Knowledge connections for conservation of the Atlantic Goliath Grouper, Epinephelus itajara: records of tropical Brazilian coast

The Atlantic Goliath Grouper (AGG), Epinephelus itajara, the largest Epinephelidae in the Atlantic Ocean, it is classified as critically endangered in Brazil. In the Brazilian northeast, studies focusing on the species are still incipient. Here we study the occurrence, habitat use, and spatial distribution of AGG in Alagoas (Brazil) by combining participatory methods, such as Citizen Science and Local Ecological Knowledge. Living individuals represented 64% (n = 85) of the records, while dead individuals were 36% (n = 47), with 14 records from illegal captures. Juveniles are common in estuaries and shallow natural coastal reefs, while adults are distributed in deeper areas on natural and artificial reefs. The occurrence was significantly higher on Alagoas' southern coast. The São Francisco River (SFR) estuary stood out with 52 occurrences. We mapped 37 occurrence sites for AGG distributed along the coast, emphasising an artificial reef near SFR that received 12 reports about aggregations. The influence area of the SFR was indicated as a priority for species conservation due to the identification of a nursery and possible aggregations close to its mouth. We highlight the urgency of implementing short and long-term management actions along Alagoas' coast.

O mero, Epinephelus itajara, o maior Epinephelidae do Oceano Atlântico, está classificado como criticamente ameaçado no Brasil. No Nordeste brasileiro, os estudos voltados à esta espécie ainda são incipientes. Aqui estudamos a ocorrência, uso do habitat e distribuição espacial do mero em Alagoas (Brasil) combinando métodos participativos, como Ciência Cidadã e Conhecimento Ecológico Local. No total, os indivíduos vivos representaram 64% (n = 85) e os mortos 36% (n = 47), com 14 registros de capturas ilegais. Juvenis foram observados em estuários e em recifes naturais costeiros rasos, enquanto adultos grandes distribuíram-se em recifes naturais e artificiais em áreas mais profundas. A ocorrência foi significativamente maior no litoral sul de Alagoas. O estuário Rio São Francisco (RSF) se destacou com 52 ocorrências. Mapeamos 37 locais onde o mero ocorre, distribuídos ao longo do litoral, com destaque para um recife artificial localizado próximo ao RSF, que obteve 12 citações sobre agregações. Indicamos que a área de influência do RSF é prioritária para a conservação, em razão da identificação de um berçário e de possíveis agregações próximas a sua foz. Destacamos a urgência na aplicação de ações de gestão de curto e longo prazo em Alagoas.

Natural regeneration in Atlantic Forest Fragments: using ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) for monitoring a conservation unit

The Brazilian Atlantic Forest is considered one of the most threatened tropical forests in the world due to the extensive environmental impact it has endured throughout history. Only 12.4% of its original vegetation is estimated to remain. Even though reduced and highly fragmented, it houses enormous biodiversity, and its preservation is paramount to the maintenance of the country's fauna, flora, funga and microbiota. One of the most efficient measures adopted by public agencies aimed at protecting biodiversity has been the creation of conservation units. To evaluate the preservation state of protected areas, several environmental studies have been performed; species inventories are one among them. Ants are excellent bioindicators, for they are not only sensitive to environmental changes, but they also have a history of being used in impact assessment (i.e., fragmentation). In this study we assessed the ant communities inhabiting the leaf litter in areas with different regeneration states at the RPPN Botujuru ­ Serra do Itapety (Mogi das Cruzes, São Paulo ­ Brazil). Mini-Winkler traps were used in the ant survey, and diversity analyses were performed. In total, we recorded 86 species of ants, with a highlight to Camponotus cillae Forel, 1912, a species that remained unrecorded for the state of São Paulo for over 100 years, and a possible new species of Octostruma Forel, 1912. Overall, the species found show that the areas are in the process of natural regeneration. Our data on RPPN Botujuru is unprecedented, and our species list has the potential of being used as an effective monitoring tool for this conservation unit.(AU)

Multi-taxa ecological responses to habitat loss and fragmentation in western Amazonia as revealed by RAPELD biodiversity surveys / Respuesta ecológica multitaxón a la pérdida de hábitat y fragmentación del paisaje en la Amazonía occidental reveladas por evaluaciones de biodiversidad RAPELD

Habitat loss and fragmentation caused by deforestation are important anthropogenic drivers of changes in biodiversity in the Amazon rainforest, and has reached its highest rate in recent decades. However, the magnitude and direction of the effects on species composition and distribution have yet to be fully understood. We evaluated the responses of four taxonomic groups − birds, amphibians, orchid bees, and dung beetles - to habitat loss and fragmentation at both species and assemblage level in the northern Ecuadorian Amazon. We sampled fifteen 250-m long plots in terra-firme forest remnants. We calculated one landscape fragmentation index (fragindex), which considers the proportion of continuous forest cover, edge density and isolation in the landscape, and nine landscape configuration metrics. Logistic regression models and multivariate regression trees were used to analyze species and assemblage responses. Our results revealed that over 80% of birds, amphibians or orchid-bee species, and 60% of dung beetles were negatively affected by habitat loss and fragmentation. Species composition of all taxonomic groups was significantly affected by differences in forest cover and connectivity. Less than 5% of all species were restricted to landscapes with fragindex values higher than 40%. Landscape metrics related to the shape and area of forest patches determined the magnitude and direction of the effect on species responses. Therefore, changes in the landscape configuration of Ecuadorian Amazonia should be minimized to diminish the effects of habitat loss and fragmentation on species occurrence and assemblage composition.(AU)

La pérdida y fragmentación del hábitat causada por la deforestación es un importante impulsor antropogénico de cambios sobre la biodiversidad en la selva amazónica. Sin embargo, la magnitud y dirección de los efectos sobre la composición y distribución de las especies aún es incomprendida. Evaluamos las respuestas de cuatro grupos taxonómicos - aves, anfibios, abejas de orquídeas y escarabajos peloteros - a la pérdida y fragmentación del hábitat, tanto a nivel de especies como de ensamblaje, en la Amazonía norte ecuatoriana. Tomamos muestras de quince parcelas de 250 m de largo en remanentes de bosque de tierra firme. Calculamos un índice de fragmentación del paisaje (fragindex), que considera la cobertura forestal continua, densidad del borde y el aislamiento en el paisaje, y nueve métricas de configuración del paisaje para analizar las respuestas de especies y ensamblajes. Más del 80% de las especies de aves, anfibios o abejas de orquídeas y el 60% de los escarabajos peloteros se vieron afectados negativamente por la pérdida y fragmentación del hábitat. La composición por especies se vio significativamente afectada por las diferencias en la cobertura forestal y la conectividad, mientras que la forma y el área de los parches de bosque determinaron la magnitud y la dirección del efecto en las respuestas de las especies. Por lo tanto, los cambios en la configuración del paisaje de la Amazonía ecuatoriana deben minimizarse para disminuir los efectos de la pérdida y fragmentación del hábitat sobre la presencia de especies y la composición de los ensambles.(AU)

Species list of ground-dwelling ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) in the Nhecolândia, Pantanal, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil

This study provides a list of the ground-dwelling ant species in Nhecolândia, Pantanal, Mato Grosso Sul, Brazil. The Pantanal is the largest tropical wetland in the world and is currently under strong anthropic pressure. Ground-dwelling ants were collected in three sites: (1) a forest regeneration area; (2) a pasture area; and (3) an area of secondary native vegetation. In each site, 120 samples were collected using pitfall traps in the dry and rainy seasons of 2016. Additional samplings were performed with Winkler extractors (30 leaf-litter samples) and manually, also in dry and rainy seasons of 2016. In total, we collected 172 species, which, summed with the additional records from literature, raise the number of ant species recorded in Nhecolândia to 184 in 42 genera and nine subfamilies. Eleven species were recorded for the first time in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul. Also, the survey adds two new species records to Brazil. Besides contributing to the inventory of the ant species present in the Pantanal biome, the present study provides an important resource for future conservation plans for this threatened ecoregion.(AU)

Dragonflies (Insecta: Odonata) from Mananciais da Serra, a Tropical-Araucaria Forest ecotonal remnant in the southern Atlantic Forest, state of Paraná, Brazil

This study provides a comprehensive checklist of Odonata species from the protected area of Mananciais da Serra. The survey was conducted in the endangered Atlantic Forest domain at the southern Serra do Mar mountain chain within a well-preserved area in the municipality of Piraquara, state of Paraná, Brazil. Adults and larvae were sampled between June 2017 and March 2020 using different techniques in numerous mesohabitats, including phytotelmata, pools, small streams, and large reservoirs. A total of 1,708 specimens from 9 families, 43 genera and 84 species were sampled resulting in 53 new records for the state of Paraná, almost doubling the known occurrence records for dragonflies and damselflies in that state. Furthermore, two hitherto undescribed females from the genera Planiplax and Heteragrion, four ultimate stadium larvae from Planiplax, Neocordulia, Heteragrion, and Acanthagrion, and five undescribed species were detected, one each from the genera Heteragrion, Progomphus, Brechmorhoga, Erythrodiplax, and Dasythemis. The estimated richness of odonates in this area is greater than 100 species, while the observed richness corresponding to almost 10% of all Odonata species in Brazil, the species-richest country in the world. These results reiterate the need to investigate undersampled areas to improve knowledge on diversity, taxonomy, and distribution of neotropical species. Finally, taxonomic notes for some species, including the rare corduliid Neocordulia mambucabensis Costa & T.C. Santos, 2000, are provided.

Dragonflies (Insecta: Odonata) from Mananciais da Serra, a Tropical-Araucaria Forest ecotonal remnant in the southern Atlantic Forest, state of Paraná, Brazil

This study provides a comprehensive checklist of Odonata species from the protected area of Mananciais da Serra. The survey was conducted in the endangered Atlantic Forest domain at the southern Serra do Mar mountain chain within a well-preserved area in the municipality of Piraquara, state of Paraná, Brazil. Adults and larvae were sampled between June 2017 and March 2020 using different techniques in numerous mesohabitats, including phytotelmata, pools, small streams, and large reservoirs. A total of 1,708 specimens from 9 families, 43 genera and 84 species were sampled resulting in 53 new records for the state of Paraná, almost doubling the known occurrence records for dragonflies and damselflies in that state. Furthermore, two hitherto undescribed females from the genera Planiplax and Heteragrion, four ultimate stadium larvae from Planiplax, Neocordulia, Heteragrion, and Acanthagrion, and five undescribed species were detected, one each from the genera Heteragrion, Progomphus, Brechmorhoga, Erythrodiplax, and Dasythemis. The estimated richness of odonates in this area is greater than 100 species, while the observed richness corresponding to almost 10% of all Odonata species in Brazil, the species-richest country in the world. These results reiterate the need to investigate undersampled areas to improve knowledge on diversity, taxonomy, and distribution of neotropical species. Finally, taxonomic notes for some species, including the rare corduliid Neocordulia mambucabensis Costa & T.C. Santos, 2000, are provided.(AU)

Medium and large sized mammals of the Boqueirão da Onça, North of Bahia State, Brazil

The mosaic of protected areas of Boqueirão da Onça (8.636 km²), created in the north of Bahia state, is located in the Caatinga, an exclusively Brazilian biome, but exposed to a range of anthropic impacts that threaten its species and natural resources. Few data are available for various zoological groups in Caatinga, including mammals. In order to characterize the community of mammals of this region, considering species richness, we installed 80 camera-trap stations. With a sampling effort of 10,370 camera-days we recorded 28 species (22 wild and six domestic). Opportunistically, we recorded four mammals, resulting in a total richness of 32 species, five of which are included in the global list of endangered species, and seven in the national list. The results are significant, since the richness of wild mammals of the Boqueirão da Onça (S = 26) presented a high value when compared to other Caatinga localities. During the study we found evidence of human activities threatening the conservation of the region, such as poaching and deforestation. Therefore, there is an urgent need in the publication of the Management Plan of the recently created Boqueirão da Onça National Park, to minimize negative impacts on biodiversity and ensure the maintenance of ecological processes.

Medium and large sized mammals of the Boqueirão da Onça, North of Bahia State, Brazil

The mosaic of protected areas of Boqueirão da Onça (8.636 km²), created in the north of Bahia state, is located in the Caatinga, an exclusively Brazilian biome, but exposed to a range of anthropic impacts that threaten its species and natural resources. Few data are available for various zoological groups in Caatinga, including mammals. In order to characterize the community of mammals of this region, considering species richness, we installed 80 camera-trap stations. With a sampling effort of 10,370 camera-days we recorded 28 species (22 wild and six domestic). Opportunistically, we recorded four mammals, resulting in a total richness of 32 species, five of which are included in the global list of endangered species, and seven in the national list. The results are significant, since the richness of wild mammals of the Boqueirão da Onça (S = 26) presented a high value when compared to other Caatinga localities. During the study we found evidence of human activities threatening the conservation of the region, such as poaching and deforestation. Therefore, there is an urgent need in the publication of the Management Plan of the recently created Boqueirão da Onça National Park, to minimize negative impacts on biodiversity and ensure the maintenance of ecological processes.(AU)

Assessing the population density of the spotted paca, Cuniculus paca, (Rodentia: Cuniculidae) on an Atlantic Forest island, southeastern Brazil

The spotted paca, Cuniculus paca (Linnaeus, 1766), is a Neotropical, opportunistic, frugivorous caviomorph rodent, that inhabits primarily broadleaf forests. We aimed to provide the first estimates of density of C. paca for the Ilha Grande, an island located in the Atlantic Rain Forest biome of Brazil. Density and population size were estimated using the total number of individuals observed along each trail through the program DISTANCE 7. Our estimates of density and population size reinforces the importance of the Ilha Grande as an important reservoir of the species. Therefore, the results presented herein can be a starting point to support future action plans for the species, making predictions regarding the ecosystem and management and conservation of the spotted paca. Furthermore, the results can be used as a surrogate for other regions in which the species occurs.

Assessing the population density of the spotted paca, Cuniculus paca, (Rodentia: Cuniculidae) on an Atlantic Forest island, southeastern Brazil

The spotted paca, Cuniculus paca (Linnaeus, 1766), is a Neotropical, opportunistic, frugivorous caviomorph rodent, that inhabits primarily broadleaf forests. We aimed to provide the first estimates of density of C. paca for the Ilha Grande, an island located in the Atlantic Rain Forest biome of Brazil. Density and population size were estimated using the total number of individuals observed along each trail through the program DISTANCE 7. Our estimates of density and population size reinforces the importance of the Ilha Grande as an important reservoir of the species. Therefore, the results presented herein can be a starting point to support future action plans for the species, making predictions regarding the ecosystem and management and conservation of the spotted paca. Furthermore, the results can be used as a surrogate for other regions in which the species occurs.(AU)

In honor of conservation of the Brazilian Atlantic Forest: description of two new damselflies of the genus Forcepsioneura discovered in private protected areas (Odonata: Coenagrionidae)

Two new Brazilian Protoneurinae damselflies, Forcepsioneura regua sp. nov. (holotype male deposited in DZRJ: Brazil, Rio de Janeiro State, Cachoeiras de Macacu municipality, RPPN Reserva Ecológica de Guapiaçu) and Forcepsioneura serrabonita sp. nov. (holotype male deposited in DZRJ: Brazil, Bahia State, Camacan municipality, RPPNs Serra Bonita) , are described, illustrated and diagnosed based on males and females. The bluish and smaller F. regua sp. nov. has been confused with at least three previously described species, being very similar to the type species of Forcepsioneura, F. garrisoni Lencioni, 1999, but lacking a defined tubercle-like process on the posterolateral margin of the median lobe of the prothorax in both sexes, which allows it to be distinguished from all other known species. The shape of the cercus of the male of F. serrabonita sp. nov. is similar to that of F. grossiorum Machado, 2001 and F. lucia Machado, 2000, two species with very short ventrobasal process. However, it differs from them mainly by the mediobasal process of the cercus, which is rounded in dorsal view and almost not visible in lateral view. The taxonomic status of Forcepsioneura is discussed and a comparison with the other species of the genus is provided. Based on size, habitat and coloration, Forcepsioneura can be informally divided into two groups: (1) large, orange-black and montane species, including F. grossiorum, F. itatiaiae (Santos, 1970), F. lucia and F. serrabonita sp. nov.; (2) small, bluish and lowland species, including F. garrisoni, F. haerteli Machado, 2001, F. regua sp. nov. and F. sancta (Hagen in Selys, 1860). Our findings highlight the urgency in directing collecting efforts to unexplored areas, as well as the importance of private preserves that harbor the type localities as guardians of the threatened and diverse Atlantic Forest diversity.[...](AU)

Mamíferos de médio e grande porte do Parque Ecológico Rancho dos Bugres, sul do Brasil / Medium-to large-bodied mammalian fauna of Parque Ecológico Rancho dos Bugres, Southern Brazil

A fauna de mamíferos está sob ameaça, principalmente na Floresta Atlântica da América do Sul. Essa é uma ecorregião fortemente ameaçada pela perda e fragmentação do hábitat, processos que influenciam diretamente o funcionamento dos ecossistemas. Desenvolvemos um inventário de mamíferos em um remanescente florestal no sul de Santa Catarina, Brasil, objetivando conhecer a composição e a diversidade de mamíferos de médio e grande porte. O estudo foi realizado em três transectos no Parque Ecológico Rancho dos Bugres (PERB, 28º29'S e 49º15'W) através de armadilhas fotográficas, resultando em um esforço total de 630 armadilhas/dia. Obtivemos 106 registros independentes de nove espécies de mamíferos, das ordens Carnivora, Cingulata e Rodentia. Os resultados do nosso estudo aumentam o conhecimento sobre a diversidade e distribuição de mamíferos na Mata Atlântica subtropical. Além disso, podem ser utilizados para gerar subsídios para a implementação de estratégias de conservação na fauna de mamíferos, contribuindo para preencher parte da lacuna no conhecimento da distribuição de mamíferos de médio e grande porte em uma região pouco estudada.

Mammalian fauna is under several threat, mainly in Atlantic Forest of South America. Atlantic Forest is an ecorregion strongly endangered by habitat loss and fragmentation, processes that influencing directly the ecosystems functioning. We developed a mammalian inventory in a forest remnant in southern of Santa Catarina, Brazil, aiming to know the medium- to large-bodied mammalian composition and diversity. The study was carried in three transects within Parque Ecológico Rancho dos Bugres (PERB; 28º29’S and 49º15’W) through camera-traps, resulting in a total effort of 630 traps/day. We obtained 106 independent records of nine mammalian species, within the orders Carnivora, Cingulata and Rodentia. The results of our study can increase the knowledge about the mammalian diversity and distribution in the subtropical Atlantic Forest. Moreover, can be generated subsidies for the implementation of conservation strategies on mammalian fauna and contributing to filling part of the gap in the knowledge of distribution of medium- to large-bodied mammals in a region poorly studied.

In honor of conservation of the Brazilian Atlantic Forest: description of two new damselflies of the genus Forcepsioneura discovered in private protected areas (Odonata: Coenagrionidae)

Two new Brazilian Protoneurinae damselflies, Forcepsioneura regua sp. nov. (holotype male deposited in DZRJ: Brazil, Rio de Janeiro State, Cachoeiras de Macacu municipality, RPPN Reserva Ecológica de Guapiaçu) and Forcepsioneura serrabonita sp. nov. (holotype male deposited in DZRJ: Brazil, Bahia State, Camacan municipality, RPPNs Serra Bonita) , are described, illustrated and diagnosed based on males and females. The bluish and smaller F. regua sp. nov. has been confused with at least three previously described species, being very similar to the type species of Forcepsioneura, F. garrisoni Lencioni, 1999, but lacking a defined tubercle-like process on the posterolateral margin of the median lobe of the prothorax in both sexes, which allows it to be distinguished from all other known species. The shape of the cercus of the male of F. serrabonita sp. nov. is similar to that of F. grossiorum Machado, 2001 and F. lucia Machado, 2000, two species with very short ventrobasal process. However, it differs from them mainly by the mediobasal process of the cercus, which is rounded in dorsal view and almost not visible in lateral view. The taxonomic status of Forcepsioneura is discussed and a comparison with the other species of the genus is provided. Based on size, habitat and coloration, Forcepsioneura can be informally divided into two groups: (1) large, orange-black and montane species, including F. grossiorum, F. itatiaiae (Santos, 1970), F. lucia and F. serrabonita sp. nov.; (2) small, bluish and lowland species, including F. garrisoni, F. haerteli Machado, 2001, F. regua sp. nov. and F. sancta (Hagen in Selys, 1860). Our findings highlight the urgency in directing collecting efforts to unexplored areas, as well as the importance of private preserves that harbor the type localities as guardians of the threatened and diverse Atlantic Forest diversity.[...]

Mamíferos de médio e grande porte do Parque Ecológico Rancho dos Bugres, sul do Brasil / Medium-to large-bodied mammalian fauna of Parque Ecológico Rancho dos Bugres, Southern Brazil

A fauna de mamíferos está sob ameaça, principalmente na Floresta Atlântica da América do Sul. Essa é uma ecorregião fortemente ameaçada pela perda e fragmentação do hábitat, processos que influenciam diretamente o funcionamento dos ecossistemas. Desenvolvemos um inventário de mamíferos em um remanescente florestal no sul de Santa Catarina, Brasil, objetivando conhecer a composição e a diversidade de mamíferos de médio e grande porte. O estudo foi realizado em três transectos no Parque Ecológico Rancho dos Bugres (PERB, 28º29'S e 49º15'W) através de armadilhas fotográficas, resultando em um esforço total de 630 armadilhas/dia. Obtivemos 106 registros independentes de nove espécies de mamíferos, das ordens Carnivora, Cingulata e Rodentia. Os resultados do nosso estudo aumentam o conhecimento sobre a diversidade e distribuição de mamíferos na Mata Atlântica subtropical. Além disso, podem ser utilizados para gerar subsídios para a implementação de estratégias de conservação na fauna de mamíferos, contribuindo para preencher parte da lacuna no conhecimento da distribuição de mamíferos de médio e grande porte em uma região pouco estudada.(AU)

Mammalian fauna is under several threat, mainly in Atlantic Forest of South America. Atlantic Forest is an ecorregion strongly endangered by habitat loss and fragmentation, processes that influencing directly the ecosystems functioning. We developed a mammalian inventory in a forest remnant in southern of Santa Catarina, Brazil, aiming to know the medium- to large-bodied mammalian composition and diversity. The study was carried in three transects within Parque Ecológico Rancho dos Bugres (PERB; 28º29S and 49º15W) through camera-traps, resulting in a total effort of 630 traps/day. We obtained 106 independent records of nine mammalian species, within the orders Carnivora, Cingulata and Rodentia. The results of our study can increase the knowledge about the mammalian diversity and distribution in the subtropical Atlantic Forest. Moreover, can be generated subsidies for the implementation of conservation strategies on mammalian fauna and contributing to filling part of the gap in the knowledge of distribution of medium- to large-bodied mammals in a region poorly studied.(AU)

The importance of isolated patches for maintaining local bird biodiversity and ecosystem function: a case study from the Pernambuco Center of Endemism, Northeast Brazil

The Atlantic Forest has been highly fragmented, with the Pernambuco Center of Endemism (PCE) one of the priority areas for conservation. The Mata do Cedro forest, located in Alagoas state, northeastern Brazil, is a forest fragment within the PCE surrounded by a matrix of sugarcane that acts as a refuge for several threatened bird species, some of which are endemic to the region. Here, we characterize the bird community in Mata do Cedro using measures of species abundance, frequency of occurrence, habitat use and sensitivity to human disturbance. The functional role of species was investigated with a functional dendrogram. We registered 111 species, most resident and forest dependent. The most representative trophic categories were insectivores followed by frugivores. Of the species found, 11 are highly sensitive to human disturbances and 11 are endemic to the PCE. The bird community of the fragment is highly diversified, with endemic taxa and balanced trophic categories typical of preserved tropical forests. This community structure together with the occurrence of threatened species reinforces the importance of Mata do Cedro for the maintenance of local biodiversity and ecosystem functions.(AU)

A Mata Atlântica está altamente fragmentada, sendo o Centro de Endemismo Pernambuco (CEP) uma das áreas prioritárias para a conservação. A Mata do Cedro, localizada no estado de Alagoas, nordeste do Brasil, é um fragmento florestal do CEP rodeado por uma matriz de cana-de-açúcar que atua como refúgio para várias espécies de aves ameaçadas, algumas das quais são endêmicas da região. Este estudo caracterizou a comunidade de aves usando medidas de abundância de espécies, frequência de ocorrência, uso do habitat e sensibilidade aos distúrbios humanos. O papel funcional das espécies foi investigado com um dendrograma funcional. Nós registramos 111 espécies, sendo a maioria residente e dependente de florestas. As categorias tróficas mais representativas foram insetívoros, seguidas por frugívoros. Das espécies registradas, 11 são altamente sensíveis aos distúrbios humanos e 11 são endêmicas do CEP. A comunidade de aves do fragmento é altamente diversificada, com táxons endêmicos e categorias tróficas balanceadas típicas de florestas tropicais conservadas. Esta estrutura da comunidade, juntamente com a ocorrência de espécies ameaçadas, reforça a importância da Mata do Cedro para a manutenção da biodiversidade local e funções ecossistêmicas.(AU)

The importance of isolated patches for maintaining local bird biodiversity and ecosystem function: a case study from the Pernambuco Center of Endemism, Northeast Brazil

The Atlantic Forest has been highly fragmented, with the Pernambuco Center of Endemism (PCE) one of the priority areas for conservation. The Mata do Cedro forest, located in Alagoas state, northeastern Brazil, is a forest fragment within the PCE surrounded by a matrix of sugarcane that acts as a refuge for several threatened bird species, some of which are endemic to the region. Here, we characterize the bird community in Mata do Cedro using measures of species abundance, frequency of occurrence, habitat use and sensitivity to human disturbance. The functional role of species was investigated with a functional dendrogram. We registered 111 species, most resident and forest dependent. The most representative trophic categories were insectivores followed by frugivores. Of the species found, 11 are highly sensitive to human disturbances and 11 are endemic to the PCE. The bird community of the fragment is highly diversified, with endemic taxa and balanced trophic categories typical of preserved tropical forests. This community structure together with the occurrence of threatened species reinforces the importance of Mata do Cedro for the maintenance of local biodiversity and ecosystem functions.

A Mata Atlântica está altamente fragmentada, sendo o Centro de Endemismo Pernambuco (CEP) uma das áreas prioritárias para a conservação. A Mata do Cedro, localizada no estado de Alagoas, nordeste do Brasil, é um fragmento florestal do CEP rodeado por uma matriz de cana-de-açúcar que atua como refúgio para várias espécies de aves ameaçadas, algumas das quais são endêmicas da região. Este estudo caracterizou a comunidade de aves usando medidas de abundância de espécies, frequência de ocorrência, uso do habitat e sensibilidade aos distúrbios humanos. O papel funcional das espécies foi investigado com um dendrograma funcional. Nós registramos 111 espécies, sendo a maioria residente e dependente de florestas. As categorias tróficas mais representativas foram insetívoros, seguidas por frugívoros. Das espécies registradas, 11 são altamente sensíveis aos distúrbios humanos e 11 são endêmicas do CEP. A comunidade de aves do fragmento é altamente diversificada, com táxons endêmicos e categorias tróficas balanceadas típicas de florestas tropicais conservadas. Esta estrutura da comunidade, juntamente com a ocorrência de espécies ameaçadas, reforça a importância da Mata do Cedro para a manutenção da biodiversidade local e funções ecossistêmicas.

Silvicultural performance of five forest species in the central Brazilian Amazon / Desempenho silvicultural de cinco espécies florestais na Amazônia central brasileira

Planting of forest species of timber interest helps to reduce the deforestation pressure on the Amazon forest, promotes sustainable development of the producing region and generates ecological benefits. The objective of this work was to evaluate the survival rate and growth of four native (Swietenia macrophylla, Parkia decussata, Dipteryx odorata and Jacaranda copaia) and one exotic (Acacia mangium) species in monospecific plantations (spacing of 2 x 2 m) established on areas previously used for grazing, in Itacoatiara, State of Amazonas, Brazil. When the trees were four years old, we collected biometric data [height at 1.30 m (DBH, cm), crown projection area (CPA, m2), total height (Ht, m), commercial cylinder volume (Vcyl, m3 ha-1)], and qualitative data from visual diagnosis [survival rate (S, %), nutritional status (NS, G = good, D = deficient, %), and phytosanitary status (PS, S = satisfactory, N = non-satisfactory, %)]. Three plots of 128 m2, with 32 plants each, were evaluated for each species. Jacaranda copaia, followed by Dipteryx odorata and Parkia decussata, were the recommended species for planting in areas with edaphoclimatic conditions similar to those of the present work, due to their better performance according to most of the variables.(AU)

Plantios de espécies florestais de interesse madeireiro contribuem para diminuir a pressão sobre a floresta amazônica, proporcionam o desenvolvimento sustentável na região e geram benefícios ecológicos. Este estudo objetivou avaliar a sobrevivência e o crescimento de quatro espécies nativas (Swietenia macrophylla, Parkia decussata, Dipteryx odorata e Jacaranda copaia) e uma exótica (Acacia mangium), em plantios monoespecíficos (espaçamento de 2 x 2 m) estabelecidos em áreas anteriormente ocupadas por pastagem, em Itacoatiara, Amazonas. Aos quatro anos de idade, foram obtidos dados biométricos [diâmetro à altura de 1,30 m do solo (DBH, cm), área de projeção de copa (CPA, m2), altura total (Ht, m), volume comercial do cilindro (Vcyl, m3 ha-1)], e dados qualitativos obtidos por diagnose visual [taxa de sobrevivência (S; %), estado nutricional (NS, G: bom; D: deficiente; %) e estado fitossanitário (PS, S: satisfatório; NS: não-satisfatório; %). Para cada espécie considerou-se três parcelas de 128 m2, cada uma com 32 plantas. Jacaranda copaia, seguida de Dipteryx odorata e Parkia decussata, foram as espécies mais recomendadas para o plantio em áreas com condições edafoclimáticas semelhantes às do presente trabalho, devido ao seu melhor desempenho para a maioria das variáveis.(AU)

Do changes in riparian zones affect periphyton growth and invertebrate colonization on rocky substrates in Atlantic Forest streams? / As alterações nas zonas ripárias afetam o crescimento do perifíton e a colonização de substratos rochosos por invertebrados em riachos de Mata Atlântica?

We evaluated the growth of periphyton and colonization of sterilized cobbles by invertebrates in three coastal streams of the Atlantic Forest (Southeast Brazil) that differ in the conservation level of riparian zones. Because of differences in light availability and water temperature, we hypothesized the growth of periphytic algae would be higher in the most altered stream. Consequently, invertebrate assemblages would differ among streams. Cobbles with similar sizes were ashed and incubated for 7, 15, 30, 45 and 60 days in the studied streams. Despite periphyton growth was faster in the most altered stream, contents of chlorophyll-a did not differ among streams. A total of 954 individuals (98% insects) belonging to 36 taxa was found. Invertebrate density was higher and increased throughout the experiment in the preserved stream, while invertebrate biomass was higher on the initial sampling intervals (7 and 15 days). A stream effect on invertebrate assemblages was observed after the 15th day and 17 taxa were found only in the preserved stream. Leptophlebiidae (Ephemeroptera), Hydroptilidae, Helichopsychidae, Leptoceridae (Trichoptera) and Orthocladiinae (Diptera) showed specificities with the assemblages found in the preserved stream and no taxa proved to be an indicator of the assemblages found in the altered streams. These results showed that changes in the riparian zones of Atlantic Forest streams did not affect the content of chlorophyll-a on rocky substrates, but the growth of periphyton influenced the density and structural composition of invertebrate assemblages. Our findings partially support the proposed hypothesis and conform to the notion of the importance of periphyton community for the colonization of exposed substrates by invertebrates and for evaluating the consequences of anthropogenic changes in ecosystem functioning and aquatic communities.(AU)

O crescimento do perifíton e a colonização de seixos esterilizados por invertebrados foram avaliados em três riachos costeiros de Mata Atlântica (Sudeste do Brasil) que diferem no estado de conservação das zonas ripárias. Devido a diferenças na disponibilidade de luz e temperatura da água, foi hipotetizado que o crescimento das algas perifíticas seria maior no riacho mais alterado. Consequentemente, as assembleias de invertebrados iriam diferir entre os riachos. Seixos com tamanhos similares foram incinerados e incubados por 7, 15, 30, 45 e 60 dias nos riachos estudados. Apesar do crescimento do perifíton ter sido mais rápido no riacho mais alterado, os teores de clorofila-a não diferiram entre os riachos. Um total de 954 indivíduos (98% insetos) pertencentes a 36 táxons foi encontrado. A densidade de invertebrados foi maior e aumentou ao longo do experimento no riacho preservado, enquanto a biomassa de invertebrados foi maior nos intervalos iniciais de amostragem (7 e 15 dias). Um efeito dos riachos nas assembleias de invertebrados foi observado após o 15o dia e 17 táxons foram encontrados somente no riacho preservado. Leptophlebiidae (Ephemeroptera), Hydroptilidae, Helichopsychidae, Leptoceridae (Trichoptera) e Orthocladiinae (Diptera) apresentaram especificidades com as assembleias encontradas no riacho preservado e nenhum táxon foi indicador das assembleias encontradas nos riachos alterados. Estes resultados demonstraram que alterações nas zonas ripárias de riachos de Mata Atlântica não afetaram os teores de clorofila-a em substratos rochosos, mas o crescimento do perifíton influenciou a densidade e a composição estrutural das assembleias de invertebrados...(AU)

Do changes in riparian zones affect periphyton growth and invertebrate colonization on rocky substrates in Atlantic Forest streams? / As alterações nas zonas ripárias afetam o crescimento do perifíton e a colonização de substratos rochosos por invertebrados em riachos de Mata Atlântica?

We evaluated the growth of periphyton and colonization of sterilized cobbles by invertebrates in three coastal streams of the Atlantic Forest (Southeast Brazil) that differ in the conservation level of riparian zones. Because of differences in light availability and water temperature, we hypothesized the growth of periphytic algae would be higher in the most altered stream. Consequently, invertebrate assemblages would differ among streams. Cobbles with similar sizes were ashed and incubated for 7, 15, 30, 45 and 60 days in the studied streams. Despite periphyton growth was faster in the most altered stream, contents of chlorophyll-a did not differ among streams. A total of 954 individuals (98% insects) belonging to 36 taxa was found. Invertebrate density was higher and increased throughout the experiment in the preserved stream, while invertebrate biomass was higher on the initial sampling intervals (7 and 15 days). A stream effect on invertebrate assemblages was observed after the 15th day and 17 taxa were found only in the preserved stream. Leptophlebiidae (Ephemeroptera), Hydroptilidae, Helichopsychidae, Leptoceridae (Trichoptera) and Orthocladiinae (Diptera) showed specificities with the assemblages found in the preserved stream and no taxa proved to be an indicator of the assemblages found in the altered streams. These results showed that changes in the riparian zones of Atlantic Forest streams did not affect the content of chlorophyll-a on rocky substrates, but the growth of periphyton influenced the density and structural composition of invertebrate assemblages. Our findings partially support the proposed hypothesis and conform to the notion of the importance of periphyton community for the colonization of exposed substrates by invertebrates and for evaluating the consequences of anthropogenic changes in ecosystem functioning and aquatic communities.

O crescimento do perifíton e a colonização de seixos esterilizados por invertebrados foram avaliados em três riachos costeiros de Mata Atlântica (Sudeste do Brasil) que diferem no estado de conservação das zonas ripárias. Devido a diferenças na disponibilidade de luz e temperatura da água, foi hipotetizado que o crescimento das algas perifíticas seria maior no riacho mais alterado. Consequentemente, as assembleias de invertebrados iriam diferir entre os riachos. Seixos com tamanhos similares foram incinerados e incubados por 7, 15, 30, 45 e 60 dias nos riachos estudados. Apesar do crescimento do perifíton ter sido mais rápido no riacho mais alterado, os teores de clorofila-a não diferiram entre os riachos. Um total de 954 indivíduos (98% insetos) pertencentes a 36 táxons foi encontrado. A densidade de invertebrados foi maior e aumentou ao longo do experimento no riacho preservado, enquanto a biomassa de invertebrados foi maior nos intervalos iniciais de amostragem (7 e 15 dias). Um efeito dos riachos nas assembleias de invertebrados foi observado após o 15o dia e 17 táxons foram encontrados somente no riacho preservado. Leptophlebiidae (Ephemeroptera), Hydroptilidae, Helichopsychidae, Leptoceridae (Trichoptera) e Orthocladiinae (Diptera) apresentaram especificidades com as assembleias encontradas no riacho preservado e nenhum táxon foi indicador das assembleias encontradas nos riachos alterados. Estes resultados demonstraram que alterações nas zonas ripárias de riachos de Mata Atlântica não afetaram os teores de clorofila-a em substratos rochosos, mas o crescimento do perifíton influenciou a densidade e a composição estrutural das assembleias de invertebrados...

Spatiotemporal variation in fire occurrence in the state of Amazonas, Brazil, between 2003 and 2016 / Variação espaço-temporal da ocorrência de queimadas e incêndios florestais no estado do Amazonas, Brasil, entre 2003 e 2016

Wildland fires can be responsible for negative impacts on the environment, causing damage to the fauna and flora and increasing the release of greenhouse gases. In the state of Amazonas, wildland fires represent a risk for biodiversity conservation, since more than 95% of the state is covered by Amazon rainforest, one of the largest and most biodiverse tropical forests of the world. This study aimed to analyze the spatiotemporal variation of fire occurrence from 2003 to 2016 in the state of Amazonas, based on data from the AQUA satellite processed by the Brazilian National Institute for Space Research, using the Collection 5 detection algorithm. The correlation between fire incidence versus anthropogenic and climatic variables was also tested. A significant uptrend was observed in the number of hot spots recorded over the years. About 83% of the wildland fires occurred during the months of August, September and October. The variables that correlated significantly with the number of hot spots for each municipality were deforested area, pasture area, agricultural area, municipality area and mean annual rainfall. The municipality with the highest number of hot spots detected was Lábrea, while Careiro da Várzea presented the highest incidence per km2. The southern and eastern regions of the state were the areas most affected by fire during the analyzed period. The results from this study emphasize the need for implementation of public policies aimed to reduce deforestation and wildland fires in the state, thus ensuring the conservation of the Amazon rainforest and its biodiversity.

As queimadas controladas e incêndios florestais podem ser responsáveis por impactos negativos ao meio ambiente, ocasionando danos à fauna e flora e contribuindo para a liberação de gases na atmosfera responsáveis pelo efeito estufa. O fogo no Amazonas representa um grande risco para a preservação da biodiversidade, já que mais de 95% da área do estado é recoberta por floresta amazônica, uma das maiores florestas tropicais do mundo. Este trabalho teve por objetivo analisar a variação espaço-temporal dos focos de calor registrados de 2003 a 2016 no estado do Amazonas, com base em dados obtidos através do satélite AQUA e processados pelo INPE, utilizando o algoritmo de detecção Collection 5. Os dados de focos de calor foram correlacionados com variáveis antropogênicas e climáticas. Foi observada uma tendência significativa de alta nos registros de focos de calor ao longo dos anos. Cerca de 83% das detecções ocorreram nos meses de Agosto, Setembro e Outubro. As variáveis área desmatada, área de pastagem, área agrícola, área do município e precipitação média anual apresentaram correlação significativa com o número de focos de calor para cada município. O município com maior registro de focos de calor foi Lábrea, enquanto Careiro da Várzea apresentou a maior incidência por área. Os resultados obtidos ressaltam a necessidade de implementação de políticas públicas que visem a redução do desmatamento e dos incêndios florestais no estado, garantindo a preservação da floresta amazônica e sua biodiversidade.