Estructura de las comunidades de briófitos en los complejos de páramos de Boyacá-Colombia / Structure of bryophyte communities in the paramo complexes of Boyacá-Colombia

Introducción: Los páramos de Boyacá cubren el 18.3 % de la superficie de Colombia, y son diversos en flora y fauna, además, registran una alta variabilidad climática, topográfica y de hábitats, que permite que estos ecosistemas sean centros de diversidad en el Neotrópico, y por tanto albergan una alta diversidad de briófitos. Objetivo: Analizar la estructura y composición de las comunidades de briófitos de los complejos de páramos de Boyacá. Métodos: a partir de información de literatura, bases de datos y revisión de herbarios, se evaluó la composición florística y la completitud de muestreo para los complejos de páramos y sustratos. Resultados: Se encontraron 5 132 ejemplares, con 343 especies de musgos que fue el grupo más diverso, 256 hepáticas y dos antocerotes. El análisis de completitud de muestreo es representativo en un 98 %. Además, encontramos que la preferencia de sustratos es el terrícola con 409 especies y el cortícola con 341. La diversidad alfa del orden 0D mostró que Tota-Bijagual-Mamapacha (TBM) es el complejo más diverso con 368 especies, y Pisba (124) el menos diverso; el índice 1D mostró que el complejo (TBM) presentó 178 especies consideradas comunes, y la dominancia de especies (2D) fue mayor en el complejo Iguaque-Merchán con 119 taxa dominantes y en menor número Guantiva-La Rusia (105) y TBM (102). Conclusiones: El análisis de la diversidad beta mostró que el 62 % de la disimilitud en la composición de especies entre los complejos se debe al recambio de especies, igualmente sucede con la divergencia por sustratos que es del 51 %. Los briófitos en los páramos de Boyacá representan el 36.05 % de la diversidad colombiana, y el 2.96 % a nivel mundial.

Introduction: The Boyacá paramos cover 18.3 % of the Colombian surface, and are diverse in flora and fauna, moreover, have a high temperature, topography, and habitats, which allow these ecosystems to be centers of diversity in the Neotropics, and therefore they harbor a high diversity of bryophytes. Objectives: Analyze the structure and composition of the bryophyte communities of the paramos in the Boyacá complexes. Methods: Using literature, databases and herbariums records, the floristic composition, and the completeness of the sampling for the paramo and substrate complexes was evaluated. Results: We analyzed 5 132 specimens, with 343 species of mosses being the most diverse group, 256 liverworts and two hornworts. The sampling completeness analysis is 98 % representative. In addition, we found that the preference of substrates is terrestrial with 409 species and corticolous with 341. Alpha diversity of order 0D showed that Tota-Bijagual-Mamapacha (TBM) is the most diverse complex with 368 species, and Pisba (124) the least diverse; the 1D index showed that the complex (TBM) presented 178 species considered common, and the dominance of species (2D) was higher in the Iguaque-Merchán Complex with 119 dominant taxa and Guantiva-La Russia (105) and TBM (105) to a lesser number. (102). Conclusions: the analysis of beta diversity showed that 62 % of the dissimilarity in the composition of species between the complexes is due to the species turnover, the same happens with the divergence by substrates that is 51 %. Bryophytes in the Boyacá paramos represent 36.05 % of Colombian diversity, and 2.96 % worldwide.

Growth supression of plant pathogenic fungi using bryophite extracts / Supressão de crescimento de fungos patogênicos de plantas usando extratos de briófitas

Chemicals are often used in attempts to control diseases caused by plant pathogenic fungi during food production. However, chemicals can have adverse effects not just on food, but they also remain active for a long time within ecosystems, and thus are not environmentally friendly. Therefore,development of bio-treatment and avoiding use of chemicals are urgently needed. With the aim of studying and developing new environmentally-friendly treatments, we tested extracts from selected bryophyte species(Porella platyphylla, Cinclidotus fontinaloides and Anomodon viticulosus) on five plant pathogenic fungi under controlled conditions. The fungi (Botryosphaeria dothidea, Phomopsis viticola, Calosphaeria sp., Colletotrichum acutatum and Monilinia laxa) were selected based on common diseases they cause on fruits and grapevine. They were isolated in cultures and treated with bryophyte extracts. Bryophyte extracts were shown to be effective in suppression of certain plant pathogenic fungi growth and to have a huge potential in development of novel biotechnological treatments and biofungicides. The best results were achieved in inhibition of B. dothidea, P. viticola and Calosphaeria sp.

Fungos fitopatogênicos são controlados com produtos químicos para combater doenças causadas por eles durante a produção de alimentos. Tais produtos são ruins não apenas para a alimentação, mas também podem permanecer por muito tempo nos ecossistemas, portanto, não são ecologicamente corretos. Desta forma, os biotratamentos e a prevenção de usos químicos são urgentemente necessários no futuro próximo. Com o objetivo de estudar e desenvolver nova alternative decontrole de doenças de plantas, testamos os extratos de espécies de briófitas selecionadas (Porella platyphylla, Cinclidotus fontinaloides e Anomodon viticulosus) em cinco fungos fitopatogênicos (Botryosphaeria dothidea, Phomopsis viticola, Calosphaeria sp., Colletotrichum acutatum e Monilinia laxa) em condição controlada. Estes fungos, selecionados com base nas doenças que causam em frutos e videiras, foram isolados em culturas puras e tratados com os respectivos extratos de briófitas. Os extratos de briófitas demonstraram ser eficazes na supressão de certos fungos fitopatogênicos e têm um enorme potencial no desenvolvimento de novos biofungicidas e tratamentos biotecnológicos. Os mais interessantes resultados foram obtidos na inibição de B. dothidea, P. viticola eCalosphaeria sp.

On the synthesis of vitamin d in the darkness / Sobre la síntesis de vitamina D en la oscuridad

Published evidence reports the existence of two routes for the transformation of 7-dehydrocholecalciferol into previtamin D3: a photochemical route with the participation of UVB photons and another route that occurs in the darkness. Several reports appears to support the presence of these two routes in some mammals, birds, nonvascular plants (e.g.: mosses), vascular plants (e.g.: angiosperms) and lichens. The reviewed evidence suggests that in the darkness, the synthesis of vitamin D3 follows the same scheme of the photochemical pathway, but at a reduced rate respect to the synthesis under UVB radiation. The process of vitamin D synthesis in the dark, then, may be taken as an insurance for survival, at least for mammals and birds. The low rate of the synthesis of vitamin D3 in the absence of light produce low concentrations of vitamin D3 metabolites in plasma. Long term survival under these circumstances might be possible through upregulation of vitamin D receptors (VDRs). In mole rats (South African rodents that live in the dark in underground tunnels), the reduced rate of vitamin D3 synthesis produce low levels of plasma vitamin D3 and their metabolites 25(OH) D3 and 1α,25OH2 D3 . The fact that Kd and ßmax of the complex 1α,25(OH)2 D3 -VDR from the intestinal mucosa, kidneys and the Harderian glands of the mole rat Heterocephalus glaber are significantly different in each one of these tissues, is interpreted as an indicator that the VDRs are, in each tissue, adapted to the maintenance of normal physiological functions. (AU)

Varios trabajos publicados han informado que existen dos mecanismos para la transformación de 7-dehidrocolecalciferol en previtamina D3 : uno iniciado con el auxilio de fotones UVB y un segundo que ocurre en la oscuridad, sin el auxilio de radiación ultravioleta. Una serie de publicaciones contienen información que apoya la presencia de estos dos mecanismos en mamíferos, pájaros, plantas no vasculares (musgos), vasculares (angiospermas) y líquenes. La evidencia revisada sugiere que, en la oscuridad, la síntesis de vitamina D3 sigue el mismo esquema que la ruta fotoquímica y generalmente ocurre a una tasa reducida respecto de la síntesis bajo irradiación ultravioleta. La operación de la síntesis de vitamina D3 en la oscuridad, por lo menos para mamíferos y pájaros, puede tomarse como un reaseguro de sobrevida. La reducida tasa de síntesis de vitamina D en ausencia de luz produce bajas concentraciones en plasma de los metabolitos de la vitamina. La sobrevida saludable en estas condiciones sería posible mediante upregulation de los receptores. En las ratas topo Heterocephalus glaber (roedores sudafricanos que viven en permanente oscuridad, en túneles subterráneos), la reducida tasa de síntesis de vitamina D3 es la causa de los bajos niveles plasmáticos de la vitamina y sus metabolitos: 25(OH)D3 y 1α,25OH2 D3 . El hecho de que el Kd y ßmax del complejo 1α,25(OH)2 D3 -Vitamina-D-Receptor del intestino, riñón y glándulas de Harder de Heterocephalus glaber sean significativamente diferentes entre sí indicaría que los receptores se han modificado para mantener funciones fisiológicas normales en cada tejido. (AU)

Composición y distribución de hepáticas (Marchantiophyta) en un intervalo altitudinal en la Cordillera Oriental de Colombia / Composition and distribution of liverworts (Marchantiophyta) in a continuous altitudinal range on the Cordillera Oriental of Colombia

Resumen La composición de especies de hepáticas sobre los Andes del Norte varía con la altitud en relación con diferentes factores bióticos (vegetación) y abióticos (temperatura, humedad y luminosidad). Para probar esta afirmación se determinó la diversidad y distribución de las Marchantiophytas en un rango altitudinal entre los 2 400 y 3 400 m sobre la Cordillera Oriental colombiana, estableciendo cómo éstas varían entre altitudes y zonas de vida con respecto a los factores abióticos. Se realizaron muestreos cada 200 m y se registraron datos ambientales durante un año. Se encontraron 162 especies, la composición de hepáticas varió a lo largo del gradiente altitudinal con un gran número de especies únicas en cada altitud. Se encontró la máxima diversidad en los 3 000 m, con una dominancia del hábito folioso y de especies epifitas, mientras que la mayor riqueza de familias y géneros se presentó entre los 3 200 y 3 400 m. Anoplolejeunea conferta presentó la mayor cobertura en la zona así como el mayor valor del índice de valor de importancia (IVI) y distribución altitudinal más amplia, ubicándose desde los 2 400 hasta 3 000 m en cuatro diferentes sustratos. Las hepáticas se distribuyeron altitudinalmente de manera diferencial, con una diversidad beta alta (0.864) debido al recambio altitudinal de especies, con más del 30 % de disimilaría en la composición de especies cada 200 m altitudinales, dependiendo principalmente de cambios en la luminosidad. Consecuentemente, la temperatura, humedad y luminosidad y su relación con la vegetación son determinantes en la diversidad y distribución de las hepáticas en la Cordillera Oriental de los Andes colombianos.

Abstract The species composition of liverworts varies with altitude in the Northern part of the Andes due to the relationship of biotic (vegetation) and abiotic factors (temperature, humidity, and sunlight brightness). In order to test this affirmation we determined the diversity, species composition, abundance, and distribution of species of Marchantiophyta in an altitudinal range from 2 400 to 3 400 m on the Colombian Cordillera Oriental, and established how these vary with altitude and life-zones, regarding abiotic factors. Samples, taken every 200 m in the altitudinal range, and environmental data were registered during a year. We found 162 species, the composition of liverworts varied throughout the altitudinal gradient with a high number of unique species in each altitude. The maximum diversity was found at 3 000 m, along with a dominance of leafy habit and epiphytic species, while the higher richness of families and genera was found between 3 200 and 3 400 m. Anoplolejeunea conferta had the largest value of coverage in the zone, the highest value of importance value index (IVI), and the widest altitudinal distribution, from 2 400 to 3 000 m in four different substrates. The liverworts were distributed differently with altitude, we found a high beta diversity (0.864) due to the replacement of species, with more that 30 % of dissimilarity in species composition every 200 altitudinal meters, mainly depending on sunlight brightness variation. Accordingly, we found that abiotic factors like temperature, humidity, and sunlight brightness and its relationship vegetation are determinant in the diversity and altitudinal distribution of liverworts in the study area. Rev. Biol. Trop. 66(2): 559-570. Epub 2018 June 01.

Photoprotection enhanced by red cell wall pigments in three East Antarctic mosses

BACKGROUND: Antarctic bryophytes (mosses and liverworts) are resilient to physiologically extreme environmental conditions including elevated levels of ultraviolet (UV) radiation due to depletion of stratospheric ozone. Many Antarctic bryophytes synthesise UV-B-absorbing compounds (UVAC) that are localised in their cells and cell walls, a location that is rarely investigated for UVAC in plants. This study compares the concentrations and localisation of intracellular and cell wall UVAC in Antarctic Ceratodon purpureus, Bryum pseudotriquetrum and Schistidium antarctici from the Windmill Islands, East Antarctica. RESULTS: Multiple stresses, including desiccation and naturally high UV and visible light, seemed to enhance the incorporation of total UVAC including red pigments in the cell walls of all three Antarctic species analysed. The red growth form of C. purpureus had significantly higher levels of cell wall bound and lower intracellular UVAC concentrations than its nearby green form. Microscopic and spectroscopic analyses showed that the red colouration in this species was associated with the cell wall and that these red cell walls contained less pectin and phenolic esters than the green form. All three moss species showed a natural increase in cell wall UVAC content during the growing season and a decline in these compounds in new tissue grown under less stressful conditions in the laboratory. CONCLUSIONS: UVAC and red pigments are tightly bound to the cell wall and likely have a long-term protective role in Antarctic bryophytes. Although the identity of these red pigments remains unknown, our study demonstrates the importance of investigating cell wall UVAC in plants and contributes to our current understanding of UV-protective strategies employed by particular Antarctic bryophytes. Studies such as these provide clues to how these plants survive in such extreme habitats and are helpful in predicting future survival of the species studied.

Contributions to the bryological knowledge of ASPA 125, Fildes Peninsula, King George Island

BACKGROUND: With 29 Km2, the Fildes Peninsula is the largest ice free area in King George Island and probably in Antarctica. The region is house of six permanent bases including the only airport in the South Shetlands, which led to impacts on its original landscape and vegetation. In recognition for the need to protect natural values, an Antarctic Specially Protected Area (ASPA 125) was established in the region. Focused mostly on protecting the fossils, the ASPA also plays a role in protecting the vegetation but so far, the management plan for the area does not contain a list of moss species present there. RESULTS: We provided an updated study and checklist of mosses present in ASPA 125. A key to species identification and photographs of main morphological features are also available in this paper. Also, six new occurrences are reported for Fildes Peninsula. CONCLUSION: Considering the scarce knowledge about specific local floras in Antarctica associated with highly impacted area, of which only a fraction is protected, it is suggested the necessity to invest in detailed sampling studies, as well as in a better understanding of the local floras interactions in Antarctica.

Growth and development of halophyte Funaria hygrometrica Hedw. (Funariaceae) under salt stress / Crescimento e desenvolvimento da halofita Funaria hygrometrica Hedw. (Funariaceae) sob estresse salino

The ability of bryophytes to tolerate salt is determined by a number of biochemical routes, whereas the salt ends up driving the activation of adaptive responses to tolerate this adverse condition. Salinity is the main limiting environmental factor under plant development, and is caused by excess salt ions in the environment, mainly Na + and Cl-. The optimal growth of plants in saline environment is obtained in concentrations of 50% of NaCl. Due to these findings, the importance of the study of the effect of salinity on the germination of plants, in this case in Funaria hygrometrica Hedw., is noticed.

A capacidade das briófitas para tolerar meios salinos é determinada por uma série de vias bioquímicas, uma vez que o sal acaba por conduzir a ativação de respostas adaptativas para tolerar esta condição adversa. A salinidade é o principal fator ambiental limitante no desenvolvimento da planta e é causada pelo excesso de íons salinos no ambiente, principalmente Na+ e Cl-. O crescimento ótimo de plantas em ambiente salino foi obtido em concentrações de 50% de NaCl. Devido a essas descobertas esses achados, observa-se a importância do estudo do efeito da salinidade sobre a germinação de plantas, neste caso em Funaria hygrometrica Hedw.

Species richness and composition of epiphytic bryophytes in flooded forests of Caxiuanã National Forest, Eastern Amazon, Brazil

ABSTRACT This study aimed to compare the richness and composition of the epiphytic bryoflora between várzea and igapó forests in Caxiuanã National Forest, Brazilian Amazon. Bryophytes were collected on 502 phorophytes of Virola surinamensis. Average richness per phorophyte and composition between forests and between dry and rainy periods was tested by two-way analysis and by cluster analysis, respectively. In total, 54 species of 13 families were identified. Richness was greater in igapó forest (44 species) compared to várzea forest (38 species). There was no significant difference in the number of species between the studied periods. Cluster analysis showed the bryoflora composition was different between várzea and igapó, but not between dry and rainy periods. Results did not corroborate the hypothesis that várzea forests harbor higher species richness than igapó forests.

Bryophytes in fragments of Terra Firme forest on the great curve of the Xingu River, Pará state, Brazil 1 Part of Master's Dissertation of the first author / Briófitas em fragmentos florestais de terra firme na região da Volta Grande do Xingu, Pará, Brasil

Microclimatic conditions of tropical forest favour the high richness of bryophytes, which by being sensitive to environmental changes, are important indicators of habitat conditions. The aim of this study was to determine the richness and species composition of the bryophyte flora in fragments of terra firme forest on the great curve of the Xingu River, Pará state, Brazil. The collections were made in August and September 2012 in 14 fragments, in which were installed two plots per fragment, one at the edge and one inside, measuring 10 × 10 m each. The results showed 77 species in 45 genera and 18 families. Lejeunea setiloba Spruce and Marchesinia brachiata (Sw.) Schiffn. are new records for Pará state. The richness families in this study were the ones typically found in tropical forest surveys. A high richness of rare species in comparison to common ones, a pattern usually observed for plants in tropical forests was not reported in this study, probably due to historical fragmentation and disturbance in the area. The richness and species composition were determined mainly by the physiognomic characteristics of the studied forest fragments.

As condições microclimáticas das florestas tropicais favorecem elevada riqueza de briófitas, que por serem sensíveis às alterações ambientais, são importantes indicadoras das condições dos habitats. O objetivo deste trabalho foi determinar a riqueza e a composição florística da brioflora de fragmentos florestais de terra firme na região da Volta Grande do Xingu, Pará, Brasil. As coletas foram realizadas em Agosto e Setembro de 2012, em 14 fragmentos e em cada um destes foram plotadas duas parcelas, uma na borda e outra no interior, medindo 10 × 10 m (cada). Foram registradas 77 espécies, distribuídas em 45 gêneros e 18 famílias. Lejeunea setiloba Spruce e Marchesinia brachiata (Sw.) Schiffn. são novos registros para o Pará. As famílias mais ricas neste estudo foram aquelas tipicamente encontradas em levantamentos em florestas tropicais. A elevada riqueza de espécies raras em comparação às comuns, padrão comumente reportado para plantas em florestas tropicais, não foi observada, provavelmente devido ao histórico de fragmentação e distúrbios na área de estudo. A riqueza e a composição de espécies foram determinadas principalmente pelas características fisionômicas dos fragmentos estudados.

Bryophytes in fragments of Terra Firme forest on the great curve of the Xingu River, Pará state, Brazil 1 Part of Master's Dissertation of the first author. / Briófitas em fragmentos florestais de terra firme na região da Volta Grande do Xingu, Pará, Brasil

Abstract Microclimatic conditions of tropical forest favour the high richness of bryophytes, which by being sensitive to environmental changes, are important indicators of habitat conditions. The aim of this study was to determine the richness and species composition of the bryophyte flora in fragments of terra firme forest on the great curve of the Xingu River, Pará state, Brazil. The collections were made in August and September 2012 in 14 fragments, in which were installed two plots per fragment, one at the edge and one inside, measuring 10 × 10 m each. The results showed 77 species in 45 genera and 18 families. Lejeunea setiloba Spruce and Marchesinia brachiata (Sw.) Schiffn. are new records for Pará state. The richness families in this study were the ones typically found in tropical forest surveys. A high richness of rare species in comparison to common ones, a pattern usually observed for plants in tropical forests was not reported in this study, probably due to historical fragmentation and disturbance in the area. The richness and species composition were determined mainly by the physiognomic characteristics of the studied forest fragments.

Resumo As condições microclimáticas das florestas tropicais favorecem elevada riqueza de briófitas, que por serem sensíveis às alterações ambientais, são importantes indicadoras das condições dos habitats. O objetivo deste trabalho foi determinar a riqueza e a composição florística da brioflora de fragmentos florestais de terra firme na região da Volta Grande do Xingu, Pará, Brasil. As coletas foram realizadas em Agosto e Setembro de 2012, em 14 fragmentos e em cada um destes foram plotadas duas parcelas, uma na borda e outra no interior, medindo 10 × 10 m (cada). Foram registradas 77 espécies, distribuídas em 45 gêneros e 18 famílias. Lejeunea setiloba Spruce e Marchesinia brachiata (Sw.) Schiffn. são novos registros para o Pará. As famílias mais ricas neste estudo foram aquelas tipicamente encontradas em levantamentos em florestas tropicais. A elevada riqueza de espécies raras em comparação às comuns, padrão comumente reportado para plantas em florestas tropicais, não foi observada, provavelmente devido ao histórico de fragmentação e distúrbios na área de estudo. A riqueza e a composição de espécies foram determinadas principalmente pelas características fisionômicas dos fragmentos estudados.

Estratificación vertical de briófitos epífitos encontrados en Quercus humboldtii (Fagaceae) de Boyacá, Colombia / Vertical stratification of epiphytic bryophytes found on Quercus humboldtii (Fagaceae) from Boyacá, Colombia

Oak forest represents an ecologically important plant formation in Colombia, partly due to the large amount of epiphyte flora that harbors, especially non-vascular plants which have been poorly studied in Colombia. One of the biggest oak forests in the country is the one found in the Parque Natural Municipal “Robledales de Tipacoque” (PNMRT), in Boyacá, municipality of Tipacoque. The epiphyte bryoflora was evaluated in Q. humboldtii, using canopy climbing techniques and dividing the trees (25 individuals sampled) each into five layers (base, trunk, inner canopy, middle and outer canopy). A total of 365 samples were collected: 29% liveworts and 71% mosses. Hepatics represented 10 families, 16 genera and 26 species; mosses 11 families, 26 genera and 49 species. Considering the tree layers, the most diverse one was the base with 51 species, followed by the trunk with 43; in the canopy, the inner canopy was found the most diverse with 28 species, and was followed by the middle canopy with 18, and the outer canopy with 15. A species similarity index shows that the trunk and the middle canopy were the most closely related (0.42) in terms of species composition. The results showed that non-vascular plants were mostly found in lower layers (base and trunk), where the diversity was greater, richer (species number), and this might be caused by the microclimatic conditions in these places, such as higher humidity, lower light intensity and shade. Thus, some species are considered shade epiphytes (ombrophiles) because they are unique to these areas, like Bazzania gracilis and Taxilejeunea pterigonia, among others. Likewise, Jungermannia sp. is considered a sun epiphyte (heliophilous) because it is found only in the outer canopy. We concluded that Q. humboldtii could be considered as a potential host for the conservation of non-vascular epiphytes in Colombian forests. Rev. Biol. Trop. 62 (2): 719-727. Epub 2014 June 01.

Los bosques de roble representan una formación vegetal de importancia ecológica, debido a la cantidad de plantas epífitas que pueden llegar a albergar; estas han sido muy poco estudiadas en Colombia, especialmente las no vasculares. Para el país, uno de los robledales de mayor extensión es el Parque Natural Municipal “Robledaes de Tipacoque” (PNMRT), que se encuentra ubicado en Boyacá, en el municipio de Tipacoque. Se evaluó la brioflora epífita en Quercus humboldtii, mediante técnicas de ascenso a dosel y división de cada uno de los árboles (25 individuos muestreados) en cinco estratos cada uno (base, tronco, dosel interno, dosel medio y dosel externo). Se recolectaron en total 365 muestras, 29% pertenecen a hepáticas y 71% a musgos. Las hepáticas se distribuyeron en 10 familias, 16 géneros y 26 especies, mientras que los musgos se distribuyeron en 11 familias, 26 géneros y 49 especies. La base del árbol es el estrato con mayor diversidad de especies (51), seguida del tronco (43), mientras que en el dosel, la parte interna fue la más diversa con 28 especies, seguida del dosel medio con 18 y el dosel externo con 15. Los análisis de similitud muestran una baja relación entre los estratos, donde la mayor afinidad esta entre el tronco y el dosel medio con el 0.42. Los resultados muestran que las plantas no vasculares prefieren los estratos inferiores (base y tronco), donde la diversidad es mayor, debido a las condiciones microclimáticas que éstas zonas presentan, como mayor humedad, menor intensidad lumínica y sombra; además, algunas especies se consideran como epífitas de sombra (hombrófilas) al ser exclusivas de éstas zonas, como Bazzania gracilis y Taxilejeunea pterigonia, entre otras. El caso contrario, Jungermannia sp. Se considera epífita de sol (heliófila) al encontrarse únicamente en el dosel externo. Se concluye que Q. humboldtii puede ser un hospedero potencial para la conservación de epífitas no vasculares en bosques colombianos.

In vitro micropropagation of rare and endangered moss Entosthodon hungaricus (Funariaceae) / Micropropagação in vitro do musgo raro Entosthodon hungaricus, ameaçado de extinção (Funariaceae)

The moss Entosthodon hungaricus (Boros) Loeske is an European endemic species typical of dry and saline soils extending from the Iberian Peninsula to Aral-Caspian steppes, similarly to some other xerothermic bryophytes. However, the distribution range is fragmented and localities are quite scattered and the species is considered as rare and vulnerable because of its ephemeral characteristics and specialized ecology. With the aim to develop an active protection plan for this species, the ex situ conservation requirements of E. hungaricus were developed. The axenic culture in in vitro conditions were established, and the optimal growth parameters were adjusted to achieve fully developed gametophytes ready to be reintroduced to its native range and other potentially native areas, where this species was once reported but has not been collected in recent times, suggesting its local extinction (i.e. some areas in Vojvodina, N. Serbia). Starting materials were derived from recent herbarium specimens and from fresh materials collected from Hungarian populations. Several means for sterilization of stating material and growing nutritive media were assayed in different regimes of light and temperature. Here we describe the conditions to achieve full plant development and for its micropropagation. Such materials are adequate for ex situ conservation purposes and for experimental introductions in native and potentially native areas. The first axenical culture of E. hungaricus was successfully established, and the first in vitro micropropagation of this rare and endangered species was achieved. Our study contributes to the conservation biology as well as for the potential use of this moss species in biotechnological research.

O musgo Entosthodon hungaricus (Boros) Loeske é uma espécie endêmica Européia típica de solos secos e salinos que se estendem da Península Ibérica até as estepes Aral-Cáspias, similar a outras briófitas de clima seco. Entretanto, a distribuição é bastante dispersa e fragmentada e a espécie é considerada muito rara e vulnerável devido às suas características efêmeras e ecologia especializada. Com o intuito de desenvolver um plano de proteção a essa espécie, foram elaborados os requisitos de preservação ex situ das E. hungaricus. As condições para a cultura axênica in vitro foram estabelecidas e os parâmetros ideais de crescimento foram atingidos para conseguir gametófitos completamente desenvolvidos, prontos para serem reintroduzidos em suas áreas nativas e em outras áreas potencialmente nativas, onde essa espécie já foi relatada. Porém, não houve coleta da mesma nos últimos anos, o que sugere uma extinção local (por exemplo, algumas áreas em Voivodina, Norte da Sérvia). Os materiais iniciais foram derivados de espécies recentes de herbários e de materiais frescos coletados de populações Húngaras. Várias formas de assepsia do material inicial e dos meios de crescimento nutritivo foram ensaiadas em diferentes regimes de luz e temperatura. No trabalho descrevemos as condições para obter desenvolvimento completo da planta e sua micropropagação. Os materiais são adequados para os fins de conservação ex situ e para as introduções experimentais em áreas nativas e/ou potencialmente nativas. O estudo contribui para a conservação biológica bem como para o potencial uso dessa espécie de musgo em pesquisas biotecnológicas.

Sphagnum (velvet) species used by rural communities at the Guaratuba EPA, Paraná State, Brazil / Espécies de Sphagnum (veludo) utilizadas pelas comunidades rurais da APA de Guaratuba, Estado do Paraná, Brasil

The results of a survey of Sphagnum used by the Descoberto and Empanturrado rural communities (Guaratuba municipality and Guaratuba Environmental Protected Area ­ EPA) are presented. The analysis was based on fresh material collected in different harvesting areas. Five species were recorded: S. capillifolium (Ehrh.) Hedw., S. cuspidatum Ehrh. ex Hoffm., S. erythrocalyx Hampe, S. perichaetiale Hampe and S. recurvum P. Beauv.. All of them are native species that grow spontaneously in that region and are intensively harvested by the local community. A key is presented to differentiate the species, and the botanical description, common names, geographic distribution and illustrations for each species are included.

Apresenta-se resultado de levantamento das espécies de Sphagnum L. utilizadas pelas comunidades rurais de Descoberto e Empanturrado (Município de Guaratuba, APA de Guaratuba, Paraná). A partir de coletas e identificação de material botânico nos locais de extrativismo, foram registradas cinco espécies: S. capillifolium (Ehrh.) Hedw., S. cuspidatum Ehrh. ex Hoffm., S. erythrocalyx Hampe, S. perichaetiale Hampe e S. recurvum P. Beauv.. Todas com ocorrência natural na região de estudo e submetidas a intenso extrativismo pela demanda do segmento floricultor. Incluem-se chave dicotômica para identificação, descrições, caracterização do hábitat, distribuição geográfica e ilustrações para cada espécie identificada.

Life-forms of moss species in defrosting areas of King George Island, South Shethland Islands, Antarctica / Formas de vida de espécies de musgos de áreas de degelo da Ilha Rei George, Arquipélago Shetlands do Sul, Antártica

The colonization form of moss species depends upon the genetic and environment conditions. The life-forms of moss species in the ice-free areas of the Admiralty Bay, King George Island, South Shetland Islands, Antarctica, have been evaluated in the present work. The majority of the species occurs in tuft forms (59 percent ), followed by cushions (31 percent). Few species occur in form of carpets (7 percent) or wefts (3 percent). Of the total of 58 studied species, 10 present more than one life-form, depending upon the substratum colonized. Data are presented about substratum preferences of each moss life-form observed, as well ecological data that influence the mosses growing in the ice-free areas of maritime Antarctica.

No presente trabalho são avaliadas as formas de vida das espécies de musgos que se desenvolvem nas áreas de degelo da Baía do Almirantado, Ilha Rei George, Arquipélago Shetlands do Sul, Antártica. A maioria das espécies de musgos ocorre na forma de tufos (59 por cento), seguido pelos coxins (31 por cento). Poucas espécies ocorrem na forma de tapetes (7 por cento) ou tramas (3 por cento ). Do total de 58 espécies estudadas, 10 destas apresentam mais de uma forma de vida, dependendo do substrato colonizado por estas espécies. São apresentados dados sobre o substrato preferencial para cada forma de vida observada, bem como dados ecológicos que influenciam no crescimento dos musgos nas áreas de degelo da Antártica marítima.

Dominance of Paris-type morphology on mycothallus of Lunularia cruciata colonised by Glomus proliferum / Predomínio da morfologia tipo-Paris em talo de Lunularia cruciata colonizado por Glomus proliferum

Microscopic evidence confirms that L. cruciata hosting G. proliferum shows major anatomical traits (arbuscules, coils, arbusculate coils and vesicles) generally associated arbuscular mycorrhizal roots and the anatomical morphology of intra-thalli mycelium is predominantly of the Paris-type. Colonised L. cruciata showed a reduction of biomass when compared with axenic plants suggesting a drain of resources towards the fungus and depletion of nutrients required for optimum plant growth. The behaviour of mycothalli regarding available KH2PO4 indicates that the nutritional stress threshold for phosphorus (P) is above the residual amount of P already present in PhytagelTM and in plant inoculum. These raise the possibility that in certain circumstances the relationship between L. cruciata and G. proliferum be parasitic rather than symbiotic and open the door for future studies to ascertain the nature of liverwort-AM fungi relationships.

Observações de microscopia ótica confirmam que L. cruciata colonizada por G. proliferum apresenta caracteres anatomicos (arbúsculos, hifas novelas, arbúsculos enovelados e vesículas) geralmente associadas a raízes micorrízicas arbusculares em que o micélio intra-tálico apresenta uma anatomia predominantemente do tipo Paris. L. cruciata colonizada apresentou redução de biomassa quando comparada com plantas axenicas, sugerindo dreno de recursos para o fungo e consequente redução de nutrientes necessários para o ótimo crescimento da planta. O comportamento do talo-colonizado em relação à disponibilidade de KH2PO4 no meio indica que o limiar de stress nutricional para fósforo se encontra acima do somatório das quantidades residuais deste elemento presentes no PhytagelTM e no inóculo. Os resultados aqui discutidos sugerem a possibilidade de, em certas circunstâncias, a relação entre L. cruciata e G. proliferum ter características de parasitismo e não de simbiose, abrindo novas perspectivas para futuros estudos na determinação da natureza da relação hepática-fungo arbuscular.

Distribution of heavy metals in vegetation surrounding the Blackstone River, USA: considerations regarding sediment contamination and long term metals transport in freshwater riverine ecosystems.

The Blackstone River, a 74 km interstate stream located in South Central Massachusetts and Rhode Island (USA), has had a long history of problems due to high concentrations of metals such as copper and lead. The river has been subjected to metals load that include contributions from urban runoff, wastewater discharges, contaminated sediments, and also resuspension of contaminated sediments in the river-bed. All of these effects lead to elevated concentrations of metals such as lead, copper, zinc, chromium, cadmium and arsenic. Furthermore, the contaminated sediments located behind impoundments become especially important when higher flows cause resuspension of the previously deposited sediments and associated metals. While it is known that high metals concentrations in this river are found in the bottom sediments, the fate of the metals and impact on the ecosystem are not well known. This paper addresses the potential impacts that metals may have on vegetation and plant tissues in the vicinity of the river Plant tissues (primarily mosses), were collected from a number of sampling sites along a 14 km stretch of this river. At each site, samples were collected from multiple distances from the riverbank. Laboratory analyses made use of both wet digestion and dry ashing digestion methods, followed by analysis using an atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The wet and dry ashing digestion methods yielded similar results, although the results afforded by the dry ashing methods were slightly lower than the results obtained from the wet method. The results showed that the metals concentrations in vegetation (as determined from plant tissue analyses) were generally inversely related to the distance between the vegetation and the riverbank, with higher metals concentrations existing in plant tissues located close to the riverbank. In addition, it was found that the transport of metals concentrations to the terrestrial vegetation adjacent to this section of the Blackstone River was affected by the river morphology and flow characteristics (including velocity, flow rate and depth of flow, which can govern the potential for plant submergence, as well as the dynamics of flow and transport in the soil near the river). The analyses help to provide an improved understanding of metals transport and potential significance of metals contamination in a terrestrial ecosystem that is located adjacent to a river.

Criação de imaturos de mutuca ( Tabanidae: Diptera ) utilizando briófitas e areia como substrato / Rearing immature horse flies ( Diptera: Tabanidae ) by using a substrate of bryophytes and sand

É descrito um novo método de criação para imaturos de mutucas e discutem-se as vantagens do uso do substrato para manutenção de espécies que necessitam de longos períodos para o desenvolvimento.

Studies on the chemical constituents from herb of Rhodobryum roseum / 中国中药杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To study the chemical constituents from herb of Rhodobryum roseum.</p><p><b>METHOD</b>The compounds were isolated by column chromatography, and identified by IR, NMR data.</p><p><b>RESULT</b>8 compounds were isolated and identified. They are piperine (1), caffeic acid methyl ester (2), uracil glucoside (3), ursolic acid (4), 5alpha, 8alpha-epidioxy-methylcholesta-6, 22-dien-3beta-ol (5), 5alpha, 8alpha-epidioxy-methylcholesta-6,9(11), 22-trien-3beta-ol (6), beta-sitosterol (7), daucosterol (8).</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>7 compounds (1-6,8) were isolated from this plant for the first time.</p>

Novas ocorrências de briófitas para vários estados do Brasil / New records of bryophytes in the states of Brazil

Cento e dezesseis espécies de briófitas são relatadas como novas ocorrências em vários estados do Brasil, sendo 62 de musgos, 53 de hepáticas e uma de antóceros. Estas espécies pertencem a 67 gêneros e 36 famílias. Para cada uma das espécies são apresentados dados quanto à distribuição geográfica no Brasil, localidade-tipo, basiônimo, bem como comentários sobre o substrato e as associações com outras espécies, quando pertinente. As espécies Acrolejeunea heterophylla (Evans) Grolle & Gradst., Brachymenium wrightii var. mnioides (Besch.) Florsch., Cheilolejeunea myriantha (Nees & Mont.) Schust., Cololejeunea nigerica (E.W. Jones) Schust., Lejeunea filipes Spruce, Leucodon julaceus (Hedw.) Sull., Macromitrium clavatum Grout, Plagiochila asplenioides (L.) Dumort., Polytrichum brachymitrium C. Muell. e Pylaisiadelpha tenuirostris (Bruch & Schimp. ex Sull.) Buck estão sendo referidas pela primeira vez para o Brasil.

One hundred and sixteen (116) species of bryophytes are reported as new records for certain Brazilian states, distributed in 62 mosses, 53 liverworts and one hornworts. Those species are distributed among 67 genera and 36 families. Geographical distribution in Brazil, type locality, basyonym, comments on substrate, and about association with other bryophytes, when possible. The species Acrolejeunea heterophylla (Evans) Grolle & Gradst., Brachymenium wrightii var. mnioides (Besch.) Florsch., Cheilolejeunea myriantha (Nees & Mont.) Schust., Cololejeunea nigerica (E.W. Jones) Schust., Lejeunea filipes Spruce, Leucodon julaceus (Hedw.) Sull., Macromitrium clavatum Grout, Plagiochila asplenioides (L.) Dumort., Polytrichum brachymitrium C. Muell. and Pylaisiadelpha tenuirostris (Bruch & Schimp. ex Sull.) Buck are new records for Brazil.

Briófitas de Manaus, Amazonas, Brasil / Bryophytes from Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil

Foram listadas 74 espécies de briófitas para a cidade de Manaus, Amazonas, sendo 41 espécies de musgos distribuídos em 24 gêneros e 15 famílias e 33 hepáticas em 17 gêneros e sete famílias. Destas, 17 espécies de briófitas são ocorrências novas para Manaus e para o estado do Amazonas. T. ligulaefolium (Bartr.) Buck é uma ocorrência nova para o Brasil. São apresentadas associações com outras briófitas e comparação com outras espécies urbanas.