Effects of the control of an invasive tree on the structure of a plant-frugivore network.

Invasive non-native species are one of the main causes of degradation of ecosystems worldwide. The control of invasive species is key to reducing threats to ecosystem viability in the long term. Observations of structural changes in ecological interaction networks following invasive species suppression can be useful to monitor the success of ecological restoration initiatives. We evaluated the structure of plant-bird frugivory interaction networks in a plant community invaded by the guava tree (Psidium guajava L.) by comparing network metrics before and after control actions. Psidium guajava was relevant in all metrics for the unmanaged network in this study, with high degree centrality and high nestedness contribution. Based on the asymmetry of species interactions, we found that birds were highly dependent on the invasive plant before suppression. Once P. guajava trees were eliminated, bird and plant species richness, total number of interactions, and modularity increased, whereas nestedness and interaction strength asymmetry decreased. The diet of the bird community became more diversified once P. guajava was no longer available and relevant species roles in community structure emerged. Our results corroborate the fact that ecological restoration interventions should include the control of non-native plant species that attract frugivorous animals in order to diversify plant-frugivore interactions and thus maintain biodiversity in natural ecosystems.

Coral Reef Water Microbial Communities of Jardines de la Reina, Cuba.

Globally, coral reef ecosystems are undergoing significant change related to climate change and anthropogenic activities. Yet, the Cuban archipelago of Jardines de la Reina (JR) has experienced fewer stressors due to its geographical remoteness and high level of conservation. This study examines the surface and benthic reef water microbial communities associated with 32 reef sites along the JR archipelago and explores the relationship between the community composition of reef microorganisms examined using bacterial and archaeal small subunit ribosomal RNA gene (16S rRNA gene) sequencing compared to geographic, conservation/protection level, environmental, physicochemical, and reef benthic and pelagic community features. Reef nutrient concentrations were low and microbial communities dominated by picocyanobacteria and SAR11 and SAR86 clade bacteria, characteristic of an oligotrophic system. Reef water microbial community alpha and beta diversity both varied throughout the archipelago and were strongly related to geography. Three sites in the western archipelago showed unique microbial communities, which may be related to the hydrogeography and influences of the channels linking the Ana Maria gulf with the Caribbean Sea. Overall, this work provides the first extensive description of the reef microbial ecology of the Caribbean's 'Crown Jewel' reef system and a framework to evaluate the influence of ongoing stressors on the reef microorganisms.

Diversity and Flight Patterns of Caddisflies (Trichoptera) in an Atlantic Forest Fragment: Implications for Species Conservation in Threatened Ecosystems.

Anthropogenic activities have decimated the Atlantic Forest domain (AF) and increased the pressure on freshwater biota, such as Trichoptera, which is the most affected order by the current insect decline. Adult mobility is crucial for the colonisation of new environments unconnected by water sources. In this article, we describe the assemblage of caddisflies in a preserved AF fragment related to their functional feeding group and provide empirical data on the patterns of horizontal and vertical flight. Adults were collected using white sheet and light attraction traps, placed at different distances and heights from a stream in Pernambuco, Brazil. A total of 2934 specimens of 15 species from five families were collected, mostly collector-filterers. Horizontal flight was limited, with 80% of the abundance concentrated up to 20 m. Vertical stratification was also concentrated at lower heights. A female-biased proportion was observed at higher strata. The richness and abundance of species decreased with increasing distances and heights from the stream. Overall, Chimarra sp. and Macrostemum scharfi were the dominant species. Trichoptera is a key taxon used as a biological indicator of water quality, and here, knowledge on the diversity and flight patterns of adults is expanded. At the risk of intensive pollution of rivers in Atlantic forests, data on the adult dispersal can be incorporated in the assessment of endangerment status and in conservation strategies.

Effects of agriculture and nature reserves on avian behavior in northwestern Costa Rica.

Behavioral changes are often animals' first responses to environmental change and may act as a bellwether for population viability. Nonetheless, most studies of habitat conversion focus on changes in species occurrences or abundances. We analyzed >14,000 behavioral observations across 55 bird species in communities in northwestern Costa Rica to determine how land use affects reproductive, foraging, and other passive kinds of behaviors not associated with either foraging or reproduction. Specifically, we quantified differences in behaviors between farms, privately owned forests, and protected areas and implemented a novel modeling framework to account for variation in detection among behaviors. This framework entailed estimating abundances of birds performing different behaviors while allowing detection probabilities of individuals to vary by behavior. Birds were 1.2 times more likely to exhibit reproductive behaviors in forest than in agriculture and 1.5 times more likely to exhibit reproductive behaviors in protected areas than in private forests. Species were not always most abundant in the habitats where they were most likely to exhibit foraging or reproductive behaviors. Finally, species of higher conservation concern were less abundant in agriculture than in forest. Together, our results highlight the importance of behavioral analyses for elucidating the conservation value of different land uses.

Efectos de la agricultura y las reservas naturales sobre el comportamiento de las aves en el noroeste de Costa Rica Resumen Los cambios conductuales suelen ser la primera respuesta de los animales ante el cambio ambiental y pueden funcionar como un barómetro para la viabilidad poblacional. Sin embargo, la mayoría de los estudios sobre la conversión del hábitat se enfocan en cambios en la presencia o abundancia de las especies. Analizamos más de 14,000 observaciones conductuales en las comunidades de 55 especies de aves del noroeste de Costa Rica para determinar cómo el uso de suelo afectó el comportamiento reproductivo, de forrajeo y otras formas pasivas no asociadas con las dos anteriores. En específico, cuantificamos las diferencias en el comportamiento entre granjas, bosques de propiedad privada y áreas protegidas e implementamos un marco novedoso de modelado para justificar la variación en la detección entre los comportamientos. Este marco implicó estimar la abundancia de aves que realizaban diferentes comportamientos mientras permitía que variaran las probabilidades de detección de individuos según el comportamiento. Fue 1.2 veces más probable que las aves exhibieran comportamiento reproductivo en el bosque que en las zonas agrícolas y 1.5 veces más probable que exhibieran estos comportamientos en las áreas protegidas que en los bosques privados. Las especies no siempre fueron las más abundantes en los hábitats en donde era más probable que exhibieran comportamientos reproductivos o de forrajeo. Por último, las especies de mayor preocupación para la conservación fueron menos abundantes en las zonas agrícolas que en los bosques. En conjunto, nuestros resultados resaltan la importancia del análisis conductual para ilustrar el valor de conservación de los diferentes usos de suelo.

A case study on pharmaceutical residues and antimicrobial resistance genes in Costa Rican rivers: A possible route of contamination for feline and other species.

In this investigation, the presence of antibiotics and pharmaceuticals in Costa Rican surface waters, specifically in regions near feline habitats, was examined. The study revealed that 47% of the water samples contained detectable traces of at least one antibiotic. Ciprofloxacin and norfloxacin were the most frequently detected compounds, each with a detection rate of 27%. Other antibiotics, such as erythromycin, roxithromycin, and trimethoprim, were also found but at lower frequencies, around 14%. Notably, all antibiotic concentrations remained below 10 ng/L, with ciprofloxacin, norfloxacin, and erythromycin showing the highest concentrations. Furthermore, the investigation revealed the presence of non-antibiotic pharmaceutical residues in the water samples, typically at concentrations below 64 ng/L. Tramadol was the most frequently detected compound, present in 18% of the samples. The highest concentrations were observed for acetaminophen and tramadol, measuring 64 and 10 ng/L, respectively. Comparing these findings with studies conducted in treated wastewater and urban rivers, it became evident that the concentrations of antibiotics and pharmaceuticals were notably lower in this study. While previous research reported higher values, the limited number of studies conducted in protected areas raises concerns about the potential environmental impact on biodiversity. In summary, these results emphasize the importance of monitoring pharmaceutical residues and antimicrobial resistance genes ARGs in vulnerable ecosystems, especially those in close proximity to feline habitats in Costa Rica. Additionally, the study delved into the detection of (ARGs). All tested water samples were positive for at least one ARG, with the blaTEM gene being the most prevalent at 82%, followed by tetS at 64% and qnrB at 23%. Moreover, this research shed light on the complexity of evaluating ARGs in environmental samples, as their presence does not necessarily indicate their expression. It also highlighted the potential for co-selection and co-regulation of ARGs, showcasing the intricate behaviors of these genes in aquatic environments.

Priority areas for conservation of the vascular flora in the Sierra Madre del Sur, Mexico / Áreas prioritarias para la conservación de la flora vascular en la Sierra Madre del Sur, México

Abstract The Sierra Madre del Sur (SMS) concentrates the greatest plant diversity in Mexico (9,524 species) and 10% of the endemism. And 8.3% of its surface is covered by Natural Protected Areas (NPAs). Strategies to create NPAs are based on identifying biodiversity hotspots to preserve the maximum number of species with the least resources. Areas with high biodiversity reflect geographic patterns and evolutionary processes useful for designing NPAs. The objectives were: were 1) to identify Priority Areas for Conservation (PACs) in the SMS based on taxonomic richness, endemism, and phylogenetic diversity, and 2) to seek the geographic congruence of the identified PACs with current NPAs. In a 10 × 10 km grid cell, indices of taxonomic richness, weighted endemism, and phylogenetic diversity were calculated for a set of 9,524 species. Furthermore, consensus areas of endemism were identified for a total of 1,133 endemic species. In the SMS, 33 consensus areas of endemism were rescued, and the taxonomic richness, weighted endemism, and phylogenetic diversity were heterogeneous and 94% correlated. Similarly, 27 PACs were identified. Three NPAs completely cover four PACs, 12 PACs are partially found in three NPAs, and in 38 Areas Voluntarily Designated for Conservation (AVDCs). Finally, 12 identified PACs are not found within any NPA. In the SMS it is necessary to promote the establishment of new NPAs or AVDCs that protect with high plant diversity.

Resumen La Sierra Madre del Sur (SMS) concentra la mayor diversidad vegetal en México (9,524 species) y el 10% del endemismo y el 8.3% de su superficie está cubierta por Áreas Naturales Protegidas (ANPs). Las estrategias para crear ANPs se basan en identificar hotspots de biodiversidad con la finalidad de preservar el máximo número de especies con la menor cantidad de recursos. Las áreas con alta biodiversidad reflejan patrones geográficos y procesos evolutivos útiles para el diseño de ANPs. Los objetivos fueron: 1) identificar Areas Prioritarias para la Conservación (APCs) en la SMS con base en la riqueza taxonómica, endemismo y diversidad filogenética, y 2) buscar la congruencia geográfica para las APCs identificadas con las ANPs actuales. En una cuadrícula de celdas de 10 × 10 km, se calcularon los índices de riqueza taxonómica, endemismo ponderado y la diversidad filogenética para un conjunto de 9,524 especies. Además, se identificaron áreas de consenso de endemismo para 1,133 especies endémicas. En la SMS, se rescataron 33 áreas de consenso de endemismo y la riqueza taxonómica, el endemismo ponderado y la diversidad filogenética fueron heterogéneos y estuvieron correlacionados en un 94%. Así mismo, se identificaron 27 APCs. Tres ANPs cubren en su totalidad cuatro APCs, 12 APCs se encuentran de manera parcial en tres ANPs y en 38 áreas destinadas voluntariamente para la conservación (ADVCs). Por último, 12 APC identificadas no se encuentran dentro de alguna ANP. En la SMS es necesario fomentar la creación de nuevas ANPs o ADVCs que resguarden los sitios con alta diversidad vegetal.

The essential habitat role of a unique coastal inlet for a widely distributed apex predator.

Essential habitats support specific functions for species, such as reproduction, feeding or refuge. For highly mobile aquatic species, identifying essential habitats within the wider distribution range is central to understanding species ecology, and underpinning effective management plans. This study examined the movement and space use patterns of sevengill sharks (Notorynchus cepedianus) in Caleta Valdés (CV), a unique coastal habitat in northern Patagonia, Argentina. Seasonal residency patterns of sharks were evident, with higher detectability in late spring and early summer and lower during autumn and winter. The overlap between the residency patterns of sharks and their prey, elephant seals, suggests that CV functions as a seasonal feeding aggregation site for N. cepedianus. The study also found sexual differences in movement behaviour, with males performing abrupt departures from CV and showing increased roaming with the presence of more sharks, and maximum detection probability at high tide. These movements could be related to different feeding strategies between sexes or mate-searching behaviour, suggesting that CV may also be essential for reproduction. Overall, this study highlights the importance of coastal sites as essential habitats for N. cepedianus and deepens our understanding of the ecological role of this apex predator in marine ecosystems.

Rocky reef incursions: challenges faced by reef fishes in a Brazilian Hope Spot region.

Biodiversity conservation has been a critical challenge faced by environmental managers worldwide. From 2020 to 2022, a total of 576 underwater visual censuses focused on reef fishes, marine litter (ML), and non-native species were performed in the newest Brazilian Hope Spot, to understand the distribution, characteristics, and effects of ML and Tubastraea spp., on the reef fish community. Plastic was the main category recorded (34.54 %), followed by Metal and Line (mostly fishing gear within a Marine Protected Area). Tubastraea spp. was widely distributed, especially between 10-20 meters deep. The t-test analysis showed that fish abundance and richness were significantly higher at low Tubastraea cover areas. Our efforts present the baseline of ML (mean 1.92 ± 1.5 items/100 m2) and non-native species occurrence (15) and distribution (including three new records) showing their negative impacts on rocky reef ecosystems and provide managers support in the elaboration of marine conservation strategies.

Composición de especies vegetales en un matorral desértico rosetófilo del norte de Coahuila, México / Plant species composition in a rosetophyllous desert scrub of northern Coahuila, Mexico

RESUMEN El Área de Protección de Flora y Fauna (APFF) Maderas del Carmen, ubicada en el estado de Coahuila, se considera un reservorio natural para el matorral rosetófilo, el cual ha sido afectado por el cambio de uso de suelo en el norte de México. El objetivo del presente trabajo fue describir el estado actual del matorral desértico rosetófilo del Área Protegida de Flora y Fauna Maderas del Carmen, con base en su estructura, composición florística y diversidad. Se evaluó la vegetación mediante 35 parcelas de 5 m x 5 m en 7 transectos lineales. Se midió altura (m), diámetro (cm) y área de copa (m2). Se determinó abundancia, dominancia y frecuencia de cada especie para obtener el índice de valor de importancia (IVI), además del índice de entropía de Shannon (H´) para conocer la diversidad, y la diversidad verdadera de Shannon (1D). Se registraron 31 familias, 61 géneros y 70 especies de plantas vasculares, incluyendo una endémica de México (Galactia brachystachys) y a 20 bajo estatus de protección, como Agave havardiana, que además, es especie vulnerable. Las familias con mayor riqueza fueron Fabaceae, Asteraceae, Asparagaceae y Cactaceae. Las formas biológicas y de vida fueron árboles y arbustos (48 %), hierbas (36 %), suculentas (13 %) y trepadoras (3 %). El H´ fue de 3.13 y la 1D de 22.87. El matorral rosetófilo del APFF Maderas del Carmen tiene una diversidad media-alta, está dominado por Agave lechuguilla Torr., con mayor abundancia e IVI. La composición florística y la diversidad encontrada permite una línea base para estudios posteriores que determinen el estatus ecológico de la zona. Especialmente para conocer con mayor detalle la dinámica poblacional de las especies endémicas y bajo estatus de protección, además del hábitat para la fauna silvestre presente en el APFF Maderas del Carmen.

ABSTRACT The Maderas del Carmen Flora and Fauna Protection Area (APFF), located in the state of Coahuila, is considered a natural reservoir for rosetophyllous scrub, which has been affected by land use change in northern Mexico. The objective of this work was to describe the current state of the rosetophilous desert scrub in the Maderas del Carmen Flora and Fauna Protected Area, based on its structure, floristic composition, and diversity. Vegetation was evaluated using 35 plots of 5 m x 5 m in 7 linear transects. Height (m), diameter (cm) and crown area (m2) were measured. Abundance, dominance and frequency of each species were determined to obtain the importance value index (IVI), in addition to the Shannon entropy index (H´) to know the diversity, and the true diversity of Shannon (1D). 31 families, 61 genera and 70 species of vascular plants were recorded, including one endemic to Mexico (Galactia brachystachys) and 20 under protection status, such as Agave havardiana, which is also a vulnerable species. The richest families were Fabaceae, Asteraceae, Asparagaceae and Cactaceae. Biological and life forms were trees and shrubs (48 %), herbs (36 %), succulents (13 %), and climbers (3 %). The H' was 3.13 and the 1D was 22.87. The rosetophilous scrub of the APFF Maderas del Carmen has a medium-high diversity, it is dominated by Agave lechuguilla Torr., with greater abundance and IVI. The floristic composition and the diversity found allow a baseline for subsequent studies that determine the ecological status of the area. Especially, they allow us to know in greater detail the population dynamics of endemic species and under protection status, in addition to the habitat for wildlife present in the APFF Maderas del Carmen.

Diversity of stink bugs (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Pentatomoidea) in the Brazilian Pampa and the Parque Estadual de Itapuã, Rio Grande do Sul.

Biological surveys represent important contributions to the knowledge of species diversity, conservation, taxonomy, and biogeography. Few surveys of stink bugs and allied groups (Pentatomoidea) were produced in Brazil, especially regarding the Brazilian Pampa, an overlooked biome. Here, a list of Pentatomoidea species of the Brazilian Pampa is presented for the first time, composed of seven families and 152 species. The results of five years of sampling in the Parque Estadual de Itapuã (PEI) are also presented. A total of 693 individuals were sampled, representing 41 species, 29 genera, and five families of Pentatomoidea. Pentatomidae presented a higher richness (28 species), followed by Cydnidae, Scutelleridae, Dinidoridae, and Megarididae. The most abundant species collected in the PEI was Brachystetus geniculatus (Fabricius) sampled in Bromelia balansae Mez (32.76%), followed by Oebalus poecilus (Dallas) found in Persicaria hydropiper (Linnaeus) (11.99%), Pallantia macula (Dallas) collected in B. balansae (10.92%), Dinidor saucius Stål (8.57%) in Smilax cf. campestris Griseb., and Caonabo pseudoscylax (Bergroth) (5.35%) found in Homolepis glutinosa (Sw.) Zuloaga & Soderstrom. This is the first time that a list of species is presented for the Brazilian Pampa and Parque Estadual de Itapuã, providing a baseline to develop further studies with Pentatomoidea in the biome.

Coral reef degradation at an atoll of the Western Colombian Caribbean.

Coral reef decline is an issue of concern around the globe. Remote and uninhabited coral areas are not exempt from facing changes in species composition and functionality due to global drivers. Quitasueño is a remote atoll within the Seaflower Biosphere Reserve, in the Southwestern Caribbean Sea. To evaluate the current status of the coral reefs in Quitasueño we sampled 120 stations through Rapid Ecological Assessment and evaluated four stations through Planar Point Intercept to compare the current percent cover of benthic groups with previous studies in the area. We found pronounced changes in coral and macroalgae covers in time, and great conspicuousness of multiple conditions of deterioration along Quitasueño, including diseases, coral predation, and aggression and invasion of coral colonies by macroalgae and sponges. The reef ecosystem seems to be facing a phase shift, in which the benthic cover previously dominated by hard corals is currently dominated by fleshy macroalgae. It is essential to evaluate the possible drivers of the extent of degradation of Quitasueño to understand the process of deterioration and mitigate the impacts.

Embriogénesis, desarrollo larval y sobrevivencia post-asentamiento del coral Orbicella annularis (Scleractinia: Merulinidae)

Introducción: Las poblaciones del coral Orbicella annularis han mostrado bajo reclutamiento en el Caribe. Uno de los cuellos de botella demográficos es la alta mortalidad en las primeras etapas de desarrollo. El conocimiento detallado del ciclo y las tasas de supervivencia de estas fases nos permitirá ayudar en la recuperación de la población y la restauración de los arrecifes. Objetivo: Describir la embriogénesis y estadios larvarios obtenidos por fertilización asistida y medir las tasas de asentamiento y supervivencia de las larvas en sustratos artificiales, antes de ser trasplantadas al arrecife. Métodos: Seis días después de la luna llena de septiembre de 2021, se recolectaron bolsas de gametos de ocho colonias de O. annularis en el Parque Nacional Natural Los Corales del Rosario y San Bernardo, Colombia, y se llevaron al laboratorio. Se realizó fecundación cruzada, se siguió el desarrollo embrionario y larvario hasta el asentamiento larval y se registró supervivencia hasta el día 41. Las larvas se mantuvieron en tres tanques con agua de mar filtrada con 126 sustratos marcados, previamente acondicionados con algas coralináceas costrosas. Luego, los sustratos se trasplantaron al arrecife. Resultados: El inicio del desarrollo embrionario ocurrió 1.11 hAF (horas después de la fertilización), cuando las células mostraron signos de la primera división, y duró hasta 104.59 hAF cuando comenzaron a metamorfosearse. El asentamiento de larvas se observó al sexto día AF. Veintiún días después de la fecundación se encontraron zooxantelas. La supervivencia de las larvas después del asentamiento fue de 27.5 %. Conclusión: En este primer esfuerzo de propagación sexual utilizando O. annularis en Colombia, 1.4 % de larvas competentes completaron todo el proceso de desarrollo. Aunque la tasa de supervivencia fue baja, estos resultados se suman a los esfuerzos de restauración de corales en el Caribe en los que se ayuda a las especies a aumentar la supervivencia de los corales en sus primeras etapas de desarrollo.

Introduction: Populations of the coral Orbicella annularis have shown low recruitment in the Caribbean. One of the demographic bottlenecks is the high mortality in the early stages of development. Detailed knowledge of the cycle and survival rates of these phases will allow us to assist in population recovery and reef restoration. Objective: To describe the embryogenesis and larval stages obtained by assisted fertilization and measure the settlement and survival rates of larvae on artificial substrates, before being outplanted to the reef. Methods: Six days after the full moon in September 2021, gamete bundles were collected from eight O. annularis colonies in Los Corales del Rosario and San Bernardo National Natural Park, Colombia and brought to the laboratory. Cross fertilization was carried out and embryonic and larval development were followed until larval settlement and survival was recorded until day 41. The larvae were kept in three tanks with filtered sea water with 126 tagged substrates, previously conditioned with crustose coralline algae. The substrates were then outplanted to the reef. Results: The onset of embryonic development occurred 1.11 hAF (hours after fertilization), when cells showed signs of the first cleavage, and lasted until 104.59 hAF when they began to metamorphose. Larvae settlement was observed on the sixth day AF. Twenty-one days after fertilization, zooxanthellae were found. Post-settlement larval survival was 27.5 %. Conclusions: In this first sexual propagation effort using O. annularis in Colombia, 1.4 % of competent larvae completed the entire development process. Although low survival rate, these results add to coral restoration efforts in the Caribbean in which species are assisted to increase the survival of corals in their early stages of development.

Protection from overheating of simulated Sceloporus horridus lizards in a biosphere reserve of seasonally dry tropical forest in central Mexico.

In seasonally dry ecosystems, loss of vegetation cover leads to warmer microclimates that can increase lizards' body temperatures to the point of threatening their performance. Preserving vegetation by establishing protected areas may mitigate these effects. We used remote sensing to test these ideas in the Sierra de Huautla Biosphere Reserve (REBIOSH) and surrounding areas. First, we determined whether vegetation cover was higher in the REBIOSH compared to adjacent unprotected areas to the north (NAA) and south (SAA). Then, we used a mechanistic niche model to test whether simulated Sceloporus horridus lizards in the REBIOSH experienced a cooler microclimate, higher thermal safety margin, longer foraging duration, and lower basal metabolic rate compared to adjacent unprotected areas. We compared these variables between 1999, when the reserve was declared, and 2020. We found that vegetation cover increased from 1999 to 2020 in all three areas; it was higher in the REBIOSH than in the more anthropized NAA, and was intermediate in the less anthropized SAA in both years. The microclimate temperature decreased from 1999 to 2020 and was lower in the REBIOSH and SAA than in the NAA. Thermal safety margin increased from 1999 to 2020; it was higher in the REBIOSH than in the NAA and intermediate in the SAA. Foraging duration increased from 1999 to 2020 and was similar among the three polygons. Basal metabolic rate decreased from 1999 to 2020 and was higher in the NAA than in the REBIOSH and SAA. Our results suggest that the REBIOSH provides cooler microclimates that increase the thermal safety margin and lower the metabolic rate of this generalist lizard compared to the NAA, and that the REBIOSH could contribute to increased vegetation cover in its surroundings. Besides, protecting original vegetation cover is an important part of climate change mitigation strategies more generally.

Zooplankton exposure to microplastic contamination in a estuarine plume-influenced region, in Northeast Brazil.

This work describes the spatio-temporal distribution of suspected plastic and microplastic (MP) particles in estuarine plumes and analyzes the microplastic/zooplankton ratio. Subsurface hauls with a conical-cylindrical net were deployed in the coastal area of Tamandare (Pernambuco, Brazil), covering the plume of two rivers and a bay adjacent to coral reefs. A total of 2079 suspected plastic particles were detected, mostly fibers and fragments (>60%). Organic matter digestion was made using a 30% hydrogen peroxide solution, of which approximately 50% of suspected particles were validated as MPs. The average MP abundance was significantly higher during the high rainfall season (53.8 ± 89.6 and 18.8 ± 32.3 particles/m³, respectively), with higher values registered in the plume area (108.9 ± 158.5 and 44.6 ± 55.5 particles/m³). Polymer identification using FT-IR confirmed that suspected particles were mainly polypropylene, polyamide, and polyurethane. These results confirm the hypothesis of a temporal transport variation of MPs from the river to the coastal environments, particularly since the plume influences debris input. Eleven animal phyla were identified, and the subclass Copepoda was predominant (90%), particularly the nauplius stage (70%). Over 70% of verified MPs range between 20 and 2000 µm, equivalent to the most common size of zooplanktonic organisms. Results support that coastal areas near estuarine plumes are exposed to microplastic contamination, affecting species dependent on zooplankton in marine coastal food webs.

First record of mating behaviour and induced parturition of the Brazilian endemic Lutz's stingray Hypanus berthalutzae.

The recently described Lutz's stingray Hypanus berthalutzae is endemic to the Brazilian Province, including oceanic islands. Although it is expected to have life-history traits similar to the southern stingray H. americanus, little is known about its reproductive biology. Here we present the first observations of courtship behaviour (n = 4), copulation (n = 3) and an induced parturition of H. berthalutzae at the Fernando de Noronha Archipelago, an insular Marine Protected Area from the Equatorial Atlantic Ocean. The mating event records included (1) 'chasing/close following', (2) 'biting/precopulatory biting', (3) 'insertion/copulation' and (4) 'separation'. These results are especially relevant considering that records of reproductive behaviour in the wild are rare for elasmobranchs in general. Mating events occurred in different months, suggesting that the reproductive cycle of H. berthalutzae in this insular system is asynchronous, as observed for other stingray species in regions with favourable environmental conditions and abundant food throughout the year. The opportunistic documentation of the induced parturition allowed for direct nonlethal observation of the two pups at or near full term in late May. Although preliminary, these observations should be considered in future management plans as they provide relevant data about the life-history traits and mating behaviour of this endemic and threatened species.

Daily and seasonal activity patterns of a felid assemblage in a forest-grassland mosaic in southern Brazil / Padrões de atividade diários e sazonais de uma assembleia de felinos em um mosaico de floresta-campo no sul do Brasil

The mechanisms of ecological segregation involved in the coexistence between Neotropical felids are the key to support strategies for conservation. Due to their inconspicuous and elusive behavior, camera trapping constitute a strategic, non-invasive method to study these species. The present work aimed to evaluate the daily and seasonal activity patterns of four felid species: Leopardus guttulus (Hensel, 1872), L. pardalis (Linnaeus, 1758), L. wiedii (Schinz, 1821) and Puma concolor (Linnaeus, 1771), in the Papagaios-de-Altitude Private Protected Area, state of Santa Catarina, southern Brazil. Data were collected from January 2018 to December 2019, using 25 sites of camera traps among the study area. We collected 624 independent records from L. guttulus (108), L. pardalis (55), L. wiedii (77) and P. concolor (384) in a sampling effort of 12,266 camera-traps/day. All species analysed showed a non-uniform distribution of daily activity, when considering the two years. We report the peak of seasonal activity for all species between the months of June and September, coinciding with the Araucaria nut harvest in the study area, and with the increase in populations of small rodents. We also report a high overlap between the activity patterns of the four species. The daily and seasonal activity patterns of the species in this study seem to reflect the intrinsic dynamics of the Araucaria Forest, as well as possible adaptations to prey availability.(AU)

Os mecanismos de segregação ecológica envolvidos na coexistência entre felídeos neotropicais são a chave para subsidiar estratégias para sua conservação. Por apresentarem comportamento inconspícuo e esquivo, as armadilhas fotográficas constituem um método não invasivo estratégico para estudá-los. O presente trabalho buscou avaliar o padrão de atividade diário e sazonal de quatro espécies de felídeos: Leopardus guttulus (Hensel, 1872), L. pardalis (Linnaeus, 1758), L. wiedii (Schinz, 1821) e Puma concolor (Linnaeus, 1771), na RPPN Papagaios-de-Altitude, no estado de Santa Catarina, sul do Brasil. Coletamos os dados através de 25 sítios de armadilhas fotográficas na área de estudo. Obtivemos 624 registros independentes de L. guttulus (108), L. pardalis (55), L. wiedii (77) e P. concolor (384) em um esforço amostral de 12.266 armadilhas/dia. Todas as espécies analisadas apresentaram distribuição de atividade diária não uniforme, quando considerados os dois anos. Relatamos o pico de atividade sazonal de todas as espécies entre os meses de junho a setembro, coincidindo com a safra de pinhão na região, e com o aumento nas populações de pequenos roedores. Também relatamos uma alta sobreposição entre os padrões de atividade das quatro espécies. A atividade diária e sazonal das espécies neste estudo parece refletir as dinâmicas intrínsecas da Floresta Ombrófila Mista, além de possíveis adaptações à disponibilidade de presas.(AU)

Are Tourists Facilitators of the Movement of Free-Ranging Dogs?

Dogs are the most abundant carnivores on earth and, as such, negatively impact wildlife. Free-ranging dogs roam in many protected areas, which in turn are often tourist destinations. Whether tourists influence their roaming is largely unexplored but highly relevant to wildlife conservation. To address this question, we obtained (i) 81 completed questionnaires from tourists on their experience with free-ranging dogs in the remote Cape Horn Biosphere Reserve, Chile, and (ii) photographs of three camera-traps placed next to trekking trails (n = 87 trap days). A third of the participants were followed by dogs for up to four days, and 39% saw free-ranging dogs on their hikes, but neither feeding dogs nor fear of them had any influence on whether tourists were followed by dogs. Camera-traps yielded 53 independent dog sequences, recorded 32 individuals plus 14 unidentified dogs, of which only one was leashed, with a frequency of one dog every 28th person. In 17% of 53 sequences, dogs were photographed together with hikers carrying large backpacks for several-day trips. We conclude that tourists are facilitators for the movement of dogs and highlight the importance of the engagement of the tourism sector in wildlife conservation in and close to protected areas.

Compensación ambiental por la segregación y uso de un área dentro de un refugio de vida silvestre: un caso de estudio empleando coste de oportunidad

Introducción: El establecimiento del Puesto Fronterizo Las Tablillas implica la segregación de 12.12 ha del Refugio Nacional de Vida Silvestre Corredor Fronterizo (RNVSCF), en el norte de Costa Rica. El sitio tiene una larga historia de uso de la tierra y su entorno natural está muy degradado. Este es un caso que se puede abordar desde el coste de oportunidad que se refiere al valor de la alternativa a la que se renuncia al tomar una decisión económica. Objetivo: En este artículo, usamos este precepto para evaluar la compensación por pérdidas en la estructura del hábitat y la biodiversidad si se interrumpiera la dinámica de sucesión dentro de un área silvestre protegida. Métodos: Para encontrar la ganancia neta en compensación requerida por dicha segregación, analizamos la diversidad y composición de la cubertura forestal cercana para pronosticar el ambiente que se perdería si se interrumpieran sus objetivos de conservación (costo de oportunidad). Compensar estas pérdidas requiere un ambiente equivalente, por lo que seleccionamos dos propiedades, entre 27 investigadas adyacentes al RNVSCF, que comparten cobertura forestal, están registradas legalmente y poseen atributos ambientales favorables para el diseño de reservas. Las dos propiedades seleccionadas y el sitio Las Tablillas fueron caracterizados a nivel de atributos geológicos e hidrológicos y de composición biológica de grupos indicadores. Resultados: Ambas propiedades son física y biológicamente favorables para el intercambio. La escogencia de cualquiera aumentaría el área del RNVSCF en más de 100 ha de un ambiente con mejor cobertura, más diversidad y mejor conexión con otras masas forestales que el observado en el sitio de segregación. Esto es una ventaja para el objetivo de conservación del refugio. Conclusión: En este caso, el coste de oportunidad favoreció la ganancia ambiental para la propuesta de compensación y podría ser utilizado para evaluar otras compensaciones que involucren ambientes sensibles o protegidos.

Introduction: The establishment of the Las Tablillas Border Post implies the segregation of 12.12 ha within the National Wildlife Refuge Border Corridor (RNVSCF) in northern Costa Rica. The site has a long land use history, so its environment is highly degraded. This case can be studied from the opportunity cost, which refers to the amount of the alternative given up when making an economic decision. Objective: In this paper, we use this precept to assess the compensation for losses in habitat structure and biodiversity if succession dynamics within a protected wilderness area were interrupted. Methods: To find the net gain in compensation required by this segregation, we analyzed the diversity and composition of nearby forest cover to forecast the environment that would be lost if its conservation objectives were interrupted (opportunity cost). Compensating for these losses requires an equivalent environment, so we selected two properties, among the 27 investigated, that shared forest cover, are located adjacent to the RNVSCF, are registered, and possess other attributes favorable to the design of reserves. The two selected properties and the Las Tablillas site were characterized at the level of geological and hydrological attributes and the composition of indicator groups. Results: Both properties are physically and biologically favorable for the exchange. It would increase the area of the RNVSCF by more than 100 ha of an environment with better coverage, more diversity, and a better connection to other forest masses than the one observed in the segregation site, which is an advantage to the conservation objective of the refuge. Conclusion: In this case, the opportunity cost favored the environmental gain for the offset proposal and could be used to evaluate other compensation involving sensitive or protected environments.

Illegal take of nesting sea turtles in Tortuguero, Costa Rica: Conservation, trade, or tradition?

Tortuguero, Costa Rica is considered the second largest green turtle (Chelonia mydas) rookery in the world. By 1950, Tortuguero was one of the sites with the greatest take of green turtles in the Caribbean. Currently, Tortuguero is a worldwide example for ecotourism-based on sea turtle conservation. However, illegal take of nesting turtles still occurs. We aimed to describe the illegal take at Tortuguero, estimating the minimum number of sea turtles taken using data collected during daily and weekly track surveys from 2005 to 2021. Additionally, we conducted 12 semi-structured interviews with key informants to obtain a better understanding of this activity. We documented 735 nesting turtles illegally taken at Tortuguero, being the green turtle the most affected species; these findings were also supported by our interviewees. Respondents stated that in Tortuguero the take of sea turtles has always occurred and traditions regarding sea turtle meat consumption are still present, even though it is considered shameful in the village. However, our interviewees affirmed that most of the sea turtles taken are traded to other locations away from Tortuguero. Our findings represent the minimum of illegal take (documented only at the beach), as not all the sea turtles taken were observed. Finally, despite long-standing conservation efforts carried out in Tortuguero, further changes in the National Park's management plans are needed, including more personnel and increased law enforcement. This may be necessary to reduce the impact on the Tortuguero green turtle nesting population in the near future.

Coral diversity matches marine park zonation but not economic value of coral reef sites at St. Eustatius, eastern Caribbean.

Stony corals play a key role in the marine biodiversity of many tropical coastal areas as suppliers of substrate, food and shelter for other reef organisms. Therefore, it is remarkable that coral diversity usually does not play a role in the planning of protected areas in coral reef areas. In the present study we examine how stony coral diversity patterns relate to marine park zonation and the economic value of reefs around St. Eustatius, a small island in the eastern Caribbean, with fisheries and tourism as important sources of income. The marine park contains two no-take reserves. A biodiversity survey was performed at 39 sites, 24 inside the reserves and 15 outside; 22 had a maximum depth >18 m and 17 were shallower. Data on economic value per site were obtained from the literature. Corals were photographed for the verification of identifications made in the field. Coral species richness (n = 49) was highest in the no-take reserves and species composition was mainly affected by maximum depth. No distinct relation is observed between coral diversity and fishery value or total economic value. Based on the outcome of this study we suggest that in future designs of marine park zonation in reef areas, coral diversity should be taken into consideration. This is best served by including reef areas with a continuous depth gradient from shallow flats to deep slopes.