Diversity of fungi obtained from bats captured in urban forest fragments in Sinop, Mato Grosso, Brazil / Diversidade de fungos em morcegos de fragmentos florestais urbanos de Sinop, Mato Grosso, Brasil

Abstract Bats are important for the homeostasis of ecosystems and serve as hosts of various microorganisms including bacteria, viruses, and fungi with pathogenic potential. This study aimed to isolate fungi from biological samples obtained from bats captured in the city of Sinop (state of Mato Grosso, Brazil), where large areas of deforestation exist due to urbanization and agriculture. On the basis of the flow of people and domestic animals, 48 bats were captured in eleven urban forest fragments. The samples were processed and submitted to microbiological cultures, to isolate and to identify the fungal genera. Thirty-four (70.83%) of the captured bats were positive for fungi; 18 (37.5%) and 16 (33.33%) of these bats were female and male, respectively. Penicillium sp., Scopulariopsis sp., Fusarium sp., Aspergillus sp., Alternaria sp., Cryptococcus sp., Trichosporon sp., and Candida sp., which may cause opportunistic infections, were isolated. The bat species with the highest number of fungal isolates was Molossus molossus: 21 isolates (43.8%). According to our results, bats captured in urban forest fragments in Sinop harbor pathogenic fungi, increasing the risk of opportunistic fungal infections in humans and domestic animals.

Resumo Os morcegos apresentam grande importância na homeostasia dos ecossistemas e são hospedeiros de uma rica diversidade de micro-organismos como bactérias, vírus e fungos com potencial patogênico. Portanto, este estudo visou isolar fungos presentes em amostras biológicas de morcegos na cidade de Sinop - MT, que possui grandes áreas de desmatamento devido à urbanização e agricultura. Foram capturados 48 morcegos de diferentes espécies, em onze fragmentos florestais urbanos definidos de acordo com fluxo de pessoas e animais domésticos, para obtenção de amostras biológicas. Essas amostras foram processadas e submetidas aos cultivos microbiológicos, para isolamento e identificação dos gêneros dos fungos. Dos 48 morcegos, 34 (70,83%) foram positivos para pelos menos um gênero de fungo, sendo 18 (37,5%) fêmeas e 16 (33,33%) machos, e os gêneros isolados a partir das amostras biológicas foram Penicillium sp., Scopulariopsis sp., Fusarium sp., Aspergillus sp., Alternaria sp., Cryptococcus sp., Trichosporon sp. e Candida sp., que podem ser causadores de infecções oportunistas. Desse total, a espécie que apresentou maior positividade para pelo menos um gênero de fungo foi Molossus molossus com 21 (43,8%). Nossos resultados demonstram que os morcegos capturados nos fragmentos florestais urbanos na cidade de Sinop - MT, podem atuar como agentes veiculadores de fungos com potencial patogênico, aumentando assim o risco de exposição e aquisição de infecções fúngicas oportunistas por pessoas e animais domésticos.

Self-made home: how and where does the anuran Rhinella dorbignyi build its retreat sites / Com as próprias patas: Como e onde o Sapinho-de-Jardim Rhinella dorbignyi constrói seus abrigos

In this study, we observed that burrows of Rhinella dorbignyi (Duméril & Bibron, 1841) are distributed in a non-random manner in the habitat, suggesting a microhabitat selection for digging. This conclusion was based on a characterization of 36 burrows and surrounding micro-habitat. We established a 1 m x 1 m quadrat with the burrow in its central point (n=36) to measure the percentage (density) and the average heights of grasses, herbs, and shrubs. All measurements were repeated in two unused quadrats (without burrows) to evaluate the available microhabitat (n=72). The burrows are built in specific areas of the habitat with a higher percentage of grass, taller herbs, lower density of shrubs and low shaded sites than the founded at control sites. Based on three-dimensional models of the interior of the burrow (n=15), we observed that all of them were constructed with an elliptical opening that opens into a narrow channel perpendicular to the ground. Channels had a mean maximum diameter of 38 mm and a mean minimum diameter of 18 mm. The mean length of the burrows is 182 mm, and the mean volume is 95 mL.

Neste estudo, observamos que tocas de Rhinella dorbignyi (Duméril & Bibron, 1841) são distribuídas de uma forma não-aleatória no habitat, sugerindo que esta espécie seleciona sítios para cavá-las. Esta conclusão foi baseada em uma caracterização de 36 tocas e do micro-habitat que as cerca. Estabelecemos um quadrante de 1 m x 1 m com a toca como seu ponto central (n=36) para medir a porcentagem (densidade) e a altura média de gramíneas, plantas herbáceas e arbustos. Todas as medidas foram repetidas em dois quadrantes não utilizados (sem tocas), para avaliar o micro-habitat disponível ao anfíbio (n=72). As tocas são construídas em áreas específicas do habitat com maior porcentagem de gramíneas, ervas mais altas, menos arbustos presentes e pouca área sombreada. Baseado em modelos tridimensionais do interior das tocas (n=15), observamos que todas elas são construídas com uma abertura elíptica que se abre para um canal estreito, perpendicular ao chão. Os canais têm diâmetro máximo médio de 38 mm e diâmetro mínimo médio de 18 mm. O comprimento médio das tocas é de 182 mm, e o volume médio é de 95 mL.

Seasonal distribution and habitat use preference of Barking deer (Muntiacus vaginalis) in Murree-Kotli Sattian-Kahuta National Park, Punjab Pakistan

ABSTRACT Microhabitat factors associated with the habitat of barking deer (Muntiacus vaginalis) were examined and compared between summer and winter seasons. Habitat characteristics and preferred habitat were measured by locating direct and indirect signs. To quantify the habitat utilization of barking deer, each selected study site was sampled for floral diversity from 2015 to 2017. Quadrats were deployed along transect lines to determine seasonal distribution. Barking deer were not evenly distributed across vegetation types in the study area; they occurred more often in the broad-leaved forest than in Chir pine forest, at an elevational range of 550-850 m, in thick vegetation on steep slopes. The most preferred habitat included trees and shrubs with 30% and 69% cover, respectively. Barking deer avoided thicker tree cover, possibly as it hinders movement and escape from predators. No significant difference (2 = 6.37, df = 3, p = 0.19) in seasonal vegetation cover was recorded.

RESUMO Fatores de micro-hábitat associados ao hábitat do veado (Muntiacus vaginalis) foram examinados e comparados entre as estações de verão e inverno. As características do hábitat e o hábitat preferido foram medidos, localizando sinais diretos e indiretos. Para quantificar a utilização do hábitat de cervos-latidos, cada local de estudo selecionado foi amostrado para a diversidade floral de 2015 a 2017. Quadrats foram implantados ao longo de linhas de transecto para determinar a distribuição sazonal., Veados-latidos não foram distribuídos uniformemente pelos tipos de vegetação na área de estudo; ocorreram com mais frequência na floresta de folhas largas do que na floresta de pinheiros Chir, em uma faixa de elevação de 550-850 m, em vegetação densa, em encostas íngremes. O hábitat mais preferido incluía árvores e arbustos com 30% e 69% de cobertura, respectivamente. O veado-latido evitou uma cobertura de árvores mais espessa, possivelmente porque impede o movimento e a fuga de predadores. Nenhuma diferença significativa (2 = 6,37; df = 3; p = 0,19) na cobertura vegetal sazonal foi registrada.

Seasonal distribution and habitat use preference of Barking deer (Muntiacus vaginalis) in Murree-Kotli Sattian-Kahuta National Park, Punjab Pakistan / Distribuição sazonal e preferência de uso de habitat de veados-latidos (Muntiacus vaginalis) no Parque Nacional Murree-Kotli Sattian-Kahuta, Punjab Paquistão

Microhabitat factors associated with the habitat of barking deer (Muntiacus vaginalis) were examined and compared between summer and winter seasons. Habitat characteristics and preferred habitat were measured by locating direct and indirect signs. To quantify the habitat utilization of barking deer, each selected study site was sampled for floral diversity from 2015 to 2017. Quadrats were deployed along transect lines to determine seasonal distribution. Barking deer were not evenly distributed across vegetation types in the study area; they occurred more often in the broad-leaved forest than in Chir pine forest, at an elevational range of 550-850 m, in thick vegetation on steep slopes. The most preferred habitat included trees and shrubs with 30% and 69% cover, respectively. Barking deer avoided thicker tree cover, possibly as it hinders movement and escape from predators. No significant difference (χ2 = 6.37, df = 3, p = 0.19) in seasonal vegetation cover was recorded.

Fatores de micro-hábitat associados ao hábitat do veado (Muntiacus vaginalis) foram examinados e comparados entre as estações de verão e inverno. As características do hábitat e o hábitat preferido foram medidos, localizando sinais diretos e indiretos. Para quantificar a utilização do hábitat de cervos-latidos, cada local de estudo selecionado foi amostrado para a diversidade floral de 2015 a 2017. Quadrats foram implantados ao longo de linhas de transecto para determinar a distribuição sazonal., Veados-latidos não foram distribuídos uniformemente pelos tipos de vegetação na área de estudo; ocorreram com mais frequência na floresta de folhas largas do que na floresta de pinheiros Chir, em uma faixa de elevação de 550-850 m, em vegetação densa, em encostas íngremes. O hábitat mais preferido incluía árvores e arbustos com 30% e 69% de cobertura, respectivamente. O veado-latido evitou uma cobertura de árvores mais espessa, possivelmente porque impede o movimento e a fuga de predadores. Nenhuma diferença significativa (χ2 = 6,37; df = 3; p = 0,19) na cobertura vegetal sazonal foi registrada.

Seasonal distribution and habitat use preference of Barking deer (Muntiacus vaginalis) in Murree-Kotli Sattian-Kahuta National Park, Punjab Pakistan / Distribuição sazonal e preferência de uso de habitat de veados-latidos (Muntiacus vaginalis) no Parque Nacional Murree-Kotli Sattian-Kahuta, Punjab Paquistão

Microhabitat factors associated with the habitat of barking deer (Muntiacus vaginalis) were examined and compared between summer and winter seasons. Habitat characteristics and preferred habitat were measured by locating direct and indirect signs. To quantify the habitat utilization of barking deer, each selected study site was sampled for floral diversity from 2015 to 2017. Quadrats were deployed along transect lines to determine seasonal distribution. Barking deer were not evenly distributed across vegetation types in the study area; they occurred more often in the broad-leaved forest than in Chir pine forest, at an elevational range of 550-850 m, in thick vegetation on steep slopes. The most preferred habitat included trees and shrubs with 30% and 69% cover, respectively. Barking deer avoided thicker tree cover, possibly as it hinders movement and escape from predators. No significant difference (χ2 = 6.37, df = 3, p = 0.19) in seasonal vegetation cover was recorded.

Fatores de micro-hábitat associados ao hábitat do veado (Muntiacus vaginalis) foram examinados e comparados entre as estações de verão e inverno. As características do hábitat e o hábitat preferido foram medidos, localizando sinais diretos e indiretos. Para quantificar a utilização do hábitat de cervos-latidos, cada local de estudo selecionado foi amostrado para a diversidade floral de 2015 a 2017. Quadrats foram implantados ao longo de linhas de transecto para determinar a distribuição sazonal., Veados-latidos não foram distribuídos uniformemente pelos tipos de vegetação na área de estudo; ocorreram com mais frequência na floresta de folhas largas do que na floresta de pinheiros Chir, em uma faixa de elevação de 550-850 m, em vegetação densa, em encostas íngremes. O hábitat mais preferido incluía árvores e arbustos com 30% e 69% de cobertura, respectivamente. O veado-latido evitou uma cobertura de árvores mais espessa, possivelmente porque impede o movimento e a fuga de predadores. Nenhuma diferença significativa (χ2 = 6,37; df = 3; p = 0,19) na cobertura vegetal sazonal foi registrada.

Seasonal distribution and habitat use preference of Barking deer (Muntiacus vaginalis) in Murree-Kotli Sattian-Kahuta National Park, Punjab Pakistan / Distribuição sazonal e preferência de uso de habitat de veados-latidos (Muntiacus vaginalis) no Parque Nacional Murree-Kotli Sattian-Kahuta, Punjab Paquistão

Microhabitat factors associated with the habitat of barking deer (Muntiacus vaginalis) were examined and compared between summer and winter seasons. Habitat characteristics and preferred habitat were measured by locating direct and indirect signs. To quantify the habitat utilization of barking deer, each selected study site was sampled for floral diversity from 2015 to 2017. Quadrats were deployed along transect lines to determine seasonal distribution. Barking deer were not evenly distributed across vegetation types in the study area; they occurred more often in the broad-leaved forest than in Chir pine forest, at an elevational range of 550-850 m, in thick vegetation on steep slopes. The most preferred habitat included trees and shrubs with 30% and 69% cover, respectively. Barking deer avoided thicker tree cover, possibly as it hinders movement and escape from predators. No significant difference (χ2 = 6.37, df = 3, p = 0.19) in seasonal vegetation cover was recorded.(AU)

Fatores de micro-hábitat associados ao hábitat do veado (Muntiacus vaginalis) foram examinados e comparados entre as estações de verão e inverno. As características do hábitat e o hábitat preferido foram medidos, localizando sinais diretos e indiretos. Para quantificar a utilização do hábitat de cervos-latidos, cada local de estudo selecionado foi amostrado para a diversidade floral de 2015 a 2017. Quadrats foram implantados ao longo de linhas de transecto para determinar a distribuição sazonal., Veados-latidos não foram distribuídos uniformemente pelos tipos de vegetação na área de estudo; ocorreram com mais frequência na floresta de folhas largas do que na floresta de pinheiros Chir, em uma faixa de elevação de 550-850 m, em vegetação densa, em encostas íngremes. O hábitat mais preferido incluía árvores e arbustos com 30% e 69% de cobertura, respectivamente. O veado-latido evitou uma cobertura de árvores mais espessa, possivelmente porque impede o movimento e a fuga de predadores. Nenhuma diferença significativa (χ2 = 6,37; df = 3; p = 0,19) na cobertura vegetal sazonal foi registrada.(AU)

Small mammals and microhabitat selection in forest fragments in the transition zone between Atlantic Forest and Pampa biome

Natural resources are depleted in fragmented landscapes that have their vegetation also altered. As a result, the microhabitat diversity and the composition and distribution of local species are affected. In this study, we evaluated the small mammals' community diversity, composition and microhabitat selection in two Atlantic Forest fragments, in an ecotone area with the Pampa biome, southern Brazil. We recorded five rodents (Akodon montensis, Oligoryzomys nigripes, Sooretamys angouya, Juliomys pictipes and the exotic Rattus rattus) and one marsupial (Didelphis albiventris). Both fragments were dominated by the generalist rodent A. montensis. Akodon montensis and O. nigripes showed similar habitat preferences: ground covered by rocks and higher values of vegetation obstruction. Sooretamys angouya preferred places with higher abundance of trees. Fruit availability was important for A. montensis and D. albiventris, highlighting the importance of this food resource for local wildlife, and the potential role of these species as seed predators and dispersers. Small species richness, the presence of an exotic species and high dominance level suggest that the study area is highly degraded.(AU)

Color polymorphism and variation in microhabitat selection: a defensive strategy in males of Boana pulchella (Anura: Hylidae)?

Anurans vary in body coloration and frequently exhibit color polymorphism, with selection by predation pressure favoring more cryptic animals. Spatial differentiation may also favor color polymorphism in some species, since cryptic morphotypes can use substrates that better match their coloration. Boana pulchella is a polymorphic species with green and brown morphotypes, but its polymorphism remains poorly understood. The aim of the present study was to determine the functionality of color polymorphism in B. pulchella as a defense strategy. Artificial green and brown clay models were placed in environments with green and brown background to determine if the two morphotypes of B. pulchella experience different frequencies of attacks. We expected that more conspicuous morphs are attacked more frequently. The attack rate, which suggests predation intent, on the models was 9.57%. The marks observed in the artificial models were left by both mammals and birds. The number of damaged models did not significantly differ between the different background environments. The results indicate that B. pulchella morphotypes are equally cryptic to predators in the studied environments. In conclusion, probably color polymorphism in B. pulchella is not operating as a defensive strategy, and other selective forces may be acting in the maintenance of color polymorphism in this species.(AU)

Influence of different types of margins in the fish assemblage from an urban river / Influência de diferentes tipos de margens na assembleia de peixes de um rio urbano

The presence or absence of a fish species may be associated with the physical and chemical characteristics of the water, in addition to the state of preservation of the riparian zone. This study examined whether the taxonomic fish composition in an urban river varies along three riparian zone preservation conditions: preserved, intermediate preservation and degraded. Six urban stretches of the Sorocaba/São Paulo River were selected for this study, with monthly sampling being carried out from June 2019 to February 2020. The samplings were carried out with the aid of a sieve, dip net, and trawl. Regarding the types of margins and environmental variables, the Principal Component Analysis explained 97.49% of the data variation, axis 1, which explained 91.85% of the total variation, was formed by the variables conductivity and total dissolved solids. Axis 2, which explained 5.64% of the variation, was formed by Sun Rays% and Siltation%, being inversely proportional to Riparian Forest%. For the ichthyofauna, the samples consisted in 50,983 fish distributed in 5 orders, 8 families, and 12 species. Cyprinodontiformes had the highest abundance, with 96.96% of the total number of individuals, followed by Siluriformes (2.39%), and the sum of the other orders did not reach 1% of the total collected. According to each type of margin, it was possible to register 11,592 individuals for the Margin A ­ preserved, with S=8 species, being 2 exclusive (Corydoras flaveolus and Hoplosternum littorale) and 3 exotic (Coptodon rendalli, Pterygoplichthys ambrosettii, and Poecilia reticulata), the latter was dominant in all types of margins. For Margin B ­ intermediate preservation, 19,645 individuals were sampled, with S=5 species, no exclusive species, only exotic and more tolerant native species such as Hoplias malabaricus and Hypostomus ancistroides. For Margin C ­ degraded, 19,746 individuals were recorded, the largest number of species (S=10), 3 were exclusive to this type of mar-gin (Psalidodon fasciatus, Rhamdia Quelen, and Geophagus brasiliensis). The pairwise comparison (similarity percentage) showed that the assemblage structure was different for the types of margins. The Canonical Cor-respondence Analysis explained 92.46% of the total data variation, showing the relationship of species to envi-ronmental data. It is evident the importance of preservation of micro-habitats still present in the locals sampled, since different anthropic pressures cause great loss of diversity, especially for native and more sensitive species.

A presença ou ausência de uma espécie de peixe que vive em rios urbanos pode estar associada às características físicas e químicas da água, além do estado de preservação da zona ripária. O presente estudo verificou se a composição taxonômica de peixes de um rio urbano varia em três condições de preservação da zona ripária: preservada, preservação intermediária e degradada. Seis trechos urbanos do rio Sorocaba, localizado no estado de São Paulo, foram selecionados para este estudo, com coletas mensais de junho de 2019 a fevereiro de 2020 com auxílio de peneira, puçá e rede de arrasto. Com relação aos tipos de margens e às variáveis ambientais, a análise de componentes principais explicou 97,49% da variação dos dados. O eixo 1, que explicou 91,85% da variação total, foi formado pelas variáveis condutividade e total de sólidos dissolvidos. O eixo 2, que explicou 5,64% da variação, foi formado pelo percentual das variáveis raios solares e assoreamento, revelando-se inversamente proporcional ao de mata ripária. Para a ictiofauna, foram amostrados 50.983 indivíduos compreendidos em cinco ordens, oito famílias e 12 espécies. Cyprinodontiformes apresentou maior abundância, com 96,96% do total de indivíduos, seguida de siluriformes (2,39%); a soma das demais ordens não atingiu 1% do total coletado. De acordo com cada tipo de margem, foi possível registrar 11.592 indivíduos para a margem A preservada, com a s=8 espécies, das quais duas foram exclusivas (C. flaveolus e H. littorale) e três exóticas (C. rendalli, P. ambrosettii e P. reticulata), sendo esta última dominante em todos os tipos de margens. Para a margem B intermediária, foram amostrados 19.645 indivíduos, com S=5 espécies, dos quais nenhum representante de espécie exclusiva, apenas espécies exóticas e nativas mais tolerantes, como H. malabaricus e H. ancistroides. Já para margem C degradada, foram registrados 19.746 exemplares, maior número de espécies (s=10), três delas exclusivas desse tipo de margem (P. fasciatus, R. quelen e G. brasiliensis). A comparação par a par (porcentagem similar) mostrou que a estrutura da assembleia se apresentou distinta para os tipos de margens. A análise de correspondência canônica explicou 92,46% da variação total dos dados, evidenciando a relação das espécies com os dados ambientais. Torna-se evidente a importância da preservação dos micro-habitatsainda presentes nas margens amostradas, visto que diferentes pressões antrópicas causam grande perda de diversidade, sobretudo para espécies nativas e espécies mais sensíveis a essas alterações.

Abundance of Odonata in different microhabitats at an oxbow lake in the Peruvian Amazon / Abundancia de Odonata en diferentes micro-hábitats en un lago de herradura en la Amazonía peruana

The relationship between Odonata and vegetation in Amazonia has been studied primarily in streams. In this study, I examined the abundance of adult Odonata in two vegetation types (shrubs and herbs) surrounding an oxbow lake in the Peruvian Amazon. Daytime visual samplings of Odonata were carried out in time blocks along transects in each habitat. Thirteen taxa were identified. Five species were similarly abundant in both habitats, three used mainly herbs, and one mainly shrubs, with no variation among time blocks. The results suggest that most Anisoptera and Zygoptera are adapted to unshaded areas of the lake. Some Odonata also were observed during sunless days with light rainfall, suggesting they are adapted to rainy conditions in tropical climate.(AU)

La relación entre Odonata y vegetación en la Amazonía ha sido estudiada principalmente en arroyos. En este estudio, se examinó la abundancia de adultos de Odonata en dos tipos de vegetación (arbustos y hierbas) alrededor de un lago de herradura en la Amazonía peruana. Muestreos visuales diurnos fueron realizados en bloques temporales a lo largo de cada hábitat. Trece taxones fueron identificados. Cinco especies fueron similarmente abundantes en los dos tipos de hábitat, tres usaron principalmente hierbas y una principalmente arbustos, esto no varió entre los bloques temporales. Los resultados sugieren que la mayoría de Anisoptera y Zygoptera están adaptados a áreas sin sombra del lago. Algunas libélulas fueron observadas durante días sin sol y con llovizna, sugiriendo que se encuentran adaptadas a condiciones de lluvia en climas tropicales.(AU)

Ultrastructural study of the esophagus and stomach of Arapaima gigas (Schinz 1822), juvenile paiche, created excavated tank

Paiche (Arapaima gigas) belongs to the Kingdom Animalia, Phylum Chordata, Class Actinopterygii, Order Osteoglossiformes, Family Arapaimidae, Genus Arapaima, and its origin may date to the Jurassic period. The species has natural habitat in the Amazonian rivers, found mainly in marginal lakes, being considered an important fishing resource, with high market value and high demand for meat and leather in both Brazilian and international trade. This study aims to report the morphology of the esophagus and stomach by light microscopy and scanning electronics microscopy. The esophagus was presented as muscular, short, tubular and fan-shaped in the cranial portion, also presenting deep longitudinal folds, and the entire mucosa is covered by mucus secretory cells with distinct morphological characteristics. Pirarurcu's stomach has a J-shape divided into three regions: cardiac with a lighter aspect, fundus portion with few folds in the mucosa, and pyloric with deeper folds, also presenting gastroliths in fundus and pyloric portions. Both microscopy studies highlighted three glandular regions, composed by mucoid columnar epithelial cells, gastric crypts with different shapes and sizes depending on each portion, in which the different shapes of the mucosal folds in each region of the stomach were evident, and digitiform microsaliences were found in the cardiac region, and micro-orifices and desmosome in the fundus region. Also, fundus and pyloric portions produce more mucus than the cardiac. Then morphology found was consistent with the eating habits and management of distinct characteristics of the digestive tract.(AU)

Selection and use of calling site by Boana leptolineata and Phyllomedusa distincta during the reproductive season

ABSTRACT Climatic conditions and microhabitat characteristics, such as the substrate and type of vegetation, influence the choice of male anurans for calling sites that optimize their reproductive success. We evaluated the structure and selection of vocalization microhabitat of 17 individuals of Phyllomedusa distincta Lutz, 1950 and 25 of Boana leptolineata (Braun & Braun, 1977), in a subtropical forest in southern Brazil. We measure the height of the perch, the distance between the perch and the edge of the body of water and the structure of the microhabitat of quadrants used by individuals. The same attributes were measured in the quadrants available (but not used) by the individuals. We classified the microhabitats by visual estimate, assigning percentages of coverage for each quadrant by herbaceous, shrub, tree and wetland vegetation. We observed that both species selected their microhabitat, since the characteristics of the quadrants occupied by the individuals were different from those available. Phyllomedusa distincta was more associated with heterogeneous microhabitats, while B. leptolineata occurred in environments with greater coverage of tree strata. Additionally, we observed that both species used shrubs more frequently as a perch site. The selection of these microhabitat characteristics must be associated with strategies to optimize the use of the reproductive habitat, based on the morphological and behavioral characteristics of the species. Finally, it is possible to infer that the differences observed in the microhabitat structure selected by the species can facilitate the coexistence of both in the context of the heterogeneity of the environment.

RESUMO Seleção e uso de sítios de vocalização por Boana leptolineata e Phyllomedusa distincta durante o período reprodutivoAs condições climáticas e as características de micro-habitat, como o substrato e o tipo de vegetação, influenciam a escolha de anuros machos por sítios de vocalização que otimizem seu sucesso reprodutivo. Avaliamos a estrutura e a seleção de micro-habitat de vocalização de 17 indivíduos de Phyllomedusa distincta Lutz, 1950 e 25 de Boana leptolineata (Braun & Braun, 1977), em uma floresta subtropical no sul do Brasil. Medimos a altura do poleiro, a distância do poleiro até a margem do corpo dágua e a estrutura do micro-habitat de quadrantes utilizados pelos indivíduos. Os mesmos atributos foram mensurados nos quadrantes disponíveis (mas não utilizados) pelos indivíduos. Classificamos os micro-habitats por estimativa visual, atribuindo-se porcentagens de cobertura de cada quadrante por vegetação herbácea, arbustiva, arbórea e de área alagada. Observamos que ambas as espécies selecionaram seu micro-habitat, uma vez que as características dos quadrantes ocupados pelos indivíduos foram distintas daquelas disponíveis. Phyllomedusa distincta esteve mais associada a micro-habitats heterogêneos, enquanto B. leptolineata ocorreu em ambientes com maior cobertura de estrato arbóreo. Adicionalmente, observamos que ambas as espécies utilizaram mais frequentemente arbustos como local do poleiro. A seleção destas características de micro-habitat deve estar associada a estratégias para otimização do uso do habitat reprodutivo, baseadas em características morfológicas e comportamentais das espécies. Por fim, é possível inferir que as diferenças observadas na estrutura de micro-habitat selecionadas pelas espécies podem facilitar a coexistência de ambas no contexto da heterogeneidade do ambiente.

Selection and use of calling site by Boana leptolineata and Phyllomedusa distincta during the reproductive season / Seleção e uso de sítios de vocalização por Boana leptolineata e Phyllomedusa distincta durante o período reprodutivo

Climatic conditions and microhabitat characteristics, such as the substrate and type of vegetation, influence the choice of male anurans for calling sites that optimize their reproductive success. We evaluated the structure and selection of vocalization microhabitat of 17 individuals of Phyllomedusa distincta Lutz, 1950 and 25 of Boana leptolineata (Braun & Braun, 1977), in a subtropical forest in southern Brazil. We measure the height of the perch, the distance between the perch and the edge of the body of water and the structure of the microhabitat of quadrants used by individuals. The same attributes were measured in the quadrants available (but not used) by the individuals. We classified the microhabitats by visual estimate, assigning percentages of coverage for each quadrant by herbaceous, shrub, tree and wetland vegetation. We observed that both species selected their microhabitat, since the characteristics of the quadrants occupied by the individuals were different from those available. Phyllomedusa distincta was more associated with heterogeneous microhabitats, while B. leptolineata occurred in environments with greater coverage of tree strata. Additionally, we observed that both species used shrubs more frequently as a perch site. The selection of these microhabitat characteristics must be associated with strategies to optimize the use of the reproductive habitat, based on the morphological and behavioral characteristics of the species. Finally, it is possible to infer that the differences observed in the microhabitat structure selected by the species can facilitate the coexistence of both in the context of the heterogeneity of the environment.(AU)

Seleção e uso de sítios de vocalização por Boana leptolineata e Phyllomedusa distincta durante o período reprodutivoAs condições climáticas e as características de micro-habitat, como o substrato e o tipo de vegetação, influenciam a escolha de anuros machos por sítios de vocalização que otimizem seu sucesso reprodutivo. Avaliamos a estrutura e a seleção de micro-habitat de vocalização de 17 indivíduos de Phyllomedusa distincta Lutz, 1950 e 25 de Boana leptolineata (Braun & Braun, 1977), em uma floresta subtropical no sul do Brasil. Medimos a altura do poleiro, a distância do poleiro até a margem do corpo dágua e a estrutura do micro-habitat de quadrantes utilizados pelos indivíduos. Os mesmos atributos foram mensurados nos quadrantes disponíveis (mas não utilizados) pelos indivíduos. Classificamos os micro-habitats por estimativa visual, atribuindo-se porcentagens de cobertura de cada quadrante por vegetação herbácea, arbustiva, arbórea e de área alagada. Observamos que ambas as espécies selecionaram seu micro-habitat, uma vez que as características dos quadrantes ocupados pelos indivíduos foram distintas daquelas disponíveis. Phyllomedusa distincta esteve mais associada a micro-habitats heterogêneos, enquanto B. leptolineata ocorreu em ambientes com maior cobertura de estrato arbóreo. Adicionalmente, observamos que ambas as espécies utilizaram mais frequentemente arbustos como local do poleiro. A seleção destas características de micro-habitat deve estar associada a estratégias para otimização do uso do habitat reprodutivo, baseadas em características morfológicas e comportamentais das espécies. Por fim, é possível inferir que as diferenças observadas na estrutura de micro-habitat selecionadas pelas espécies podem facilitar a coexistência de ambas no contexto da heterogeneidade do ambiente.(AU)

Selection and use of calling site by Boana leptolineata and Phyllomedusa distincta during the reproductive season / Seleção e uso de sítios de vocalização por Boana leptolineata e Phyllomedusa distincta durante o período reprodutivo

Climatic conditions and microhabitat characteristics, such as the substrate and type of vegetation, influence the choice of male anurans for calling sites that optimize their reproductive success. We evaluated the structure and selection of vocalization microhabitat of 17 individuals of Phyllomedusa distincta Lutz, 1950 and 25 of Boana leptolineata (Braun & Braun, 1977), in a subtropical forest in southern Brazil. We measure the height of the perch, the distance between the perch and the edge of the body of water and the structure of the microhabitat of quadrants used by individuals. The same attributes were measured in the quadrants available (but not used) by the individuals. We classified the microhabitats by visual estimate, assigning percentages of coverage for each quadrant by herbaceous, shrub, tree and wetland vegetation. We observed that both species selected their microhabitat, since the characteristics of the quadrants occupied by the individuals were different from those available. Phyllomedusa distincta was more associated with heterogeneous microhabitats, while B. leptolineata occurred in environments with greater coverage of tree strata. Additionally, we observed that both species used shrubs more frequently as a perch site. The selection of these microhabitat characteristics must be associated with strategies to optimize the use of the reproductive habitat, based on the morphological and behavioral characteristics of the species. Finally, it is possible to infer that the differences observed in the microhabitat structure selected by the species can facilitate the coexistence of both in the context of the heterogeneity of the environment.

Seleção e uso de sítios de vocalização por Boana leptolineata e Phyllomedusa distincta durante o período reprodutivoAs condições climáticas e as características de micro-habitat, como o substrato e o tipo de vegetação, influenciam a escolha de anuros machos por sítios de vocalização que otimizem seu sucesso reprodutivo. Avaliamos a estrutura e a seleção de micro-habitat de vocalização de 17 indivíduos de Phyllomedusa distincta Lutz, 1950 e 25 de Boana leptolineata (Braun & Braun, 1977), em uma floresta subtropical no sul do Brasil. Medimos a altura do poleiro, a distância do poleiro até a margem do corpo d’água e a estrutura do micro-habitat de quadrantes utilizados pelos indivíduos. Os mesmos atributos foram mensurados nos quadrantes disponíveis (mas não utilizados) pelos indivíduos. Classificamos os micro-habitats por estimativa visual, atribuindo-se porcentagens de cobertura de cada quadrante por vegetação herbácea, arbustiva, arbórea e de área alagada. Observamos que ambas as espécies selecionaram seu micro-habitat, uma vez que as características dos quadrantes ocupados pelos indivíduos foram distintas daquelas disponíveis. Phyllomedusa distincta esteve mais associada a micro-habitats heterogêneos, enquanto B. leptolineata ocorreu em ambientes com maior cobertura de estrato arbóreo. Adicionalmente, observamos que ambas as espécies utilizaram mais frequentemente arbustos como local do poleiro. A seleção destas características de micro-habitat deve estar associada a estratégias para otimização do uso do habitat reprodutivo, baseadas em características morfológicas e comportamentais das espécies. Por fim, é possível inferir que as diferenças observadas na estrutura de micro-habitat selecionadas pelas espécies podem facilitar a coexistência de ambas no contexto da heterogeneidade do ambiente.

Living in a cold tropical mountain: do the microhabitat use and activity pattern change with elevation in the high-Andean lizard Stenocercus trachycephalus (Squamata: Tropiduridae)?

Abstract The high mountain environment is a tough habitat that imposes many challenges to reptiles. As temperature decreases with altitude and has a dramatic variation throughout the day in the tropical mountains, ectotherms must cope with these harsh conditions. We studied the use of microhabitat and activity patterns of Stenocercus trachycephalus in the eastern Andes mountain range of Colombia. Three localities were sampled across the wide altitudinal distribution of this lizard species, in a range from 2,670 to 3,950 m a.s.l. The initial hypothesis was that these natural history traits would change with altitude but instead, we found that they remained roughly consistent, showing the great plasticity of this species. The results support that this lizard is a microhabitat-generalist using principally herb across the gradient, rarely shifting to specific plants or microhabitats such as rocks depending on availability. Regarding the activity pattern, this species was active throughout the day from 8:00 to 16:00 with a similar pattern along the gradient. Nevertheless, some differences were detected across localities. The activity pattern shifted from bimodal in the lower locality to unimodal in the higher ones. As expected, a correlation between temperature and activity patterns was found in one of the study sites. However, this was not the case for the lower and mid-elevation localities, where there was no correlation between these variables. The mid-elevation study site was the most interesting locality as the use of microhabitat relied virtually just on the herb stratum and the activity was constrained to the morning hours. These findings may be the result of the synergic effects of other ecological variables (weather variability, human impact, predation, population structure, or reproductive season). Our study gives the basis for a better understanding of how behavior (microhabitat choice and hours of activity) of ectotherms can help to counter thermal constraints in the neotropics when facing an altitudinal gradient. Further studies should focus on the thermal biology of this species, considering the influence of anthropic impact on these lizards populations.

Living in a cold tropical mountain: do the microhabitat use and activity pattern change with elevation in the high-Andean lizard Stenocercus trachycephalus (Squamata: Tropiduridae)?

Abstract The high mountain environment is a tough habitat that imposes many challenges to reptiles. As temperature decreases with altitude and has a dramatic variation throughout the day in the tropical mountains, ectotherms must cope with these harsh conditions. We studied the use of microhabitat and activity patterns of Stenocercus trachycephalus in the eastern Andes mountain range of Colombia. Three localities were sampled across the wide altitudinal distribution of this lizard species, in a range from 2,670 to 3,950 m a.s.l. The initial hypothesis was that these natural history traits would change with altitude but instead, we found that they remained roughly consistent, showing the great plasticity of this species. The results support that this lizard is a microhabitat-generalist using principally herb across the gradient, rarely shifting to specific plants or microhabitats such as rocks depending on availability. Regarding the activity pattern, this species was active throughout the day from 8:00 to 16:00 with a similar pattern along the gradient. Nevertheless, some differences were detected across localities. The activity pattern shifted from bimodal in the lower locality to unimodal in the higher ones. As expected, a correlation between temperature and activity patterns was found in one of the study sites. However, this was not the case for the lower and mid-elevation localities, where there was no correlation between these variables. The mid-elevation study site was the most interesting locality as the use of microhabitat relied virtually just on the herb stratum and the activity was constrained to the morning hours. These findings may be the result of the synergic effects of other ecological variables (weather variability, human impact, predation, population structure, or reproductive season). Our study gives the basis for a better understanding of how behavior (microhabitat choice and hours of activity) of ectotherms can help to counter thermal constraints in the neotropics when facing an altitudinal gradient. Further studies should focus on the thermal biology of this species, considering the influence of anthropic impact on these lizards' populations.

Living in a cold tropical mountain do the microhabitat use and activity pattern change with elevation in the highAndean lizard Stenocercus trachycephalus (Squamata Tropiduridae)

The high mountain environment is a tough habitat that imposes many challenges to reptiles. As temperature decreases with altitude and has a dramatic variation throughout the day in the tropical mountains, ectotherms must cope with these harsh conditions. We studied the use of microhabitat and activity patterns of Stenocercus trachycephalus in the eastern Andes mountain range of Colombia. Three localities were sampled across the wide altitudinal distribution of this lizard species, in a range from 2,670 to 3,950 m a.s.l. The initial hypothesis was that these natural history traits would change with altitude but instead, we found that they remained roughly consistent, showing the great plasticity of this species. The results support that this lizard is a microhabitat-generalist using principally herb across the gradient, rarely shifting to specific plants or microhabitats such as rocks depending on availability. Regarding the activity pattern, this species was active throughout the day from 8:00 to 16:00 with a similar pattern along the gradient. Nevertheless, some differences were detected across localities. The activity pattern shifted from bimodal in the lower locality to unimodal in the higher ones. As expected, a correlation between temperature and activity patterns was found in one of the study sites. However, this was not the case for the lower and mid-elevation localities, where there was no correlation between these variables. The mid-elevation study site was the most interesting locality as the use of microhabitat relied virtually just on the herb stratum and the activity was constrained to the morning hours. These findings may be the result of the synergic effects of other ecological variables (weather variability, human impact, predation, population structure, or reproductive season). Our study gives the basis for a better understanding of how behavior (microhabitat choice and hours of activity) of ectotherms can help to counter thermal constraints in the neotropics when facing an altitudinal gradient. Further studies should focus on the thermal biology of this species, considering the influence of anthropic impact on these lizards populations.(AU)

Microhabitat selection of the poorly known lizard Tropidurus lagunablanca(Squamata: Tropiduridae) in the Pantanal, Brazil

Understanding how different environmental factors influence species occurrence is a key issue to address the study of natural populations. However, there is a lack of knowledge on how local traits influence the microhabitat use of tropical arboreal lizards. Here, we investigated the microhabitat selection of the poorly known lizard Tropidurus lagunablanca(Squamata: Tropiduridae) and evaluated how environmental microhabitat features influence animals presence. We used a Resource Selection Function approach, in a case/control design where we analyzed the effect of substrate temperature and trees diameter at breast height (DBH) in the probability of presence of lizards using mixed Conditional Logistic Regression. We found that T. lagunablanca uses trees with DBH from 0.40 m to 4 m and substrate temperatures ranging from 25.9°C to 42°C. Moreover, we showed that thickness of the trees and substrate temperatures significantly increased the probability of presence of T. lagunablanca individuals, being the probability of presence higher than 50% for trees up to 1.5 m DBH and temperature of substrate up to 37.5°C. Our study probed that T. lagunablanca individuals choose trees non-randomly, selecting thicker and warmer tree trunks. This information advances the knowledge of the spatial ecology of Neotropical arboreal lizards and is relevant for conservation, putting an emphasis on preserving native vegetation in the Pantanal.(AU)

Behavioral aspects of waterbirds / Aspectos comportamentais de aves aquáticas

Estuaries are used by waterbirds as foraging, resting and nesting sites, serving also as shelter for migratory birds. The dynamics of this avifauna in an aquatic environment may be associated with the differences of time of day, tide height, temperature, wind speed and use of the site by different species. This study had the objective of evaluating behavioral aspects of aquatic birds, relating the influence of environmental variables with their activities. Bird counts were performed at the mouth of two important rivers of the state of Santa Catarina, Brazil, during two-hour intervals throughout the day in monthly samplings between June (2015) and May (2016). A total of 44 species were recorded, ten of which were migratory. The most recorded behaviors were foraging and resting. The Kruskal-Wallis analysis indicated no significant difference in behavior between the sampling intervals. The Bray-Curtis similarity test resulted in three groups: 1) - species that foraged most of the time; 2) - species that rested most of the time; and 3) - same time in both activities. The Indicator Species Analysis showed that 17 species were associated with only one microhabitat and 15 species with more than one. The Canonical Correlation Analysis indicated that only tide height, temperature and rainfall variables were correlated with the behaviors performed and only the resting activity was positively correlated with all variables. This may be associated with thermoregulation and the ability of some species to stay in midlitoral at high tide. The results demonstrate that different waterbird species used the studied areas in different ways. Thus, the heterogeneity of microhabitats in an aquatic environment of extreme importance for the coexistence and maintenance of the diversity of waterbirds.(AU)

Estuários são utilizados por aves aquáticas como locais de forrageio, descanso e nidificação, servindo, também, como pontos de parada para aves migratórias. A dinâmica dessa avifauna em um ambiente pode estar associada a diferenças entre horários do dia, altura da maré, temperatura, velocidade do vento e uso do local. Esse trabalho teve o objetivo de avaliar aspectos comportamentais de aves aquáticas, relacionando a influência de variáveis ambientais com suas atividades. Amostragens mensais foram realizadas na foz de dois importantes rios do Estado de Santa Catarina, Brasil, entre junho de 2015 e maio de 2016, em intervalos de duas horas no decorrer do dia. Um total de 44 espécies foram registradas, dez das quais foram migratórias. Os comportamentos mais observados foram forrageio e descanso. A análise de Kruskall-Wallis não indicou diferenças significativas no comportamento entre os horários de amostragem. O teste de similaridade Bray-Curtis resultou em três agrupamentos: 1) - espécies que forragearam na maior parte do tempo; 2) - espécies que descansaram na maior parte do tempo; e 3) - mesma quantidade de tempo em ambas atividades. A Análise de Espécies Indicadoras mostrou que 17 espécies estiveram associadas com apenas um microhabitat e 15 espécies com mais de um. A Análise de Correlação Canônica indicou que apenas as variáveis maré, temperatura e precipitação foram significativamente correlacionadas com os comportamentos demonstrados e apenas a atividade de descanso foi positivamente correlacionada com as todas as variáveis. Isso pode estar associado com a termorregulação e com a habilidade de algumas espécies de permanecer no mediolitoral durante a maré cheia. Os resultados demonstram que diferentes espécies de aves aquáticas utilizaram as áreas estudadas de diferentes maneiras. Assim, a heterogeneidade de microhabitats em um ambiente aquático é de extrema importância para a coexistência e a manutenção da diversidade de aves.(AU)

Macrocrustaceans associated with reefs of Phragmatopoma caudata Krøyer in Mörch, 1863 (Polychaeta: Sabellariidae) and rocky shore in the Northeastern Brazil

Ecosystem engineering species create, modify, and/or maintain the characteristics of the environment. The polychaete Phragmatopoma caudata builds large sand reefs in the intertidal region of the Brazilian coast with high structural complexity, favoring the increase of diversity and interactions among the species associated. However, there are no studies concerning the association of polychaetes with crustacean macrofauna in the northeastern Brazil ecoregion, leaving an information gap on baseline biodiversity. Our aim was to analyze the effect of P. caudata colonies (PC) on the local diversity of macrocrustaceans compared to the rocky shore (RS) microhabitat. Monthly collections were carried out in low tide from September 2015 to August 2016 on 10 × 10 m quadrants for fauna and environmental variables (temperature and salinity) samples. In each microhabitat, the capture effort was two hours by two researchers. We collected 3,390 individuals, 60% associated with the colonies of PC and 40% with the RS. The PC obtained higher Shannon diversity, Pielou evenness and species richness coupled with milder water temperature and salinity conditions (minor air exposure during tide), compared to the RS that obtained greater species dominance and more extreme abiotic conditions (major air exposure). The Porcellanidae family stood out because all its species were highly abundant and had high occurrence in the colonies. The tropical Brazil porcelain crab Pachycheles greeleyi was dominant in both microhabitats (major dominance in PC). The structural complexity in the reefs of PC promoted higher availability of niches for the species, as more shelter for the resident species and refugium for temporary species with preference for more complex microhabitats. Conservation managers should prioritize the health of these colonies and subsequent species that constitute important ecosystemic and fishery resources.(AU)