Gastroesophageal tube of the Iguana iguana (Iguanidae): histological description, histochemical and immunohistochemical analysis of 5-HT and SS cells / Tubo gastroesofágico da Iguana iguana (Iguanidae): descrição histológica, histoquímica e análise imunohistoquímica de células 5-HT e SS

The work aims were to describe the histological and histochemical structure of the gastroesophageal tube of Iguana iguana and verify the occurrence and distribution of immunoreactive serotonin (5-HT) and somatostatin (SS) cells. Fragments of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) of five iguanas were which underwent standard histological and immunohistochemistry technique. Immunoreactive cells for 5-HT and SS were quantified using the STEPanizer. The oesophagus has ciliated columnar pseudostratified epithelium with staining Alcian blue (AB) + and goblet cells highly reactive to periodic acid Schiff (PAS). In the cervical oesophagus, the numerical density of 5-HT cells per unit area (QA [5-HT cells]/µm2) was 4.6x10-2 ± 2.0 and celomatic oesophagus presented QA = 4.0x10-2 ± 1.0. The epithelium of the stomach is simple columnar, PAS and AB +. The cranial and middle regions of the stomach presented (QA [5-HT cells]/µm2) = 6.18x10-2 ± 3.2 and the caudal region, QA = 0.6x10-2 ± 0.2. The SS cells were only observed in the caudal stomach, with numerical density (QA [SS cells]/µm2) = 1.4x10-2 ± 0.9 In I. iguana, variation was observed in terms of the distribution of mucus secretions and the pattern of occurrence of serotonin and somatostatin-secreting enteroendocrine cells in the TGI, which possibly will result in an interspecific adaptive response.

Os objetivos do trabalho foram descrever a estrutura histológica e histoquímica do tubo gastroesofágico da Iguana iguana e verificar a ocorrência e distribuição de células serotonina (5-HT) e somatostatina (SS) imunorreativas. Fragmentos do trato gastrointestinal (TGI) de cinco iguanas foram submetidos à técnica histológica e imunohistoquímica padrão. As células imunorreativas para 5-HT e SS foram quantificadas usando o STEPanizer. O esôfago apresenta epitélio pseudoestratificado colunar ciliado Alcian blue (AB) positivo, com células caliciformes altamente reativas ao ácido periódico de Schiff (PAS). No esôfago cervical, a densidade numérica de células 5-HT por unidade de área (QA [células 5-HT] / µm2) foi de 4.6x10-2 ± 2.0 e o esôfago celomático apresentou QA = 4.0x10-2 ± 1.0. O epitélio do estômago é colunar simples, PAS e AB positivo. As regiões cranial e média do estômago apresentaram (QA [células 5-HT] / µm2) = 6.18x10-2 ± 3.2 e a região caudal, QA = 0.6x10-2 ± 0.2. As células SS foram observadas apenas no estômago caudal, com densidade numérica (QA [células SS] / µm2) = 1.4x10-2 ± 0.9. Em I. iguana, foi observada variações em termos da distribuição das secreções de muco e padrão de ocorrência das células enteroendócrinas secretoras de serotonina e somatostatina no TGI, o que possivelmente reflete uma resposta adaptativa interespecifica.

Gastroesophageal tube of the Iguana iguana (Iguanidae): histological description, histochemical and immunohistochemical analysis of 5-HT and SS cells / Tubo gastroesofágico da Iguana iguana (Iguanidae): descrição histológica, histoquímica e análise imunohistoquímica de células 5-HT e SS

Abstract The work aims were to describe the histological and histochemical structure of the gastroesophageal tube of Iguana iguana and verify the occurrence and distribution of immunoreactive serotonin (5-HT) and somatostatin (SS) cells. Fragments of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) of five iguanas were which underwent standard histological and immunohistochemistry technique. Immunoreactive cells for 5-HT and SS were quantified using the STEPanizer. The oesophagus has ciliated columnar pseudostratified epithelium with staining Alcian blue (AB) + and goblet cells highly reactive to periodic acid Schiff (PAS). In the cervical oesophagus, the numerical density of 5-HT cells per unit area (QA [5-HT cells]/µm2) was 4.6x10-2 ± 2.0 and celomatic oesophagus presented QA = 4.0x10-2 ± 1.0. The epithelium of the stomach is simple columnar, PAS and AB +. The cranial and middle regions of the stomach presented (QA [5-HT cells]/µm2) = 6.18x10-2 ± 3.2 and the caudal region, QA = 0.6x10-2 ± 0.2. The SS cells were only observed in the caudal stomach, with numerical density (QA [SS cells]/µm2) = 1.4x10-2 ± 0.9 In I. iguana, variation was observed in terms of the distribution of mucus secretions and the pattern of occurrence of serotonin and somatostatin-secreting enteroendocrine cells in the TGI, which possibly will result in an interspecific adaptive response.

Resumo Os objetivos do trabalho foram descrever a estrutura histológica e histoquímica do tubo gastroesofágico da Iguana iguana e verificar a ocorrência e distribuição de células serotonina (5-HT) e somatostatina (SS) imunorreativas. Fragmentos do trato gastrointestinal (TGI) de cinco iguanas foram submetidos à técnica histológica e imunohistoquímica padrão. As células imunorreativas para 5-HT e SS foram quantificadas usando o STEPanizer. O esôfago apresenta epitélio pseudoestratificado colunar ciliado Alcian blue (AB) positivo, com células caliciformes altamente reativas ao ácido periódico de Schiff (PAS). No esôfago cervical, a densidade numérica de células 5-HT por unidade de área (QA [células 5-HT] / µm2) foi de 4.6x10-2 ± 2.0 e o esôfago celomático apresentou QA = 4.0x10-2 ± 1.0. O epitélio do estômago é colunar simples, PAS e AB positivo. As regiões cranial e média do estômago apresentaram (QA [células 5-HT] / µm2) = 6.18x10-2 ± 3.2 e a região caudal, QA = 0.6x10-2 ± 0.2. As células SS foram observadas apenas no estômago caudal, com densidade numérica (QA [células SS] / µm2) = 1.4x10-2 ± 0.9. Em I. iguana, foi observada variações em termos da distribuição das secreções de muco e padrão de ocorrência das células enteroendócrinas secretoras de serotonina e somatostatina no TGI, o que possivelmente reflete uma resposta adaptativa interespecifica.

Muscular anatomy of the pectoral girdle and forelimb of Iguana i. iguana (Squamata: Iguanidae) / Anatomia muscular do cíngulo peitoral e membro torácico de Iguana i. iguana (Squamata: Iguanidae)

Green iguana has arboreal and terrestrial habits. It is widely distributed in Central and South America, inhabiting several biomes in Brazil. Some researches were focused on this species, however, morphological information are still limited. With that in sight, we aimed to add data to the anatomical knowledge. Two post mortem specimen of Iguana i. iguana were acquired, donated by a scientific breeding, and dissected. To describe the muscles we refuted the skin and removed the fascias, individualizing the muscles. We identified the following muscles: pectoralis, deltoideus clavicularis, deltoideus scapularis, trapezius, latissimus dorsi, coracobrachialis brevis, coracobrachialis longus, serratus thoracis, levator scapulae, biceps brachii and triceps brachii. Some of them, like coracobrachialis brevis, present conservative anatomy, originating from the ventral surface of the coracoid and inserting onto the proximal humerus. Some, like trapezius and biceps brachii, are similar to other reptile species, trapezius takes its origin from the thoracodorsal fascia and biceps arises by two heads and inserts on the radial tuberosity. Deltoideus clavicularis and deltoideus scapularis share a common insertion tendon. Pectoralis varies its origin and divisions, however, the insertion always occur on the deltopectoral crest. Triceps brachii is comprised of four heads. Its long medial head originates via a tendinous arc, feature described only in crocodilians. We conclude that Iguana i. iguana forelimb musculature is similar to other reptiles, presenting its own characteristics that reflect its habits.

Iguanas verdes tem hábitos arbóreos, terrestres e aquáticos, e são totalmente herbívoras. Tem ampla distribuição na América Central e do Sul, habitando vários biomas no Brasil. Investigações diversas tiveram esta espécie como foco, embora informações morfológicas sejam ainda escassas. Objetivando adicionar dados ao conhecimento anatômico, dois espécimes de Iguana i. iguana foram obtidos post mortem, por doação de um criadouro científico, e dissecados. Os músculos foram individualizados para identificação e descrição das origens, inserções e características. Alguns músculos, como o coracobraquial curto, apresentam morfologia conservativa, sua origem ocorre na superfície ventral do coracóide e inserção na epífise proximal do úmero. O trapézio, o bíceps braquial e o deltóide clavicular se apresentam similares à outros répteis, com a origem do trapézio na fáscia toracodorsal e o bíceps, com duas cabeças, se inserindo no tubérculo do rádio. O deltóide clavicular possui o tendão de inserção unido ao do músculo deltóide escapular. O músculo peitoral apresenta variações em sua origem e divisões, mas a inserção sempre ocorre na crista deltopeitoral. A origem da cabeça longa caudal do tríceps ocorre por meio de arco tendíneo, característica antes descrita apenas em crocodilianos. A musculatura de Iguana i. iguana se apresenta similar à de outros répteis no geral, com características próprias refletindo seus hábitos.

Nematodes associated with Iguana iguana (Linnaeus, 1758) (Squamata, Iguanidae) in Semi-arid areas of Northeastern Brazil / Nematoda associados a Iguana iguana (Linnaeus, 1758) (Squamata: Iguanidae) em áreas do semi-árido do nordeste do Brasil

Abstract Nematodes were analyzed in Iguana iguana, a large lizard Iguanidae that is widely distributed throughout the Americas. The aims of the study were investigate the helminths associated with the lizard, I. iguana in semi-arid areas of northeastern Brazil and analyze the parasitological indices (prevalence, and mean intensity of infection). A total of 18 specimens of I. iguana were examined (8 males and 10 females). The overall prevalence of infection was 66.6% (12/18), while in males, it was 75% (6/8) and in females, 60% (6/10). Iguana iguana was identified as a new host for Physaloptera sp., Atractis sp., Piratuba sp. and Subulura sp. This registered contributes to the knowledge of helminth diversity associated with this host.

Resumo Foram analisados os nematóides em Iguana iguana, um grande lagarto Iguanidae que possui ampla distribuição pelas Américas. Os objetivos do estudo foram investigar os helmintos associados ao lagarto I. iguana e seus índices parasitológicos (prevalência e intensidade média de infecção). Foram examinados 18 espécimes (oito machos e 10 fêmeas). A prevalência total foi de 66,6% (12/18), nos machos foi de 75% (6/8) e nas fêmeas 60% (6/10). Iguana iguana foi identificado como um novo hospedeiro para Physaloptera sp., Atractis sp., Piratuba sp., e Subulura sp. Este registro contribui para o conhecimento da diversidade de helmintos associados a este hospedeiro.

Origins of plexus brachial in Iguana iguana iguana / Origens do plexo braquial da Iguana iguana iguana

This paper aims to describe the origin of the brachial plexus of 12 iguanas, male and female, which were donated already dead by the Wild Animal Screening Center and Independent Company of Highway and Environmental Police of the Araguaína, Tocantins State, to Veterinary Anatomy Laboratory of Federal University of Tocantins, Araguaína campus These animals were fixed by intramuscular injections of aqueous 10% formalin. It was made a parallel incision to dorsal midline from the skull to the caudal ribs. It was pulled all the epiaxial muscles eight ribs, the periosteum, exposing and individualizing the ventral rami of spinal nerves that make up the brachial plexus. The ventral rami of spinal nerves C6, C7, C8, T1 and T2 form the brachial plexus in 12 iguanas. In 41.6% of cases, the branches involved were C6, C7, C8 and T1; in 33.4%, the branches C6, C7, C8, T1 and T2; 16.6% the branches C7, C8, T1 and T2 and in 8.4%, the branches C7, C8 and T1. The branches ventral C7, C8 and T1 formed three trunks and C6 and T2, when present, consisted of nervous fillet. There was variation in number of vertebrae in Iguana iguana iguana which caused oscillations in anastomoses, that constitute the nerves of brachial plexus. The axillary, subscapular, cutaneous, pectoral, coracobrachialis, radial, median, ulnar, thoracodorsal nerves are the main nerves that constitute the brachial plexus in iguanas.

Esse trabalho tem como objetivo descrever a origem do plexo braquial de 12 iguanas, machos e fêmeas, doados mortos pelo Centro de Triagem de Animais Silvestres e Companhia Independente de Polícia Rodoviária e Ambiental ­ Araguaína ­ Tocantins, ao Laboratório de Anatomia da Universidade Federal do Tocantins, campus de Araguaína. Fixou-se os animais com injeções intramusculares de solução aquosa de formalina a 10%. Realizou-se uma incisão paralela a linha mediana dorsal desde o crânio até a região caudal das costelas. Retirou toda a musculatura epiaxial, oito costelas, o periósteo, expondo e individualizando os ramos ventrais dos nervos espinhais que compõem o plexo braquial. Os ramos ventrais dos nervos espinhais C6, C7, C8, T1 e T2 formam o plexo braquial nas 12 iguanas. Em 41,6% dos casos, os ramos envolvidos foram C6, C7, C8 e T1; em 33,4%, os ramos C6, C7, C8, T1 e T2; em 16,6 % os ramos C7, C8, T1 e T2 e em 8,4%, os ramos C7, C8 e T1. Dos ramos ventrais C7, C8 e T1 formavam três troncos e C6 e T2, quando presentes, consistiam de filetes nervosos. Houve variação no número de vértebras na Iguana iguana iguana, que provocaram oscilações nas anastomoses que constituem os nervos do plexo braquial nas iguanas. Os nervos axillar, subscapular, cutâneo, peitoral, coracobraquial, radial, mediano, ulnar e toracodorsal são os principais nervos que constituem o plexo braquial nas iguanas.

The skull bones of the Iguana iguana / Ossos do crânio do Iguana iguana

The iguanas (Iguana iguana) are animals that can reach up 110 cm. The crest of spines that is located at the its back long characterizes these animals. They live from Mexico to Central Brazil, in the Amazon, Cerrado, and Caatinga, they live in trees and have daytime habits and are herbivorous. This group habits all regions, except the polars regions. The objective was the description of the skull of bones of a representative of this specie. The members of this group live in all regions, except the Polar Regions. The objective of this research was to give a description of the skull bones of this specie. The Companhia Independente de Polícia Rodoviária e Ambiental do Estado do Tocantins (CIPRA) gave to the Veterinary Anatomy Laboratory of the Veterinarian Medical College, of the Tocantins Federal University, Campus of Araguaína, a specie the animal, after the animal be killed by a trauma. The animal's body was macerate by the technique of cooking. The skull was separate from the body, and following was accomplished the description of the skull bones. The following bones form the Iguana skull: premaxillary, nasal, prefrontal, frontal, prefrontal, parietal, jaw, lachrymal, jugal, postorbital, squamosal, ectopterygoid, epipterigoide, pterygoid, prootic quadrate bone, jaw, vomer, palatine, parasphenoid rostral, parasphenoid rostral, parabasisphenoid, supratemporal, exoccipital-opisthotic, supraoccipital. The iguana skull bones present similarity to the skull bones of the others representatives of the reptiles.

As iguanas (Iguana iguana) são animais que podem atingir até 110 cm de comprimento. Estes animais são reconhecidos pela crista de espinhos que percorre toda a extensão das costas. Vivem na Amazônia, Cerrado e Caatinga, desde o México até o Brasil Central, e são arborícolas, de hábito diurno e são herbívoros. Os répteis conquistaram o ambiente terrestre, após adquirir a capacidade de evitar a desidratação, a fecundação interna e seu ovo possuir casca. Este grupo ocupa todos os habitats, exceto as regiões polares. Objetivou-se a descrição dos ossos do crânio de um exemplar desta espécie. O animai foi doado, após morte por traumatismo, pela Companhia Independente de Polícia Rodoviária e Ambiental do Estado do Tocantins (CIPRA) ao Laboratório de Anatomia Veterinária do Curso de Medicina Veterinária da Universidade Federal do Tocantins, Campus de Araguaína. Macerou-se todo o animal pela técnica de cocção. O crânio foi separado e em seguida ossos que o constituíam foram descritos. O crânio da Iguana iguana era constituído pelos seguintes ossos: pré-maxilar, nasal, pré-frontal, frontal, pós-frontal, parietal, maxilar, lacrimal, jugal, pósorbital, esquamosal, ectopterigoide, epipterigoide, pterigoide, pró-ótico, quadrado, mandíbula, vômer, palatino, paraesfenoide rostral, parabasiesfenoide, supratemporal, exo-occipital-opistótico, supraoccipital. Os ossos do crânio do iguana possuem semelhança com os ossos do crânio dos outros representantes dos répteis.

Osteologia do neurocrânio de Iguana iguana iguana (Squamata: Iguanidae) / Neurocranium osteology of Iguana iguana iguana (Squamata: Iguanidae)

O crânio representa o segmento com conspícuas adaptações que, nos lagartos, podem ser conservativas ou impulsionadas por pressões seletivas. Objetivando subsidiar o conhecimento morfológico dos répteis, fornecemos uma descrição detalhada dos ossos que formam o neurocrânio de Iguana iguana iguana com base na análise de três esqueletos secos de espécimes adultos. O crânio da referia espécie possui características basais entre os lagartos sem o fechamento das aberturas cranianas e formato geral triangular. As estruturas ósseas que formam a base craniana apresentam muitas fusões, principalmente no assoalho. Na face caudal o exoccipital e o opistótico estão fundidos e formam o otoccipital, que contribui para a formação dos terços laterais do côndilo occipital. A parte central do côndilo é formada pelo supraoccipital. Fusões e estruturas esqueléticas presentes em Iguana são similares aos demais lagartos. Não foram descritas autapomorfias no neurocrânio para esta espécie.(AU)

Skull represents the segment with conspicuous adaptations that, in lizards, may be conservative or promoted by selective pressures. The aim of assisting the morphological knowledge of reptiles, we provide a detailed description of the neurocranium of Iguana iguana iguana based on analysis of three dried adult skeletons. The skull of this species has basal characteristics in lizards without closure of cranial openings and general triangular shape. Bony structures that form the caudal base have many fusions, especially on the floor. In the caudal face the exoccipital and the opisthotic are fused and form the otooccipital, which contributes to the formation of the lateral part of the condyle. The central part is formed by the condyle supraocciopital. Fusions and skeletal structures in Iguana are similar to other lizards. There are no autopomorphies in the neurocranium for this species.(AU)

Diet and helminths of Enyalius brasiliensis (Lacertilia, Iguania, Leiosauridae) in an Atlantic Rainforest remnant in southeastern Brazil / Dieta e helmintos de Enyalius brasiliensis (Lacertilia, Iguania, Leiosauridae) em um remanescente de Mata Atlântica do sudeste do Brasil

Our study aimed to add information about the diet and endoparasites of Enyalius brasiliensis from an Atlantic Rainforest remnant in the state of Rio de Janeiro, southeastern Brazil. Regarding diet, E. brasiliensis consumed arthropods, with caterpillars and beetles being the most important preys. Regarding helminth parasites, overall prevalence was low (9.5%), with 238 nematodes of the genus Physaloptera found in the stomach of one specimen and one nematode of the genus Rhabdias inside the lung of another. Our results corroborate the observations of previous studies that indicate that lizards of the genus Enyalius tend to feed mainly on relatively large-bodied arthropods and to harbour depauperate endoparasite fauna.

Nosso estudo teve como objetivo adicionar informações sobre a dieta e endoparasitas de Enyalius brasiliensis em um remanescente de Mata Atlântica do estado do Rio de Janeiro, sudeste do Brasil. Em relação à dieta, E. brasiliensis consumiu artrópodes, sendo que lagartas e besouros foram as presas mais importantes. Em relação ao parasitismo por helmintos, a prevalência foi baixa (9,5%), com 238 nematóides do gênero Physaloptera encontrados no estômago de um espécime, e um nematóide do gênero Rhabdias infectando o pulmão de outro. Nossos resultados corroboraram as observações de estudos anteriores que indicaram que lagartos do gênero Enyalius tendem a se alimentar principalmente de artrópodos de grande porte e abrigar uma fauna depauperada de endoparasitas.

Basic ecology of the Oaxacan Spiny-tailed Iguana Ctenosaura oaxacana (Squamata: Iguanidae), in Oaxaca, Mexico

The Oaxacan Spiny-tailed Iguana Ctenosaura oaxacana is a restricted species to the Isthmus of Tehuantepec in Southern Oaxaca, Mexico. This reptile is one of the less known iguanid species. We censustracked a population in the South of Niltepec, Oaxaca, Mexico from May 2010 to April 2011. Throughout one year, a total of 10 line transects were situated and recorded in the study area to determine relative abundance and density, and habitat type use (dry forest, Nanchal, grassland, riparian vegetation, and mangrove) by the species. This study reports a new C. oaxacana population on the Southeastern limit of species range. Although this species has a very restricted distribution and is in danger of extinction, C. oaxacana has a high population density when compared to other Ctenosaura species. A total of 108 individuals were recorded throughout the study. Dry forest (33.75ind/ha) and Nanchal (18.75ind/ha) were the habitats with higher densities. Comparisons between habitat types showed no significant differences between dry forest and Nanchal (W=15, p=0.0808). Results between seasons were similar. The Oaxacan Spiny tailed Iguana preferred first the dry forest, and then Nanchal, while avoided grassland, riparian vegetation, and mangroves. There was no difference in habitat use between males and females. Mean perch heights were 1.23±0.32 (n=30) in Nanchal, 2.11±0.30 (n=9) in grassland, 1.90±0.56 (n=54) in dry forest, 1.91±0.28 (n=9) in mangrove and 2.30±0.37 (n=6) in riparian vegetation. Species observed as refuge and perch were B. crassifolia (Nanchal); C. alata (grassland); Tabebuia sp., Genipa americana, G. sepium, Acacia sp., Ficus sp. and Haematoxylon sp. (dry forest); G. sepium, Acacia sp. and Guazuma ulmifolia (riparian vegetation); and C. erecta (mangrove). Live trees hollows and branches were used by species. Main threats to the species are excessive hunting and habitat loss. Furthermore, grassland fires are still common in the study ...

La Iguana de Cola Espinosa Ctenosaura oaxacana es una especie restringida al Istmo de Tehuantepec en el Sureste de Oaxaca, México. Este reptil es uno de los iguánidos menos conocidos. Entre Mayo 2010 y Abril 2011 hicimos el seguimiento de una población al Sur de Niltepec, Oaxaca, México. A lo largo de un año, se colocaron y monitorearon un total de diez transectos en el área de estudio, para determinar la abundancia relativa, densidad y uso de hábitat (selva seca, Nanchal, pastizal, vegetación riparia y manglar) de la especie. Esta investigación reporta una nueva población de C. oaxacana en el límite sureste de la distribución conocida para la especie. Aunque esta especie posee una distribución muy restringida y se encuentra en peligro de extinción, C. oaxacana presenta una alta densidad poblacional comparada con otras especies de Ctenosaura. Se registró un total de 108 individuos a lo largo del estudio. La selva seca (33.75ind/ha) y el Nanchal (18.75ind/ha) fueron los hábitats con densidad más alta. No se encontró diferencia significativa entre la selva seca y el Nanchal (W=15, p=0.0808). Al comparar entre estaciones el resultado fue similar. La Iguana de Cola Espinosa prefirió la selva seca y después al Nanchal, mientras que evitó el pastizal, la vegetación riparia y el manglar. No se registró diferencia en el uso de hábitat entre machos y hembras. La altura media de las perchas fue 1.23±0.32 (n=30) en Nanchal, 2.11±0.30 (n=9) en pastizal, 1.90±0.56 (n=54) en selva baja, 1.91±0.28 (n=9) en manglar y 2.30±0.37 (n=6) en vegetación riparia. Las especies observadas como refugio y percha fueron B. crassifolia (Nanchal); C. alata (pastizal); Tabebuia sp., Genipa americana, G. sepium, Acacia sp., Ficus sp. y Haematoxylon sp. (selva seca); G. sepium, Acacia sp. y Guazuma ulmifolia (vegetación riparia); y C. erecta (manglar). La especie utilizó agujeros y ramas de árboles vivos. Las principales amenazas para la especie son la cacería excesiva y la pérdida de hábitat. Además, la quema de pastizales sigue siendo común en el área de estudio durante la temporada seca, lo que puede resultar en la pérdida de hábitat y el desplazamiento territorial de los individuos.

Formation of the spermatozoon during and after spermiogenesis in Iguana iguana Linnaeus, 1758 (Reptilia, Iguanidae), with special attention to the middle piece and axonemic complex / Formação do espermatozóide durante e após a espermiogênese em Iguana iguana Linnaeus, 1758 (Reptilia, iguanidae), com especial atenção para a peça intermediária e complexo axonêmico

Spermiogenesis involves a series of cellular modifications, culminating in the production of a highly specialized cell, the spermatozoon. To reassess the peculiarities of this process, specimens of the lizard Iguana iguana were collected in the Pantanal, Mato Grosso do Sul state, Brazil; the testis and ducts were processed according to routine methods for light, scanning and transmission electron microscopy. After nuclear condensation and elongation, the cytoplasm and organelles flow towards the basal area, below the nucleus. An infolding occurs at the nuclear base, where the middle piece is implanted. This area contains a centriole pair, with the proximal one perpendicular and the distal one parallel to the nuclear axis. The distal centriole can be functionally compared to the basal corpuscle at the axoneme base. The mitochondria, that are round or elongated with transverse cristae, initially organized around the centriole in continuous rings; later they alternate with dense bodies. Thus the dense bodies are apparently formed by mitochondrial modification with deposition of dense material. In I. iguana the formation of dense bodies is one of the last events of spermiogenesis. Marking the transition between middle piece and flagellum is the annulus. This structure blocks the displacement of mitochondria from the middle piece during flagellar movement. Halfway down the middle piece, a fibrous sheath is formed by the accumulation of an amorphous layer surrounding the axoneme, and this structure is the axonemic complex. In the spermatozoa of I. iguana, the flagellar end piece is reduced in diameter, because the fibrous sheath terminates and only the typical axonemal microtubule pattern (9+2) is present. A large amount of cytoplasm is observed around spermatozoa in the seminiferous tubule lumen, suggesting that these are immature spermatozoa. Structural modifications occur during their passage through the reproductive tract...

A espermiogênese envolve uma série de modificações celulares, culminando na formação de uma célula altamente especializada, o espermatozóide. Para re-avaliarmos as peculiaridades desse processo, espécimes do lagarto Iguana iguana foram coletados no Pantanal, estado de Mato Grosso do Sul, Brasil; os testículos e ductos foram retirados e processados de acordo com a rotina para microscopia de luz e eletrônica de transmissão e varredura. Após a condensação e alongamento do núcleo, o citoplasma e as organelas se deslocam para região basal abaixo do núcleo. Nessa região basal do núcleo é implantada a peça intermediária. Essa área contém um par de centríolos, sendo um proximal e perpendicular e um distal paralelo ao eixo maior do núcleo. O centríolo distal pode ser comparado funcionalmente ao corpúsculo basal na base do axonema. As mitocôndrias são redondas ou alongadas com cristas transversais, organizadas em torno dos centríolos em anéis contínuos; esses anéis são alternados por corpos densos. Esses corpos densos são aparentemente formados por mitocôndrias modificadas com deposição de material denso. Em I. iguana a formação desses corpos densos é um dos últimos eventos da espermiogênese. O que marca a transição entre a peça intermediária e o flagelo é o annulus. Esta estrutura obstrui o deslocamento das mitocôndrias da peça intermediária durante o movimento flagelar. A peça intermediária apresenta uma parte incompleta formada pelo acúmulo de uma camada amorfa que cerca o axonema chamada de bainha fibrosa, o conjunto dessas estruturas é o complexo axonêmico. No espermatozóide de I. iguana a peça final flagelar tem o diâmetro reduzido, com o término da bainha fibrosa permanecendo um típico padrão axonêmico de microtúbulos (9+2). Uma quantidade grande de citoplasma é observada em torno dos espermatozóides no lúmen dos túbulos seminíferos, sugerindo que estes são espermatozóides imaturos. As modificações estruturais ocorrem durante a sua passagem através...

Desplazamientos de la iguana verde, Iguana iguana (Squamata: Iguanidae) durante la estación seca en La Palma, Veracruz, México

Displacements of the green iguana (Iguana iguana) (Squamata: Iguanidae) during the dry season in La Palma, Veracruz, Mexico. The green iguana (Iguana iguana) is said to be primarily sedentary, although the females travel long distances to nest. Displacement patterns must be known to help predict the effects of environmental disturbance on iguanas’ survival. We studied nesting season (February-July) movements in La Palma, Los Tuxtlas, Veracruz, Mexico (18°33’ N, 95°03’ W). Individual movements and activity were monitored by radio tracking. The transmitters were implanted surgically in eight adult iguanas (four males and four females). Snout vent length (SVL) was used to determine the relationship between size of the body and size of home range. To estimate the size of home range, three or more points were used. Minimum convex polygons estimates of home range were calculated with McPAAL. The iguanas were radio-located between 23 and 30 occasions, mainly in trees (56 % between 3-9 m); only 4 % were localized under a height of 3 m (forest floor). The occupation area mean was larger for males (9 158.06±3 025.3m² vs. 6 591.24±4 001.1 m²) although the differences were not significant (t= 0.51, p>0.05). SVL was correlated with home range (r= 0.76; gl= 7; p<0.05). Breeding males defended their home range vigorously against other adult males. We observed one separate male home range and large portions of overlap between the sexes. The home range generally formed a conglomerate of polygons and only two had linear shapes along the river: apparently iguanas use the riparian vegetation for foraging. The females display two strategies for nesting: 1) moving to the sandy area near the sea or, 2) laying eggs near the river, in loam. Iguanas responded to habitat fragmentation and reduction by modifying their nesting strategy. Rev. Biol. Trop. 55 (2): 709-715. Epub 2007 June, 29.

Usamos radiotransmisores para determinar los desplazamientos de la iguana verde (Iguana iguana) en el periodo de anidación (febrero-julio) en La Palma, Los Tuxtlas, Veracruz, México (18°33’ N, 95°03’ W). Las iguanas fueron radiolocalizadas entre 23 y 30 ocasiones, principalmente en árboles (56 % entre 3-9 m); sólo 4 % fueron localizadas en el suelo. El tamaño del ámbito hogareño de machos y de hembras fue similar (9 158.06±3 025.3 m² vs. 6 591.24±4 001.1 m², respectivamente; t= 0.51, p>0.05). Se encontró una correlación significativa entre la LHC y el ámbito hogareño (r= 0.76, gl= 7, p<0.05). Las hembras tienen dos estrategias para anidar: 1) viajan para depositar los huevos a la arena de la playa, o 2) permanecen cerca de su ambiente ribereño y anidan en suelo arenoso-arcilloso. Al parecer, el ambiente fragmentado de la zona de la Palma, influye en la estrategia de anidación de la iguana verde.

Demografía y ecología de anidación de la iguana verde, Iguana iguana (Squamata: Iguanidae), en dos poblaciones explotadas en la Depresión Momposina, Colombia / Demography and nesting ecology of green iguana, Iguana iguana (Squamata: Iguanidae), in 2 exploited populations in Depresión Momposina, Colombia

We studied the demography and nesting ecology of two populations of Iguana iguana that face heavy exploitation and habitat modification in the Momposina Depression, Colombia. Lineal transect data was analyzed using the Fourier model to provide estimates of social group densities, which was found to differ both within and among populations (1.05-6.0 groups/ha). Mean group size and overall iguana density estimates varied between populations as well (1.5-13.7 iguanas/ha). The density estimates were far lower than those reported from more protected areas in Panama and Venezuela. Iguana densities were consistently higher in sites located along rivers (2.5 iguanas/group) than in sites along the margin of marshes, probably due to vegetational differences (1.5 iguanas/group). There was no correlation between density estimates and estimates of relative abundance (number of iguanas seen/hour/person) due to differing detectabilities of iguana groups among sites. The adult sex ratio (1:2.5 males:females) agreed well with other reports in the literature based upon observation of adult social groups, and probably results from the polygynous mating system in this species rather than a real demographic skew. Nesting in this population occurs from the end of January through March and hatching occurs between April and May. We monitored 34 nests, which suffered little vertebrate predation, perhaps due to the lack of a complete vertebrate fauna in this densely inhabited area, but nests suffered from inundation, cattle trampling, and infestation by phorid fly larvae. Clutch sizes in these populations were lower than all other published reports except for the iguana population on the highly xeric island of Curaçao, implying that adult females in our area are unusually small. We argue that this is more likely the result of the exploitation of these populations rather than an adaptive response to environmentally extreme conditions.

Analysis of iguana iguana farming systems in Nicaragua: Costa Rica and Panama

Este estudio evaluó sistemas de cultivo de Iguana iguana (iguana verde) en Nicaragua, Costa Rica y Panamá. Los datos fueron acopiados en 1997, a través de entrevistas a cultivadores de iguana, sus vecinos, expertos en iguana y funcionarios gubernamentales acerca de los beneficios socieconómicos y ecológicos del cultivo de iguanas. Se esperaba que este cultivo proveería ingresos adicionales, estimularía la conservación de la naturaleza y la producción de proteína animal, y aumentaría el número de árboles y el conocimiento acerca de la naturaleza. Una limitación mayor fue la inversión inicial, en especial porque los bancos no contemplan programas crediticios y los pequeños productores dependían de esquemas crediticios de ONGs. En nicaragua y Panamá, los sistemas de cultivo de iguana existentes tenían pocas perspectivas de generar ingresos adicionales. El cultivo de iguanas tuvo beneficios ecológicos al estimular actitudes de conservación de la naturaleza y los árboles, aumentó el conocimiento de la naturaleza de los campesinos, y se basó en alimentos locales. La legislación existente y las regulaciones del cultivo y comercio de iguanas limitaron las posibilidades de comercialización de iguanas y sus productos. La mayoría de los sistemas de cultivo de iguana no generaron ingresos adicionales, tuvieron altos costos iniciales y necesitaron de ayuda profesional para cumplir con los requisitos formales. Para introducir exitosamente el cultivo de iguana, éste debe resultar en ganancias para los campesinos, quienes deben recibir ayuda profesional para cumplir los requisitos formales para el cultivo de iguana

Reproductive cycle of male green iguanas, Iguana iguana (reptilla: sauria: iguanidae), in the Pantanal region of Brazil

Adult male green iguana (Iguana iguana) (n=10) were collected in different seasons in the Brazilian Pantanal and their testes were examined using light and scanning electron microscopy. The annual reproductive cycle involved four stages which alternated between a maximum and a minimum of spermatogenesis. During the cycle, there was an inversely proportional relationship between the development of the semibiferous tubules and the interstitial tissue. In the first stage of the cycle (October-December, inundation season) there was minimum spermatogenesis, with only the initial divisions of spertogonia, whereas the interstitial tissue and Leydig cells were well developed. This state continued during the second stage (January-March, flood season) with initial germ cell development and a reduction in interstitial tissue. In the third stage (April-June, drainage season) there was maximal germ cell activity with all phases of cell maturation present whereas the interstitial tissue was greatly reduced. Spermiation occurred in the last stage (July-September, dry season) and left large amounts of residual cytoplasm in the seminiferous tubule lumen. The possible social and environmental implications of this cycle are discussed.

Análisis comparativo proximal y de minerales entre carnes de iguana, pollo y res / Comparative proximate and mineral analysis of iguana, poultry and beef meats

Se estudió la composición proximal (g/100g) y el contenido de algunos minerales (mg/100g) en carne cruda de especies diferentes (n=20/especie). La carne de iguana (Iguana iguana) se obtuvo de ejemplares enteros capturados en finca. Muslos y pechugas, exentos de piel, conformaron las muestras de carne de pollo, mientras que bistés de longissimus dorsi de reses bovinas de varios tipos raciales, representaron la carne de vacuno. Se utilizó un diseño completamente al azar, siendo la especie la única fuente de variación. Los resultados del análisis de varianza por cuadrados mínimos, indicaron que la especie afectó significativamente todas las variables estudiadas (p < 0.05). El promedio de humedad en carnes de iguana y pollo, fue similar (74.7 y 74.9 por ciento) y superior a la de vacuno (73.0 por ciento) (p < 0.01). El mayor contenido medio de proteína (p<0.05) se obtuvo en la carne de vacuno (22.3 por ciento); la carne de iguana, tuvo un valor intermedio (20.8 por ciento). El contenido de grasa en carne de pollo (7.75 ñ 0.20 g/100g) fue superior al de las especies restantes (p<0.01). La carne de iguana presentó un contenido porcentual mayor de cenizas (p<0.05) y de todos los minerales individuales, a excepción de K y Zn, los que se concentraron más en carne de vacuno (p<0.05). No hubo diferencias entre las carnes de pollo y vacuno para los contenidos de Mg, Na, Cu, y Mn. Se concluye que la carne de iguana constituye una fuente alterna de proteina y minerales frente a las especies tradicionales

Description of the oocysts of three new species of Eimeria (Apicomplexa: Eimeriidae) from iguanid lizards (Sauria: Iguanidae) of Central and South America

Three new species of Eimeria are described from iguanid lizards of Central and South America. The oocysts of each species have no micropyles or residua and the sporocysts lack Stieda bodies, but all have a sporocyst residuum. Eimeria sanctaluciae n. sp. was found in the St. Lucia tree lizard, Anolis luciae, collected from the Maria Islands, Lesser Antilles. The oocysts are spherical to subspherical, averaging 17.3 x 16.5 µm, with a single layered colourless wall; about 60 per cent contain polar granules. The sporocysts are ellipsoidal and average 7.7 x 5.5 µm. Eimeria liolaemi s. np. was recovered from the blue-gold swift, Liolaemus taenius from Chile. The oocysts are spherical to subspherical, measuring 21 x 20.1 µm with a single-layered colourless wall. The sporocysts are subspherical and average 7.4 x 6.8 µm. Eimeria caesicia n. sp. is described from the Brazilian collared iguanid, Tropidurus torquatus. The oocysts measure 27.4 x 23.7 µm, are spherical to subspherical, with a bilayered wall, the outer surface of which appears pale blue in colour, the thin, inner wall appearing brown, when viewed by direct light under the optical microscope. The sporocysts are subspherical and average 9.4 x 7.2 µm. Unamed polysporocystid oocysts with dizoic sporocysts are reported from the faeces of the lesser St. Vincent tree lizard, Anolis trinitatis and the possibility of spurious parasitism briefly discussed. In addition, oocysts of an unnamed Isospora sp. with a smooth oocyst wall which closely resembles I. reui were recovered from A. trinitatis.

Physaloptera lutzi (nematoda, physalopteridae) parásito de liolaemus (iguania, tropiduridae) del noroeste argentino / Physaloptera lutzi (nematoda, physalopteridae) parasite from liolaemus (iguania, tropiduridae) from north-western Argentina

Specimens collected in several localities from and Tucumán provinces (north-western Argentina) Liolaemus quilmes and L. ornatus (oviparous population), and L. alticolor (viviparous population) were dissected. The specimens of lizards examinated have nematodes, in stomach, fore-gut and cloaca, identified as Physaloptera lutzi Guimaraes, Cristófaro and Rodrigues, 1976. This represents the first record for this parasite from Liolaemus species in Argentina. Morphologic and morphometric parasitological studies were done. The specimens were drawned and photographed. Also, the following parasitic infection indexes were calculated: prevalence, mean and maximun intensity

Organización topográfica y áreas especializadas en la retina de callopistes palluma: capa de células ganglionares / Topographic organization and specialized areas in the retina of callopistes palluma: ganglion cell layer

En este trabajo se analizan la distribución topográfica y el tamaño de los elementos neuronales (células ganglionares y amacrinas desplazadas) ubicadas en la capa 8 de la retina de un saurio chileno, Callopistes palluma, utilizando montajes in toto teñidos con técnica de Nissl. Callopistes palluma presenta una retina afoveada, con un área central donde la densidad de células ganglionares y amacrinas desplazadas es de 20.000 y 7.000 cell/mm², respectivamente. La densidad neuronal cae gradualmente hacia la periferia, extendiéndose en el eje naso-temporal de la retina, estableciéndose para ambos tipos neuronianos una banda horizontal de mayor densidad. En las diferentes zonas de la retina, las células amacrinas desplazadas comprenden entre el 25 y el 30 por ciento de la población neuronal total de la capa 8. El análisis del tamaño celular revela que a nivel del área central se observan neuronas de tamaño pequeño con medianas de 32 µm² para las amacrinas desplazadas. En la retina periférica se aprecia un incremento en el tamaño celular y las medianas suben a 42 µm² y 12 µm² de área celular para las ganglionares y amacrinas, respectivamente. En el texto se discute la correlación entre características retinianas y estilos de caza

Ultrastructure of an iguana fast twitch denervated muscle / Ultraestructura de un músculo fásico rápiso desnervado de la iguana

This ultrastructural study was undertaken to investigate the morphological changes which occur in the fast twitch gastrocnemius muscle of the reptile Iguana after nerve section. It was found that initial degenerative alterations appeared in muscle fibers two weeks after denervation and prograssed aling the two months of the investigative period. They consisted of disorganization of contractile and sarcotubular elements and the appearance of autophagic vacuoles with mitochondrial debris. However, even two months after nerve section some myofibrils and mitochondria looked normal. Our results suggest that although the general course of denervation atrophy in iguana gastrocnemius is sinilar to that in other twitch muscle of vertebrates, the chonology of the process shows that iguana fast twich skeletal muscle exhibit an intermediary position among the vertebrates in relation to their velocity of response to denervation

Sleep and wakefulness in the lizard ctenosaura similis

Se estudiaron los estados de vigilancia de iguanas adultas Ctenosaura similis. Se observaron 4 estados diferentes: vigilia activa, vigilia pasiva, sueño pasivo y sueno MOR o activo. Durante el sueño pasivo, el cual fue de larga duración, los animales premanecían relajados completamente inmóviles. El sueño activo, que duraba unos cuantos segundos, se caracterizó por presentar movimientos oculares rápidos (simples o conjugados) y otras manifestaciones motoras tales como sacudidas de los miembros, movimientos de la lengua, etc. Este estado de sueño, siempre era precedido de sueño pasivo. Desde el punto de vista electoencefalográfico no se observaron las fases de sueño características de los vertebrados homeotermos, puesto que durante el sueño conductual no se presentaron las ondas lentas de gran amplitud que son típicas de la fase de sueño lento. Más bien, las actividad cerebral disminuía de amplitud cuando los animales pasaban de la vigilia al reposo. Un signo electoencefalográfico sobresaliente fue la presencia de espigas que se presentaban principalmente durante el reposo. El análisis de otras variables electrofisiológicas indica que la frecuencia cardiaca disminuyee cuando el animal pasa del estado de vigilia al del sueño conductual, presentándose marcadas arritmias a medida que el sueño se prolonga. Durante los breves periodos de sueño activo la frecuencia cardíaca se incrementó repentinamente, alcanzando algunas veces niveles semejantes a los de la vigilia. La actividad muscular disminuye al mínimo rápidamente cuando el animal passa de la vigilia al sueño conductual, sin mostrar modificación adicional hasta que se presentan los periodos de sueño activo, durante los cuales se observa una reactivación momentánea. Se concluye que, si bien debido al grado de desarrollado cerebral de los reptiles, no se presenta la actividad electoencefalográfica característica de las fases de sueño de los animales con cerebro más desarrollado, sí se presenta claramente el sueño, incluyendo una fase de movimientos oculares rápidos, análoga a la de los vertebrados superiores