A new Poptella from the rio Xingu basin, Brazil (Characiformes: Characidae)

A new species of Poptella is described from the rio Xingu basin, Pará and Mato Grosso states, Brazil. The new species is distinguished from all congeners by having a greater number of scales around the caudal peduncle (15­18 vs. 13­14). Furthermore, this species can be easily distinguished from P. brevispina, P. longipinnis, and P. fuscata by the lower number of branched rays in the dorsal fin (9 vs. 10­11). The description of new taxon represents the third species of the genus Poptella described in the last five years.(AU)

Uma nova espécie de Poptella é descrita da bacia do rio Xingu, estados do Pará e Mato Grosso, Brasil. A nova espécie é distinguida de todas as espécies congêneres por apresentar maior número de escamas ao redor do pedúnculo caudal (15­18 vs. 13­14). Além disso, esta espécie pode ser facilmente distinguida de P. brevispina P. longipinnis e P. fuscata pelo menor número de raios ramificados na nadadeira dorsal (9 vs.10-11). A descrição do novo táxon representa a terceira espécie do gênero Poptella descrita nos últimos cinco anos.(AU)

Early development of two commercially valuable fish from the lower Amazon River, Brazil (Characiformes: Serrasalmidae)

We described the early development of Myloplus asterias and M. lobatus, two fish species of the Serrasalmidae using morphological, meristic, and morphometric characteristics. These herbivores serrasalmids are heavily fished because of their commercial importance in the Amazon. The individuals were collected between 2016 and 2020 in the limnetic zone of open water and macrophyte stands in the Lower Amazon River floodplain. We tested different growth models to identify the development pattern of these species. During the initial ontogeny, these two species can be differentiated mainly by the myomeres total number, 37 to 39 in M. asterias vs. 40 to 41 in M. lobatus, the pigmentation pattern, and dorsal-fin ray numbers. These characteristics are effective in distinguishing these species from other serrasalmids. The morphometric relationships were also different between these two species, showing distinct patterns in growth between the analyzed features. An identification key for larvae of some sympatric Serrasalmidae species from the Amazon basin is presented. Our expectation is that this study will contribute to the knowledge of the initial ontogeny and the biology of fish species in the Neotropical region.(AU)

Descrevemos o desenvolvimento inicial de Myloplus asterias e M. lobatus, duas espécies de peixes da família Serrasalmidae usando características morfológicas, merísticas e morfométricas. Esses serrasalmídeos herbívoros são fortemente pescados devido à sua importância comercial na Amazônia. Os indivíduos foram coletados entre 2016 e 2020 na zona limnética de águas abertas e em bancos de macrófitas na planície de inundação do baixo rio Amazonas. Testamos diferentes modelos de crescimento para identificar o padrão de desenvolvimento dessas espécies. Durante a ontogenia inicial, essas duas espécies podem ser diferenciadas pelo número total de miômeros; 37 a 39 em M. asterias vs. 40 a 41 em M. lobatus; pelo padrão de pigmentação e número de raios da nadadeira dorsal. Essas características são eficazes para distinguir essas espécies de outros serrasalmídeos. As relações morfométricas também foram diferentes entre as duas espécies, com distintos padrões de crescimento entre as características analisadas. Uma chave de identificação para larvas de algumas espécies simpátricas de Serrasalmidae da bacia amazônica é apresentada. Nossa expectativa é que este estudo contribua para o conhecimento da ontogenia inicial e da biologia das espécies de peixes da região Neotropical.(AU)

New small-sized species of Astyanax (Characiformes: Characidae) from the upper rio Paraguai basin, Brazil, with discussion on its generic allocation

A new species of Astyanax is described from the rio Salobra, tributary of rio Cuiabá, rio Paraguai basin. The new taxon can be distinguished from its congeners by having a well-defined dark midlateral stripe on body extending from the posterior margin of the opercle to the base of middle caudal-fin rays and a single vertical elongate humeral blotch. Although the new species is described in Astyanax, some specimens present an incomplete or a discontinuous series of perforated scales in the lateral line. Therefore, a discussion on its generic allocation is presented. Comments on different patterns of coloration among dark-striped species of Astyanax are also provided. The discovery of a new species in an underwater tourist point relatively near a large urban center underscores that even fish species daily observed by hundreds of people in limpid waters may lack a formal taxonomic identity. Such finding also highlights how the megadiverse Brazilian freshwater ichthyofauna still needs efforts and investments to identify and describe new taxa.(AU)

Uma nova espécie de Astyanax é descrita do rio Salobra, afluente do rio Cuiabá, bacia do rio Paraguai. O táxon novo pode ser diferenciado de seus congêneres por apresentar uma faixa médio-lateral escura bem definida no corpo, se estendendo da margem posterior do opérculo até a base dos raios medianos da nadadeira caudal e por possuir uma mancha umeral verticalmente alongada. Apesar da espécie nova ser descrita em Astyanax, alguns exemplares apresentam uma série incompleta ou descontínua de escamas perfuradas na linha lateral. Assim, uma discussão sobre sua alocação genérica é apresentada. Comentários sobre os diferentes padrões de coloração de espécies de Astyanax com faixa escura também são fornecidos. A descoberta de uma espécie nova em um ponto turístico subaquático relativamente próximo a um grande centro urbano ressalta que mesmo as espécies de peixes observadas diariamente por centenas de pessoas em águas límpidas podem não ter uma identidade taxonômica formal. Tal achado também evidencia o quanto a megadiversa ictiofauna de água doce brasileira ainda precisa de esforços de coleta adicionais e investimentos para identificar e descrever os táxons novos.(AU)

The emerald green tetra: a new restricted-range Hyphessobrycon (Characiformes: Characidae) from the upper rio Juruena, Chapada dos Parecis, Brazil

A new species of Hyphessobrycon is described from the rio Mutum, a tributary of the rio Juruena, rio Tapajós basin, Brazil. The new taxon can be distinguished from its congeners by the presence of a well-defined and relatively narrow dark midlateral stripe on body, extending from head to the middle caudal-fin rays, presence of a humeral blotch, distal profile of the anal fin falcate in males, 13-16 branched anal-fin rays (vs. 17-26), and 11 or 12 horizontal scale rows around caudal peduncle. The new species shows polymorphism regarding the presence of the adipose fin, and a discussion on this type of polymorphism across the family and its systematic implications is presented.(AU)

Uma espécie nova de Hyphessobrycon é descrita do rio Mutum, um afluente do rio Juruena, bacia do rio Tapajós, Brasil. O táxon novo pode ser distinguido de seus congêneres pela presença de uma faixa média-lateral escura bem definida e relativamente estreita no corpo, estendendo-se da cabeça aos raios médios da nadadeira caudal, presença de uma mancha umeral, 13-16 raios da nadadeira anal ramificada (vs. 17-26) e 11-12 séries horizontais de escamas ao redor do pedúnculo caudal. A espécie nova apresenta polimorfismo em relação à presença da nadadeira adiposa. Assim, é apresentada uma discussão sobre esse tipo de polimorfismo em toda a família e suas implicações na sistemática do grupo.(AU)

Pectoral-fin glands and delivery apparatus in the catfish genus Brachyrhamdia Myers, 1927 (Siluriformes: Heptapteridae)

The Siluriformes, popularly known as catfishes, are probably the vertebrate group with the highest diversity of venomous animals, even though only approximately a hundred venomous catfishes are reported to date. Venomous catfishes might present a delivery system apparatus, formed by an unbranched ray at the leading edge of pectoral and dorsal fins (spine), which can be stiffened and pungent, while venom glands can be present at the surface of such spines and/or the axillary region. This work investigated the presence, morphology and distribution of glands and pectoral-fin delivery apparatus in the heptapterid Brachyrhamdia genus. Pectoral-fin spine external morphology was compared across all valid species in the genus, histological sections of the pectoral-fin spine and axillary regions of B. heteropleura and B. marthae were produced, and dissections of the pectoral girdle region of the mentioned species were analyzed. The histological sections confirmed the presence of pectoral-fin glands at the surface of the pectoral-fin spine of Brachyrhamdia species, and cellular morphology indicates these glands are probably venomous. Also, we found a piriform gland at the axillary region, whose cell morphology is like the reported for other catfishes. However, we cannot currently confirm or deny axillary gland participation in the venom delivery apparatus. This work constitutes the first report of venom glands in Brachyrhamdia, and the first description of Heptapteridae axillary glands.(AU)

A new glass tetra species of Phenacogaster from the rio Salitre, rio São Francisco drainage, Brazil (Characiformes: Characidae)

A new species of Phenacogaster is described from the rio Salitre, a tributary of the lower middle rio São Francisco drainage. The new species can be clearly distinguished from all its congeners in having a conspicuous, broad caudal peduncle spot reaching the upper and lower margins of the peduncle with a short extension onto the middle caudal fin rays and another weaker extension over the lower lobe of the caudal fin.(AU)

Uma nova espécie de Phenacogaster é descrita do rio Salitre, afluente da drenagem do submédio rio São Francisco. A nova espécie é facilmente distinguida de todas as congêneres por apresentar uma conspícua e larga mancha no pedúnculo caudal que alcança as margens superior e inferior do pedúnculo com uma curta extensão sobre os raios medianos e outra mais fraca sobre o lobo inferior da nadadeira caudal.(AU)

A new glass tetra species of Phenacogaster from the rio Salitre, rio São Francisco drainage, Brazil (Characiformes: Characidae)

A new species of Phenacogaster is described from the rio Salitre, a tributary of the lower middle rio São Francisco drainage. The new species can be clearly distinguished from all its congeners in having a conspicuous, broad caudal peduncle spot reaching the upper and lower margins of the peduncle with a short extension onto the middle caudal fin rays and another weaker extension over the lower lobe of the caudal fin.(AU)

Uma nova espécie de Phenacogaster é descrita do rio Salitre, afluente da drenagem do submédio rio São Francisco. A nova espécie é facilmente distinguida de todas as congêneres por apresentar uma conspícua e larga mancha no pedúnculo caudal que alcança as margens superior e inferior do pedúnculo com uma curta extensão sobre os raios medianos e outra mais fraca sobre o lobo inferior da nadadeira caudal.(AU)

The adductor pectoral fin muscle of Micropogonias furnieri (Perciformes: Sciaenidae): a morphological and histochemical study

The adductor pectoral fin muscle in post-spawning females of the white croaker Micropogonias furnieri (Desmarest, 1823) is described from a morphological, histochemical and morphometric perspectives. A description of the morphological characteristics was conducted after dissections in different layers, down to the deep layer. Five muscles were found: superficial, medial, radial and deep adductors, and dorsal arrector. Their fibers were studied after applying histochemical techniques: succinic dehydrogenase (SDH) to reveal mitochondria, periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) for glycogen, Sudan black for lipids, myosin adenosinetriphosphatase (mATPase) to reveal the types of fibers, and modified mATPase to evidence the capillaries. Fiber diameters were measured and the number of capillaries was counted. Fiber subtypes named small, medium and large were found within red, pink and white fibers, the latter prevailing. Staining homogeneity was observed in white fibers after alkaline pre-incubations. The number of capillaries decreased from red to white fibers. Due to the prevalence of white fibers, the adductor muscle of the pectoral fins appears to be capable of rapid and discontinuous movements, which are important to body stabilization during subcarangiform swimming. The homogenous staining of white fibers observed in this research corresponds to the post-spawning gonad stage studied.

The adductor pectoral fin muscle of Micropogonias furnieri (Perciformes: Sciaenidae): a morphological and histochemical study

The adductor pectoral fin muscle in post-spawning females of the white croaker Micropogonias furnieri (Desmarest, 1823) is described from a morphological, histochemical and morphometric perspectives. A description of the morphological characteristics was conducted after dissections in different layers, down to the deep layer. Five muscles were found: superficial, medial, radial and deep adductors, and dorsal arrector. Their fibers were studied after applying histochemical techniques: succinic dehydrogenase (SDH) to reveal mitochondria, periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) for glycogen, Sudan black for lipids, myosin adenosinetriphosphatase (mATPase) to reveal the types of fibers, and modified mATPase to evidence the capillaries. Fiber diameters were measured and the number of capillaries was counted. Fiber subtypes named small, medium and large were found within red, pink and white fibers, the latter prevailing. Staining homogeneity was observed in white fibers after alkaline pre-incubations. The number of capillaries decreased from red to white fibers. Due to the prevalence of white fibers, the adductor muscle of the pectoral fins appears to be capable of rapid and discontinuous movements, which are important to body stabilization during subcarangiform swimming. The homogenous staining of white fibers observed in this research corresponds to the post-spawning gonad stage studied.(AU)

Evaluation of ultrasound imaging to predict loin eye area in tambaqui / Avaliação da utilização de ultrassonografia para predição da área de olho de lombo em tambaquis

Tambaqui is the major native Characiform fish species in Brazil. The loin-eye area (LEA) is a feature currently used in breeding programs for livestock and may be a phenotype susceptible to selection also in tambaquis. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of two different LEA measurements. LEA data were taken using the vegetable paper (VP) and ultrasonography (US) techniques measured in three LEA regions (LEA1) at the end of the operculum region, (LEA2) at the insertion of the dorsal fin, and (LEA3) in the region of insertion of the anal fin from 29 individuals in a fish processing plant located in the State of Rondônia, Brazil. The data were analyzed in the R program using both the Students t-test and the Pearson correlation. The mean values for the two methods were not statistically different at the 5% risk level, indicating that the US can efficiently estimate the LEA compared with the actual value given by VP. The correlation was moderate (0.61) for LEA2 and can be attributed to the loin cut into two halves lengthwise in tambaquis usually done during commercial fish processing. Ultrasound has proven to be an efficient method for accurately estimating the LEA in tambaqui for further genetic breeding programs.(AU)

Tambaqui é a maior espécie de peixe da ordem Characiformes no Brasil. A área de olho de lombo (AOL) é uma característica usada atualmente em programas de melhoramento genético em animais de criação terrestre. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a eficiência de dois tipos diferentes de medidas de AOL. As medidas de AOL foram tomadas com o uso de papel vegetal (PV) e ultrassonografia (US) em três regiões do animal: (AOL1) região final da região do opérculo, (AOL2) na inserção da nadadeira dorsal e (AOL3) na região da inserção da nadadeira caudal em 29 indivíduos advindos de uma planta processadora localizada no estado de Rondônia, Brasil. Os dados foram analisados no programa R com o uso do test t de Student e a correlação de Pearson. Os valores médios para ambas metodologias não foram estatisticamente diferentes ao nível de 5%, indicando que US pode eficientemente estimar a AOL quando comparado com o valor real gerado por PV. A correlação foi moderada (0,61) para AOL2 e isto pode ser atribuído ao corte em duas metades do lombo geralmente realizado em tambaquis nas plantas de processamento. A técnica de ultrassom provou ser um método eficiente para estimar acuradamente a AOL em tambaqui em futuros programas de melhoramento genético.(AU)

Dexamethasone action on caudal fin regeneration of carp Cyprinus carpio (Linnaeus, 1758) / Estudo da ação da dexametasona na regeneração da nadadeira caudal de Cyprinus carpio (carpa) (Linnaeus, 1758)

Studies have demonstrated that the prolonged use of corticoids can delay the healing process, affecting re-epithelialization, neovascularization and collagen synthesis. As the fins of teleost fish contain a large amount of collagen, the aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of dexamethasone (anti-inflammatory and glucocorticoid steroid widely used in the treatment of rheumatic diseases) during the regeneration process in the caudal fin of specimens of carp (Cyprinus carpio). For such, two glass aquaria were used one for a group of fish treated with dexamethasone (Henrifarma) in a 20 mg/L concentration and the other for the control group. The caudal fins were amputated transversally and fish remained in their respective aquaria until regeneration occurred. Samples of regenerating fins were collected on days 1, 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 after amputation. The fins in the control group regenerated normally and grew within the expected in time course. The fins in the group treated with dexamethasone were significantly smaller in comparison to the control group at every evaluation time. Thus, it was possible to verify that, at this concentration of dexamethasone, the regeneration of the caudal fins was delayed, but not completely inhibited. The results show that the caudal fin is a good model for histological studies on regeneration and the action of drug toxicity, but its also of great importance the interaction with further studies for a better knowledge and understanding of all the changes in all the phases.(AU)

Estudos mostram que corticóides usados por longos períodos podem atrasar o processo de cicatrização, influenciando na reepitelização, na neovascularização e na síntese do colágeno. Os constituintes das nadadeiras dos peixes teleósteos contêm grande quantidade de colágeno e assim o objetivo do presente trabalho foi estudar o efeito da dexametasona (um antiinflamatório e glicocorticóide esteróide bastante utilizado no tratamento de doenças reumáticas) durante o processo regenerativo das nadadeiras caudais das carpas (Cyprinus carpio). Para isso, foram montados dois aquários de vidro, um para o grupo controle e outro para o grupo tratado com a dexametasona (Henrifarma) na concentração de 20mg/L. Os peixes distribuídos nesses aquários tiveram suas nadadeiras caudais amputadas transversalmente e permaneceram nos respectivos aquários para que ocorresse a regeneração. Foram feitas coletas das nadadeiras em regeneração em intervalos de 1, 2, 4, 6, 8 e 10 dias após a amputação. Foi observado que nos peixes do grupo controle, as nadadeiras regeneraram normalmente e cresceram o esperado em cada intervalo de tempo. No entanto, foi verificado que nos peixes do grupo tratado com dexametasona, em cada intervalo analisado, as nadadeiras regeneradas dos peixes expostos à droga eram menores que a medida das nadadeiras dos peixes do grupo controle. Assim, foi possível verificar que, nessa concentração de dexametasona, a regeneração das nadadeiras caudais foi mais lenta, mas não ocorreu a total inibição da regeneração. Dessa forma, os resultados comprovam que a nadadeira caudal é um bom modelo para estudos histológicos sobre a regeneração e a ação da toxicidade de drogas, mas, também, é de grande importância a interação com estudos mais aprofundados para se conhecer e compreender melhor todas as alterações em todas as fases.(AU)

Evaluation of ultrasound imaging to predict loin eye area in tambaqui / Avaliação da utilização de ultrassonografia para predição da área de olho de lombo em tambaquis

Tambaqui is the major native Characiform fish species in Brazil. The loin-eye area (LEA) is a feature currently used in breeding programs for livestock and may be a phenotype susceptible to selection also in tambaquis. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of two different LEA measurements. LEA data were taken using the vegetable paper (VP) and ultrasonography (US) techniques measured in three LEA regions (LEA1) at the end of the operculum region, (LEA2) at the insertion of the dorsal fin, and (LEA3) in the region of insertion of the anal fin from 29 individuals in a fish processing plant located in the State of Rondônia, Brazil. The data were analyzed in the R program using both the Students t-test and the Pearson correlation. The mean values for the two methods were not statistically different at the 5% risk level, indicating that the US can efficiently estimate the LEA compared with the actual value given by VP. The correlation was moderate (0.61) for LEA2 and can be attributed to the loin cut into two halves lengthwise in tambaquis usually done during commercial fish processing. Ultrasound has proven to be an efficient method for accurately estimating the LEA in tambaqui for further genetic breeding programs.

Tambaqui é a maior espécie de peixe da ordem Characiformes no Brasil. A área de olho de lombo (AOL) é uma característica usada atualmente em programas de melhoramento genético em animais de criação terrestre. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a eficiência de dois tipos diferentes de medidas de AOL. As medidas de AOL foram tomadas com o uso de papel vegetal (PV) e ultrassonografia (US) em três regiões do animal: (AOL1) região final da região do opérculo, (AOL2) na inserção da nadadeira dorsal e (AOL3) na região da inserção da nadadeira caudal em 29 indivíduos advindos de uma planta processadora localizada no estado de Rondônia, Brasil. Os dados foram analisados no programa R com o uso do test t de Student e a correlação de Pearson. Os valores médios para ambas metodologias não foram estatisticamente diferentes ao nível de 5%, indicando que US pode eficientemente estimar a AOL quando comparado com o valor real gerado por PV. A correlação foi moderada (0,61) para AOL2 e isto pode ser atribuído ao corte em duas metades do lombo geralmente realizado em tambaquis nas plantas de processamento. A técnica de ultrassom provou ser um método eficiente para estimar acuradamente a AOL em tambaqui em futuros programas de melhoramento genético.

The use of pelvic fins for benthic locomotion during foraging behavior in Potamotrygon motoro (Chondrichthyes: Potamotrygonidae)

Synchronized bipedal movements of the pelvic fins provide propulsion (punting) during displacement on the substrate in batoids with benthic locomotion. In skates (Rajidae) this mechanism is mainly generated by the crural cartilages. Although lacking these anatomical structures, some stingray species show modifications of their pelvic fins to aid in benthic locomotion. This study describes the use of the pelvic fins for locomotory performance and body re-orientation in the freshwater stingray Potamotrygon motoro (Müller & Henle, 1841) during foraging. Pelvic fin movements of juvenile individuals of P. motoro were recorded in ventral view by a high-speed camera at 250-500 fields/s-1. Potamotrygon motoro presented synchronous, alternating and unilateral movements of the pelvic fins, similar to those reported in skates. Synchronous movements were employed during straightforward motion for pushing the body off the substrate as well as for strike feeding, whereas unilateral movements were used to maneuver the body to the right or left during both locomotion and prey capture. Alternating movements of the pelvic fins are similar to bipedal movements in terrestrial and semi-aquatic tetrapods. The pelvic fins showed coordinated movements during feeding even when stationary, indicating that they have an important function in maintaining body posture (station holding) during prey capture and manipulation. The use of pelvic fins during prey stalking may be advantageous because it results in less substrate disturbance when compared to movements generated by pectoral fin undulation. The range of pelvic fin movements indicates more complex control and coordination of the pelvic radial muscles.

Caudal fin-nipping by Serrasalmus maculatus (Characiformes: Serrasalmidae) in a small water reservoir: seasonal variation and prey selection

We evaluated how seasonality affects the frequency and intensity of fin-nipping, as well as the fish prey preferences of Serrasalmus maculatus Kner, 1858. The study took place in a small reservoir of the Ribeirão Claro River basin, state of São Paulo, southeastern Brazil. Fish were sampled monthly from July 2003 to June 2004, using gillnets. Sampling consisted of leaving 50 m of gillnets in the water for approximately 24 hours each month. No seasonal variation in the frequency and intensity of fin-nipping was observed. Among six prey species, piranhas displayed less damage in their fins, possibly due to intraspecific recognition. Under natural conditions, the caudal fins of Cyphocharax modestus (Fernández-Yépez, 1948) were the most intensively mutilated, which suggests multiple attacks on the same individual. The size of individuals in this species was positively correlated with the mutilated area of the fin, whereas no such correlation was observed for Astyanax altiparanae Garutti & Britski, 2000 and Acestrorhynchus lacustris (Lütken, 1875). The high number of mutilated fish under natural conditions strongly suggests that the relationship between S. maculatus and its prey is more akin to parasitism than to predation. If mutilated fins negatively affect the ability of prey to swim, the spread of S. maculatus might result in an unnatural impact on prey fish assemblages and population structure after damming.

The use of pelvic fins for benthic locomotion during foraging behavior in Potamotrygon motoro (Chondrichthyes: Potamotrygonidae)

Synchronized bipedal movements of the pelvic fins provide propulsion (punting) during displacement on the substrate in batoids with benthic locomotion. In skates (Rajidae) this mechanism is mainly generated by the crural cartilages. Although lacking these anatomical structures, some stingray species show modifications of their pelvic fins to aid in benthic locomotion. This study describes the use of the pelvic fins for locomotory performance and body re-orientation in the freshwater stingray Potamotrygon motoro (Müller & Henle, 1841) during foraging. Pelvic fin movements of juvenile individuals of P. motoro were recorded in ventral view by a high-speed camera at 250-500 fields/s-1. Potamotrygon motoro presented synchronous, alternating and unilateral movements of the pelvic fins, similar to those reported in skates. Synchronous movements were employed during straightforward motion for pushing the body off the substrate as well as for strike feeding, whereas unilateral movements were used to maneuver the body to the right or left during both locomotion and prey capture. Alternating movements of the pelvic fins are similar to bipedal movements in terrestrial and semi-aquatic tetrapods. The pelvic fins showed coordinated movements during feeding even when stationary, indicating that they have an important function in maintaining body posture (station holding) during prey capture and manipulation. The use of pelvic fins during prey stalking may be advantageous because it results in less substrate disturbance when compared to movements generated by pectoral fin undulation. The range of pelvic fin movements indicates more complex control and coordination of the pelvic radial muscles.(AU)

Caudal fin-nipping by Serrasalmus maculatus (Characiformes: Serrasalmidae) in a small water reservoir: seasonal variation and prey selection

We evaluated how seasonality affects the frequency and intensity of fin-nipping, as well as the fish prey preferences of Serrasalmus maculatus Kner, 1858. The study took place in a small reservoir of the Ribeirão Claro River basin, state of São Paulo, southeastern Brazil. Fish were sampled monthly from July 2003 to June 2004, using gillnets. Sampling consisted of leaving 50 m of gillnets in the water for approximately 24 hours each month. No seasonal variation in the frequency and intensity of fin-nipping was observed. Among six prey species, piranhas displayed less damage in their fins, possibly due to intraspecific recognition. Under natural conditions, the caudal fins of Cyphocharax modestus (Fernández-Yépez, 1948) were the most intensively mutilated, which suggests multiple attacks on the same individual. The size of individuals in this species was positively correlated with the mutilated area of the fin, whereas no such correlation was observed for Astyanax altiparanae Garutti & Britski, 2000 and Acestrorhynchus lacustris (Lütken, 1875). The high number of mutilated fish under natural conditions strongly suggests that the relationship between S. maculatus and its prey is more akin to parasitism than to predation. If mutilated fins negatively affect the ability of prey to swim, the spread of S. maculatus might result in an unnatural impact on prey fish assemblages and population structure after damming.(AU)

Confirmation of sexual dimorphism in Hoplias aimara (Valenciennes, 1847) (Erythrinidae: Characiformes) proposed by local expertise in Amapá, Brazil / Confirmação do dimorfismo sexual em Hoplias aimara (Valenciennes, 1847) (Erythrinidae: Characiformes) proposto por ribeirinhos no Amapá, Brasil

Fishes may show sexual dimorphism according to their reproductive strategies. In some species, this differentiation is already well known. However, with the findings obtained from recent studies, the number of species for which sex can be determined without dissection has increased. Thus far, the presence of external secondary sexual characteristics in Hoplias aimara, a very well-studied species, has not been reported. Traditional knowledge evidenced through riparian people observations indicated the possibility of sexual dimorphism in this species, which was studied in 2 conservation units, Sustainable Development Reserve of Iratapuru River and Tumucumaque Mountains National Park, in the state of Amapá, Brazil. Fishes were captured, and their anal fins were examined when they were still fresh; the sex of the fishes was confirmed by dissection. The same procedure was used for formalin-fixed fishes. By assessing the shape of the anal fin in fresh or fixed fishes, it was possible to determine the sex of the fish, which was then confirmed by dissection. H. aimara shows sexual dimorphism expressed in the morphology of their anal fin. Thus, the sex of fishes deposited in collections can be identified without any dissection, thereby providing important biological information about the specimens.(AU)

Os peixes podem exibir dimorfismo sexual conforme suas estratégias reprodutivas. Em algumas espécies essa diferenciação já é bem conhecida, no entanto, novos estudos têm aumentado o número de espécies que não precisam de dissecção dos indivíduos para o reconhecimento do seu sexo. A espécie Hoplias aimara, apesar de muito bem estudada ainda não apresentava registro da presença de caracteres sexuais secundários externos. O conhecimento tradicional de ribeirinhos indicou a possibilidade da existência de dimorfismo sexual para esta espécie que foi estudada em duas unidades de conservação no Estado do Amapá, a Reserva de Desenvolvimento Sustentável do rio Iratapuru e o Parque Nacional Montanhas do Tumucumaque. Os indivíduos capturados, ainda frescos, tiveram sua nadadeira anal examinada e seu sexo confirmado através de sua dissecção. Indivíduos fixados também passaram pelo mesmo procedimento. Através do formato da nadadeira anal, seja em indivíduos frescos ou fixados, foi possível inferir o sexo de cada indivíduo, que foi confirmado através de sua dissecção. A espécie Hoplias aimara apresenta dimorfismo sexual manifestado na morfologia de sua nadadeira anal. Indivíduos depositados em coleções podem ter seu sexo observado sem sua dissecção, acrescentado informações importantes à biologia dos espécimes.(AU)

A new species of Hypostomus Lacépède, 1803 (Siluriformes: Loricariidae) from the rio Tocantins-Araguaia basin, Brazil

Hypostomus delimai is described from the rio Tocantins, Tocantins State, and from the rio Araguaia, Pará, and Tocantins States, Brazil. The new species is distinguished from all other Hypostomus species, except from H. carinatus, H. hoplonites, and H. watwata, by the presence of five to eight (mode seven) predorsal plates limiting posterior border of the supraoccipital bone (vs. one to three plates). It can be distinguished from H. carinatus, H. hoplonites, and H. watwata by having pale spots over darker background on body and fins (vs. dark spots over lighter background). The species was only found in the middle stretches of the rio Tocantins-Araguaia basin. The first collection of specimens assigned to the new species was done in the rio Tocantins before the construction of the Tucuruí dam. Recently additional material was collected in the rio Araguaia, in a habitat that soon will be flooded for the construction of the Santa Isabel hydroelectric power station.(AU)

Hypostomus delimai é descrita do rio Tocantins no estado do Tocantins e do rio Araguaia, entre os estados do Pará e Tocantins, Brasil. A espécie nova é diagnosticada das demais espécies de Hypostomus, com exceção de H. carinatus, H. hoplonites e H. watwata por possuir de cinco a oito (moda sete) placas pré-dorsais margeando a borda posterior do supraoccipital (vs. uma ou até três placas). Difere de H. carinatus, H. hoplonites, e H. watwata por apresentar pintas claras sobre o corpo e nadadeiras (vs. pintas escuras sobre fundo claro). A espécie nova foi encontrada somente no trecho médio da bacia do rio Tocantins-Araguaia. Os primeiros registros da espécie nova foram feitos no rio Tocantins antes da construção da barragem de Tucuruí. Recentemente, material adicional foi coletado no rio Araguaia, em um habitat que será brevemente inundado pela construção da hidrelétrica de Santa Isabel.(AU)

Spectrolebias brousseaui (Cyprinodontiformes: Rivulidae: Cynolebiatinae), a new annual fish from the upper río Mamoré basin, Bolivia

Spectrolebias brousseaui is described from a temporary pool from the upper río Mamoré basin, Departamento Santa Cruz, Bolivia. The new species is distinguished from all congeners, by the overall dark blue coloration on the posterior two-thirds of body with bright blue iridescent spots vertically aligned in males. Spectrolebias brousseaui differs from all other species of the genus, except S. filamentosus, for having pelvic fins separated by a space (vs. pelvic fins in contact), long filaments at the tip of the dorsal and anal fins in males (vs. absence of filaments or presence only on dorsal fin in S. semiocellatus and S. inaequipinnatus, or the presence on the anal fin in S. chacoensis), and presence of contact organs on the scales of the flanks in males (vs. absence of contact organs on flanks in all remaining Spectrolebias species). .(AU)

Spectrolebias brousseaui é descrita de uma poça temporária localizada na região superior da bacia do río Mamoré, departamento de Santa Cruz, Bolívia. A espécie nova distingue-se de todos os congêneres pelo padrão de cor azul escuro nos dois terços posteriores do corpo com pontos azuis claros iridescentes alinhados verticalmente em machos. Spectrolebias brousseaui difere das outras espécies do gênero, exceto S. filamentosus, por ter as nadadeiras pélvicas separadas por um espaço (vs. nadadeira pélvicas juntas), longos filamentos nas extremidades das nadadeiras dorsal e anal em machos (vs. ausência de filamentos ou a presença apenas na nadadeira dorsal em S. semiocellatus e S. inaequipinnatus, ou pela presença de filamentos na nadadeira anal em S. chacoensis), e presença de órgão de contato nas escamas do flanco em machos (vs. ausência).(AU)

Phylogeography of Hypostomus strigaticeps (Siluriformes: Loricariidae) inferred by mitochondrial DNA reveals its distribution in the upper Paraná River basin

In this study, phylogenetic and phylogeographic analyses of populations identified as Hypostomus strigaticeps from the upper Paraná River basin were conducted in order to test whether these different populations comprises cryptic species or structured populations and to assess their genetic variability. The sequences of the mitochondrial DNA ATP sintetase (subunits 6/8) of 27 specimens from 10 populations (one from Mogi-Guaçu River, five from Paranapanema River, three from Tietê River and one from Peixe River) were analyzed. The phylogeographic analysis showed the existence of eight haplotypes (A-H), and despite the ancestral haplotype includes only individuals from the Tietê River basin, the distribution of H. strigaticeps was not restricted to this basin. Haplotypes A, B and F were the most frequent. Haplotypes D, E, F, G, and H were present in the sub-basin of Paranapanema, two (A and B) were present in the sub-basin of the Tietê River, one (C) was exclusively distributed in the sub-basin of the Peixe River, and one (B) was also present in the sub-basin of the Grande River. The phylogenetic analysis showed that the populations of H. strigaticeps indeed form a monophyletic unit comprising two lineages: TG, with representatives from the Tietê, Mogi-Guaçu and Peixe Rivers; and PP, with specimens from the Paranapanema River. The observed degree of genetic divergence within the TG and PP lineages was 0.1% and 0.2%, respectively, whereas the genetic divergence between the two lineages themselves was approximately 1%. The results of the phylogenetic analysis do not support the hypothesis of existence of crypt species and the phylogeographic analysis confirm the presence of H. strigaticeps in other sub-basins of the upper Paraná River: Grande, Peixe, and Paranapanema sub-basins.(AU)

Neste estudo, foram conduzidas análises filogenéticas e filogeográficas de populações identificadas como Hypostomus strigaticeps na bacia do alto rio Paraná a fim de testar se essas populações compreendem espécies crípticas ou populações estruturadas e avaliar a variabilidade genética das mesmas. Foram analisadas sequências do DNA mitocondrial ATP sintetase (subunidades 6/8) de 27 espécimes de 10 populações (uma do rio Mogi-Guaçu, cinco do rio Paranapanema, três do rio Tietê e uma do rio do Peixe). A análise filogeográfica mostrou a existência de oito haplótipos (A-H), e apesar do haplótipo ancestral incluir apenas indivíduos da bacia do rio Tietê, a distribuição de H. strigaticeps não se restringe a esta bacia. Os haplótipos A, B e F foram os mais frequentes. D, E, F, G e H estão presentes na sub-bacia do rio Paranapanema, dois (A e B) estão presentes na sub-bacia do rio Tietê, um (C) está exclusivamente distribuído na sub-bacia do rio do Peixe, e um (B) também está presente na sub-bacia do rio Grande. A análise filogenética mostrou que as populações de H. strigaticeps realmente formam uma unidade monofilética que compreende duas linhagens: TG, com representantes do rio Tietê, rio Mogi-Guaçu e rio do Peixe, e PP, com espécimes do rio Paranapanema. O grau de divergência genética observada nas linhagens de TG e PP foram de 0,1% e 0,2%, respectivamente, enquanto que a divergência genética entre as duas linhagens foi de aproximadamente 1%. Os resultados da análise filogenética não suportam a hipótese da existência de espécies crípticas e a análise filogeográfica confirma a presença de H. strigaticeps em outras sub-bacias do alto rio Paraná: sub-bacias do rio Grande, rio do Peixe e rio Paranapanema.(AU)