Composition, density and biomass of fish community from the surf zone as a function of the lunar cycle at Miramar Beach in Cabedelo, Paraíba

The influence of the moon cycles on the ichthyofauna has been little studied in the surf zone. In this study, the number of species, density and biomass were evaluated as a function of the moon. A total of 49 species distributed in 24 families were captured in two areas of Miramar beach. The mean density was significant high in the weaning and low in the new moon, while density and biomass together showed differences for areas. The most abundant species were Anchoa tricolor and Trachinotus falcatus (new moon), and Anchovia clupeoides showed significant differences in the waning moon. The RDA indicates that turbidity influenced significantly the presence of two species group. The group I were represented by Stellifer brasiliensis, Trachinotus goodei, A. clupeoides, Chilomycterus spinosus and Conodon nobilis that occurred on the waning and new phases in both areas, while the group II were represented by Polydactylus virginicus and Haemulopsis corvinaeformis in the full moon. The surf zones may also be strongly governed by the lunar phases. Therefore, the results found in this study, showed that the biological interactions between the species with turbidity and moon might explain the density and biomass variations for some species in the surf zone.(AU)

A influência das fases lunares sobre a ictiofauna tem sido pouco estudada na zona de arrebentação. Nesse estudo, foram avaliadas, o número de espécies, densidade e a biomassa da ictiofauna em função da lua. Foram capturadas 49 espécies distribuídas em 24 famílias em duas áreas na Praia de Miramar. A densidade foi significativamente elevada nas luas minguante e nova. Além disso, a densidade e biomassa juntas mostraram diferenças entre as áreas. As espécies mais abundantes na lua nova foram Anchoa tricolor e Trachinotus falcatus, e Anchovia clupeoides teve uma maior abundancia na lua minguante. O RDA, indicou que a turbidez influenciou significativamente a presença de dois grupos distintos. O grupo I, representado por Stellifer brasiliensis, Trachinotus goodei, A. clupeoides, Chilomycterus spinosus e Conodon nobilis estiveram presentes nas luas minguante e nova em ambas as áreas, e o grupo II, representado por Polydactylus virginicus e Haemulopsis corvinaeformis na lua cheia. As zonas de arrebentação também podem ser reguladas fortemente pelas fases lunares. Os resultados mostraram que as interações biológicas entre as espécies com a turbidez e as fases lunares podem explicar as variações de densidade e biomassa para algumas espécies na zona de arrebentação.(AU)

Composition, density and biomass of fish community from the surf zone as a function of the lunar cycle at Miramar Beach in Cabedelo, Paraíba

The influence of the moon cycles on the ichthyofauna has been little studied in the surf zone. In this study, the number of species, density and biomass were evaluated as a function of the moon. A total of 49 species distributed in 24 families were captured in two areas of Miramar beach. The mean density was significant high in the weaning and low in the new moon, while density and biomass together showed differences for areas. The most abundant species were Anchoa tricolor and Trachinotus falcatus (new moon), and Anchovia clupeoides showed significant differences in the waning moon. The RDA indicates that turbidity influenced significantly the presence of two species group. The group I were represented by Stellifer brasiliensis, Trachinotus goodei, A. clupeoides, Chilomycterus spinosus and Conodon nobilis that occurred on the waning and new phases in both areas, while the group II were represented by Polydactylus virginicus and Haemulopsis corvinaeformis in the full moon. The surf zones may also be strongly governed by the lunar phases. Therefore, the results found in this study, showed that the biological interactions between the species with turbidity and moon might explain the density and biomass variations for some species in the surf zone.(AU)

A influência das fases lunares sobre a ictiofauna tem sido pouco estudada na zona de arrebentação. Nesse estudo, foram avaliadas, o número de espécies, densidade e a biomassa da ictiofauna em função da lua. Foram capturadas 49 espécies distribuídas em 24 famílias em duas áreas na Praia de Miramar. A densidade foi significativamente elevada nas luas minguante e nova. Além disso, a densidade e biomassa juntas mostraram diferenças entre as áreas. As espécies mais abundantes na lua nova foram Anchoa tricolor e Trachinotus falcatus, e Anchovia clupeoides teve uma maior abundancia na lua minguante. O RDA, indicou que a turbidez influenciou significativamente a presença de dois grupos distintos. O grupo I, representado por Stellifer brasiliensis, Trachinotus goodei, A. clupeoides, Chilomycterus spinosus e Conodon nobilis estiveram presentes nas luas minguante e nova em ambas as áreas, e o grupo II, representado por Polydactylus virginicus e Haemulopsis corvinaeformis na lua cheia. As zonas de arrebentação também podem ser reguladas fortemente pelas fases lunares. Os resultados mostraram que as interações biológicas entre as espécies com a turbidez e as fases lunares podem explicar as variações de densidade e biomassa para algumas espécies na zona de arrebentação.(AU)

Influência da mudança das fases da lua nos tipos de partos de ovelhas deslanadas / Change the influence of the phases of the moon in the types of delivery wooless sheep

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of lunar phases in Dorper sheep, according to theproportion of births (single: double). Twenty were used two sheep from a breeding season. For the evaluation oflunar phases sheep were grouped proportionally according to the type of delivery (single: double). The analysisof the types of delivery were obtained according to the moon phases in place by the Brazilian NationalObservatory, being considered corresponding to the lunar phase where the maximum headquarters was up totwo days before and after the date of interest after being compared by the test chi-square test (P <0.05). It wasfound that there was a greater proportion of births in the crescent moon (P <0.05) compared to other lunarphases. The conclusion of this research that the crescent moon of the lunar phases, seems to affect the types ofdelivery of Dorper sheep.(AU)

Influência da mudança das fases da lua nos tipos de partos de ovelhas deslanadas / Change the influence of the phases of the moon in the types of delivery wooless sheep

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of lunar phases in Dorper sheep, according to theproportion of births (single: double). Twenty were used two sheep from a breeding season. For the evaluation oflunar phases sheep were grouped proportionally according to the type of delivery (single: double). The analysisof the types of delivery were obtained according to the moon phases in place by the Brazilian NationalObservatory, being considered corresponding to the lunar phase where the maximum headquarters was up totwo days before and after the date of interest after being compared by the test chi-square test (P <0.05). It wasfound that there was a greater proportion of births in the crescent moon (P <0.05) compared to other lunarphases. The conclusion of this research that the crescent moon of the lunar phases, seems to affect the types ofdelivery of Dorper sheep.

Influência do ciclo lunar no padrão de atividade de Cuniculus paca (Rodentia: Cuniculidae) em uma floresta de Mata Atlântica no Sul do Brasil

Information on the activity period is relevant to understand how species adapt themselves and persist in their environment. The influence of moonlight on the activity pattern of mammals has already been reported for certain species. Ten photo-traps set during 12 months were distributed in a fragment of the Atlantic Rainforest in southern Brazil to verify whether moon phases had any effect on the activity period of Cuniculus paca. Ninety-six registers of C. paca were obtained in 8,928 hours of photo-traps. A prevalent night activity pattern (92%) was reported, with most registries occurring during the new moon phase (40%) and the lowest number during the full moon phase (12%), with differences between activity peaks according to the moon phases. Data showed that C. paca reacts negatively to high moonlight and decreases its circadian cycle in nights with a full moon.

Entender o que influência o período de atividade é relevante para a compreensão de como as espécies se adaptam e persistem em seus ambientes. A influência da luz da Lua no padrão de atividade de mamíferos já foi documentada em algumas espécies. Para verificar se as fases lunares exercem influência no período atividade de Cuniculus paca, fez-se o uso de dez armadilhas fotográficas, que permaneceram ligadas por 12 meses, distribuídas ao longo de um fragmento florestal de Mata Atlântica no Sul do Brasil. Em 8.928 horas armadilhas fotográficas ligadas, obtiveram-se 96 registros de C. paca. Encontrou-se um padrão de atividade predominantemente noturno (92%), sendo que a maior quantidade de registros ocorreu em Lua Nova (40%) e a menor em Lua Cheia (12%), havendo diferenças entre os picos de atividade em relação às fases da Lua. Nossos resultados demonstraram que C. paca reage negativamente a maior incidência de luz lunar, diminuindo ou alterando seu ciclo circadiano em noites de Lua cheia.

Influência do ciclo lunar no padrão de atividade de Cuniculus paca (Rodentia: Cuniculidae) em uma floresta de Mata Atlântica no Sul do Brasil

Information on the activity period is relevant to understand how species adapt themselves and persist in their environment. The influence of moonlight on the activity pattern of mammals has already been reported for certain species. Ten photo-traps set during 12 months were distributed in a fragment of the Atlantic Rainforest in southern Brazil to verify whether moon phases had any effect on the activity period of Cuniculus paca. Ninety-six registers of C. paca were obtained in 8,928 hours of photo-traps. A prevalent night activity pattern (92%) was reported, with most registries occurring during the new moon phase (40%) and the lowest number during the full moon phase (12%), with differences between activity peaks according to the moon phases. Data showed that C. paca reacts negatively to high moonlight and decreases its circadian cycle in nights with a full moon.(AU)

Entender o que influência o período de atividade é relevante para a compreensão de como as espécies se adaptam e persistem em seus ambientes. A influência da luz da Lua no padrão de atividade de mamíferos já foi documentada em algumas espécies. Para verificar se as fases lunares exercem influência no período atividade de Cuniculus paca, fez-se o uso de dez armadilhas fotográficas, que permaneceram ligadas por 12 meses, distribuídas ao longo de um fragmento florestal de Mata Atlântica no Sul do Brasil. Em 8.928 horas armadilhas fotográficas ligadas, obtiveram-se 96 registros de C. paca. Encontrou-se um padrão de atividade predominantemente noturno (92%), sendo que a maior quantidade de registros ocorreu em Lua Nova (40%) e a menor em Lua Cheia (12%), havendo diferenças entre os picos de atividade em relação às fases da Lua. Nossos resultados demonstraram que C. paca reage negativamente a maior incidência de luz lunar, diminuindo ou alterando seu ciclo circadiano em noites de Lua cheia.(AU)

Influência do ciclo lunar na determinação do sexo de cordeiros / Influence of lunar cycle in the parturition of the Dorper sheep breed

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of lunar phases in Dorper sheep, according to theproportion of births (single: double). Twenty were used two sheep from a breeding season. For the evaluation oflunar phases sheep were grouped proportionally according to the type of delivery (single: double). The analysisof the types of delivery were obtained according to the moon phases in place by the Brazilian NationalObservatory, being considered corresponding to the lunar phase where the maximum headquarters was up totwo days before and after the date of interest after being compared by the test chi-square test (P <0.05). It wasfound that there was a greater proportion of births in the crescent moon (P <0.05) compared to other lunarphases. The conclusion of this research that the crescent moon of the lunar phases, seems to affect the types ofdelivery of Dorper sheep.(AU)

Influência do ciclo lunar na determinação do sexo de cordeiros / Influence of lunar cycle in the parturition of the Dorper sheep breed

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of lunar phases in Dorper sheep, according to theproportion of births (single: double). Twenty were used two sheep from a breeding season. For the evaluation oflunar phases sheep were grouped proportionally according to the type of delivery (single: double). The analysisof the types of delivery were obtained according to the moon phases in place by the Brazilian NationalObservatory, being considered corresponding to the lunar phase where the maximum headquarters was up totwo days before and after the date of interest after being compared by the test chi-square test (P <0.05). It wasfound that there was a greater proportion of births in the crescent moon (P <0.05) compared to other lunarphases. The conclusion of this research that the crescent moon of the lunar phases, seems to affect the types ofdelivery of Dorper sheep.

O ciclo lunar influencia diferentemente o momento do parto de éguas de acordo com o sexo do potro / The lunar cycle influences differently the birth moment in mares according to foal sex

O presente estudo buscou descrever se o ciclo lunar influencia alguns aspectos reprodutivos de éguas.Foram analisados 233 ciclos estrais de 111 matrizes para avaliação do momento de ovulação; 348 gestações paraavaliação da proporção macho:fêmea fetal (avaliadas aos 60-70 dias de gestação) e 356 partos para avaliações domomento do parto e incidência de partos de acordo com o gênero do feto. Foram formados grupos de acordocom a fase lunar e comparados pelo teste qui-quadrado (P < 0,05). A fase lunar não influenciou na incidência deovulações (22,7; 26,6; 27,3 e 23,4% para as fases lunares nova, crescente, cheia e minguante, respectivamente);na proporção macho:fêmea (1,1:1,0; 0,9:1,0; 1,0:1,0 e 1,4:1,0 para as fases lunares nova, crescente, cheia eminguante, respectivamente) nem na incidência de partos (25,0; 23,4; 20,6 e 31,0% para as fases lunares nova,crescente, cheia e minguante, respectivamente). Entretanto, houve influência da fase lunar na proporção demacho:fêmea ao nascimento (0,6:1,0; 0,6:1,0; 0,7:1,0 e 1,4:1,0 para as fases lunares nova, crescente, cheia eminguante, respectivamente). Conclui-se que o ciclo lunar influencia no momento do parto diferentemente parafetos masculinos e femininos.(AU)

The study aimed to describe if the lunar cycle interferes with some reproductive aspects of mares. It wasanalyzed 233 estrous cycles of 111 mares for evaluation of ovulation time; 348 pregnancies for the assessmentof fetal male:female proportion (60-70 days of pregnancy); and 356 births for influences in the moment ofparturition and parturition incidence according to fetal gender. Groups were formed acording to the phase ofthe moon and compared by Qui-square test (P < 0.05). The lunar phase did not influenced the incidence ofovulation (22.7; 26.6; 27.3 e 23.4% for new, waxing, full and waning lunar phases, respectively), themale:female proportion (1.1:1.0; 0.9:1.0; 1.0:1.0 e 1.4:1.0 for new, waxing, full and waning lunar phases,respectively), and the parturition incidence (25.0; 23.4; 20.6 e 31.0% for new, waxing, full and waning lunarphases, respectively). However, it influenced the male:female proportion at birth (0.6:1.0; 0.6:1.0; 0.7:1.0 e1.4:1.0 for new, waxing, full and waning lunar phases, respectively). We conclude that the lunar cycle influencesthe moment of parturition differently for male and female fetuses.(AU)

O ciclo lunar influencia diferentemente o momento do parto de éguas de acordo com o sexo do potro / The lunar cycle influences differently the birth moment in mares according to foal sex

O presente estudo buscou descrever se o ciclo lunar influencia alguns aspectos reprodutivos de éguas.Foram analisados 233 ciclos estrais de 111 matrizes para avaliação do momento de ovulação; 348 gestações paraavaliação da proporção macho:fêmea fetal (avaliadas aos 60-70 dias de gestação) e 356 partos para avaliações domomento do parto e incidência de partos de acordo com o gênero do feto. Foram formados grupos de acordocom a fase lunar e comparados pelo teste qui-quadrado (P < 0,05). A fase lunar não influenciou na incidência deovulações (22,7; 26,6; 27,3 e 23,4% para as fases lunares nova, crescente, cheia e minguante, respectivamente);na proporção macho:fêmea (1,1:1,0; 0,9:1,0; 1,0:1,0 e 1,4:1,0 para as fases lunares nova, crescente, cheia eminguante, respectivamente) nem na incidência de partos (25,0; 23,4; 20,6 e 31,0% para as fases lunares nova,crescente, cheia e minguante, respectivamente). Entretanto, houve influência da fase lunar na proporção demacho:fêmea ao nascimento (0,6:1,0; 0,6:1,0; 0,7:1,0 e 1,4:1,0 para as fases lunares nova, crescente, cheia eminguante, respectivamente). Conclui-se que o ciclo lunar influencia no momento do parto diferentemente parafetos masculinos e femininos.

The study aimed to describe if the lunar cycle interferes with some reproductive aspects of mares. It wasanalyzed 233 estrous cycles of 111 mares for evaluation of ovulation time; 348 pregnancies for the assessmentof fetal male:female proportion (60-70 days of pregnancy); and 356 births for influences in the moment ofparturition and parturition incidence according to fetal gender. Groups were formed acording to the phase ofthe moon and compared by Qui-square test (P < 0.05). The lunar phase did not influenced the incidence ofovulation (22.7; 26.6; 27.3 e 23.4% for new, waxing, full and waning lunar phases, respectively), themale:female proportion (1.1:1.0; 0.9:1.0; 1.0:1.0 e 1.4:1.0 for new, waxing, full and waning lunar phases,respectively), and the parturition incidence (25.0; 23.4; 20.6 e 31.0% for new, waxing, full and waning lunarphases, respectively). However, it influenced the male:female proportion at birth (0.6:1.0; 0.6:1.0; 0.7:1.0 e1.4:1.0 for new, waxing, full and waning lunar phases, respectively). We conclude that the lunar cycle influencesthe moment of parturition differently for male and female fetuses.

EFEITO PROTETOR DO ISOTERÁPICO SOBRE A ECLOSÃO DE CISTOS DE Artemia salina INTOXICADAS COM ARSENIATO DE SÓDIO

Introdução: Os oceanos são receptores finais de contaminantes, os quais geram danos ao ecossistema marinho. Os metais pesados, quando lançados no meio ambiente, podem intoxicar todos os níveis da cadeia alimentar. Em homeopatia, isoterápicos são utilizados para tratamento de intoxicações, mas pouco se sabe sobre seu uso como remediadores ambientais. Paralelamente, a Artemia salina é um microcrustáceo muito utilizado como modelo em ensaios ecotoxicológicos. Objetivo: Verificar os efeitos de isoterápicos em Artemia salina exposta a diferentes concentrações de arseniato de sódio (AS), segundo variações ambientais, como as fases lunares. Metodologia: O AS foi utilizado nas concentrações de 6.0 mg/mL, 3.0 mg/mL e 1.5 mg/mL. Os tratamentos com isoterápico (Arsenicum) nas potências 6, 30 e 200 cH foram feitos no momento da inserção dos cistos na água do mar, em placas de 96 poços. Os controles foram: cistos não desafiados, tratados com água, água sucussionada e com veículo. Os registros das atividades dos náuplios foram realizados após 24 e 48 horas, por fotografia e filmagem digitais. Análises do sedimento mineral obtido de um pool de amostras de água foram realizadas em EDS acoplados à MEV. A concentração de arsênio solúvel foi medida por ICP/OES utilizando o mesmo pool. Os tratamentos com isoterápicos e veículo foram realizados em cego. Alterações no momento dipolo da água foram verificadas utilizando corantes solvatocrômicos. Os períodos lunares observados corresponderam à Lua crescente (11 a 17 de fevereiro de 2019) e à Superlua (18 a 24 de fevereiro de 2019). Resultados e discussão: A taxa eclosão dos cistos aumentou após a exposição ao AS de forma concentração-dependente durante a Lua crescente e os tratamentos com isoterápicos reverteram esse efeito. Não houve efeito concentração-dependente do AS durante a Superlua. Na Lua crescente, todas as potências do isoterápico reduziram a taxa de eclosão (p<0.002) e houve maior precipitação de arsênio com menor concentração de arsênio solúvel nas amostras desafiadas com 6.0 mg/mL e tratadas com Arsenicum 30 cH. Alterações da mobilidade dos náuplios não foram observadas. A viabilidade dos náuplios após a eclosão foi reduzida após a exposição ao AS de forma concentração-dependente (p<0.0001), independente da fase da Lua e sem efeito dos isoterápicos. O corante ET 33 mostrou ser o melhor indicador de atividade para todas as potências de Arsenicum e para amostras de água tratadas com Arsenicum 6 cH. O corante vermelho do Nilo mostrou interação com Arsenicum 6 cH e com a água tratada com a mesma potência. Conclusão: A toxicidade do AS em Artemia salina foi concentração-dependente, mas esse efeito foi anulado na Superlua. Na Lua crescente, os isoterápicos em diferentes potências revertem a toxicidade do AS sobre a eclosão dos cistos, mas não modificam a viabilidade. Somente a potência 30 cH parece modificar a solubilidade do arsênio na água. A interatividade dos corantes solvatocrômicos ET 33 e vermelho do Nilo com Arsenicum sugerem mecanismos associados a variações específicas do momento dipolo da água, em função da potência utilizada.

Introduction: The oceans are final recipients of contaminants, which damage the marine ecosystem. Heavy metals, when released to the environment, can poison all levels of the food chain. In homeopathy, isotherapies are used to treat poisoning, but little is known about their use as environmental remediators. At the same time, Artemia salina is a microcrustacean widely used as a model in ecotoxicological tests. Objective: To verify the effects of isotherapics on Artemia salina exposed to different concentrations of sodium arsenate (AS) in function of environmental variations, such as lunar phases. Methodology: AS was used at concentrations equal to 6.0 mg / mL, 3.0 mg / mL and 1.5 mg / mL. The treatments with isotherapic (Arsenicum) in potencies 6, 30 and 200 cH were made at insertion of the cysts in seawater, in 96-well plates. The controls were: non-challenged cysts, cysts treated with water, suction water or vehicle. The records of nauplii activities were performed after 24 and 48 hours, by digital photography and filming. Analyzes of the mineral sediment obtained from a pool of water samples were performed in EDS coupled to SEM. The concentration of soluble arsenic was measured by ICP / OES using the same pool. The treatments with isotherapics and vehicle were carried out blind. Changes in the dipole moment of water were verified using solvatochromic dyes. The lunar periods observed corresponded to the crescent moon (11 to 17 February 2019) and the supermoon (18 to 24 February 2019). Results and discussion: The hatching rate of the cysts increased after exposure to AS in a concentration-dependent manner during the crescent moon, and treatments with isotherapies reversed this effect. There was no concentration-dependent effect of AS during the supermoon. In the crescent moon, all potencies of isotherapics reduced the hatching rate (p<0.002) and there was a greater arsenic precipitation with lower concentration of soluble arsenic in the samples challenged with 6.0 mg / ml and treated with Arsenicum 30 cH. Changes in the mobility of nauplii were not observed. The viability of nauplii after hatching was reduced after exposure to AS in a concentration-dependent manner (p <0.0001), regardless of the moon phase and without effects of isotherapics. The ET 33 dye proved to be the best activity indicator for all potencies of Arsenicum, and for water samples treated with Arsenicum 6 cH. The red Nile dye showed interaction with Arsenicum 6 cH and with water treated with the same potency. Conclusion: The toxicity of AS in Artemia salina was concentration-dependent, but this effect was canceled out in the supermoon. In the crescent moon, isotherapics in different potencies reverse the toxicity of AS on the outbreak of the cysts, but do not modify the viability. Only the 30 cH potency seems to modify the solubility of arsenic in water. The interactivity of solvatochromic dyes ET 33 and Nile red with Arsenicum suggests mechanisms associated to specific variations in the dipole moment of water, in function to the used potency.

Effects of moonlight on the capturability of frugivorous phyllostomid bats (Chiroptera: Phyllostomidae) at different time scales

Some bat species seem to be lunar phobic, i.e., they avoid flying in bright areas or during bright periods of the night; however, the evidence is still controversial. We think that part of this controversy comes from pooling data on bat captures and moonlight intensity according to broad categories, such as moon phases, which conceal the high variability among nights. Therefore, we used detailed, long-term field data on three phyllostomid bat species, in order to test the hypothesis of lunar phobia at two different time scales: 1) among nights, by pooling data of different nights according to moon phases and testing for differences in the distribution of captures; and 2) within a night, by analyzing the relationship between capturability and moonlight intensity (measured as illuminance) in one-hour intervals for 29 individual nights. Although most captures of the studied bat species occurred in the first half of the night, their activity pattern varied largely among nights, and was not always unimodal as commonly assumed. At the larger time scale, all studied bat species showed evidence of lunar phobia, as they were more frequently captured on dark moon phases. Nevertheless, at the smaller time scale, only Carollia perspicillata (Linnaeus, 1758) was less frequently captured on brighter periods of the night. We propose that the unimodal activity pattern assumed for frugivorous phyllostomid bats may be an artifact of data organization, and that activity and lunar phobia are much more variable than previously assumed.

Effects of moonlight on the capturability of frugivorous phyllostomid bats (Chiroptera: Phyllostomidae) at different time scales

Some bat species seem to be lunar phobic, i.e., they avoid flying in bright areas or during bright periods of the night; however, the evidence is still controversial. We think that part of this controversy comes from pooling data on bat captures and moonlight intensity according to broad categories, such as moon phases, which conceal the high variability among nights. Therefore, we used detailed, long-term field data on three phyllostomid bat species, in order to test the hypothesis of lunar phobia at two different time scales: 1) among nights, by pooling data of different nights according to moon phases and testing for differences in the distribution of captures; and 2) within a night, by analyzing the relationship between capturability and moonlight intensity (measured as illuminance) in one-hour intervals for 29 individual nights. Although most captures of the studied bat species occurred in the first half of the night, their activity pattern varied largely among nights, and was not always unimodal as commonly assumed. At the larger time scale, all studied bat species showed evidence of lunar phobia, as they were more frequently captured on dark moon phases. Nevertheless, at the smaller time scale, only Carollia perspicillata (Linnaeus, 1758) was less frequently captured on brighter periods of the night. We propose that the unimodal activity pattern assumed for frugivorous phyllostomid bats may be an artifact of data organization, and that activity and lunar phobia are much more variable than previously assumed.

Effects of moonlight on the capturability of frugivorous phyllostomid bats (Chiroptera: Phyllostomidae) at different time scales

Some bat species seem to be lunar phobic, i.e., they avoid flying in bright areas or during bright periods of the night; however, the evidence is still controversial. We think that part of this controversy comes from pooling data on bat captures and moonlight intensity according to broad categories, such as moon phases, which conceal the high variability among nights. Therefore, we used detailed, long-term field data on three phyllostomid bat species, in order to test the hypothesis of lunar phobia at two different time scales: 1) among nights, by pooling data of different nights according to moon phases and testing for differences in the distribution of captures; and 2) within a night, by analyzing the relationship between capturability and moonlight intensity (measured as illuminance) in one-hour intervals for 29 individual nights. Although most captures of the studied bat species occurred in the first half of the night, their activity pattern varied largely among nights, and was not always unimodal as commonly assumed. At the larger time scale, all studied bat species showed evidence of lunar phobia, as they were more frequently captured on dark moon phases. Nevertheless, at the smaller time scale, only Carollia perspicillata (Linnaeus, 1758) was less frequently captured on brighter periods of the night. We propose that the unimodal activity pattern assumed for frugivorous phyllostomid bats may be an artifact of data organization, and that activity and lunar phobia are much more variable than previously assumed.

UTILIZAÇÃO DO MÉTODO ACÚSTICO PASSIVO PARA AVALIAR SONS DE PEIXES MARINHOS E CONTINENTAIS EM ECOSSISTEMAS TROPICAIS BRASILEIROS

A comunicação está omnipresente nos animais aquáticos, principalmente naqueles capazes de produzir diferentes tipos de sinais acústicos. Esta cacofonia, denominada paisagem acústica, vem permitindo avaliar a distribuição e comportamentos dos organismos sonoros, simplesmente registrando e avaliando os sons por eles produzidos utilizando o método acústico passivo. O objetivo deste trabalho foi usar metodologias inovadoras de pesquisa não invasiva, como a acústica passiva, na coleta e análise de dados acústicos em ambientes aquáticos continentais e marinhos, para fins de monitoramento, conservação e gestão de recursos vivos destes ambientes, principalmente peixes. No que se refere ao ambiente marinho, foram avaliadas as paisagens acústicas de duas áreas de recifes costeiros no litoral sul do Estado de Pernambuco, sendo uma em Porto de Galinhas, área já impactada pelo livre acesso para uso turístico e pesqueiro, e outra em Tamandaré, no interior da Área de Proteção Ambiental Costa dos Corais, na Zona de Preservação da Vida Marinha, utilizada apenas para pesquisa. Em ambiente de água doce, avaliaram-se a produção de sons de cinco espécies de importância comercial da ordem Characiformes no Rio Madeira, sul da Amazônia. Nos experimentos marinhos, Os resultados dos experimentos marinhos indicaram que os sons nas duas áreas de estudo ocorreram principalmente no final da tarde e à noite, onde foram detectados seis coros de peixes recorrentes, com distribuição da banda de frequência entre 200 e 2000 Hz, sem sobreposição e com diferentes características acústicas entre as espécies. Os coros apresentara alta energia em mar aberto, após a última linha de recife na área protegida de Tamandaré (~ 130 dB re1Pa2 Hz-1). No entanto, os coros de peixes apresentou baixos níveis de energia em Porto de Galinhas, com uma diferença de 30 dB re1Pa2 Hz-1. Também foram detectados sons característicos de invertebrados, com bandas de frequências dominantes de 2 e 3 kHz, além de ruídos produzidos por diferentes tipos de embarcações pesqueiras, lanchas recreativas e navios, que podem mascarra e interferir na comunicação dos peixes. O monitoramento da complexa paisagem acústica encontrada em Tamandaré durante o verão mostrou uma constante sobreposição temporal dos coros produzidos pelos peixes no final da tarde. A ocorrência dos coros esteve relacionada com as diferentes fases lunares, influenciando de forma distinta o tempo de início e de detecção, como variações principalmente durante a lua de quarto crescente. A influência lunar também ocorreu nos ruídos de embarcações detectados, com embarcações pesqueiras apresentando registros principalmente no início da manhã, nas luas gibosa crescente e minguante, com bandas de frequência <200 Hz e com elevados picos de energia facilmente distinguíveis. Em águas continentais, a acústica passiva permitiu avaliar sons de cinco characiformes de importância comercial (Potamorhina latior, P. altamazonica, Psectrogaster amazonica, Semaprochilodus insignis e Prochilodus nigricans). Os sons apresentaram diferenças entre gêneros e mesmo entre as espécies, mostrando a especificidade dos sons. Gravações subaquáticas em áreas de confluências de rios na bacia do Madeira durante o período reprodutivo nas águas altas (janeiro e fevereiro), indicaram que P. latior e S. insignis produziram sons semelhantes, utilizando o mesmo nicho ecológico no rio Guaporé. P. latior preferiu as confluências do rio e foi a principal espécie produtora de som durante o período de estudo, sendo encontrada na maioria dos locais avaliados. Foi observado que apenas os machos dessas espécies têm um músculo sônico extrínseco associado às primeiras costelas e fixado em uma aponeurose que rodeia a bexiga natatoria. Esses resultados podem ajudar a identificar e diferenciar sons subaquáticos, monitorando e avaliando áreas de ocorrência, indicando a utilização do método como ferramenta complementar para o monitoramento de populações de organismo aquáticos, principalmente espécies de peixes marinhos e de água doce.

Communication is omnipresent in aquatic animals, especially in those capable of producing different types of acoustic signals. This cacophony, called soundscape has allowed to evaluate both the distribution and behavior of organisms, simply recording and evaluating the sounds produced by them using the passive acoustic method. The objective of this work was to use innovative methods of noninvasive research, such as passive acoustics, in the sample and analysis of acoustic data in continental and marine aquatic environments, for monitoring, conservation and management of the living resources in these environments, mainly fish. In marine environment, the soundscape were evaluated of two coastal reef areas on the southern coast of the State of Pernambuco. Porto de Galinhas, an area already impacted by free access for tourism and fishing, and another in Tamandaré, within the Coastal Corals Protection Area, in the Marine Life Preservation Zone, used for research only. In a freshwater environment, the sounds production was appraise of five species of commercial importance of the order Characiformes in the Madeira River, southern Amazonia. The results of the marine experiments indicated that the sounds in both study areas occurred mainly in the late afternoon and at night, where six recurrent fish chorus were found, with a frequency band between 200 and 2000 Hz, without overlapping and with different acoustic characteristics between species. The chorus presented high energy in the open sea, after the last reef line in the Tamandaré protected area (~ 130 dB re1Pa2 Hz-1). However, fish coral presented low energy levels in Porto de Galinhas, with a difference of 30 dB re1Pa2 Hz-1. In addition, characteristic sounds of invertebrates were detected with a dominant frequencies band of 2 and 3 kHz, besides noise produced by different types of fishing vessels, recreational boats and ships, that can masked and interfere in the fish communication. The monitoring of the complex soundscape found in Tamandaré during the summer showed a constant temporal overlap of fish chorus produced in the late afternoon. The fish chorus occurrence were related to different lunar phases, influencing in a different way both the initial and detection time, with variation mainly during the first quarter moon. This also occurred in the noises of detected vessels, with fishing vessels reporting mostly early in the morning, during the crescent and waning gibbous moon, and frequency bands <200 Hz with high energy peaks of easily distinguishable. In continental waters, passive acoustics allowed the evaluation of five characiform sounds of commercial importance (Potamorhina latior, P. altamazonica, Psectrogaster amazonica, Semaprochilodus insignis and Prochilodus nigricans). The sounds presented differences between genus and even between species, showing the specificity of sounds. Underwater recordings in areas of river confluences in the Madeira basin during the reproductive period in the high waters (January and February) indicated that P. latior and S. insignis produced similar sounds, using the same ecologic niche in the Guaporé River. P. latior preferred the confluences of the river and was the main sound producing species during the study period, being found in most of the evaluated sites. It was observed that only the males of these species have an extrinsic sonic muscle associated with the first ribs and fixed in an aponeurosis that surrounds the lateral swimbladder. These results can help identify and differentiate underwater sounds by monitoring and evaluating areas of occurrence, indicating the use of the method as a complementary tool for the monitoring of aquatic organism populations, mainly marine and freshwater fish species.

VARIAÇÃO NICTEMERAL E LUNAR NA ICTIOFAUNA EM POÇAS DE MARÉ EM UM RECIFE DE ARENITO NO LITORAL OESTE DO CEARÁ FORTALEZA 2017

A variação nictemeral tem forte influência sobre a abundância relativa de várias espécies, alterando a composição e riqueza das assembléias de peixes. A variação lunar é outro ciclo natural que pode influenciar nessa abundancia relativa. O objetivo desta pesquisa foi descrever a variação nictemeral e lunar da ictiofauna das poças de maré da praia da Pedra Rachada, Paracuru, litoral oeste do Ceará. Em agosto e setembro de 2016, foram amostradas três poças com diferentes áreas e profundidades, com censo visual. Em cada poça foram realizados doze censos, igualmente distribuídos entre o período diurno e noturno (os censos noturnos foram também igualmente divididos entre as fases de lua cheia e nova, sendo realizados três censos em cada poça em cada fase lunar). No dia foram registrados 1.732 indivíduos pertencentes a 24 espécies, 17 famílias, sendo Haemulidae e Labridae as mais representativas em número de espécies (4). À noite, foram registrados 436 indivíduos pertencentes a 16 espécies e 12 famílias, sendo Haemulidae também a mais representativa (5). As três espécies com maior densidade foram H. plumieri, H. parra e A. chirurgus em ambos os períodos do dia. O nMDS mostrou uma nítida segregação entre o dia e a noite, porém não indicou influência lunar na ictiofauna. A PERMANOVA confirmou os resultados do nMDS para os períodos (p=0,0001) e fases da lua (p=0,6645). A categoria trófica mais representativa em número de espécies e densidade de indivíduos (16) foram os predadores de invertebrados móveis em ambos os períodos. Apenas a classe de comprimento A (até 5 cm) apresentou diferença significativa na densidade entre o dia e a noite. Os valores de diversidade e equabilidade foram altos, mas somente o índice de Pielou apresentou diferença significativa entre os períodos. Ambos os índices não demonstraram diferença significativa com a variação lunar. Destaca-se a importância da realização de novos estudos com maior tempo de observação que busquem, por exemplo, verificar a influência de acontecimentos sazonais como período de chuvas e de ventos sobre a ictiofauna durante o dia e a noite, bem como avaliar a influência de outras fases da lua sobre a estruturação das assembléias. Isto permitirá ampliar o conhecimento sobre a ictiofauna presente nas poças de maré de regiões do semiárido nordestino.

The nictimeral variation has strong influence on the relative abundance of several species, altering the composition and richness of fish assemblages. The lunar variation is another natural cycle that can also influence this relative abundance. The objective of this research was to describe the lunar and nictemeral variation of the ichthyofauna of the tidal pools of Pedra Rachada beach, Paracuru, west coast of Ceará. In August and September of 2016, three pools with different areas and depths were sampled, with visual census. Twelve censuses were carried out in each pool, distributed equally between the daytime and nighttime periods (nocturnal censuses were also divided between full and new moon phases, with three censuses in each pool in each lunar phase). During the day 1.732 individuals belonging to 24 species and 17 families were recorded, being Haemulidae and Labridae the most representative in number of species (4). In the night, 436 individuals were recorded from 16 species and 12 families, with Haemulidae being the most representative (5). The species H. plumieri, H. parra and A. chirurgus presented high values of density in both periods of the day. The nMDS showed a clear segregation between day and night, but did not indicate lunar influence on the ichthyofauna. A PERMANOVA confirmed the results of the nMDS for the periods (p = 0.0001) and for moon phases (p = 0.6645). The trophic category most representative in number of species and density of individuals were mobile invertebrate feeders in both periods. Only one class of length A (up to 5 cm) showed a significant difference in density between day and night. The values of diversity and evenness were high, but the Pielou index presented a significant difference between the periods. Both indices did not show significant difference with the lunar variation. It is important to note the importance of further studies with longer observation time, for example, an influence of seasonal events such as rainy and windy periods on the ichthyofauna during the day and at night, as well as assessing the influence of other phases of the moon on Structuring of assemblies. This increases knowledge about the ichthyofauna present on the reefs of the regions of the semi-arid region of the Northeast.

Variação espaço - temporal da ictiofauna de zona de arrebentação em praias do litoral paraibano

A influência espaço-temporal sobre a ictiofauna de zona de arrebentação foi avaliada em dois estudos: (I) Composição da ictiofauna em diferentes fases lunares na praia de Miramar em Cabedelo, Paraíba (II), e Variação sazonal anual da densidade e biomassa em duas praias do litoral paraibano. Em ambos os estudos foram mensuradas diversas variáveis ambientais importantes (temperatura, salinidade, turbidez, condutividade e pH) e correlacionadas aos resultados de densidade e biomassa. Ao todo nos dois estudos foram capturados 13.206 (68,5 kg). No estudo anual (132 arrastos), as espécies mais capturadas foram em ordem decrescente de frequência de ocorrência Polydactylus virginicus, Stellifer brasiliensis, Anchoa tricolor, Conodon nobilis, Larimus breviceps, Haemulopsis corvinaeformis, Cathorops spixii, Selene vomer,Menticirrhus americanus e Rhinosardinia bahiensis. Enquanto que no estudo com as fases lunares (48 arrastos) em Cabedelo, foram P. virginicus, S. brasiliensis, A. tricolor, L. breviceps, C. nobilis, H. corvinaeformis, S. vomer, Trachinotus falcatus, Trachinotus goodei, Caranx latus, Anchovia clupeoides e Chilomycterus spinosus. Nos dois estudos, houve dominância na zona de arrebentação semelhante para a maioria das espécies de maior ocorrência (P. virginicus, S. brasiliensis, A. tricolor, C. nobilis, L. breviceps, H. corvinaeformis, S. vomer, embora C. spixii, M. americanus e R. bahiensis foram dominantes somente no estudo anual (Artigo II), e T. falcatus, T. goodei, C. latus, A. clupeoides e C. spinosus (Artigo I). No estudo anual, a densidade (ind.m-2) e a biomassa (g m-2) da ictiofauna da praia de Miramar e praia de Costinha foram (0,069; 0,040) e (0,19; 0,09), respectivamente para esses parâmetros e locais. No estudo das fases lunares, a densidade e biomassa médias foram 0,08 ind m-2, e 0,13 g m-2, respectivamente. A sazonalidade foi decisiva entre os meses de estiagem (maio, outubro, novembro e dezembro em 2014, e fevereiro em 2015) quando foram mais abundantes A. tricolor, P. virginicus, Selene vomer, M. americanus, H. corvinaeformis, e C. nobilis, enquanto que para os meses de chuva (maio, julho, agosto, setembro e março em 2015) R. bahiensis e C.spixii foram as mais abundantes. Para a biomassa mais elevada, as espécies no período chuvoso foram P. virginicus, M. americanus, e R. bahiensis, enquanto que A. tricolor, H. corvinaeformis e S. vomer nos meses de estiagem não demonstraram diferenças sazonais (densidade e biomassa), mas estiveram presentes todo o ano. Além disso, a lua nova influenciou a abundância de A. tricolor, T. falcatus e L. breviceps no mês de junho, embora essa última espécie tenha sido presente também na lua nova. Também, A. clupeoides ocorreu na lua minguante e nesse mesmo mês. As variáveis ambientais de maior importância nos dois estudos foram a salinidade e turbidez com diferenças significativas nas analises de variância, RDA e CCA. As zonas de arrebentação da praia de Miramar e Costinha podem ser consideradas importantes para a ecologia e distribuição sazonal de juvenis na Paraíba, com poucas espécies dominantes, incluindo espécies raras e de baixa ocorrência. Além do que, essas variações sazonais também são reguladas pelas fases lunares.

The spatiotemporal influence on the ichthyofauna of the surf zone was evaluated in two studies: (I) Annual seasonal variation of the density and biomass in two beaches of the coast of Paraiba, and (II) Composition of the ichthyofauna in different lunar phases in the beach of Miramar (Cabedelo), Paraiba. In both studies, several important environmental variables (temperature, salinity, turbidity, conductivity and pH) were measured and correlated with the results of density and biomass. In all two studies, 13,206 (68.5 kg) were caught. In the annual study (132 trawls), the most captured species were in descending order of occurrence frequency Polydactylus virginicus, Stellifer brasiliensis, Anchoa tricolor, Conodon nobilis, Larimus breviceps, Haemulopsis corvinaeformis, Cathorops spixii, Selene vomer, Menticirrhus americanus and Rhinosardinia bahiensis. While in the study with the lunar phases (48 trawls) in Cabedelo were P. virginicus, S. brasiliensis, A. tricolor, L. breviceps, C. nobilis, H. corvinaeformis, S. vomer, Trachinotus falcatus, Trachinotus goodei, Caranx latus, Anchovia clupeoides and Chilomycterus spinosus. In both studies, there was dominance in the surf zone were similar to most species of higher occurrence (P. virginicus, S. brasiliensis, A. tricolor, C. nobilis, L. breviceps, H. corvinaeformis, S. vomer, although C. spixii, M. americanus and R. bahiensis were dominant only in the annual study (Article II), and T. falcatus, T. goodei, C. latus, A. clupeoides and C. spinosus (Article I). In the second study, density (ind.m-2) and biomass (g m-2) of the ichthyofauna of the beach of Miramar and Costinha beach were (0.069; 0.040) and (0.19; 0.09) respectively for these parameters and sites. In the first study (lunar phases) the average density and total biomass were 0.08 ind m-2, and 0.13 g m-2, respectively. Seasonality was decisive among dry months (may, october, november, december in 2014, and february in 2015), when A. tricolor, P. virginicus, Selene vomer, M. americanus, H. corvinaeformis, and C. nobilis were most abundant, whereas for the rainy months (july, August, September, march and may-2015) R. bahiensis And C.spixii were most abundant. For the highest biomass, the species in the rainy months were P. virginicus, M. americanus, and R. bahiensis, while A. tricolor, H. corvinaeformis and S. vomer in the dry months did not show seasonal differences (in density and biomass), however were present throughout the year. In addition, the new moon influenced the abundance of A. tricolor, T. falcatus and L. breviceps in the months of june, although this last species was also present in the new moon. Also, A. clupeoides occurred on waning moon and in the same month. The most important environmental variables in the two studies were salinity and turbidity with significant differences in ANOVA, RDA and CCA analysis. In both beaches (Miramar and Costinha) these surf zone areas can be considered important for the ecology and seasonal distribution of juveniles in Paraíba, with few dominant species, including rare and low occurrence species. In addition to these seasonal variations are also regulated by the lunar phases.

Reprodução de Lytechinus variegatus ( Echinodermata: Echinoidea ): efeito do ciclo lunar e características da população / Reproduction of Lytechinus variegatus ( Echinodermata: Echinoidea ): effect of lunar cycle and population characteristics

Este estudo avaliou as características reprodutivas de uma população do ouriçodo mar Lytechinus variegatus e a influência do ciclo lunar na liberação de gametas. Foramrealizadas oito coletas para avaliação do índice gonadossomático (IG) e dos parâmetrospopulacionais relacionados com a reprodução. Para avaliação do efeito da Lua na liberaçãode gametas foram realizadas coletas em três ciclos lunares completos. Ao todo foramcoletados 295 indivíduos, sendo 156 machos e 131 fêmeas (proporção 1,19:1), porém nãohouve diferença significativa na proporção sexual da população. O peso dos machos foisignificativamente maior que o das fêmeas, porém não houve diferença significativa no IG,peso gonadal e diâmetro entre os sexos. Com a amplitude no diâmetro dos animaiscoletados (5,5-8,7 cm) foram estabelecidas cinco classes de tamanho. Não houve diferençassignificativas no IG entre as classes de tamanho. Houve efeito da periodicidade lunar naliberação de gametas, com menor IG na lua nova, indicando que esta ocorre no primeiroquarto lunar e em marés de sizígia.(AU)

This work evaluated thespawning of sea urchin Lytechinus variegates based on lunar cycle and populationcharacteristics. Eight monthly collections were realized to estimate the gonadosomatic index(GI) and population parameters regarding reproduction. To evaluate the effect of the lunarcycle on spawning, samples were taken for each moon phase of three lunar cycles. In theentire work 295 individuals were collected, 156 males and 131 females (1.19:1 ratio).However, there was no significant difference in the sex ratio of the population. The weightof males was significantly greater than that of females. There were no differences betweenmales and females in gonadosomatic index (GI), gonad weight and diameter. There was aneffect of the lunar periodicity on spawning, with lower GI in new moon, indicating thatspawning occurs on the first lunar quarter in spring tide.(AU)

Reproductive biology in the starfish Echinaster (Othilia) guyanensis (Echinodermata: Asteroidea) in southeastern Brazil

Echinaster (Othilia) guyanensis Clark, 1987 is an endangered starfish distributed throughout the Caribbean and Atlantic Ocean. Even though it has been extensively harvested, little is known about the biology and ecology of this starfish. Here, we examine reproduction seasonality in E. (O.) guyanensis. Individuals were collected monthly for one year, including four complete lunar phases. The gonad index (GI) was calculated to determine annual and monthly reproductive peaks. Gametogenesis stages were also determined. Sex ratio was 1:1.33 (M:F). Gonadosomatic index, body weight, central disc width and arm length were similar for both sexes. Gonads were present in all animals with arm length greater than 36.2 mm. Lunar phase was not associated with E. (O.) guyanensis reproduction. GI and gametogenesis patterns suggest that starfish have an annual reproductive peak with spawning during autumn months (March to May).

Reproductive biology in the starfish Echinaster (Othilia) guyanensis (Echinodermata: Asteroidea) in southeastern Brazil

Echinaster (Othilia) guyanensis Clark, 1987 is an endangered starfish distributed throughout the Caribbean and Atlantic Ocean. Even though it has been extensively harvested, little is known about the biology and ecology of this starfish. Here, we examine reproduction seasonality in E. (O.) guyanensis. Individuals were collected monthly for one year, including four complete lunar phases. The gonad index (GI) was calculated to determine annual and monthly reproductive peaks. Gametogenesis stages were also determined. Sex ratio was 1:1.33 (M:F). Gonadosomatic index, body weight, central disc width and arm length were similar for both sexes. Gonads were present in all animals with arm length greater than 36.2 mm. Lunar phase was not associated with E. (O.) guyanensis reproduction. GI and gametogenesis patterns suggest that starfish have an annual reproductive peak with spawning during autumn months (March to May).