Effects of microplastics pollution on the abundance and composition of interstitial meiofauna

Introduction: Pollution by microplastics is a global problem in marine environments, which impacts microorganisms and ecosystems at several spatial levels. Sandy beaches are depositional environments where microplastics tend to accumulate in large quantities. The co-occurrence of interstitial meiofauna and microplastics in sand grains raises the question on whether the accumulation of microplastics in the sediments affects the abundance and composition of the meiofaunal communities. Objective: To test the hypothesis that microplastics affect the meiofauna of urban sandy beaches. Methods: We studied the three main urban sandy beaches of Santa Marta, Colombia: El Rodadero, Santa Marta Bay, and Taganga. All are similar in morphology and external pressures, and differ from other beaches in the region. In April 2019 we collected 81 sand samples, equally distributed in the intertidal zone (upper, mid, and lower intertidal levels). We applied generalized linear models to abundance, and multivariate permutational tests to community composition. Results: We identified 17 taxonomic groups of meiofauna, and microplastic particles (mainly 45-500 micron fibres) evenly distributed across beaches and intertidal levels. There was more meiofauna at the mid intertidal level, and in fine and medium grain sediment. At the lower intertidal level, sites with more microplastics had less meiofauna. Abundance of microplastics explained 39 % of the variation in meiofaunal community composition at lower intertidal levels. Conclusions: The accumulation of microplastics might have a negative impact on these meiofaunal interstitial communities. This is not surprising: if microplastics occupy the same physical space as these animals, they might presumably modify the structure of sediments and the composition of interstitial water.

Introducción: La contaminación por microplásticos es un problema global en los ecosistemas marinos, con impacto sobre microorganismos y ecosistemas en varios niveles espaciales. Las playas arenosas son ambientes de deposición donde se tiende a acumular gran cantidad de microplásticos. La co-ocurrencia de meiofauna intersticial y microplásticos en granos de arena plantea la pregunta de que si la acumulación de microplásticos en sedimentos afecta la abundancia y composición de comunidades de meiofauna. Objetivo: Probar la hipótesis de que microplásticos afectan la meiofauna de playas arenosas urbanas. Métodos: Estudiamos las tres principales playas arenosas urbanas de Santa Marta, Colombia: El Rodadero, Bahía Santa Marta y Taganga. Estas son similares en morfología y presiones externas, y difieren de las otras playas de la región. En abril 2019 recolectamos 81 muestras de arena, distribuidas de manera equidistante en la zona intermareal (nivel intermareal superior, medio y bajo). Aplicamos modelos lineales generalizados de abundancia, y pruebas permutacionales multivariantes a la composición de comunidades. Resultados: Identificamos 17 grupos taxonómicos de meiofauna, y partículas de microplástico (principalmente fibras de 45-500 micras) distribuidos equitativamente a lo largo de las playas y niveles intermareales. Hubo más meiofauna en el nivel intermareal medio, y en sedimentos de grano mediano y fino. A niveles intermareales más bajos, sitios con más microplásticos tuvieron menos meiofauna. La abundancia de los microplásticos explicó el 39 % de la variación en comunidades de meiofauna a niveles intermareales bajos. Conclusión: La acumulación de microplásticos podría tener un impacto negativo sobre las comunidades de meiofauna intersticial. Esto no es de sorprender: si los microplásticos ocupan el mismo volumen físico que estos animales, estos podrían presuntamente modificar la estructura de sedimentos y la composición del agua intersticial.

The presence of parasitic structures in sandy soil samples from beaches located along the north coast of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil

Beaches are a source of parasite contamination because protozoan cysts and helminth eggs and larvae can remain viable in sandy soils for months. Parasitic infections are mainly related to hygiene conditions, health, and environmental education, and can affect the life quality of the population. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the presence of parasitic structures in five beaches located along the north coast of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Eighty samples were collected in August and September 2020 at the beaches of Torres, Tramandaí, Capão da Canoa, Arroio Teixeira, and Arroio do Sal and processed with the spontaneous sedimentation method for microscopic analyses. The results showed that 32% (26/80) of samples were positive for the presence of parasitic structures, and there was a significantly higher frequency of positive samples in September than in August. Torres was the beach with the highest frequency of positive samples, while Arroio Teixeira and Arroio do Sal presented the lowest frequency of contamination. Nematode larvae, including hookworm larvae, were the most prevalent parasitic structures in the samples. Hence, the sandy soil from beaches must be monitored to develop programs and strategies for improving infrastructures and basic sanitation conditions, thus ensuring the health of the population.

Conocimientos y prácticas sobre foto protección en bañistas de ocho playas de Lima / Knowledge and practices of photoprotection in bathers of eight beaches of Lima

Resumen INTRODUCCIÓN : La radiación ultravioleta solar puede resultar perjudicial para la salud y provocar desde quemaduras hasta enfermedades como el cáncer, por ello, el cuidado frente a la alta radiación solar es importante. OBJETIVOS : El objetivo general del presente estudio fue determinar si existe asociación entre los conocimientos y las prácticas sobre foto protecciónen los bañistas peruanos. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS : Se realizó un estudio trasversal analítico con 380 bañistas peruanos en ocho playas de Lima. Los participantes respondieron un cuestionario donde se recopiló información de los conocimientos y las prácticas de foto protección. Los conocimientos se categorizaron en altos y bajos, y las prácticas en adecuadas e inadecuadas. Para el análisis se empleó la prueba de Chi cuadrado de Pearson y el modelo de regresión de Poisson ajustado por la edad, sexo, nivel educativo y estado civil. RESULTADOS : Se encontró que la práctica de protección adecuada más frecuente fue el uso de foto protector(63%) y la menos frecuente fue el uso adecuado de manga larga y pantalón largo (9,7%). También se evidenció una relación entre los conocimientos altos y tres prácticas fundamentales: uso de foto protector, sombrilla y lentes de sol. CONCLUSIONES : En la muestra de bañistas peruanos, los participantes reportaronde manera general prácticas de foto proteccióndeficientes; además, el poseer conocimientos acerca de la protección solar no aseguró una práctica adecuada de todas las medidas de foto protección.

Abstract INTRODUCTION : Ultraviolet rays can have damaging health effects and cause from sunburn all the way up to diseases such as cancer. Thus, precautionary measures against intense solar radiation are important. OBJECTIVES: The overall objective of this study was to determine whether there is an association between photoprotection knowledge and practices in Peruvianbeach-goers. MATERIALS AND METHODS : An analytical cross-sectional study comparing survey and observational data obtained from 380 Peruvians at eight beaches in Lima was conducted. The participants answered a questionnaire where knowledge was categorized into high and low, and reported practices were dichotomized as appropriate and inappropriate. For variable analysis, Chi square test of Pearson and Poisson regression model adjusted for age, sex, education level and marital status were used. RESULTS : It was found that the most common reported appropriate practice of photoprotection was the use of sunscreen (63%) and the least frequent was the appropriate use of a long sleeve t-shirt and long pants (9.7%). It was also evident that there is a significant relationship between high knowledge and three core practices, including use of sunscreen, beach umbrellas and sunglasses. CONCLUSIONS : In this sample of Peruvian beach-goers, participants generally reported poor photoprotection practices; furthermore, knowledge about sun protection did not assure the practice of all photoprotection measures.

Las medusas en los balnearios de la provincia de Buenos Aires / The jellyfish species in the coastal waters of Buenos Aires province

Resumen Las medusas son organismos mayoritariamente marinos pertenecientes al grupo de los cnidarios, los cuales se caracterizan por presentar células urticantes especializadas, los cnidocitos. Si bien, todas las medusas son potencialmente venenosas y el grado de toxicidad depende de la especie, sus efectos sobre los humanos varían desde reacciones locales leves hasta reacciones atópicas-anafilácticas graves, llegando incluso a la muerte de la víctima. Mundialmente se conocen numerosas especies de medusas causantes de envenenamiento a humanos, tales como la avispa de mar (Chironex fleckeri), el sifonóforo carabela portuguesa (Physalia physalis) o el hidrocoral de fuego (Millepora spp.). En Argentina, tres especies de medusas revisten de im portancia clínica epidemiológica debido a su poder urticante: las hidromedusas Liriope tetraphylla y Olindias sambaquiensis, así como la escifomedusa Chrysaora lactea. Estas especies presentan sus mayores abundancias en el verano en las costas bonae renses, coincidiendo con la presencia de turistas durante el periodo vacacional. Sus afectaciones varían de leves a moderadas, registrándose desde parestesias y ardor con dermatitis, prurito, edemas y eritemas. Una infinidad de "remedios caseros" se conocen para remediar los efectos de las picaduras de medusas, sin embargo, la mayoría han resultado ineficaces y perjudiciales. Lo más recomendable es evitar frotar y lavar la zona afectada con agua dulce o aplicar hielo para tratar de contrarrestar el ardor y acudir lo antes posible al centro de salud más cercano.

Abstract Medusae are mainly a marine group belonged to cnidarians, which are characterized by specialized stinging cells, cnidocyts. Although all medusae are potentially poisonous, their toxicity depends on the species and the effects on humans vary- ing from mild local reactions to severe atopic-anaphylactic reactions, even the death of the victim. Numerous species of cnidar ians are known worldwide to affect humans, such as the sea wasp {Chironex fleckeri), the siphonophore portuguese man-of-war (Physaliaphysalis) or the fire-coral (Millepora spp.). In Argentina, three species of medusae are known with clinical epidemiological importance due to their stinging power: the hydromedusae Liriopetetraphylla and Olindias sambaquiensis, as well as the scypho- medusae Chrysaora lactea. These species have their highest abundances in the summer on Buenos Aires coasts, coinciding with the presence of tourists during the summer vacations. Its affectations vary from mild to moderate, registering from paresthesias and burning with dermatitis, itching, edemas, and erythema. An infinity of "home remedies" are known formedusae stings, how- ever, most of them have proven ineffective and harmful. It is best to avoid rubbing and washing the affected area with fresh water or applying ice to try to counteract the burning in the region and to go the health center as soon as possible.

Occurrence, antifungal susceptibility, and virulence factors of opportunistic yeasts isolated from Brazilian beaches

BACKGROUND Opportunistic pathogenic yeast species are frequently associated with water habitats that have pollution sources of human or animal origin. Candida albicans has already been suggested as a faecal indicator microorganism for aquatic environments. OBJECTIVES The goal of this study was to investigate the occurrence of C. albicans and other opportunistic yeasts in sand and seawater samples from beaches in Brazil to assess their correlation with Escherichia coli, and to characterise the pathogenic potential of the yeast isolates. METHODS Opportunistic species (yeasts that grow at 37ºC) were isolated from sand and seawater samples from eight beaches in Brazil during the summer and the winter. Opportunistic yeast species were evaluated for their susceptibility to antifungal drugs, virulence factors, and the in vitro and in vivo biofilm formation. Strains were selected to carry out virulence tests using BALB/c mice. FINDINGS Several water samples could be classified as inappropriate for primary contact recreation in relation to E. coli densities. C. albicans was isolated in low densities. Of the 144 opportunistic yeasts evaluated, 61% displayed resistance or dose-dependent sensitivity to at least one tested drug, and 40% produced proteinase. Strains of C. albicans and Kodamaea ohmeri exhibited the highest rates of adhesion to buccal epithelial cells. All the C. albicans strains that were tested were able to undergo morphogenesis and form a biofilm on catheter fragments in both in vitro and in vivo experiments. It was possible to confirm the pathogenic potential of three of these strains during the disseminated infection test. MAIN CONCLUSIONS The identification of opportunistic yeast species in seawater and sand samples from Brazilian beaches suggest a potential risk to the health of people who use these environments for recreational purposes.

Interstitial annelids from the Caribbean Coast of Colombia / Anélidos intersticiales de la costa Caribe de Colombia

Abstract A total of 298 species of polychaetes have been recorded from Colombia. However, only the family Protodrilidae has been reported from the marine interstitial realm. We here aim at identifying the interstitial annelids inhabiting the sandy beaches in Santa Marta region to the most accurate taxonomic level based on light microscopy examinations. Our samples, collected from the intertidal zone at three touristic beaches in the department of Magdalena (Santa Marta Bay, Rodadero Bay, and Taganga Bay), yielded a total of 83 specimens, which we assigned to five families, ten genera and nine species. From those, two families, eight genera, and the species Hesionides gohari, Neogyptis mediterranea, Neopetitia amphophthalma, Westheidesyllis gesae, and Syllis beneliahuae represent new records for the Colombian fauna. This survey should be considered as a first step towards a complete knowledge of the Colombian diversity of interstitial annelids, and our results significantly contribute to fill the gap of our current knowledge, suggesting a high diversity of species comparable to this in better-known areas of the Caribbean and the Atlantic coasts of Brazil. A brief diagnosis, comments on distribution and ecology, and remarks are provided for each record, in order to facilitate the re-identification of the species. Rev. Biol. Trop. 66(2): 658-673. Epub 2018 June 01.

Resumen Un total de 298 especies de poliquetos han sido registradas para Colombia. Sin embargo, solo la familia Protodrilidae ha sido reportada para el medio marino intersticial. El objetivo de este estudio fue identificar los anélidos intersticiales que habitan en playas arenosas de la región de Santa Marta hasta la categoría taxonómica más precisa, basados en observaciones al microscopio de luz. Las muestras fueron recolectadas en la zona intermareal de tres playas turísticas en el departamento del Magdalena (La bahía de Santa Marta, bahía de Rodadero y bahía de Taganga), resultando un total de 83 especímenes, los cuales fueron asignados a cinco familias, diez géneros y nueve especies. De estos, dos familias, ocho géneros y las especies Hesionides gohari, Neogyptis mediterranea, Neopetitia amphothalma, Westheidesyllis gesae y Syllis beneliahuae representan nuevos registros para la fauna de Colombia. Este trabajo debería ser considerado como el primer paso hacia el conocimiento de la diversidad de anélidos intersticiales en Colombia y los resultados contribuyen significativamente a llenar el vacío de información en el tema, sugiriendo una alta diversidad de especies comparable con la de áreas mejor conocidas del Caribe y de la costa atlántica de Brasil. En este trabajo se provee una breve diagnosis, comentarios sobre la distribución y ecología, y anotaciones para cada registro, con el propósito de facilitar la re-identificación de las especies.

Contamination by parasites of zoonotic importance in fecal samples from Florianópolis Beaches, Santa Catarina State, Brazil / Contaminação por parasitas de importância zoonótica em amostras fecais nas praias de Florianópolis, SC, Brasil

Helminths and protozoa are examples of endoparasites that, during their biological cycles, can alternate between free-life stages and parasitic stages in the environment. Pets, such as dogs and cats, live together with men and play an important role in the society; however, these animals may carry a large number of parasites which, besides showing direct pathogenicity to the host, represent risks to the human health, as is the case of parasitic zoonoses. Public areas like parks, gardens, squares and beaches may offer risks to human users since these environments may contain feces deposited by parasitized dogs. The present study verified the occurrence of helminth eggs and/or protozoan cysts or oocysts in fecal samples collected from sand strips at the beaches Armação do Pântano do Sul, Campeche and Morro das Pedras, in the south of Florianópolis Island, Santa Catarina State (SC), during the summer period. Pet feces were collected in the 2016/2017 summer season, from December 2016 to February 2017. In the Laboratory of Animal Parasitology (CCA-UFSC), fecal samples were processed based on Willis-Mollay flotation technique and Hoffman sedimentation technique. Samples from all three analyzed beaches were positive for the presence of parasites and fecal material was found along the seashore, sites where people walk freely and barefoot. Of 104 fecal samples collected, 45 (43.27%) were positive for one or more parasites. The greatest prevalence was found in Campeche Beach, which had 72.22% positive samples. Ancylostomids were most prevalent, indicating that cutaneous larva migrans is likely to occur in humans. Other parasites such as Trichuris vulpis, Toxocara spp. and Giardia spp. were also detected in coproparasitological analyses. Based on the results, it was concluded that contamination of the beaches in Florianópolis Island, SC, constitutes a public health problem due to the possibility of zoonosis transmission. These results reinforce the importance of establishing health programs for parasite control and educational programs for elucidating the risks of transmission of these zoonoses to the population, as an attempt to reduce environmental contamination risks at beaches of seaside resorts.(AU)

Helmintos e protozoários são exemplos de endoparasitas que, durante seus ciclos biológicos, podem alternar fases de vida livre e de vida parasitária no ambiente. Animais de companhia, como cães e gatos, possuem convívio direto com o homem e desempenham importante papel na sociedade, porém estes animais podem possuir muitos parasitas próprios que, além da patogenicidade direta ao hospedeiro, representam riscos à saúde humana, no caso das zoonoses parasitárias. A utilização de áreas públicas como parques, jardins, praças e praias por estes animais, pode oferecer riscos aos seus frequentadores humanos, uma vez que pode ocorrer a deposição de fezes nesses ambientes por cães parasitados. O presente estudo investigou a ocorrência de ovos de helmintos e/ou cistos ou oocistos de protozoários em amostras de fezes coletadas nas faixas de areia das praias da Armação do Pântano do Sul, Campeche e Morro das Pedras, no sul da ilha de Florianópolis, Estado de Santa Cararina-SC, Brasil, durante o período de verão. As coletas de amostras de fezes de animais domésticos foram realizadas na temporada de verão 2016/2017, a partir de dezembro de 2016 até fevereiro de 2017. No Laboratório de Parasitologia Animal (CCA-UFSC), as amostras de fezes foram processadas pela técnica de flutuação de Willis-Mollay e pela técnica de sedimentação de Hoffman. Amostras colhidas nas três praias analisadas mostraram-se positivas para a presença de parasitos. Material fecal foi observado ao longo de toda orla, locais em que as pessoas caminham livremente e sem calçados. De um total de 104 amostras de fezes coletadas nas praias, 45 (43,27%) estavam positivas a um ou mais parasitas. A praia do Campeche foi a que apresentou maior prevalência, com 72,22% de amostras positivas. Os ancilostomídeos, responsáveis pela larva migrans cutânea em humanos, foram os mais prevalentes. Outros parasitas como Trichuris vulpis, Toxocara spp. e Giardia spp. também foram detectados nas análises coproparasitológicas. Com base nos resultados obtidos, concluímos que a contaminação das praias na Ilha de Florianópolis, SC, constitui um problema de saúde pública, devido à possibilidade de transmissão de zoonoses. Estes resultados reforçam a importância da implantação de programas sanitários de controle de parasitas e programas de educação, esclarecendo os riscos de transmissão destas zoonoses à população, a fim de reduzir os riscos de contaminação ambiental nas praias de balneários.(AU)

Presencia de microplásticos en cuatro playas arenosas de Perú

Se presenta el número y peso por metro cuadrado de fragmentos de microplásticos presentes en cuatro playas arenosas de la costa peruana. Las muestras fueron colectadas entre junio de 2014 y mayo 2015. Fragmentos de plástico duro mayores a 1 mm fueron encontrados en más del 80% de las muestras de las cuatro playas. La playa Costa Azul (~ 12°S) presentó 522 fragmentos por metro cuadrado (items/m²) de microplásticos, de los cuales, 463.33 items/m² y 2.6 g/m² fueron plásticos duros. La playa Albúfera de Medio Mundo (~ 11°S) presentó el menor número y peso de microplásticos (4.67 items/m² y 0.50 g/m²). Una muestra aleatoria de la playa Costa Azul fue analizada por el espectroscopio FT-IR. Se encontró 5 fragmentos con poliuretano (PE), dos fragmentos con polipropileno (PP) y un fragmento con estireno (EPS). Pocos estudios mencionan al plástico duro como la mayor fracción de los microplásticos, se sugiere nuevas fuentes de intrusión y vías de microbasura en los hábitas, los cuales podrían estar afectando desde la base de trama trófica marina en el Perú.

Results of measurement of the microplastic number and weigh from four sandy beaches along Peruvian coast are shown. Microplastic samples were collected during June 2014 to May 2015. Hard plastic fragment > 1 mm was found at over 80% of the four sampling locations. The Costa Azul beach (~ 12°S) presented the 522 items per m² of microplastic, in which the 463.33 items per m² and weight 2.6 g per m² were hard plastic. The Medio Mundo (~ 11°S) beach has the lowest microplastic in number and weight (4.67 items per m² and 0.50 g per m²). The random microplastic sample from Costal Azul beach was confirmed by FT-IR spectroscopy, we found five fragments with polyurethane (PE), two pieces with polypropylene (PP) and one piece of Styrofoam (EPS). Few studies mention hard plastic with a main component of microplastic, and we suggest new insights into the sources and pathway of microdebris into habitats.

Efectos del disturbio humano sobre la dinámica poblacional de Ocypode quadrata (Decapoda: Ocypodidae) en playas del Caribe mexicano / Effects of human disturbance on the population dynamics of Ocypode quadrata (Decapoda: Ocypodidae) in beaches of the Mexican Caribbean

Resumen:El cangrejo fantasma Ocypode quadrata, tiene una alta relevancia ecológica en las playas del Atlántico occidental y se ha propuesto como un indicador del impacto humano sobre este ecosistema. Sin embargo, no se han evaluado los efectos del disturbio humano sobre su dinámica poblacional. En este trabajo se compara la abundancia, el crecimiento y la mortalidad de O. quadrata en dos playas perturbadas (Aventuras y Majahual) y dos playas conservadas (Xcacel y Puerto Ángel) de las costas del Caribe mexicano. Se realizaron nueve muestreos en cada playa (marzo/2013-noviembre/2014). Durante las primeras horas de la noche se recolectaron cangrejos, de forma manual por tres personas, en un área aproximada de 9 000 m2. Los cangrejos fueron medidos, pesados y separados en tres grupos: jóvenes, hembras y machos. La mayor abundancia de cangrejos se encontró en las playas conservadas pero solo se observaron diferencias significativas entre Puerto Ángel y Majahual (Tukey, p<0.05). La proporción jóvenes- adultos fue 1:1 en Xcacel y Aventuras. En Majahual se recolectó un mayor número de jóvenes que adultos y en Puerto Ángel el número de adultos triplicó el de jóvenes. La talla máxima para Aventuras, Xcacel, Majahual y Puerto Ángel fue de 27, 32, 25 y 30 mm, respectivamente. En las playas se encontraron entre dos y tres grupos de edades diferentes. En las cuatro playas se recolectaron individuos con tallas menores de 10 mm en casi todos los meses de muestreo, indicando que el reclutamiento es continuo durante todo el año. La relación entre la longitud y el peso del cangrejo fantasma fue isométrica en las playas mejor conservadas y alométrica negativa en las playas impactadas. Los cangrejos de Puerto Ángel mostraron mejor condición corporal que en el resto de las playas (Tukey, p<0.05). Los valores de K oscilaron entre 0.6-0.97/año y la L∞ entre 29.0-33.6 mm. Los cangrejos en las dos playas conservadas mostraron mayores parámetros de crecimiento en comparación con las dos playas perturbadas. Los mayores valores de mortalidad se encontraron en Xcacel y Aventuras. En las playas perturbadas, la destrucción de las dunas, la limpieza mecánica y la remoción de materia orgánica, parecen ser las principales causas que conllevan a una baja abundancia de cangrejos, un menor crecimiento y una alta mortalidad. Sin embargo en las playas mejor conservadas, las relaciones biológicas parecen ser más importantes en regular la dinámica poblacional de esta especie. Estos resultados tienen relevancia desde el punto de vista de manejo de las playas arenosas, ya que el cangrejo fantasma es un buen indicador del disturbio humano y sus respuestas poblacionales son medibles y comparables.

Abstract:The ghost crab Ocypode quadrata is a relevant species in the Western Atlantic beaches, and has been proposed as an indicator of human impact in these ecosystems. Eventhough some studies have covered various aspects of its natural history, no evaluations on the effects of human disturbance on its population dynamics have been made. This work compared the abundance, growth, and mortality of O. quadrata in two disturbed beaches (Aventuras and Majahual) and two preserved beaches (Xcacel and Puerto Angel) from the Mexican Caribbean. For this, nine samplings were made on each beach (every two to three months) between March 2013 and November 2014. Crabs were collected manually by three people, during the night first hours and for one hour, and a total area of 9 000 m2 per beach. The crabs were measured, weighed, and separated into three groups: juvenile, male and female; while abundance was estimated by the number of collected crabs, and growth parameters were estimated using length frequencies. A total of 1 047 crabs were sampled in the four beaches; a higher crab abundance was found in the preserved beaches, but significant differences were only found between Puerto Angel and Majahual (Tukey, p<0.05). The adult- juvenile ratio was 1:1 in Xcacel and Aventuras, while in Majahual, more juveniles than adults were collected; and Puerto Angel had more adults than the juveniles. The size structure at Xcacel ranged from 4-32 mm, but in the rest of the beaches the minimum size was 5 mm. The maximum size at Aventuras, Majahual and Puerto Angel were 27 mm, 25 mm and 30 mm, respectively. The modal progression analysis of length's pooled data, revealed the presence of at least two groups of ages in all beaches. For all beaches, individuals smaller than 10 mm length were collected in almost all sampling months, indicating a continuous recruitment throughout the year. The length-weight relationship of the ghost crab was found isometric in the two preserved beaches, and negative allometric at the two impacted beaches. Crabs from Puerto Angel showed the highest body condition (Tukey, p<0.05). K-values ranged from 0.6-0.97/year and L∞ from 29.0 mm to 33.6 mm with higher values for the two preserved beaches. The highest mortality values were found in Xcacel and Aventuras. In the disturbed beaches, the destruction of the dunes, the mechanical cleaning and the removal of organic matter, seem to be the main causes that lead to a low abundance of crabs, their slower growth and higher mortalities. However, in the best preserved beaches, biological interactions appear to be the most important aspects in regulating the population dynamics of this species. These results supported the information that the ghost crab is a good indicator of human disturbance, and its population changes were clearly measurable and comparable among protected and impacted beaches; these results are also relevant for the management of sandy beaches in the Mexican Caribbean. Rev. Biol. Trop. 64 (4): 1625-1641. Epub 2016 December 01.

Taxonomy, morphology and distribution of Cymatosiraceae (Bacillariophyceae) in the littorals of Santa Catarina and Rio Grande do Sul / Taxonomia, morfologia e distribuição de Cymatosiraceae (Bacillariophyceae) nos litorais de Santa Catarina e Rio Grande do Sul

Species of Cymatosiraceae (diatoms) studied from Santa Catarina and Rio Grande do Sul littorals: Campylosira cymbelliformis, Cymatosira belgica, Cymatosirella minutissima, Plagiogrammopsis minima and Plagiogrammopsis vanheurckii) are presented with a morphological description, dimension data, distribution in the studied area and are illustrated in light microscope, and scanning and transmission electron microscopes. Superficial sand samples from the swash zone and plankton were collected from over 30 marine sandy beaches. Cymatosirella minutissima and Plagiogrammopsis minima are new recordings in Brazil widening their distribution to South America, previously being restricted to Europe. Campylosira cymbelliformis was the species most often observed in plankton samples and Plagiogrammopsis minima in sediment samples. Cymatosira belgica and Plagiogrammopsis minima were recorded as abundant species in Mariscal, Quatro Ilhas and Zimbros reaching a relative frequency of 9.6%. The study adds new morphological data to some taxa as the presence of rimoportula on C. minutissima and one row of poroids on copulae of P. minima, these features being in agreement with Cymatosiraceae diagnosis.

As espécies de Cymatosiraceae (diatomácea) encontradas no litoral de Santa Catarina e Rio Grande do Sul: Cymatosira belgica, Campylosira cymbelliformis, Cymatosirella minutissima, Plagiogrammopsis minima e Plagiogrammopsis vanheurckii são apresentadas com descrições morfológicas acompanhadas de dados referentes a dimensões, distribuição na área de estudo e ilustrações em microscopia óptica, e eletrônica de varredura e de transmissão. As amostras da areia superficial foram coletadas na região de varrido das ondas e de plâncton em mais de 30 praias arenosas. Cymatosirella minutissima and Plagiogrammopsis minima são registros novos para o Brasil ampliando sua distribuição para a América do Sul antes restritas à Europe. Campylosira cymbelliformis foi a espécies mais frequentemente observada nas amostras de plâncton and Plagiogramma minima in the sediment samples. Cymatosira belgica e Plagiogrammopsis minima são registradas como espécies abundantes em Mariscal, Quatro Ilhas e Zimbros alcançando a freqüência relativa máxima de 9,6%. Este estudo adiciona novos dados morfológicos para alguns táxons com a presença de uma rimopórtula em C. minutissima e uma fileira de poróides nas cópulas de P. minima, estando estas características de acordo com a diagnose da Cymatosiraceae.

Jellyfish stings on Langkawi Island, Malaysia

Introduction: Jellyfish stings are the most frequently reported marine animal envenomation worldwide. However, data on jellyfish sting from Malaysia remains obscure due to inadequate research. Methods: We investigated the epidemiology, clinical features and treatment of patients presenting at the emergency department of Langkawi Hospital between January 2012 and December 2014. Secondary data on the nature of the incident, patient demographics, clinical presentation, and treatment were retrieved from the patients’ medical records. Descriptive statistics were presented for all patient variables. Results: A total of 759 patients presented with jellyfish stings during the 3-year study period, with highest number of visits in July, October, November, and December. The mean patient age was 26.7 years (SD: 12.14), 59.4% were men, 68.1% were foreigners or international tourists, and 40.4% were stung between 12.00 p.m. and 6:59 p.m. At least 90 patients presented with mild Irukandji or Irukandji-like syndromes. Most of the jellyfish stings occurred at Chenang Beach (590 reported cases), followed by Tengah Beach and Kok Beach. Most patients were treated symptomatically, and no deaths following a jellyfish sting was reported during the study period. Conclusion: There is a need for public health interventions for both local and international tourists who visit Langkawi Island. Preventive steps and education on initial treatment at the incident site could elevate public awareness and decrease the adverse effects of jellyfish stings.

Growth and production of Donax striatus(Bivalvia: Donacidae) from Las Balsas beach, Gibara, Cuba / Crecimiento y producción de Donax striatus (Bival-via: Donacidae) en playa Las Balsas, Gibara, Cuba

Abstract:Clams of the genus Donaxare worldwide the dominating group of the invertebrate community on sandy beaches. They are primary consumers that provide a significant abundance and biomass to the ecosystem. In the Caribbean, Donax striatushas an important role for nature and human, nonetheless studies on the population dynamics of this beach clam are scarce and no information exists on secondary production of this species. Growth parameters and secondary production of D. striatuswere estimated from February 2008 to November 2009 at Las Balsas beach, Northeastern Cuba, in order to provide basic information for management purposes. In each month 45 samples were taken by means of a PVC corer of 0.025 m2 area and sieved with a 1 mm mesh. Animals were measured and weighted with and without shell. A total of 5 471 specimens were collected during the sampling period. Shell length ranged from 2.7-33.3 mm. Growth parameters estimated from length frequency data were Lm = 36.1 mm, K= 0.8/yr and t0 = 0.2/yr. The growth performance resulted in values of 0'= 3.02. Life span was 2.4 yrs and mortality rate was 3.07 /yr. In 2008, mean abundance of D. striatusranged between 17.1770.7 ind./m2. In 2009 the lowest mean abundance was 34.4 and the highest was 892.5 ind./m2. During 2009 biomass and production was more than twice higher in comparison with 2008. Individual production showed highest values in the 24 mm shell size (3.74 g/m2.yr) and 25 mm (0.71 g/m2.yr), considering mass with shell and without shell, respectively. During 2009 abundance of individuals with 15 mm shell length or more increased resulting in higher biomass and production, compared to 2008. Using the conversion factor of wet mass to ash free dry mass (AFDM), annual production ranged between 2.87-6.11 g AFDM/m2.yr, resulting in a turnover rate (P/B) between 5.11 and 3.47 in 2008 and 2009, respectively. The rapid growth and high turnover rate of D. striatussuggest a rapid recovery of the population. These results support the idea that this beach clam is an important resource at Las Balsas beach. Thus its exploitation must continue with caution, and only at the level of a recreational fishery.

Resumen:Los estudios sobre la dinámica poblacional de la almeja de playa Donax striatusson escasos y no existe información sobre la producción secundaria de alguna población de esta especie. Los parámetros del crecimiento y la producción secundaria de D. striatusfueron estimados a partir de datos de muestreo obtenidos entre febrero 2008 y noviembre 2009 en playa Las Balsas en la zona norte oriental de Cuba para aportar información básica para su manejo. Cada mes se recolectaron 45 muestras usando un núcleo de PVC de 0.025 m2, el sedimento fue tamizado en malla de 1 mm. Los individuos recolectados fueron medidos y pesados con concha y sin concha. La longitud de la concha fue de 2.7-33.3 mm. Los parámetros de crecimiento estimados a partir de las frecuencias de tallas fueron: Lm= 36.1 mm, K= 0.8/año y t0 = 0.2/año. El índice de crecimiento fue de 0'= 3.02. El tiempo de vida estimado de 2.4 años y la mortalidad 3.07/año. En 2008 la abundancia media de D. striatusfluctuó entre de 17.1-770.7 ind/m2. En 2009 la menor abundancia fue de 34.4 y la mayor de 892.5 ind/ m2. En 2009 la biomasa y la producción fueron más del doble que las estimadas en 2008. La mayor producción somática individual fue aportada por individuos de 24 mm (3.74 g/m2.año) y 25 mm (0.71 g/m2.año), considerando la masa total con concha y sin concha respectivamente. Durante 2009 la abundancia de individuos de 15 mm de longitud o más, se incrementó resultando en mayor bio-masa y producción en comparación con 2008. Usando el factor de conversión de peso húmedo a peso seco libre de cenizas (PSLC), la producción anual en 2008 fue de 2.87 y en 2009 fue 6.11 g PSLC/m2.año, lo que resulta en una tasa de renovación (P/B) de 5.11 en 2008 y 3.47 en 2009. Estos resultados apoyan la idea que la almeja de playa es un recurso importante y su explotación debe continuar con cautela y solo a un nivel de una pesquería recreativa.

NESTING HABITAT OF THE 'CUPISO' Podocnemis sextuberculata (TESTUDINES: PODOCNEMIDIDAE) IN EREPECU LAKE (PARÁ-BRAZIL) / Hábitat de anidación del "cupiso" Podocnemis sextuberculata (Testudines: Podocnemididae) en el Lago Erepecu (Pará-Brasil)

The objective of this study was to identify and describe the nesting habitat of Podocnemis sextuberculata at Erepecu Lake, Trombetas River Biological Reserve, (REBIO-Trombetas; Pará-Brazil). Initially, the main features of the beaches that potentially determine the habitat selection by cupiso for nesting were described. The nests observed on the beaches were recorded, marked and fenced as protection from natural predators. Information regarding date and location was analyzed through simple linear regression for each nest in order to determine relationships between beach features and number of nests. The results showed a positive co-relationship between number of nests and area. Nest site selection by P. sextuberculata in the beaches of the Erepecu Lake could depend on trade-off scenarios among natural threats and a suitable nesting habitat. We also suggest that, due to the high annual hydrologic oscillations, it is possible that the driving factor for habitat selection would be the risks that the females are exposed to while searching for a nesting site, rather than a particular habitat type.

El objetivo del estudio fue identificar y explicar la influencia del hábitat sobre los nidos de la tortuga "cupiso" (Podocnemis sextuberculata), en el lago Erepecu ubicado en la Reserva Biológica del Río Trombetas (REBIO-Trombetas; Pará-Brasil). Inicialmente se describieron las principales características de las playas escogidas, los nidos encontrados fueron marcados y cercados para su protección contra la depredación natural. A través de regresiones lineales simples se determinó que el número de nidos por playa se correlacionó significativamente con el "área" de las playas. Los resultados muestran que la selección del lugar de nidificación en las playas del lago Erepecu por P. sextuberculata, podría depender en unos escenarios de compensación entre las amenazas naturales y un hábitat adecuado para anidar. Debido a la gran fluctuación hidrológica anual, es posible que el factor determinante para selección de las hembras sea el riesgo de exposición de las hembras durante la búsqueda de área de anidación, más que el tipo de hábitat en particular.

Dinámica poblacional de Donax denticulatus (Bivalvia: Donacidae) en playa Carenero, costa sur oriental de Cuba / Population dynamic of Donax denticulatus (Bivalvia: Donacidae) at Carenero Beach, Southeastern Cuba

Bivalve molluscs of Donax genus are a very important component of macro-invertebrate assemblages of sandy beaches, and some species are of commercial value in different countries. Although in Cuba Donax denticulatus is not a currently exploited species, the information concerning a stock assessment is a basic step for future use of this resource. With the aim to generate new data on this species structure, growth and secondary production, monthly samples of D. denticulatus were taken from a beach of the Southeastern coast of Cuba, from February to December 2008. Samples were taken from four stations located along the beach; three strata were marked (P1, P2 and P3) per station across the intertidal zone. Three replicated samples of sediments were taken from each stratum with a 0.025m2 PVC core and were posteriorly sieved with a 1mm mesh. Histograms of shell length were constructed based on 1mm intervals and growth parameters were estimated using ELEFAN I routine of FISAT. Mean density ranged from 146.67-855.55ind./m² and no differences were found among months (ANOVA, p>0.05) but among strata (Scheffé, p<0.05). An association of recruits, young and adults abundances with the strata (X², p<0.01) was found. Most of the recruits were found in the upper strata while young and adult individuals were abundant in the mid-lower strata. Size frequency histograms of this population showed recruitment between March-June. Growth parameters estimated by Von Bertalanffy were L∞=27.5mm and K=1.5/year; and the life spam was estimated in 1.5 years. Using the length-converted catch curve, the mortality rate (Z) was estimated in 4.97/year. Based in terms of Ash free dry mass (AFDM), mean biomass was estimated in 0.47g/m².year and the somatic production in 12.4g/m².year. The renewal rate (P/B) estimated for this population was 26.38, the highest among other Donax populations. High densities, fast growth and high somatic production indicate that this population can be exploited for fishing purposes for which some management measures are proposed.

Con el objetivo de aportar información sobre la estructura poblacional, crecimiento y producción secundaria de una población de D. denticulatus, se tomaron muestras mensuales desde febrero a diciembre 2008, en una playa de la costa sur oriental de Cuba. Las muestras se tomaron con un cilindro de PVC de 0.025m² en cuatro estaciones ubicadas a lo largo de la playa y en cada estación se delimitaron tres estratos (P1, P2 y P3) en la zona intermareal. No se encontró diferencias en la densidad entre los meses pero sí entre los estratos. Existe asociación en la abundancia de reclutas, jóvenes y adultos entre estratos. Existe un reclutamiento unimodal entre marzo y junio. Los parámetros de crecimiento fueron L∞=27.5mm y K=1.5/año. El tiempo de vida teórico fue de 1.5 años y la tasa de mortalidad (Z) se estimó en 4.97/año. En términos de peso seco libre de cenizas (PSLC) se estimó la biomasa media en 0.47g/m2.año y la producción somática en 12.4g/m².año, con una tasa de renovación (P/B) de 26.38. La evaluación de la población indica que esta tiene potencial para ser utilizada como carnada o para el consumo.

Prevalência de lesões labiais em trabalhadores de praia e fatores associados / Prevalence and factors associated with orolabial lesions in beach workers / Prevalencia de lesiones labiales en trabajadores de playa y factores asociados

OBJETIVO: Analisar a prevalência de lesões labiais decorrentes da exposição solar e potenciais associações em trabalhadores de praia. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal com 362 trabalhadores de cinco praias urbanas em Natal, RN, de agosto a dezembro de 2010. Os participantes responderam um questionário validado com dados pessoais, de ocupação e de saúde e passaram por exame clínico dos lábios feito por pesquisadores calibrados. As possíveis associações das variáveis sociodemográficas, ocupacionais e de saúde geral com a presença de lesões labiais foram avaliadas pelo teste do qui-quadrado para um nível de significância de 5%. A análise multivariada foi feita utilizando-se a regressão robusta de Poisson. RESULTADOS: Dos trabalhadores examinados, 27,1% apresentavam lesões labiais. Desses, 76,8% eram do sexo masculino; 61,6% tinham pele morena ou negra; 94,5% trabalhavam informalmente; e 85,4% trabalhavam expostos ao sol. A maioria (81,1%) relatou uso de algum tipo de fotoproteção: protetor solar (38,7%); protetor labial (15,3%); boné/chapéu (72,4%). Aproximadamente 28% eram fumantes e 48% consumiam álcool regularmente. A fotoproteção com uso de boné/chapéu foi associada à presença de lesões labiais decorrentes da exposição solar. CONCLUSÕES: Observou-se alta prevalência de lesões labiais nos indivíduos expostos ao sol, a qual foi associada ao uso de boné/chapéu como forma de fotoproteção.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the prevalence and factors associated with orolabial lesions caused by sun exposure in beach workers. METHODS: Cross-sectional study with 362 beach workers from five urban beaches in the city of Natal, northeastern Brazil, from August to December 2010. All subjects completed a validated questionnaire to collect personal, occupational, and health-related information and underwent an orolabial clinical examination by trained examiners. Potential associations between sociodemographic, occupational, and health-related variables and the presence of orolabial lesions were assessed using the chi-square test at a 5% significance level. The multivariate analysis was performed using Poisson regression. RESULTS: Of the 362 workers examined, 27.1% had orolabial lesions. Of these, 76.8% were males, 61.6% dark or black skinned, 94.5% informal workers, and 85.4% reported sun exposure. Most (81.1%) reported using sun protection methods including sunscreen (38.7%), lip balm (15.3%), and cap/hat (72.4%). Twenty-eight percent reported smoking and 48% regular drinking. Sun protection with cap/hat was associated with orolabial lesions caused by sun exposure. CONCLUSIONS: There was found a high prevalence of orolabial lesions in workers exposed to sunlight that was associated with the use of a cap/hat as a sun protection method.

OBJETIVO: Analizar la prevalencia de lesiones labiales productos de la exposición solar y potenciales asociaciones en trabajadores de playa. MÉTODOS: Estudio transversal con 362 trabajadores de cinco playas urbanas en Natal, RN, Brasil, de agosto a diciembre de 2010. Los participantes respondieron un cuestionario validado con datos personales, de ocupación y de salud y se evaluaron a través de exámenes clínicos realizados por investigadores calibrados. Las posibles asociaciones de las variables sociodemográficas, ocupacionales y de salud general con la presencia de lesiones labiales se evaluaron por medio de la prueba de Chi-cuadrado para un nivel de significancia de 5%. El análisis multivariado fue realizado utilizándose la regresión robusta de Poisson. RESULTADOS: De los trabajadores examinados, 27,1% presentaban lesiones labiales. De estos, 76,8% eran del sexo masculino; 61,6% tenían piel morena o negra; 94,5% trabajaban informalmente y 85,4%, expuestos al sol. La mayoría (81,1%) relató uso de algún tipo de fotoprotección: protector solar (38,7%); protector labial (15,3%); gorra/sombrero (72,4%). Aproximadamente 28% eran fumadores y 48% consumían alcohol regularmente. La fotoprotección con uso de gorra/sombrero fue asociada a la presencia de lesiones labiales productos de la exposición solar. CONCLUSIONES: Se observó alta prevalencia de lesiones labiales en los individuos expuestos al sol y esta se asoció al uso de gorra/sombrero como forma de fotoprotección.

Composition and assemblage structure of demersal fish from São Cristóvão beach, Areia Branca, RN / Composição e estrutura da assembléia de peixes demersais da praia de São Cristóvão, Areia Branca, RN

Fish assemblages are an important element of sandy beaches, as they are fundamental for these ecosystems' balance of energy. Descriptions of the structure of fish assemblages in the sandy beaches of northeastern Brazil are scarce; this is especially true for the state of Rio Grande do Norte, which northern coast is poorly studied. This study aimed to identify the fish fauna of São Cristóvão Beach and to determine their assemblage structure. Three trawlings, considered as replicates, were undertaken monthly, in the same day, during 10 minutes each time, parallel to the coastal line, and in the direction of current, from February 2010 to January 2011. To describe the general pattern of the fish assemblage, the abundance, frequency and trophic categories of each species were estimated. On São Cristóvão Beach, 8894 individuals were captured, belonging to 58 species, 48 genera and 28 families. The most abundant and frequent species were Pomadasys corvinaeformis (Steindachner, 1868), Cathorops spixii (Agassiz, 1829), Stellifer rastrifer (Jordan, 1889), Pellona harroweri (Fowler, 1917), Stellifer stellifer (Bloch, 1790), Chirocentrodon bleekerianus (Poey, 1867), Larimus breviceps Cuvier, 1830, Menticirrhus americanus (Linnaeus, 1758)and Conodon nobilis (Linnaeus, 1758). The most abundant trophic category was first order carnivores. The ichthyofauna of São Cristóvão Beach is diversified and the most representative families match those observed in sandy beach ecosystems from other Brazilian regions. The results presented here reflect the basic knowledge necessary to conduct further research in the region.

As assembléias íctias são um elemento importante das praias arenosas, pois são fundamentais no balanço energético desses ecossistemas. Descrições da estrutura da assembléia de peixes de praias arenosas do nordeste brasileiro são escassas, em especial no estado do Rio Grande do Norte, cujo litoral norte é pobremente estudado. A presente pesquisa teve como objetivo inventariar a ictiofauna da praia de São Cristóvão, bem como conhecer a estrutura desta assembléia. Foram realizados três arrastos mensais com portas, com 10 minutos de duração cada (considerados como réplicas), paralelos à linha da costa, na direção da corrente, no período de fevereiro de 2010 a janeiro de 2011. Para descrever o padrão geral da comunidade de peixes, foram calculadas as abundâncias, frequências e os hábitos alimentares das espécies. Na praia de São Cristóvão foram capturados 8.894 indivíduos, pertencentes a 58 espécies, 48 gêneros e 28 famílias. As espécies mais abundantes e frequentes foram Pomadasys corvinaeformis (Steindachner, 1868), Cathorops spixii (Agassiz, 1829), Stellifer rastrifer (Jordan, 1889), Pellona harroweri (Fowler, 1917), Stellifer stellifer (Bloch, 1790), Chirocentrodon bleekerianus (Poey, 1867), Larimus breviceps Cuvier, 1830, Menticirrhus americanus (Linnaeus, 1758) e Conodon nobilis (Linnaeus, 1758). Quanto às proporções das categorias tróficas das espécies, a predominante é carnívora de primeira ordem. A ictiofauna da praia de São Cristóvão pode ser considerada diversificada e as famílias mais representativas coincidem com aquelas observadas nos ecossistemas praiais de outras regiões brasileiras. Os resultados aqui apresentados refletem o conhecimento básico necessário para a realização de pesquisas futuras na região.

Environmental analyses of the parasitic profile found in the sandy soil from the Santos municipality beaches, SP, Brazil / Análise ambiental do perfil de estruturas parasitárias encontradas no solo arenoso das praias do município de Santos, SP, Brasil

The environmental contamination by geohelminths represents a world public health problem and has been well documented by several authors. However, few papers describe the presence of such contamination in saline soils of coastal beaches. A study was performed on the beaches of the municipality of Santos in the period between May 2004 to April 2005 with the aim of determining the degree of contamination, and the correlation between contamination level and seasonal conditions and characteristics of the environment. Of the 2,520 samples analyzed, 18.2 percent (458) were contaminated, 32.3 percent (148) of which were localized in children's recreational areas (playgrounds). The parasite profile found in the analyzed samples indicated the presence of several zoonotic parasites: Ancylostoma larvae (82.5 percent), Toxocara sp. eggs (59.4 percent), Ancylostomidae-like eggs (37.1 percent), coccid oocysts (13.5 percent), Trichostrongylus sp. eggs and larvae, Ascaris lumbricoides eggs, (11.6 percent), Entamoeba sp. cysts (10.0 percent), Strongyloides sp. (4.8 percent), several free nematoids and some non-identified parasitic structures (3.3 percent). It was established that the highest frequency of parasitic structures occurred in the months between May and October 2004, and from February to March 2005. An increase in the diversity of parasitic forms was documented in the months between February to December 2004 and from January to April 2005, these periods having the highest rainfall.

A contaminação ambiental por geohelmintos representa um problema mundial de saúde pública e tem sido bem documentada por diversos autores. No entanto, poucos trabalhos descrevem a presença de contaminação em solos salinos de praias litorâneas. Este estudo foi realizado nas praias do município de Santos no período entre maio de 2004 a abril de 2005 com o objetivo de determinar o grau de contaminação, e possíveis correlações entre sazonalidade e características ambientais. Das 2.520 amostras analisadas, 18,2 por cento (458) estavam contaminadas, 32,3 por cento (148) das quais foram localizadas em areas de lazer das crianças(playgrounds). O perfil parasitário encontrado nas amostras analisadas indicaram a presença de vários parasitos com potencial zoonótico: larvas de Ancylostoma (82,5 por cento), ovos de Toxocara sp (59,4 por cento), ovos semelhantes aos de Ancilostomídeos (37,1 por cento), oocistos de coccídeos (13,5 por cento), ovos de Trichostrongylus sp., ovos de Ascaris lumbricoides, (11,6 por cento), cistos de Entamoeba sp. (10,0 por cento), Strongyloides sp. (4,8 por cento), vários nematóides de vida livre e algumas estruturas parasitárias não identificadas que podem corresponder a um parasita (3,3 por cento). Foi estabelecido que a maior frequência de estruturas parasitárias ocorreu nos meses entre maio e outubro de 2004, e de fevereiro a março de 2005. Um aumento na diversidade de formas parasitárias foi documentado nos meses entre fevereiro a dezembro de 2004 e de janeiro a abril de 2005, esses períodos com a maior pluviosidade.

Lípidos en el anfípodo Talorchestia margaritae (Amphipoda: Talitridae) y su relación con la ecología de la especie

Lipids in the amphipod Talorchestia margaritae (Amphipoda: Talitridae) and its relationship with the ecology of the species. T. margaritae, an endemic species inhabiting Venezuelan coasts, plays an important ecological role in plant and animal decomposition. To understand this issue in some animal groups, especially small ones, lipid composition analysis has been an interesting tool to describe their trophic relationships and food preferences. In order to assess this and visualize the components of their diet, we determined the lipid composition differences between males and females and among age classes in this species. Two sandy beaches were selected: Mangle Quemao and Las Mercedes de Paparo, from which sand samples of known volume were collected at the supralittoral area in 2007. Organisms were separated by age and sex classes, and their size, weight, density, biomass, total lipids (TL), lipid classes and fatty acid markers present in their tissues were determined. The sizes were similar for all age classes between the two locations, while the weights were higher for Mangle Quemao. The TL and lipid classes showed similar proportions between sexes, age classes and locations (TL: 3-5%; Phospholipids: 20-30%; Glycolipids: <1%; sterols: 4%). On the other hand, Triglycerides (TAG) were higher in Mangle Quemao, which may be related to the difference between the weights of two locations. The most abundant fatty acid biomarkers in the two studied sites were 16:0 and 18:1(n-9); this last one is characteristic of a carnivorous diet. The other nine markers were identified with changes in their distribution in organisms at Mangle Quemao and between males and females of both populations. Based on observed fatty acids markers we can assume T. margaritae as a generalist carnivore. Those populations were influenced by available food; inducing differences in weight, TAG proportion and markers diversity. Rev. Biol. Trop. 58 (3): 841-855. Epub 2010 September 01.

T. margaritae cumple un papel importante en la descomposición de restos vegetales y animales en las costas venezolanas. El objetivo fue determinar las diferencias en la composición lipídica entre sexos y talla de la especie. Para esto, especímenes de T. margaritae fueron recolectados en la zona supralitoral de dos playas arenosas: Mangle Quemao y las Mercedes de Paparo. Posteriormente se separaron por talla y sexo determinándoles su peso, densidad, biomasa y perfil lipídico. Todas las categorías presentaron tallas similares entre localidades. Los pesos fueron superiores en los organismos de Mangle Quemao. Los lípidos totales presentaron proporciones similares entre sexos, talla y localidad (3-5%), al igual que los fosfololípidos (20-30%), glicolípidos (<1%) y esteroles (4%), exceptuando los triglicéridos (TAG), siendo estos superiores en Mangle Quemao. Esto último pudiendo estar relacionado con la diferencia de pesos entre localidades. Los ácidos grasos más abundantes en ambas localidades fueron 16:0 y 18:1(n-9). Se identificaron otros 9 marcadores con variaciones en su distribución. Con base en los biomarcadores se puede catalogar a T. margaritae como una especie carnívora- generalista, siendo sus poblaciones influenciadas por la disponibilidad de alimento que a su vez, podría inducir diferencias de peso, TAG y biomarcadores.

Los huevos falsos (SAGs) facilitan el comportamiento social de emergencia en las crías de la tortuga laúd Dermochelys coriacea (Testudines: Dermochelyidae)

False eggs (SAGs) facilitate social post-hatching emergence behaviour in Leatherback turtles Dermochelys coriacea (Testudines: Dermochelyidae) nests. Hatchling emergence to the beach surface from deep sand nests occurs without parental care. Social behaviour among siblings is crucial to overcome this first challenge in sea turtles life. This study, carried out at the Caribbean coast of Colombia, describes the emergence social behaviour of hatchlings from eight nests, and assess the nests translocation effects on temporal patterns of emergence. For the first time, we propose that space released by dehydration of shelled albumen globes (SAGs) at the top of the clutch, might be a reproductive advantage, while facilitating neonates to group together in a very limited space, and favouring the synchrony of emergence. The mean time of groups emergence was of 3.3 days, varying between 1 and 6 days. We found that relocation of the nests did not significantly affect the temporal pattern of emergence, which was mainly nocturnal (77.7% of natural nests and 81.7% of translocated ones). The maximum number of emergences to the surface occurred at the lowest air temperatures (22:00h-06:00h). The selective advantage of this pattern is probably related to the greater rate of predation and mortality by hyperthermia observed during the day. Rev. Biol. Trop. 58 (3): 943-954. Epub 2010 September 01.

La emergencia de las crías de tortuga laúd eclosionadas en los nidos profundos desde la arena hasta la superficie de la playa ocurre sin ayuda parental y es el primer gran desafío de supervivencia en su ciclo de vida. Este estudio, desarrollado en la costa Caribe colombiana, describe el comportamiento social de emergencia de neonatos y evalúa el efecto de la traslocación de los nidos en los patrones temporales de emergencia. Se propone por primera vez que el espacio liberado por la deshidratación de falsos huevos (SAGs) en la nidada, representa una ventaja reproductiva al facilitar el agrupamiento de los neonatos en un espacio muy limitado y favorecer la sincronía de la emergencia. El tiempo medio registrado para la emergencia en grupo fue de 3.3 días, variando entre uno y seis días. La traslocación de los nidos no afectó el patrón temporal de emergencia que fue predominantemente nocturno (77.77% en nidos naturales y 81.65% en trasladados). Los picos máximos de emergencias a la superficie coincidieron con los periodos de menor temperatura ambiental exterior (22:00h-06:00h). La ventaja selectiva de este patrón temporal y de la emergencia sincrónica está probablemente relacionada con las mayores tasas de depredación y mortalidad por hipertermia observadas durante el día.

O Significado para idosos da prática de atividades físicas nas praias do litoral alagoano / The meaning of physical activity practices to elderly people at Alagoas seaside

A respeito do crescimento da população de idosos no Brasil, pouco se sabe sobre inserção deste grupo nos supostos redutos de corpos jovens. Nesse sentido, a praia e as atividades que nela se encontram são temas a serem explorados. O objetivo desta pesquisa é investigar o significado da prática de atividades físicas por idosos nas praias de Alagoas. Numa abordagem exploratória de cunho qualitativo, foram entrevistados 63 idosos de ambos os sexos em sete praias. Através da análise de conteúdo, verificou-se que 84,37% dos entrevistados praticam atividade física regular e atribuem à prática significados como felicidade e saúde.

Talking about the elderly population increase in Brazil and worldwide, not much is known about them inside the youth culture. In this way, the beach is one possibility of joy and activity, where it found can be explored the subject.The main object of this research is to investigate the elder’s physical activity on Alagoas’ beaches. On a field research focused on quality we could interview 63 people from both genders, from 60 to 87 years old in 7 beaches. Through this analysis it was possible to see that 95,16% of the interviwers like to go to the beach; 84,37% of the total practices physical activity regularly such as walking at the seaside or on the sand, but they miss guided activities like gymnastic, yoga, stretching. To the participants this activities on the beach mean therapy, happiness, relaxing and health. On a first analysis it can be confirmed that the beach is no longer seen as a youth environment, but also as a place that supports a healthy old aging process.

Respecto al crecimiento de la población de personas de tercera edad en Brasil poco se conoce sobre la inserción de este grupo en la cultura de los “cuerpos jóvenes”. En ese sentido, la playa y las actividades que en ella se encuentran es un tema a ser investigado. El objetivo de este estudio es investigar el significado de la práctica de actividades físicas por personas de tercera edad en las playas de Alagoas. Desde esa perspectiva y con un abordaje de tipo cualitativo, fueron entrevistados 63 sujetos de ambos sexos en siete playas, donde los resultados a través del análisis de contenidos permitieron verificar que el 84,37% de los entrevistados practican actividad física regular y atribuyen que dicha práctica conlleva a la felicidad y salud.