Subtropical high-montane forest climate refuges in Brazil

Climate change represents one of the greatest threats to global biodiversity. We investigate how climate change will affect the future potential distribution of tree species in subtropical high montane habitats in the Atlantic Forest and identify potential climate refuges for these species. The most frequent and exclusive species in this ecosystem were selected and geographic coordinates were compiled. The maximum entropy algorithm was used for climatic niche modeling. Two scenarios for 2061-2080 were considered for future predictions, one low impact (RCP 4.5) and one high impact (RCP 8.5). Isothermality, mean temperature in the driest quarter, mean temperature in the hottest quarter, rainfall in the driest month, and rainfall in the hottest quarter were the variables that best explained the climatic niche of the majority of species. The areas of potential species occurrence were reduced by 48.37 % (± 13.63 %) (RCP 4.5) and 62.49 % (± 21.87 %) (RCP 8.5) on average. The potential area of Crinodendron brasilense Reitz & L.B.Sm. decreased the most, by 82.11 % (RCP 4.5) and 90.06 % (RCP 8.5), respectively. High elevation areas in the south of Brazil were identified as priorities for conservation to ensure that climate refuges for high montane forest species are maintained in the future. Climate change events may significantly affect the species evaluated in this study.(AU)

Mesoscale bird distribution pattern in montane phytophysiognomies along an ecotone between two hotspots

Brazil has a high diversity of birds and presents the largest number of threatened bird species in the neotropical region. Even so, there are gaps in the bird knowledge, especially in ecotonal montane regions. Given this panorama, this study aimed to analyse the bird community distribution (richness, composition, and beta diversity between phytophysiognomies) of an ecotonal montane landscape of southeastern Brazil, with the purpose of detecting substitution patterns of bird species on a meso-scale. Using bird data performed during the years 1998 to 2015 in 46 sampling points, we found high bird richness in montane phytophysiognomies along an ecotone between Cerrado and Atlantic Forest hotspots. The composition present species of both domains, with high turnover component. We highlight the field environments and candeais are considered homogeneous and threathened, which would directly affect birds. The present study contributes to future conservation strategies, as it demonstrates ecotonal regions as transition zones and reinforces the need to consider as particular ecological units. These ecotonal regions are key locations for understanding ecological patterns in response to environmental changes or phytophysiognomies. Knowing how partitioning of the composition occurs within an environmental mosaic is essential to understand the limits and distributions of the species and conserve them.

Mesoscale bird distribution pattern in montane phytophysiognomies along an ecotone between two hotspots

Brazil has a high diversity of birds and presents the largest number of threatened bird species in the neotropical region. Even so, there are gaps in the bird knowledge, especially in ecotonal montane regions. Given this panorama, this study aimed to analyse the bird community distribution (richness, composition, and beta diversity between phytophysiognomies) of an ecotonal montane landscape of southeastern Brazil, with the purpose of detecting substitution patterns of bird species on a meso-scale. Using bird data performed during the years 1998 to 2015 in 46 sampling points, we found high bird richness in montane phytophysiognomies along an ecotone between Cerrado and Atlantic Forest hotspots. The composition present species of both domains, with high turnover component. We highlight the field environments and candeais are considered homogeneous and threathened, which would directly affect birds. The present study contributes to future conservation strategies, as it demonstrates ecotonal regions as transition zones and reinforces the need to consider as particular ecological units. These ecotonal regions are key locations for understanding ecological patterns in response to environmental changes or phytophysiognomies. Knowing how partitioning of the composition occurs within an environmental mosaic is essential to understand the limits and distributions of the species and conserve them.(AU)

An overlooked hotspot for birds in the Atlantic Forest

Montane and submontane forest patches in the state of Bahia, Brazil, are among the few large and preserved Atlantic Forests remnants. They are strongholds of an almost complete elevational gradient, which harbor both lowland and highland bird taxa. Despite being considered a biodiversity hotspot, few ornithologists have surveyed these forests, especially along elevational gradients. Here we compile bird records acquired from systematic surveys and random observations carried out since the 1980s in a 7,500 ha private protected area: Serra Bonita private reserve. We recorded 368 species, of which 143 are Atlantic Forest endemic taxa. Some 16 and 13 species are threatened at the global and national levels, respectively. If one accounts for subspecies, the number of Brazilian threatened taxa raises to 21. Species composition differs between lower and higher elevations, in which case lowlands harbor Amazonia-related taxa, whereas highlands are the home of Atlantic Forest-related taxa.

An overlooked hotspot for birds in the Atlantic Forest

Montane and submontane forest patches in the state of Bahia, Brazil, are among the few large and preserved Atlantic Forests remnants. They are strongholds of an almost complete elevational gradient, which harbor both lowland and highland bird taxa. Despite being considered a biodiversity hotspot, few ornithologists have surveyed these forests, especially along elevational gradients. Here we compile bird records acquired from systematic surveys and random observations carried out since the 1980s in a 7,500 ha private protected area: Serra Bonita private reserve. We recorded 368 species, of which 143 are Atlantic Forest endemic taxa. Some 16 and 13 species are threatened at the global and national levels, respectively. If one accounts for subspecies, the number of Brazilian threatened taxa raises to 21. Species composition differs between lower and higher elevations, in which case lowlands harbor Amazonia-related taxa, whereas highlands are the home of Atlantic Forest-related taxa.(AU)

Influência da temperatura e umidade relativa sobre pequenos mamíferos em fitofisionomias de elevada altitude no sudeste brasileiro / Influence of temperature and relative humidity on small mammals in high altitude phytophysiognomies in southeastern Brazil

A temperatura e umidade relativa (UR) são dois parâmetros abióticos que influenciam na ocorrência de diferentes espécies, corroborando com trabalhos de flutuações sazonais populacionais, e alterações na composição de comunidades. Porém, existem poucos estudos que correlacionam esses fatores com riqueza e abundância de pequenos mamíferos terrestres em fitofisionomias de elevada altitude. Portanto, este trabalho teve o objetivo de analisar a influência da UR e temperatura do ar sobre a riqueza e abundância dos pequenos mamíferos terrestres em três diferentes fitofisionomias: campo natural montano, florestas semideciduais e florestas nebulares, na Chapada das Perdizes, sudeste brasileiro. Foram utilizadas armadilhas de chapa (Sherman), arame (Tomahawk) e queda (pitfall) em conjunto com termo-higrômetros em fitofisionomias de elevada altitude na Chapada das Perdizes, sudeste brasileiro. A temperatura e umidade relativa não diferiram entre os ambientes florestais montanos e não influenciam a riqueza e abundância de pequenos mamíferos, resultado da proteção e estabilidade proporcionada pela floresta. Porém, existe influência desses parâmetros para os campos naturais montanos, onde houve redução da riqueza e abundância de espécies em função do aumento da temperatura do ar.

Temperature and relative humidity are two abiotic parameters that influence the occurrence of different species, corroborating with seasonal fluctuations in population, and changes in the composition of communities. However, there are few that correlate these factors with richness and abundance of small terrestrial mammals in phytophysiognomies at high altitudes (natural montane fields, semideciduous forests and cloud forests). Therefore, this research using Tomahawks, Shermmans and pitfall traps in conjunction with equipment to measure temperature and humidity in high altitude phytophysiognomies at Chapada das Perdizes, southeastern Brazil, demonstrates that temperature and relative humidity do not differ between montane forest environments and do not influence the richness and abundance of small mammals as a result of the protection and stability provided by the forest. However, there is influence of these parameters for the natural montane fields, in which there was reduction of species richness and abundance as a function of the increase in temperature.

Influência da temperatura e umidade relativa sobre pequenos mamíferos em fitofisionomias de elevada altitude no sudeste brasileiro / Influence of temperature and relative humidity on small mammals in high altitude phytophysiognomies in southeastern Brazil

A temperatura e umidade relativa (UR) são dois parâmetros abióticos que influenciam na ocorrência de diferentes espécies, corroborando com trabalhos de flutuações sazonais populacionais, e alterações na composição de comunidades. Porém, existem poucos estudos que correlacionam esses fatores com riqueza e abundância de pequenos mamíferos terrestres em fitofisionomias de elevada altitude. Portanto, este trabalho teve o objetivo de analisar a influência da UR e temperatura do ar sobre a riqueza e abundância dos pequenos mamíferos terrestres em três diferentes fitofisionomias: campo natural montano, florestas semideciduais e florestas nebulares, na Chapada das Perdizes, sudeste brasileiro. Foram utilizadas armadilhas de chapa (Sherman), arame (Tomahawk) e queda (pitfall) em conjunto com termo-higrômetros em fitofisionomias de elevada altitude na Chapada das Perdizes, sudeste brasileiro. A temperatura e umidade relativa não diferiram entre os ambientes florestais montanos e não influenciam a riqueza e abundância de pequenos mamíferos, resultado da proteção e estabilidade proporcionada pela floresta. Porém, existe influência desses parâmetros para os campos naturais montanos, onde houve redução da riqueza e abundância de espécies em função do aumento da temperatura do ar.(AU)

Temperature and relative humidity are two abiotic parameters that influence the occurrence of different species, corroborating with seasonal fluctuations in population, and changes in the composition of communities. However, there are few that correlate these factors with richness and abundance of small terrestrial mammals in phytophysiognomies at high altitudes (natural montane fields, semideciduous forests and cloud forests). Therefore, this research using Tomahawks, Shermmans and pitfall traps in conjunction with equipment to measure temperature and humidity in high altitude phytophysiognomies at Chapada das Perdizes, southeastern Brazil, demonstrates that temperature and relative humidity do not differ between montane forest environments and do not influence the richness and abundance of small mammals as a result of the protection and stability provided by the forest. However, there is influence of these parameters for the natural montane fields, in which there was reduction of species richness and abundance as a function of the increase in temperature.(AU)

Population structure of Drimys angustifolia Miers in a fragment of Upper Montane Mixed Ombrophilous Forest, Urubici, SC / Estrutura populacional de Drimys angustifolia Miers em um fragmento de Floresta Ombrófila Mista Alto-Montana, Urubici, SC

The present study had as objective to characterize the population structure of the most abundant arboreal species in a fragment of Upper Montane Mixed Ombrophilous Forest in Urubici, Santa Catarina, as well as determining the natural capacity of regeneration in the deforested area adjacent to the forest fragment. To detect the most abundant species, was realized a structural-floristic survey in the forest fragment, through the allocation of plots, in which all individuals with diameter at breast height (DBH) 5 cm were considered adults and inventoried. To determine the natural capacity of regeneration of the selected species in the deforested adjacent area, were allocated plots, where the individuals classified as regenerating (20 cm of height to 5 cm of DAP) was sampled, in the years of 2014 and 2016. It was analyzed the diametric structure and the spatial distribution of the adults individuals of the specie, and the hypsometric, spatial structures and dynamic of the regenerating individuals. Drimys angustifolia Miers was the most abundant species in the fragment, which represented 26.4% of the individuals. The population structure for this species obtained a diametric distribution tending to normality and random spatial distribution for the adults individuals. The regenerated component presented an aggregated spatial distribution pattern (2016) and normal hypsometrical dis

O presente estudo teve como objetivo caracterizar a estrutura populacional da espécie arbórea mais abundante em um fragmento de Floresta Ombrófila Mista Alto-Montana em Urubici, Santa Catarina, assim como determinar sua capacidade de regeneração natural na área desmatada adjacente ao fragmento florestal. Para a detecção da espécie mais abundante, foi realizado um levantamento florístico-estrutural no fragmento florestal, por meio da alocação de parcelas, onde todos os indivíduos com diâmetro a altura do peito (DAP) 5 cm foram considerados adultos e inventariados. Para determinar a capacidade de regeneração natural da espécie selecionada na área desmatada adjacente, foram alocadas parcelas, onde os indivíduos considerados como regenerantes (20 cm de altura até 5 cm de DAP) foram amostrados, nos anos de 2014 e 2016. Foi analisada a estrutura diamétrica e a distribuição espacial dos indivíduos adultos da espécie, e a estrutura hipsométrica, espacial e dinâmica dos indivíduos regenerantes. A espécie mais abundante no fragmento foi Drimys angustifolia Miers, que representou 26,4% dos indivíduos. A estrutura populacional dessa espécie obteve distribuição diamétrica tendendo à normalidade e distribuição espacial aleatória para os indivíduos adultos. O componente regenerante apresentou padrão de distribuição espacial agregado (2016) e distribuição hipsométrica normal somente em 2016.

Estrutura populacional de Drimys angustifolia Miers em um fragmento de Floresta Ombrófila Mista Alto-Montana, Urubici, SC / Population structure of Drimys angustifolia Miers in a fragment of Upper Montane Mixed Ombrophilous Forest, Urubici, SC

O presente estudo teve como objetivo caracterizar a estrutura populacional da espécie arbórea mais abundante em um fragmento de Floresta Ombrófila Mista Alto-Montana em Urubici, Santa Catarina, assim como determinar sua capacidade de regeneração natural na área desmatada adjacente ao fragmento florestal. Para a detecção da espécie mais abundante, foi realizado um levantamento florístico-estrutural no fragmento florestal, por meio da alocação de parcelas, onde todos os indivíduos com diâmetro a altura do peito (DAP) 5 cm foram considerados adultos e inventariados. Para determinar a capacidade de regeneração natural da espécie selecionada na área desmatada adjacente, foram alocadas parcelas, onde os indivíduos considerados como regenerantes (20 cm de altura até 5 cm de DAP) foram amostrados, nos anos de 2014 e 2016. Foi analisada a estrutura diamétrica e a distribuição espacial dos indivíduos adultos da espécie, e a estrutura hipsométrica, espacial e dinâmica dos indivíduos regenerantes. A espécie mais abundante no fragmento foi Drimys angustifolia Miers, que representou 26,4% dos indivíduos. A estrutura populacional dessa espécie obteve distribuição diamétrica tendendo à normalidade e distribuição espacial aleatória para os indivíduos adultos. O componente regenerante apresentou padrão de distribuição espacial agregado (2016) e distribuição hipsométrica normal somente em 2016...

The present study had as objective to characterize the population structure of the most abundant arboreal species in a fragment of Upper Montane Mixed Ombrophilous Forest in Urubici, Santa Catarina, as well as determining the natural capacity of regeneration in the deforested area adjacent to the forest fragment. To detect the most abundant species, was realized a structural-floristic survey in the forest fragment, through the allocation of plots, in which all individuals with diameter at breast height (DBH) 5 cm were considered adults and inventoried. To determine the natural capacity of regeneration of the selected species in the deforested adjacent area, were allocated plots, where the individuals classified as regenerating (20 cm of height to 5 cm of DAP) was sampled, in the years of 2014 and 2016. It was analyzed the diametric structure and the spatial distribution of the adults individuals of the specie, and the hypsometric, spatial structures and dynamic of the regenerating individuals. Drimys angustifolia Miers was the most abundant species in the fragment, which represented 26.4% of the individuals. The population structure for this species obtained a diametric distribution tending to normality and random spatial distribution for the adults individuals. The regenerated component presented an aggregated spatial distribution pattern (2016) and normal hypsometrical...

Estrutura populacional de Drimys angustifolia Miers em um fragmento de Floresta Ombrófila Mista Alto-Montana, Urubici, SC / Population structure of Drimys angustifolia Miers in a fragment of Upper Montane Mixed Ombrophilous Forest, Urubici, SC

O presente estudo teve como objetivo caracterizar a estrutura populacional da espécie arbórea mais abundante em um fragmento de Floresta Ombrófila Mista Alto-Montana em Urubici, Santa Catarina, assim como determinar sua capacidade de regeneração natural na área desmatada adjacente ao fragmento florestal. Para a detecção da espécie mais abundante, foi realizado um levantamento florístico-estrutural no fragmento florestal, por meio da alocação de parcelas, onde todos os indivíduos com diâmetro a altura do peito (DAP) 5 cm foram considerados adultos e inventariados. Para determinar a capacidade de regeneração natural da espécie selecionada na área desmatada adjacente, foram alocadas parcelas, onde os indivíduos considerados como regenerantes (20 cm de altura até 5 cm de DAP) foram amostrados, nos anos de 2014 e 2016. Foi analisada a estrutura diamétrica e a distribuição espacial dos indivíduos adultos da espécie, e a estrutura hipsométrica, espacial e dinâmica dos indivíduos regenerantes. A espécie mais abundante no fragmento foi Drimys angustifolia Miers, que representou 26,4% dos indivíduos. A estrutura populacional dessa espécie obteve distribuição diamétrica tendendo à normalidade e distribuição espacial aleatória para os indivíduos adultos. O componente regenerante apresentou padrão de distribuição espacial agregado (2016) e distribuição hipsométrica normal somente em 2016...(AU)

The present study had as objective to characterize the population structure of the most abundant arboreal species in a fragment of Upper Montane Mixed Ombrophilous Forest in Urubici, Santa Catarina, as well as determining the natural capacity of regeneration in the deforested area adjacent to the forest fragment. To detect the most abundant species, was realized a structural-floristic survey in the forest fragment, through the allocation of plots, in which all individuals with diameter at breast height (DBH) 5 cm were considered adults and inventoried. To determine the natural capacity of regeneration of the selected species in the deforested adjacent area, were allocated plots, where the individuals classified as regenerating (20 cm of height to 5 cm of DAP) was sampled, in the years of 2014 and 2016. It was analyzed the diametric structure and the spatial distribution of the adults individuals of the specie, and the hypsometric, spatial structures and dynamic of the regenerating individuals. Drimys angustifolia Miers was the most abundant species in the fragment, which represented 26.4% of the individuals. The population structure for this species obtained a diametric distribution tending to normality and random spatial distribution for the adults individuals. The regenerated component presented an aggregated spatial distribution pattern (2016) and normal hypsometrical...(AU)

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

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

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

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

Home range and habitat use by pacas in a montane tropical forest in Bolivia / Ámbito de hogar y uso de hábitat del jochi pintado en un bosque montano tropical de Bolivia

We studied the home range and habitat use of paca (Cuniculus paca) in a rural agricultural community in the Alto Beni region, in La Paz department, Bolivia, where game meat is the main source of protein for a large portion of local inhabitants. We captured and radio collared five individual paca (4 females and 1 male), which were followed for six months in 2012 to estimate home range of the individuals and assess their habitat use and selection. The total mean home range (95% Minimum Convex Polygon) was 2.26 ha (SD = 0.80), and ranged from 1.5 to 2.96 ha. The mean female home range (2.04 ha) was smaller than the males (2.95 ha). Pacas used two (crops and fallows) of the three available habitats (secondary forest patches), and appeared to positively select crops over the other two. The importance of crops may be linked to the type of agriculture conducted in the area (i.e. mainly cacao in agroforestry systems), which may offer more food and shelter for pacas. Given that, the importance of habitats may change seasonally; this topic should be examined in future studies. Our results suggest that agroforestry systems may be important for the species since they offer a variety of food resources throughout the year.(AU)

Hemos estudiado el ámbito de hogar y uso de hábitat del jochi pintado (Cuniculus paca) en una comunidad de Alto Beni en el Norte de La Paz-Bolivia, donde la carne obtenida por cacería es, como en muchas regiones de la Amazonia, una fuente principal de proteína para muchas poblaciones indígenas y campesinas. Hemos capturado y seguido con radio-collar a cinco individuos (4 hembras y 1 macho) por seis meses en 2012. El ámbito de hogar promedio de los individuos fue de 2,26 ha (ds=0,80), usando el estimador Mínimo Polígono Convexo (MPC al 95%) y los valores se encuentran entre 1,5 a 2,96 ha. El ámbito de hogar promedio de las hembras fue más pequeño (2,04 ha) que del macho (2,95 ha). Los jochis estudiados usaron 2 (cultivos y barbechos) de los 3 hábitats disponibles (parches de bosque secundario), aunque los cultivos parecen ser seleccionados positivamente respecto a los otros dos. La importancia de los cultivos podría estar ligada al tipo de cultivo que se realiza en la zona (sistemas agroforestales), que podrían estar ofreciendo mejores condiciones para ser usados por los jochis. Adicionalmente, la importancia de los hábitats podría cambiar de acuerdo a la época del año, lo cual podría ser abordado en siguientes estudios. Este trabajo es el primero en dar detalles sobre la ecología de C. paca en vida silvestre en Bolivia; sin embargo sería necesario contar con más individuos para tener más detalle sobre la ecología espacial de esta especie.(AU)

Plant structure predicts leaf litter capture in the tropical montane bromeliad Tillandsia turneri

Abstract Leaves intercepted by bromeliads become an important energy and matter resource for invertebrate communities, bacteria, fungi, and the plant itself. The relationship between bromeliad structure, defined as its size and complexity, and accumulated leaf litter was studied in 55 bromeliads of Tillandsia turneri through multiple regression and the Akaike information criterion. Leaf litter accumulation in bromeliads was best explained by size and complexity variables such as plant cover, sheath length, and leaf number. In conclusion, plant structure determines the amount of litter that enters bromeliads, and changes in its structure could affect important processes within ecosystem functioning or species richness.

Resumo As folhagens interceptadas pelas bromélias é um importante recurso para a comunidade de invertebrados, bactérias, fungos e para a própria planta. Estudou-se a relação entre a estrutura de 55 bromélias de Tillandsia tumeri, definida como o tamanho, a complexidade da planta, a folhagem acumulada por meio de regressão múltipla e o critério de informação de Akaike. Encontrou-se que as variáveis de tamanho, cobertura, comprimento da bainha e a variável de complexidade do número de folhas explicam a acumulação de folhas nas bromélias. Em conclusão, a estrutura do planta determina a quantidade de folhas armazenada na bromélia e os câmbios da estrutura da bromélia poderiam afetar importantes processos de funcionamento do ecossistema ou a riqueza de espécies.

A new species of Tanycarpa Förster (1862) (Hymenoptera, Braconidae: Alysiinae) from Itatiaia National Park, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Abstract This is the first description of a species of the genus Tanycarpa Förster (1862) for Brazil. Forty-eight specimens were collected in High Montane Dense Ombrophilous Forest area at National Park of Itatiaia, RJ, using four Malaise traps installed, respectively, at four different altitudes. This study is based on a description of two species of Tanycarpa from Colombia, Tanycarpa edithae and Tanycarpa sarmientoi, which are the only species of this genus recognized for the neotropics.

Resumo Esta é a primeira descrição de uma espécie do gênero Tanycarpa Förster (1862) para o Brasil. Foram coletados 48 espécimes em uma área de Floresta Ombrófila Densa Alto Montana do Parque Nacional do Itatiaia, RJ, com o uso de quatro armadilhas Malaise instaladas, respectivamente, em quatro altitudes diferentes. Este trabalho foi baseado na descrição de duas espécies de Tanycarpa da Colômbia, Tanycarpa edithae e Tanycarpa sarimentoi, as únicas espécies desse gênero reconhecidas para a região Neotropical.

Plant structure predicts leaf litter capture in the tropical montane bromeliad Tillandsia turneri / A estrutura da planta determina a folhagem interceptada pela bromelia Tillandsiaturneri

Leaves intercepted by bromeliads become an important energy and matter resource for invertebrate communities, bacteria, fungi, and the plant itself. The relationship between bromeliad structure, defined as its size and complexity, and accumulated leaf litter was studied in 55 bromeliads of Tillandsia turneri through multiple regression and the Akaike information criterion. Leaf litter accumulation in bromeliads was best explained by size and complexity variables such as plant cover, sheath length, and leaf number. In conclusion, plant structure determines the amount of litter that enters bromeliads, and changes in its structure could affect important processes within ecosystem functioning or species richness.(AU)

As folhagens interceptadas pelas bromélias é um importante recurso para a comunidade de invertebrados, bactérias, fungos e para a própria planta. Estudou-se a relação entre a estrutura de 55 bromélias de Tillandsia tumeri, definida como o tamanho, a complexidade da planta, a folhagem acumulada por meio de regressão múltipla e o critério de informação de Akaike. Encontrou-se que as variáveis de tamanho, cobertura, comprimento da bainha e a variável de complexidade do número de folhas explicam a acumulação de folhas nas bromélias. Em conclusão, a estrutura do planta determina a quantidade de folhas armazenada na bromélia e os câmbios da estrutura da bromélia poderiam afetar importantes processos de funcionamento do ecossistema ou a riqueza de espécies.(AU)

A new species of Tanycarpa Fõrster (1862) (Hymenoptera, Braconidae: Alysiinae) from Itatiaia National Park, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil / Uma nova espécie de Tanycarpa Fõrster (1862) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae: Alysiinae) do Parque Nacional do Itatiaia, Rio de Janeiro, Brasil

This is the first description of a species of the genus Tanycarpa Fõrster (1862) for Brazil. Forty-eight specimens were collected in High Montane Dense Ombrophilous Forest area at National Park of Itatiaia, RJ, using four Malaise traps installed, respectively, at four different altitudes. This study is based on a description of two species of Tanycarpa from Colombia, Tanycarpa edithae and Tanycarpa sarmientoi, which are the only species of this genus recognized for the neotropics.(AU)

Esta é a primeira descrição de uma espécie do gênero Tanycarpa Fõrster (1862) para o Brasil. Foram coletados 48 espécimes em uma área de Floresta Ombrófila Densa Alto Montana do Parque Nacional do Itatiaia, RJ, com o uso de quatro armadilhas Malaise instaladas, respectivamente, em quatro altitudes diferentes. Este trabalho foi baseado na descrição de duas espécies de Tanycarpa da Colômbia, Tanycarpa edithae e Tanycarpa sarimentoi, as únicas espécies desse gênero reconhecidas para a região Neotropical.(AU)

Termite assemblages (Blattodea: Isoptera) in a habitat humidity gradient in the semiarid region of northeastern Brazil

We compared the termite assemblages of different ecosystems in a humidity gradient. Three areas were sampled: (i) a humid montane forest; (ii) a hillside forest where shaded coffee (Coffea arabica Linnaeus, 1753) is cultivated; (iii) a seasonally dry forest (Caatinga). Active collection protocols were employed in each area during the dry and rainy seasons. The species were grouped according to their habitats and feeding habits. A total of 45 termite species belonging to 20 genera and three families were encountered. The termite fauna of the Caatinga was as rich and abundant as that of the humid forest areas, but it was distinct from it in species composition. Most termite species encountered in the montane forest were also found in the agro-ecological site, but some species were only found in the latter. The termite fauna of the Caatinga varied seasonally the most, with significantly reduced abundance during the dry period. When species richness, abundance, and species composition were considered together the climatic seasons were not found to significantly affect the termite faunas in any of the study areas. The numbers of encounters per feeding group and per habitat exploited did not differ among the different areas, or during the different seasons. Even in adjacent areas, the humidity gradient, as well as the vegetational characteristics, are reflected in differences in the termite fauna. Agro-ecological regimes can be considered viable alternatives to traditional methods of cultivation as they largely conserve the biodiversity found in non-modified environments.

Termite assemblages (Blattodea: Isoptera) in a habitat humidity gradient in the semiarid region of northeastern Brazil

We compared the termite assemblages of different ecosystems in a humidity gradient. Three areas were sampled: (i) a humid montane forest; (ii) a hillside forest where shaded coffee (Coffea arabica Linnaeus, 1753) is cultivated; (iii) a seasonally dry forest (Caatinga). Active collection protocols were employed in each area during the dry and rainy seasons. The species were grouped according to their habitats and feeding habits. A total of 45 termite species belonging to 20 genera and three families were encountered. The termite fauna of the Caatinga was as rich and abundant as that of the humid forest areas, but it was distinct from it in species composition. Most termite species encountered in the montane forest were also found in the agro-ecological site, but some species were only found in the latter. The termite fauna of the Caatinga varied seasonally the most, with significantly reduced abundance during the dry period. When species richness, abundance, and species composition were considered together the climatic seasons were not found to significantly affect the termite faunas in any of the study areas. The numbers of encounters per feeding group and per habitat exploited did not differ among the different areas, or during the different seasons. Even in adjacent areas, the humidity gradient, as well as the vegetational characteristics, are reflected in differences in the termite fauna. Agro-ecological regimes can be considered viable alternatives to traditional methods of cultivation as they largely conserve the biodiversity found in non-modified environments.(AU)

Feeding resource partitioning between two understorey insectivorous birds in a fragment of Neotropical cloud forest

Abstract The food habits and niche overlap based on diet composition and prey size of two species of understorey insectivorous birds were investigated in an area of montane rain forest in the state of Minas Gerais, southeastern Brazil. A total of 43 birds were captured: 33 individuals of Conopophaga lineata (Conopophagidae) with 13 recaptures, and 10 individuals of Myiothlypis leucoblephara (Parulidae) with 12 recaptures, from which were obtained respectively 33 and 10 fecal samples. Fragments of 16 groups of arthropods, plus insect eggs, were identified in these samples. Conopophaga lineata predominantly consumed Formicidae (32%) and Isoptera (23.6%). However, the index of alimentary importance (AI) of Isoptera (3.53) was lower than other groups such as Formicidae (AI = 61.88), Coleoptera (AI = 16.17), insect larvae (AI = 6.95) and Araneae (AI = 6.6). Myiothlypis leucoblephara predominantly consumed Formicidae (28.2%) and Coleoptera (24.4%), although Coleoptera and Hymenoptera non-Formicidae had the highest values of AI (38.71 and 22.98 respectively). Differences in the proportions of the types of arthropods consumed by birds were not enough to reveal their separation into feeding niches (overlap = 0.618, p observed expected = 0.934), whereas differences in the use of resources was mainly due to the size of the prey (p 0.001), where C lineata, the species with the highest body mass (p 0.001) consumed larger prey. It is plausible that prey size is an axis of niche dimension that allows the coexistence of these species.

Resumo Os hábitos alimentares e a sobreposição de nicho em termos de composição da dieta e tamanho de presas de duas espécies de aves insetívoras de sub-bosque foram investigados em uma área de floresta ombrófila altomontana no estado de Minas Gerais, sudeste do Brasil. Foram capturados 33 indivíduos de Conopophaga lineata (Conopophagidae), com 13 recapturas, e 10 indivíduos de Myiothlypis leucoblephara (Parulidae), com 12 recapturas, dos quais foram obtidas, respectivamente, 33 e 10 amostras fecais, onde foram identificados fragmentos de 16 grupos de artrópodes, além de ovos de insetos. Conopophaga lineata consumiu predominantemente Formicidae (32%) e Isoptera (23,6%). Contudo, o índice de importância alimentar (IA) de Isoptera (3,53) esteve abaixo de outros grupos como Formicidae (IA = 61,88), Coleoptera (IA = 16,17), larva de inseto (IA = 6,95) e Araneae (IA = 6,6). Myiothlypis leucoblephara consumiu predominantemente Formicidae (28,2%) e Coleoptera (24,4%), embora em termos de IA o predomínio tenha sido de Coleoptera (IA = 38,71) e Hymenoptera não Formicidae (IA = 22,98). Diferenças nas proporções dos tipos de artrópodes consumidos pelas aves não foram suficientes para revelar separação em seus nichos alimentares (sobreposição = 0,618; p observado esperado = 0,934), ao passo que divergências no uso de recursos se deram principalmente em função dos tamanhos das presas (p 0,001), onde C. lineata, a espécie com maior massa corporal, (p 0,001) consumiu as maiores presas. É plausível que o tamanho das presas seja um eixo da dimensão do nicho que permite a coexistência dessas espécies.