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)

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)

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)

Manejo reprodutivo de quero-quero, Vanellus chilensis (molina, 1782), sob cuidados humanos / Reproductive management of quero-quero, Vanellus chilensis (molina, 1782), under human care

Pertencente à família Charadriidae, o quero-quero (Vanellus chilensis) ocorre da América Central até a América do Sul, sendo bastante tolerante a locais antropizados. Em cativeiro, os filhotes da espécie ainda não são mantidos sem os cuidados parentais, desta forma o presente trabalho propôs criar um protocolo de manejo sob cuidados humanos para estes filhotes. Para este estudo, foi comparado o desenvolvimento de filhotes neste novo protocolo com o de filhotes em vida livre, utilizando um total de treze filhotes. A alimentação sob cuidados humanos foi composta por ração MegaZoo® O-20, ovo cozido e larvas de besouro tenébrio (Tenebrio mollitor) vivas. Como resultado, os filhotes em cativeiro alcançaram uma maior massa corporal e um melhor índice de sobrevivência. Tais discrepâncias foram decorrentes da ausência de predadores, da dieta e da pouca atividade encontrada no ambiente sob cuidados humanos. Pode-se concluir que o manejo sugerido no presente trabalho obteve êxito na manutenção dos filhotes sob cuidados humanos, porém necessita de trabalhos complementares voltados a um melhor condicionamento e ambientação dos filhotes.(AU)

Belonging to the Charadriidae family, the southern lapwing (Vanellus chilensis) occurs from Central to South America, being quite tolerant of anthropized sites. Under captivity, the chick of the species are still not kept without parental care, in this way the present work proposed to create a protocol of management under human care for these chicks. For this study, we compared the development of chicks in this new protocol with free-living chicks, using a total of thirteen chicks. Feeding under human care was composed of MegaZoo® O-20 ration, boiled egg and live beetle larvae (Tenebrio mollitor). As a result, chicks in captivity achieved a higher body mass and a better survival rate. Such discrepancies were due to the absence of predators, diet and low activity found in the environment under human care. In general, it can be concluded that the present work succeed in keep the chicks under human care, but complementary work are needed aimeing at better conditioning and setting of the chicks.(AU)

Manejo reprodutivo de quero-quero, Vanellus chilensis (molina, 1782), sob cuidados humanos / Reproductive management of quero-quero, Vanellus chilensis (molina, 1782), under human care

Pertencente à família Charadriidae, o quero-quero (Vanellus chilensis) ocorre da América Central até a América do Sul, sendo bastante tolerante a locais antropizados. Em cativeiro, os filhotes da espécie ainda não são mantidos sem os cuidados parentais, desta forma o presente trabalho propôs criar um protocolo de manejo sob cuidados humanos para estes filhotes. Para este estudo, foi comparado o desenvolvimento de filhotes neste novo protocolo com o de filhotes em vida livre, utilizando um total de treze filhotes. A alimentação sob cuidados humanos foi composta por ração MegaZoo® O-20, ovo cozido e larvas de besouro tenébrio (Tenebrio mollitor) vivas. Como resultado, os filhotes em cativeiro alcançaram uma maior massa corporal e um melhor índice de sobrevivência. Tais discrepâncias foram decorrentes da ausência de predadores, da dieta e da pouca atividade encontrada no ambiente sob cuidados humanos. Pode-se concluir que o manejo sugerido no presente trabalho obteve êxito na manutenção dos filhotes sob cuidados humanos, porém necessita de trabalhos complementares voltados a um melhor condicionamento e ambientação dos filhotes.

Belonging to the Charadriidae family, the southern lapwing (Vanellus chilensis) occurs from Central to South America, being quite tolerant of anthropized sites. Under captivity, the chick of the species are still not kept without parental care, in this way the present work proposed to create a protocol of management under human care for these chicks. For this study, we compared the development of chicks in this new protocol with free-living chicks, using a total of thirteen chicks. Feeding under human care was composed of MegaZoo® O-20 ration, boiled egg and live beetle larvae (Tenebrio mollitor). As a result, chicks in captivity achieved a higher body mass and a better survival rate. Such discrepancies were due to the absence of predators, diet and low activity found in the environment under human care. In general, it can be concluded that the present work succeed in keep the chicks under human care, but complementary work are needed aimeing at better conditioning and setting of the chicks.

Parâmetros reprodutivos após indução de estro com diferentes intervalos de permanência do dispositivo vaginal em cabras Toggenburg acíclicas / Reproductive parameters after induction of estrus with different ranges of the vaginal device in acyclic Toggenburg goats

Este estudo objetivou avaliar o comportamento sexual e a dinâmica ovulatória de cabras da raça Toggenburg após a indução do estro com dispositivo intravaginal de progesterona durante seis, nove e 12 dias de permanência. No momento da inserção do dispositivo e 24 horas antes da retirada do dispositivo, foi administrado 5mg de dinoprost e 200UI de eCG, respectivamente. A dinâmica ovulatória foi acompanhada por ultrassonografia a cada oito horas, enquanto o estro foi observado a cada 12 horas. Todas as cabras apresentaram estro. O intervalo da retirada do dispositivo ao início do estro foi de 29,5 ± 9,6 para G6dias; 34,0 ± 6,0 e 32,4 ± 7,7h, G9dias e G12dias, respectivamente. Igualmente, foi encontrada diferença (P<0,05) entre o G6dias e os outros grupos. A duração do estro diferiu (P<0,05) entre o G6dias (36,0 ± 12,6) e os outros dois grupos (G9dias: 31,2 ± 14,3; G12dias: 33,4 ± 8,6). A taxa de ovulação (81%; 89,5% e; 71,4%), intervalo da retirada do dispositivo à ovulação (50,5 ± 11,4; 46,3 ± 5,9 e; 46,7 ± 8,3), diâmetro do maior folículo (6,6 ± 0,3; 6,6 ± 0,9 e; 6,9 ± 0,8) diâmetro do segundo maior folículo (6,4 ± 0,7; 6,6 ± 0,8 e; 6,8 ± 0,6) e o número de folículos ovulados (1,5 ± 0,6; 1,7 ± 0,6 e 2,0 ± 0,9) para G6dias, G9dias e G12dias, respectivamente, foram semelhantes (P>0,05). Todos os protocolos foram eficientes em induzir o estro sincronizado em cabras da raça Toggenburg, trabalhando em conjunto com a eficiência reprodutiva e produtiva desses animais.(AU)

This study aimed to evaluate the sexual behavior and the ovulatory dynamics of Toggenburg goats after induction of synchronized estrus by an intravaginal progesterone device for six, nine and twelve days. At the device insertion and 24 h before the device removal, 5mg of dinoprost and 200 UI of eCG was administered, respectively. The ovulatory dynamics was assessed by ultrasound every 8 h, while the sexual behavior was observed every 12 h. All goats showed estrus. The intervals from device removal to estrus were 29.5 ± 9.7, 34.0 ± 6.0 and 32.4 ± 7.7h to G6days, G9days and G12days, respectively. Iqually, it was found difference (P<0.05) among G6days and the other groups. The duration of estrus differed (P<0.05) among the G6days (36.0 ± 12.6) and the other two groups (G9days: 31.2 ± 14.3; G12days: 33.4 ± 8.6). The ovulation rate (81.0%; 89.5% and; 71.4%); the interval from device removal to ovulation (50.5 ± 11.4; 46.3 ± 5.9 and; 46.7 ± 8.3), the diameter of the largest follicle (6.6 ± 0.3; 6.6 ± 0.9 and; 6.9 ± 0.8), diameter of the second largest follicle (6.4 ± 0.7; 6.6 ± 0.8 and; 6.8 ± 0.6) and the number of ovulations (1.5 ± 0.6; 1.7 ± 0.6 and; 2.0 ± 0.9) for G6days, G9days and G12days, respectively, were similar (P>0.05). All treatments were effective for the induction of synchronized estrus in Toggenburg goats, working jointly with the reproductive and productive efficiency of these animals.(AU)

Impact of vaccination on the reproductive performance of multiparous Nellore cows / Impacto da vacinação sobre o desempenho reprodutivo de vacas Nelore multíparas

Two experiments were conducted to evaluate the impact of two vaccines on the reproductive performance of multiparous beef cows in Mato Grosso do Sul, Midwest Brazil. In Experiment 1,765 calved multiparous Nellore cows were subjected to the same fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI) protocol and rebred. Ultrasound pregnancy diagnosis was performed 30 and 90 days post-FTAI (DPI). Rates of pregnancy and pregnancy loss were determined for three periods: from 30 to 90 DPI, from 30 DPI to calving, and from 90 DPI to calving. The cows were assigned to three groups with different vaccination protocols - namely, Group VACMULT (n=250): vaccine against bovine herpesvirus 1 (BoHV-1), bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV), and leptospirosis; Group VACL (n=245): vaccine against leptospirosis alone; Group NOVAC (n=270): no vaccination. Serum antibody titers for BoHV-1, BVDV, and leptospirosis, measured in 57 cows from each group indicated active infection, suggesting circulation of these pathogens in the herd. No differences in pregnancy rates were observed across groups. Pregnancy loss rates did not differ significantly across groups within any of the periods investigated (30 to 90 DPI, 30 DPI to calving, or 90 DPI to calving). In Experiment 2, two vaccination protocols for each vaccine were investigated. Group VACGEST was vaccinated on day zero of FTAI (D0) and again 30 days post-FTAI (30 DPI). Group VACPREV was vaccinated on D0 and again on the day of insemination (D11). No significant difference was observed between groups, or significant gestational loss in the group that received the second vaccine on the day of insemination. The results revealed that neither vaccine interfered with the reproductive performance of multiparous cows. No differences were observed between vaccination carried out on both D0 and D11 and that performed on both D0 and D30. The performance of the IBR/BVDV/Leptospirosis vaccine on the day of the artificial insemination did not cause adverse effects on the reproductive parameters.(AU)

Foram delineados dois experimentos para avaliar o impacto de duas vacinas no desempenho reprodutivo de vacas multíparas de bovinos de corte em Mato Grosso do Sul, Centro-Oeste do Brasil. No Experimento 1 foram utilizadas 765 vacas multíparas paridas da raça Nelore submetidas ao mesmo protocolo de inseminação artificial em tempo fixo (IATF) e repassadas por touros. O diagnóstico de gestação por ultrassonografia foi realizado aos 30 e 90 dias pós IATF. A prenhez e a taxa de perda de gestação foram determinadas para três períodos: de 30 a 90 DPI, de 30 DPI até para o parto e de 90 DPI até o parto. As vacas foram distribuídas em três grupos: grupo VACMULT (n=250), vacinado com vacina contra herpesvírus bovino tipo 1 (BoHV-1), vírus da diarreia viral bovina (BVDV) e leptospirose; grupo VACL (n=245), vacinado somente contra leptospirose; e grupo NOVAC (n=270), não vacinado. Títulos de anticorpos no soro de 57 vacas de cada grupo evidenciaram infecção por BoHV-1, BVDV e leptospirose, sugerindo circulação desses patógenos no rebanho. No diagnóstico por ultrassonografia, a prenhez não diferiu em nenhum dos três grupos. A taxa de perda de gestação não diferiu significantemente entre os grupos e dentro de qualquer um dos períodos investigados (30 a 90 DPI, 30 DPI até o parto ou 90 DPI até o parto). No Experimento 2 foram testados dois protocolos de vacinação usando as vacinas contra IBR/BVDV/leptospirose e somente contra leptospirose em ambos. No grupo VACGEST as vacas foram vacinas no dia zero (D0) do protocolo da IATF e 30 dias pós- IATF (30 DPI). No grupo VACPREV a primeira dose foi administrada no D0 e a segunda no mesmo dia da IATF (D11). Não houve diferença significativa entre os grupos, nem perda gestacional significativa no grupo que recebeu a segunda vacina no dia da inseminação (VACPREV). Os resultados mostram que as vacinas contra IBR/BVDV/leptospirose e somente contra leptospirose não interferiram no desempenho reprodutivo de vacas multíparas. Não houve diferença significativa entre o protocolo de vacinação empregado em D0 e D11 e aquele utilizado em D0 e 30 DPI. A realização da vacina contra IBR/BVD/leptospirose no dia da inseminação artificial não provocou efeitos adversos nos parâmetros reprodutivos.(AU)

Parâmetros reprodutivos após indução de estro com diferentes intervalos de permanência do dispositivo vaginal em cabras Toggenburg acíclicas / Reproductive parameters after induction of estrus with different ranges of the vaginal device in acyclic Toggenburg goats

Este estudo objetivou avaliar o comportamento sexual e a dinâmica ovulatória de cabras da raça Toggenburg após a indução do estro com dispositivo intravaginal de progesterona durante seis, nove e 12 dias de permanência. No momento da inserção do dispositivo e 24 horas antes da retirada do dispositivo, foi administrado 5mg de dinoprost e 200UI de eCG, respectivamente. A dinâmica ovulatória foi acompanhada por ultrassonografia a cada oito horas, enquanto o estro foi observado a cada 12 horas. Todas as cabras apresentaram estro. O intervalo da retirada do dispositivo ao início do estro foi de 29,5 ± 9,6 para G6dias; 34,0 ± 6,0 e 32,4 ± 7,7h, G9dias e G12dias, respectivamente. Igualmente, foi encontrada diferença (P<0,05) entre o G6dias e os outros grupos. A duração do estro diferiu (P<0,05) entre o G6dias (36,0 ± 12,6) e os outros dois grupos (G9dias: 31,2 ± 14,3; G12dias: 33,4 ± 8,6). A taxa de ovulação (81%; 89,5% e; 71,4%), intervalo da retirada do dispositivo à ovulação (50,5 ± 11,4; 46,3 ± 5,9 e; 46,7 ± 8,3), diâmetro do maior folículo (6,6 ± 0,3; 6,6 ± 0,9 e; 6,9 ± 0,8) diâmetro do segundo maior folículo (6,4 ± 0,7; 6,6 ± 0,8 e; 6,8 ± 0,6) e o número de folículos ovulados (1,5 ± 0,6; 1,7 ± 0,6 e 2,0 ± 0,9) para G6dias, G9dias e G12dias, respectivamente, foram semelhantes (P>0,05). Todos os protocolos foram eficientes em induzir o estro sincronizado em cabras da raça Toggenburg, trabalhando em conjunto com a eficiência reprodutiva e produtiva desses animais.(AU)

This study aimed to evaluate the sexual behavior and the ovulatory dynamics of Toggenburg goats after induction of synchronized estrus by an intravaginal progesterone device for six, nine and twelve days. At the device insertion and 24 h before the device removal, 5mg of dinoprost and 200 UI of eCG was administered, respectively. The ovulatory dynamics was assessed by ultrasound every 8 h, while the sexual behavior was observed every 12 h. All goats showed estrus. The intervals from device removal to estrus were 29.5 ± 9.7, 34.0 ± 6.0 and 32.4 ± 7.7h to G6days, G9days and G12days, respectively. Iqually, it was found difference (P<0.05) among G6days and the other groups. The duration of estrus differed (P<0.05) among the G6days (36.0 ± 12.6) and the other two groups (G9days: 31.2 ± 14.3; G12days: 33.4 ± 8.6). The ovulation rate (81.0%; 89.5% and; 71.4%); the interval from device removal to ovulation (50.5 ± 11.4; 46.3 ± 5.9 and; 46.7 ± 8.3), the diameter of the largest follicle (6.6 ± 0.3; 6.6 ± 0.9 and; 6.9 ± 0.8), diameter of the second largest follicle (6.4 ± 0.7; 6.6 ± 0.8 and; 6.8 ± 0.6) and the number of ovulations (1.5 ± 0.6; 1.7 ± 0.6 and; 2.0 ± 0.9) for G6days, G9days and G12days, respectively, were similar (P>0.05). All treatments were effective for the induction of synchronized estrus in Toggenburg goats, working jointly with the reproductive and productive efficiency of these animals.(AU)

Impact of vaccination on the reproductive performance of multiparous Nellore cows / Impacto da vacinação sobre o desempenho reprodutivo de vacas Nelore multíparas

Two experiments were conducted to evaluate the impact of two vaccines on the reproductive performance of multiparous beef cows in Mato Grosso do Sul, Midwest Brazil. In Experiment 1,765 calved multiparous Nellore cows were subjected to the same fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI) protocol and rebred. Ultrasound pregnancy diagnosis was performed 30 and 90 days post-FTAI (DPI). Rates of pregnancy and pregnancy loss were determined for three periods: from 30 to 90 DPI, from 30 DPI to calving, and from 90 DPI to calving. The cows were assigned to three groups with different vaccination protocols - namely, Group VACMULT (n=250): vaccine against bovine herpesvirus 1 (BoHV-1), bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV), and leptospirosis; Group VACL (n=245): vaccine against leptospirosis alone; Group NOVAC (n=270): no vaccination. Serum antibody titers for BoHV-1, BVDV, and leptospirosis, measured in 57 cows from each group indicated active infection, suggesting circulation of these pathogens in the herd. No differences in pregnancy rates were observed across groups. Pregnancy loss rates did not differ significantly across groups within any of the periods investigated (30 to 90 DPI, 30 DPI to calving, or 90 DPI to calving). In Experiment 2, two vaccination protocols for each vaccine were investigated. Group VACGEST was vaccinated on day zero of FTAI (D0) and again 30 days post-FTAI (30 DPI). Group VACPREV was vaccinated on D0 and again on the day of insemination (D11). No significant difference was observed between groups, or significant gestational loss in the group that received the second vaccine on the day of insemination. The results revealed that neither vaccine interfered with the reproductive performance of multiparous cows. No differences were observed between vaccination carried out on both D0 and D11 and that performed on both D0 and D30... (AU)

Foram delineados dois experimentos para avaliar o impacto de duas vacinas no desempenho reprodutivo de vacas multíparas de bovinos de corte em Mato Grosso do Sul, Centro-Oeste do Brasil. No Experimento 1 foram utilizadas 765 vacas multíparas paridas da raça Nelore submetidas ao mesmo protocolo de inseminação artificial em tempo fixo (IATF) e repassadas por touros. O diagnóstico de gestação por ultrassonografia foi realizado aos 30 e 90 dias pós IATF. A prenhez e a taxa de perda de gestação foram determinadas para três períodos: de 30 a 90 DPI, de 30 DPI até para o parto e de 90 DPI até o parto. As vacas foram distribuídas em três grupos: grupo VACMULT (n=250), vacinado com vacina contra herpesvírus bovino tipo 1 (BoHV-1), vírus da diarreia viral bovina (BVDV) e leptospirose; grupo VACL (n=245), vacinado somente contra leptospirose; e grupo NOVAC (n=270), não vacinado. Títulos de anticorpos no soro de 57 vacas de cada grupo evidenciaram infecção por BoHV-1, BVDV e leptospirose, sugerindo circulação desses patógenos no rebanho. No diagnóstico por ultrassonografia, a prenhez não diferiu em nenhum dos três grupos. A taxa de perda de gestação não diferiu significantemente entre os grupos e dentro de qualquer um dos períodos investigados (30 a 90 DPI, 30 DPI até o parto ou 90 DPI até o parto). No Experimento 2 foram testados dois protocolos de vacinação usando as vacinas contra IBR/BVDV/leptospirose e somente contra leptospirose em ambos. No grupo VACGEST as vacas foram vacinas no dia zero (D0) do protocolo da IATF e 30 dias pós- IATF (30 DPI). No grupo VACPREV a primeira dose foi administrada no D0 e a segunda no mesmo dia da IATF (D11). Não houve diferença significativa entre os grupos, nem perda gestacional significativa no grupo que recebeu a segunda vacina no dia da inseminação (VACPREV). Os resultados mostram que as vacinas contra IBR/BVDV/leptospirose e somente contra leptospirose não interferiram no desempenho reprodutivo de vacas multíparas...(AU)

Intrinsic and extrinsic factors that influence ovarian environment and efficiency of reproduction in cattle

The emergent concepts on ovary environment,reproductive physiology and the development ofpharmacology are constantly supporting the advance ofassisted reproduction. Within the last years, thebiotechnics related to the synchronization of folliculardevelopment and the manipulation of bovine estruscycle have progressed rapidly and consistently. Thecombined use of timed-artificial insemination (TAI),superovulation (SOV), ovum pick up (OPU), in vitroembryo production (IVEP) and timed-embryo transfer(TET) has a great potential to improve reproductiveoutcomes and disseminate selected genetics,diminishing the interval of generations and improvingherds genetic gain. However, several factors canpotentially affect the efficiency of these procedures. Theknowledge of the particularities of the genetic groups,follicular growth manipulation, follicular populationpredictors, and metabolic and environmental aspectsthat interfere with ovarian environment and,consequently, oocyte quantity and quality is crucial tooptimize the reproductive programs. This review aimsto elucidate some factors that affect the ovarianenvironment and must be well known in order toimprove the efficiency of reproduction in cattle.

Comportamento reprodutivo de Melanotênia Boesemani e fecundidade em três faixas de tamanho / Reproductive behavior of Boeseman's rainbowfish and fecundity in three size ranges

Registrou-se o comportamento reprodutivo e se comparou a fertilidade e fecundidade de 16 casais demelanotênia boesemani (Melanotaenia boesemani Allen e Cross, 1980), com tamanhos entre 1,437 g e 4,484 g, afim de elucidar características reprodutivas dessa espécie que é valorizada no comércio de peixes ornamentais.Observou-se que o comportamento de corte e acasalamento é idêntico para todos os tamanhos e similar ao deoutras espécies do grupo das melanotênias. Através de análise multivariada percebeu-se distribuição de trêsfaixas de tamanho 48,7 mm (1,579 g; n = 6), 57,2 mm (2,619 g; n=8) e 65,8 (4,484 g; n=1) com resultadosdistintos para características reprodutivas. Sendo as fêmeas de tamanho mediano (57,2 mm) as que apresentarammelhor rendimento reprodutivo com média total de 1.046 ovos, em 32 dias, sendo 691 a média de ovosfecundados e viáveis (66,1%).(AU)

It was registered the reproductive behavior of Boeseman's rainbowfish (Melanotaenia boesemani Allenand Cross, 1980), comparing fecundity and fertility of individuals weghing between 1.437 g and 4.484 g, aimingat understand the reproductive characteristics of this high-value species among the ornamental fish commerce.It was observed that courtship and breeding behavior are identical for all the evaluated sizes and similar forthose from the rainbowfish group. Through the multivariated analysis, it was noted the distribution of three sizeranges 48.7 mm (1.579 g; n = 6), 57.2 mm (2.619 g; n=8) and 65.8 (4.484 g; n=1) with different results forreproductive characteristics. Females with medium size (57.2 mm) presented the best reproductive yield, withtotal average of 1,046 eggs within 32 days, being 691 the average of fecundated and viable eggs (66.1%).(AU)

Comportamento reprodutivo de Melanotênia Boesemani e fecundidade em três faixas de tamanho / Reproductive behavior of Boeseman's rainbowfish and fecundity in three size ranges

Registrou-se o comportamento reprodutivo e se comparou a fertilidade e fecundidade de 16 casais demelanotênia boesemani (Melanotaenia boesemani Allen e Cross, 1980), com tamanhos entre 1,437 g e 4,484 g, afim de elucidar características reprodutivas dessa espécie que é valorizada no comércio de peixes ornamentais.Observou-se que o comportamento de corte e acasalamento é idêntico para todos os tamanhos e similar ao deoutras espécies do grupo das melanotênias. Através de análise multivariada percebeu-se distribuição de trêsfaixas de tamanho – 48,7 mm (1,579 g; n = 6), 57,2 mm (2,619 g; n=8) e 65,8 (4,484 g; n=1) – com resultadosdistintos para características reprodutivas. Sendo as fêmeas de tamanho mediano (57,2 mm) as que apresentarammelhor rendimento reprodutivo com média total de 1.046 ovos, em 32 dias, sendo 691 a média de ovosfecundados e viáveis (66,1%).

It was registered the reproductive behavior of Boeseman's rainbowfish (Melanotaenia boesemani Allenand Cross, 1980), comparing fecundity and fertility of individuals weghing between 1.437 g and 4.484 g, aimingat understand the reproductive characteristics of this high-value species among the ornamental fish commerce.It was observed that courtship and breeding behavior are identical for all the evaluated sizes and similar forthose from the rainbowfish group. Through the multivariated analysis, it was noted the distribution of three sizeranges – 48.7 mm (1.579 g; n = 6), 57.2 mm (2.619 g; n=8) and 65.8 (4.484 g; n=1) – with different results forreproductive characteristics. Females with medium size (57.2 mm) presented the best reproductive yield, withtotal average of 1,046 eggs within 32 days, being 691 the average of fecundated and viable eggs (66.1%).

Avaliação reprodutiva de Pastores Malinois do Canil da Polícia Militar do Piauí / Reproductive evaluation of Malinois Shepherds Kennel of Piaui Military Police

The dog has always been next to the human being and during these periods of conflict could not bedifferent. In the police service the Brazilian police, mastered the technique of using police dogs to better servesociety, further enhancing the monitoring, preservation and maintenance of public order. The pioneering statesin the use of dogs in police activities were Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo arround 40th (MARCIEL, 1999). InPiaui around 2005 gave the creation of the BOPE (Special Operations Battalion) of the PMPI, and the 3rdCompany was kennel (Policing Company with Dogs), through the State Law nº5.468 18 July 2005. But even in2004 gave the effective implementation of kennel. After its creation, the need to renew and increase the squad,with the difficulty of funding and acquisition of new animals, saw the need to reproduce the animals in thekennel, predominantly malinois pastors. In order to support the state and provide a training and improvement ofthe members of the "Research Group Health and Animal Reproduction of the Federal University of Piauí," theywere made the andrological and gynecological examinations of these animals, which were able to play, beingonly one male, temporarily unfit for reproduction.(AU)

Avaliação reprodutiva de Pastores Malinois do Canil da Polícia Militar do Piauí / Reproductive evaluation of Malinois Shepherds Kennel of Piaui Military Police

The dog has always been next to the human being and during these periods of conflict could not bedifferent. In the police service the Brazilian police, mastered the technique of using police dogs to better servesociety, further enhancing the monitoring, preservation and maintenance of public order. The pioneering statesin the use of dogs in police activities were Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo arround 40th (MARCIEL, 1999). InPiaui around 2005 gave the creation of the BOPE (Special Operations Battalion) of the PMPI, and the 3rdCompany was kennel (Policing Company with Dogs), through the State Law nº5.468 18 July 2005. But even in2004 gave the effective implementation of kennel. After its creation, the need to renew and increase the squad,with the difficulty of funding and acquisition of new animals, saw the need to reproduce the animals in thekennel, predominantly malinois pastors. In order to support the state and provide a training and improvement ofthe members of the "Research Group Health and Animal Reproduction of the Federal University of Piauí," theywere made the andrological and gynecological examinations of these animals, which were able to play, beingonly one male, temporarily unfit for reproduction.

Criopreservação do sêmen caprino: efeito do tempo de equilíbrio sobre a qualidade do sêmen após a descongelação / Cryopreservation of goat semen: Balancing time effect on semen quality after thawing

Which was used sixteen samples of adult goats semen collected using an artificial vagina weresubjected to cryopreservation in order to verify the influence of equilibration time at a temperature of 5 °C onthe freezability of goat semen. Were distributed in the different protocols equilibrium time: 1h equilibration time(G1); 2 h equilibration time (G2); 3h equilibration time (G3).After this process the samples were placed inliquid nitrogen vapor , and maintained for 20 min . The end was made the freezing process in cryogenics tank .Thawing was performed in a water bath at 37°C for 30 seconds. The averages for motility were 19.375 %,16.875 % and 16.250 % respectively for G1, G2 and G3. This study demonstrated effect of equilibration period ,on the viability of goat semen after the process of freeze-thaw, where the group of smaller G1 exposure time wasless deleterious effects.(AU)

Criopreservação do sêmen caprino: efeito do tempo de equilíbrio sobre a qualidade do sêmen após a descongelação / Cryopreservation of goat semen: Balancing time effect on semen quality after thawing

Which was used sixteen samples of adult goats semen collected using an artificial vagina weresubjected to cryopreservation in order to verify the influence of equilibration time at a temperature of 5 °C onthe freezability of goat semen. Were distributed in the different protocols equilibrium time: 1h equilibration time(G1); 2 h equilibration time (G2); 3h equilibration time (G3).After this process the samples were placed inliquid nitrogen vapor , and maintained for 20 min . The end was made the freezing process in cryogenics tank .Thawing was performed in a water bath at 37°C for 30 seconds. The averages for motility were 19.375 %,16.875 % and 16.250 % respectively for G1, G2 and G3. This study demonstrated effect of equilibration period ,on the viability of goat semen after the process of freeze-thaw, where the group of smaller G1 exposure time wasless deleterious effects.

Environmental effects on reproductive performance of Nellore cows widely raised in the Cerrado/Pantanal ecotone / Interação do ambiente com desempenho reprodutivo de matrizes Nelores criadas extensivamente no ecótono Cerrado/Pantanal

We analyzed the pregnancy rate (PR) and birth rate (BR) of Nellore cows raised extensively in the Cerrado/Pantanal during 4 mating seasons (20092012), assessing the relationship with the temperature and humidity index (THI) and the effect of the year and breeding season. We used information from 2,116 cows, which were categorized as either multiparous (n = 1430), primiparous (n = 338), or nulliparous (n = 348). In the months of the breeding season (DecemberFebruary), temperature and relative humidity data were collected to calculate the temperature and humidity index (THI). An ANOVA was performed with a model that included sources of variation from the fixed effects of category of cow and year on PR and BR; and a linear regression analysis and correlation between THI and PR and BR. We observed a significant effect (p 0.05) on PR. We classified the average across breeding seasons as a moderate THI. The THI of the breeding seasons showed high and significant (p 0.05) effects only on the nulliparous BR, and low values in other categories. It is concluded that the seasonal THI was not related to the performance of cows, except BR in nulliparous cows(AU)

Analisou-se taxa de prenhez (TP) e de natalidade (TN) de matrizes Nelores criadas extensivamente no Cerrado/Pantanal, acasaladas durante 4 estações de monta natural (2009 a 2012), avaliando relação com índice de temperatura e umidade (ITU) e efeito do ano da estação de monta. Utilizaram-se 2.116 informações de matrizes, pertencentes às categorias de multíparas (n = 1430), primíparas (n = 338) e nulíparas (n = 348). Nos meses de estação de monta (dezembro a fevereiro) coletaram-se informações da temperatura e umidade relativa do ar, para o cálculo de índice de temperatura e umidade (ITU). Realizaram-se análise de variância com um modelo contendo como fontes de variação os efeitos fixos de categoria e ano de estação de monta sob a TP e TN; e análise da regressão linear e correlação entre o ITU e a TP e TN. Observaram-se efeito significativo (p 0,05) de categoria sob a TP. Classificou-se o ITU médio entre as estações de monta como moderado. O ITU das estações de monta apresentou relação alta e significativa (p 0,05) apenas na TN das nulíparas, e baixas tendências de relação com as demais. Conclui-se que o ano da estação de monta e o ITU não apresentaram relação com desempenho das matrizes, exceto as nulíparas considerando ITU e TN(AU)

Environmental effects on reproductive performance of Nellore cows widely raised in the Cerrado/Pantanal ecotone / Interação do ambiente com desempenho reprodutivo de matrizes Nelores criadas extensivamente no ecótono Cerrado/Pantanal

We analyzed the pregnancy rate (PR) and birth rate (BR) of Nellore cows raised extensively in the Cerrado/Pantanal during 4 mating seasons (20092012), assessing the relationship with the temperature and humidity index (THI) and the effect of the year and breeding season. We used information from 2,116 cows, which were categorized as either multiparous (n = 1430), primiparous (n = 338), or nulliparous (n = 348). In the months of the breeding season (DecemberFebruary), temperature and relative humidity data were collected to calculate the temperature and humidity index (THI). An ANOVA was performed with a model that included sources of variation from the fixed effects of category of cow and year on PR and BR; and a linear regression analysis and correlation between THI and PR and BR. We observed a significant effect (p 0.05) on PR. We classified the average across breeding seasons as a moderate THI. The THI of the breeding seasons showed high and significant (p 0.05) effects only on the nulliparous BR, and low values in other categories. It is concluded that the seasonal THI was not related to the performance of cows, except BR in nulliparous cows

Analisou-se taxa de prenhez (TP) e de natalidade (TN) de matrizes Nelores criadas extensivamente no Cerrado/Pantanal, acasaladas durante 4 estações de monta natural (2009 a 2012), avaliando relação com índice de temperatura e umidade (ITU) e efeito do ano da estação de monta. Utilizaram-se 2.116 informações de matrizes, pertencentes às categorias de multíparas (n = 1430), primíparas (n = 338) e nulíparas (n = 348). Nos meses de estação de monta (dezembro a fevereiro) coletaram-se informações da temperatura e umidade relativa do ar, para o cálculo de índice de temperatura e umidade (ITU). Realizaram-se análise de variância com um modelo contendo como fontes de variação os efeitos fixos de categoria e ano de estação de monta sob a TP e TN; e análise da regressão linear e correlação entre o ITU e a TP e TN. Observaram-se efeito significativo (p 0,05) de categoria sob a TP. Classificou-se o ITU médio entre as estações de monta como moderado. O ITU das estações de monta apresentou relação alta e significativa (p 0,05) apenas na TN das nulíparas, e baixas tendências de relação com as demais. Conclui-se que o ano da estação de monta e o ITU não apresentaram relação com desempenho das matrizes, exceto as nulíparas considerando ITU e TN

Local ecological knowledge of fishers about the life cycle and temporal patterns in the migration of mullet (Mugil liza) in Southern Brazil

This research investigates local ecological knowledge of fishers in communities along a latitudinal gradient in the coast of the Santa Catarina State, regarding the life cycle of mullets Mugil liza (migration, feeding, and reproductive behavior). Our sampling encompassed eight Santa Catarina coastal cities (nine artisanal fishing sites) and engaged 45 key informants (28- 86 years of age) through semi-structured interviews from August/2011 to March/2012. This fish species feeds and grows in lagoon and estuarine systems, migrating to the sea for reproduction, and spawning. Fishers acknowledged the Patos Lagoon and the Plata River as the main source of mullet schools. Migration occurs from South to North and the routes vary according to climatic and oceanographic conditions (e.g., low temperatures, south winds, rainfall, currents, salinity). These conditions influence the abundance of mullets (and therefore fisheries success), their migration and stops in locations such as beaches, rocky shores, and islands. According to fishers, mullet spawning occurs throughout the coast of the Santa Catarina State and they feed in lagoons and riverine systems but also out at sea during migration. In conclusion, fishers possess a detailed knowledge about mullet life cycle and they identify intra and interannual variations in migration routes, a pattern that should be considered in managing the fishery.(AU)

O objetivo deste artigo foi investigar o conhecimento ecológico local dos pescadores ao longo de um gradiente latitudinal no litoral de Santa Catarina, sobre o ciclo de vida da tainha Mugil liza (aspectos migratórios, alimentares, reprodutivos e comportamentais). Nossa amostragem abrangeu oito cidades costeiras de Santa Catarina (nove locais de pesca artesanal) e engajou 45 informantes chave (28 -86 anos de idade) a partir de entrevistas semiestruturadas entre Agosto/2011 e Março/2012. Este peixe se alimenta e cresce em sistemas lagunares e estuarinos, migrando para o mar para a reprodução e desova. Pescadores reconhecem a Laguna dos Patos e o rio da Prata como as principais fontes de cardumes. A migração ocorre do Sul para o Norte e as rotas variam em função de condições climáticas e oceanográficas (e.g., baixa temperatura, vento Sul, chuva, correntes e salinidade). Estas condições influenciam a abundância de tainhas (e portanto o sucesso pesqueiro), a sua migração e as paradas em locais como praias, costões rochosos e ilhas. De acordo com os pescadores, a desova das tainhas ocorre ao longo do litoral catarinense e se alimentam em sistemas lagunares e rios, mas também em mar aberto durante a migração. Em conclusão, pescadores possuem um conhecimento detalhado sobre o ciclo de vida da tainha e identificam variações intra e interanuais nas rotas migratórias, um padrão que precisa ser considerado no manejo da pescaria.(AU)

Enriquecimento físico afeta parâmetros indicadores de bem estar em camundongos (Mus musculus) / Physical enrichment affects indicators of welfare in mice (Mus musculus)

A ausência de estímulos ambientais pode interferir no comportamento e na fisiologia dos animais. O objetivo foi testar o efeito do enriquecimento físico ambiental sobre parâmetros comportamentais e fisiológicos indicadores de bem estar em camundongos C57BL/6. Setenta e dois animais foram separados em grupos de quatro indivíduos. Cada grupo foi submetido a um dos três tratamentos, com seis repetições cada. 1. Controle: sem enriquecimento ambiental. 2. Acrílico: com estrutura no formato de iglu em acrílico. 3. Cuia: com cuia de cabaça. Foram descritos etogramas das seguintes categorias comportamentais: locomoção, alimentação, interação com o objeto, auto limpeza, reprodução e agressividade. O enriquecimento ambiental não afetou os parâmetros fisiológicos, porém modulou o comportamento. Não houve diferença nos índices reprodutivos, na taxa de crescimento específico, na ingestão hídrica, no consumo de ração, no coeficiente alimentar e nos índices hepatossomático e gonadossomático entre os tratamentos (ANOVA, p> 0,059). Os tratamentos com cuia e acrílico estimularam a amamentação, o total dos itens reprodutivos e a auto limpeza (ANOVA, p< 0,031). No entanto, o comportamento agressivo foi maior no acrílico em relação aos demais tratamentos (ANOVA, p< 0,000). Dessa forma, conclui-se que a cuia é uma estrutura que pode ser utilizada para o enriquecimento, pois os animais interagiram da mesma forma com acrílico e exibiram menor agressividade. Além disso, a cuia apresenta baixo custo, pode ser implementada sem nenhuma dificuldade de manejo e melhorar o bem estar de animais mantidos em cativeiro.

The absence of environmental stimuli may interfere with the behavior and physiology of animals. We tested the effect of environmental enrichment on behavioral and physiological indicators of welfare in mice (C57BL/6). Seventy-two animals were separated into groups of four individuals. Each group was subjected to one of three treatments, with six replicates each. 1. Control: without environmental enrichment. 2. Acrylic: the igloo structure with acrylic format. 3. Cuia: with gourd calabash. Locomotion, feeding, interaction with the object, grooming, reproduction and aggressiveness were described in ethograms. Environmental enrichment did not affect physiological parameters, but modulated behavior. There was no difference in reproductive rates, specific growth rate, water and food intake, hepatosomatic and gonadosomatic indices (ANOVA, p> 0.059). Treatments with environmental enrichment stimulated parental care, total reproductive units and grooming (ANOVA, p< 0,031). However, aggressive behavior was greater in the acrylic compared to the other treatments (ANOVA, p< 0.000). Thus, it is concluded that the gourd is a device that can be used for enrichment, because the animals in the same way interacted with acrylic and exhibited less aggressive. Additionally, the gourd is inexpensive, can be implemented without any difficulty handling and improve the welfare of animals kept in captivity.