How the Ecology of Calcified Red Macroalgae is Investigated under a Chemical Approach? A Systematic Review and Bibliometric Study.

Characteristics such as calcareous morphology and life cycle are used to understand the ecology of calcified rhodophytes. However, there is limited information regarding their chemical profiles and biological activities. Therefore, a systematic review (PRISMA) was conducted to assess the influence of the chemistry of calcareous rhodophytes on ecological interactions in the marine environment. The keywords used were: ["Chemical AND [Ecology OR Interaction OR Response OR Defense OR Effect OR Cue OR Mediated OR Induce]"] AND ["Red Seaweed" OR "Red Macroalgae" OR Rhodophy?] AND [Calcified OR Calcareous] in Science Direct, Scielo, PUBMED, Springer, Web of Science, and Scopus. Only English articles within the proposed theme were considered. Due to the low number of articles, another search was conducted with three classes and 16 genera. Finally, 67 articles were considered valid. Their titles, abstracts, and keywords were analyzed using IRaMuTeQ through factorial, hierarchical and similarity classification. Most of the studies used macroalgae thallus to evaluate chemical mediation while few tested crude extracts. Some substances were noted as sesquiterpene (6-hydroxy-isololiolide), fatty acid (heptadeca5,8,11-triene) and dibromomethane. The articles were divided into four classes: Herbivory, Competition, Settlement/Metamorphosis, and Epiphytism. Crustose calcareous algae were associated with studies of Settlement/Metamorphosis, while calcified algae were linked to herbivory. Thus, the importance of chemistry in the ecology of these algae is evident,and additional studies are needed to identify the substances responsible for ecological interactions. This study collected essential information on calcified red algae, whose diversity appears to be highly vulnerable to the harmful impacts of ongoing climate change.

Protein and volatile contents in the mandibular gland of the sugarcane borer Diatraea saccharalis (Lepidoptera: Crambidae).

The sugarcane borer Diatraea saccharalis (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) is an important sugarcane pest and mechanical injuries caused through the mandibles can allow pathogen infections. The mandibles of D. saccharalis, as well as other insects, are associated with mandibular glands with a possible function in food intake and mouthparts lubrication; however, the chemical composition of the secretion is poorly known and its elucidation is important for the comprehensive understanding of plant-insect interactions. This study characterized some proteins and volatiles in the mandibular glands of D. saccharalis larvae. MALDI-TOF/TOF mass spectrometry allowed the identification of 24 predicted proteins within 10 functional classes, including the transport and metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids, amino acids, and nucleotides; Posttranslational protein modifications; energy conversion; intracellular trafficking; transcription; translation; and cytoskeleton function. Metabolites identified from GC/MS analysis revealed the presence of hydrocarbons classified as alcohols, ether, alkanes, and esters with differences in their relative abundance. Linolenic acid, the most abundant metabolite found in this gland, when conjugated with amino acids, can be an elicitor in the plant-herbivore interaction. The results suggest the occurrence of digestive and defensive biochemical components, which may contribute to understanding of the multifunctional roles of the mandibular gland secretion of D. saccharalis larvae during feeding activity.

Diverse methanogens, bacteria and tannase genes in the feces of the endangered volcano rabbit (Romerolagus diazi).

BACKGROUND: The volcano rabbit is the smallest lagomorph in Mexico, it is monotypic and endemic to the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt. It is classified as endangered by Mexican legislation and as critically endangered by the IUCN, in the Red List. Romerolagus diazi consumes large amounts of grasses, seedlings, shrubs, and trees. Pines and oaks contain tannins that can be toxic to the organisms which consume them. The volcano rabbit microbiota may be rich in bacteria capable of degrading fiber and phenolic compounds. METHODS: We obtained the fecal microbiome of three adults and one young rabbit collected in Coajomulco, Morelos, Mexico. Taxonomic assignments and gene annotation revealed the possible roles of different bacteria in the rabbit gut. We searched for sequences encoding tannase enzymes and enzymes associated with digestion of plant fibers such as cellulose and hemicellulose. RESULTS: The most representative phyla within the Bacteria domain were: Proteobacteria, Firmicutes and Actinobacteria for the young rabbit sample (S1) and adult rabbit sample (S2), which was the only sample not confirmed by sequencing to correspond to the volcano rabbit. Firmicutes, Actinobacteria and Cyanobacteria were found in adult rabbit samples S3 and S4. The most abundant phylum within the Archaea domain was Euryarchaeota. The most abundant genera of the Bacteria domain were Lachnoclostridium (Firmicutes) and Acinetobacter (Proteobacteria), while Methanosarcina predominated from the Archaea. In addition, the potential functions of metagenomic sequences were identified, which include carbohydrate and amino acid metabolism. We obtained genes encoding enzymes for plant fiber degradation such as endo 1,4 ß-xylanases, arabinofuranosidases, endoglucanases and ß-glucosidases. We also found 18 bacterial tannase sequences.

Maize Responses Challenged by Drought, Elevated Daytime Temperature and Arthropod Herbivory Stresses: A Physiological, Biochemical and Molecular View.

Maize (Zea mays L.) is one of the main cereals grown around the world. It is used for human and animal nutrition and also as biofuel. However, as a direct consequence of global climate change, increased abiotic and biotic stress events have been reported in different regions of the world, which have become a threat to world maize yields. Drought and heat are environmental stresses that influence the growth, development, and yield processes of maize crops. Plants have developed dynamic responses at the physiological, biochemical, and molecular levels that allow them to escape, avoid and/or tolerate unfavorable environmental conditions. Arthropod herbivory can generate resistance or tolerance responses in plants that are associated with inducible and constitutive defenses. Increases in the frequency and severity of abiotic stress events (drought and heat), as a consequence of climate change, can generate critical variations in plant-insect interactions. However, the behavior of herbivorous arthropods under drought scenarios is not well understood, and this kind of stress may have some positive and negative effects on arthropod populations. The simultaneous appearance of different environmental stresses and biotic factors results in very complex plant responses. In this review, recent information is provided on the physiological, biochemical, and molecular responses of plants to the combination of drought, heat stress, and the effect on some arthropod pests of interest in the maize crop.

Dieta de la lagartija neotropical Liolaemus polystictus(Squamata: Liolaemidae) de los andes centrales,Huancavelica, Perú / Diet of the neotropical lizard Liolaemus polystictus (Squamata:Liolaemidae) from the central Andes, Huancavelica, Peru

Resumen En este estudio se investigó la dieta de la lagartija neotropical Liolaemus polystictus en la región Huancavelica en los Andes centrales del Perú. Los ítems de la dieta fueron identificados en los contenidos estomacales de 54 muestras. El porcentaje de contenido volumétrico vegetal fue mayor al animal (V% contenido animal= 22.97 y V% contenido vegetal= 77.03), siendo el contenido animal representado por los artrópodos y con diez ítems alimentarios. Considerando solo el contenido animal, los coleópteros fueron los más representativos (N%= 32.05, FO=59.26 y V%= 41.36). Ninguna categoría animal mostró valores de IRI altos para ser considerados fundamentales, asimismo la selección de presas no mostro diferencias significativas entre machos, hembras y juveniles, ni entre los contenidos volumétricos vegetales entre adultos y juveniles, pero sí en los contenidos volumétricos vegetales entre machos y hembras. Se encontraron diferencias significativas entre la longitud, ancho y volumen de la presa y el ancho de la cabeza (AC) en machos de L. polystictus. Finalmente, proponemos la categoría de herbívoro para la especie L. polystictus, lo cual elevaría a ocho las especies del grupo L. montanus que se alimentan principalmente de vegetación.

Abstract This study assessed the diet of the Neotropical lizard Liolaemus polystictus from Huancavelica region in the Peruvian central Andes. The diet composition was identified from 54 sample stomach contents. Percentage of vegetable content was higher than the animal one (V% animal content= 22.97 and V% vegetable content= 77.03), and arthropods were the highest animal content with ten foods items. Within the animal content, Coleoptera were the most representative (N%= 32.05, FO= 59.26 and V%= 41.36%). No animal category showed high IRI values to be considered fundamental. There were not significant differences on prey selection between males, females and juveniles, and on vegetal volumetric contents between adults and juveniles. However, vegetal volumetric contents were significantly different between males and females. Significant differences were found between prey length, width and volume and L. polystictus male head width (AC). Finally, we pro-pose L. polystictus to be considered an herbivorous species, which bring to eight the number of species in the L. montanus group that feed mainly on vegetation.

Helmet-shaped Body of Entodiniomorphid Ciliates (Ciliophora, Entodiniomorphida), a Synapomorphy or a Homoplasy?

Triadinium was created to include Triadinium caudatum. Further, four other species were included, T. minimum, T. galea, T. elongatum, and T. magnum, all sharing a characteristic helmet-shaped body. Wolska and Grain argued that the inclusion of T. minimum and T. galea into Triadinium was done based on superficial morphological aspects, and established two new genera to accommodate these species: Circodinium and Gassovskiella. Although the phylogenetic relationships within Entodiniomorphida have been investigated by multiple authors, none of them discussed the evolutionary relationship of helmet-shaped entodiniomorphids. We performed molecular phylogenetics and revisited old literature digging for morphological data to explain our results. According to our analyses, the helmet-shaped body is homoplastic and may have evolved from at least three different entodiniomorphid ancestors. Circodinium minimum is phylogenetically related to members of Blepharocorythidae, T. caudatum emerged within Spirodiniidae and G. galea within Polydiniellidae. This phylogenetic hypothesis is partially supported by information on infraciliature and ultrastructure of C. minimum and T. caudatum. However, such morphological information is not available for polydiniellids. In order to shed some light into the evolution of the helmet-shaped ciliates, future works should focus to collect information on the infraciliature and the ultrastructure of Polydiniella mysorea and of other Triadinium species.

Influence of the flood pulse on mercury accumulation in detritivorous, herbivorous and omnivorous fish in Brazilian Amazonia.

Hg accumulation in fish is influenced by several factors including seasonality. In the Amazon, ecosystems are marked by strong seasonal variation in precipitation, which leads to drastic changes in the water level of lakes and rivers. The aim of this study was to evaluate Hg levels in muscle of detritivorous, herbivorous and omnivorous fish from an Amazon lake (Madeira River Basin, Amazonas, Brazil) over four seasons (rising water, high water, falling water and low water). We hypothesized that total Hg concentration varies during the seasons. The results indicate that total Hg levels in detritivorous fish were higher in rising and low water seasons while in herbivorous and omnivorous fish the total Hg concentration was higher during the rising water season. The hypothesis was supported by the results. Additionally, the study provides evidence that Hg levels in fish with different feeding habits are influenced by the flood pulse of the Amazon region.

Population of hematophagous bats in the Andradina region, São Paulo: roost and control characterization

The present study quantified Desmodus rotundus population and characterized their roosts in the Andradina microregion, Sao Paulo, Brazil, in 2010 and 2012, determining the effect of bat control measures on roost numbers and types and their population. From April to June 2010, professionals from the Agriculture and Livestock Defense Coordination of the State of Sao Paulo responsible for the rabies control that consists of capturing and treating vampire bats with a vampiricide paste based on Warfarin 2%, inspected 50 bat roosts registered in 12 municipalities in the Andradina microregion, northwestern São Paulo. In September 2012, 31 of these roosts were again surveyed by the authors of this study. The vast majority (92% and 96% in 2010 and 2012, respectively) of the roosts were characterized as artificial, e.g., abandoned houses and warehouses, house attics, culverts under highways, deactivated wells and mills, bridges, disused housings, and barns. The only natural roosts found were tree hollows. The number of roosts and the bat population in roosts decreased drastically after the measures for direct control of hematophagous bats were performed, especially the number of maternity colonies, indicating that the direct selective method had a strong impact on reducing these populations.

Population of hematophagous bats in the Andradina region, São Paulo: roost and control characterization

The present study quantified Desmodus rotundus population and characterized their roosts in the Andradina microregion, Sao Paulo, Brazil, in 2010 and 2012, determining the effect of bat control measures on roost numbers and types and their population. From April to June 2010, professionals from the Agriculture and Livestock Defense Coordination of the State of Sao Paulo responsible for the rabies control that consists of capturing and treating vampire bats with a vampiricide paste based on Warfarin 2%, inspected 50 bat roosts registered in 12 municipalities in the Andradina microregion, northwestern São Paulo. In September 2012, 31 of these roosts were again surveyed by the authors of this study. The vast majority (92% and 96% in 2010 and 2012, respectively) of the roosts were characterized as artificial, e.g., abandoned houses and warehouses, house attics, culverts under highways, deactivated wells and mills, bridges, disused housings, and barns. The only natural roosts found were tree hollows. The number of roosts and the bat population in roosts decreased drastically after the measures for direct control of hematophagous bats were performed, especially the number of maternity colonies, indicating that the direct selective method had a strong impact on reducing these populations.(AU)

Fast acquisition of a polysaccharide fermenting gut microbiome by juvenile green turtles Chelonia mydas after settlement in coastal habitats.

BACKGROUND: Tetrapods do not express hydrolases for cellulose and hemicellulose assimilation, and hence, the independent acquisition of herbivory required the establishment of new endosymbiotic relationships between tetrapods and microbes. Green turtles (Chelonia mydas) are one of the three groups of marine tetrapods with an herbivorous diet and which acquire it after several years consuming pelagic animals. We characterized the microbiota present in the feces and rectum of 24 young wild and captive green turtles from the coastal waters of Brazil, with curved carapace length ranging from 31.1 to 64.7 cm, to test the hypotheses that (1) the ontogenetic dietary shift after settlement is followed by a gradual change in the composition and diversity of the gut microbiome, (2) differences exist between the composition and diversity of the gut microbiome of green turtles from tropical and subtropical regions, and (3) the consumption of omnivorous diets modifies the gut microbiota of green turtles. RESULTS: A genomic library of 2,186,596 valid bacterial 16S rRNA reads was obtained and these sequences were grouped into 6321 different operational taxonomic units (at 97% sequence homology cutoff). The results indicated that most of the juvenile green turtles less than 45 cm of curved carapace length exhibited a fecal microbiota co-dominated by representatives of the phyla Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes and high levels of Clostridiaceae, Prophyromonas, Ruminococaceae, and Lachnospiraceae within the latter phylum. Furthermore, this was the only microbiota profile found in wild green turtles > 45 cm CCL and in most of the captive green turtles of any size feeding on a macroalgae/fish mixed diet. Nevertheless, microbial diversity increased with turtle size and was higher in turtles from tropical than from subtropical regions. CONCLUSIONS: These results indicate that juvenile green turtles from the coastal waters of Brazil had the same general microbiota, regardless of body size and origin, and suggest a fast acquisition of a polysaccharide fermenting gut microbiota by juvenile green turtles after settlement into coastal habitats.

Recovery of black-necked swans, macrophytes and water quality in a Ramsar wetland of southern Chile: Assessing resilience following sudden anthropogenic disturbances.

In 2004 migration and mortality for unknown reasons of the herbivorous Black necked swan (Cygnus melancorhyphus (Molina, 1782)) occurred within the Río Cruces wetland (southern Chile), a Ramsar Site and nature sanctuary. Before 2004, this wetland hosted the largest breeding population of this water bird in the Neotropic Realm. The concurrent decrease in the spatial occurrence of the aquatic plant Egeria densa Planch. 1849 - the main food source of swans - was proposed as a cause for swan migration and mortality. Additionally, post-mortem analyses carried out on swans during 2004 showed diminished body weight, high iron loads and histopathological abnormalities in their livers, suggesting iron storage disease. Various hypotheses were postulated to describe those changes; the most plausible related to variations in water quality after a pulp mill located upstream the wetland started to operate in February 2004. Those changes cascaded throughout the stands of E. densa whose remnants had high iron contents in their tissues. Here we present results of a long-term monitoring program of the wetland components, which show that swan population abundance, body weights and histological liver conditions recovered to pre-disturbance levels in 2012. The recovery of E. densa and iron content in plants throughout the wetland, also returned to pre-disturbance levels in the same 8-year time period. These results show the temporal scale over which resilience and natural restoring processes occur in wetland ecosystems of temperate regions such as southern Chile.

Perfil da ocorrência de raiva animal em diferentes espécies no Estado de Mato Grosso, Brasil, de 2002 a 2011 / Profile of the occurrence of animal rabies in different species in the State of Mato Grosso, Brazil, of 2002 the 2011

A raiva é uma zoonose viral, que acomete o Sistema Nervoso Central, de evolução aguda e quase sempre fatal. Através das notificações enviadas à SES-MT (Secretaria de Estado de Saúde de Mato Grosso), foi realizado um mapeamento dos casos positivos de raiva nas diferentes espécies, que ocorreram no período de 2002 a 2011 no Estado de Mato Grosso. Foram diagnosticados 915 casos de raiva no estado durante esse período. Animais de diferentes espécies foram acometidos pela enfermidade. A espécie bovina foi notadamente a mais notificada com 80,00% (736) dos casos, seguida pela canina com 12,56% (115), a equina 5,57% (51), a quiróptera 0,65% (6), felina, suína, ovina e muar com 0,21%, (2, 2, 2, 3) casos, e as espécies caprina e primata com 0,1% (1) cada uma. No entanto, houve uma redução significativa no número de casos caninos no decorrer dos anos, com ausência de notificações a partir do ano de 2008. Nesse sentido, foi possível observar que diferentes espécies foram acometidas, evidenciando a circulação viral no Estado de Mato Grosso.(AU)

Rabies is a viral zoonosis that affects the central nervous system, acute and often fatal outcome. Through notifications sent to the SES-MT (Secretary of State of Mato Grosso Health), it was carried out a mapping of positive cases of rabies in different species that occurred in the period from 2002 to 2011 in the State of Mato Grosso. 915 cases of rabies were diagnosed in the state during that period. Animals of different species were affected by the disease. The bovine was notably more notified with 80.00% (736) of cases, followed by the canine with 12.56% (115), equine 5.57% (51) the chiroptera with 0.65% (6), the feline, swine, sheep and mules with 0.21% (2, 2, 2, 3), caprine, and primate species with 0.1% (1) each. However, there was a significant reduction in canine cases. In this sense it was observed that different species were affected, demonstrating the viral circulation in the State of Mato Grosso.(AU)

Tometes camunani (Characiformes: Serrasalmidae), a new species of phytophagous fish from the Guiana Shield, rio Trombetas basin, Brazil

A new species of Serrasalmidae, Tometes camunani, is described from the upper drainages of the rio Trombetas basin, Pará State, Brazil. The new species is distinguished from its congeners by having neurocranium with a slight concavity at the level of the frontal bone (vs. concavity absent, dorsal profile of neurocranium straight). It can be further distinguished from its congeners by having teeth with central cusp taller and acute (vs. central cusp shorter and with rounded edge in T. trilobatus), a terminal mouth (vs. upturned mouth in T. lebaili), and 12-26 prepelvic spines (vs. 0-9 in T. makue). The new species is strictly rheophilic like other species of Tometes, and occurs exclusively in the rapids of shield rivers, complex and fragile biotopes that are threatened by anthropogenic activities. An identification key to the species of the Myleus group is provided.(AU)

Uma espécie nova de Serrasalmidae, Tometes camunani, é descrita para as drenagens superiores da bacia do rio Trombetas, estado do Pará, Brasil. A espécie nova distingue-se dos congêneres pela presença de uma ligeira concavidade no neurocrânio na altura do frontal (vs. concavidade ausente, perfil dorsal do neurocrânio reto). Também pode ser adicionalmente distinguido dos seus congêneres por possuir dentes com a cúspide central mais alta e cume agudo (vs. cúspide central mais baixa e com cume arredondado em T. trilobatus), a boca terminal (vs. boca orientada para cima em T. lebaili), e 12-26 espinhos pré-pélvicos (vs. 0-9 em T. makue). A espécie nova é estritamente reofílica, como as demais espécies de Tometes, e ocorre exclusivamente nas zonas encachoeiradas dos rios de escudo, biótopos complexos, frágeis e ameaçados por ações antropogênicas. Uma chave de identificação para as espécies do grupo Myleus é apresentada.(AU)

Tometes camunani (Characiformes: Serrasalmidae), a new species of phytophagous fish from the Guiana Shield, rio Trombetas basin, Brazil

A new species of Serrasalmidae, Tometes camunani, is described from the upper drainages of the rio Trombetas basin, Pará State, Brazil. The new species is distinguished from its congeners by having neurocranium with a slight concavity at the level of the frontal bone (vs. concavity absent, dorsal profile of neurocranium straight). It can be further distinguished from its congeners by having teeth with central cusp taller and acute (vs. central cusp shorter and with rounded edge in T. trilobatus), a terminal mouth (vs. upturned mouth in T. lebaili), and 12-26 prepelvic spines (vs. 0-9 in T. makue). The new species is strictly rheophilic like other species of Tometes, and occurs exclusively in the rapids of shield rivers, complex and fragile biotopes that are threatened by anthropogenic activities. An identification key to the species of the Myleus group is provided.

Uma espécie nova de Serrasalmidae, Tometes camunani, é descrita para as drenagens superiores da bacia do rio Trombetas, estado do Pará, Brasil. A espécie nova distingue-se dos congêneres pela presença de uma ligeira concavidade no neurocrânio na altura do frontal (vs. concavidade ausente, perfil dorsal do neurocrânio reto). Também pode ser adicionalmente distinguido dos seus congêneres por possuir dentes com a cúspide central mais alta e cume agudo (vs. cúspide central mais baixa e com cume arredondado em T. trilobatus), a boca terminal (vs. boca orientada para cima em T. lebaili), e 12-26 espinhos pré-pélvicos (vs. 0-9 em T. makue). A espécie nova é estritamente reofílica, como as demais espécies de Tometes, e ocorre exclusivamente nas zonas encachoeiradas dos rios de escudo, biótopos complexos, frágeis e ameaçados por ações antropogênicas. Uma chave de identificação para as espécies do grupo Myleus é apresentada.

Seasonal pattern of Chrysomelidae (Coleoptera) in the state of Paraná, southern Brazil / Padrão sazonal de Chrysomelidae (Coleoptera) no estado do Paraná, sul do Brasil

The aim of this paper was to describe the seasonal patterns of Chrysomelidae and of its most abundant species at eight sites in different geomorphological and floristic regions in the state of Paraná, southern Brazil. Samples with Malaise traps, from August 1986 to July 1988 were performed. The Chrysomelidae showed seasonal patterns with the highest abundance in the spring and/or summer at all sites, but with variations in the months of highest captures. Photoperiod was the variable that most influenced the seasonality of Chrysomelidae, and along with temperature and relative humidity, determined most of the seasonal patterns of the family at the different sites. Some dominant species of Chrysomelidae showed different seasonal pattern compared to the family level. A better knowledge of the seasonal distribution patterns of these species will only be possible when their life history, such as host plants and behavior, was better understood.

O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever os padrões de sazonalidade de Chrysomelidae e de suas espécies dominantes, capturadas em oito locais de diferentes regiões geomorfológicas e florísticas do estado do Paraná, sul do Brasil. As coletas foram realizadas com armadilha Malaise de agosto/1986 a julho/1988. Chrysomelidae apresentou padrão sazonal com picos de abundância na primavera e/ou verão em todos os locais, mas com variações quanto aos meses de maior captura. O fotoperíodo foi a variável com maior influência na sazonalidade de Chrysomelidae e juntamente com a temperatura e umidade relativa, determinaram a maioria dos padrões sazonais da família nos diferentes locais. Algumas das espécies dominantes de Chrysomelidae apresentaram padrão sazonal distinto do observado para a família. O entendimento dos padrões de distribuição das espécies de Chrysomelidae somente será possível quando informações sobre a história de vida, como plantas hospedeiras e comportamento, forem melhor esclarecidas.

Epidemiologia molecular de vírus da raiva isolados de herbívoros e suínos procedentes da Amazônia Brasileira / Molecular epidemiology of rabies virus isolated herbivorous and swine from Brazilian Amazon

A raiva é uma antropozoonose com alta letalidade, acomete todos os animais de sangue quente, essa doença causa enormes prejuízos econômicos ao rebanho pecuário nacional, é impossível estimar os custos reais com controle dessa doença, em decorrência do grande número de subnotificações. O uso de ferramentas moleculares permite identificar as linhagens virais circulantes, facilitando desse modo à compreensão da epidemiologia da raiva. A técnica de RT-PCR para amplificação parcial dos genes N e G, foi aplicada em 60 amostras positivas para o vírus da raiva pelas provas de imunofluorescência direta e prova biológica, procedentes dos Estados do Pará, Tocantins, Rondônia e Acre das espécies bovina, equídea, bubalina e suína. As sequências nucleotídicas obtidas para os genes N (41 amostras) e G (17 amostras) foram analisadas pelo algoritmo Neighbor-Joining e modelo evolutivo Kimura 2-parâmetros. Essa análise permitiu identificar distintas linhagens circulantes nas regiões estudadas, foi evidenciado ainda, um padrão de distribuição geográfico dessas linhagens. Além disso, este estudo possibilitou identificar marcadores moleculares para diferentes regiões geográficas, promovendo um melhor entendimento da epidemiologia molecular da raiva das linhagens circulantes da região em estudo

Rabies is an anthropozoonosis with high mortality, affects all warm-blooded animals, this disease causes major economic losses to livestock. It is difficult to estimate the actual costs of disease control, due to sub notification of cases. Molecular techniques allow identification of genetic viral strains circulating, improving rabies epidemiology comprehension. Sixty rabies virus isolates from bovines, equines, swine and buffaloes coming from the states of Pará, Tocantins, Rondônia and Acre were analyzed in the present study. All samples were previously submitted to direct immunofluorescence test and inoculation in mice, afterwards were submitted to RT-PCR for amplification of partial Nucleoprotein and Glycoprotein genes. Nucleotide sequences from nucleoprotein (41 samples) and glycoprotein G (17 samples) genes were analyzed by Neighbor-joining algorithm and Kimura two-parameter model. This analysis allowed to identify different genetic strains circulating and its geographic distribution patterns. Moreover this study revealed molecular markers for different geographic regions, promoting a better understanding of rabies molecular epidemiology of circulating strains of study area

Effects of sex, host-plant deprivation and presence of conspecific immatures on the cannibalistic behavior of wild Ascia monuste orseis (Godart) (Lepidoptera, Pieridae)

Effects of sex, host-plant deprivation and presence of conspecific immatures on the cannibalistic behavior of wild Ascia monuste orseis (Godart) (Lepidoptera, Pieridae). The specialist cabbage caterpillar Ascia monuste orseis (Lepidoptera, Pieridae) feeds on plants of the Brassicaceae family, but may eventually ingest conspecific eggs and larvae during the larval stage. The present study examines feeding behavior of 4th and 5th instar cabbage caterpillars in relation to sex, host-plant deprivation and presence of conspecifics. We recorded number of egg ingested per larvae, developmental indices and duration of feeding, exploratory and resting behavior. Kale deprived caterpillars presented high rates of cannibalism, development delay and decreased fecundity. Cannibalism rates were not influenced by the sex of the larvae. In general, the presence of conspecific eggs did not interfere with the frequency and duration of the categorical behavioral events. We conclude that food availability is a strong factor influencing the extent to which A. monuste orseis caterpillars cannibalize.

Influência do sexo, da privação de plantas hospedeiras e da presença de imaturos coespecíficos no comportamento canibal de Ascia monuste orseis (Godart) (Lepidoptera, Pieridae) selvagens. A curuquerê-da-couve, A. monuste orseis (Lepidoptera, Pieridae), alimenta-se de plantas da família Brassicaceae, mas ingere ovos e larvas coespecíficos, quando disponíveis, durante a fase larval. O comportamento alimentar de lagartas de 4º e 5º ínstares foi estudado em relação ao sexo e à privação de alimento afetando as taxas de canibalismo, e a presença de ovos coespecíficos afetando o comportamento alimentar. Foram mensurados: número de ovos ingeridos/larva, tempo de desenvolvimento, tamanho do adulto, fecundidade e duração dos comportamentos de alimentação, exploração e repouso. Lagartas privadas de couve apresentaram altas taxas de canibalismo, atraso no desenvolvimento e diminuição do número de oócitos. As taxas de canibalismo não foram influenciadas pelo sexo da larva. De um modo geral, a presença de ovos coespecíficos não interferiu na duração e na freqüência dos comportamentos de repouso, exploratório e alimentar. Concluímos que a disponibilidade de alimento é um fator que influencia fortemente na extensão do canibalismo por lagartas de A. monuste orseis.

Sensibilidade da técnica de imuno-histoquímica em fragmentos de sistema nervoso central de bovinos e equinos naturalmente infectados pelo vírus da raiva / Sensitivity of the Immunohistochemistry technique in central nervous system fragments of cattle and horses naturally infected by rabies virus

A raiva é uma zoonose viral que acomete o sistema nervoso central (SNC) de mamíferos, considerada um grave problema de saúde pública. Herbívoros (bovinos e equinos) são frequentemente acometidos pela in-fecção após serem atacados por morcegos hematófagos (Desmodus rotundus). A técnica de imunofluorescência direta (IFD) realizada em tecidos frescos, recomendada pela Organização Mundial de Saúde (OMS), é utilizada para o diagnóstico da raiva. A técnica de imuno-histoquímica (IHQ) é utilizada para detectar antígenos em tecidos fixados, pelo uso de anticorpos monoclonais/policlonais. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a sensibilidade da IHQ na detecção de antígenos do vírus da raiva em amostras de SNC de herbívoros fixadas em formol, analisando a distribuição antigênica em diferentes fragmentos do SNC. Os resultados demonstraram concordância das técnicas de IFD e IHQ. A IHQ mostrou maior sensibilidade em amostras de bovinos em relação às de equinos, especialmente quando realizada em fragmentos de cerebelo e tronco encefálico. A detecção de antígeno nestes fragmentos foi mais consistente para ambas as técnicas, nas duas espécies. Estes resultados demonstram que a IHQ pode ser empregada para a vigilância epidemiológica da raiva, entretanto, recomenda-se cautela ao se empregar a IHQ para diagnóstico de doença em herbívoros, especialmente quando o fragmento encaminhado ao laboratório for apenas o hipocampo.

Rabies is a viral zoonosis that causes disease in the central nervous system (CNS) of mammals and it is considered a serious problem of public health. Herbivorous (bovines and equines) are often infected after being attacked by vampire bats (Desmodus rotundus). The direct fluorescent antibody technique is used as a diagnostic test to detect viral antigens in fresh tissues and is recommended by the World Health Organization. The immunohistochemistry technique (IHC) is used to detect the viral antigen through the use of monoclonal/policlonal antibodies in formalin-fixed tissues. The aim of this work was to evaluate the sensitivity of the IHC in samples of CNS of herbivorous fixed in formol, analyzing the antigenic distribution in different fragments of the CNS. The results demonstrated good agreement between the two techniques for the rabies diagnosis. The IHC presented higher sensitivity in samples of cattle comparing to horse samples, especially in fragments of cerebellum and brain stem. These fragments demonstrated to be more suitable for antigen detection by both techniques in the two species. These data demonstrate that the IHC is suitable for rabies vigilance yet cautions should be taken in examining cattle and horses samples, when the submitted specimen is only the hippocampus.

Growth and feed utilization by juvenile grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) feed with Azolla filiculoides) with low lipid diet / Desempenho e conversão alimentar de juvenis de carpa capim (Ctenopharyngodon idella) alimentadas com Azolla filiculoides e ração com baixo teor lipídico

The total supply of fish available for human consumption will depend more of the expansion of low trophy level fish farming than of wild-caught fish. Aquatic plants used at treatment of aquaculture wastewater have been showed like an alternative to exclusive diet feed. The aquatic fern, Azolla filiculoides is an example with high level of protein. Consequently, more research on feed requirements of herbivorous fish is required. The aim of this study was to evaluate the growth performance and feed efficiency of juvenile grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) fed with three different diets using low lipid feed and water fern (Azolla filiculoides). The experiment was carried out in nine (9) tanks of 300 L capacity with three fish per tank (initial body weight = 55,43g). Feeding rate was 2.5% Fish were fed on two times a day with three treatments (R= Diet/Azolla on dry weight) R= 2.5; R = 5 and R= 10. The specific growth rate (SGR = 1.39%), daily growth gain (DGG = 1.06 g / day) and were significantly (p 0.05) affected by treatment and were highest at R= 5.

A oferta de pescado para o consumo humano dependerá mais da expansão do cultivo de peixes que se alimentam dos primeiros níveis tróficos do que daqueles oriundos da pesca extrativa. Plantas aquáticas usadas em fitotratamento de efluentes de aquacultura vêm sendo referidas como uma alternativa alimentar ao uso exclusivo de rações. A Azolla filiculoides é uma pteridófita que apresenta alto nível protéico. Assim, pesquisas sobre as exigências nutricionais de espécies herbívoras são necessárias. O objetivo principal deste estudo foi avaliar o crescimento e eficiência alimentar de juvenis de carpa capim (Ctenopharyngodon idella) alimentadas com três relações (R) entre ração com baixo teor lipídico e a planta aquática in natura (Azolla filiculoides). O experimento foi conduzido em nove reservatórios com capacidade de 300L e três indivíduos por unidade (Peso Inicial = 53,43g). A taxa alimentar diária foi de 2,5%, dividida em duas refeições, constituindo três tratamentos com diferentes relações entre a ração e a Azolla filiculoides na matéria seca (R=Ração/Azolla), R=2,5, R=5 e R=10. A taxa de crescimento específico (TCE = 1,39%) e o ganho peso diário (GPD = 1,06 g/dia) foram melhores na relação Ração / Azolla R = 5.

Seasonality and temporal structuration of Alticini community (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Galerucinae) in the Araucaria Forest of Parana, Brazil / Sazonalidade e estruturação temporal da comunidade de Alticini (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Galerucinae) na Floresta com Araucária do Paraná, Brasil

Seasonality was studied for Alticini trapped with malaise over a period of two years in the Vila Velha State Park, Parana, Brazil. Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae and Alticini showed seasonal distribution, with the highest abundance during spring and summer months. The abundance peaks of these groups were not synchronized. Of all environmental variables tested, photoperiod had the larger effect on the distributional patterns of Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae and Alticini. Also, Chrysomelidae and Alticini probably are related to the quality and availability of host-plants. When richness was high there was a greater similarity among seasons of different years. However, when richness was not pronounced, seasons showed more similarity within the same year than between years. The Alticini community was seasonally structured and a possible mechanism underlying this pattern is asymmetric competition. Nevertheless, it is necessary to account for indirect interactions (plant-enemy mediated) to better understand how Alticini community is structured.

Foi estudada a sazonalidade de Alticini coletados com armadilha malaise, durante dois anos no Parque Estadual de Vila Velha, Paraná, Brasil. Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae e Alticini apresentaram distribuição sazonal com maior abundância nos meses de primavera-verão, mas os picos de abundância não foram coincidentes. Dentre todas as variáveis ambientais testadas, o fotoperíodo teve maior influência nos padrões de distribuição de Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae e Alticini, sendo que Chrysomelidae e Alticini provavelmente também estão relacionados à disponibilidade e qualidade de suas plantas hospedeiras. Nas estações mais ricas houve maior similaridade entre as estações dos diferentes anos, porém nas estações menos ricas houve maior similaridade dentro do mesmo ano que entre os anos. A comunidade de Alticini mostrou-se sazonalmente estruturada, sendo a competição assimétrica o provável mecanismo atuante. Entretanto, são necessários estudos das interações indiretas (mediadas por plantas-inimigos naturais) para melhor entender como a comunidade de Alticini é estruturada.