Phytophagous insects and natural enemies on Sapindus saponaria L. (Sapindales: Sapindaceae) plants fertilized with or without dehydrated sewage sludge / Insetos fitófagos e inimigos naturais em plantas de Sapindus saponaria (Sapindales: Sapindaceae) adubadas com ou sem lodo de esgoto desidratado

Management programs and efficient techniques are necessary to recover degraded ecosystems. The sewage sludge is rich in nitrogen (N) and with the potential to fertilize Sapindus saponaria L. (Sapinales: Sapindaceae), used in the recovery of degraded areas; this can affect the insect fauna. The study's objective was to evaluate, for 24 months, the abundance of chewing insects, dipterans, pollinators, and predators on S. saponaria plants fertilized with or without dehydrated sewage sludge in a degraded area. The experimental design was completely randomized (with the same characteristics) with two treatments (with or without dehydrated sewage sludge) and 24 replicates, each with one plant. The abundance of Anastrepha sp. (Tephritidae), Cerotoma sp. (Chrysomelidae), Curculionidae, Musca domestica L. (Muscidae), Mantis religiosa L. (Mantodea: Mantidae), Oxyopidae, Salticidae, Tettigoniidae (Orthoptera), and Teudis sp. (Anyphaenidae) was higher on fertilized plants. The abundances of Teudis sp. and Tmarus sp. (Thomisidae) and M. religiosa and Teudis sp. were positively correlated with chewing insects and Diptera, respectively. The population increase of insects and spiders on S. saponaria plants fertilized with dehydrated sewage sludge (bigger crowns) has shown to be suitable for recovering degraded areas with a higher number of niches and better food quality, improving the ecological indices of the area.

A degradação de ecossistemas torna necessário programas de manejo e técnicas eficientes para recuperá-los. O lodo de esgoto é rico em nitrogênio e com potencial para adubar Sapindus saponaria L. (Sapinales: Sapindaceae), utilizada na recuperação de áreas degradadas, mas isto pode afetar a fauna de insetos. O objetivo foi avaliar, durante 24 meses, abundância de insetos mastigadores, dípteros, polinizadores e predadores em plantas de S. saponaria fertilizadas ou não com lodo de esgoto desidratado, em área degradada. O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente casualisado com dois tratamentos (com ou sem lodo desidratado de esgoto) e 24 repetições, cada uma com uma planta. A abundância de Anastrepha sp. (Tephritidae), Cerotoma sp. (Chrysomelidae), Curculionidae, Musca domestica L. (Muscidae), Mantis religiosa L. (Mantodea: Mantidae), Oxyopidae, Salticidae, Tettigoniidae (Orthoptera) e Teudis sp. (Anyphaenidae) foi maior em plantas adubadas. A abundância de Teudis sp. e Tmarus sp. (Thomisidae) e M. religiosa e Teudis sp. foi, positivamente, correlacionada com as de insetos mastigadores e Diptera, respectivamente. O aumento populacional de insetos e aranhas em plantas de S. saponaria, adubada com lodo desidratado de esgoto (maiores copas), mostra ser adequado para a recuperação de áreas degradadas, tendo essas plantas um maior número de nichos e com alimento de melhor qualidade, melhorando os índices ecológicos na área.

Effect of photoperiod on the biomass and survivorship of juvenile scorpions Jaguajir rochae (Scorpiones, Buthidae)

Photoperiod is an important environmental characteristic involved in the regulation of circadian physiological processes in living organisms. This experiment verified the effect of photoperiod on biomass gain and mortality in juvenile scorpions of the species Jaguajir rochae (Borelli, 1910). We maintained the juvenile scorpions under two different photoperiod conditions; group A under a light and dark cycle (LD) 12L:12D (n = 36), and group B (n = 35) was subjected to a total dark cycle 0L:24D. Each juvenile was fed cockroaches twice a week and weighed every 15 days until 120th day. We analyzed the relationship between body mass and time, as well as the mortality between groups. Our results showed that group B had a lower biomass gain than that did group A, and no difference in mortality between the two groups was found. Since the locomotory activity of scorpions is associated with a decrease in luminosity, we suggest that group B had a lower gain in biomass due to a higher locomotor activity, resulting in greater energy expenditure. Though our data showed high mortality across both groups, it was not attributed to the photoperiod but to the high mortality rate of the scorpions of this genus during their initial instars and to them being R-strategist organisms. Thus, this study is important for understanding the relationship between photoperiod and biomass gain in invertebrates, especially in scorpions.(AU)

Questing ticks in Atlantic rainforest (Mata Atlantica) fragments in the municipality of Divino, Minas Gerais state, Brazil / Carrapatos na fase de vida livre em fragmentos de Mata Atlântica do município de Divino, Minas Gerais, Brasil

The tick species and tick-borne pathogens present in a group of questing ticks collected from forest fragments in a rural area in the municipality of Divino, Minas Gerais state, Brazil were evaluated. The collected ticks were divided into two groups those collected from around the edges of the fragments and those collected from the interior of the forest. In all the fragments, the ticks were collected using a dragging and flagging technique and by harvesting them from white fabric gaiters. The larvae, nymphs, and adults were all morphologically identified using specific taxonomic keys. The larvae were identified to the genus level. DNA was extracted from the ticks and tested for the presence of Rickettsia spp., Borrelia spp., Ehrlichia spp., Anaplasma spp., Babesia spp., and Theileria spp. using a conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR). In total, 1,122 questing ticks (750 larvae, 367 nymphs, and five adults) and 18 larval clusters were evaluated. The main species found in the collected tick population were Amblyomma sculptum, A. auricularium, A. aureolatum, and A. pseudoconcolor, along with the larvae of Amblyomma spp. and Dermacentor spp. None of the tick samples gave a positive result when tested by PCR for the presence of DNA from Rickettsia spp., Borrelia spp., Ehrlichia spp., Anaplasma spp., Babesia spp., or Theileria spp.(AU)

Neste estudo avaliou-se a presença de espécies de carrapatos e a detecção de agentes patogênicos a eles associados. Os carrapatos de vida livre foram coletados em fragmentos florestais da área rural do Município de Divino, Minas Gerais, Brasil. Os carrapatos coletados foram divididos em dois grupos, aqueles que foram coletados na área da margem do fragmento (Borda) e os coletados no interior da floresta (Mata). Em todos os fragmentos, os carrapatos foram coletados de acordo com a técnica de arraste aéreo ou no chão e com o uso de perneiras e de flanela. Tanto, as larvas, quanto as ninfas e os adultos foram morfologicamente identificados usando chaves taxonômicas específicas. No caso das larvas, estas foram identificadas até o nível de gênero. Foi realizada extração de DNA dos carrapatos e o DNA extraído foi testado para a presença de Rickettsia spp., Borrelia spp., Ehrlichia spp., Anaplasma spp., Babesia spp., e Theileria spp. por meio de uma estratégia de reação em cadeia da polimerase convencional. No total, 1.122 carrapatos em fase de vida livre (750 larvas, 367 ninfas e 5 adultos) e 18 clusters de larvas foram usados no estudo. As principais espécies identificadas na população de carrapatos coletada foram: Amblyomma sculptum, Amblyomma auricularium, Amblyomma aureolatum e Amblyomma pseudoconcolor e larvas de Amblyomma spp. e Dermacentor spp. Como resultado da detecção de patógenos não foi possível achar DNA de nenhum dos agentes analisados, assim todas as amostras de DNA dos carrapatos testados foram negativas tanto para Rickettsia spp. quanto para Borrelia spp., Ehrlichia spp., Anaplasma spp., Babesia spp. e Theileria spp.(AU)

Anti-inflammatory activities of arthropod peptides: a systematic review

Peptides obtained from different animal species have gained importance recently due to research that aims to develop biopharmaceuticals with therapeutic potential. In this sense, arthropod venoms have drawn attention, not only because of their toxicity but mainly for the search for molecules with various bioactivities, including anti-inflammatory activity. The purpose of the present study is to gather data available in the literature on new peptides derived from arthropod species with anti-inflammatory potential. This systematic review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. Studies on peptides from arthropods that display anti-inflammatory activity were retrieved from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases. The bibliographic research started in 2020 and searched papers without a limit on the publication date. The articles were analyzed using a search string containing the following terms: "Peptides" and "Anti-inflammatory", in combinations such as "Ant", "Bee", "Wasp", "Crab", "Shrimp", "Scorpion", "Spider", "Tick" and "Centipedes". Besides, a search was carried out in the databases with the terms: "Peptides", "Antitumor", or "Anticancer", and "Arthropods". Articles that met the inclusion and exclusion criteria totalized 171, and these served for data extraction. Additionally, the present review included anti-inflammatory peptides with anticancer properties. Peptides with confirmed anti-inflammatory activity were from insects (ants, bees, and wasps), crustaceans (shrimp and crabs), arachnids (scorpions, spiders, and ticks), and centipedes. These arthropod peptides act mainly by decreasing pro-inflammatory cytokines as analyzed in vitro and in vivo. Some showed significant antineoplastic activity, working in essential cellular pathways against malignant neoplasms.(AU)

Anti-inflammatory activities of arthropod peptides: a systematic review

Peptides obtained from different animal species have gained importance recently due to research that aims to develop biopharmaceuticals with therapeutic potential. In this sense, arthropod venoms have drawn attention, not only because of their toxicity but mainly for the search for molecules with various bioactivities, including anti-inflammatory activity. The purpose of the present study is to gather data available in the literature on new peptides derived from arthropod species with anti-inflammatory potential. This systematic review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. Studies on peptides from arthropods that display anti-inflammatory activity were retrieved from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases. The bibliographic research started in 2020 and searched papers without a limit on the publication date. The articles were analyzed using a search string containing the following terms: "Peptides" and "Anti-inflammatory", in combinations such as "Ant", "Bee", "Wasp", "Crab", "Shrimp", "Scorpion", "Spider", "Tick" and "Centipedes". Besides, a search was carried out in the databases with the terms: "Peptides", "Antitumor", or "Anticancer", and "Arthropods". Articles that met the inclusion and exclusion criteria totalized 171, and these served for data extraction. Additionally, the present review included anti-inflammatory peptides with anticancer properties. Peptides with confirmed anti-inflammatory activity were from insects (ants, bees, and wasps), crustaceans (shrimp and crabs), arachnids (scorpions, spiders, and ticks), and centipedes. These arthropod peptides act mainly by decreasing pro-inflammatory cytokines as analyzed in vitro and in vivo. Some showed significant antineoplastic activity, working in essential cellular pathways against malignant neoplasms.(AU)

Anti-inflammatory activities of arthropod peptides: a systematic review

Abstract Peptides obtained from different animal species have gained importance recently due to research that aims to develop biopharmaceuticals with therapeutic potential. In this sense, arthropod venoms have drawn attention, not only because of their toxicity but mainly for the search for molecules with various bioactivities, including anti-inflammatory activity. The purpose of the present study is to gather data available in the literature on new peptides derived from arthropod species with anti-inflammatory potential. This systematic review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. Studies on peptides from arthropods that display anti-inflammatory activity were retrieved from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases. The bibliographic research started in 2020 and searched papers without a limit on the publication date. The articles were analyzed using a search string containing the following terms: Peptides and Anti-inflammatory, in combinations such as Ant, Bee, Wasp, Crab, Shrimp, Scorpion, Spider, Tick and Centipedes. Besides, a search was carried out in the databases with the terms: Peptides, Antitumor, or Anticancer, and Arthropods. Articles that met the inclusion and exclusion criteria totalized 171, and these served for data extraction. Additionally, the present review included anti-inflammatory peptides with anticancer properties. Peptides with confirmed anti-inflammatory activity were from insects (ants, bees, and wasps), crustaceans (shrimp and crabs), arachnids (scorpions, spiders, and ticks), and centipedes. These arthropod peptides act mainly by decreasing pro-inflammatory cytokines as analyzed in vitro and in vivo. Some showed significant antineoplastic activity, working in essential cellular pathways against malignant neoplasms.

Spatial distribution and sample size to estimate Lycosa erythrognatha (Araneae: Lycosidae) population density overwintering / Distribuição espacial e tamanho de amostra para estimar a densidade populacional de Lycosa erythrognatha (Araneae: Lycosidae) durante o inverno

Lycosa erythrognatha Lucas, 1833 (Araneae: Lycosidae) is a predatory arthropod with potential for conservation biological control. In addition to being considered a bioindicator of environmental quality, this arthropod provides an important service for agriculture by reducing insect-pest populations. In this work we seek to understand how the plants Andropogon bicornis L., Saccharum angustifolium Nees and Eustachys retusa Lag (Poales: Poaceae) and their different clump sizes affect the population density, spatial distribution and determination of the minimum number of samples to estimate its population density during the winter. Among the evaluated host plants, S. angustifolium and A. bicornis presented higher population density than E. retusa, but we observed that the clump diameter significantly influences the population density and the minimum number of samples. We observed a gregarious behavior in plants of A. bicornis and E. retusa. For S. angustifolium, a uniform distribution was observed.(AU)

Lycosa erythrognatha Lucas, 1833 (Araneae: Lycosidae) é um artrópode predador com potencial para controle biológico de conservação. Além de ser considerado um bioindicador da qualidade ambiental, esse artrópode fornece um importante serviço para a agricultura, reduzindo as populações de insetos-praga. Neste trabalho buscamos entender como as plantas Andropogon bicornis L., Saccharum angustifolium Nees e Eustachys retusa Lag (Poales: Poaceae) e seus diferentes tamanhos de touceira afetam a densidade populacional, distribuição espacial e a determinação do número mínimo de amostras para estimar sua densidade populacional durante o inverno. Entre as plantas hospedeiras avaliadas, S. angustifolium e A. bicornis apresentaram maior densidade populacional que E. retusa, observamos que o diâmetro da touceira influencia significativamente a densidade populacional e o número mínimo de amostras. Observamos um comportamento gregário nas plantas de A. bicornis e E. retusa. Para S. angustifolium, uma distribuição uniforme foi observada.(AU)

Rhizoglyphus echinopus (Acari: Acaridae) associated with Atta sexdens (Insecta: Formicidae) / Rhizoglyphus echinopus (Acari: Acaridae) associado a Atta sexdens (Insecta: Formicidae)

Four deutonymphs of bulb mites (hypopus) from Rhizoglyphus echinopus (Fumouze & Robin) (Acari: Acaridae) were found attached to the head of Atta sexdens in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. This mite species is commonly associated with ornamental plants and trees with bulbs, corms and tubers. The results of this study provided an insight into the phoretic relationship between mites and ants, indicating the role of the latter in the dispersion of the first. Despite the abundant and diverse mite fauna existing in ants, little is known about their diversity, biology, ecology and the nature of their associations.(AU)

Quatro deutoninfas de ácaros do bulbo (hipopus) da espécie Rhizoglyphus echinopus (Fumouze & Robin) (Acari: Acaridae) foram encontradas fixadas na cabeça de formigas da espécie Atta sexdens no Rio de Janeiro, Brasil. Essa espécie de ácaro está comumente associada a plantas ornamentais e plantas com bulbos e tubérculos. Os resultados desse estudo fornecem uma visão sobre a relação forética entre ácaros e formigas, indicando o papel destas últimas na dispersão dos primeiros. Apesar da abundância e da fauna diversa do ácaro em formigas, pouco se sabe sobre a diversidade, a biologia, a ecologia e a natureza dessa associação.(AU)

Rhizoglyphus echinopus (Acari: Acaridae) associated with Atta sexdens (Insecta: Formicidae) / Rhizoglyphus echinopus (Acari: Acaridae) associado a Atta sexdens (Insecta: Formicidae)

Four deutonymphs of bulb mites (hypopus) from Rhizoglyphus echinopus (Fumouze & Robin) (Acari: Acaridae) were found attached to the head of Atta sexdens in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. This mite species is commonly associated with ornamental plants and trees with bulbs, corms and tubers. The results of this study provided an insight into the phoretic relationship between mites and ants, indicating the role of the latter in the dispersion of the first. Despite the abundant and diverse mite fauna existing in ants, little is known about their diversity, biology, ecology and the nature of their associations.(AU)

Quatro deutoninfas de ácaros do bulbo (hipopus) da espécie Rhizoglyphus echinopus (Fumouze & Robin) (Acari: Acaridae) foram encontradas fixadas na cabeça de formigas da espécie Atta sexdens no Rio de Janeiro, Brasil. Essa espécie de ácaro está comumente associada a plantas ornamentais e plantas com bulbos e tubérculos. Os resultados desse estudo fornecem uma visão sobre a relação forética entre ácaros e formigas, indicando o papel destas últimas na dispersão dos primeiros. Apesar da abundância e da fauna diversa do ácaro em formigas, pouco se sabe sobre a diversidade, a biologia, a ecologia e a natureza dessa associação.(AU)

Spatial distribution and sample size to estimate Lycosa erythrognatha (Araneae: Lycosidae) population density overwintering

Abstract Lycosa erythrognatha Lucas, 1833 (Araneae: Lycosidae) is a predatory arthropod with potential for conservation biological control. In addition to being considered a bioindicator of environmental quality, this arthropod provides an important service for agriculture by reducing insect-pest populations. In this work we seek to understand how the plants Andropogon bicornis L., Saccharum angustifolium Nees and Eustachys retusa Lag (Poales: Poaceae) and their different clump sizes affect the population density, spatial distribution and determination of the minimum number of samples to estimate its population density during the winter. Among the evaluated host plants, S. angustifolium and A. bicornis presented higher population density than E. retusa, but we observed that the clump diameter significantly influences the population density and the minimum number of samples. We observed a gregarious behavior in plants of A. bicornis and E. retusa. For S. angustifolium, a uniform distribution was observed.

Resumo Lycosa erythrognatha Lucas, 1833 (Araneae: Lycosidae) é um artrópode predador com potencial para controle biológico de conservação. Além de ser considerado um bioindicador da qualidade ambiental, esse artrópode fornece um importante serviço para a agricultura, reduzindo as populações de insetos-praga. Neste trabalho buscamos entender como as plantas Andropogon bicornis L., Saccharum angustifolium Nees e Eustachys retusa Lag (Poales: Poaceae) e seus diferentes tamanhos de touceira afetam a densidade populacional, distribuição espacial e a determinação do número mínimo de amostras para estimar sua densidade populacional durante o inverno. Entre as plantas hospedeiras avaliadas, S. angustifolium e A. bicornis apresentaram maior densidade populacional que E. retusa, observamos que o diâmetro da touceira influencia significativamente a densidade populacional e o número mínimo de amostras. Observamos um comportamento gregário nas plantas de A. bicornis e E. retusa. Para S. angustifolium, uma distribuição uniforme foi observada.

Temporal variation in the spider assemblage (Arachnida, Araneae) in canopies of Callisthene fasciculata (Vochysiaceae) in the Brazilian Pantanal biome / Variação temporal na assembleia de aranhas (Arachnida, Araneae) em copas de Callisthene fasciculata (Vochysiaceae) no Pantanal brasileiro

Spiders are generalist predators and present a high diversity of capturing and foraging, as well as considerable species richness in tropical habitats. Although, generally, not presenting specific relations to the host plant, they can be influenced by its phenology, structure and resource availability. So, this study analyzed temporal variation on the structure and composition of Araneae assemblage in Callisthene fasciculata (Spr.) Mart. (Vochysiaceae) canopies, in an area of monodominant vegetation, in the periods of high water, receding water, dry season and rising water in Pantanal of Mato Grosso, Brazil. The collection was performed on 24 individuals of C. fasciculata, six in each seasonal period, in 2010 and 2011, making use of canopy fogging with insecticide. For that, ten nylon funnels were distributed under each canopy of C. fasciculata individuals, in a total of 240 m² of sampled canopies. In all, 3,610 spiders were collected and distributed in 24 families and 55 species. Anyphaenidae (43.3%; 6.5 ind./m2), Pisauridae (16.2%; 2.4 ind./m2), Araneidae (12.7%; 1.9 ind./m2) and Salticidae (12.4%; 1.9 ind./m2) were the most representative. Osoriella tahela Brescovit, 1998 was the most abundant species (12.2%). The nocturnal aerial runners of foliage (45.6%; 6.9 ind./m2), nocturnal aerial ambushers of foliage (17.3%; 2.6 ind./m2), aerial orb weavers (13.3%; 2.0 ind./m2) and the diurnal aerial runners of foliage (12.5%; 1.9 ind./m2) spiders represented the most abundant guilds. Significant differences were observed in the composition of families and behavioral guilds, as well as abundance and richness among seasonal periods. The assemblage showed the highest abundance in receding water and highest species richness in high water period, probably related to the hydrologic cycle of the area and its influence on C. fasciculata phenology, indicating the importance of this plant species for spiders diversity maintenance in the Pantanal.(AU)

Aranhas são predadoras, generalistas e apresentam elevada diversidade de estratégias de captura e forrageamento, bem como considerável riqueza de espécies em habitats tropicais. Apesar de, geralmente, não apresentarem relações específicas com hospedeiros vegetais, suas assembleias podem ser influenciadas pela fenologia, estrutura e disponibilidade de recursos sobre o hospedeiro. Assim, este estudo analisou a variação temporal na estrutura e composição da assembleia de aranhas em copas de Callisthene fasciculata (Spr.) Mart. (Vochysiaceae) em área de vegetação monodominante, ao longo dos períodos de cheia, vazante, seca e enchente na região norte do Pantanal de Mato Grosso, Brasil. As coletas foram realizadas sobre 24 exemplares de C. fasciculata, seis em cada período sazonal, em 2010 e 2011, empregando-se a termonebulização de copas com inseticida. Para a coleta, 10 funis de nylon foram distribuídos debaixo da copa de cada indivíduo de C. fasciculata, totalizando 240 m² de copas amostradas. Ao todo foram coletadas 3.610 aranhas e distribuídas em 24 famílias e 55 espécies. Anyphaenidae (43,3%), Pisauridae (16,2%), Araneidae (12,7%) e Salticidae (12,4%) predominaram. Osoriella tahela Brescovit, 1998 foi a espécie mais abundante (12,2% do total). As aranhas corredoras aéreas noturnas de folhagens (45,6%), emboscadeiras noturnas de folhagens (17,3%), tecelãs orbiculares aéreas (13,3%) e as corredoras aéreas diurnas de folhagens (12,6%) representaram as guildas mais abundantes. Diferenças significativas foram observadas na composição de famílias e agrupamentos em guildas comportamentais, bem como para a abundância e riqueza de aranhas entre os períodos sazonais. A assembleia apresentou maior abundância na vazante e maior riqueza de espécies no período de cheia, provavelmente relacionadas com o ciclo hidrológico da região e sua influência sobre a fenologia de C. fasciculata [...](AU)

Temporal variation in the spider assemblage (Arachnida, Araneae) in canopies of Callisthene fasciculata (Vochysiaceae) in the Brazilian Pantanal biome / Variação temporal na assembleia de aranhas (Arachnida, Araneae) em copas de Callisthene fasciculata (Vochysiaceae) no Pantanal brasileiro

Spiders are generalist predators and present a high diversity of capturing and foraging, as well as considerable species richness in tropical habitats. Although, generally, not presenting specific relations to the host plant, they can be influenced by its phenology, structure and resource availability. So, this study analyzed temporal variation on the structure and composition of Araneae assemblage in Callisthene fasciculata (Spr.) Mart. (Vochysiaceae) canopies, in an area of monodominant vegetation, in the periods of high water, receding water, dry season and rising water in Pantanal of Mato Grosso, Brazil. The collection was performed on 24 individuals of C. fasciculata, six in each seasonal period, in 2010 and 2011, making use of canopy fogging with insecticide. For that, ten nylon funnels were distributed under each canopy of C. fasciculata individuals, in a total of 240 m² of sampled canopies. In all, 3,610 spiders were collected and distributed in 24 families and 55 species. Anyphaenidae (43.3%; 6.5 ind./m2), Pisauridae (16.2%; 2.4 ind./m2), Araneidae (12.7%; 1.9 ind./m2) and Salticidae (12.4%; 1.9 ind./m2) were the most representative. Osoriella tahela Brescovit, 1998 was the most abundant species (12.2%). The nocturnal aerial runners of foliage (45.6%; 6.9 ind./m2), nocturnal aerial ambushers of foliage (17.3%; 2.6 ind./m2), aerial orb weavers (13.3%; 2.0 ind./m2) and the diurnal aerial runners of foliage (12.5%; 1.9 ind./m2) spiders represented the most abundant guilds. Significant differences were observed in the composition of families and behavioral guilds, as well as abundance and richness among seasonal periods. The assemblage showed the highest abundance in receding water and highest species richness in high water period, probably related to the hydrologic cycle of the area and its influence on C. fasciculata phenology, indicating the importance of this plant species for spider’s diversity maintenance in the Pantanal.

Aranhas são predadoras, generalistas e apresentam elevada diversidade de estratégias de captura e forrageamento, bem como considerável riqueza de espécies em habitats tropicais. Apesar de, geralmente, não apresentarem relações específicas com hospedeiros vegetais, suas assembleias podem ser influenciadas pela fenologia, estrutura e disponibilidade de recursos sobre o hospedeiro. Assim, este estudo analisou a variação temporal na estrutura e composição da assembleia de aranhas em copas de Callisthene fasciculata (Spr.) Mart. (Vochysiaceae) em área de vegetação monodominante, ao longo dos períodos de cheia, vazante, seca e enchente na região norte do Pantanal de Mato Grosso, Brasil. As coletas foram realizadas sobre 24 exemplares de C. fasciculata, seis em cada período sazonal, em 2010 e 2011, empregando-se a termonebulização de copas com inseticida. Para a coleta, 10 funis de nylon foram distribuídos debaixo da copa de cada indivíduo de C. fasciculata, totalizando 240 m² de copas amostradas. Ao todo foram coletadas 3.610 aranhas e distribuídas em 24 famílias e 55 espécies. Anyphaenidae (43,3%), Pisauridae (16,2%), Araneidae (12,7%) e Salticidae (12,4%) predominaram. Osoriella tahela Brescovit, 1998 foi a espécie mais abundante (12,2% do total). As aranhas corredoras aéreas noturnas de folhagens (45,6%), emboscadeiras noturnas de folhagens (17,3%), tecelãs orbiculares aéreas (13,3%) e as corredoras aéreas diurnas de folhagens (12,6%) representaram as guildas mais abundantes. Diferenças significativas foram observadas na composição de famílias e agrupamentos em guildas comportamentais, bem como para a abundância e riqueza de aranhas entre os períodos sazonais. A assembleia apresentou maior abundância na vazante e maior riqueza de espécies no período de cheia, provavelmente relacionadas com o ciclo hidrológico da região e sua influência sobre a fenologia de C. fasciculata [...]

Temporal variation in the spider assemblage (Arachnida, Araneae) in canopies of Callisthene fasciculata (Vochysiaceae) in the Brazilian Pantanal biome

ABSTRACT Spiders are generalist predators and present a high diversity of capturing and foraging, as well as considerable species richness in tropical habitats. Although, generally, not presenting specific relations to the host plant, they can be influenced by its phenology, structure and resource availability. So, this study analyzed temporal variation on the structure and composition of Araneae assemblage in Callisthene fasciculata (Spr.) Mart. (Vochysiaceae) canopies, in an area of monodominant vegetation, in the periods of high water, receding water, dry season and rising water in Pantanal of Mato Grosso, Brazil. The collection was performed on 24 individuals of C. fasciculata, six in each seasonal period, in 2010 and 2011, making use of canopy fogging with insecticide. For that, ten nylon funnels were distributed under each canopy of C. fasciculata individuals, in a total of 240 m² of sampled canopies. In all, 3,610 spiders were collected and distributed in 24 families and 55 species. Anyphaenidae (43.3%; 6.5 ind./m2), Pisauridae (16.2%; 2.4 ind./m2), Araneidae (12.7%; 1.9 ind./m2) and Salticidae (12.4%; 1.9 ind./m2) were the most representative. Osoriella tahela Brescovit, 1998 was the most abundant species (12.2%). The nocturnal aerial runners of foliage (45.6%; 6.9 ind./m2), nocturnal aerial ambushers of foliage (17.3%; 2.6 ind./m2), aerial orb weavers (13.3%; 2.0 ind./m2) and the diurnal aerial runners of foliage (12.5%; 1.9 ind./m2) spiders represented the most abundant guilds. Significant differences were observed in the composition of families and behavioral guilds, as well as abundance and richness among seasonal periods. The assemblage showed the highest abundance in receding water and highest species richness in high water period, probably related to the hydrologic cycle of the area and its influence on C. fasciculata phenology, indicating the importance of this plant species for spiders diversity maintenance in the Pantanal.

RESUMO Aranhas são predadoras, generalistas e apresentam elevada diversidade de estratégias de captura e forrageamento, bem como considerável riqueza de espécies em habitats tropicais. Apesar de, geralmente, não apresentarem relações específicas com hospedeiros vegetais, suas assembleias podem ser influenciadas pela fenologia, estrutura e disponibilidade de recursos sobre o hospedeiro. Assim, este estudo analisou a variação temporal na estrutura e composição da assembleia de aranhas em copas de Callisthene fasciculata (Spr.) Mart. (Vochysiaceae) em área de vegetação monodominante, ao longo dos períodos de cheia, vazante, seca e enchente na região norte do Pantanal de Mato Grosso, Brasil. As coletas foram realizadas sobre 24 exemplares de C. fasciculata, seis em cada período sazonal, em 2010 e 2011, empregando-se a termonebulização de copas com inseticida. Para a coleta, 10 funis de nylon foram distribuídos debaixo da copa de cada indivíduo de C. fasciculata, totalizando 240 m² de copas amostradas. Ao todo foram coletadas 3.610 aranhas e distribuídas em 24 famílias e 55 espécies. Anyphaenidae (43,3%), Pisauridae (16,2%), Araneidae (12,7%) e Salticidae (12,4%) predominaram. Osoriella tahela Brescovit, 1998 foi a espécie mais abundante (12,2% do total). As aranhas corredoras aéreas noturnas de folhagens (45,6%), emboscadeiras noturnas de folhagens (17,3%), tecelãs orbiculares aéreas (13,3%) e as corredoras aéreas diurnas de folhagens (12,6%) representaram as guildas mais abundantes. Diferenças significativas foram observadas na composição de famílias e agrupamentos em guildas comportamentais, bem como para a abundância e riqueza de aranhas entre os períodos sazonais. A assembleia apresentou maior abundância na vazante e maior riqueza de espécies no período de cheia, provavelmente relacionadas com o ciclo hidrológico da região e sua influência sobre a fenologia de C. fasciculata, indicando a importância desta espécie vegetal para a manutenção da diversidade de aranhas no Pantanal.

Spatial distribution and sample size to estimate Lycosa erythrognatha (Araneae: Lycosidae) population density overwintering

Abstract Lycosa erythrognatha Lucas, 1833 (Araneae: Lycosidae) is a predatory arthropod with potential for conservation biological control. In addition to being considered a bioindicator of environmental quality, this arthropod provides an important service for agriculture by reducing insect-pest populations. In this work we seek to understand how the plants Andropogon bicornis L., Saccharum angustifolium Nees and Eustachys retusa Lag (Poales: Poaceae) and their different clump sizes affect the population density, spatial distribution and determination of the minimum number of samples to estimate its population density during the winter. Among the evaluated host plants, S. angustifolium and A. bicornis presented higher population density than E. retusa, but we observed that the clump diameter significantly influences the population density and the minimum number of samples. We observed a gregarious behavior in plants of A. bicornis and E. retusa. For S. angustifolium, a uniform distribution was observed.

Resumo Lycosa erythrognatha Lucas, 1833 (Araneae: Lycosidae) é um artrópode predador com potencial para controle biológico de conservação. Além de ser considerado um bioindicador da qualidade ambiental, esse artrópode fornece um importante serviço para a agricultura, reduzindo as populações de insetos-praga. Neste trabalho buscamos entender como as plantas Andropogon bicornis L., Saccharum angustifolium Nees e Eustachys retusa Lag (Poales: Poaceae) e seus diferentes tamanhos de touceira afetam a densidade populacional, distribuição espacial e a determinação do número mínimo de amostras para estimar sua densidade populacional durante o inverno. Entre as plantas hospedeiras avaliadas, S. angustifolium e A. bicornis apresentaram maior densidade populacional que E. retusa, observamos que o diâmetro da touceira influencia significativamente a densidade populacional e o número mínimo de amostras. Observamos um comportamento gregário nas plantas de A. bicornis e E. retusa. Para S. angustifolium, uma distribuição uniforme foi observada.

First report of brown widow spider sightings in Peninsular Malaysia and notes on its global distribution

Background:The brown widow spider (Latrodectus geometricus Koch, 1841) has colonised many parts of the world from its continent of origin, Africa. By at least 1841, the species had successfully established populations in South America and has more recently expanded its range to the southern states of North America. This highly adaptable spider has been far more successful in finding its niche around the world than its famous cousins, the black widow, Latrodectus mactans, found in the south-eastern states of North America, and the red-back, Latrodectus hasselti, found mostly in Australia, New Zealand and Japan.Methods:We performed an extensive web search of brown widow sightings and mapped the location of each sighting using ArcGIS. Specimens reputedly of the species L. geometricus were collected at three localities in Peninsular Malaysia. The spiders were identified and documented based on an examination of morphological characteristics and DNA barcoding.Results:The spiders found in Peninsular Malaysia were confirmed to be Latrodectus geometricus based on their morphological characteristics and DNA barcodes. We recorded 354 sightings of the brown widow in 58 countries, including Peninsular Malaysia.Conclusion:Reports from the Americas and the Far East suggest a global-wide invasion of the brown widow spider. Herein we report the arrival of the brown widow spider in Peninsular Malaysia and provide notes on the identification of the species and its recently expanded range.(AU)

First report of brown widow spider sightings in Peninsular Malaysia and notes on its global distribution

Background: The brown widow spider (Latrodectus geometricus Koch, 1841) has colonised many parts of the world from its continent of origin, Africa. By at least 1841, the species had successfully established populations in South America and has more recently expanded its range to the southern states of North America. This highly adaptable spider has been far more successful in finding its niche around the world than its famous cousins, the black widow, Latrodectus mactans, found in the south-eastern states of North America, and the red-back, Latrodectus hasselti, found mostly in Australia, New Zealand and Japan. Methods: We performed an extensive web search of brown widow sightings and mapped the location of each sighting using ArcGIS. Specimens reputedly of the species L. geometricus were collected at three localities in Peninsular Malaysia. The spiders were identified and documented based on an examination of morphological characteristics and DNA barcoding. Results: The spiders found in Peninsular Malaysia were confirmed to be Latrodectus geometricus based on their morphological characteristics and DNA barcodes. We recorded 354 sightings of the brown widow in 58 countries, including Peninsular Malaysia. Conclusion: Reports from the Americas and the Far East suggest a global-wide invasion of the brown widow spider. Herein we report the arrival of the brown widow spider in Peninsular Malaysia and provide notes on the identification of the species and its recently expanded range.(AU)

Evidences that human disturbance simplify the ant fauna associated a Stachytarpheta glabra Cham. (Verbenaceae) compromising the benefits of ant-plant mutualism / Evidências de que os impactos antrópicos simplificam a fauna de formiga associada a Stachytarpheta glabra (Verbenaceae) comprometendo os benefícios do mutualismo formiga-planta

Interaction among species, like ants and plants through extrafloral nectaries (EFNs), are important components of ecological communities evolution. However, the effect of human disturbance on such specific interactions and its ecological consequences is poorly understood. This study evaluated the outcomes of mutualism between ants and the EFN-bearing plant Stachytarpheta glabra under anthropogenic disturbance. We compared the arthropod fauna composition between two groups of twenty plant individuals, one in an area disturbed by human activities and one in a preserved area. We also check the plant investment in herbivory defense and the consequential leaf damage by herbivore. Our results indicate that such disturbances cause simplification of the associated fauna and lack of proper ant mutualist. This led to four times more herbivory on plants of disturbed areas, despite the equal amount of EFN and ant visitors and low abundance of herbivores. The high pressure of herbivory may difficult the re-establishment of S. glabra, an important pioneer species in ferruginous fields, therefore it may affect resilience of this fragile ecological community.(AU)

As interações entre espécies, como por exemplo formigas e plantas através de nectários extraflorais (NEFs), são importantes componentes na evolução das comunidades. Entretanto, pouco é conhecido sobre os efeitos dos impactos antrópicos em interações específicas e suas consequências ecológicas. Este estudo avaliou os resultados do mutualismo entre formigas e NEF em Stachytarpheta glabra em área impactada pela atividade humana. Nós comparamos a composição e estrutura da fauna de artrópodes, em quarenta plantas de dois grupos, um impactado por atividades humanas e o outro preservado. Nós também avaliamos o investimento da planta em defesas contra herbívoros e os danos foliares causados por herbívoros. Nossos resultados indicam que os distúrbios causam a simplificação da fauna associada e a ausência de uma formiga mutualista anti-herbívoros. Isto leva a quatro vezes mais herbivoria nas plantas da área impactada, a despeito da mesma quantidade encontrada para NEF e formigas visitantes. A grande pressão de herbivoria pode dificultar o reestabelecimento de S. glabra, uma espécie pioneira importante nos campos ferruginosos, dessa forma, afetando a resiliência dessa comunidade ecológica ameaçada.(AU)

MACROFAUNA DO SOLO EM ÁREAS DE CAATINGA E CULTIVADA COM CAPIM BUFFEL ASSOCIADA À FONTE DE ESTERCO ANIMAL

A qualidade do solo não deve estar limitada somente a produtividade, mas também envolver a qualidade ambiental, a saúde do homem e dos animais em associação com qualidade do alimento. A fauna do solo vem sendo objeto de estudos que buscam entender os efeitos das ações antrópicas sobre o ambiente e para ser utilizada como bioindicador ambiental. São organismos fundamentais para qualidade do pasto por desempenhar diversos serviços ecossistêmicos em sistemas naturais e domésticos. O pastejo proporciona modificações na composição da fauna edáfica, influenciando a entrada de luz solar, e através dos excrementos depositados. Os excrementos dos animais são fontes naturais de alimento para a fauna do solo, cujo papel é fragmentar e decompor a matéria orgânica desse recurso. Esse processo é fundamental para a qualidade do solo, pois contribui com a reciclagem de nutrientes. A pesquisa foi desenvolvida no Campus de Ciências Agrárias da Universidade Federal do Vale do São Francisco, Petrolina PE, Brasil, que tem como coordenadas geográficas, 09º 23' de latitude sul, 40º 30' de longitude oeste e altitude de 376 m. Segundo a classificação de Köppen, o clima da região apresenta-se como tropical semiárido, tipo BSwh, caracterizado pela escassez e irregularidade da precipitação pluvial, com média anual de 435 mm e temperatura média 24,8 °C. Foram realizados três experimentos utilizando armadilhas de queda, dois deles usando esterco de ruminantes como atrativo nas armadilhas e outro distribuindo esterco curtido no solo, objetivando.... A pesquisa foi realizada em duas áreas de Caatinga e em área de cultivo de capim buffel irrigado. Para os dois primeiros experimentos foi estudada a macrofauna associada ao esterco, em diferentes ciclos do capim buffel. Para o terceiro experimento, foi estudada a macrofauna associada ao esterco em duas coletas no período chuvoso e duas no período de seco, em fragmentos de Caatinga conservada e degradada. No primeiro experimento foram estudadas as fezes de vacas nas formas fresca, seca e reumedecida, como iscas nas armadilhas. No segundo experimento foram estudadas as fezes de vacas, cabras e ovelhas na forma curtida como adubação. No terceiro experimento foram estudadas as fezes frescas de vacas, cabras e ovelhas como iscas nas armadilhas. A avaliação dos dados foi realizada a partir de índices de diversidade (Dominância, Shannon e Pielou) e Análise de Componentes Principais utilizando a versão 4.0 do programa PAST (Paleontological Statistic). No primeiro experimento, o esterco fresco proporcionou melhores resultados e explicou a maior parte da variância dos dados. Os estercos seco e reidratado apresentaram resultados semelhantes. Alguns grupos foram beneficiados pelo corte do capim e outros pela cobertura. A fauna do solo atuou com alta variabilidade em prol de uma estabilização dinâmica. Os Componentes Principais 1 e 2 explicaram 53% da variação dos dados. No segundo experimento não houve diferenças entre os tratamentos, mas houve variação entre os ciclos do capim buffel. Os Componentes Principais 1 e 2 explicaram 56% da variação dos dados. No terceiro experimento o esterco de vacas proporcionou melhores resultados e explicou a maior parte da variância dos dados. Os estercos de cabras e ovelhas resultaram atratividades semelhantes. A área com histórico de conservação revelou maior atratividade da macrofauna aos estercos. Os estercos mostram pontencial para colonização da macrofauna do solo na área com histórico de degradação. O período chuvo favoreceu melhor a atratividade que o período seco. Os Componentes Principais 1 e 2 explicaram 74% da variação dos dados. Os organismos da macrofauna foram influenciados pela sazonalidade das chuvas A relação entre riqueza e abundância foi influenciada pela cobertura vegetal. Eventos de chuva, mesmo na área degradada, proporcionaram um aumento na diversidade da macrofauna. As fezes de ruminantes podem servir para mitigar a fama de agentes de degradação, tendo em vista os benefícios para a fauna edáfica, desde que a produção animal adote a sustentabilidade do uso do solo.

Soil quality should not be limited only to productivity, but also involve environmental quality, human and animal health in association with food quality. Soil fauna has been the subject of studies that seek to understand the effects of anthropic actions on the environment and used as environmental bioindicators. They are fundamental organisms for the quality of pasture because they perform several ecosystem services in natural and domestic systems. Animal grazing provides modifications in the composition of the edaphic fauna when consuming forage, influencing the entry of sunlight, and through the deposited excrement. Animal droppings are natural sources of food for soil fauna, whose role is to fragment and decompose the organic matter of this resource. This process is fundamental to the quality of the soil, as it contributes to the recycling of nutrients. The research was carried out at the Agricultural Sciences Campus of the Federal University of Vale do São Francisco, Petrolina - PE, Brazil, which has as geographical coordinates, 09º 23 'south latitude, 40º 30' west longitude and 376 m altitude. According to the Köppen classification, the region's climate is presented as semi-arid tropical, type BSwh, characterized by the scarcity and irregularity of rainfall with an annual average of 435 mm and an average temperature of 24.8 ° C. Three experiments were carried out using fall traps, two of them using ruminant manure as an attraction in the traps and another distributing tanned manure in the soil. The research was carried out in two areas of Caatinga and in an area of irrigated buffel grass. For the first two experiments, the macrofauna associated with manure in different buffel grass cycles was studied. For the third experiment, macrofauna associated with manure was studied in two collections in the rainy season and two in the dry season in fragments of conserved and degraded Caatinga. In the first experiment, cow feces in fresh, dry and rewetted forms, as baits in traps, were studied. In the second experiment, the feces of cows, goats and sheep in the tanned form as fertilizer were studied. In the third experiment, fresh feces from cows, goats and sheep were studied as baits in the traps. Data evaluation was carried out using diversity indexes (Dominance, Shannon and Pielou) and Principal Component Analysis (PCA), using version 4.0 of the PAST program (Paleontological Statistic). In the first experiment, fresh manure provided better results and explained most of the data variance. The dry and hydrated manure showed similar results. Some groups benefited from cutting the grass and others from the cover. The soil fauna acted with high variability in favor of dynamic stabilization. Principal Components 1 and 2 explained 53% of the data variation. In the second experiment there were no differences between treatments, but there was variation between the buffel grass cycles. Principal Components 1 and 2 explained 56% of the data variation. In the third experiment, cow manure provided better results and explained most of the data variance. The manure of goats and sheep resulted in similar attractiveness. The area with a history of conservation revealed greater attractiveness of the macrofauna to manure. The manure shows potential for colonization of the soil macrofauna in the area with a history of degradation. The rainy season favored attractiveness better than the dry season. Principal Components 1 and 2 explained 74% of the data variation. Macrofauna organisms were influenced by the rain seasonality. The relationship between wealth and abundance was influenced by vegetation cover. Rain events, even in the degraded area, provided an increase in the diversity of macrofauna. Ruminant feces can serve to mitigate the reputation of degradation agents, in view of the benefits for edaphic fauna, as long as animal production adopts the sustainability of land use.

First report of brown widow spider sightings in Peninsular Malaysia and notes on its global distribution

Background: The brown widow spider (Latrodectus geometricus Koch, 1841) has colonised many parts of the world from its continent of origin, Africa. By at least 1841, the species had successfully established populations in South America and has more recently expanded its range to the southern states of North America. This highly adaptable spider has been far more successful in finding its niche around the world than its famous cousins, the black widow, Latrodectus mactans, found in the south-eastern states of North America, and the red-back, Latrodectus hasselti, found mostly in Australia, New Zealand and Japan. Methods: We performed an extensive web search of brown widow sightings and mapped the location of each sighting using ArcGIS. Specimens reputedly of the species L. geometricus were collected at three localities in Peninsular Malaysia. The spiders were identified and documented based on an examination of morphological characteristics and DNA barcoding. Results: The spiders found in Peninsular Malaysia were confirmed to be Latrodectus geometricus based on their morphological characteristics and DNA barcodes. We recorded 354 sightings of the brown widow in 58 countries, including Peninsular Malaysia. Conclusion: Reports from the Americas and the Far East suggest a global-wide invasion of the brown widow spider. Herein we report the arrival of the brown widow spider in Peninsular Malaysia and provide notes on the identification of the species and its recently expanded range.

Doses de dejeto líquido de suínos na comunidade da fauna edáfica em sistema plantio direto e cultivo mínimo / Doses of liquid swine slurry on soil biota community under no tillage and minimum tillage

A elevada produção de dejeto líquido de suínos faz do solo a principal alternativa para a sua utilização na forma de fertilizante orgânico. Contudo, a adição de resíduos orgânicos nos sistemas de manejo do solo é um fator que pode influenciar a biota do solo. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a influencia da aplicação de doses de dejeto líquido de suíno na fauna do solo em diferentes sistemas de cultivos. O trabalho foi desenvolvido em área experimental no município de Taquaruçu do Sul, RS. O delineamento foi em blocos casualisados em arranjo fatorial (2x5), sendo dois sistemas de manejo do solo (mínimo e plantio direto) e cinco doses (0, 20, 40, 80m³ ha-1 de dejeto líquido de suíno e adubação química) com quatro repetições. As coletas da fauna edáfica foram realizadas com armadilhas tipo PROVID, em parcelas de 22,5m². Avaliou-se o total de grupos, colêmbolos, ácaros, abundância, riqueza, índice dominância de Simpson, diversidade de Shannon e o índice de Pielou. Os resultados indicam que o sistema plantio direto associado a 40 e 80m³ ha-1 resultam em maior abundância de organismos, ocasionada pelo maior número de colêmbolos. A população de ácaros é maior no cultivo mínimo, em comparação ao sistema plantio direto na dose de 80m³ ha-1. No sistema plantio direto, a dominância de Simpson aumenta e a diversidade de Shannon diminui com a elevação das doses de dejeto líquido de suíno.(AU)

The high production of liquid pig slurry makes the soil, the main alternative to its use as an organic fertilizer. However, the addition of organic residues in soil management systems is a factor that may influence the soil biota. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of dose application of liquid swine manure on soil biota in different cropping systems. The study was conducted in the experimental area located in the Taquaruçu do Sul. The design was a randomized block factorial arrangement (2x5), two soil management (minimum and no tillage) and five doses (0, 20, 40, 80m³ ha-1 of liquid swine slurry and chemical fertilizer - ROLAS) with four replications. Sampling of soil biota was carried out with PROVID traps in plots of 22.5m². It was evaluated the total group, springtails, mites, abundance, richness, Simpsons index, Shannons diversity and Pielous index. The results indicate that no tillage system associated with 40 and 80m³ ha-1 resulted in a greater abundance of organisms, caused by the greater number of springtails. The mite population is larger in minimum tillage compared to no tillage at a rate of 80m³ ha-1. In no-tillage increases the dominance of Simpson and Shannon diversity decreases with increasing levels of liquid swine manure.(AU)