Stapafurdius, a new genus of Bulimulidae (Mollusca, Eupulmonata) from Bahia, Brazil, with two new species

Abstract The new genus Stapafurdius gen. nov. is introduced collected from Bahia, Brazil, including two new species: S. glaber sp. nov., the type species, occurs in Ibicoara; and S. costiferus sp. nov., from Andaraí regions. The new genus includes species of about 10 mm, elongated shell, reticulated protoconch, elongated peristome, and wide umbilicus. Both species differ mainly by the sculpture, as S. glaber sp. nov. is smooth, while S. costiferus sp. nov. has strong axial sculpture. http://zoobank.org/C851695E-6BF1-4418-8D8A-8BC7D10CC2FE.

Stapafurdius, a new genus of Bulimulidae (Mollusca, Eupulmonata) from Bahia, Brazil, with two new species

Abstract The new genus Stapafurdius gen. nov. is introduced collected from Bahia, Brazil, including two new species: S. glaber sp. nov., the type species, occurs in Ibicoara; and S. costiferus sp. nov., from Andaraí regions. The new genus includes species of about 10 mm, elongated shell, reticulated protoconch, elongated peristome, and wide umbilicus. Both species differ mainly by the sculpture, as S. glaber sp. nov. is smooth, while S. costiferus sp. nov. has strong axial sculpture. http://zoobank.org/C851695E-6BF1-4418-8D8A-8BC7D10CC2FE.

Stapafurdius, a new genus of Bulimulidae (Mollusca, Eupulmonata) from Bahia, Brazil, with two new species

The new genus Stapafurdiusgen. nov. is introduced collected from Bahia, Brazil, including two new species: S. glabersp. nov., the type species, occurs in Ibicoara; and S. costiferussp. nov., from Andaraí regions. The new genus includes species of about 10 mm, elongated shell, reticulated protoconch, elongated peristome, and wide umbilicus. Both species differ mainly by the sculpture, as S. glabersp. nov. is smooth, while S. costiferussp. nov. has strong axial sculpture.(AU)

A new species of Drymaeus endemic from Currais Archipelago, Paraná, Brazil (Pulmonata, Bulimulidae)

Abstract The new bulimulid species, Drymaeus currais sp. nov., is described based on shell and anatomical features. It is endemic of Guapirá Island, belonging to the Currais Archipelago, a small protected area off Paraná coast. The species is thus, based at least on endemicity, endangered. It has as closest species D. castilhensis, another endemic species of Castilho Island, ~70 km northwards. Its main exclusivities are a banded shell (except for periumbilical area); a ureter ~1/3 opened (furrow); an external anus; a slightly different buccal and intestinal arrangement; a penis lacking internal chambers; a small receptacle with a genital appendix. Zoobank Register: urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:25B25A8B-CED0-4284-A799-5383998BE481.

A new species of Drymaeus endemic from Currais Archipelago, Paraná, Brazil (Pulmonata, Bulimulidae)

The new bulimulid species, Drymaeus currais sp. nov., is described based on shell and anatomical features. It is endemic of Guapirá Island, belonging to the Currais Archipelago, a small protected area off Paraná coast. The species is thus, based at least on endemicity, endangered. It has as closest species D. castilhensis, another endemic species of Castilho Island, ~70 km northwards. Its main exclusivities are a banded shell (except for periumbilical area); a ureter ~1/3 opened (furrow); an external anus; a slightly different buccal and intestinal arrangement; a penis lacking internal chambers; a small receptacle with a genital appendix. Zoobank Register: urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:25B25A8B-CED0-4284-A799-5383998BE481.

A new species of Drymaeus endemic from Currais Archipelago, Paraná, Brazil (Pulmonata, Bulimulidae)

The new bulimulid species, Drymaeus currais sp. nov., is described based on shell and anatomical features. It is endemic of Guapirá Island, belonging to the Currais Archipelago, a small protected area off Paraná coast. The species is thus, based at least on endemicity, endangered. It has as closest species D. castilhensis, another endemic species of Castilho Island, ~70 km northwards. Its main exclusivities are a banded shell (except for periumbilical area); a ureter ~1/3 opened (furrow); an external anus; a slightly different buccal and intestinal arrangement; a penis lacking internal chambers; a small receptacle with a genital appendix. Zoobank Register: urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:25B25A8B-CED0-4284-A799-5383998BE481.(AU)

First record of Bulimulus tenuissimus (Mollusca) as potential experimental intermediate host of Angiostrongylus cantonensis (Nematoda) / Primeiro registro de Bulimulus tenuissimus (Mollusca) como hospedeiro intermediário de Angiostrongylus cantonensis (Nematoda)

Snails are essential to complete the life cycle of the metastrongylid nematode Angiostrongylus cantonensis, the causative agent of infections in domestic and wild animals, mainly rodents, and also of neural angiostrongyliasis or eosinophilic meningitis in humans. There are many reports of mollusks that can act as intermediate hosts of this parasite, especially freshwater snails and the African giant Achatina fulica. The terrestrial gastropod Bulimulus tenuissimus is widely distributed in Brazil and other species of the same genus occur in Brazil and other countries, overlapping regions in which there are reports of the occurrence of A. cantonensis and angiostrongyliasis. In spite of this, there are no records in the literature of this species performing the role of intermediate host to A. cantonensis. The present study analyzed the experimental infection with first-stage larvae of A. cantonensis, under laboratory conditions, of B. tenuissimus, by using histology and electron microscopy techniques. Three weeks after exposure to L1 larvae, it was possible to recover L3 larvae in small numbers from the infected snails. Developing larvae were observed in the cephalopedal mass (foot), ovotestis, and mantle tissues, being located inside a granulomatous structure composed of hemocyte infiltration, but there was no calcium or collagen deposition in these structures in significant amounts. In the third week post exposure, it was possible observe a sheath around the developing larvae. The infected snails presented reduction in the fibrous muscular tissue in the foot region, loss of the acinar organization in the digestive gland, with increase of amorphous material inside the acini and loss of epithelial pattern of nuclear organization in the acinar cells. However, the ovotestis seemed unaffected by the infection, since there was a large number of developing oocytes and spermatozoa in different stages of formation. The digestion of infected snails allows us the third-stage recovery rate of 17.25%, at 14 days post exposure to the L1. These L3 recovered from B. tenuissimus were used to infect rats experimentally, and 43 days post infection first-stage (L1) larvae of A. cantonensis were recovered from fresh feces. The results presented constituted the first report of the role of B. tenuissimus as an experimental intermediate host to A. cantonensis and shed some light on a possible problem, since the overlapping distribution of B. tenuissimus and A. cantonensis in Brazil and other countries where different species of Bulimulus occur enables the establishment and maintenance of the life cycle of this parasite in nature, with wild rodents as reservoirs, acting as a source of infection to humans, causing neural angiostrongyliasis(AU).

Os moluscos são um requisito essencial para a conclusão do ciclo de vida pelo nematoide metastrogilídeo Angiostrongylus cantonensis, o agente causador de infecções em animais domésticos e selvagens, principalmente roedores, e também de angiostrongilíase neural ou meningite eosinofílica em humanos. Há muitos relatos de moluscos que podem atuar como hospedeiro para este parasito, sendo o foco dado aos moluscos de água doce e no gigante africano Achatina fulica. O gastrópode terrestre Bulimulus tenuissimus é amplamente distribuído no território brasileiro e há outras espécies do mesmo gênero que ocorrem no Brasil e outros países, sobrepondo-se às regiões em que há relatos à ocorrência de A. cantonensis e angiostornigilíase. Apesar disso, não há registro na literatura, acerca desta espécie como hospedeiro intermediário para A. cantonensis. O presente estudo teve como objetivo verificar a possibilidade de infectar experimentalmente, utilizando larvas L1 de A. cantonensis, em condições laboratoriais, o molusco B. tenuissimus, utilizando técnicas de histologia e microscopia eletrônica. Três semanas após a exposição às larvas L1, foi possível recuperar larvas L3 dos moluscos infectados, em pequena quantidade. As larvas em desenvolvimento foram observadas na massa cefalopediosa (pé), ovotestis e nos tecidos do manto, sendo localizadas dentro de uma estrutura granulomatosa constituída por infiltração hemocitária, mas não houve deposição de cálcio ou colágeno nessas estruturas em quantidade significativa. Na terceira semana pós exposição, foi possível observar uma bainha ao redor das larvas em desenvolvimento. Os caracóis infectados apresentaram redução no tecido muscular fibroso na região do pé, perda da organização acinar na glândula digestiva, com aumento de material amorfo dentro dos ácinos e perda do padrão epitelial da organização nuclear nas células acinares. No entanto, o ovotestis, pareceu não ser afetado pela infecção, uma vez que houve um grande número de oócitos em desenvolvimento e espermatozóides em diferentes estágios de formação. A digestão dos moluscos infectados nos permitiu a recuperação de larvas de terceiro estágio (17,25%), aos 14 dias após a exposição à L1 de A. cantonensis . Estas L3 recuperadas de B. tenuissimus foram utilizados para infectar ratos experimentalmente, e 43 dias após a infecção, as larvas do primeiro estágio (L1) foram recuperadas de fezes frescas. Os resultados apresentados representam o primeiro registro do papel de B. tenuissimus como hospedeiro intermediário experimental de A. cantonensis e trazem alguma luz a um problema, até então silencioso, uma vez que a sobreposição da distribuição de B. tenuissimus e A. cantonensis no Brasil, e outros países, onde as diferentes espécies de Bulimulus ocorrem, torna possível o estabelecimento e manutenção do ciclo de vida deste parasito na natureza, com roedores selvagens como reservatório, agindo como fonte de infecção para humanos e causando a angiostrongilíase neural.(AU)

First record of Bulimulus tenuissimus (Mollusca) as potential experimental intermediate host of Angiostrongylus cantonensis (Nematoda)

Abstract Snails are essential to complete the life cycle of the metastrongylid nematode Angiostrongylus cantonensis, the causative agent of infections in domestic and wild animals, mainly rodents, and also of neural angiostrongyliasis or eosinophilic meningitis in humans. There are many reports of mollusks that can act as intermediate hosts of this parasite, especially freshwater snails and the African giant Achatina fulica. The terrestrial gastropod Bulimulus tenuissimus is widely distributed in Brazil and other species of the same genus occur in Brazil and other countries, overlapping regions in which there are reports of the occurrence of A. cantonensis and angiostrongyliasis. In spite of this, there are no records in the literature of this species performing the role of intermediate host to A. cantonensis. The present study analyzed the experimental infection with first-stage larvae of A. cantonensis, under laboratory conditions, of B. tenuissimus, by using histology and electron microscopy techniques. Three weeks after exposure to L1 larvae, it was possible to recover L3 larvae in small numbers from the infected snails. Developing larvae were observed in the cephalopedal mass (foot), ovotestis, and mantle tissues, being located inside a granulomatous structure composed of hemocyte infiltration, but there was no calcium or collagen deposition in these structures in significant amounts. In the third week post exposure, it was possible observe a sheath around the developing larvae. The infected snails presented reduction in the fibrous muscular tissue in the foot region, loss of the acinar organization in the digestive gland, with increase of amorphous material inside the acini and loss of epithelial pattern of nuclear organization in the acinar cells. However, the ovotestis seemed unaffected by the infection, since there was a large number of developing oocytes and spermatozoa in different stages of formation. The digestion of infected snails allows us the third-stage recovery rate of 17.25%, at 14 days post exposure to the L1. These L3 recovered from B. tenuissimus were used to infect rats experimentally, and 43 days post infection first-stage (L1) larvae of A. cantonensis were recovered from fresh feces. The results presented constituted the first report of the role of B. tenuissimus as an experimental intermediate host to A. cantonensis and shed some light on a possible problem, since the overlapping distribution of B. tenuissimus and A. cantonensis in Brazil and other countries where different species of Bulimulus occur enables the establishment and maintenance of the life cycle of this parasite in nature, with wild rodents as reservoirs, acting as a source of infection to humans, causing neural angiostrongyliasis.

Resumo Os moluscos são um requisito essencial para a conclusão do ciclo de vida pelo nematoide metastrogilídeo Angiostrongylus cantonensis, o agente causador de infecções em animais domésticos e selvagens, principalmente roedores, e também de angiostrongilíase neural ou meningite eosinofílica em humanos. Há muitos relatos de moluscos que podem atuar como hospedeiro para este parasito, sendo o foco dado aos moluscos de água doce e no gigante africano Achatina fulica. O gastrópode terrestre Bulimulus tenuissimus é amplamente distribuído no território brasileiro e há outras espécies do mesmo gênero que ocorrem no Brasil e outros países, sobrepondo-se às regiões em que há relatos à ocorrência de A. cantonensis e angiostornigilíase. Apesar disso, não há registro na literatura, acerca desta espécie como hospedeiro intermediário para A. cantonensis. O presente estudo teve como objetivo verificar a possibilidade de infectar experimentalmente, utilizando larvas L1 de A. cantonensis, em condições laboratoriais, o molusco B. tenuissimus, utilizando técnicas de histologia e microscopia eletrônica. Três semanas após a exposição às larvas L1, foi possível recuperar larvas L3 dos moluscos infectados, em pequena quantidade. As larvas em desenvolvimento foram observadas na massa cefalopediosa (pé), ovotestis e nos tecidos do manto, sendo localizadas dentro de uma estrutura granulomatosa constituída por infiltração hemocitária, mas não houve deposição de cálcio ou colágeno nessas estruturas em quantidade significativa. Na terceira semana pós exposição, foi possível observar uma bainha ao redor das larvas em desenvolvimento. Os caracóis infectados apresentaram redução no tecido muscular fibroso na região do pé, perda da organização acinar na glândula digestiva, com aumento de material amorfo dentro dos ácinos e perda do padrão epitelial da organização nuclear nas células acinares. No entanto, o ovotestis, pareceu não ser afetado pela infecção, uma vez que houve um grande número de oócitos em desenvolvimento e espermatozóides em diferentes estágios de formação. A digestão dos moluscos infectados nos permitiu a recuperação de larvas de terceiro estágio (17,25%), aos 14 dias após a exposição à L1 de A. cantonensis . Estas L3 recuperadas de B. tenuissimus foram utilizados para infectar ratos experimentalmente, e 43 dias após a infecção, as larvas do primeiro estágio (L1) foram recuperadas de fezes frescas. Os resultados apresentados representam o primeiro registro do papel de B. tenuissimus como hospedeiro intermediário experimental de A. cantonensis e trazem alguma luz a um problema, até então silencioso, uma vez que a sobreposição da distribuição de B. tenuissimus e A. cantonensis no Brasil, e outros países, onde as diferentes espécies de Bulimulus ocorrem, torna possível o estabelecimento e manutenção do ciclo de vida deste parasito na natureza, com roedores selvagens como reservatório, agindo como fonte de infecção para humanos e causando a angiostrongilíase neural.

First record of Bulimulus tenuissimus (Mollusca) as potential experimental intermediate host of Angiostrongylus cantonensis (Nematoda)

Abstract Snails are essential to complete the life cycle of the metastrongylid nematode Angiostrongylus cantonensis, the causative agent of infections in domestic and wild animals, mainly rodents, and also of neural angiostrongyliasis or eosinophilic meningitis in humans. There are many reports of mollusks that can act as intermediate hosts of this parasite, especially freshwater snails and the African giant Achatina fulica. The terrestrial gastropod Bulimulus tenuissimus is widely distributed in Brazil and other species of the same genus occur in Brazil and other countries, overlapping regions in which there are reports of the occurrence of A. cantonensis and angiostrongyliasis. In spite of this, there are no records in the literature of this species performing the role of intermediate host to A. cantonensis. The present study analyzed the experimental infection with first-stage larvae of A. cantonensis, under laboratory conditions, of B. tenuissimus, by using histology and electron microscopy techniques. Three weeks after exposure to L1 larvae, it was possible to recover L3 larvae in small numbers from the infected snails. Developing larvae were observed in the cephalopedal mass (foot), ovotestis, and mantle tissues, being located inside a granulomatous structure composed of hemocyte infiltration, but there was no calcium or collagen deposition in these structures in significant amounts. In the third week post exposure, it was possible observe a sheath around the developing larvae. The infected snails presented reduction in the fibrous muscular tissue in the foot region, loss of the acinar organization in the digestive gland, with increase of amorphous material inside the acini and loss of epithelial pattern of nuclear organization in the acinar cells. However, the ovotestis seemed unaffected by the infection, since there was a large number of developing oocytes and spermatozoa in different stages of formation. The digestion of infected snails allows us the third-stage recovery rate of 17.25%, at 14 days post exposure to the L1. These L3 recovered from B. tenuissimus were used to infect rats experimentally, and 43 days post infection first-stage (L1) larvae of A. cantonensis were recovered from fresh feces. The results presented constituted the first report of the role of B. tenuissimus as an experimental intermediate host to A. cantonensis and shed some light on a possible problem, since the overlapping distribution of B. tenuissimus and A. cantonensis in Brazil and other countries where different species of Bulimulus occur enables the establishment and maintenance of the life cycle of this parasite in nature, with wild rodents as reservoirs, acting as a source of infection to humans, causing neural angiostrongyliasis.

Resumo Os moluscos são um requisito essencial para a conclusão do ciclo de vida pelo nematoide metastrogilídeo Angiostrongylus cantonensis, o agente causador de infecções em animais domésticos e selvagens, principalmente roedores, e também de angiostrongilíase neural ou meningite eosinofílica em humanos. Há muitos relatos de moluscos que podem atuar como hospedeiro para este parasito, sendo o foco dado aos moluscos de água doce e no gigante africano Achatina fulica. O gastrópode terrestre Bulimulus tenuissimus é amplamente distribuído no território brasileiro e há outras espécies do mesmo gênero que ocorrem no Brasil e outros países, sobrepondo-se às regiões em que há relatos à ocorrência de A. cantonensis e angiostornigilíase. Apesar disso, não há registro na literatura, acerca desta espécie como hospedeiro intermediário para A. cantonensis. O presente estudo teve como objetivo verificar a possibilidade de infectar experimentalmente, utilizando larvas L1 de A. cantonensis, em condições laboratoriais, o molusco B. tenuissimus, utilizando técnicas de histologia e microscopia eletrônica. Três semanas após a exposição às larvas L1, foi possível recuperar larvas L3 dos moluscos infectados, em pequena quantidade. As larvas em desenvolvimento foram observadas na massa cefalopediosa (pé), ovotestis e nos tecidos do manto, sendo localizadas dentro de uma estrutura granulomatosa constituída por infiltração hemocitária, mas não houve deposição de cálcio ou colágeno nessas estruturas em quantidade significativa. Na terceira semana pós exposição, foi possível observar uma bainha ao redor das larvas em desenvolvimento. Os caracóis infectados apresentaram redução no tecido muscular fibroso na região do pé, perda da organização acinar na glândula digestiva, com aumento de material amorfo dentro dos ácinos e perda do padrão epitelial da organização nuclear nas células acinares. No entanto, o ovotestis, pareceu não ser afetado pela infecção, uma vez que houve um grande número de oócitos em desenvolvimento e espermatozóides em diferentes estágios de formação. A digestão dos moluscos infectados nos permitiu a recuperação de larvas de terceiro estágio (17,25%), aos 14 dias após a exposição à L1 de A. cantonensis . Estas L3 recuperadas de B. tenuissimus foram utilizados para infectar ratos experimentalmente, e 43 dias após a infecção, as larvas do primeiro estágio (L1) foram recuperadas de fezes frescas. Os resultados apresentados representam o primeiro registro do papel de B. tenuissimus como hospedeiro intermediário experimental de A. cantonensis e trazem alguma luz a um problema, até então silencioso, uma vez que a sobreposição da distribuição de B. tenuissimus e A. cantonensis no Brasil, e outros países, onde as diferentes espécies de Bulimulus ocorrem, torna possível o estabelecimento e manutenção do ciclo de vida deste parasito na natureza, com roedores selvagens como reservatório, agindo como fonte de infecção para humanos e causando a angiostrongilíase neural.

Cladistic analysis of the Argentinian species of the genus Bostryx (Gastropoda, Stylommatophora) based on morphological evidence

The genus Bostryx Troschel, 1847 is found exclusively in South America, from Ecuador to Chile and mainly in the Andes mountai range. The phylogeny of Argentinian species of Bostryx was based on morphological characters of 19 species from Argentina, 5 from Peru and 7 from Bostryx-related genera, belonging to Bulimulidae and Odontostomidae. A matrix of 31 taxa and 78 morphological characters (19 of which were continuous and 59 discrete) from shell, pallial and reproductive systems was analysed under implied weighting with TNT. Argentinian species of the genus formed a monophyletic group together with the Peruvian species. The monophyly of this clade was supported by a set of 14 synapomorphies, principally related to continuous characters of the shell shape.

El género Bostryx Troschel, 1847 es encontrado exclusivamente en Sudamérica, desde Ecuador hasta Chile, principalmente en relación a la cordillera de los Andes. La filogenia de Bostryx está basada en caracteres morfológicos de 24 especies de este género, 19 de las cuales correspoden a especies de Argentina, 5 son procedentes de Perú, además de 7 especies representantes de otros géneros, perenecientes a Bulimulidae y Odontostomidae. Una matriz de 31 taxa y 78 caracteres morfológicos (19 de los cuales son continuos y 59 son discretos) de conchilla, sistemas paleal y reproductor, fue analizada bajo pesos implicados con TNT. Las especies argentinas y peruanas del género se agruparon en un clado monofilético soportado por 14 caracteres de conchilla, los cuales son principalmente caracteres continuos de forma de la conchilla.

Cladistic analysis of the Argentinian species of the genus Bostryx (Gastropoda, Stylommatophora) based on morphological evidence

The genus Bostryx Troschel, 1847 is found exclusively in South America, from Ecuador to Chile and mainly in the Andes mountai range. The phylogeny of Argentinian species of Bostryx was based on morphological characters of 19 species from Argentina, 5 from Peru and 7 from Bostryx-related genera, belonging to Bulimulidae and Odontostomidae. A matrix of 31 taxa and 78 morphological characters (19 of which were continuous and 59 discrete) from shell, pallial and reproductive systems was analysed under implied weighting with TNT. Argentinian species of the genus formed a monophyletic group together with the Peruvian species. The monophyly of this clade was supported by a set of 14 synapomorphies, principally related to continuous characters of the shell shape.(AU)

El género Bostryx Troschel, 1847 es encontrado exclusivamente en Sudamérica, desde Ecuador hasta Chile, principalmente en relación a la cordillera de los Andes. La filogenia de Bostryx está basada en caracteres morfológicos de 24 especies de este género, 19 de las cuales correspoden a especies de Argentina, 5 son procedentes de Perú, además de 7 especies representantes de otros géneros, perenecientes a Bulimulidae y Odontostomidae. Una matriz de 31 taxa y 78 caracteres morfológicos (19 de los cuales son continuos y 59 son discretos) de conchilla, sistemas paleal y reproductor, fue analizada bajo pesos implicados con TNT. Las especies argentinas y peruanas del género se agruparon en un clado monofilético soportado por 14 caracteres de conchilla, los cuales son principalmente caracteres continuos de forma de la conchilla.(AU)

The genus Bostryx in central western Argentina: anatomical and distributional description of four of its southernmost species (Gastropoda, Bulimulidae) / El género Bostryx en la región centro-oeste de la Argentina: descripción anatómica y distribucional de cuatro de sus especies más australes (Gastropoda, Bulimulidae)

El género Bostryx Troschel, 1847 es endémico de Sudamérica, extendiéndose desde Ecuador hasta Chile y Argentina. Las especies argentinas más australes habitan en las provincias de San Luis, San Juan y Mendoza, especialmente en la precordillera y cordillera Andina y las Sierras Pampeanas, fueron examinadas. Se describe por primera vez la anatomía de Bostryx pastorei (Holmberg, 1912), Bostryx reedi (Parodiz, 1947) y Bostryx strobeli (Parodiz, 1956). Bostryx cordillerae (Strobel, 1874) es redescripta en conchilla y anatomía con nuevos datos morfológicos. Las principales diferencias entre las especies examinadas están basadas en caracteres de conchilla. La distribución deBostryx mendozanus (Strobel, 1874) y Bostryx cuyanus (Pfeiffer, 1867), otras especies encontradas en esta región, es también discutida.(AU)

The genus Bostryx Troschel, 1847 is endemic to South America, extending from Ecuador to Chile and Argentina. The southernmost Argentinian species of the genus that inhabit San Luis, San Juan and Mendoza provinces, specially the pre-Andes, Andes and Sierras Pampeanas mountain ranges, were examined. This is the first time the anatomy of Bostryx pastorei (Holmberg, 1912), Bostryx reedi (Parodiz, 1947) and Bostryx strobeli (Parodiz, 1956) has been described.Bostryx cordillerae (Strobel, 1874) is re-described regarding shell and anatomy due to new morphological data. The main differences among the species examined are based on shell characters. The distribution ofBostryx mendozanus (Strobel, 1874) and Bostryx cuyanus (Pfeiffer, 1867), other species found in this region, was also discussed.(AU)

The genus Bostryx in central western Argentina: anatomical and distributional description of four of its southernmost species (Gastropoda, Bulimulidae) / El género Bostryx en la región centro-oeste de la Argentina: descripción anatómica y distribucional de cuatro de sus especies más australes (Gastropoda, Bulimulidae)

El género Bostryx Troschel, 1847 es endémico de Sudamérica, extendiéndose desde Ecuador hasta Chile y Argentina. Las especies argentinas más australes habitan en las provincias de San Luis, San Juan y Mendoza, especialmente en la precordillera y cordillera Andina y las Sierras Pampeanas, fueron examinadas. Se describe por primera vez la anatomía de Bostryx pastorei (Holmberg, 1912), Bostryx reedi (Parodiz, 1947) y Bostryx strobeli (Parodiz, 1956). Bostryx cordillerae (Strobel, 1874) es redescripta en conchilla y anatomía con nuevos datos morfológicos. Las principales diferencias entre las especies examinadas están basadas en caracteres de conchilla. La distribución deBostryx mendozanus (Strobel, 1874) y Bostryx cuyanus (Pfeiffer, 1867), otras especies encontradas en esta región, es también discutida.

The genus Bostryx Troschel, 1847 is endemic to South America, extending from Ecuador to Chile and Argentina. The southernmost Argentinian species of the genus that inhabit San Luis, San Juan and Mendoza provinces, specially the pre-Andes, Andes and Sierras Pampeanas mountain ranges, were examined. This is the first time the anatomy of Bostryx pastorei (Holmberg, 1912), Bostryx reedi (Parodiz, 1947) and Bostryx strobeli (Parodiz, 1956) has been described.Bostryx cordillerae (Strobel, 1874) is re-described regarding shell and anatomy due to new morphological data. The main differences among the species examined are based on shell characters. The distribution ofBostryx mendozanus (Strobel, 1874) and Bostryx cuyanus (Pfeiffer, 1867), other species found in this region, was also discussed.

Molecular evidence for the polyphyly of Bostryx (Gastropoda: Bulimulidae) and genetic diversity of Bostryx aguilari

Bostryx is largely distributed in Andean Valleys and Lomas formations along the coast of Peru and Chile. One species, Bostryx aguilari, is restricted to Lomas formations located in the Department of Lima (Peru). The use of genetic information has become essential in phylogenetic and population studies with conservation purposes. Considering the rapid degradation of desert ecosystems, which threatens the survival of vulnerable species, the aim of this study was, first, to resolve evolutionary relationships within Bostryx and to determine the position of Bostryx within the Bulimulidae, and second, to survey the genetic diversity of Bostryx aguilari, a species considered rare. Sequences of the mitochondrial 16S rRNA and nuclear rRNA regions were obtained for 12 and 11 species of Bulimulidae, respectively, including seven species of Bostryx. Sequences of the 16S rRNA gene were obtained for 14 individuals (from four different populations) of Bostryx aguilari. Phylogenetic reconstructions were carried out using Neighbor-Joining, Maximum Parsimony, Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian Inference methods. The monophyly of Bostryx was not supported. In our results, B. solutus (type species of Bostryx) grouped only with B. aguilari, B. conspersus, B. modestus, B. scalariformis and B. sordidus, forming a monophyletic group that is strongly supported in all analyses. In case the taxonomy of Bostryx is reviewed in the future, this group should keep the generic name. Bostryx aguilari was found to have both low genetic diversity and small population size. We recommend that conservation efforts should be increased in Lomas ecosystems to ensure the survival of B. aguilari, and a large number of other rare species restricted to Lomas.

Molecular evidence for the polyphyly of Bostryx (Gastropoda: Bulimulidae) and genetic diversity of Bostryx aguilari

Bostryx is largely distributed in Andean Valleys and Lomas formations along the coast of Peru and Chile. One species, Bostryx aguilari, is restricted to Lomas formations located in the Department of Lima (Peru). The use of genetic information has become essential in phylogenetic and population studies with conservation purposes. Considering the rapid degradation of desert ecosystems, which threatens the survival of vulnerable species, the aim of this study was, first, to resolve evolutionary relationships within Bostryx and to determine the position of Bostryx within the Bulimulidae, and second, to survey the genetic diversity of Bostryx aguilari, a species considered rare. Sequences of the mitochondrial 16S rRNA and nuclear rRNA regions were obtained for 12 and 11 species of Bulimulidae, respectively, including seven species of Bostryx. Sequences of the 16S rRNA gene were obtained for 14 individuals (from four different populations) of Bostryx aguilari. Phylogenetic reconstructions were carried out using Neighbor-Joining, Maximum Parsimony, Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian Inference methods. The monophyly of Bostryx was not supported. In our results, B. solutus (type species of Bostryx) grouped only with B. aguilari, B. conspersus, B. modestus, B. scalariformis and B. sordidus, forming a monophyletic group that is strongly supported in all analyses. In case the taxonomy of Bostryx is reviewed in the future, this group should keep the generic name. Bostryx aguilari was found to have both low genetic diversity and small population size. We recommend that conservation efforts should be increased in Lomas ecosystems to ensure the survival of B. aguilari, and a large number of other rare species restricted to Lomas.

Molecular evidence for the polyphyly of Bostryx (Gastropoda: Bulimulidae) and genetic diversity of Bostryx aguilari

Bostryx is largely distributed in Andean Valleys and Lomas formations along the coast of Peru and Chile. One species, Bostryx aguilari, is restricted to Lomas formations located in the Department of Lima (Peru). The use of genetic information has become essential in phylogenetic and population studies with conservation purposes. Considering the rapid degradation of desert ecosystems, which threatens the survival of vulnerable species, the aim of this study was, first, to resolve evolutionary relationships within Bostryx and to determine the position of Bostryx within the Bulimulidae, and second, to survey the genetic diversity of Bostryx aguilari, a species considered rare. Sequences of the mitochondrial 16S rRNA and nuclear rRNA regions were obtained for 12 and 11 species of Bulimulidae, respectively, including seven species of Bostryx. Sequences of the 16S rRNA gene were obtained for 14 individuals (from four different populations) of Bostryx aguilari. Phylogenetic reconstructions were carried out using Neighbor-Joining, Maximum Parsimony, Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian Inference methods. The monophyly of Bostryx was not supported. In our results, B. solutus (type species of Bostryx) grouped only with B. aguilari, B. conspersus, B. modestus, B. scalariformis and B. sordidus, forming a monophyletic group that is strongly supported in all analyses. In case the taxonomy of Bostryx is reviewed in the future, this group should keep the generic name. Bostryx aguilari was found to have both low genetic diversity and small population size. We recommend that conservation efforts should be increased in Lomas ecosystems to ensure the survival of B. aguilari, and a large number of other rare species restricted to Lomas.(AU)

Dietary effects growth and shell calcium incorporation of Bulimulus tenuissimus (Stylommatophora : Bulimulidae) in laboratory conditions

A alimentação exerce grande influência no desenvolvimento dos moluscos terrestres. Desse modo, objetivou-se com esse estudo verificar a influência de diferentes dietas sobre o crescimento e o ganho de massa corporal de B. tenuissimus. Para tal, grupos de moluscos foram alimentados com seis itens diferentes (batata, chuchu, pepino, cenoura, maçã e ração), os quais foram oferecidos separadamente ou combinados por um período de 210 dias. Observaram-se os efeitos da alimentação nos dois parâmetros avaliados. Os resultados obtidos indicam que a combinação de itens alimentares favoreceu o crescimento, incorporação de cálcio na concha e o ganho de massa corporal nessa espécie, provavelmente, devido ao aumento na disponibilidade de nutrientes.

Taxonomical study on a sample of pulmonates from Santa Maria da Vitória, Bahia, Brazil, with description of a new genus and four new species (Mollusca: Orthalicidae and Megalobulimidae)

A sample of Pulmonata collected in Santa Maria da Vitória, interior of Bahia, Brazil, in Caatinga semi-arid environment, is studied taxonomically. From the five species, four are revealed as new, including a new genus. The new taxa are the Bulimulidae (1) Kora corallina gen. et sp. n. characterized by the elongated shell with aperture somewhat dislocated from the shell axis, and an oblique tooth in middle level of inner lip; (2) Spixia coltrorum, mainly characterized by an uneven spire, delicate sculpture and peristome with 4 equidistant teeth; (3) Anostoma tessa, mainly characterized by a broad spire and well-developed anal canal; and the Megalobulimidae (4) Megalobulimus amandus, mainly characterized by pointed protoconch sculptured by dense quantity of axial cords. Rhinus suturalis is the only previously known species, but its geographic distribution is expanded southwards to Bahia state. A discussion with respect to necessity for improving the study on the malacofauna from the interior region of the Brazilian Northeast and the importance for preservation of the Caatinga biome is also provided.

Uma amostra de Pulmonata coletada em Santa Maria da Vitória, interior da Bahia, Brasil, na Caatinga semiárida, é estudada taxonomicamente. Das 5 espécies, 4 revelaram-se novas, incluindo um gênero novo. Os táxons novos dão os Bulimulidae (1) Kora corallina gen. et sp. n. caracterizado pela concha alongada com apertura algo deslocada do eixo da concha e um dente oblíquo no nível médio do lábio interno; (2) Spixia coltrorum, principalmente caracterizado pelas voltas desiguais da espira, escultura delicada e perístoma com 4 dentes equidistantes; (3) Anostoma tessa, principalmente caracterizado pela espira bojuda e um canal anal bem desenvolvido; e pelo Megalobulimidae (4) Megalobulimus amandus, principalmente caracterizado pela protoconcha pontuda esculturada por uma densa quantidade de cordas axiais. Rhinys suturalis é a punica espécie previamente conhecida, mas sua distribuição geográfica é expandida para o sul até a Bahia. Uma discussão a respeito da necessidade de melhoria do estudo sobre a malacofauna do interior do Nordeste e a importância da preservação do bioma Caatinga é também fornecida.

Taxonomical study on a sample of pulmonates from Santa Maria da Vitória, Bahia, Brazil, with description of a new genus and four new species (Mollusca: Orthalicidae and Megalobulimidae)

A sample of Pulmonata collected in Santa Maria da Vitória, interior of Bahia, Brazil, in Caatinga semi-arid environment, is studied taxonomically. From the five species, four are revealed as new, including a new genus. The new taxa are the Bulimulidae (1) Kora corallina gen. et sp. n. characterized by the elongated shell with aperture somewhat dislocated from the shell axis, and an oblique tooth in middle level of inner lip; (2) Spixia coltrorum, mainly characterized by an uneven spire, delicate sculpture and peristome with 4 equidistant teeth; (3) Anostoma tessa, mainly characterized by a broad spire and well-developed anal canal; and the Megalobulimidae (4) Megalobulimus amandus, mainly characterized by pointed protoconch sculptured by dense quantity of axial cords. Rhinus suturalis is the only previously known species, but its geographic distribution is expanded southwards to Bahia state. A discussion with respect to necessity for improving the study on the malacofauna from the interior region of the Brazilian Northeast and the importance for preservation of the Caatinga biome is also provided.

Uma amostra de Pulmonata coletada em Santa Maria da Vitória, interior da Bahia, Brasil, na Caatinga semiárida, é estudada taxonomicamente. Das 5 espécies, 4 revelaram-se novas, incluindo um gênero novo. Os táxons novos dão os Bulimulidae (1) Kora corallina gen. et sp. n. caracterizado pela concha alongada com apertura algo deslocada do eixo da concha e um dente oblíquo no nível médio do lábio interno; (2) Spixia coltrorum, principalmente caracterizado pelas voltas desiguais da espira, escultura delicada e perístoma com 4 dentes equidistantes; (3) Anostoma tessa, principalmente caracterizado pela espira bojuda e um canal anal bem desenvolvido; e pelo Megalobulimidae (4) Megalobulimus amandus, principalmente caracterizado pela protoconcha pontuda esculturada por uma densa quantidade de cordas axiais. Rhinys suturalis é a punica espécie previamente conhecida, mas sua distribuição geográfica é expandida para o sul até a Bahia. Uma discussão a respeito da necessidade de melhoria do estudo sobre a malacofauna do interior do Nordeste e a importância da preservação do bioma Caatinga é também fornecida.

Influência da densidade populacional sobre crescimento e fecundidade de Bulimulus tenuissimus (dOrbigny, 1835) (Mollusca, Bulimulidae) / Influence of different population density in the growth and fecundity of Bulimulus tenuissimus (dOrbigny, 1835)

A taxa de desenvolvimento de populações de moluscos terrestres sofre grande influência de diversos fatores, dos quais a temperatura, umidade e densidade populacional merecem destaque. Assim, objetivou-se com este trabalho comparar o crescimento e a fecundidade de Bulimulus tenuissimus mantidos em diferentes densidades populacionais (2, 6, 10, 16 e 18 moluscos/ cm2), bem como a variação desses parâmetros durante as estações do ano (Primavera/Verão e Outono/Inverno). Verificou-se redução significativa na produção de ovos e no crescimento de acordo com a densidade, sendo esses menores em altas densidades. Já o tempo de incubação e eclodibilidade não apresentaram alterações. Porém, registrou-se maior tempo para incubação dos ovos no Outono/Inverno. Independentemente da condição de densidade populacional na qual os moluscos foram acondicionados, foi observado maior crescimento e maior fecundidade na Primavera/Verão, e consequentemente no período de maiores médias de temperatura e umidade. Os efeitos negativos da densidade populacional observados no estudo podem estar relacionados a fatores como competição intra-específica e ao acúmulo de excretas e metabólitos.(AU)

The rates of development of terrestrial snails populations are greatly influenced by environmental factors such as temperature, humidity and population density, as well. The aim of the present study was to compare growth and fecundity of Bulimulus tenuissimus kept at different population densities (2, 6, 10, 16 e 18 snails/cm2) and the variation in these parameters during the fall/winter and spring/summer periods. Negative effects of density on growth and delay of oviposition in high densities were observed. However, incubation and hatchability did not differ significantly in low and high densities, between the periods studied. The snails had greater growth rates and eggs production in the period of spring/summer when compared to fall/winter. The negative effects of population density observed in the study are due mainly to factors such as intra-specific competition and may also be related to the accumulation of metabolites produced by animals at high densities.(AU)