Diversity of avian species, their ecosystems and climate conditions in two zones of High Atlas (central Morocco) for ecotouristic purposes

The analysis of avian diversity and their natural ecosystems at a regional scale is the first step to understanding and classifying a specific region's ecological importance and, therefore, adopting sustainable economic activities and implementing suitable conservation measures. This study investigated the avian richness and natural ecosystems in Eastern and central High Atlas between 2015 and 2021. Transects and point-count methods were used to identify and estimate populations of birds and to delimit the nature of ecosystems. A total of 175 bird species among resident-breeders, migrantbreeders, migrant-winterers, and accidental-visitors were documented. These birds belong to 19 orders and are grouped into 51 families. Among recorded birds, 20 species were categorized as species of ectouristic interest due to their roles in birdwatching, hunting, racing sports, and trade activities. These species were observed in natural and human-made ecosystems, with the majority in wetlands. The abundance of a wide range of ecosystems and various bioclimatic stages is suggested to be behind the avian richness of these mountainous areas. Finally, these natural landscapes and their avian richness could be used for ecotouristic purposes. Visitors could profit from the view of landscapes and observation of the most iconic and rare animal species, which is suggested to increase the income for local populations and ensure the sustainable use of natural resources.

Evaluation of some nutritional quality criteria of seventeen Moroccan dates varieties and clones, fruits of date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.)

Abstract Date fruit is known to be the staple food in the Arab countries. It provides a lot of potential health benefits and can be the essential source of nutrients. The majority of Moroccan varieties are not characterized for their chemical, biochemical and quality properties. The aim of this work was to assess the chemical composition of 17 varieties of Moroccan date fruits (Phoenix dactylifera L.) and to determine their nutritive components. The analysis showed that the dates are rich in sugars (51.80-87.98%), they contain low concentration of proteins (1.09-2.80%) and lipids (0.16-0.39%). The predominant mineral is potassium (1055.26-1604.10 mg/100 g DW). Moreover, they contain high concentrations of malic acid (69.48-495.58 mg/100 g (DW)), oxalic acid (18.47-233.35 mg/100 g DW) and tartaric acid (115.70-484.168 mg/100 g DW). These results suggest that the date fruit are nutritious and can be an excellent source for human nutrition and health benefits.

Resumo A fruta da tâmara é conhecida por ser o alimento básico nos países árabes. Oferece muitos benefícios potenciais à saúde e pode ser a fonte essencial de nutrientes. A maioria das variedades marroquinas não se caracteriza por suas propriedades químicas, bioquímicas nem de qualidade. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a composição química de 17 variedades de frutos de tâmara marroquina (Phoenix dactylifera L.) e determinar seu valor nutritivo. A análise mostrou que as tâmaras são ricas em açúcares (51,80-87,98%) e contêm baixa concentração de proteínas (1,09-2,80%) e lipídios (0,16-0,39%). O mineral predominante é o potássio (1.055,26-1.604,10 mg/100 g DW). Além disso, contêm altas concentrações de ácido málico (69,48-495,58 mg/100 g DW), ácido oxálico (18,47-233,35 mg/100 g DW) e ácido tartárico (115,70-484,168 mg/100 g DW). Esses resultados sugerem que o fruto da tamareira é nutritivo e pode ser uma excelente fonte de nutrição humana e conferir benefícios à saúde.

Evaluation of some nutritional quality criteria of seventeen Moroccan dates varieties and clones, fruits of date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L) / Avaliação de alguns critérios de qualidade nutricional de 17 variedades e clones marroquinos de datas, frutos de tamareira (Phoenix dactylifera L)

Date fruit is known to be the staple food in the Arab countries. It provides a lot of potential health benefits and can be the essential source of nutrients. The majority of Moroccan varieties are not characterized for their chemical, biochemical and quality properties. The aim of this work was to assess the chemical composition of 17 varieties of Moroccan date fruits (Phoenix dactylifera L.) and to determine their nutritive components. The analysis showed that the dates are rich in sugars (51.80-87.98%), they contain low concentration of proteins (1.09-2.80%) and lipids (0.16-0.39%). The predominant mineral is potassium (1055.26-1604.10 mg/100 g DW). Moreover, they contain high concentrations of malic acid (69.48-495.58 mg/100 g (DW)), oxalic acid (18.47-233.35 mg/100 g DW) and tartaric acid (115.70-484.168 mg/100 g DW). These results suggest that the date fruit are nutritious and can be an excellent source for human nutrition and health benefits.

A fruta da tâmara é conhecida por ser o alimento básico nos países árabes. Oferece muitos benefícios potenciais à saúde e pode ser a fonte essencial de nutrientes. A maioria das variedades marroquinas não se caracteriza por suas propriedades químicas, bioquímicas nem de qualidade. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a composição química de 17 variedades de frutos de tâmara marroquina (Phoenix dactylifera L.) e determinar seu valor nutritivo. A análise mostrou que as tâmaras são ricas em açúcares (51,80-87,98%) e contêm baixa concentração de proteínas (1,09-2,80%) e lipídios (0,16-0,39%). O mineral predominante é o potássio (1.055,26-1.604,10 mg/100 g DW). Além disso, contêm altas concentrações de ácido málico (69,48-495,58 mg/100 g DW), ácido oxálico (18,47-233,35 mg/100 g DW) e ácido tartárico (115,70-484,168 mg/100 g DW). Esses resultados sugerem que o fruto da tamareira é nutritivo e pode ser uma excelente fonte de nutrição humana e conferir benefícios à saúde.

Evaluation of some nutritional quality criteria of seventeen Moroccan dates varieties and clones, fruits of date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L) / Avaliação de alguns critérios de qualidade nutricional de 17 variedades e clones marroquinos de datas, frutos de tamareira (Phoenix dactylifera L)

Date fruit is known to be the staple food in the Arab countries. It provides a lot of potential health benefits and can be the essential source of nutrients. The majority of Moroccan varieties are not characterized for their chemical, biochemical and quality properties. The aim of this work was to assess the chemical composition of 17 varieties of Moroccan date fruits (Phoenix dactylifera L.) and to determine their nutritive components. The analysis showed that the dates are rich in sugars (51.80-87.98%), they contain low concentration of proteins (1.09-2.80%) and lipids (0.16-0.39%). The predominant mineral is potassium (1055.26-1604.10 mg/100 g DW). Moreover, they contain high concentrations of malic acid (69.48-495.58 mg/100 g (DW)), oxalic acid (18.47-233.35 mg/100 g DW) and tartaric acid (115.70-484.168 mg/100 g DW). These results suggest that the date fruit are nutritious and can be an excellent source for human nutrition and health benefits.(AU)

A fruta da tâmara é conhecida por ser o alimento básico nos países árabes. Oferece muitos benefícios potenciais à saúde e pode ser a fonte essencial de nutrientes. A maioria das variedades marroquinas não se caracteriza por suas propriedades químicas, bioquímicas nem de qualidade. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a composição química de 17 variedades de frutos de tâmara marroquina (Phoenix dactylifera L.) e determinar seu valor nutritivo. A análise mostrou que as tâmaras são ricas em açúcares (51,80-87,98%) e contêm baixa concentração de proteínas (1,09-2,80%) e lipídios (0,16-0,39%). O mineral predominante é o potássio (1.055,26-1.604,10 mg/100 g DW). Além disso, contêm altas concentrações de ácido málico (69,48-495,58 mg/100 g DW), ácido oxálico (18,47-233,35 mg/100 g DW) e ácido tartárico (115,70-484,168 mg/100 g DW). Esses resultados sugerem que o fruto da tamareira é nutritivo e pode ser uma excelente fonte de nutrição humana e conferir benefícios à saúde.(AU)

The avifauna of two High Atlas valleys: breeding assemblages in forest stands and open lands

In this study, we surveyed the diversity and distribution of breeding birds in dominating habitat of Central High Atlas valleys and principal governing factors. In the point-counts method with 170 sampling points from 2018 to 2019, richness parameters and multivariate analysis were used to assess the distribution of recorded birds. We recorded 92 breeding birds of migrants (34%) and residents (68%), belonging to 34 families and 13 orders. The families of Muscicapidae (13 species), Fringillidae (8 species), and Accipitridae (7 species) were the most abundant, while the Regulidae, Malaconotidae, Acrocephalidae, Cettiidae, Pycnonotidae, Cinclidae, Oriolidae, Laniidae, Phylloscopidae, Troglodytidae, Meropidae, Coraciidae, Cuculidae, Caprimulgidae, Upupidae, and Ciconiidae, were the less observed with one bird species each. One species of conservation concern, namely the globally vulnerable Turtle dove, was recorded. On the other hand, Statistical analysis showed that bird richness was similar among forest stands, while abundance differed significantly. In contrast, both richness and abundance were statistically different among open habitats. Further, 46 species were found in Juniper stand surrounded by agricultural fields, followed by 30 species in Holm Oak stands where the density of trees, shrubs, and canopy coverage were higher, while in Black poplar stands characterised by higher trees and shrubs, and high availability of water hosted only 20 species. Rare and accidental birds dominate the forest and open lands, demonstrating the vulnerability of these habitats. This study could serve as a great reference for comparative studies of interesting birds on both slopes of the Mediterranean.

Evaluation of some nutritional quality criteria of seventeen Moroccan dates varieties and clones, fruits of date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L. ) / Avaliação de alguns critérios de qualidade nutricional de 17 variedades e clones marroquinos de datas, frutos de tamareira (Phoenix dactylifera L. )

Date fruit is known to be the staple food in the Arab countries. It provides a lot of potential health benefits and can be the essential source of nutrients. The majority of Moroccan varieties are not characterized for their chemical, biochemical and quality properties. The aim of this work was to assess the chemical composition of 17 varieties of Moroccan date fruits (Phoenix dactylifera L.) and to determine their nutritive components. The analysis showed that the dates are rich in sugars (51.80-87.98%), they contain low concentration of proteins (1.09-2.80%) and lipids (0.16-0.39%). The predominant mineral is potassium (1055.26-1604.10 mg/100 g DW). Moreover, they contain high concentrations of malic acid (69.48-495.58 mg/100 g (DW)), oxalic acid (18.47-233.35 mg/100 g DW) and tartaric acid (115.70-484.168 mg/100 g DW). These results suggest that the date fruit are nutritious and can be an excellent source for human nutrition and health benefits.

A fruta da tâmara é conhecida por ser o alimento básico nos países árabes. Oferece muitos benefícios potenciais à saúde e pode ser a fonte essencial de nutrientes. A maioria das variedades marroquinas não se caracteriza por suas propriedades químicas, bioquímicas nem de qualidade. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a composição química de 17 variedades de frutos de tâmara marroquina (Phoenix dactylifera L.) e determinar seu valor nutritivo. A análise mostrou que as tâmaras são ricas em açúcares (51,80-87,98%) e contêm baixa concentração de proteínas (1,09-2,80%) e lipídios (0,16-0,39%). O mineral predominante é o potássio (1.055,26-1.604,10 mg/100 g DW). Além disso, contêm altas concentrações de ácido málico (69,48-495,58 mg/100 g DW), ácido oxálico (18,47-233,35 mg/100 g DW) e ácido tartárico (115,70-484,168 mg/100 g DW). Esses resultados sugerem que o fruto da tamareira é nutritivo e pode ser uma excelente fonte de nutrição humana e conferir benefícios à saúde.

Nesting features and breeding chronology of the crested coot (Fulica cristata) in two North African high altitude wetlands

The current study aimed to investigate the nesting behavior and breeding chronology of the crested coot (Fulica cristata) in Morocco's high altitude wetlands. We monitored nesting activities and breeding phenology in two wetlands, Zerrouka and Hachlaf lakes, to achieve our goals. Besides, nesting materials and nest dimensions were analyzed to characterize the crested coot nests. As a result, 52 nests were found in two sites, 18 in Zerouka and 34 in Hachlaf. Nests were built by available twigs on each site, and nest dimensions varied between analyzed wetlands. Nests were larger in Zerrouka compared to Hachlaf Lake. To protect their nests, coots select open waters and submerged vegetation as nesting sites. On the other hand, breeding chronology, including nesting, laying, and hatching dates, was earlier in Zerrouka Lake than Hachlaf. The nesting activities started at Zerrouka during January and February, while at Hachlaf, breeding attempts started during April.(AU)

Foraging efforts and behaviour of the European Turtle doves (Streptopelia turtur) during the breeding season

During the breeding season, many avian species face spatial and seasonal variation in the availability of food resources required to rear chicks. Reduction of food abundance is often identified as the most important factor determining population trends and breeding success in bird species, such as the vulnerable European Turtle dove Streptopelia turtur. During the breeding periods, the increase of food requirements in chicks should increase foraging effort to maintain the amount of food required for optimal chick growth. To investigate the feeding effort of Turtle doves during the breeding season, we monitored foraging and drinking rates, in different wild habitats and farmlands, from March to September 2016-2017 in Midelt, Morocco. Similarly, breeding chronology, including nesting, laying, and chicks' fledging, were monitored in the same habitats to evaluate the correlation between breeding efforts and foraging rates. We found that Turtle doves feed actively from the arrival to departure dates. Foraging activities were intense during breeding phases, mainly laying and chicks' growth periods. Equally, Doves feed intensively during the end of the breeding season before migration departures. Besides, Doves feed actively during the morning and evening to avoid the hottest periods as a strategy to save metabolic water.(AU)

Nesting features and breeding chronology of the crested coot (Fulica cristata) in two North African high altitude wetlands

The current study aimed to investigate the nesting behavior and breeding chronology of the crested coot (Fulica cristata) in Morocco's high altitude wetlands. We monitored nesting activities and breeding phenology in two wetlands, Zerrouka and Hachlaf lakes, to achieve our goals. Besides, nesting materials and nest dimensions were analyzed to characterize the crested coot nests. As a result, 52 nests were found in two sites, 18 in Zerouka and 34 in Hachlaf. Nests were built by available twigs on each site, and nest dimensions varied between analyzed wetlands. Nests were larger in Zerrouka compared to Hachlaf Lake. To protect their nests, coots select open waters and submerged vegetation as nesting sites. On the other hand, breeding chronology, including nesting, laying, and hatching dates, was earlier in Zerrouka Lake than Hachlaf. The nesting activities started at Zerrouka during January and February, while at Hachlaf, breeding attempts started during April.

Foraging efforts and behaviour of the European Turtle doves (Streptopelia turtur) during the breeding season

During the breeding season, many avian species face spatial and seasonal variation in the availability of food resources required to rear chicks. Reduction of food abundance is often identified as the most important factor determining population trends and breeding success in bird species, such as the vulnerable European Turtle dove Streptopelia turtur. During the breeding periods, the increase of food requirements in chicks should increase foraging effort to maintain the amount of food required for optimal chick growth. To investigate the feeding effort of Turtle doves during the breeding season, we monitored foraging and drinking rates, in different wild habitats and farmlands, from March to September 2016-2017 in Midelt, Morocco. Similarly, breeding chronology, including nesting, laying, and chicks' fledging, were monitored in the same habitats to evaluate the correlation between breeding efforts and foraging rates. We found that Turtle doves feed actively from the arrival to departure dates. Foraging activities were intense during breeding phases, mainly laying and chicks' growth periods. Equally, Doves feed intensively during the end of the breeding season before migration departures. Besides, Doves feed actively during the morning and evening to avoid the hottest periods as a strategy to save metabolic water.

Nest building, dimension, and selection of aromatic and medicinal twigs to repel ectoparasites in the European Turtle dove

Studies incorporating the nesting behavior and ecology of parasite disease in the European turtle dove during breeding periods are rare. This research examined nest features and nesting materials in Turtle doves to characterize nest dimensions, build, and incorporate vegetation, mainly aromatic and medicinal plants. In parallel, we estimated the ectoparasite load on chicks to verify an eventual relation between odorant plants and pathogen loads. The study was carried in apple orchards at Okhaja Ait Ayach, Midelt province Morocco, during 2015 and 2016. The obtained results demonstrate that the Turtle dove constructs a medium nest, compared to its body size, using several plant species, including medicinal and aromatic species known for their toxicity against pathogens. The inhibition capacity of nesting materials is reflected in parasite loads since only 8% of chicks were infested with Columbicola columbae and Dermanyssus gallinae. Repellent materials in nests are a successful behavioral strategy for this declining game to protect nestlings against pathogens.(AU)

Nest building, dimension, and selection of aromatic and medicinal twigs to repel ectoparasites in the European turtle dove

Studies incorporating the nesting behavior and ecology of parasite disease in the European turtle dove during breeding periods are rare. This research examined nest features and nesting materials in Turtle doves to characterize nest dimensions, build, and incorporate vegetation, mainly aromatic and medicinal plants. In parallel, we estimated the ectoparasite load on chicks to verify an eventual relation between odorant plants and pathogen loads. The study was carried in apple orchards at Okhaja Ait Ayach, Midelt province Morocco, during 2015 and 2016. The obtained results demonstrate that the Turtle dove constructs a medium nest, compared to its body size, using several plant species, including medicinal and aromatic species known for their toxicity against pathogens. The inhibition capacity of nesting materials is reflected in parasite loads since only 8% of chicks were infested with Columbicola columbae and Dermanyssus gallinae. Repellent materials in nests are a successful behavioral strategy for this declining game to protect nestlings against pathogens.

Nesting habitat and breeding success of Fulica atra in tree wetlands in Fez's region, central Morocco

The current study was intended to investigate the breeding habitats and ecology of the Eurasian coot Fulica atrain Fez region Morocco. To achieve our goals, nests were monitored in three wetlands Oued Al Jawahir river, Mahrazand El Gaada dams. In addition, nesting vegetation and nest's dimensions were analysed to characterise the Eurasian coot nests. As results, 46 nests (74%) were found in Oued al Jawahir, compared with 15 nests (24%) in Mahraz dam. In El Gaada dam only 2 nests were built by the Eurasian coots. On the other hand, all nests were built on the riparian vegetation of the river and dams. Besides, nests were located in the periphery of the river stream. Many plants were used entirely or special parts, such as stems and roots in nesting activity. Typha angustifolia is used in 45.3% of nests and J. acutus in38.6% of nests. Other plants are found with a minor presentation in nests, including P. stratiotes (9.6 %) of nests,Phragmites australis (5.6%), and Tamaris sp. (0.9%). These plants form the structure of nests and support. Besides nesting in river's periphery, the nests were constructed at an averageheight of 14.5 ± 0.05 away from the stream of water. Concerning nest success, nest predation ranged from 57% (2018) to 60% (2019). Nests were lost due to water stream and human disturbance. Finally, Eurasian coots build its nests in the periphery of water ecosystems and in an important high toavoid flooding periods and human disturbances.(AU)

Nesting habitat and breeding success of Fulica atra in tree wetlands in Fez's region, central Morocco

The current study was intended to investigate the breeding habitats and ecology of the Eurasian coot Fulica atrain Fez region Morocco. To achieve our goals, nests were monitored in three wetlands Oued Al Jawahir river, Mahrazand El Gaada dams. In addition, nesting vegetation and nest's dimensions were analysed to characterise the Eurasian coot nests. As results, 46 nests (74%) were found in Oued al Jawahir, compared with 15 nests (24%) in Mahraz dam. In El Gaada dam only 2 nests were built by the Eurasian coots. On the other hand, all nests were built on the riparian vegetation of the river and dams. Besides, nests were located in the periphery of the river stream. Many plants were used entirely or special parts, such as stems and roots in nesting activity. Typha angustifolia is used in 45.3% of nests and J. acutus in38.6% of nests. Other plants are found with a minor presentation in nests, including P. stratiotes (9.6 %) of nests,Phragmites australis (5.6%), and Tamaris sp. (0.9%). These plants form the structure of nests and support. Besides nesting in river's periphery, the nests were constructed at an averageheight of 14.5 ± 0.05 away from the stream of water. Concerning nest success, nest predation ranged from 57% (2018) to 60% (2019). Nests were lost due to water stream and human disturbance. Finally, Eurasian coots build its nests in the periphery of water ecosystems and in an important high toavoid flooding periods and human disturbances.

The turtle dove (Streptopelia turtur) in Midelt plain, Morocco: nestingpreferences and breeding success versus the impact of predation andagricultural practices

Breeding success plays a crucial role in the dynamics of bird populations and yet is the least-studied avian life-stage. Habitat quality during breeding phase may have important implications for survival and conservation, particularly for declining populations in landscapes that have undergone wide-scale human modification. The European Turtle dove is a widespread but fast declining species both in breeding and wintering zones. Reduced food availability isthought to influence breeding success of this game species, but it is not known how agriculture practices could influence breeding Doves, in its high altitude breeding zones. Here, wemonitored Turtle dove nests in apple orchards from early Marsh to the end of October 2015. Nest-tree support, breeding success, and predation were determined and analysed depending on agricultural practices. Compared to prune, cherry and other plantation, apple orchards had the highest overall Turtle doves' nests (85%). However, 60% of recorded nests were located on Golden delicious, where are noted thehighest nesting success rates (respectively 77.6% and 57.9%for eggs and chicks). However, Turtle dove showed high rate of nesting failure in the Midelt region, more especially inapple orchards, and this is mainly due to predation attacks, which caused a loss of 77.8% of broods, both among eggs and chicks. In addition, several farming practices in apple orchards influenced significantly nesting success of this species. In fact, this game bird does not breed in the orchards covered by hailnets. Similarly, tree pruning disturb doves nesting on apples.(AU)

The turtle dove (Streptopelia turtur) in Midelt plain, Morocco: nestingpreferences and breeding success versus the impact of predation andagricultural practices

Breeding success plays a crucial role in the dynamics of bird populations and yet is the least-studied avian life-stage. Habitat quality during breeding phase may have important implications for survival and conservation, particularly for declining populations in landscapes that have undergone wide-scale human modification. The European Turtle dove is a widespread but fast declining species both in breeding and wintering zones. Reduced food availability isthought to influence breeding success of this game species, but it is not known how agriculture practices could influence breeding Doves, in its high altitude breeding zones. Here, wemonitored Turtle dove nests in apple orchards from early Marsh to the end of October 2015. Nest-tree support, breeding success, and predation were determined and analysed depending on agricultural practices. Compared to prune, cherry and other plantation, apple orchards had the highest overall Turtle doves' nests (85%). However, 60% of recorded nests were located on Golden delicious, where are noted thehighest nesting success rates (respectively 77.6% and 57.9%for eggs and chicks). However, Turtle dove showed high rate of nesting failure in the Midelt region, more especially inapple orchards, and this is mainly due to predation attacks, which caused a loss of 77.8% of broods, both among eggs and chicks. In addition, several farming practices in apple orchards influenced significantly nesting success of this species. In fact, this game bird does not breed in the orchards covered by hailnets. Similarly, tree pruning disturb doves nesting on apples.

Biochemical characterization and antioxidant activity of walnut kernel (Juglans regiaL. ) of accessions from Middle and High Atlas in Morocco

Biochemical composition and antioxidant activity were determined in kernel nuts for eleven Moroccan walnut (Juglans regia L.) accessions representing its main cropping area. Total oil, carbohydrates, crude protein, energy value, crude fiber and flavonoid have varied significantly between accessions, respectively within the range values of 54.50-65.48%, 8.17-19.25%, 11.5-25.58%,648.91-713.83 Kcal, 4.17-6.75% and 12.59-62.11mg RE 100g-1DM. Besides, mineral composition (mg 100g-1) of kernel have varied also significantly among accessions and particularly for phosphorus (338.1-675.87), copper (2.08-6.67), zinc (3.39-18.63), iron (1.17-2.64), chromium (0.16-0.20), nickel (1.26-1.45) and boron (0.07-1.49). However, dry matter (96.75-98.56%), moisture (1.44-3.24%), ash (1.67-2.53%), total phenols content (1017-3739 mg GAE 100g-1DM), DPPH radical scavenging activity (75.02-85.96%), potassium (210.10-338.93 mg 100g-1), magnesium (79.15-374.54 mg 100g-1), sodium (1.17-12.63 mg 100g-1) and manganese (0.79-1.67 mg 100g-1) did not show significant variations between accessions. Furthermore, the results showed that Moroccan walnut constitutes an important source of nutrient elements, essentially fat, carbohydrates, protein, phosphorus and zinc, and natural antioxidants, phenolic compounds. Accordingly, consumption of all studied kernels accessions would be beneficial to health. This study showed considerable biochemical variation between the analyzed walnut accessions, which could help to select genotypeswith desired traitsaccording to their chemotypes.

Kn-Ba: a novel serine protease isolated from Bitis arietans snake venom with fibrinogenolytic and kinin-releasing activities

Bitis arietans is a venomous snake found in sub-Saharan Africa and in parts of Morocco and Saudi Arabia. The envenomation is characterized by local and systemic reactions including pain, blistering, edema and tissue damage, besides hemostatic and cardiovascular disturbances, which can cause death or permanent disabilities in its victims. However, the action mechanisms that provoke these effects remain poorly understood, especially the activities of purified venom components. Therefore, in order to elucidate the molecular mechanisms that make the Bitis arietans venom so potent and harmful to human beings, this study reports the isolation and biochemical characterization of a snake venom serine protease (SVSP). Methods: Solubilized venom was fractionated by molecular exclusion chromatography and the proteolytic activity was determined using fluorescent substrates. The peaks that showed serine protease activity were determined by blocking the proteolytic activity with site-directed inhibitors. In sequence, the fraction of interest was submitted to another cycle of molecular exclusion chromatography. The purified serine protease was identified by mass spectrometry and characterized biochemically and immunochemically. Results: A serine protease of 33 kDa with fibrinogen-degrading and kinin-releasing activities was isolated, described, and designated herein as Kn-Ba. The experimental Butantan Institute antivenom produced against Bitis arietans venom inhibited the Kn-Ba activity. Conclusions: The in vitro activities of Kn-Ba can be correlated with the capacity of the venom to provoke bleeding and clotting disorders as well as hypotension, which are common symptoms presented by envenomed victims. Obtaining satisfactory Kn-Ba inhibition through the experimental antivenom is important, given the WHO's recommendation of immunotherapy in cases of human accidents with venomous snakes.(AU)

Kn-Ba: a novel serine protease isolated from Bitis arietans snake venom with fibrinogenolytic and kinin-releasing activities

Background: Bitis arietans is a venomous snake found in sub-Saharan Africa and in parts of Morocco and Saudi Arabia. The envenomation is characterized by local and systemic reactions including pain, blistering, edema and tissue damage, besides hemostatic and cardiovascular disturbances, which can cause death or permanent disabilities in its victims. However, the action mechanisms that provoke these effects remain poorly understood, especially the activities of purified venom components. Therefore, in order to elucidate the molecular mechanisms that make the Bitis arietans venom so potent and harmful to human beings, this study reports the isolation and biochemical characterization of a snake venom serine protease (SVSP). Methods: Solubilized venom was fractionated by molecular exclusion chromatography and the proteolytic activity was determined using fluorescent substrates. The peaks that showed serine protease activity were determined by blocking the proteolytic activity with site-directed inhibitors. In sequence, the fraction of interest was submitted to another cycle of molecular exclusion chromatography. The purified serine protease was identified by mass spectrometry and characterized biochemically and immunochemically. Results: A serine protease of 33 kDa with fibrinogen-degrading and kinin-releasing activities was isolated, described, and designated herein as Kn-Ba. The experimental Butantan Institute antivenom produced against Bitis arietans venom inhibited the Kn-Ba activity. Conclusions: The in vitro activities of Kn-Ba can be correlated with the capacity of the venom to provoke bleeding and clotting disorders as well as hypotension, which are common symptoms presented by envenomed victims. Obtaining satisfactory Kn-Ba inhibition through the experimental antivenom is important, given the WHO's recommendation of immunotherapy in cases of human accidents with venomous snakes.(AU)

Genetic diversity reduction in improved durum wheat cultivars of Morocco as revealed by microsatellite markers

It has been argued that genetic diversity in crop varieties has been on the decline in recent times due to plant breeding. This can have serious consequences for both the genetic vulnerability of crops and their plasticity when responding to changes in production environments. It is, therefore, vital for plant breeding programs to maintain sufficient diversity in the cultivars deployed for multi-period cultivation. In this study, to understand the temporal genetic diversity in durum wheat, 21 improved durum wheat cultivars released in Morocco, since 1956 and five exotic cultivars currently used in crossing programs were analyzed using 13 microsatellite markers. The analysis revealed a total of 44 alleles and average genetic diversity of 0.485 with genetic distances ranging from 0.077 to 0.846 at 13 microsatellite loci in Moroccan durum wheat cultivars. All the durum cultivars of Morocco could be distinguished using the 13 microsatellite markers. The total number of alleles and unique alleles were highest in cultivars developed before 1990, decreasing in cultivars developed during the 1990s and 2000s, indicating that recent durum breeding efforts have reduced allelic richness in recent cultivars. Thus, deployment of exotic durum wheat lines in breeding programs could enhance genetic diversity in durum wheat cultivars.