Requirement of digestible methionine + cystine in Japanese quails during the laying phase / Exigência de metionina + cistina digestível para codornas japonesas em fase de postura

An experiment was carried out with Japanese quails in the initial laying phase, from 43 to 168 days of age, to determine the nutritional requirement of digestible methionine + cystine for this period. 375 quails were used, being fifteen quails used per experimental unit. A total of 5 treatments (0.60, 0.75, 0.90, 1.05 and 1.20% digestible methionine + cystine) were used in a completely randomized design with 5 replicates each. The performance parameters evaluated were feed intake (g / bird), body weight (g), egg weight (g), laying rate (%), egg mass (g eggs.bird.day-1 ), feed conversion by mass and dozen eggs (g.g-1 of eggs, g.dz-1 of eggs), viability (%) and the body chemical composition (%). The egg quality parameters were: % of component (yolk, albumen and shell relative to egg weight), specific gravity (g mL-1 ), Haugh unit, yolk index, shell weight per surface area and thickness of the shell (mm). Quadratic effect was found on the performance parameters evaluated (P0.05). The nutritional recommendation of digestible methionine + cystine for Japanese quails at laying phase is 0.90% from the maximum point obtained for the egg mass, egg weight and laying rate, corresponding to daily intake of 241.54 mg of digestible methionine + cystine / day, respectively.

Foi desenvolvido um experimento com codornas japonesas na fase inicial de postura, de 43 a 168 dias de idade, com o objetivo de determinar a exigência nutricional de metionina + cistina digestível para este período. Foram utilizadas 375 codornas, sendo 15 aves por unidade experimental. O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente casualizado (DIC) totalizando 5 tratamentos (0,60; 0,75; 0,90; 1,05 e 1,20 % de metionina + cistina digestível) com 5 repetições cada. As variáveis de desempenho avaliadas foram, consumo de ração (g/ave), peso corporal (g), peso do ovo (g), taxa de postura (%), produção de massa de ovos (g ovos.ave. dia-1), conversão alimentar por massa e dúzia de ovos (g.g-1 de ovos, g.dz-1 de ovos), viabilidade (%) e a composição química corporal (%). As variáveis de qualidade dos ovos foram, percentagem do componente (gema, albúmen e casca em relação ao peso do ovo), gravidade específica (g mL.-1), unidade Haugh, índice de gema e peso da casca por superfície de área. Foi encontrado efeito quadrático sobre as variáveis de desempenho avaliadas (P0,05). A recomendação nutricional de metionina + cistina digestível para codornas japonesas na fase de postura é de 0,90% a partir do ponto de máxima obtido para as variáveis massa de ovos, peso de ovos e taxa de postura, correspondendo ao consumo diário de 241,54 mg de metionina + cistina digestível / dia, respectivamente.

Comparative growth of two mussels farmed in the macrotidal mangroves of the Amazon / Crescimento comparativo de dois mexilhões cultivados em manguezais de macromarés da Amazônia

The present study evaluated the growth of the species Mytella guyanensis and Mytella strigata on ropes suspended in Amazon Macrotidal Mangrove Coast. The mussels were farmed at a density of 840 ind. m-1 of rope, with the same shell height (mm) and live weight (g) for both species. The experiment was entirely randomized, with two treatments and 15 repetitions. Significant differences were reported regarding the growth (shell height and live weight) between the species (P>0.05). The daily growth rate was greater for M. guyanensis than for M. strigata. At the end of the cultivation cycle, only 451 ± 46 (59.9%) of M. guyanensis individuals reached commercial size per meter of rope compared to 670 ± 73 (89.3%) of M. strigata individuals. Survival rates were similar. Salinity and temperature increased progressively throughout the experiment with the reduction in rainfall and were within the range considered ideal for these species. In conclusion, the farming of both species of mussels was viable under estuarine conditions influenced by macrotides, with satisfactory survival rates and daily growth (shell height and weight).

O presente trabalho avaliou o crescimento das espécies Mytella guyanensis e Mytella strigata em cordas suspensas na Costa de Manguezais de Macromarés da Amazônia. Os mexilhões foram cultivados na densidade de 840 ind. m-1 de corda, com a mesma altura de valva (mm) e peso vivo (g) para ambas as espécies. O experimento ocorreu inteiramente casualizado, com dois tratamentos e 15 repetições. Foram encontradas diferenças significativas quanto ao crescimento (altura da concha e peso vivo) entre as espécies (P>0,05). A taxa de crescimento diário foi maior para a M. guyanensis do que para M. strigata. Ao final do ciclo de cultivo, apenas 451 ± 46 (59,9%) indivíduos de M. guyanensis atingiram o tamanho comercial por metro de corda comparado a 670 ± 73 (89,3%) indivíduos de M. strigata. As taxas de sobrevivência foram semelhantes. A salinidade e a temperatura aumentaram progressivamente ao longo do experimento com a redução das chuvas e ficaram dentro da faixa considerada ideal para essas espécies. Em conclusão, o cultivo de ambas as espécies de mexilhões foi viável em condições estuarinas influenciadas pelas macromarés, com taxas de sobrevivência e crescimento diário satisfatórios (altura de valva e peso).

Diferentes densidades de alojamento de galinhas poedeiras em gaiolas e suas respectivas produção, qualidade de ovos e escore de penas / Different housing densities of laying hens in cages and their production, egg quality andfeather score

As poedeiras criadas em sistema degaiolas tem seu bem-estar afetado devido ao menor espaço disponível para elas, o que vai de encontro da crescente pressão por grande parte de consumidores preocupados com as condições em que essas aves são criadas. A consequência dessa menor densidade de alojamento sobre a produtividade, e a qualidade de vida da ave e dos ovos por elas produzidos deve ser avaliada. O objetivo desse estudo é avaliar a produção, qualidade de ovos, e bem-estar de galinhas poedeiras criadas em diferentes densidades de alojamentos em gaiolas. Às 28 semanas de idade, foram distribuídas, em delineamento inteiramente casualizado, 120 poedeiras leves da linhagem Novogen White, após debicagem, em 24 gaiolas com dimensões de 45 cm x 50cm, em três diferentes densidades de alojamento: 562,5 cm² /ave (quatro aves/gaiola), 450 cm² /ave (cinco aves/gaiola) e 375 cm² /ave(seis aves/gaiola), com 8 repetições cada. As dietas experimentais foram isoproteicas e isoenergéticas, formuladas à base de milho e farelo de soja. O período experimental será compreendido por seis ciclos de 28 dias cada. As variáveis analisadas foram: peso do ovo, índice de gema, unidade Haugh, pigmentação da gema, porcentagem dos componentes dos ovos e espessura de casca (em milímetros). Quando as aves atingiram 44 semanas de idade, foi realizada a medição do escore de penas. Foram avaliadas 40 galinhaspor tratamento, em quatro regiões: peito, dorso, asas e posterior. Essa análise consiste emcategorizar as aves de acordo com três diferentes escores, de acordo com o tamanho da área de ausência de penas em cada região. Espera-se que a redução da densidade de alojamento das galinhas nas gaiolas propicie maior produção com melhor qualidade dos ovos, promovendo também melhor bem-estar das aves.(AU)

The well-beingof laying hens raised in cages is affected due to the smaller space available for them,which is in line with the growing pressure from a large number of consumers concerned about the conditions in which these birds are raised.The consequence of thislower housing density on productivity and the quality of life of the bird andthe eggs produced by them must be evaluated. The aim of this study is to evaluate the production, egg quality, and welfare of laying hens reared in different housing densities in cages. At 28 weeks of age, 120 light Novogen White laying hens were distributed, after beak trimming, in24 cages measuring 45 cm x 50 cm, in three different housing densities: 562.5 cm²/bird (four birds/cage), 450 cm²/bird (five birds/cage) and 375 cm²/bird (six birds/cage), with 8 repetitions each. The experimental diets were isoproteic and isoenergetic, based on corn and soybean meal. The trial period will comprise six cycles of 28 days each. The variables analyzed were: egg weight, yolk index, Haugh unit, yolk pigmentation, percentage of egg components and shell thickness (in millimeters). When the birds reached 44 weeks of age, the feather score was measured. Forty chickens per treatment were evaluated in four regions: chest, back, wings and hindquarters. This analysis consists of categorizing the birds according to three different scores, according to thesize of the area without feathers in each region. It is expected that the reduction in the hen housing density in the cages will lead to higher production with better egg quality, also promoting better hen welfare.(AU)

Investigation of Egg Weight, Ovarian Follicles Morphology and Growth Differentiation Factor 9 mRNA Expression in Potchefstroom Koekoek Chicken Breed

The growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) gene plays a vital role in the growth and maturation of ovarian follicles in laying hens. However, its messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) expression levels in preovulatory ovarian follicles of indigenous chickens remain poorly understood. The study aimed to identify the association between egg weight and egg quality traits, ovarian follicles morphology, and mRNA expression levels of the GDF9 gene in pre-ovulatory ovarian follicles of the South African Potchefstroom Koekoek chicken breed. The correlation results showed that egg weight (EW) had a positively high significant correlation (p<0.01) with egg width (EWD), yolk weight (YW), shell surface area (SSA), albumen weight (AW), albumen ratio (AR) and egg volume (EV), and a positive significant correlation (p<0.05) with egg length (EL). The Student's T-test results revealed that the numbers of large yellow follicles were significantly lower (p<0.05) than those of small yellow follicles. ANOVA findings showed that there was a significant difference (p<0.05) in the average weight of the large yellow follicles. The quantitative Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-qPCR) findings indicated that there were significant differences (p<0.05) in the mRNA expression levels of the GDF9 gene in preovulatory ovarian follicles of the Potchefstroom Koekoek chicken breed. The mRNA expression was more abundant in F1 and F4 than in other ovarian follicles.(AU)

Leiosolenus (Labis) patagonicus (Bivalvia: Mytilidae) from Argentinean sea, taxonomic revision and anatomical notes

The taxonomic status and anatomy of Leiosolenus (Labis) patagonicus (d'Orbigny, 1846 in 1834-1847) has been revised. This boring bivalve, belonging to the family Mytilidae, is the only Lithophaginae species distributed along the Argentinean coast. None of the fossil species mentioned for this area must be considered as a synonym of d'Orbigny´s species. Leiosolenus patagonicus is characterized by a thin shell, longitudinally elongated, with subterminal umbos and commarginal striae. The calcareous depositions on the outer surface of the shell are extended beyond the posterior margin. This species has well developed purple siphons, well differentiated morphologically from each other. Incurrent siphon is wider than excurrent, opened at the ventral edge and provided with a basal siphon valve at the base. Two pairs of demibranchs type B (1) from Atkins were observed. The shell characters and internal morphology were compared with other related species of the genus living along the South American coast. Finally, repository, type locality and habitat conditions were informed.(AU)

Occurrence of Hymenolepis diminuta: a potential helminth of zoonotic importance in murid rodents

Abstract The study reveals the prevalence of a potential rodent-borne zoonotic helminth species, Hymenolepis diminuta in commensal rodents caught from irrigated and rain-fed areas of Swat, Pakistan. Three hundred and fifty rodents (269 rats and 81 mice) trapped during vegetative, flowering/fruiting and mature/harvesting stages of crops were studied from 2011-2013. Hymenolepisdiminuta eggs were identified on the basis of their shape, size, colour and markings on the surface of the egg shell and three pairs of embryonic hook-lets. Overall prevalence of H. diminuta was 3.14% (n=11/350). The highest prevalence 3.49% (n=5/143) of H. diminuta was noted at harvesting stages of the crops whereas the lowest 2.59% (n=2/77) during vegetative stage. Infection was higher in males 3.25% (n=7/215) than females 2.96% (n=4/135). Adult rodents were highly infected while no sub-adult was found infected. Infection was higher in mice 3.70% (3/81) than rats 2.69% (8/269) while no significance (p=1.0000:0.1250 to 32.00 CI). Rats and mice appears to show the most suitable reservoirs by hosting H. diminuta a zoonotic helminth. The presence of these rodents in all possible habitats can act as a main channel of transferring parasites through various habitats and can pose a hazard to humans in the area.

Resumo O estudo revela a prevalência de uma espécie potencial de helmintos zoonóticos transmitidos por roedores, Hymenolepis diminuta, em roedores comensais capturados em áreas irrigadas e alimentadas pela chuva de Swat, Paquistão. Trezentos e cinquenta roedores (269 ratos e 81 camundongos) presos durante os estágios vegetativo, floração/frutificação e maturidade/colheita das safras foram estudados de 2011-2013. Ovos de Hymenolepisdiminuta foram identificados com base em sua forma, tamanho, cor e marcações na superfície da casca do ovo e três pares de anzóis embrionários. A prevalência geral de H. diminuta foi de 3,14% (n = 11/350). A maior prevalência 3,49% (n = 5/143) de H. diminuta foi observada na fase de colheita das lavouras, enquanto a menor 2,59% (n = 2/77) durante a fase vegetativa. A infecção foi maior nos homens 3,25% (n = 7/215) do que nas mulheres 2,96% (n = 4/135). Roedores adultos foram altamente infectados, enquanto nenhum subadulto foi encontrado infectado. A infecção foi maior em camundongos 3,70% (3/81) do que em ratos 2,69% (8/269), embora sem significância (p = 1,0000: 0,1250 a 32,00 CI). Ratos e camundongos parecem mostrar os reservatórios mais adequados hospedando H. diminuta um helmintos zoonótico. A presença desses roedores em todos os habitats possíveis pode atuar como um canal principal de transferência de parasitas através de vários habitats e pode representar um perigo para os humanos na área.

The Effects of Saccharomyces Cerevisiae and Citric Acid on Productive Performance, Egg Quality Parameters, Small Intestinal Morphology, and Immune-Related Gene Expression in Laying Japanese Quails

This experiment evaluated the effects of Saccharomyces cerevisiae (S. cerevisiae) and citric acid on production performance, egg quality, intestine histomorphology, and avian ß-defensin 1 and 2 (AvBD 1 and 2) gene expressions in laying Japanese quails. A total of 400 48-day-old quails were randomly assigned to a 2×2×2 factorial arrangement of treatments with 5 replicates (each containing 10 quails) for 7 weeks. Variable factors consisted of S. cerevisiae (0 and 100 mg/kg diet), citric acid (0 and 5 g/kg diet), and Virginiamycin (0 and 50 mg/kg diet). At the completion of the trial, one bird per replicate was randomly killed, and jejunal tissue samples were removed to evaluate intestinal morphometric characteristics. Samples were taken from the midpoint of the jejunum to measure the gene expression of AvBD 1 and 2. Dietary inclusion of both S. cerevisiae and citric acid resulted in increased egg weight, egg mass, reduced feed intake, and improved FCR (p<0.05). The addition of S. cerevisiae to diets containing citric acid reduced feed intake, increased egg weight, and improved FCR (p<0.05). Shell weight and shell thickness were increased in birds fed each of S. cerevisiae and citric acid supplements (p<0.05). Dietary S. cerevisiae and citric acid similarly increased intestinal villus height, width, surface area, and the villus height to crypt depth ratio (p<0.0001). Results showed that AvBD 1 and 2 genes expression were up-regulated on quails fed S. cerevisiae-supplemented diets (p<0.0001). In conclusion, these results suggest that supplementation of S. cerevisiae and citric acid as functional feed additives either alone or in combination could be a potential alternative to antibiotics in the diet of Japanese laying quails.(AU)

Occurrence of Hymenolepis diminuta: a potential helminth of zoonotic importance in murid rodents / Ocorrência de Hymenolepis diminuta: um helminto potencial de importância zoonótica em roedores murídeos

The study reveals the prevalence of a potential rodent-borne zoonotic helminth species, Hymenolepis diminuta in commensal rodents caught from irrigated and rain-fed areas of Swat, Pakistan. Three hundred and fifty rodents (269 rats and 81 mice) trapped during vegetative, flowering/fruiting and mature/harvesting stages of crops were studied from 2011-2013. Hymenolepisdiminuta eggs were identified on the basis of their shape, size, colour and markings on the surface of the egg shell and three pairs of embryonic hook-lets. Overall prevalence of H. diminuta was 3.14% (n=11/350). The highest prevalence 3.49% (n=5/143) of H. diminuta was noted at harvesting stages of the crops whereas the lowest 2.59% (n=2/77) during vegetative stage. Infection was higher in males 3.25% (n=7/215) than females 2.96% (n=4/135). Adult rodents were highly infected while no sub-adult was found infected. Infection was higher in mice 3.70% (3/81) than rats 2.69% (8/269) while no significance (p=1.0000:0.1250 to 32.00 CI). Rats and mice appears to show the most suitable reservoirs by hosting H. diminuta a zoonotic helminth. The presence of these rodents in all possible habitats can act as a main channel of transferring parasites through various habitats and can pose a hazard to humans in the area.

O estudo revela a prevalência de uma espécie potencial de helmintos zoonóticos transmitidos por roedores, Hymenolepis diminuta, em roedores comensais capturados em áreas irrigadas e alimentadas pela chuva de Swat, Paquistão. Trezentos e cinquenta roedores (269 ratos e 81 camundongos) presos durante os estágios vegetativo, floração/frutificação e maturidade/colheita das safras foram estudados de 2011-2013. Ovos de Hymenolepisdiminuta foram identificados com base em sua forma, tamanho, cor e marcações na superfície da casca do ovo e três pares de anzóis embrionários. A prevalência geral de H. diminuta foi de 3,14% (n = 11/350). A maior prevalência 3,49% (n = 5/143) de H. diminuta foi observada na fase de colheita das lavouras, enquanto a menor 2,59% (n = 2/77) durante a fase vegetativa. A infecção foi maior nos homens 3,25% (n = 7/215) do que nas mulheres 2,96% (n = 4/135). Roedores adultos foram altamente infectados, enquanto nenhum subadulto foi encontrado infectado. A infecção foi maior em camundongos 3,70% (3/81) do que em ratos 2,69% (8/269), embora sem significância (p = 1,0000: 0,1250 a 32,00 CI). Ratos e camundongos parecem mostrar os reservatórios mais adequados hospedando H. diminuta um helmintos zoonótico. A presença desses roedores em todos os habitats possíveis pode atuar como um canal principal de transferência de parasitas através de vários habitats e pode representar um perigo para os humanos na área.

Occurrence of Hymenolepis diminuta: a potential helminth of zoonotic importance in murid rodents / Ocorrência de Hymenolepis diminuta: um helminto potencial de importância zoonótica em roedores murídeos

The study reveals the prevalence of a potential rodent-borne zoonotic helminth species, Hymenolepis diminuta in commensal rodents caught from irrigated and rain-fed areas of Swat, Pakistan. Three hundred and fifty rodents (269 rats and 81 mice) trapped during vegetative, flowering/fruiting and mature/harvesting stages of crops were studied from 2011-2013. Hymenolepisdiminuta eggs were identified on the basis of their shape, size, colour and markings on the surface of the egg shell and three pairs of embryonic hook-lets. Overall prevalence of H. diminuta was 3.14% (n=11/350). The highest prevalence 3.49% (n=5/143) of H. diminuta was noted at harvesting stages of the crops whereas the lowest 2.59% (n=2/77) during vegetative stage. Infection was higher in males 3.25% (n=7/215) than females 2.96% (n=4/135). Adult rodents were highly infected while no sub-adult was found infected. Infection was higher in mice 3.70% (3/81) than rats 2.69% (8/269) while no significance (p=1.0000:0.1250 to 32.00 CI). Rats and mice appears to show the most suitable reservoirs by hosting H. diminuta a zoonotic helminth. The presence of these rodents in all possible habitats can act as a main channel of transferring parasites through various habitats and can pose a hazard to humans in the area.

O estudo revela a prevalência de uma espécie potencial de helmintos zoonóticos transmitidos por roedores, Hymenolepis diminuta, em roedores comensais capturados em áreas irrigadas e alimentadas pela chuva de Swat, Paquistão. Trezentos e cinquenta roedores (269 ratos e 81 camundongos) presos durante os estágios vegetativo, floração/frutificação e maturidade/colheita das safras foram estudados de 2011-2013. Ovos de Hymenolepis diminuta foram identificados com base em sua forma, tamanho, cor e marcações na superfície da casca do ovo e três pares de anzóis embrionários. A prevalência geral de H. diminuta foi de 3,14% (n = 11/350). A maior prevalência 3,49% (n = 5/143) de H. diminuta foi observada na fase de colheita das lavouras, enquanto a menor 2,59% (n = 2/77) durante a fase vegetativa. A infecção foi maior nos homens 3,25% (n = 7/215) do que nas mulheres 2,96% (n = 4/135). Roedores adultos foram altamente infectados, enquanto nenhum subadulto foi encontrado infectado. A infecção foi maior em camundongos 3,70% (3/81) do que em ratos 2,69% (8/269), embora sem significância (p = 1,0000: 0,1250 a 32,00 CI). Ratos e camundongos parecem mostrar os reservatórios mais adequados hospedando H. diminuta um helmintos zoonótico. A presença desses roedores em todos os habitats possíveis pode atuar como um canal principal de transferência de parasitas através de vários habitats e pode representar um perigo para os humanos na área.

Occurrence of Hymenolepis diminuta: a potential helminth of zoonotic importance in murid rodents / Ocorrência de Hymenolepis diminuta: um helminto potencial de importância zoonótica em roedores murídeos

The study reveals the prevalence of a potential rodent-borne zoonotic helminth species, Hymenolepis diminuta in commensal rodents caught from irrigated and rain-fed areas of Swat, Pakistan. Three hundred and fifty rodents (269 rats and 81 mice) trapped during vegetative, flowering/fruiting and mature/harvesting stages of crops were studied from 2011-2013. Hymenolepisdiminuta eggs were identified on the basis of their shape, size, colour and markings on the surface of the egg shell and three pairs of embryonic hook-lets. Overall prevalence of H. diminuta was 3.14% (n=11/350). The highest prevalence 3.49% (n=5/143) of H. diminuta was noted at harvesting stages of the crops whereas the lowest 2.59% (n=2/77) during vegetative stage. Infection was higher in males 3.25% (n=7/215) than females 2.96% (n=4/135). Adult rodents were highly infected while no sub-adult was found infected. Infection was higher in mice 3.70% (3/81) than rats 2.69% (8/269) while no significance (p=1.0000:0.1250 to 32.00 CI). Rats and mice appears to show the most suitable reservoirs by hosting H. diminuta a zoonotic helminth. The presence of these rodents in all possible habitats can act as a main channel of transferring parasites through various habitats and can pose a hazard to humans in the area.(AU)

O estudo revela a prevalência de uma espécie potencial de helmintos zoonóticos transmitidos por roedores, Hymenolepis diminuta, em roedores comensais capturados em áreas irrigadas e alimentadas pela chuva de Swat, Paquistão. Trezentos e cinquenta roedores (269 ratos e 81 camundongos) presos durante os estágios vegetativo, floração/frutificação e maturidade/colheita das safras foram estudados de 2011-2013. Ovos de Hymenolepisdiminuta foram identificados com base em sua forma, tamanho, cor e marcações na superfície da casca do ovo e três pares de anzóis embrionários. A prevalência geral de H. diminuta foi de 3,14% (n = 11/350). A maior prevalência 3,49% (n = 5/143) de H. diminuta foi observada na fase de colheita das lavouras, enquanto a menor 2,59% (n = 2/77) durante a fase vegetativa. A infecção foi maior nos homens 3,25% (n = 7/215) do que nas mulheres 2,96% (n = 4/135). Roedores adultos foram altamente infectados, enquanto nenhum subadulto foi encontrado infectado. A infecção foi maior em camundongos 3,70% (3/81) do que em ratos 2,69% (8/269), embora sem significância (p = 1,0000: 0,1250 a 32,00 CI). Ratos e camundongos parecem mostrar os reservatórios mais adequados hospedando H. diminuta um helmintos zoonótico. A presença desses roedores em todos os habitats possíveis pode atuar como um canal principal de transferência de parasitas através de vários habitats e pode representar um perigo para os humanos na área.(AU)

Aspects of the population dynamics of Anomalocardia brasiliana: subsidies for sustainable fishing in the west coast of Ceará, Brazil / Aspectos da dinâmica populacional de Anomalocardia brasiliana: subsídios para a pesca sustentável no Litoral Oeste do Ceará, Brasil

Shellfish gathering is an artisanal activity and a means of family subsistence for several coastal communities along the Brazilian coast and Anomalocardia brasiliana is one of the main exploited mollusk species. This paper aimed to obtain information about the temporal distribution, growth, yield, and gonadosomatic index of the bivalve mollusk A. brasiliana in a natural stock to provide subsidies for the sustainable extraction of this resource. The study was carried out in an area of the Acaraú River estuary, on Volta do Rio Beach, municipality of Acaraú, Ceará, Brazil. Samples were collected monthly for one year at spring low tide, using the random squares method. Water and sediment temperature and salinity were measured in situ. Sediment samples were collected for granulometric analysis. The specimens were individually quantified, measured, and weighed. A total of 8,507 A. brasiliana specimens were sampled, and the highest density recorded was 2,534 individuals/m2, whose longest shell length reached between 21 and 25 mm, while the mean meat yield was 12.42%. The means of biometric variables of individuals showed significant differences during the sample period. Frequency histograms evidenced the presence of adult and juvenile individuals, showing a continuous reproductive cycle in the studied natural stock. These results can assist the sustainable shellfish gathering activity on Volta do Rio Beach. We recommend that A. brasiliana is above 20 mm in length to be captured and the reduction in the capture effort from April to September, when the highest density of juveniles was observed, to guarantee the sustainability of this stock.

A mariscagem é uma atividade artesanal e meio de subsistência familiar de diversas comunidades litorâneas ao longo da costa brasileira, sendo Anomalocardia brasiliana uma das principais espécies de molusco exploradas. Esse trabalho objetivou obter informações sobre a distribuição temporal, crescimento, rendimento e o índice gonadossomático do molusco bivalve A. brasiliana em um estoque natural a fim de fornecer subsídios para a extração sustentável deste recurso. O estudo foi realizado em uma área do estuário do rio Acaraú, na Praia Volta do Rio, município de Acaraú, Ceará, Brasil. As coletas foram realizadas mensalmente durante um ano na maré baixa de sizígia, utilizando o método dos quadrados aleatórios. A temperatura da água, do sedimento e a salinidade foram aferidas in situ. Foram coletadas amostras de sedimento para análise granulométrica. Os espécimes foram quantificados, mensurados e pesados individualmente. Foram amostrados um total de 8.507 exemplares de A. brasiliana, a maior densidade registrada teve 2.534 indivíduos/m2, aqueles com maior comprimento de concha tinham entre 21 e 25 mm, o rendimento da carne apresentou um valor médio de 12,42%. As médias das variáveis biométricas dos indivíduos apresentaram diferenças significativas durante o período amostral. Os histogramas de frequência evidenciaram a presença de indivíduos adultos e juvenis, indicando um ciclo reprodutivo contínuo no estoque natural estudado. Estes resultados auxiliarão no exercício da mariscagem sustentável na praia da Volta do Rio. Recomenda-se a captura de A. brasiliana com comprimento acima de 20 mm e a redução do esforço de captura nos meses de abril a setembro, período em que foi observada a maior densidade de juvenis, a fim de garantir a sustentabilidade desse estoque.

Effects of Storage Period, Marketing Channels and Season on Internal and External Quality of Commercial Table Eggs Marketed in Riyadh City (Saudi Arabia)

Very sparse information is available regarding quality of commercial Table eggs marketed in Riyadh city. The objective of the current study was to evaluate egg quality by determining the internal and external traits of commercial Table eggs marketed in different marketing channels during the summer and winter. Commercial eggs (n = 1440) were bought from four different supermarkets and groceries during the winter and summer season 2018- 2019. A total of 30 eggs were collected monthly from each marketing channel in the winter and summer. Then, individually numbered, weighed and randomly broken down into three empirical groups and stored for 0, 7 or 14 days. The outcomes show that seven and fourteen days of storage led to significant decrease in Haugh unit values, yolk index, specific gravity, shell thickness and shell weight per unit of surface area, and increase in yolk color grade, yolk albumin ratio, yolk and albumin pH and air cell depth. Eggs acquired from supermarkets had significantly higher Haugh unit values and yolk index, and lower yolk color grades, shell density and air cell depth, than those bought from groceries. Eggs that were collected in winter season are found to have significantly higher Haugh unit values, yolk index, specific gravity, shell thickness, shell density, shell weight per unit of surface area and yolk color, and lower, yolk albumin ratio, air cell depth, albumin and yolk pH than those acquired in the summer season eggs. This study showed that the storage period, marketing channels and season play a significant role in affecting quality traits of Table eggs, also those procured from supermarkets and in the winter presented better quality than those found in groceries or in the summer, respectively.(AU)

Effects of Storage Period, Marketing Channels and Season on Internal and External Quality of Commercial Table Eggs Marketed in Riyadh City (Saudi Arabia)

Very sparse information is available regarding quality of commercial Table eggs marketed in Riyadh city. The objective of the current study was to evaluate egg quality by determining the internal and external traits of commercial Table eggs marketed in different marketing channels during the summer and winter. Commercial eggs (n = 1440) were bought from four different supermarkets and groceries during the winter and summer season 2018- 2019. A total of 30 eggs were collected monthly from each marketing channel in the winter and summer. Then, individually numbered, weighed and randomly broken down into three empirical groups and stored for 0, 7 or 14 days. The outcomes show that seven and fourteen days of storage led to significant decrease in Haugh unit values, yolk index, specific gravity, shell thickness and shell weight per unit of surface area, and increase in yolk color grade, yolk albumin ratio, yolk and albumin pH and air cell depth. Eggs acquired from supermarkets had significantly higher Haugh unit values and yolk index, and lower yolk color grades, shell density and air cell depth, than those bought from groceries. Eggs that were collected in winter season are found to have significantly higher Haugh unit values, yolk index, specific gravity, shell thickness, shell density, shell weight per unit of surface area and yolk color, and lower, yolk albumin ratio, air cell depth, albumin and yolk pH than those acquired in the summer season eggs. This study showed that the storage period, marketing channels and season play a significant role in affecting quality traits of Table eggs, also those procured from supermarkets and in the winter presented better quality than those found in groceries or in the summer, respectively.

Egg quality and coccidiosis infestation in three production systems for laying hens

A total of 240 white Shaver laying hens from 22 to 34 weeks of age were assigned to 3 treatments and 5 replications. The treatments included:i) Conventional (hens were kept in experimental building without access to outdoor area and fed with the conventional diet), ii) Semi-organic (hens were kept in experimental building with access to outdoor area and fed with the organic diet plus amino acids and vitamin-minerals supplement), and iii) Organic (hens were kept in experimental building with access to outdoor and fed with the organic diet). The results showed statistically significant differences in the feed intake, egg production, egg mass, egg weight, and change body weight(g) means among the treatments (p <0.05). The hens kept in the organic treatment had fecal highest contain of oocytes coccidia (p <0.05). The yolk color index and shell strength in the organic treatment significantly increased in comparison with that of other treatments (p <0.05). The highest HDL was in the semi-organic and organic treatments (p <0.05). The lowest egg yolk cholesterol concentration was found in hens kept in the semi-organic and organic treatments (p <0.05). It is concluded that organic production system is useful for improving egg quality.(AU)

Egg quality and coccidiosis infestation in three production systems for laying hens

A total of 240 white Shaver laying hens from 22 to 34 weeks of age were assigned to 3 treatments and 5 replications. The treatments included:i) Conventional (hens were kept in experimental building without access to outdoor area and fed with the conventional diet), ii) Semi-organic (hens were kept in experimental building with access to outdoor area and fed with the organic diet plus amino acids and vitamin-minerals supplement), and iii) Organic (hens were kept in experimental building with access to outdoor and fed with the organic diet). The results showed statistically significant differences in the feed intake, egg production, egg mass, egg weight, and change body weight(g) means among the treatments (p <0.05). The hens kept in the organic treatment had fecal highest contain of oocytes coccidia (p <0.05). The yolk color index and shell strength in the organic treatment significantly increased in comparison with that of other treatments (p <0.05). The highest HDL was in the semi-organic and organic treatments (p <0.05). The lowest egg yolk cholesterol concentration was found in hens kept in the semi-organic and organic treatments (p <0.05). It is concluded that organic production system is useful for improving egg quality.

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)

Desempenho de genótipos de bananeiras em cultivos irrigado e sequeiro, na região Centro Oeste Paulista / Performance of banana genotypes in irrigated and non-irrigated environments in the Central West region of São Paulo, Brazil

A bananeira (Musa sp.) é uma frutífera tropical, cultivada comercialmente em todo território brasileiro. Característica de regiões litorâneas, a bananicultura vem ganhando espaço no Planalto Paulista, principalmente na região Centro Oeste do estado. Diante disso, o objetivo desse trabalho foi avaliar o desempenho de genótipos de bananeiras cultivadas sob irrigação por microaspersão e sequeiro nas condições edafoclimáticas do Centro Oeste Paulista. O plantio foi realizado em dezembro de 2015, no município de Vera Cruz –SP, utilizando mudas micropropagadas e aclimatadas. O delineamento experimental adotado foi de blocos ao acaso, com 6 tratamentos, em arranjo fatorial 3x2, sendo 3 genótipos e 2 ambientes de cultivo (irrigado e sequeiro). Os genótipos avaliados foram: BRS Princesa (subgrupo Maçã), Galil 18 (subgrupo Prata) e Grande Naine (subgrupo Cavendish). Foram avaliadas variáveis vegetativas (altura de planta, circunferência do pseudocaule e número de folhas vivas no florescimento), de produção (massa dos cachos e dos engaços, produtividade, número de pencas por cacho e número de frutos por penca) e caracterização física dos frutos (diâmetro, espessura de casca e comprimento). Conclui-se que a irrigação localizada por microaspersão interfere positivamente no desempenho dos genótipos BRS Princesa (subgrupo Maçã), Galil 18 (subgrupo Prata) e Grande Naine (subgrupo Cavendish), no município de Vera Cruz, na região Centro Oeste Paulista.

The banana tree is a tropical fruit plant, grown commercially throughout Brazil. It’s commonly found of coastal regions, the banana production has been gaining space in the Paulista Plateau, mainly in the Midwest region of the state. The objective of this work was to evaluate the performance of banana genotypes cultivated under microaspersion irrigation and rainfed in the edaphoclimatic conditions of Vera Cruz municipality in São Paulo state. The planting was carried out in December 2015, with micropropagated and acclimated seedlings. The statistical design adopted was randomized blocks, with 6 treatments, in a 3 x 2 factorial arrangement with 3 genotypes and 2 cultivation environments (irrigated and non-irrigated). The genotypes evaluated were: BRS Princesa (Maçã subgroup), Galil 18 (Prata subgroup) and Grande Naine (Cavendish subgroup). Vegetative variables (plant height, pseudostem circumference and the number of live leaves in flowering); production variables (clusters and weight mass, productivity, number of hands per bunches and number of fruit for hand) and fruit quality (diameter, shell thickness and length), were evaluated. It is concluded that the localized irrigation by microaspersion positively interfered in the plant performance, improving the vegetative and productive characteristics of the BRS Princesa (Maçã subgroup), Galil 18 (Prata subgroup) and Grande Naine (Cavendish subgroup) genotypes, in Vera Cruz, Midwest region of São Paulo state.

Desempenho de genótipos de bananeiras em cultivos irrigado e sequeiro, na região Centro Oeste Paulista / Performance of banana genotypes in irrigated and non-irrigated environments in the Central West region of São Paulo, Brazil

A bananeira (Musa sp.) é uma frutífera tropical, cultivada comercialmente em todo território brasileiro. Característica de regiões litorâneas, a bananicultura vem ganhando espaço no Planalto Paulista, principalmente na região Centro Oeste do estado. Diante disso, o objetivo desse trabalho foi avaliar o desempenho de genótipos de bananeiras cultivadas sob irrigação por microaspersão e sequeiro nas condições edafoclimáticas do Centro Oeste Paulista. O plantio foi realizado em dezembro de 2015, no município de Vera Cruz –SP, utilizando mudas micropropagadas e aclimatadas. O delineamento experimental adotado foi de blocos ao acaso, com 6 tratamentos, em arranjo fatorial 3x2, sendo 3 genótipos e 2 ambientes de cultivo (irrigado e sequeiro). Os genótipos avaliados foram: BRS Princesa (subgrupo Maçã), Galil 18 (subgrupo Prata) e Grande Naine (subgrupo Cavendish). Foram avaliadas variáveis vegetativas (altura de planta, circunferência do pseudocaule e número de folhas vivas no florescimento), de produção (massa dos cachos e dos engaços, produtividade, número de pencas por cacho e número de frutos por penca) e caracterização física dos frutos (diâmetro, espessura de casca e comprimento). Conclui-se que a irrigação localizada por microaspersão interfere positivamente no desempenho dos genótipos BRS Princesa (subgrupo Maçã), Galil 18 (subgrupo Prata) e Grande Naine (subgrupo Cavendish), no município de Vera Cruz, na região Centro Oeste Paulista.(AU)

The banana tree is a tropical fruit plant, grown commercially throughout Brazil. Its commonly found of coastal regions, the banana production has been gaining space in the Paulista Plateau, mainly in the Midwest region of the state. The objective of this work was to evaluate the performance of banana genotypes cultivated under microaspersion irrigation and rainfed in the edaphoclimatic conditions of Vera Cruz municipality in São Paulo state. The planting was carried out in December 2015, with micropropagated and acclimated seedlings. The statistical design adopted was randomized blocks, with 6 treatments, in a 3 x 2 factorial arrangement with 3 genotypes and 2 cultivation environments (irrigated and non-irrigated). The genotypes evaluated were: BRS Princesa (Maçã subgroup), Galil 18 (Prata subgroup) and Grande Naine (Cavendish subgroup). Vegetative variables (plant height, pseudostem circumference and the number of live leaves in flowering); production variables (clusters and weight mass, productivity, number of hands per bunches and number of fruit for hand) and fruit quality (diameter, shell thickness and length), were evaluated. It is concluded that the localized irrigation by microaspersion positively interfered in the plant performance, improving the vegetative and productive characteristics of the BRS Princesa (Maçã subgroup), Galil 18 (Prata subgroup) and Grande Naine (Cavendish subgroup) genotypes, in Vera Cruz, Midwest region of São Paulo state.(AU)