Analyzing White-rumped Vulture breeding behavior using Markovian modeling

Understanding wildlife behavior, including accurate identification, processing, and interpretation of activities or cues, is important to behavioral biology and corresponding conservation strategies. We characterized the breeding activities of the critically endangered White-rumped Vulture Gyps bengalensis following a sequential pattern from courtship to fledging. We recorded 4,160 visual observations of 20 behaviors of eight pairs of White-rumped Vultures from September 2021­April 2022 and constructed Markov chain models to model three composite behaviors (i.e., breeding, foraging, and roosting). We found that vultures at four nests displayed >70% of the time in breeding behavior, and each nest produced offspring, indicating a potential correlation between breeding behavior and successful reproductive outcomes. Our model explained each composite behavior with high accuracy. Identifying behaviors White-rumped Vulture have practical applications for developing management plans for their conservation, including the timing of critical reproductive events. Our findings and approach can improve our understanding of White-rumped Vulture behavioral ecology and conservation and have applications for other species.(AU)

Biobanks, offspring fitness and the influence of developmental plasticity in conservation biology

Mitigation of the widely known threats to the world's biodiversity is difficult, despite the strategies and actions proposed by international agreements such as the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). Nevertheless, many scientists devote their time and effort to finding and implementing various solutions to the problem. One potential way forward that is gaining popularity involves the establishment of biobank programs aimed at preserving and storing germplasm from threatened species, and then using it to support the future viability and health of threatened populations. This involves developing and using assisted reproductive technologies to achieve their goals. Despite considerable advances in the effectiveness of reproductive technologies, differences between the reproductive behavior and physiology of widely differing taxonomic groups mean that this approach cannot be applied with equal success to many species. Moreover, evidence that epigenetic influences and developmental plasticity, whereby it is now understood that embryonic development, and subsequent health in later life, can be affected by peri-conceptional environmental conditions, is raising the possibility that cryopreservation methods themselves may have to be reviewed and revised when planning the biobanks. Here, I describe the benefits and problems associated with germplasm biobanking across various species, but also offer some realistic assessments of current progress and applications.(AU)

Reproduction cycle of Longtail shad (Tenualosa macrura) in Bengkalis Waters, Riau, Indonesia

Tenualosa macrura is an endangered fish in Riau Province, which is classified as a protected fish. Therefore, the first step is to study the reproductive cycle, aiming o prevent these species from extinction. The observation was carried out for 13 months from January 2019 to February 2020 (except February 2019) in Indonesia's Bengkalis waters. This study's purpose was to determine the spawning season, fecundity, and behavior of this species. The results showed that the relationship between length and weight positively correlates with the length-weight of male T. macrura (R² = 0.84) and female (R² = 0.67), while the length-weight of all males and females were reported to be (R² = 0.95). Meanwhile, the relationship between fecundity and length-weight has no relationship. Furthermore, the spawning season lasted throughout the year, and it occurred at every low tide (dark moon) and high tide (full moon). Despite being discovered occasionally in a limited amount, the greatest amount of T. macrura was reported between July and September each year.(AU)

Breeding and reproductive behaviour of the neo-tropical opossum, Didelphis marsupialis insularis, Allen 1902 under captive conditions / Reprodução e comportamento reprodutivo do gambá neotropical, Didelphis marsupialis insularis, Allen 1902, em condições de cativeiro

Developing a captive breeding system for the widely hunted Caribbean species of opossum Didelphis marsupialis insularis can greatly aide in the management and conservation of this species in the neo-tropics. Although this species possesses ideal traits for captive breeding in this region (tolerance to high heat and humidity, high reproductive rate, and resistance to disease), challenges due to its aggressive behaviour and limited information on its breeding behaviour have prevented a system from being developed for this species. The present study describes a breeding system, and the reproductive behaviour of this species under captive conditions. Six (1 male; 5 females) adult opossums were maintained and managed for breeding over a ten (10) month period. Pouch litter sizes averaged 5±2.5 with a range of 2 to 8. Gestation length was found to be 13.25±0.96 days and 4 litters (n=23) were successfully weaned at 11-13 weeks. It was found that the male D. m. insularis exhibits behaviours of interest that can serve as indicators for receptivity of the female, and overall, that this species can be successfully reared and bred under captive conditions in the neo-tropics.

O desenvolvimento de um sistema de criação em cativeiro para as espécies de gambá do Caribe amplamente caçadas, Didelphis marsupialis insularis, pode auxiliar bastante no manejo e conservação dessa espécie nos neotrópicos. Embora essa espécie possua características ideais para a criação em cativeiro nessa região (tolerância a altas temperaturas e umidade, alta taxa de reprodução e resistência a doenças), alguns fatores, como o seu comportamento agressivo e informações limitadas sobre seu comportamento reprodutivo, impediram o desenvolvimento de um sistema para D. m. insularis. O presente estudo descreve um sistema de criação e o comportamento reprodutivo dessa espécie em condições de cativeiro. Seis gambás adultos (1 macho e 5 fêmeas) foram mantidos para reprodução durante um período de 10 meses. O tamanho da ninhada em bolsa foi em média de 5 ± 2,5 com um intervalo de 2 a 8. A duração da gestação foi de 13,25 ± 0,96 dias, e 4 ninhadas (n = 23) foram desmamadas com sucesso de 11 a 13 semanas. Verificou-se que o macho D. m. insularis exibe comportamentos de interesse que podem servir como indicadores de receptividade da fêmea, e, em geral, essa espécie pode ser criada com sucesso em condições de cativeiro nos neotrópicos.

Reproduction of small ruminants in extreme environments / Reprodução de pequenos ruminantes em ambientes extremos

Os pequenos ruminantes são espécies pouco exigentes e altamente adaptáveis a várias condições ambientais. Por isso, sua distribuição mundial é ampla, encontrando rebanhos desde o nível do mar até 5.000 metros de altitude, em climas quentes e frios, como também em regiões semidesérticas ou chuvosas. Apesar de sua capacidade adaptativa, a exposição a ambientes extremos, como altitudes elevadas e o clima frio subantártico, influenciam negativamente sua eficiência reprodutiva. Neste artigo revisamos os efeitos mais importantes dessas condições extremas sobre várias variáveis reprodutivas em pequenos ruminantes domésticos, analisando alguns mecanismos que medeiam esses efeitos, bem como uma abordagem alternativa que visa melhorar a eficiência reprodutiva nesses ambientes.

Small ruminants are undemanding species and highly adaptable to various environmental conditions. For this reason, they are widely distributed around the world, finding herds from sea level to 5000 meters of altitude, in hot and cold climates, as well as in semi-desert or rainy regions. Despite its adaptive capacity, exposure to extreme environments such as high altitudes and the sub-Antarctic cold climate, negatively influence its reproductive efficiency. In this article we review the most important effects of these extreme conditions on various reproductive variables in small domestic ruminants, analyzing some mechanisms that mediate these effects, as well as an alternative approach aimed to improving reproductive efficiency under these environments.

Effect of different protocols for estrus synchronization on reproductive performance of Santa Inês ewes under Amazon environmental conditions

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of different hormonal protocols on the reproductive performance of Santa Inês ewes in Amazon environmental conditions. Twenty-two Santa Inês ewes between 3 and 4 years-old were distributed in a randomized block experimental design, where the treatments consisted of two protocols for estrus synchronization (short and long) with eleven animals each. Data on the occurrence of estrus were described for each protocol. Data of estrus, pregnancy, and prolificity were firstly subjected to ANOVA and a subsequent Tukeys test. Results were considered significant at p 0.05. The short-term protocol presented an interesting successful rate, where above 70% ewes tested had estrus. The long-term protocol also achieved a high successful rate, where above 80% ewes tested had estrus. However, comparing the protocols, the long-term protocol presented better results of positive estrus and pregnancy rates in ewes. Thus, it can be concluded that both protocols presented satisfactory results regarding estrus manifestation, and prolificity (lambs produced per ewe). However, under Amazon environmental conditions, the long-term protocol presented better results regarding positive manifestation of estrus and pregnancy rate.(AU)

Effect of different protocols for estrus synchronization on reproductive performance of Santa Inês ewes under Amazon environmental conditions

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of different hormonal protocols on the reproductive performance of Santa Inês ewes in Amazon environmental conditions. Twenty-two Santa Inês ewes between 3 and 4 years-old were distributed in a randomized block experimental design, where the treatments consisted of two protocols for estrus synchronization (short and long) with eleven animals each. Data on the occurrence of estrus were described for each protocol. Data of estrus, pregnancy, and prolificity were firstly subjected to ANOVA and a subsequent Tukeys test. Results were considered significant at p 0.05. The short-term protocol presented an interesting successful rate, where above 70% ewes tested had estrus. The long-term protocol also achieved a high successful rate, where above 80% ewes tested had estrus. However, comparing the protocols, the long-term protocol presented better results of positive estrus and pregnancy rates in ewes. Thus, it can be concluded that both protocols presented satisfactory results regarding estrus manifestation, and prolificity (lambs produced per ewe). However, under Amazon environmental conditions, the long-term protocol presented better results regarding positive manifestation of estrus and pregnancy rate.

Impactos do estresse térmico na reprodução de fêmeas bovinas / Heat stress impact on bovine female reproduction

O estresse por calor (ET) ocorre quando a temperatura ambiente excede a zona de conforto térmico animal. Várias respostas corporais inespecíficas, capitaneadas pelos sistemas nervoso, neuroendócrino e imunológico são acionadas para manter a homeostase e resfriar o animal. O ET afeta o eixo hipotálamo-hipofisário-gonadal, comprometendo a liberação de gonadotrofinas, e promove o acúmulo de espécies reativas de oxigênio e proteínas anormais nas células ovarianas. Em resposta, as células ativam mecanismos antioxidantes e de reparação do DNA, que reduzem o metabolismo celular e aumentam as chances de sobrevivência; quando a reparação não é possível, acontece a apoptose. O ET impacta negativamente a produção de estradiol ovariano, o comportamento do estro, o desenvolvimento folicular, a competência dos oócitos e do embrião, as taxas de concepção, o estabelecimento e a manutenção da gravidez e até mesmo a eficiência reprodutiva da progênie. O combate ao ET inclui estratégias de combate ao aquecimento global progressivo e de manejo para resfriar os animais, e diminuir a produção de calor metabólico. O uso de biotecnologia reprodutiva e estratégias genéticas para gerar animais termotolerantes são também essenciais

Heat stress (HS), a harmful condition affecting animal production, reproduction, and welfare, occurs when an animal is exposed to temperatures that exceed its thermal comfort zone. Several nonspecific body responses involving neural, neuroendocrine, and immune systems are triggered to keep homeostasis in such conditions. These responses, primarily directed to cooling the body, also impact the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, compromising the bovine female’s release of gonadotropins. Heat stress also promotes reactive oxygen species accumulation in ovarian cells, impairing protein folding and refolding, triggering antioxidant and DNA protection mechanisms. These mechanisms, directed to reduce cell metabolism and increase survival chances, are not always sufficient to protect the cell and result in apoptosis. Heat stress’s systemic and cellular consequences impact ovarian estradiol production, estrous behaviors, follicular development, oocytes and embryo competence, conception rates, pregnancy establishment and maintenance, and even the future reproductive efficiency of the progenies of cows exposed to HS during pregnancy. The combat of heat stress includes strategies to alleviate the effect of progressive global warming, management strategies to cool the animals, reduced metabolic heat, and methane production dietary approaches. The use of reproductive biotechs and genetic strategies to increase thermotolerant animals are also critical to overcoming the harmful effect of HS.

Por que a IATF é uma ferramenta imprescindível para se otimizar a eficiência reprodutiva em rebanhos leiteiros? / Why is FTAI an essential tool to optimize reproductive efficiency in dairy herds?

A inseminação artificial em tempo fixo (IATF) é uma estratégia revolucionária, capaz de otimizar os índices reprodutivos e a logística de fazendas leiteiras, impactando diretamente na rentabilidade do sistema produtivo. A IATF possibilita a intensificação do manejo reprodutivo, por garantir que um maior número de vacas receba a primeira inseminação pós-parto logo após o período de espera voluntário, sem a necessidade da detecção de estro. De modo semelhante, essa estratégia também permite intensificar as re-inseminações de vacas que não ficaram gestantes após o último serviço, garantindo um menor intervalo entre inseminações. Desta forma, a IATF impacta positivamente na taxa de serviço do rebanho, aumentando as chances de emprenhar as vacas mais cedo durante a lactação, o que está diretamente associado à eficiência reprodutiva e rentabilidade da fazenda. Além disso, programas otimizados de IATF garantem maior prenhez/IA, ou seja, maior fertilidade se comparados a estratégias de inseminação em estro. Isso se deve à capacidade do protocolo de IATF ajustado de otimizar a sincronização das fêmeas, garantindo um ambiente endócrino adequado durante o desenvolvimento e ovulação do folículo, resultando em maior fertilidade. Em suma, por aumentar a taxa de serviço e a fertilidade, programas ajustados de IATF proporcionam maior taxa de prenhez a cada 21 dias, principal indicador de eficiência reprodutiva do rebanho. Portanto, implementação sistemática de programas reprodutivos ajustados, baseados na utilização da IATF, é imprescindível para o sucesso das fazendas leiteiras.

Study of sexual behaviours with different types of estrus synchronization protocols in Boer goats

There is still a lack of information on estrus synchronization in goats. Understanding the estrus synchronization protocols and the subsequent effects is important to improve the efficiency of assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) and subsequently would improve the breeding procedures. This study will help in determining the most suitable estrus synchronization protocol and understand better the effect on the sexual behaviour and hormonal effects in goats. A total of 127 Boer does were used and divided into three groups with different duration of CIDR insertion intravaginally either for 14 (two groups) or 9 days (one group). Approximately 0.5 ml Estrumate® (PG) was administered intramuscularly to all groups at CIDR removal, and only groups PMSG14 and PMSG9 were administered with 200IU of Pregnant Mare Serum Gonadotropin (PMSG) intramuscularly. Estrus signs were observed at 4 h intervals and blood samples were collected for progesterone and luteinizing hormone determination. The percentage of does in estrus within 24 to 72 h post CIDR removal was significantly higher (P0.05) in all groups. The time of the LH peak in the group without the PMSG was significantly delayed (P

Aspects of the reproductive ecology of Trachycephalus cunauaru (Anura: Hylidae) in the southern Amazon / Aspectos da ecologia reprodutiva de Trachycephalus cunauaru (Anura: Hylidae) na Amazônia meridional

Trachycephalus cunauaru is an Amazonian hylid that uses phytotelmata to reproduce. There is relatively little information about the species, mainly due to the difficulty of accessing their reproductive sites. In this study, we gathered data on the ecology and natural history of T. cunauaru in the southern Amazon, in the state of Mato Grosso, Brazil. In addition to natural phytotelmata, we used buckets installed at a height of 10 m as artificial phytotelmata. We compared physical and chemical characteristics, as well as the presence of tadpoles between natural and artificial phytotelmata. We also collected data on the reproductive behavior of the species through the use of camera traps. We recorded a density of 14.1 reproductive sites per km². Environmental parameters differed significantly between artificial and natural phytotelmata. In artificial sites, the presence of tadpoles was directly related to trees with a larger diameter. We registered oophagy for the first time for the species and observed that males can use more than one phytotelm. We also recorded the presence of snakes within the reproductive sites. We determined that artificial sites and digital camera traps are a satisfactory alternative for behavioral observations of T. cunauaru and possibly for other species with a similar habit.(AU)

Trachycephalus cunauaru é um hilídeo amazônico que utiliza fitotelmatas para se reproduzir. Existem relativamente poucas informações sobre a espécie, principalmente devido à dificuldade de acesso aos seus sítios reprodutivos. Nesse trabalho, reunimos dados de ecologia e história natural de T. cunauaru em uma área da Amazônia meridional, no estado de Mato Grosso, Brasil. Além de fitotelmatas naturais, utilizamos baldes instalados a uma altura de 10 m como fitotelmatas artificiais. Comparamos características físicas e químicas, bem como a presença e ausência de girinos, entre fitotelmatas naturais e artificiais. Também coletamos dados sobre o comportamento reprodutivo da espécie por meio de armadilhas fotográficas. Registramos uma densidade de 14,1 sítios reprodutivos por km2. Os parâmetros ambientais diferiram significativamente entre fitotelmatas artificiais e naturais. Em sítios artificiais a presença de girinos esteve diretamente relacionada à árvores com maior diâmetro. Registramos, pela primeira vez, oofagia para a espécie e observamos que machos podem utilizar mais de um fitotelmata. Também registramos a presença de cobras nos sítios reprodutivos. Constatamos que sítios artificiais e armadilhas fotográficas representam uma alternativa satisfatória para registros comportamentais para T. cunauaru e, possivelmente, para outras espécies com hábitos similares.(AU)

Breeding behavior of the Helmeted Manakin Antilophia galeata (Passeriformes: Pipridae) in a gallery forest from São Paulo state, Brazil

Informações sobre a biologia reprodutiva da maioria das aves neotropicais e comparações interpopulacionais são insuficientes. O Manakin de Capacete, Antilophia galeata(Lichtenstein, 1823), é um passeriforme de sub-bosque comumente encontrado nas matas de galeria do bioma Cerrado tipo savana tropical. Fornecemos informações sobre a fenologia de nidificação, ciclo de nidificação, ninhos, ovos, filhotes e características do local de nidificação de uma população de Manakin-de-capacete no estado de São Paulo, sudeste do Brasil. Durante duas estações reprodutivas encontramos 16 ninhos ativos e 30 ninhos inativos. As atividades reprodutivas ocorreram de meados de agosto a meados de janeiro, e os ninhos foram construídos em arbustos e mudas no sub-bosque da floresta, 0,45-3,48 m acima do solo (1,56 ± 0,66 m). O tamanho da ninhada foi de dois ovos, que foram colocados em intervalos de um a três dias. Foram observados três padrões notáveis ​​de variação de coloração e marcação dos ovos entre as ninhadas. O período de incubação de dois ninhos foi de 18 e 19 dias, e os períodos de nidificação foram de 16,3 ± 0. 6 dias (16-17 dias, n = 3 ninhos). A sobrevivência aparente do ninho de 11 ninhos cuidadosamente monitorados foi de 36,4%. Além da primeira descrição das variações do padrão de ovos entre ninhadas, as seguintes informações diferem dos dados anteriores da literatura: intervalo de postura e períodos de nidificação. Nossos dados contribuem para o conhecimento geral das variações nos parâmetros de reprodução do Manakin de Capacete.(AU)

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

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

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

The neuroendocrine pathways and mechanisms for the control of the reproduction in female pigs

Within the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonad (HPG) axis, the major hierarchical component is gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons, which directly or indirectly receive regulatory inputs from a wide array of regulatory signals and pathways, involving numerous circulating hormones, neuropeptides, and neurotransmitters, and which operate as a final output for the brain control of reproduction. In recent years, there has been an increasing interest in neuropeptides that have the potential to stimulate or inhibit GnRH in the hypothalamus of pigs. Among them, Kisspeptin is a key component in the precise regulation of GnRH neuron secretion activity. Besides, other neuropeptides, including neurokinin B (NKB), neuromedin B (NMB), neuromedin S (NMS), α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH), Phoenixin (PNX), show potential for having a stimulating effect on GnRH neurons. On the contrary, RFamide-related peptide-3 (RFRP-3), endogenous opioid peptides (EOP), neuropeptide Y (NPY), and Galanin (GAL) may play an inhibitory role in the regulation of porcine reproductive nerves and may directly or indirectly regulate GnRH neurons. By combining data from suitable model species and pigs, we aim to provide a comprehensive summary of our current understanding of the neuropeptides acting on GnRH neurons, with a particular focus on their central regulatory pathways and underlying molecular basis.(AU)

Breeding biology of Long-tailed Cinclodes Cinclodes pabsti Sick, 1969 (Passeriformes: Furnariidae)

Cinclodes pabsti is an endemic passerine restricted to the highland areas in southern Brazil. The aim of this study was to provide information on its breeding biology. The nesting cavities along road cuts were monitored from May 2008 to March 2011. The survey was carried out monthly from May to July 2008, February to July 2009, 2010 (non-breeding season), weekly from August 2008 to January 2009, 2010 (breeding season), and on a 2 to 4-days basis from August 2010 to January 2011. The geographic location, physical characteristics, and soil/substrate type in which the nesting cavities were situated were recorded. The total number of cavities used in the three breeding seasons was 136, resulting in 295 nests. The distance of a nest to its nearest neighbor ranged from 24-2,368 m, with a higher number of nests (n = 34; 59.7%) in the distance interval of 24-500 m. There was a greater usage of cavities located in Inceptisols, and the distances of nesting cavity entrances to the ground and to the top of road cuts were 1.6 ± 0.9 m and 0.8 ± 0.62 m, respectively. The breeding season lasted 148 days from mid-August to early January. Clutch size (n = 256) varied from 2 to 3 eggs, and the eggs (n = 155) had a total length of 27.2 ± 1.3 mm, breadth of 20.9 ± 0.8 mm, and mass of 6.2 ± 0.7 g. The incubation phase lasted 17.3 ± 0.8 days and the nestling phase for 18.3 ± 1.5 days. The body mass of the chicks was 6.0 ± 1.0 g just after hatching and reached a maximum of 59.6 ± 2.4 g at 16 days of age. Our results can contribute to filling the gaps in knowledge of C. pabsti ecology, because its habitat is under high anthropic pressures and the information on its life history is yet limited.(AU)

Study of sexual behaviours with different types of estrus synchronization protocols in Boer goats

There is still a lack of information on estrus synchronization in goats. Understanding the estrus synchronization protocols and the subsequent effects is important to improve the efficiency of assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) and subsequently would improve the breeding procedures. This study will help in determining the most suitable estrus synchronization protocol and understand better the effect on the sexual behaviour and hormonal effects in goats. A total of 127 Boer does were used and divided into three groups with different duration of CIDR insertion intravaginally either for 14 (two groups) or 9 days (one group). Approximately 0.5 ml Estrumate® (PG) was administered intramuscularly to all groups at CIDR removal, and only groups PMSG14 and PMSG9 were administered with 200IU of Pregnant Mare Serum Gonadotropin (PMSG) intramuscularly. Estrus signs were observed at 4 h intervals and blood samples were collected for progesterone and luteinizing hormone determination. The percentage of does in estrus within 24 to 72 h post CIDR removal was significantly higher (P0.05) in all groups. The time of the LH peak in the group without the PMSG was significantly delayed (P(AU)

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

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

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

Seminal features and reproductive index of Thai tilapia (Oreochromis sp. )on different reproductive periods

Learning about the biology of the species is essential to the success of intensive farming. This study aimed to evaluate the semen of Thai tilapia during the four seasons of the year and thereby analyze their reproductive indices. Thus, 60 breeding males of Tilapia were used and were randomly divided into four water tanks and fed with isoproteic and isocaloric feed. The experiment lasted 12 months, starting from October 2014 and ending on September 2015. Thus, it was possible to collect sperm material of animals during the four seasons, twice a month, as well as to evaluate the water quality parameters in the tanks (temperature, pH and dissolved oxygen). The semen was evaluated from a light microscope in an increase of 100 x, then was activated with water. Motility was measured subjectively in the light microscope, as well as the percentage of sperm showing progressive motility. The duration was evaluated with the addition of a timer. For analysis of the morphology of the semen, the test consisted of morphopathology observation of 100 sperm focused in various fields throughout the slide in the light microscope. Once obtained, these data were analyzed through ANOVA and Tukey test as post-hoc analysis, with the help of the software R Statistics. Water quality factors (temperature, pH and2dissolved) were acceptable and during the 12 month period the sperm of tilapia (Oreochromis sp.) had a good ability for fertilization, seen that it performed below the averageof the percentage of critical abnormalities, and quality was perceived by the parameters that also influence fertilization (motility rate, duration of motility and vigor).

Understanding how environmental factors influence reproductive aspects of wild myomorphic and hystricomorphic rodents

Myomorphic and hystricomorphic rodents are vital for maintaining various ecosystems around the planet. This review enables a better understanding of how these rodents respond to environmental factors and adapt to climate adversities. Innumerable factors, such as photoperiod, rainfall, and temperature, can impair or contribute to the quality of rodent reproductive parameters. Prolonged animal exposure to high ambient temperatures alters thermoregulation mechanisms and causes testicular and ovarian tissue degeneration and hormonal deregulation. Photoperiod influences the biological circannual rhythm and reproductive cycles of rodents because it strongly regulates melatonin secretion by the pineal gland, which modulates gonadotropic hormone secretion. Rainfall quantity directly regulates the abundance of fruits in an ecosystem, which modulates the reproductive seasonality of species which are most dependent on a seasonal fruit-based diet. Species with a more diversified fruit diet have smaller reproductive seasonality. As such, habitats are chosen by animals for various reasons, including the availability of food, sexual partners, intra-and inter-specific competition, and predation. This knowledge allows us to monitor and establish management plans to aid in conservation strategies for wild rodent species.(AU)

Seminal features and reproductive index of Thai tilapia (Oreochromis sp. )on different reproductive periods

Learning about the biology of the species is essential to the success of intensive farming. This study aimed to evaluate the semen of Thai tilapia during the four seasons of the year and thereby analyze their reproductive indices. Thus, 60 breeding males of Tilapia were used and were randomly divided into four water tanks and fed with isoproteic and isocaloric feed. The experiment lasted 12 months, starting from October 2014 and ending on September 2015. Thus, it was possible to collect sperm material of animals during the four seasons, twice a month, as well as to evaluate the water quality parameters in the tanks (temperature, pH and dissolved oxygen). The semen was evaluated from a light microscope in an increase of 100 x, then was activated with water. Motility was measured subjectively in the light microscope, as well as the percentage of sperm showing progressive motility. The duration was evaluated with the addition of a timer. For analysis of the morphology of the semen, the test consisted of morphopathology observation of 100 sperm focused in various fields throughout the slide in the light microscope. Once obtained, these data were analyzed through ANOVA and Tukey test as post-hoc analysis, with the help of the software R Statistics. Water quality factors (temperature, pH and2dissolved) were acceptable and during the 12 month period the sperm of tilapia (Oreochromis sp.) had a good ability for fertilization, seen that it performed below the averageof the percentage of critical abnormalities, and quality was perceived by the parameters that also influence fertilization (motility rate, duration of motility and vigor).(AU)