effects of urbanization on the composition and structure of macrophyte communities in areas along that river. The following urbanized and non-urbanized sampling sites were chosen: Sites 1 and 2 (municipality of Santa Cruz do Capibaribe), Sites 3 and 4 (municipality of Toritama), and Sites 5 and 6 (metropolitan region of Recife). These sites were visited every two months from January to July 2013 to observe seasonal variation (wet and dry seasons). Thirty-one species were identified. Generally, the non-urbanized sites had a higher number of species. Multivariate analyses indicated significant overall differences between urbanized and non-urbanized areas (R = 0.044; p < 0.001) and between seasons (R = 0.018; p < 0.019). Owing to the large variation in physical, chemical, and biological characteristics between urbanized and non-urbanized areas, we found that urbanization significantly influenced the floristic composition and structure of macrophyte communities.

Resumo O crescimento populacional em áreas urbanas causa alterações em ecossistemas aquáticos continentais com consequência sobre as comunidades de macrófitas. Este fato vem ocorrendo nos municípios que margeiam o rio Capibaribe, Pernambuco, Brasil. Este trabalho analisa os efeitos da urbanização sobre a composição e estrutura das macrófitas em trechos do referido Rio. Levando em consideração áreas urbanizadas e não urbanizadas, foram escolhidos os seguintes Pontos de Coleta: Pontos 1 e 2 no Município de Santa Cruz do Capibaribe, Pontos 3 e 4 no Município de Toritama, Pontos 5 e 6 na Região Metropolitana do Recife. Estes pontos foram visitados bimestralmente (janeiro – julho/2013), para a observação da variação sazonal (estações seca e chuvosa). Foram identificadas 31 espécies. Geralmente, os pontos das áreas não urbanizadas apresentaram um número maior de espécies. As análises multivariadas indicaram diferenças globais significativas entre áreas urbanizadas e não urbanizadas (R = 0,044, p < 0,001) e também entre as estações (R = 0,018; p < 0,019). Devido à grande variação física, química e biológica entre as áreas urbanizadas e não urbanizadas, observou-se que o fator urbanização influenciou significativamente na composição florística e na estrutura das comunidades de macrófitas.

Morphometry and retention time as forcing functions to establishment and maintenance of aquatic macrophytes in a tropical reservoir / Morfometria e tempo de residência como fatores determinantes no estabelecimento e manutenção de macrófitas aquáticas em um reservatório tropical

Abstract Macrophytes may constitute an important resource for several chemical, physical and biological processes within aquatic ecosystems. This study considers that in tropical reservoirs with low retention time and with low values of shoreline development (DL), the expansion and persistence of aquatic macrophytes are mainly reported to local conditions (e.g., hydrodynamic and wind exposure) rather than trophic status and depth of the euphotic zone. In this context, this study aimed at describing and comparing the incidence of aquatic macrophytes in a throughflowing, non-dendritic tropical reservoir. During February 2006 to November 2007, eight limnological surveys were performed quarterly within the Ourinhos Reservoir, and in the mouth areas of its tributaries. At the six sampling stations 30 variables were measured. The number of sites with plants varied between 21 and 38 and at the end of the 1st year the total richness was found. The sampling survey outcome the recognition of 18 species of aquatic macrophytes; Cyperaceae (2 genera and 1 species), Pontederiaceae (3 species) and Onarograceae (3 genera) were the families with higher diversity. Seven species (Typha domingensis Pers., Myriophyllum aquaticum (Vell.) Verdec, Salvinia auriculata Aubl., Eichhornia azurea (Sw.) Kunth, Eleocharis sp1, Eichhornia crassipes (Mart.) Solms, Oxycaryum cubense (Poepp. & Kunth) Lye) always were present and were more frequent in the sites. The occurrence of emergent species predominated (45.9%), followed by submersed rooted (24.5%), free floating (19.5%), floating rooted (9.7%) and free submersed (0.3%). Although limnological variables and the distribution of macrophytes have discriminated the same sampling points, the stepwise multiple linear regressions did not pointed out strong correspondences (or coherence) among the most constant and distributed macrophyte species and the selected limnological variables, as well the trophic statuses. Seeing the low relationship among limnological variables and macrophytes distribution, in the case of Ourinhos Reservoir, the results pointed out that the water turbulence, low DL and wind exposure are the main driving forces that determine its aquatic plant distribution, life forms and species composition.

Resumo As macrófitas podem constituir um recurso importante para vários processos físicos, químicos e biológicos dos ecossistemas aquáticos. Esse estudo considera que nos reservatórios tropicais com baixo tempo de retenção e com baixos valores do grau de desenvolvimento das margens (DL), a expansão e manutenção das macrófitas aquáticas são referidas principalmente às condições locais (e.g., hidrodinâmica e exposição ao vento), ao invés do estado trófico e da profundidade de zona eufótica. Nesse contexto, o presente estudo teve como objetivo descrever e comparar a incidência de macrófitas aquáticas em um reservatório tropical de fluxo rápido e não dendrítico. De fevereiro de 2006 a novembro de 2007, oito avaliações limnológicas foram realizadas trimestralmente no reservatório Ourinhos e nas regiões de desembocadura de seus afluentes. Nas seis estações de amostragem 30 variáveis foram determinadas. O número de locais com plantas variou entre 21 e 38 e no final do primeiro ano o número total de espécies foi encontrado. Foram relacionadas 18 espécies de macrófitas aquáticas; Cyperaceae (2 gêneros e espécies), Pontederiaceae (3 espécies) e Onarograceae (3 gêneros) foram as famílias com mais diversidade. Sete espécies (Typha domingensis Pers., Myriophyllum aquaticum (Vell.) Verdec, Salvinia auriculata Aubl., Eichhornia azurea (Sw.) Kunth, Eleocharis sp1, Eichhornia crassipes (Mart.) Solms, Oxycaryum cubense (Poepp. & Kunth) Lye) sempre estiveram presentes e foram as mais frequentes. As ocorrências de espécies emergentes predominaram (45,9%), seguidas das submersas enraizadas (24,5%), flutuantes livres (19,5%), flutuantes enraizadas (9,7%) e submersas livres (0,3%). Embora as variáveis limnológicas e as distribuições de macrófitas tenham discriminado os mesmo pontos de coleta, regressões lineares múltiplas stepwise não apontaram correspondências fortes (ou coerentes) entre as espécies de macrófitas mais constantes e distribuídas e as variáveis limnológicas, assim como os estados tróficos. No reservatório Ourinhos, a baixa relação entre as variáveis limnológicas e a distribuição das macrófitas aponta que a turbulência da água, o baixo valor de DL e a exposição ao vento sejam as principais forças que determinam a distribuição das plantas aquáticas, as suas formas de vida e a composição das espécies.

Aquatic plants of the Far East of Russia: a review on their use in medicine, pharmacological activity.

Abstract: The review provides information on the medicine application of 30 aquatic plant taxa growing in the Russian Far East, and the prospects for their practical use. A list of aquatic plants on the pharmacotherapeutic action is done. The greatest number of species of aquatic plants has analgesic, antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, stomach and antidiarrheal, wound-healing properties. It is revealed that the most widely in traditional medicine in Asia and Europe are used Nelumbo nucifera, Trapa natans, representatives of the family Lemnaceae, Nymphaeaceae, genus Potamogeton.

Phytotoxicity associated to microcystins: a review / Fitotocixidade associada às microcistinas: uma revisão

Microcystins (MC) are the most studied toxins of cyanobacteria since they are widely distributed and account for several cases of human and animal poisoning, being potent inhibitors of the serine/threonine protein phosphatases 1 (PP1) and 2A (PP2A). The phosphatases PP1 and PP2A are also present in plants, which may also suffer adverse effects due to the inhibition of these enzymes. In aquatic plants, biomass reduction is usually observed after absorption of cyanotoxins, which can bioaccumulate in its tissues. In terrestrial plants, the effects caused by microcystins vary from inhibition to stimulation as the individuals develop from seedling to adult, and include reduction of protein phosphatases 1 and 2A, oxidative stress, decreased photosynthetic activity and even cell apoptosis, as well as bioaccumulation in plant tissues. Thus, the irrigation of crop plants by water contaminated with microcystins is not only an economic problem but becomes a public health issue because of the possibility of food contamination, and this route of exposure requires careful monitoring by the responsible authorities.

Microcistinas (MC) são as toxinas de cianobactérias mais estudadas, uma vez que são amplamente distribuídas e responsáveis por vários casos de intoxicação humana e animal. São potentes inibidoras das proteínas fosfatases serina/treonina 1 (PP1) e 2A (PP2A). As fosfatases PP1 e PP2A também estão presentes em plantas, as quais podem sofrer efeitos adversos devido à inibição dessas enzimas. Em plantas aquáticas, a redução da biomassa é geralmente observada após absorção de cianotoxinas que podem bioacumular em seus tecidos. Em plantas terrestres, os efeitos causados pelas microcistinas variam de inibição ao estímulo, como no desenvolvimento de plântulas ao estádio adulto, e incluem a redução de proteínas fosfatases 1 e 2A, estresse oxidativo, diminuição da atividade fotossintética e até mesmo apoptose celular, bem como a bioacumulação em tecidos de plantas. Assim, a irrigação de plantas cultivadas com água contaminada com microcistina não é apenas um problema econômico, mas torna-se um problema de saúde pública, devido à possibilidade de contaminação dos alimento, sendo uma via de exposição que requer um monitoramento cuidadoso por parte das autoridades responsáveis.

Does the Lagoa do Peixe sandbar opening influence the macrophyte richness and composition in Southern Brazil wetlands?

The Lagoa do Peixe has its connection with the sea artificially opened every year at the end of winter. However, this management has been carried out without the evaluation of the impact of this opening in the aquatic biodiversity. This information is crucial for the management of the natural resources of the Lagoa do Peixe National Park, the unique Ramsar site in Southern Brazil. The following questions were analyzed: (1) Do richness and composition of aquatic macrophytes from Lagoa do Peixe floodplain varies temporarily according to the sandbar opening and closing? (2) Does the variation pattern of the macrophyte community changed according to the sandbar opening and closing? A set of eight sampling sites of 1ha were selected over the Lagoa do Peixe floodplain: four sites not influenced by the artificial sandbar opening and four sites influenced by this event, being two sites closer to the sandbar opening and the two sites distant to the sandbar opening. The samplings were carried out between November 2007 and October 2009. The results show that although the artificial sandbar breaching does not affect the aquatic macrophyte richness at the floodplain, it affects the dynamics of species composition. The hydrological variation related to this management can be the main factor of the continuous change in the species composition in the floodplain, especially in the Southern portion. In order to avoid impacts in the macrophyte conservation, the artificial sandbar opening should be considered carefully, since the area of study is one of the most important conservation units to wetland systems in Southern Brazil.

La Lagoa do Peixe, en el sur de Brasil, tiene conexión artificial con el mar, porque cada año, al final del invierno, se abre un canal con tractor. Sin embargo, esta práctica se ha levado a cabo sin la evaluación de los efectos de esta apertura en la biodiversidad acuática. Las siguientes preguntas fueron analizadas: (1) ¿Varían la riqueza y la composición de los macrófitos acuáticos de la llanura de inundación temporal de la Lagoa do Peixe según la apertura y el cierre del banco arena? (2) ¿Varía el patrón de la comunidad de macrófitos según la apertura y el cierre del banco de arena? Los resultados muestran que la eliminación artificial del banco de arena no afecta la riqueza de macrófitos acuáticos en la llanura de inundación, pero sí afecta la dinámica de la composición de especies. La variación hidrológica relacionada con la apertura puede ser el factor principal del cambio continuo en la composición de especies en la llanura de inundación, especialmente en la parte sur. Con el fin de evitar un impacto negativo en la conservación de macrófitos, la apertura del banco de arena debe considerase cuidadosamente.

Orthoptera assemblages associated with macrophytes of floodplain lakes of the Paraná River

Orthoptera assemblages associated with macrophytes of floodplain lakes of the Paraná River. The Orthoptera assemblage composition varies considerably, depending on habitat type. This study examines the spatiotemporal relationship between plant diversity, hydrometric level, environmental variables and the Orthoptera richness and abundance in floodplain lakes connected permanently or temporarily with the main channel of the Paraná River. The grasshoppers were collected fortnightly (April 2006May 2007). A total of 17 species were recorded and classified according to their frequency of occurrence in constant (7), accessory (4), or accidental (6) species. In the two lakes, the greater species richness and abundance was recorded in summer, thereby coinciding with the highest water level of the Paraná River. The most significant correlation between the orthopteran richness and abundance was with the water level. The aquatic plant richness was significantly different between the lakes, but the vegetation was dominated by Eichhornia crassipes (Mart.) Solms. (Liliales, Pontederiaceae). The lake, which was connected permanently, presented the highest values of diversity and abundance, proving to be a more diverse assemblage. The beta diversity was higher in the temporary connected lake than in the permanently connected one. The orthopterans assemblages were different between the lakes, Cornops aquaticum and Tucayaca gracilis were the species that contributed more to the level of dissimilarity. C. aquaticum was more representative in the lake temporarily connected, while T. gracilis in the permanent connected one. The water level of the Paraná River and the connectivity of the floodplain lakes play an important role to explain the abundance and richness of their orthopteran assemblages.

Macrophytes in the upper Paraná river floodplain: checklist and comparison with other large South American wetlands

Neotropical aquatic ecosystems have a rich aquatic flora. In this report, we have isted the aquatic flora of various habitats of the upper Paraná River floodplain by compiling data rom literature and records of our own continuous collections conducted during the period 2007-2009. Our main purposes were to assess the macrophyte richness in the Paraná floodplain, to compare it with other South American wetlands and to assess whether the number of species recorded in South American inventories has already reached an asymptote. We recorded a total of 153 species of macrophytes in the Upper Paraná River floodplain, belonging to 100 genera and 47 families. In our comparative analysis, a clear floristic split from other South American wetlands was shown, except for the Pantanal, which is the closest wetland to the Paraná floodplain and, therefore, could be considered a floristic extension of the Pantanal. The species accumulation curve provides evidence that sampling efforts should be reinforced in order to compile a macrophyte flora census for South America. The high dissimilarity among South American wetlands, together with the lack of an asymptote in our species accumulation curve, indicates that the sampling effort needs to be increased to account for the actual species richness of macrophytes in this region. Rev. Biol. Trop. 59 (2): 541-556. Epub 2011 June 01.

Los ecosistemas acuáticos neotropicales tienen una rica flora acuática. En este informe, hemos hecho una lista de la flora acuática de diversos hábitats de la alta planicie de inundación del río Paraná mediante la compilación de datos de la literatura y los registros de nuestras colecciones propias realizadas durante el período 2007-2009. Nuestros principales objetivos fueron evaluar la riqueza de macrófitos en la llanura aluvial del Paraná, para compararlo con otros humedales de América del Sur y evaluar si el número de especies registradas en los inventarios suramericanos ya han alcanzado una asíntota. Se registraron un total de 153 especies de macrófitas en la llanura de inundación del Río Alto Paraná, pertenecientes a 100 géneros y 47 familias. En nuestro análisis comparativo, se mostró una clara división florística de otros humedales de América del Sur, con excepción del Pantanal, que es el más cercano a los humedales de la planicie de inundación del Paraná y, por tanto, podría considerarse una extensión florística del Pantanal. La curva de acumulación de especies demuestra que los esfuerzos de muestreo deben ser reforzados con el fin de elaborar un censo de la flora de acrófitos para América del Sur. La alta disimilitud entre los humedales de América del Sur, junto con la falta de una asíntota en nuestra curva de acumulación de especies, indica que el esfuerzo de muestreo debe ser mayor para dar cuenta de la riqueza real de las especies de acrófitos en esta región.

Aquatic macrophyte diversity of the Pantanal wetland and upper basin

This is a short review of the state of the art concerning diversity of aquatic macrophytes and the main aquatic vegetation types in the Brazilian Pantanal wetland and upper watershed. There are ca. 280 species of aquatic macrophytes on the Pantanal floodplain, with scarce endemism. On the upper watershed, Cerrado wetlands (veredas) and limestone springs have a distinct flora from the Pantanal, with twice the species richness. As a representative case of aquatic habitats influenced by river flood, some primary data are presented for the Pantanal Matogrossense National Park and associated Acurizal Preserve, analysing the floristic similarity among aquatic vegetation types. We comment on problems of conservation and observe that Panicum elephantipes Nees is one of the few natives to compete with the invasive Urochloa arrecta (Hack. ex T. Durand & Schinz) Morrone & Zuloaga.

Esta é uma breve revisão sobre o estado do conhecimento sobre as macrófitas aquáticas e os principais tipos de vegetação do Pantanal brasileiro e da alta bacia. A flora da planície inundável é de aproximadamente 280 espécies, com escasso endemismo. Na alta bacia, as áreas úmidas do Cerrado (veredas) e nascentes em calcário têm flora distinta do Pantanal, com o dobro da riqueza de espécies. Como um caso representativo de ambientes aquáticos influenciados por inundação fluvial, são apresentados alguns dados primários do Parque Nacional do Pantanal mato-grossense e da Reserva Acurizal associada, analisando-se a similaridade florística entre tipos de vegetação aquática e comentando-se os problemas de conservação na região, onde foi observado que a espécie Panicum elephantipes Nees é uma das poucas nativas que competem com a invasora Urochloa arrecta (Hack. ex T. Durand & Schinz) Morrone & Zuloaga.